question regarding engine swap for a first generation 4runner

[justbecause]

i got a call the other day from a guy wanting to trade me my jetta iv been trying to sell for a 87 4runner. i told him i wasnt really interested in a straight trade but if he could come up with some cash id be interested.

the little wheels in my head started turning as dreams of a reliable expedition rig entered my head, i quickly decided a SAS and diesel conversion was in order for my "new" 4runner (havnt even talked to the guy since telling him no and already iv started making plans, i believe this is a result from too much time spent on ih8mud)

a few HOURS of searching and i can not find one account of anyone using a landcruiser as a donor vehicle for the conversions i am considering. I only found one account of using 80 series axles on a 4runner, the guy was told "thats like putting dump truck axles under a smart car"

i can see why using cruiser axles on a stock drivetrain would be bad... but im curious why i cant find anyone even mentioning a cruiser diesel engine swap into a 4runner/mini truck (of any generation/year)

am i missing some obvious problem with this idea?? or have i simply lost my ability to use the search function??


-also checked out just regular old google, found lots of info about using other toyota diesels, but not cruiser diesels- im not SET on the idea of using a Land Cruiser, i was just really surprised when i found NO information on the swap...

can yall help me out?? point me in a better direction??

the final goal for this 4runner (if purchased) would be DD doubling as camping vehicle, no rock crawling/mud bogging, id really like to start doing runs like these TrekNow GPS Routes these LOOOONG trips are why im searching for an adition to my 40, i realize i could build a trailer to haul all the gear id like to have/need but i just feel like the 40 is better suited for trail rides not long distance road trips....

 

[Nickkw]

One reason, and I have no experience, that lc diesels aren't used is because if it is a four cylinder the L series engines use the same engine mounts. So less work right there.

 

[justbecause]

One reason, and I have no experience, that lc diesels aren't used is because if it is a four cylinder the L series engines use the same engine mounts. So less work right there.

even eliminating the landcruiser aspect of the swap "diesel 4runner" produces very little results, here in the expedition section, and the 79-90 mini truck section. even though there is more info in the other section the swaps are pretty limited...

the 4runner specific thread has very few post (although there is an extensive 4runner expo thread over at expedition portal) using the 1st gen as a long trip vehicle seems very limited... is there "a reason" for this... is there a problem using that vehicle as a starting point?? or are there just so many other "better options" that it is over looked?? some combination?? reliability issues? size issues?

the engine mounts being different is a very good point and why i love this site, quick accurate answers, i didnt realize the L series used the gasser mounts... although considering the amount of work that goes into these vehicles are a couple mounts really a big deal??

 

[Combat Chuck]

here's some good info for you:
https://forum.ih8mud.com/79-95-toyota-truck-tech/157712-91-pickup-diesel-conversion.html
When you look at Dan's truck, just imagine a 4runner bed...
I haven't heard of too many diesel swaps into 4runners, but overseas, they're marketed as "Hilux Surfs" and generally ran 2LII-T, 2L-TE, 3L, 1KZ-T, 1KZ-TE, and 1KD-TE motors. I wouldn't run a cruiser diesel, too much motor for so little an end result, plus you'd have to run a cruiser drivetrain, whereas anything L will bolt right into that Runner, and anything K will take some fab work.

 

[PAToyota]

Here is a guy that swapped a Mercedes Turbo-Diesel into his '89 4Runner.

Seems like a pretty clean swap.