I'd check the relays- start with the headlight, and then the dim/dip. They can fail all sorts of odd ways. Column switches shouldn't be able to do that, I don't think. I've been spending too long looking at defender wiring diagrams recently...

Ordered a new flasher unit and hazard flasher switch, to see if they get the indicators working properly... It wasn't the column switches or the fuse box!

On a older defender, the only bit I'd always trust as stock and matching the theoretical spec is the VIN plate...

Lifted the front up, managed to get the old brake pads out, and found calipers were just a tad stiff to push back in. Got a bigger lever on them, and promptly sprayed brake fluid everywhere as the reservoir overflowed.... Cleaned that up, making really sure the disks were clear- 95% alcohol is...

Found my 19J engine has a sort of 12J wiring harness, with some extra wires I can't identify from either...the electrics fun continues!

The really basic solution is remove alarm and immobiliser... who needs one if you have Lucas electrics! A hidden cut out switch somewhere- simple rocker switch in the dash marked ' winch lights' or such like is also a handy immobiliser. Other options- the key fob battery may be dying- at least...

Had the steering wheel, column and instrument panel off. Got the new indicator switch in place, and then spent an hour moving the column switches. Two had iffy crimp joints- pulled them into the workshop, and soldered them. And the wiper switch has a spring in it, that is held in place one of...

Mine is playing up too, and I haven't checked that plug. I know there is an iffy contact somewhere!

Flogged to Gap ( 90 minutes each way) to take the dogs to the vet, and managed to get the two parcels of bits waiting for me from Chronopost without paying any more import duties, nor beating the morons for want of a better word 'working' there with the tie rod that was falling out of one of...

pls don't use logs to lift the Land Rover...should one log "go..." so will you When I say logs, I mean 15-18" diameter rounds, cut straight on the bottom, and with a groove carved out on the top to hold the axle... so a wider footprint than most axle stands! Short of a bigger earthquake than...

As suggested by v8350 above, started pulling off wheels and hubs to reset float. First rear wheel I tried, the lock nut moved as I was sticking the box spanner on it, and lock washer hadn't been folded at all... problem located! Tightened it up, and play is gone. The gasket is also gone... how...

How big a job is the rear bearings? Haynes has it as 4 spanners, so I'm a little cautious. I'm going to try just pulling the wheels off and looking for loose nuts to start with, as that is quick and easy to do...

Failed my control technique on a laundry list of problems. My attempt to fix the temperature gauge caused failing faults in the brake, reverse, head, side and indicator lights, the wipers and god knows where else. The front universal joints are worn- and they were replaced by a professional...

Pressure washed it hard, including the engine bay, to get rid of any evidence of oil leaks before the control technique. Filled the back up with skis and rubbish from the workshop. Decided I was going to get the temperature gauge working, as with the new fuse box lots of electrical issues have...

Tuesday. Stuck in new fuse box, and suddenly found I had a fuel gauge that worked, sidelights, and assorted other electrical systems. The gradual exorcism of Lucas continues. Yesterday- 900 vertical meters to a ski station. Tried to pick up a parcel of landy bits ( including a hopefully correct...

If you can find one... I tried!

Good fuse holder Bad Fuse holder- avoid this type!

I'm replacing the old style glass tube fuse box on my 1986 19J, so am doing a what to do/not do guide, so other people can avoid some mistakes. You want: A garage, or at least a few hours without it being too hot/cold/wet. Crimpers and crimp terminals. Range of sizes, as you're going to have...

Two 8 way basic blade ones off ebay. I've had them in the parts bin for at least a year, and haven't gotten round to fitting them. I went with 8 way ones to have a few spare circuits to fit a radio and such like. Not that hearing much over a 19J is likely... Step one is tidy the workshop...

Bitten the bullet, and started the job of replacing the old glass tube fuse box with a modern blade one. The electrical glitches are getting worse, and I hope this will sort them. Or at least eliminate the fuse box as a potential source!