A unique Land Rover Defender has been fitted with a 4.4-liter JCB industrial diesel engine, swapping out its original turbodiesel inline-four for increased power and reliability.
The build took five years to complete and required custom fabrication of the hood and oil sump to accommodate the larger engine.
Diesel Pump UK, the shop behind the swap, specializes in Mercedes-Benz OM606 swaps but decided to go with a JCB backhoe engine for this project.
The goal of the build was not to generate maximum horsepower but rather to increase reliability and maintain the Defender's British character.
The new engine produces 145 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, compared to the stock engine's 108 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque.
Fitting the larger JCB engine required trimming sheetmetal and relocating bump stops to clear the hood.
The swap also includes a custom charge-air cooler, stainless steel exhaust, rebuilt axles, and a two-inch suspension lift.
This Land Rover Defender is now available for sale and can be shipped outside the UK.
For those with tax refunds on hand, this engine swap might be worth considering as a unique investment opportunity.
This engine swap showcases the potential for industrial engines to be used in off-road vehicles
