New FJ40 owner in Rocklin

[FalkanFJ40]

I've been a lurker for a few weeks but wanted to say hello! I just recently picked up a 66 FJ40 as my first project vehicle ... ever. I've always been in love with the FJ since I was a kid but never had the money or time to get one. I'm way over my head with this project but realized life is short so I decided to jump in with both feet and learn as I go along with help from some car buddies and the interwebs

Currently working on changing out the wheel bearings (found out front passenger outer was shot when initially trying to repack them with grease). Sourcing the bearings and race was tougher than I thought!

Hope to meet some of you guys in the future!

Mike

 

[93yotasr5]

Nice man! Welcome.
Post up some pics when you have time. We'd love to see that bad boy!

 

[antFJ]

im just up the road in Lincoln - let me know if you need any help!

 

[FalkanFJ40]

Thanks guys for the welcome! Sorry for the late reply. Been working on some of the basic stuff with a help of a bud. I wanted to show you guys some pics but still trying to figure out how to post pic so excuse the attachments!

This is a pic taken the day I picked it up. Really bad primer paint, few rusty areas towards the rear sill, and spongy brakes but overall decent condition for a 50 year old truck .

I used some Goof Off to see what was under that bad paint. I was hoping the original paint would be salvageable but some areas were just too badly damaged with gouges and flaking so I'll eventually have to repaint. I'll probably end up doing a rattle can job until I can save up for something better. Have too many other things for the FJ I wanted to spend money on first like disc brake conversion and 4 speed.

This is what it currently looks like now... pieces everywhere!

Mike

 

[FalkanFJ40]

For some reason the front shock towers were removed so had to pound out the remnants of the rivets to bolt them back on. Friend down the street helped with media blasting them to clean off all the old crud. Turned out pretty nice

 

[FalkanFJ40]

I was able to find a set of 33x12.50 BFG KM2s for a decent price along with a set of white wagon wheels. I think I would have preferred thinner tires but these will work out fine. I did have to pick up a set of Spidertrax spacers though to prevent rubbing the drag link. Am very impressed with their quality.

I do have a concern though for the rear fenders. It looks like they will definitely rub especially if I flex the suspension on the trails. I really want to avoid cutting them if I can so I'm looking into testing extended bump stops or longer bump stop brackets/extenders. Called Mark's Offroad and found out he's not making his spacers/brackets anymore so may have to make something unless you guys have other suggestions?

I also need a new family roll cage so my two kids can eventually ride in the back. I'm considering pulling the trigger on a Metal Tech 6 point cage kit but none of my friends are welders. Should I go ahead and do it and try to find someone local who can weld it together for me? Any suggestions on shops you would recommend or experienced cage welder that will do side work?

Mike

 

[93yotasr5]

Sweet man! I've always had a soft spot for the 40s!