Scott wanted modern LS power without giving up what makes an FJ80 special: its full-time four-wheel drive, durability, and go-anywhere capability.

His 1991 Toyota FJ80 was rebuilt with a 6.2L LS3 V8, a 6L80E six-speed automatic, a complete Old Man Emu suspension, upgraded brakes, a refreshed interior, and its factory full-time four-wheel-drive system fully retained.

1991 Toyota FJ80 Build Overview

• Owner: Scott
• Year: 1991
• Model: Toyota FJ80 Land Cruiser
• Engine: 6.2L LS3 V8
• Transmission: 6L80E six-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Factory full-time four-wheel drive retained
• Suspension: Old Man Emu
• Exterior: Factory Garnet maroon
• Wheels and Tires: Black off-road wheels with BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires
• Built By: Land Cruiser Restorations in Belle Plaine, Kansas

Watch Scott’s FJ80 LS3 Build

Watch this 1991 Toyota FJ80 restoration come together and hear its 6.2L LS3 V8 run.

LS3 Power With Full-Time 4WD Retained

The original drivetrain was replaced with a 6.2L LS3 V8 and 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission. Most importantly, we retained the factory transfer case, preserving the full-time four-wheel-drive system that makes the FJ80 so capable. A custom Champion 3-core aluminum radiator, electric cooling fan, custom wiring harness, low-profile oil pan, cold air intake, new headers, and a complete exhaust system support the conversion.

Drivetrain and Performance

• 6.2L LS3 V8 with 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission
• Factory transfer case and full-time 4WD retained
• Custom Champion 3-core aluminum radiator and new electric cooling fan
• Custom engine wiring harness
• New low-profile oil pan and cold air intake
• New headers and complete exhaust
• Both driveshafts custom cut and balanced
• Air conditioning converted to R134a
• New Optima Yellow Top battery
• Dash cluster updated with a new tachometer

Suspension, Steering and Brakes

A complete Old Man Emu suspension with new coil springs, shocks, and a steering stabilizer improved the FJ80’s ride and control, and the brake system was rebuilt front to back with upgraded components throughout.

• Old Man Emu coil springs, shocks, and steering stabilizer
• Both front Birfield knuckles rebuilt
• New tie rod ends and drag arm
• Steering and axle components inspected and serviced
• Upgraded front brakes with drilled and slotted rotors
• New rear drums and brake shoes
• New brake lines and emergency brake cable
• New brake booster and master cylinder
• Black off-road wheels with BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires

Factory Garnet Maroon Exterior

The body was straightened and refinished in its original factory Garnet maroon using a two-stage base coat and clear coat process. A Delta off-road front bumper with a brush guard and LED pod lights was paired with a matching rear bumper and spare tire carrier.

• Factory Garnet maroon two-stage finish
• Delta front bumper with brush guard and LED pod lights
• Matching rear bumper with spare tire carrier
• New fender flares and seals
• New LED headlights and exterior lenses
• New windshield and seal
• New grille, headlight bezels, and Toyota emblems
• Roof rack installed
• Undercarriage treated with Rust Bullet and 3M rubberized coating

Refreshed Custom Interior

All seats were reupholstered in automotive-grade vinyl, the door and cargo panels were reconditioned, and new carpet, padding, and mats refreshed the cabin front to back. A custom center console, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and touchscreen head unit added modern comfort, along with repairs to the windows, lighting, blower motor, power antenna, and rear wiper.

• Seats reupholstered in automotive-grade vinyl
• Door and cargo panels reconditioned
• New carpet, padding, floor mats, and rear cargo mat
• Steering wheel rewrapped in leather, sun visors reupholstered
• Custom center console with accessory-switch cutouts
• Touchscreen head unit with Bluetooth, navigation, and backup camera
• New speakers throughout
• Window operation and seals reconditioned
• Dome lights, blower motor, and cluster dimmer repaired
• New power antenna and rear wiper components
• Sound deadening added to the wheel wells and firewall

Completed and Road Tested In-House

Scott’s FJ80 was completed and road tested at our shop in Belle Plaine, Kansas. The finished build keeps the character and full-time four-wheel drive that made the 80 Series legendary while adding modern LS3 performance, improved braking, a refined interior, and everyday reliability.

Want a Custom FJ80 Build?

Whether you already own an FJ80 or want us to source one for you, we handle the drivetrain conversion, mechanical restoration, bodywork, paint, interior, wiring, assembly, and final road testing in-house. Learn more about our FJ80 restoration services, or contact Land Cruiser Restorations to discuss your project. We work with Land Cruiser owners nationwide and provide free transportation both to and from our shop.

Call or text us at 316-633-9902 to start your custom FJ80 build.