Looking at FJ40 Frame before buying

[glcmranger]

I am in the process of looking at FJ40's for a restoration project. I have been in barns, fields, garages, etc. Is there anywhere specific I should look for a cracked frame on a 1978 - 1981 FJ40? Is there any common areas on the frame that have a history of cracking that I should be aware of while looking at these trucks? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Steel]

The rear sections warrant carefull inspection, look closely to see if the metal is starting to delaminate on the rails, if so the frame is toast. I recall when I bought mine I didn't realize how bad it was until I took the tub off. The frame was not repairable, so I ended up buying a new frame.

Good luck!

 

[Brog]

The rear crossmembers seem to be the weak link that the 40 frames had.
Check that these two members have not seperated into multiple layers where they mount to the rear of the frame close to the center. They can replaced much easier than the rear section of the frame though.
Brog

 

[Eternal]

Check real close around the spring mounts front and rear for cracks right around the perimeter of it. Crack on one side will put undue pressure on the other so check all of them real well.