Land Cruiser History

 

The "original" FJ40, FJ45 and FJ55

The tough, time proven, no nonsense FJ40 was produced for the U.S. for over two decades (1960-1983). The FJ40 is unmatched in its off-road prowess and equally at home in urban environments due to its remarkably thorough engineering. TLC will guide you through the many variations of this model to help select the year, equipment and level of restoration that best suits your needs.

Although the FJ40 usually steals the spotlight, Toyota simultaneously produced other unique Land Cruiser models. The FJ45 and FJ55. These two models utilize the same famous drive train as the FJ40 but with body styles to meet a variety of needs.

The FJ45 was only available in the U.S. from 1963-1967. Originally offered as a short bed pickup with fixed or removable top & doors, a long bed pickup with removable top & doors and as a 4-door wagon. However, availability of the these models is quite limited.

We have seen large growth in the interest in restoring these earlier models with modern V6 or V8 engines, five speed or automatic with updated transfer case, disc brakes, power steering, A/C and more. Most maintain the original cosmetic design with all upgrades as subtle as possible.

The FJ55 was produced from 1968-1979. Immediately popular as utility wagons for the whole family, this model is now in short supply due to the use and abuse endured over the years, the unwillingness of their owners to part with them, and their propensity to rust out. Wonderfully versatile when restored to their original glory or with modern mechanicals. FJ55's offer very unique styling as well as a virtually indestructible drive train that is sure to take you where you want to go! Unfortunately many key parts are no longer available, and a complete restoration is ever more challenging.

"Sport Utility" 1981-90 FJ60s & 62s

The four-door FJ60 (1981-87) and FJ62 (1988-90) wagons offer plenty of room and such creature comforts as air conditioning and a 4-speed manual (FJ60) or automatic transmission (FJ62). Most of these are beginning to succumb to the rusting process, but here in California, most of them are usually in nice original condition and not in need of heavy restoration. A Stage One delivered FJ60 or 62 Land Cruiser ensures that all systems perform as designed. Additionally, they may be repainted, reupholstered, or otherwise refurbished. We also offer these trucks with G.M. Vortec V8 or V6 drivetrains with automatic or manual 5 speed transmissions, 4 wheel disc brakes and all kinds of fun stuff. Inquire.

The "Comfy" FJ80 (1991-1993) & FZJ80 (1994-1997)

When they first came out, most "Cruiser heads" turned up their noses at these plush modern cruisers. At first glance, they appear to have lost their ruggedness and off road heritage.

As the years have passed, we have come to respect the FJ80 series as a true Cruiser. The early years (91-93) are very underpowered and lack an efficient braking system. However, these trucks are still very well built. As they become more and more affordable, they are becoming more popular as a cabin vehicle or a slow yet reliable daily driver. We also have been seeing more and more people modifying these years as an off road vehicle that is still freeway friendly. We offer performance solutions ranging from better brake system components, cold air intakes, all the way up to our conversion package utilizing various G.M. Vortec motors mated to a 5 speed manual or a 4 speed automatic that turn this Cruiser into a powerful and reliable 300+ horsepower daily driver.

The 93-98 models got better each year and satisfy owners in the stock configuration. The best series seems to be the 1995-1997 models because they have all of the production updates and improvements in the suspension, braking, and drive train systems. This model offers good performance, but they really wake up with the Toyota Racing Development super charger option.

We offer many options and accessories for all 80 series Cruisers ranging from TRD Super Charger's, suspension systems, lockers, lighting, racks, brush guards and much more to meet your needs.

The "plush" UZJ100 (1998-current)

When Toyota released the new 100 series, it was clear to all who the intended market would be. No longer were third world conditions the leading design factor. Now the design priority was to build a save, strong, flagship vehicle that would happily take everyone to the cabin, down the fire road or to the grocery store. Not to imply that these are not capable vehicles off road, it is just they evolved with the mass market to suit a more common contemporary use. Very comfortable at any speed, nice stiff frame design, tons of accessories, seating for seven, seat heaters and all that stuff. We have learned of a few service issues affecting the 10/99 and earlier production dates. The issues were front differential and transmission related, and are only now starting to be an issue with some. The 2001 and newer models offered more options, including touch screen navigation and audio system controls. The 2003-4 model has many subtle changes in the drive train design, including a quicker transmission shift pattern. We recommend 2000 and newer model year versions of this model, but they are all very well made vehicles. As with all contemporary luxury vehicles, they depreciate like a rock. Therefore, great value can be found in a 1998-2002 TLC serviced used 100 series. We always have access to them through Toyota Motor Credit lease returns. Let us know what you are looking for. There is talk at Toyota that this model year may be the last for this design. There is the ³LC2² coming out, Arakawa (the designers and builder) has changed ownership, and there are those at Toyota who feel that a dedicated platform for the Land Cruiser does not make good economic sense. Does that mean we should expect a rebadged Sequoia with more options and wood kit? We do not know, but changes are coming.
If you really want to have fun, let us design a custom 100 for you, with a TRD super charger, brake and suspension upgrades, custom interior, wheels.... using OEM Toyota and top quality performance parts sourced worldwide by TLC. We offer upgrades than your local dealer has even heard of.

Value

We find that most of our clients are interested in the Land Cruiser because of it reputation and heritage. Whatever far corners of the earth we travel to or see on TV, the Land Cruiser is almost every nations first choice.
Our intention is to add further value to these vehicles by the services we perform. When you purchase one of our Cruisers, trust that we carefully select each vehicle, and service it to a caliber not seen in the industry at large.
Most people purchase a TLC Land Cruiser for keeps.
Most Land Cruiser owners have at least one, often more.
We make a great effort to make our services beneficial to our customers, at any budget. Let us know how we can help get you on the road again!

Parts & Accessories

TLC has extensive new, used, and rebuilt parts resources, along with an international parts locating network. As well, we have carefully researched and offer a select list of TLC accessories such as brush guards, soft tops, audio systems, racks, winch systems and more.

 

Specifications

 

Click on the vehicles below to
see the stock specs
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 







Specifications:
FJ40 | FJ45 | FJ55 | FJ60 | FJ62 | FJ80 | FZJ80

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