New FJ40 Guy from South America

[EcuadorFJ40]

New guy here from Ecuador. After looking at 10 FJ40s in South America, finally purchased a 1981 FJ40 previously owned by an American Diplomat for 15 years (with all maint. records). Assembled a great team for mechanical, body and upholstery with plans to restore with all OEM parts and import to U.S. after completing my 2-year work project. Currently stock with plans to add PS. Found factory PS at $1900. Is this a good price and what should I be on the lookout for with condition? Any good recommendations for OEM starter.

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

Work is progressing well on this 81 FJ40 build in South America- photos show team reviewing mechanical needs of differential, brakes, transmission, and motor. Body, chassis and other parts off to sand blasting and powder coating.

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

Located premier upholstery shop (Falcon Quito) to replace old headliner with OEM headliner, upholster front and rear seats, dash, sun visors, door panels and tranny and brake boots. Going for an eye popping look on the interior- since current seats are non-factory material plans are to upholstery will be the only part non-stock OEM- wife wants to add , "pop!"

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

Just returned body back from sandblasting and all parts, including chassis back from powder coating. Getting ready for light sanding, primer, reassemble to assess fit than time for 3 stage paint in original color (Dune). Excitement is building. All new parts OEM ordered from Japan.

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

Chasis completed powder coating along with other parts and roof rack.

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

Just finished a little rust deoxidizing and primed. A little more metal prep work on some smaller parts then PAINT for cab. Chasis work continuing with slow down due to suspension parts delay from Japan. Project completion estimate for March 2024.

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

Well, it's been an arduous 10 months, but we have buttoned up the restoration. Minor details to complete. Well documented with video and photos of the entire process. Every part ordered from Japan and several of the well known vendors from IH8MUD, Specter Off Road, Cruiser Corps, Overland Metric Bolts, Cruiser Teq, Cruiser Outfitters, and City Racers, LLC.

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

1981 FJ40 - All work done by 3 professional shops in Ecuador!!

 

[wimberosa]

That front and rear mat looks very nice. They should go into business selling that mat in the states

 

[Slapshot]

Wow, looks great. You must be excited to get behind the wheel.

 

[CBFJ]

Beautiful. The only 40 I've ever seen that you gotta take your shoes off before you get in

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

That front and rear mat looks very nice. They should go into business selling that mat in the states

Thanks! They duplicated the original mat with a little upgrade for my wife. Now I have to buy real mats to cover this one.

 

[EcuadorFJ40]

Wow, looks great. You must be excited to get behind the wheel.

Thanks, Yes sir! Ready to hit the mountains in Ecuador before bringing her home!