@Rids93's 1997 FZJ80 Land Cruiser

Rid showed us his Rig, an impressive build out. As promised, here is a quick writeup. Rid is collecting some additional information, and we'll update it here as well.

The Vision

What inspired this build?

This 40th Anniversary FZJ80 represents the perfect balance of capability and reliability for extended overlanding adventures. Built to be a self-sufficient expedition vehicle that can tackle remote trails while providing comfortable basecamp amenities.

What I'm Especially Proud Of

The Campteq roof conversion - it gives so much room to live in the vehicle. The bamboo option creates a comfortable sleeping space.

The dual battery system with 200W solar panel provides completely off-grid power capabilities.

The kitchen pull-out with 2-burner stove and sink transforms this 80 Series into a true expedition vehicle that can support extended trips without relying on external resources.

Quick Stats

• Owner: Rid
• Location: Brentwood, CA
• Build Status: Weekend Warrior / Expedition Ready
• Primary Use: Multi-day expeditions / Remote camping
• Current Mileage: 240,000 miles

The Rig

• Year: 1997
• Make: Toyota
• Model: Land Cruiser FZJ80 (40th Anniversary Edition)
• Engine: 1FZ-FE 4.5L I6
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: 4WD with center differential lock (no factory lockers)
• Mileage: 240,000 miles

Modifications & Upgrades

Armor & Protection

• Front Bumper: Ironman 4x4 bumper with integrated Comeup 12k winch
• Rear Bumper: 4x4 Labs rear swing-out with dual jerry can basket
• Sliders/Rock Rails: White Knuckle Off Road rock sliders
• Winch: Comeup 12,000 lb

Suspension & Wheels

• Suspension: 2.5" Old Man Emu (OME) lift
• Springs: Heavy-duty rear coil springs
• Tires: 255/70R16 Yokohama Geolandar M/T (skinny setup)
• Gearing: Stock

Storage & Organization

• Roof Rack: Campteq roof conversion with bamboo option
• Drawer System: Kitchen pull-out system
• Storage Solutions: Integrated kitchen storage, dual jerry can basket

Camp & Comfort

• Sleeping: Campteq roof conversion (pop-up camper style)
• Kitchen Setup: Pull-out kitchen system with 2-burner stove and sink
• Lighting: Baja Designs lights all around (exterior lighting)
• Water System: 17-gallon pressurized water tank

Power & Electrical

• Auxiliary Battery: Dual battery system
• Solar: 200W solar panel

Cooling & Performance Mods

• Blue fan clutch modification with 12,000 viscosity oil (improved cooling performance)
• 105 series steering box upgraded steering feel and response

Air System

• On-board air tank for tire inflation and air tools

Other Notable Mods

• Head gasket replacement at 235k miles
• OEM radiator and hoses replaced at 235k miles
• Knuckles rebuilt for reliability and maintenance
• All Baja lighting system for enhanced visibility

The Story

This 40th Anniversary FZJ80 has been thoughtfully built into a self-sufficient expedition platform. At 240,000 miles, the rig received major preventative maintenance including a head gasket replacement, new OEM radiator and hoses, and rebuilt knuckles at 235k miles, ensuring reliability for many more adventures to come.

The build philosophy centers on independence and capability. The dual battery system paired with 200W of solar provides off-grid power for extended trips, while the 17-gallon pressurized water system and pull-out kitchen with stove and sink mean you can set up a proper basecamp anywhere. The Campteq roof conversion transforms the vehicle from daily driver to comfortable sleeping quarters.

Protection and recovery were priorities, with the Ironman front bumper housing a Comeup 12k winch, White Knuckle sliders protecting the rockers, and a 4x4 Labs rear swing-out providing both departure angle clearance and fuel capacity with dual jerry cans.

The 2.5" OME lift with heavy rear springs and skinny 255/70R16 Geolandar M/T tires strike a balance between capability and the classic 80 Series look. The 105 series steering box upgrade improves on-road manners and trail precision.

Tips & Lessons Learned

Preventative Maintenance Pays Off: Tackling the head gasket, radiator, and knuckle rebuilds at 235k miles has given peace of mind for remote travel. Don't put off major maintenance on high-mileage rigs.

The Blue Fan Clutch Mod Works: Using 12k viscosity oil in the fan clutch has noticeably improved cooling performance, especially important with the added weight of expedition gear.

Skinny Tires on 80 Series: The 255/70R16 Geolandar M/T setup maintains the classic Land Cruiser proportions while providing excellent traction and reasonable fuel economy.

Self-Sufficiency is Key: The combination of solar power, on-board water, and a functional kitchen means you can stay out longer without relying on established campgrounds or facilities.

Helpful Resources

• IH8MUD.com - Land Cruiser community and technical resources

Connect

• Overlandbound: @Rids93