1MZ-FE....with or without VVT-i?

NYSpeed Automotive
1

I am researching to find out as much info as I can on the 1MZ-FE. My question how reliable was the VVT-i setup on the 1MZ for the few years that it was put out?

The HP increased from around 170-190 to 210 with the VVT-i but is this 2-stage hydraulic system really that realible? I have my doubts that as the motor see more miles that this system breaks down. I have no proof for or against this theory so I was hoping someone could shed some light on this question. Toyota pulled the VVT-i due to emissions issues in the Euro market around 05-06. Other than that I really don’t see any other issues with this motor system.

I am weighing my options for a 190 HP 1MZ-FE or a 210 HP 1MZ-FE with the VVT-i. The 20 HP is not the deciding factor. Dependablilty is the deciding factor.

Thoughts?

(I tried posting this in the Tech section but I guess no dice…:shrug:)

2

I know some lotus guys have issues with the high cam wearing out on their 2zz-GTE motors, but i can’t add much about the 1MZ

3

What do you plan on doing with the motor would be my 1st question? Leaving it bone stock? Modding it?

4

Swap into the Grand Am?

J/k Luke.

5

^Haha…I swear, It’s amazing how much flack I get for the Grand Am without even mentioning it.

No, the Grand Am is getting the for sale sign…VERY soon.

That’s actually good to know anyways. Thanks.

I would leave it BONE stock. It’s nice to have some Good power available but not blown or with a SC. Gotta start small first especially when I am not familiar with the motor.

6

I think you need to take a course in Project Management so that you can effectively
layout the requirements and resources available to your automotive needs.

7

Bwahhhhhahahaaa! I STILL have not finished 611. Fuck me.

8

I think if you’re leaving it stock you’ll be fine with either of those motors. I just didn’t want to respond until you told me what you were using it for. VVT-I can become a pain if you ever decide you want cams or anything fun.

9

I haven’t heard of any issues and spent a lot of time researching this engine. I had a 2000 solara v6 5 speed without vvti. I had a few bolt ons and beat the living piss out of the car for around 50,000 miles (was at around 125k when I traded it). I had zero motor issues, just change the oil every 3k. The motor is pretty bulletproof either way, but I suggest going without vvti, why make things complicated for 10 extra hp (the figures range between 190-200 for 1mzfes without vvti). If you want to know anything more, PM me I’m sure I can help.

10

If you do go with this motor be sure to keep a regular maintance on it.Ive seen absoloutly zero problems with the VVT-I other than the cam gear/Controller on the 2GR-FE and the new 1.5 Yaris motors. The 1MZ-FE is a sludge motor though.I would steer clear of it.Find the 3.3 (3MZ) motor. Zero problems with those.

11

Sludge motors are not an issue for anyone who’s done proper maintenance on a motor. You can easily tell if a motor has been properly maintained. Don’t “steer clear”, just make sure you check them out properly before purchasing.

12

where’s civicjim when you need him lol

13

I thought the sludge problems were only with the 3VZ-FE, I thought they fixed that with the 1MZ.

What is this engine going into?

14

Routine Maintenace will not be an issue. Thank for all the input guys.

This is pretty much how I feel. Either way if I get a smokin deal I don’t think either configuration will be a bad choice. I am kind of leaning to a NON VVT-i for this reason…