Just purchased an 81 Short bed DLX 5sp, 4WD. My intention is to restore it back to original. It is a rust free truck and the only exterior modification is the rear bumper. Someone removed the interior and installed 2 seats from a car. I want to put the original back but I don't know if it came with a bench or two buckets. Also, how do I know if the tailgate is original or not. There is a debate around that. Lastly, what is the best source for parts? This is my first truck, but not my first Toyota, I am in the process of restoring my second FJ60.
TIA!
Ray

 

Pictures would help.

 

Hi Ray,

From your user name, you must be the same person who won the '81 on Bring a Trailer, congratulations! Your truck is a bit special having the "Black Package" and it is in fact an SR5 model. I have the very same truck. The original seat would have been the fixed high back buckets. The rear bumper would have been the chrome step bumper, chrome oval or black painted oval. Your bumper is very similar to the original. The Toyota bumpers are no longer available new and are a tough find in used condition. Some people just leave the rear bumper off for a cleaner look. Mechanical parts pretty easy to find. Trim bits, interior pieces, radios very hard to find and expensive. Ebay, junkyards and Toyota dealer for parts.