1979 FJ40 RESTORATION
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/______________9501788.jpg)
The build started with a relatively stock 1980 FJ40 displaying all of the typical rust issues.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____1925234.jpg)
After taking a series of
photos all of the original components were removed from the body, labeled, then
stored for use later.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____7841761.jpg)
The
front-end sheet metal was removed first including the fenders, hood, radiator
cover etc.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____9476893.jpg)
The
cowl and tub were removed from the frame in pieces.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____5407054.jpg)
Before sending the frame out for media
blasting, the engine, transfer-case and transmission were removed.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____7789890.jpg)
A good coat of primer and paint were
applied after the frame returned from the media blaster.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____6934728.jpg)
With the drive-train situated correctly
the Aqualu aluminum tub #4006 and cowl #4008 were introduced for
the first time along with the fenders #4022, 1/2 doors #4033-A, tailgate #4012, hood side panels #4031 and rad cover #4030.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____8912263.jpg)
The Cruiser was once again stripped down
to a ‘rolling’ chassis so that all of the body components could be painted
individually.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____5938188.jpg)
The freshly painted body parts along with
all of the other components are installed for the final time.
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____3979495.jpg)
The finished result!
![Picture](/uploads/6/4/2/2/6422733/____6394743.jpg)
The finished result!