The 1965 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 is a legend in the off-road community, but few have undergone a transformation as radical as this example. This truck was the subject of an intensive eleven-year build that began in 2008. Following its completion, it earned an invitation to elite off-road magazine events. It represents a perfect marriage of classic Japanese design and heavy-duty American power. The seller acquired this highly capable rock crawler in 2025.
Custom Bodywork and Chassis Prep
The builders removed the factory wheel arch extensions and enlarged the openings to fit massive tires. A custom-fabricated rollcage with a integrated metal top now protects the occupants. The entire body wears a light green finish that stands out on the trail. For recovery, a Warn electric winch is mounted to the front bumper alongside heavy-duty shackles. LED lighting ensures the path ahead stays visible during late-night technical crawls.
Advanced Off-Road Suspension Gear
This 1965 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 features a sophisticated RBF three-link front and four-link rear suspension setup. This design allows for incredible articulation over uneven boulders and deep ruts. ORI struts provide the damping, and the seller recently had them rebuilt for peak performance. Six Shooter knuckles and 4×4 Labs components further strengthen the steering assembly. These parts allow the truck to maintain stability in extreme vertical environments.
Beadlock Wheels and Massive Rubber
The truck rolls on 17-inch Allied Rockathon beadlock wheels that allow for extremely low tire pressures. These wheels are wrapped in 38-inch Falken Wildpeak mud-terrain tires for maximum mechanical grip. A full-size spare is mounted to a custom carrier on the rear bumper. Manually locking Aisin hubs provide reliable engagement for the front axle when the terrain gets tough. Braking is handled by four-wheel ventilated discs with durable stainless-steel lines.
Interior Tech and Safety Systems
Inside, textured gray cloth bucket seats keep the driver and passenger secure with five-point harnesses. The floors are coated in protective bed liner for easy cleaning after a dusty weekend. Communication is handled by a CB radio, while a Lowrance GPS unit provides vital navigation data. A custom cargo basket behind the seats offers storage for tools and recovery gear. Every element of the cockpit was built with functional durability in mind.
Powerhouse V8 and Performance Specs
A 5.7-liter Chevrolet V8 provides the massive power required for high-altitude climbing and deep mud. This engine features electronic throttle body fuel injection and an Edelbrock intake manifold for consistent performance. It produces significant torque that is managed by a TH350 three-speed automatic transmission. An Orion Heavy Duty two-speed transfer case and ARB air lockers ensure power reaches the ground effectively. The cooling system uses an aluminum radiator and a dedicated transmission cooler.
Summary of the FJ40 Build
This 1965 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 is a professional-grade machine built to tackle the most difficult trails in the world. It benefits from over a decade of development and high-stakes testing in off-road events. The combination of a truss-reinforced rear axle and high-clearance suspension makes it nearly unstoppable. For the enthusiast seeking a turnkey rock crawler, this truck offers an unmatched mechanical pedigree. It remains a striking tribute to the enduring FJ40 legacy.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
