S3 109 auto

[pop058]

Ok guys and girls, concept ONLY.

I am toying with the idea of putting an auto in an S3 or Stage 1 as a work (builder) vehicle. I tow a tandem trailer mainly around town and it would be so much easier with an auto. I do the occasional work trip away (approx 300 Kms) so was initially looking at a RRC's (V8 auto), but a ute is so much more practical for what I need. So - some facts;

I currently have a twincab jap ute (04 petrol Courier) which is not very trailer freindly.
I dont own either an S3 or St 1 at this point in time.
I do not NEED 4WD.
I only need to seat driver and 1 (plus manditory ute dog in back).
I need to be able to tow a 2 tonne tandem trailer.
I am happy with engine/trany swaps

Now some questions;

can and S3/Stage 1 tow 2 tonnes legally ?
can a 6/8 cyl motor and auto (does not have to be LR) be fitted to an S3 easilly or;
can an auto be fitted to a 3.5 lt in a Stage 1 with minimal effort

I have not excluded the idea of not using/removing the front diff (eg 2WD) to simplify the drive configuration. That is, use standard rear wheel drive engine /auto trans combo and remove front axles and diff centre to aid this.

Please remember this is a concept question only and I do not own a flame suit. Opinions one way or the other are most welcome

tks Paul

[Mick-Kelly]

I would be leaning towards an auto box out of a rangy behind a V8 in the stage one. Keeps it simple and you know it works. Throw in a transmission cooler while your down there for frequent towing.

[pop058]

I would be leaning towards an auto box out of a rangy behind a V8 in the stage one. Keeps it simple and you know it works. Throw in a transmission cooler while your down there for frequent towing.

any particular model box to look for or avoid ?? and what would need to be done to put the 3.5 and auto into an S3. this question is aimed at the braking side of things.

paul

[JDNSW]

..........
can and S3/Stage 1 tow 2 tonnes legally ?

yes. All Series Landrovers can legally tow 2t.

can a 6/8 cyl motor and auto (does not have to be LR) be fitted to an S3 easilly

Can be done, but probably not that easily.

or;
can an auto be fitted to a 3.5 lt in a Stage 1 with minimal effort

Yes, as suggested, fit a RR engine/transmission setup. Probably the easiest, once you find a Stage 1, which may not be that easy.

........

Hope this helps,

John

[seriesly]

had the same problem with mine,202 would not tow..

found a cheap s3 with falcon six and c4 auto conversion

tows 2 tonne no probs to around 105kms on 4.7 diffs

brakes have to be six/v8 drums on front,boosted and good nick

cheers