Are you tired of the limited visibility from your classic Toyota Land Cruiser’s original flat mirrors? Upgrading to curved wide-angle mirrors is one of the most practical improvements you can make to enhance your driving experience and safety. This guide walks you through the simple process of replacing your FJ40’s side mirrors with modern wide-angle alternatives.
Why Upgrade Your FJ40’s Mirrors?
The original Land Cruiser mirrors featured plain flat glass that offered limited visibility. Modern curved wide-angle mirrors significantly expand your field of vision, helping you spot vehicles in your blind spots and making your classic ride safer for daily driving and off-road adventures.
What You’ll Need
Before starting the installation, gather these tools and parts:
- Wide-angle side mirror kit (available at rebornfj.com )
- WD-40 lubricant
- Phillips screwdriver
- Small paint scraper or flat-head tool
- Clean rag
- Lock washers (typically included with the mirror kit)
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Step 1: Prepare the S-Arm
This is the perfect opportunity to maintain the pivoting mechanism in your mirror arms:
- Use a screwdriver to remove the S-arm mounting hardware
- Inspect the gasket to ensure it’s not cracked or worn out
- Check the S-arm for any damage that might require replacement
Step 2: Lubricate the Spring Mechanism
Over time, the spring inside the S-arm can become stiff, making mirror adjustment difficult:
- Spray WD-40 into the S-arm mechanism
- Work the lubricant in by moving the arm back and forth
- Remount the S-arm to the door
- Continue working the arm until it moves smoothly
Step 3: Prepare the New Mirror
The new wide-angle mirrors need to be mounted on the S-arm:
- Check if you need to use the included lock washers (necessary if the ball on your S-arm is smaller than the mirror slot)
- If needed, place the lock washer in the mirror slot to create a tighter fit
- Use a paint scraper to gently pry open the mirror mounting slot for easier installation
Step 4: Install the Mirror
- Slide the mirror onto the ball at the end of the S-arm
- Secure the mirror using the included mounting hardware
- Tighten the hardware to lock the mirror in place
- Wipe down the mirror with a clean rag to remove fingerprints
The Finished Product
Once installed, your new wide-angle mirrors will provide significantly better visibility compared to the original flat mirrors. This upgrade is well worth the investment for both safety and convenience, especially if you regularly drive your classic Land Cruiser.
The ball on the end of most Land Cruiser S-arms is approximately 5/8-inch in diameter, which is compatible with the replacement mirrors available from quality suppliers.
Where to Find Quality Replacement Mirrors
Of course, if you prefer the easier route, You can find high-quality complete side mirror replacements for your Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 at rebornfj.com. Their mirrors feature the same curved wide-angle design that offers superior visibility compared to the original flat mirrors. Additionally, they carry almost all exterior parts for the FJ40 at very reasonable prices, and they provide shipping options with incredibly generous discounts and efficient delivery times.