For sale 4Runner 1997 Toyota 4Runner – CA-Legal 1KZ-TE Turbo Diesel – Smog Exempt – E-Locker

Selling my longtime 1997 Toyota 4Runner adventure/off-road build, 1KZ-TE 3.0L turbo-diesel conversion that is legally registered in California as a diesel and smog exempt — a California-registered 4Runner, not an imported Hilux Surf or an out-of-state registration workaround.

Drivetrain & mechanical​

• Toyota 1KZ-TE 3.0L turbo-diesel (~100k miles on the swapped engine; chassis ~384k)
• Mamba CT12B-style upgraded turbo
• Upgraded front-mount intercooler
• 3" turbo-back exhaust
• Replacement cylinder head, new valves and injectors at time of head work (2025)
• Oil catch can
• Automatic transmission
• 4.30 gears
• Electronic rear locker
• EGT and boost gauges (pre-turbo probe)
• dual LED projector headlights - super bright

The original cylinder head developed a crack that allowed coolant into the cylinders. It was diagnosed and replaced, along with the related valve and injector work. Fully resolved in May, 2025.

Adventure/off-road setup​

• Sonoran Steel 7.2 lift kit
• Schrockworks plate front bumper and rock sliders
• Ivan Stewart TRD wheels, powdercoated black — ~31.5" BFG KO2 all-terrain tires
• Sherpa Matterhorn full-length roof rack, with rear ladder

I commissioned this diesel conversion in 2010. It's a genuinely unusual 3rd-gen 4Runner, particularly for a California buyer who wants the 1KZ-TE without having to figure out how to register a diesel conversion. Because it is a '97, it is smog exempt.

Known items — the "bad"​

After all the work and changes to the exhaust, Intercooler, and turbo, it needs to be tuned. It's currently making a conservative 9psi boost, although I've confirmed it will make 18 psi with the current spring. EGTs run a bit hot while pulling up hills, and I have an EGT gauge installed at the exhaust manifold pre-turbo. You can easily tune this for the way your usage style suits you - optimize for power, economy etc.

Front seats need a new cover. I'd also replace the foam if I were keeping it.

Driver mirror interior cable just broke. I haven't had the chance to diagnose it.

A couple of areas have paint oxidation. The hood was recently re-painted along with the driver side passenger door and rear quarter panel. Front quarter panel and the area above the rear right side passenger door needs it too.

This is a 30 year-old truck and is a great project candidate for someone who knows what they are buying - a great platform with strong engine that is in its prime. Did I mention it's a CA legal diesel?

I will take additional pics and post them in this thread soon!