The FJ40 Land Cruiser

The FJ40 must have been the definitive 20^th century 4×4. Toyota must have understood the current and future needs of the rugged roads. FJ offers the greatest hits album of classic tracks. FJ40 produced between 1960 and 1940 was best sellers in the US between 1961 and 1965. Toyota recorded more than 300,000 sales by 1973 for their hardtop, soft-top, station wagon, and pickup form. The design and performance continues to be a classic restoration project.

So, why name it FJ40? F stands for the engine type and the J stands for Jeep. WWII inspired the car design where troopers needed a general-purpose vehicle. The Land Cruiser was a car conceived by the managing director Hanji Umehara. The company needed to come up with a name for a car that did not sound less defined than its competitor.

The FJ40 increased the reputation Toyota had by producing a strong, reliable vehicle. FJ40 was designed to a low range sub gear that improved the car performance and acceleration on rough roads. The 2-speed transfer level was changed from a 2-speed transfer lever to 3-speed shift lever that was moved to the column. The modification made room for a third person to sit upfront. The fj40 was also designed to carry more cargo or more passengers.

History of Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

Toyota Company has gained popularity across the world for producing very reliable cars. Success in the automotive industry depends on how well a vehicle is designed to suit a specific purpose. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40’s origin can be dated back to the WWII era. The design was intended to serve as a utility car to serve in the Korean War. The first Toyota FJ40 series land cruiser was launched in 1960. Three years later, official importation to the U.S. began, within two years, the FJ40 Land Cruiser Company has gained a significant market share in the country.

The vehicle maintained the same design until 1983 where it went through minor trim teaks, however, the manufacturer focused on progressive functional improvement and upgrades. Conversely, the car changed from being a bare-bone rockhopper to a commensurately equipped modern SUV, 30 years ahead of the curve.

1968-1983 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 Body Design

The FJ40 was available as a closed two-door or open-bodied wagon and a longer wheelbase FJ45. The car was also available as a two-door pick up although it did not sell well in the US. The FJ45 gave way to the production of the FJ55 in 1967, intending to introduce the modern Highlander- a full-styled and a truck-based styled wagon. The FJ55 was dedicated to improving comfort over utility.

What is the best Land Cruiser FJ40 Engine?

The FJ40 is propelled by a number of matching 3.9 liter 6 cylinder engine with factory-correct 3-speed manual and a 4-wheel drive systems.

After the FJ40s reached the secondary market, engine swaps became more common. The FJ’s stock six engine was replaced with a small block Chevy V8. The swap was recommended for its more power. However, some reverse engineering were required. The 235-cid Stovebolt six Chevrolet engine was best fitting the purpose. Some of the best Toyota engines that fits the FJ40 Classic car are discussed in this article.