The best 79 series upgrades include custom ECU remapping, dyno tuning, exhaust upgrades, and catch can installation. These upgrades are the ones I recommend most often. From there, we can add further upgrades depending on your power and performance goals.
Some 4x4s are made to be modified, and the Land Cruiser is one of them. After over two decades of modifying 4x4s, the Land Cruiser remains one of my favourites. The 79 series is especially easy to modify without affecting reliability or longevity.
Here are the best 79 series upgrades that I’ve seen deliver the best results in performance and power.
Top 8 Best 79 Series Land Cruiser Upgrades
- ECU Remapping
- Dyno Tuning
- Exhaust Upgrades
- Suspension System Upgrades
- DPF Replacement
- Fuel Injector Upgrades
- Snorkel Installation
- Catch Can Installation
1. Custom ECU Remapping
Anytime someone asks me about the best 79 series upgrades, the first thing I recommend is custom ECU remapping.
ECU remapping involves modifying the engine’s electronic control unit. This process enables us to remove factory limitations that diminish certain performance aspects.
Here are the main reasons why ECU remapping is one of the best 79 series upgrades:
- Maximises efficiency
- Noticeable boost in power
- Modifies software settings that restrict power and torque
- Improves driveability
- Enhances reliability
- Fully customisable according to your towing needs, driving preferences, and performance goals
- Modifies injection timing to optimise the air-to-fuel ratio
I go more in-depth on the benefits of ECU remapping here: What Is ECU Remapping?
2. Dyno Tuning
ECU remapping and dyno tuning go hand-in-hand. These upgrades complement each other, which is why I include them in every 79 series upgrade package we offer.
Our dyno tuning includes a baseline test, precise air-to-fuel ratio adjustments, and ignition timing optimisation. From there, we can also fine-tune throttle calibration or adjust boost pressure to enhance performance even more.
Here are the main reasons I consider dyno tuning one of the best 79 series upgrades:
- Provides a measurable increase in power
- Delivers a noticeable improvement in engine performance
- Provides details of engine performance
- Optimises throttle response for smoother handling and improved acceleration
- Smoother power delivery
- Improved fuel economy
- May improve the lifespan of the engine by decreasing stress on internal components
Learn more about the benefits of dyno tuning here: The Main Benefits of Dyno Tuning.
3. Exhaust Upgrades
Exhaust upgrades for 79 series Land Cruisers can increase fuel efficiency, reduce noise, and improve exhaust flow. This equates to a boost in overall engine performance and driveability.
For me, the benefits of exhaust upgrades make them non-negotiable as one of the best 79 series upgrades. That’s why you’ll notice exhaust upgrades are included in every Land Cruiser upgrade package we offer.
Why exhaust upgrades are one of the best 79 series upgrades:
- Enhanced exhaust flow
- Increased fuel efficiency
- Reduced noise
- Improved engine performance
- Engine optimisation
- Improved power and torque
- Can be tweaked according to your acoustic preferences to achieve that sporty, sought-after sound
- Enhanced visual appeal
One of my favourite recent upgrades was a Land Cruiser 79 series in impeccable condition. We took it to the next level with custom performance upgrades, including a Safari ARMAX snorkel replacement, Odyssey performance catch can, 3” manta exhaust system, and custom ECU remapping.
The result was a high-performance machine that looked even better than it did when the owner brought it in.
And the power increase was impressive:
- Before: 125hp / 260mm +55hp 17psi
- After: 180hp / 475nm +215m 20:1afr
See more about this custom 79 series Land Cruiser upgrade here: 79 Series Tune Perth.
4. Suspension System Upgrades
Premium suspension upgrades are another excellent option to consider for enhancing your 79 Series Land Cruiser.
Why suspension system upgrades are one of the best 79 series Land Cruiser upgrades to consider:
- Enhanced stability
- Better ride quality
- Better driveability
- Improved off-road capabilities
- Smoother towing
If you frequently haul bulky gear or tow heavy loads, I recommend looking into suspension upgrades for your Land Cruiser. On or off-road, suspension upgrades offer a more controlled, precise driving experience.
Learn more about our advanced suspension systems here: 4×4 Suspension Perth.
5. DPF Replacement
Another one of the best 79 series upgrades is replacing the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). This isn’t as popular as other upgrades, but I like bringing awareness to the benefits it offers.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) replacement services are beneficial for:
- Supporting optimal engine performance
- Reducing emissions
- Ensuring compliance with emissions regulations
- Eliminating issues resulting from a clogged filter
- Improved engine health
Learn More: Do DPF Filters Need Replacing?
6. Fuel Injector Upgrades
High flow injectors deliver the exact amount of fuel needed for ideal combustion. This translates to reduced fuel waste, higher efficiency, and a boost in power.
Why fuel injector mods are one of the best 79 series upgrades:
- Power boost
- Reduced fuel waste
- Optimised combustion
- Improved reliability and efficiency
- Increased torque
- Better acceleration
You May Also Like: Top 10 Best 70 Series Mods.
7. Snorkel Installation
Along with our power packages, we can also offer a range of performance accessories, such as snorkel installation. Safari Armax snorkels work seamlessly with our various upgrade packages.
Stage 2 and Stage 3 of our 79 series upgrade packages include custom Safari Armax snorkel installation. Snorkel installation ensures the engine ingests cooler, cleaner air without taking in water. This protects the engine while still letting you cross creeks or beaches with ease.
Why snorkel installation is one of the best 79 series Land Cruiser upgrades:
- Safer water crossings since the snorkel creates an elevated path for intake air, reducing the risk of engine failure and hydrolock during water crossings or beach washouts
- Relocates the intake to roof height rather than the hot engine bay
- Improved reliability
- Enhanced engine protection by helping to prevent dust and water from getting into the cylinders
- Reduced wear on turbos, rings, pistons, and other components
- Reduced oil contamination
- Improved combustion efficiency thanks to cooler, denser intake air
Doing a lot of beach driving or water crossings like I do? I recommend our Phase 2 or Phase 3 Land Cruiser upgrade package. Snorkel installation also pairs well with a sealed airbox and high-quality catch can installation.
Learn more: What Does a Snorkel Do on a Car?
8. Catch Can Installation
If you prioritise long-term performance, I consider catch can installation as one of the best 79 series upgrades.
Most upgrades give you instant gratification, but catch can installation pays off in the long run.
A good quality catch can prevent excess oil from entering the cylinders. This helps keep the intake manifold clean. Over time, this can improve reliability, support good fuel economy, and help maintain power.
All of our 79 series Land Cruiser upgrade packages include catch can installation to ensure long-term reliability and performance.
Take Your Land Cruiser to the Next Level
79 Series Land Cruisers are known for their exceptional reliability, durability, power, and ruggedness. And a few upgrades can make the 79 series even better.
ECU remapping, dyno tuning, and exhaust system upgrades can get you more out of your Land Cruiser.
We specialise in 79 series upgrades and can help you maximise your Land Cruiser’s torque, efficiency, and power.
Our custom 79 series upgrade packages include custom dyno ECU remaps, full Manta exhaust systems, Extreme Outback HD clutches, and more.
Get a quote for your custom 79 series upgrades from one of our Toyota performance specialists.