1988 HJ61 LandCrusier
1988 61 Series Landcruiser VX JDM
Engine - 12HT 4.l Turbo Diesel
Transmission - Auto
Suspension - 2 Inch Lift
Tyres - Toyo Open Country A/T 285/75/16
Equipped for - Touring
How long have you guys owned Aggy, and what made you choose a 60 series?
There is a little bit of a unique story behind how long we have owned Aggy for, it actually starts over in Canada. I myself was mid way through a working visa in Canada and for some reason even though I wasn't living in Australia at the time I couldn't help but keep looking for the perfect 60. This is when Aggy popped up. So I arranged with the owner, my Dad and girlfriend Meghan to take a look and see what they thought.... some international communication later and we had bought Aggy on the 4th July 2019. Another 6 months later would be the first time that I would actually get to see her for myself.
I'd had two 60's prior to Aggy, one was a FJ60 and the next a HJ60 2H-T. I'd also had a FJ73 and HZJ75 during my driving years but the infamous high roof and 12HT 60 was just a dream vehicle that I'd always wanted. Loved the size, loved the space inside, loved the unique character of each and every one. And now here we are with Aggy.
You’ve recently resprayed and added some period correct decals on Aggy, do you have any other plans for her in the future?
The decals had always been something I wanted to have on a 60 that I planned to keep. So whilst I was over in Canada I got in touch with Brian at Corsetti Cruisers and ordered myself a set to bring home. As for the respray, well, let's just say at 32 years old Aggy had some bruises and some stunning patiena, but I wanted to do the stickers justice. Biting the bullet on the closed door respray was one big decision. My friend Olly that completed the work took great care of her and went above and beyond, fixing some dents and very very minor rust spots. She now looks brand new and better than ever.
As for what's next, there isn't really too much planned, just some good old fashioned maintenance to keep her healthy. Some rear drawer organisation and a stand alone 12V camping setup for the rear. Fridge, Inverter, possibly solar... just those sorts of things. Aggy won't be getting a big lift and muddies anytime soon. Being the 24V there are some electrical things I still need to get my head around, but I love learning about that stuff and being prepared for any fixes that may need to be addressed.
You guys are our first feature based out of South Australia. Where are some of your favourite places to explore in Aggy?
South Australia certainly is a beautiful part of this big country and there's plenty of spots to be explored (plenty that we haven't even touched yet). The one thing that South Australia does boast is some great beach driving down on the southern coast in the areas of Robe and Beachport. It's nice to have a few local family beaches that you are even still allowed to drive on, such as Moana and Sellicks Beach. If the outback and bush takes your fancy more, then you can't look past the Flinders Ranges. Such an amazing spot to open up the tent and just unwind. What's great to see is new places opening up and becoming 4WD and camp friendly.
That sums up Aggy. Hopefully we'll have plenty more adventure pictures to come in the future. We plan to travel up to Mackay QLD and take our time heading back to Adelaide along the East Coast. Always happy to answer questions and chat over on Instagram.
I must mention a big thank you to my girlfriend Meghan for all of the pictures here and as seen on instagram. And a big thank you to the guys at Sunday Garage, keep up the great work!
Be sure to follow Howard and Meghans adventures on instagram - @agnes_adventures
Images by Meghan Lowe.
Words by Howard Clarke