Hi all. I currently have a Jeep Cherokee XJ and am in the market for a Disco 1. My biggest drawback of the disco is the terrible fuel mileage that the 4.0L provides, along with a lot of electronics that could be damaged if I put the vehicle in a fording situation. I have been looking at the viability of a diesel conversion. In my google-fu I ran by a few 6.2L GM diesel conversions. 

Do any of you know anyone who has taken part in this and have seen or heard the results? This project is not above me technical wise, but I am curious if this too negatively affects the offroad prowress of the vehicle. I am concerned of what the negative results would be as far as sidehilling, climbing, and descent angles would be. 

Thanks for any input!

having worked on Humvees in the army, I despise the 6.2.......to me it was like lets take a perfectly fine gas motor and retro fit it to run diesel. the injector pumps were crap, brand new they sounded like they were about to fall apart and don't get me going on the glow plugs....

Matt,

I think the creativity and challenge here is pretty cool, but would seriously question doing this. It seems like you would be way better served working from the original platform and using those funds to restore/rebuild/enahance that platform. I bet the conversion you are speaking of will run way more than the $2500 mentioned and then once complete, be uncertain of performance, what impact it will have on the original engineering and so on.

While it would not be my choice, I always appreciate people that are willing to take on a project this challenging. If you go for it, good luck and keep us up to date on the progress.

Dustin

The 1997-1999 Discovery's had numerous improvements over the earlier models. It has the most reliable ABS and EFI systems as well as improved harnesses. They also have updated swivel housings with a teflon coating and improved body sealing. They are the only ones to consider if buying a Discovery 1 IMO. Look for one that has been well maintained and can prove it with records or through a history with a repair facility.

I thought Mark's did the adapter. Clearly I am confused.

Possibly Mark's recommends the T400 because the R380 isn't up to the torque of the GM lump?  I don't think LR put them behind V8's, although I could be wrong.  Although people chip TD5's for significantly more juice than a 300TDi, and the R380 seems OK with that.

Mike,

Yours was an early version. Most 97's have the updated swivels and the square canister for advanced evaps.