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Celica AWD Build thread

111K views 153 replies 24 participants last post by  IamTeacher  
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
Hello everyone!

Okay, this has been long awaited, but there are still no steps to do so. I will be taking it upon myself to document all the steps I take to make a 2zz AWD, mainly using bolt-on parts. So far, I have sourced a few parts to get this to work for a fair price. I planned to source everything from an RX300 since the same wheelbase, and the Celica seems to have the exact mounting locations. The only difference is the way the rear is set up. There is no leaf spring. After spending two days at the junkyard getting my parts, I learned the transfer case was destroyed inside. That was a waste of time. On the upside, I got a minor diff that should bolt into the Celica with minimal mounting and no cutting.

The parts I have sourced so far:
1999 Lexus Rx300:
- Rear axles​
- Front axles​
- Rear differential​
- Driveshaft​
Total cost = $167

I plan to get the remaining parts and still keep the cost low. I would also like to keep it simple so more people can do the conversion.

The plan right now is to source a 153 transmission with a transfer case or, better yet, a 154f which I hear some Rav4s have. After I get the new tranny, I feel the axles from the U140 will not work with the 153. I will be doing more research on this; otherwise its back to the junkyard looking for parts

If anyone has anything to add, please do,
But for now, it's off to the garage.
 
#2 ·
So I am going to explain a little more of why I chose the Rx300 for the rear diff.
Looking at this post on another forum here

You can see from the images he posted it mounts almost exactly like the rx300 rear diff

There build
Image



Rx300
Image



So after seeing that it became clear to me that it would be easier to just drop the whole rear sub-frame at the junkyard and have it charged as a third member which keeps the cost low
 
#3 ·
Mounting a diff is not hard. More issues are with the suspension etc. A Toyota matrix has everything you need to bolt on the back. It's AWD and Celica are the same chassis. It's literally a bolt on application. However I would not use the matrix rear diff with any power upgrades...

The only thing that has stopped me from doing this is the transmission. I cannot seem to find a transfer case that clears the 2ZZ block. The guy in Russia has but he is not sharing information.

Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk
 
#4 ·
That is true, The easiest thing to do would be to just use the matrix, but here in WA you will not find a matrix. The price is also not very light on the pocket. The diff on the Rx is the same as in a sienna which has a lot of weight to move so I assume it is a little stronger. It should bolt on either way it seems there are the same mounts at this point I am looking at just replacing the hubs.

As for the transfer case. I've been trying to compare the transfer case in the sienna/rx300 Which both use a 1mz/3mz platform with not a lot of room. I have taken a look at both of them and it is fit in there tight. I haven't gotten my hands on a 154 transfer case, but looking at a highlander and rav4 Assuming they are similar in size they seem to be a little bit bigger than the sienna/rx. May need more information to confirm this


Edit:
I found a place that imports transmissions and engines. I will be seeing if they will let me compare both transfer cases they have in stock
 
#5 · (Edited)
Taking a closer look today at the sienna, Rav4, and surprisingly a u140f transmission off a matrix awd. Comparing them all my theory was correct the Sienna/Rx transfer case is smaller.

Here I have a image comparison of them all

The original 154f tranny off a alltrack

Image


Image


As you can see it is a little large and the round bell part of it is what I assume makes it tough to mount to the 2zz although on the u140 the matrix tranny

Image


Image


The bell end seems to disappear it becomes squished and flat on that end for easy mounting on the 1zz matrix I suspect. Although comparing it to the rav4 transfer case from a 2001-2005 transfer case

Image


They look like they would definitely bolt up and work no matter what.
Lastly we have the transfer case I can source very easily here. The sienna/Rx/highlander all of these use a v6 1mzfe,3mz. All of them before the 2gr switch ie, before 2006 they seem like the best bet for people with a 153 tranny

Image

Image


It is completely flat on one end making it in my opinion the best transfer case for this project. I will try to get a rav4 transfer case and figure out the in depth difference, From the research I have done right now It looks like if I want to have a e153 I will need the Rx transfer case, If I want something to bolt up to my c60 I will need to find the rav4 transfer case. The main difference is the axles one for 4cyl one for 6, c60 vs e153...

Will be back with more information
 
#9 ·
The conversion would be more like Legos if I had the automatic version since there is a place to mount the transfer case on the c60,c59 there are no mounting holes. So only way to get it to mount is to source a new transmission. Which is the next step I am looking at pulling it from a 99 Camry v6... Very easy to find at my local junk yard
 
#59 · (Edited)
How is your progress with this?



You mentioned here you believe the conversion may be easier with an auto tranny. How true is this?

I understand that AWD would only be a benefit with x amount of torque, and obviously thats an issue with the auto. But what if you had say:

A built IPT U240E w/ upgraded spring phantom grip, torque converter and valvebody
A complete 2.0L 2ZZ Stroker with P&P
3" I/H/E
Stage 2 MWR cams (bigger small lobe)
And an appropriately sized turbo?

I'm sure that'll get it moving

For the sake of this, lets assume the GTS is already equipped with these mods and is now just looking for the AWD to exceed traction limitations on turbo power (probably one of the few, if not the only real reason you would venture down this path)

Lets also forget cost of said setup (not the AWD setup, we obviously want to find the cheapest effective avenue). The way I see it, if you're able to put that 500hp to the ground and beat (some) stupidly expensive supercars, its worth it, true?

Now, I'm not debating auto vs manual here (probably better with the taller, built auto gears at that power anyway). If it works with the auto, we can go from there :)
 
#11 · (Edited)
Right now I'm looking for a way I can do a diy 153 swap so I can keep the cost low so everyone will be able to do the AWD conversion verily cheap, sure I could get the mwr but at a price of 5k it's about 27 times more than what I payed to get all the parts for a awd, right now the transmission is what is holding me back
 
#12 ·
Another update

Found this read although google translate makes it a little tough to read, Someone posted there process of mating a e series transmission using the rav4 transfer case then showing how the e154f from a all track is too big like I have stated earlier. If you want to take a look you can read it here

So it is possible just need either the e153 or apparently the E359F almost exact gear ratio but apparently according to Toyota it is full time awd unlike the 154f which apparently is only part time
 
#13 · (Edited)
Finally getting some parts, Pulled a transfer case off a 99 rav4 the design of it is very interesting. It is a full time awd but the way it is built is pretty cool too me.

Image


Image


As you can see there is a small axle hollowed out to let the passenger side axle go through to the transmission, The hollowed one drives the rear differential. Still not everything I need it came off a auto trans so I am still looking for a manual that it will mate too, but looking at the sizes I have after looking at the transmission for the matrix they are almost identical, the rav4 is a little bit longer, but it wont be a problem.
You can take a look here
Image


Matrix awd trans
Image


So now after that I can tell you that I saved about $800 by getting the transfer case from a junk yard for $50. So let me explain a little of why I decided to not get a E153 and am trying to get a rav4 E250. First of all the early rav4 is based off a old corolla platform... The same platform as the matrix and celica. So I am guessing most of the parts will work. Now the reason I am trying to get the E250 (I'm not saying that this cant be done without the 153, in fact if you already have a e153 or a auto trans you can do this with just getting the parts I have listed along with a transfer case) The e250 on a first and second gen rav4 has a final drive of 4.9. why would that be interesting at all it is because of the extra torque. Adding two wheels to the back and having a full time AWD I need the torque to have enough power making it truly AWD. Although comparing it to a 154f from a all track the only difference is the first gear on the rav4 it is a little taller.

Next step get transmission
 
#25 · (Edited)
Jake, congrats on documenting your finds! This was also covered in the *GTS Jason thread. But you better focus on the 'centre diff lock' to consider what you are doing.

The 1st gens matrix have rear viscous coupler to transmit power 'anti slip' mode. Not to mention auto makers define part-time/full-time in their own fashion. True part-time/full-time is something different.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=pN6-gCxI60g

If you could document how that works for 2nd gen matrix, rx300, sienna ,rav4 there is good reason we think the Russian celica uses this but nobody wanted that setup. It would be good for snow drifting

http://www.rav4world.com/pdf/2006/2006_4wdsystem.pdf

JakesFate;post=6260577 said:
So it is possible just need either the e153 or apparently the E359F almost exact gear ratio but apparently according to Toyota it is full time awd unlike the 154f which apparently is only part time
Not true. E15xf is full-time determined by 'centre lock' mode. E154f does not have the locking lever.

https://rav4gtt.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/e154fnodifflock.jpg

First of all the early rav4 is based off a old corolla platform... The same platform as the matrix and celica. So I am guessing most of the parts will work. Now the reason I am trying to get the E250 (I'm not saying that this cant be done without the 153, in fact if you already have a e153 or a auto trans you can do this with just getting the parts I have listed along with a transfer case)
Not true. you cannot use E15xf without the '96-'00 subframe that does not fit the T23. Switch occurs at '98 for corolla, '02 for caldina, so why did toyota drop the E15xf on ST246? why did fensport need a custom engine cradle? everything must be from '01-'05.

Who knows maybe without the big monster of a transfer case the 154f is it might not need cutting... Also a noting where the transfer case goes there is a motor mount in the way so possibly wont have trouble cutting if needed....
That monster transfer case houses the viscous coupler or maybe high power robust applications. It must be fitted to the rear axle for 1zz 2zz clearance, plus block modification needed, but not enough to puncture it.

Automatic is more Lego while A2xx U2xx U1xx use same bellhouse. E359f is your best gamble. Don't know about E250f though you have two type of systems.
http://gtfour.supras.org.nz/gearbox.htm
1.) mechanical lock, introduced '86 for N/A
a. pneumatic actuator
b. hydraulic multi plate clutch
2.) viscous coupling, introduced '87 for F/I
c. revised coupler housing

E50f (1st gen) 3s-gte
E150f (2nd gen) 3s-gte
E154f (3rd gen) 3s-gte
E250f (4th gen) 3s-beams (2nd gen)
A540h(4th gen) 3s-beams (2nd gen)

E = Electronic control
F = Four wheel drive
H = AWD Transverse mount engine
L = Lock-up torque converter
D = Separates 3-speed 4-speed

https://youtube.com/watch?v=qY3ZE5yevOQ
 
#17 ·
following this thread.... so the 1zz autos can make the direct swap with no ECU mods??? Does the driveline fit jointly with the exhaust?? I've always wondered if I could swap the Matrix' awd driveline to mine, but I always thought it was bs and that people would stick the AWD logo to look cool, like BMW owners do with the M badge or the SI crowd... I wasn't ready to sprawl in some parking lot to look under a Matrix until now... maybe you'll answer these questions later. Still following your steps incase I do a GTS swap, or just buy a GTS. Thanks for taking the plunge for us.
 
#18 ·
following this thread.... so the 1zz autos can make the direct swap with no ECU mods??? Does the drive line fit jointly with the exhaust?? I've always wondered if I could swap the Matrix' awd drive line to mine, but I always thought it was bs and that people would stick the AWD logo to look cool, like BMW owners do with the M badge or the SI crowd... I wasn't ready to sprawl in some parking lot to look under a Matrix until now... maybe you'll answer these questions later. Still following your steps in case I do a GTS swap, or just buy a GTS. Thanks for taking the plunge for us.

I am gonna have to take back what I said about the autos. Me being excited and jumping to conclusions didn't account for that the matrix u340 has a custom bell housing for it to bolt up. they are the same in every way except the way the awd mates up. Sorry about my false hope I was more focused on the manual I didn't check too deep into auto because in my opinion why would I want a 4 speed auto. So in order for a 1zz to make the swap they would need the trans from the matrix... If you want to know how to make it work someone did it with a vibe that link is here to my knowledge they wouldnt need to mod the ecu since they are the same trans in every way except the one little part where the transfer case hooks up. Now the transfer case doesn't have any wires going to it it is basically just a differential that bolts up to your transmission. the one I chose was a 50/50 lsd off a rav4. but there are different types. Still they are just a front differential you could bolt it up and the ecu wouldnt know or even want to know. Last thing is a custom exhaust will be needed. In my case I will be doing the full exhaust, but keep in mind the only problem with making the exhaust fit is the pipe that goes under the rear wheels to the muffler. It is possible to just cut that and mount a pipe that goes over. I will go more into detail later about what I will do.


One more thing I would like to note is that reading that 1zz vibe awd conversion is in GTS * Jason's topic on here no one wanted to cut into the block... Well they did it in that thread to make the transmission fit to the 1zz.
Image



So in from looking at all of this the problem most people had which is
Image


wouldnt be as scary to attempt to cut. Will keep everyone updated as the process goes on.
 
#19 ·
It is not possible to fit the transmission of a celica gt4 st205 into 2zzge in any way? This transmission is perfect for its robustness and supports HP extras.

* I have studied for some time thanks in part to the people of fensport uk that there is a corolla only sold in japan (corolla runx X type) that uses 4wd with motor 1zz but only available in auto trans 4 speed, but this chassis fits its bridge Rear subframe and differential support in chassis of celica almost to perfection only making a small cut in floor of the trunk, apart the front engine bridge also adapts to perfection leaving more space for the transfer of the gearbox
 
#22 ·
this is the car.....

https://www.tradecarview.com/es/used_car/toyota/corolla+runx/20796508/

https://www.tradecarview.com/es/used_car/toyota/corolla+runx/21081437/

Everything is sure that if there are other models type of corolla in 4wd of these years they will share parts and they will serve, these in particular are 1.5 motor type but if there are 1.8 1zz what if I do not know and I think there is no possibility of 4wd with manual gearbox In these corolla. And if you look at the pictures of the low back links are identical to those of a celica, the fuel tank would also have to be exchanged since it leaves space for the cardan and the celica I think not.
The 1ZZ AWD needs a clearance on the back of the block that the 2ZZ block does not have. It would interfere with something, maybe an oil passage. It's not a very robust AWD on the 1ZZ anyway. I do believe that the E153 bolts to the 2ZZ, but I don't know if the AWD E153F has the same clearance issues as the AWD parts from the 1ZZ setup.
I'm gonna try to reply to both of you and give you the information as I know it. I know its taking me some time to find a trans that will work and honestly the problem inst the transmission its more of affordability.

Now to answer r1's question: The 154 transmission isnt a problem you can use it it will fit just as well as a 153 the problem isn't so much the transmission as it is the transfer case. I do agree that the 154 transmission is pretty bullet proof, I'm not saying you cant use it I;m saying you cant use the transfer case you will have to get a newer one which fortunately there all the same bolt on so if you get one that is smaller. I picked up the rav4 one which is pretty universal with the rx300,sienna, and matrix yadda yadda yadda. you can also see the picture I previously posed showing a 154 transmission and how it doesn't quite line up
Image


Second thing you had was that the run x which is a corolla and we do share the chassis as a old corolla, the problem is they only made awd things auto. I have no idea why. The car I found that uses the same chassis and a manual was the rav4. I'm not saying it will work and that's why I have been taking a little longer making sure I won't be out a ton of money if things go sideways

Lastly to answer bitter... Not really answer just steer in the right direction. Firstly the e153 wont bolt up you need a adapter plate to make it work. only transmission that bolt to the zz block are C series engines. Also the second thing. The 1zz has two different blocks one for the awd platform and one for 2wd. In a previous post I showed someone with a 1zz who cut into the block to get the trans and transfer case in.... unfortunately it was a auto.. I linked the forum I found the post on if you have a 1zz it might help. Finally the 2zz block may not have enough clearance... I am waiting for my spare block to get here so I can do some cutting because there is no proof that there is oil passage there its just thought to be there. Who knows maybe without the big monster of a transfer case the 154f is it might not need cutting... Also a noting where the transfer case goes there is a motor mount in the way so possibly wont have trouble cutting if needed....

Thats all I know for now still waiting on parts
 
#20 ·
this is the car.....

https://www.tradecarview.com/es/used_car/toyota/corolla+runx/20796508/

https://www.tradecarview.com/es/used_car/toyota/corolla+runx/21081437/

Everything is sure that if there are other models type of corolla in 4wd of these years they will share parts and they will serve, these in particular are 1.5 motor type but if there are 1.8 1zz what if I do not know and I think there is no possibility of 4wd with manual gearbox In these corolla. And if you look at the pictures of the low back links are identical to those of a celica, the fuel tank would also have to be exchanged since it leaves space for the cardan and the celica I think not.
 
#21 ·
The 1ZZ AWD needs a clearance on the back of the block that the 2ZZ block does not have. It would interfere with something, maybe an oil passage. It's not a very robust AWD on the 1ZZ anyway. I do believe that the E153 bolts to the 2ZZ, but I don't know if the AWD E153F has the same clearance issues as the AWD parts from the 1ZZ setup.
 
#23 ·
ahh ok thanks for the info!!
I will be very attentive to this forum as I will in the future try to do!
Here in Spain we have rav4, of which year they share chassis ??
Since I think it would be more economical than parts of a gt4 and that are harder to find around here.
 
#30 ·
I support this!
 
#32 · (Edited)
I was going to add more data, but you hit the quote button. I want to confirm this list but the link has died.

http://www.vibratesoftware.com/html_help/html/Toyota/Toyota_Transmission_Gear_Ratios.htm

E=transaxle case (Bolt pttern)
3=chassis/diff (Generation)
5=no. gears (Gears)
9=ratios (Application)

name"Wikipedia" said:
Exclusive to the Scion tC: note the slightly shorter 5th gear, and much shorter final drive compared to the Camry E351. Please, do not confuse the E35x for the E153. The E35x has a completely different transaxle case.
I think this transmission may fit a T23 but a member bolted an e15xf into 2az-fe with the exception of one bolt that did not line up.. 3s-fe bolt with 2az-fe was possible and e15xf transaxle case has same flywheel/clutch, but needs custom cradle, it is not similar to e35xf chassis.
here
 
#34 ·
Jake, I checked into that Rx300 case, and it has the right potential, but before I explain this, even though nothing is attached, that case relies on ABS vehicle sensors and ECU's. Not sure about the manual Rav4.

It seems toyota had *revised a compact transfer case when the switch to aluminum engines occurred. The viscous/mech. lock are on the opposite side (front LSD housing) rather the passenger axle shaft.

It's V6 powered, full-time viscous/mech. centre lock with rear torsen lsd *option. Now with that bit of info there is still a question of 50/50 torque split. I couldn't get any info on this for two years, but I already knew the answer...
 
#35 ·
2j, I'm glad you could find that info I couldnt really find anything useful on it, maybe you could help explain how it relies on the abs sensors?

From a outside view of looking at both there is no wires that connect to it and they look almost exactly similar.

I was lucky enough to get the last option (spinning one side the other goes in same rotation while driving the rear) the same for the rear diff.

Last thing is when looking at the e359f compared to the regular (non Awd) they have completely different final drives. Maybe you can help me find some more info on that because as o see it now basically the transfer case is acting more like a diff. Yet I can't find any info on the transfer case gearing.

Thanks
Jake.
 
#39 · (Edited)
Just double checking the 359 comes off of a 2az engine so it might be the best option rather than the older 250 that comes off a 3s fe
It has the corolla gear shifter facing the wrong side. I figure you know how to modify that by routing a new exhaust because the shifter cables will interfere with the manifold.

The master cylinder is there as well, so check your engine bay. I would check out E351with 3.9 final '08-'14 scion xb because of the tiny engine bay.
https://www.scionlife.com/forums/at...-drivetrain-power-1637/26931d1501249395-2gr-fe-engine-swap-null_zpsb1f4a130.jpg
I know for sure the echo/yaris has the correct side shifter as you can tell by the size of them. The gearing will always be a pain if you're automatic or you risk cutting a hole for the celica shaft .
 
#44 ·
Its been about a month since the last post so.....

Its time for a update:

I'm currently looking more into how the rav4 4.1 and 4.2 trannys work. They are a full time awd with a front lsd / awd lsd?
Not exactly, Looking more into it and reading up on some info of the differentials in the transmissions. They have a front and center diff built into one.(Been tons of previous posts and info about this)
But... if you are like me you wonder how it is supposed to work.
This video explains how it would work. Looks like they reused what worked in the first rav4 in the new sienna and highlanders
https://youtu.be/pN6-gCxI60g?t=222

Still dont get it? Yeah it was still a little tough for me to understand how that works and it not being mumbo jumbo.

So I am going to try and explain how I see it working. I posted this picture before, but lets take a closer look
Image



Time to break it down. There is two axles like I noted before one is hollowed out so the drive shaft can fit through it connecting to you guessed it the front diff. The bigger one that is hollowed out is what connects to the center diff.

Did I loose you?
Thats okay because it can be confusing I will try to explain it further. Thanks to chatting with 2jz and his last post to this blog they compare a e53 diff to a e250 off a rav
Image


Doesnt really help right?

Lets take a look at how all the parts connect
Image



Ahhh now we are getting somewhere.... I think.
So from what I understand is the big shaft connects the center to the transfer case while the small shaft keeps the front lsd a separate trans axle.

BUT WAIT THEIRS MORE!!!
This is totally different than how the 154f works. The 154 works through a center lock.

The matrix works like the new rav4 and others through a "on demand system" which basically means that when the front wheels spin power goes to the transfercase/rear and that is just pointless if I want AWD i want the real thing not this wimpy something bad happened this will fix it thing.


So what are the next steps?
Well I came across this here It shows how to turn a c52 into a six speed using a 153 lsd diff. Yeah yeah yeah what does that mean? it means that the possibility of getting a e250f diff or a 359 one of the lsd full time awd diffs should work with the standard c series manual trans. That's where I am and were we are on this project I am trying to find a way to make it cost and close to stock I can. Could of it been done already for a higher cost... yeah.
But I feel like I should try to make this as close to stock so it can be easily replicated.

Thats where we stand,
So for next update,
Jake