New FJ55

[shak900]

Hello all, I am probably going to be buy a 1978 FJ55 pretty soon if it checks out, but had a couple questions about some upgrades.
What are the top conversions that you would recommend as far as reliability/comfort goes. I want a reliable 4 wheel drive, but won't be using it strictly for off-roading.
It already has disc brakes, and power steering conversions, as well as a new carb.
I was actually planning on getting an FJ60, but like the looks of the FJ55 better. In my search for a 60, the thought of the H55F was appealing and it looks like it might be possible on an FJ55 also. My questions are, is it worth it? and how difficult would it be (time/money/headache wise)?
Thanks a bunch for any help, I am just new to the FJ55 tihng, but not to Landcruisers, and was hoping you guys might be able to focus me a bit as far as upgrades/customizations go?
Jacob

 

[Gus]

Buy the 55, the biggest draw back to the H55 swap is the price, sweet transmission though. As far as building a reliable Cruiser, first go through the entire rig and replace/fix/tune up all old/destroyed/worn parts. If you're going to be commuting in this rig a lot, maybe AC, a decent stereo, an upgraded suspension(greasable spring and shackle pins reduce friction in the suspension big time), decent AT tires and maybe a few engine upgrades, among many other things would help make the 55 a bit more comfy.

 

[Cruiserdrew]

I would love to have an FJ55, and they look cool as heck. The pic you show looks like a nice example. But...If I had one, I'd want it to have an FJ60 drivetrain/axles. You get wider axles, better birfields and brakes, power steering, much stronger transfer-case. etc. Mechanically, the FJ60s are a better truck. They are also less likely to be rusted.

It sounds to me like you want a retro wagon. If the retro, is more important than the mechanicals, then get the 55. Nothing like them anywhere. If the mechanicals are a priority, then the FJ60 is an easy choice. The wider axles and the split transfer case would make that an easy decision for me.

A 55 with all FJ60 components might really be a fun project, but it wouldn't be easy, and it wouldn't be cheap. It would lead to a highly desirable result.

edit-To answer your questions about the H55-you could do that, but there would be significant hassles and expense. You need the tranny and a split transfer case, a provision for the emergency brake, a different bellhousing, and fabricate a crossmember to hold the tranny. All doable, but not that easy. If you want to run an H55 5 speed, which I can personally highly reccomend, it it a much easier conversion into an FJ60. I've done it, and I'm sure you could as well. Yet one more reason why a 60 series is a better truck. Not as cool as a 55 though! Can you tell I want one?

 

[wct49]

Pigs are cool.
Enjoy the pork!

Chris

 

[shak900]

Thanks for all the input! I really like all landcruisers a bunch. Like I said I had an FJ60 when I was younger (read "less money") and couldn't really do all that I wanted to it. I have always wanted an FJ55, they just look so darn cool. So my question is, as I am going through it looking for old/worn out parts, are there definate musts as far as replacement parts...I guess what I mean is, are there certain parts that I should go for non-OEM and go with a more solid/durable/versatile part (ie super heavy duty alternators/starters etc.)? Not to say anything bad about Toyota, but I know there are some parts available that may be superior as far as replacements go.

Also, I had a question regarding electronic ignitions. I can't figure out if a '78 does or does not have electronic ignition, and if it doesn't, am a stuck with buying a new distributor kit, or are there conversion kits available that will work on a '78 distributor?

And another, what do you guy suggest as far as suspension goes? I would like a small lift, maybe 2" or so, that would offer good load handling and not give too rough a ride (obviously I know that it won't every be like riding in a luxury car ?

Oh and on-board air, are you guys using the York A/C conversion? Does this mod allow you to still have a real A/C? What other options are available for on-board air in an FJ55?

Thanks again for all the input...very helpful!
Jacob
PS Any posts you can point me in the direction of that are a decent walk through of steps for installing a H55 in an FJ55? Probably nothing I coluld do myself, as I have a limited amount of tools/space available, but would like to have an idea of the work involved.

 

[tucker74]

Take a rust-free Pig over a 60 any day, what you've found is a very rare bird A '78 is mechanically identical to an FJ40 of the same vintage, so there is plenty of H55 swap info out there for you (actually easier due to the longer wheelbase). Your biggest hurdle is the e-brake - you can do an eldorado disk swap ... line lock etc. to get around this.

The hardest thing to find on the piggies is body parts, if that's in good condition you pretty much have the whole spectrum of OEM/aftermarket 40 parts to choose from. You're best bet on lift is getting custom Alcans made - OME used to make a 55 lift as well ... stay away from the Man-a-fre at all cost. Ironpig offroad has bumpers and sliders for pigs, Man-a-fre has some stuff as well.

I can't remember one time I drove my pig around town with out getting nods, stares or questions ... way cooler than a 60 IMO.



Tucker

 

[shak900]

The body appears to be in good shape (I am doing all the investigations long distance, with my father as my eyes). So when you say OME "used" to make lift kits for them, what does that mean? Anywhere to find them now?
With the H55, do I need to find a split transfer case? What is the best source for a new H55?
Also just a curiosity, when looking up info, I find some people sending out their cruisers to Iron Pig Off Road and having them completely redo/customize them. My question is, how much does this cost (ballpark) to get all the goodies? Do most people end up shipping their cruisers to them? Just wondering!
Thanks again for everything
Jacob

 

[72cruiser]

Your biggest hurdle is the e-brake - you can do an eldorado disk swap ... line lock etc. to get around this.

since i'm lookin at a 60series drivetrain for my 40 project i figured i'd chime in on this...


what other e-brake options are there other than a line-lock?

i thought the point of the emergency brake was to provide a mechanical backup to the hydraulic brake system...so if you lost fluid pressure you could still stop.


i've seen the transfercase mounted style (which i like), but wondering if this is the only other option.

this pic is from Razor's minitruck...



sorry for the semi-hijack,

malphrus



(GO FOR THE PIG!!!)

 

[tucker74]

The body appears to be in good shape (I am doing all the investigations long distance, with my father as my eyes). So when you say OME "used" to make lift kits for them, what does that mean? Anywhere to find them now?

Mikesta here on the board had a brand new set for sale a while back - don't know if he sold them or not. I don't know if you can still buy them new or not ... you would need to contact ARB up in Seattle to be sure.

With the H55, do I need to find a split transfer case? What is the best source for a new H55?

You will need a split case, your best bet for a new H55 in NM is Dan over at American Toyota - big discount for Mud members PVCruisers and G&S also import used trannies from AUS if you're looking for used. Get a used split case from one of the many 60s being parted at any one time down in the for sale section.

Also just a curiosity, when looking up info, I find some people sending out their cruisers to Iron Pig Off Road and having them completely redo/customize them. My question is, how much does this cost (ballpark) to get all the goodies? Do most people end up shipping their cruisers to them? Just wondering!
Thanks again for everything
Jacob

Give Lance a call for exact prices, but his site has lots of good info and online parts he mass-produces. Most people send stuff to him for resto and buildup work - if you're just looking for bumpers and bolt-on stuff there is no need.

http://www.ironpigoffroad.com/



Tucker

 

[tucker74]

since i'm lookin at a 60series drivetrain for my 40 project i figured i'd chime in on this...

what other e-brake options are there other than a line-lock?

i thought the point of the emergency brake was to provide a mechanical backup to the hydraulic brake system...so if you lost fluid pressure you could still stop.

malphrus

(GO FOR THE PIG!!!)

If you're going for 60 series axles they'll have the e-brake setup at the rear drums already You're absolutely right on the second part - the line lock is a compromise to get your truck inspected in states that require a working e-brake. It's also good for holding your vehicle on the trail etc, but does have a single point of failure ...

Tucker

BTW - Cadillac Eldorado rear disk calipers have a provision for the e-brake as opposed to the Monte Carlo calipers most people use on FJ40 conversions ...

 

[Volunteer]

Nice truck. Much rather a nice 55 than a 60. But I like them all.

 

[rapovt]

Nice Keep The Pigs Coming!!!!!

 

[72cruiser]

If you're going for 60 series axles they'll have the e-brake setup at the rear drums already You're absolutely right on the second part - the line lock is a compromise to get your truck inspected in states that require a working e-brake. It's also good for holding your vehicle on the trail etc, but does have a single point of failure ...

Tucker

BTW - Cadillac Eldorado rear disk calipers have a provision for the e-brake as opposed to the Monte Carlo calipers most people use on FJ40 conversions ...

awesome...thanks man.


malphrus

 

[Wayneraintree]

Need I say more

I have the H55F in my 60 and I would say it is one of the nicest tranny's out there..

 

[tlcruiser66]

Shackle reversal

If you're looking for a more comfortable ride, i'd go with a shackle reversal. Gives you a little more lift +/- 1.5" plus it helped my buddy with his tracking issue.