What engine is in a 1987 Toyota pickup?
In most 1987 Toyota Pickups built for the North American market, the truck ran a 2.4-liter inline-four known as the 22R, with some late-year or export models switching to the fuel-injected 22R-E. V6 options were not common in the 1987 lineup for the U.S., making the 4-cylinder engine the defining powerplant for that year.
Engine options for the 1987 Toyota Pickup
The following summarizes the main engine choices that were available in 1987 for this pickup family, noting that availability varied by region and trim.
- 2.4L inline-4 22R (carbureted)
- 2.4L inline-4 22R-E (fuel-injected)
- Diesel option in some international markets (commonly a 2.4L turbodiesel 2L-T)
These options reflect the typical U.S. market and common export configurations of the era. The carbureted 22R was the standard configuration for many base models, while the EFI 22R-E appeared on higher trims and later in the model year. Outside North America, Toyota offered diesel versions, which were popular in several markets for their fuel economy and durability.
How to identify which engine your 1987 pickup has
If you’re trying to confirm the exact engine in a specific vehicle, use these steps to verify by code, fuel system, and physical features.
- Look for the engine code stamped on the engine block or valve cover (common codes are 22R, 22R-E, or 2L-T in diesel variants).
- Check under the hood for the fuel delivery system: a carburetor indicates 22R, while fuel injectors and an EFI intake indicate 22R-E.
- Inspect the intake manifold and air intake setup: a carburetor sits on top of the manifold in carbureted engines; EFI uses a throttle body or multi-port injectors with sensors.
- Consult the vehicle’s emission label or the VIN plate for the engine/trim codes that correspond to your market’s configuration.
If you still aren’t certain after a visual check, the VIN and model code from the door jamb or title can be cross-referenced with Toyota’s manuals or a dealership to confirm the exact engine specification for that specific truck.
Historical context and maintenance notes
The 1987 Toyota Pickup era marked a transition from carbureted to fuel-injected powertrains in North America, with EFI versions offering smoother throttle response and improved efficiency. Diesel options were more common in international markets, where the Hilux nameplate carried a broader range of engines. For owners maintaining a classic 1987 pickup, parts compatibility typically centers around the 22R family, so sourcing carburetor components or EFI parts may depend on the exact engine code.
Summary
The typical 1987 Toyota Pickup in the United States ran a 2.4-liter inline-four called the 22R, with an EFI 22R-E variant appearing on later or higher-spec models. International markets offered a diesel option (2L-T) as well. To identify the exact engine in a specific truck, inspect the engine code, look for carburetor versus EFI components, and check the vehicle’s VIN/model codes. In most cases from that year, a V6 was not part of the standard U.S. lineup.
