Tdi into series 3

[Chomby]

I am looking at converting my S3 109GS from a 202 to a Tdi powered machine. The main attraction is hopefully attaining comfortable highway speeds without the use of the irritating fairey overdrive. I would be installing both engine and gbox from whatever appears to be the easier and most worthy conversion. The other option if I was to keep the 202 is to get rid of the overdrive, install high speed transfer case gears and go to around 34" tyres (8.25x16?). I'm looking for as much information about costs, modifications required, etc. The s3 was originally a 6 cylinder so has a bit of room in the engine bay. My mate is starting some tomcat conversions using disco chassis' next year so that's where I will e sourcing engine and gbox from.

[frantic]

It appears to be a common mod in the U.k, but wont you still have the diff ratios at4.7 instead of the 3.54 the defender tdi's?

[Chomby]

Those are the sort of things in looking to find out. I also meant which Tdi is best for this? 200 or 300?

[Jeff]

IIRC the 200 TDi will bolt up to a 4 cylinder Series 3 bellhousing, and sit where the 4 cylinder did, but as you have a six, and will be using a Disco gearbox it might not matter, but you could use the original front panel, with the 300 TDi you may need to use a Stage One or 110 front panel and bonnet. The Disco gearbox has the shifter way further back compared to the Defender, so you may need to change this.

Jeff

[ScottW]

The diff ratios will still hold you back, as mentioned. Perhaps try changing those first. IIRC, it's a straight swap and the additional power fro the 202 should get you moving fine.

If you install the TDI with gearbox and transfer, you may have to convert the transfer to selectable 4wd, as the front uni's in your Stage 3 won't like the constant front drive.
The other option is to get a Stage 1 front diff.

As you are in QLD, a RRC diff will be too wide to fit unless you can get some rims with a big + offset to tuck the tyres back under the guards, but this may cause other issues.

[Sleepy]

I'm no expert, but I have read this site and found it quite comprehensive.

Introduction to Series Land Rover engine conversions

There is a section on 200tdi into series3