• Seller: Michael D onovan
• Location: Idyllwild, California
• Mileage: 93,000 Shown
• Chassis #: FJ40236299
• Title Status: Clean

It is often said that almost any 4×4 can get you to your wilderness destination, but only a Toyota Land Cruiser guarantees you’ll return home. The Land Cruiser FJ40 enjoys a reputation for toughness and reliability, and the badge has served with distinction with various armed forces across the globe. This 1977 example doesn’t have that history, but it is a rock-solid classic ready to transport its occupants deep into the great outdoors. Its owner has undertaken a significant amount of recent work to ensure it is prepared for a life of adventure. However, all things must end. Therefore, he has decided to send it to a new home by listing the Cruiser with us at Barn Finds Auctions.

I am quick to emphasize that this Land Cruiser demonstrates why you should never judge a book by its cover. Its Code 854 Sky Blue paint has seen better days, and this classic would undoubtedly benefit from a cosmetic refresh. However, looking more closely reveals plenty of positive news. The panels are remarkably straight for a vehicle of this type and age, with no significant dings or dents. This FJ40 has spent its life in the dry Californian climate, which could be the ace up its sleeve. It has allowed the vehicle to remain solid, with the only area of concern being corrosion in the right rear corner just below the badges. One of the downsides of owning a pristine off-roader is that they can fall victim to scratches and scrapes as they plunge headlong through the undergrowth. This means some owners do not undertake such activities, relegating their pride and joy to life as a trailer queen. Leaving this Land Cruiser in its current form removes that stress, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable ownership experience. It is a sure bet that this survivor would receive as much respect in its current form as it would if returned to its former glory. The refurbished wheels add a striking contrast to the aged paint, and the glass is excellent.

Beneath this Land Cruiser’s patina-rich exterior beats a heart of pure gold. It is standard Toyota fare, with a 4.2-liter six sending 135hp and 200 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a four-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and Warn free wheeling hubs. The motor produces its power and torque low in the rev range, helping to explain why the only thing that might defeat an FJ40 would be the north face of Mount Everest. The owner has spent a considerable sum during the past year to guarantee this gem is mechanically healthy. He handed it to a Land Cruiser specialist to ensure all work was completed to a high standard. They lavished care and attention on the brakes, steering, suspension, cooling system, fuel system, and ignition. The shocks are new, as are the tires. It recently passed its California Smog Inspection with flying colors and has a full history and receipts for the completed work. Potential bidders should consider this Toyota as a turnkey proposition.

This Toyota’s drivetrain isn’t the only aspect that received some recent TLC because the owner has splashed plenty of cash on its interior. This included fitting new seat covers, door trims, and a new headliner. The painted surfaces are presentable, the upper and lower dash pads are in good order, and the gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings. The interior is serviceable and low-maintenance in its current form, but achieving a higher presentation level would be an easy task for the winning bidder to tackle in a home workshop.

Some classics possess an indefinable charm and attraction, which is true with this 1977 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40. Undoubtedly, it would “pop” following a straightforward cosmetic restoration, and the sense of satisfaction the new owner will experience should make the effort worthwhile. However, I would probably preserve the exterior appearance if I found it parked in my workshop, allowing it to wear its survivor badge proudly. Finishing the interior restoration would provide a striking contrast and is a path I would find irresistible. Your opinion and vision may differ from mine, but unlike me, you may be able to transform that dream into a reality by submitting a bid on this Cruiser. I wish you luck if you do.

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• History (11 bids)