Had my 90 a few weeks now and just trying to sort out some of the niggles that are worrying me a bit. The rear diff is leaking oil and from searching on here it looks to be the diff seal? I had a look at the rear axle breather and cleaned it out as it was fairly clagged up, so that might have caused it.



While brimming the tank so I could try and gauge mileage I was treated to the reassuring sight of a small cascade of diesel from where the fuel tank is. I ripped off the seat base and found pool of diesel on top of the tank, so looks like it may have come from where the fuel gauge wires (i assume that's what they are) go into the top. Is this me being a moron and putting in to much fuel? (assuming it would overflow from the filler spout) There is no sign that I can see of it leaking anywhere else or when driving.

There is also a high-pitched squeak when the engine is running that sounds to me like a belt. It seems to be pretty constant, doesn't ramp up with revs and is still there when clutch is in/box is in neutral. Any advice for tracking down the source? (Sounds a bit to high for mice to start)

Those are the big three that are bothering me currently. Course the door seals leak, the passenger lock only works from the inside and the stereo was hard wired to the 1990's by a monkey but I reckon i'll get to those and more in time. There's just something about owning a Defender that puts a smile on yer face regardless (Heck, It's got a sunroof that doesn't leak, that must be almost unheard of!?)

sounds like a pretty standard landy to me!

if its a 300tdi google penny trick

my fuel tank rusted out along the seam but yours sounds different.

the sunroof may not leak but i bet water pours in through the top of the door jams!

Next time you brim it check instantly if the main hose leaks, it may be perished or the jubilee clips need tightening. If it's from around the fuel tank sender then remove the plate and give it a ring of silicon then bolt it back together.

The diff seal is an easy job and costs a couple of quid tops. Try somewhere like paddocks or mm4x4, they usually have seals like that in stock.

As for the squeak, check the fan belt is tight and not perished and also the alternator bearings are in good nick.

Harry