How to Change a 79 Series Land Cruiser's Oil...
The 79 Series oil change is one of the easiest DIY service jobs on the platform. The engine bay is open, the sump is easily reached from underneath, the oil filter is in a sensible spot, and the whole job takes under an hour with basic tools. Doing it yourself saves $80 to $200 per service compared with workshop pricing, and over the life of the vehicle that adds up to thousands of dollars.
This guide covers the procedure for the V8 1VD-FTV and the new 2.8L 1GD-FTV. The pre-2007 1HZ procedure is similar but the oil specification and filter part differ. Always confirm the correct oil and filter for your specific year before starting.
1. Tools and Materials Required
You need a 1/2-inch drive ratchet, 17 mm and 19 mm sockets (the V8 sump plug is 19 mm, the 2.8L is 17 mm - confirm before starting), a 12-litre drain pan, an oil filter wrench sized for your filter, a new oil filter, a new copper sump plug washer, lint-free rags, and the correct oil for your engine and year.
For the V8 you need approximately 9.5 litres (2007-2008) or 9.2 litres (2009 to late 2024). For the 2.8L you need approximately 7.5 litres. The Toyota Genuine 90915-YZZD3 filter or Ryco Z418 equivalent fits all V8 production years. The 2.8L uses a different filter - confirm with your parts supplier.
2. Warm the Engine
Run the engine for 10 to 15 minutes (or take a short drive) so the oil reaches operating temperature. Warm oil flows faster and carries more contamination out with the drain. Park on level ground with the wheels chocked, switch off, and wait 5 minutes for the oil to settle in the sump.
Wear gloves and eye protection - the oil is hot enough to burn skin. Position the drain pan under the sump plug and confirm it can catch the full flow rate when the plug is removed.
3. Drain the Oil
Loosen the sump plug with the correct socket. Once it cracks free, unscrew by hand with the drain pan positioned correctly underneath. Pull the plug straight away from the sump to let the oil drain in a single stream. Let it drain for 10 to 15 minutes - the last litre is the most contaminated and worth waiting for.
While the oil drains, locate the oil filter on the side of the engine block. The V8 filter is on the driver-side of the engine bay; the 2.8L is in a similar position. Use the oil filter wrench to break the filter loose, then unscrew by hand. Have rags ready - oil will run out as the filter clears the housing.
4. Fit the New Filter and Refill
Wipe the filter sealing surface clean. Apply a thin film of fresh oil to the new filter's rubber gasket - this prevents the gasket sticking on next service. Hand-tighten the new filter, then turn an additional three-quarter turn after the gasket contacts the housing. Do not over-torque - hand-tight plus three-quarter turn is correct.
Replace the copper sump plug washer with a new one - reusing the old washer is the most common cause of slow drain plug leaks. Refit the sump plug and torque to 40 Nm. Refill the engine through the oil filler cap to approximately 90 per cent of capacity. Start the engine for 30 seconds to circulate, shut off, wait 5 minutes, then check the dipstick and top up to the upper mark.
5. Disposal and Records
Used engine oil is hazardous and must not be disposed of in household waste or down drains. Most Australian council waste depots accept used oil free of charge in sealed containers. Service stations and auto parts shops often provide drop-off as well. Pour the drained oil into the empty bottles the new oil came in.
Log the service with kilometres, oil and filter used, and the date. A simple notebook in the glovebox or a phone notes file is enough. Service records add resale value and confirm the maintenance history for any future buyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change the oil on a 79 Series?
Toyota recommends 10,000 km or 6 months on the V8 and 2.8L, and 5,000 km on the pre-2007 1HZ. Halve those intervals in severe service (heavy towing, dusty conditions, short-trip use).
What torque is the sump plug on a 79 Series?
Approximately 40 Nm on both the V8 1VD-FTV and the 2.8L 1GD-FTV. Always replace the copper crush washer with a new one at each service.
Can I do a 79 Series oil change myself?
Yes. The job takes under an hour with basic hand tools. Saves $80 to $200 per service compared with workshop pricing.
How do I dispose of used engine oil?
Most Australian council waste depots accept used oil free of charge in sealed containers. Service stations and auto parts shops often provide drop-off facilities as well.
