Question hopefully for another episode. For people reconditioning a M57 for fitment to a Defender, what parts do you recommend changing prior to fitting?
You have hinted at the Duratec conversion a couple of times over the last while, is that to mount to a Series gearbox? or be another box to series transcase or lt230?
I don't think Landrover ever had a factory galvanized frame out of Solihill. So anything that shows up on US shores with a galvanized frame is a glaring red flag to a customs officer. I do know Defenders built in South Africa by Leyland had some specific upgrades for the local market which included a galvanized frame and bulkhead as well as an option for the BMW M52 6 cylinder engine. But I think those were a pretty small volume run and not positive what years it was offered.
The restriction on galvanized frames to the US has to do with the requirement that the vehicle be 'as manufactured' or no 'significant modifications'', which from everything I could find while importing my defender was interpreted as the original frame, original engine type (doesn't have to be the original engine, but can't be swapped for a different type), and original body style (e.g. no van to CSW or pick up conversions). Beyond that, it seems that it was up to the US Customs officer reviewing the import as to what else would qualify as a 'significant' modification. To my knowledge, they check the chassis markings to verify it is the original chassis. Once it is officially in the US, it appears that everything is fair game.
All, I don’t believe the US does stop galvanised products entering the US as long as it sHDG and high-grade zinc has been used. There is nothing on the US border force controls pages about exclusions. It could more to do with type of vehicle on the galv chassis, not the galv chassis itself…perhaps someone in the US can shed more light…PS Dave’s D5 does look good on those wheels ❤ Mahker
