An enthusiast has transformed the popular FJ Cruiser into a single-cab ute that, from a distance, looks like something off the Toyota production line.
Built by Melton, Victoria-based Tinman Fabrications in a two-year transformation, the project involved removing the SUV’s rear bodywork, extending the chassis, adding a tray, and sourcing multiple parts from other vehicles.
The result is a “still not finished” one-of-a-kind Australian special, which the owner intends to use as a daily driver.
The project began by cutting the FJ’s body behind the front doors and welding in a factory-looking rear cab wall, which was sourced from a Nissan Patrol GU ute.
At 2690mm the FJ’s wheelbase was too short for the intended tray, so the owner chose to cut its frame and add a 300mm chassis extension.
A sizeable tray was then fitted, as were bead-lock wheels wrapped in chunky all-terrain tyres.
As for the leftover rear section of the FJ’s body, the owner has repurposed it to become storage for a toolbox.
The transformation was posted on Tinman Fabrications’ Facebook page, which has so far received nearly 20,000 positive reactions and been shared in multiple owners’ groups.
The FJ Cruiser was produced from 2006 until 2022, although it was axed locally in 2016.
Related to the LandCruiser Prado, its design paid homage to the FJ40 off-roader.
Toyota is reportedly looking to resurrect the FJ nameplate, this time on a new small SUV likely based on the HiLux Champ ute.
