Date:    Wed, 13 Jun 90 10:48:15 PDT
From:    bellas@gamma.stratus.com (Bellas)
To:      lro@stratus.com

Subject: Engine conversion for a 109


My father bought a 109 new in 1967.  We used it as a family camping and hauling
vehicle for about 10 years.  It saw occasional use for the next 5 years and for
the last 8 years it has be doing snow plow duty at my dads lodge in the
montains.  He has sold the lodge and no longer has a use (or room) for the
Land Rover so has given it to me.  My first analysis is that the 6 cyl
engine is history (again), it burns tremendous amounts of oil (and produces
the black smoke to go with it), has very low compression in several cyliders
and has a noticable rod knock.  I am contemplating swapping in a different
engine rather that rebuilding the one in it as it has been a constant source
of trouble.  I have seen lots of speculation about putting in the 3500 v8,
but have heard from no one who has actually done it.  Other options are an
american engine adapted to the LR trannie or an entire powertrain swap.

I had no problems with the 4 banger in my Series I, but the aluminium
head 6 has been a nightmare.  Any thoughts from other owners would be
very helpful.  Thanks.

			-Pete-