
This 1990 Toyota FJ62 came to us needing more than a refresh. It needed a second act.
The truck arrived as a classic 60 Series with good bones but none of the modern power, comfort, or capability its owner wanted. It left our Belle Plaine, Kansas shop as a white, trail-ready FJ62 V8 restomod built for long-distance travel and serious off-road use.
A Chevrolet 5.3L Vortec V8, 6L80E automatic transmission, Old Man Emu suspension, rear locker, long-range fuel tank, custom bumpers, and a fully updated interior transformed this Land Cruiser without changing the iconic shape that made the FJ62 a classic.
1990 Toyota FJ62 Build Overview
- Year: 1990
- Model: Toyota FJ62 Land Cruiser
- Build Type: Custom V8 restomod
- Engine: Chevrolet 5.3L Vortec V8
- Engine Mileage: 65,753 miles
- Transmission: 6L80E automatic
- Suspension: Old Man Emu
- Exterior: White two-stage finish
- Tires: 33-inch BFGoodrich KO2
- Fuel Capacity: 40-gallon long-range fuel tank
- Built By: Land Cruiser Restorations in Belle Plaine, Kansas
Watch the FJ62 V8 Conversion
Watch this 1990 Toyota FJ62 transformation come together, from the drivetrain conversion through the completed trail-ready build.
Chevrolet 5.3L Vortec V8 Conversion
The original drivetrain was replaced with a Chevrolet 5.3L Vortec V8 paired with a 6L80E automatic transmission. This combination gives the FJ62 better power, modern drivability, improved highway performance, and easier access to replacement parts.
The conversion included a custom Champion 3-core radiator, dual electric fans, a custom wiring harness, new headers and exhaust, a low-profile oil pan, and custom-cut and balanced driveshafts.
Drivetrain and Performance
- Chevrolet 5.3L Vortec V8 with 65,753 miles
- 6L80E automatic transmission
- New headers and complete exhaust system
- New cold air intake and low-profile oil pan
- Custom Champion 3-core radiator
- Dual electric cooling fans
- Custom engine wiring harness
- New spark plugs, wires, and heat shields
- Both driveshafts custom cut and balanced
- Air conditioning converted to R134a
- New starting battery and dual deep-cycle marine batteries
- Aftermarket tachometer
Built for the Trail
A complete Old Man Emu suspension system improves ride quality and control, while a rear locker with onboard air adds traction when the trail gets difficult. The truck rides on five 33-inch BFGoodrich KO2 tires mounted to black Pro Comp wheels.
The brake system was rebuilt, both front Birfield knuckles were serviced, and the steering and supporting chassis components were refreshed to match the added power and capability.
Suspension, Brakes and Wheels
- Old Man Emu springs and shocks
- Old Man Emu steering stabilizer
- Greaseable shackles
- Both front Birfield knuckles rebuilt
- New brake drums, shoes, lines, calipers, and pads
- New rotors, brake booster, and master cylinder
- Rear locker with onboard air compressor
- Five 33×10.5R15 BFGoodrich KO2 tires














