What's Inside the Kit
ENGINE
GM - LS3 6.2L Aluminum V8
GM - LS3 Intake Manifold
GM - LS3 Accessory Drive System
GM - LS3 Engine Cover (Optional)
TRANSMISSION & ADAPTER
GM 6L80 / 6L90 Automatic Transmission
RRO - Transfer Case Adapter
RRO - Transmission Crossmember
Transmission Cooler
Stainless Steel Braided Transmission Cooler Lines
PROP SHAFTS
New Front and Rear Prop Shafts (Includes Hardware)
ELECTRICAL ASSEMBLIES
GM Engine Control Module (ECU) + Integrated Wire Harness w/Control Seals
OBD-II Diagnostic Port
Temperature Sensor Package
RRO - Proprietary Mounting Hardware
GEAR SHIFT ASSEMBLY
Gear Shifter - Performance Automatic / LoCar Shifter w/Indicator Strip
RRO - Proprietary Mounting Hardware
RADIATOR PACKAGE
High-Capacity Aluminum Radiator
Radiator HosesDual Electric Cooling Fans
RRO - Proprietary Mounting Hardware
EXHAUST SYSTEM
RRO - 3" Std Aluminized or Stainless Steel LS3-Specific Downpipes
RRO - 3" Std Aluminized Steel Center Silencer
RRO - 3" Std Aluminized Steel Tailpipe
FUEL SYSTEM
RRO - HF-1 Proprietary High-Flow In-Tank Fuel Pump
Fuel Pressure Regulator
In-Line Fuel Filter
Gates Fuel Line AN Connections
AUXILIARY COMPONENTS
Electric/Hydraulic Power Steering
Optional A/C Integration
What This System Is Not
• Not a universal LS swap kit
• Not a collection of loose components
• Not an untested wiring solution
• Not a shortcut around driveline geometry
This is a complete integration platform — developed through real-world builds.
Investment
System pricing varies based on:
• Transmission selection
• Drive orientation
• Installation pathway
• Optional upgrades
Installed conversion projects typically range:
$55,000 – $85,000
Final investment determined during structured consultation.
Ready to Modernize Your Defender?
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Overview
The Rad-Rover LS3 Defender Conversion System delivers modern 6.2L V8 performance with structured integration engineered specifically for the Defender chassis.
This is not a universal LS swap.
It is a complete, platform-specific system refined through more than 100 Defender and Series conversions — developed, tested, and hand-built in Ames, Iowa · USA.
The LS3 Platform
The 6.2L GM LS3 remains one of the most proven modern V8 platforms available.
Typical Output:
430–480 horsepower
425+ lb-ft torque
Characteristics:
• Linear power delivery
• Strong low-end torque
• Reliable long-term serviceability
• Massive parts support network
It transforms a Defender from underpowered utility vehicle into modern-performance capable — without sacrificing mechanical character.
Engineered for Defender Chassis
The Defender platform presents unique engineering challenges:
• Limited frontal airflow
• Tight engine bay packaging
• Steering clearance constraints
• Transfer case alignment sensitivity
Our system addresses these directly.
Mount placement, cooling design, and driveline geometry are developed specifically for Defender architecture — not adapted from generic LS kits.
Transmission Options
6L80 Automatic
• Modern drivability
• Smooth highway cruising
• Optimized shift mapping
• Ideal for daily-driven builds
Manual Transmission
• Retained analog engagement
• Compatible with select configurations
• Proper clutch and pedal integration
Transmission integration includes driveline alignment and transfer case compatibility.
Why Rad-Rover
Few engineer them properly for the Defender platform.
Rad-Rover combines:
• In-house fabrication
• Structured cooling solutions
• Refined driveline geometry
• Clean electrical integration
• Real-world installation experience
Engineered + Hand-Built in Ames, Iowa · USA.