My black 1979 FJ40

[davegonz]

Well, I thought I'd start a build up thread on my new-to-me FJ40 that I picked up a couple of weeks ago.

It's a 1979 originally from South America. Came with 37" Maxxis tires and Pro Comp rims, Safari snorkel SOA, disk brakes up front with rear drums, and a bunch of other booty-fab'ed South American touches. The engine had apparently thrown a rod which was self evident from looking at the big hole in the oil pan.

My goal is to get it on the road (new engine) and to make it half way decent looking.

The pictures below show how she looked the night I got it. I've since removed some lights and the buggered up winch mount.

 

[davegonz]

A buddy of mine had a 60 he was parting out in his shop with a strong running 2F. I bought it and did some horse-trading with him for installation of the engine. He got the gigantic 37's in exchange.

I also picked up a soft top from a buddy in exchange for helping him sale his FJ40.

 

[davegonz]

My friend that is doing the engine swap is going to install a new rear main seal, water pump and seal, side cover gaskets, and new clutch.

 

[davegonz]

Next up for me (while the engine work is being done) is to find a new high-steer setup. It's currently running some ghetto rigged arms and 5" hand made steel spacers.

 

[Sea Knight]

High Steer Deal

Next up for me (while the engine work is being done) is to find a new high-steer setup. It's currently running some ghetto rigged arms and 5" hand made steel spacers.

Ask and ye shall receive...

https://forum.ih8mud.com/sale-parts/390443-large-pattern-4x4labs-hs-kit-used.html

 

[davegonz]

Those will blow my budget!

Here are some pics of the interior. It's lined with a plastic diamond plate looking carpet/liner. Under it is felt and some minor surface rust. I plan on removing the liner and spraying some bedliner.

 

[yooper]

you could probably put an FJ60 steering wheel right on that column...

 

[davegonz]

You think the splines would be the same (Nissan=Toyota)? I think Tucker has an extra one in his man cave.

 

[Sea Knight]

you could probably put an FJ60 steering wheel right on that column...

I suggested that yesterday and Dave didn't think much of my idea. I still think it would fit.

 

[Sea Knight]

Mark's Balls

Looks like you could use a set of Mark's manly CruiserCrap shifter balls too.

 

[davegonz]

I suggested that yesterday and Dave didn't think much of my idea. I still think it would fit.

Sorry. I think the three pints of (512) IPA may have impaired my hearing/understanding.

 

[Sea Knight]

Sorry. I think the three pints of (512) IPA may have impaired my hearing/understanding.

LOL. That is a mighty fine brew. Seemed appropriate for christening your new ride. That truck is a beast. I think you made a great buy.

Oh...You do need to get rid of those ghetto mirrors. I'll even lend you my sawzall.

 

[davegonz]

I think you're jealous of the South American spec mirrors. Just pretend they're from Australia

Seriously, I'm going to swap them out...eventually.

 

[Unoman]

I just read your sig line.....Machete is a perfect and suitable name for that rig. You are making quick work of it!

 

[yooper]

You think the splines would be the same (Nissan=Toyota)? I think Tucker has an extra one in his man cave.

It's pretty easy to find out...I was thinking to snag it from the parts truck you got the engine from...

 

[davegonz]

I'll ask my buddy to see if it's for sale. I think I like an 80 series one better

 

[yooper]

I'll ask my buddy to see if it's for sale. I think I like an 80 series one better

I think I'd be happy with anything that fit that didn't say "Nissan" on it.

 

[crotalusatrox]

what was the original paint? mustard?

 

[davegonz]

Yes, then green, followed by black.

 

[davegonz]

Just a quick update on what's been done so far. My buddy, Edwin, has finished installing the 2F and is now running. She needs a new carb (ordered one from Trollhole) and need to install the 4x4Labs high steer setup.

Here's a pic with the 35" Maxxis Bighorns.