I purchased this truck in about November of last year, along with two other vehicles, to bring back to the States. I had family living in Japan and checked these out when I was visiting. The previous owner was indeed a Japanese guy, as were the guys that designed and built the glorious Land Cruisers that we worship and adore. I don't know the extent of the previous repair although I do know that it was a color change from white to black and they did some rust repair at the time. There are places around the vehicle that show some signs of rust popping through. The front edge of the hood and the bib could be replaced. I have a good set that I could possibly work into the deal. I don't know how long ago this work was performed. The frame and undercarriage parts were coated with what looks like is some kind of black paint, but not a rubberized undercoating. A clean-up and some POR-15 should take care of this surface rust that was coated over. The mechanicals all seem fine. It starts easily and runs as it should. The 2b diesels are no race engines by any stretch of the imagination, but wasn't designed to be that way either. The truck rides exceptionally well up until reaching speeds where the unbalanced tires start to vibrate. I am still searching for some matching tires for the front, as it appears the WHITE OUTLINE LETTERS were discontinued, at least here in the states. (Goodyear Wrangler MT/R 235-85-16 OWL). I need two if you know of some. I would see this truck as a daily driver and would not hesitate to take it on a road trip (after tire balancing) to just about anywhere. Nice truck, not perfect, unique and pretty rare. Come check it out, I think you'll be pleased.
