TLC4x4 FJ142 Toyota Land Cruiser Restomod Is the Best of All Worlds

TLC4x4 FJ142 Toyota Land Cruiser Restomod Is the Best of All Worlds

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TLC4x4 FJ142 Toyota Land Cruiser

This FJ142 Land Cruiser combines LS3 power with an FJ62 body and FXJ80 chassis, plus a host of modern elements to make the perfect restomod.

There are – without a doubt – quite a few key players in the Toyota Land Cruiser restomod game, each churning out some pretty amazing, modernized versions of various classic models. These vehicles represent the best of all worlds, combining timeless styling with modern mechanicals and amenities, all without deviating too far from what makes classic Toyota Land Cruiser models so special in the first place. Now, one of those companies – TLC4x4 – has revealed its latest creation, one that’s quite special in its own regard.

The latest restomod Toyota Land Cruiser from TLC4x4 is actually something of a twofer – a 1989 model year FJ142 that mates an FJ62 body with an FXJ80 chassis. On the outside, its bodywork is finished in a rather unique shade dubbed Aventurine Green, and is fitted with updates including off-road front and rear bumpers, JW Speaker LED headlights, a tire carrier, front and rear fender vents, a Warn winch, and AMP Research power side steps. The Land Cruiser rolls on a set of 305 NV Method wheels, which are wrapped with 33-inch Kenda Klever R/T tires, rounding out a very cool new/old package.

TLC4x4 FJ142 Toyota Land Cruiser

That theme carries over to the interior, which still maintains much of its original charm, and yet, is chock full of upgrades. Those include fully custom leather upholstery covering updated front seats, the steering wheel, and grab handles, coupled with ICON sun visors, custom door panels, billet door handles, TLC4x4’s own gauges, a redesigned center console, an integrated e-brake lever, LED lighting, and Dynamite sound deadening throughout. The Land Cruiser’s audio system has been upgraded with JVC and Kicker components, and it even features a backup camera and Apple CarPlay compatibility, to boot.

TLC4x4 FJ142 Toyota Land Cruiser

Riding on the aforementioned powder-coated FZJ80 frame, this Toyota Land Cruiser is equipped with DBA brakes, OME springs, Fox shocks, Slee Off Road Sway Bar Drop Blocks, and a Red Head steering box. Power comes from GM’s Chevrolet Performance LS3 Connect & Cruise engine, which is fitted with a stainless steel exhaust system and Magna mufflers. It’s fed by a 40-gallon gas tank to boot, meaning that those who wish to travel far off the beaten path can do so with ease. Ultimately, it’s a near-perfect package, but as one might imagine, TLC4x4’s masterpieces will put a small dent in one’s wallet, as builds like this start out at around $250,000. However, they’re clearly built to stand the test of time, making them more of a lifetime commitment rather than a disposable toy.

TLC4x4 FJ142 Toyota Land Cruiser

“This FJ142 maintains the style of a classic 1980’s-era Land Cruiser but subtly implements the performance and upgraded amenities expected out of modern vehicles,” said Daniel Valjevac, owner of TLC4x4. “Combining legendary ’80s style with a brand-new 430 horsepower LS3 engine is one that is sure to attract attention out on the open road. We could not be more pleased with how this build turned out, because it enabled us to utilize the FZJ80 functionality of all time four-wheel-drive and modern braking components while retaining the classic style of the FJ62. It was truly the best of both worlds.”

Photos: TLC4x4

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Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.


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