Back in the day, we used the truck for hunting and (I apologize) cut a big hole in the roof for 'spotting' (I apologize). I plan on driving the truck so I had them go thru everything. New dynatrak axles, nv4500 trans, atlas transfer, painless wiring harness, vintage air A/C-heat, basically everything mechanical, but as you can tell no body work. I've spent way too much already, but it's an emotional investment, not financial. I plan on keeping it for a very long time. Someday maybe I'll develop some skills like buckrose and finish it up right, but for now we're off to a good start. I plan on taking it on one more hunting trip in Idaho later this summer, only we'll use a Canon this time instead of the cannons we used to use.
Stop by and say "hi" when your up here. I'm in Boise, Ground Up (67LV) is about 20 minutes west and there's an old-guy with a 45 pick up in McCall, 2-3 hours north.
Don't apologize, I think that the rag top is cool. Buckroseau does good work, but I think a few bomb cans do just fine also.
Lito,
I remember a classified ad several years back for a 45LV that had the top completely removed, sawzall style, for "hunting" purposes, so don't feel too bad.
I'm fairly new here, so I thought I would post a few of my troopy. It is a 1984 HJ47, with a 2H diesel motor, H41 transmission, 411 diffs with rear LSD, full floating rear axle, and 16" split rims. Upgrades I am considering are a bull bar, roof rack, OME suspension and possibly a snorkel. I also have some aggressive rustproofing methods in mind for the near future.
Beautiful rig! Very unique and in great shape. You said you are running OME suspension, did you put them in or did they come with the vehicle? I ask because I am having trouble finding rear springs for my one-ton pickup. I have a pair of basic 2" lifts from SOR but I would love to get OME's. However, I am unsure of their weight ratings and have been unable to find specifics for them online. When you get a minute, can you post up some picks of your rear springs? While you're at it, can you post some shots of the rear cargo area and front seat upholstery too?
Thanks!
I don't have the OME setup yet, that is one of upgrades I would like to get in the next few years. I have researched them a bit and know that they have medium, and heavy-duty springs that are made especially for the 45-47 cruisers, with shocks to match. Unfortunately, they are also the most expensive cruiser springs they make. I am still running the factory springs and shackles, with new aftermarket polybushes. I will try and get some shots of the seating today.
Scoot
I plan on taking it on one more hunting trip in Idaho later this summer, only we'll use a Canon this time instead of the cannons we used to use.[/QUOTE]
What part of Idaho? I am in S.E. Idaho and would love to see another LV in person! Don't feel bad about the top. The beutiful thing about cruisers is most people say if it fits your use and style more power to ya. I thought about a VW camper top on my fj55. I think I saw a 45lv with a poptop in some old safari pics somewhere.
I'm having the truck transported to my uncle's place in Boise. We plan on going late July, early August, then driving it home from there. Might meet up with Owyhee Jackass, too. Maybe meet up in Boise, if not maybe I could swing by on the drive home.
here's mine. '63 FJ45 SWB nonremovable top. basically restored to stock. had it for about 8 or 9 years now. still makes it out for club meetings occasionally.
BionicCruiser:
Looking for local FJ45 truck owners. I have seen your rig on the http://www.hdcruisers.org site.
I have a 66 FJ45 LWB. Know of any others in town? ABQ
Here is my 1978 FJ45 from Costa Rica. Haven't done anything to it yet, but I am starting to develop my plan to get rid of the cancer and get it back to stock.
Any idea what year these doors are? I thought the mid 70's doors didn't have a wing window.
Jackal, sorry i did see your question till now. i know of a couple. 1 disassembled in Placitas, 1 i haven't had any contact with in a long time. he is in Jemez Springs. that's all i can think of off the top of my head. you heard of High Desert Cruisers? come to a meeting, we'd love to see your truck!
Nice 45. Your doors are a later non-USA type that feature the side vent windows. My Australian 75 FJ45 had them. I don't think these were ever offered in North America. Good luck with your restoration.
That was one of the first things I said to the guy I bought it from (upside down bezel) and told myself that I would change it before I posted any pictutes. I completely forgot due to my enthusiasm for finally having a 45!!
That's a sweet pickup you have there! Are those the factory fog lamps on the front bumper? It looks like the heater is missing, do you think it was sold new that way, not that you would need it too often in Costa Rica? I have the wing window doors, like yours on my troopy. I'm not sure, but they were probably available from about 73ish until the end of 40 series production. Have fun with it!
Here's mine. 1966 FJ45 LWB out of Arizona. No rust, just one small dent in the left rear that I've been working on. I need some parts though....go figure.