1978 Toyota Chinook 4×4 Camper Conversion

20R-Powered | 5-Speed Manual | Mikuni Carbs | Pop-Top Camper

THIS… is a 1978 Toyota Chinook 4×4, finished in Walnut Metallic over a brown interior, equipped with a full Chinook camper conversion, custom performance upgrades, and a retrofitted four-wheel-drive system from a 1980 Toyota Pickup. Titled as a 1992 motorhome, this rare rig blends old-school Toyota reliability with period-correct camping functionality and off-road capability.

With its pop-top camper, side-draft carburetors, lifted suspension, and upgraded interior, this Chinook offers a truly unique blend of vintage overlanding style and functional performance, ideal for enthusiasts seeking an iconic, self-contained rig that stands out on the trail or at the campground.

🔧 Powertrain & Mechanical

2.2L Toyota 20R inline-4 engine

Sourced from a 1980 Toyota Pickup

Mikuni side-draft carburetors

COMP Cams 268 camshaft

Oversized valves

Auxiliary engine oil cooler

5-speed manual transmission (G52)

2-speed transfer case

1980 Toyota Pickup-sourced 4WD system & suspension

3” front / 4” rear suspension lift

Rancho rear air shocks

15” wheels

This Chinook offers a more aggressive stance and drivetrain than factory, with a responsive 5-speed gearbox and true 4WD capability—transforming it from a basic camper into a go-anywhere, backcountry-capable rig.

🏕️ Camper Conversion Features

Factory Chinook fiberglass pop-top camper shell

Folding bed

Storage cabinets

Sink with faucet

Propane-powered stove

Microwave

Power converter

Pop-up roof with canvas sides

Whether you’re weekend camping or planning long-distance backroads travel, this self-contained camper delivers surprising functionality in a compact and nostalgic package.

🛋 Interior Features

Recaro front bucket seats

Air conditioning

AM/FM stereo

Jensen speakers

CB radio

Brown vinyl and cloth interior

5-digit odometer showing ~46,400 miles (TMU)

The interior blends original ‘70s charm with modern convenience upgrades like improved seating and air conditioning. Some wear is visible on high-touch areas, consistent with age and use.

⚠️ Known Flaws

True mileage unknown (TMU) due to 5-digit odometer

Exterior scratches, chips, and paint imperfections

Flaking paint under hood

Cruise control inoperative

Surface rust visible on underbody components (see gallery)

Wear on interior touch points

🛠️ Recent Service History

May 2024 (46,357 miles):

New clutch kit

New clutch slave & master cylinders

Battery recently replaced

Service records and gallery documentation included