Engine Conversion - 3L BMW M57

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H

Housten

New Member
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Hey Volks!! :)

Hello to everyone! I’m new here and would love to get some information regarding an engine swap.

Just a bit background to my story:

My name is Jannis, 26 from Germany. I have started to rebuild my old 97’ Defender OneTen into a race truck. I’m just coming back from the BAJA Deutschland, Germanys biggest and toughest Rally Raid event.
BAJA DEUTSCHLAND 29. - 31. Mai 2014 » Veranstaltung von Gladiator Sport Association

Just a few pic’s of my truck:

2s8nxjb.jpg


2mq9rlt.jpg


2jb08lt.jpg



6rj194.jpg




:)

Now, as my 300tdi has a quite big milage and a few damages, I’m thinking about replacing that tractor engine with a 3L BMW Diesel (Engine Code M57). These engines are really strong and robust and the earlier 184hp version hasn’t too much electronics.
To my knowledge this engine should fit to the P38 bell housing, as the P38 was sold with the M51 engine (?).
My R380 should be replaced with a straight cut R380 by Ashcroft / Quaife then.

Has anybody experience with that kind of engine conversion and is able to provide some further details? Do I have to change the input shaft as well? What about the wiring, engine control module, anti theft device etc.?

Many thanks and greets from Cologne. :hippie:

Housten
 
Awesome!
I'm gonna wait for Dave MSport until he's finished his english breakfast :)



Of course straight cut gears are noiser. But I like the advantage of faster shifts, no axial forces and less friction --> less heat --> higher efficiency.
But a straight cut gearbox is not a must. I'm not sure about this one. An overhauled R390 Ashcroft gearbox with HD bearings would also do it.


Regards,

Housten
 
You realise that the straight cut gears although being slightly more efficient in heat production will hardly be faster as you may shave off a few microseconds on a gear change but they're designed for racing applications on the track whereas off road the helicals will have a much higher torque handling capability so you can be rougher with the changes in a heavy car and drop the clutch out faster

Personally if you want a box which will give you reliability and strength I'd take an LT95 with Rocky Mountain OD (can be used in all gears then) or an LT85

The R380 is a very nice smooth box but the 95 is the brick-****house of the gearbox world! Very agricultural but if you want a mix then the 85 would be the perfect compromise, tough as nails but a little more refined
 
I'm with Dr. Evil on the LT85 as the best compromise- they are strong boxes, and with a little practice, you can change gear very quickly, very smoothly.

The R380 is a smoother box to use, and requires less arm muscle (from my experience), but will withstand a little less punishment.

Not sure how an LT85 would fit a P38 bellhousing though (somebody will know i'm sure). What Transfer box are you using?

PS- it's a great looking truck! :welcome:
 
Last edited:
The R380 probably wont like harsh changes as much as an 85, remember the 85 is built for the army and used exclusively on Snatch's

If its good enough for them it'll be good enough for an offroader. That being said the 95 is cheaper and easier to find, you cant change as fast but not really an issue if you've got the power to make up for it. Obviously you'd need an adaptor for it if you want to fit the BM engine.

However I'd be more tempted to fit a Chevy 383 or 454 block instead, more power, more noise, more fun!
 
Hey guys! Thanks for the good hints!
I will definitely keep an eye on LT85 / LT95 gearboxes now!


I think a chevy engine is too heavy in the front of my truck and toooo thursty as well. But I'm also aware of all the advantages (cheap, simple, power, great sound, reliable).
I liked the idea of implementing a BMW as it's combinable with the rest of my powertrain and is being known as a strong, efficient, light and reliable Diesel engine. An old broken BMW X5 or 530d is really affordable.

I'm planning to participate in desert races next year (Sahara), so I'm more looking for a Diesel engine with better fuel economy.
A 5.7L V8 will take up to 80liter in the dunes! :(
 
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