I want an 'unstoppable' D2 (not my quote!!!), but have no CDL (02 ES Model).
Now, can I buy a 2nd hand TB off a D1/early D2 with CDL and either add the bits to my TB or swap them completely?
I would recondition the new box first with kit from Ashcroft, not knowing it's history..... (if I went down total swap route).
I know I can get lever/linkage from Ashcroft and they do a kit fir CDL, but it's quite pricey!!!
Thanks
Tom V
Hi Tom, can I just say that a DII with an operational CDL is in no way unstoppable and I would suggest that you give some real thought to what you want to end up with.
I guess we are predominantly talking about operating in mud? Obviously tyres play a huge part in this and a DII with good mud tyres even in std trim (having only traction control) will work very well indeed. However one needs to learn how to use TC (like any other bit of kit) to get the best from it.
Ultimately though you will get stuck, so thinking of this in stages, the first stage would be to have an operational CDL - which ensures a 50/50 split of drive to the axles. However this only ensures that you have drive to both axles, it does not guaranttee movement!! If one wheel on each axle is spinning, there is no movement!!
Next step: ltd slip or lockable rear diff. This ensures that with a CDL and some form of semi or locking rear diff, you will have drive not only to the rear axle but across as well. So in a very high percentage of cases, you will have movement.
However this comes at a cost. The market is wide but you need to be budgeting £1000 to £1500 for the rear end solution.
The stage after that is a front locking diff, more guaranteed traction, reduced steering whilst operational and more cost.
My advice: get some top notch tyres before anything else, you may find that it will give you all you need.
Having extensively used Khumo Mud Terrain tyres - AVOID THEM LIKE THE PLAGUE!!!! BFG AT's worked loads better in the same terrain.
Good luck with your choices
Dave