The Engine Question

**samuelclarke** · 17th May 2013, 08:45 AM

So, after throwing around the question in my head about a rebuild and then voicing it in this thread, a rebuild of my 1992 200Tdi 110 has slowly begun.

The Defender is off the road, our new 2013 Toyota Hilux SR arrives in June (were also looking at the Amarok, but liked the Hilux more - flame away

) to cover our 4x4 needs for the next few years, and the first parts (front bar, rock sliders and wheel carrier) have been galvanised.

I'm going through and putting a parts list together as part of the costings process and a lot of thought is being given to the engine...

The 200Tdi is in there now, and I've been mostly happy with it. It's needing some work however, that combined with the fact that this is going to be a long term rebuild and long term vehicle, so will be looking at a new engine. The question is which one? Another 200Tdi with the problem of parts availability, a 300Tdi for parts availability or the rumoured holy grail - the Isuzu 4BD1T.

I'd be looking at either the 300Tdi or 200Tdi from Turner Engineering. Don't have a clue where to source a good 4BD1T - then there's the matter of conversion. Will be ordering a new galvanised chassis, so engine mounts aren't a problem - as long as I decide on the engine before it's ordered!

Have a Ashcroft LT77 gearbox with not many KM's on it...but can sell that.

Which engine should it be and why? 200Tdi, 300Tdi or 4BD1T

**Judo** · 17th May 2013, 09:44 AM

Having just purchased my new 110 project that I plan on keeping for years to come and it being a 4BD1T, I have voted for that.

If you're talking engine swap, forget 200TDI. I don't doubt it's been a great engine for you, but it's time to move on to something newer. 300TDI or 4bd1.

They are a very different engine though. The 300TDI I'm sure you have a decent understanding. The 4bd1 is bigger, heavier, produces bucketloads more power and torque for almost not extra fuel to a TDI. It is also very loud and hot if you don't have an insulated cabin. It is very much like driving a truck. I get back in my Disco after the 110 and feel like I'm driving a bubble car. It's crazy. With all this, I am still happy with my 4bd1T and I'm sure every other 4bd1T owner will agree.

Again, if you're already going a full rebuild, ditch the LT77. 300TDI you're looking at a R380, no other choice. 4bd1, you really have 3 choices. LT85, LT95, R380. I'm heard a rumour the latest recommendation is a late model R380.

LT95 4 speed is the toughest box.
TBH, I don't know which is tougher from LT85 5 speed and R380 5 speed. BUT, R380's are probably the "preference" because they are still relatively new, not overly expensive, can be rebuilt, lots of support for parts and maintenance and drives very nicely compared to the others. Again - the R380 is like driving a bubble car compared to the LT95 or LT85. I don't know how many R380's have been tested behind a 4bd1 though. Depends how game you are.

I look forward to more discussion!

**Judo** · 17th May 2013, 09:47 AM

I always have thoughts after posting...

If you can find someone to let you drive a 4bd1, do that. If you like it, the engine choice is made. Then it's just down to gearbox. If the 4bd1 is too agricultural, go a 300TDI + R380.

Driving it will provide many answers.

**BigJon** · 17th May 2013, 09:48 AM

Originally Posted by Judo

. 4bd1, you really have 3 choices. LT85, LT95, R380. I'm heard a rumour the latest recommendation is a late model R380.

Or Isuzu box, there are threads on conversions.

**isuzutoo-eh** · 17th May 2013, 10:09 AM

Whatever you do, don't get a naturally aspirated Isuzu unless you are about to turbo it. Whilst I love my 4BD1, if you come from a tdi you'll miss being able to get up hills in fourth or sometimes third rather than third and frequently second. But you won't miss the tdi off-road!
At highways speeds people who own 110s with 300tdi and Puma engines have commented that my Isuzu is no louder than their car. But around town the Isuzu is definitely noisier.
If you are getting a gal chassis from the UK, chances are they won't know where the Isuzu enginemounts go and what shape they are. So a tdi is likely a lot easier to not get mistakes on.

**goingbush** · 17th May 2013, 03:41 PM

Curious to know why you haven't included the best Defender engine LR ever made in your poll ??

**Ancient Mariner** · 17th May 2013, 03:57 PM

Real diesels no lectricty

**Sitec** · 17th May 2013, 04:02 PM

Td5? 300 Tdi wud be my choice out of your list, as you'll need a Santana or LT95 to handle the Isuzu... The 300 suits the application and will run against your existing gearbox for a while.. You also have the option to freshen up your 200, add a larger intercooler, decent exhaust and get the pump played with. The right man on the pump mods and you'll be surprised how well it goes!

**Judo** · 17th May 2013, 04:05 PM

Originally Posted by goingbush

Curious to know why you haven't included the best Defender engine LR ever made in your poll ??

Good question.

**Bush65** · 17th May 2013, 04:30 PM

I wouldn't take a 300Tdi over a 200Tdi, except for spares availability.

IMHO an 89 or later 4BD1T is the better choice. These models are better than the earlier versions - quieter, smoother, stronger, more power and better economy.

The 4BD1T being from an Isuzu truck and not from a 110 land Rover has a different flywheel housing and so an Isuzu gearbox plus LT230 is more logical.

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