Build Barn find FJ55

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When I got up there ( way back in the mountains) I walked into the "Family Feud", several members of the family were accusing another member of selling it behind their backs without permission. Did not even get in the barn. I told them if they wanted to sell it let me know.
 
Stay on this one. It could be very useful to someone here on 'Mud.
 
Ok kids, who says there is no drama on MUD!! Just got a call from the " Lawyer of the Estate" of the FJ55 in question. I have an appointment at 4:00 pm tomorrow to inspect vehicle. Actually lawyer was very nice and realistic about value of vehicle that has been dormant for 25+ years and seems to be fair minded yet is looking out for his clients. Stay tuned.
 
Based on the fact that the rear emblems are missing, I’m thinking another 55 owner has already been there Dennis.
 
thorslc1977 said:
Ok kids, who says there is no drama on MUD!! Just got a call from the " Lawyer of the Estate" of the FJ55 in question. I have an appointment at 4:00 pm tomorrow to inspect vehicle. Actually lawyer was very nice and realistic about value of vehicle that has been dormant for 25+ years and seems to be fair minded yet is looking out for his clients. Stay tuned.
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Keep us posted on developments of this story! Holy crap what a tale this will be! I haven't had this much intrigue since "Saving the Old Rust Bucket!"
 
Yes Mr. Algazy I am trying to be realistic myself about it. It has no rear axle and no wheels /tires that I am aware of. And it is in a very remote location that I am not sure a flat bed tow tow truck could get to. Trying to keep in mind -- " if it sounds too good to be true....."
 
Missimg axle is not as big a deal as. missing springs. I recovered a early FJ40 by man handling a rear axle in over the rear springs that were still in place. FJ55 rear spring are not as common as 40 series. Don't need to worry about the swaybar just getting it home. Advantage of your own rear axle you know the brakes are frozen if you check them ahead of time. Then just dealing with the front axle. I have a FJ40 front bumper set up for a tow bar. I hauled vehicles out of CA, OR and WA back to AZ. With it one was an FJ25 and another was a FJ45. Last time I recovered a vehicle this was was over fifteen years ago. Now have a cat hauler which would probably make this a lot easier. 2018 had a forest fire around our second home. Carhaulee made recovering my non op FJ45 a lot easier. It was already ready a roller so didn't have to deal with installing a axle or frozen brakes. I'm downsizing but miss out on a couple of opportunities of getting an FJ55. Now sure what I would do in your case. If I wanted bad enough would figure a way.
 
Going off John’s point, axles generally don’t get stripped unless or until something’s gone south with the motor. So as long as you’re going into it eyes open that it’s going to be quite the project, you’re golden. The good news is that the guys in the pig forum are super nice and super helpful. Real tight. You’ll get all the straight dope from them…when I’m not available.😉
 
If you're successful you can fix it up in time for the annual Pig Party :-).

My wife and I attended the 2018 event at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, sans Pig, but were warmly welcomed and had a great time.
 
DEADSALT said:
see if you can pick out which one of the ‘family’,
...who years ago systematically walked around the truck and smashed every lense and light.

Hint - look for missing front teeth and basic lack of intellect.
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From my experience, that damage looks like it was caused by a pissed ex-girlfriend/spouse.
 
thorslc1977 said:
Ok kids, who says there is no drama on MUD!! Just got a call from the " Lawyer of the Estate" of the FJ55 in question. I have an appointment at 4:00 pm tomorrow to inspect vehicle. Actually lawyer was very nice and realistic about value of vehicle that has been dormant for 25+ years and seems to be fair minded yet is looking out for his clients. Stay tuned.
Click to expand...
So...if the vehicle is coming out of an estate, you may want to clarify a few things (if have not already done so) with the attorney before you travel again. 1) Is there an executor of the Estate?; )2 Was there a will; 3) Has the title been located; 4) Who has legal authority to execute the title. Just my 2 cents.
Good luck.
Mark.
 
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