Hi All,
Out of interest, does anyone have (or have had) a Land Rover Defender 90 (or 110 I guess). Im considering jacking in my current car thats sporty and runs like a dream but is full of fault prone electronics in place of a good old reliable Landy. Id quite like a car that I can tinker with etc Always wanted the Land Rover so why not!
Is there anything I should be aware of or looking for when viewing a second hand one?
Hi Richard
I have a 300 Tdi Defender 90 as project car, and it was a nightmare trying to get one with a good unmolested chassis. Although I love them for their practicality and go anywhere ability (within reason), these vehicles have a very badly designed chassis, as it is made of fairly light gauge steel (2mm roughly), which due to the amount of holes, angles in the design - they trap mud and grime both inside the chassis rails and outside. Outriggers, Rear Cross Member, Rear 1/4 chassis, cross member bolting position to inner side rails of the chassis (near gearbox and transfer box) are areas that rot out - so do not be surprised if you see a new 1/4 chassis fitted etc.
The other main point to consider, is the chassis number, engine number etc - as I was not comfortable with miss matched vehicle, as these vehicles are very easy to steal / strip down, thus there are many sold that are stolen or have got stolen parts fitted, so it is buyer beware for a lot of these cars.
Also, don't be surprised if you see a lot of welded patches - it is due to the life these vehicles get, so just check the level of the welding etc. A new Galvanised chassis will cost you around £1100, so not excessive, but you need to factor in getting it fitted if you are not very handy with tools.
As an aside - these vehicles are very easy to work on (the older ones pre electrickery) - and replacement parts are very cheap too.
Kind regards
Jay
PS - as LR are stopping making them now, the old vehicles will appreciate in value - so could be a good investment if you get the right one.