Odd Jobs

Last weekend I complete a few more odd jobs that had built up since I started this phase, and a little before then:
First up I refitted the exhaust and repaired the large holes that had appeared.

I decided to do a bit of a bodge as at some point I will be upgrading to a nice stainless system when then engine comes out. So for the time being plenty of Gun Gum was used to seal, and some Gun Gum tape.

Then I set about finishing off the axle that I purchased a while ago. The axle is  a newer type which has mountings for disc brakes, which is a good upgrade.

The issue is that all the brackets had rusted through, so I had ordered a new set from YRM. And until now had got round to fitting them. I had stripped the axle down previously. 

First up was the shock brackets, this involved cutting off the old ones and grinding down.

Then I welded on the new brackets.

Then I cut off the old anti-roll bar mounts, these weren't too bad, but I felt it better to have all new, so off they came.

And weld the new ones in.

Next up were the spring plates.

And lastly the drag links, here it is all welded up.

The axle is all welded up, just need to wait for the paint to turn up so I paint it before re assembling and fitting.

I was also poking around the internet and found out the levelling unit was REALLY expensive, so decided to take this apart and carry out some maintenance work to it, such as replacing seals, bolts and gaiters. I will also paint up the chassis mounts and A frame.

By the end of the day I had it cleaned, but didn't take any photo's as it was late. On to the next few jobs.....

She Moves!!

The last few weekends saw me bottom out a few jobs which enabled me to move the Defender!

I had the Dinitrol out so I waxed the seat and floor base

Then I wax the tank and installed.

I also waxed the mid cross member

Then I re-connected the wiring loom, re-wrapped it and installed. I also added new clips to ensure it doesn’t move around.

Then I fitted the fuel lines, this was a pain but the result was better than I was expecting.

You will note from the above that the Defender has moved! It’s been six months of static but she has now moved and is capable of further movement! To celebrate I drove it around the garden a bit and took a video of it!

I then waxed a few more spots and coated the fuel lines also.

Next up will be to repair the exhaust, so it can pass and MOT and then on to the painting.