nor_cal_cyclist
GOLD Star
WARNING: This is not for FJ40 purists!!! 
This isn’t my first rodeo…had a similar FJ40 about 20 yrs ago, that was a hodge-podge build. Seemed like all my modifications were on a shoe-string budget and had to be redone MANY times, due to inexperience or lack of funds. This time, I’m planning to build it right the first time, and overbuild it so I can enjoy my trips/events instead of wrenching the whole time.
I found this truck last year and have been thinking about the final build and planning all the minute details. Body is pretty solid other than the extra holes the PO drilled all over the place, from what I can tell. Currently stock other than the wheels/tires, recovered seats, petronix ignition, and a set of Rancho springs.
I am fortunate to live part time in Redding – home of @TRAIL TAILOR. In talking to Jason (@TRAIL TAILOR owner/welder extraordinaire), he was wanting to expand his work and take on full custom builds. I am happy to say, my 74 FJ40 will be the first project thru Jason’s new business: Trail Tailor Customs.
Currently planning the following:
LS3 (non-EROD) V8
NV4500
Atlas t-case
Dynatrac ProRock62 Diamond axles by Front Range Off-Road – upgraded and ARB’s F/R
Power Steering – FJ80 or Saginaw
Body off the frame – both cleaned up and lined/repainted
MetalTech Full Cage and Tube fenders
Custom armor and bumpers by Trail Tailor Customs
Suspension – still under discussion (SOA or SOA/Linked or Linked)
Probably run 37” MT/R’s
Pretty much replacing/updating/restoring everything
I’m sure I’m forgetting stuff, but we’ll get to it as the truck is worked on
I dropped the truck off last Thursday, and have already been acquiring parts. I think the Atlas and possibly axles will be the longest lead time, so trying to get those items ordered ASAP. Engine and NV4500 shipping next week. Also working on dialing in the suspension.
Stay tuned for updates from Jason or I, as this truck is resto-modified
This isn’t my first rodeo…had a similar FJ40 about 20 yrs ago, that was a hodge-podge build. Seemed like all my modifications were on a shoe-string budget and had to be redone MANY times, due to inexperience or lack of funds. This time, I’m planning to build it right the first time, and overbuild it so I can enjoy my trips/events instead of wrenching the whole time.
I found this truck last year and have been thinking about the final build and planning all the minute details. Body is pretty solid other than the extra holes the PO drilled all over the place, from what I can tell. Currently stock other than the wheels/tires, recovered seats, petronix ignition, and a set of Rancho springs.
I am fortunate to live part time in Redding – home of @TRAIL TAILOR. In talking to Jason (@TRAIL TAILOR owner/welder extraordinaire), he was wanting to expand his work and take on full custom builds. I am happy to say, my 74 FJ40 will be the first project thru Jason’s new business: Trail Tailor Customs.
Currently planning the following:
LS3 (non-EROD) V8
NV4500
Atlas t-case
Power Steering – FJ80 or Saginaw
Body off the frame – both cleaned up and lined/repainted
MetalTech Full Cage and Tube fenders
Custom armor and bumpers by Trail Tailor Customs
Suspension – still under discussion (SOA or SOA/Linked or Linked)
Probably run 37” MT/R’s
Pretty much replacing/updating/restoring everything
I’m sure I’m forgetting stuff, but we’ll get to it as the truck is worked on
I dropped the truck off last Thursday, and have already been acquiring parts. I think the Atlas and possibly axles will be the longest lead time, so trying to get those items ordered ASAP. Engine and NV4500 shipping next week. Also working on dialing in the suspension.
Stay tuned for updates from Jason or I, as this truck is resto-modified
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