D90mitch

Well-Known Member
I have been having a good search on the internet but cant find any substantial information on what I need. As my knowledge of Land Rovers (and vehicles in general) is progressing I have been wondering about doing something big with my 90 over the next few years. I have noticed people upgrading old engines in vehicles with slighly newer ones to make their classics a little more modern - best of both worlds. I know this isnt for everyone and I am undecided too but here it goes. My 90 has the legendary 200tdi engine though it and its 'technology' isn't getting any younger. I am considering rebuilding an engine and then when its done in my own time having it swapped into the 90. The engines I have been thinking of are the 4.0 Thor engine from the disco 2 or the 4.6 Gems from the P38. I was thinking 3.5 v8 or 3.9 from a earlier land rover as this would give some more power but I know they dont like water unless you Mega squirt them etc. I would have liked to do a TDV6 engine transplant but that would be very expensive and from what I've read, very very difficult. Tell me your thoughts!
 
I did something similar. My 200tdi hit 200k and the turbo went (along with other stuff) and i needed a petrol to get into London. I put in a low mileage 3.9v8 from a disco with an LT85.

It was amazing!!! for 5000miles, then something weird happened electricly and now it wont run right... :frusty:

Oh, and it killed the LT85 box i had in it.

Was it worth it- YES. and i'd do it again in a heartbeat, just for the sound it makes.

PS. I'm properly mental, so you should probably ignore all my advice.
 
I have seen some Defenders on youtube with 4.6 conversions. The mpg does not worry me, i couldn't care less as driven normally a 90 with a 4.6 is gonna get 20mpg, if hooned probs 3 lol
 
A rover v8 would be a simple fit and with megasquirt would allow you to play in puddles also. If you don't mind a bit more work however, I would be tempted by a modern Jap v8.

Have you considered the BMW M57 diesel? It's a very tuneable engine and would be good on fuel also. People have already done the conversion and there are off-the-shelf wiring looms available to make it work.
 
Im looking for a reasonably 'simple' swap, i'm not an expert yet hah, surely the BMW engine would be expensive? I had really like the idea of a 4.0 or 4.6 engine but I cant find any substantial information anywhere!
 

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