FJ80 Project Build

[PrinzChaz85]

Hey Guys posted this in FJ80 Tech as well -

First time poster here. Wanted to get your general thoughts on my future project build. I currently have a 92' FJ80 I bought from an impound yard for $1500. Truck is in pretty rough shape cosmetically but runs great. Solid body, No rust, faded paint, no power steering, shredded dash + front seats. No lockers the older underpowered engine with 208k on the clock . Still runs like a top.

I'd like to convert her into an overlander / camping rig project build with a budget of about 15-20k . And going with that budget wanted to see how you guys would best go about it. Here are my major thoughts below:

( Note: Price Estimations include shop labor )

Engine Swap Upgrade -
Cost: 5k ?
Would like to swap in a Toyota V8 from either the 100 series or a Toyota Tundra. I guess out of brand loyalty / reliability I prefer to stick with a Toyota powerplant vs something like a Chevy 350. Has anyone done this to their rig and would you recommend?

Transmission + Gearing
Cost 2k ?
Really not sure about this one. What would be best ? Truck will definitely spend a good deal of time on the highway for long-range trips

Front + Rear Lockers
Cost 2k ?
Being the 92' version , the truck doesn't currently have lockers. Was thinking of just swapping in some factory lockers from a 100 series, but does anyone recommend any aftermarket upgrades for this ? ARB ?

Old Man Emu 3'' Suspension
Cost 1.5k ?
Seems to be the industry standard

ARB Front + Rear Bumpers
Cost 2k ?
Again seems to be industry standard.

New Paint + Interior elements
Cost 2k ?
Price fluctuating depending on how much of this I can just do the labor for myself.

What do you guys think????

 

[Seth Derrick]

I think $16k is a lot for a '92 Land Cruiser

 

[half k cruiser]

With that kind of budget, and having done projects exactly like what you are mentioning, I would sell it and buy one already built. I have a "project" 94 that I bought over 3 years ago, great deal at the time, except all of the extra work just to get it to a baseline level. You would be so much further ahead to spend some of that 15k budget on a truck that already had lockers, wasn't beat to s***, and had the 1FZ. There's an LX450 close to me that has everything, armor, suspension, tires, roof top tent, the works for $12k. I'm sure this isn't want you want to hear, but at least give it some real, unbiased thought. Whatever way you choose, enjoy yourself.