109 with a 4BT

[Roverlab]

Hi, all! Happy New Year! I currently have a 4BT powered 109 here that has transmission and transfer case issues, ie difficult, inconsistent shifting and the tcase pops out of high range after only a few miles. I've only started diagnosing the car but I can tell you that the oil in both boxes has an extremely high metal content!
I haven't confirmed this, but I've been told the trans is a T18 and the tcase has an Ashcroft hi ratio fitted.
Also, in my sort diagnostic drives, my left quadricep muscle has grown signifigantly.
So, my first round of questions are: if we were to repair or replace this combination, is it proving reliable as the miles increase; is there another alternative; are short, heavy clutch throws part of the package?
IS there another forum for more detailed discussions?
Thanks!
Trevor

[yorker]

http://www.4btswaps.com/forum/forum.php

[leafsprung]

The heavy clutch is probably because the mechanical advantage provided by the clutch tower, throwout arm and cylinders are insufficient - in other words its a design issue.n All of those factors can be changed to decrease pedal effort.

[gambrinus]

That is a LOT of engine to stick in a 109... SWEET motor, but woooooo baby is it a big beast.

[disco2hse]

Suggest you join aulro.com. There are a large number of those conversions on there.

[leafsprung]

mostly 4bd1(t) isuzu in oz not cummins 4bt

[slorocco]

Hey man, you've seen my junk. Same motor but I'm running an SM420 and LT230 behind the motor. Clutch pedal effort is about normal on my rig not excessive.

I would second the recommendation to check the 4btswaps page to see/ask how well the T18 holds up behind the 4bt.