1974 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45 Is a Period-Correct Time Capsule
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The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45 has long been a favorite among the off-road set, but it hasn't always been a collectible. Far too many of these go-anywhere 4x4s were chewed up and spit out by decades of hard use—from Wisconsin (plowing out ice-fishing camps) to the Serengeti (avoiding lions on the drive home through the plains). In short, very few are in the same shape as this fully-restored 1974 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45 pick-up - opens in new window or tab. that's wrapping up its sale on eBay Motors. Of all FJ45 models, the two-door pickup is the rarest. (Also, read about the two-door 4x4 FJ 40 Land Cruiser - opens in new window or tab., an affordable classic.)
You won’t find many FJ45 pickups available for sale in the United States, and almost none of them in this fine fettle.
Despite the fairly high asking price, you’re not looking at a resto-mod like those produced by ICON - opens in new window or tab.. Rather, this is a high-quality restoration project that was completed one year ago and recently fine-tuned by The FJ Company - opens in new window or tab.. The end result is the rarest of FJ45s: a show truck that’s more ready for the concours d'elegance than the Congo.
Simplicity is the order of the day for Toyota trucks hailing from the 1960s and 1970s.
With a four-speed manual transmission, inline six-cylinder engine, and four-wheel drive, the ‘74 Toyota Land Cruiser hits all the classic notes. Everything about this FJ45 pickup has been returned to original condition using period-correct parts wherever possible, and even the fluids have been completely drained and replaced to ensure reliable operation. Well, maybe not everything is as-delivered: there are a few modern touches advertised in the auction such as the availability of LED headlights, a winch, and air conditioning, with the insinuation that the seller could create a version of the truck to fit whatever buyer fantasy that’s possible with the right amount of cash.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.