HGM VDJ79 Workhorse
This is our 15th extensive 79 series Landcruiser build and by far the biggest. Hamish from HGM Construction got in touch with us with his vision for a custom commercial Landcruiser build. He flew up from Christchurch to meet us and check out the numerous VDJs we had in the workshop at the time. A few weeks later, after a heap of emails exchanged, his beautiful white brand new 79 series arrived at our workshop.
The list of modifications was long!
An incredible amount of research and design went into this build to ensure we delivered exactly what Hamish needed for his new company vehicle. The final product is something we are extremely proud of, it was completed on time, fully certified and exceeded the customers expectations.
Following is an in-depth look into the project:
The Box:
This is the first rear box we have produced. The box is made from Electro-Galv steel, this was the customers preference for durability as he had issues with alloy boxes in the past.
Inside features alloy drawers, heavy duty lockable drawer runners, gas struts, customized compartments for spray cans and safety apparel, LED lighting and the icing on the cake - central locking to work with the vehicle’s factory key remote.
The Deck:
The deck has lockable side compartments, removable tray sides, flush mounted tie-down points and a large under tray drawer.
The spare wheel is fitted to the box using our custom made lockable T Handle mount.
Hamish works in remote areas with heavy machinery and therefore wanted an on-board diesel pump plumbed to the fuel tank for refueling gear onsite. We have custom made a 5/8” pick up in the vehicles factory fuel tank to feed the pump, which is tucked away nicely in the under-deck side toolbox compartment.
Incorporated in the deck is a rear mounted Dobinsons Winch (see more info under Recovery Gear).
The box and deck have been painted by Steven Sole Customs.
Suspension:
We have supplied and installed the following:
- Dobinsons 50mm lift constant load leaf springs (the weight of this steel constructed box with the deck came in at 500kgs)
- Dobinsons Heavy Duty Twin Tube Gas shocks front and rear
- HD Dobinsons front springs to account for the extra weight from the ARB bullbar and winch.
- Castor Correction
- Airbag Man air bag system to allow for variable loads
We also supplied, fitted and certified out Trundles Track Width Correction Hubs to the rear.
Exhaust:
We fitted our Trundles custom 4” stainless exhaust but modified it to suit DPF, which included making an adapter pipe so we can fit a custom dump pipe in future.
Interior:
The mighty VDJ Landcruiser is certainly not known for its luxurious interior, featuring only 1 cupholder from factory. Hamish had us supply and install a full length floor console with dual Narva charging points, ripstop lining with two pockets, rear wedge with 2 fold up cup holders and the Airbag man gauge and switch mounts and also a full facia roof console with 2 netted storage openings and 2 LED maplights, front and rear speaker pods with pockets – to which we installed some upgraded Alpine speakers.
We have also supplied and installed our Gear Lever Extension – making it more comfortable when driving.
Roof:
On the roof we have fitted a Rhino Rack Pioneer Tradie Tray, this lines up with the lift out rack on the deck, allowing Hamish to transport lengths of pipe and timber on the roof.
Lighting & Exterior:
On the front ARB bar we have supplied and fitted a pair of STEDI Type-X Pro Driving Lights, along with flasher lights front and rear which is a requirement of Hamish working conditions. On the rear we have mounted STEDI 5.5 inch work lights which are wired to operate with the reverse lights and switched separately for use as work lights.
Recovery gear:
- Dobinsons 12,000lb winches to the front and rear of this truck,
- Heavy duty tow points to the front
- Recovery hitch to the rear.
