Toyota certainly knows how to make a diesel engine, with models like the renowned Land Cruiser range and the Hilux being all-time favourites not only in Australia but around the world. Even at stock standard, these vehicles outlay impressive HP and torque figures, making them the dream diesel for families, off-road and performance enthusiasts, and even as commercial UTEs.
But why stop there?
These diesels are capable of so much more and this hidden potential is what makes our towing upgrades so impactful. Made to work – and work well, they do! – Just Autos offer a variety of powerful upgrades and tuning options that can amplify your towing experience. From factory-standard ECU remapping to high-quality aftermarket modifications from leading brands we partner with, we reckon hitching on the family caravan, towing trailers or hauling loads will be a breeze!
1. Remap Your ECU
We always advise our clients to start with an ECU remap because it’s the best foundational tuning upgrade that you should get for your Toyota diesel. It involves modifying the settings of your vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) to enhance its performance. Our technicians are leading remap specialists in Australia and are capable of writing custom maps to suit your specific performance needs and vehicle specifications.
ECU remapping can make an impactful change to even stock-standard vehicles, unlocking more horsepower, torque, and throttle response. It is also a more advanced method than chip tuning, which simply plugs into the ECU and modifies the signals between the sensors and the engine.
When just one new map won’t do, we can also multi-map your ECU! Multi-mapping is where we can implement six predefined maps for your engine to operate from, allowing you to switch between them depending on your driving conditions. For example, if you’re towing a heavy load, you can switch to a map that provides more torque and power to help you tow your load more efficiently. Similarly, if you’re driving on a long highway journey, you can switch to a map that provides better fuel economy, giving you better mileage on the road.
Read More: What is ECU Multi-Mapping?
2. TCM Tuning & Just Autos’ Easy Lock Transmission Lock-Up Kits
TCM tuning is the next upgrade you should consider. It involves modifying the software in your vehicle’s transmission control module (TCM) to improve shifting and responsiveness. This upgrade can directly impact your towing experience by making gear shifts smoother and quicker, reducing torque converter slip, and optimising lock-up strategy.
At Just Autos, we can provide you with custom TCM tuning that is designed to suit your vehicle’s specific needs. We can modify the shift points and firmness to improve acceleration and responsiveness while towing. The result is smoother gear changes and quicker response times, which means you can maintain better control of your vehicle when towing.
Another upgrade you can consider is our new in-house designed and developed transmission lock-up kits, the Just Autos’ Easy Lock. With high- and low-speed functionality, our lock-up kits allow you to lock your torque converter when towing to increase fuel efficiency and reduce transmission temperatures. The lock-up kit engages the torque converter at a specific speed, allowing your engine to operate more efficiently and reducing the load on your transmission. As a result, your vehicle will consume less fuel, and you’ll get better mileage when towing.
Just Autos’ Easy Lock is available exclusively for the VDJ200 Series Land Cruiser and all N80 Hilux models.
Read More: 3 Reasons You Need a ECU Transmission Lock-Up Kit
3. Maximise Airflow and Engine Cooling Capabilities
Proper airflow and engine cooling are essential when your engine is under load, such as when you are towing. Our in-house designed airboxes and intercooler fan kits can improve airflow and reduce intake temperatures, resulting in improved throttle response and more consistent power output.
Our airbox upgrade is designed to improve the airflow to your engine, providing cooler, denser air for improved combustion. This results in more power, better fuel economy, and reduced emissions. Just Autos’ airboxes also help alleviate the phenomenon of dusting – something the 200 Series Land Cruisers especially are known to experience.
Read More: Advantages of Aftermarket Airboxes for Toyota Diesels
Our intercooler fan kits are designed to improve the cooling of the intercooler, which helps to prevent heat soak and maintain consistent power output.
We also have a brand-new heat exchanger upgrade, designed uniquely for the new 300 Series Land Cruiser. This upgrade provides improved cooling for your FJA300 engine, resulting in better performance and improved reliability. It’s a must-have upgrade for anyone who is looking to push their Toyota diesel engine to the max!
Read More: 300 Series Land Cruiser: Upgrades Available Now!
Optional Upgrades for an Enhanced Towing Experience
While the previously mentioned upgrades are essential for improving your Toyota diesel’s towing performance, there are a few optional upgrades that can take your towing experience to the next level.
One such upgrade is a snorkel, which is especially useful when towing in dusty or sandy conditions. A snorkel prevents your engine from sucking in harmful particles that could damage it, while also increasing your engine’s access to cooler and cleaner air. Additionally, snorkels allow you to ford water crossings without worrying about water entering your engine. We offer 4” stainless steel snorkels that not only effectively improve airflow but also look great!
Read More: 3 Ways to Improve Diesel Engine Cooling
Another optional upgrade to consider is a performance exhaust system. Our team at Just Autos offers a range of high-quality exhaust systems designed to boost your Toyota diesel’s horsepower and torque, while also providing a more aggressive exhaust note. These exhaust systems improve exhaust flow and reduce exhaust gas temperatures, which is especially beneficial when towing heavy loads.
Read More: 3 Benefits of a Performance Exhaust System
Lastly, a clutch upgrade can be an excellent investment for Toyota diesel owners who frequently tow heavy loads. A high-performance clutch can handle higher levels of torque and prevent clutch slippage, which can be a common issue when towing heavy loads. This upgrade can also improve shifting and provide a more engaging driving experience.
Maximise Your Diesel’s Towing Capabilities with Just Autos
At Just Autos, we understand the importance of having a reliable and high-performing vehicle when towing heavy loads. That’s why we offer a range of upgrades specifically designed to improve the towing experience of Toyota diesel owners. From ECU remapping to transmission lock-up kits and airflow upgrades, our team of diesel performance specialists can help you maximise your Toyota diesel’s towing potential.
If you’re looking to upgrade your Toyota diesel’s towing performance, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Just Autos. We’re passionate about diesel performance and are committed to helping our customers get the most out of their vehicles.
