The owner of this first generation Toyota Tacoma wanted more power than the factory 2.7 L 3RZ-FE inline-four produced. He considered using a LS1, SBC, and even turbo 3VZ V6 but disliked certain aspects of each choice. It wasn’t until he stumbled across Lextreme and its forum that he settled on using the mighty 1UZ-FE V8. The engine was installed using custom mounts, custom intake, SC400 ignitors, modified LS400 wiring harness, and controlled by an Adaptronic ECU. The factory W59 five-speed automatic transmission was mated to the V8 thanks to a modified bellhousing. It was upgraded with a QMI hydraulic throwout bearing, OS Giken flywheel and clutch. This allowed the truck keep the transfer case and 4WD. For more photos and details please read the build thread.
Source: Four Wheel Forum (build thread)
The w59 is a 5 speed manual trans.
Thank you. I corrected the article.
Where are you located? I am trying to do this in a 2wd and everything seems so far outa touch.
Where you able to do this to your 2ed Michael Hall?
Nice!!! I’ve been considering the same engine for a 2nd gen Tacoma 4×4 to replace my 4.0L. Just wondering how difficult the wiring was and whether you were able to utilize the stock ecu or if you had to use the one for the 1UZ and if it tied into your stock dash and such? I’m a little worried about the 4×4 and stock gauges but not terribly so.
Speaking of added weight due you have actual numbers from 3rz To 1uz transition of added lbs