Looking for mechanic for engine swap with new "K" series engine
 

Hi all,

I'm looking for a seasoned mechanic that lives, loves and breaths Rover 75's. Because it is about time to have some major things done on my engine (clutch, headgasket, belts) I am looking to put a new and improved engine block (partly from the MG6) in my Rover 75 1.8.

I have been told by a few others that certain parts, such as the engine body, the head, the headgasket and the inlet manifold have been improved. Apparantely some mechanics gather all the improved parts from the 1.8 engine, and bolt the original parts onto it. Creating a "mix" of new and old into 1 engine.
Mister Dave Johnson (friend of Marina Brian?) told me that the price difference between the new engine, or all these repairs on my current engine would hardly be any different. Unfortunately he hasn't been able to reply to my calls, e-mails and texts.

It appears difficult to find a mechanic who can do this. Hence this topic.

Because I need to come over from The Netherlands, it would be great if it could be close to: Dover or Newcastle.
But in worst case scenerario, I need to drive a bit further.

Seeing as I need to report this to my insurance company, I need an invoice that proves the work that has been carried out.

A full list of things I would like to adres:
All the belts (already have the kit from DMGRS, but I don't dare to do it myself)
Clutch
Top strut bearings
Engine supports
Inlet manifold? (part of the new engine?)
Replace bolts on rear trailling arm (already have new ones, but can't get them off)
Greasing up the brakes
Replace side airbag impact sensor driversside
Full Service

Contact MJSAUTOANDMARINE.CO.UK.

The boss, Mike Stafford is a K series specialist.

Only takes a phone call.

Thanks, I think I've already had e-mailcontact with them. But it probably won't hurt to try it again. :)

I'm afraid that 2 calls (which where unanswered) and 2 e-mails (unreplied) makes it difficult to get a hold of mr Stafford. :(

May be worth contacting these guys. I've not used them myself, so can't vouch for them (though they do seem to have a fair reputation on Land Rover forums).

Can't hurt to get in touch though :shrug:.

Cliff

What about Lates.

Rev

Thanks Cliff, their location isn't optimal, but as long as they can do the job I'm asking for, I don't mind to drive a bit further. Quality and service is what I need.

Thanks for the Tip Rev, but I haven't been able to find what you refer to? Is Lates the company name? Google isn't very helpful either.

Lates is a small outfit run by Lates and his mate Pete at weekends. They are VERY good and know our cars inside out. Contact details are on their website Lates600.com .

Cliff

T4 location map
 

Have you looked at this T4 map? https://the75andztclub.co.uk/forum/s...d.php?t=287276 - I would think most could help you out.

Have you though about Netherlands -> Harwich? You would then be an hour away from Kevin at https://wickford.cylex-uk.co.uk/comp...-25830966.html

If you come from Dover it is around 1.5 hours to Wickford.

He repairs K series engines for all the local garages as they don't want anything to do with them (and of course they add their "admin" fees on top :getmecoat:).
He's no frills but very knowledgeable on everything to do with our cars.

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Also - British legends are in Southend - 1.75 hours from Dover, 1.25 hours from Harwich. http://www.britishlegends.co.uk

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Trikey is in Bungay (on here as well) and 1.5 hours from Harwich. Norfolk is very flat, so just like the Netherlands. :D

Thanks for the link Cliff, I couldn't find it on Google.

Thanks for the tip first-things-first. I forgotten about that map. So haven't tried them yet. As far as I have been able to figure, there are quite a few K-series specialist, but only a hanfdull who know about the improved "K-series" engine parts from the MG6. So if I'm looking for an engine "rebuild" with the improved parts, it could become difficult.

The last 2 you mention have already gotten several e-mails or pm's from me. Unfortunately I didn't get any reply. As a matter of fact, it almost seems like e-mail is unkown to UK mechanics. And the few I tried to call simply don't answer their phone.
You do have internet and electricity right? ;) (just kidding )