Well I finally finished the exterior of my ’83…Just wanted to share a few picks. I had an ’82 long bed for 18 years and finally decided to buy a “new” truck. I was looking at Tacos but my heart was and will always be with the 1st Generation Toyota 4x4s. So I found this straight and mechanically clean ’83 and decided to restore her. The entire undercarriage is painted (por21), new links and joints on most of the suspension (energy suspension). I finished it off with some rancho shocks. The interior was completely stripped and restored to the best of my ability. The exterior received much of the same treatment. All bumpers, tail lights, marker lights, fender wells, front grill, front bezel, were removed and either painted or new parts were purchased. It was professionally painted red (Terra Cotta), the original color.. I still have the engine compartment left to restro. Its been an exhaustive resto, but well worth the effort. I get countless compliments. I just want to show respect to all the current restoration projects that are in progress, I hope this gives a little motivation..best wishes tony


http://s924.photobucket.com/albums/ad82/shlobeck/

 

all i have to say is wow, that thing is immaculate, i wouldnt wanna drive it tho....to scared

 

Very Nice. Congrats. I used to have an 83 and miss it...

 

nice truck

 

very nice rig ....



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One of the most beautiful trucks I have ever seen, I have been looking for an original first generation yota to restore also.
I love the way you built yours, thanks for showing us.

 

 

Absolutely THEE cleanest 1st gen I have ever seen!!
NICE FREGGIN WORK DUDE!!

 

Thats one heck of a nice resto job man! Question for you - what kind of mudflaps are on it?

 

def. worth it. which were the stock speaker locations? how do you like those tires?

 

Hey Guys thank you for the kind words...Everytime I drive around it brings a smile to my face (others as well). To answer your questions: The 5 inch speakers are the true stock location... I added the 6x9s, really the only thing that isn't stock for the interior but I wanted a decent sounding system..The Hankooks Dynapros are actually really nice tires, the BFG mudders were on back order and I didn't want to wait... A little road noise but no issues...I don't have too much experience off-roading with them yet..The mud flaps are stock "toyota" flaps...I can take another photo if you wish....

There are still a lot of nice 1st Gen trucks down here in the southern california.. check craiglist I've seen some nice rust free trucks which would be prime for a restore.. I bought mine in South Central LA...If any of you guys need help finding a truck, please don't hesitate to email me...I'd be nice to see a few more clean 1st Gen...

 

wow! any possibilities you drive up to toyotafest? regardless....great work!

 

Dude that thing looks AMAZING...you did an AWESOME job!!!

 

i hate you so much. that thing is freakin amazing. awesome work man

 

That is absolutely awesome man, great job!!

Where did you buy the decals?

Did you paint the por21 on with a brush?

 

koolyota not sure if this is the same place he got those decals from but just in case he didn't: http://www.jamesdeancreations.com/toyota.htm

 

That is a great looking truck and a restore job done right. Don't be afraid to drive it though, that is the reward you get for all of your hard work. I drive mine when ever I can and just have fun with it. Good luck and have fun with your toy.

 

Hey guys thank you for the well wishes...Yes the stripes are james dean creations. I've done a little more since the photos. Original carpet, doors included, new weather stripping for the "A" windows very lucky to find that from the dealer). I did brush the POR 21 on by hand, nasty stuff. Yes I drive it, with a big smile on my face.

 

Btw when and where is Toyota fest??

 

Your truck is immaculate! I wish i had money to prof have mine painted. For now a decnt rattle can job will do. I would also like to knw when the next toyota fest is!!