1990 Land Cruiser HZJ73 vetting and build
Haven't seen too many of my compatriots posting their kool 70 series trucks or their builds (may be not so popular?), so I thought I would post up my build. Should have done this long ago while I was actually still doing the build, now I am pretty much done except for a few really kool things...more later.
As I am leaving soon (Sept 9) for a major trip through the SW USA and into mainland MX for 2.5 months or so, I will just start this post with what I wanted to do with my truck once I got it. Also, you might notice, I research the heck (Internet, ExPo, other sites, friends, etc.) out of everything before I go ahead, anal retentiveness comes from being an engineer (occupational hazard I guess).
- drain/flush/replace all fluids, filters, lube all joints and nipples
- detail inside and out, steam clean engine compartment
- redo factory undercoating
- tint back half of truck
- replace bling bumper with ARB and install 24V Warn M8000
- remote wiring for winch to control from interior or exterior
- research GPS -which/where/how to install
- Inclinometer
- replace 2x 12 for 24 volt battery system
- ERC - research which/where/how to install
- rewire FET Land Master Hi/Lo beam lights to 24V from 12 V, replace switch with Toyota style toggle lighted toggle switch
- get a CB (Cobra 75) and Wilson Trucker 2000 antenna and install it where an how?
- build rear bumper, 3x20L jerry can holder, roof rack, ladder
- research some extra lighting on the roof rack and rear work lamp
- research 24 volt battery management system, buy and install
- research sleeping accommodations - inside or roof top tent (RTT) buy and install
- research Hi Lift Jack -normal/extreme -mounting
- interior storage system/drawers - homemade or what's out there? make/buy install
- cooking steve research- which/where/how to install
- trani problems/overheating engine - long story, easy fix once you know what it is.
- turbo research -what, who, tuning, gauges, etc
- ham radio/antenna research- which and how/install
- fridge research - which/where/install
- rear 12/24 volt aux plugs
- research -shower which/where/install
- rebuild of rear bumper (lighter this time)
- custom mount for rear work lamp
- research replacement/aux fuel tank -prebuilt or custom?
I bought "NOMAD" in November 2005 through a local friend importer who has since gone out of business but I got a good deal on it and it is in great shape. I was looking for a more traditional locally owned 40 series for over a year before but everything I looked at was in such bad condition (not running or poorly so and rusting like he11), then switched to looking at 70/71 series as they sold them here in Kanuckistan for a few years but they were in similar condition or in great shape but not for sale. So I got this one.
First thing was to flush/replace all fluids/filters and convert to synthetic if possible as I didn't know how the last owner was about maintenance. At least this way I know what I have now. Was a bit worried about going to synthetics as I had heard it might effect some of the seals. Better now than on the trail I figured. I use GTX 15W/40 in the summer and 5W/30 Mobil1 (other cars in family use this and it was on sale in bulk) in winter. Could find any 0W/40 or 0W50 at a decent price and quantity. Switching back and forth hasn't resulted in any problems in the last 2.5 years or so. Once the fluids were done and I did an engine oil clean/scrub with some cheap shop oil as well before finally changing the oil; she ran a lot smoother and quieter.
While doing these fluid/filter changes, I noticed the Birfields were leaking (didn't know this was a common problem but not serious...newbie) a bit, so chatted with my local Toyota dealership and they said they could fix this if I can get a front kit for this as they didn't have any parts (truck was never sold in Canada). With some research and I found one at 4Wheelauto.com and soon that problem was fixed.
Next I took the whole interior apart right down to the metal and black insulating material, dash, centre console, carpets, door panels, etc. and detailed the entire interior. Also took off some goofy decals (Japanese are fond of decals) and polished out the residual. Found some Japanese coins and miscellaneous stuff as well under the seats and carpets.
Next got the underside double under coated which not only helped with the rust prevention but also deadened some of the road noise.
Since it was still winter and not much to do just yet I decided to tint the back "barn" doors and side windows as well as a 6"strip on the main wind screen with Limo Black Global tint 90% which would really aid in diffusing sun/heat into the truck while on my yet to be planned desert trips. More to come...
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Originally Posted by MoGas
We need more info about NOMAD!
for quite some time (since last summer's curtailment). I will try to post up if I have any spare time when I have internet access along the route,while sun tanning. Oops sorry Colin/Pierre, I will try to bring some warmth home to Kanukistan from MX 
.
) perhaps get in a trail ride through some of that famous red rock country.
Sept 24 to Oct 3? Hope to see you while I am there...I will be close to E. Prince & N.Country Club Rd. If you can find a pub near by, perhaps we can hook up?
I'd give you a phone number, but not sure if my host (helping me do some more mods 
) would appreciate that so will try to check back here while I head south to get the low down. You all arrange the day,time and place and I will try to be there!
, you might give him a tug!
