Transit mk1 bmw m40b18 engine swap

[Dafsbv91]

Hi guys, i just bought a firefighter van with 2.0 essex engine and i want to put bmw m40b18 engine on it. The last owner had this engine on it but he put back the essex but i don't know why. The engine is 1.8 cmc with 116hp, do you think it's enough for the van? I will put the gearbox that comes with bmw engine. I don't know anything about swaps, i never did one.

[conrod]

I think the BMW engine will be a lot of work to install, for little benefit. While hp is up by about 20, torque is identical, and that is what you really want more of in a big van. Probably much better engines you could be installing for the same amount of effort.

[Dafsbv91]

Thank you for answer. I will go for diesel, i think something from mercedes w124.

[conrod]

no problem! Make sure it is turbo diesel, otherwise they are quite gutless! Check manufacturers specs of engine first

[Dafsbv91]

I think i will stick to m40b18 because here we can find a lot of spares. I am not alowed to put diesel on a petrol car here.. The v4 from the car is working and has only 30k kilometres but don't like the consumption..

[conrod]

fair enough, the BMW engine should give better mpg. You might need a taller diff ratio though.

[Dafsbv91]

And where can i get one? I have no idea about rwd cars, never had one..and what ratio should i look for?

[conrod]

tallest diff for the LWB van with dual rear wheels is 4.63:1. Your firevan was probably built with 5.13 or 5.89 ratio.
4.63 should be okay for the BMW engine.