Back in the 1930s, turbochargers made their debut in trucks, marking the beginning of an era for automotive enthusiasts. The allure of turbocharged technology transcended vehicle types, reaching even the domain of compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4.
When it comes to the RAV4, though, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t roll off the assembly line with a turbocharged engine. Instead, it relies on natural aspiration, where the engine draws in air without the assistance of forced induction systems like turbochargers or superchargers. This inherent design has its merits, offering instant power delivery and performance.
Let’s explore how this transition from concept to reality unfolds for those looking to infuse their RAV4 with turbocharged energy. Let’s dive into building a Turbocharged Toyota RAV4.
Exploring the Concept of Building a Turbocharged Toyota RAV4
Turning your RAV4 into a turbocharged powerhouse isn’t a walk in the park—it demands both money and time. But why take on this challenge? Well, the answer is simple: more power! Imagine your RAV4 not just as a reliable ride but as a head-turning show car, standing out from the crowd with its unique performance.
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty, let’s understand what it takes to transform your RAV4. Jeremy, a seasoned enthusiast, has some insights to share:
“Although I haven’t personally experienced enhancing the performance of a 4-cylinder RAV4, enthusiasts among the first and second generations of Scion TC frequently embrace the opportunity. Recently, the 2AR engine has gained attention, especially among MR2 owners exploring the swap.”
Now, let’s talk about building a 2GRFE V6 3rd gen turbo RAV4 (2006-2012). Surprisingly, no internal engine modifications are needed! An unopened 2GRFE engine can handle over 700 wheel horsepower reliably, thanks to its factory-forged rods and crank.
However, there are crucial upgrades needed for a turbocharged V6 RAV4 engine:
Now, here comes the catch: there’s no ready-made turbo kit for the RAV4. This means you’ll need a skilled fabrication shop to bring your dream to life. Jeremy shares his experience:
“With the help of a local Fabrication shop (@Turn5Fabrication), I got the hot side built. I learned to weld and crafted the cold side using a TIG welder from the local Makerspace. The stock automatic U151E/F transmission needs a valve body upgrade, and I recommend a higher-stall torque converter for racing, along with the LevelTen Bulletproof rebuild kit.”
In essence, transforming your RAV4 into a turbocharged marvel involves a blend of creativity, skilled craftsmanship, and a dash of DIY spirit. So, if you’re up for the challenge, buckle up for an extraordinary ride. You should also visit Toyota RAV4 Adventure vs Limited.
Navigating the Turbocharged Toyota RAV4 Journey
Turning an RAV4 into a turbocharged beast isn’t your run-of-the-mill project. It’s a custom job, and Jeremy, who’s been down this road, can vouch for it.
To kick things off, Jeremy faced the need for a new engine. Not just for the thrill of the build, but due to a hiccup with the number six rod bearing in his original engine. The failure was attributed to using 0w20 oil, as recommended by Toyota. However, enthusiasts pushing their engines hard often opt for w30 or w40 for better protection.
Jeremy, opting for a different route, snagged a Toyota Sienna engine from the junkyard. Now, onto the turbocharger selection. Jeremy shares his choice:
“I chose a 67mm twin ball-bearing billet wheel Garrett replica from PSR. This size has proven successful with many 3.5L V6 engines, promising more horsepower than I knew my engine could handle.”
Choosing the turbocharger is just the beginning of the challenges. The entire process takes a custom turn from here on out. Jeremy, in his own words, emphasizes, “From designing and fabricating the custom mid-mount turbo to the custom water-to-air intercooler setup with Forced Inductions Interchiller…everything was custom.”
The heart of this project lies in the hands of a skilled fabricator who can turn visions into reality. A custom-built turbocharged Toyota RAV4 is not just a vehicle; it’s a testament to innovation, determination, and the pursuit of automotive excellence. So, if you’re eyeing this turbocharged adventure, be ready for a ride filled with customization, challenges, and the thrill of seeing your unique creation come to life.
Unveiling the Turbocharged Toyota RAV4 Masterpiece
Is a turbocharged Toyota RAV4 ever truly done? In the realm of intense builds, there’s always room for something new or exciting or even a touch of necessary repairs. It’s an ongoing journey into automotive creativity.
While the finish line might be elusive, catching a glimpse of the near-end result is crucial. Let’s delve into Jeremy’s achievements:
“It made 368 wheel horsepower to all four wheels on the challenging Mustang dyno at PRT performance in Lewisville, TX,” Jeremy notes that there’s potential for improvement, speculating a potential parasitic loss to the all-wheel-drive transmission. The original AWD configuration from the factory delivers 200-wheel horsepower, making this an impressive 168-wheel horsepower upgrade. Considering these figures, the factory motor, initially at 269 horsepower, might have the potential to reach around 450 horsepower.
But is Jeremy calling it a day with this achievement? Not a chance. He shares his plans for the build:
“Not finished. Once I find the limitations of the automatic transmission, I will seek a stronger, faster transmission.”
The quest for perfection continues. Even though the turbocharged Toyota RAV4 has reached remarkable milestones, Jeremy’s relentless pursuit of improvement proves that the journey doesn’t end with the dyno readings. The turbocharged Toyota RAV4 is a canvas ever-ready for enhancements, and the road ahead promises more thrilling upgrades.
Weighing the Turbocharged RAV4: Pros and Cons
Examining the decision to turbocharge an engine involves considering both the perks and drawbacks. Let’s break down the pros and cons.
PROS:
CONS:
Building Your Own Turbocharged Toyota RAV4
Dreaming of a turbocharged RAV4? Ready to turn that dream into reality? Well, before you dive into the nuts and bolts, here are two crucial steps to take:
1. Plan Out the Build:
2. Save Up Some Money:
Jeremy, the turbocharging trailblazer, shares some valuable advice: “If you are handy, have an imagination, and can turn a wrench, just about anything is possible. Hiring a store to construct a personalized kit akin to mine would prove exorbitantly costly.”
Now, the big question: How much should you budget for this turbocharged adventure?
Jeremy spills the beans, “Save up lots of money, especially if you have to pay a shop to design, fabricate, and build a setup for you. The construction might have incurred expenses as minimal as $4,000, but due to the additional personalized features I included, the total expenditure on mine escalated significantly. Hush, please keep this information from my spouse.”
The truth is, that the cost of a turbocharged RAV4 build can vary widely. It’s a blend of your vision, technical skills, and the extent of customization you crave. So, whether you’re a hands-on DIY enthusiast or envision the experts crafting your dream ride, one thing’s for sure – budgeting is key, and a turbocharged RAV4 is an investment worth making.
Conclusion
In the world of turbocharged RAV4s, the journey never truly ends. With a mix of creativity, dedication, and a willingness to explore, turning an RAV4 into a turbocharged marvel is a thrilling adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the power boost, the unique modifications, or the sheer joy of driving a custom creation, each turbocharged RAV4 tells a story of passion and innovation on the open road. The ride may have a conclusion, but the spirit of the turbocharged RAV4 lives on in the hearts of those who dare to dream and build.
