Hey all, new to the forum and have a ? about a 1997 Hilux double cab diesel I found at a Gov't auction. How feasible is it to swap out the 2.4 (worried about finding parts on the overseas engine) and go to a regular gas engine? Can parts from a Tacoma be used (interior, seats, etc)? I will probably not bid if its to much hassle to convert.
US Govt Hilux?
- Thread starter jtcozy
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2ndGenToyotaFan
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Parts availability isn't that bad, you may have to wait a bit longer, but you won't have problems finding stuff for the diesel. Where are you located? Because you will have trouble getting it into the US legally...
- Thread starter
- #3
The truck is already in the US so I am assuming there is no issue with importing it. Its listed as part of a military surplus auction.
where do you find these auctions?
Too big of a hassle...... 
Correct me if I'm wrong, but the problem would be getting it licensed....right?
- Thread starter
- #7
No idea but I am assuming since its located in the US you could get it licensed. I agree with bkfj40...too much hassle to bid on even though it would be cool to have!
Unless you're getting it for close to nothing I see no point in buying a Hilux to swap the engine and interior. You can get a stock Taco with the engine and seats you want.
With regards to the interior, the 97 Hilux is closer to the 86-95 US minitruck than it is to the Taco, so I'd try to find mini truck or 2nd gen 4runner seats which should bolt right on. Front IFS is completely different (torsion bars on Hilux vs. coils on Taco)
With regards to the interior, the 97 Hilux is closer to the 86-95 US minitruck than it is to the Taco, so I'd try to find mini truck or 2nd gen 4runner seats which should bolt right on. Front IFS is completely different (torsion bars on Hilux vs. coils on Taco)