This Cygnus White 1965 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 is a desirable early model that spent 45 years with its second owner in the dry climate of eastern Washington. Manufactured in April 1965 and likely titled in 1966 (brass tag), this example showcases the distinctive characteristics that set the 1962-1965 “early FJ40s” apart, including the corrugated hard top with split hatch, SD40 “Big Window” carburetor, oil bath air filter, and vacuum-shift transfer case.

Acquired by the seller in 2023 from the second owner’s estate, this FJ40 has undergone an extensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration aimed at preserving its factory-original appearance while enhancing reliability. The truck retains its matching 1F engine and features period-correct details, including the original working ‘Vader’ light. A near-identical 1962 example is displayed at the Land Cruiser Museum in Salt Lake City, underscoring the historical significance of these early models.

Modifications for Reliability

The seller has thoughtfully upgraded key systems while maintaining the truck’s vintage character. A Pertronix electronic ignition conversion and Flamethrower II coil retain the original appearance while improving performance and ease of maintenance. A gear-reduction starter ensures reliable cold starts, and a four-core aluminum radiator provides enhanced cooling capacity. The truck now rides on a Rough Country suspension with new leaf springs, shocks, and shackles, mounted on five refinished OEM wheels wearing new 30×9.5×15 Cavalry Road One mud-terrain tires.

The three-speed transmission has been converted from column to floor shift for improved driving dynamics. An Optima Red Top battery, new battery mount, and refreshed OEM electrical system ensure dependable operation.

Cosmetic Restoration

The body was stripped to bare metal, primed, and refinished in the original Cygnus White. The fiberglass hard top was sanded, primed, and repainted in pure white acrylic, with Durabak 18 applied to the underside for protection and sound deadening. The chassis received satin black chassis paint for continued protection. New chrome bumpers, weatherstripping, glass rubber, hood latches, and trim pieces restore the truck’s clean presentation.

The FJ40’s body is remarkably solid with few rust spots repaired below the front doors with welded-in sheet metal. The rear sill was replaced, and the seller notes that the few dents it has were not filled, preserving the truck’s honest character. One visible dent remains on the driver’s side fender.

Interior Appointments

The cabin features new Camel-colored seat covers on refreshed foam, complemented by new floor mats, pedal pads, and a gear shift boot. New lap belts have been fitted to the front seats. The interior benefits from an updated fuse block, refreshed heater blower unit, new cigarette lighter, and LED bulbs throughout (except the original-style Vader light). New heater hoses for the defrost system complete the cabin improvements.

Mechanical Refresh

The seller has comprehensively addressed the mechanical systems. The 1F engine received umbrella valve seals, valve adjustment, new gaskets, a compression test (all within spec), and a thorough cleaning and paint. The cracked exhaust manifold was replaced with a sourced OEM unit, and the carburetor was disassembled, cleaned, and rebuilt with a new kit.

The braking system was upgraded with 1970s-model FJ40 rear drum assemblies featuring new cylinders and shoes, complemented by new brake lines at the rear hubs. The entire system was bled and refilled. A sourced parking brake cable and assembly was added, along with a new speedometer cable.

New steering dampener, fresh fluids throughout (Mobil 1 in transmission, transfer case, and differentials), and comprehensive greasing of all driveline components ensure the truck is ready for use. The vacuum-shift transfer case operates with new hoses.

Electrical System Updates

The electrical system received extensive attention, including new headlights with rewired connections, replaced turn signals, running lights, and taillights, a new license plate light assembly, updated horn relay with dash button, new brake light switch, and replaced dimmer switch. OEM engine bay junction blocks and the interior fuse block were replaced for reliability.

Known Items

The passenger-side wiper motor is installed but non-functional and will require replacement. The exhaust system is functional with new components, including muffler, piping, and clamps, though a future owner may prefer to upgrade to a fully welded custom system. The seller notes the odometer will increase slightly as the truck is being driven regularly.

This early FJ40 represents an opportunity to acquire a well-sorted example of Toyota’s iconic 4×4, combining careful restoration with thoughtful upgrades for improved reliability and usability.