What to look for when buying?

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LandRoverRosie

LandRoverRosie

Member
Posts
19
Location
Wiltshire
Im having a look at a 1984 landrover 90 later and it looks really smart on the surface. I know not to get drawn in by shiny paintwork alone so if anyone has advice on what problems to look out for that would be amazing! This'll be my first landrover so excited to hopefully be joining the club!
 
Do you have any friends that properly know about Land Rovers and their numerous issues?
If so, take them with you ;)
 
Shimsteriom said:
Do you have any friends that properly know about Land Rovers and their numerous issues?
If so, take them with you ;)
Click to expand...
I know rust can be a big issue and I've had a look on YouTube for some general things to look out for. Unfortunately my dad is more interested in his jeep wrangler than lovely landys
 
I would have to say rusty chassis is the biggest enemy. the mechanics is easy fixable.
Take a little hammer and look at that first, if its full of patches then be very afraid ;).

Check the numbers match is also a good place to start these days.

Dont fall in love with the first 1 you see;). Go look at it take plenty of pics and ask about whats been changed. then come back and ask more questions here.:)

You dont say what engine?

Good luck in your search.

J
 
Loads out there so take your time.

Besides the many rust issues make damned sure the car is what it says it is, ie vin on top of pedal box is okay, and more importantly the chassis number on the outer edge of the drivers side front chassis leg (dumb iron) is visible and again matches.

Chassis can be fixed easily enough, but once the rot starts under the bulkhead to under the rear floor then its kind of past it, front and rear sections not massive jobs.
 
marjon said:
I would have to say rusty chassis is the biggest enemy. the mechanics is easy fixable.
Take a little hammer and look at that first, if its full of patches then be very afraid ;).

Check the numbers match is also a good place to start these days.

Dont fall in love with the first 1 you see;). Go look at it take plenty of pics and ask about whats been changed. then come back and ask more questions here.:)

You dont say what engine?

Good luck in your search.

J
Click to expand...
It’s a 2.5 NA with 76,000 miles on the clock. I think the mileage sounds quite good for 37 years old. And apparently it’s all fairly original minus some cosmetics (grille has been changed stuff like that)

About the numbers, they’re on the front right of the chassis and where else?
I’ll make sure not to go in with rose tinted spectacles ;)

Thanks!
 
lynall said:
Loads out there so take your time.

Besides the many rust issues make damned sure the car is what it says it is, ie vin on top of pedal box is okay, and more importantly the chassis number on the outer edge of the drivers side front chassis leg (dumb iron) is visible and again matches.

Chassis can be fixed easily enough, but once the rot starts under the bulkhead to under the rear floor then its kind of past it, front and rear sections not massive jobs.
Click to expand...
Thanks, didn’t know where the second number was so really helpful!
 
FutureDoc said:
Gonna sound dumb here but what’s the pros/cons of the NA compared to TDi?
Click to expand...

Difference is 40/40 bhp

Tbh depends on what you want it for, local stuff no worries on the NA, distance then a TDI would be better
Being an 84 I would be much more interested in originality as it could be worth money in the future being an early 90.

Remember do not call it a defender, the seller may be offended and not sell it to you!
 
lynall said:
Difference is 40/40 bhp

Tbh depends on what you want it for, local stuff no worries on the NA, distance then a TDI would be better
Being an 84 I would be much more interested in originality as it could be worth money in the future being an early 90.

Remember do not call it a defender, the seller may be offended and not sell it to you!
Click to expand...
It’s going to kept local with 2 motorway trips (Wiltshire to Hull) per year. I’d much rather keep it as original as possible, like you say, it’ll be worth more that way.
I’ll be sure not to offend!
 
Still go td or tdi. Best thing to do is try examples of both and decide for yourself. Tyres will make a big diff too.
 
Keep us posted. Just make sure you have a good tool kit. As mentioned, mechanicals are easy. Generally. You don't to be welding yet.
 
You should watch some youtube videos on the subject. Good hard facts with a brilliant no nonsense delivery such as those from Britannica Restorations like this one here (many other also).
 
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