Diesel Engine Conversions
Where to start about the benefits of upgrading your vehicle to a diesel engine? Here are some of the key points:
- Better fuel economy
– The ability to run on multiple fuels (biodiesel, diesel, straight vegetable oil)
– Lower cost to operate
– Engine longevity
Although the diesel engine is not for everyone, it is a key component if you wish to run an older vehicle in a more environmentally friendly manner. When built correctly, you can see MPG in the low 20′s to the mid 30′s – not bad for vehicle with the aerodynamics of a barn!
All diesel conversions we performed are ready for biodiesel, and if you wish, we can set the vehicle up to run on straight vegetable oil.
Why Cummins?
It comes down to the ability to drive across the country knowing that if something breaks, the parts would most likely be available the same day. Cummins has a large network of dealers and parts that are easily available anywhere in the country and most of North America. In contrast, if you choose a Toyota diesel engine, you may be stranded for a week waiting for a part to come out of Australia.
The Cummins engines are not the quietest diesel engines available, but it is our experience that when driving anything over 35 MPH you will begin to hear more wind noise due primarily to the lack of aerodynamics of the vintage Toyotas and Land Rovers.
Cummins B3.3 Start-up and Idle
Other New Diesel Engine Options
International 2.8 TGV
The HS 2.8L engine was developed from the 2.5 ‘300’ Tdi and has the same backend and engine mounting points on the cylinder block. The 2.8 will fit in to any application that already has the ‘300’ Tdi installed. The position of the air inlet to the inlet manifold and turbocharger and the turbo exhaust outlet are different.
1. The improved head gasket is now steel laminate.
2. The crankshaft is forged not cast.
3. The cylinder bock has been re-designed to improve cooling.
4. The combustion system has been re-developed by AVL.
5. The improved connecting rod has the cap secured by bolts with thread in rod.
6. A new piston has been developed.
7. The rear crankshaft seal clamping has been improved to stop oil leakage.
8.The rpm at maximum torque has been reduced, 1400 TGV &1600 WG (1800 Tdi)
9. The power and torque have been increased, see comparison below.
10. Bore and stroke comparison :– HS 2.8 – 93mm bore and 102.5mm stroke ‘300’ Tdi – 90.47mm bore and 97mm stroke
LR ‘300’ Tdi
Displacement :- 2,495 cc
Maximum power :- 111 bhp @ 4,000 rpm
Maximum governed rpm : 4,000
Maximum torque :- 195 lbf ft @ 1,800 rpm
International HS 2.8L TGV (Variable Geometry Turbo)
Displacement :- 2,785 cc
Maximum power :- 135 bhp @ 3,800 rpm
Max governed rpm :- 4,000
Maximum torque :- 277 lbf ft @ 1,400 rpm
International 2.8 TGV Start-up and Idle
Used and Rebuilt Diesel Options
Mercedes OM617 5 Cylinder Turbo diesel
Available in numerous Mercedes cars from 1981 to 1985 this diesel engine is rated at 125 HP and 180 lb/ft of torque. One of the more economical options for diesel conversions and more adapters are being developed yearly.
Cummins 4BT/4BTA
Used in many box vans this engine is known for it power and unfortunately noise. This engine shares many parts with the Cummins 6BT making it easy to customize. However this engine is not as refined as the 6BT making it louder and it tends to vibrate more making the use of liquid engine mounts a necessity. This engine is rated at 130HP and 355 lb/ft torque, however there is a lot of room to play with this engine.
