1986 FJ60 Gameplan

[MJ Bear]

New to the site and cruisers. Awesome to see the community around the cruisers. Purchased a low miles (163k) FJ60 and wanted to make sure my priorities are in order. I've had the engine and drive train checked out and we are in good shape there. I will be keeping this thing for a long time and want to make sure she is going to last another 30 years. Long term, I want to add the 5 speed tranny, but doesn't need to happen until the 4 speed is in need of changing. Suspension is original and obviously sagging. Has 30's on stock rims. Interior and carpet is 30 years old and could use some refreshing. Paint is faded especially on the hood and roof. Goal is to have a nice weekender vehicle with the family. some camping and trail. Mostly a fun car. Here is my plan. Hoping someone can either tell me I'm on the right track or I need to go a different direction.
1. Make sure all safety equipment is in tact and working correctly. Already purchased new seat belts.
2. Make sure engine and power train is in good working order. check.
3. Install suspension. Any experience with Ironman?
4. Install new carpet and new seat covers.
5. Paint Job.
6. 33x10.5x15 BFG AT's
7. 2-3 years 5 speed transmission

Thanks in advance!

MJ

 

[4Cruisers]

You're off to a good start. What year is your FJ60?

First off, your 4-speed probably won't need to be changed due to age or mileage, however, you'll probably need to replace the clutch at some time in the future. That might be a good time to go the 5-speed route. The 5-speed swap is easiest with 4/85 through 8/87 FJ60s because the 4-speeds in those had the extension housing (same length as the 5-speed) so no driveshaft or crossmember changes are needed. I bought my '84 FJ60 new and now it has 189,000 miles, but the original clutch is still good.

As for the carpet, I recently bought a kit from Trail Tailor here on MUD. It's still in the box in the basement because the '86 FJ60 project vehicle's not ready for carpet yet. I bought an Old Man Emu suspension for the '86 from Cruiser Outfitters and new Toyota 16-inch wheels from the 70-Series Land Cruisers, and BFG LT235/85R16s. I've run BFG 33X9.50 ATs on most of my Land Cruisers for many years, but they're no longer available. I found the 33s to work well with my '84 FJ60's 4-speed for similar driving to what you're planning. You should be good with the 33X10.50s on the stock rims.