TerryHo

Member
Hi there,

I'm looking to install a Rover V8 in my Series 2A.

There is lots of good advice on how to convert inc. specialist kits, but I'm looking for a full turn-key conversion service.

Does anyone know of a professional outfit who could do the job - preferably a specialist who has done lots of these conversions before.

All advice / info appreciated.
 
Where to start? A simple question. Taking you literally wherever you are there will be a landy specialist who can do that work. If you simply want and can afford to do that maybe someone near to you can make a recommendation.

If you're willing to pay for a Rolls Royce job you should look at the outfits that specialise in that; Dunsfold, Huddersfield Landy Centre etc. That just looks a wee bit too obvious. You're wanting to do a very non standard conversion. V8 power output through an ancient S2a gearbox?
 
Thank John - I'm looking to undertake a bit of heresy!!

As part of a full nut and bolt restoration, I'm looking to build the smoothest, most comfortable, driveable and quiet, Series 2 soft-top possible - not easy I know, but it should be an interesting project!!

I've had years of ear-bleeding noise and have finally decided to dig deep and do something about it - but am looking for someone to undertake the restoration and conversion for me (due to lack of talent and time).

This will probably include, at a minimum, upgrading the gearbox (to match the V8 engine), suspension and installing discs all-round.

Importantly, on the outside, I'm intending on keeping it totally standard.
 
Thank John - I'm looking to undertake a bit of heresy!!

As part of a full nut and bolt restoration, I'm looking to build the smoothest, most comfortable, driveable and quiet, Series 2 soft-top possible - not easy I know, but it should be an interesting project!!

I've had years of ear-bleeding noise and have finally decided to dig deep and do something about it - but am looking for someone to undertake the restoration and conversion for me (due to lack of talent and time).

This will probably include, at a minimum, upgrading the gearbox (to match the V8 engine), suspension and installing discs all-round.

Importantly, on the outside, I'm intending on keeping it totally standard.
fit a 2.25 petrol if you want quiet though non are when moving, the light weight of the rear end doesnt lend itself to over much power
 
Would any other modern engine be more suitable if you're going to that much effort or are you set on the V8 and/or keeping it Rover?
 
That's a fair challenge on the engine front.

I initially thought V8 because of the heritage and close association - but lightweight and smoothness are really important given what I'm trying to achieve.
 
My third gear had gone is the S3 box so looked at a 5 speed but quoted £4-£4.5k for the box and all the work to convert from the standard box so went for the standard box rebuild (£900 fitted with new clutch), which had lasted c30k miles with the V8 fitted. Couldn't justify the cost.
 
Much easier and quicker to put the S2 wings and bonnet on a defender. I'm not being facetious, thought about it myself.
 
I have been tempted myself but cant stop thinking of the whole drive chain disintegrating bit by bit. To be honest I am happy tootling along with a diesel and spending my time on soundproofing.
 
I have been tempted myself but cant stop thinking of the whole drive chain disintegrating bit by bit. To be honest I am happy tootling along with a diesel and spending my time on soundproofing.
The only soundproofing i bought was a pair of cheap & cheerful ear protectors !! :D....although i do get some funny looks now and again :(
 
Mine has RR Classic diffs (think they are 3.54?). Conversion done in 1996 presumably at the point the original petrol engine gave up the ghost - I know it had done c100k miles. Hand made exhaust system too so the costs soon start escalating as its not just the engine swap. This is mine. Not as tidy as the one above but its better now. Its a P6B engine with SD1 inlet and rockers. Just renewing all the hoses and flushing the coolant system as its been getting too warm. Stat just swapped for an 82. Awaiting some stainless to complete the joins.
Hx6bAB2.jpg
 
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I have been tempted myself but cant stop thinking of the whole drive chain disintegrating bit by bit. To be honest I am happy tootling along with a diesel and spending my time on soundproofing.
That's my worry too. I live in a state of constant anxiety regarding the internal disintegration of my gearbox, and that's only with it being spun by me 2.25 petrol at 55 mph. I have had several old crocs over the years but I've never given their gearboxes and axles a second thought. I sometimes think it's cos I spend too much time on here reading about others tales of woes, I know it's put me off buying a disco or RR, I'd never sleep

Col
 

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