Thread: Swapping a V8 radiator into a 300TDi SI Disco

Smokaharma, I don't think it is thinner, the mounting brackets and top plate seem to be the same, I am going to measure the amount of water capacity in both radiators, I have removed the air con condensor for the time being, at least until I can work out how to fit it all into that space. I also have a D2 trans cooler in there as well, will let you know what happens, won't be starting on it till next month, when funds allow, regards Frank.

Originally Posted by justinc

Hi Frank, unfortunately you would have to use a Td5 rad, as the side tanks are molded to allow the IC pipes to pass through to the engine compartment. You would then have to somehow pass one pipe across the front of the engine as the Td5 is a crossflow design. I would be suggesting using the V8 Rad, and run the pipework (Both pipes) under and up to the Pass side to connect with the inlets and outlets.

JC

Justin, thanks for your input mate, reason I am attemting this project is because I got the V8 rad. for free and the IC for the cost of postage from a generous Aulrovian.
So there will be some weird and wonderful holes in front panels and pipework by the time I'm finished, as long as it don't cost too much.
I was actually thinking of trying to emulate the Mack Coolpower setup of air to air and air to water cooling, the Mack system actually could pump air into the engine at less than ambient air temperatures, thats why they pulled such incredible torque and HP figures from 11 litre engines, antway will see what the minister for finances has to say next month, regards Frank.

when i fitted the 4bd1t to my 1992 sherwood rrc, i left the big 3 row v8 rad and stuck a 75mm thick full width 'Hybrid' brand 3" inlet and outlet Ricer look Front mount IC in. I ran the pipework out to the side and down through the inner guards at the front lower edge, and the drivers side in under the battery box and up to the engine, (Again like the Td5 the 4bd1 is crossflow) and the passenger side through the battery tray and up to the turbo, all with gratuitous use of the 3.5" holesaw and an air hacksaw. My logic at the time was to fit the biggest intercooler I could, and disregard the compromise of would it fit or not. I just made it fit.

Looked great all in stainless and Silicon hoses, when the whole shooting match got the transplant into the 110, some of the pipework was even able to be reused. Again the headlamp boxes on the 110 got the holesaw treatment, but it too was a neat instal and fits really well. I guess I could've gone down to a 2.5" IC but I already had this one, so why not?


JC

Did the bigger intercooler make a difference? it would definitely get better exposure to cool airflow up front there. I am worried that all the extra pipe work and larger IC will increase turbo lag, but if the air is significantly cooler it may compensate. I have no muffler fitted at the moment and am thinking of a larger dia. exh. system with no muffler. I have an auto and no turbo lag to speak of so Im hoping it will not change, BTW I love making up pipes and bends and getting it all to fit and look as if it was meant to be there, Regards Frank.

Sorry can't tell you that as the IC was fitted at the same time as the turbo, but at 15psi you would have to say it is helping a lot. I was able to feel a huge temp diff between inlet and outlet after a big caning up a hill, so IMO it is well worth it. Also, a Tdi has to work pretty hard at times so yes a bigger IC is worth it.
As far as efficiency goes, I am seeing 11l/100km around town, and almost the same towing my CT at about 1000kg, below 100km/h. Recently had a fast towing trip (100 to 110km'hr )back down the east coast to home with some really big winds, and did some overtaking etc and still got 13.5l/100. I reckon it is definately contributing to my good economy when working hard.

Can you post progress pics when you are up and running?

JC

Justin, thanks again, I will post pics, before, during and after, regards Frank.

Did this ever eventuate? Im considering undertaking the same mod. However, I have an intercooler that has inlet and outlet on the same side.

Can the end tanks on the TDI rad be swapped onto the V8 Rad, or are they too dissimilar???

Originally Posted by Phat-Customs

Did this ever eventuate? Im considering undertaking the same mod. However, I have an intercooler that has inlet and outlet on the same side.

Can the end tanks on the TDI rad be swapped onto the V8 Rad, or are they too dissimilar???

Hasn't happened yet, new head and turbo got the funds intended for the radiator mods, will post when funds allow, Regards Frank.