1979 Toyota Other for sale $86,000
| 1979 Toyota Other $86,000 | |
| Car Ad from: Hemmings View Original Ad | |
| Price: | $86,000 |
| Contact: | View Original Ad from Hemmings |
| Location: | Claremont, CA |
| Details: |
The iconic Toyota Land Cruiser had its beginnings over sixty years ago in another time. The example of this rugged workhorse shown here comes replete with refinements made over its long-running production. Later model FJ40s like this are vastly improved and more mechanically sophisticated than earlier versions, embodying everything that makes classic Land Cruisers sought-after and unique. Improvements that evolved over earlier models included removing the fuel tank from directly underneath the passenger seat, relocating it safely outside the cabin to underneath the body. Adding the ability to finally drive at highway speeds became available when differential gearing was changed in 1979. The introduction of reclining seats and additional leg-room was welcomed by taller drivers. And available for the first time, but only as options, were factory-installed power steering, air-conditioning, and a rear cabin heater--refinements to occupant comfort without affecting the reputation for rugged grit. Chassis No. 303025 is a matching-numbers California example that underwent a comprehensive detailed cosmetic and mechanical restoration by well-known recognized marque specialist Jonathan Ward, of TLC4x4/Icon (Chatsworth, California). Renowned for his extreme attention to detail, Ward performed a frame-off reconstruction utilizing only genuine factory period-correct components while retaining all the California emissions equipment. (Note: missing or incomplete smog components can be a big and costly problem to rectify in many states.). Starting with an original California-spec, unmolested FJ40 with 54,000 original miles and 100% original sheetmetal, this FJ40 was rebuilt from the ground up, without body fillers, cutting, rewelding, replacement panels, or fender-flare cutouts so often seen on other examples. All the body spot-welds were kept intact, not glossed over. Note that No. 303025 came assembled from Japan with all Toyota factory parts, and unlike many recent sales, was not cobbled-together from South American coffee plantation work trucks. Cosmetically, the paint work was performed to a high standard by well-regarded Steve Zhdanoff (Van Nuys, California). Meticulous attention to detail during the reconstruction included nylon washers between each exterior Stainless fastener, and the multiple coats of acrylic enamel paint in its original Toyota color: T416 Dune Beige. All other fasteners were replaced with new or were replated to military specifications. Cosmetically and mechanically the car is effectively as-new. As is pictured, the engine compartment is very clean, representative of a professional restoration. The engine has been carefully preserved, correct in its original details, and rebuilt properly with all functioning emissions equipment. The carburetor has been expertly tuned and reassembled by Ohio FJ40 specialist Jim Chenowith, with the entire fuel system recently refurbished and serviced; the air-conditioning system was also professionally serviced, receiving NOS components and modern refrigerant. No. 303025 has since its restoration been correctly maintained and regularly exercised for the added 13,500 miles--never in rain, snow, or offroad-use. It shows truly as new. The brightwork is in excellent condition, the paint remains lustrous and highly reflective. All glass is original to the car, excepting a proper replacement windshield, and in perfect condition, including all replaced factory weatherstripping. Lamps, lenses, and emblems were replaced with the correct genuine new-old-stock items and remain flawless. The car sits on very rare 16-inch factory-optioned powdercoated wheels with Firestone Steeltex A/T tires. Original seat coverings were replaced with upgraded, high quality marine-grade vinyl in the original stitch |