Need some advice please...

I own a 1980 series 3 but I'm wanting to make it runs that bit smoother if i can..?
I just have some questions from owners of these to see if there's anything I can do or if I should just leave it as it is..., I'm used to driving it but I'm pretty sure it should run abit better than what it does!

1) when in 3rd gear its very lumpy but in 2nd and 4th it's smooth..,is there anything that I can do to sort this prob? Maybe a nut/bolt loose?

2) if I put on new longer shackles to raise the landrover would the leaf springs still be ok when the old shackles are removed?

3) what the top end cost of a full conversion to put in a 2.5 diesel engine in (roughly) with all the wiring looms etc..?


Thanks,

Paul

It's a 2.25 petrol engine now

1) if you're really lucky it could be a loose main shaft nut. But if it's only 3rd gear , it suggests damage (like a missing tooth) to 3rd. Have you checked the oil for any bits?
2) what's the question? Shackles can be changed and/or springs can be changed- they don't have to be done together.
3) no idea. Is it DIY? If you are looking for a garage to do it, they will give you a rough idea up front. But varies because vehicle condition plays a big part in how long it takes.

It doesn't jump out of 3rd and when you pick up speed it seems to run abit smoother.., could it be that I'm just going too slow when I change upto 3rd? It would be a DIY job between me and a friend who has done engine changes before, it was more of a rough price for everything I'd need and not for the work itself!
The leaf springs on mine are just one unit now on all 4 of them so I was wanting to replace the shackles with 2" longer ones then try free the leaf springs once the new
shackles are on, with oil and lubricating spray if that would work?

Cheers

Lots of oil and driving over speed bumps seems to be the accepted method of freeing springs but there must be limits to how far gone this method can sort out ( I took mine apart).
You should be able to tell the difference between chugging and a rough running gear! Try going a bit faster in second and see if the problem goes away.
If you're DIY, you should be able to cost it pretty accurately. I take it you have engine and exhaust. So you need (not exhaustive list) filter unit, pipe from tank-filter-pump and return to tank.
Don't need wiring loom unless you're really keen. Just wire glow plugs to manual switch on dash (could even use choke?) via relay. You probably remove more wiring than you add cos theres no ignition.

I'd look at putting a 200Di (200 tdi with out the turbo) or a 300Di (300tdi engine with out the turbo) engine in your series.

Plenty on the net about how to do the conversion

Sounds like your gearbox could need a rebuild. Can be done your self or budget around £400 for a rebuild. Gearbox can be taken out of the door aperture if you remove the door and the seat box

I'll be tackling this next year