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Posted by Hank [74.75.13.67] on Tuesday, July 05, 2011 at 11:41:39 :
In Reply to: Re: Land Rovers- OT posted by mannyc [68.165.89.2] on Tuesday, July 05, 2011 at 09:14:14 :
... I have a lot of experience with a certain Series IIa.
The bodies of these things are aluminum. It does not rust, but it does crack, break rivets and tack welds, and wear widen every hole that's made in it. Repairs to the body are difficult compared to steel.
Mods are not very common, there is not much incentive. The body is not very amenable to change, and some aspects of it are rather flimsy. The boxed frame is rather fragile. The springs are Jeep-like, packs of thin leaves that cannot carry much weight. The drivetrain is weak to match the 2.25L 4 cyl engine - axles, drivelines, trans - everything, so repower is not a very attractive option. Plus the brakes are weak.
Parts availability is OK in recent years. Restoration is about the only thing to do with these things, but it is popular, hence the prices. They drive ok off road, about like an FJ.
I have never needed tools beyone standard SAE, but get used to fine threads, the English were in love with them. Electrics were poor, but hydraulics were worse - the English seemed to have a lot of trouble with seals.
But, hey, the tyre on the bonnet (tire on the hood) looks cool, and opening the hood is good exercise for your upper body.
Cheerio!
H
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