1UZFE engine

1UZ-FE: Engine Basics

At the beginning, the 1UZFE was quite advanced engine when it was introduced. There were not so much V8s with DOHC, with 32 valves (four cams). As soon as the 1UZFE appeared everyone was sure that there are no other engines with the same reliability. 1UZ v8 has aluminum block as well as the cylinder heads that perfectly fits the engine bay. That is why 1UZFE engine weight is not so high if we compare with other engines of the same type.

It is actually a dual overhead camshaft engine build, with 32 valves. Since the 1UZFE doesn't have hydraulic lifters, it may sometimes cause engine problems. Some later versions received the VVTI systems, which gave a slight boost to characteristics and turbo, and the main improvement is that broken timing belt won't damage the engine badly, so you won't need to but precious parts for your motor after such accident. To avoid other problems it is recommended to check the oil regularly, with Jiffy Lube promo code you can do it more often.

You can see stats on Wiki or other web pages like Ebay, we offer you information from the manual. So the main engine characteristics without mods and interference are:

• Production period: 1989-2002
• Material: Aluminium for both cylinders and the block
• Valve train: DOHC, 4 valves
• Displacement: 3969
• Redline: 6,350 (VVTI)
• Weight: 364 lbs

Cars That Came With The 1UZ

The 1UZFE came with a Toyota model line, including sports, pickup, and luxury cars as well. Among them are Lexus GS400, LS400, and SC 400. Also, the 1UZFE was installed in Toyota Aristo, Celsior, Soarer, and Crown. We should say that the same engine may perform in different ways on different cars, for example, 1UZFe may fit SC400 better than the Toyota Soarer.

1UZ-FE: Performance Data

The engine was improved year after year, that is why there are some series of 1UZFE. The stats of the basic 4.0 1UZFE are:

• 256 hp at 5,400 rpm
• 260 lb-ft per 4,500 rpm

After adding forged pistons stats have improved:

• 261 horsepower on 5,400 rpm
• 269 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm

New VVTI system gave also more power and the final characteristics are:

• 290 hp on 5,900 rpm
• 300 lb-ft at 4,100 rpm

As you see such upgrades turned the car into a race one, still you can do more and your car with 1UZFE will be no more the car that you used to know.

1UZ-FE: Tuning Potential

A lot of experienced racers seek for 1UZFE, they try to find the original for sale, however, it turns to be extremely demanded. It may be impossible to buy one in some regions like in Australia or Pakistan. It is not a secret that the 1UZFE can reach 400 horsepower, however, it might cost a fortune. The Eaton M90 supercharger is the widest spread upgrade for 1UZFE, along with new fuel injectors. Together they can give you additional power and torque, the however supercharged engine will have a negative influence on fuel consumption, running temperature of camshafts and even oil capacity. Turbo kits are also available for most cars with this twin engine. With a help of rebuilt kit, it is possible to achieve incredible results. If you are aware of electronic management and wiring harness, it is also possible to install a smart system.

1UZ-FE vs VH45DE

If we compare the 1UZFE and VH45DE specifications, we will see that the Toyota engine can stand its ground pretty well. Both have common features like overhead cam, dimensions, mounts, specs, both have a great displacement of 4,6 L and both are designed for luxury cars. Still, the 1UZFE has better power with smaller displacement.

Summary

1UZFE is the best engine for rebuild, if you decide to swap the engine for 1JZ or 1UZ you will never lose. You can watch different review videos, diagram results and other statistics from repair manual, overall you will see that 1UZFE is a nice purchase for your 4runner.