What a great vintage photo of a 1972 Jeep Commando!

This is an interesting photo of a Toyota FJ25, which predated the infamous FJ40. According to my sources, a FJ25 with hard doors and a soft top is pretty rare.

A while ago, I wrote an article for our sister site, Off Road Race Canada, where I listed some of the truck trends that really annoy me. You know…stacks poking through the bed, Hummers in general, etc. The trend that got the most comments (and mostly negative ones) was that I think most people buy snorkles because they think it makes their vehicle look tough or it gives them that “expedition” look. I admit that there is a few times, like the one in the photo above, that a snorkle does come in handy.

The note said “This is a picture of my Dad, Don Barlow racing in the Carrera 1000. How I understand it they only put on this race one time. I think it was around 1971 or 1972. The race started in Palm Springs and ran down to Mexico to the Bay of Los Angeles and then back up and ended in Mexicali. Bikes, Trucks and Buggies all ran together. He won overall despite the flat tire.”

This photo is tagged “1958 FJ25”. What does the writing say? Does anyone have more information about this photo? It looks like it is a press photo of a 1958 Toyota FJ25, which preceded the FJ40.

1968 Kaiser Jeepster Commando “C-101” 4 wheel drive with a 160hp Dauntless V6.

Best off-road vehicle I ever owned. 1956 CJ5 3spd, 134 with an oil bath air cleaner, twin stick, 5.38 axle ratio, drums all the way around, manual everything, heater and defroster were worthless, totally stock except for wheels, tires and custom roll cage.

You have probably noticed the lack of articles posted over the last few weeks. I have to apologize for that. However, I feel I have a pretty good excuse.

Two weeks ago my dad was diagnosed with brain cancer for the second time. The diagnosis itself was not a surprise, as dad was loosing strength in his legs and was getting more easily confused. However, he has gone downhill a lot over the last few weeks. I have not written many articles lately because i have been spending as much time as possible with him. He was admitted to the local hospital on Thursday and was sent to the closest cancer clinic yesterday. I am writing this on Fathers Day morning as my brother, sister and mom take the three hour drive each way to visit him.

1977 Cherokee Chief – Best all-around vehicle I have ever owned. 360, 4bbl, GM TH400, Borg Warner Quadra-Trac with Low Range, Dana 44’s, 3.54 Ratio, 32X11.50R LT15 Armstrong Tru-Tracs, Jackman 15X8 Steel Wagon Wheels, Roll Cage, 4 Point Racing Harness, Meyers Snowplow.