Just got back from the MOT, failed on indicator stalk not staying put on right turns (Fairly easy fix - new stalk I think) and a wheel bearing but that's it! Pretty relieved! Need to order parts today and attempt to fix at the weekend - think there's a handy guide on LZ

Couple more pics courtesy of Bruce

Thanks man! It's a 1996 I think. So, recently we dismantled the front a bit to get at the bulkhead. As usual, the rust was worse than we thought, and the decision was made to instead patch the current one up for now, and acquire, then restore a replacement bulkhead out of the car where we can...

So... Turns out the UJ was pretty ####ed. Well, REALLY ####ed. About half an inch of movement side to side, and had been twisting so much that it had worn down the nuts and bolts on the flange to the centre diff. I didn't have any replacements so front prop (With new UJs) is out and currently...

So... welding on the bulkhead not yet done as my friend with the welder and the welding skill has been busy. In the meantime a horrible chirping has developed when driving. Goes away with the clutch pressed in and research points towards worn UJs, so I've ordered up a pair and planning to take...

Regarding the original smoke, I have been advised (From here and a few people I've spoken to about it) that it is most likely to be overfueling when cold, now I know that fuel can also be light coloured smoke as well as black. Since there's not been any massive oil loss in the time I've had it...

Thanks dude! All the best with your project as well. The office is shut over christmas and new years, but I had all my parts delivered there, so can't get at them until next week!

(off topic) The first part of this is basically what LR is saying for replacing the defender - 'imagine if it was replaced every 10 years with a new model' - 2013's one is meant to be it.

ha

Well I will fix it (Definitely on the list) - or at least diagnose it. A few people are telling me it may well be unburnt fuel, which would be great as then I don't have to fix it. At the moment the exhaust is snapped in half which is causing all manner of gases and sounds so probably best to...

Yeah I've just got to get round to doing it now, that's the hard bit. Today's trick was the single wiper conversion, the landy managed it all by itself! It is only now I have learned how they actually fit on. New wipers and fittings ordered as mine are now a bit too smooth.

Looks brrrrilliant, and got the lump to match! Would be really interested to see how the Isuzu engine compares to the 300TDi

Good: You can leave the lights on by accident all day, and it'll still start first turn of the key. Bad: You can't do it two days in a row.

Picked up a drop-down rear tailgate for about £40 today. Not much corrosion on it, couple of dents but looks good. Hopefully taking it down to my friend's unit next weekend to get the bulkhead fixed up.

Isn't it because they've only just joined the forum, and have already reported it elsewhere?

cheers, will try and take a look at the weekend

What grille were you after? I'm sure I saw a company that did ones that look like the x-tech grilles.

dog

Yeah maybe. It doesn't seem to be as smokey when I push the two halves of the exhaust apart...

Hmmm. Half the exhaust had a change of heart and decided to leave the car. Probably best to sort that first then see about the smoke.