In 1989, a half-cut Japanese AE86 Levin GT with 4A-GE engine was purchased from a Sydney motor wrecker. The 4A-C engine and transmission were removed, as well as the dashboard and complete front wiring loom; the engine bay was stripped. Everything from the half-cut was transferred over, necessitating some changes in the location of some engine bay items and the removal of the odd bracket or two. The car was fitted with a new exhaust to include a catalytic converter.
The wiring loom change was necessary to accommodate the engine management system and fuel injection. Every just screwed into place, including the engine management system computer, in the passenger's foot-well.
The most difficult part was the fuel system, which being fuel injection, required a high-pressure pump mounted inside the fuel tank and a return line. A Toyota Supra pump and body was purchased and modified to fit the inspection hole of the Sprinter's fuel tank, 1 inch smaller than that of a Supra.
The GT's front suspension with ventilated disc brakes was swapped over. A GT diff housing, diff, axles and disc brakes was procured and fitted to the car, necessitating a new prop-shaft. A TRD LSD was fitted to the rebuilt diff. Koni shocks and lowered spring kit were installed all round.
The modified car passed the state government vehicle inspection (on its first try) to receive a valid registration.
The modified car went like a rocket compared to when the SOHC was fitted. A great and satisfying conversion project.
Sadly, in 2006, I sold the vehicle to an enthusiast who has since modified the vehicle further.
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