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Ratpuke

SILVER Star
Joined
Jul 2, 2002
Threads
262
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3,328
So... I've got a hypothetical situation for you to ponder.

I have a 1973 FJ55. It's in great shape considering its life has been spent in Canada. The interior is close to being in mint shape (tiny tear in the front seat along a seam). The body is in fairly good shape too but it does need some work.

The plan is to take it back to original condition - body and mechanically. It's basically there. It's a little stocker with some surface rust, two tiny holes (smaller than a dime). Mechanically it'll need a going over, but the F engine was freshly rebuilt (I anticipate it'll need some TLC after sitting so long).

When I bought the 55 the plan was to be able to go to antique car shows with my Dad (he restores 1928 Model A's). Some day I'll be able to do fabrication and body work on my own, but realistically this won't be happening within the next five years. And yes, I'm fully aware of how much work goes into a proper restoration.

So... I'm looking for a Cruiser enthusiast possessing great attention to detail, is very meticulous, incredibly knowledgeable and talented and is interested in taking on this project. I know I could probably just take it to a good local body shop, but I want the person working on it to be a Cruiserhead and understand the Cruiser thing. I hope you understand what I'm getting at. The truck is located in Alberta, stored indoors since I purchased it in 2002. I'd be willing to transport him S if it means the work will be done right and by the best there is.

I'm in no immediate hurry. Rather, I'm just starting the hunt to figure out who/where my best option is.

PM me if you prefer.

:cheers:
Charla
 
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Rat,

I am not sure how to read this, are you looking to take a really nice cruiser and make it 100% or do you just want a nice refresh? If you're looking for the best, I would see if TLC4x4 would take it on? A complete restore is going to be hugely expensive.

But I think they really are the BEST!
Toyota 4x4 Land Cruisers

Ryan
 
Ryan,

Well, I'm undecided and looking at my options. It'll likely come down to timing and the amount of $ I have set aside 'cause I fully realize that the best of the best is going to be pricey.

I know what I don't want. I don't want to have my 55 turned into a bondo bucket with peeling paint in 15 years. I want its body to last another 37 years so that it can be passed onto one of my nieces/nephews when I die. It's a new headlight, a new fender and a rear bumper away from being completely stock but I'm fully aware that there likely will be the need for some unanticipated attention and fabrication work. I'm also fully aware that whether or not your truck has one hole or is completely rusted out, it'll be a project requiring a heck of a lot of work.

When I looked into TLC years ago I was under the impression that they only did work on their own trucks. Maybe I'll get in touch with them - send them some pics and see what they'd suggest. A starting point at least.

Tx.
C.
 
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I know that you can take your own truck in for a stage 1, which is a complete mechanical going over. Their site makes it seem like you can just choose how far you want them to take your truck. If you don't want complete frame off, I would bet that they could do a clean stage 2 for you.
 
Charla,

We, Proffitt's Cruisers, are very familiar with FJ55's. I personally own two of them and would be glad to give you an estimate for a restoration. Feel free to call me at the shop or email me. Pictures would be very helpful for restoration purposes so include some if you decide to email.

You can reach me at:
1-877-PROFFITT or 970-835-3490

info (at) proffittscruisers.com


John
 
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