The 22R-E engine is one of Toyota's most stalwart, the R engines being used in Toyota cars and small trucks produced for 42 years, from 1953 through 1995. The 22 is the 17th generation of the venerable R Toyota engine, and even came in an official Toyota turbocharged version as the 22R-TE from late 1985 through 1988. Turbocharging the 22R-E engine is a frequently desired customization to boost torque and horsepower; however, among the experts, it is not considered worth the time, effort and cost.
Change the pistons to 22R-TE pistons. There are no Toyota engines other than those that already have the optional turbo that can be added to without tearing the engine apart and changing parts, firewall, sides and mounts.
Replace the 22R-E manifold with a tubular manifold. A tubular manifold provides better boost response because it minimizes the exhaust volume between the exhaust ports and the turbine inlet.
Install a bigger radiator than the factory 22R-E has. The standard radiator is too small. It is more economical to take out the engine, expand the firewalls, and put in the Toyota supercharged engine, new exhaust, air intake, suspension, brakes and cross members.
Install Megasquirt in place of the standard electronic fuel injection. Megasquirt is an electronic fuel Injection computer that integrates with the stock wiring harness. It's not advisable to buy a turbo kit or turbo unless you understand how to control timing and fuel.
Upgrade the fuel pump and the fuel injectors. Upgrading fuel injectors is required when modifying or changing the 22R-E engine to the extent necessary for a turbo charger.
Change all fluids and use synthetic fluids. Cutting down on friction can add 20 to 25 pounds of torque.
Set up the compression ratio for a turbo. For any turbo application, the compression ratio must be dropped.
