The Toyota 2T is a 1,588 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1970 and 1985. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium head, and a chain‑driven SOHC valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. This simple, robust design prioritises low-cost manufacturing and ease of maintenance, delivering outputs around 59–66 kW (80–90 PS) and torque figures of 120–128 Nm, making it suitable for compact sedans and coupes of its era.
Fitted to models like the Corolla, Carina, and Celica, the 2T was engineered for economical, reliable urban and highway transportation. Emissions compliance for later models was achieved through carburetor calibration and basic emissions control systems, allowing it to meet evolving Japanese and US standards throughout its production run.
One documented engineering update addressed potential cylinder head warping under sustained high load, linked to coolant flow design. This was highlighted in Toyota Technical Service Bulletin EG-0005-78. The update involved revised coolant passage casting and updated head bolt torque specifications, implemented in engines produced after 1978 to improve thermal stability.
Toyota
Production years 1970–1977 meet pre‑1978 US emissions standards; 1978–1985 models meet US Federal Tier 0 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6677).
The Toyota 2T is a 1,588 cc inline‑four petrol engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1970-1985). It combines a durable cast-iron block with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver adequate power for its era and exceptional mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet pre-1978 Japanese and later US Federal Tier 0 standards, it balances basic performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,588 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 59–66 kW (80–90 PS) | |
| Torque | 120–128 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel downdraft carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-1978 JIS/US; US Federal Tier 0 (1978 onwards) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SF/CC or SG/CD 10W‑30 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The SOHC design provides adequate low-RPM torque for city driving but requires valve clearance adjustments every 40,000 km. API SF/SG specification oil is recommended for its anti-wear additives suitable for the flat-tappet camshaft. Engines produced before 1978 should be monitored for cylinder head integrity under heavy load; if warping occurs, the revised head casting per TSB EG-0005-78 is recommended. The timing chain is exceptionally durable but the tensioner should be inspected during major services.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/CC (pre-1979) or SG/CD (1979 onwards) 10W-30/40 (Toyota Owner's Manual). Modern API SN oils with ZDDP are acceptable for flat-tappet protection.
Emissions: Pre-1978 certification applies to early models; 1978 onwards meet US Federal Tier 0 standards (EPA Engine Family #T2T.05FX).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power figures vary by carburetor calibration and emissions equipment (Toyota Group PT-1984).
Toyota Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T-2T-001, RM700U, TSB EG-0005-78
EPA Engine Family Database (T2T.05FX)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Toyota 2T was used across Toyota's T platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Celica and specific cooling packages for the Carina-and from 1978 the widespread adoption of emissions controls created minor carburetor and distributor revisions, creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Toyota TIS T-2T-001). The 8th VIN digit for 2T equipped vehicles is typically 'T'. Visually, the engine features a single-barrel carburetor and a simple points-type distributor ignition system. Critical differentiation from 3T: The 2T has a 1.6L displacement (bore 80.5mm) versus the 3T's 1.8L (bore 80.5mm, stroke 86.0mm). While some external parts may fit, the crankshaft and connecting rods are not interchangeable.
The 2T's primary documented concern is potential cylinder head warping in early, high-load units, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent high-speed driving. Toyota TSB EG-0005-78 addresses this for affected units, while general reliability is otherwise excellent due to its simplicity. Neglecting valve adjustments and using incorrect oil can accelerate wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Toyota technical bulletins (1975-1980) and US NHTSA complaint data (1980-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about TOYOTA 2T.
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