Step into the heart of automotive evolution with Project Hitchcock, a project that redefines the driving experience by seamlessly integrating the Land Rover Defender 300TDI engine into the classic Series 2 vehicle. This journey of power enhancement required extensive adaptation and fabrication to make the newer turbo Diesel engine fit into the small engine bay of the Landy.
Upgraded Might: Land Rover 300TDI
Hitchcock's original engine, a 4-cylidner 2.25 Petrol unit produced only 70 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque. But more is more and in the restomodded heart of Project Hitchcock beats the Land Rover Defender 300TDI engine we installed from the early 1990s - a 30 year evolution in technology. This new engine boasts nearly double the horsepower at 122 and a substantial 265 lb-ft of torque. The upgrade from the 2.25 Petrol engine required thoughtful customizations to ensure a seamless fusion of power and performance.
Custom Adjustments: Making the Connection
Creating a harmonious partnership between the 300TDI and Hitchcock demanded extensive custom adjustments and fabrication. Our approach was comprehensive, involving the integration of a snub-nose R380 gearbox, a custom transmission adapter to fit the original transfer case, and the incorporation of upgraded disc brakes and conversion to dual-circuit braking system incorporating brake booster from a Land Rover Discovery. To address specific challenges, such as the 300TDI alternator fouling the chassis, we relocated the alternator, installing a special custom mounting bracket and drive belt.
Additionally, the complexity of the cooling system required the utilization of the 300TDI radiator and intercooler assembly, along with a header tank from a donor vehicle. Terrafirma silicone hoses, a stainless steel jointer, a cable-operated heater shut-off valve, radiator mounting brackets, and other adaptations ensured a seamless connection.
Preserving the Classic Aesthetic
Even with the enhanced power of Project Hitchcock, we remain committed to preserving the classic aesthetic. The blend of modern power and vintage charm makes every drive more than just a journey—it's a nod to automotive history, seamlessly merging the best of both worlds.
Project Hitchcock stands as a testament to the transformative power of the Land Rover 300TDI engine, where customization meets heritage, and classic meets contemporary. It's not merely an upgrade; it's a symphony of power, history, and the unyielding spirit of the open road.
