Countdown to diesel FJ60 - a thing of beauty

[DesertRose]

Well we got back from our 4x4 adventure safari across the Rift Valley and now I can focus on something I've waited three months for - taking delivery of my FJ60 from TLC, with its new diesel engine, suspension, and 'jewelry' :smiley_drive:
(we've been covering this in Overland Journal - spring 2008 had the big intro).

Here is a preview of the engine in the garage - I know TLC has since changed some of the routing of the hoses, and are still fine-tuning things. Although the article said we were putting in the 2.8 L Brazilian-made version, we ended up with the newer 3.0L turbo, which is replacing the 2.8 in worldwide distribution. Although a bit more complex with a computer, it will allow us to completely dial in the mixtures, timing so that I can reach my mileage goals, and it will take biodiesel and low-sulphur. We'll be covering the install in in upcoming issue of Overland Journal

After just driving a couple of 2H naturally aspirated diesel Land Cruisers (an HJ45 and HJ75) I definitely am glad I got the new turbo! 25mph hills got real old (although their mileage was phenomenal - over 25mpg no matter what we did). And a friend who was with us, who works for the South Rift Association (a Maasai land trust), kept leaving us in his dust with his spiffy and zippy 1HZ troopy.

I should be over in LA on the 29th to pick it up - fingers crossed! Reports are that it's running great.

And if anyone wants a really great 2000 Tacoma it's going up for sale this week!

 

[KC Cruiser]

Totally awesome, hope to see this in person one day!!
Good luck with the installation.

 

[DesertRose]

You will see if for sure - we're based outside Tucson, down the Altar Valley south of Three Points.

The install is done, just fine-tuning. I'll be driving it home.

TLC is a sponsor of the project, which is a proof-of-concept for creating a conservation-oriented overland vehicle - recycled old vehicle of proven worth, with a brand new highly efficient engine that can run bio and low-sulphur diesel and get excellent mileage. I expect to put less $$ into the tank even with higher per-gallon diesel prices, based on my experience with mileage on older diesels.

 

[Ireland]

So would I be right in saying that the diesel engine/tranny combo is to become available for people wishing to do a swap like this?
Or was it taken from an existing vehicle?
What would a likely cost be for the package you are installing minus the labour?

Very very cool swap, good luck with it:beer: :beer: :beer:

 

[DesertRose]

So would I be right in saying that the diesel engine/tranny combo is to become available for people wishing to do a swap like this?
Or was it taken from an existing vehicle?
What would a likely cost be for the package you are installing minus the labour?

Very very cool swap, good luck with it:beer: :beer: :beer:

Yes on the package - TLC is setting this up as a pallet-ship "kit" for DIY (or to pay a local garage to do it). It's a brand-new engine from International (see http://www.mwm-international.com.br/default.asp?su=3&pa=series&idSerie=23# - I think that is the same engine, it's so new to me I'm not positive, and TLC is closed today.

As you can see the package includes a new Toyota 5spd transmission. Also new/custom and part of the package is a beautiful stainless radiator.

We're still adding up the costs but should have it by the time the story goes into the upcoming Overland Journal article. If you use an older vehicle like my 60, which cost me $2500 USD, then it's a pretty affordable option even with labor given that you end up with a new engine/transmission that can't be had in a current production vehicle here in the states, on a top-notch overlanding platform.

 

[Ireland]

I bet they would sell a huge number of these engine/tranny combos if they can keep the pallet price in the 8 thou range.

Thanks for the info, can't wait to hear the reviews :beer:

 

[Schattenjager]

...
As you can see the package includes a new Toyota 5spd transmission. Also new/custom and part of the package is a beautiful stainless radiator...

Jonathan is the luckiest fella on earth - he married the perfect woman!

I am really looking forward to seeing this and getting a report of your drive home. Is it capable of cruising on the highway at higher speeds than a stock 60? If not, I guess taller tires would help!
:smiley_drive:

 

[charlieaarons]

The 2.5L version of this motor was used as the 300Tdi in LandRovers. A reliability problem was the use of a rubber timing belt; causing major destruction if it breaks (no use carrying a spare because your engine is thoroughly messed up if it breaks - valves, piston crowns).
Do you know if they replaced the belt with a timing chain? I've heard rumors of that possibility.

Charlie

 

[dieselcruiserhead]

Very cool. Congrats Roseann!

 

[kcowyo]

Normally, I would resent the hell out of any woman who would tease me and keep me waiting like this....


You get a free pass because I know you're having to "hurry up & wait" too.


:lurk:
.

 

[DesertRose]

I bet they would sell a huge number of these engine/tranny combos if they can keep the pallet price in the 8 thou range.

Wellllll - it's going to be a lot more than that, count on it. First, well-used 1HZs with 5speeds from Japan are being imported and sold for about $8000 - that's used, not refurbished, nada, zip - so you'd be looking at a very high price for refurbishing plus although reliable and for sure tried-and-true, the 1HZ is not modern. Remember this is a brand new modern engine with a turbo, and a brand new five speed Toyota tranny. Worth a LOT. Expect this setup - which will have the TLC mark of excellence - to be priced accordingly!

 

[DesertRose]

Jonathan is the luckiest fella on earth - he married the perfect woman!

He hasn't seen the bill yet . . . :snorkel:

Is it capable of cruising on the highway at higher speeds than a stock 60? If not, I guess taller tires would help!
:smiley_drive:

With a range (depending on tuning) of 140-185 hp @ 3800 rpm and peak torque at 250-318 pound-feet @ 1600-2200 rpm and an engine that weighs 200 pounds less than the 2F -- I'd say we'll need whiplash protection.

Seriously I think we're going to be super-pleased with the results.

I opted for BFG All-Terrains on 16" TX1 Outback wheels from VTO Performance in Prescott. They are super-light, and well, they look very cool. What can I say? With the original desert tan, the dark charcoal wheels, sliders / custom bumpers to match, and the dark charcoal carbon fiber Autohome roof tent, this will be a real subdued but businesslike truck.
Of course, don't forget the discreet cheetah spot decals and zebra-print headrest covers . . . if I do that, Jonathan will never borrow it. :jump:

 

[haven]

Roseann,

Those TX-1 wheels look attractive, but I'm concerned that
the square corners of the spokes would hold mud.
Are the wheels coated to keep mud from sticking?
Perhaps this is not a concern for a desert resident!

Chip Haven

 

[haven]

I forgot to ask -- will TLC take your converted Land Cruiser to
SEMA this November? They have shown their products there in
the past.

 

[Willman]

Very nice!...Those rims are going to look killer on your rig!

Can't wait to see it at this years ET!


:jump: