Hi All,
I have done the search of this site and the web on this conversion but have some specific questions I would like to ask of anyone who has done or is knowledgeable in this conversion.
I have a 10/70 LC 4-door, currently running a 186 Red out of a HR, I don't know much about the internals of the motor as I bought it as is, so I don't know if it is a virgin bore block or not. I have been tossing up in my own head whether to rebuild the 186 (a bit stronger and perhaps with fuel injection kit) or to put in a more modern engine, either an RB30 or V6. I am currently leaning to toward the RB30 (NA - I don't plan to Turbo) or rebuilding the 186 for a hint of authenticity. I am not planning a show or race car, it will be a showy streeter I plan to have on cruising duties with the family and local Torana club.
Before I decide I am after some advice on the cost and complexity of the RB30 conversion (I may have access to a cheap engine - not sure about the gearbox, wiring, ecu etc), my mates are keen on this conversion, but as the bank roller of the project (and someone keen on authenticity where possible) I am keen to understand as many of the gotchas of the RB30 conversions as I can.
Questions:
1. CRS sell a conversion kit - gearbox cross member, engine mounts and do a sump conversion. I note from the forums there is different opinions on how good the kit is, but leave that aside for now. Is there any other 'hidden' conversion requirements I need to know about to get the engine to fit?
2. I am interested in what gearbox people have used for this conversion. Ideally I would like a 5-speed manual box as it is a cruiser. Does anyone have any recommendations or gotchas on gearbox choice that I should be aware of? I have heard that the trans tunnel in the LC is quite small so ideally I would like to avoid cutting so if anyone has advice on best gearbox to avoid that would be appreciated.
3. Diff - I currently run the stock Banjo from an LC. I am interested in people's advice on whether I should upgrade or change the diff to a Borg or Salisbury and if so if anyone has a recommendation or any advice on what to do and not to do?
4. I understand I will need to get a tailshaft made up, obviously gearbox and diff choice will make a difference here, but any advice on what to do or where is appreciated?
5. I currently run GTR front discs and stock rear drums - do you recommend an upgrade to discs all round as part of this conversion. I guess the diff question affects this answer, if I get a commodore diff I might as well update the brakes?
6. As I said I am not sure if the engine I may have access to comes with all the ancillaries, any advice on good places to get parts would be great.
7. I understand I will need to get the conversion engineered, does anyone know of any additional requirements I will have to meet to have the car, post conversion, certified - i.e. Seatbelt upgrades or any other safety or polution upgrades? I spoke to my engineer the other day and he was a bit vague on the requirements as he hadn't done/seen the conversion before (and it was the day before Christmas holidays).
As I said, I am less concerned about the pros and cons of RB30 Vs Red 6, I am still mulling those over in my head and only I can make that call which will be determined by practicality and sentimentality, but any practical advice on best approach or gotchas would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks in advance.
Chris