Originally Posted by
101RRS
The Holden motor is really not a good fit for a LR without the addition of O/d or high speed diffs - doesn't rev enough to suit the LR gearing.
I had a 161 in my first LR and it was Ok but no better than the 2.25LR engine in my later Series 3.
I would be looking at something home grown like a Rover 3 litre six which would be better suited.
Garry
I agree with you here. Back in 1978 I removed the 4 cyl LR engine from my S2A 109 and fitted a 186 Holden engine. Conversion is quite straightforward but the cooling fan on the water pump is too low and doesn't sit central in radiator. I cut the fan blades etc but still had to fit an electric fan in the front in order to get adequate cooling here in Tasmania. The Holden 6 cyl is great for hills etc but in the bush is much worse. I fitted a Fairey o/drive but of course your top speed is governed by diff ratio. The LR clutch and pressure plate is much nicer feel than if you use the Holden components. Questionable whether the Fairey OD can handle the 6 cyl torque as it is I believe based on Rover 2000 (car) g/box bits and in my opinion a bit fragile, I've rebuilt a few over the years. Mine only lasted about 20,000 klms before exploding and it was noisy/whining even with different oil choices. Rover 3 litre with a very mild camshaft improvement to give more torque and a little more hp would be better choice IMHO.
Before: Ser 2a LWB, Ser 3 S/W, 1979 RR 2 door, 1981 LR Stage 1 V8 (new), 1985 LR 110 V8 County (new), 2009 RRS TDV8
Now: MY13 D4 TDV6. "E" rear diff. Cambo's magic Engine & Auto Tune.
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