Some builds are impressive because of their horsepower. Others stand out because of their craftsmanship. Richard McIntosh's FJ-40 manages to do both. Built for SEMA and later featured in the Radflo Shocks booth, this custom FJ-40 quickly became one of our favorite full-body projects ever to leave the Wide Open Design shop. The goal wasn't simply to restore an iconic Toyota Land Cruiser. The goal was to create the ultimate FJ-40 while preserving everything that made the original vehicle special.
Starting with an Aqua Blue FJ-40 tub stretched 10 inches behind the doors, the foundation was laid for a vehicle that would maintain classic proportions while accommodating modern suspension geometry and massive 43-inch tires. The additional wheelbase transformed the stance and created the perfect platform for serious off-road capability. One of the most noticeable changes is the windshield. The factory FJ windshield is known for its upright position, so we modified the frame and laid it back approximately 20 degrees to create a cleaner profile while improving the overall appearance. From there, the entire chassis was designed in CAD and built from the ground up as a complete custom tube chassis.
The roof and cage integration became one of the most challenging aspects of the build. The cage was designed to flow through the body while maintaining the classic FJ silhouette. The aluminum roof was extended seamlessly to the windshield frame, eliminating gaps and creating a factory-quality appearance that took countless hours of design and fabrication.
Custom-built aluminum fender flares were hand-formed to mimic the original Toyota styling while providing clearance for the massive tires. Combined with custom mirrors, half doors, and a redesigned rear bumper inspired by factory FJ components, every detail was carefully considered. Inside, the FJ-40 blends vintage styling with modern comfort. A complete Vintage Air climate control system provides heat and air conditioning. Custom double-diamond stitched seats, GPS navigation, Switch-Pros controls, backup camera, heated seats, radios, interior lighting, and custom gauges make this one of the most comfortable trail rigs we've ever built.
Power comes from a Mast Motorsports 427 cubic-inch LS engine backed by a TH400 transmission and Atlas transfer case. Cooling is handled by a custom radiator package while Hydroboost brakes, Warn winch, and premium suspension components ensure this vehicle performs as well as it looks.
Underneath, Crane Axle 14-Bolt axles, Magnum Knuckles, Radflo coilovers, Radflo bypass shocks, and massive 43-inch tires create a drivetrain package built for real trail use. This wasn't built to sit under lights. It was built to be driven.
What makes this FJ-40 special isn't any single component. It's the way every detail works together. From the stretched body and custom cage to the luxury interior and heavy-duty drivetrain, this build represents everything we strive for at Wide Open Design—classic styling, modern engineering, and uncompromising capability.
The result is what we believe may be the ultimate FJ-40.
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