Perkins M50

[Pete7]

Originally Posted by Target9000

Before selling our M50, I discovered and confirmed that the engine is the same as the Volvo MD22L series. They also used this motor in certain vans and you can purchase a shop manual from an auto parts maker for this motor, though I've forgotten the model. Something from Europe if I recall correctly.

British Leyland Sherpa vans from 86 onwards, not one of my countries finest achievements. Also used in several Austin saloon cars. The only good thing about the van was that it is narrow so easier to drive through Londons traffic.

LDV Pilot - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Not a bad engine in the 60 - 80 hp range but became a little fragile when Volvo produced the TAMD 105 bhp version which they subsequently dropped. A shame because the boating market was crying out for a 2L diesel engine for small run arounds and ribs in Euruope.

This left the way open for Mercruiser to marinise the Vauxhall Astra 1.7L engine with 120 hp. Now that was a potent engine. Forget expensive German cars, nothing could touch a delivery driver with an Astra van on the roads although we did stop when the blue lights of a Police Volvo T5 appeared in our mirrors. Thankfully my mate was driving at the time.

Pete

[Target9000]

Pete, I'm trying to imagine those delivery vans in a rally race.

[Pete7]

Originally Posted by Target9000

Pete, I'm trying to imagine those delivery vans in a rally race.

The Police had some with the aluminium rover 3.5L V8 petrol engines so about 150hp. God only knows what they were like to drive, probably spent most of their lives on two wheels going around corners and as for brakes well you would be better of chucking a Rocna out the back door. The only saving grace was everyone knew there were a firms van so stayed well out of your way.

The Post Office had a fleet of them with sliding drivers doors, great in the summer time, but there was a risk of falling out the door as the seats were nasty cheap plastic.

The Army eventually got rid of our Sherpa vans so we waited hoping for the latest ford Turbo transits only for them to buy Renault Traffics . Front brakes would over heat and lock on with enthusiastic driving causing the front tyres to blow out with appauling regularity. All very scary with a couple of tonnes of computers in the back during the Friday night dash to get home.

Pete