Build Billy's excellent FJ73-12HT - resto-modded - n that

[Billyfj7312ht]

I’ve also started the design of my centre console.
Template

Cut and fold - Mk1

I wanted deeper storage boxes and it flowed better with the dash if I lifted it 30ish mile ometers. This changed the hole positions for the gear levers etc so had to nip and tuck here and there. Once I tidy it up a bit and fibreglass, it’ll all flow smoothly.
Mk2

Mk3

I’ll fibreglass the cardboard and plastic cup holders together as it merges with the fridge console quite well, then try my hand at upholstery.

 

[Billyfj7312ht]

I’ve ordered another gear lever boot (not genuine). The factory boots will remain where they are.
The new boot sits on top of the console and the chrome base surround will match the chrome surrounds on the cup holders and storage spaces. The transfer case gear lever protrudes out the side and will hopefully merge smoothly when upholstered.
I’ll sound/heat proof the underside and also apply 3mm foam to the outside before upholstered.

And some photos just because

Oohh I also sorted my fm aerial. I noticed the signal was weak and realised it wasn’t earthed because of the fibreglass roof. Sorted now, crystal clear

 

[PAToyota]

Just saw this vehicle lurking in the background of your trailer build and followed the signature link. I'm going to have to check out the build in detail!

 

[FJBen]

Yes we need updates! It’s been a few months.

 

[Billyfj7312ht]

Yes we need updates! It’s been a few months.

Mate, not much been going on with Frank.
I’ve been flat out, like a lizard drinking though. ( an Aussie slang you can use next time someone stops you at the gas station).

I keep getting side tracked.
One minute I’m templating the centre console, which reminds me to template my boat walls and ceilings.

Which reminds me to finish the lounge and dining table.

Which reminds me to do the boat flooring and cabinets/stairs.

Which makes me forget I’ve got oil on the kitchen stove.

Then I had to fix that.
But last month or so I’ve got back on track, so better put some tech in now or Beno’s gunna throw a sandal at me.

 

[Billyfj7312ht]

I got a 60 series Tacho a while ago as the fj gauge reads off the back of the coil. Also got a genuine 12HT sender. The 60 series Tacho wouldn’t fit in my cluster so when I got the guy to calibrate the 60 series Tacho to match the teeth on my fly wheel I also got him to fit the rear mechanism to the face of my fj gauge. I hope I haven’t wasted my money but next step would be to get a whole cluster from a 74 series I’m thinking?

I’ve yet to connect it all up.

I also repaired the rear flare I cracked a while ago while I was fibreglassing the underside of my camper trailer.

Used fibreglass cloth and resin to backside for strength, then used some body filler. Yet to paint it but this will structurally hold it till I get side tracked doing some painting somewhere.

 

[cruiserpilot]

You are an overachiever. I got to say that boat is a beaut. No comment on the oil fire as he who lives in glass
house shouldn't throw stones, that and my wife asking what that smell was. Phew...

 

[Billyfj7312ht]

You are an overachiever. I got to say that boat is a beaut. No comment on the oil fire as he who lives in glass
house shouldn't throw stones, that and my wife asking what that smell was. Phew...

I don’t know about overachiever, but I’m told by my better half that I get very fixated on the finer details and tasks I set for myself.
Finished the boat mid January so was good to finally finish something.
Oil fires behind me also.

Back to Franks work, I also had central locking installed with a few security features as had a security scare while out one day.
Also installed new larger door seals which seems to have stopped the bit of wind noise coming in from the top left hand corner of drivers door.

Recently I’ve been working on the 73 series camper trailer

 

[FJBen]

I don’t know about overachiever, but I’m told by my better half that I get very fixated on the finer details and tasks I set for myself.
Finished the boat mid January so was good to finally finish something.
Oil fires behind me also.

Back to Franks work, I also had central locking installed with a few security features as had a security scare while out one day.
Also installed new larger door seals which seems to have stopped the bit of wind noise coming in from the top left hand corner of drivers door.
View attachment 4150458

Recently I’ve been working on the 73 series camper trailer
View attachment 4150462
View attachment 4150461
View attachment 4150460
View attachment 4150459

A good old public shaming gets the thread updated

What larger door seals did you use? Mine are original and could definitely use upgraded.

 

[Billyfj7312ht]

I used one of these kits. With my 73 series fold down windscreen there’s no pinch weld running down it so couldn’t put a seal there.
The kit doesn’t have stop ends because the seals are designed to be continuous and butt into corners so I have yet to devise a way to finish ends top and bottom of windscreen Maybe by modifying the factory ends that are on the original pinch weld.
You can also buy a similar profile by the metre which is cheaper at some hardware stores here

Door Seal Kit - Suitable for use with 70 series Land Cruiser

We all know the 70 series Landcruiser is loud in the cab, you can kiss wind noise goodbye with our door seal replacement! Remove the useless pinch weld there from stock and replace it with our rubber sealed version to block out the road noise. Fitment: Will not suit Single Cab 79 Series 2016-ON...

thecruiserstore.com.au