1979 Toyota Land Cruiser BJ40 custom 4x4: Video review

PERTH-based brothers Harpaal and Sarpal Gill have taken a four-wheel drive icon – the venerable BJ40 Cruiser – and turned it into an off-road monster.

The aim of the one-of-a-kind Cruiser build was to combine the proven attributes of the original BJ with the solid – and “newish” – drivetrain of the more modern 79 Series. So, the aim was to blend old-school cool with new-school ease-of-use.

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To do this, the Gill brothers found a way to slot in a 4.5-litre turbo-diesel V8 from an LC79, and then they built a full custom suspension system which is highlighted by a neat four-link rear with Nolathane bushing.

The project was completed in-house, thanks to the skillsets of the brothers – metal fabrication, metal machinist, draftsman, mechanic and hydraulic fitted – as well as the fact the guys own an automotive repair and tyre outlet.

Watch the video to hear the unique Land Cruiser growl, or pick up a copy of 4X4 Australia’s July 2018 issue for head-to-tail coverage.