The 1972 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 continues to capture attention with a decade-long body-off refurbishment and thoughtful modern upgrades. Equipped with a 2F inline-six engine and four-speed manual transmission, this FJ40 blends classic appeal with refined capability. The current owner acquired it in 2013 and embarked on an extensive restoration that included structural, cosmetic, and mechanical enhancements.
Engine & Powertrain Upgrades
The heart of this Land Cruiser is a 4.2-liter 2F inline-six sourced from a 1985 FJ60. It features a Holley Sniper electronic fuel injection system mounted via a custom Redline adapter, a recurved FJ60 distributor, and aftermarket headers feeding a 2.5″ stainless-steel exhaust. Cooling and ignition components were refreshed, including water pump, fuel pump, hoses, and pressure regulator.
Power flows through a 1976 FJ40 four-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case, connected to a 4.10:1 rear end. The clutch and hydraulic cylinders were replaced, and the flywheel resurfaced. Front FJ60 disc brakes, brake booster, master cylinder, and rebuilt knuckles enhance stopping power, while a Saginaw power steering pump improves maneuverability.
Exterior Refinement & Suspension
The FJ40 underwent a full media blast and body-off restoration. Panels including front fenders, quarter panels, rear sill, floors, and rockers were replaced or refinished. The exterior wears Rustic Green with a Cygnus White removable hardtop. Polished 15″ steel wheels with hubcaps are mounted with 33″ BFGoodrich KM3 tires and paired with a full-sized spare.
Suspension upgrades include a 2.5″ Old Man Emu lift kit for improved ground clearance and articulation. 3M paint protection film was applied to the lower panels. Other replaced elements include headlights, bumpers, glass, and all rubber gaskets.
Interior & Comfort Features
The cabin accommodates three-across front seats and folding rear jump seats, all reupholstered in black marine-grade vinyl. Sound-dampening materials were installed throughout the doors, transmission tunnel, and roof. A Vintage Air heat and air conditioning system complements the cabin, along with black floor mats, replacement dash pads, sun visors, and a roll bar with three-point seatbelts.
Instrumentation is handled by Dakota Digital gauges, including a 120-mph speedometer, 5k-rpm tachometer, and auxiliary displays. A Holley 2300 Sniper touchscreen controller sits on a quick-disconnect mount under the dash, integrated with refreshed wiring and auxiliary Painless Performance harnesses.
Off-Road Capabilities
This FJ40 combines original ruggedness with modern off-road reliability. Aisin manually-locking front hubs, upgraded disc brakes, and power steering make handling easier. The 2F engine’s 4.2-liter output provides strong torque for trails or pavement. 33″ tires paired with a lifted suspension enhance both off-road clearance and road presence.
Summary
This 1972 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 merges classic 4×4 heritage with modern mechanical and comfort upgrades. From the 2F inline-six with EFI to the lifted suspension, disc brakes, and interior enhancements, it’s a fully restored FJ40 ready for adventure or collection. The included documentation, refurbishment photos, and service records provide full transparency on the extensive restoration work.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
