D1 300tdi conversion question

[terryjm1]

I have a 98 D1 I converted from V8 automatic to 300tdi with R380.

The V8 crossmember won’t work with the 300tdi. I just took it out and used the NAS R380 mounts. The R380 300tdi version uses a crossmember that also serves as the R380 gearbox mount. I haven’t had any issues but I realize the crossmember plays a role in safety should there be a crash.

My question is for you that have done the conversion, what did you do?

I am leaning toward installing the correct crossmember.

 

[Frank84]

I did the same conversion, but on a RRC and used the Tdi crossmember with the built in mounts. You'll see them for sale on the forums fairly often for $150 it seems like. I believe, but please double check, that the 300Tdi crossmember is the same for Defender/Disco. The Tdi cross member didn't require drilling any new holes, but it used different holes that already existed in the chassis. What was a nice surprise was that I didn't need to spread the chassis rails to get the Tdi crossmember into place.

 

[terryjm1]

I found a new on another forum for a Defender. I am optimistic it is the same.