German-Powered Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62

CAtuned Off-Road’s Mercedes Diesel Motivated Japanese 4×4

This truly one-of-a-kind Mercedes diesel-powered Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 lives its life in Sacramento, California. It is daily driven by Max Polishchuk, the owner of CAtuned Off-Road. It wasn’t built to be a SEMA show vehicle, but ended up in the Toyo Tires booth at SEMA 2017 anyway.

Daily Driver to Show Truck

The idea for this project was born when Polishchuk needed a daily driver that would showcase the capabilities of his shop CAtuned Off-Road. This new off-road build would need to be able to tackle any environment, as there are rocky, muddy, snowy, sandy, and so on, off-road trails all within close proximity to Sacramento. It not only needed to be fully off-road capable, but also fun to drive and a reliable daily driver.

“It not only needed to be fully off-road capable, but also fun to drive and a reliable daily driver.”

Polishchuk isn’t exactly easy on his vehicles, and likes to properly use his vehicles. His previous daily driver was a custom ’76 BMW 2002, with a S2000 VTEC engine that put out 404 hp to the wheels. The bar was set high.

There were no initial plans to have this Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 go to SEMA, but that all changed when Toyo Tires got wind of the build. When the vehicle was first coming together, Igor, Polishchuk’s brother and owner of CAtuned Motorsports, a tuning shop that specializes in BMW restoration, shared some photos of the build with Toyo. Toyo loved the build and decided that they wanted it in their outdoor SEMA booth. The rest is history.

CAtuned Off-Road

Max Polishchuk started CAtuned Off-Road as a part-time hobby in 2013. He has always loved working on cars, but found his true passion in restoring and enhancing classic trucks, turning them into unique off-road vehicles—from rock crawlers to overlanding trucks. With the encouragement of friends and family, and plenty of long nights and weekends, Polishchuk’s passion turned into a full-time job, then a successful business.

CAtuned Off-Road is located in North Highlands, California, and does everything from fabricating custom three-link suspensions to performing solid axle swaps to installing aftermarket lifts kits and the full gambit of off-road accessories. They put unique challenges that they can learn and grow from over profits. While Polishchuk needs to be in the office running the business, you’ll more often than not find him welding or wrenching away in the shop. His passion lies with unique builds and interesting challenges, especially engine swaps.

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62

Polishchuk has always been a fan of classic square-body Toyotas. He came across a Craigslist post for a Land Cruiser with a blown engine but the body was in good condition; he just couldn’t resist the purchase. This 1988 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 was completely stock when purchased. It then found itself inside CAtuned Off-Road’s shop, and things changed quickly.

Diesel

This Land Cruiser can comfortably rumble along at 75 mph on the highway, even though it’s loaded down with off-road accessories and powered by a relatively small diesel motor. The Mercedes OM606 3.0L diesel underhood is the hidden gem in this build.

Polishchuk wanted something that was reliable, had plenty of torque, was fuel-efficient, and fun to drive. That left him with only one option, a diesel engine. Unfortunately, it is extremely hard to find Toyota diesel engines in the United States.

Choosing the right engine is very important, especially since an engine can make or break a build. Polishchuk turned to previous builds at CAtuned Off-Road for inspiration, specifically a 1988 Isuzu Trooper diesel, named “Big Red,” which is very reliable, has plenty of torque, is super fuel efficient, and is a lot of fun to drive.

“This 1988 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 was completely stock when purchased. It then found itself inside CAtuned Off-Road’s shop, and things changed quickly.”

The Mercedes OM606 is the right engine for this custom Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 build. It was chosen because it has the perfect balance of power and weight for the FJ platform, and makes a ton of power. A big benefit to this engine option is that there are plenty of available parts on the U.S. market.

The Mercedes OM606 engine has been converted over to a fully mechanical injection pump, and was upgraded with a Holset HE341 turbo and a 3-inch stainless exhaust. While this engine is capable of reaching 500 hp, while keeping the red line at only 5,200 rpm, it has been tuned to about 350 hp on this build.

“The exterior of this land cruiser has a truly exceptional shine, and is accented with some impressive custom graphics.”

Polishchuk went with the Holset turbo versus the stock small Garret turbo on the original donor engine, because he has extensive experience with Cummins engines and wanted to use something he was familiar with. He also knew it could help the engine reach the next level of performance.

A key to this engine’s success in the Land Cruiser is the use of the stock Toyota five-speed manual H55F gearbox and transmission, which required CAtuned Off-Road to make a custom transmission adaptor plate. The rear axle is also set up with 4:10 gearing, to help create that right balance of on-road speed and off-road crawling power.

Lifted & Rolling

The first things to tackle on a build like this, besides the major motor swap, are the suspension, wheels, and tires. That combo of products will greatly change the on and off-road performance of the vehicle, as well as the looks of the vehicle.

This FJ62 has been lifted with an Old Man Emu (OME) 3-inch lift kit. Polishchuk and his team at CAtuned Off-Road knew from experience that an OME lift would be the perfect setup for this build. It gives them increased load carrying, better articulation, improved handling, and the ability to tackle off-road terrain just as well as paved roads.

“To cap off this retro cool off-road cruiser, Polishchuk imported a slim, simple, well-designed roof rack specifically built for this application.”

With the lift, Polishchuk was able to squeeze big 35×12.5 tires into the wheel arches. This fresh new Toyo Open Country R/T rubber was then wrapped around a three-piece custom wheel from Rotiform. Good looks and durability, you just can’t ask for more than that.

Off-Road Ready

In order to tackle proper off-road terrain and still look pretty this FJ needed to armor up. Polishchuk and his guys at CAtuned Off-Road designed and built a custom front bumper, rear bumper, and rock sliders. All of this heavy metal is used to protect this Land Cruiser’s gorgeous body.

If Polishchuk ever finds himself stuck in his Land Cruiser, something that is pretty unlikely, there is a 9.5K Smittybuilt winch mounted in the front bumper.

Interior

The inside of this classic Land Cruiser was brought back to life with a full custom interior. This new interior was designed to replicate the factory interior from 1988. New carpet, seats, headliner, and so on, were all updated with a very factory-fresh look. The original gauges were kept and work perfectly with the new motor.

“The Mercedes OM606 is the right engine for this custom FJ62 build. It was chosen because it has the perfect balance of power and weight for the FJ platform, and makes a ton of power.”

Leo’s Woodwork upgraded the interior style points on this build with custom-made English walnut shift knobs. If for some reason you grow tired of hearing the OM606 diesel sing, you can crank up the tunes on the full Alpine modern stereo system.

Finishing Touches

To cap off this retro cool off-road Cruiser, Polishchuk imported a slim, simple, well-designed roof rack specifically built for this application. The rack is from the Venezuelan company Ecotechne, and called the C.A. Roof Rack. A full row of four Hella lights are mounted to the front of the roof rack to complete that simple retro cool look.

“Polishchuk and his guys at CAtuned Off-Road designed and built a custom front bumper, rear bumper, and rock sliders. All of this heavy metal is used to protect this Land Cruiser’s gorgeous body.”

The exterior of this Land Cruiser has a truly exceptional shine, and is accented with some impressive custom graphics. That shine is courtesy of a Ceramic Pro coating that was applied, which not only brought life back to the original paint but helps protect it from the elements. The custom vinyl graphics by FXD&WLD truly help accentuate the lines of the vehicle while also giving you a hint at what is stuffed underhood.

Thanks

Max Polishchuk wants to send a special thanks out to his brother and the entire CAtuned Motorsports family. He also wants to thank the companies that truly made this rig possible: Toyo Tires, Rotiform, FXD&WLD, and Thule. And, of course, without his family and friends, this build and his thriving company CAtuned Off-Road wouldn’t be possible.

UPGRADES

1988 CAtuned Toyota FJ62

Platform: 1988 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62

Engine/Drivetrain: Mercedes 3.0L Inline six-cylinder Diesel, Toyota five-speed H55F transmission (with Custom CAtuned Off Road Adaptor)

Suspension: Old Man Emu 3-inch lift kit

Wheels & Tires: Rotiform LAS-OR three-piece forged wheels that were converted to Beadlock Wheels, Toyo Open Country R/T 35X12.5R17 tires

Accessories: Fully Mechanical Injection Pump, Holset HE341 Turbo, 3-inch stainless exhaust, BD Diesel exhaust brake, upgraded clutch, full-custom upholstery to look original, Leo’s Woodworks Custom English Walnut shift knobs, Alpine stereo system, CAtuned Off-Road custom front and rear bumpers, CA Tuned Off-Road custom rock sliders, 9.5K Smittybilt winch, Venezuela Ecotechne C.A. Roof Rack, Hella lighting, custom vinyl graphics by FXD&WLD

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Editor’s Note: A version of this article first appeared in a print issue of Tread Magazine. 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What accessories are included in Luai Alsheheli’s overland setup?

Accessories Included in Luai Alsheheli’s Overland Setup

Luai Alsheheli’s overland setup comes equipped with an array of accessories designed for both comfort and functionality during off-road adventures. Here’s a detailed list:

Vehicle Enhancements

• Heavy-duty roof rack: Ideal for carrying extra equipment and gear.
• High-performance touring seats: Ensuring comfort during long drives.
• Galvanized steel diesel fuel tank (160 liters): Provides extended travel range without frequent refueling.

Water Systems 

• On-board freshwater tank (200 liters): Ample water supply for extended trips.
• Advanced water filtration system: Ensures clean drinking water by eliminating contaminants.
• Water-to-water heat exchanger: For easy access to hot water on the go.

Cooking and Dining

• Durable stove: Perfect for preparing meals in the wilderness.
• Propane tank: Supplies fuel for the stove and other cooking needs.

Shelter and Comfort

• All-weather awning: Offers shade and protection from the elements.
• Convenient shower tent: Provides privacy and convenience for personal hygiene.

Utility Trailer

• Adventure trailer with rooftop tent: Adds extra sleeping space and storage for longer expeditions.

These accessories collectively augment the vehicle’s capability, making it a versatile and self-sufficient rig for extended overland journeys.

 

What specifications and modifications are listed for Luai Alsheheli’s 1985 Toyota FJ62 Land Cruiser?

Luai Alsheheli’s 1985 Toyota FJ62 Land Cruiser: Specifications and Modifications

Powertrain

The Toyota FJ62 features an impressive turbo-diesel engine paired with a 5-speed transmission and a twin-stick transfer case. It also boasts a top-mount intercooler for optimal engine performance.

Suspension and Drive

To handle rough terrain, the Land Cruiser is equipped with 4.10:1 differential axle gearing, 80-Series steering and brake components, and front and rear air lockers. It rides on a heavy-load suspension system and includes rear airbags for additional support.

Wheels and Tires

For traction and durability, this vehicle uses 16 x 6 OEM steel wheels wrapped in 255/85R16 tires.

Recovery and Armor

Off-road recovery and protection are handled by a comprehensive setup including a front bull bar bumper, a powerful winch, and a snorkel for water crossings. Additional gear includes a recovery kit, a 48-inch jack, and a rear bumper with dual tire carriers, plus a shovel for versatile recovery situations.

Accessories

This Land Cruiser is designed for extended adventures, featuring a robust roof rack, touring seats, and a 160-liter fuel tank. It also includes a 200-liter freshwater tank, a water filtration system, and a propane stove. For comfort, there’s an awning and shower tent, and a heat exchanger for warm water.

Trailer

Accompanying the FJ62 is an overland adventure trailer equipped with a rooftop tent for additional sleeping space.

Electrical and Lights

The vehicle is well-equipped with an 11-liter and a 42-liter fridge, an electric water heater, and a sophisticated battery management system. Lighting is extensive with 7-inch headlights, off-road bumper lights, roof rack lights, and a 50-inch LED light bar. It also includes scene lights, two 100-amp lithium batteries, an inverter, and a fixed solar panel for off-grid energy. Communication and navigation are supported by a navigation system, an external GPS antenna, and a signal booster.

This setup ensures Luai Alsheheli’s FJ62 is ready for any adventure, blending power, durability, and modern conveniences.

 

What role does the Toyota FJ62 play in Luai Alsheheli’s business, 4 Wheel Station?

The Toyota FJ62 serves as a crucial test vehicle in Luai Alsheheli’s business, 4 Wheel Station. This iconic 4×4 is utilized to evaluate various suppliers’ products through rigorous independent testing. By doing so, Alsheheli can determine which parts and accessories meet his high standards before offering them to customers.

Key Functions of the Toyota FJ62:

• Product Evaluation: Acts as a testing platform for new gear and components.
• Quality Assurance: Ensures only the best products are available in the shop.
• Performance Benchmarking: Tracks durability and performance in real-world conditions.

By making the FJ62 the benchmark for quality and performance, 4 Wheel Station can guarantee that customers receive tried-and-tested products.

 

What electrical and lighting systems are installed in Luai Alsheheli’s Toyota FJ62?

Electrical and Lighting Systems in Luai Alsheheli’s Toyota FJ62

When it comes to the electrical and lighting systems, Luai Alsheheli’s Toyota FJ62 is nothing short of impressive. Here’s a detailed look at what powers this beast and lights up the night.

Electrical Systems

• Electronic Management System: The cornerstone of the FJ62’s electrical setup is an advanced electronic management system that significantly eases the task of managing various power needs.
• Lithium Batteries: Luai has installed two 100-amp hour lithium batteries. These batteries are known for their high capacity and reliability, which ensure that the vehicle’s electrical needs are always met.
• Inverter and Solar Panel: With a massive 3,000-watt, 220-volt inverter, the FJ62 is capable of powering substantial electrical devices. A 150-watt fixed solar panel supplements this setup, providing renewable energy to keep the batteries charged.
• Starting Batteries: To guarantee reliable startups, two Odyssey AGM starting batteries are included in the configuration.
• Control Panel: A sophisticated control panel from Blue Sea Systems is integrated into the rear platform, managing essential functions like lights, water pump, inverter, and a cell phone booster.

Lighting Systems

• LED Scene Lights: The vehicle features powerful LED scene lights that are ideal for both driving and camping, illuminating wide areas and making nighttime activities safer and more convenient.
• LED Light Bar: A substantial 50-inch LED light bar mounted on the roof further extends the range of visibility, perfect for off-road adventures where natural light is scarce.
• Halogen Roof Rack Lights: Four additional halogen lights mounted on the roof rack offer an extra layer of illumination.
• Front Bumper Lights: A set of robust off-road halogen lights are securely fastened to the front bumper, providing excellent visibility in challenging conditions.
• Headlights: The retro aesthetic is complemented by powerful 7-inch headlights, striking a balance between style and functionality.
• sPod Switch Panel: Inside the cabin, the lighting systems are efficiently managed through an sPod switch panel, ensuring easy control and customization of the various lights.

With these comprehensive electrical and lighting systems, Luai Alsheheli’s Toyota FJ62 is well-equipped for any adventure, making it not just a vehicle, but a reliable partner for challenging expeditions.

 

What are some unique features of Luai Alsheheli’s Toyota FJ62 Land Cruiser?

Unique Features of Luai Alsheheli’s Toyota FJ62 Land Cruiser

Fusion of East and West:Luai’s Toyota FJ62 is a canvas of cultural integration. This Land Cruiser showcases his diverse background with a mix of cultural emblems, including a Saudi national flag, Arabic-script license plates, a patch from Pike National Forest, and the spirited image of Freddy Mercury.

Purposefully Weathered Exterior:To maintain a low profile and discourage unsolicited offers, Luai intentionally gave the vehicle a tinned and weathered look. This unique and deliberate aesthetic choice not only adds character but also reduces the vehicle’s market appeal to random buyers who previously left contact numbers on the windshield.

Engine Swap and Modifications:One of the standout features is the 1HD-FT engine swap. This mechanical marvel by Toyota was rebuilt from scratch using original parts, including enhancements like a top-mounted intercooler, an extra fuel filter, a water separator, and an emergency shut-off valve. These modifications significantly extend the vehicle’s range and boost power.

Custom-Built Storage and Utility:4 Wheel Station, the shop Luai owns, crafted various custom storage and utility components. The build includes a water tank, a drawer system, a camp table, seat and fridge brackets, and a 160-liter galvanized steel fuel tank. These additions optimize storage and utility, especially for long journeys.

Enhanced Water System:Given the importance of water for both practical and religious purposes in Saudi Arabia, the vehicle features a 200-liter aluminum freshwater tank, two jerry cans, and a 12-volt electric water heater. The system is outfitted with a UV filtration unit, a pump, a mix valve for temperature control, and gauges to monitor water consumption.

Comprehensive Lighting System:Equipped to light up the darkest of nights, the FJ62 includes Rigid LED scene lights, a 50-inch light bar, and multiple halogen roof rack lights. These make the vehicle a central hub during camping trips. Additional halogen off-road lights and 7-inch headlights enhance nighttime driving and camp lighting.

Robust Electrical and Charging System:To power the array of electronics, Luai chose a sophisticated electronic management system, along with two 100-amp hour lithium batteries and a 3,000-watt inverter. Backup starting power is provided by two Odyssey AGM batteries. A fixed solar panel ensures sustainable energy generation, useful for extended off-grid travels.

Interior Customization:The interior is as remarkable as the exterior, featuring turquoise and black tartan Recaro seats with a draped leather organizer for personal items. A red and white shemagh around the driver-side headrest serves multiple practical purposes. The headliner, adorned with patches from various destinations and bands, adds a fun and personalized touch.

Cooking and Storage Features:For the long trips involving large groups, the FJ62 also includes a stove and two fridges to store a substantial amount of food. These are essential for hosting and sharing meals, a common practice in Saudi overland travel.

One-of-a-Kind Details:Lastly, the Land Cruiser features unique personal touches such as a Toyota oil filter mug, an insulated coffee cup, and custom white steel wheels with Toyo tires, ensuring that Luai’s vehicle is not just functional but also filled with personality.

 

How is the Toyota FJ62 equipped for recovery and armor?

Polishchuk and his guys at CAtuned Off-Road designed and built a custom front bumper, rear bumper, and rock sliders. All of this heavy metal is used to protect this Land Cruiser’s gorgeous body. If Polishchuk ever finds himself stuck in his Land Cruiser, something that is pretty unlikely, there is a 9.5K Smittybilt winch mounted in the front bumper.

But that’s not all. This Land Cruiser is decked out with top-notch recovery and armor gear to handle any off-road situation. Here’s a detailed look at the equipment:

• ARB bull bar front bumper: Provides crucial protection and a sturdy mounting point for accessories.
• Warn 8274 winch: A reliable winch for tough recovery situations.
• Safari snorkel: Ensures the engine breathes clean air even in the deepest waters.
• Factor 55 recovery kit: Packed with essential tools for safe and efficient recoveries.
• Hi-Lift jack, 48-inch: A versatile tool for lifting, winching, and clamping.
• Kaymar rear twin tire carrier bumper: Offers additional protection and convenient storage for spare tires.
• Shovel: An indispensable tool for digging out of tricky spots.

These elements work together to ensure that this Land Cruiser is not only protected from the harshest elements but also equipped to recover from any situation it might encounter. The combination of custom craftsmanship and carefully selected gear makes this vehicle a formidable off-road machine.

 

What modifications have been made to the Toyota FJ62 for overland travel?

German-Powered Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62

CAtuned Off-Road’s Mercedes Diesel Motivated Japanese 4×4

This truly one-of-a-kind Mercedes diesel-powered Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 lives its life in Sacramento, California. It is daily driven by Max Polishchuk, the owner of CAtuned Off-Road. It wasn’t built to be a SEMA show vehicle, but ended up in the Toyo Tires booth at SEMA 2017 anyway.

Daily Driver to Show Truck

The idea for this project was born when Polishchuk needed a daily driver that would showcase the capabilities of his shop, CAtuned Off-Road. This new off-road build would need to be able to tackle any environment, as there are rocky, muddy, snowy, sandy, and so on, off-road trails all within close proximity to Sacramento. It not only needed to be fully off-road capable but also fun to drive and a reliable daily driver.

“It not only needed to be fully off-road capable but also fun to drive and a reliable daily driver.”

Polishchuk isn’t exactly easy on his vehicles and likes to properly use them. His previous daily driver was a custom ’76 BMW 2002, with a S2000 VTEC engine that put out 404 hp to the wheels. The bar was set high.

There were no initial plans to have this Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 go to SEMA, but that all changed when Toyo Tires got wind of the build. When the vehicle was first coming together, Igor, Polishchuk’s brother and owner of CAtuned Motorsports, a tuning shop that specializes in BMW restoration, shared some photos of the build with Toyo. Toyo loved it and decided that they wanted it in their outdoor SEMA booth. The rest is history.

Off-road terrain, of all types, is the natural habitat for this impressive Land Cruiser.

CAtuned Off-Road

Max Polishchuk started CAtuned Off-Road as a part-time hobby in 2013. He has always loved working on cars but found his true passion in restoring and enhancing classic trucks, turning them into unique off-road vehicles—from rock crawlers to overlanding trucks. With the encouragement of friends and family, and plenty of long nights and weekends, Polishchuk’s passion turned into a full-time job, then a successful business.

CAtuned Off-Road is located in North Highlands, California, and does everything from fabricating custom three-link suspensions to performing solid axle swaps to installing aftermarket lift kits and the full gamut of off-road accessories. They prioritize unique challenges that they can learn and grow from over profits. While Polishchukneeds to be in the office running the business, you’ll more often than not find him welding or wrenching away in the shop. His passion lies with unique builds and interesting challenges, especially engine swaps.

The interior is updated but still retains that vintage feel.

The Mercedes OM606 diesel is the heart of this off-road beast.

The five-speed manual transmission and BD Diesel exhaust brake provide impressive driver control.

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62

Polishchuk has always been a fan of classic square-body Toyotas. He came across a Craigslist post for a Land Cruiser with a blown engine but the body was in good condition; he just couldn’t resist the purchase. This 1988 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 was completely stock when purchased. It then found itself inside CAtuned Off-Road’s shop, and things changed quickly.

Diesel

This Land Cruiser can comfortably rumble along at 75 mph on the highway, even though it’s loaded down with off-road accessories and powered by a relatively small diesel motor. The Mercedes OM606 3.0L diesel underhood is the hidden gem in this build.

Polishchuk wanted something that was reliable, had plenty of torque, was fuel-efficient, and fun to drive. That left him with only one option, a diesel engine. Unfortunately, it is extremely hard to find Toyota diesel engines in the United States.

Choosing the right engine is very important, especially since an engine can make or break a build. Polishchuk turned to previous builds at CAtuned Off-Road for inspiration, specifically a 1988 Isuzu Trooper diesel, named “Big Red,” which is very reliable, has plenty of torque, is super fuel efficient, and is a lot of fun to drive.

“This 1988 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 was completely stock when purchased. It then found itself inside CAtuned Off-Road’s shop, and things changed quickly.”

The Mercedes OM606 is the right engine for this custom Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62 build. It was chosen because it has the perfect balance of power and weight for the FJ platform and makes a ton of power. A big benefit to this engine option is that there are plenty of available parts on the U.S. Market.

The Mercedes OM606 engine has been converted over to a fully mechanical injection pump and was upgraded with a Holset HE341 turbo and a 3-inch stainless exhaust. While this engine is capable of reaching 500 hp, while keeping the red line at only 5,200 rpm, it has been tuned to about 350 hp on this build.

“The exterior of this land cruiser has a truly exceptional shine, and is accented with some impressive custom graphics.”

Polishchuk went with the Holset turbo versus the stock small Garret turbo on the original donor engine because he has extensive experience with Cummins engines and wanted to use something he was familiar with. He also knew it could help the engine reach the next level of performance.

A key to this engine’s success in the Land Cruiser is the use of the stock Toyota five-speed manual H55F gearbox and transmission, which required CAtuned Off-Road to make a custom transmission adaptor plate. The rear axle is also set up with 4:10 gearing, to help create that right balance of on-road speed and off-road crawling power.

A little water isn’t going to stop this off-road monster.

Lifted & Rolling

The first things to tackle on a build like this, besides the major motor swap, are the suspension, wheels, and tires. That combo of products will greatly change the on and off-road performance of the vehicle, as well as the looks of the vehicle.

This FJ62 has been lifted with an Old Man Emu (OME) 3-inch lift kit. Polishchuk and his team at CAtuned Off-Road knew from experience that an OME lift would be the perfect setup for this build. It gives them increased load carrying, better articulation, improved handling, and the ability to tackle off-road terrain just as well as paved roads.

“To cap off this retro cool off-road cruiser, Polishchuk imported a slim, simple, well-designed roof rack specifically built for this application.”

With the lift, Polishchuk was able to squeeze big 35×12.5 tires into the wheel arches. This fresh new Toyo Open Country R/T rubber was then wrapped around a three-piece custom wheel from Rotiform. Good looks and durability, you just can’t ask for more than that.

Overland Ready Modifications

To further prepare the FJ62 for overland travel, Polishchuk and his team incorporated several critical modifications:

• Water Storage and Management:
  • Custom 200-liter aluminum onboard freshwater tank.
  • Additional storage including two jerry cans and a 12-volt electric water heater.
  • Equipped with a UV filtration apparatus, Shurflo pump, mix valve, and consumption gauges.
• Electrical and Charging Systems:
  • Manager 30 electronic management system.
  • Two 100-amp hour lithium batteries and a 3,000-watt inverter.
  • Odyssey AGM starting batteries and a 150-watt fixed solar panel.
  • Blue Sea Systems control panel for managing various systems.
• Lighting and Camping Gear:
  • Various lighting including LED scene lights, a 50-inch LED light bar, and halogen roof rack lights.
  • Off-road halogen lights and 7-inch headlights.
  • In-cab control panel for lights.
  • Partner Steel stove, propane tank, two fridges (11-liter and 42-liter).

Custom Fabrications

CAtuned Off-Road designed and built a custom front bumper, rear bumper, and rock sliders to protect the FJ62’s body. If Polishchuk ever finds himself stuck in his Land Cruiser, something that is pretty unlikely, there is a 9.5K winch mounted in the front bumper.

Interior

The inside of this classic Land Cruiser was brought back to life with a full custom interior. This new interior was designed to replicate the factory interior from 1988. New carpet, seats, headliner, and so on, were all updated with a very factory-fresh look. The original gauges were kept and work perfectly with the new motor.

“The Mercedes OM606 is the right engine for this custom FJ62 build. It was chosen because it has the perfect balance of power and weight for the FJ platform, and makes a ton of power.”

Leo’s Woodwork upgraded the interior style points on this build with custom-made English walnut shift knobs. If for some reason you grow tired of hearing the OM606 diesel sing, you can crank up the tunes on the full Alpine modern stereo system.

Finishing Touches

To cap off this retro cool off-road Cruiser, Polishchuk imported a slim, simple, well-designed roof rack specifically built for this application. The rack is from the Venezuelan company Ecotechne, and called the C.A. Roof Rack. A full row of four Hella lights are mounted to the front of the roof rack to complete that simple retro cool look.

“Polishchuk and his guys at CAtuned Off-Road designed and built a custom front bumper, rear bumper, and rock sliders. All of this heavy metal is used to protect this Land Cruiser’s gorgeous body.”

The exterior of this Land Cruiser has a truly exceptional shine, and is accented with some impressive custom graphics. That shine is courtesy of a Ceramic Pro coating that was applied, which not only brought life back to the original paint but helps protect it from the elements. The custom vinyl graphics by FXD&WLD truly help accentuate the lines of the vehicle while also giving you a hint at what is stuffed underhood.

Thanks

Max Polishchuk wants to send a special thanks out to his brother and the entire CAtuned Motorsports family. He also wants to thank the companies that truly made this rig possible: Toyo Tires, Rotiform, FXD&WLD, and Thule. And, of course, without his family and friends, this build and his thriving company CAtuned Off-Road wouldn’t be possible.

UPGRADES

1988 CAtuned Toyota FJ62

Platform: 1988 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ62

Engine/Drivetrain: Mercedes 3.0L Inline six-cylinder Diesel, Toyota five-speed H55F transmission (with Custom CAtuned Off Road Adaptor)

Suspension: Old Man Emu 3-inch lift kit

Wheels & Tires: Rotiform LAS-OR three-piece forged wheels that were converted to Beadlock Wheels, Toyo Open Country R/T 35X12.5R17 tires

Accessories: Fully Mechanical Injection Pump, Holset HE341 Turbo, 3-inch stainless exhaust, BD Diesel exhaust brake, upgraded clutch, full-custom upholstery to look original, Leo’s Woodworks Custom English Walnut shift knobs, Alpine stereo system, CAtuned Off-Road custom front and rear bumpers, CA Tuned Off-Road custom rock sliders, 9.5K winch, Venezuela Ecotechne C.A. Roof Rack, Hella lighting, custom vinyl graphics by FXD&WLD

Editor’s Note: A version of this article first appeared in a print issue of Tread Magazine.

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