2JZ Swap Guide | How to Mockup a 2JZ Engine, Mounts & Turbo

The Toyota 2JZ has earned its legendary status for good reason. This overbuilt straight-six powerhouse, famous for powering the Mk4 Supra, has become the go-to choice for serious engine swaps. The 2JZ-GTE features 3.0 liters of displacement and its stout iron block with seven main bearings to support the forged crank features square dimensions of 86mm bore and 86 mm stroke. The block is a “closed deck” design, meaning it can take a lot of boost pressure without cylinder bore shift thanks to the fully closed deck supporting the top of the cylinders. It is known to make an easy 600 horsepower with stock internals and over 800 horsepower with a few upgrades for strength like main caps, head studs, etc. Many have built a 2JZ to over 2,000 hp using the stock block and all new forged internals! Produced from 1991-2005, it was available in the US under the hoods of 1993-2002 Toyota’s Mk4 Supra. Of course, it was used in several other Toyota and Lexus models in other markets, providing additional sources for 2JZ swap needs.

Before diving into your swap, you need to know what you're working with. How big is a 2JZ engine you might ask? The 2JZ measures 26 inches long, 30.7 inches wide, and 28.5 inches tall. This inline-six configuration means you'll need plenty of room under the hood, but don't let its size intimidate you. Before diving in, look at our engine swap compatibility chart to ensure this powerplant will work with your platform. Proper planning is crucial for success, which is why starting with a 2JZ mockup engine block can save you countless hours and dollars down the road.

Getting your engine mounts dialed in is a make-or-break proposition for any engine swap. Speedway Motors’ SoloSwap® mock-up block makes fabricating custom 2JZ motor mounts a breeze since you can test-fit and weld with the lightweight SoloSwap® mock-up block. The key to success lies in finding the perfect engine placement and angle while ensuring proper clearance for everything from the firewall to the oil pan and steering rack. You'll want to pay special attention to your transmission bell housing fitment during this stage, as it can significantly impact your engine placement.

Your transmission choice can make or break your build. The Nissan CD009 six-speed from the 350Z and G35 has become a popular choice for its robustness and availability. For those chasing big power numbers, the GM T-56 (or new Tremec Magnum version) offers incredible strength as well. Whatever transmission you choose, you'll likely need a bellhousing adapter to mate it with your 2JZ properly.

Time to talk boost. The SoloSwap®'s robust construction lets you mockup your complete turbo system without breaking a sweat. Whether you're planning to run a turbo kit universal setup or something custom, proper planning is crucial. Your exhaust pipe routing needs careful consideration, as does your automotive exhaust pipe layout for optimal flow and clearance.

Wondering what size radiator do I need? You're not alone. Cooling is crucial for any turbocharged build, and doubly so for a swapped application. A quality universal radiator matched with proper intercoolers will keep temperatures in check under hard use. The SoloSwap® makes it easy to test-fit different cooling configurations without the hassle of working around a hot engine. Consider adding an oil cooler to your setup as well. These engines can make serious power, and keeping oil temperatures in check is crucial for reliability. With the mock-up block, you can take your time to route everything perfectly.

When it comes to wiring, you've got several paths to choose from. Many builders opt for a standalone ECU with a fresh harness for maximum tunability and minimal headaches. Others prefer to modify the factory harness to work with their setup, while some choose a universal swap harness for simplicity. Your choice should reflect your comfort level with electrical work and your performance goals.

Ready to pull the trigger? Start with the SoloSwap® mock-up engine block as your foundation. From there, you'll need to source your motor mounts, transmission adapter, and cooling system components. Don't forget about the turbo kit, intercooler setup, engine management system, and fuel system upgrades. Each of these components plays a crucial role in your swap's success. Check out our 2JZ Build List that will get you started on your swap!