1979 FJ40 RESTORATION
The build started with a relatively stock 1980 FJ40 displaying all of the typical rust issues.
After taking a series of
photos all of the original components were removed from the body, labeled, then
stored for use later.
The
front-end sheet metal was removed first including the fenders, hood, radiator
cover etc.
The
cowl and tub were removed from the frame in pieces.
Before sending the frame out for media
blasting, the engine, transfer-case and transmission were removed.
A good coat of primer and paint were
applied after the frame returned from the media blaster.
With the drive-train situated correctly
the Aqualu aluminum tub #4006 and cowl #4008 were introduced for
the first time along with the fenders #4022, 1/2 doors #4033-A, tailgate #4012, hood side panels #4031 and rad cover #4030.
The Cruiser was once again stripped down
to a ‘rolling’ chassis so that all of the body components could be painted
individually.
The freshly painted body parts along with
all of the other components are installed for the final time.
The finished result!
The finished result!