Client goal
The problem to solve
Install a modern LT1 V8 and 10L80 automatic gearbox into a Defender while upgrading the vehicle electrical system to a standard suitable for repeated builds and future production work.
Project case study
LT1 V8 Defender Restomod Wiring and 10L80 Powertrain Integration
Restomod wiring / modern powertrain integration
A modern V8 Defender restomod project using an LT1 engine and 10L80 automatic gearbox. VASS supported the wiring for the vehicle and powertrain, including electric windows, central locking, upgraded audio, reversing camera and production-focused scanning work.
Discuss a related project
Vehicle / platformLand Rover Defender with LT1 V8 and 10L80 automatic gearbox
Project typeRestomod wiring / modern powertrain integration
The brief
What VASS was asked to do
Support the wiring of the complete vehicle, not just the engine. The work covered the modern powertrain, vehicle harness, comfort features, reversing camera and supporting scan data for components that could be replicated in future builds.
Scope of work
Defined engineering work
- Custom vehicle wiring harness design/support
- LT1 V8 powertrain wiring integration
- 10L80 gearbox electrical integration support
- Electric window wiring
- Power door lock wiring
- Upgraded audio system wiring
- Reversing camera integration
- Subsystem wiring and testing
- 3D scanning of mounts and components for future replication
Key systems
Systems involved
- LT1 V8 engine harness
- 10L80 automatic gearbox control wiring
- Custom Defender vehicle harness
- Electric windows
- Power locks
- Audio system
- Reversing camera
- Scanned mounts and repeatable conversion components
Engineering challenge
What needed careful resolution
- Replacing ageing Defender wiring with a cleaner custom harness approach
- Integrating a modern powertrain into an older vehicle platform
- Adding modern comfort and electrical features while keeping the system serviceable
- Supporting repeatable production rather than a one-off wiring job
Practical outcome
The result
The vehicle wiring and powertrain systems were brought together so the Defender operated as intended. The scanning work also helped support the creation of repeatable parts for future similar builds.
For similar clients
What this means for another project
This project shows that VASS is not limited to EV conversions. The same structured wiring, diagnostics and systems-integration approach can support high-end restomods, engine swaps and production-style Defender builds.
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Share the vehicle, its current condition, the work already completed and the outcome you need. VASS can define a proportionate next step without publishing generic prices.