Should I restore an old FJ45?

[andy76fj45]

I am thinking of taking on the project of doing up my Father's old 1976 Toyota FJ45. I've got a couple of questions that will help me to decide:
1. Can I put power steering into it (it currently has none) or should I just join a gym?
2. Are there any later model Toyota turbo diesel or unleaded engines which will drop into it?
3. Can I convert the current original engine (leaded petrol) into a turbo diesel or unleaded one?
Thanks

[bubs]

Mate yes you can convert to power steer, I would recommend fitting 60 series steering to your vehicle, this is a much stronger and reliable setup to 40/45 power steering systems.

Engine yes you can, it all depends on your budget and your ability unless you are getting some one else to do the work. Many people have fitted later model 60 series 2H turbo and 12H-T engines to 45's. I would also look into the early 80 series landcruiser 1HZ as the price for these has come down over the last few years.

[Ausi fj]

Go for it. If you do it right you won't get a better 4x4 in my opinion. You can add all the options you want if you know how and this web site will give you all the info you need to build it. I am currently build one similar but with a 5lt ford GT engine.

[AZZA'S HJ47]

there is no limit as to what you can do with these things you will love doing the thing. I started mine as a tidy up and ended up doin a ground up resto. i say go for it there is no shortage of bits my 47 has power steering and ac both were easy to get and fit.

[andy76fj45]

Thanks. You've all convinced me. I'm going to do it. The answers you've given me lead to other questions though like, if I put a different engine into it, say for example a Ford GT 5L engine, is it easy to get registered or do I need some engineering help to rebuild this car in order to make sure it is legal at the end?

[bj on roids]

Yeah you can register it with a 5L V8, although with new 'P' plate laws you may not be able to drive it.