The Toyota 2K is a 1,290 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1978 and 1988. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and 8 valves, designed for durability and ease of maintenance in compact commercial and passenger vehicles. Output was modest, typically around 48 kW (65 PS) and 98 Nm of torque, prioritizing fuel economy and low-cost ownership.
Fitted primarily to the Starlet (KP6x) and LiteAce (KM1x), the 2K was engineered for reliable, economical urban transportation and light commercial duties. It prioritized simplicity, smooth low-RPM operation, and minimal servicing requirements. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through its carburetor and basic exhaust system, meeting pre-Euro standards.
One documented characteristic is susceptibility to premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing drift or failure. This issue, noted in Toyota service documentation for the K-series engines, is often attributed to the material specification of early gears. Toyota later revised the gear material in subsequent production runs to improve durability.
Toyota
Production years 1978–1988 meet applicable Japanese and European emissions standards for the era (pre-Euro standards).
The Toyota 2K is a 1,290 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and light commercial vehicles (1978-1988). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve design with a carburetor to deliver predictable, economical power and exceptional serviceability. Designed to meet emissions standards of its production era, it prioritizes low running costs and mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 73.0 mm | |
| Power output | 48 kW (65 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 98 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor (Aisan or similar) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (Meets 1978-1988 JIS/ECE standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SF, SAE 10W-30 or 20W-40 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The SOHC design provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for city driving but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 40,000 km. Using the correct viscosity oil (10W-30/20W-40) is critical for maintaining hydraulic lifter function. The carburetor demands periodic cleaning and synchronization to maintain fuel economy. The original distributor drive gear is prone to wear; replacing it with a revised OEM part during major service is recommended per Toyota service bulletin to prevent ignition failure.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF specification oil (Toyota Owner's Manual 1980). Modern equivalents (API SN/SP) are acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Meets Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) and ECE regulations applicable to 1978-1988 production (Toyota Emissions Docs).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output figures are for gross power; net power is slightly lower (Toyota PT-1980).
Toyota Repair Manual (RM222E) for Starlet/LiteAce
Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC #TJ-1122)
Toyota Owner's Manual (Model Year 1980)
Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS D 1001)
The Toyota 2K was used across Toyota's KP6x/KM1x platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and exhaust configurations-and no significant facelift revisions during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the block's machined surface near the cylinder head, typically on the exhaust side (Toyota RM222E). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine code for Japanese market vehicles ('K' for K-series). The 2K is visually identified by its single cam cover and carburetor (no fuel injectors). Critical differentiation from 3K: The 2K has a 1,290cc displacement; the 3K is 1,486cc. Engine blocks are not interchangeable. Service parts like gaskets and manifolds are generally compatible across 2K variants.
The 2K's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Toyota service records indicate this was a common cause for ignition-related failures. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect viscosity oil make gear inspection and preventative replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Toyota technical bulletins (1978-1988) and owner workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about TOYOTA 2K.
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