I have always been looking for a decent 45 to add to my collection.
I have often seen them at pretty high prices and wondering from some of you
way more educated on them than me what type of price should I be thinking for a running, not all rusty, decent shape 45.
Thinking mostly stock not heavily modified.
Does LHD vs RHD change price?
Does Gas vs Diesel Change it?
Well…It depends…
As you already know the 45’s are more rare and have more utility value than their smaller FJ40 counterpart.
US Spec 1963-1967 are arguably the most desirable and seem to retain the highest value due to their rarity. Which is why you see so many SA, AUS, etc trucks that have been brought into the US market. Demand outpacing supply. You should definitely know these trucks were used and worked hard especially in foreign countries. There are well known repair issues with SA 40’s the 45’s are no different.
RHD is generally less expensive in the US than LHD. I have both and it only takes a couple hours to get used to the backward shift pattern and sight picture. The sight picture from the right seat is interesting as you’re looking at the edge of the road here in the US. Plus it’s a unique and unusual truck. That said if I sold one the RHD would be first to go.
Gas trucks are generally more desirable as the older diesels are harder to get parts for, perceived to be dirtier/smellier, more expensive to run (gas vs diesel pump prices) and unless you make some modifications aren’t as powerful (HP) as the 2F.
There’s a ton of info on MUD about 45’s they even have their own separate forum and classifieds section the very bottom of the forums page.
Depending on your budget there’s generally several US Spec trucks for sale. Here’s 2 to give you a ballpark. I’m not sure about the age and body sizes of the guys who commented above but I’m 6’2” and 220. I fit in all 3 of mine. Now I will tell you that the SWB is not a good option for those of us who have larger frame or belly sizes and I definitely wouldn’t want to take it on any long distance trips. If I had any of my 45’s out here I’d happily let you come over and sit in any or all of them.
$17k
CA red truck unfortunately it’s had a V-8 conversion done, radio was cut into the dash and it got repainted. But…It has all the really hard to find parts and is rust free from an extremely well known CruiserHead.
I just happen to know a guy who recently purchased a huge ‘67 FJ-45 parts lot (engine, trans, transfer and a ton of misc parts) from a $300k+ retro mod build and would be willing to part with whatever is needed to see this truck back on the road in stock configuration.
April 21, 2025. Sale pending. Will report when completed. Thanks Mud brothers ! And sisters. April 14, 2025 Update: Available for sale again ! When buyer came to finalize sale yesterday, he spotted a different truck and we made a deal on that--he's now posted his new buy--...
forum.ih8mud.com
$35k shipping to a CA US port included
‘62/‘63 SWB (You’d be hard pressed today to replicate it especially with the current prices for a project SWB and the rare **read expensive** parts)
This is number 12016. Had it acouple years it’s time to pass it along as 9 cruisers are hard to keep all going and the money can be used elsewhere, going to add a bathroom so there’s More space for my 3 girls as they get older. just trying to recoup some of my money I’ve put in. Posting here...
forum.ih8mud.com
Also you could always consider buying an AQUALU frame, 6” or 12” extended cab to be able to push the seat back further and their bed. After having seen my buddy Arya’s FJ-40 buggy with an Aqualu body be pushed up against some rocks and the almost 0 damage (other than scratches) that resulted I can attest to the quality and thickness of the body’s construction and strength.
Aluminum replacement Land Cruiser cabs and cowls and accessories for FJ40, FJ45, and FJ80.
www.hardbody4x4.com
I’ve got a tan LPB (full length) Aqualu 45 bed I’d part with if you decide to go this way.
