This is one of the cheaper FJ projects we’ve seen come up for grabs that wasn’t a total rustbucket. In fact, it’s in largely dry/rust-free condition, but there’s a catch: it needs an engine. The transmission is included but you’ll need to source a new powerplant if this no reserve project ends up in your driveway. Fortunately, it looks like some other work has already been done by a previous owner, as the suspension appears to be mildly lifted and the tires and wheels are definitely an upgrade. Overall, this FJ looks like a great foundation for a Chevy small block swap. Find it here on eBay with bidding at $6K and the auction ending tonight.

This was clearly someone’s project at one point, with other details worth noting beyond the upgraded wheels and tires. The jerry can mounted on the back gate, the fender flares over the rear wheels, and what appear to be aftermarket shocks up front are not necessarily huge value-adds but may indicate this FJ was a well-loved project before its drivetrain was yanked. In fact, it may have been well on its way to a V8 swap before life got in the way. The seller says the undersides are rust-free and that the frame is straight and solid; the only rust noted are some small spots above each taillight.

The interior is a blank canvas, and that’s a good thing in this case since there’s no major rot to fix. The seller notes the included front bucket seats are not OEM and appear to be from a later Dodge Ram. I’ve always liked the optional “tumble seats” that some FJs came with out back, but given this example appears to have been built for off-road use, I can’t say I’m surprised that the previous owner didn’t raid the OEM parts catalog to build a show-quality restoration piece – which is how many FJs end up these days. The seller notes that the paint is oxidized, but it does at least match in the door jambs, which may indicate it still wears the remnants of its original finish.

The included transmission is a 4-speed SM 465, and given this photo of the included parts also captures the old-school California blue plate, it seems likely that this FJ was a long-time California driver before a drivetrain issue and/or project caused it to stall out. In addition to restoring them to showroom spec, many shops are also using FJs as the basis for big-dollar restomod builds. Personally, after my limited exposure to the world of import SUVs (see the Isuzu Trooper project), I like to see trucks like these mildly freshened up but by and large kept in the sort of condition that doesn’t preclude off-road use. How would you restore this FJ – and what engine would you drop in?