samatulich
SILVER Star
A few weeks ago my brother (@GEMatulich) and I drove from Olympia Washington to Eagle River Alaska. We were in a 1976 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 that our mom bought new in ‘76. Our parents drove the cruiser through South America between 1977 and 1978. Growing up they would tell us stories of their travels and instilled a love and respect for the 40. My brother and I have talked over the years about making the trek north to Alaska. The cruiser needed work and it was up to me to get it done. I spent the last few years working to get it back on the road. This past winter I finally got it to where I could drive it up and down the freeway, around town and out to the coast without issue. We decided that we had waited long enough and it was time to make the drive. Over the past few months I was busy going over the vehicle and preparing it and ourselves for the long drive ahead.
In preparation of the road trip I checked the compression.
I also did a vacuum test
Not bad results for a 40+ year old engine.
With several weeks to go before departing, I replaced the tie rod ends and had the alignment done.
Next I replaced the output seal on the transfer case and installed a bypass hose.
I serviced the parking brake
Lastly, I replaced the rear pinion seal and added fresh gear oil to the transmission, transfer case and rear differential.
Just about ready to hit the road.
In preparation of the road trip I checked the compression.
I also did a vacuum test
Not bad results for a 40+ year old engine.
With several weeks to go before departing, I replaced the tie rod ends and had the alignment done.
Next I replaced the output seal on the transfer case and installed a bypass hose.
I serviced the parking brake
Lastly, I replaced the rear pinion seal and added fresh gear oil to the transmission, transfer case and rear differential.
Just about ready to hit the road.