FJ80, family hauler, and crawler.

[malteserunner]

There's no spot for 97 and older Land Cruiser's, so I'll put this here...

Finally got a Toyota 4x4 back in my driveway! I've been looking for the right Land Cruiser for a little while. I came across this one on craigslist, a couple weeks ago. It was built by Rocky at Marlin Crawler, who eventually sold it to his brother, Ryan. Ryan sold it to the PO, about a year ago. It was used for wheeling with his grandkids, and hardly any highway use. It has 152,000 miles on it, currently.

Rocky's list of mods include...

-Tube bumper in front, with a winch
-Sliders
-3.11:1 Crawler gears
-5.29:1 R & P
-Full Detroit locker in the rear
-Spartan locker in front
-7 pin mod
-Old Man Emu lift
-SLEE upper links
-37" MTR tires

And the PO built a rear bumper/swing out

It's seen a fair share of trails and rock crawling, but is in great condition overall. I changed the oil, with DELO and a Wix filter. The passenger front knuckle is weeping some gear oil, but I was given a Marlin Crawler service kit with the truck. I also found a set of used 37's, I'll be picking up as extras. The tires on it have a ton of rock abuse, so I'll run the best 5 out of both sets. Pics....

[malteserunner]

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/509/19975351149_e9f3e89f6e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wr9TY2)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/526/20154042562_df85af22ae_c.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/299/20152955102_50c30e71f7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wGRar9)

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3691/20162136315_1c0900c404_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wHEdFV)

[malteserunner]

Some interior shots...

CB radio works okay. I think I'll add a two meter, since a few guys are using them in my area.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/523/20436581972_7781dcecea_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/x8UPPA)

It has matching seat covers on all three rows...

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3767/20418970026_8d530317e2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/x7mypm)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/256/19822508104_01f5e3e65d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wcDx47)

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/20436474302_58304ffb6d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/x8UgPd)

[malteserunner]

My ammo boxes fit perfectly in the back. Very little side to side, or front to back movement, with the tailgate up. One box for tools/parts, and the other for recovery gear...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/289/20445152915_57b6ddf1a7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/x9EKEt)

[malteserunner]

I found this steeker on the dash...

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3726/20257201618_5a418ca95f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wS4shS)

I've met a few of the 4x4Him guys. Pretty cool bunch.

[malteserunner]

And under the hood...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/557/20258617379_ef24e7266a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wSbH9x)

Not certain what brand the radiator is, but it looks like good quality. I'm going to clean under the hood next weekend, just to knock the dust off. No major leaks under there.

[malteserunner]

I added a flag mount for the upcoming Pismo Jamboree. I had an old aluminum CB antenna mount in my parts stash. Just bolted it to the upright on my tire carrier.

That flag is waaaayyyyyy up in the air! :)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/432/20311830509_d28f95eb90_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wWTryi)

I also mounted my Hi-Lift to the swing out. Then I added a bump stop to the bumper, to keep the carrier from slamming into the metal stop so abruptly. Works pretty well...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/348/19877618673_67a1f102b1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/whvZvk)

[4x4mike]

Nice rig, it looks like it will be a lot of fun. Plus you've got the rear seats. A few guys I know were having trouble finding them, at least for a decent price.

[malteserunner]

The third row seats were definitely a requirement. We have 4 kids, and counting. My 3 year old loves this thing. He calls it the monster truck.

[habanero]

Sweet truck and nice find!

[4x4mike]

The third row seats were definitely a requirement. We have 4 kids, and counting. My 3 year old loves this thing. He calls it the monster truck.

And counting!

We only have two but they are a handful and any trip results in much cargo. We recently traded in my wife's Subaru wagon for a Honda Pilot. It will seat 8. We usually travel with 4-6 people so the extra room will be nice for legs and cargo.

[malteserunner]

Haha. My wife wants six! We're not in a hurry though. We'll see what happens. My twins are 12, then the boys are 2 and 3 1/2. Kids are awesome! We would like to say we're done with the 'minivan' thing, so we got this LC.

[4x4mike]

Holy moly, good on ya.

[Good Times]

great lookin 80 series! can't wait to check it out in a few weeks.

by the time you need 6 kids you'll need a Sprinter Van! (offroad worthy too!)

[malteserunner]

Never would have though of a Sprinter. LOL.

Now that we're back in a Toyota, we're going to try to stay there!

[Robinhood4x4]

There's no spot for 97 and older Land Cruiser's, so I'll put this here...

Finally got a Toyota 4x4 back in my driveway! I've been looking for the right Land Cruiser for a little while. I came across this one on craigslist, a couple weeks ago. It was built by Rocky at Marlin Crawler, who eventually sold it to his brother, Ryan. Ryan sold it to the PO, about a year ago. It was used for wheeling with his grandkids, and hardly any highway use. It has 152,000 miles on it, currently.


Now that's a nice find!

[04 Rocko Taco]

Looks great!
We are on our second 80 series as well.

First was a 96 Cruiser that got totaled, and now its a 97 LX450. No wheeling mods though, so says the wife. It IS technically her ride, so I guess I will have to listen.
She is open to some mild overland mods, but its mostly a road tripper, even at its miserable 12mpg.

[malteserunner]

Thanks guys. Not planning on doing too much highway driving with this thing, so the MPG's shouldn't hurt too bad. My wife will eventually drive it daily. It might go 10 miles a day at that point. Looking forward to getting it dirty!

[malteserunner]

Picked up a stack of spares today. The best two will replace my two that have pretty deep gouges in the sidewall. One more for the spare, and the others will be stored, in case I blow a tire down the road.

I also talked to a buddy with 37" Coopers, on 17's. He's going to be selling them in a couple months. I might pick them up too. Then I'd have an excuse to buy some beadlocks!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/598/20954956772_2daf3742bd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/xVHCA9)

[04 Rocko Taco]

Thats a lot of tires. My wife would be mad... :mad:

[malteserunner]

My wife's maiden voyage to work...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/583/21288257570_0fd4e1d2a4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/yraTiC)

She's lovin' it!

[habanero]

Now there's a woman who knows how to accessorize!

[malteserunner]

Now there's a woman who knows how to accessorize!

Yep. My kind of girl.

[malteserunner]

I had a little issue with the Cruiser this week. It would stumble and die when in reverse. Ran fine going forward. A quick search on Mud, and learned that a crack in the intake tube will cause these symptoms. Mine looked to be original, so I ordered a new one from Toyota.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5665/21716608648_40220d4529_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/z62ia3)

While I was under the hood, I replaced the air filter and cleaned the tuna can. Some Pismo sand in there...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/623/21892468412_9bc67d99ee_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zmyC8W)

Old...

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5689/21878297366_1c082f791a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zkiZzy)

New...

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5644/21283322853_0f5d1693f9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/yqJAoi)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/641/21914139821_7c17ff4af8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zotGhV)

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5726/21892478212_dbf4ac7c4c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zmyF3U)

Now it is running nice and smooth again. Easy peasy!

[toyotech]

Wow. You got a lot of sand in there. The intake must be open to the tires of something. None of my runner or tundra ever gets sand in there when I take them to pismo. I kicked up a lot of sand too.

[malteserunner]

No telling when the tuna can was cleaned last, but the filter definitely had a ton of sand in it. I guess I'll be getting a snorkel...

The fenders are trimmed, so I'm sure some sand was thrown up there.

[malteserunner]

So, I'm looking into a CO2 tank for airing up the tires on this pig. Powertank's are nice, but I'm not sure I want to throw all that money at a setup. I talked to one of my off road accounts today, at work, to get some ideas. He told me about Instant Air Supply. I read some reviews online, and this looks like the route I'm going!

http://www.instantairsupply.com/home/3-10lb-co2-on-board-air-system-with-quick-fist-mounting-solution.html

Anyone using their stuff?

[Kryptoroxx]

Seems like the same idea for the most part. I have never heard of them in particular. I am planning (if I can weld where I'm moving to) to just use straight c02 as my shielding gas and get a 10 or 15lbs tank and when I need it to fill tires I can.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G870A using Tapatalk

[malteserunner]

That will work out great for you!

I like the powertank stuff, but this IAS setup is a bit more reasonable in price, where I can justify the purchase. I loved having OBA on my 4Runner, and now I feel a little vulnerable out in the wild, without having a source of air. The CO2 setups always intrigued me before, and I look forward to giving it a try.

I think I'll get their 15lb kit, since I have 37's.

[4x4mike]

I don't have any experience with IAS but there is much documented on the internet regarding Co2 systems and how to build them. I've got a York setup up but it can't do what I've seen Lance's CO2 setup do in terms of seating beads. About every year at Pismo he seats someones tire and the dump of pressure combined with the valves is amazing.

Do a little searching and you'll find the type of tank and valve to be looking for. I'm sure the prices have gone up since I last looked but it's worth a shot. I think I remember seeing setups for less than $150. I think Mastacox or someone here on UY build one as a matter of fact.

Also check out Powertank accessories. Some of their monster flow pieces might be necessary to make the most out of your system.

[4x4mike]

Here is some of mastacox's info:
http://www.ultimateyota.com/showthread.php?9968-On-board-CO2-on-a-budget!

[malteserunner]

Right on! Thanks, Mike.

[malteserunner]

Matching license plates...

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5663/21969878263_8fd98ceabf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ztpnox)

[Kryptoroxx]

Matching license plates...

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5663/21969878263_8fd98ceabf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ztpnox)
This is epic lol. Made my night thanks!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G870A using Tapatalk

[habanero]

Picturing reaction of people when wife in scrubs cheerfully jumps out of giant truck labeled DR EVIL. :D

[malteserunner]

She was worried about that. So far her patients have had a good sense of humor about it. LOL.

[malteserunner]

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1624/23859456182_990d5310eb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CmnX5b)

We had a white Christmas, in California. Took the kids up to the snow play area, by Yosemite, this afternoon. The went by Tenaya Lodge so the little ones could see their Christmas tree. Good times!

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5669/23680487700_ece018df60_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C5yFYG)

Merry Christmas everyone!

[habanero]

Merry Christmas! Happy holidays!

We had a 60 degree Christmas. No complaints. :)

[4x4mike]

Merry Christmas.

[habanero]

Merry expecting Noah's Ark to sail up the street at any moment!

[malteserunner]

Thanks guys! How's the flooding, Hab? Anywhere near you? I'll be in St. Louis next month, for work. Looking forward to the cooooold!

[habanero]

About 5 miles away was the closest so we were all good, just had to drive some long way arounds here and there. All the highways are back open (first time I've seen 44, 55 or 70 close because of flooding) and it's all about the clean-up now. Then again, more rain is in the forecast...

February can be -6 or 70 degrees, snow, rain, sunshine. Don't like it? Wait a minute, it'll change. I guess you won't be driving anything fun while you're here?

[malteserunner]

Nope. Probably ride in a bus from the airport. Our hotel is across the street from the convention center, so we'll be on foot while in town.

Glad you were out of harms way for the floods!

[habanero]

Us too! I swim like a rock.

Lots to see and do- and much is free, like the zoo and science center, history museum and art museum.
If you like climbing around on junk and getting in tight spots the City Museum is not free but certainly fits the junk, climbing and tight spots bill. Your elbows and knees will be banged up and your clothes will be filthy when you're done, if you do it right.
There's also lots of hiking options in St. Louis county and beyond...
I can't remember if you've been here before.

http://www.metrostlouis.org/Default.aspx

[malteserunner]

Sounds fun, Hab. Last year, we had zero free time to go out and see the sights. The year before, we went to the Budweiser brewery for a tour, and Pappy's for BBQ. We'll see what happens this year. The company keeps us pretty busy, and throws a pretty cool reception. We're going, non stop, from 0630 to midnight, for a couple days. It's a good time!

[malteserunner]

My lift supports, on the hood, work well in warm weather, but not so well when it's cold. Toyota wants quite a bit for replacements, and my suppliers at work don't have them in their lineup. I did see some aftermarket replacements on Amazon, but for the time being I am going a different route. After reading on Mud, I learned that the prop rod for an FJ62 is plug and play on an FJ80, aside from slight modification to the rod itself. So, I ordered the parts from Toyota. When I stopped by to pick them up, I was told the rod was no longer available. I got the grommet and retainer anyway, and began looking for a suitable prop rod. I located a '94 Pickup at the wrecking yard, so I grabbed the rod for $3. It needed a slight bend to work, but gets the job done. It's probably an inch shorter than it should be, but it beats a falling hood to the dome or smashed fingers!

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1549/24133592366_916670f640_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CLAYd7)

[malteserunner]

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1595/24077074631_e80b71ab7c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CFBisp)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1446/24051639932_c356ba9a10_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CDmWB7)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1618/23532941623_8769b24028_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BRwtEP)

This will also come in handy, if the hood needs to be opened while covered in snow. Not a common occurrence, but it happens!

[malteserunner]

I replaced the lift supports for the rear door. No easy prop rod fix for this one. Again, Toyota wants a small fortune for replacements, so I grabbed these from Amazon. $40 for the set, and they bolt right on.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1692/24814562741_b830eafd7d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DNM7YD)

[malteserunner]

After the Pismo trip last year, my air filter was caked in sand. With cut fenders, and the fresh air intake in the fender well, the air box would draw in a lot of dirt. I decided a snorkle would be a good idea.

No turning back...

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1607/24896864171_62af179471_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DW3WjP)

Riveted to the pillar...

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1526/24963845736_91809219b2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/E2YeBo)

And, another 80 with a snorkel...

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1495/25003981495_fbf91b2d5a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/E6vWze)

[habanero]

Measure measure measure......measuremeasuremeasure!!!!! It was freaky enough to cut the fender for the side turn signals. What you did looks excellent!

Great job with the repurposed prop-rod as well. :)

[malteserunner]

I lost count how of many times I measured, lol. It is not the easiest install, and I was especially uneasy drilling into the pillar, but it's on there now. Connecting the intake tube is fun too.

Next up, new tires and wheels.

[malteserunner]

The alternator quit working a couple weeks ago. Ran it about a week putting the charger on it over night daily. I thought I would be able to replace the brushes, and put it back in service, but the brushes had plenty of life left in them. Parts for this alternator are made of unobtainium, so I opted to buy a Toyota reman replacement. Installed that Saturday, and charging is back to normal.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1473/24919055299_7df52f76bc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DY1EYt)

[malteserunner]

If any of you are considering new tires, I would recommend the Cooper STT Pro. I did a lot of research on comparable 37" tires, and the tech put into these tires had me intrigued. Initially, I had decided to go with the Toyo RT, but after seeing a set in person, I decided I wanted a tire with a more aggressive sidewall.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1490/25290374066_d4cb285e3e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EwPM7b)

After seeing these up close, I was very impressed with their design. After taking the Landcruiser for a spin on and off the pavement, I am ecstatic with my decision. They ride well, are not noisy, and have tons of grip off road.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1513/25223515211_c775e768cb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EqV7ii)

I got these in 37x12.50-17. The shoulders are very square, with actual tread width at 11.5", and an overall height of 36.75". I went with steel wheels, so the added unsprung weight is noticeable on steep highway passes. The Landcruiser isn't built to win any drag races, so it's not a big deal to me.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1502/25020889840_75c129b590_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/E81AQq)

I had some rubbing in the rear fender well before, now with the new tires, I will need to add a spacer to the bump stop, to keep the tread from molesting the sheet metal. It gets up close and personal.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1716/25271967081_c6ab43ebb0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Evcrmn)

[malteserunner]

Went for a spin Sunday morning...

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1706/25134775373_cdbc548ccf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ei5i36)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1501/25761385645_ccd4316faf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FfrQrt)

Bled the brakes in the afternoon. The fluid is coming out filthy. I bought a fresh quart of fluid today, which I'll run through it this week. Hope to get some more stopping power.

[malteserunner]

Started my paint project today. I'll do parts of the 80 in sections, since I am limited on free time these days.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1579/25265619783_f0e3890b06_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EuCUwc)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1708/25593811730_f42a10ce4d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EZCYy3)

[Kryptoroxx]

Wow man that's going to look wold when you get done with it.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G870A using Tapatalk

[malteserunner]

Thanks, kinda what I'm going for.

Got some more done today...

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1653/25289319093_d46750f5d9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EwJnuZ)

[Seanz0rz]

Looks cool!

[malteserunner]

Thanks, Sean!

[4x4mike]

Cool.

[malteserunner]

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1539/25774072120_3011f0c1f7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FgyRFN)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1442/25442158624_786c90765d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ELeHnj)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1695/26020990326_8340f7b408_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FDonSf)

[habanero]

Wow, that actually looks good.

[YotaFun]

Been eyeing the build, and after wheeling with and FJZ80 this weekend so want one, this is awesome and that is sweet paint scheme!

[malteserunner]

Wow, that actually looks good.

Thanks Hab!


Been eyeing the build, and after wheeling with and FJZ80 this weekend so want one, this is awesome and that is sweet paint scheme!

Thanks. After wheeling an 80, I am sold on them as well. Not nearly as large and cumbersome as I thought they'd be. Very comfortable too.

[malteserunner]

Went for a little spin with the boys, after lunch.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1486/26654728551_72faa84af7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GBosan)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1675/26113107414_c8c13d931b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FMwv4U)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1524/26693559706_ee3fc30aa0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GEPtj3)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1522/26117279333_03738a1d55_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FMTTex)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1503/26653290281_6faae36f06_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GBg5BB)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1568/26113068754_1b1ca86565_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FMwizm)

[4x4mike]

Nice. Where is that? How far from home?

[malteserunner]

Chepo Saddle. About 15 minutes from home, to the trail head.

[Seanz0rz]

Nice! Wish I had trails that close to me!

[malteserunner]

Bass Lake has water in it this year!

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1463/26735140246_023b2833b0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GJuzKU)

Fishing Derby today. Tons of fishermen at the dam, and around the lake. $10,000 fish was caught within a couple hours.

[4x4mike]

That's awesome to have something like that so close. It's been a couple of years since I've been to Bass Lake. My least favorite time was when I rode my bicycle around it via Clovis.

[malteserunner]

That's a bit of a trek! The Amgen tour came through town a few years ago, but heading the other direction, past our place, and finishing in Clovis.

[malteserunner]

Went over Pilot Peak, in the clouds. Not great visibility, but fun none the less.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7471/26585668470_5fb94e5ac2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Gvhv1j)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7214/26253220104_ddd57489d7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FZUBFW)

Spotted this spider web I thought looked cool.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7183/26585678130_765faabd72_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GvhxSS)

A fire went through here last year. Crews have been cutting dead wood out all year. A lot of the mountain area looks like this...

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/26824928316_927872255b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GSqLC5)

[malteserunner]

I moved my license plate to the tailgate, and gave it a little light. Also added an Anzo LED work light to the swing out.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7020/26943039801_5ef6e5c6ab_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/H3S83Z)

The light is rated at 1200 lumens. Constructed of cast aluminum with a poly carbonate lens, and 6 CREE LED's.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7061/26917305342_55072ed85e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/H1Ae6q)

I used a spare deck lamp switch, from a 1st gen 4Runner, which illuminates when the light is powered on.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7713/26917295652_3a44da52b2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/H1Abdm)

For the license plate, I went with red LED's, for the sinister look.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7270/27001672715_7230afa3f9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/H93Czi)

[4x4mike]

Cool. The red LEDs are a nice touch.

[malteserunner]

New hood decal, installed.....

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7253/26481223483_77b8dd93a9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Gm4c9F)

[malteserunner]

Visited Shuteye Peak today.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7427/27191922480_4552c94cfd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HqRHcE)

Haven't been up there in a couple years. Still looks magnificent!

https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7418/27396346211_58d1cf28cb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HJVrfK)

One of my little guys enjoying the view.

https://c6.staticflickr.com/8/7694/27396736501_c65a1cfd96_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HJXrgT)

[habanero]

Nice little touch on the red lamps and really nice on the work light. Love the pics, looks like a lot of fun.

[malteserunner]

Thanks, Hab.

The trip was good. Only a couple hiccups. One Jeep couldn't get his 4wd to engage, so he got dragged through a few obstacles. My truck started leaking fluid from the power steering. Was just a return line, so that's all fixed up as of this morning.

[malteserunner]

Tires make contact with the fenders, when stuffed, so... get out the air tools!

https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8544/29585863836_d97124c6cb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/M5phyC)

Voila!

https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8053/29585838716_2661c27cbd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/M5pa6w)

Nowhere close by to max it out, but it should be good to go. Removed 1 1/8" of fender.

https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8652/29585831266_ca650b8e2d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/M5p7T5)

[malteserunner]

Started assembling my PrInSu roof rack. I'll mount it to the Landcruiser on Friday. Can't wait to get a roof top tent for this thing!

https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8359/29378304690_cc9ce2e52b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LL4usE)

[4x4mike]

Those are nice racks. With that rack and your rain gutters you'll have a super solid base for a tent.

[malteserunner]

Yes sir. I looked at a lot of racks, before I decided on this one. Got lucky, and participated in a group buy, and saved a bit of coin. I love how low profile this rack is!

[malteserunner]

Prinsu rack installed this morning. Getting tires balanced this afternoon.

https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8361/29098422654_6e035166a3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Lkk2hj)

[Seanz0rz]

Great looking rack! Wish they made one for the 100!

Looking forward to seeing the beast!

[malteserunner]

1 week away!

They skipped right over the 100 series, straight to the 200. Hopefully they'll get enough interest to support yours down the road.

[malteserunner]

Updates...

Had a good time at the Pismo Jamboree!

https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8466/29319648954_6e24ecb18f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LESS9S)

Changed out my charcoal canister, with this GM unit. No more pressure built up in the tank now.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8499/29574376520_c67f4c941f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/M4opMs)

Modified some riser bolts, to fit in the 80/20 on the PrInSu rack, so I can mount Quickfists for my pulaski and shovel.

https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5640/31099607375_db103a75a2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PoaBMa)

https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5658/30986356871_91528f8eb5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Pdabmg)

Went on a drive with the the little ones...

https://c7.staticflickr.com/6/5619/30622941790_19cc11e9ff_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NE3zH1)

https://c6.staticflickr.com/6/5809/30839251301_e5463ca1d1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NZadZk)

Starting to add some color to the paint scheme. This is the same paint I used on my 240Z project.

​​​​​​https://c6.staticflickr.com/6/5754/31099598045_3e03534ddd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Poaz1i)

Going to take some time to finish the paint project, but I'll update as I go.

[toyotech]

Wonder If my charcoal canister is my problem as well. I do get a lot of pressure build up when I drive up to bald and back.

Nice job on the paint. Gonna look sweet once done.

[malteserunner]

Charcoal canister is a known issue on the 80's. Topping off at the pump is bad for these old pigs. Since I swapped this out, I have had no issues with boiling or excess pressure.

[Seanz0rz]

100s have this problem too. Although, our system is much more complicated, so I am not sure adding this canister will work, but it might be worth trying. I haven't had that issue on mine, but I see it pop up on Mud quite a bit.

[malteserunner]

Bunch of work today.

Bypassed EGR and smog pump, per Mud instructions.

Fixed wiring on Amazon back up camera.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5797/30834344360_2cd950d7b2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NYJ5jU)

Installed porch light, for use camping. Should be handy for lighting the ladder area when we get our RTT.

https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5449/30834352060_f5b6c1bb9d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NYJ7BE)

Wired the porch light to this remote relay from Anzo. It has 4 circuits, each with it's own on/off button on the fob. Will be handy for lighting around the 80, as well as having the ability to light the ground from inside the tent, with a push of the button.

https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5768/31205457745_c4b304c7c7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Pxw8px)

[4x4mike]

I like that relay box. I've got a remote relay for a light in the rear of my 4Runner but it's a single circuit. I could see a 4 circuit coming in handy.

[malteserunner]

Me too. I don't see well at night, so this will be invaluable for me on trips. I plan to have cargo lighting and possibly rock lights, on the remote. Thinking of LED indicators for each circuit, on the dash, so I will know if a button were pressed accidentally. I don't want to have any of the lights on, say in the daytime, without knowing. I have the main power source wired through a circuit breaker, so I can easily disable the whole unit as well.

[malteserunner]

Oil change and a bath today. Getting ready for our toy drive tomorrow, at Children's Hospital.

37's and a PrInSu rack, and it fits in the garage! .....with 3 psi in the tires

https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5330/31239216132_c324092e50_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PAv9AG)

Also fixed the fuel door by adding a spring to pop it open. The original is MIA.

[malteserunner]

Organizing my recovery gear. Ready for the snow!

https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/642/30761361434_a0dbd9522e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NSh23A)

[malteserunner]

New starter contacts installed.

https://c6.staticflickr.com/1/283/30925437493_2beef2ed19_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/P7LX9a)

[4x4mike]

Organizing my recovery gear. Ready for the snow!

https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/642/30761361434_a0dbd9522e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NSh23A)

That's a great looking kit Adam.

[malteserunner]

New Year's Eve at a little village full of lights, with the kids...

https://c4.staticflickr.com/1/510/31210044843_fdde68a2b7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PxVCZr)

Snowy adventure on New Year's Day at Beasore Meadow...

https://c7.staticflickr.com/1/535/31662927670_3009ce8782_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QeWMh3)

Stopped by to check in on a friend's cabin...

https://c2.staticflickr.com/1/667/32037749145_598f61e213_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QP4QDg)

Another cabin visitor...

https://c7.staticflickr.com/1/568/31889705662_e045e16c18_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QzZ5tq)

Happy New Year!!

[Seanz0rz]

What tracks are those?!

Looks like fun!

[malteserunner]

What tracks are those?!

Looks like fun!
Not sure about the tracks. I found some similar online, but they were unidentified. Did a lot of reading on the subject while browsing around. Pretty interesting stuff.

As far as the fun goes, it was a blast. Quite a mix of different snow. Frozen, powdery, packed, and slushy. I was constantly adjusting my driving style. The 80 performed very well. I want a co2 tank, or OBA in the near future. We ran 10 psi, but I would like to have the option of going lower. We had about 15 miles of windy paved road to drive, before reaching a gas station with air. Took about 15 minutes, and $2.00 in quarters to get the 37's up to 20 psi. Really made me miss OBA.

[malteserunner]

Upgraded my battery and cable situation. Group 27 AGM battery (185 minute reserve), and 1 gauge cable with compression lugs.

https://c8.staticflickr.com/1/686/32189520495_bbbb32cea8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/R3tGYF)

https://c5.staticflickr.com/1/477/31814848300_8494acf653_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QtnpZf)

https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/359/31815154610_ec2a2ae71a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QtoZ3s)

All buttoned up. I decided not to use the military terminals, since this battery has a through hole in it's posts.

https://c5.staticflickr.com/1/411/31355497084_937460cf39_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PLM7SG)

I need to get some terminals for the body ground. What is pictured is only temporary. Also, not pictured, I pulled the old positive cable out of it's original loom, and reused it on the new cable.

[Seanz0rz]

Looks good! How do you like those compression terminals? I've always used the crimp terminals and I am less than thrilled with them, although next time I do them I will make a tool to do them on the press or in the vise.

[malteserunner]

I love compression terminals. Never had one fail.

[YotaFun]

POWER!!! Living in the colder climate I really should look to upgrade my battery (especially if I add aux items as yourself), I did however just place and order for the compression terminals! They are neat, can't wait to try them out myself!

[malteserunner]

Cool Avi! When you install the terminals, twist the nut onto the stripped wire. Then hold the nut with a wrench, and thread the lug onto it. This way you won't twist the cable. I add dielectric grease in the connection for corrosion prevention. Have fun!

[4x4mike]

I really like those terminal ends. I've never had great luck with the larger crimp on versions but that was with a past vehicle. These look like they can make things a bit easier.

They look like a compression fitting. Is there a need to use thread locker? It seems like the twist of heavier cable can work to loosen up the connection.

[paddlenbike]

I have never seen compression fittings for electrical. I'll have to check into those.

[malteserunner]

Mike, no thread locker needed. They are compression fittings, and a couple threads in, they get pretty snug. By the time they're tight, there's no way they'll back out. I always leave some wire protruding, to act as a stop, preventing the cable from coming out. Very solid connection.

[YotaFun]

On top of the terminals I may use this as well:
Dual Wall Adhesive Lined Heat Shrink KIT - 85 Pieces - 3:1 Shrink Ratio - Size Range: 3/32" to 1/2" - Black, Clear, Red (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NPBUWRC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

Give that little added seal since the northeast loves corrosion...

[malteserunner]

Parts are coming in. TMI rock rings, and a new matching spare to rotate in. IAS 15lb Co2 tank kit. Should keep me entertained for a bit.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2850/33004521062_0838153371_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ShuNfA)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3842/32345685823_7764c1dbef_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rhh6uk)

#totalmetalinnovations #instantairsupply

[malteserunner]

One wheel welded up. Primer, paint, mount tire, then do it all again four times. Modding daily drivers is fun!*

​​​​​​​https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3723/33250617056_c1bacd6e24_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SEf71Y)

Also filled the Co2 last week for $20 at a local bottling supplier. In and out in 5 minutes!

[4x4mike]

Nice job Adam. I don't trust my welding anywhere close enough to be driving on it. Your work looks great.

$20 for a fill up sounds like a good deal. About 15 years ago I was going to build up a Co2 setup and the cost of fill ups turned me away. Even that long ago I swear it was more than $20 and even then they would want to swap out a tank unless you had a commercial account.

[malteserunner]

Thanks, Mike! I can't take credit for the welding, though. I'm having my buddy James at Northside 4x4 weld these up.

The Co2 is a good deal. I'll be surprised if I have to fill it once a year. Time will tell.

[malteserunner]

Put some primer and paint down...

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3865/33239818301_0363277199_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SDhKVx)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2915/33273173841_4e49987485_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SGeHn4)

Took the boys to gather some wood, with the father in law...

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3692/33272983972_ef395cbb4d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SGdJVs)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/742/32614469063_7a7e671bee_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RG2Fo8)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3686/32614476113_beac45c1aa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RG2HtF)

And now we're at the hospital getting to know the newest addition to our family, Luke...

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2871/32588088764_bc83da8f12_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RDGtro)

[Seanz0rz]

Congratulations on the addition!

[4x4mike]

X2, congratulations.

[RobG]

Congratulations!

[YotaFun]

Congratulations on the new addition to the family!

[malteserunner]

Thanks guys! He's an awesome little boy. Took him for his first ride in the 80 today...

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/773/33335696731_a8ee525ec1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SMLaeV)

[malteserunner]

Made a little tire and wheel progress.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2880/33577140786_1049fd247c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ta6C9s)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2902/33617945345_690452df59_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TdGKVk)

10 oz Counteract beads.

[malteserunner]

Painted the rest of the wheels, after the rock rings were welded on.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3949/33530444620_894e17168c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T5Yi19)

Finished mounting my tires with Counteract balancing beads.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2865/33923075335_3c7bf192c4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TFECre)

My little helper, admiring the wheels.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2839/33110164353_8b647c65f3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SrQfjD)

Finally got a matching spare to rotate in.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2918/33881671006_a030e898be_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TC1qnu)

[Seanz0rz]

Very nice! I am really curious to see how those beads work out for you. I experimented with the airsoft pellets and it worked but not great and not all the time.

[malteserunner]

So far, I have driven 100ish miles, mixed highway and mountain roads. I've intentionally hit a couple potholes at speed, to see what happened. These are so much better than the airsoft bb's I've run before. Definitely recommended. The balance is better than when the tires were new, with static balancing.

The last time I ran airsoft bb's, they were biodegradable. They disappeared in the tire after three months! Not even a powder left inside. LOL.

[Seanz0rz]

I would get a random vibration and have to aim for a bots dot to reset the BBs, that worked pretty well. The real problem was wheels that were probably bent.

[malteserunner]

I had similar issues with airsoft bb's. Seems like these beads react quicker to bumps, corners, speed changes, etc. Drove another 40 miles after work, and it's smooth as butter.

[malteserunner]

Added spacers to the rear bump stops. Should help keep the tire off the fender a bit. I'll try to flex it this weekend, to see where it's at.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4178/33635430984_1e1f8441af_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TffnMS)

[malteserunner]

Staging for our place in a small town parade. 500+ lbs of teenagers on the PrInSu roof rack. 3.11:1 gears are great for parades.

​​​​​​​https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4194/34523555655_cbabe146b0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UAJfjc)

[4x4mike]

Nice.

[malteserunner]

New calipers and brake hoses, today...

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4162/34577767936_fa64d1fb4b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UFw6JG)

[4x4mike]

Man you're busy on the beast. I know I replaced my rear linings when I did my rear bearings and seals years ago but I don't think I've done a thing with the fronts except for a bleed over 100,000 miles ago. Part of me is just waiting to wear through the front pads and then I'll go through it. I just hope it's not too late.

[malteserunner]

I like to at least flush the brake fluid annually, on my vehicles. The brakes weren't performing very well, due to a sticking piston on the driver side caliper. So, I replaced the calipers, and flushed the fluid (1.5 quarts), then checked rear brake adjustment, and they are working well again.

[malteserunner]

Been at it with the tape and paint, again.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4290/35078612016_f9b0227d64_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VrM4es)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4274/34731671250_a301d93973_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UV7TQ7)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4237/34311213153_f5151e9c62_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UgXWhz)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4277/34990626931_db25eebdbe_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Vj17ke)

Still have work to do on the passenger side.

[malteserunner]

More paint on the passenger side...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4120/35485586511_70d71f210c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/W4JUz6)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4031/35233830920_eec0af3697_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VFuAps)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4109/35233837150_3e5f83e2e7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VFuCfS)

[malteserunner]

Took a trip up Bald Mountain, with a large group, for a meet and greet.

My sidekick stacking rocks...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4255/35442705480_359337730d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VZX8wY)

Lunch break at the tower...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4212/35831073585_ae945afa6e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WAgBQM)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4213/35442732670_dcfd065c57_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VZXgBL)

Back at camp. We had over 100 Toyotas at the event.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4236/35843118215_eb94051269_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WBkmhP)

[YotaGuy]

Good looking ride you have there, pal. You got a nice list of mods too. By the way, got any feedback on the lift kit (http://4wheelonline.com/Suspension_Lift_Kits.24) you're using for the FJ80? I've seen people comparing OME to Teraflex.

[malteserunner]

Been a while, again. We were at Turf n Surf in November. The 80 did great. Added an RTT from Trail Tailor, and updated suspension. The OME shocks were tired, and I wanted to go to dual rate coils. Got Tough Dog foam cell shocks and 75mm Tourflex coils, and adjustable pan hard bars. The ride is so much better.

[paddlenbike]

It's amazing how much difference a new set of coils and shocks can make.