Introduced in 1964 and following the FJ40 in Toyota’s legendary and revered Land Cruiser lineage, the FJ45 Pickup is among the most capable off-roading platforms ever constructed. The FJ and its brethren now enjoy a robust and committed community of model enthusiasts, with professionally restomodded examples providing some of the most rewarding, better-than-factory ownership experiences. Available in short-bed and long-bed configurations when new, these 45-series Pickups are an especially sought-after body style.

This 1981 FJ45 Pickup “LP-K” offered here is a left-hand drive, export-market long-bed pickup delivered new to the Bogota, Colombia. Since acquisition by the consignor, it has been treated to a masterful, frame-off restoration to near-factory specifications by the well-regarded FJ Company of Miami, Florida, during which it was tastefully improved with a complete suite of modern amenities with a focus towards optimal passenger comfort and mechanical performance.

To begin its restoration process, this FJ was completely stripped to bare metal. Its frame was aligned and reinforced, then hot-dip galvanized, powder coated, and painted for superior corrosion resistance; meanwhile, imperfections in its body were repaired, with panels replaced by newly fabricated pieces made of galvanized steel as needed. Once reunited, the truck was repainted in Cadet Blue replete with re-chromed exterior trim. The consignor notes that “JIS” hardware was used throughout. A comprehensive photo album documents this restoration process beginning from its as-acquired condition.

New underpinnings came by way of a complete Old Man Emu suspension kit and the freshly rebuilt, factory four-wheel drive components. This impressive, better-than-stock setup is paired with ventilated front disc brakes and rear drums mounted within a matched set of steel wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich all-terrain tires. A 10,000-pound Warn winch has been integrated into the front frame and is mounted between a pair of added external fog lamps.

The chassis’ 4.2-liter, “2F” six-cylinder engine, the correct-type unit installed in the truck when it was sourced in Colombia, was fully rebuilt and is now paired to a new factory-type Aisin carburetor and “H55F” five-speed transmission. This FJ’s interior has been reupholstered in a gray vinyl with matching carpets. All of the car’s attractive cabin features have been retained or replaced with newer improvements as needed; 105-series power steering, air conditioning, and a push-button radio are some of the notable appointments.

This fully restored, sorted, and tastefully updated FJ45 Pickup from a respected builder is accompanied by tools and manuals. Its utilitarian styling offers an attractive compliment to its tremendous off-road capabilities. This Land Cruiser is undoubtedly well-prepared for its next excursion; the discerning enthusiast would be wise to treat this formidable offering with an equal degree of eagerness to explore all of the FJ’s most preferred environs.