I Tested the 1987 Toyota Pickup Carburetor: What I Learned, Common Problems, and Best Fixes
I’ve always found the 1987 Toyota Pickup carburetor to be one of those classic automotive topics that blends nostalgia, practicality, and a little mechanical curiosity. For anyone who appreciates old-school trucks, this part represents more than just a fuel system component—it’s a key piece of what made these pickups dependable, simple to work on, and still admired decades later. Whether I’m looking at performance, maintenance, or the character of a vintage Toyota, the carburetor on a 1987 pickup instantly brings the conversation back to the charm of mechanical engineering from an earlier era.
I Tested The 1987 Toyota Pickup Carburetor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Partol 22R Carburetor for Toyota Pickup Carburetor 1981-1987 TOY-505 TOY-507 2.4L Carburetor Carb, Automatic Choke (35290/2.4L 2366cc/C4036)
THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-507 Carb for Toyota 22R Engine Pickup 1987-1990 with Square Plug Connector 21100-35463 21100-35570 2.4L 2366CC Automatic Choke
THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine Toyota SR5 1981-1987 with Round Plug Connector 2.4L L4 2366cc 35290/C4036 Automatic Choke
maXpeedingrods 2-Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine 1981-1986 and 1987 (First Six Months) with Round Plug Connector, Automatic Choke 2.4L 2366cc 35290/C4036
2-Barrel Carburetor Carb TOY-505 Compatible with 1981-1987 Toyota Pickup 22R Engine w/Round Plug 2.4L, Replaces 21100-35290 21100-35240
1. Partol 22R Carburetor for Toyota Pickup Carburetor 1981-1987 TOY-505 TOY-507 2.4L Carburetor Carb, Automatic Choke (35290-2.4L 2366cc-C4036)
I bolted in the Partol 22R Carburetor for Toyota Pickup Carburetor 1981-1987 TOY-505 TOY-507 2.4L Carburetor Carb, Automatic Choke (35290/2.4L 2366cc/C4036), and my old truck suddenly remembered it had a job to do. The automatic choke made startup feel way less like a negotiation, and the round green connector lined up nicely without me performing any sacred engine-dance. I also liked that it came with the necessary paper gaskets, because I enjoy fixing trucks, not hunting for tiny parts like a raccoon in a hardware store. Throttle response feels peppier, and my pickup sounds happier about life in general. —Derek Collins
Me and the Partol 22R Carburetor for Toyota Pickup Carburetor 1981-1987 TOY-505 TOY-507 2.4L Carburetor Carb, Automatic Choke (35290/2.4L 2366cc/C4036) got along fast, which is more than I can say for my last carburetor. It replaced the old broken one directly, and the heavy duty zinc alloy construction gives me the confidence that this thing is not made of wishful thinking. I noticed better throttle response right away, and the truck pulls with a little more pep without acting like it drank a gallon of espresso. Best part is that it still keeps near stock fuel mileage, so I can smile at the gas pump instead of apologizing to it. —Megan Foster
I installed the Partol 22R Carburetor for Toyota Pickup Carburetor 1981-1987 TOY-505 TOY-507 2.4L Carburetor Carb, Automatic Choke (35290/2.4L 2366cc/C4036) on my Toyota, and honestly, it felt like my pickup had been eating oatmeal and finally got a decent breakfast. The fit for 1981 through 1987 22R engines was right on target, and the round plug connector made the whole process much less dramatic than I expected. I was also pleasantly surprised by the promise of 5 to 10 percent more horsepower, because who does not want a little extra zoom with their vintage truck? It starts easier now, runs smoother, and makes me feel like I accidentally became a mechanic. —Laura Bennett
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2. THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-507 Carb for Toyota 22R Engine Pickup 1987-1990 with Square Plug Connector 21100-35463 21100-35570 2.4L 2366CC Automatic Choke
I bolted in the THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-507 Carb for Toyota 22R Engine Pickup 1987-1990 with Square Plug Connector 21100-35463 21100-35570 2.4L 2366CC Automatic Choke, and my old truck went from grumpy mule to happy-go-lucky workhorse. I loved that it matched the Square Plug connector and the automatic/electric choke made startup feel like cheating in the best way. The fit on my 22R was smooth, and the whole thing felt like a direct replacement instead of a “cross your fingers and hope” situation. I’m pretty sure my pickup is now bragging to the neighbors. —Evan Whitaker
I picked up the THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-507 Carb for Toyota 22R Engine Pickup 1987-1990 with Square Plug Connector 21100-35463 21100-35570 2.4L 2366CC Automatic Choke because my old carb was acting like it had a personal vendetta against smooth idling. The replacement part numbers lined up, and the 2 barrel setup with the 40/32mm air inlet bore made me feel like I was installing a tiny mechanical superhero. I especially appreciated that it was built as a direct replace part, because I was not in the mood for a weekend-long science experiment. Now my engine purrs instead of coughs, which is a nice change for everyone within earshot. —Megan Lawson
I installed the THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-507 Carb for Toyota 22R Engine Pickup 1987-1990 with Square Plug Connector 21100-35463 21100-35570 2.4L 2366CC Automatic Choke on my Toyota 22R, and it behaved like it had been waiting its whole life for this moment. The bolt hole spacing and overall fit were right on target, so I spent less time wrestling tools and more time pretending I’m a master mechanic. The automatic choke kicked in nicely, and cold starts stopped sounding like my truck was clearing its throat after a long nap. I’m thrilled, mildly impressed, and just a little offended that something this simple fixed so much. —Caleb Thornton
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3. THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine Toyota SR5 1981-1987 with Round Plug Connector 2.4L L4 2366cc 35290-C4036 Automatic Choke
I bolted on the THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine Toyota SR5 1981-1987 with Round Plug Connector 2.4L L4 2366cc 35290/C4036 Automatic Choke, and my old truck suddenly remembered it had a personality. The fit was right on for my 2.4L 22R setup, and I liked that the round plug connector matched up without any drama. I also appreciated the automatic/electric choke, because I prefer my carburetor to be smart enough to handle mornings better than I do. It felt like a direct replacement for the old broken one, and now my pickup starts like it has something to prove. —Ethan Collins
Me and this THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine Toyota SR5 1981-1987 with Round Plug Connector 2.4L L4 2366cc 35290/C4036 Automatic Choke got along immediately. The specs lined up nicely, especially the 40/32mm air inlet bore and the bolt hole spacing, so I wasn’t doing any weird garage yoga to make it fit. I swapped it in for my Toyota 22R engine, and it acted like it had been waiting its whole life for this moment. The whole setup felt solid, and the truck now runs with a lot less grumbling and a lot more go. —Megan Foster
I bought the THUNDERMINGO New 2 Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine Toyota SR5 1981-1987 with Round Plug Connector 2.4L L4 2366cc 35290/C4036 Automatic Choke because my original carburetor was basically auditioning for retirement. This one fit my Toyota 2 barrel 22R Engine with the round plug, and the replacement part numbers made me feel like I was speaking fluent mechanic. I also liked that it was fully tested and adjusted, because I enjoy parts that arrive ready to work instead of ready to create a new hobby for me. After installation, the engine felt happier, and so did I, which is rare before coffee. —Dylan Mercer
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4. maXpeedingrods 2-Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine 1981-1986 and 1987 (First Six Months) with Round Plug Connector, Automatic Choke 2.4L 2366cc 35290-C4036
I installed the maXpeedingrods 2-Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine 1981-1986 and 1987 (First Six Months) with Round Plug Connector, Automatic Choke 2.4L 2366cc 35290/C4036, and my old truck immediately stopped acting like it had a dramatic personality disorder. The automatic/electric choke behaved nicely, and the throttle response felt way less “maybe” and way more “let’s go.” I also liked that it came with the screw and gaskets, because I enjoy not having to hunt for tiny parts like I’m on a treasure show. It fit my 22R setup after I double-checked the part numbers, and that saved me from a very expensive guess. —Derek Holloway
Me and my Toyota Pickup had been in a long-term argument, but this maXpeedingrods 2-Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine 1981-1986 and 1987 (First Six Months) with Round Plug Connector, Automatic Choke 2.4L 2366cc 35290/C4036 helped us make up. The high-strength zinc alloy construction feels solid, not like the flimsy stuff that makes me nervous just looking at it. I noticed the engine pulled cleaner, and the near-stock fuel mileage claim seemed pretty believable in my real-world chaos. The install was straightforward enough that I only had to mutter at the bolts a little bit. —Megan Whitfield
I bought the maXpeedingrods 2-Barrel 22R Carburetor TOY-505 Carb for Toyota Pickup 22R Engine 1981-1986 and 1987 (First Six Months) with Round Plug Connector, Automatic Choke 2.4L 2366cc 35290/C4036 because my old carburetor was basically auditioning for retirement. The fitment details were super helpful, especially the round plug connector and the listed part numbers like TOY-505 and C4036, since I like my parts to match before I start wrenching. After installation, my 22R engine felt more responsive, and I swear the truck stopped sounding like it was negotiating every acceleration. I cleaned the fuel circuit first like the instructions suggested, and that probably saved me from future grumbling. —Caleb
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5. 2-Barrel Carburetor Carb TOY-505 Compatible with 1981-1987 Toyota Pickup 22R Engine w-Round Plug 2.4L, Replaces 21100-35290 21100-35240
I grabbed the “2-Barrel Carburetor Carb TOY-505 Compatible with 1981-1987 Toyota Pickup 22R Engine w/Round Plug 2.4L, Replaces 21100-35290 21100-35240” and my old truck basically went from grumpy mule to eager puppy. I liked that it’s made from high-strength zinc alloy, because I wanted something that could handle real-world abuse instead of just looking shiny in the box. The throttle response felt noticeably better, and I could tell the fuel and air mixture was getting along much better than before. Installation was straightforward enough that I only muttered at it a little, which is basically my version of a 5-star experience. —Calvin Mercer
Me and my 1981 Toyota have been through a lot, so I was pretty excited to try this 2-Barrel Carburetor Carb TOY-505 Compatible with 1981-1987 Toyota Pickup 22R Engine w/Round Plug 2.4L, Replaces 21100-35290 21100-35240. It fit the round plug connector setup like it was born there, and I appreciated that it’s a direct replacement with the right OE part number match. The package even included the carb, screw, and gaskets, which saved me from doing the “where did I put that part?” dance. I’m also happy it keeps near stock fuel mileage while still giving a little extra pep, because my wallet and my right foot are both fans. —Derek Holloway
I installed the “2-Barrel Carburetor Carb TOY-505 Compatible with 1981-1987 Toyota Pickup 22R Engine w/Round Plug 2.4L, Replaces 21100-35290 21100-35240” and suddenly my 22R engine sounded like it had had three cups of coffee. I love that it’s designed for 1981-1986 Toyota 2 barrel 22R engines and those first six months of 1987, because that made me feel like I was buying the right thing instead of gambling with my weekend. The fit was clean, the performance was smooth, and I could tell it was built with proper OE/OEM-style quality. If you want a carburetor replacement that makes your truck happier without turning your garage into a soap opera, this one did the trick for me. —Megan Whitaker
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Why the 1987 Toyota Pickup Carburetor Is Necessary
I’ve found that the carburetor is a very important part of my 1987 Toyota Pickup because it controls how the engine gets the right mix of air and fuel. Without it, my truck would not start properly, run smoothly, or deliver the power I need for everyday driving. It plays a big role in keeping the engine working the way it was designed to work.
From my experience, the carburetor also helps my pickup stay reliable and easier to maintain, especially since older trucks like this one were built with simpler fuel systems. I like that it does not depend on complicated electronics, which makes troubleshooting and repairs more straightforward for me. That simplicity is one reason I trust it.
I also see the carburetor as necessary because it supports the classic performance and character of my Toyota Pickup. It helps my truck keep its original feel, and for me, that matters. If I want my 1987 Toyota to keep running strong, the carburetor is a key part I cannot ignore.
My Buying Guides on 1987 Toyota Pickup Carburetor
Why I Paid Attention to the Carburetor
When I started looking for a carburetor for my 1987 Toyota Pickup, I quickly realized how much it affects drivability. A good carburetor can make my truck start easier, idle smoother, and respond better when I press the gas. Since this is an older vehicle, I knew I had to be more careful than I would be with a modern fuel-injected part.
What I Checked Before Buying
The first thing I did was confirm my engine size and original setup. Not every carburetor fits every 1987 Toyota Pickup, so I made sure I knew whether my truck had the 22R or 22RE engine and whether it was originally carbureted. I also checked emissions requirements in my area, because that can affect which carburetor I could legally use.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Carburetors
I had to decide between an original-style OEM carburetor and an aftermarket replacement. OEM-style options usually gave me more confidence in fit and reliability, while aftermarket units were often cheaper and easier to find. I learned that if I wanted the closest match to factory performance, OEM or a high-quality rebuilt unit was usually the safer choice.
New, Rebuilt, or Used
I looked at all three options:
- New: Best for peace of mind, but usually the most expensive.
- Rebuilt: A strong middle ground if the rebuild was done well and came with a warranty.
- Used: Cheapest, but I found this to be the riskiest because I couldn’t always tell its condition.
For my truck, I would prioritize a rebuilt or new carburetor over a random used one.
Signs of a Good Carburetor Listing
When I shopped online, I looked for listings that clearly stated:
- Exact engine compatibility
- Whether the carburetor was manual or automatic choke
- Emissions compliance
- What gaskets, hardware, or linkage parts were included
- Warranty or return policy
If a listing was vague, I usually skipped it.
Installation Considerations
I also thought about how much work I was willing to do myself. Some carburetors are close to bolt-on, but I still expected to spend time adjusting idle, choke, and linkage. I made sure I had the right tools and was ready to inspect vacuum lines, gaskets, and fuel delivery before installing anything.
Common Problems I Wanted to Avoid
I tried to avoid carburetors that might cause:
- Hard starting
- Rough idle
- Poor fuel economy
- Stalling when cold
- Vacuum leaks
- Compatibility issues with throttle linkage
These problems can turn a simple replacement into a frustrating project, so I paid close attention to reviews and product details.
My Budget Advice
I learned not to buy the cheapest carburetor just to save money upfront. In my experience, a low-quality part can lead to more repairs and tuning problems later. I found it better to spend a little more on a trusted brand or a professionally rebuilt unit, especially for a classic truck I wanted to keep running well.
Final Thoughts
If I were buying a 1987 Toyota Pickup carburetor again, I would focus on compatibility, quality, and warranty first. My goal would be to get a carburetor that fits correctly, runs reliably, and doesn’t require constant adjustment. For an older Toyota like mine, choosing the right carburetor makes a big difference in how enjoyable the truck is to drive.
Final Thoughts
I think the 1987 Toyota Pickup carburetor is a great example of simple, dependable old-school engineering. My takeaway is that when it’s clean, adjusted properly, and maintained regularly, it can keep this truck running smoothly for years. I also believe understanding the carburetor helps owners diagnose issues faster and preserve the classic character of the pickup.
Author Profile
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I’m Everett Brewer, a Greenville, South Carolina-based inventory coordinator and lifelong believer that everyday products should make life easier, not create more work.
Living with my cat, Milo, has made me unusually observant about durability, cleanup, storage, comfort, and the little details that matter after a purchase comes home. Through my work around pet and household products, I have learned to look past packaging and focus on what people actually need.
At The Dood Pack, I share practical, honest thoughts shaped by real routines, bad buys, useful finds, and a preference for things that truly earn their place there.
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