Summary of "Toyota Should've done this from Factory! Turbo 5VZ Prado GOES HARD!"
Product Reviewed: Turbocharged Toyota 5VZ 90 Series Prado (Land Cruiser Prado) with extensive aftermarket modifications, focusing on engine management and fuel system upgrades.
Main Features & Upgrades:
- Engine: 3.4L V6 5VZ with a turbocharger (Garrett 3584).
- Fuel Injectors: Upgraded from Supra 2JZ 315cc injectors to Bosch 980cc slimline injectors with custom-machined spacers for proper fitment.
- Fuel Pumps: Dual 340 L/hr E85-compatible pumps installed with custom high-current wiring circuits and relays to handle increased amperage.
- Fuel System: Flex-fuel setup using two tanks (E10 for commuting, E85 for performance), including a flex-fuel sensor to adjust fueling based on alcohol content and temperature.
- Engine Management: Full standalone Haltech Elite 2500 ECU with:
- Haltech IC7 dash replacing multiple aftermarket gauges.
- CAN keypad for user control.
- Wideband O2 sensor (WB1).
- Additional sensors for oil pressure, fuel pressure, coolant pressure, boost control solenoid, and a linear position sensor for the automatic transmission (replacing factory PRNDL switch inputs).
- Wiring: Custom wiring loom from Boom Slang designed to integrate seamlessly with factory harness, simplifying installation.
- Intake & Exhaust: Custom intake air temperature sensor added; plans for a custom airbox fabricated by FFM Fabrication using 3D scanning and CNC routing.
- Suspension: Dobinson’s spring and shock kit installed to lower the vehicle after a prior lift.
- Other Mods: Plans to experiment with tire sizes and gearing to optimize performance.
User Experience & Performance:
- The turbocharged 5VZ makes impressive power for an old V6 Prado, reaching approximately 380 horsepower at the wheels with about 18 psi boost.
- The engine management upgrade allows for precise tuning, improving fuel efficiency and drivability.
- The flex-fuel system enables seamless switching between E10 and E85, with the ECU adjusting fueling and timing accordingly.
- The Haltech ECU and dash replace multiple standalone gauges and piggyback systems, providing a clean, integrated cockpit setup.
- The custom wiring loom greatly simplified the otherwise complex wiring process.
- Dyno tuning revealed the engine is knock-limited on E10 but can be pushed harder on E85 due to better knock resistance.
- The engine is not designed for high RPM; it prefers to stay below ~5600 RPM due to long intake runners and camshaft design focused on torque rather than high revs.
- The vehicle is considered a "soccer mom bus" but performs competitively in drag events with proper tuning.
- Some bottom-end engine noise remains post-rebuild, likely due to bearing wear; the owner is cautious about pushing the engine too hard to avoid catastrophic failure.
Pros:
- Significant power increase on a stock 5VZ platform.
- Efficient and flexible fuel management with Haltech ECU and flex-fuel capability.
- Clean, integrated dash and control system replacing multiple aftermarket gauges.
- Custom wiring loom reduces installation complexity.
- High-quality fabrication work (injector spacers, airbox).
- Good collaboration and support from tuning experts and parts suppliers.
- Reliable power delivery with smooth torque curve ideal for towing and street use.
- E85 capability allows for more aggressive tuning and power.
Cons:
- Fuel consumption remains high; described as “thirsty” and not ideal as a daily driver.
- Engine is not designed for high RPM, limiting ultimate power potential.
- Some lingering bottom-end noise may indicate future engine rebuild needs.
- Installation and tuning are time-consuming and complex.
- Wiring setup involves multiple relays and splices, which could be optimized further.
- Custom parts and tuning require specialized knowledge and tools.
Comparisons & Additional Notes:
- Compared favorably to turbo diesel patrols with similar power outputs but lighter weight.
- Injector upgrade from 2JZ units to Bosch 980cc improved fueling precision.
- Haltech Elite 2500 ECU chosen over older piggyback ECUs for full standalone control.
- Linear position sensor used instead of factory PRNDL switch to reduce ECU input load.
- Custom airbox design and fabrication showcase modern fabrication techniques.
- Vehicle intended for drag strip events (Dobinson’s King of the Strip) but may not be fully race-prepped due to engine concerns.
Different Perspectives:
- Jordy (owner) focuses on daily usability, towing capability, and practical upgrades.
- The tuner (Kai at Night Family Motorsport) emphasizes precise tuning, engine safety, and maximizing power within mechanical limits.
- The fabricator (Dave at FFM Fabrication) highlights custom fabrication and modern manufacturing techniques.
- The host provides an overview and commentary on the build process and event plans.
Verdict / Overall Recommendation:
This turbocharged 5VZ Prado build is a well-executed
Category
Product Review
