Changing engines...........

Liberty to L-Series engine transplants
The liberty to L-series engine transplant seems like an ideal way to solve many shortcomings the L-series' 1800 motor has.
There are a few ways to do the conversion.
1. Use a Liberty engine & box - but put L-series parts in the box.
2. Use a Liberty engine & L-series box with an adapter between them.
3. Use all Liberty mechanicals and custom make shafts etc to suit.

This car was done by using a Liberty engine & gearbox. The gearbox innards were removed and replaced with the L-Series gears. This allows for a lot of L-series shaft and component usage and voids the need for a adapter plate between engine & box. Rex took 3 weeks holidays to do it, had the help of friends, stayed up into the early hours poring over wiring diagrams and still needed more time to finish the job. However, he did do a great job - it looks factory!

Some Pro's & Con's
Pro's

The Liberty 2.2 litre engine has a genuine 100kw of power.
It is fuel injected - no fussy or inefficient carbies.
It gives great economy.
Has heaps more torque.
Power & Torque increases are major bonuses to on & OFF-ROAD driving!
Shortage of power in almost all situations is solved.
The Liberty engine is slightly shorter - allows for more air-space.
Makes the car a joy to drive.
Using 14" wheels and large tyres causes little trouble (even with the tall diff ratio!).
Can use a standard 2" lift kit.
It becomes a much better FUN car!
Bigger radiator fits neatly.
Air conditioning can stay - after a few mods.

 
Con's

Custom exhaust, electrics, fuel lines, engine mounts etc.
Adapting computer & wiring can be a nightmare. Plan it in advance. MANY hours!
Fitting accessories may become not worth the effort. (Cruise, tacho, etc)
Custom fuel lines - the liberty uses larger size and a feed-back line too.
Fuel tank uses a different pressure.
Brakes had to be changed for another models for better efficiency.
Final drive is slightly different (changes speedo accuracy a bit).
L-Series drive train has more stress on it.
Need a larger radiator with better cooling fans.
Liberty Engines are not cheap. Auto electricians are even worse!!!
Massive amount of work with no plans to follow (easier to blow the budget).
You can now get fairly cheap 4wd Liberty's, so why do a expensive Liberty to L transplant?
There is at least one company who has an adapter for the conversion, but they don't sell them - you have to pay them to do the whole job just to get the part!
Spare wheel has to be re-located.
Many components have to be re-located.
Some plumbing has to be custom made.
The Liberty wiring harness can be used but needs serious mods and a lot of wires removed.
Air filter box needs to have its bottom part replaced with a custom made one.
You have to get it complianced. Do a good job or else!!!
Generally, a turbo 1800 is equal to the liberty but costs less.
Peter Brown SC445