My Dad and I are currently neck deep in a frame off, nut and bolt resto mod of a 1972 FJ40 that we rescued off of a hillside in WV.
Removing SBC conversion, going back to Toyota. 1972 Frame Off
It is currently at the painters and I have had a chance to think about the next project plan for a few minutes.
In October of 2015, after replacing the parking brake backing plate bolts with OEM replacements, we decided that the '72 was going to be to nice to wheel properly.
Upon the possibility of a move @reevesci mentioned selling his 40 build;
'68 build-- aka -- TANK
I casually mentioned this to my dad and before we could come to our senses, he was on his way to WY with the trailer.
View attachment 1385622
@reevesci had completed 2F/H42/split case, power steering and front disc conversions from a late FJ60. Also, he installed 36x17 Super Swampers on 80 rims, large diameter spring/shackle hangers and a 4" rough country lift.
As it sits now:
View attachment 1385627
Plan of attack (probably this coming fall) is to use as many of the parts that we have on hand to make a capable wheeler that is streetable:
>SOA on full width 60 axles front and rear
>FJ60 stock height rear springs
>Flipped and outboarded 40 stock springs in front
>Detroit locker in rear
>4.11 gears
>Trollhole FST
>Family cage tied into frame
>Trail Tailor rear tire carrier and cooler basket
>Trail Taylor front winch bumper
>Tube front fenders, sliders and half doors
Being in OH, we are not experienced offroaders. I equate this to buying my first small tractor in that ill build what i think we need now but will need to tweek as we get some seat time.
Our goal is to attend some of the Landcruiser events in Moab, PA and the South. We have a Miller 211 welder, air tools and Mud to help.
I have enjoyed reading through all the Hardcore build threads and thanks in advance for the answers and opinions.
Please feel free to let your opinions fly as that is why this build will be in Hardcore.
Might think to get new 60 rear springs for the back. I first went with used springs, big waste of time and money.
I depacked them, blasted them, slipped plated them, POR the outside and all for noting. They were shot. Found out when under my rug. My ass sagged terrible. As well as I had bad "cruiser lean".
I talked to cruiser outfitters and Curt said he had the same issue. When his shop does SOA to 40's the shop uses new 60 rear springs with 2 inch lift. At least that is what he told me.
Therefore I bought rear fj60 springs from him with the 2 in lift. I also got an A and B spring to counter the "cruiser lean".
In the front I ran used stock 60 springs that I had. This combo worked nice for me.
Here is my thread: SOA Fj40 Questions - 55 Springs - "Measure twice cut once"