SL35ti to 300TDI

Hi Guys & Gals

I currently have a Mazda SL35ti turbo lump in my defender with an LT85 and MD engineering adapter kit. Im looking to convert to a manual.

I want your guys thoughts if possible.

Option 1;
- Purchase the MD Engineering kit to adapt to 4HP22 £700+; be left with a strong engine but lack of spares in the UK.

Option 2;
- get a 300TDI from a Disco (manual injection) which will cost a bit more but long term spares avalibility may be better.

Thanks Guys & Gals

Depends on what you want from the vehicle I guess, do you need the extra power of the SL?

All the bits are available through M&D at a price, and many of the common service bits are available elsewhere cheaper with a bit of thought.

How does option 2 cost more ? You can buy a complete discovery for less than 700 quid....

Marmaduke said:

How does option 2 cost more ? You can buy a complete discovery for less than 700 quid....

Click to expand...

true, but I would be using a mechanic who has the tools and space to do the swap. that's where the cost starts rising.

Retroanaconda said:

Depends on what you want from the vehicle I guess, do you need the extra power of the SL?

All the bits are available through M&D at a price, and many of the common service bits are available elsewhere cheaper with a bit of thought.

Click to expand...

I am told that there is a fair amount of capacity in the 300TDI for a bit more power; still not as much as the SL35 though, to me the power is a luxury but nice to have..........

The 300tdi will be an easy conversion, all the parts are available off the shelf - have a look at Steve Parkers website

If power isn't the prime concern I'd head to the 300tdi, cheap parts & massive availability - plus you'll see more frugal consumption of cash in your wallet in just fuel use.

Weight bias will also be closer to factory spec, giving a better on & off road handling experience with the 300tdi.