Hi, I started a thread in the 90 forum but thought I would ask the same here. I am at the stage where I will be starting my 200tdi engine after 3 years doing a restoration. The only work done to the engine since removing it has been a replacement timing belt and new oil and filters, the...

Hi, I am at the stage where I will be starting my 200tdi engine after 3 years doing a restoration. The only work done to the engine since removing it has been a replacement timing belt and new oil and filters, the engine has not run since then. I intend to drain this oil and replace with new...

Thanks Mik, Got the bumper and grille on too, mainly to prevent any damage to the radiator and intercooler.

Todays progress.

Another great day away from the office. Both wings on, air box fitted, new fuel lines and fuel filter. The engine turns over so, maybe I’ll get some diesel and bleed the system with a view to starting for the first time in nearly 4 years.

I noticed my error when I stood back to admire my handiwork. Just another job on the list.

Got the rear door on, had to drill out new holes for the lower hinge and the latch assembly. The seal was slightly out mid door rhs, fixed by pulling out the seal a little and supporting between it and the wheel arch with dum dum. Fitted the spare wheel carrier too, a new one from Britpart...

Now that’s fantastic. So clean

Good day in the garage today. I’ve managed to get the roof painted over the last week or so, despite the wet weather the temperature was not too cold. Two coats of primer and three top coats. The roof was in a pretty bad shape with thick cracked paint that needed flap discs to prep it. Today...

Used a C clamp on to the windscreen frame and the “ Defender Aircon” vent on the bulkhead, simples.

Guinness won in the end, still not returned to the problem, maybe tonight after work.

Resprayed the bulkhead yesterday so it matched the new paint I added, not a huge difference but it was noticeable. I also had missed part of the window frame so that was done too. Fitted the lower dash today which had its challenges as it is a replacement bulkhead but managed to fit it solidly...

Yes, it’s not bolted in at the top and has swung around on the lower bolt. I think it bolts through the roof section at the top which is why is loose.

The exhaust is not straightforward as the bracket on the downpipe is broken, new one bought and realignment and figment of the exhaust will recommence later. I fitted a Wright Off-road acoustic mat, bloody heavy and you know you’ve been working after throwing that about. It need’s careful...

Been cold and wet up here which has slowed progress but, managed to get some jobs done. Replacement LED rear lights fitted and the wiring checked and tested before permanently making off the connections. I also fitted the Gwyn Lewis rear wheel arch mud flaps to reduce the amount of road crap...