https://www.glencoyne.co.uk/chassis.htm Have you seen this, you can see cast dates on the LH side of engine block https://www.lrfaq.org/FAQ.3.LR_production.html

I've a TDI 200 in my series, with uprated head and IP. I tow with it, and have been known the push it hard. No problems with the box, but I change the oil annually. And I change gear slowly. Ten years since I fitted the turbo.

In my opinion the series vehicle was designed with the power of the 2 1/4 engine in mind. (I know they did a v8 later but it had upgraded features like a tougher gearbox brakes etc i believe) The gearboxes are crap. Especially those brass...

It mates up "ok" Most of the bolts line up especially at the top of the engine but for the bottom I had to drill holes in the bell housing to match the engine. But no need for a spacer.

That’s what I wondered as I did the 4 extra bolts in the bottom for the 200 di, so are you saying even with the di it’s over stressing the series gearbox

Interesting does the 300 mate to the series gearbox directly, or is adapter needed, I’ve got 200 in mine and that’s pretty much a straight fit

Easier just to buy the disco surely?

Were the ring gaps equally split around the circumference. Is there some black marks in the cylinder pic running down Have you honed the bores after new rings

Not sure but you’d get a very tight hub nut 😀

Never measured the skirts but i would think you're more interested the the crown movement at/around tdc if you want to check for slappers (ooo-errr missus!!!)

Isn't that more high pitched? I've forgotten.. what does piston slap sound like? No it's not that is it because you'd hear it on every stroke?

Was small ends on pistons checked