I am the new owner of a 1983 Toyota Pickup 2WD, DLX, LN40, L Diesel (2.2), w/ 5-Speed Standard Transmission. It appears the current engine will need a major overhaul. It has bad compression in one cylinder, injector pump needs replacement, head gasket leaks, etc. The technician I am working with indicates he can purchase and import a new engine for replacement (but he's not sure about compatibility with different models). I am considering taking advantage of this opportunity to upgrade to a later model, like a 2L, 2L-II, 2LT, etc . (My tech has warned of compatibility issues with a 2LTE).

My question is would any one, or all, of the above engines make for a simple and easy replacement?

Any guidance or suggestions will be appreciated.

 

I posted this thread on four different forums (two places on one forum). I’ve received a few responses. Folks concur that any one of the later models (even up to a 5L) should swap in easily. The truck was engineered for an L. I don’t think it wise to push the power beyond the original engineering too far. I think I’ll steer clear of turbo options. A couple folks lit upon the 2LTE (negatively) ---even though I expressed I don’t want that one. One reason I love this little rig is it is all analogue and manual. Simple. ---Nothing automatic, and no computerized components.

I drove an ’83 Toyota F60 Cruiser (petrol) for 25 years before she finally buckled underneath me (although I believe it is still trundling around in the forests of Mendicino County). I swore next time around I’d do it right with a diesel ---just makes sense.

I’m going to proceed and start shopping for a 3L.

I just wish somebody would post and confirm they’d actually done the swap or seen it done first hand.

Thanks for any input.