When we first moved to Bend we had a car. Then it became clear we also needed a 4×4 of some sort. Something to get us to the mountain, take us on trials, and the occasional trip to the coast with the kids and dogs. The FJ60 was perfect. Even though its appetite for fuel was rather voracious, it didn’t seem to matter much then. 10 MPG, whatever.
The thought of getting an FJ was planted years earlier in Dallas, when my buddy Mark had one. It was a cool blue FJ60. But it wasn’t until we moved to Oregon that I really saw a need for one, so the search for what would soon be our first 4×4 began.
After months of checking out FJ’s, one finally stood out – and it was for sale in Portland. It was exactly what I was looking for, and in great condition. I flew up, paid cash and was on my way – kinda. There were a few minor issues after I picked it up, but nothing that some extra time, a few helping hands, and some cash couldn’t fix.
We owned it for about five years or so – it was a great vehicle for sure. Many memories, but in the end it was just a mode of transportation – the price of gas was starting to creep up and the amenities of newer more fuel efficient modes of transport were appealing. But still, it would be cool to have one again some day – it was kinda fun getting out and locking the hubs to get into 4×4 mode.