ICON

An ICON 4 × 4 vehicle represents the utmost in form and function. “The most advanced form of simple”, these hand built trucks are meticulously constructed using only the best of the best components and materials. Each ICON build begins life as an original Land Cruiser or CJ3B which Jonathon and his team completely re-create into a modern context. Everything on an ICON is all new except for a small portion of the donor’s frame, in order to meet criteria of the vehicle code so that it can be legally registered as a restoration.

“The chassis is a work of art,” Ward says, “engineered from scratch to meet the demands of decades of harsh uses. It is constructed in 2”x 4”x 0.180” mild steel and mandrel-bent, utilizing state of the art technology to create rigid, wrinkle-free frame rails. Accessory mounts are precision cut by laser and formed to our exact CAD dimension files. All these durable products are then loaded onto a chassis-specific jig table and hand welded by expert craftsmen.”

Sitting atop the custom frame is an all new body created by ICON. Fully constructed of 5/32” thick aluminum, the ICON version of the classic body captures the original Land Cruiser and CJ character but is engineered to withstand much more abuse. Furthering its utilitarian abilities, each truck is coated in a Teflon polyester hybrid powder coat that was originally conceived for architectural uses. “I hate paint” explains Jonathon while describing his solution for super durable surface finish which never has to be waxed and will easily withstand off-road abuse.

High quality three-ply German canvas is used for the soft top covering the cabin of the vehicle, with snaps sourced from Bentley, and the highest grade marine quality zippers and fasteners keep the elements out, while you’re out in the elements. Seating material is marine-rated vinyl with an accent textile of a UV-resistant material Ward originally discovered on the patio furniture of the Wynn hotels. In fact, Jonathon procures very few items from the traditional automotive suppliers; as he prefers the higher quality components of aircraft, marine, and industrial applications. Some of the unique items found on the ICON include: sun visors come from a Leer Jet, commercial freezer door hardware on the fold-down windshield, back up lights from the Mars Lunar Rover, and more. If Jonathan can’t find the parts to satisfy his high quality and design standards, then he creates them. Such is the case for the dash control knobs, which are hand painted after cut from solid aluminum, knurled, and engraved.

Engine options include a 5.3L V-8 LM4 with 350 H.P., a 5.7L V-8 LS6 with 450 H.P., or the International HS 2.8L VNT as a turbo diesel option capable of running up to 100% bio-diesel. Vented and slotted power disc brakes at all four wheels supply the stopping power. Choose between a five speed manual transmission or the optional four speed automatic tranny to get you up the trail or down the road. All trucks feature the highest quality Dynatrac/Dana 60/44 based axles, and 12” travel Coil suspension with front and rear sway bars.

Jonathan’s attention to detail is unparalleled and his product is unrivaled, there is truly nothing quite like the ICON.

ICON TOUR: FJ SERIES

During our visit to the ICON facilities we had the good fortune of getting a firsthand look at one sweet FJ43. This long wheelbase model has a stout stance and a full 8 sq. ft. of extra cabin space over the FJ40, making it a popular choice for those who want a bit more room for passengers and gear. This particular ICON FJ43 has some very cool features to match its cool-as-ice appearance. The striking color combo of the flat white surface finish against the dark charcoal gray of its custom soft top and wheels accentuate the truck’s classic shape while enhancing its modern appeal. Drawing inspiration from the industrial designs of aircraft seating, the rear seat features a woven pattern of durable and stylish Carhartt stone washed cotton canvas. In addition to looking supremely cool, the custom rear seat weighs only 18 pounds and can be easily removed to double as seating around the bonfire; extending the life and utility of the truck. One-of-a-kind touches abound on this particular ICON and further enhance its clean appearance, including the satin finish of uncoated aluminum gauge surrounds and instrument cluster, and the woven pattern of the rear seats carried over into an insert detail on the front seats. This vehicle also serves as the prototype for the all new bi-fold rear cargo door design, which includes CNC machined alloy ramps on the bumper so that when the gas can and emergency kit container is swung away to gain access to the rear of the truck, it actuates an aircraft pin to keep them from swinging out into traffic or folding back into the tailgate….Just another example of Jonathon’s extreme attention to detail and the thoughtfulness that goes into each design.

ICON TOUR: FJ SERIES

CJ SERIES