Toyota 3.4L Supercharged Engine Review - Used, Rebuilt, Crate, and Custom Options

Overview of the Toyota 3.4L Supercharged Engine

The Toyota 3.4L supercharged engine, also known as the 2GR-FSE, is a powerful and reliable powerplant that has been used in a variety of Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Introduced in 2006, this 3.4 liter V6 engine uses an Eatonroots-type supercharger to boost power output. With the addition of forced induction, the 2GR-FSE engine generates significantly more horsepower and torque compared to the naturally aspirated 2GR-FE engine.

Toyota initially launched the 2GR-FSE in the Lexus IS 350 luxury sedan, where it made 306 horsepower. The engine was later used in other vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Toyota Avalon, Scion tC, and Lexus GS 350. The supercharged 3.4L engine allows these vehicles to deliver sports car-like performance while retaining smooth daily driving manners.

Key Features of the 2GR-FSE Engine

Here are some of the key features and technologies of the Toyota 2GR-FSE engine:

• 3.4 liter V6 layout with an 86mm bore and 3.27 inch stroke
• Dual overhead camshafts, 24 valves, and coil-on-plug ignition
• Composite intake manifold with long intake runners for good low-end torque
• Eaton roots-type supercharger mounted at the front of the engine, rotated 90 degrees
• Produces between 280hp to over 300hp depending on application
• Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVTi) for optimized performance
• Direct fuel injection for improved efficiency and power delivery
• Drive-by-wire electronic throttle control
• Proven reliability and durability from Toyota

Benefits of the Toyota Supercharged Engine

There are several key advantages that the 2GR-FSE engine offers compared to naturally aspirated engines or turbocharged engines:

• Linear power delivery - Superchargers provide instant boost for strong acceleration without lag
• Better response - Superchargers are always spinning so throttle response feels more direct
• High RPM power - The engine can maintain boost even at high rpm for strong performance
• Reliability - Roots type superchargers have less stress on engine components
• Smoother operation - Rotating at lower speeds, superchargers are quieter with less vibration
• Lower center of gravity - Compact supercharger mounted low in the engine bay

While turbochargers rely on engine exhaust to spool up, superchargers deliver an immediate power surge. This gives the 2GR-FSE engine a unique combination of power, efficiency, and reliability that has made it popular for enthusiasts looking to modify and tune these engines.

Toyota 3.4L Supercharged Engines for Sale

For those looking to buy a Toyota 3.4 liter supercharged engine, there are a few options available:

• Used OEM engine - Can be sourced from salvage yards when available
• Rebuilt/remanufactured - Professionally rebuilt to factory specs by engine specialists
• Crate engines - Brand new Toyota crate engines from suppliers
• Custom built - Custom machined and assembled by race shops or engine builders

Prices can range anywhere from $3,000 for a used engine to over $15,000 for a fully built race-spec motor. The cost depends on factors like engine condition, mileage, custom work done, and the supplier.

Where to Buy a Used Toyota 2GR-FSE Engine

Some good options for finding a used OEM Toyota supercharged engine include:

• Local junkyards/salvage yards - Call around to yards and check inventory for availability
• Online classifieds - Check sites like Craigslist, eBay Motors, Facebook Marketplace
• Toyota/Lexus forums - Members often sell used engines and parts
• Auto recyclers - Large recyclers like LKQ offer engines with warranties

When sourcing a used Toyota supercharged motor, try to verify mileage, service records, and proper engine operation. Reputable suppliers will provide engine history reports and test results. Carefully inspecting the engine prior to purchase is also recommended.

Purchasing a Rebuilt or Crate 2GR-FSE

For a like-new engine with reduced risk, a professionally rebuilt motor is a smart option. Reputable Toyota engine rebuilders include:

• Jasper Engines
• Tri Star
• ARA Engine
• Excel Engine
• Toyota Re-Manufactured Engines

These companies fully disassemble the engine, replace wear parts, remachined components, and dyno test the engine to ensure proper operation. Most provide at least a 3 year/100,000 mile warranty.

New Toyota crate engines are also available from suppliers like Promar and ACL Distribution. While more expensive, these brand new engines offer zero mileage and often come with extended warranties of 5 years or more when professionally installed.

Custom Built Toyota 2GR-FSE Engines

For maximum power gains, having a custom built supercharged 3.4L Toyota engine is an enticing option. Skilled engine builders can extract well over 500hp from these motors with upgrades like:

• Forged internals - pistons, rods, crankshaft
• High flow cylinder heads
• More aggressive camshafts
• Upgraded valve train components
• Larger supercharger pulley for more boost
• Custom tuned ECU
• Supporting mods like intake, exhaust, intercooler, fuel system

Going this custom engine build route requires a higher budget but the payoff is huge gains for forced induction enthusiasts. Just be sure to use a reputable performance shop with proven expertise building these engines.

Installing a Toyota 2GR-FSE Crate Engine

Swapping a Toyota 3.4 liter supercharged engine into a different vehicle is a complex but rewarding project. Some key steps include:

1. Select donor vehicle and locate compatible 2GR-FSE engine
2. Gather all supporting components like wiring harness, ECU, mounts
3. Machine work if necessary for engine/transmission fitment
4. Fabricate custom mounts and headers if needed
5. Install new oil pan, timing cover, water pump for fitment
6. Mate engine and transmission together on stand
7. Lower engine/trans into vehicle and secure mounts
8. Connect wiring harnesses, fuel lines, hoses, sensors
9. Install axles, pedal assembly, accessory brackets
10. Modify or fabricate oil lines, cooling system, exhaust
11. Program/tune ECU and troubleshoot as needed

While complex, the big power gains are well worth the effort for serious enthusiasts. Using a reputable shop with swap experience is highly recommended.

FAQ on Toyota 2GR-FSE Engines

What cars used the 2GR-FSE engine?

The 2GR-FSE was used in the Lexus IS 350, Lexus GS 350, Toyota Camry V6, and Toyota Avalon.

How much horsepower does the engine make stock?

Horsepower ranges from 306hp to 315hp depending on the vehicle application.

What are common issues or problems?

No inherent design flaws, but commons issues are failed supercharger seals, dirty intake ports, ignition coil failures.

How reliable is the 2GR-FSE engine?

Very reliable engine capable of lasting 200k+ miles with proper maintenance.

How much boost does the supercharger provide?

The stock Eaton supercharger provides around 8-10psi of boost pressure.

Can the engine be modified to handle more power?

Yes, the 2GR-FSE responds very well to upgrades like a larger supercharger pulley, cooling mods, engine internals, and ECU tuning to safely make 500+ horsepower.

Summary

The Toyota 2GR-FSE is an outstanding supercharged engine that offers great performance and reliability when properly maintained. Used engines can provide a cost-effective option, while rebuilt/remanufactured motors offer like-new condition and warranties. For maximum power gains, a custom built engine tuned by experienced Toyota/Lexus tuners allows the motor to really shine. Properly installing a crate engine along with supporting mods can result in a 500+ horsepower supercharged beast.

FAQs

What oil weight should be used in the 2GR-FSE?

Toyota recommends using 5W-30 or 0W-30 full synthetic oil to properly lubricate the supercharged engine.

What fuel grade should be used?

Using premium 91+ octane fuel is highly recommended to prevent detonation issues under boost.

How often should the timing belt be replaced?

The timing belt and water pump should be replaced every 90,000 miles on the 2GR-FSE engines.

Will a 2GR-FSE bolt up to older Toyota transmissions?

No, the 2GR-FSE was only available paired with newer 6-speed auto and manual transmissions.

Can I run higher boost safely on a stock 2GR-FSE?

Mild boost increases can work but supporting mods are needed to run more than 12psi safely on a stock bottom end.