Transmission upgrade for SsangYong Korando?

[david151]

I have a SSangyoung Korando vehicle which I am pretty happy with (2.9 Diesel). It is basically a Mercedes with a 602 engine. The thing that lets it down is the gear box and transfer box. The 4x4 on the vehicle is basically only designed for running on offroad surfaces that allow a little slip, otherwise you end up buggering the vehicle by winding the transmission up. Also the transfer box is electronically operated and the shift motors seem to seize (I am on my second) Due to the age of the vehicle the shift motors are now becoming increasingly difficult to find. As such I was wondering if anyone knew of any alternative gearboxes and transfer boxes (preferably manual rather than electronic) that could be adapted to fit the Korando?

The reason I ask is that I am planning a major overland trip through Africa and was looking for something a bit more reliable on the transmission side, ideally using something fairly common that could be repaired in the back of beyond. I don't want to get another vehicle as

I am happy with the Korando in every other respect, just looking to upgrade these things.If anyone could be of any help I would be very grateful, or suggest anyone who has experience with doing any conversion like this.

[HustleRussell]

Was that engine ever fitted to the Mercedes G-Wagon? that might throw up some options?

[david151]

I looked into the G wagon thing but did not find much. Anyone know anything else with regards to suitable swaps?

[Robmarriott]

Surely a manual W163 ML would be the perfect solution?