Builds Bell the FJ45

[jfz80]

Well, she went away for the winter . I have too many other cruiser projects ahead of it. Good news is that my '70 parts 55 has what appears to be a rebuilt engine in it that would slide in the 45 just great. The PO said it was rebuilt (according to the PPO) but he bought it as a basket case too so just talk really. Looking close it really looks promising, giving signs it has been worked over, just sitting for a long time. I'll try to make time for a closer look this winter.
View attachment 1849703 View attachment 1849704 View attachment 1849705 View attachment 1849706

Still loving that rig and the company logo would be hot. Magnet would get my vote or vynil stickers should be removeable with no damage..... curious to peek under mine soon after 10 yrs on the truck. They may require a smooth paint surface though.

That is not the 2f i built for the 72 pig however :/ feel free to ping with questions but not sure if ill have any good intel.

 

[dogfishlake]

Still loving that rig and the company logo would be hot. Magnet would get my vote or vynil stickers should be removeable with no damage..... curious to peek under mine soon after 10 yrs on the truck. They may require a smooth paint surface though.

That is not the 2f i built for the 72 pig however :/ feel free to ping with questions but not sure if ill have any good intel.

I don't know for sure if I will change what is there but if I do a logo it would have to look aged and for sure be a magnet . The 2f in my 76 fj55 might be the one you built (?). I'll snag a picture when I get a chance. It has nice power.

 

[jfz80]

Ok cool. Was just hoping not a false hope for you or PO myth. This is a not so great account of the build that doesnt even cover the final result of up and running well but has some info and pics. I blame the 45

79 2F transplant into the 55

So ive been busy trying to revive the pig and get back in on some trail action this year. For those that dont know the 1f went out at Uwharrie last December when Steve and I ran down for the day. I picked up a 79 2F from Flinny and took it down completely, had it cleaned, new cam bearings...

forum.ih8mud.com

 

[dogfishlake]

UPDATE

I am finally getting this project going! -

This weekend I got the truck out of the barn and over to my powder coating shop, where we put a hoist in the corner to pick away at cruiser projects. One of my guys here is a longtime mechanic and is enjoying working on the Cruisers. It is a huge help having him here. Whenever we can get ahead on powder coating work, he jumps to the Cruisers and moves the ball forward.

 

[dogfishlake]

The plan is to use the good F motor I have from my 1970 parts pig. It is said to be rebuilt and seems to be the case. I got it running briefly in the parts truck and it sounded perfect. Scoping down the cylinders looks really good too.

Otherwise current plan is:

Pull the box and body.
Do a complete redo of the chassis/running gear:
Lift (Springs, shocks, shackles, bushings, etc)
Front and rear axle housings from the 1970 FJ-55
Axles from the 1970 FJ-55
3rd members from 1987 FJ-60 (3.70 gear ratio)
Disc brake swap on front from 1987 FJ-60
Rear drums from 1970 FJ-55
New steering arms/joints
Powder coat frame, axle housings, hubs, small parts
Fresh brake system (swap to 4 bolt master cyl)
Fresh clutch hydraulics
Rebuild driveshafts

Body and Box will get a complete scrub/clean/polish/wax.
Engine compartment will get detailed and wiring fixed up, hoses, belts, etc.
Interior will get cleaned up, everything working (that we can) The truck has new seat covers so that part is done.
New gaskets as best as possible.


Hopefully this goes smoothly and stays on track! We'll see!

 

[redfj45can]

 

[cruisermatt]

while you have the cab off - it is 100% worthwhile IMO to do the work to get a brake booster in there. especially with all the other work you are doing.

 

[dogfishlake]

And awaaaaaaay we go!

Gotta pick up a Toyota with a Toyota, right?

 

[dogfishlake]

Got it in the hoist bay last night.
Box off and in the air this morning.

 

[landcrusher909]

Man this is exciting. If you need some front turn signal housings let me know I have a few spares

 

[dogfishlake]

Man this is exciting. If you need some front turn signal housings let me know I have a few spares

I will be calling you!

 

[redfj45can]

 

[dogfishlake]

Does anyone make the strips that mount on the inner fenders where the wiring joins together? I can grab a Pic tomorrow

 

[dogfishlake]

Found a picture

These things. Thanks!

 

[dogfishlake]

Also, are there any body and box mounts available?

 

[EWheeler]

Found a picture

These things. Thanks!
View attachment 3707232

Toyota still sold them a couple years ago when I replaced the ones in my 69 FJ40. Very reasonably priced.

 

[cppilot]

Still available from Toyota.

Not sure on the box and body mounts. I think they have been NLA for a long time. Most are using some of the 40 mounts and making their own for the bed. They were cloth material anyway.

 

[dogfishlake]

Toyota still sold them a couple years ago when I replaced the ones in my 69 FJ40. Very reasonably priced.

Sweet. Found em.
Thank you

 

[ceylonfj40nut]

City racer

 

[dogfishlake]

OK, here is one for those in the know- the seal for the windshield frame vent that is basically the hinge for it. I thought City Racer had them but not seeing it.