Hi i am new to landys and am about to buy my very first swb 90, i am not going to spend to much as i want to build the vehicle to my own spec, but i want to avoid buying a lemon, can anyone tell me what to look out for to avoid expensive faults or common problems, i very much appreciate your advice.

\regards Alan.

In any defender, 90 or 110, you want to check out the outriggers and rear crossmember, the outriggers go and need replacing, however if your going to build it to your own spec you may strip it down to the chassis and be able to replace these, so thats not a great problem, but worth looking for a good chassis.

Check the bulkhead, this should be fairly solid, they do rust so you can expect a bit, but if its got holes all over it, then its going to need replaced, again if your rebuilding and the price is right, you will be able to replace this easily enough.

Check the engine and running gear, make sure the gears all engage ok, and that the transfer box works. There should be no excessive play in the prop shafts, get under and give them a twist, they can also be heard as clunks when taking off, slowing down, gear changing etc...

The engine, does it start well, run smoothly, if its got blue smoke pouring out the exhaust chances are the rings are worn, turbo knackered etc... so could be an engine rebuild job costly parts replacement. Black smoke; fuel problems etc...

90 = SWB
110 = LWB

Do a search for Widgets guide to buying a Land Rover. It's on here somewhere.

Hmm... tried that, got very confused and didn't find anything hugely useful... am obviously too stupid.

Anyone got a link to this - sounds unmissable.

Cheers,

Adam.

All the above plus the A-frame ball joint! Ideally you need the correct presses to get them out and in. If it's gone there will be a load cluncking coming fromt the back usually in 1st and 2nd gear. Be careful with the steering too, mine had a r3 yr old recon steering box on it but it was still seriously dodgy! & i would seriously discourage getting a turbo deisel!!!! Some are ok but it the 2 years i owned mine it was off the road for 8 months!!!!!!! Dont do it! Get yourself a nice 200 or 300 tdi, even an older vehicle with a donna engine if you don't want to spend too much. V.v.pricey so take you time and get a good one. once mine was fixed i sold it for £3000(88 E reg 90) & just bought a 95 300tdi dsco in A1 condition for £2100!! Also drive it before you buy!!
good luck

Widgets guide to buying a Landy can be found near the bottom of page 1 of the following post:

http://www.landyzone.co.uk/lz/f7/buying-2nd-hand-90-a-33194.html

Cheers Take5, saved me bacon ;-)

Adam.

Knew it was there somewhere I couldn't find it.