1990s Toyota 4Runners and Tacomas can get a whole new lease on life with this supercharger-ready crate engine. As an enthusiast recently searching for a clean third-generation 4Runner, I can confirm: they’re becoming rare. Away from California, in the heartland, most are simply worn out. If I ever acquire such a gem, I already know which engine I’d give it: LC Engineering’s brand new Stage 1 5VZ-FE 3.4L block. While far from cheap, it’s, in my opinion, worthy of a rust-free survivor.
An Investment for OEM+ Purists
Let’s be clear from the start: the long block costs $10,000. For that price, an LS V8 or even a Tundra 2UZ swap is possible. But some owners prefer to avoid that radical route. This solution is ideal for OEM+ builds that favor a supercharged V6, true to the original spirit, rather than an oversized powertrain.
LC Engineering: Toyota Expertise
LC Engineering is a renowned shop in Arizona, famous for its work on legendary 4-cylinders like the 22RE and 2RZ. A quick look at their Instagram is enough to see the quality of their builds and the enthusiasm of the Toyota community. Their involvement is a mark of seriousness and makes these 5VZ-FEs all the more remarkable.
The Technical Specifications of the Stage 1 Block
The 5VZ-FE presented here is a fine piece of machinery. Each Stage 1 long block benefits from prepared cylinder heads (ported and polished), ARP head studs, and a lightweight crankshaft pulley. LC Engineering does not specify a precise power gain, mentioning increased reliability and a slight performance boost. The original engine produced 183 horsepower in the 4Runner and 190 horsepower in the Tacoma. The crucial point? This block is advertised as “supercharger-ready.” Imagine it paired with a Magnuson supercharger…
For Which Target Audience?
This engine is perfect for a full restoration or an original owner wanting a complete overhaul. It’s the solution for those who refuse to rebuild an engine that’s been swallowing dust for 25 years. It’s not the choice for those seeking maximum power at all costs, but for those who want to keep their Toyota clean and simple, without completely transforming the engine bay. A V8 is an option, but not the only one.