Simeon’s 1989 FJ62 Toyota Land Cruiser, LS3 V8 Restomod
We do not build the same truck twice. Every Cruiser that comes through our shop gets the work it needs and the work its owner asks for, nothing more, nothing less. Simeon’s 1989 FJ62 is a perfect example of that. He came to us wanting modern power and reliability under a classic FJ62, and that is exactly what we built him.
A Modern Heart in a Classic Body
The centerpiece of this build is the driveline. We pulled the original engine and transmission, prepped the engine bay, and dropped in a new 6.2L LS3 V8 backed by a 6L80E automatic. The factory never offered anything close to this combination, and it transforms how the truck drives. To support it properly, we ran a new wiring harness, added a fuse box inside the engine bay, and mounted a separate transmission cooling system ahead of the radiator. The original Toyota transfer case stayed in place, tied in with a new adapter, so Simeon keeps the proven four-wheel-drive system the FJ62 is known for.
Built to Last Underneath
A swap is only as good as what supports it. We fabricated a custom transmission crossmember and custom 4×4 linkage, fitted new motor mounts and bushings, and installed a full Old Man Emu suspension system with springs, shocks, a steering stabilizer, and greaseable shackles. Cooling and charging were all addressed too, a custom aluminum radiator with new hoses and mounts, new electric fans, a new A/C compressor and condenser, a new alternator, and a new starter.
The Details That Make It Drive Right
This is where a build comes together. A custom exhaust with new headers and muffler, a new Holley oil pan, a cold air intake, and a new drive-by-wire pedal. We integrated the interior wiring so the factory gauges still work, added an OBD-II port near the driver’s left leg for future GM diagnostics, then professionally tuned the engine and transmission and put roughly 200 miles on it to make sure everything was right before it went home.
Finished to Suit
Simeon’s FJ62 was refinished in body and paint in its factory color, with a new hood blanket, repaired rear C-channels, a new rear license plate bracket, and Grote LED headlights. Inside, we fabricated a custom center console painted black with a matching upholstered armrest. He supplied his own wheels and tires, the exact look he wanted, and we finished it off with a rust preventative undercarriage treatment to protect all that work for the long haul.
See It for Yourself
Watch this Cruiser video here:
Build Yours
Simeon’s FJ62 is exactly the kind of build we love, classic looks, modern muscle, and every choice made to suit the owner. If you have a Land Cruiser you want brought to life your way, we handle the full process from start to finish, with free nationwide transport in both directions. Call or text us at 316-633-9902, or send us a message to start the conversation.
