The Toyota 2JZ-GTE Engine Manual. Almost every car enthusiast on the planet is familiar with, or has heard of, the legendary Toyota 2JZ-GTE engine. When Toyota first released the 2JZ in 1991, it was a special engine in stock form. It has a 3.0L DOHC twin-turbo inline-6 engine that produces 320 horsepower right out of the box. For the 1990s, these were already impressive figures.
Toyota’s illustrious 2JZ-GTE engine
However, the 2JZ-tuning GTE’s potential is what makes it one of the best tuner engines in history. For its stock output, the engine was insanely over-engineered and overbuilt. That’s what the 2JZ engine is known for. Then again, who doesn’t? However, there’s a lot more to it that makes the Toyota 2JZ engine so unique. This comprehensive guide covers 2JZ specs, tuning potential, reliability, and more.
2JZ Engine Specifications
These were some pretty impressive specs back in 1991. The 2JZ is a 3.0 liter inline-6 engine with twin turbos that produces 320 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Those figures may appear to be average by modern performance engine standards. However, in the 1990s, those power numbers were difficult to compete with. Plenty of larger, more expensive engines couldn’t compete with that performance.
When you look at the rest of the Toyota 2JZ specs, it’s clear that this engine was designed to handle a lot of power and boost. This engine is all about power. Finally, the 2JZ-GTE is best known for its application in the Toyota Supra.
Toyota 2JZ-GTE Power
The 2JZ-GTE can handle high boost thanks to its relatively low compression ratio of 8.5:1. The square engine geometry provides an excellent balance of torque and top-end power. The 2JZ’s closed deck, iron block from Toyota is insanely strong. Pistons were cast rather than forged, but they are still extremely strong and beefy. They were also outfitted with oil spray nozzles to keep the pistons cool. A beefy forged crank and rods round out the package.
The point is that the Toyota 2JZ is clearly designed for strength and endurance. These are almost exactly the specifications you want to see on any high-performance engine.
We’ll return to this topic several times throughout the article. On paper, the specifications appear to be excellent. We don’t, however, need specs or paper to tell us this. What the 2JZ-GTE achieves in real life is what makes it a legend. Throughout the article, we’ll return to the 2JZ’s strengths. For the time being, we just wanted to emphasize that it is a very powerful engine from top to bottom.
VVT-i was Introduced in 1997.
North American variants of the Toyota 2JZ engine did not receive this update. Toyota, on the other hand, began producing new JDM 2JZ-GTE engines with VVT-i around September 1997. Variable valve timing is a common engine technology that helps improve fuel economy and power band.
It also improves the power band on the 2JZ, making the JDM VVT-i engine appealing to some. They are, however, becoming more difficult to obtain, and sourcing parts can also become more difficult. The pros and cons of the VVT-i engine could be the subject of a separate post. In the end, they’re nearly identical engines minus the cams and VVT-i. It’s still an important factor to consider if you’re looking for a 2JZ engine for sale.
Toyota 2JZ Engine Tuning Possibilities
The 2JZ made a name for itself in tuning and aftermarket potential. A lot goes into tuning and constructing a Toyota 2JZ-GTE. This is another topic worthy of its own post. We will undoubtedly expand on this subject in the near future and provide a link to it here. For the time being, we’ll provide a brief overview of tuning and aftermarket potential. The options are nearly limitless, with builds ranging from 400-1500+whp.
Some builds for 350-400whp are as simple as stock turbos with basic bolt-ons. Others prefer to keep things “modest” with a stock, unopened motor and aim for 600-800whp. True enthusiasts with deep pockets can boost the 2JZ engine to 1000-1500whp. It has a lot going for it as an older tuner engine. Almost all kinks and 2JZ issues have been worked out at this point. There is information all over the place. There are numerous aftermarket solutions available. It makes the 2JZ a truly exceptional engine for tuning and high horsepower.
Anyway, we’ll divide this up into sections based on our power objectives. It’s not an exhaustive list, but we’ll go over a few of the mods needed for different power levels. Again, we’ll go over this in more detail in the near future.
2JZ-GTE 300-400whp
On stock turbos, 300-400whp on the Toyota 2JZ engine is easily achievable. However, age is a significant factor in this case. Most original turbos on 2JZ-GTE engines are unlikely to have much life left in them. If you want to keep things this simple, you can find OE or OE-like solutions or hope the original turbos hold up. Otherwise, the mod list for these power goals is fairly straightforward:
- Tuning and boosting controller
- DP/exhaust, intake, and FMIC bolt-ons
- E85 or Methanol Injection (optional)
The first key to unlocking additional power is a tune. That alone will push the 2JZ engine well over 300whp. Downpipes, exhaust, intake, and an FMIC will help boost the 2JZ-GTE to 350-400whp. You could try methanol injection, E85, or race gas to get a little more. This will necessitate proper tuning, as well as E85 fueling upgrades.
A tune and basic bolt-ons are referred to as Basic Performance Upgrades (BPU) in the 2JZ world. Some tuning enthusiasts consider this a full bolt-on or FBO.
Goals for the Toyota 2JZ 400-600whp
This is where the mod list gets a little longer. However, it’s still a pretty short list for the kind of power we’re talking about. The 2JZ block and rotating assembly have a safe power output of 600whp. Nonetheless, as power increases it becomes more important to have a quality, dialed-in setup with proper supporting mods and fueling. Some of the modifications required to boost a Toyota 2JZ Supra to 400-600whp include:
- Basic Performance Enhancements (BPU)
- E85, methanol, or race gas (optional)
- Turbocharger upgrade (s)
- Fueling mods (fuel pump & injectors)
The basic performance enhancements discussed above remain the starting point. Quality fueling will make it much easier to meet these power targets. In this power range, the options for 2JZ turbos are virtually limitless. You can choose between upgraded hybrid turbos and converting to a single turbo. The hybrid twin turbos in the 2JZ-GTE will help keep a little more low-end torque. A small single turbo, on the other hand, will do the job with very little turbo lag.
Finally, 400+whp begins to test the limits of the stock fuel system. You should think about upgrading your fuel pump, such as a Walbro 255 pump. Injectors with a displacement of 560cc or higher will also be required. Fortunately, these mods also allow you to run E85, which is an excellent fuel to assist the 2JZ in producing power.
*Please keep in mind that this also applies to the following sections. We’re only interested in the 2JZ engine here. Non-engine mods, on the other hand, become increasingly important as power goals rise. Suspension, brakes, transmission, axles, and other components should all be considered.
Related : The 6.4 HEMI Ultimate Engine Handbook
2JZ 600-800whp Construction
Alright. We’re now getting into some pricey territory. The 2JZ internals are still pretty safe even at 700-800whp. However, it is approaching the safe limits for longevity. As a result, some may find it more comfortable to opt for internal upgrades to reduce the risk of damaging the OE motor. Anyway, among the mods and upgrades used to boost the Toyota 2JZ engine to 600-800whp are:
- BPU
- Ethanol or methanol (highly recommended)
- Turbocharger upgrade (s)
- Fueling modifications
- Spring-loaded valves
- Other thoughts
You’ll need at least the same modifications as in the previous section. However, injection of E85 and/or methanol becomes more important and beneficial. It will help reduce the likelihood of engine knocks, lowering the risk of blowing the 2JZ-GTE engine. You’ll need bigger turbos, and it’s probably time to retire the twin turbos in favor of a single-turbo 2JZ.
You’ll also need fueling modifications, but now is the time for higher-flowing options. At this power level, valve float becomes an issue, so some valve spring upgrades go a long way. Cams will also be useful. Consider other head work to assist in supporting higher RPMs and top-end power.
Toyota 2JZ 800+ horsepower
We could go on and on, breaking it down every few hundred horsepower. Instead, let’s just discuss the basics of shooting for 800+whp as this is where it can start to quickly add up to a $30,000 to $50,000+ build. Some 2JZ engines can produce more than 800whp with stock internals, but longevity becomes an issue. In the long run, a built motor is a good idea for producing 800+whp. Here’s a quick list of mods to think about:
- BPU
- Extensive fine-tuning
- Single large turbo
- High-end fueling modifications
- Engine created
- Brain work
By no means is this an exhaustive list. When it comes to 2JZ basic performance upgrades, however, you’ll want the best of the best. Large intercoolers and high-flowing exhaust systems are essential. To achieve 800whp, you’ll need a moderate single turbo and a massive turbo to achieve 1000-1500whp. At this level of power, high-quality fueling mods and E85 are a good idea.
A built engine is a good idea at 800+whp and practically required at 1000+whp. The exact costs and construction vary greatly depending on the goals, but it can easily add up to $10,000 or more. Headwork will help the 2JZ make more top-end power and allow it to rev higher.
Tuning Summary for the 2JZ-GTE
Of course, when we think of the Toyota Supra and 2JZ engine, we probably think of insane 1500whp builds. However, there are numerous ways to customize the 2JZ-GTE to produce anywhere from 300whp to 1500whp. It’s a fantastic engine, but even the Toyota 2JZ has limitations. Anything over 800whp begins to test the limits of the rotating assembly, and costs can quickly mount.
Again, all of the tuning and aftermarket details will be covered in a separate post. We barely touched the surface of this subject, but it was still quite lengthy. Fortunately, the 2JZ is an older, well-proven engine with plenty of information and aftermarket support available.
Toyota 2JZ Engine Issues and Reliability
This is another topic that will be covered in a separate post. However, in a comprehensive guide, it’s important to at least briefly mention this. Even in stock form, the 2JZ’s performance was exceptional for its time. When it comes to aftermarket potential, it ranges from unique to insane. Isn’t there always a catch?
No, not at all. This is what elevates the 2JZ-GTE engine above and beyond its already exceptional status. There aren’t any major flaws or kinks to work out with the Toyota 2JZ. Of course, age may be beneficial in this regard. Any 2JZ reliability problems have proven aftermarket solutions by now. Nonetheless, the 2JZ-GTE is a highly reliable engine, and this is true even at higher power levels.
Among the minor issues with the 2JZ engine are:
- Timing belt tensioner mounting bracket
- Seal for an oil pump
- Turbos from the factory
- The crank pulley
Timing Belt Tensioner Problems on the 2JZ-GTE
The timing belt tensioner bracket is a minor issue, as are the majority of these. Timing belt tensioner issues on the 2JZ become more common as power and boost levels rise. There are billet aftermarket options, and if you’re in there working on upgrades, it’s a good one to check out.
2JZ Oil Pump Seal Toyota
Leaking oil pump seals are most likely an age-related issue. Seals and gaskets degrade and fail over time. This is a fairly common problem with the 2JZ-GTE, especially as the engines age. Other things to look for include main seals, valve cover gaskets, and so on.
It’s simply part of owning an older engine. Of course, for those looking to mod and upgrade a 2JZ or Supra, this is a minor issue. These are all low-cost parts that will require some assembly. However, while you’re in there doing other things, this is important to address.
Failures of Stock Turbos
This is yet another age-related issue. Turbo failures may also be the result of years of tuning and abuse on the turbos. Regardless, the stock sequential turbo setup is known to have flaws. Again, this is a non-issue for most people, as many people seek out 2JZ engines to upgrade. One of the major upgrades to push more power is a turbo upgrade.
2JZ Crank Pulley Issues
Continuing the theme, crank pulleys are a relatively minor issue in the grand scheme of things. The aluminum crank pulley struggles with age and high RPMs. The crank pulley is known to fail over time. There are plenty of aftermarket options, so upgrade the crank pulley while you’re in there.
Summary of the Toyota 2JZ Engine
There’s a lot to talk about when it comes to the legendary Toyota Supra and its 2JZ-GTE engine. It’s an exciting engine to think and write about, so we could have certainly written thousands more words. Instead, in the near future, we’ll expand on specific topics with in-depth guides.
In any case, Toyota 2JZ engines were built with one of the strongest bottom ends ever. For its time, stock performance was already impressive. The beefy forged internals, cast iron closed deck block, and other specifications, on the other hand, are what make the 2JZ so good. It was truly over-built and extremely simple to tune and modify. Even at twice the stock horsepower, the 2JZ maintains solid reliability.
All of these characteristics combine to make the Toyota 2JZ-GTE engine one of the best in the tuning world. Could you argue the 2JZ is over-rated to some extent? Sure. However, it’s difficult to argue with what this engine has accomplished. After all, it’s still a viable engine 30 years later, competing with the best of the best.
