A few questions re: 3.0 diesel

[aviator]

Hello from Canada

I currently own a 94 hilux 5spd with the 3VZE petrol engine and I'm considering repowering with the 3.0 turbo diesel 5spd and I'm curious about any issues this engine might have, things to watch for, hiding gremlins etc.
This is important because spares would be harder for me to put my hand to as this engine was not sold here.
I've just been reading about headgaskets going is this a common problem like with the 3vze or is it more improper maintenance [no offence intended].
Thinking of installing "aussie" power chip set at same time...
Thanks for the info Aviator

[TonyN]

Don't confuse the 2.4 with the 3.0, the 2.4 has a definate weak head issue when it overheats, the 3.0 is far less prone so far and dosn't seen to much different from any other car for cracking heads. Having got ours hot plenty of times towing heavy trailers up big hills, its perfectly happy still.

We've changed the H/G on ours in the past, but I've not done many for other people, not like the V6's. Most work is cracked heads on 2LT's (2.4's) and the odd 1KZ/TE (3.0)



Actually doing the swap is rumoured to be lots of effort, the Surf 1KZ/TE is heavy on the electronics, most people find a 4Runner 1KZ/T with the mechanical fuel pump, engine ECU's control the auto box as well, so try and find a manual doner car.

I've not done a 1KZ/T swap yet, so can't speak from experiance.

[aviator]

Thanks for the info
I saw several posts here regarding people changing the gaskets on their 3.0 TDs and was curious if it was a problem lioke with the 3vze.

As to swapping the engines there is a company down in Texas that buys half cuts from Japan and does the exchange all electronics and wire harness etc. included for about $5000.00US might go that route or try to DIY with a uk sourced donor.

Cheers Aviator

[The Lovely Boyo]

Hi Paul,

There is the start of a write up here

http://www.toyotasurf.asn.au/techsite/enginetrans.htm

Looks to be quite a lot of work!

[aviator]

Thanks looks like an interesting site. I'll be following it to see how it goes.

[The Lovely Boyo]

Thanks looks like an interesting site. I'll be following it to see how it goes.

That build up / write up has been like that for a while.

You'd be best posting a question to their site to get an update.