Deanie’s 80 Series: Half the Cruiser, Twice the Character.

On the road the Cruiser sits on 33 inch Mickey Thompson Baja MTZ P3 tyres wrapped around Dynamic 15x8 steel rims. A Dobinson 3 inch lift raises the stance, with extended sway bar links retaining factory geometry. At the rear, heavy duty coils rated at 500 kilograms constant load are paired with an Airbag Man kit. This additional support is crucial for carrying the Brown Davis 168 litre long range sub tank, as well as towing or hauling loads such as firewood.

With the fabrication complete, attention turned to presentation. Hoppers Smash in Hoppers Crossing handled the paintwork, and Deanie was fortunate to be involved in the process. Every bolt on panel was removed, the doors were stripped and rubbed back, and dents were carefully repaired. Once the body was prepped, the Cruiser received a fresh coat of Toyota’s Dark Emerald Pearl. The transformation was striking, giving the 80 the appearance of having just left the showroom. While the paint hardened, Deanie assisted Gordon from Hoppers Smash with another project, restoring a 1950 Chevrolet pickup for Gordon’s father. It was a reminder of the craftsmanship that goes into these restorations. Once the Cruiser was ready, it was fitted with an Ironman Deluxe bullbar that dramatically sharpened its look. Behind the bar is a Runva 11XP winch, which has already proven invaluable in difficult terrain. Inside the cabin, communications were upgraded with a GME TX3350 compact UHF paired with a GME AE470X antenna. Having relied on handheld radios in the past, this fixed unit represented a significant step up in convenience and reliability.

“The chop made it more practical than ever. I can load firewood, camping gear or anything else and it just works for me and my family.”

Panel Shop, Hoppers Crossing - Photos by Deanie

The suspension and braking systems were further enhanced with locally made components. SuperPro bushes were sourced from Burson Hoppers, while braking was upgraded with DBA Street Series rotors at the front and DBA T2 slotted rotors at the rear. These were matched with Bendix 4WD compound pads manufactured in Ballarat, giving the Cruiser consistent stopping power both on and off the road. With additional weight from the chop and modifications, fuel consumption rose above that of a standard wagon. To improve efficiency, Deanie installed a 4WD Systems Part Time Conversion Kit. The change reduced wear on the front drivetrain and improved fuel consumption by around 17 percent, bringing the figure down to 16 litres per 100 kilometres. At the same time a Lokka automatic locker was added to the front differential, delivering noticeable improvements in traction when tackling difficult tracks. Lighting was also modernised. The standard halogen units were replaced with Ultra Flex 4x4 assemblies, significantly improving visibility during night driving. Over time the 80 has picked up the inevitable marks of real use. Narrow tracks have left pinstriping, branches have left dents, and even a possum once landed on the bonnet, leaving both a dent and a story. Far from detracting from the vehicle, these marks show it is used as intended. A fresh coat of paint is on the horizon, but for now the Cruiser proudly wears its scars.

Lerdaderg State Forest, Victoria - Photos by Deanie

“A chopped 80 might not be for everyone, but for me it’s the right mix of character, practicality and capability, thats why I absolutely lover it."

What makes this build stand out is its balance between functionality and individuality. Each modification has been considered with purpose. The snorkel, the long range tank, the suspension upgrades and the part time conversion all contribute to making the Cruiser more capable and practical without compromising its character. The chop sets it apart visually, but it remains true to the DNA that makes the 80 Series such an icon.

On long highway runs the Cruiser comfortably makes the trip to Mathoura on the Murray River. In the Victorian High Country it has proven its toughness time and time again. The careful blend of reliability, usability and character ensures it is a vehicle that Deanie can trust in any setting.

For Deanie the build has never been about creating a showpiece. It is about crafting a vehicle that works hard, takes him where he wants to go, and reflects his approach to four wheel driving. The chopped 80 Series may not be for everyone, but for him it represents the perfect mix of challenge, personality and capability. And while there will always be room for further upgrades, the essence of the build is already established. Tough, dependable and individual, it is a Cruiser built with thought, care and purpose.

Mt Disapointment, Victoria - Photos by Geolian

In the end, Deanie’s 80 Series is more than just a four wheel drive. It is a project born from opportunity, shaped by careful choices, and refined through years of use. What started as a damaged old wagon has become a unique and capable touring rig, equal parts practical and personal. With its custom chop, thoughtful upgrades and proven reliability, it stands as proof that with the right vision and commitment, an ageing LandCruiser can be given a new lease on life. For Deanie, it is not just a vehicle, it is a companion for the road ahead — one that will continue to carry him into new places and new stories for years to come.