BMW M57 Defender Conversions | Drive-In, Drive-Out
Overview
We aim to deliver some of the cleanest and most refined M57 conversions in Australia. Built to handle the heat, last the distance, and turn heads while doing it. Our Drive-In, Drive-Out packages suit Land Rover Defender Puma models (2007–2016) and are available for both MT82 manuals and ZF automatic transmissions.
Base Package Pricing
MT82 6-speed ManualFrom $42,500 AUD
ZF 6-speed AutoFrom $67,500 AUD
ZF 8-speed AutoFrom $75,500 AUD
Base pricing includes a supplied engine with 200,000–250,000 km, wiring, cooling system, exhaust and full installation. See the engine mileage pricing adjustments below for other options.
What's Included
- M57N2 3.0L diesel inline-6 (235hp / 500Nm standard) from BMW X3, E60 or E90
- Stage 1 ECU Tune – 260hp / 550Nm (included free)
- All TIG-welded stainless coolant and boost piping (powder-coated matte black or raw finish)
- Upgraded coolant system with fabricated stainless outlets and silicone plumbing
-
PWR/KINGPIN high-performance M57 swap-specific cooling pack ($4,800 value)
- 3” high-flow steel exhaust with dump pipe and EGT sensor bung (muffler optional)
-
DEFAB sealed airbox – rugged, dust-tight, performance focused
- ECU and controller mounted in custom KINGPIN cradle (laser-cut & TIG-welded)
- Full wiring harness with software-based IMMO delete (not emulated)
- New Bosch fuel pump, fuel filter, quick-release adapters, & alloy mounting brackets
- New Febi Bilstein water pump, new vortex crank breather (Mahle)
- New OEM rocker cover, intake manifold, and rear main gaskets (Elring / Corteco)
- New serpentine belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys (all OEM brands)
- MAF to 3” pipe adapter, upgraded silicone vacuum lines
- Custom fabricated turbo outlet + stainless dump pipe
- Viscous fan conversion and KINGPIN A/C bracket kit (compatible with Defender steering box)
- Custom power steering lines and new fuel system hose
- All labour for engine installation and integration
Auto-Specific Additions
- ZF6 or ZF8 transmission adapter, mounts, and custom LT230 linkage kit
- Custom KINGPIN/PWR front-mount transmission cooler package
- Inline oil thermostat and AeroFlow transmission lines
- Professionally trimmed cubby box and shifter surround (designed to impress)
- OLED gear display integrated into Puma cluster (shows gear, drive mode & coolant temp)
Optional Upgrades
- Timing chain replacement – $1,600
- Injector testing – $550
- New Bosch injectors – from $3,500
- EGR delete (hardware & software) – $550
- Air-con setup – $1,750
- ZF gearbox tuning (Stage 1–3) – from $1,500
- Performance builds up to 450hp / 850Nm – POA
Engine Mileage Price Adjustments
The base package includes an engine with 200,000–250,000 km. Adjustments for other mileage ranges are shown below.
| Engine Mileage |
Adjustment |
| Under 100,000 km |
+ $3,000 |
| 100,000–150,000 km |
+ $2,500 |
| 150,000–200,000 km |
+ $1,000 |
| 200,000–250,000 km |
INCLUDED |
| 250,000–300,000 km |
– $1,000 |
Engine Prep & Warranty
There are various options depending on how far you’d like us to go with engine preparation. The starting price includes our minimum engine preparation standard, but we also offer:
- Timing chain replacement
- Injector testing (with a full report)
- Brand-new injectors
- Full engine reconditioning in collaboration with a reputable local engine builder
It’s important to note that while we source the best possible engines from wrecked vehicles, there is always some inherent risk. Unless opting for a fully rebuilt engine, we cannot provide a warranty on the engine itself and assume this risk. However, we do ensure that it meets our minimum freshen-up standard with the additional upgrade options mentioned. All our work however is covered with a 12-month warranty.
The M57 is an incredibly strong engine, capable of handling 600+ HP on a stock bottom end, and failures are rare when properly maintained.
Cooling, Exhaust, Fuel & Emissions
We never cut corners, and we have officially lost count of how many swaps we’ve seen in warmer countries suffer from overheating issues. This is why we supply and install a KINGPIN/PWR collaboration M57 swap-specific cooling package, developed to handle tough Australian conditions. Additionally, every conversion includes:
- Defab sealed airbox
-
3” steel exhaust for improved engine breathing and lower EGT
For emissions compliance, we can complete the conversion with a high-flow diesel-specific 200-cell catalytic converter and a single muffler, keeping the EGR intact and operational. Alternatively, we can delete anything you’d like at the time of conversion should you be taking care of your own engineering/mod plate arrangements.
If you plan on heading out west or into the outback, we also highly recommend having us install a fuel pre-filter and water separator—cheap insurance for fuel system longevity!
Ratios & Driveline
We will evaluate your tyre size, transfer case and diff ratios, and advise of any suggested ratio changes for optimal gearing. Any changes are at extra cost and can be quoted if needed.
We also make suggestions based on your desired power output for the minimum standard of upgraded driveline parts your vehicle should have. Common upgrades include our MAXIDRIVE HD rear axle and flange kit, Ashcroft ATB LSD and KINGPIN MEGA front double-cardan propshaft. We can perform this work for you as well.
Other Defender Models
We also offer conversions for TD5 and 300Tdi Defenders. Contact us for a tailored quote and package information.
Book Your Build
We limit M57 conversions to just a handful each year. Once you’ve read through the package details above, email us to discuss your build.
To help us give you a useful response, please include:
- Your Defender model and year
- Your current engine and gearbox
- Your preferred conversion: MT82 manual, ZF6 auto or ZF8 auto
- How you use the vehicle, including touring or towing
- Your location and preferred timeframe
Email KINGPIN About Your Build →
