1982 HJ47 TroopCarrier Landcruiser

Engine - 2H 4.L Diesel
Transmission - H55F 5 Speed Manual via a 60 series
Suspension - 2inch
Tyres -  Dunlop Road Gripper
Equipped for - Daily Driving & Touring

We recently checked out Marine Diesel mechanic Nick Carden-Thomas classic 1982 40 Series Troopcarrier. Nick kindly agreed to meet us bright and early 7am on a cold Saturday morning.

Nick, what’s the story behind you owning this troopy?

 I Bought it December 2015, I was working overseas at the time and tried to purchase two 80 series that were sold before I could get my hands on them. I always wanted a 40 Series since I was a young kid but never thought I’d ever own one or have one as long as I've had this. I saw it advertised for sale on TOA (Troopcarriers Of Australia) by another member. I’d seen it before online, I had to have it when I saw it was up for sale. After a few emails back and fourth to reiterate to the owner I wasn't a scammer I got my hands on it. I was originally meant to have a car setup for touring around Australia in my time off from working overseas. But things changed at work, I ended up staying in Australia and the 40 series troopy is now my daily driver commuting from the Northern Beaches to the Sutherland Shire every day. Without power steering mind you.

What’s it’s actually like owning such an old 4wd, is there constant maintenance you need to keep on top of? Or is it not too bad? 

Well I've just about replaced everything except the motor mechanically with new or updated parts, otherwise it wasn't too bad as the body and general condition of the car was really good. No rust apart from that front bib which I'm still to replace out with the one I have in the garage. Just needed a lot of oil leaks fixed, updating for modern driving and camping for extended periods. Anyone wanting to buy an old 40 series, I suggest to be prepared to spend the money on them as they are not new cars. They are definitely worth it with the smile they bring to your face and others while driving them. Otherwise its just about keeping regular service intervals, and having a good look over everything during these intervals.

Any big future plans for the old Troopy? Will you hold onto her forever? 

All new suspension probably a 2inch lift, power steering, turbo the 2h or 12ht swap it with a donor 60 series, a rear bar, water tank and a long range fuel tank. Where do you stop the list is absolutely endless. I’d never get my money back on what I've spent on it so I’d like to say yes to keeping it forever but you never know.

Images by Sunday Garage