Can this be done with wheels on the ground or do they need lifting?

If the column is tight on the steering box and the steering wheel can be turned without the drop arm moving then the play is in the box (obviously). There is a correct way to adjust the steering box. You could have changed just the ujs and not...

More like the play is in the “box” that the steering shaft goes into near the front of the vehicle.

Ended up using a combination of the angle grinder, cutting disk, lump hammer and crowbar to get the bloody thing out.

I did notice I get about 90 degrees of play at this point (steering box?) with the wheels on the ground. Is this expected or does something need tightening?

New cutting disk to the rescue.

I reckon you could tighten it up until it snaps if you really can't undo it.

New hoses, and while I’m there if I’m paying for delivery anyway may as well get a few “bits” 😂

Bottoms ones came out nicely. Just the top to do.

I haven’t wire brushed them as I can’t find it. Will grab one in the morning if I have no other luck.

Just knocked my drill into the engine bay and the drill bit has pierced the rad 😢 🤬

Struggling to remove either of the top bolts on my steering shaft. I’ve tried force, fire, WD40. Any wise words from anyone on what to try next? 😂

Done. It’s the spare wheel from the rear carrier so was able to “go at it”

Currently trying to remove this 🤬🤬 locking nut off my spare wheel. Won’t budge.

I just use AirPods when needed

Fitted this. One of the switches may not do what it suggests ....... Pete

Nothing on my own Defender this weekend but over in Wales and it seems to be “Defender Country” around these parts. We’ve seen a bunch of them. This one needs a bit of polish.

Great info thanks guys. I didn’t have my jack available so solved it by just rolling the 90 forward and back. Front prop was much easier than rear.

I’m probably being very stupid here but should I be able to manually spin the prop shaft (to remove bolts) with the handbrake off, 90 in neural and diff lock on N?

Just pulled up to the shops on a hill and nearly ended up at the bottom 😂

Today’s tinkering

Nice living room 😂

Mine was done 18 months ago and level has barely moved

Todays job list: - Swap out front prop shaft for new - Top up fluids - Swap out front speakers for new set from Amazon which should arrive midday 🤞🏻

👍

That was Rear.

Only managed to take it up and down the lane but early indications are that it has gone. As I've got it, I'll change the front over over the next couple of days as I'd assume it's in similar condition, but looking good.

Hadn't extended the new one. Fits and runs great.

Rear seems to be the worst but I’ve got both to do

Still working away but while the kettle is boiling, here’s what I’m on with.