Hema Maps BJ74 Build Thread?

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lndhark

Adventurer
Is there an official build thread or documentation of the Hema Maps BJ74? I know Cruiser Outfitters and Land Cruisers Direct had a big hand in it, but I'd love to see a list of what actually was done (and the total cost). I'm also curious about living with the truck (or any BJ74) day to day, maintenance, repairs, parts availability, etc.

Call me crazy...in the recent months I've decided to get another truck once we've settled in back west (WA). After a long dry spell of off-roading (even owning a truck for that matter) I think it's time for another. I've pestered Kurt with countless questions about LX470s, Tacomas, GX470 and 4Runners. But I'll admit, a JDM BJ74 is looking like a great trail rig and possible DD (40-mile round trip commute). I really like the idea of a functional and utilitarian vehicle (like Toyota trucks used to be) and imagine it would take my wife and I just about anywhere in the west we'd like to explore.

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L

lndhark

Adventurer
I did not...I searched the Google for "Hema maps build" and didn't see anything relevant to this particular Land Cruiser. I'll take a look...
 
fireball

fireball

Explorer
I have a 100 and a 74 and they are both great vehicles. The 74 is a really great expo rig for 1 or 2 people.

Let us know any specific questions you might have.
 
NoahTheMod

NoahTheMod

Observer
I have a 1985 BJ74 LHD that is a frame off resto i might be willing to part with. yes that is correct...a LHD BJ74

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L

lndhark

Adventurer
Hi Fireball, thanks for the offer. I was just curious what it's like driving a 74 in-town. Whatever I wind up getting won't be a DD but just put into use on really icy/snowy days or maybe even a day where using the A/C would be nicer than riding a bike. I know my way around Toyotas and don't mind the simplicity...I much prefer metal door panels to wood-trimmed ones...LOL. What's the fuel economy like? How is it to drive 2-3 hours on the highway at 65-70 MPH to get to a trail? How's the back seat room? How's the front seat room (I'm 6'5"). I know this isn't a 200-Series and don't expect refinement. I'm looking for an around-town vehicle that can take me to work when needed, a capable 4-person trail rig (not Rubicon but WABDR, and other Pacific Northwest runs) that can get us to out of the way places and still be cool and fun. From the looks of it, the HEMA BJ74 has an OME kit, ARB front bumper, some OE painted steel rims, OE chrome steps, Safari Snorkle and maybe some other goodies. I'm curious to know the tire size, axle ratio (stock?), etc. I also think it's got an H55F but was hoping to find some specifics as it look like its built the same way I'd build one. Thanks for any info you can share.
 
NoahTheMod

NoahTheMod

Observer
My 74 drives awesome and cruises 70 with zero issues. I drive from CT to ME with no issues other than my truck being stared at constantly and when I stop everyone wants to talk about it.
But no issues driving 6 hours in it.

The biggest drawback on a BJ74, which my son pointed out, is that it is a dude magnet
 
cruiseroutfit

cruiseroutfit

Supporting Sponsor: Cruiser Outfitters
I've not seen a thread on the HEMA/OJ BJ74, I was under the impression they were going to do a feature on the build here on ExPo? I'm super up to speed on all the parts utilized for the build. It does feature ARB front bar, Old Man Emu suspension. Factory Toyota steel wheels, Safari Snorkel, etc. If you have a particular question, I'd be happy to answer.
 
fireball

fireball

Explorer
Landshark, I think you'd be pretty happy with the 74 as a DD. The turbo version scoots around town just fine. It took me about 5' to get used to driving on the right hand side. The worst part is when switching back to LHD I always seem to get the TS and wipers mixed up!

The 74 is a great 1 or 2 person exploration vehicle platform. 4 people? No way. The rear seat in OEM form doesn't have belts, and is good for your kids if they are under 8 years old. Some of the non-JDM versions do have a rear roll cage and the rear seat is pushed back further, but then you'd have no room for gear and would definitely need a trailer.

I purchased my 74 in BC, flew out there and spent about 4 weeks driving it home through all manners of off road, dirt, trails, and highway. Worked awesome! Way more fun on the trail than the 100-series. Reminded me of my old Classic Bronco, bouncing around on the trails and happily climbing up and over anything. The lowest I saw was 18mpg and the highest was 23-24 coming across Kansas doing 70mph.

The 5 speed and 33s on my setup is darn near perfect I'd say. It cruises the highway nicely at 70-75mpg. If you go with the 5 spd and you're planning on serious wheeling, I'd also consider the t-case gears. A lower crawl would be a welcome addition, but it's pretty spendy.

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fireball

fireball

Explorer
Also, at 6'5" you will need to modify the front seat bracket. I'm 6'2" and Jason from Cruisin Off Road, who also built the other armor, built some extensions for the seat to move it back about 2". You would definitely need to do that....especially with a JDM truck which is setup for very short people!

IMG_4846.jpg
 
NoahTheMod

NoahTheMod

Observer
I love my 74, but yes the backseat is a bit cramped, however, Ive gone on 5 hour trips with my two boys in the back with zero issues from them. I went from a 100 series to the 74 as my DD, except in the winter, and my only complaint is the storage especially when I take my dog with me. Roof racks are near impossible to find and the only one that was halfway decent is no longer made. As far as power I couldn't imagine not having the 13BT (turbo Diesel) in one of these I would think it would quite the dog without it, especially loaded with gear.

Im 6'2" and have plenty of room upfront.
 
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