1977 FJ40 In Arizona
I have a 1977 with 170K mi that I bought ~3 years ago from a friend of mine for $7500 that I would like to get $8000 for. I think he had it a couple of years before me. The truck originated in California and, as I understand, I am the 4th owner. It has been sitting in the garage most of this time as a novelty item as my main toy vehicle is an expedition ready 100 series that keeps me busy. I need the space and the money to finish it up (re-gear, front locker and an onboard Nav) so this one must go. Also, (this is kind of embarrassing) I do not like the red color and since this is an original vehicle (with the color code plate still attached), when the time comes to re paint, it would be a shame to change color.
Let me start with the bad
A couple of months after I bought it a rolled it on it side (see picture). That was a roll from a stand still and it damaged the left corner of the roof, the upper rear corner of left side panel and a nicked the front left fender. The fender was easy to repair and you could not tell from the outside or in (just straitening and painting - I have pictures of the whole process). As I priced out the side panel, it is not worth fixing; especially when the curved window is broke and by itself is more expensive then the whole panel (~$200). I have not priced the roof, but I suspect it is the same as the panel. It also has holes from an old antenna and needs a headliner. At any rate it is easily fixable. I fitted a family safari top and have been driving it like this since.
The other thing that annoys me is that the previous owner drilled holes in the sheet metal to mount various after market stuff. 2 holes in the firewall to rout A/C that I since removed. Small holes in each doorjamb to route a speaker wire to the doors and a hole pattern at the rear left quarter panel to mount a CB antenna.
It needs a good suspension system and to rebuild the steering box
The last negative point that I can think of is that, again, the PO installed a locker in the back (Lock Right, I think) that, to me, is quit aggravating to drive on the road. It is unstoppable on the trail, though. I have the original Diff.
The rest of the stuff
It is a rust free straight vehicle that is very original. It starts and runs good. I use it to drive my daughter to the stable every couple of weeks (15 mi or so). Paint and drive train are original even though the paint is faded, especially the horizontal surfaces. Original AM Radio and everything else works.
To pass emission test I had to replace Manifolds gaskets. All original emission equipment is on and working and it passed emission since.
Rebuild original carburetor and replace one of the aftermarket fuel rubber lines with metal one.
Cleaned up engine compartment wiring, installed geared starter and high output ignition (by the PO), and I gel cell (Oxide) battery.
PO rebuilt the rear axle (when installed the locker)
PO installed new radiator and I installed new hoses
PO replaced the all the steering linkages ends.
I rebuild the front axle (what a messy job that was)
I replace the front seats foam and re-upholstery all.
I have a Mean Green High output Alternator that I installed and then removed as I did not want to blow up the Ammeter.
I made it sound worse that it is but I rather it be like this then the other way around.
I think this is all for now. If you have any questions, let me know.
Thanks, Doron.