Bryce Drobny’s Campteq Pop-Top Toyota Land Cruiser 80 Series

Bryce’s inspiration for building his Land Cruiser was simple: to have fun adventures with his loved ones. The build was not initially intended to become a full-fledged camper, but Bryce’s determination to do everything himself led to an evolving project that became a part of his identity.

His passion for older vehicles, their simplicity, and repairability drove him to create a vehicle that remains true to its mid-90s roots while being fully capable of modern adventures.

His journey with the Land Cruiser began with a serendipitous find on Craigslist in Bozeman, Montana. A triple locked left-hand-drive European-market turbo-diesel 5-speed manual transmission 80 Series for $25,000 was an irresistible find.

Despite the 11-hour drive, he knew he had to have it. Accompanied by his father, Bryce embarked on a road trip from Denver to acquire his dream vehicle.

The vehicle was in great running condition but needed some immediate attention, such as rebuilding the starter. The drive back home to California marked the beginning of countless modifications, maintenance, and adventures.

Bryce spent the next five years working on his beloved vehicle, affectionately known as Duke. The exact cost remains unknown, but what’s clear is the dedication and effort Bryce put into building it, with much of the work done in his driveway by his own hands.

Under the Hood

At the heart of the 80 is a 4.2-liter Toyota 1HDT diesel engine. Bryce took the initiative to build a front mount intercooler to manage exhaust temperatures and upgraded the turbo with the help of Drift Motion, increasing it from a 40mm stock to 46mm with upgraded bearings and internals. He also installed a PPD 3-inch straight pipe exhaust and catch can.

Over the years, he has maintained and upgraded the engine with OEM Toyota parts, replacing rod bearings, glow plugs, valve shims, vacuum lines, gaskets, and more to ensure reliability and leak-free performance.

The transmission is a robust Toyota H151F 5-speed manual, while the differentials are stock triple-locked Toyota units.

Bryce opted for a Tough Dog 3-inch lift kit for the front suspension, complemented by Slee Off Road sway bar drops and DuroBumps bump stops.

The rear suspension also features Tough Dog shocks and springs, Slee Off Road sway bar drops, a Delta Pan Hard Bracket, and DuroBumps bump stops. For improved steering, a Tough Dog steering stabilizer was installed.

Exterior Enhancements

The Land Cruiser’s exterior boasts Holley RetroBright headlights and is protected by a period-correct aluminum Aussie-style bull bar in the front and a modified Summit Cruisers Jr. Swingout in the rear.

The bodywork includes a full flare delete completed by American Eagle Auto Body in Silverlake, California, and a full PPF ARMR wrap by Wrap Fresh / Sterling Customs.

The vehicle rides on Nomad Wheels 502 Arvo wheels in dusk color, sized at 16x8, paired with Toyo Tires M-55 tires in 255/85R16 sizing, ensuring both style and durability on and off the road.

Both the wheels and tires have a decidedly old-school look that match themselves to the 80’s style perfectly.

Interior Innovations

Inside, Bryce has installed Scheel Mann Vario XXL seats for maximum comfort for those long drives. The storage and interior buildout are 100% custom, built by Bryce himself using birch plywood to keep things lightweight.

Bryce designed the interior with minimal drawers and hardware, focusing on cubbies and aluminum L-track for versatile storage solutions. 

Two Aluboxes serve as counter space and storage for clothes and kitchen tools. A utility cabinet houses a Viair VMS 400 air compressor, electrical management, and additional kitchen tools.

An open bench cubby offers flexible storage, while a National Luna 52L Legacy Dual Zone Smart Fridge/freezer is located behind the passenger seat. Behind the driver’s seat, a hidden cubby holds the house battery, tools, and spares.

For instrumentation, Bryce installed two Auber Instruments digital gauges in the center DIN, displaying boost pressure and EGT. Communication needs are met with a Rugged Radio, with the antenna mounted on the driver’s side rear-view mirror.

Power management is handled by an Antigravity Batteries 120Ah Lithium Deep Cycle house battery, an SBC M2k 270A alternator, and a National Luna DC25 Smart Charger and Distribution Hub. Solar power comes from three Dometic Zamp Solar 100W panels mounted on the roof.

The Pop-Top Conversion

One of the most notable modifications is the pop-top conversion by CampTeq. Bryce found the top second-hand locally in Southern California, restored it, and installed it with the help of Eric from CampTeq and Basil from Basil’s Garage.

This addition has transformed the Land Cruiser into a true overlanding suite, offering ample space and comfort for extended trips. There’s nothing like being able to fully stand up in the back of your rig. 

A recent addition to the 80’s camper set up includes a 15-gallon stainless Front Runner water tank located where the spare tire used to reside.

A water pump and lines run along the inner rear quarter panel to give access to 15-gallons of fresh whenever its needed. Bryce tells us that onboard water mounted low in the truck has been a game changer – we don’t doubt it it all.

Moments & Challenges

One of Bryce’s most memorable experiences with his Land Cruiser was a simple weekend trip to Mojave. As told to us by him, “I had a moment of realization, stepping back as the sun was setting and looking at my partner and dog playing next to the Cruiser.

We had just eaten a great dinner. The weather was perfect with nothing left to do but enjoy our company until we fell asleep. I got emotional realizing, ‘This is it.’ This is what the Cruiser is for. I have my dream car and it without it, I wouldn’t have moments like this.” 

The build wasn’t without its challenges however. Installing the suspension without power tools in a parking spot behind his apartment tested his patience and determination. The Campteq pop-top installation took commitment as well.

Mentally, cutting the roof off for the pop-top conversion was a significant hurdle, but the results were well worth it.

Expeditions Long & Short

Until recently, the Land Cruiser was Bryce’s daily driver. It excelled as both a grocery getter and adventure mobile. The longest trip undertaken was a 5,000-mile journey from LA to Cabo, to Flagstaff, and back to LA which took over a month.

These extensive trips are where the Land Cruiser truly shines, providing the perfect blend of utility and comfort for long-term travel.

The Cruiser Community

Bryce’s Land Cruiser has not only provided endless opportunities for adventure but also connected him with a vibrant community of like-minded enthusiasts. He tells us that the friendships and collaborations formed through this journey have been invaluable. 

Reflecting on the build, Bryce wouldn’t change a thing. The Land Cruiser has opened doors to countless experiences and relationships. It’s a vehicle that’s not just about the destination but the journey and the people met along the way.

Final Thoughts

Bryce Drobny’s HDJ80 is a rolling embodiment of passion and persistence. Every modification, every mile traveled, and every challenge overcome has contributed to creating a dream vehicle designed for exploring the remote and beautiful corners of the world.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long expedition, Bryce’s Land Cruiser is ready for whatever the road less traveled throws its way. 

For more on Bryce and his Land Cruiser, follow him on Instagram at @la.cruiser.

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This article originally appeared in OVR Issue 10. For more informative articles like this, consider subscribing to OVR Magazine in print or digital versions here. You can also find the print edition of OVR at your local newsstand by using our Magazine Finder.