Toyota Land Cruiser BJ40

1976 Toyota Land Cruiser BJ40 – 3l Diesel

This is a rare opportunity to acquire an original. low mileage. LHD. diesel Land Cruiser with 24v electrics which will be tax exempt from 1 January 2017. Classic Insurance cost £158 for 12 months comprehensive cover with full roadside assistance and recovery.

This vehicle was discovered on a Sicilian vineyard with some 51000 kms (just over 30000 miles) on the clock and it was imported into the UK this year where it was re-assigned an age related number plate. The V5 is in my possession and is in my name. The MOT expires on 31 March 2017.

The chassis and bodywork are solid and no welding is required (or has been carried out as far as I can see).

The engine. clutch. 4 speed gearbox. transfer box. brakes and steering are in fine fettle – the engine is the bullet proof 3l diesel. the so called ‘million miler'. It starts on the button with a puff of smoke which quickly disappears and then settles down to a steady tickover. The vehicle cruises at 50-60 mph returning approx. 30mpg on a run and drives with the oil pressure towards the ‘H' mark when the engine is hot.

This is an original vehicle. not a show pony or trailer queen. it is 40 years old. the paintwork is several shades of green and the front wings have been filled and rattle can painted but it is absolutely solid - the rear wings. floor and front n/s wing have been professionally chequer plated. Very low mileage for the year. it is not to be confused with an Aussie import which has covered a stellar mileage in the outback or an Indonesian vehicle which has weathered years of monsoon. Inspection highly recommended.

A new exhaust system. both front sidelight and indicator units. a fan belt and twin batteries to produce 24v have been fitted within the past 6 months. The tyres are legal and good for several thousand miles but it may be worth replacing them be as they are beginning to age. they are 7. 50x16s and easy to source.

The vehicle has comfortable (non-original) front seats and side facing rear seats (also non-original) in excellent condition and is fitted with AVM freewheeling hubs. twin spots. rear hazard lights. external mirrors. interior sun visors. front towing hook. rear tow ball. CB aerial. cab heater with 2 speed fan and there is a 24v to 12v reducer which is not wired up.

My idea was to do a sympathetic. rolling restoration. keeping the vehicle as original as possible but an unforeseen change of lifestyle means it has to go. a very reluctant sale. as they say.

These vehicles are appreciating in value and this is a chance for an enthusiast to acquire a low mileage. one owner for 40 years. solid. original BJ40 but bear in mind it is not a new one. does not drive like a modern car and will require ongoing maintenance and fettling.

The vehicle is in Leeds. West Yorkshire and viewing is recommended - tele 07753 681618. On sale for £7950 which is a realistic price for a vehicle with this specification. compared with others on offer for double the price or more.

Also published at eBay.co.uk

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