If you own a classic Toyota Land Cruiser FJ60 or FJ62, you know the feeling—bulletproof reliability, legendary off-road capability… and painfully slow acceleration. The stock 2F and 3F-E engines just weren’t built for today’s driving demands. That’s why more and more Land Cruiser enthusiasts are turning to V8 engine conversions, electronic fuel injection (EFI) upgrades, and manual transmission swaps to bring their vintage 60 Series into the modern era.
At Legacy Overland, we recently completed a full FJ60 V8 swap and performance rebuild for a client’s 1987 Land Cruiser, now known as Project Elgar. The result? A vintage SUV with classic looks—and a powertrain that finally delivers on its potential.
Why Swap a V8 Into Your Land Cruiser FJ60 or FJ62?
The benefits of a V8 conversion for a Land Cruiser FJ60 go far beyond horsepower. Project Elgar build is a nice example, featuring a Chevrolet HP291P 350 small block engine producing 330 horsepower, paired with a Holley Sniper EFI system for smooth cold starts, precise fuel delivery, and excellent altitude compensation.
Upgrading to EFI means:
Instant throttle response
Better fuel economy
No more carburetor headaches
High-altitude performance and reliability
This isn’t just about going faster—it’s about transforming the entire driving experience of your classic Toyota Land Cruiser.
Why the AX15 5-Speed Manual Transmission Is the Perfect Pairing
To complement the V8 swap, we installed an AX15 5-speed manual transmission—a durable, smooth-shifting gearbox that improves drivability both on and off the road. When paired with a rebuilt transfer case, this setup offers:
Better cruising RPMs at highway speeds
Tighter shift points and gear control
Improved reliability and serviceability
Whether you're overlanding, daily driving, or exploring rugged terrain, this transmission gives your FJ60 the versatility it always needed.
The 1987 FJ60 - reborn to tackle anything
Key Components in Our Land Cruiser FJ60 V8 Conversion
Project Elgar features:
Chevy HP291P 350 V8 engine with 330HP output
Holley Sniper EFI fuel injection system
AX15 5-speed manual transmission
Rebuilt OEM transfer case
Custom exhaust system with thermal wrap
Upgraded radiator and electric cooling fan
Fully custom EFI wiring loom and ignition setup
We also modernized the electrical system, installed an ApplePlay infotainment screen with a rear-view camera, refurbished the interior, and protected the undercarriage with Raptor liner and heat insulation.
The Best V8 Swap for Toyota Land Cruiser 60 Series?
In our experience, the Chevy 350 V8 with Sniper EFI and AX15 5-speed manual is one of the most balanced and cost-effective powertrain upgrades for Land Cruisers. It maintains the vehicle’s old-school charm while delivering real-world performance, serviceability, and modern driving comfort. Sure LS-swaps are great too and offer even more performance, but also come in with a higher investment price tag. We have done many LS engine swaps on FJ60/62s as well so if you want power, then this is of course a great alternative!
Ready to Build Your Dream FJ60?
If you're considering a V8 engine swap for your Toyota Land Cruiser, Legacy Overland offers turn-key solutions, custom builds, and expert restorations. Whether it’s an FJ60, FJ62, or another classic off-roader, we build vehicles that combine modern performance with timeless style.
Contact us to start your FJ60 transformation.