The Toyota 2TJ is a 1,588 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1970 and 1978. 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 63 kW (86 PS) and 125 Nm of torque, prioritizing fuel economy and low-cost ownership.
Fitted primarily to the Corolla (TE20, TE30) and Carina (TA10), the 2TJ was engineered for reliable, economical transportation. 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 timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain slack and potential valve timing issues. This characteristic, noted in Toyota service documentation for the T-series engines, is often attributed to the design of the hydraulic tensioner. Toyota later revised tensioner components in subsequent T-family engines to improve longevity.
Toyota
Production years 1970–1978 meet applicable Japanese and European emissions standards for the era (pre-Euro standards).
The Toyota 2TJ is a 1,588 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1970-1978). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve design with a carburetor to deliver smooth, reliable power and good fuel economy. Designed to meet emissions standards of its production era, it prioritizes durability and ease of service.
| 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 | 63 kW (86 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor (Aisan or similar) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (Meets 1970-1978 JIS/ECE standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SC/SD, SAE 10W-30 or 20W-40 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The SOHC design provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for relaxed 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 tensioner function and preventing premature chain wear. The carburetor demands periodic cleaning and synchronization to maintain fuel economy and prevent rough idling. Timing chain inspection is recommended at 100,000 km; tensioner replacement per service bulletin can prevent costly valve train damage.
Oil Specs: Requires API SC/SD specification oil (Toyota Owner's Manual 1975). Modern equivalents (API SN/SP) are acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Meets Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) and ECE regulations applicable to 1970-1978 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-1975).
Toyota Repair Manual (RM012E) for Corolla/Carina
Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC #TJ-0123)
Toyota Owner's Manual (Model Year 1975)
Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS D 1001)
The Toyota 2TJ was used across Toyota's TE2x/TA1x 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 RM012E). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine code for Japanese market vehicles ('T' for T-series). The 2TJ is visually identified by its single cam cover and carburetor (no fuel injectors). Critical differentiation from 2T: The 2TJ has a lower compression ratio (9.0:1) for regular fuel; the 2T has 9.5:1. Engine blocks and most internal components are identical.
The 2TJ's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Toyota service records indicate tensioner failure was a common cause for timing-related repairs. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect viscosity oil make tensioner and chain longevity critical.
Analysis derived from Toyota technical bulletins (1970-1978) and owner workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about TOYOTA 2TJ.
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