Thread: 2.25 Replacement options

If it needs a new motor then Electric is the only way ahead, Otherwise you'll be wanting an engine

detuned and de turbod tdi200, or a 2.25D

Isuzu 4bb1 or if you can get one a 4ba1 but thats rarer than a new 2l block for a SI

Holden red or blue. Cheap as chips, simple and inexpensive to service, plenty of parts available, and at modest prices. Set one up correctly for its new and different application and you will be delighted with the improvement in performance and economy.

Word of warning. Do not just buy a high mileage junkyard engine and install it. Do a proper rebuild first.

If you seek vastly improved performance then fit a Chrysler Hemi Six. These make Series go like sports cars but can be hard on Series transmissions if enthusiastically driven. This is my favourite engine swap for Series LR's or as a replacement for the little V8

The holden is probably a bit strong for the S3 gearbox and not simple conversion structurally. The use of this engine in a series has definite shortcomings.

It's now difficult to now get good quality conversion parts for the Holden conversion and acceptable 6cyl holden motors are getting rare.

While there are other options, IMHO it is altogether simpler to stick with a 2.25 or a de-turbo'd tdi (as above).

Get the existing motor re-built......

Changing and modifying these days would be a pain...I’m assuming you’ll need engineering and mod plates.

Does HH’s or tjebdus on Russel Island have a drop in motor laying around.

As mentioned a Holden motor is a common conversion but not as straight forward as most think who haven't done one. Front Crossmember needs modifying as does the rad Support, etc to fit it in. 200tdi if you can find a good one would be my pick.

I'd probably rebuild the existing motor if he was happy enough with it - much simpler and probably cheaper too.

Originally Posted by Ranga

A mate's S3 apparently needs a new motor (not sure what's wrong with it). Anyone care to advise on best options - another 2.25, Holden, 300Tdi, Isuzu? Also looking for someone selling one of these, preferably south-east QLD.

hi i have s3 motor with with 80.000 ks on the clock

Just rebuild the 2.25 - cheapest and easiest option. I good 2.25 tuned up well is better overall than a Holden 6 (which will cost as much as rebuilding the Rover anyway. I have had series with both a new 2.25 and a new 161 - yes the Holden had a bit more zoom zoom in the lower gears but runs out of revs and puff with the standard LR gearing. The 2.25 handles higher revs better.

I blew my 2.25 (overheated0 and rebuilt it over a few weekends with specialist work being done by the local engine builder. On the new engine I put extractors on it, rebushed the dizzy so the shaft was not wobbling around, put it on electronic ignition, had the carb rebuilt - the new engine went like a dream - in my view better than the holden in the previous LR.

Now change the gearing and the Holden may be better but with a standard setup stay with the original - a lot less hassle.

Garry