LC70 Classic Trim Upgrade Guide (1984-1999)

Classic Trim TL;DR

Why Classic dashboards behave differently

Toyota launched the 70 Series in 1984 with a simple steel dash and minimal electronics, and that layout stayed in production right through the late 1990s for workhorse models.^[2] Unlike later VDJ rigs, there’s no molded plastic fascia or pre-cut double DIN cavity, so we treat the entire Classic trim as its own fitment path.

That old-school layout is the main reason customers like Eva (troopy owner in NT) keep pinging us about “will the premium kit actually fit?”—answer: yes, but only once we confirm the dash photos and harness footprint.

Photo checklist before you order

1. Wide shot: capture the factory radio, HVAC sliders, and any UHF cut-outs.
2. Harness close-up: remove the radio surround and photograph the white connectors.
3. Build plate: snap the compliance plate so we can store the month/year in the order record.

Customers like Mia often send only the build plate first—great start, but the dash photos are what stop the back-and-forth. Attach all three shots in the contact form and we’ll confirm the trim same day.

Recommended upgrade paths

Harness + compliance notes

Classic trims pre-date the ADR-driven updates Toyota rolled out in 2007 and again in 2016 (when the DPF-equipped VDJ79 arrived).^[3] That means you’re dealing with analogue wiring and fewer warning circuits, which is why we add resistors and adapters straight into the kit so modern head units don’t throw a fault light.

• Pre-ABS era: No factory ABS/airbag wiring means more room behind the radio. We pre-wrap the loom to stop rattles.
• DPF vs non-DPF: If you eventually swap to a newer dash, remember that Sept 2016+ rigs gained the extra harness plug for DPF warning lights.^[3]
• Accessory load: Let us know if you’re running UHF or dual battery monitors so we can leave auxiliary power leads free.

FAQ

Will the premium fascia squeak on corrugated roads?

We wrap every contact point in felt tape and include an alcohol wipe so you can prep the steel dash before fitting. Our own LC79 work ute has 40,000 km of corrugated testing without rattles.

Can I keep the factory clock and switch blanks?

Yes. The universal kit keeps every blank untouched. The premium fascia replaces the centre section but we include blank inserts so you don’t end up with exposed holes.

What if I’m between Classic and Mid-Generation?

Send the photos anyway. When we see a hybrid (e.g., Classic dash with later HVAC swap) we’ll build a hybrid harness and log it against your VIN so future upgrades are easy.