1980's toyota diesel pu?

[100MPGUS]

Anyone know anything about the engines? How reliable are they? Are they rebuildable?

I am looking at this one - Type: 2.2L L4 DIESEL

and it is cheap...so far. I am willing to pay 300(US) but I am wondering, even if it is seized, can pistons, ring and the like be found?

[Speedie]

Diesels when they need to be rebuilt typically cost more than a gas engine - imports more so. Parts might be an issue too - these engines were not as popular as the gas ones and they were not used in cross-applications (i.e. boat engines) so not too much demand for parts. If you are doing this as a cheap way of getting a diesel truck - it might not work out that way once all is said and done.

Unless you can do a bunch of your own work it can get pricey to get one rebuilt (you have to watch the so called cheap rebuilds out there). Diesels are also a bit fussier in that they need to be able to generate a higher compression than a gas engine - so things you might get away with on a gas engine will make you less than happy with if you try them on a diesel.

The small Toyata diesels were not noted for producing a lot of power - so if you plan on towing or carrying a camper or something you might want to reconsider it.

Cheers,

Cameron

[smart142]

I still see a couple of those early 80's Toyota pickups around and know someone who has the diesel version and he still has it in running condition. I have a 4l 6cyl Toyota diesel that powers my 1986 LandCruiser.

Back in 1998(421,013km) it started to run rough so I asked a mechanic friend to help with a rebuild. We did it in in my garage starting in Dec. Pulled off the head and discovered that the #2 rings were disintegrating. Replaced all the rings,#2 piston,rod bearings,and reconditioned the head and injectors. At that time the parts were all available from Toyota and I paid $1100 for the rings,bearings,piston,and gasket. The head cost $500 and the injectors $340 to rebuild. I gave my buddy $300 for all his assistance. Total for the rebuild was $2250. It should be cheaper for you because you would be rebuilding a 4cyl.

The engine is still purring today at 462,442kms. It's a very smooth diesel,slow but powerful,and consumes 12-13l/100km. I would think that the diesel in a small Toyota pickup would get about 32 US mpg or 7l/100km. The condition of the body should have a major influence on wether you would buy the truck. No sense to rebuild the engine if the body is going to fall apart. Good luck!!

[100MPGUS]

I had planned on removing the engine and tranny in time and putting it in another body. Not another PU mind you, an Opel GT. Light, small, the little vette of it's time. It was just an idea that is not going to happen since I was out bid! I had to go to sleep and the auction ended at 2:45AM!!!