written by on 22/06/2012
I have a 412D converted into a tourist luxury midi-coach AC,DvD.PA systems and all. On 428,000ks, I got fed-up with the diesel engine rebuild cost (ZAR90,000.00 plus)so I bought a low mileage Lexus V8 vvti motor and auto box unit and plonked this with Lexus management system, into the Lwb Sprinter with a few alterations to firewall.
She now runs so smooth and has so much power 216Kw and 410Nm that I drive light foot.
Brake pedal pressure also much lighter to use. Unleaded petrol useage is 15litre per 100k's empty and 18Lts per 100ks loaded with 17 passengers and towing a big box trailer and AC on.
Cooling system is original but added 2 electric fans.
Diff is original. Runs 2700rpm @ 100kph in 5th.
I'm happy I made the switch which cost half the price of rebuilding the original engine.
Diesel quality in South Africa, is not yet of the good quality as in European countries.
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