Poorly Executed Engine Swaps

A petrol 40 Series (FJ40, FJ45) has been converted to diesel, typically with a 2H, 12HT, or 1HZ engine from a later Land Cruiser. The conversion runs but has chronic issues: overheating, oil leaks, gearbox or transfer case failure, exhaust leaks, and poor driveability.

Diesel conversions are extremely popular in Australia because diesel fuel economy and torque suit outback touring. However, a quality conversion requires correct engine mounts, a compatible gearbox and transfer case (or adapter plates), a radiator upgrade, correct wiring, an appropriate exhaust system, and a clutch that matches the diesel engine's torque characteristics. Cheap conversions skip steps. Common shortcuts include reusing the petrol radiator (insufficient for diesel heat loads), bodging engine mounts from flat bar, retaining the petrol gearbox (which may not handle diesel torque), and running the exhaust without proper heat shielding.