My 3.9 has had the same repeated issue for 7 years . It has 128,000 miles on it which I'm guessing is the reasonable life span for this engine? I've tried having mechanics fix the issue of my truck drying out intermittently , but still no success. By putting in a decent motor and drive train this should make the truck more reliable to use on a more regular basis. Is yours a 3.9 ?
R2-8 Diesel conversion
I talked to a reputable Rovers shop today about replacing my 3.9 to an R2-8 Cummins in my 1995 NAS Defender 90. I wasn't at all shocked at the price ( as I thought it would have been much more actually ) and think it would be a world of difference over all . My questions are : 1 would this help the reliability level . 2 would it decrease the value or increase the value of my truck ? I'm guessing from what I've scene increase? This would allow it to be a life long drivable vehicle without having to lay under it. They would also while its apart treat the frame . Feedback would be appriciated .
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If anyone knows a great Land Rover Defender shop in Baltimore Maryland I'd be grateful.My 3.9 has had the same repeated issue for 7 years . It has 128,000 miles on it which I'm guessing is the reasonable life span for this engine? I've tried having mechanics fix the issue of my truck drying out intermittently , but still no success. By putting in a decent motor and drive train this should make the truck more reliable to use on a more regular basis. Is yours a 3.9 ?
The first day I got this Defender 8 years ago it shut off on the highway on my first drive . I had it fixed $1200 later.I felt it was my first true Land Rover experience. Lol Its always had this intermittent issue of sudden power loss then it immediately recovers however all the Land Rover guys locally can't figure it out. They feel the issue driving it but its the same old repair ( rotor and cap ) that works for 500 miles then its back to the usual.If it can't be fixed then I'd rather put a drive train in that works . I drive it hoping it completely breaks down so they have to find the issue. I can't drive the Defender out of my town in fear I'll never get to wear I'm going. I haven't attended a Rover event but one knowing I probably won't make it! Lol Its frustratingI understand your frustration, but these are 25+ year old trucks (and electrics). 128k is not uncommon for these engines and they easily run twice that if properly maintained. It sounds like you have a minor issue with both your engine and your mechanic's competence. I have a rebuilt 3.9 in my truck and it is as reliable as an anvil. I pulled the old engine at 140k to find the only real problem was a badly worn timing set (I do no like nylon timing gears). If the compression is good, and not burning oil, I would fix whatever minor issue you are having. If you are hard over on a R2.8, do as @Red90 suggested and call Uncle Doug.
I'm guessing most guys trailer these to events? To try and drive one would be to risky .The first day I got this Defender 8 years ago it shut off on the highway on my first drive . I had it fixed $1200 later.I felt it was my first true Land Rover experience. Lol Its always had this intermittent issue of sudden power loss then it immediately recovers however all the Land Rover guys locally can't figure it out. They feel the issue driving it but its the same old repair ( rotor and cap ) that works for 500 miles then its back to the usual.If it can't be fixed then I'd rather put a drive train in that works . I drive it hoping it completely breaks down so they have to find the issue. I can't drive the Defender out of my town in fear I'll never get to wear I'm going. I haven't attended a Rover event but one knowing I probably won't make it! Lol Its frustrating
I drove my Defender to the beach one time ( 3 hour drive ) . Scariest trip ever! Still can't believe I made it ! You're the only guy I've ever met who thinks these are great for long trips! Lol You're are talking about a 3.9 GAS engine correct?I guess I need a new Michanic but not sure where in Baltimore County . I appreciate your confidence and encouragement .Good lord no. Long distance expeditions is what they are best at.
You have one little problem and an incompetent mechanic. That is not a reason to install a completely new engine.
The solution is to find a competent mechanic and have your issue fixed.
The shop that repairs mine won't do any conversion for me. Not their thing. The diesel motor in the non NAS Defender is much better then a 3.9 Gas.( so I'm told ) The 3.9 isn't great by any means. My trucks are all Cummins and NEVER an issue ever ! My Defender has never been towed but has been stubborn to say the least. Always drive with my fingers crossed! I've never met a truly happy 3.9 owner bragging about its reliability and 250,000 miles of joyful travels! Lol.
Is smog like the emissions test we have here in Maryland? I have Historic Tags on my defender so no Emissions test for me.I am very happy with my warmed over 3.9 and would drive it anywhere (other than 12mpg and getting wet when it rains even with the top on). As well as my truck runs, I would not consider a motor swap. Plus, it passed smog.
Do you have a lot of miles on this motor? Looks very clean!Mine is also registered as a historic now. You may not care about smog (now), but the next owner might. View attachment 483636
Thats absolutely Hysterical!!!! Done! I'm clearing a space in my garage today and getting this show on the road! Thank you for getting me straightened out! I got on this site for good advice ! Sadly though, my Defender is my significant other !
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