Ready to pull the trigger but first...

[branderbro]

I'm ready to dive into an FJ40 and everything that comes with the joy and headaches of owning these beauts; but I want to do it right the first time. So Im hoping for some expertise in judging a particular FJ40.

1979 TOYOTA FJ40 | Vintage Cruisers

1st: The bed liner is my first red flag though the contours over the seams look ok. Ive been "reassured" that there is no significant rust.

2nd: I believe the exhaust is on the wrong side?

3rd: bumper

Thank you in advance for any insight

 

[C6H12O6]

I'll be the first to call BS on the 19K mile claim. I can barely fathom a reason for a body-off restoration and a complete repaint if it really only has 19K miles. Could have been a more minor refresh, I suppose, but I'm skeptical. Missing clutch pedal pad, brake pedal pad worn through... probably not in 19K miles.

Also, without knowing the price, it's hard to know whether the "no significant rust" claim is an acceptable risk. It looks nice in spots, but then some things don't look to have had the same meticulous care and attention as the new paint job. That always makes me a little nervous.

 

[branderbro]

I believe it was a reset odo from after the "restoration." Good eye on the pedals had not noticed. How much of an issue can the original smog equipment be? I notice a lot of cruisers desmogging theirs

 

[Goforth]

It appears Vintage offroad is now vintage cruisers. Do a search on Greg Mushro and then decide for yourself the authenticity of depicted cruiser.

Did your homework on this seller. That is all I can say.

 

[MIKKELSEN]

Cegoforth is right on that one.

If you really want a FJ40 and a trustworthy guy to deal with check out Landcruiser Nation. Greg Overton has some good reviews and feedback. Or maybe one of the rigs in the classified ads here. Check out the bad sellers section just to avoid a expensive headache. A lot of great fj40's out there mixed with alot of sketchy sellers and poor resto work.

 

[loosechange]

Type in Mushro here on mud and make your decision... lots of posts LOTS.

I have never worked or had contact with him but what I’ve read here on mud makes me nervous and sceptical. That thought is a decision you have to make.

 

[C6H12O6]

Smog rules vary so much from state to state (and even county to county within states) that it's hard to know how big of a deal that is for you, but worth checking into your local regulations.

Rolling back the odometer after a restoration is (I think) illegal, unless there is accompanying paperwork to document what it was before. I would be very, very skeptical of an unknown mileage + 19K restore with fresh, shiny paint and new wheels, with a questionably dusty and unkept looking engine bay and undercarriage, dried out dash pads and dirty knobs, etc. Could be great for the right price, but I'd want some alone time to look it over really carefully.

 

[Ming89FJ62]

You really need to think twice about buying from Vintage Cruisers / Vintage Offroad. Search mud and Google both companies - really. There are other nice 40's out there. Buyer beware.

 

[Ming89FJ62]

Take your pick - fun reading

another vintage auction

I think ih8mud.com saved me from VOR (but now I'm bummed)

Vintage Off Road.

 

[TheHardWay]

Pix are only part of the story. Nothing replaces a hands on inspection/drive. Either get out to Flagstaff or find someone out there to check it out for you. 'NUFF SAID - - KEEP LOOKING!

 

[RAYJON]

Looking at the pix, not impressed, lots of stuff painted over and made to look good at a distance.. painted body bushings and fresh paint job... just makes me wonder...

 

[branderbro]

Thanks everyone! I was aware of the businesses reputation even in looking at this particular truck. The year, the color and the turn key condition (possible condition) are what I’m looking for. After reading further I will not be purchasing this sight unseen. With that said if anyone IS in the flagstaff area and would be willing to check it out please let me know. I’d be willing to reimburse your time; it would also save me the hassle of flying acrossed country

 

[1969FJ]

How much is he asking for this FJ40 ?

 

[branderbro]

Right around 35 which is about my budget

 

[Pighead]

If nothing else, Mushro does have some balls...

 

[RAYJON]

Try calling some of the reputable shops on here, they usually know of some for sale or someone thinning the herd, join a local club lots of nice cruisers change hands. I personally advise people to avoid dealers and flippers...

 

[David70FJ40]

Not a deal killer, but.....Where is the skid plate?

 

[branderbro]

Not a deal killer, but.....Where is the skid plate?

No skid plate, no roll bar pads and I’m not quite sure what the radio delete pad is...

 

[Ming89FJ62]

$35k will buy you a nice 40. Be patient - keep looking

 

[scott fasken]

If someone puts the BBB Logo on their business site I start to walk away-- sadly the BBB is used by bums in to many cases.