Symptoms
Milky oil, a dropping coolant level, coolant weeping where the head meets the block, or a radiator that's already been replaced.
The fix, step by step
- Test before you take anything apart.
- Do a compression test, a leak-down test and a cooling-system pressure test, and use a block tester to check the coolant for exhaust gas.
- On the 1FZ-FE the oil cooler can also leak coolant into the oil, so pressure-test or replace it before blaming the head gasket.
- If the head has to come off, have the head and block deck checked for flatness and cracks, and use new head bolts or studs torqued to spec.
Tools & part numbers
- Compression and leak-down testers
- cooling-system pressure tester
- combustion-leak (block) tester
- if needed, an OEM head gasket set and the service manual.
Where to buy the parts
Engine gasket set, FZJ80/LX450 1993–97Cruiser Corps ↗Amazon ↗
Engine gasket set, FJ62/FJ80 1987–92Cruiser Corps ↗Amazon ↗
Oil cooler mounting kit (1995 4.5L)RockAuto ↗Amazon ↗
Cylinder head bolts (1995 4.5L)RockAuto ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Toyota Land Cruiser 80 Series parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.