rogercryan

I bought a 1968 FJ40 this past fall. Had an FJ 40 34 years ago (I'm 66 now) just for a winter when I needed something to deliver newspapers in rural area during the winter in western N.Y. Last couple years got desire to get another one to work on. I am low on mechanical knowledge but admire those who are able to do this kind of work so I wanted to learn and hopefully end up with a vehicle I and rest of family (wife, kids, grandkids) can enjoy. I do have someone who has done restoration work that said he would work on it and let me help. At this time I'm just starting some research by asking questions, listening and learning.
The FJ has a small block chevy 350 in it. It has what I expect is the original 3 speed transmission. My question: The 3 speed transmission doesn't seem to be enough for higher speeds. Can a different manual transmission be installed that will enable it to run better at higher speeds?
I will include a couple pictures. I plan on installing the hard top instead of the soft top that is on it in the picture. The hard top is in great shape.
I appreciate any help you can give me and look forward to days ahead of what I hope can be accomplished with much help.
Thanks

highonpottery

iTrader: (1)

Beautiful Cruiser.
The best advice I can give you is to join up at iH8mud.com forums and ask your question over there in the 40-series forum since those guys are the experts. Mud is a Land Cruiser based forum, whereas YotaTech is more catered to the minitruck platform.

My best guess is your axle differential ratios are stock at around a 4.10 ratio and your 3speed is the stock J40 trans. A new trans with 4th gear/overdrive should help with the highway speeds because I believe the stock 3spd is a non-overdrive unit with 1:1 ratio for 3rd gear I would definitely go that route as opposed to changing the diff gears into the 3.XX ratios. Not sure what the recommended trans is to swap in with your v8 swap, my guess is a GM trans like a TH400 auto but I don't see why you can't use a land cruiser h42 with an adapter plate.

rogercryan

Thanks for the info. Just what I'm looking for. I'll keep asking questions about what you posted. I'll also check out the other forum.

highonpottery

iTrader: (1)

Yep, no prob. I have a 100-series and have learned iH8mud is the best resource for all things Land Cruisers

OlGrunt

Any 4 speed you use will only supply you with the same 1:1 ratio. You really only have 2 options for an overdrive gear. You can get a NV4500 5 speed from a junkyard and add a adapter to the transfer case, or find a Ranger overdrive unit. Either adds 27% overdrive. Both require additional support/driveshaft mods. Finding a used NV4500 or a Ranger can be difficult. I know someone who has a Ranger he may part with tho. Hope this helps.