This is the one-owner FJ40 that my father bought brand new in 1966. He was far from a Toyota purist though; he is a life long hot rodder and it wasn’t long before the 1F engine was yanked in favor of Chevy V8 power. The Cruiser has been home to numerous engines over the years but has had a ridiculous 468ci Big Block Chevy under the hood for the past 30 years. Other innovations long before the advent of online forums include the Saginaw steering conversion, eight lug Dana axles, and Detroit Lockers front and rear. People talk about “back in the day 31s were big” but this FJ40 has been shod with 36-inch tall tires for nearly four decades now.
Drivetrain:
468ci Big Block Chevy
TH400 built by Valley Transmission
Dana 44 front axle w/ 5.13 gears and Detroit Locker
High pinion Dana 60 rear axle w/ 5.13 gears and Detroit Locker
Suspension:
Springover w/ Rancho springs and KYB shocks
Rolling Stock:
36×15.50R15 Dick Cepek Fun Countrys
15×8 US Wheel chrome spokes
Additional Modifications:
Wiring by B-Radd Customs
Saginaw steering
Custom roll cage