The 1HD-FT engine is the factory turbo diesel engine found in the later 80 series Landcruiser from around 1994 to 1998. The 1HD-FT is a 24 valve, direct injected turbocharged 4.2 diesel engine that upgrades the older 1HD-T or the non turbo 1HZ. Producing 168hp (125kw), this engine will add 33hp over the 1HZ (135hp (101kw)) but it is not the power where the 1HD-FT proves to be most beneficial. It is a more significantly balanced engine which makes for a smoother more comfortable quieter ride while also the fuel economy should see some major benefits.

Replacing or Converting? It doesn’t matter. If you have a ‘1H’ diesel engine currently then putting the 1hd-ft in is going to be no dramas. Toyota has done this well as all accessory items for the ‘1H’ are the same so you are not going to have to worry about engine mounts, radiator hoses, custom bell housings etc. The engine will drop right back in place.

This engine will come complete with all accessories except for the starter motor and alternator. These items again are going to be the same as what you should already have. So no worries there. The turbocharger and fuel system will come with the motor and more often then not these are an auto so if you have a manual you should organize to machine your flywheel and get your clutch sorted. What will require a little attention is the air inlet hose. You will have to make something up to go from your air filter to the turbo. Now we’ve mentioned the turbo, the dump pipe from the turbo is in a different location to the dump from the 1HZ non turbo. An exhaust shop should be able to fix this up for you. Apart from this the engine will be right to go once everything is bolted in.

If you are doing a conversion from petrol then notify the staff upon enquiring as this motor is to suit replacement purposes.

Converting from Petrol?

If you have a petrol motor in your Landcruiser and are looking to go Diesel, then be prepared for a little more work. Firstly, your petrol engine will be EFI, so you are going to have to remove your engine wiring harness and ECU. Some electronics may be integrated into this loom so check for that when removing. Also, there will be live wires left over from your ignition to the ECU (these are generally the thickest wires). Remove or block these off. The radiators are all relatively similar so that should be fine. Next up your gearbox, flywheel, clutch and driveshafts will be different. You will need to get the above to suit your new motor. (The gearbox and driveshafts will work). Next up you are going to need to drain the fuel tank, and lines and your fuel filter will need to be changed to an aftermarket primer pump, and the pump in the tank will need to be removed. You should be right to drop the engine and gearbox in now. The exhaust will need to be attended to by an exhaust shop and an air inlet hose will need to be made. You will also need the ‘1H’ throttle cable. Bolt everything in place, turn the key and enjoy your new 1HD-FT powered Landcruiser.