The Final Push

So the final push to get the Defender back on the road.

Firstly I finished off the new electrical install.

This also included re wiring and relocating the controls for the X Fan, as the water proof box they were installed in before, turned out to be not so water proof.

The end result was quite neat, so I’m pleased.

Next job was to widen the rear light holes, as I’m using TD5 lights which are wider than the older style.

Fitted.

And wired in;

Then I had to replace the fuel filter as the old one let petrol pour out on to the floor, which wasn't good and a V8 doesn't need any help getting rid of petrol.

Next task of the day was to fit the lower doors seals which were newly delivered, and the re adjust the doors again.

I then bolted up me fuel filler which included shiny new Unleaded Only notice

I then install the extended breathes all round.

Which I terminated in to a manifold which will be connected into a snorkel.

Front floors was my next task

Then the seats, looking good now!

And on to the seat belts.

Rear seats in

Quick test run and she’s done, bar a few small jobs.  

Now for an MOT!

Continuing the rebuild

Progress continues.

First up the spare wheel goes on.

Then went around fitting door check straps so the new body work doesn’t get damaged by flying doors.

Then I fitted the door seals.

Then I fit the battery tray and the two new batteries – this is tight. I think I will need to raise the lid for the battery box.

 On to the hand brake lever for the newly fitted X-Brake.

Cubby box went in.

Now to start plumbing in the power, firstly the split charge (X-Charge) system, so I cut and made up some new power leads at the same time.

And that’s it so far, she’ll soon be back!

The start of the reassembly.

Time to start reassembly!

  

Firstly new wheels and tyres.

New brake calliper’s went on.

Then plumbed in the driver’s side, passengers side is till to do - must remember this.....

Fitted the rear tub to the chassis.

Installed the sills.

Rear window frames installed.

Then the roof! Looking more Defender like now!

Middle bulkhead in.

End of the first day. Second day – doors on.

Sun roof installed.

Alpine lights in – this job made me very angry, its very difficult. But I got the hang of it in the end. Locking seal still to do.

Ooooo new shiny LandyGlass.

One side in

Second side

I finished the glass with black sealant on the edges and moved on to the rear door.

Due the Landy glass, I had to relocate the upper hinge by drilling new locating holes. Seemed who ever installed the door first put the top hinge in skew!

Rear door on - she's weather tight, fits time in nearly two years!!

Time to fit the seat box.

 And that’s the progress to date.