If you own or are planning to build a LandCruiser Troopy — whether it’s a 75 Series or 78 Series Troop Carrier — you’ve probably heard about the increasingly popular Troopy 3rd door conversion. This modification adds a passenger-side rear door to the iconic two-door LandCruiser Troop Carrier, dramatically improving access and usability. In this article, we break down what the 3rd door conversion involves, its benefits, and how different owners are using it.
What Is a Troopy 3rd Door Conversion?
A Troopy 3rd door conversion involves cutting into the passenger side panel of a 75 or 78 Series Troop Carrier and professionally installing an additional rear door. Since Troopies only come standard with front driver and passenger doors, the rear cabin — especially when used for seating, touring, or storage — can be difficult to access. The third door solves this by creating a side entry point into the rear of the vehicle.
Key Benefits of a 3rd Door Conversion
- Improved rear access for passengers, gear, or pets
- More ergonomic entry into camper setups or drawer systems
- Better ventilation and airflow options for the rear cabin
- Increased resale value and desirability for touring builds
- Enhanced practicality for families using rear seats
Common Use Cases for Troopy 3rd Door Conversions
The 3rd door is especially useful in Troopies built for:
- Touring & Overlanding: Easy access to camper fit-outs, fridges, and gear stored behind the front seats.
- Family Travel: Letting kids or rear-seat passengers enter and exit safely without climbing over the front seats.
- Commercial Work: Easier access to internal racking, medical kits, or crew seating for mining and service fleets.
- Dog Transport: Perfect for pet owners needing rear access to a cargo barrier or dog platform.
What Does the Conversion Involve?
Most 3rd door conversions are done by specialist 4WD fabrication shops. The process includes:
- Panel cutting and welding reinforcement into the side body section
- Installation of a genuine Toyota rear door (often from a 78 Series Troopy or Prado)
- Painting and sealing to match the original bodywork
- Interior trim, locking, and weather sealing for a factory-like finish
Turnaround times can vary, but most builds take 1–2 weeks, and prices start from around $6,000–$9,000 AUD depending on complexity and finish quality.
Legal Considerations & Engineering
Because the conversion modifies the structure of the vehicle, it must be engineered and certified in most Australian states and territories to remain road legal. Always ensure your installer provides the correct compliance paperwork to avoid registration or insurance issues.
Is a 3rd Door Conversion Worth It?
For many Troopy owners, the third door upgrade is a game-changer. It significantly improves daily usability and comfort, especially for those using the vehicle as a tourer, camper, or people mover. Whether you're accessing drawers, loading kids, or jumping in to grab gear — the 3rd door just makes life easier.
Conclusion
The Troopy 3rd door conversion is one of the most functional and value-adding upgrades available for 75 Series and 78 Series LandCruiser Troop Carriers. It blends seamlessly into touring builds and commercial setups alike, offering improved access and practicality without compromising the legendary durability of the Troopy. If you're planning a serious build or using your Troopy daily, the 3rd door is well worth considering.
