After incessant naval gazing, I'm finally biting the bullet on reconditioning and upgrading the county. The first endeavour was to collect the bits for turbo charging the 4bd1 - have the Garrett 25, split radiator/air cooler, just need the piping and oil hoses. I have the aircon system from a 300tdi to replace the original aircon box etc. But the 4bd1 has now pushed past 430K and probably due for an overhaul before subjecting it to greater pressure, hence looking at oil injectors, new pistons (I've been told the replacement 4bd1 and 4bd1t pistons are the same these days), but happy to take advice on what else should be done.

The next question is the gearbox. I've already reconditioned the LT85 once and it is starting to make bearing noises again after about 8 years, so I'm thinking of swapping in a R380 that was behind a V8 in a Disco. I'm told it will need a longer input shaft from a defender? (if anyone has a good one of those lying around please let me know), but as an absolute novice with this changeover. I welcome tips on how easy/hard this will be and any pointers on things that need to change. If someone has a spare LT85-4bd1 bellhousing, please let me know, even better if they have the hybrid Lt85-4bd1/R380 made from the respective bell housings.

I will look at replacing the muffler system with a 2.5 inch version. but need advice on how the temp sensors are fitted and a reasonable temp sensor monitor. Where are the key points to monitor temps?

It will be good to chat to you guys about this

Smithyz1