Hi,

My 1983 S3 was originally a petrol but was converted to a 2.25 diesel by the previous owner. It has always started reasonably well until the last couple of months when the temperature has dropped and now it needs jump started almost every time. The alternator belt is ok and it is charging as it should be.

The battery is currently under the passenger seat and I'm pretty sure is the petrol one from the old engine as it is pretty small (although its still a tight fit in the compartment under the seat). Also I see that on the diesel S3's the battery is mounted in the engine bay. The battery that unipart says was for this engine is huge and would definitely not fit under the seat.

So..Am i right in thinking I need to fit the bigger battery, and if so it'll need to fit in the engine bay right? Next problem...On any photos i can find of a 2.25 diesel engine bay it is fitted to the left front corner (looking at the bay from the front) but on mine the airbox is here so a battery wouldn't fit...Any ideas?

Ben

First off get your battery tested. Places like Halfords will do this if you ask nicely. Colder weather will often 'find out' an old battery that is struggling to hold it's charge.

As for you other query, it would be easier to tell with a picture of the engine bay. It is possible that the diesel engine is not a standard LR unit, hence the move of battery and air box.

ok, thanks. I know that the engine is a military spec 2.25 land rover diesel. I think I'm just going to run the big battery in the back, make a box for it.

Ben

Really? 2.25 military engines are rare, at least UK ones.

the battery you want is a banner p100 44 DT or equivalent