Thread: Disco engine swap help, 3.9 vs 300TDI

Afternoon boys, over the Christmas break im looking to start a new project using a series 3 4 door wagon and a automatic D1 disco (1994- 1998) because leaf springs are awesome and old trucks deserve a second chance. I plan to buy a fully running and good mechanical disco ether 300tdi or 3.9 V8 and swap over the axles and running gear using custom mounts and new props...ect. My dilemma is that as a hunting and expedition rig and heading well out, I am trying to remove all electrics and would prefer to be installing mechanical everything to increase reliability. It will also be very heavily laden (call it high at~450kg) with recovery kit, 4 people, PTO winch (if I can find one), petrol chainsaw, various hand tools, 3 spare tires and all other sorts. I am being lead to believe that the 300tdi is better reliability wise however will a Holly truck carb on the 3.9 equal the same reliability? (I will not be bringing a ECU diagnostic computer and pare sensors with me as mates have suggested previously). Overall currently im leaning towards the diesel as I know the 300 excels in deep water crossings (above bonnet) as a true mechanical engine but how bad realistically is the 3.9 underwater (can I properly waterproof dizzie and coil?) and how much down is the tdi on power considering the fully laden weight (do I put myself at a off-road disadvantage power and torque wise compared to the V8?). Finally how badly does the 3.9 lag in the fuel economy department both off-road and on road surfaces as fuel range is a serious issue and would just prefer to not spend my lifesavings on the octane. Cheers guys

Originally Posted by shiftybigmac

I have looked at defenders and I would consider one but it seems except for the very first ones they all seem to be coil springs. I am looking at a full rebuild not just swap so ether way theirs not going to be an easy way haha.

ALL defenders have coils.

As mentioned, look for a SIII Stage 1 isuzu, made from 1982-1984. You get leaf springs, a 3.9L DIESEL (easily upgraded for more power with a turbo), plus a strong driveline. The only thing you may need to upgrade would be the front diff centre.