Thread: Which Defender to convert to 4BD1T?

Hi Andrew,

the conversion tto turbo and intercooling is a quantum leap in performance with these engines. we do a few toyota turbo conversions also, last 2 were into HZJ78/9 with the 1HZ engine, and they are really restricted to a low boost figure of around 10 to 11 psi, whereas the 4bd1 can handle quite easily figures twice that. some have gotten 4 to 5 times that with compound turbo set ups etc and minimal internal modifications. i'd like to see a 1HZ do that

the n/a version to turboed can be compared to the difference between a honda xl250 and a xr600. there is just no going back i am on gearbox number 5, and clutch number 3, current trans and clutch is finally sorted out now...


jc

Originally Posted by taylorslandy

Hi, thanks for your input. Your figures are about what I was thinking would be the case. There are a lot of variables and it depends on how you drive, loaded, speed, towing, etc, etc. I'd be happy with 11-15 L/100k.

Since you added a turbo, how would you describe the difference? Have you ever driven a vehicle from the dark side to compare? Eg toymotor or patrol 4.2 T diesel?

Cheers, Andrew

I haven't driven a turbocharged (4+ L) nissota that I can recall. IMHO my 4BD1T is much more driveable than any LR product I have driven (3.5 and 3.9 V8, 300Tdi, HS2.8, TD5, 2.4 Puma) and 3ish litre japanese TDs. (e.g. 2011 Mazda BT50 was most recent).

The TD5 / 2.4TD and Japanese TDs accelerate really well when you have the boost, but I really miss the low down torque of the 4BD1 when driving them.

The other great thing about the 4BD1T, is that with a heavy load on or towing, the only way you can really tell the difference is that EGTs and Boost (and fuel consumption) are higher for a given road speed.

I've probably posted it elsewhere, but when I did my conversion from 200tdi to 4bd1(+T), I initially ran it with just standard NA fueling to see what it was like.

On the test hill I chose for setting up my fueling, I could only manage 35km/h in second gear with standard NA fueling. That was with no load in the vehicle.
After increasing the fuel enough to build 15psi boost and 650deg EGT pre-turbo, it would hold 3rd gear and 70km/h up the same hill.

The cost and work of doing the conversion fades, but the grin stays on your face

Steve

Originally Posted by pibby

taylorslandy - you in stanley tas?

i'm guessing this will have what you need and it's just down the road.

Isuzu 86 NKR short 5 ton | Heavy, Farming & Agriculture Equipment | Gumtree Australia West Tamar - Beaconsfield

Hi, no I'm in Stanley VIC near Beechworth but thanks anyway. I had a look at the link you posted, seems nice and cheep but would have to make sure it has the 4BD1t.

Thanks all for the good info on what the 4BD1t is like to drive, very helpful. All I have to do now is buy a 130, the said 4BD1t motor and 5sp box and whack it all together! sounds easy if you say it quickly , can't wait

Originally Posted by rijidij

...
Having said that, if you can get a Td5 at a really good price, it wouldn't be too much hassle changing things to suit, such as an earlier dash and throttle pedal assembly.
...

I don't have personal experience with TD5 electrics, but have read many posts in UK forums where they install TD5 dash panels into earlier Defenders to obtain better speedo and backlighting, etc. So I'm thinking that side of the conversion would be workable and even an advantage.

I doubt it would be very hard to convert the accelerator pedal.

Originally Posted by Bush65

I don't have personal experience with TD5 electrics, but have read many posts in UK forums where they install TD5 dash panels into earlier Defenders to obtain better speedo and backlighting, etc. So I'm thinking that side of the conversion would be workable and even an advantage.

I doubt it would be very hard to convert the accelerator pedal.

Thanks John, I was wondering if the TD5 had better dash lights, sounds like it could be a bonus. And like has been said it wouldn't be hard to change things if needed, just more stuff to get!

I've been hunting around for a cheap 130, ideally one with a stuffed motor and or gear box would be good as it won't cost much! As long as the chassis, body and interior are good. What should I be wary of in defenders with big K's around 400,000k? Should the T case and diffs still have life in them etc? I plan to fit maxi drive or similar axles and diff locks.
Cheers, Andrew

Originally Posted by taylorslandy

..............What should I be wary of in defenders with big K's around 400,000k? Should the T case and diffs still have life in them etc? I plan to fit maxi drive or similar axles and diff locks.
Cheers, Andrew

If you're planning to do engine, gearbox and diffs, then you might as well rebuild a transfer case unless you get one that's in good nik. The rebuild kits aren't very expensive and it's something you could probably tackle yourself if you've got reasonable mechanical skills.

Overhaul Kit Lt230

Cheers, Murray