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This is a “Spotted” post but in this case the seller of this beautifully restored FJ45 Troopy spotted me (or the site rather). It’s WCXC’s first seller submission. Here’s the story:
The seller states that this right-hand-drive, 1984 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45 Troopy started its life in Australia where it racked up only 127,000 km (~79, 400 miles). In 2011, it was legally imported into the U.S. and given a ground-up, frame-off restoration during which the frame and body were stripped, chemical dipped, and epoxy sealed. The frame was then painted with POR-15, and the body got a fresh respray. Truck has clocked 600 km (~375 miles) since then.
The seller also reports that the engine, the venerable 4.2-liter 2F, was rebuilt, balanced, and blueprinted. A new H55F, 5-speed manual transmission was fitted and mated to custom drive shafts. The suspension is an Old Man Emu system, fitted with heavy springs, and greasable shackles and spring pins. The addition of custom sway bars are said to virtually eliminate body roll while cornering. The seller further reports that the axles, differentials and transfer case have all been refreshed with new Toyota parts. Six new 33″ BFGs round out the picture — no pun intended.
Up front, the ARB bull bar is ready for your choice of winch. Out back, a dual swing-away bumper, carries two spares and a Hi-Lift jack (not pictured but said to be included). The roof and doors are removable.
Perhaps the biggest change from stock is the conversion to a dual-fuel system, meaning the truck can run on propane or gasoline. The big advantage of propane is significantly reduced vehicle emissions. Cleaner burning fuel also means a cleaner, longer lasting engine. On the downside, propane packs about 25% less power per gallon than gasoline does. It also sells for about 25% less than gasoline, based on national averages. According to Petersen’s 4Wheel & Offroad propane’s relative lack of punch should only result in a 10% drop in mileage. But a 10% mileage loss at a 25% savings means you’ll still come out ahead. With 12 gallons of gasoline, and 15 gallons of propane on board, the range should be an improvement over the stock 22 gallon tank.
The seller goes on to say that throughout the $72,000 restoration, every nut, bolt, seal, and bearing on the truck was replaced — nothing was left untouched. The result is an almost 30-year-old truck that looks like it just rolled off the showroom floor.
The cost of this beige beauty with comfortable seating for eleven? Significantly less than cost of the restoration at $55,000. Given what restored FJ40s have been selling for at auction lately, this Troopy seems like quite a deal.
Click here to email the seller directly. The truck is located in northern Colorado.
Link resources: Photobucket Gallery
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