1965 FJ45LV to 2002 LX470

[JackA]

I recently upgraded from wheeling my 1965 FJ45LV to a 2002 LX470. The adventures with the LV are covered here:

Build - after KOH LV build

forum.ih8mud.com

This thread will cover the build up and all the trips I take with the new to me rig. I bought a 2002 LX470 with 257000 on the ticker. It was a 2 owner. The 2nd owner had it the majority of its life. It lived in North Carolina and AZ the last 15 years. All servicing was done at the Lexus dealer. It is super clean and everything worked including the AHC.

Here it is when I first brought it home.

 

[JackA]

In the first couple days, I pulled off the running boards and got some new tires. Went with Yokohama Geolander MT's in a 285/75/16's.

 

[JackA]

Then I took it out wheeling. Here's some shots from out near the Harquahala Mountains west of Phoenix. I like to explore old mines and relics of the past.

 

[JackA]

Got buzzed by some planes

 

[JackA]

On to another mine site......

 

[JackA]

Then took it on another little run closer to home. Winter in the desert is the best.

 

[JackA]

Then it was time for a lift. I bought the Just Differentials Super Deluxe Suspension package with remote resi shocks. Installed it all on a Friday and Saturday morning then finished it up with an alignment Saturday afternoon.

 

[JackA]

A couple days later I drove it out to Johnson Valley OHV area in southern California to watch King of the Hammers.

 

[JackA]

Yesterday, we went and ran a nice loop that goes through forest and desert. Checked out some abandoned homesteads and an old mine. Even had small amount snow in areas.

 

[JackA]

Cruising along

 

[JackA]

more old junk at the homestead

 

[JackA]

Last stop of the day was this abandoned mine complete with a Caterpillar dozer

 

[wngrog]

In on the first page

 

[JackA]

Another weekend and another great trip. We explored out near the Ripsey Mine area and the the Gila River area. Good times and great views.
First stop was an abandoned ranch. It was pretty large with many buildings and even a root cellar.

 

[JackA]

Then we cruised the wash and stopped for lunch at an old stone building.

 

[JackA]

Then we headed up to the Florence Mine to see all the rusty relics.

 

[JackA]

Took a peak inside the mine.......

On the way down the hill, we stopped and looked at the 1920s Cadillac or what was left.......

 

[JackA]

After that we headed to the other side of the mountain, to the Ripsey Mine.

 

[JackA]

We went inside the mine too

 

[SAH]

Which springs are you using in the rear? I have the same kit and thus far not thrilled because I think the 863 is too much spring for my load.