Lexus V8 Solid Information

pampoen · Post by **pampoen** » Sat Jul 18, 2015 9:35 pm

Hi guys, i want to know if Lexus v8 solid is a good move to go for. Does anyone have any information on them? Are they legit? Has anyone bought from them? I'm considering buying a unit from them but i first want to make sure they are who they say they are.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Thu Sep 10, 2015 8:37 pm

You are welcome to make a turn at our workshop and see if we are " legit " we supply engines to people that race the Dakar rally and spend massive amounts doing it. Legit ? www.lexusv8solid.co.za

Hangover · Post by **Hangover** » Fri Sep 11, 2015 9:12 am

Demon wrote:You are welcome to make a turn at our workshop and see if we are " legit " we supply engines to people that race the Dakar rally and spend massive amounts doing it. Legit ? http://www.lexusv8solid.co.za

I guess there is no harm in doing homework first... A lot of baaad people out there nowadays... Even good conversion guys going bad...

Kaspaas · Post by **Kaspaas** » Fri Sep 11, 2015 10:48 am

Derrick,
Nobody is at fault here, as was said above a lot of bad things around Lexus V8 upgrades has been documented here on the forum.

For instance:
viewtopic.php?f=98&t=23780

Both these guys were long time forum friends.
This is probably still the most viewed engine transplant to date on this forum (over 21 600 views)
To this date we(the Hilux forum) do not know the outcome.

So please be understanding.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Sat Sep 12, 2015 6:39 pm

No problem with that at all. You got anything to say about my place then please post it.

Outcome on Hilux 1JZ vvt-i = Im still driving this bakkie.

ChrisF · Post by **ChrisF** » Sun Sep 13, 2015 8:06 am

pampoen wrote:Hi guys, i want to know if Lexus v8 solid is a good move to go for. Does anyone have any information on them? Are they legit? Has anyone bought from them? I'm considering buying a unit from them but i first want to make sure they are who they say they are.

and the question remains : "Who on this forum has bought from this company?"

At least there is the option to go go and visit their premises

Who is close by, and can pop in ?

Agteros · Post by **Agteros** » Sun Sep 13, 2015 8:55 am

Yes, ONLY reason I have not committed to this conversion is that I still have to meet Mr Right Guy to do this conversion for me (money is not an issue).

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Tue Sep 15, 2015 9:34 pm

Chris have you been in a cave for the last 5 years ? Seems you were sleeping when this went on in your own "forum"
viewtopic.php?f=98&t=36415&hilit=donovan

With over a thousand 1UZ vvt-i engines sold and they still keep coming....

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Tue Sep 15, 2015 9:42 pm

Come take a look at how many customers cars Iv got at my workshop....Hang on do I hear a big fat zero

ChrisF · Post by **ChrisF** » Tue Sep 15, 2015 9:48 pm

Demon wrote:Chris have you been in a cave for the last 5 years ? Seems you were sleeping when this went on in your own "forum"
viewtopic.php?f=98&t=36415&hilit=donovan

With over a thousand 1UZ vvt-i engines sold and they still keep coming....

I drive a 2,5 DIESEL ..... certainly NOT the expert on Lexus transplants.

Boet, best take a breath and check your tone ....

Have you seen how often people come onto this forum and ask if 4x4Direct is "legit" ? All it takes is 1 or 2 happy clients to respond and the poster has an answer.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Tue Sep 15, 2015 10:07 pm

You see that Prado on my lift in the website ? that was done by Watson, total redo...transfer case had to be refurbished by Delports as the spline coupling was to long when they bolted it up. Transfer case adapter redone by Chris mod. Engine and gearbox mounts redone.Exhaust redone by JRs ( full stainless with new branches) New radiator and cooling fan. Owner drove it straight back to Durban and still driving it ( 3UZ vvt-i )

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Tue Sep 15, 2015 10:14 pm

Offtopic

Post by **Mud Dog** » Wed Sep 16, 2015 7:56 am

Derrick, you're not being 'attacked' here, the guys are being understandably cautious and are asking if there is anyone that has positive feedback after using your services - basically looking for a referral. If there is no-one on the forum that's made use of your services before, why not post some client referrals here if your clients have no objections.

Even if you're by far the best conversion man out there and I was in line for a conversion, a crappy, know-it-all, arrogant attitude would loose the job - I might have some questions (before and after) and would rather deal with a helpful, friendly person. Just M2CW.

ronnie · Post by **ronnie** » Wed Sep 16, 2015 8:17 am

Wow....and all because one potential customer wanted to find out some information about a business he has not dealt with before. I know what I would do....

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Sun Sep 20, 2015 2:36 pm

Well then go for the guy that will never respond to this kind of thing on a forum as he is to worried about getting a stack of negative replies.

pampoen · Post by **pampoen** » Mon Sep 21, 2015 3:17 pm

Demon, are you affiliated with Lexus v8 solid? If so do you have any customer reviews or numbers i can call to get some more info?

crazyG · Post by **crazyG** » Tue Sep 22, 2015 8:19 am

Greetings fellow Luxers, a very important point that most people forget is the importance of prepping a Lexus motor before the transplant, To ensure a reliable motor you should do;1, renew the cam belt and pulley,s with the tensioner shock, 2, renew the water pump and thermostat, 3, renew the tappet cover gaskets, both crank seals and cam seals, 3, remove the sump and remove all sludge, refit with the best quality sealer you can get. obvious stuff like new oil and filter and spark plugs should also be done. I did my SFA conversion and turned out to be a monster truck. Check with the guys doing the conversion and if they cut corners with prepping it,s time to move on to another workshop.

Reinart21 · Post by **Reinart21** » Tue Sep 22, 2015 10:20 am

Gerrie, which Lexus engine did you use?

crazyG · Post by **crazyG** » Wed Sep 23, 2015 7:48 am

Hi, I used the 1UZ FE motor the one without VVT, the original manggment system wired for manual tranny. Even with 33'ers there is more than enough power.

pampoen · Post by **pampoen** » Wed Sep 23, 2015 8:21 am

Hi Crazy G, where did you pick your motor up from? Any issues since youve started? Whats your ave km/l? How did you wire the engine up for manual? Was it a case of simply removing the auto harness? Also considering your post about the proper preperation of your motor before installation, where would you recommend the best place to get parts like timing belt, tensioner etc.

crazyG · Post by **crazyG** » Tue Oct 06, 2015 1:41 pm

Hi Luke, I got the motor from engine den, they supplied the motor without the tranny and already wired for the manual box, the wiring was done by a place called Lextreme, don't know where they are at. The motor was started on the bench before I took it. All engine spares I got from Toyota. I would not be satisfied with a aftermarket hart, hence my Lexus got what it deserved, the best. Ok fuel consumption better than the 4Y that I had in there, open road @120km\h doing 2900rpm +- 8.0 km\l, in town driving a V8, that's all in your right foot but got best about 6km\l, go play in low range she drops to 3-5km\l. I had no problems so far with the unit and are very happy with it.

crazyG · Post by **crazyG** » Tue Oct 06, 2015 1:42 pm

Hi Luke, I got the motor from engine den, they supplied the motor without the tranny and already wired for the manual box, the wiring was done by a place called Lextreme, don't know where they are at. The motor was started on the bench before I took it. All engine spares I got from Toyota. I would not be satisfied with a aftermarket hart, hence my Lexus got what it deserved, the best. Ok fuel consumption better than the 4Y that I had in there, open road @120km\h doing 2900rpm +- 8.0 km\l, in town driving a V8, that's all in your right foot but got best about 6km\l, go play in low range she drops to 3-5km\l. I had no problems so far with the unit and are very happy with it.

rayv · Post by **rayv** » Tue Oct 06, 2015 4:11 pm

Hello Gerrie (crazyG) and any one for the matter can comment.
I would like some advice on manual gearbox for the SFA 4x4 with 1UZ-FE or VVTI engines (Lexus). I currently have issues with my standard gearbox on my 1998 SFA with 1UZ-FE engine and need to decide what is the most correct and reliable replacement.

I would Highly appreciate advice from previous experience and learnings ! Please !

Christian Kuun · Post by **Christian Kuun** » Tue Oct 06, 2015 4:39 pm

Edited as to not be a box: Look I am generally a nice oke, so I will give you a little hand here- all you need to do is "COPY and PASTE" below text and add you contact details

:

Hi Guys, my name is Derrick and I am the man you have all been waiting for! THE Lexus Expert! My/Our company has excellent references from Dakar racing machines to challenge vehicles and general conversions. We are the market leaders and have nothing but overly satisfied customers. Here are a few pictures/references/examples. Also feel free to refer to the following threads and do not hesitate to contact me on XXXXXXXXXXX if you have any queries or questions- I will gladly help!

crazyG · Post by **crazyG** » Wed Oct 07, 2015 7:35 am

Hi Ray, I don't know what your gearbox does wrong but these boxes are very strong so I would suggest taking the unit to a reputable gearbox repair centre in your area and have it fixed. I have seen boxes from Fords to Isuzus used in Hiluxes, sometimes with great success. I know with some Isuzu boxes the universal angles are a problem causing premature failure and vibrations are common. Matching up a clutch kit could also be a challenge, and the hydraulics can become a nightmare, some vehicles like Mitsubishi uses a pull type clutch and to get the correct slave cylinder travel normally ends up in excessive alcohol use. Other boxes work but the props, mounts, bell housing and gear lever mods are expensive and must be done properly. Give the "expert" a ring, They could lend you a hand. Best to stick to Toyota goodies you could end up with a fruit salad that cant go anywhere without braking down.

rayv · Post by **rayv** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 9:22 am

crazyG wrote: Hi Ray, I don't know what your gearbox does wrong but these boxes are very strong so I would suggest taking the unit to a reputable gearbox repair centre in your area and have it fixed. I have seen boxes from Fords to Isuzus used in Hiluxes, sometimes with great success. I know with some Isuzu boxes the universal angles are a problem causing premature failure and vibrations are common. Matching up a clutch kit could also be a challenge, and the hydraulics can become a nightmare, some vehicles like Mitsubishi uses a pull type clutch and to get the correct slave cylinder travel normally ends up in excessive alcohol use. Other boxes work but the props, mounts, bell housing and gear lever mods are expensive and must be done properly. Give the "expert" a ring, They could lend you a hand. Best to stick to Toyota goodies you could end up with a fruit salad that cant go anywhere without braking down.

Many Thanks, and Yes I agree - Stick to Toyota goodies. All Hardware used for my conversion is Toyota. I Think that the gearbox had most probably a bad bearing from day 1

Regards,

Ray

Knuppel · Post by **Knuppel** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 10:31 am

Ray, I have a manual box if you are looking for one.

Make me an offer if you are interested. Or swop if you have SFA goodies!
viewtopic.php?f=132&t=39941#p471832

rayv · Post by **rayv** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 10:55 am

Knuppel wrote:Ray, I have a manual box if you are looking for one.

Make me an offer if you are interested. Or swop if you have SFA goodies!
viewtopic.php?f=132&t=39941#p471832

Many Thanks for that, will let you know shortly.
I take it then you running the Auto Lexus box ?

Apologies for asking, the recon box from Gearmax - would you consider it as decent rebuild ? Quality hardware used in the box?

Regards

Ray

Knuppel · Post by **Knuppel** » Thu Oct 08, 2015 11:31 am

Ray, I have not had much to do with gearmax so not qualified to comment on their workmanship, however I have some friends who have used them and there seems to be no alarms going off regarding parts or workmanship. Maybe there are some other forum members who are more qualified to comment.

Also regarding the price, I am very negotiable, I have no clue if it is the ballpark or not. You are welcome to convince me otherwise or if you have any SFA goodies to swop I would also be interested.
If it does not sell then it goes to the scrap pile with the other gearbox for recycling into chinese bicycles

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 9:20 pm

Contact Delports gearbox with regards to recons. Had a few transfer cases done by them with no problems.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 9:26 pm

Where you getting your bell housing from ? Go for Gilo engineering ? You have to watch out for that spigot shaft being pushed off line. You getting original Toyota clutch kit ?

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 9:36 pm

D4D Gilo engineering bell housing and original clutch with slave sent out to Namibia today.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 9:40 pm

Guys don't place 30K + orders with me to land up with rubbish.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 9:44 pm

Offtopic

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 9:59 pm

Sent as a complete package today.

Bussmann imported fuse box from the USA
Complete wired engine set up to run the manual D4D gearbox.
Bolt on kit with original Toyota clutch.
Bypass filter 4 bar
Fan belt.
Original hydraulic cooling fan with sensor for ECU.
We fitted new timing belt and tensioner and checked water pump and pulleys.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 10:17 pm

Trust me Im not interested in sorting out all the half jobs you guys have gotten into. This site is a very but very small market place for me.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 11:05 pm

Offtopic

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Mon Nov 16, 2015 11:17 pm

Offtopic

Workhorse · Post by **Workhorse** » Sat Nov 21, 2015 7:13 am

Good day Gents,

If i can just shed some light on this subject.

I have always been the type of guy to extensively do my homework when i venture into a new project.

The build up to my Lexus conversion was probably a four month process of gathering info and specs.

I started with the Engine Den. Now when i have questions and people have things to hide and cant exactly explain themselves and they not sure. If these are the answers i get then i tend to steer clear from such suppliers. Never mind the lack of response to mails sent from my self. A total of seven mails sent with one reply "Yes we have Stock"

Lextreme they on the other hand were slightly more helpful also failed to share info as if they had something to hide. The lack of response to mails and to return calls, And i am sure i will have to get back to you "which never happened" made me steer clear from these guys.

One of the members on the Forum recommended Derrick fro V8 solid.

Now Guys I don't know Derrick From a bar of soap.

However From the first call and first mail that was sent Derrick responded to all my mails A total of 37 mails where he made suggestions advised me to go the VVTI 5 speed route rather than non VVTI 4 speed. He shared info on his builds and gave me advise on the school fees that he already had paid. these mails was just the build up to my purchase of my motor. Carol and himself made all the arrangements and motor pitched at my front door three days later professionally wrapped up.

During my conversion i had made numerous calls to Derrick for help and guidance which not once did he say can i call you back, No he took every call. And even the Saturday when i started my Lexus at six in the evening i was unsure of one wire, i called Derrick and yes guys he took my call once again and solved the problem.

Anyway enough said.

So if you asking if Derrick is legit and a supplier that i would deal with anytime again then yes.
It was an absolute pleasure dealing with V8 Solid.

One more thing and not to bad mouth any other Lexus conversions but there are a few of them on this forum that have gone badly wrong because of bad suppliers and workmanship. This was my first attempt at doing a conversion of this sort. And a total of 10 weeks i had my lexus up and running.

The pre wired units in my opinion is the way to go.

I drive mine Daily and dis LEKKKKKKEEEERRRRRRRRRRR.

Derrick she still running sweet like a lemon

Workhorse · Post by **Workhorse** » Sat Nov 21, 2015 7:23 am

Here is my Beast.

Post by **george** » Sat Nov 21, 2015 7:48 am

Hi Donavan

That looks really good

Exactly the kind of response Luke was trying to get

ChrisF · Post by **ChrisF** » Sat Nov 21, 2015 7:52 am

Workhorse wrote:Here is my Beast.

VERY neat installation !

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Sat Nov 28, 2015 9:05 pm

Thank you Donovan. I must say the best part of this conversion was that transfer case adapter that you made. We leave the machining men alone to get the job done right.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Sat Nov 28, 2015 9:21 pm

Century orders another five Lexus V8s in November 2015.

Demon · Post by **Demon** » Sat Nov 28, 2015 9:39 pm

They are in full preparation for the Dakar 2016. Two cars entered at over a bar entry ticket on each.