I'm a 1998 GS400 owner but I'm asking here since you SC guys seem to have more experience with modding your 1UZs.

I'm plotting a manual swap. At the moment I'm researching the ECU variable. Obviously I have to get the ECU to not throw a fit when the auto box isn't in there.
I've come up with 2 options: First, there's a guy from Russia that sells an emulator box. Wire it in to the stock ECU and it'll think the auto is still there. The only thing I don't like is the idea of cutting wires, especially if I have to undo my mod for any reason. SO....

Second, and the subject of this thread, I can just swap in a Crown Majesta ECU. BUT I see they come in different part numbers, and there have been 1UZs that all came rated at different power outputs. Obviously I want to make sure I'm still getting my 300hp.

Which ECU do I need for a 300hp VVTi 1UZ, and why are the engines from the same year rated at different outputs? Or is the power difference a mechanical thing and any ECU will work?

And last, are the plugs the same, so I just pull out the GS ECU and plug in the Crown ECU?

Thanks y'all! I'm excited to get this sucker rollin' manual.