1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40V

This FJ40 was built in December of 1978. It has been enjoyed and thoughtfully upgraded over the years rather than built as a purely stock restoration. A significant portion of the mechanical work was completed around 2006 at Monroe Automotive in Upland, California, with many of the parts sourced from Specter Off-Road and Man-A-Fre. These upgrades established much of the character and capability the truck has today. The 2006 work included the Chevrolet small-block 350 V8 conversion, Orion 3:1 transfer case, power steering, transmission work, knuckle and tie-rod rebuild, Painless wiring, shackle reversal, 3-inch Skyjacker lift springs with Rancho shocks, front roll cage, long-range fuel system, winch, upgraded seating and factory-style hardtop. In 2025–2026, the Chevrolet 350 V8 was professionally rebuilt and the work was performed by CB Customs in Batesville, Mississippi. The rebuild included machining, cleaning and cylinder honing, along with a new crankshaft, bearings, rear main seal, freeze plugs, oil pump, pushrods, lifters, gaskets, belts, pumps and spark plugs. The engine was also fitted with a 268-duration camshaft, electric fuel pump, high-torque starter, electric thermostat and aluminum electric radiator. The engine has approximately 1,200 miles since the rebuild. Additional updates were completed in 2026, including a Retrosound stereo system with speakers and subwoofer, aftermarket gauges, a new battery and a bikini top. Under current ownership, the FJ40 has been driven approximately 3,000 miles since May 2024. Total vehicle mileage is unknown. The result is a well-used, well-equipped and mechanically upgraded FJ40 with a history that spans California and Mississippi, rather than a truck built all at once for resale. It has been continually improved while retaining the character of a classic Land Cruiser. This is a vehicle meant to be driven and enjoyed, with the opportunity for its next owner to continue refining the cosmetics over time.