Wanted Replace my FJ40

I'm looking to replace the FJ40 I sold 7 years ago. I would say it was a mistake but it helped get my girls through college. I would appreciate any leads. I prefer a "75" or newer. This is to be a project not a true restoration. I have set up alerts on CL. EBAY, Google, and visit BAT regularly.
I don't want to have more than 7-8K in the initial investment. I am not interested in purchasing a "trailer queen" / show car. I am not interested in a body that looks like it was used as the backstop for a turkey shoot. I am not interested in a 40 that has been modified and cut up to be a rock crawler. It needs to be driveable. It needs to be complete.
Thanks

 

[tstepp920]

The GOOD--
May 1980
ALL original:
2F Motor
4Spd transmission
Transfer case
Front Disc brakes
Seats
Roll bar
Wheels
Tool Kit
Jack

Never been painted, matching numbers on engine, frame, and VIN plate.

The NOT SO GOOD
Needs a new muffler
Tires are dry rotted
Seats, especially the drivers, are torn
Radio is missing
The front floor boards need replacing
The rain gutter needs replacing
The driver's side kick vent panel needs replacing
There is some patch work needed here and there.
The frame is solid but has "scale" all over

 

[imyahucklbrry]

Mind telling how much seller's asking?

 

[tstepp920]

Mind telling how much seller's asking?

He was asking 10k. I offered 8k. HE didn't get what he wanted. And I paid more than I wanted.
I paid too much probably. But i'm ok with that.

 

[imyahucklbrry]

...And now the real fun starts!

 

[TCSTARK]

What are your plans for that tub? Are you going to replace it or repair it?

 

[tstepp920]

What are your plans for that tub? Are you going to replace it or repair it?

Repair it.
I struggled with trying to decide which direction to go with any cruiser once I found it. Seeing as this cruiser is basically unmolested I have decided to go more along the lines the lines of a resto with some slight modifications. I will keep the F2 and swap in a 5 spd H55 eventually. A moderate lift, new seats, power steering, A/C, roll cage. This summer I will take the top off and complete repairs to the hard top. My first priority is an "existing conditions" inspection by a local shop that has serviced several FJ40s over the years. Tires, after the wheels are addressed. A new muffler and exhuast piping. Servicing the engine, and brakes. Drive it this summer. Start addressing the tub this winter.

 

[tstepp920]

The Architect's '77 FJ40 is the standard I hope to achieve. Very very nice work, an acknowledgement of what a FJ40 is, without it being a museum piece. A tip of the hat to you sir. This will be my last. I want to do it right.