My Avatar image isn't my medium Blue BJ40. I am still waiting for better images to come through. I have been looking for this beast for the best part of 4 years now. I found many on ebay and made several trips up and down the country, I also flew to Milan and went to visit a small farm where a gentleman was selling his BJ40. All in vain sadly. Wasted hundreds of pounds of fuel and a tremendous amount of time. Finally I located this particular vehicle in the Abbottabad, Pakistan. For most of you who know the chap that the Americans were hunting for decades, you would know where that name Abbottabad comes from.
I went on a trekking trip to the Himalaya's in Pakistan, managed to complete two base camps and had the pleasure of seeing some of the tallest mountains in the world, to name a few, Rakaposhi and Nanga Parbat. It is during this trip that I discovered Pakistan had these gems and plenty of them. I am lucky to know a few good people in that part of the world and so my search began. After almost two years of searching and many internet searches and calls, i found my BJ40.
The vehicle will be inspected by a master builder (hopefully) next week, after which I will decide on the course and scope of the restoration.
I know what many of you will be thinking, Pakistan!!! A name linked to a Nuclear Nation, Osma bin Ladin and the Taliban. This country has the most beautiful landscape in its North, this is the home of 8 of the tallest peaks, including K2.
Pakistan is one of the many countries who's public and private sector imported a substantial number of these beauties back in the 70's and 80's. Many Americans and Brits fly over to the country and have their vehicles made under supervision and then ship them over to their respective countries. I personally know a few chaps who have spent a considerable amount on restoring their BJ's and FJ's and have sold them on in the states for a considerable amount of money.
It's too early to say anything but I am very hopeful that my project will be a success. I will be flying out in March 2019 to inspect the work and deal with some paperwork necessary to ship the vehicle out to the UK.
I will post some images towards the end of the week but its nothing special at the moment. Very tired looking as its never been painted. Condition is great for its age and it has the original power steering and front Disc brakes too.
I have to say, my biggest concern was the lack of parts outlets and mechanics in the UK which held me back for some time. The UK sadly does not have the same following as the US or other parts of the world. I have another friend who imported his BJ40 (i think a 1978) from Pakistan last year and that beauty is in Stratford, London as we speak. Yes, its Right Hand Drive and yes his vehicle is mainly rust free too.
I hope to keep this thread alive with feedback as the build continues.
Thank you all for the nice welcome and lovely to meet like minded people.
Thanks
