r/hilux • u/incogni-to • 15d ago

LN65 2L-T Upgrade For Camper

I’m interested in buying a 1989 Toyota Hilux LN65 that has been upgraded with the 2.4L Turbo Diesel (2L-T) engine. From my research, I’ve learned that this engine generally doesn’t match the lifespan of the original naturally aspirated 2.4L diesel, as it is known for overheating issues and, in the worst case, cracked cylinder heads.

My plan is to convert the Hilux with an overhanging camper cabin, so I’m weighing up whether it makes more sense to look for one with the original NA engine instead, or if it’s worth going with the Turbo version and taking the right precautions. I’ve read that the 2L-T can be made much more reliable with a properly optimized cooling system (possibly adding an aftermarket temperature gauge) and even fitting an upgraded cylinder head.

From a driving perspective, I can see that the turbo engine would make the Hilux much smoother and more capable once loaded with a camper. I’ll also attach some pictures of the engine bay of this particular truck, which looks very tidy to me.

What's your opinion on this setup?

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2

u/esooldar 15d ago

Track down a 3L or 5L

1

u/VenomizerX 15d ago

Yeah both are way more reliable and are direct swap-ins as the transmission bolts right up and the engine mounts are the same. Had a 2LT before and it was the worst motor I ever owned. Blew up on me at least twice and overheated on me so many times it got exhausting really quick. Swapped to a 1KZ and never looked back, albeit the swap was a bit more complicated, needing an ECU, new bell housing, new wiring harness, etc.

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u/Yovan_mru 14d ago

these NA diesel engine are Hassle free

1

u/Yovan_mru 14d ago

the turbo setup on the picture look like an aftermarket kit on the 1st gen 2L engine. Just make sure if this one is the original 2L-T or a converted 2L-T I have 3L engine on my LN166 and im planning to install a turbo kit on it.

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u/incogni-to 14d ago

Ah ok you think they fitted a Turbo on the original 2L engine instead of being a native 2L-T? They told me it's from an LJ70 Cruiser.

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u/Yovan_mru 14d ago

usually the original turbo setup looks different from the pictures you have posted

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u/Yovan_mru 14d ago

This is original factory fitted 2L-T turbo setup https://www.pinterest.com/pin/862509766129454507/