Complete Exhaust Guide for the Toyota Landcruiser 78 Series
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If you own a Toyota Landcruiser 78 Series Troop Carrier you already know it's one of the most capable and dependable 4x4s ever built. Whether you're running it as a daily driver, a touring rig or a serious off-road workhorse the exhaust system plays a bigger role in performance, fuel economy and longevity than most people realise.
This guide covers everything you need to know about upgrading the exhaust on your 78 Series from understanding the different systems available to choosing the right setup for your engine and year of build.
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Why Upgrade the Exhaust on Your 78 Series Landcruiser?
The factory exhaust on the 78 Series is built to a price point. It does the job but it's not optimised for performance or longevity. Here's what a quality aftermarket exhaust can do for your Troopy:
- Better exhaust flow — reduces backpressure and lets the engine breathe more freely
- Improved fuel economy — less restriction means the engine works less hard under load
- More torque and power — particularly noticeable when towing or loaded up for a long trip
- Deeper more authoritative exhaust note — without being obnoxious
- Better durability — quality stainless steel construction outlasts the factory mild steel system
For a vehicle that spends time in remote Australia river crossings, corrugated dirt roads, salt air upgrading to a quality stainless exhaust is one of the best long term investments you can make.
Understanding the 78 Series Engine Range
Before choosing an exhaust, it's important to know which engine your 78 Series is running. There are three main variants:
- 4.2L 1HZ (naturally aspirated diesel) — found in 1990–2002 models
- 4.2L 1HDT (turbo diesel) — also found in 1990–2002 models
- 4.5L V8 1VD-FTV (twin-turbo diesel) — found in 2007–2016 (pre-DPF) and 2016-on (with DPF) models
The exhaust system you need will depend on your engine and build year — particularly whether your vehicle has a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) fitted from the factory.
78 Series Exhaust Systems — At a Glance
| Exhaust System | Engine Fit | Tube Size | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DPF-Back Exhaust | 4.5L V8 1VD-FTV (2016-On, with DPF) | 3.5" | Late model VDJ78 owners wanting a practical upgrade | Improved flow and exhaust note no DPF removal required |
| Turbo-Back Exhaust (with high-flow cat) | 4.5L V8 1VD-FTV (2016-On, with DPF) | 3.5" | 2016-on owners running a tune who want the most complete system | Maximum flow from turbo outlet to tailpipe pairs perfectly with a diesel tune |
| Turbo-Back Exhaust Stainless Steel | 4.5L V8 1VD-FTV (2007–2016, pre-DPF) | 3.5" | Pre-2016 VDJ78 owners wanting the definitive V8 exhaust upgrade | Full turbo to tailpipe upgrade in premium stainless unlocks the full V8 potential |
| Turbo-Back Exhaust | 4.2L 1HZ / 1HDT (1990–2002) | 3" | Older 1HZ/1HDT Troopies needing a direct fit performance upgrade | Improved flow on a tough, proven engine gives the old girl a new lease on life |
What Exhaust Systems Are Available for the 78 Series?
At Outback Exhausts we manufacture a full range of exhaust systems specifically engineered for the 78 Series Troop Carrier. Here's a breakdown of what's available and what each system does.
DPF-Back Exhaust — VDJ78 4.5L V8 (2016-On)
If your 78 Series was built from 2016 onwards it came from the factory with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Removing or bypassing the DPF is illegal on Australian roads so a DPF-back exhaust is the right choice. It replaces everything from the outlet of the DPF back to the tailpipe. This is the most popular upgrade for late model Troopies. You get improved flow and a better exhaust note.
DPF Back Exhaust — Toyota Landcruiser 78 Series Troopy VDJ78 4.5L V8 (2016-On)
Turbo-Back Exhaust — VDJ78 4.5L V8 (2016-On)
For 2016-on VDJ78 owners who want the most complete exhaust upgrade possible, our turbo-back system replaces everything from the turbocharger outlet all the way to the tailpipe. This includes a high-flow catalytic converter. This is the full system for maximum flow and performance. This system is intended for off-road use only after the DPF has been removed. It is designed for use on vehicles operated on private property, including farms, mining sites, and other off-road applications. ECU tuning will be required following DPF removal
Turbo Back Exhaust — Toyota Landcruiser 78 Series Troopy VDJ78 4.5L V8 (2016-On)
Turbo-Back Exhaust — VDJ78 4.5L V8 Stainless Steel (2007–2016)
The pre-DPF V8 Troopies (2007–2016) are a sweet spot. They have the grunt of the 1VD-FTV V8 without the DPF complication. Our turbo-back system for this generation is built from premium stainless steel and engineered to unlock the full potential of the V8 diesel.
Turbo-Back Exhaust — 75/78 Series 4.2L 1HZ / 1HDT (1990–2002)
The older 1HZ and 1HDT-powered 78 Series are still incredibly popular and for good reason. They're simple, tough and easy to work on. Our turbo-back exhaust for these models is a direct fit upgrade that improves flow and gives the old girl a new lease on life.
Turbo Back Exhaust — Toyota Landcruiser 75/78 Series 4.2L 1HZ/1HDT (1990–2002)
Browse the Full 78 Series Exhaust Range
Not sure which system is right for you? Browse our complete collections below:
DPF vs. Turbo-Back: Which System Do I Need?
This is the most common question we get and the answer comes down to your build year and what you want to achieve.
- 2016-on VDJ78: You have a DPF from the factory. A DPF-back exhaust is the legal practical choice for most owners. If you want the full system a turbo-back with a high flow cat is the way to go. Please note that turbo-back systems involving DPF removal are intended for off-road use only including applications on private property, farms and mining sites.
- 2007–2016 VDJ78: No DPF from the factory. A turbo-back system gives you the full benefit of improved flow from the turbo outlet all the way back.
- 1990–2002 1HZ/1HDT: A turbo-back system or a dump pipe upgrade (for the 1HDT) is the most effective starting point.
If you're still unsure reach out to us. We're happy to help you find the right fit for your setup.
What Size Exhaust Should I Run on My 78 Series?
For the 4.2L 1HZ and 1HDT engines a 3 inch (76mm) exhaust is the sweet spot. It's a meaningful step up from the factory system without going so large that you lose exhaust velocity at lower RPMs.
For the 4.5L V8 1VD-FTV a 3.5 inch (89mm) system is generally recommended especially if you're running a tune or towing heavy loads regularly. Our systems are engineered to the correct diameter for each application. You don't need to guess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a tune after fitting an exhaust?
You don't need a tune to run our exhaust systems they're designed to work on a stock engine. However pairing an exhaust upgrade with a quality diesel tune will give you the best results in terms of power, torque and fuel economy.
How long does installation take?
A typical exhaust installation on a 78 Series takes 2–4 hours at a workshop. Our systems are direct-fit so there's no cutting or fabrication required.
Are your exhausts made in Australia?
Yes. Outback Exhausts are proudly Australian-made. We manufacture our systems locally using premium materials, and every system is built to suit Australian condition.
Can I fit the exhaust myself?
If you're mechanically confident and have the right tools (including a vehicle lift or ramps) a DIY install is achievable. Most of our customers have the system fitted by a local exhaust shop or 4x4 workshop.
Do you ship Australia-wide?
Yes we ship to all states and territories across Australia. Most metro areas receive their order within 2–5 business days.
We also ship to international destinations. If you're ordering from overseas, please call or get in touch with us to confirm shipping options and freight costs.
Ready to Upgrade Your 78 Series Exhaust?
The 78 Series Troop Carrier deserves an exhaust system that matches its capability. Whether you're running a late model VDJ78 with a DPF or an older 1HZ workhorse we've got a system built specifically for your vehicle.
Browse the full range below or get in touch if you need help choosing the right system for your setup.
Shop All 78 Series Exhaust Systems
Disclaimer: The turbo-back exhaust system for 2016-on 4.5L V8 1VD-FTV models is intended strictly for off-road racing, ADF, mining vehicles, overseas models exempt from Australian Design Rules (ADR) or vehicles with valid Primary Producer exemptions. Installing this product on a 2016-on model renders the vehicle non-compliant with ADR standards for road use. It is the owner's responsibility to verify regulatory compliance before purchasing.
