The FJ Cruiser Pickup: A Custom Creation That Outshines the Original
The Visionary Project
- Les Camilleri of Tinman Fabrications in Melton, Victoria, Australia, has crafted a unique FJ Cruiser pickup truck.
- This custom build is inspired by the classic Land Cruiser FJ45.
Why It Stands Out
- Toyota never released a pickup variant of the FJ Cruiser in Australia, despite the popularity of “utes.”
- Camilleri filled this gap with a two-year project that transformed the FJ Cruiser into a pickup truck.
The Transformation Process
- The body was modified by cutting it a foot behind the doors and adding a factory-style cab wall.
- The frame was extended by nearly 12 inches to fit a Nissan Patrol GU ute bed, enhancing the vehicle’s proportions.
Attention to Detail
- The conversion maintains the FJ Cruiser’s design language, making it appear factory-made.
- The original cargo door is repurposed to conceal tools in Camilleri’s workshop, showcasing the vehicle’s potential versatility.
A Nod to the Past and Future
- The project pays homage to the FJ45 pickup, which was produced from 1963 to 1986.
- It raises the question of what a modern Toyota Land Cruiser pickup could look like, though Toyota may not explore this due to the Tacoma’s presence.
The Enthusiast’s Dream
- This enthusiast-built conversion is a remarkable example of the FJ Cruiser’s untapped potential as a factory option.
- It stands as a testament to ingenuity and the spirit of customization.
0 Comments