fj45 replacement dash radio

[alberta mac]

I am the proud owner of a 77fj45
I had measured the radio slot in the dash and it looks too small to install a standard radio.
I am thinking I could install an amp or eq and have an input attachment to use an ipod.
Not wanting to cut the dash I would prefer to keep it the way it looks.
Wondering what others have done ?
Other plans for the truck are replacing the rocker guards and installing some nerf bars.

 

[Living in the Past]

This one of those questions probably better asked in the 40/55 section since the dash is the same and more 40 owners then post 72 FJ45 (73 is the first year of the radio in the dash) owners on this site. My 45 will get a 78 FJ40 cowl and I'll widen the opening to take a wider radio.

 

[alberta mac]

This one of those questions probably better asked in the 40/55 section since the dash is the same and more 40 owners then post 72 FJ45 (73 is the first year of the radio in the dash) owners on this site. My 45 will get a 78 FJ40 cowl and I'll widen the opening to take a wider radio.

Thanks
I will remeasure and either post in the 40 section or cut 1/4 inch off each end.
Cheers

 

[ozcrusier]

We need more photo's of your new fj45

 

[ozcrusier]

We need more photo's of your new fj45

 

[45Kevin]

I have had several radios in my dash. I currently have a 60 series AM/FM. I have also had an '80s era MEI AM/FM/Cassette player. The hard part is getting the unit behind the dash and up over the heater. Good luck with that.

Any standard width unit that is shallow in depth should fit though. You will need a unit with adjustable dial positions and may need to trim the faceplate.

I've never tried it, but I highly doubt that a modern, 1 knob type unit would fit there without trimming metal off the opening.

 

[alberta mac]

Thanks Kevin !
When I get some time I'll look into that and get more pics for the other who's asking.

 

[alberta mac]

As requested ... the photos

 

[alberta mac]

I have had several radios in my dash. I currently have a 60 series AM/FM. I have also had an '80s era MEI AM/FM/Cassette player. The hard part is getting the unit behind the dash and up over the heater. Good luck with that.

Any standard width unit that is shallow in depth should fit though. You will need a unit with adjustable dial positions and may need to trim the faceplate.

I've never tried it, but I highly doubt that a modern, 1 knob type unit would fit there without trimming metal off the opening.

Question for the 40 / 45 owners :
I currently got 220 km on one full tank of fuel. I believe I squeezed in 60 litres today.
What are others getting ?
Any ideas on what I can do to get better milage ?

Thanks
J Mac

 

[ozcrusier]

Thanks for the photo's looks like stock paint so you know where the rust is lurking. Nice truck looking forward to your build.
The only help I can offer is taller tyres, extractors, fuel injection or find a diesel engine and do a transplant.

 

[alberta mac]

Ozcruiser : I just got 200km on one tank of fuel ! ouch *$$ !
I will check for a gas leak tomorrow.
I believe the paint is not the original, I do have some history on the old cruiser : galvanized frame for one and a roll bar in the flat deck and power steering ( Toyota ) a frame off resto was done by prev.prev. owner. Over all she's real sweet !
My plans will be to weld in some stainless rocker guards, stainless patches on front fenders, rear swing out tire carrier with a hinged pressure 2x6 treated. I do have a 3B and 5 speed waiting for the right time as soon as things around the house are not calling me.
It's been a real pleasure driving it around town and as these are almost as common as hens teeth, it gets looks from people which makes me want to
get her looking even better.
The split bench seat is great ! real old school !

 

[45Kevin]

I'm driving to Nordegg (300km) for a weekend of wheeling tomorrow. I plan to keep it under 100, I'll try for a constant 90 kph. I'll let you know next week. I plan to rebuild the carb this summer and will make another trip to compare mileage.

Your truck was done about 15 years ago by the PPO. He was learning body work as he went (like most of us), ergo, not so good.

He did have the frame hot dipped, which caused some concern during a trail weld repair on one of the spring hangers several years ago.

The best mileage I ever got with my 45 was about 15 mph. I can't remember how many km per tank that was but I am sure it was over 250 km.

 

[ozcrusier]

The 3B will be thrifty on fuel compared to the 2f so I see the diesel transplant happening sooner than later.

 

[ozcrusier]

I just sent these guys a email regarding what they have to suit our hj45's dash size. I should hear back in a day or two.

http://www.retrosoundusa.com.au/index.php?l=product_detail&p=303