The Ultimate Guide to Understanding the 79 Series Bonnet

The 79 series Toyota Land Cruiser is a beast of a machine that can conquer any terrain you throw at it. One of the most important components of this vehicle is its bonnet. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about the 79 series bonnet, including its design, material, maintenance and more.

The Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series will soon be available in Australia with a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine option, however, the V8 engine will still be available.

EXCLUSIVE

Orders for the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series in Australia are expected to reopen by the end of this year, after being paused since mid-2022 due to overwhelming demand. A new 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel variant is being added to the line-up, which will be sold alongside the 4.5-litre V8 turbo diesel.

The four-cylinder engine, borrowed from the Toyota HiLux, is set to offer more power and torque than the V8 while delivering better fuel economy and lower emissions – all without sacrificing towing capacity, payload or off-road ability.

The output figures for the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series four-cylinder engine have yet to be confirmed; however, at present, the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel in the Toyota HiLux is available in 150kW/420Nm, 150kW/500Nm and 165kW/550Nm configurations (dependent on model).

As a guide, the output of the current 4.5-litre V8 turbo diesel in the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series stands at 151kW and 430Nm with peak torque delivered between 1200rpm and 3200rpm.

When the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series V8 was launched in 2007, the company claimed that the 4.5-litre V8 turbo diesel had “the flattest torque curve among all of Toyota’s engines.”

Moreover, a mild-hybrid version of the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel is currently being developed and is expected to be presented soon. The hybrid engine is intended for use in the Toyota HiLux, Toyota Prado, and Toyota Fortuner. It remains unclear whether this particular engine version will also be used in the Toyota LandCruiser workhorse.

It is anticipated that the new four-cylinder engine will permit automatic transmission as an alternative for the first time in more than three decades for the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series. This comes after the original four-speed automatic was discontinued between 1985 and 1990.

The upcoming four-cylinder engine option is expected to be accompanied by several upgrades, including a new infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Toyota HiLux steering wheel from the 70th anniversary edition in 2021 (pictured above), and minor cosmetic changes to the exterior. It remains unclear whether this smaller engine will allow the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series to return to its previous narrower front-wheel track. The front-wheel track was widened in 2007 to accommodate the V8, but this resulted in instability on deep rutted tracks since the rear wheels were positioned narrower than the front wheels.

It is possible that the front and rear wheel tracks of the LandCruiser 70 Series could remain staggered as in the V8 model, in order to reduce production complexity and engineering costs. However, fleet departments with strict occupational health and safety guidelines would appreciate a rectification.

Toyota Australia has declined to comment on any future model plans. However, Toyota dealers have been advised to anticipate “a big change” to the LandCruiser 70 Series as it approaches its 40th year of production – making it one of the oldest new vehicles still available for sale today.

The last time a four-cylinder powertrain was an option for the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series in Australia was over 30 years ago. During this time, the related Toyota LandCruiser Bundera offered a choice between a 2.4-litre (2366cc) four-cylinder petrol or a 2.4-litre (2446cc) four-cylinder diesel from 1985 to 1991.

Section 1: What is a Bonnet?

Before we delve into the specifics of the 79 series bonnet, let’s first define what a bonnet is. A car’s bonnet, also known as the hood in some countries, is an exterior panel that covers the engine compartment. It serves two purposes; protecting the engine from dust and debris while also providing access to it for maintenance.

Section 2: The Design of the 79 Series Bonnet

The 79 series Toyota Land Cruiser has a distinctive design that sets it apart from its competitors. The bonnet is no exception. The bonnet has an angular shape with raised edges, giving it an aggressive look that matches the ruggedness of the vehicle itself.

One unique feature of the 79 series bonnet are its air vents located on both sides of the hood near the windshield. These vents allow air to pass through and cool down the engine bay, preventing overheating when driving in extreme weather conditions.

Section 3: Materials Used in Creating a 79 Series Bonnet

The materials used in creating a car’s body panels are critical to not only its performance but also its appearance. The 79 series bonnet is made from steel, which provides excellent durability and protection against damage from rocks and other debris on rough roads.

However, some owners may choose to replace their factory steel hood with an aftermarket fiberglass or carbon fiber version for weight reduction purposes or aesthetic reasons. While these options might be lighter and more visually appealing than the standard steel hood, they may also be more susceptible to damage from impacts.

Section 4: Maintenance of the 79 Series Bonnet

Proper maintenance of your vehicle’s bonnet is crucial to ensure its longevity and functionality. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water can help remove debris and protect against rust. Additionally, inspecting the hood for any dents or scratches after off-roading adventures can prevent long-term damage that may lead to costly repairs.

If you do notice any damage, it is essential to address it promptly. Small dents can be fixed with a paintless dent removal service, while larger dents or cracks may require professional repair or replacement.

Section 5: Upgrades and Accessories for Your 79 Series Bonnet

As with any car component, there are numerous upgrades and accessories available for the 79 series bonnet. One popular option is adding a bonnet scoop. A scoop increases airflow into the engine bay, which can boost performance while also giving your ride an aggressive appearance.

Another popular accessory is a bonnet protector. These shields protect against debris damage while also reducing wind noise at high speeds. They are usually made from tough thermoplastic material that is easy to install and remove when necessary.

Section 6: Cost of Replacing a 79 Series Bonnet

Replacing your 79 series bonnet can be expensive depending on several factors such as material used, labor cost, and location-based pricing differences. Steel hoods may range between $500-$1000 while fiberglass or carbon fiber options may cost up to $2000 or more including installation expenses.

However, repairing minor damages such as dents or scratches through PDR services could be less expensive when compared to total replacement costs.

Section 7: How Often Should You Replace Your Bonnet?

Bonnet replacement frequency depends on various factors such as driving habits, weather conditions in your area, quality of maintenance, and product material used. A steel hood can last up to 10 years or more with proper care, while a fiberglass or carbon fiber option may not last as long depending on the type of use.

It is always good to inspect your bonnet regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as rusting or cracks. If you notice any significant damage, consider replacing the hood immediately to avoid further damages that could lead to costly repairs.

Section 8: Conclusion

In conclusion, the 79 series bonnet is an essential component of the Toyota Land Cruiser. It not only protects your engine from debris but also adds to the vehicle’s unique and rugged appearance. Proper maintenance and care are critical for ensuring its longevity and functionality. With a wealth of accessories and upgrades available, you can customize your bonnet to fit your style while still providing protection.