Thread: Series 3 engine in series 1 landrover

In my view it would be, although it will depend to some extent on the condition of the Series 3 engine.

Originally Posted by JDNSW

In my view it would be, although it will depend to some extent on the condition of the Series 3 engine.

Thanks John,
Should have said, it's a petrol 2.25L 4. Needs a little work, starts instantly and runs smooth with more power than I expected. However it does blow some smoke and has a tappet rattle.

I was going to sell it and put the money into the older vehicle but the landrover engine is tempting (not that they ever had that engine).
Regards,
Ben.

Well, the 138 is only a slightly bigger capacity than the 2.25 ( 2.26 ), and IIRC would be heavier than the Rover. Who knows, if you advertise the 138 on a Torana forum you might get a bob or two.

Originally Posted by Tins

Well, the 138 is only a slightly bigger capacity than the 2.25 ( 2.26 ), and IIRC would be heavier than the Rover. Who knows, if you advertise the 138 on a Torana forum you might get a bob or two.

Might be a grey motor.

Originally Posted by V8Ian

Might be a grey motor.

Well, yes, I suppose it might....... Might be worth a bob or two more if so.... Although not on a Torana forum.....

The principal advantage of the Rover engine compared to the GM engine is that the Rover engine suits the gearing of the Series 1 (same as the Series 3) better and if used as intended, is more tolerant of operation on inclines, and the lubrication system is designed for prolonged use at low speed, which the Holden one is not. And it fits the engine space better.

One thing to be aware of though is that the Series 1 bell housing is different to the Series 3 4 cylinder engine - you need one from a 2/2a if using the Series 1 clutch linkage. (and the bell housings differ according to the date of the box as the layshaft was changed - I think!)

I have a series 1 with a 2.25l from a IIA and it's definitely a good idea. The only hurdle really is the alternator mount - the engine sits lower in the chassis rails than on a IIA or III so the alternator has to sit higher. I just made an adaptor bracket to lift it up a bit and it works fine.

I had my S1 re-rovered from a 186 red motor. Absolutely worth it (s2 2.25 put it). Sold the red motor and its gearbox too.