Defender Wolf as a first Defender project?

Hello,

Firstly, I'm new here, so I apologise if this is in the wrong section.

I want to buy a Defender, partly because I've always thought they're fantastic cars, and partly because I want to learn how to work on the mechanics of a car.

If I was to get a Wolf, I would plan to leave it mostly stock, the only thing I'd want to add would be a stereo. I understand I'd need a 24v system, or get converters to convert 24v to 12v.

Would this be a sensible idea for a newbie, or would it be better to get a civilian vehicle and work on that?

Thanks,
Thomas

Nothing hard about 24v systems, they are generally better than 12v in my opinion. Get a truck radio, or tap a line into the negative on the second battery (12v)

Welcome .

Personally.
I would say there is nothing wrong with a 24v system, BUT .
Check the prices for good replacement's and availability like alternator/starter/bulbs.

So at the end of the day converting to 12v and selling the 24v stuff could make everyday use of it alot easier.
As it is/maybe a project, you need to decide what you will use it for.

J

kermit_rr said:

Nothing hard about 24v systems, they are generally better than 12v in my opinion. Get a truck radio, or tap a line into the negative on the second battery (12v)

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Thank you, good to know that it shouldn't be too bad.

marjon said:

Check the prices for good replacement's and availability like alternator/starter/bulbs.

Click to expand...

Thank you for mentioning this, I'll certainly take a look at those points.

marjon said:

As it is/maybe a project, you need to decide what you will use it for.

Click to expand...

A small amount of offroad work, potentially trailing in the future (I know if I got a WOLF I'd need a NATO trailer or put a standard towbar on). I enjoy aviation photography so driving to airports/air bases with my ladders to enjoy hobbies like that. I don't plan to use it as an everyday car.

marjon said:

Welcome .

Personally.
I would say there is nothing wrong with a 24v system, BUT .
Check the prices for good replacement's and availability like alternator/starter/bulbs.

So at the end of the day converting to 12v and selling the 24v stuff could make everyday use of it alot easier.
As it is/maybe a project, you need to decide what you will use it for.

J

Click to expand...

bulbs you can get from any truck stop.. alternator/starter can be rebuilt in the unlikely event parts are hard to get, though its my understanding these bits last longer anyways, likely due to the lower current and a reduced current drop