Originally Posted by
Bush65
Sorry, I was only pulling your chain. I'm sure you knew that.
But there are some reputable places in the UK (e.g. Fearn ???) using these with good results, but too expensive for my tastes.
I don't know what torque is like at low rpm (off boost). Being 3 litre probably not too shabby. This issue is my main concern with small displacement diesels.
I thought I had seen something about BAS re-mapping the 5 cyl, 3 litre version of the TDCi as used in the Masda B50 and Ford Ranger (common here unlike the BMW). I don't see a mention on Pete's website, but if he does I would be very tempted to go that way if I were contemplating an engine swap now, and not committed with my old, reliable, torquey, 4BD1T.
IMHO 4 cyl is better than more - less friction loss, less parts to replace (think $$$$ for modern injectors) at the expense of some smoothness (but I run muddies and drive on rough tracks so what smoothness). I don't know of too many modern 3 litre or greater, 4 cyl diesels that are common here, and supported with good aftermarket tuning of BAS standard. I see plenty of them towing vans and large boats around here, but I have no real experience.