Guatemala 1990 GQ/Y60 SWB Diesel

[InterFJ]

I recently purchased a new-to-me 1990 GQ/Y60 SWB Patrol, Diesel and figured I'd start a build thread right away. I was late to the game with my FJ.

The first stage of my build will concentrate on the following:

1. Attending to key engine and structural needs
2. Complete refurbishment of the interior
3. New lights, front and rear, washer blades, etc.
4. Blacking out the wheels (or replacing them)
5. BFG KM2s

My overall build strategy: dependable and capable overland vehicle used for weekend getaways, accessing remote trails for trail running with my Ridgeback, and 2-3 week-long expeditions that involve highway and backcountry access.

Pics of my progress to-date...
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[InterFJ]

Continuation of progress from 1st post..
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I ordered a pair of PIAA LED 570 Driving lights that are scheduled to arrive on Tuesday and hope to have them installed before next weekend. The GQ is currently at the shop getting new brake discs, pads, and a bunch of other TLC goodies, as well as a refurbishment of the chasis.

I'm starting to look at a suspension lift kit so all suggestions/recommendations are welcome! The way my rig sits, I think it may even have an aftermarket suspension in the rear???

I hope to have the interior re-painted in the next week and will be laying down all-weather matting. And, if I can find it in Guatemala, I will be adding some diamond plating for a little flare/bling :)

[InterFJ]

Pics of the suspension that I am wanting to replace and ugrade...

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[Bigcol]

looks good mate, I like the Black............

[Stropp]

Thanks for the pics mate, good to see progress.

[threedogs]

Looking good,,, a 2" lift should see you go about anywhere with care

[InterFJ]

Thanks! I'm looking into the OME suspension. Hope to have it on by February.

[InterFJ]

These arrived today. Can't wait to get them on.

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[InterFJ]

Just ordered some ARB goodies. Unfortunately, everything won't arrive until mid-February so the install and new look/performance probably won't happen until around March 2015. Let the waiting game begin.

[InterFJ]

After weeks of searching I finally found some diamond plating here in Guatemala! It's the little things that make us happy when living overseas and in a market you are unfamiliar with. Will be checking out a workshop on Friday to get a quote on installing diamond plating to the door panels, including the rear, in combination with an all-weather, durable black fabric to lessen the "bling" of the metal.

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[growler2058]

Seek and ye shall find ay :)

[InterFJ]

After four weeks in the shop and two pages of replacement parts and fluids, the Patrol is finally back in my hands. The PIAA LEDs were also installed. Haven't had a chance to check out their function yet, but I will post pics at the first opportunity.

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[rusty_nail]

that is soem bad ass tinting mate, can you see out of it at night?

[InterFJ]

Funny thing is, I think the windshield used to have tinting as well. Most vehicles in Guatemala practically black out the windows for security purposes. They do this not to avoid identifying WHO is in the car but rather to create a deterrence by not giving away HOW MANY people are in the car. It can get pretty dark inside but since my Ridgeback is always with me (yes, even to work), the sliding driver side window is always open. I plan to strip the tint at some point and have it re-done (lighter %), but that's at the bottom of my to-do list.

[pasbogdan]

Looking good.