Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 1KZ Engine Performance Restoration – Carbon Clean & Injector Replacement
Vehicle Complaint: Sluggish Performance and Towing Issues
Recently, we had a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado fitted with a 1KZ engine in the workshop for inspection after the owner reported sluggish performance and difficulty towing their caravan—something the vehicle had previously done with ease. Given the Prado’s reputation for reliability, we knew something wasn’t right and set out to diagnose the issue.
Diagnosing the Issue: Carbon Buildup and Worn Injectors
Upon closer examination, we discovered severe carbon and soot buildup in the throttle valve, intake manifold, and intake ports. This level of contamination was restricting airflow, which in turn was affecting the engine’s efficiency and power delivery. Further investigation revealed that the original fuel injectors, which had clocked over 200,000 kilometres, were well past their prime. The injector nozzles, in particular, were significantly worn and damaged, leading to poor fuel atomisation and inefficient combustion.
Injector Replacement: Restoring Fuel Delivery
After discussing the findings with the customer, we proceeded to replace the worn injectors with high-quality, flow-tested exchange units fitted with brand-new spray nozzles. This ensured optimal fuel delivery and restored combustion efficiency.
Additional Issues Discovered: Fuel Pipes, Intake System, and Rocker Cover Leak
While continuing our inspection, we found additional issues that required immediate attention. The fuel pipes exhibited signs of rust, which posed a risk of contamination and potential fuel leaks. The intake rubber sleeve had developed cracks, compromising the integrity of the intake system and potentially allowing unfiltered air to enter. Additionally, the rocker cover was leaking, which not only caused minor oil loss but also contributed to carbon buildup in the intake system.
Repairs and Comprehensive Intake Clean
To rectify these issues, we replaced the rusted fuel pipes, fitted a new intake rubber sleeve, and resealed the rocker cover to prevent further leaks. With all mechanical concerns addressed, we then performed a comprehensive intake clean, thoroughly removing all carbon and soot deposits. This process restored unrestricted airflow to the engine, improving bothpower output and overall drivability.
CARBON REMOVAL GALLERY
The Result: Restored Performance and Happy Customer
The result? A dramatic improvement in engine performance, with the Prado now pulling effortlessly under load and towing with confidence once again. The customer was thrilled with the transformation, knowing their vehicle was back to peak performance and ready for many more adventures ahead!