Robbo

Member
Hi all

I'm off to look at a V8 90 at the weekend so i could do with a top 5 things to look for - i've had a diesel before but could do with some pointers.

Thx

Robbo
 
check the chassis with a hammer and screwdriver.

Get under the car and give the props a good shakin to check the ujs for play.

If you take it for a test drive check it doesn't pull to one side when you brake, and you don't get any knocking from underneath

When you bring it back check the outside of the wheels where they contact the hub with the back of your hand they should be the same temperature as each other and not hot.

i don't have any experience with v8s but id check the radiator isn't too rotten as well
 
hpi checks and vin numbers aswell mate, if it dont seem legit listen to your gut and walk away.
 
I would also check the rear crossmember and the front bulkhead espically around near the vents.
 
Check chassis, bulkhead and the bottom of the doors for rust

Check steering box, engine, gearbox, diffs, swivels and transfer box for major leaks

Alot of defenders i looked at had been freshly waxoiled when i went to view, i walked away from all of them as they didnt seem honest
 
check ur diary for free time to fix stuff
check your toolbox is well equipped
check with the missus if she dont mind oil on the drive
check ur filling make sure they're nice n solid
check you got allparts on speed dial
then buy the bloody thing
 
I think Mudhunter has it right. Its pretty much the same for all LandRovers. I`d just add
6) AA membership
7) Samaritans phone number.................................
 
Funny - i've binned it off already as there's something right suspicious about it already.

Btw - its the missus idea, she does like to get dirty, and soooo in the literal way. can't have it both ways i guess - or maybe i can....
 
Check the outriggers for any major rust.

If you aren't a guru get the RAC to check it out for you (will cost £300+ for 4x4 inspection but is worth it, as they'll let you know what's wrong with it.).
 
5 things to check for when looking at a 90
Number 1 RUST
Number 2 Rust
Number 3 RuSt
Number 4 rusT
Number 5 rUSt

Seriously though, go through the normal things you would look at on any car, engine, gearbox (s), suspension, drive train, etc. With a Defender all these things can be sorted with a few spanners and some spares if the price is right, they really are not that complicated for the home mechanic. But if it's shot with rust you could have big, expensive problems.
 

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