First time posting here, just wanted to share what I’m currently experimenting with. I’m building a custom adapter for a 1HDT to ZF 8HP swap, fully designed and machined in my own workshop. Still validating clearances and tolerances before final assembly. Any advice or common pitfalls I should watch out for from those experienced with 8HP swaps?
1HDT / ZF 8HP Swap – Adapter Design & Fitment Checks
- Thread starter ully asik
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Yummy
Yes please. Now this is a beautiful swap.
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8.2K views · 4.1K reactions | Do you notice the transmission going all the way up to 8th gear? This is my Land Cruiser 80 with a 1HDT engine running a ZF8HP gearbox, controlled by a Turbolamik TCU. It works, but I’m still not fully satisfied with the
Do you notice the transmission going all the way up to 8th gear? This is my Land Cruiser 80 with a 1HDT engine running a ZF8HP gearbox, controlled by a Turbolamik TCU. It works, but I’m still not...
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I've just discovered this thread. I have a 1HDT that's had a major turbo upgrade, and the transmission is now the weak link - they told me that they had to detune it a bit because the torque converter was struggling to lock up with the extra torque.
It had never occurreed to me tto upgrade the transmission.
So many questions. I don't suppose anyone makes a kit for this? Also, pardon my ignorance, but what happens to the transfer case?
TIA
It had never occurreed to me tto upgrade the transmission.
So many questions. I don't suppose anyone makes a kit for this? Also, pardon my ignorance, but what happens to the transfer case?
TIA
Slick, im planning the same with my FTE 80.
Sorry about this dumb question but i see manual shifting. I'm assuming this is Manual mode just for fun and you can set it in Drive and let it do its thing? I realize the bugs are still being worked out.Yes please. Now this is a beautiful swap.
8.2K views · 4.1K reactions | Do you notice the transmission going all the way up to 8th gear? This is my Land Cruiser 80 with a 1HDT engine running a ZF8HP gearbox, controlled by a Turbolamik TCU. It works, but I’m still not fully satisfied with the
Do you notice the transmission going all the way up to 8th gear? This is my Land Cruiser 80 with a 1HDT engine running a ZF8HP gearbox, controlled by a Turbolamik TCU. It works, but I’m still not...
Not a dumb question. Yes the ZF 8HP has a mode where you pull shifter to the left and it goes into sport/manual mode. Or you can leave it alone and just drive it like a regular automatic.
Yes, there are adapters to mate the ZF 8HP to a 1HDT and also to mate the other end to a H2FA.
Thanks but what is a H2FA? ChatGPT was no help
From ChatGPT:
The HF2A transfer case is a well-known, heavy-duty 4WD transfer case made by Toyota. It’s most commonly found in older Land Cruiser platforms—especially relevant given your 80-series.
What it is
The HF2A is a full-time 4WD transfer case with a center differential, meaning:- You can drive in 4WD on pavement safely
- Power is split between front and rear axles automatically
Where it’s used
You’ll find the HF2A in:- Toyota Land Cruiser 80 Series (your rig)
- Some Toyota Land Cruiser 100 Series (with variations)
Key features
- Full-time 4WD (no need to “shift into 4WD” for normal driving)
- Center differential lock (manual or electric depending on year)
- High and Low range
- High: normal driving
- Low: off-road / crawling / towing
Gear ratios (typical)
- High range: 1:1
- Low range: ~2.48:1
Why it’s respected
- Extremely durable (classic Toyota overbuilt design)
- Handles heavy off-road use and big tires well
- Smooth on-road behavior compared to part-time systems
Common quirks / issues
- Center diff lock actuator can seize if not used regularly
- Leaks from seals (age-related)
- Needs periodic gear oil changes (75W-90 typically)
Practical tip (for your Land Cruiser)
If you’ve got an 80 series:- Use the center diff lock occasionally to keep it from sticking
- Engage low range once in a while even if you’re not wheeling
If you want, I can go deeper—like how it compares to part-time cases, how to service it, or mods (like twin-stick conversions).
Are you planning on selling this adapter? This trans swap would really breath new life into my 1hdt 80
Very useful. Thanks. I found a place in Australia that sells the adapters - now I have to find a place that can do the cpnversion