Spring 2005
A f r i c a-
The Journey of A Lifetime. S t o r y
New look, same great news.
b y
Robison on Rovers, Lite breaks, & much more.
NEW LS IA C E P S E INSID
The Land Rover Enthusiast in 2005
April in Paradise
You’ve been Roverhauled
The Best Soft Tops Available! Easy on easy off
Defender 90 Deluxe Soft Top
With our new Defender 90 Deluxe Soft Tops, everything you’ve ever wanted in a custom soft top for your Defender 90 is here. Superior features include: weather-secure door seals, heavy duty zippers, improved visibility with rear quarter windows and tinted double polished vinyl windows. An awesome fit on your existing belt rail system virtually ends the headaches of all the stretching and prying and keeps you happy and dry when the weather is foul. Includes three zip out windows, with protective carry case for safe storage. RNA90ST 1994-’97 Defender 90 Soft Top .............$ 1,729.95 RNE245 1994 D90 Belt Rail Kit* ..........................$ 44.95 RNE246 1994 D90 Tailgate Bar Kit*....................$ 71.50 * The 1994 Defender 90 soft top is equipped from the factory with snaps and requires a belt rail and tailgate bar kit be installed to use this top. 1995 and 1997 Defender 90 soft top models do not require this kit.
SALE
High Quality Series II-III Canvas Tops Three colors to choose from: PLB754 88” Green, full length with windows ..$ PLB752 88” Sand, full length with windows....$ PLB753 88” Black, full length with windows...$ PLB763 109” Green, full length with windows $ PLB761 109” Sand, full length with windows..$ PLB778 88” Green, 3/4 length.............................$ PLB769 109” Green, 3/4 length...........................$ Special orders welcome
399.95 469.95 499.95 499.95 539.95 369.95 499.95 Series II-III 88” Canvas Top
Attractive, Strong and Affordable
Famed Roof Racks of London
LD91NL Discovery I Brownchurch Full Length Rack
Brownchurch Roof Racks Versatile and attractive, these famed roof racks are available in half and full length sizes. They have a wide, easy to install gutter mount clamp system that will have you stowing your gear in no time at all. Allows both sunroofs on Discoverys to be opened. Features a flat load deck. Finished in black nylon for extra durability and corrosion resistance. Fits all aluminum hard top Land Rover models, except USA NAS 110. Full Length 81"x53"x4" RR91NL RR Classic Brownchurch Full Roof Rack.............$ LD91NL Discovery I & II Brownchurch Full Roof Rack ....$ LR91NL Series II, IIA, III, Defender 90 NAS Brownchurch Full Roof Rack .................................$ Half Length 49"x53"x4" RR91NS RR Classic Brownchurch Half Roof Rack............$ LD91NS Discovery I & II Brownchurch Half Roof Rack...$ LR91NS Series II, IIA, III, Defender 90 NAS .......................$ Ladders LR91NAL Ladder for Series and Defender............................$ RNA661 Discovery I and II Genuine Rear Ladder (shown above on Discovery I) ...............................$
799.00 789.00 779.00 559.00 559.00 559.00 154.96 179.00
RR91NS Range Rover Classic Brownchurch Half Length Rack
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
(CONTENTS) 6 Employee Profile
8 Robison on Rovers 10 Helpful hints
4 Africa -
The Journey of A Lifetime.
12 April in Paradise
15 Parabolic Springs
17 Go Ahead, super size me again 20 Lite Breaks 20 What car?
31 You’ve been Roverhauled 36 All Go & No Show
37 Mid Atlantic Rally
38 Behind the Steering Wheel 39 Chicago Land Rover Club
41 Land Rover Enthusiast in 2005 44 Sightings
45 Letters to the Editor
The Rovers North News is a publication of Rovers North, Inc. Publisher: Mark Letorney Editor: Jeffrey B. Aronson Graphic Designer: Matthew Martin Š2005 Rovers North Inc. This publication may not be reproduced without the express written permission of Rovers North Inc. 1319 VT Route 128, Westford, Vermont 05494-9601, USA Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech Line: (802) 879-0032 www.roversnorth.com Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00 - 5:30; Sat: 8:30 - 12:30 EST Prices valid until June 15th, 2005
This is just a small sample of our inventory. For a full listing of what we carry, visit our website or give us a call.
Africa-
Page 4
The Journey of a Lifetime. By Kevin Girling [Kevin Girling, Oshowa, ON, Canada, serves as the International Correspondent for Land Rover Enthusiast magazine. Last year, Kevin and his daughter Rebecca embarked on an African safari that changed their lives -ed]. The word safari is actually Swahili for journey and this had been the journey of a lifetime, the type of trip most Land Rover owners and enthusiasts only dream about. Our journey had started many months previously with an invitation to experience the trip of a lifetime with Land Rover Centurion Adventures. We would join a group that would use five Defenders, straight from the factory, to undertake a journey of discovery to Botswana and Zambia. We touched down in Johannesburg, South Africa 36 hours after leaving our home in Canada. At Customs, our explanation of a safari to Botswana leaving immediately from the airport did not even warrant a raised eyebrow; in South Africa it seems this is perfectly normal. Johan Kriek, chief guide and owner of Land Rover Centurion Adventures, was waiting to greet us and introduce us to our mode of transport for the next ten days, a brand new Defender 110 TD5 double cab pick-up in Epsom Green. With delivery mileage only, this was about as new as you could get and the smell was wonderful. Our bags were quickly loaded into a dust bag (Dust bag-what was this about?) and once sealed was loaded in the canvas topped load bay. One hour later, with Johan Kriek at the wheel, we were barreling north towards the border with Botswana. The rest of the group had departed at 6 am, so we were three and a half hours behind with a lot of ground to cover. The aim was to be in camp before nightfall, but as the day progressed it became apparent that this was not going to be realistic. For the Defender, however, it was a chance to see how well a new engine would perform under load, and speeds of 130 kph were achieved on the main N1 highway out of Johannesburg and 120 kph on the secondary roads as we made our way to the border post at Martin's Drift. At gas stations along the way, we received news from returning travelers of heavy delays at the border post on the Botswana side. Johan explained that this sort of thing is common in Africa where First World concerns come up against Third World realities almost daily. The expressions ‘This is Africa’ and ‘What can you do?’ were statements we repeated often over the next ten days. A major delay at the border could mean the difference between making it to camp and joining up with the main group or camping in the bush on our own and playing catch up in the morning.
We finally reached Martin's Drift and our brand new Defender now had about 400kph on the clock and had admirably demonstrated an on road ability that surprised even me. We had just completed a high-speed dash across South Africa on main highway and secondary roads with plenty of bumps and curves and the vehicle never faltered or gave any indication of instability. Aggressive handling had produced no sudden surprises and Johan was quick to point out when questioned on this that much of the credit was down to the tires. All the test vehicles were fitted with Cooper Discoverer STT 265/75/16 radials. Martin's Drift had cleared out on the South African side so our clearance through customs and immigration was swift and painless. In Botswana we were met with a delay of about an hour with time to change our dollars for Pula, the Botswana local currency. Once on our way again we started heading to the northwest, still on hard roads. We headed for Palapye, then Serowe and Letlhakane, where we fuelled the vehicle again. Tipson Mahube, who welcomes all travelers, runs the Shell service station there very efficiently and the place is a hive of activity. Tipson knows most of the guides and remembers them by name, even if their last trip through Letlhakane was the previous year. Last minute shopping is possible and as long as you have a reserva-
tion, his secure compound, which offers motel like accommodation is very appealing. This was also the last civilized (flushing) toilet stop for the next 48 hours so we made good use of this facility. With no water available in the sinks our bottle of hand sanitizer came in very useful. By this time night had already fallen and we faced the treacherous task of exiting the village without hitting any animal, vehicle or person. Many vehicles don’t have any lights on but insist on barreling down the road. Our camp was within striking distance although progress from Letlhakane was much slower and considerably more dangerous. We were now on dirt roads with the diff lock engaged and paying close attention to wildlife that seems drawn to the roads at night, probably by the lights. Camp 1 - Lekhuba Island The island is situated on saltpans about 56 kms north of Letlhakane. The African darkness can be forbidding, more so because of the wildlife you know is out there watching you. When we finally made it onto the pans the transformation was dramatic. Progress was swift and smooth, punctuated by short spells of soggy handling as our Defender wallowed in soft patches of salt that threatens to suck you to a standstill. That old Land Rover expression, ‘drive with purpose’ really takes on meaning here. At one point we did stop voluntarily and switched off the engine and just listened. Barking Geckos, lizards
Page 5 approximately 6 - 8 cm long and the only member of the lizard family that makes a noise other than hissing, could be heard in the distance but nothing else. The night sky looked fantastic, but there was little time to enjoy the moment. Dinner would be waiting and we still had to locate the main group, which we eventually did. Johan knows his business well and is an excellent guide. Locating the main group in the darkness proved to be no problem and with introductions over, dinner was quickly served. For Rebecca and me it was early to bed in an attempt to keep jet lag at bay. A 6am wake up call, something that was to become the daily norm, was another incentive to get our heads down.
At 6am we got our first real look at the Defender 130 and trailer that was to be the support vehicle for the trip and from which all meals would be prepared. The 130 and trailer convert easily to a remarkable bush kitchen from which safari chef Jos van Nieuwenhuizen would prepare breakfast and dinner on a daily basis to a standard that I have not before experienced on the trail. We broke camp and headed north across the saltpans. This time I was behind the wheel, since Johan had rejoined his own crew in the 130 and the 110 was now ours for the duration. The pans were as dry as a bone and they need to be. Warning notices advise strongly against attempting a crossing when they are wet. For the most part the pans are rock hard in the dry season, however, there are sections where the surface is soft and huge clouds of dust erupt from beneath the vehicles. Looking across the pans, you cannot see other vehicles below the horizon, but you can tell they are there just by the dust plumes that rise into the sky. That dust bag suddenly made sense. In areas like this the Defender excels, with difflock already engaged for our off road environment it is simply a matter of steering, keeping the power on and the right gear in use. The vehicle does the rest. If you enjoy off-road driving Botswana was already delivering not by the mile, or by the hour, but by the day. Temperatures were starting to climb and by midday we realized that our air-conditioning unit was not working. This necessitated driving with the vents and windows open in an effort to keep airflow moving through the cab. This brought the inevitable penalty of dust everywhere; dust was the first thing to surprise both of us even though we knew before coming this
would be the dry season. South of the equator this is still only Spring and the rains have yet to come. One can only imagine what the hot and humid conditions of an African rainy season would be like! By lunchtime, we were clear of the pans and our lovely green vehicle was now a very dusty off white color and this is the way it would stay until later in the trip. A welcome stop at Planet Baobab, complete with a Plant Hollywood style sign, came next but not before we had exited the pans thought the village of Gweta, our first real taste of an African native village. Our trip through the village was short and fast; we were overwhelmed by the large numbers of children who rushed the vehicles with outstretched arms. From Plant Baobab it was west on hard roads almost to Maun for our second night stop. Camp 2 - Xyga Camp on the Botemi River close to Maun. After the first night in the bush, an organized site was a welcome opportunity to shake out some of the dust, have a shower, a swim, a drink and a very welcome supper of an unknown food. The campfire provided us with our first real chance to sit and chat with the entire group of South Africans that were to be our traveling companions over the next several days. There were a total of 8 vehicles; 5 were brand new Defenders straight from the factory, another a 130 support vehicle and two privately owned vehicles along for the ride. One of them was the token Discovery and nothing would prise Tim and Grace Farrell from the comfort of their own Discovery. Like most Land Rovers now sold in SA this vehicle had a TD5 engine with manual box and towed a fairly sophisticated tent trailer which never ceased to impress me each evening as it unfolded itself into a fairly substantial and well thought out home away from home. The next few days would be spent deep in the African bush and we would need to be able to sustain ourselves during that time without any other support facilities or the option of getting additional supplies. Leaving Maun we headed northeast to Shorobe before turning to the northwest and the entry point to the Moremi Gave Reserve. After the road ended in
Shorobe it was back to an off-road environment and difflock was permanently engaged and would remain so for the next 5 days as we ventured into the African wilderness. Once again dust was to become a factor, as was the heat as we pushed deeper into Moremi. Once through the South Gate we saw much wildlife: chacma baboons, hippo, Burchall’s Zebra, warthogs, giraffes, red lechwe, common waterbucks, greater kudu, impalas, tsessebe, blue wildebeest, vervet monkeys and elephants. Many were very well camouflaged in their natural surroundings. Camp 3 - Third Bridge in the bush Our arrival at Third Bridge prompted an immediate briefing from Johan. We were now very definitely in the bush and the distance from any level of support or medical assistance was measured not in kilometers but in hours. Johan does not mince words and out here clients stay alive by listening to him and doing exactly as he says. Glancing around, it was easy to see what he meant - in the trees were baboons, in the water were hippo and through our camp was a hippo path! These were the threats that could be seen but we were also warned that this was Lion country, Leopards were around although very elusive to the human eye and Hyenae were regular visitors at nighttime in the camp. Going to the washroom required two people, two good flashlights and a lot of nerve. Our wonderful Defenders, all running like clockwork but parked beneath the trees for the night, could do nothing for us now. From Third Bridge we headed northwest to the Mboma Boat Station where we would leave our vehicles for 24 hours and be transported by boat to an island campsite. Camp 4 - Mboma Boat Station Gdikwe 2 was our destination for the night. The boats took us to a remote area of the Okavango Delta where the water is shallow and clear, and the bottom sandy. These were vital ingredients if we were to swim and make good use of our biodegradable soap. The waters are infested with Crocs and our guides watched diligently at each end of our swim party to make sure no unwanted intruders decided to join the party. Continued on pg 6.
Africa-
The Journey of A Lifetime.
Continued From pg5 For some, the break from the vehicles was a welcome one. Although the distances covered daily, with the exception of day 1, were not great, progress is slow and it takes several hours to travel between campsites. In an off-road environment this can be tough going for some. Our return to the vehicles, for me, was a welcome one. I was keen to get as much seat time in a Defender as possible since this a rare treat for anyone from North America. I sensed also that others were keen to get on the road again although a “no start” was to delay us. One of the 110’s refused to turn over, the battery was completely dead although we suspect that the ancillary equipment plugged into the vehicle had drained the battery in the 24 hours we had been away. Whatever the cause the vehicle performed flawlessly for the rest of the trip. On the road again we headed to South Gate, which was our intended campsite for the night. Our first major sighting of the trip, easily visible, as opposed to animals hidden in the bush or running away from the approaching convoy was a hippo. The size of a hippo surprises you, particularly on land where their bulk is something to behold. Man and vehicle offered no threat to this excellent specimen and the 130 approached cautiously in an effort to set up a photo opportunity for me. Even the noise of the TD5 engine with its distinctive rattling sound failed to upset the focus of our attention as Johan edged forward gently. With the shots in the can our hippo finally showed signs of discontent and with a look that said, ‘this is my space -back off’ gave a clear message to our guide that a quiet and orderly retreat
Employee Profile
Born and raised in Licincoln, England, Les Parker fell in love with Land Rovers at an early age. It did not take him long to learn every single part, and how they work. Becoming the export manager at Peter Hobson Louth, put Les in the position of making contacts around the world. One of whom was Mark Letorney, the owner of Rovers North. After years of working together over the phone, Mark went to England to meet Les in 1995. After talking, Mark decided to offer Les a
Page 6 was in order. Johan backed the 130 gently away and the hippo went back to his feeding quest. This was what we had come to Africa to do, see wildlife in its natural habitat using a Land Rover, one of the first vehicles ever to explore these regions. There is no greater feeling! We sought out a trail to South Bridge that, in spite of the dry season, would have areas of water
crocs are never very far away. Efforts to free the vehicle met with failure, even a tandem tow failed to budge the Discovery and trailer combination. After a struggle we unhitched the trailer from the Discovery and unceremoniously dragged it from the hole. An airbag was produced and one side of the Discovery was lifted allowing a high lift jack to be used under one wheel as a sand ladder. This was my
that would liven up the off-roading experience. We started out making good progress but it was not long before disaster would strike. Our Discovery and trailer tackled a stretch of water with purpose and had almost reached the end when momentum faltered. The gearbox jumped out of low range into neutral at the worst moment. With momentum lost the vehicle came to rest with its differentials hung up on the centre of the trail. The nose of the vehicle was up and the rear, therefore, down which placed the trailer in a nose down attitude. The vehicle was unable to find traction. A recovery operation can be interesting at the best of times but when the vehicle is really stuck and the situation complicated by a heavy trailer the result is much more dramatic. Then factor in the location and you can be certain that lion, hippo, elephant and
first opportunity to use an air bag and it is without doubt brilliant in its simplicity. Attached to the exhaust of the disabled or any vehicle nearby, the gasses lift the weight of the Discovery with ease. A valve allows the bag to be deflated on demand. With our makeshift sand ladder in place beneath one wheel the Discovery, with a little tug from a D90, at last found traction and was soon reunited with the trailer. The whole recovery process had taken 2 hours, but we had lost valuable time with this recovery exercise and a decision was made to return to Third Bridge for the night.
job here at Rovers North. Ever since Les has started working here, he not only became one of our top sales associates, but also has proved to be very valuable to our customers with his expert technical support. “When I am working with a customer, I really try and make sure that I understand every little detail, this way I can make the proper recommendation. Whether that recommendation is for a specific part, or just giving them a suggestion that will help fix their Land Rover with spending little to no money”. Another thing that he has become known for is finding that one obscure part that only he can find. If you happen to need that one rare part for your Series, Defender, or any other Land Rover and can’t find it anywhere, give Les a call. He will not stop till he finds exactly what you are looking for. Even if he has to use his contacts over seas in the UK to be able to find these rare and interesting parts. This is just on of the ways that Les makes calling Rovers North not just pleasant, but also a successful call. In addition to helping our customers get exactly what they need for their Classic
Land Rovers, Les can also be found visiting Land Rover clubs around the country. He loves to be out in the “field”, so to speak. “There is nothing better then going all over the country, and world for that mater, and seeing how all of these people, with such different backgrounds, all share the same passion. The passion for their Classic Land Rovers”. “There is nothing like going to club events and being able to help people out in person. Another great thing about going to these events is just standing around a couple of Classic Land Rovers and sharing Land Rover stories with other people who are just as enthusiastic as I am. Not to mention being able to meet some of the people who I have been talking to for years. Nothing beats being able to put a face with a fellow Classic Land Rover voice”. When Les isn’t working here at Rovers North, there is a good chance you will find him either working on one of his own Classic Land Rovers, or out off-roading. On his spare time, he has rebuilt a Series III Light weight, Series 88 Station Wagon, and a 109” IIA Hardtop. He currently is the proud owner of a Series IIA 109” Ex Ambulance, a 1992 and a 1988 Classic Range Rover.
[Part 2 of this African adventure will run in our next issue]
NEW Steering Box
(not rebuilt)
Assembly Complete with Drop Arm NO core charge the Lowest price anywhere PLS004A
$499.00 Range Rover Classic - Discovery I PLS004A Steering Box with Steering Drop Arm and Tie Rod End. (A $875.00 value)...................$ 499.00 PLS004B Steering Box, Straight Drop Arm with No Tie Rod. (A $875.00 value) ............................$ 499.00 Discovery II PLH606 Steering Box, with Drop Arm 1999-2002 (A $1,007.69 value)............................................$ 549.00 PLH607 Steering Box, with Drop Arm 2003-2004 (A $924.00 value)...............................................$ 579.00
Heater Motor for Range Rover Classic 1990-1994 Bosch Heater Blower Motor, a direct replacement for the Range Rover Classic 1990 - 1994 PLH520
Range Rover Classic 1990-1994 ..................................................$ 299.00
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Robison on Rovers
Page 8
weeks ago . . . I was late on that one and I’m early on this one. As I write this it’s about zero and snowing outside. The heat has failed in my new house. We may be forced to retreat from our home into the Land Rover if conditions worsen. If that happens, progress on this column will cease. RE-DISCOVERING Now, a few days later, the heat is fixed, so I’m going to continue on about the Land Rover Discovery the DISCOVERY models. Last issue, we looked at Range Rover Classics. In subsequent issues, we’ll look at other Land Rover models. Welcome to the seventh installment of Robison on The Discovery has been around for quite a Rovers in the Rovers North News. while in Europe. It arrived in the United States for Many of you have read my posts on the Rovers the 1994 model year. The European version had North and DiscoWeb bulletin boards, and some have been sold with a number of gasoline and diesel corresponded with me on various topics. For those engines but the US model only comes with a gas V8. who don’t know me – I manage J E Robison Service The Discovery power plant was revised three – on the web at www.robisonservice.com – an inde- times during its tenure in America: pendent Land Rover specialist shop in Springfield, The 1994 and 1995 trucks arrived in the US Massachusetts. I’ve worked continuously with Land with 3.9 liter engine and 14CUX fuel injection. 1996 Rovers since their re-introduction to North America through 1999 Discoveries had 4.0 engines with some fifteen years ago. In my column, I can answer GEMS engine management. 1999 and newer your questions at greater length than is possible on Discovery II models have a Bosch designed engine the bulletin boards. Each issue, I will take on a few management system. of the interesting questions I receive or will address Some of you may wonder what these names a topic of interest to Land Rover owners. mean: I am a longtime Land Rover owner. I’ve had 14CUX was the latest in a long line of fuel many Land Rovers over the years, and currently have injection systems made by Lucas. Lucas licensed the a 2000 Range Rover P38A, a 1996 Discovery I, and a designs from Bosch, the inventor of the system. 1966 Series. My father has a 1995 Range Rover Earlier iterations of this system were called 4CU, Classic, and my brother has a 2003 Discovery II. So 13CU, and 13CUX. Those systems were installed in we’re a Land Rover family. older Land Rover products, most of which were not If you have questions or issues you’d like dissold here. 14CUX is a fuel injection system only, cussed email: robison@robisonservice.com meaning that it only controls the fuel injection on the engine - newer engine management systems do ________ P ________ much more. These systems are pretty primitive in Welcome to the Spring edition of Robison on Rovers. terms of diagnostics. They have the benefit of being serviced without It seems like just a few weeks ago that I was writing special tools. They don’t have many sensors, and the Winter edition. Well, actually, it was just a few
Discovery 3.9 Engine
those sensors can be monitored with fairly common test gear. You don’t need a $10,000 Land Rover diagnostic system to fix these engines. For that reason, they are a good choice in back country areas. As English electrical systems go, these 14CUX systems are actually quite reliable. The main problem sources we see are worn out throttle sensors, worn out oxygen sensors, worn out air meters, and crumbling wiring harnesses. Otherwise, they are quite robust. 14CUX trucks have a check engine light that comes on when a fault is detected. This primitive system does not light the lamp unless a significant fault occurs, and even then, the system provides little guidance to repair personnel. 14CUX Discoveries have a box under the passenger seat that displays two-digit fault codes. You can look the codes up on the Robison Service or Rovers North web sites, but I caution you that they do not provide anything more than a rough guide . . . for example, a code for o2 sensor fault may mean the sensor is bad, or the circuit is bad, or the o2 heater has failed, or it may mean the engine is running rich, or it may mean the engine is running lean. Not a very certain diagnosis, is it? For that reason, most successful techs have learned to diagnose 14CUX with a handheld meter and a digital scope (for observing o2 waveforms.) These engines are the last Land Rover engines that allow any tuning and adjustment. You can adjust timing by moving the distributor. You can set base idle and you can trim the mixture with the adjuster on the air meter. Those adjustment provisions vanished with the next iteration of engine management. 14CUX was replaced in 1996 with GEMS. GEMS stands for Generic Engine Management. This system is considerably more advanced. It controls both the fuel injection and the ignition for total engine management. In addition to managing those
Page 9
Discovery 4.0 Engine
systems, GEMS is integrated with the vehicle security system and other chassis systems. GEMS is yet another British licensed version of a Bosch design, in this case, Bosch’s Motronic system. GEMS produces slightly more power than 14CUX, but the extra power comes at a price for some owners. GEMS vehicles are a lot less friendly to backyard mechanics. There is no longer a distributor - they now use coil packs. There are no longer any user adjustments. You can’t make much headway servicing these motors without at least an OBD II scanner. Such a scanner should allow you to see live data as well as read and clear fault codes. GEMS engine controllers need to see a drive authorization signal from the vehicle security system before they will allow the truck to start. This can present a problem if your alarm controller fails in back country - you won’t be able to start the truck. It is possible to lose this synchronization when disconnecting and reconnecting the battery - so don’t do that any more than necessary! The alarm and GEMS controller cannot be synchronized without the specialist LR test system. That need for synchronization means you cannot swap a GEMS ECU from one vehicle to another unless you have the test system to synchronize it. In 1999 Land Rover finally came to the realization that using a real Bosch-built system might be better than a locally made copy, and they installed the current Bosch Motronic system for the introduction of the Discovery II. This system is a lot more advanced than GEMS. It gives more precise fuel control, electronic engine balancing, increased reliability, and more power from the same size motor (almost 10% more). The power, drivability, and smoothness of Land Rover engines improved with each iteration of engine management. A 2002 Discovery - with the
same size engine as a 1994 - is markedly more powerful and more responsive than its predecessor. In 2003, Land Rover increased the engine size to 4.6 liters. The Bosch engine management remained the same but performance is better with the bigger block. The drawback for do-it-yourselfers is that the Bosch engines are even less owner-friendly. To service them effectively, you’ll need either the specialist LR test system or the specialist Bosch test system. Even with those test systems, you won’t make much sense of the 20+ pages of parameters and data they can show unless you’ve been to Bosch engine management training. In my opinion, most owners of these trucks are going to be limited to basic service - oil changes, air filter and spark plug replacement, etc. Actual repairs are going to call for a properly tooled and trained specialist. We should also look at the rest of the vehicle . . . Earlier Discoveries are prone to rust. Places to check are the rear door jambs, the rocker sills, the floorboards behind the front wheels, and the bottoms of the doors and the edges around the front windshield and alpine windows. WaxOyl will go a long way to prevent rust damage or halt it if it’s not too bad. The biggest source of trouble on most Discoveries is the electrical system. They leak water into the fuse boxes, which then corrode. Various electrical devices - alarm controllers - window controllers - ignition switches - in the dash fail. The dashboards are made from molded foam that curls up at the edges when it ages. Land Rover has a Dash kit with plastic strips to hold the dash down tight. If your pre-99 Discovery has not had a kit installed, you probably need one.
Discovery transfer cases have a manual diff lock that tends to freeze up from lack of use. I suggest you shift yours every week or so to keep it free. Taking the linkage apart to fix this condition is a several hour project. Land Rover has addressed many of the deficiencies with the original Discovery when they brought out the Discovery II in 1999. It came with a redesigned engine that leaks less oil - not no oil, but less oil; improved outside door handles; a new dashboard; a more reliable Bosch electrical system; an improved transmission; a redesigned front axle design. Land Rover deleted the diff lock lever from the 1999-2003 Discovery II but the feature is still available on the transfer case and inexpensive kits are available to restore the lever the way it should be. The Disco II also has a number of improved creature comforts such as automatic climate control; improved stereo; heated front glass in some models; improved seats; forward facing rear jump seats. In fact, with their forward facing design they are no longer “jump” seats at all, since it is now impossible to jump from them. However, jumpers can still get satisfaction by jumping from the back seat, unchanged from the original Discovery. Really, the best seats for jumping are found in Defender models without a rear door, and Land Rover troop carriers. Those vehicles have fully functional jump seats that allow a person with a pack to jump from the vehicle at any time. See you next issue. John Robison
NEWfor the DISCOVERY, A modular ALUMINUM ROOF RACK system Modular Safari Roof Rack
points for up to 4 driving lights of your choice. Comes in an easyto-assemble kit form to avoid expensive truck freight.
All new for 2005, our full length Safari Rack incorporates the latest in design and manufacture technology so you can carry all kinds of gear on top with confidence. Lightweight anodized aluminum load deck and frame provide superior strength and rigidity. Molded front wind deflector minimizes wind noise and provides mounting
Discovery 1989-2005 SRR2003 Discovery I 1994-1999.......................$ 950.00 SRR2002 Discovery II 1999-2004 .....................$ 950.00
SALE
• Adjustable floor cross members, allow you to customize your deck space. • Concealed front lamp mounts allow you to install up to 4 driving lights. • Compatible with Genuine roof top access ladders.
Some helpful hints, on setting up your NEW Safari Roof Rack
1
Picture 1 Take out both of the supplied instruction sheets and
Picture 2 When assembling the hardware to the deck members, do
review them before you start. Will need a philips screw driver, tape messuare, 8mm & 13mm wrench and a 3mm drill size.
2
not tighten down the plate nuts; this will make it easier to attach to the frame.
3 Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Page 11
5
4
6
Picture 3 Assemble deck members to side
Picture 5 Make sure to measure out the
Picture 7 Ask some friends to help you lift your new rack up onto the roof of your Land Rover. It’s light weight, but it is just easier to handle with more people.
Picture 4 When fastening the wind deflec-
Picture 6 Once you have everything tightened down, flip it over and admire your handy work.
Picture 8 Once you have your new rack on, use the supplied security lock Allen wrench to fasten down the stainless steel hardware into your gutter.
rails with the rack upside down. Insert the legs onto any deck member that you want or as shown. Again, leaving all hardware loose for ease of adjustment..
tor, make sure that you are satisfied with the way it fits before drilling fixing holes.
cross bars to determine the exact location that you would like. Once you have the locations, tighten down the plate nuts.
8 Detailed instructions included
7
April in Paradise By Kristopher Clone
It’s April 11th, 2003 and there are three and a half hours until the Alaska ferry leaves Bellingham, WA bound for Haines, Alaska. My fiancee Annie and I vigorously cram all of our gear from our storage unit, into and onto “Limey” our late Series IIA 88. My homemade roof rack (someday I will afford a real one) was vital to the success of this portion of the trip. From Haines we will drive the remaining 800 miles to Denali National Park where we will spend four months working for a private guest lodge located 90 dusty, muddy miles from civilization. Sounds like Rover country to me! The ferry ride was stunningly relaxing. Limey drew an incredible amount of attention on and off board. Somehow all of our gear fit, including my upright bass. I’m quite sure that Land Rover measured a contra bass and designed a vehicle hat would get a bassist to absolutely any show, but... I could be mistaken. Two and a half days later we were in Haines, Alaska. Of course, it wasn’t long before I discovered a few mechanical issues to address. Luckily for me I was staying at the home of Fred Shields, a former Roverphile. All he asked in return was a little help towing his two 109’s from point A to point B so he could sell them. There’s no hiding the fact that if finances permitted, I would have bought them in an instant. Annie wiped her brow in relief.
Page 12 A friend at a local river guiding company provided a workspace in his shop. The list of repairs began with replacing the four swivel ball joints and adjusting the play in the front hubs. First, we had to remove the tie rod ends. Of course they would not simply unscrew. So against my advice some compadres thought it best to heat the rod with a cutting torch on low. I don’t really need to tell you what happened...but I will! Even with two 3-foot pipe wrenches and a bench vise the ball joint would not dislodge. However, we now know the point at which a steel rod will twist. “Hello, thank you for calling Rovers North. How may I help you?” “Uhhh, yeah... I need a new tie rod for my late series II-A.” While I was waiting for the new tie rod, I changed the oil and converted to a Rocky Mountain oil filte adapter, and replaced the plugs. Annie noticed that the steering box had jiggled loose so we tightened it up. A few days later by next
day air (no such thing as next day shipping to AK) we received the tie rod, installed it and drove away smiling! Now for the real journey north! The weather had been relentlessly beautiful from Bellingham to Haines and remained cloudless for the two weeks of our stay. Now it was time to begin our trek to Denali. Our route would take us from Haines to Haines Junction, Yukon Territory, then northwest to Fairbanks along the famed Alaska Highway. Then we would turn south on the Parks Highway to Denali Park; 800 miles of winding, aweinspiring, and yes, bumpy road. We left town just before sunset and drove into British Columbia when we made camp just off the highway overlooking the Tatshenshini-Alsek Wilderness Provincial Park. We set up our tent at dusk just before 11:00 pm. This was the first time we felt the isolation of the far north that we so desired. I would venture a guess that 2 cars drove past us all night and into the morning. We
woke to the unique clucking of the willow ptarmigan and escaped from the tent and into a stunning landscape of snow-capped peaks. We couldn’t wait to see what treats lay ahead of us and to the north. After a cup of coffee for me and tea for Annie we once again packed our gear, climbed into Limey, sparked up the 2.25 and rumbled northward. As we drove along we were very lucky to have the highway quite literally to ourselves. In a span of 150 miles we encountered, at best, six vehicles. This was good, for it allowed me to wander to and fro from one white line to the other as I would say, “Annie...look at that!” or she would gasp, “Kris... can you see what I am seeing?” Of course I couldn’t so I would try, thus the wandering as we “rubber necked” our way along. As most of you know, traveling in a Series Land Rover has its advantages and disadvantages. As for Annie and me, the former far outweighs the latter. For instance, traveling at the breakneck speed of 45-55 mph presents the opportunity to see a point of interest in plenty of time to actually stop for a better look. Avoiding potholes and frost heaves becomes possible. Every guy that passes us in his SUV turns a marvelous shade of, pardon the pun, “Lime” green with envy. Wildlife sightings are much more feasible, but most of all, it’s impossible to be in a rush when rushing around is not an option. As for disadvantages, to quote my good friend, fellow Series Land Rover owner and the person to
Page 13
blame for my Land Rover addiction Mike Bassett, “Land Rovers are great, it’s just that they’re always a little bit broken.” Therefore, one never knows for sure if you’ll actually make it to your destination. I must admit that, to me, this is an advantage as well. The people you meet and the repairs you learn to make while broken down simply add to the adventure. It’s all in your approach of the situation. I am proud to say that Limey performed marvelously the entire trip. We made camp on the second night just south of Delta Junction. AK on a single lane road a couple miles along the Tanana River. You don’t have to be far from the main road to be in the middle of nowhere up here. Just before sundown we were graced by several hundred sandhill Cranes flying
overhead. Limey rests. Day three and we wake to a noise in the trees behind the tent. Definitely not a squirrel! Being from Montana, we are very familiar with the large mammal possibilities. We decide to get up and see what was about. After a couple of minutes Annie stumbled upon a curious and very large Bull Moose wandering around toward the river. I never tire of these creatures. They are so immense and yet so graceful. We watch in awe. After he wanders away from us we look at each other, laugh, hug and make our way back for some coffee, tea and to strike camp. It would be a short drive today. Just shy of 200 miles to Fairbanks where we would spend a couple of days poking around at the sights before driving the last leg of the trip to Denali. While kicking around Fairbanks, we stopped at a cafe for lunch. As commonly happens, Limey attracted another Rover to the same diner, a Series II-A 109” SW, also pastel green in color. I didn’t see
them come in the diner but while looking around I spied them. I approached and introduced myself. We exchanged the normal Rover gibberish about years, models, styles, upgrades, and wish lists and parted ways. It was time we drove the 145 miles to our employers’ office just south of Denali where we would be staying for the next week and a half before driving 90 miles into Denali Nat’l Park to the lodge that we would call home for the next 4 months. Until this point in the trip we had beaten the arrival of the dreaded mosquito. Seventy miles south of Fairbanks, nature called. I pulled off the road onto a single track. Within seconds of me disembarking, my blue shirt turned brown. I hurriedly finished my business and dove into Limey and slowly accelerated to ramming speed all the while spastically flailing at the window and shoeing the buggers out into the headwind. Once again the lack of traffic was in our best interest. We arrived at the office around 7pm and were warmly greeted and escorted too our friend from Montana’s cabin. We hiked our sleeping gear the 1/4-mile in, crawled in our bags and fell asleep drifting off into a dreamland. All in all it took five days from Haines to Denali, taking us through some of the most extraordinary country we’ve ever seen. Limey was the perfect vessel for this and all journeys. Even though this trip was over, our season in Denali was just beginning. A season filled with panoramas of Mt. McKinley and hundreds of miles of old mining roads to Rover around on. Limey was born for this and everyone around her knew it. These adventures will have to wait for another time though. Until then... Live long and Rover!
High-Ratio Series IIA, III
Transfer Box Pre-assembled, ready to bolt in. Includes transmission brake assembly. Increases your road speed by 32% with no change in low range performance! Eliminates the need for an overdrive for quieter, more reliable road performance. Normal high ratio is 1.148:1, New Hi-Ratio Modified is 0.781:1, low range ratio is unchanged. Entire transfer box assembly is rebuilt including all new bearings, seals and gaskets. Not compatible with external overdrive or PTO. HRT1002 Hi-Ratio Transfer Box with brake assembly ................$ 1229.00
Genuine Rebuilt Gearboxes Range Rover Classic & Discovery I, Defender RNT002 Gearbox Assembly, ZF Automatic, Rebuilt .......................$ 2578.00 RNH375 R380, 5-speed standard, Defender, Genuine, Rebuilt .....$ 2165.00 RNH376 LT95, 4-speed standard, D110, RRC, Genuine, Rebuilt....$ 2388.92
SALE
Transfer Boxes Defender RNT015 Transfer Gearbox, LT230, Remanufactured
$ 1595.00
Range Rover Classic ‘87-’88/ Discovery I RNT012 Transfer Gearbox, LT230, NEW, Genuine $ 2795.00 RNT015 Transfer Gearbox, LT230, Remanufactured $ 1595.00 Range Rover Classic ‘89-’95 RNT019 Transfer Gearbox, Borg Warner, Rebuilt
$ 2450.00
Range Rover P38A / Discovery II RNH363 Transfer Gearbox,
$ 3291.74
RNT012 RNT020
EASY to install SIDE STEP Assemblies with hardware
(A)
(A) High quality black powder coated steel, with non slip rubber covering. A $590.00 value. PLA632 Fits Discovery I, Range Rover Classic 100 inch Short Wheel Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 329.95
SALE
(B) High quality rubber coated with Chevron Tread Plate, Includes all hardware and integrated ABS front mud flap. A $658.00 value. PLH599 Discovery II . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 479.00 PLH699 P38A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 429.95
Protect the interior of your Land Rover-
(B)
(B)
(A)
With Custom Floor Mats Front Mat Set
Add an elegant finishing touch to the interior of your vehicle with plush custom carpets. The 32 oz. premium nylon yarn is three times heavier than the low quality factory mats that most vehicle's come fitted with. These plush durable mats are custom cut to fit your Land Rover with a non slip backing and include special fasteners. Front floor mats along with the rear floor mat are sold together (except for Defender 90 1994-1997, which is a 2 piece set) and the cargo load space mat is sold separate. Available in Land Rover colors - listed by vehicle type below to match the most popular interior colors. Mats are completely washable and come with a 2 year warranty. Allow one to two weeks for delivery.
Cargo Loadspace Mat Rear Seat Mat
(Sold as set of 3)
(Sold separately)
Custom Mat Colors Defender 90 and 110 (A)Defender 90 (2 piece set) 1994-95 (A)Defender 90 (2 piece set) 1997 (B)Defender 90 SW Cargo 1997 (A)Defender 110 1993 (B)Defender 110 Cargo 1993 Discovery I and II (A)Discovery I 1996-98 (B)Discovery I Cargo 1996-98 (A)Discovery II 1999-on (B)Discovery II Cargo 1999-on (B)Discovery II Cargo (W/ 3rd seat) 1999-on Range Rover Classic (A)Range Rover Classic 1987-89 (A)Range Rover Classic SWB 1990-94 (A)Range Rover Classic LWB 1993-94 (A)Range Rover Classic 1995 (A)Range Rover Classic LWB 1995 (B)Range Rover Classic/County/Cargo (B)Range Rover Classic LWB Cargo 1993-95 Range Rover P38A (A)Range Rover 4.0 SE/4.6 HSE 1995-02 (B)Range Rover 4.0 SE/4.6 HSE Cargo 1995-02
Saddle
Granite
Bahama
Black
Smokestone
Lt Stone
–– –– –– –– ––
Dk Granite
–– –– –– –– ––
–– –– –– –– ––
–– –– –– –– ––
RNA30BK RNA31BK RNA33BK RNA34BK RNA35BK
–– –– –– –– ––
Saddle
Granite
Bahama
Black
Smokestone Lt Stone
Dk Granite
–– –– –– –– ––
RNA40G RNA41G –– –– ––
RNA40B RNA41B RNA42B RNA43B RNA44B
–– –– RNA42BK RNA43BK RNA44BK
–– –– –– –– RNA42SS – – RNA43SS – – RNA44SS – –
–– –– –– –– ––
Saddle
Granite
Bahama
Black
Smokestone Lt Stone
Dk Granite
RNA23S RNA24S RNA25S RNA26S RNA27S 1987-95 RNA29S
–– RNA24G RNA25G RNA26G RNA27G RNA28S RNA29G
RNA23B RNA24B RNA25B RNA26B RNA27B –– RNA29B
RNA23BK –– –– –– –– RNA28B ––
–– –– –– –– –– RNA28BK ––
–– –– –– –– –– –– ––
Saddle
Granite
Bahama
Black
Smokestone Lt Stone
Dk Granite
RNA45S RNA46S
–– ––
–– ––
RNA45BK RNA46BK
–– ––
RNA45DG $ 99.95 RNA46DG $ 99.95
–– –– –– –– –– –– –– RNA45LS RNA46LS
–– –– –– –– ––
$ $ $ $ $
85.00 85.00 99.95 99.95 99.95
$ $ $ $ $
99.95 99.95 99.95 99.95 99.95
$ $ $ $ $ $ $
99.95 99.95 99.95 99.95 99.95 99.95 99.95
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Parabolic SpringsWorth the Change? By Jeffrey Aronson
Parabolic springs have been available for Series Land Rovers for around a decade and still engender much debate. Could a leaf spring, with only 2 or 4 leaves front to rear, really give the durability and carrying capacity of the standard or heavy duty Land Rover spring? Were they really that much more comfortable? What about axle articulation? Were they worth the money? As a traditionalist, I avoided the issue by running the heavy duty front springs until they had no arc left in them. Of course, the lack of “springing” also helped puncture the ever-dissolving frame at the spring hangar, too. My rear springs were replaced only because a top leaf snapped about 8 years ago. In the rear of my car I carry a metal tool box with about 50 lbs of tools. Anytime I hit a bump the clatter of metal in the toolbox served as a sort of decibel meter to identify the severity of the jolt. A coffee mug, which was always wedged between the seat squabs, served a similar purpose. If it flew off the seat to the percussion accompaniment of the toolbox, then I had hit a significant bump. When my Series II-A was “overhauled,”
Rovers North insisted in supplying parabolic springs and Old Man Emu shocks. I quickly noticed the difference in ride quality; simply put, there was no reason to search the road surface to avoid major jolts. Rarely did I hear the toolbox rattle its innards. Rarely did my innards rattle, either. But the most impressive test came last weekend.
I faced a three hour drive on two lane roads of differing condition. One stretch of very narrow lakeside road has erupted in frost heaves, Nature’s own speed bumps created by the first winter thaw and continuing to grow until spring. After an hour’s drive, I stopped to get a cup of coffee and poured it into one of those flat, wide bottomed coffee mugs, you know, the ones you
Page 15 use on boats so they won’t tip over. Well, I put the mug on the left fender top of the car, poured the coffee into it, and then went to toss out the paper cup. I started down the rest of this windy road, went up and down some hills, thought about the frost heaves, and then felt around from the mug on the seat. It wasn’t there - that’s when I realized I had left it on the fender. I stared at the left fender top, near the scuttle vent, and there was the mug, still on the fender. With my previous springs and poor shocks, it would have been on the road within 10 feet of the parking spot. I’ve also noticed that I just don’t hear the toolbox as often, either. My off-road driving has been in blizzards and recovery efforts, so I haven’t given it the more extreme test yet. Still, when I came around a bend on this very trip and noticed a Ford Taurus off the road, stuffed into a snowbank and heading down an embankment, I wondered whether I could garner the traction to haul the car out. It took considerable tugging as the car was genuinely buried, but axle articulation was not the issue. My conclusion? I should have listened to advocates like Rovers North’s Mark Letorney and East Coast Rover’s Mike Smith years ago. There’s nothing wrong with standard Land Rover springs, but I now understand why Santana chose the parabolic route for its Spanish Rovers. So far, there’s no evidence that parabolics lack for durability or affect driveability, such as propshaft or u-joint wear.
WOOD DASH KITS Interior Wood Dash Kits Enhance your interior with our all-climate, special poly- coated wood trim kits. A custom adhesive (developed exclusively with 3M) provides extremely flexible and UV resistant wood trim that simplifies the installation procedure. Simply stick in place – don’t worry about alignment as each piece can be repositioned up to 24 hours after initial placement. From unbelievably realistic synthetic wood finishes to OE match wood, nothing compares to our distinctive wood dashboard kits. LR3 Kits are now available, call for more details. Discovery I WD702A-MB Full kit (23 pcs), auto ............................‘95-98..........$ 439.95 WD702B-MB Full kit (23 pcs), manual .......................‘95-98..........$ 439.95 WD702C-DS OE factory match (18 pcs), auto .........‘97 ...............$ 429.95 WD702D-DS OE factory match (18 pcs), manual....‘97 ...............$ 429.95 WD702E-DS OE factory match (14 pcs), auto .........‘98 ...............$ 265.95 WD702F-DS OE factory match (14 pcs), manual ....‘98 ...............$ 265.95 Discovery II (call on 04) Range Rover P38A wood dash kit WD296A-SRB Fact match w/door pcs (29 pcs) ........‘99-03..........$ 384.95 WD296A-MB Burl Wood w/door pcs (29 pcs) .........‘99-03..........$ 499.00 WD296C-SRB Fact match w/o door pcs (18 pcs) .....‘99-03..........$ 234.95 WD296C-MB Burl Wood w/o door pcs (18 pcs) ......‘99-03..........$ 312.00 WD296A Discovery II wood kit WD296D-SRB Fact match Basic kit (4 pcs) ...............‘99-03..........$ 128.95 with door pieces WD296D-MB Burl Wood Basic Kit (4 pcs)................‘99-03..........$ 175.95 Range Rover P38A WD176A-SLBOE OE fact match (19 pcs), basic kit w/o navigation.............$ 289.95 WD176C-SLBOE OE fact match (20 pcs), basic kit w/navigation ................$ 289.95 WD176B-SLBOE OE fact match (27 pcs), Deluxe kit w/o navigation ..........$ 369.95 WD176D-SLBOE OE fact match (28 pcs), Deluxe kit w/navigation..............$ 369.95 WD176E-SLBOE HSE fact match add-on kit (13 pcs), ‘01-02........................$ 209.95 CL008-SLBOE Cluster piece only ..................................................................$ 29.95
Discovery I wood dash kit
Dog Guards -
Keep your pets safe in your Land Rover
SALE
Range Rover P38A Dog Guards RND222 Range Rover P38A Dog Guard, 1996-2002, Genuine (shown)..................$ 299.95 PLD222 Range Rover P38A Dog Guard, 1996-2002, ProLine...................................$ 179.00 Discovery I Rear Dog Guards RNA701 Discovery I Dog Guard, Grey Bars, w/rear A/C, Genuine ........................$ RNA709 Discovery I Dog Guard, Grey Bars, w/o rear A/C, Genuine.....................$ RNA707 Discovery I Dog Guard, Mesh, Genuine (above).......................................$ PLD244 Discovery I Dog Guard, Mesh, ProLine.......................................................$
249.95 247.50 239.95 149.90
Genuine Discovery II Rear Dog Guard RND492 Discovery II Mesh Dog Guard, Genuine (special order)..........................$ 239.95 REMOVABLE DOG GUARD RNA6010 Removable Dog Guard for Range Rover Classic, RR P38A......................$ RNA6010E Removable Dog Guard for Discovery Series I & II....................................$
RND222 Genuine Range Rover P38A Dog Guard
RNA6010E Rmovable Dog Guard
74.95 94.50
RND492 Discovery II Genuine Mesh Dog Guard
uine Gen LY ON 95! . $24
Rear Door Latch Kit Genuine Discovery I Has your latch completely rusted out from salt and corrosion? Replace it with our Genuine rear door latch kit. Our exclusive kit includes the replacement assembly, gasket, clips, bolts and washers as shown.
Fuel Filters
RNF861
RNK8361 Discovery I Rear Door Latch Kit...............................$ 125.00
Series Fuel Tanks Beware of inferior imitations! There are a variety of aftermarket tanks out there, that try and convince you they are better than the original. The original design is much stronger and more durable.
Series II, IIA, III PLC362 (As shown above) 88” and 109” Regular, Fuel Tank, Petrol & Diesel, ProLine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLE424 109 Rear Fuel Tank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLH515 Range Rover Classic 1971-1985 style . . . . . . $ PLE114 110 NAS, Range Rover Classic 1987-1991 . . $ PLE116 Cradle for PLE114 fuel tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
189.00 399.00 279.00 239.00 48.50
Series II, IIA, III 1959 - 1976 RFF111 In line filter with Quick Clamp Fittings, that can be adapted to any 5/16” fuel line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Series III 1974 on RNE235 2.25 litre petrol, canister type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Defender 90/110 RNF861 90, 110 inline with threaded fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNC632 2.25 litre petrol, inline w/threaded fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RFF111 2.25 litre petrol, inline (non-genuine) splice in. . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNC745 2.25 litre diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNF862 200, 300Tdi Fuel Filter-diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RND270 Td5, Fuel Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Discovery I RNF861 Genuine – threaded both ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLF861 ‘87-’95, ProLine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Range Rover Classic RNF133 Genuine Fuel Filter Update Kit (required for early Range Rover up to LA464553) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNF861 ’87-’95, (threaded both ends), Genuine, SPECIAL . . . . . . . . . $ PLF861 ‘87-’95, ProLine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNF025 ‘87-90 fuel filter (up to LA464553 without update kit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
4.68 4.68 20.97 15.34 4.68 7.40 30.68 65.47 20.97 15.90 52.95 20.97 15.90 19.50
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Go AheadSupersize Me Again By Craig Reece
[Craig Reece, Berkeley, CA, started off with a ‘73 Bronco and an ‘86 Land Cruiser before he finally graduated to a ‘95 Defender 90. He wanted to see if he could convert his ‘72 Series III with a Discovery frame to bio-diesel. He outlined many of his modifications in our last issue; here’s the second part of his ingenious story -ed]. With all the frame and body work completed, I needed to turn to the drivetrain. Working with Shane Ballensky of Rover Hybrids, Reading, CA, we chose to purchase Discovery axle housings, with 4:10 ring and pinion gears and ARB airlockers, 24 spline rear axles, and 24/23 spine front axles and AUE 2522 Defender 110 CV joints, and with Jack McNamara drive flanges. The ARB air lockers are controlled with air-actuated solenoids and the axle housings are fitting with special breather kits. The transfer case is a stock Discovery LT230, with the 1.2 high range, the transmission is a R380 from a late model 300 Tdi Discovery. The truck also has an Ashcroft Underdrive (aka crawlerbox) giving the truck a final drive ratio of 127.41, in low-range-transfercase/low rangecrawlerbox (first gear 3.6 x low range transfercase x 2.6 crawler low range x 4.10 axle gears.) By comparison a stock Defender with 3.54 gears has a final crawl ratio of 42.43, and the same vehicle with 4.10 gears has a final crawl ratio of 49.01. The 127:1 ratio is very useful in in a rock-crawling applications, since until the turbocharger spools up, you’re essentially driving a 2.5 naturally-aspirated diesel, and particularly when trying to climb steep ledges, it just can’t be done. Lower axles gearing would help, but then you’ve lost on-highway cruising speed, which isn’t a problem for a purpose-built and trailered trail machine, but is for an expedition/road trip vehicle that also does the occasional gnarly trail. The low final drive ratio also gives very precise control in steep descents. Brake rotors are cross-drilled and slotted. The wheels are 110/130 white steel wheels, powder coated white for the Series look, and the tires are Michelin XZL 8.50 x 16 and, to allow for airing down the tires without risking unseating a bead on the tires. This eliminates the need for beadlock wheels which wouldn’t have been in keeping with either the Series look or my desire to build a wolf in sheep’s clothing - an extremely capable off-road machine that didn’t look extreme. I installed Second Air internal beadlocks - a Kevlar inner tube, basically, that’s inflated, via a 2nd valve stem, to keep the tire seated on the wheel even with total loss of air pressure in the tire itself. In the truck s maiden voyage - to the Solihull Society’s National Rally in Moab in September, we aired the tires down to 10 pounds
Page 17 and the tires never came off the wheels, even while climbing large ledges (the same ledges that defeated my Defender 90, with 33” tires and lockers front and rear, when I attempted them in 2000.) I was the only member of the 2001 La Ruta Maya expedition without air conditioning, and we were sticky beyond belief once we hit Houston and the Gulf of Mexico coast, and all the way through Belize and Guatemala. Air conditioning was high on my wish list, so we sourced a used Defender 90 A/C unit. Since we had the full-width Allard intercooler in front of the radiator, and needed to install the A/C condenser in front of this, we pushed the radiator about 2” closer to the engine than stock - thanks to a tip from Chalie Haigh at Land Rover Flatirons in Colorado (formerly of Rovers North.) We heard about Charlie’s tip from Jim Pendleton of Pendy Imports in Augusta, Kansas, an independent Land Rover shop. Jim is a Tdi expert whose support, knowledge and generosity were hugely important in getting the project done. The suspension consists of Old Man Emu 781 springs in the rear, and early Safari Gard Stage II springs, for a lift of 20”. The rear shocks are Bilstein 7100 remote-reservoir units with 14” travel, on Rockware rear shock hoops and with custom front shock mount with 12” of travel. The stock front shock location is inside the coil springs, and Shane’s mounts position the shocks in front of the springs, for increased shock travel and suspension articula-
tion. The rear trailing links are the custom earless-and-Heim-jointed items mentioned earlier. The Do-It-Yourself Dormobile top idea was born when I first saw a red Series 88 built by a German guy and written up by TeriAnn Wakeman. It features a stock top hinged to open, and with wood 2x2’s holding the sides together when the top was deployed (the roof holds the sides rigid, so when it’s raised, something much replace this important function) then fitted with canvas. Soon after this, Shane and his SO, Tina, went to Tahiti on vacation. There, Shane bought a French Land Rover magazine that featured an article about a different way to construct a camper top. Following this lead, I sourced a very heavy-duty stainless piano hinge, and Shane fabricated an aluminum ring and I now have an elevating roof, which looks stock unless
deployed. The bed will be supported by the internal rollcage designed and fabricated by Shane. Now, how to power this hybrid? I admire the capabilities of diesel motors and it was Rudolph Diesel himself who wrote “The use of vegetable oils for engine fuels may seem insignificant today, but such oils may become in the course of time as important as petroleum and the coal tar products of the present.” For me, the benefits to the environment of vegetable oil were very attractive- vegetable oils, being a renewable resource, produce no net gain in carbon dioxide emissions, and are thus are climate-change neutral. They also contain no sulfur, unlike diesel fuel, and thus don’t cause acid rain, and they are oxygenated, and thus produce drastically smaller amounts of carcinogenic and asthma-causing unburned fuel or soot. Then there are the obvious geopolitical benefits and benefits to the domestic farm economy. The miles-per-gallon and power of a diesel engine running on diesel or on vegetable oil are similar - some people report slight power gains, almost no one report significant changes to mileage. The engine is quieter on vegetable oil - and smells better! And yes, your vehicle exhaust will smell like something’s being fried! So, what is needed to run a diesel engine on vegetable oil? The only thing that a diesel engine requires to allow it to run on vegetable oil is that the vegetable oil be thinned to a thickness - or viscosity closer to that of petrodiesel, so that it will both flow more freely through the system and have a droplet size when atomized in the combustion chamber that s sufficiently fine enough to combust properly. And, of course, that the larger chunks of fries be removed. The best way to run a diesel engine on vegetable oil, and the one I use, is to install components on the vehicle that utilize either heat from the engine coolant - the water-antifreeze mixture circulating in the engine and radiator - or 12V electricity from the alternator - to heat the vegetable oil, thinning it to a suitable viscosity. This allows the engine to run on either new vegetable oil from the supermarket or, even better, on free oil from restaurant fryers. When I first started researching the idea of running a 300 Tdi on vegetable oil, the price of new oil in bulk - 5 gallon jugs - was close to that of diesel at the pump, if you went to Costco or restaurant supply houses, and I thought that’s what I’d do. That was almost 5 years ago, and since then, while the price of diesel has increased by almost a dollar, the price of vegetable oil has increased even more, so I was motivated to reconsider using restaurant fryer oil as my fuel source. I’ve now got 4 restaurants in Berkeley that save their fryer oil for me - putting it back into the 5 gallon plastic jugs they buy in it - and get about 85 gallons a week, more than I can use in my 3 converted vehicles. The excess is used in the fuel tanks of my customers - Shane and I have a new business Continued on pg 24.
Genuine V8 Ignition Parts at UNBEATABLE Savings!
V8 Ingnition Parts PLI001 PLI002 PLI004 PLI006
Distributor Cap, 3.5, 3.9 litre.......................................$ 16.95 Distributor Rotor, 3.5, 3.9 litre ....................................$ 5.95 Ignition Wire Set, 3.5, 3.9 & 4.2 litre .........................$ 39.50 Ignition Wire Set 4.0, 4.6 litre...............................$ 52.50
4 Cylinder Ignition Parts
RNI001 Distributor Cap, 3.5, 3.9 litre.......................................$ 38.41 RNI002 Distributor Rotor, 3.5, 3.9 litre ....................................$ 34.95 RNI028 Ignition Coil 3.5 liter.....................................................$ 59.00 RNE509 Ignition Coil 3.9 liter.....................................................$ 99.99 RNI004 Ignition Wire Set, 3.5, 3.9, and ‘93, ‘94 4.2 litre ......$ 55.95 RNI005 Ignition Wire Set, 4.2 litre 1995 only.........................$ 69.95 RNI006 Ignition Wire Set 4.0, 4.6 litre............................$ 84.95 RNI019 Distributor Assembly 3.5, 3.9 litre .............................$ 599.00 RNI024 3 Pin Amplifier for Distributor....................................$ 129.95 RNI010 Adapter, for 3 Pin Amplifier .......................................$ 37.95 RNI012 Distributor Clear Plastic Cover for Distributor........$ 44.95 RNI017 Base Plate and Pick-up Lead for Distributor..........$ 119.21 RNI003 Genuine Land Rover (Champion) .....................$ 4.99 Complete Genuine V8 Ignition Kits RNK9335 3.9 litre (Includes: Cap, rotor, plug wires, and spark plugs) .................................................................$ 165.50 RNK9336 4.0 litre, ‘94-’95 Discovery I ........................................$ 139.95 (Includes: Plug wires, and spark plugs) RNK9339 4.0 litre, ‘96-’99 Discovery I ........................................$ 124.95 (Includes: Plug wires, and spark plugs) RNK9340 4.0 litre, ‘95-’98 RR P38A ...........................................$ 119.00 (Includes: Plug wires, and spark plugs) RNK9341 4.0 litre, ‘99-’02 RR P38A, Discovery II .....................$ 249.95 (Includes: Plug wires, and spark plugs)
4 Cylinder Distributer Caps and Rotors
1. Early Lucas points: Condenser and low tension lead ends slide over the round post and are “sandwiched” between the points spring and plastic isolator. A single nut tightens these on the post. RNE595 Lucas Early......................................................$ 2. Late Lucas (red): combination low tension / condenser lead clips onto the “shepard hook” end of the points spring. RNE637 Lucas New Type (red) ...................................$ 3. Late Lucas (blue): Same as preceding, but blue. ....... Known as sliding points. RNF232 Newest Type (blue)........................................$ 4. Ducellier: Two-piece points. Low tension lead attached by moving contact. Condenser mounted on outside of distributor. RNF231 Ducellier Type.................................................$
4.68
4.11
8.27
5.85
(2)
(1)
(3)
(4)
(F)
(D)
(G) (E) (A)
RNC603
Cap - Series II, IIA Lucas Screw Type ..........................................$15.09
(B)
RNE633
Rotor - Early Lucas............................................................................$ 3.38
(C)
RNC437
Cap - Series IIA, III Early Lucas Push-in.......................................$ 8.31
(D)
RNE596
Cap - Late Lucas Type Push in........................................................$ 8.31
(E)
RNE634
Rotor - Late Lucas.............................................................................$ 4.11
(F)
PLF185
Cap - Ducellier Push in Type...........................................................$ 9.95
(G)
RNF186
Rotor - Ducellier ................................................................................$ 3.48
(A) (C)
(B)
(B)
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
K&N Air Filters This is the last filter your Rover will need! Superior design uses premium oil cotton gauze with wire screening allowing maximum air flow with maximum filtration. Easy to clean, never needs replacement.
Defender 90/110 RNF141 Defender 90 and 110 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Discovery I and II RNF145 Filter Service Kit RNF139 Discovery I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNF144 Discovery II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Range Rover Classic RNF141 RR Classic, 1987-1994 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNF139 RR Classic, 1995 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Range Rover P38A RNF146 RR P38A, thru ‘98 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNF144 RR P38A, 1999-2002 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNF145
39.95 53.95 55.95 39.95 53.95 62.95 55.95
Genuine Oil Filters RNF001 RND503 RNE589 RND504 RND269 RNH251 RNF001 RNF001 RND505 RNE590 RNE591 RNE589
V8 – All Range Rover Classic, P38A, Discovery I and II, Defender 90/110...........................$ V8 – 101 Military Forward Control..............................$ 6 cyl 2.6 litre NADA 109”, petrol.................................$ 6 cyl 2.5 litre Freelander, petrol ..................................$ 5 cyl 2.5 litre Td5, diesel, engine oil...........................$ 5 cyl 2.5 litre Td5, Centrifuge element.......................$ 4 cyl 2.3, 2.5 litre Defender 90/110, petrol .................$ 4 cyl 2.5, 2.5 turbo, 200 Tdi, 300 Tdi, diesel ...............$ 4 cyl 1.8 litre Freelander, petrol ..................................$ 4 cyl 2.25 ltr SIIA, III, pet/diesel, 5.5” canister.........$ 4 cyl 2.25 ltr SIIA, III, pet/diesel, 7.5” canister.........$ 4 cyl 2.0 litre Series I, petrol .......................................$
9.94 18.54 6.76 9.05 19.73 24.85 9.94 9.94 9.00 8.84 9.10 6.76
Series II, IIA Generators RNE647
C-40 type Generator, 2.25 litre P & D.......................$ 89.95 *plus $30 core charge
K&N Filter Service Kit for all filters . . . . . . . $ 12.50
Starters Great Value!
Air Filters Discovery I RNF010 Discovery I Genuine ...................................................$ Discovery II RNF147 Genuine, All Discovery II models Genuine ............$ PLF147 ProLine, All Discovery II models ProLine ...............$ Range Rover Classic RNF012 Range Rover Classic 1974-1985, (2 req) Genuine .$ RNF950 Range Rover Classic 1987-1994 Genuine ...............$ PLF950 Range Rover Classic 1987-1994 ProLine ................$ RNF010 Range Rover Classic 1995 Genuine ........................$ Range Rover P38A RNF011 Range Rover P38A 1995-1997 Genuine ..................$ RNF147 Range Rover P38A 1998-2002 Genuine ..................$ Defender RNF950 NAS 90,110 V8 Genuine ............................................$ RNH382 200 Tdi Diesel Genuine .............................................$ RNH383 300 Tdi Diesel Genuine .............................................$ RNF147 Td5 Diesel Genuine ....................................................$
RNE867 14.95 16.95 13.95
RNF197
10.95 9.95 7.95 14.95 12.95 16.95 9.95 25.14 38.43 16.95
Automatic Transmission Filter Service Kit (includes filter, pan gaskets and O-rings) For Discovery I,II, Range Rover Classic, Range Rover P38A, 1997 Defender.
ZF Trans. Filter Service Kit, 1987-2004.....................$ 47.50 Genuine ZF Trans Filter Kit 1987-2004.....................$ 67.50
Starter Motor, Bosch, High Speed Cold-Climate Enhanced (for all 3.5/3.9/4.0/4.2/4.6 litre petrol engines, New ...................................$ 179.00 Starter Motor, 2.25 & 2.6 litre petrol, Rebuilt .................................$ 275.56 *plus $100 core charge
PLD294
Auto Trans. Filter Kit
PLK312 RNK312
When it’s time for a new starter, we recommend this Genuine unit from Bosch. This is a high speed and cold-climate starter, enhanced to help on those chilly mornings.
Starter Motor, 200 & 300 Tdi, New ..................................................$ 399.00
O2 Sensors Defender 90 / 110 RNE029 90/110 3.9 litre, Genuine, 2 req..................................$ PLE029 90/110 3.9 litre, ProLine, 2 req ...................................$ RND292 90 4.0 litre, Genuine, 4 req .........................................$ Discovery I RNE029 3.9 litre, Genuine, 2 req ..............................................$ PLE029 3.9 litre, ProLine, 2 req ...............................................$ RND290 4.0 litre, Genuine, 4 req ..............................................$ RND292 4.0 litre w/AEL, Genuine, 4 req..................................$ Discovery II RNE910 Front, Genuine, 2 req ..................................................$ RNE892 Rear, Genuine, 2 req ...................................................$ Range Rover Classic RNE029 All models, Genuine, 2 req ........................................$ PLE029 All models, ProLine, 2 req..........................................$ Range Rover P38A RND290 ‘95-’97 to VA350101, Front & Rear, Genuine, 4req .$ RND292 ‘97-’98 from VA350102 to WA410481, Front & Rear, Genuine, 4 req.....................................$ RNE893 ‘99-’02 from XA410482, Front, Genuine, 2 req.........$ RNE892 ‘99-’02 from XA410482, Rear, Genuine, 2 req..........$
319.95 129.95 159.00 319.95 129.95 139.95 159.00 67.95 69.95 319.95 129.95 139.95 159.00 74.95 69.95
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Lite BreaksGentlemen Don’t Go Out At Night
[Land Rovers have a justifiable reputation for making it home whatever the problem. We catalogue those stories in the Rovers North News under “Lite Breaks.” Recently, Brenton Lane, who splits his time between San Diego, CA and Ocean Park, ME, told Rovers North of his Lite Break. And the Editor must add his own travails with charging system woes, Brent goes first:] My ‘69 109” ex-military RHD pickup had a charging problem over which I’d been unaware. I think that it charged enough to replace the power used to start the engine but driving at night would drain the battery. Of course I found this out after working a week in LA and having to head to San Diego for the weekend. My lights were extremely dim and the truck had to be push started, but it ran. I decided to go for it. Going through LA the truck lost power - unless I turned off the headlights (did I mention that this was at night?). So I drove on with the just the parking (running) lights on. This of course is when it decided to start raining. Luckily for me I resisted the temptation of using the wipers and further draining the battery. Well, actually, I held back because at that point the wipers had never worked at all. Time for a commercial message - I had wiped Rain-X on the windshield so I could see the road. So I decided to try to get as close to San Diego so I could to make sure that if things went real sour, AAA would cover the tow. I ended up driving from LA to SD at night in the rain with no headlights and no wipers. If I couldn’t see I would have stopped but I could see fine and with the parking lights on people could see me. I think that a couple CHP patrolmen even went by without giving me a second glance! I made it all the way home and then replaced the alternator. Oh yes, while I was at it I bought a switch for the wipers. The wipers are still a bit ‘intermittent’ on my 109”, at least in terms of speed.
Page 20 had no fear. The new door seals and a Rovers North Did any of this deter me from adding to my Mansfield heater would keep me warm; the new Land Rover fleet? Nope. As I write this I am on the components would get me down the road. coast of Maine and as it’s been around 0 degrees F. In the first 40 miles, I managed to run out of for a few mornings the gas pedal has needed a big gas [now I remember - my gauge becomes inaccupush to help start the Rover. How cold was it? I figure that it must be cold if the Breakfree was congeal- rate below 1/8th full] within sight of a gas station. Although quite cold, I managed a pleasant walk. I ing; if you are not familiar with Breakfree it is much had to admit the Rover looked quite striking on the better than WD-40 for lubricating and can be purside of the road. With its fresh tank of gas I proceedchased at any gun shop. Naturally, just ed for another 120 miles before the car started to in time for winter, the choke misfire. cable is stuck on my 109 but I Pulling out the choke helped only a bit, but I luckily even in this cold ended up figured that I just had a case of carburetor weather it has started each icing. and every morning. driving from LA to Ten miles later, the car suddenly felt very Currently, I have an SD at night cold. Indeed, the heater blower motor had 88” used for snow plowin the rain with no stopped functioning. Suspecting a blown ing and a ‘73 Series III fuse, I turned off the car and fiddled with 88”. The 88’s have served head lights and no the two fuses. Both looked fine and when I me well, but I really love wipers. turned the key to “on” and hit the rocker my 109”. One of these days switch, a fine blast of warm air met my hand. I’ll fit a heater in that thing! Relieved, I closed the hood, stepped back into the [The Editor knows of what Brent Lane car, and hit the starter button. Nothing, barely even a speaks, for he has walked in his shoes. His Rover, click; with no electricity present hand-cranking the however, would not make it as far.] car accomplished nothing. Fortunately, I was in a pocket of cell phone reception [not that common in Elsewhere in this issue we chronicle the refurnorthern New England]. A call to AAA brought a disbishment of my Series II-A. When a ship is launched embodied voice asking whether my breakdown had into the sea, it goes through a set of tests called sea occurred at an identifiable intersection. I noted the trials. There’s every expectation that one or another unidentified logging road 10 miles west of me and component or system will fail; it’s just better for informed her that this main road ran 40 miles everyone involved if the failure is discovered before between significant intersections. the vessel is too far at sea. The tow truck arrived and the driver, after East Coast Rover undertook a superb job in hooking up his voltmeter, wrote out the death certifibringing my 39-year old Land Rover back to life. cate on the alternator. The final 30 miles of the trip Normally, restoration shops ask to road test all new components and systems. My work schedule gave the provided the best gas mileage I’ve ever seen the Rover get. A call to Rovers North brought an alternacrew one day of testing - essentially, a drive home at tor the next day. the end of the day. I picked the car up on a -10 F Now, when I start the car, I check the warning day. It started very reluctantly but made it back to my lights to see that the charging system light goes on island town in time for one of greatest blizzards in before engaging the starter button. That simple decades. Just starting the car was a challenge for a check might have enabled me to make it the entire few inches of snow covered the battery, distributor 150 miles. and wiring. Once dried off, it spent part of the day battling the blinding, two feet of snow. The next day, it faced a 150 mile drive in subzero temperatures. With a high-quality, professional refurbishment and new components everywhere, I
All-New Land Rover Discovery 3 Named WhatCar?
The all-new Land Rover Discovery 3 TDV6 S Automatic was named the What Car? Car of the Year 2005 at an awards ceremony in London last night. What Car? group editor Steve Fowler, said: "To be a good car isn't good enough - “ our Car of the Year 2005 must be great. We're looking for the car that has done more than any other to improve standards in its class and has no major weaknesses." He added: "The Discovery is three cars in one. On the way to work it's an executive saloon. With the kids in tow it's a family-friendly MPV. Come the
weekend it's a hard-as-nails 4x4. No other new car is as many things to as many people - “ that's why it's our Car of the Year 2005." Like other years, the What Car? awards 2005 were very hotly contested, with all the category winners short-listed for the grand prize. Land Rover beat outstanding opposition from Volkswagen's Golf GTI, the Mini One convertible, Porsche's 911 3.6 Carrera Coupe, BMW's 525d SE auto, Jaguar's XJ6 and many others to the evening's main award. Land Rover's managing director, Matthew Taylor, said: "From Mexico to Scotland, the Discovery 3 has picked up many prestigious accolades. The UK is our home market, and What Car? is the voice of the British consumer - “ it is a great honour to have their endorsement, and with an order book for the Discovery 3 well into March 2005, it seems that we have the vote of the buying public too." Priced at £33,490, the Discovery 3 TDV6 S Automatic comes with a generous specification and a host of new safety features and technologies. Highlights include a comprehensive occupant safety package benefiting from Continued on pg 27
Genuine Vented Steel Wheels
ce! Great Pri Series II, IIA, III Brake Drums PLC534 PLC545 PLC216 PLC504
88 Series III 10” Brake Drum, ProLine ......................$ 88 Series II, IIA 10” Brake Drum, ProLine ................$ 109 Series II, IIA, 2.25ltr thru Suff. G, ProLine ........$ 109 Series IIA, III, 2.25ltr 1971 on, ProLine ..............$
49.00 49.00 69.00 42.95
Series Brake Shoes 88” and 109”
Genuine Land Rover Steel Wheels for off-road use. The absolute strongest wheels you can bolt onto your Land Rover. Designed for extreme off road use. 16 x 7 inch. Buy a set of four or five and save even more! Range Rover Classic, and Discovery I, Series II, IIA, III, D90/110 RNW216 Steel “Wolf” Wheel finished in black...................$ 89.00 RNW216/4 Set of four Wheels ...................................................$ 339.00 RNW216/5 Set of five Wheels....................................................$ 395.00 RNS066 Steel Wheel Lug Nut ..............................................$ 2.36 Range Rover P38A, Discovery II RND260 Steel Road Wheel, Finished in silver...........$ 159.95 RND260/4 Set of four Steel Road Wheels ....................$ 619.00 RND260/5 Set of five Steel Road Wheels .....................$ 749.00 RNH611 Steel Wheel Lug Nuts...................................$ 1.77
RNW216
SAVE!
Bonded Brake Shoes Sold in Axle Sets (enough for 2 wheels) PLF320 88” Bonded Shoe Axle Set, front and rear....................$ PLF343 109” Bonded Shoe Axle Set, front only, 2.25ltr .............$ PLF321 109” Bonded Shoe Axle Set, rear only, all models ......$ PLF342 Brake Shoes for handbrake, Series IIA/III...............$
41.50 54.95 44.95 29.95 RND260
Wheel Cylinders for 88", Series II, IIA, III In addition to offering Genuine Land Rover Wheel Cylinders, we’ve been able to source out Lucas/Girling wheel cylinders directly and have passed on the savings to you!
PLB535
Check Out These Girling Prices RNB535 PLB535 RNB536 PLB536 RNB537 PLB537 RNB538 PLB538
Front Right, Genuine ....................................................$ Front Right, ProLine (Lucas/Girling) ..........................$ Front Left, Genuine.......................................................$ Front Left, ProLine (Lucas/Girling).............................$ Rear Right, Genuine.....................................................$ Rear Right, ProLine (Lucas/Girling)...........................$ Rear Left, Genuine .......................................................$ Rear Left, ProLine (Lucas/Girling) .............................$
69.95 45.00 69.95 45.00 71.76 49.00 71.76 49.00
Genuine Series Brake Pipe Kits Insure the most effective operation of your restored brakes with new brake lines. Our kits include all Genuine metal and rubber hydraulic lines from master cylinder to wheel cylinder for one entire vehicle. RNK680 RNK681 RNK682 RNK683
88” Single System, Early Series IIA.........................$ 109” Single System.....................................................$ 88” Dual Power, Series IIA........................................$ 88” Dual Power, Series III .........................................$
154.00 159.50 192.50 185.00
V8 Fuel Pump Genuine update kit Discovery I Fuel Pump Kit includes new Genuine Fuel Pump, Wire Harness Link, and Fittings. RNK500 Discovery I Up to Vin VA546029/VA714241 ...................$ 269.00 RNK501 Discovery I From Vin VA714242/VA546030 with advanced evaporative,.....................................................$ 319.95 Range Rover Classic Fuel Pump Kit includes new Genuine Fuel Pump, Wire Harness Link, and Fittings. RNK502 Range Rover Classic 1991-1995......................................$ 259.00 Range Rover Classic 1987 - 1990 does not require an update Kit. RNF131 Range Rover Classic 1987-1990, Genuine.....................$ 389.00 PLF131 Range Rover Classic 1987-1990, ProLine ......................$ 239.00 RNF132 PLF132
Defender 90 1994-1997, Genuine ....................................$ 229.95 Defender 90 1994-1997, ProLine .....................................$ 239.00
Lucas Brake Fluid We recommend using Lucas Brake Fluid to protect the rubber seals in your Land Rover’s hydraulic system. GBF4250 Lucas Brake Fluid, 250 ml .....................................................................$ 4.00 GBF4500 Lucas Brake Fluid, 500 ml .....................................................................$ 7.00
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Master Cylinders PLF285
NEW
Girling Brake Master Cylinders
Series IIA, III PLC752 Series IIA CV 88”.........................................................$ PLC753 Series IIA CV 109”.......................................................$ PLC454 Series IIA, III, 88”, dual power .................................$ PLC762 Series III 109”, dual power........................................$ Defender PLF285 Defender 90/110 ..........................................................$ Discovery PLB200 Discovery I w/ABS......................................................$ Range Rover Classic PLB172 Range Rover Classic, non-ABS (Lockeed) .............$ PLB180 Range Rover Classic, non-ABS (Girling).................$
79.95 84.95 211.15 221.45 174.95 259.00 199.95 259.95
Girling Clutch Master Cylinders at Great Prices – Beware of Inferior Steel Imitations PLF289 Series IIA, III PLC752 Series II, IIA with independent reservoir 1959 - 1968....................................................................$ PLF289 Series IIA, III with integral reservoir 1969 on ........$ Defender PLF289 Defender 90/110 ..........................................................$ Discovery RND939 Discovery I ...................................................................$
79.95 69.50 69.50
An affordable alternative to Genuine without sacrificing quality. These NEW Brake Calipers are an incredible value. Defender 90/110 PLF300A Defender 90, Front Caliper, NEW, RH........................................................$ 199.00 PLF301A Defender 90, Front Caliper, NEW, LH ........................................................$ 199.00 PLB198A Defender 90, Rear Caliper, NEW, RH ........................................................$ 149.00 PLB197A Defender 90, Rear Caliper, NEW, LH.........................................................$ 149.00 PLF200 Defender 110, Front Caliper, NEW, RH......................................................$ 314.95 PLF201 Defender 110, Front Caliper, NEW, LH ......................................................$ 314.95 Discovery I PLB192A Front Caliper, NEW, RH................................................................................$ 189.95 PLB191A Front Caliper, NEW, LH ................................................................................$ 189.95 PLB198A Rear Caliper, NEW, RH ................................................................................$ 149.00 PLB197A Rear Caliper, NEW, LH.................................................................................$ 149.00 Range Rover Classic PLB014A Front Caliper, NEW, ‘87-1989 .........................RH........................................$ 179.00 PLB015A Front Caliper, NEW, ‘87-1989 .........................LH ........................................$ 179.00 PLB011A Front Caliper, NEW, ABS & Hunter, ‘90-1995,RH.....................................$ 179.00 PLB017A Front Caliper, NEW, ABS & Hunter, ‘90-1995,LH .....................................$ 179.00 PLB018A Rear Caliper, NEW, ‘87-1989..........................RH........................................$ 149.00 PLB010A Rear Caliper, NEW, ‘87-1989..........................LH ........................................$ 149.00 PLB198A Rear Caliper, NEW, ‘90-1995..........................RH........................................$ 149.00 PLB197A Rear Caliper, NEW, ‘90-1995..........................LH ........................................$ 149.00
137.95
Girling Clutch Slave Cylinders Series IIA, III PLB599 Series IIA......................................................................$ PLC535 Series III .......................................................................$ Defender RNE222 Defender V8 .................................................................$ RND627 Defender Tdi ................................................................$ RND493 Defender Td5 ...............................................................$ Discovery RND627 RND627 Discovery V8 ................................................................$
Brake Calipers with NO core CHARGE
69.95 49.00 59.95 89.95 64.46 89.95
Series 2.25ltr Fuel Pump
NEW Girling brake calipers Discovery II 1999-2002, Range Rover P38A 1995-2002 PLD016 Front Caliper, Rebuilt, RH.............................................................................$ 274.95 PLD017 Front Caliper, Rebuilt, LH .............................................................................$ 274.95 PLD004 Front Caliper, Rebuilt, RH.............................................................................$ 85.95 PLD005 Front Caliper, Rebuilt, LH .............................................................................$ 85.95
Brake Pad Fitting Kits . Use these Brake Pad Fitting Kits when replacing your worn out pads. PLB199 PLD161 PLH320 PLH321 PLH320
Front, solid disc, Defender, Discovery I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Front, vented, RR Classic, Defender, Discovery I . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Rear, non-vented, Defender, Discovery I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Rear, RR Classic, Defender, Discovery I. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
9.95 8.50 7.95 6.95
PLB199
SALE Series 2.25ltr PLC349 Fuel Pump, 2.25ltr. petrol, SPECIAL . . . . . . . $ 30.00 RNB640 Fuel Pump gasket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1.99
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Simply the BEST KITS and BEST PRICES Air Suspension to Coil Conversion Kits Range Rover Classic LWB Land Rover designed and built into the Range Rover Classic LWB a fantastic air suspension system that was way ahead of it’s time. However, when a malfunctioning component needs repair or replacement, it can quickly get time-consuming and expensive. Do away with all the air suspension hassle and expense by converting your Range Rover Classic LWB to a coilsprung Range Rover. This kit contains all Genuine parts and includes everything needed for the proper conversion and continued reliable on or off-road performance. Our customers have been so satisfied with the improved ride quality and handling after installation of this kit, most claim they prefer the coil conversion suspension to the factory air suspension! Includes detailed instructions and all necessary hardware.
GENUINE SPRINGS
RNK5105 Coil Spring Conversion Kit, Range Rover Classic.................................................$ 349.95 RNK5105A Coil Spring Conversion Kit (with OME springs), Range Rover Classic .............$ 384.95
Range Rover P38A with electronic ECU bypass to avoid fault code readings Our exclusive Range Rover P38A Air Suspension to Coil Conversion Kit is a simple conversion kit that most DIY mechanics can do themselves. While the Range Rover P38A air suspension provides a remarkably smooth ride, if any part of the suspension fails, the entire system fails, resulting in a bumpy ride and very expensive, time-consuming repairs. With our exclusive coil conversion kits, you can easily cure the problem by installing one of our kits listed below. Give us a call and we will help you determine the most appropriate package based on your driving needs. Includes Genuine Land Rover Springs, coil isolators, spring seats, spring retainers. No one sells a better conversion kit for less money! Our Range Rover P38A coil conversion kit includes: 4 Land Rover Genuine Springs, 2 rear coil spring isolators, 2 front coil isolators, 4 coil spring seats, 4 aluminum spring perch adapters, 4 spring retainers, 1 EAS override pigtail; all hardware and instructions. RNK5106 RNK5107 RNK5116 RNK5117
Coil Conversion Kit, Standard, P38A .......................................................................................................$ GENUINE SPRINGS Coil Conversion Kit, Heavy Duty, P38 ......................................................................................................$ Coil Conversion Kit, Standard w/Bilsteins, P38A ..................................................................................$ Coil Conversion Kit, Heavy Duty w/Bilsteins, P38A ..............................................................................$
899.00 999.00 1245.95 1355.00
Bilstein Shocks Bilstein® is the world leader in gas-pressurized shock absorber technology. Technically the most advanced shock available today, Bilstein utilizes a one piece seamless monotube design filled with oil and nitrogen gas in a pressurized, sealed compartment. Completely eliminates any foaming of the oil and the monotube design helps dissipate heat to prevent shock fade. Bilstein’s shock bodies are precision-formed through a unique seamless manufacturing process. We recommend for use with Land Rover Genuine standard or heavy duty springs. Great for off-road driving in normally equipped vehicles. Not recommended for heavily ladened vehicles with oversize tires. Lifetime warranty. Defender 90/110 RNA243/4 Set of four.....................................................................$ RNA243/5 Set of five (includes Damper) ...................................$ RNA235 Steering Damper.........................................................$ Discovery I RNA243/6 Set of four.....................................................................$ RNA243/7 Set of five (includes Damper) ...................................$ RNA245 Steering Damper.........................................................$ Discovery II RNA6046/7Set of four ....................................................................$ Range Rover Classic RNA243/4 RR Classic w/coil springs (set of four) ....................$ RNA243/5 RR Classic (Set of four + damper)............................$ RNA2152/3 RR Classic LWB w/air susp (set of four).................$ RNA245 RR Classic, Steering Damper....................................$ Range Rover P38A RNA2214/5 Set of four ...................................................................$
299.00 375.00 85.00 299.95 375.00 85.00 360.00 299.00 375.00 369.95 85.00 349.00
SALE
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Go AheadSupersize Me Again continued from pg 17
converting diesel trucks and cars to run on vegetable oil - and our customers get a free fill up as part of the conversion. The only processing of the french fry oil I do is to pump it through a 12V pump and a filtering tube that we sell - I insert the wand into the plastic jug of oil, then pump directly into my fuel tank, and the special filter - the Vormaxx - we’ve installed on the truck does the balance of the filtering. So, a brief description of the components installed on my Rover that allow it to run on vegetable oil follows. My truck is setup as a two-tank system - you start the engine on diesel (or biodiesel) then switch to vegetable oil when it s warmed up a bit. At the end of my commute I switch back to diesel or biodiesel to clear the system of vegetable oil. My rear 26 gallon tank holds the vegetable oil, the front 12 gallon tank contains biodiesel, or diesel, or a combination of the two. But in Berkeley, where it rarely freezes, I’m running it as a single-tank system. So, I drive on (free) vegetable oil all the time. The heating of the vegetable oil begins in the rear tank, via a Neoteric Biofuels HotSTK - an aluminum tube that’s filled with coolant, and installed in the tank. Then the fuel is pumped, via a Holley Red electric fuel pump, through a Neoteric Biofuels Vormaxx fuel pre-filter/fuel filter/fuel heater, then drawn through our Vegtherm 12V/30A inline fuel heater, which raises the vegetable oil to a final temperature of 168F. All of the fuel lines are stainless braid over Teflon - overkill perhaps, but used widely
Page 24 in the auto racing and aircraft industry, and I don’t want to spill any of my valuable-even-though free vegetable on the rocks of Moab or while on expedition south of the border! Under the hood is a Racor diesel fuel filter, dedicated to the front diesel-or-biodiesel tank, and mounted on the passenger seatbox is the brass lever for a manual 6-port fuel selector valve that selects which tank I’m running on. This dual-fuel system gives me redundancy - even if something fails on the
vegetable oil side, I’ve still got 12 gallons of diesel, the stock lift pump, and the dedicated diesel fuel filter. One of the huge attractions of the 300 Tdi is its almost total lack of electronics - the 12V fuel shutoff solenoid, with one wire to it, is the only required electrical component on the engine, The one reason I chose a R380 manual transmission over the wonderful ZF auto is the ability to push-start the truck if the starter, alternator or both Hawker Odyssey batteries fail - a comforting feature in a truck that will be taken out in the middle of nowhere frequently. And unless the ambient air temps are below zero, I
could still rely on the coolant-heating of the tank and filter to heat the vegetable oil. I’ve also fitted a Webasto diesel-powered coolant heater into the cooling system. Land Rover installs them in 300 Tdi Discoveries and Freelanders in the UK, in response to complaints from owners that the heater and defroster never got up to temp in their brief urban commutes and getting better mileage as a result - that less heat is available for the heater and defroster. So, fire it up before starting the engine - either with a switch or via an optional timer or key chain remote, and by the time you re ready to roll, your french fry oil (and the interior of the vehicle) are toasty. When Shane and I took the truck to the National Rally in September, we had 50 gallons of fryer oil in 10 - 5 gallon plastic NATO fuel cans, and drove all the way there - 1000 miles - on that and the 26 gallons of fryer oil in the rear tank, plus did most of the trails on free fuel and made it part-way back to California before we had to buy diesel. I could’ve carried more NATO cans, but I was concerned about the weight penalty and resulting loss of power, but the new truck was able to pull hills in 5th gear that my Defender 90 would’ve needed to be in 4th for - the pulling power and cruising speed of the 300 Tdi is everything I’d heard it would be. We got about 20 mpg cruising at 75 on the highway, loaded with fuel, tools, recovery gear, an ARB fridge and food, and with 100 gallons in NATO cans plus 38 gallons in my two tanks. Imagine running your Land Rover without causing global warming, acid rain, or relying on foreign oil! [For more information, email Craig Reece at craigreece@earthlink.net]
Balanced Parabolic Spring and Shock Kits For Series II, IIA, III After years of testing, research and selling four different types of parabolic springs from around the world, we’ve determined these to be the best available. Improve your ride, improve your comfort, and get additional axle articulation out of your Series Land Rover. Includes four springs with u-bolts and hardware. For best results, we’ve included a set of our OME Nitrocharger shocks (as shown).
RNK112388
Balanced RNK112388 RNK1123109 RNK1124109
Parabolic Spring Kits with Old Man Emu Shocks 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears, 4 OME shocks, for 88” and 109” ..................................................................................................................$ 879.95 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears, 4 OME shocks, Heavy Duty set, for 109 ......................................................................................................$ 879.95 2 leaf front & 4 leaf rears, 4 OME shocks, Heavy Duty set, for 109” ....................................................................................................$ 999.00
Balanced Parabolic Spring Kits with Pro Comp Shocks RNK112388P 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears, 4 PC shocks, for 88” and 109” ......................................................................................................................$ 714.95 RNK1123109P 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears, 4 PC shocks, Heavy Duty set, for 109”........................................................................................................$ 714.95 RNK1124109P 2 leaf front & 4 leaf rears, 4 PC shocks, Heavy Duty set, for 109”........................................................................................................$ 834.95 Balanced Parabolic Spring Kits w/o Shocks RNK1123 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears for 88” and 109” ...............................................................................................................................................$ 549.00 RNK1124 2 leaf front & 4 leaf rears, HD set for 109”................................................................................................................................................$ 695.00
LOWEST price in the USA
Bilstein Suspension Kits
Polybush Kits For performance and long life, these polybushing kits are suitable for normal as well as off road use. Includes all suspension and all shock absorber bushings. Made in England. Discovery I, Range Rover Classic, D90 94 on PBS1115
Polybush Kit .........$ 169.95
Genuine Heavy Duty Springs & Bilstein Shock Kits For owners using their Land Rovers in a mix of commuting and off-roading. Perfect for vehicles running factory tire sizes up to 245/75-16 with a moderate appointment of off-road equipment – not exceeding manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight. Note: For heavier than normally ladened vehicles, we recommend OME shocks.
SALE
4x4 SHOCKS & SUSPENSION
Complete OME Kits Our choice for owners using oversize tires combined with heavy duty bumper/winch combinations. Provide as much suspension lift as possible without exceeding factory specs. Improve your towing capacity, offroad traction, and on-road comfort. Includes four springs and four shocks.
Defender 90 OMED90K1 Standard Duty .......................................$ OMED90K2 Heavy Duty.............................................$ OMESD32 Steering Damper...................................$ Defender 110 Station Wagon OMED110K1 Standard Duty........................................$ OMED110K2 Heavy Duty.............................................$ OMESD32 Steering Damper...................................$ Defender 110 Pick-up or Hardtop OMED110RK1 Standard Duty .......................................$ OMED110RK2 Heavy Duty ............................................$ OMESD32 Steering Damper...................................$ Discovery I OMEDS1K1 Standard ................................................$ OMEDS1K2 Heavy Duty ............................................$ OMESD11 Steering Damper...................................$ Discovery II OMEDS2K1 Standard .................................................$ OMEDS2K2 Heavy Duty ............................................$ OMESD02 Steering Damper...................................$ Range Rover Classic OMERRK1 Standard.................................................$ OMERRK2 Heavy Duty.............................................$ OMESD11 Steering Damper...................................$
OME Shocks For Land Rover owners who require heavy-duty shocks, off-road performance and maximum load capacity. Twin-tube design offers unsurpassed protection against rocks and debris. These heavy duty nitrogen-gas shock absorbers are recommended for applications where more dampening is needed for use with oversize tires.
639.00 639.00 69.95 639.00 639.00 69.95 639.00 639.00 69.95
Defender 90/110 RNK5201 Defender 90 without winch .....................................................$ 589.00 RNK5211 Defender 90 with ARB winch .....................................................$ 599.00 RNK5202 Defender 110 .....................................................$ 589.00 Discovery I RNK5203 Discovery I, Heavy Duty .....................................................$ 579.00 RNK5213 Discovery I, Extra Heavy Duty .....................................................$ 589.00 Discovery II RNK5208 Discovery II, 4 Bilstein shocks, 2 Genuine Coils .........................$ 529.00 Range Rover Classic RNK5204 Range Rover Classic, 100” Standard .....................................................$ 599.00 RNK5214 Range Rover Classic, 100” w/heavy duty winch..................................$ 609.00
639.00 639.00 69.95 639.00 639.00 62.95 639.00 639.00 69.95
Defender 90/110 OMESKDEF Set of four shocks................................................................................................................$ OMESD32 Steering Damper...................................................................................................................$ Discovery I OMESKDS1 Set of four shocks ..............................................................................................................$ OMESD11 Steering Damper...................................................................................................................$ Discovery II OMESKDS2 Set of four shocks ..............................................................................................................$ OMESD02 Steering Damper...................................................................................................................$ Range Rover Classic OMESKRR Set of four shocks ...............................................................................................................$ OMESD11 Steering Damper...................................................................................................................$
334.95 69.95 334.95 69.95 334.95 62.95 334.95 69.95
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
NEreW built
not
Water Pumps
Series IIA, III Water Pump with Gasket RNF334 2.25 litre petrol, diesel, Genuine .........................$ PLF334 2.25 litre petrol, diesel, ProLine ..........................$ RNC348 2.25 litre petrol, Military, Genuine ......................$ PLC348 2.25 litre petrol, Military, ProLine .......................$ Defender 90/110 RNC011 ‘93-1995 NAS, Water Pump, Genuine ................$ PLC011 ‘93-1995 NAS, Water Pump, ProLine .................$ RNC052 ‘97 D90 NAS, Water Pump, Genuine..................$ PLC052 ‘97 D90 NAS, Water Pump, ProLine ...................$ RNF361 2.5 petrol and diesel N.A., Water Pump, Genuine...................................................................$ RNH257 200 Tdi diesel, Water Pump, Genuine................$ RNH258 300 Tdi diesel, Water Pump, Genuine................$ RNH360 Td5 diesel, Water Pump, Genuine.....................$ Discovery I ‘94-1999 RNC052 Water Pump, Genuine ..........................................$ PLC052 Water Pump, ProLine ...........................................$ Discovery II ‘00-2002 RNC052 Water Pump, Genuine ...................................................$ PLC052 Water Pump, ProLine.....................................................$ Range Rover Classic ‘87-1995 RNC011 ‘87-1994, Water Pump, Genuine...................................$ PLC011 ‘87-1994, Water Pump, ProLine....................................$ RNC052 ‘95, Water Pump, Genuine ............................................$ PLC052 ‘95, Water Pump, ProLine .............................................$ Range Rover P38A ‘95-2002 RNC052 ‘95-2002, Water Pump, Genuine...................................$ PLC052 ‘95-2002, Water Pump, ProLine....................................$
98.18 59.00 234.59 129.00 163.95 109.95 189.95 139.95
Air Spring Assembly Range Rover P38A (1995-2002) RND262 Air Spring Assembly, Front, Genuine .............................$ 229.95 PLD262 Air Spring Assembly, Front, ProLine...............................$ 119.95 RND263 Air Spring Assembly, Rear, Genuine...............................$ 288.90 PLD263 Air Spring Assembly, Rear, ProLine................................$ 185.00 PLD823 Air Spring Assembly, Rear, ProLine................................$ 185.00 Discovery II PLD823 Air Spring Assembly, Front, Genuine .....$ 185.00
G SA REAT V GR INGS QU EAT AL ITY
249.95 309.26 88.40 150.51 189.95 139.95
RND262
189.95 149.00 163.95 109.95 189.95 139.95 189.95 139.95
Replacement Bladders PLB1017
Range PLB1017 PLB1018 Range PLB1017 PLB1016
Rover P38A (1995-2002) Replacement Bladder, Front, ProLine ..................................$ Replacement Bladder, Rear, ProLine ...................................$ Rover Classic (1993-’95 only) Replacement Bladder, Front, ProLine ..................................$ Replacement Bladder, Rear, ProLine ...................................$
89.00 99.95 89.00 99.95
Flex Coupler GENUINE Flex Coupler for rear propshafts, Range Rover & Discovery I, II RND196 Flex Coupler, Genuine with hardware ...........................................$ 89.95 PLD196 Flex Coupler, PorLine with out hardware ....................................$ 59.95
NEW Raised Poly Axle Stops
Genuine Hub Seal Kits Includes Genuine hub seal, hub gasket, hub seal race and locker for hub nut.
PLH057
PLH057
PLH057E
Orange Poly Axle Stop, standard 2 1/4 in. height Front /Rear, Range Rover Classic, Defender, Discovery ................$ 23.95
PLH057E Raised orange Poly Axle Stop, Front /Rear, 3 1/2 inch Range Rover Classic, Defender, Discovery with raised suspension.................................$ 28.95
Series II, IIA, and III RNK552 Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req).............................................$ Defender 90/110 RNK5623 Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) .............................................$ Discovery I RNK5623 Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) .............................................$ Range Rover Classic RNK5621 1987-’89, Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) ............................$ RNK5622 1990-’92, Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) ............................$ RNK5623 1993-’95, Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) ............................$
20.00 6.99 6.99 34.95 7.19 6.99
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Page 27
PR The IC ES BES an T yw he re
Race inspired performance shock absorbers that offer longer shock travel for your Land Rover. Pro Comp ES 9000 Shocks for Discovery, Range Rover and Defender. Nitrogen gas charged shocks with two inches of extra travel. Designed for off-road performance for vehicles with raised suspension of two inches or less. Excellent all round ride quality and handling. Shock sets include bushings and optional poly vinyl dust boots in black.
Pro Comp ES 3000 for Series II, IIA, III, 88 and 109 Land Rovers with standard or parabolic springs offers an extra inch of shock travel. These performance shocks incorporate a twin tube cellular gas design that prevents foaming and reduces shock fade to improve the ride quality of leaf spring suspension. Shock sets include bushings and optional poly vinyl dust boots in black.
PCS9030 Discovery I 1989-1999 front and rear shock set...............................................$ 169.00 PCS9050 Range Rover Classic 1971-1993 with coil suspension front and rear shock set ......$ 169.00 PCS9020 Defender 1983-1998 front and rear shock set ..........................................................................$ 169.00
PCS3088 88 front and rear shock set........................$ 169.00 PCS3109 109 front and rear shock set .....................$ 169.00
What Car? Continued from pg 20 the vehicle's Integrated Body-frame architecture, door-mounted anti-intrusion side beams and eight airbags. Complementing the occupant safety package are Dynamic Stability Control, Active Roll Mitigation, Electronic Traction Control, Brakeforce Distribution, Anti-lock Brakes, Terrain Responseâ„¢ and park distance control technologies, putting the Discovery 3 amongst the safest SUVs on the market. This latest award adds a second What Car? Car of the Year trophy to Land Rover's cabinet, following the Freelander's success in 1998 when it became the first and only 4x4
Priced from £26,995 to £46,995 the allnew Land Rover Discovery 3 is on sale now at Land Rover dealerships across the UK, and in over 100 markets around the world. This latest award comes on the back of other notable successes around the world, including BBC Top Gear Magazine's Best 4x4, What MPV & 4x4? magazine's SUV of the Year, MotorTrend magazine (USA) SUV of the Year, Overlander magazine (Australia) 4WD of the Year, Scotland's SUV of the Year, Mexico's SUV of the Year and many others. Editors' note: The Discovery 3 TDV6 S Automatic, priced at £33,490, comes with a generous specification including active fourcorner air suspension, Terrain Responseâ„¢, cruise control, automatic climate control, park distance control, bi-xenon headlights and 18" alloy wheels. Fuel consumption (combined cycle) is 30.0 mpg on the TDV6 manual (27.2 mpg with automatic transmission) and CO2 emissions are 249 g/km (manual) and 275 g/km (automatic).
ever to pick up one of the industry's most coveted awards, until now.
(Land Rover Media)
FACTORY AUTHORIZED DEALER
CV JOINT KITS Great QUALITY, and LOW pricing. A comprehensive kit that includes all the oil seals and gaskets that you need to replace your CV Joint. Includes cv joint and grease as shown. Proline kits use genuine seals, gaskets and grease as shown Defender 90 RNK4020 CV Joint Kit w/ Genuine CV Joint ...$ 355.00 PLK4020 CV Joint Kit w/ Proline CV Joint .....$ 175.00 Defender 110 RNK4021 CV Joint Kit w/ Genuine CV Joint ...$ 545.00 PLK4021 CV Joint Kit w/ Proline CV Joint .....$ 219.00 Discovery RNK4020 CV Joint Kit w/ Genuine CV Joint ...$ 355.00 PLK4020 CV Joint Kit w/ Proline CV Joint .....$ 175.00
CV JOINT For ABS and non-ABS Defender 90/110 PLD201 Defender 90, 1997.............................................$ 139.95 PLD301 Defender 110, 1993...........................................$ 199.00 Discovery I RND201 CV Joint, Genuine ............................................$ 244.82 PLD201 CV Joint, ProLine..............................................$ 139.95 Discovery II RND673 CV Joint, Genuine ............................................$ 410.77 Range RNX004 RNX005 PLX005 RNX001 PLX001
Rover Classic Suffix A axles only, CV Joint, Genuine .........$ ‘89 Suffix B axle on,CV Joint, Genuine .........$ ‘89 Suffix B axle on, CV Joint, ProLine .........$ 1990-’95 w/ABS, CV Joint, Genuine ..............$ 1990-’95 w/ABS, CV Joint, ProLine................$
305.95 412.95 134.95 499.95 214.95
Range Rover P38A RND673 CV Joint, Genuine ............................................$ 410.77
Superchips
The leading manufacturer of performance modules and chips for Land Rover products. Superchips performance call for maximum horsepower enhancement at lower RPMs, instead of maximum only RPMs. This is why owners driving Land Rovers equipped with the Superchips, commonly say how much more flexible and smoother their engines perform. Whether towing from a standstill, to pass-
ing on the interstate. You will find that between 2000-4500 RPMs is where the most noticeable difference is.To enhance this new found power even more, add a K&N Air Filter along with a NRP Exhaust System and feel the difference.
more POWER for TOWandGO. Performance ECU chip by Superchips RSC1240
Defender 90, 1997......................................................$ 499.00
RSC1340
Discovery I, 4.0 ltr, 1996-’99 .....................................$ 499.00
RSC1640
Range Rover P38A, 4.0 ltr, 1995-’97 ......................$ 499.00
RSC1646
Range Rover P38A, 4.6 ltr, 1995-’97 .......................$ 499.00
RSC1340 installed 1996 Discovery I 4.0 ltr
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
NRP Performance Exhaust Systems YOU JUST CANT BEAT OUR PRICE OR PERFORMANCE NRP Rear Stainless Steel Performance Exhaust Section
Complete NRP Performance Systems
Truly the only QUIET performance Exhaust available for the DISCOVERY II The NRP stainless steel performance exhaust system is by far the finest stainless steel exhaust system we have fitted to a Land Rover! Designed for the do-it-yourselfer, this system installs easily and is backed with a original purchaser lifetime guarantee. System includes center silencer, tailpipe, all stainless steel hangers, hardware and installation instructions. RNE0002 Defender 90..................................................................$ 529.00 RNE0004 Defender 110................................................................$ 619.00 RNE0005 Discovery I, ’94-1999...................................................$ 529.00 RNE0009 Discovery II, 2000-2002 ..............................................$ 639.00 RNE0005 Range Rover 1990 on..................................................$ 529.00 (Range Rover ’87-89 requires complete performance exhaust system)
RNE0006 Range Rover P38A, 4.0 / 4.6.......................................$ 629.00 Gaskets & Exhaust Hangers RNE888 Exhaust Gaskets (2 required)....................................$ 8.50 RNE873 Rubber Hangers (3 required) ....................................$ 5.49
NRP Performance Catalytic Converters – “Y-Pipe” including Manifold Gaskets and Nuts RNE0020 RNE0021 RNE0010 RNE0021 RNE0020 RNE0221 RNE0010 RNE0011
Defender 90, 110, 1993-1995 ........................................$ Defender 90, 1997..........................................................$ Discovery I, Automatic, 1994-1995 ...........................$ Discovery I, Automatic, 1996-1999 ...........................$ Discovery I, Manual, 1994-1995................................$ Discovery I, Manual, 1996-1999................................$ Range Rover Classic 100” ........................................$ Range Rover Classic LWB.........................................$
866.00 866.00 866.00 866.00 866.00 866.00 866.00 876.00
NRP 88” Series II-III Stainless Steel Exhaust System Performance Stainless Steel Exhaust System for Series II-III 2.25 petrol Plan to keep your Series Land Rover forever? Here’s the exhaust system to go with it. • Increased Power • Improved Fuel Mileage • Stainless Steel construction • Lifetime Warranty for original purchaser • Complete with instructions and Stainless Steel hangers. RNE0001AA 88” Series II-III Stainless Exhaust System.............$
SALE
Includes catalytic converters, all pipes & hanger brackets. When it comes time to replace your Land Rover or Range Rover’s exhaust system, why not upgrade to a Stainless Steel exhaust from Rovers North and take advantage of an increase in horsepower and torque? You will notice an immediate improvement over your old tired system, at idle and throughout the entire rpm range. The new exhaust note gives a deep, throaty sound that your all alloy Rover V8 really deserves. Defender 90 RNE0012 Manual Gearbox ’94 & ’95 .......................................$ 1,431.00 RNE0022 Automatic Gearbox ’96 on .......................................$ 1,431.00 Defender 110 RNE0024 Manual Gearbox ’94 & ’95 .......................................$ 1,445.00 Discovery I RNE0013 Discovery I, Manual, ‘94-1995 .................................$ 1,431.00 RNE0033 Discovery I, Automatic, ‘94-1995 ............................$ 1,431.00 RNE0023 Discovery I, Automatic, ‘96 on ................................$ 1,431.00 RNE0043 Discovery I, Manual, ‘96 on.....................................$ 1,431.00 Range Rover Classic RNE0014 Range Rover Classic ’87-88 .....................................$ 1,669.00 RNE0019 Range Rover Classic ’89...........................................$ 1,565.00 RNE0015 Range Rover Classic ’90-95 100”...........................$ 1,431.00 RNE0025 Range Rover Classic ’93-95 108” (LWB)...............$ 1,441.00
• More Pow er • Better M ileage • Legal in 5 0 states • Lifetime Guarantee • It Won’t Wake the Neighbors
499.00
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
STOP, with confidence
Series Disc Brake Kit for SeriesII - IIA - III 1960 on Now you can bolt Defender Disc Brakes onto your Series Land Rover Update your Series II, IIA, III with some serious braking power and install our exclusive conversion kit that allows you to use all Land Rover Defender Disc Brake components. Improves all braking in every driving condition possible. Easy to maintain, with replaceable rotors, brake pads and powerful Defender calipers as shown below. This kit is a direct replacement for Series drum brakes. Fits all
series II, IIA and III 88 and 109 Land Rovers. It requires a dual power master cylinder to operate, as fitted to US models 1969-1974. We have dual power master cylinder components available to owners with single non-power brake systems who would like to convert to Defender Disc Brakes. Please Inquire.
Complete Series Disc Brake Conversion Kit Complete kit comes with new swivel pin housings, wheel hub with studs, new disc brake calipers, new brake discs, new brake pads, brake lines and all necessary hardware. RNA6100KV
Complete Series Disc Brake Kit w/vented discs, front, Genuine $ 2,350.00
PLA6100KV
Complete Series Disc Brake Kit w/vented discs, front ProLine $ 1,999.00
RNA6101K
Complete Series Disc Brake Kit, Rear, Genuine $ 1,295.00
PLA6101K
Complete Series Disc Brake Kit, Rear ProLine $ 1,150.00
PLA6100KV Front brake kit shown
1
Front brake kit shown
2
3
(1) Vented front brake disc (2) Reinforced swivel housing (3) Compatible with locking hubs
4
(4) 4 piston front Defender caliper (5) Stainless steel braided brake flex lines
5
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
You’ve Been Roverhauled Luckily, Mark Letorney of Rovers North pulled out all the stops and sent us a long laundry list of parts that we had asked for, including a new galvanized frame, a full parabolic suspension, Mansfield heater kit and much more. Those parts, combined with what ECR and a few other suppliers would be donating could make this Rover ready for a few more decades of faithful service. At ECR we have always said that there is only one the place for Land Rover parts, and once again Rovers North showed their true colors on why they are the only real source for Genuine and ProLine Land Rover Parts, here in North America.” “The parts then arrived. Oh yeah, and did I mention that the fact that we are giving ourselves 6 days to completely refurbish this vehicle from the frame up. Why you ask? Well, first to see if we could pull it off, and second because we are so busy with customer vehicles that we can’t take anymore than a week to complete this project.” On “Overhaulin” they have a team of about 30 people, on “Extreme Make Over: Home Edition” they have hundreds. We have four. I worked in ignorance of the ECR/Rovers North project. Regularly, I would call Rovers North and urge them to hold odd parts for me and search for NLA pieces. I also searched out and collected used parts to replace those damaged by the accident. The Rovers North staff I spoke with all hid from me the extraordinary efforts going on behind the scenes. The East Coast Rover staff lied even more boldly, even to the point on concocting a ruse to lure me to their shop without telling me of the car’s refurbishment.
Page 31
The complete story on the six-day refurbishment is available at www.eastcoastrover.com but I should highlight major points of the project. Day 1 began with an assessment. The photos of the frame, where the spring hangar should be, and the bulkhead, where the Kodiak heater should have been, show the level of deterioration. Of course, in true Land Rover fashion, the car ran steadily as it always had done. Nothing really prepared me for the level of deterioration. My motor has about 170,000 miles on it and runs quite well, and I rebuilt my transmission and transfer case about 7 years ago. Nevertheless, the wear of 400,000 miles and 39 years really showed on the car, from the worn out steering box to the a totally worn out throttle linkage plate. Rovers North and East Coast Rover have urged me in the past to consider Rover upgrades that would make my early II-A more usable for today’s requirements. I must admit it took a voltage regulator fire and meltdown of the wiring harness for me to finally convert from a generator and positive ground to an alternator and negative ground. I was the last rabid fan of single circuit brake systems; East Coast Rover had pushed me to with at least a dual circuit [“Jeff, they became mandatory in 1968!”] if not the Rovers North disc brake replacement system. I had the same reluctance to move from standard multi-leaf springs to parabolics. Now, the car was out of my hands and the experts added their modifications for safety and reliability. Day 1 ended with a lot of cutting torch work and calls for replacement parts. Day 2 saw a galavanized frame ready to accept a donor bulkhead and the existing rear tub. The bulkhead received modifications to enable the Series III brake booster and the Rovers North Mansfield heater. New brake lines and fuel lines promised an easier reconstruction of the car.
Day 3 included painting of a replacement hood, fenders, doors and door tops. ECR also installed the doors and hinges so that the body lines could be set up and the bulkhead tweaked into the correct position and then locked down with the bolted bulkhead supports. As Mike Smith wrote, “body lines are crucial in a Series Rover to make the doors work properly without having to slam them; to us it is a vital step to make the 88 a nice vehicle to have, rather than one that annoys you all the time when the doors won’t close right.” Indeed, when I picked up my Rover at the end of Day 6, the one comment a young friend made concerned the solidity of the door closing action. Day 4 now saw the Rover with a radiator panel [an NLA part from Land Rover] mounted - a stunning stainless steel model created by John Gerding of Forever Rover in Vermont. It also saw the body bolted to the frame, and a flurry of activity to hook up electrical, hydraulic and fuel systems. New Hella H4 halogen headlamps and driving lights will illuminate future animal targets. Stainless steel brake lines and new flex hoses will assure long term, safe stopping. Of course, new wheel cylinders and shoes would help, too. To help retain the spirit of the II-A, Mike sourced a banjo-style steering wheel and box appropriate for my year’s Rover. I adore the look of the Kodiak heater but love the BTU output of the Mansfield heater. The answer - restore the box that housed my Kodiak heater but replace the innards with the Mansfield. Even on -0 F days, the Rover, with its new door seals, is comfortable. Day 5 included tuning up the engine that hadn’t run for many months, setting up the interior, running checks on all wiring, bolting on doors and lining them up. One other safety addition was Series III burst-proof door locks; I even have keys for the exterior doo locks. Mike also sourced a deluxe hood/bonnet for me, which would be correct for car Continued on pg 32
Page 32
You’ve Been Roverhauled continued from pg 31
as it is a station wagon. When the car was finished, it looked and ran as if it had just left Solihull. Day 6 witnessed me making a fool of myself in shock and delight over the upgrade of the car. At this point, Mike Smith made some recommendations. Given the car’s body, interior, suspension, braking and electrical system refurbishments, perhaps this would be a good time to work on the drivetrain. The front axles, u-joints and swivel balls were shot. So was the differential, which had rust on the teeth. The rear differential had too much play, too. I decided to have all the axles replaced and/or checked, found good, used differentials at Rovers North, and had East Coast Rover install the new components. Many readers have refurbished their cars by themselves and their accomplishments speak volumes for the quality of the Land Rover community in North America. Over the years, I have tackled increasingly more challenging maintenance and repair tasks on the car but never approached a challenge as great as that presented by my car. I learned a new the gap between the professional and the amateur. If you open the hood of my car, you see many dots of paint on hose clips and engine bolts. The painted dots on the opposite sides indicate that the clamp or bolt was properly torqued; as long as the dots line up, I can be assured there’s been no movement. Every component worked on the day that I picked up the car. Nothing rattled or failed to shut. I’ve made two adjustments: one to tighten the hood latch and one to tighten a hose clamp to the heater. The newly installed wiring harness kept the correct colors so I can use any schematic to trace future electrical problems. All the wiring is secured and clamped to the inner fenders and bulkhead. If the QE I were an airplane or an blue water boat, I’d be confident in piloting it anywhere. Every component of the car was cleaned and inspected, and replaced when necessary. The engine looked just as good as it did when Rovers North installed it about 10 years ago. When I peered under the car, I found inner wheel well liners installed to offer protection for components. Even though the engine had not been refurbished, new gaskets must have been installed somewhere as there are barely any fluid leaks. Over the decades, I’d forgotten that Land Rovers left the factory in superb condition. Mine was quite straight when I bought it, but it was 25 years old with 111,000 miles. Except for a Rovers North rebuild engine, I’d never experienced the car in its showroom state. Charlie Haigh, a former Rovers North employee, once drove my car and blanched in fear at the steering. He reminded me the problem with old Rovers was that most people had no idea just how tight and secure they were meant to be when new; we only knew them as veryused cars. The new paint job alone doesn’t recreate the factory experience; it takes professional dedication to high standards and expectations. This experience has taught me to aspire to those as an amateur mechanic.
I’ve started with the “essentials” that I’ve carried in the car for decades. The sight of two huge cardboard boxes, filled with stuff emptied from my car, shamed me into raising standards. As I lived in my car daily for many years, I started to accumulate too much Rover “you never know when you’ll need them” stuff. Mike Smith politely suggested that there was little reason for me to carry four old distributor caps, two of which don’t even match my current “new style” Lucas distributor. Jim Pappas, the former president of the Bay State Rover Owners Association, once claimed my II-A was the only car that “could be detailed with a garbage bag.” You can also see that we have installed the doors and hinges so that the body lines can be set up and the bulkhead tweaked into the correct position and then locked down with the bolted bulkhead supports. Body lines are crucial in a Series Rover to make the doors work properly without having to slam them, and doing this is a step
that most Rover shops don’t even think about, but to us it is a vital step to make the 88 a nice vehicle to have, rather than one that pisses you off all the time when the doors won’t close right. The QE I now resembles the car that left the factory in 1966 with some hidden upgrades fromlater Rovers. I have complete confidence that it can remain my primary transportation for the next 39 years, provided I improve my maintenance efforts to take advantage of these improvements. Indeed, when I drove 150 miles from my island town to my place of work in downeast Maine, I spotted a Ford Taurus off the road and buried downhill in a deep snowbank. I hooked up tow strap, put the Rover in first gear low range and gave it some wellie. I dragged the car about 25 feet before it could break free from the snowbank. The QE I proved it was ready again for its new journey.
Steve Williams, Mike Mathiau, Ian Cooke, me [in blue vest] and Mike Smith.
Rotors and Brake Pads The BESTselecection at the bestPRICES. PLB012EBC
PLB012A
Rotors Defender PLB022A PLB012A RNB022 RNB012 PLB022EBC PLB012EBC
90 ProLine, front, rotor, each ..................................$ 39.95 ProLine, rear, rotor, each....................................$ 39.00 Genuine, front, rotor, each.................................$ 94.10 Genuine, rear, rotor, each ..................................$ 76.34 EBC performance, front, rotor, pair ..................$ 224.95 EBC performance, rear, rotor, pair ...................$ 199.00
Defender PLB006A RNB006 PLB006EBC
110 ProLine, front, rotor, each .................................$ 39.95 Genuine, front, rotor, each ................................$ 76.34 EBC performance, front, rotor, pair .................$ 199.00
Discovery I PLB006A ProLine, front, rotor, each ..................................$ 39.95 PLB012A ProLine, rear, rotor, each....................................$ 39.00 RNB006 Genuine, front, rotor, each.................................$ 76.34 RNB012 Genuine, rear, rotor, each ..................................$ 76.34 PLB006EBC EBC performance, front, rotor, pair ..................$ 199.00 PLB012EBC EBC performance, rear, rotor, pair ..................$ 199.00 Discovery II PLD013A ProLine, front, rotor, each ..................................$ 59.00 PLD024A ProLine, rear, rotor, each....................................$ 39.95 RND013 Genuine, front, rotor, each.................................$ 80.60 RND024 Genuine, rear, rotor, each ..................................$ 76.56 PLD013EBC EBC performance, front, rotor, pair ..................$ 209.95 PLD024EBC EBC performance, rear, rotor, pair ...................$ 215.25 Range Rover Classic PLB006A ProLine, front, rotor ‘87-1989, each ..................$ 39.95 PLB022A ProLine, front, rotor ‘90-1995, each ..................$ 39.95 PLB012A ProLine, rear, rotor ‘87-1995, each....................$ 39.00 RNB006 Genuine, front, rotor ‘87-1989, each .................$ 76.34 RNB022 Genuine, front, rotor ‘90-1995, each .................$ 94.10 RNB012 Genuine, rear, rotor ‘87-1995, each ..................$ 76.34 PLB006EBC EBC performance, front, rotor ‘87-1989, pair ..$ 199.00 PLB022EBC EBC performance, front, rotor ‘90-1995, pair ..$ 224.95 PLB012EBC EBC performance, rear, rotor ‘87-1995, pair ...$ 199.00 Range Rover P38A PLD028A ProLine, front, rotor, each ..................................$ 59.00 PLD024A ProLine, rear, rotor, each....................................$ 39.95 RND028 Genuine, front, rotor, each.................................$ 83.54 RND024 Genuine, rear, rotor, each ..................................$ 76.56 PLD028EBC Genuine, front, rotor, pair...................................$ 249.00 PLD024EBC Genuine, rear, rotor, pair ....................................$ 215.25
Brake Pads Defender 90 Brake PLF323 PLB195 RNF323 RNB195 PLF323EBC PLB195EBC
Lockheed, front, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Lockheed, rear, Brake Pad, set. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Genuine, front, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Genuine, rear, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ EBC performance, front, Brake Pad, set. . . . . . . . . . . $ EBC performance, rear, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . $
39.95 25.95 67.08 51.04 69.95 64.95
Defender PLF323 RNF323 PLF323EBC
110 Brake Lockheed, front, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 39.95 Genuine, front, Brake pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 67.08 EBC performance, front, Brake Pad, set. . . . . . . . . . . $ 69.95
Discovery I Brake PLB208 Lockheed, front, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLB195 Lockheed, rear, Brake Pad, set. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLB208EBC EBC performance, front, Brake Pad, set. . . . . . . . . . . $ PLB195EBC EBC performance, rear, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . $
34.95 25.95 69.95 64.95
Discovery II Brake PLD036 Lockheed, front, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD242 Lockheed, front, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RND242 Genuine, front, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD036EBC EBC performance, front, Brake Pad, set. . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD242EBC EBC performance, rear, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . $
46.95 34.95 85.95 94.95 79.95
Range Rover Classic Brake PLB001 Lockheed, front, Brake Pad, ‘87-1989, non ABS . . . . $ PLB208 Lockheed, front, Brake Pad, ‘90-1995 . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLB004 Lockheed, rear, Brake Pad, ‘87-1989, non ABS . . . . . $ PLB004 Lockheed, rear, Brake Pad, ‘90-1995 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNB001 Genuine, front, Brake Pad, ‘87-1989. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNB208 Genuine, front, Brake Pad, ‘90-1995. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNB004 Genuine, rear, Brake Pad, ‘87-1989 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ RNB004 Genuine, rear, Brake Pad, ‘90-1995 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD208EBC EBC performance, front, Brake Pad, set. . . . . . . . . . . $ PLB004EBC EBC performance, rear, Brake Pad, set . . . . . . . . . . . $
34.95 34.95 34.95 34.95 63.16 97.95 53.93 53.93 69.95 64.95
Range Rover P38A Brake PLD036 Lockheed, front, Brake Pad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD242 Lockheed, rear, Brake Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD036EBC EBC performance, front, Brake Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD242EBC EBC performance, rear, Brake Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
46.95 34.95 94.95 79.95
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Raised Air Intakes and Wading Kits Originally designed to combat the sandy dust of the Sahara Desert, MANTEC’s Raised Air Intake ensures a cleaner air supply to your engine when driving in dusty conditions. Made of zinc-phosphated steel and black polyester-coated (paintable to match body color). Used in everything from the Camel Trophy to the G4 Challenge. Includes hardware and fitting instructions.
RNA1003
RNA1003 Discovery I Mantec Raised Air Intake . $ 429.00 RNA1013 Discovery II Mantec Raised Air Intake. $ 479.00 RNA1115 Range Rover Classic Mantec Raised Air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 429.00
RNA1002 Defender90/110 NAS Mantec Raised Air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 499.00 RNA2002TDIDefender Td5 Mantec Raised air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 329.00 RNA1119 Freelander V6 Mantec Raised Air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 439.00 MANTEC’s Wading Kit includes breather extensions and connectors for front and rear axles, gear box and transfer box up to the height of your raised air intake to improve your vehicle's wading ability in wet or flooded conditions. (Not shown.) RNA1012 Wading Kit, Tdi, V8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 102.50
Sill Protectors The best available. MANTEC’s robust sill protectors prevent damage to body work during off-roading adventures. Convenient receptacles allow use of Jackall adapter for recovery when high centered or for changing tires. Includes all necessary hardware and installation instructions. May not be compatible with factory or after market steps. RNA1117A RNA1001
Discovery II Sill Protectors ...............................................................$ 299.00 Defender 90 Sill Protectors ...............................................................$ 299.00 (no jack points on 110 version)
RNA1117A Convenient Jackall adapter receptacles
Swingaway Wheel Carrier The best tire carrier we’ve found. If you use your rear door even occasionally, you’ll appreciate how this tire carrier makes access to the cargo area much easier and takes the stress and weight off of your rear door hinges. Heavy duty tubular steel construction and hinge hardware, zinc phosphated and black polyester-coated. Includes instructions and all necessary hardware for installation. Will fit Series II, IIA, III, Defender 90/110. RNA2550 MANTEC Swingaway Tire Carrier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 499.75 RNA2550
Underbody Protection Mechanical components under the body of your Land Rover experience some of the most damaging treatment from off-road travel. MANTEC’s protective guards are designed to protect your vehicle from unseen and unavoidable problems, allowing you to concentrate on driving. Out of sight should not be out of mind! MANTEC Steering Guard Protect your steering control rods when the going gets tough. Constructed of alloy fitted to a steel frame. All hardware and fitting instructions included. RNA7002 RNA7005 RNA7007
MANTEC Steering Guard, Defender 90/110..................................$ 349.00 MANTEC Steering Guard, Discovery I, Range Rover Classic ...$ 375.00 MANTEC Steering Guard, Discovery II..........................................$ 395.00
RNA7002
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
The backbone of your Land Rover is its chassis. Start with a new Rovers North heavy duty chassis, made for us by Marsland in England! Our new, hot-dipped, fully galvanized Series II, IIA, and III chassis are machined to original Land Rover specifications and include reinforced front horns, auxiliary fuel tank bracket, and hangers for left and or right exhaust, all at the same price as a standard chassis.
Genuine Land Rover, Discovery II Thermostat
88” Series II, IIA, III RNE416 Civilian 88” New Galvanized Chassis .....................$ 1,690.00 109” Regular Series II, IIA, III, 2.25 ltr RNE412 Civilian 109” New Galvanized Chassis ...................$ 2,490.00 109” Station Wagon Series II, IIA, III, 2.25 ltr RNE413 Civilian 109” Station Wagon New Galv Chassis ...$ 2,550.00
Aluminum DYI Tailgate Lid Kit for your Range Rover Classic SALE
This do it yourself kit is designed as a permanent and economical fix for your rusty tail gate lid. Kit includes corrosion proof aluminum frame pieces finished in matte black, hardware and instructions. PLH514 All Aluminum Tailgate Lid Kit for Range Rover Classic ..............$ 424.95
Closing in on 100%
In 2002 Rovers North received a 96% Supplier Quality Performance Rating from one of America’s toughest customers, the U.S. SPECIAL FORCES. Coming from professionals that seriously rely on their Land Rovers, a 96% rating was a proud moment. However, we were determined to improve it. Having one of the fastest and most efficient Land Rover parts fulfillment systems was still not good enough. To hit 100% we realized that we needed to be able to have better parts availability than Land Rover itself. Supporting Special Forces taught us how to deal with immediate must have parts situations. We set out to secure inventory directly from manufactures, and improve our on hand availability. One of the ways that we achieved this, was by developing our own product line, called ProLine. Then we increased our direct volume purchasing, which in turn, drove down our costs.
WANTED
RND564 Genuine, Discovery II Thermostat.......$ 8.95
A Classic Land Rover Enthusiast (and you must be if your reading this), that loves to work in a classic Land Rover environment that is both challenging and fun. Rovers North is an authorized Land Rover parts distributor, that is seeking a detailed oriented person, with Land Rover mechanical experience who can diagnose automotive problems, give technical advice, and has strong customer service skills. Our open team driven atmosphere requires excellent communication skills for this fast-paced sales/technical position, We offer both competitive pay and a great benefits package. So, if your the type of person who bleeds green and has nothing but Classic Land Rovers on their mind, then please send your resume to: Andrea Letorney Rovers North Inc., 1319 Route 128, Westford, VT 05494 or you can email your resume to: andreal@roversnorth.com
Classic Land Rover Councilor
With these advances to Rovers North we are able to offer you significant savings on the highest quality products. So if you haven’t tried us in awhile, you might be in for a pleasant surprise. Since 2002, we have been steadily improving our availability and pricing on the highest quality parts. Just to show you how hard we have been working at being the best, we received an amazing score of 99.5%, in the 2004 Special Forces Supplier Quality Performance Rating. We are determined to be the best Land Rover parts supplier in Norht America, by giving you a wide range of high quality parts and accessories, at low prices. So please, give us a trie and let us know what it will take for you to rate us at 100%, because we are serious about earning it. After all a 99.5% score still leaves room for improvment.
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
ALLGO & NO SHOW By Paul Bradford [Paul Bradford, of Brewster, MA, owner of a 1964 IIA 88 diesel. Bought for the diesel and thrown into a restoration project a few years too early. Here’s a brief story of what Paul did to restore his IIA-ed].
Page 36
head), rebuilt injectors, and on and on. I also added lots of stainless fasteners, since it’s on the beach so much. This old Rover will be all go and no show which is just what I want. No pretty paint jobs, just the best 4x4xfar. Here are a few photos that take you through my impromptu restoration project on my 1964 IIA 88 diesel.
It all starts about a year ago, when I found a 1964 IIA 88 diesel. Even though the chassis was not in that good of a condition, I had to buy it, mainly for the diesel. Since I did not plan on driving it all that much, I was not worried about the condition of the chassis. I figured it would make a nice retirement project. Well, it ran so good that I drove it a lot, I drove it a lot on the beach (I live on Cape Cod). Finally the chassis gave way and I was kind of shoved into a project that I had wanted to save till I was old and bored. I had been working in VT and heard that chassis were on sale at Rovers North. So I drove out to Westford late one night (yes, you were still open) and picked one up. The chassis came with a leather bound handwritten history book, that unfortunately only goes back to the late 80s but is still good reading. Here’s a quick rundown on what I ended up working on to get my Land Rover back up and running: galv chassis, parabolics and Ome shocks, brake pipes, clutch, fr, rear main seals, valve guide seals (they’re fun to put in without pulling the
Heavy Duty Steering Rod Kits. They will handle the toughest terrain. Designed for serious off-roading, our Heavy Duty (1 1/4” dia.) Steering Kits will allow you to clear rocks and stumps without getting hung up. Kits for Range Rover Classic and Discovery I add additional clearance and protection to your steering damper by moving the damper up front with the new drag link. All necessary mounting brackets and hardware are included. Our Extreme High Clearance Track Rod allows for increased clearance over whatever gets in your way. RNK5626 Heavy Duty Steering Rod Kit for Discovery I and Range Rover Classic 1992 on (includes (B) High Clearance Track Rod, w/hardware, (C) Relocating Drag Link with OME Steering Damper, (D) Genuine Track Rod ends) ..................................................................$ 575.00 RNK5627 Heavy Duty Steering Rod Kit for early Range Rover Classic 1987-1991 (includes (includes (B) High Clearance Track Rod, w/hardware, (C) Relocating Drag Link with OME Steering Damper, (D) Genuine Track Rod ends)..........................................$ 549.95
Defender (A) RNC876HD Heavy Duty Drag Link. Fits 90, 110 all models. Use your existing Steering Damper or one of ours (see pg. 12). ..................$ 154.95 (B) RNE448HC Heavy Duty high clearance track rod. Fits 90, 110 all models ..........................$ 209.95 (D) RNS069 Genuine Track Rod End RH Thread....$ 39.95 (D) RNS070 Genuine Track Rod End LH Thread ....$ 39.95
A
B C
D
C
Page 37
Front Differential Guard Essential protection for off-road use. Anodized Steel guard clamps onto the front axle housing and protects the front differential from the most common off-road hazards.
Recovery Straps A must have emergency tool for your off-roading adventures.
simply put, the BEST QUALITY, at an UNBEATABLE PRICE. DIFF01AA DIFF02AA DIFF03
Range Rover Classic & Discovery I..................................$ 89.50 Discovery II (non-ACE only) ..............................................$ 99.50 Range Rover P38A Front....................................................$ 195.00
Skid Plate SALE RNH548
2”X20’ strap, 20,000 lb. rating 220000 ............$ 24.95
RNH549
2”X30’ strap, 20,000 lb. rating 230000 ............$ 39.95
RNH550
3”X30’ strap, 30,000 lb. rating 330000 ............$ 59.95
RNH551
4”X30’ strap, 40,000 lb. rating 430000 ............$ 74.95
MID ATLANTIC RALLY
FACTORY AUTHORIZED DEALER
By Shane Westover. Pictures by Les Parker. Rovers North
This past Mid Atlantic Rally was held at beautiful Pearls Pond in Buckinham County Virginia. The event was held in October 1st through the 3rd. Shane Westover, Les Parker, Rick Speer, and Dave Westover were there not only representing Rovers North, but also to aid in setting up the RTV course. When we first arrived Thursday morning there was word that the James River was overflowing. So we decided to drive our two Discoveries down over the bank to take a look. What was a usually small creek we saw that it was now a small river. We then decided to attack the river Camel Trophy style, and found out that the little creek was a little deeper then anticipated. The water quickly came up to the wind screen on the Discovery. Due to the extremely deep water the
Made from heavy duty 10mm aluminum alloy with galvanized steel brackets, this skid plate is strong and corrosion proof, yet lightweight. Drain holes help prevent moisture build-up. Designed to protect your steering and front axle housing from off-road hazards.
RNA4111 RNA4117
Range Rover Classic & Discovery I...........................................$ 419.00 Discovery II....................................................................................$ 429.00
ignition coil was temporarily disabled, so to prevent the second Discovery from the same problem, we decided to winch the first Discovery back through the creek to dry ground. After working on it for a few minutes, we got it up and running. We then drove up to the field and started setting up our company booth and camp site. Our team spent the rest of the day engaging in great conversation with other Land Rover enthusiasts. Friday morning began by waking up to the sound of our fellow Land Rover owners starting up their engines and driving around. We went over to find Robert Steele about setting up the RTV Course. This is when he informed us that due to the river being so high, that we may have to find an alternative location to set up the course. The rest of the day was spent back at Rovers North booth talking with more fellow enthusiasts. Saturday started out with meeting with Robert Steele and deciding that due to the creek still being so deep, the RTV course would have to be set up in an alternate location. So by 9:00 a.m, myself, Rick Speer, Dave Westover and a few other Land Rover enthusiast had started setting up the course. We had only two hours to build an entirely new course. Les Parker stayed back to run our booth for the company. It was very close, but we were able to finish the RTV course in the nick of time. Even though there were only a few hours to set the course up, it was a huge success.
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end and we had to start our 18 hour drive back to Vermont. A special thanks to everyone who attended the event and helped us with the RTV course. It was a great experience that none of us will soon forget.
Behind The Steering Wheel
By Jeffrey Aronson
Page 38 from any porous surface. On this clear, sunny day, the relatively clean, newly painted Rover gleamed in the bitter cold. Once aboard the ferry, Nick and I sat and luxuriated in the warmth of the Rovers North Mansfield heater, which had replaced my Kodiak heater. After an hour or so, Nick looked down at his feet and asked, “What’s that?” Sweet smelling and green, it was clearly antifreeze. Somewhere in my new heater was a minor core leak. My car could not go without a leak of some sort. The following day forecasters predicted a blizzard and one of the greatest storms of recent times dumped nearly 3 feet of snow and produced winds of 45-50 mph. Even the plows stayed put for much of the day. Of course, I had to drive around in my Rover. I fabricated an excuse for a drive and stepped outside into the snow. This time, the starter chirped rapidly but the car failed to start. I opened the hood to discover several inches of snow blown onto the battery, distributor, coil and spark plug wires. Once I dried it all off, the car fired up and I pounded through the two foot drifts. With a rebuilt steering box, new parabolic springs, Old Man Emu shocks, new Cooper tires, rebuilt differentials and propshafts, the car felt very solid in the storm. Even with a slight leak, the Mansfield heater kept up nicely with the cold; those new door seals kept virtually all of the snow at bay, even in the gale force winds. Since the re-launch, the Rover has battled two weeks of sub-zero temperatures every morning, another snowstorm and hundreds of miles of rural roads. Behind the “new” thin-rimmed banjo steering wheel, I sit on a straw-filled “elephant hide” cushion that sounds like breaking ice when you enter the car on a cold morning. Of course, you sit bold upright. All instrumental information resides down by your right knee, forcing you to take your eyes off the road. Best not to - just use your ears, eyes and other senses. They’ll tell you all you know. That’s why you drive a Land Rover anyway.
Oh, my, what a Christmas gift I received courtesy of Rovers North and East Coast Rover. The whole story appears elsewhere in this issue but the first day of driving reminded me why I love Land Rovers, particularly, my ‘66 Series II-A 88” SW. It’s a frigidly cold Saturday morning in January, -12 degrees F. I have invited my “Little Brother,” Nick Barton, to join me to pick up the car at East Coast Rover in nearby Warren, ME. We get a ride from the ferry terminal on the mainland to ECR and gaze in wonder at my refurbished II-A. I take the keys from under the mat and push the starter button. It groans like Godzilla on his death bed; it will barely ________ P ________ turn over at all. “Ah,” said Mike Smith over the phone, “you didn’t get the email message about your The March issue of Road & Track failed alternator.” As ECR’s Ian Cook said, “Your car reminded me why my Land Rover kept crying ‘New parts, I want new parts.’ Every time required a refurbishment. Columnist we touched something it fell apart.” In Peter Egan writes of driving on a the bitter cold, Mike found he had to take his wife’s Wisconsin night when a deer “launched car as his own truck wouldn’t start either. itself out of a ditch in a graceful arc Nevertheless, he came and jumpand slammed straight into the started my Rover. We gave it side of my car.” The deer that some time to warm up Once destroyed before we caught the next I dried it the front of my Rover, unquestionably a ferry home. New York Yankees fan, waited at the all off, the car fired Once underway the edge of the woods before he ran in front car seemed addicted to up and I pounded of my car. additional choking in this through the There’s a host of reasons that cold weather, not the animal-vehicle collisions have risen. Road norm for my II-A. It idled two foot drifts. building in suburban and exurban areas superbly at 500 rpm or so put macadam through deer territory. In New and accelerated nicely while sitEngland, there’s a real decline in the number of ting still, but it seemed weak-kneed skilled hunters; those filling the diminishing ranks under speed. Land Rover enthusiast Barry often care more about beer consumption than cauEnis, Kent, CT, works as an tious tracking. More and more land has been posted airline mechanic and he reminded me that engines against hunting, giving protection for deer herds. I sitting for a long time can require some running to remember the domesticated deer of Eastnor Castle in flush out any sludge and evaporate any moisture
England, Land Rover’s spiritual home; now we have the same in New York’s Hamptons. It may seem elegant and stately but while you can train a deer to accept food, you can’t train it to look both ways before it crosses the street. Deer are a dangerous nuisance. My Land Rover could be rebuilt; even my old MGB, also assaulted by a deer practicing his long jump, could be repaired after an accident. Moose are deadly. They stand around 7 - 8 feet tall and weigh more than a horse. Their coloration ranges from chocolate brown to black - perfect camouflage for night attacks. Thousands of moose- vehicle accidents have resulted in hundreds of deaths in northern New England. I came to the crest of a long hill on a rural New England road last November and saw a moose cow standing smack in the center of the road. She wasn’t moving anywhere, even with cars stopped in both directions. Nor did she look pleased by all the attention.The bull moose I saw on the side of the road about two weeks later looked more like a theme park monster than one of Mother Nature’s progeny. A down east Maine resident told me of a relative who was following a Kenworth down a rural road one night. The semi hit the moose and killed it, damaging the fender and grill of the truck, and continued down the road. The relative’s minivan ran over the dead moose and still flipped over to on its side. In 1966, my Land Rover came with sealed beam headlights powered by a 25 amp generator. A single circuit brake system, operating 10” drum brakes without any power assist, attempted to stop the car. I used to think that dual circuit, power assisted brakes were overkill. Mike Smith of East Coast Rover insisted that it was the only system he would install in my car; “I don’t want to see it back because you hit another animal!” Once I could be
just as elitist about driving lights, but my newlyinstalled Hella lights and halogen headlamps from Rovers North illuminate the road brilliantly. I now drive at night, much comforted. If you’re out in your Rover often at night, think about extra lighting for your car. If you decide to tackle a moose or similar without additional help, you might lose. Fortunately, a British enthusiast can offer you a heavenly experience in your last moments on earth. Alpha 4x4 in Bedforshire, England, offers you a final ride in a Defender 110 hearse. It’s a stately pearly silver with discretely darkened windows. If you’re a country mouse stuck in the city, desirous of returning to your roots, you can also order an off-road trip for your
Page 39 final voyage. If you’re feeling a little down, the company’s web site also notes that the same company offers wedding services, too. ________ P ________
I live on an island but work off island during the week. When I arrived home one Saturday in January, I found a telephone message from John Esser of Clifton,VA. I phoned him back and enjoyed a 30 minute dialogue on the changes in Land Rover. John and his wife own three Land Rovers, a ‘95 Discovery 5-speed, a Range Rover Classic and a late Series II-A and he fears for the future. “We’re looking to replace my wife’s Discovery but the LR3 leaves
past the Disco on quality surveys - so any change was bound to be an improvement. But the LR3 turned out far better than even a die-hard Land Rover lover might have hoped. It feels like a baby Range Rover, with a smooth ride and driving dynamics that set standards for true off-road vehicles. Its exclusive Terrain Response control take the mystery out of selecting the optimal settings for any driving condition (dry roads, sand, ice, hilly mountain trails). On a single, miserable driving day - constant snow, patches of ice, driving winds - the LR3 never felt less than omnipotent.” Thanks to young Robert Wollsclager, Mystic, CT, I received a copy of Boating World’s test of the Range Rover. Supposedly, they’re testing tow vehicles but we all know it’s really just an excuse to put seat time in this stunning luxury off-roader. Reviewer Dave Kelley loved it; “the unique lines of the Range Rover stand out
quintessential SUV. Want off-roading prowess? You’ve got it. Four-wheeling in a machine this size has never been better, with features such as hill-descent control, which allows the driver to concentrate on steering while the Rover helps with braking on perilously steep grades. Want to stay on the pavement? The 4.4liter V-8 BMW powertrain provides a silent and serene, yet surprisingly powerful, ride. Want a little bit of luxury with your “sport” and “utility”? Check out the standard Windsor leather seats, the cherry or walnut trim, and the Becker GPS navigation system. Want to see what’s possible? Take the Range Rover out for a test drive at one of Land Rover’s off-roading schools (see “The Ride of Your Life”) and ride like a giant.” Today, Puxsutawney Phil, the official groundhog, saw his shadow assuring six more weeks of winter. Then it’s mud season. Feel like a giant. Get out in your Series Rover, Defender, Discovery, or Range Rover. You have the perfect vehicle for all weather.
CHICAGO LAND ROVER CLUB By Les Parker
me cold. I’m afraid, from what you wrote in the article “Mars vs. Venus” that you’re losing it.” What had I written? The article read, in part, “[the LR3 it’s far too modern for my tastes (why do I keep thinking of a Honda Element when I see one) on the outside, but I give Land Rover credit for making a remarkable interior. When you fire it up, the millions of pound sterling spent on modifying the Jaguar block into a proper Land Rover engine becomes understandable. What a majestic car on the road! 4.4 liters and 300 horsepower will do great things; the 6-speed automatic added to the silkiness. There’s a tautness and agility not really felt in any Land Rover I’ve driven. A multitude of cup holders and storage places give me the creeps; this car is intended for on-road touring. Still, the plethora of electronic aids for off roading, from Hill Descent to 4-wheel Electronic Traction Control to the new Terrain Response control knob states firmly that Land Rover hasn’t forgotten its heritage.” Mr. Esser disagreed sharply. The LR3 throws Land Rover in a frightening direction. Give him coil springs, solid rear axles, an engine you can view and work on without disassembling a cover and plugging in diagnostic equipment. James Cobb, NY Times, January 2, 2005, wrote “the LR3’s predecessor, the Discovery II, may have delivered more aggravation per dollar than any vehicle on the market -even cheap Korean Cars danced
[Rovers North’s Les Parker enjoyed time in the Windy City at the October meeting of the Chicago Land Rover Club. Here’s his brief report.]
beautifully from its competition. There’s something elegantly British Colonial about the Range Rover’s lines, a sort of discordance between how the vehicle looks and what it’s capable of, very similar to the way British Army officers of old always looked sharp and spoke impeccably, even while they were storming into battle and causing general mayhem.” What really captivated Kelley was the Range Rover’s off road capability. “Need to work your way along a creek bed with a 45-degree side slope? The Rover can do it. In fact, it can do more things like that than most folks are brave enough to try...Words don’t do justice to the Rover’s off-road chops - you really ahve to take a test drive with an experienced driver, and see and feel it for yourself.” Yes, that’s what separates Land Rovers and places them in a separate category from SUV’s. When Men’s Journal chose its Top 10 SUV’s, the Range Rover came out First Overall. Here’s what they said: “ It all started, more than 50 years ago, with the classic Jeep CJ. Today, however, Land Rover’s Range Rover sits at the top of the heap as the
I had a wonderful time at the club event. Thanks to David Cooper, of Cooper Technica, for hosting the meeting. I was certainly impressed with the great turn out. For all those who did not attend, you missed a great spread of food and the chances to listen to me discuss my history with Land Rovers. I had fun offering some great prizes, too. Unfortunately, I had to miss the December 1 Holiday Party, which promised to be very entertaining. I know that members will be choosing new officers and I want to congratulate those 2005 winners. The club has already scheduled events for the first part of the year and you can catch up with them at www.chicagolandroverclub.com. If you collect t-shirts, they have a nifty one available through their web site. The president for the past two years has been Neil Buchelt; thanks, Neil, for the invitation to the meeting and for your volunteer time on behalf of enthusiasts.
Propshafts Convert you Discovery I Rubber Flex Coupler to the more durable U Joint style propshaft. Kit Includes: New Propshaft, Flange, Rear Seal and all hardware. PLK4100 Proline Discovery I Rear Propshaft Update Kit . . . $ 319.00 Propshaft Assemblies with U Joints PLF315 Front 88 & 109 Series II, IIA, III 88 & 109 . . . . . . . . $ PLE189 Rear 88 Series II, IIA, III 88 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLF358 Rear 109 Series II, IIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLE204 Front Defender 90 V8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLE201 Rear Defender 90 V8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD665 Front Discovery II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ PLD473 Rear Discovery I & Range Rover Classic 100 inch $ U Joint PLF411 RNF411 PLE611 RNE611 PLF411 RNF411
Repair Kit Front Defender 90, 110, ProLine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Front Defender 90, 110, Genuine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Rear Defender 90, 110, ProLine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Rear Defender 90, 110, Genuine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Front or Rear Discovery I, Range Rover Classic ProLine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ Front or Rear Range Rover Classic, Discovery I . . Genuine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
PLD665
Floor Panels for Discovery & Range Rover Classic
179.00 169.00 179.00 279.00 279.00 399.00 239.00 36.50 59.95 29.95 63.95 36.50 59.95
LRD147L Discovery I Outer Sill Replacement
Have you looked under your carpets lately? Land Rover door seals are prone to water leaks, which get absorbed by your carpets and floor insulation. This provides an ideal environment for mold and corrosion, which will lead to your steel floors prematurely rotting out. These new replacement floor panels are patterned as an exact replacement for your inner sills and floor sections, making for a quick and accurate weld-in repair. Replace your rusty and rotted out Land Rover sills and floors with our new replacement body parts. Discovery I Sill Replacement Parts LRD147L Discovery I Inner sill Replacement..............LH .........$ LRD147R Discovery I Inner sill Replacement..............RH.........$ LRD146L Discovery I Outer sill Replacement .............LH .........$ LRD146R Discovery I Outer sill Replacement .............RH.........$ Range RR124L RR124R RR121L RR121R
PLK4100
Rover Classic Sill Replacement Parts RR Classic Inner sill Replacement...............LH .........$ RR Classic Inner sill Replacement...............RH.........$ RR Classic Outer sill Replacement ..............LH .........$ RR Classic Outer sill Replacement ..............RH.........$
Protecting Your Land Rover From Mother Nature Waxoyl Professional Protection Made in Switzerland to meet the toughest European standards, Waxoyl products are now available through Rovers North in convenient DIY large 500ml aerosol cans. Perfect for your underbody, chassis and interior body cavities as well. Give your Land Rover the attention it deserves. RNW5004 RNW5006 RNW5009 RNW5010
120-4 Rust Inhibitor Protection 500ml, interior body cavity & chassis ............$ *15.95 Hardwax Underbody Protection 500ml, exterior chassis & underside. ..........$ *14.95 Cream Wax - Pure Carnauba 0.5 liter, exterior paint finish & protection .......$ 23.95 100+ Paint Sealant Sponge. This easy to use high polymer formula sponge is designed to shield your paint finish against fading, oxidation and industrial fall-out. One application stands up to over 100 car washes...........$ 14.95 RNW5118K Magic Clay System. Includes one Clay Bar, one liter of Moisturizer, and application spray bottle ...................................................................................$ 39.95 RNW5019 Magic Clay Bar (one bar) ........................................................................................$ 27.50 RNW5020 Magic Clay Moisturizer (one liter) .........................................................................$ 14.95 *SAVE 10% on cases of 12 - please inquire!
Visit the link below http://www.roversnorth.com /LRinfomenu.html SALE to download the detailed article on WAXOYL, written by John Robison
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
The Land Rover Enthusiast in 2005
By Jeffrey Aronson A discount auto parts store has limited offerings for Land Rover owners but they can be great places to purchase oil, antifreeze, gear oil and similar fluids. Bruce, a 25-year old man works at one and listened to me chatter about my Series II-A and my Triumph TR-7. He told me of the Triumph Spitfire he worked on with his uncle and of the Range Rover Classic he still regrets selling. How did Bruce, a man born 10 years after the launch of the Range Rover, living 240 miles and nearly 5 hours away from the nearest Land Rover Centre, become a fan of the Range Rover? “I first saw them on television shows. I loved that car,” he said ruefully. “It was awesome on the highway or off-road. It was great to drive, but I got scared by parts costs and availability.” Working in an auto parts store he knows the challenge of finding parts for lesser-known cars; like actor David Spade in a credit card commercial, he has to say “No” more often than he would like. It’s not a position he would like to take towards his own needs. The partnership between Land Rover Classic Parts and Rovers North means that younger enthusiasts can find themselves with affordable, Genuine Parts for their cherished Land Rovers. Older Land Rover enthusiasts cut their eyeteeth on Series Land Rovers when they came onto the used car market. Although more primitive and basic than others built in the 60’s and 70’s, plenty of other SUV’s came with painted metal dashboards, thin cardboard door panels, and minimal creature comforts. As trucks of the era set the standards for creature comfort and safety, Land Rovers did not suffer too badly in comparison. Just as Series Rovers were once available at used car lots, tens of thousands of Range Rover Classics and Discoverys have come onto the used car market. North America has become Land Rover’s largest export market. There’s never been a better time to be a Land Rover enthusiast.
If you grew up in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s, safety concerns - from seat belts to interior padding to braking systems - had become prominent. Improved roadways and highways meant that cruising speed, decibel level, and acceleration had to meet contemporary standards. You expected to find real sound systems, climate control [including air conditioning], comfortable seating and superb off road abilities. Your car had to meet stringent emission and safety standards, too. If your folks bought a Range Rover in the 80’s when you were a tyke, it’s not a surprise that you might want one when you reach your 20’s or 30’s, earning an income and ready to get a quality car. Range Rover and Discovery prices offer a wide range of entry points for any enthusiast. The January 2005 Rovers North Vehicles For Sale listing includes Range Rovers at $1,450, $4,600, $5,000 and $6,140, up to $28,000. The huge range includes custom convertibles, an original ‘87 and an elegant P38A from ‘96. Newer Discoverys range from $11,500 - $17,900. How badly do you really want that similarly priced Kia or Ford? The Range Rover or Discoverys are cars you can bring home to your spouse or significant other without raising the specter of a separation. Your future or present family will be delighted to ride around in an seasoned Range Rover or Discovery. They still look great, hold vast quantities of necessary goods and cosset their drivers. They’re safe and secure, ideal first cars for the one car family. And, if you so desire, you can work on them yourself. Oh, but you yearn for a Defender. Man, I adore Defenders but with only 1,500 or so per year brought in between 1994 - 1998, the market price remains very high for them [you can forget the 500 1993 Defender 110’s unless you have the $37,000 $68,000 asking prices]. Most D 90’s run $20,000 $30,000. As an only car, they’re almost as tough a sell as a Series Rover. Trust me on this - I’ve had experience with this issue. Many a relationship of
Page 41 mine has foundered on my statement, “Let’s take my Rover.” One prospective mother-in-law, unimpressed watching hand crank my II-A, high-fived her daughter when she sent me the “Dear John” letter. Marketing experts and bankers will tell you that Range Rovers purchased during the 80’s and 90’s were rarely a family’s only car; often, it was one of a fleet. That means that many received excellent maintenance and rarely required significant repair. Even the very popular Discovery was often purchased as a second vehicle. The original Range Rover Classic lasted over 25 years in its first iteration; the early models imported into the US (198792) became icons of simple elegance and continue to appeal to many enthusiasts. Similarly, the Discovery Series I provided superb transportation you could maintain and customize; the earliest ones even offered a 5-speed transmission. In 2005, Land Rover reaffirms its commitment by establishing Land Rover Classic Parts (LRCP, aimed specifically at providing Genuine Parts for the owners of Range Rover Classics (1970-1994) and Discovery Series I’s (1989-1994). In North America, the first account for Genuine Parts through LRCP is Rovers North. With over 25 years of exclusively Land Rover experience, Rovers North is acknowledged as the center for classic Land Rover expertise throughout the continent.Rovers North will warehouse the entire line of Range Rover Classic parts. Rovers North’s agreement with LRCP means that Land Rover owners, contemplating the purchase of older, classic vehicles, can purchase them with the assurance that Genuine Parts will remain available. Owners can drive, maintain and restore their vehicles with confidence, knowing that Land Rover continues to maintain and improve the marque. Rovers North president Mark Letorney noted that the creation of LRCP “returns Land Rover parts supply and availability to the high standing of decades past when Land Rover set the industry standard.” This is also a breakthrough for Range Rover owners; as Letorney noted, “LRCP recognizes the Range Rover Classic customer as the do-it-yourself owner/enthusiast who works on their own cars.” So Rovers North and LRCP are now working closely together to determine what parts North American Range Rover Classic owners needed for maintenance, restoration and off-roading. LRCP has made a firm commitment to assure the availability of Land Rover parts at affordable prices, and Rovers North’s unique standing with Land Rover means that it can pass along price savings to enthusiasts. Rovers North has maintained a formal relationship with Land Rover for decades; the announcement of this agreement with LRCP solidifies Rovers North’s standing with enthusiasts. Mark Letorney said that “the only thing that more fun to drive than a new Land Rover is an old Land Rover.” If you’re the kind of automotive enthusiast who wants to control his car’s drivetrain instead of having electronics do all the work for you, the Range Rover Classic or Discovery Series I is for you. Land Rover Classic Parts and Rovers North make it possible. Hey, Bruce, it’s safe to go back to a Range Rover Classic.
Jackall (1)
Jackall Adapter (1)
Fits into the jack receptacles that are located on the Rovers North Sill Protectors, ARB and ZBar bumpers. This adapter provides the safest way to jack up your Land Rover on uneven terrain.
(2)
RNA908 Jackall adapter.............................$ 39.00
(2)
48” Jackall
A rugged, powerful, all-purpose tool that can lift, pull, push or hoist up to 8,000 lbs. It is ideal for self recovery and is widely recommended as an essential component of an off-road vehicle’s kit. RNA901 Jackall............................................$ 69.95
Hi-Lift (3 48” Hi-Lift Jack The original all cast, all purpose jack can lift, pull, push or hoist up to 4,660lbs. HL485
.......................................$ 69.00
(4) 60” Hi-Lift Jack An all cast construction with a 4,660lb rated capacity. This jack is ideal for Land Rovers with oversized tires and or raised suspension, where the extra lift from a taller jack is needed. HL605
.......................................$ 72.50
(5 Off Road Jack Base for Hi-Lift Jacks only
(3
(4) (5) (6)
This base improves the stability of Hi-Lift jacks on soft ground surfaces. This is highly recommended for off- road use in mud and sand, where the cast base of the Hi-lift will sink under the weight of you Land Rover. (Base is for Hi-Lift Jacks ONLY) ORB
.......................................$ 34.95
(6) 4X4 RAC This universal jack rack can be mounted inside or out, where ever your jack will fit. It can be used on Jackall or Hi-Lift jacks. Includes hardware. 4X400
Hi-Lift 4X4 Rack ..........$ 29.75
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Discovery Cup Holders
nd II! a I y r e iscov D s t i F
Fits both Discovery I and II (up to ‘02). These Genuine Land Rover cup holders are the perfect addition to your interior. They feature a slip-in molded insert for smaller drinks and have a nonslip bottom to keep the spills to a minimum. Easily installed with supplied screws. Sets include 2 cup holders. RND490 RND491
Genuine Cup Holder Set, beige.....................$ 54.95 Genuine Cup Holder Set, smokestone .........$ 54.95
Genuine Rubber Floor Mats Genuine black rubber mats are simply the best. The passenger side has extra material and templates for cutting to fit. Raised perimeter and deep tread trap a surprising amount of mud and water. The best fit! Just hose down to clean. Defender 90, 110 RNI067 Front Mats ................................................................................$ RNI070 Defender 110, Middle Footwell .............................................$ Discovery I RNA626 Three Piece Footwell Set.......................................................$ Discovery II RNA676 Three Piece Footwell Set.......................................................$ RNA708 Front Pair ..................................................................................$ Range Rover Classic 4 Pc. Set RNA624 ‘87-1995 100” ............................................................................$ Range Rover P38A RND220 Front and Rear Set ..................................................................$
99.95 92.56
SALE
117.95 162.50 69.95 124.95 179.00
Defender Radio Facia Kit
I Rad nstall a io you or CB rD ash in !
Defender 90 / 110 / 130 Keep your eyes on the road. Makes for easy tuning and adjustments while driving. Can be used for a separate CB installation too. RNH512 Defender Radio Facia Kit .............................................$ 37.68
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
Sightings Once again, Jac’Kiye McCollett, N. Monmouth, ME, has compiled the Sightings for the Rovers North News. She reports “it’s bitterly cold and snowy at my country home but your sightings remind me that spring is really just around the corner. I’ve sent the kids out to play so once again I can relax in front of the fire with a hot cup of coffee that I hope, just like many of you, will someday be in a Rovers North mug. I’ve received a lot of thanks for recognizing your Sightings in the News, but I am the thankful one - if you didn’t search high and low for mention of these British beauties, my life would be much duller.”Let’s kick into winter’s final month and the onset of mud season with a reminder of the rules: Rule #1 - All Sightings receive recognition and our appreciation, but not necessarily a mug. We reward only those Sightings that capture the unique qualities of Land Rovers and their owners, and display them in a unique way. Rule #2 - If your Sighting does not really surprise you, it won’t surprise us, either, and you won’t get a mug. For example, we’re delighted, but not surprised, that Land Rovers appear in British television programmes, British publications, films with British themes, and shows about African safaris. You shouldn’t be surprised, either, and should consider looking for other ways to get a coffee mug. Rule #3 - At an ever-changing date before publication, we close off the Sightings. If we’ve mentioned the Sighting in an earlier issue, we won’t mention it again. If you’re new to the family of Land Rover enthusiasts, you may not have seen your Sighting in an earlier issue. Rule #4 - We’re not outfitting your kitchen. If you qualify, one mug per Sighting per issue. Rule #5 - Sightings that are Land Rover references in books go to our Literary Land Rover editor for mention, but only when space permits. Rule #6 - Psst... if we can’t read you name and address because of atrocious penmanship, we can’t recognize your Sighting nor send you a mug. Psst...E-mail submissions - remember we can’t send a mug by e-mail. Send us your real name and shipping address, too. Rule #7 - Grudgingly, very grudgingly, the Editor admits he might make an error. Let me know if you think you’ve been jobbed, but all decisions of the Editor are final. Out of all the Sighting entries we received this time around we must say this one is our favorite. Hyter
Page 44 Lancaster, Versailles, KY, writes in hoping to “Win Big” with this Kentucky Lottery ticket, which shows an old Series Rover in appropriate surroundings. Perhaps Hyter didn’t win the $12,000 prize but for a coveted Rovers North mug - well, what’s $12,000? Brian Hippley, Greenwood Village, CO, sent us a couple photos of Series Land Rovers he found in “The Edge”, a Denver newspaper. The campground in the back looks like the perfect Winter Wonderland. Peter Hoyle, Yonkers, NY, tells us he’s seen Brad Pitt in the news promoting his new movie Oceans 12, driving around in a new blue Range Rover somewhere in Italy. We wonder if the Range Rover will become the new gondola. He also tells us the coming attraction for Jennifer Lopez’s new movie, Monster In-Laws shows her in a new Range Rover as well. Another movie comes to us from Beth Taylor, Rixeyville, VA, where a mid 90’s white Range Rover is being rear ended in the first 10 minutes of the horror flick “Wrong Turn.” Jim Senior, Terryville, CT, describes Michael Keaton discussing the new movie “White Noise”. In the clip he saw on the Today show, which dated January 5th, he is having a discussion on a city street, standing in front of a beautiful Epsom Green “Range Rover Classic.” He also states “It looks great in any environment!” Jim happily owns an Epsom Green’98 Discovery Series l. “Sweet Sixteen” a Scottish film features a P38A Range Rover mid-way through. Steven Walls, Baton Rouge, LA, says sending this in is his feeble attempt at a free coffee mug. I’m afraid he’ll have to settle for the recognition instead. We do wish you happy adventures in your 1994 Defender 90. A Canadian commercial for the 7-11 shows two guys in a car with one eating a new breakfast sandwich. It turns out he is eating it from his friends hand, but if you watch out the drivers door window, you’ll see a P38A Range Rover drive by. Colin Hughes, Cannington, Ontario, wonders if this commercial runs in the US as well. Well Colin, we haven’t seen it yet, but we’re sure hoping the friend watches out for his fingers. John Schranz, Tallahassee, FL, saw a great photo of a cheetah sitting atop a Series Rover (with tropical roof) on the website http://go.to.funpic. I’d advise parental consent when viewing this site as it is a bit explicit. You’ll see a similar ad, a cheetah sitting on a tire-clad bonnet, for the Boston Globe. An advertisement for Unmanned Systems Asia Pacific International Conference shows a D110 launching an Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV). Dan Rao, Great Mills, MD, spots this in the December 7-13 issue of “Flight International.” Reality television shows has shown a lot of Land Rovers lately, and this next Sightings is no exception. Nicholas Pistolakis, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, sighted a Defender 110 on the Rebel Billionaire. Another Fox TV show that has made its way in the Rovers North News this time around is “The O.C.” Ryan and Seth drive around,
I’m sure looking very cool, in a black Range Rover. We’ve noted it before, but congratulations to Chris Cronin, Wells, ME. Donald McFarlane, Princeton Junction, NJ, was surprised to see a picture of a Land Rover on
the picture of the camera for sale at overstock.com. What a great way to entice us to look at that camera! Was the Land Rover for sale too, Donald? Jerry Dockery, Kure Beach, NC, saw a Land Rover Series III RHD in a Christmas Parade in Carolina Beach, NC. He says it’s been recently restored and sported a really great zebra paint job. He also informs us it belongs to Barbara Bach; owner of Pleasure Island Safari. On the Sunday WB, a green Defender 90 is featured driven by a young couple to a getaway. Erik Hemingway, Beverly Hills, MI, tells us he has never seen the mainstream American Gen X embrace the Rover before. We sure see the popularity of the Defender crossing generations. Michael Fredie, South Lawrence, MA, sent in some pretty outrageous photos. It seems the crane operators were unaware of the limitations of their equipment. A crane, sent in to pull a Ford Focus out of the water, collapses in a heap. What amazed Michael was a navy blue Defender Station Wagon in the background behind the cranes. The final photo appears to be the Defender’s owner using his Warn winch to pull out not only the Ford Focus but the crane, too. What a wonderful example of a Land Rover’s versatility. Red Rover, Red Rover, send a coveted Rovers North mug right over to Sarah Terpening, Tucson, AZ, for a gorgeous RR located in a Federal Credit union brochure. Gina Jordan, Tucson, AZ, sends in a photo of a beautiful silver Range Rover from “The Specialists.” Lt Col, J.F. “Bear” Daughtry, delights us with a photo of a Defender escorting Prince Hamzah and Princess Noor after their wedding in Jordan last spring. It was featured in the June 04 edition of “iHOLA!” - a Spanish high-society magazine. An amateur radio advert clearly shows a Defender displaying the use of a radio in an outdoorsy setting, and Paul Shram, Fort Wayne, IN, knows his rules as he lets us know “this meets Sighting rule 1 for capturing unique qualities of Rovers”. He’s right, but we’ve run it before, too. Who ever heard of ‘threes a crowd’ wasn’t an enthusiast of Landies. The Dec/Jan issue of Cargo on page 192 shows a lovely ‘04 Discovery and Range Rover. *Heath McGuire, Trion, GA, also spots a
Defender 110 in holiday Filson catalogue and a Green Series lll in the Winter issue of Mini Boden catalogue. Thanks for all three of these Sightings Heath, and look for your mug in the mail! Ron Thompson, Baltimore, MD and Butch Dillon, Hutchinson, KS found a sporty looking cream colored Series ll pick-up stands out on the back of an Athleta Catalog. I’m wondering why would they put this highly exciting vehicle on the back? Robert Wollschlager, Mystic, CT, sent in a shot of a Defender on the cover of Travel + Leisure magazine, which shows a woman standing on a chair that looks to be built into the grill, looking smart in a crisp white outfit.
Letters to the Editor
Dear Mr. Letorney, Thank you so much for your generous support of the Houston Land Rover Club. Because of your company, we were able to give away really great door prizes at our Annual General Meeting in November, 2004. The Houston Land Rover Club continues to grow with many new members and strives at providing social, educational and recreational family activities for our members. We really appreciate the support we receive from Rovers North. Barbara Jacoby Howell Secretary (2004 Discover Series II G4) [Rovers North is pleased to join other companies in supporting enthusiast organizations like yours. On a personal note, I remember a terrific trip I took to Houston in 1998, a fun general meeting and dinner, and a fine day of off-roading at Lake Somerset. Keep up the good work ed]. ________ P ________
Winners: Hyter Lancaster Versailles, KY
Michael Fredie South Lawrence, MA
Brian Hippley Greenwood Village, CO
Sarah Terpening Tucson, AZ
Jim Senior Terryville, CT
Gina Jordan Tucson, AZ
Donald McFarlane Princeton Junction, NJ
Heath McGuire Trion, GA
Jerry Dockery Kure Beach, NC
Ron Thompson Baltimore, MD
Erik Hemingway Beverly Hills, MI
Butch Dillon Hutchinson, KS
Colin Hughes Ontario, Canada
Dear Mark, On behalf of the members of SOLAROS [Southern Land Rover Society], I would like to thank you and your team for supporting the Eleventh Annual SOLAROS Southern Appalachian Expedition. Your generous contribution helped us generate over $3,000 in the Saturday Night Charity Auction. We will be awarding checks to both the Children’s Miracle Network and the American Red Cross during our December meeting. As small tokens of our appreciation, I am enclosing both a t-shirt and a certificate for display. We will also be including an advertisement for your company in the Greenlaner. If there’s anything else we can do for you please don’t hesitate to ask. Thanks again for your support. David Murrell Atlanta, GA [Your organization has grown rapidly and has embodies the qualities sought by Land Rover enthusiasts. We’re excited to be a small part of your success and appreciate your recognition of the Rovers North team. All we ask is that you continue your commitment and energy to the values of Land Rover ownership -ed]. ________ P ________
Dear Mr. Letorney, I would like to commend Rovers North for the caliber and degree of excellence of the personnel that your corporation employs, in particular, Arthur
Page 45
Patsouris. Without his tireless efforts I would not have been able to put my Discovery back on the road. Arthur discovered that the Rover Parts Catalogue was incorrect for a transmission bearing in my Discovery Series I. Initially, we believed that an incorrectly marked or boxed part was shipped from Rovers North; however, through Arthur’s persistence it was discovered that the Land Rover Parts Catalogue was incorrect, and that the correct part could only be obtained from England using a UK part number not listed in the USA parts catalogue. Thank you Rovers North - you’re the greatest! Keep up the great work. Walter Strieter Newport News, VA [Arthur Patsouris has answered numerous questions for me, too, particularly those about related British Leyland products. He’s quite encyclopedic in his knowledge and he was thrilled with your shared “discovery.” -ed]. ________ P ________
Dear Mark, I want to thank you for your help and sponsorship of the Chicago Land Rover Club meeting. I particularly appreciated Les Parker’s visit and always welcome any chance I get to visit with him. He is a great asset to your company. A number of visitors at the meeting expressed pleasure at putting a face with a familiar voice meeting Les in person. One of the themes of our presentation was helping to update Series Land Rovers to make them more comfortable for people to use regularly. To this end Les and I showed a number of parts including the new alloy hinges, the Mantec spare wheel carrier, and two new items, a seat belt support bar for soft tops and a new interior distribution box for the Rovers North Mansfield heater. I realized this week that we have been doing business together for 15 years and that’s a long time. I’m confident we will be doing so for many years to come. Continued on pg 46
Letters to the Editor
continued from pg 45 David Cooper Chicago Land Rover Club Cooper Technica, Inc. Chicago, IL [We enjoy our contact with the club and really appreciated the convoy of enthusiasts who drove to the British Invasion a few years ago. Les had a great time in the Windy City and took pleasure in meeting voices at the other end of the telephone. Your company has been a great support for enthusiasts in the Midwest; here’s hoping we all revel in decades of continued enjoyment of our vehicles -ed.] ________ P ________
Dear Editor, Thank you to Rovers North for the service you provide to all of us Land Rover owners. The medium duty Old Man Emu suspension and K&N air filer I purchased from Rovers North for my Discovery Series II have performed flawlessly. Brian Hippley Greenwood Village, CO [We’re Land Rover owners, too, from Series Rovers to Discoverys to Range Rovers. It’s great to hear from enthusiasts who are pleased with enhancements to their Land Rovers -ed].
Page 46 me. It was on my list! Sigh...thanks for the compliment. We’re thrilled that Land Rover called Rovers North and gave us the opportunity to become the first distributor for North America -ed] ________ P ________
Dear Rovers North, I just wanted to let you know I’ve finished all the major work on my 1971 Series II-A restoration. I could always count on your for the parts and information I needed. I’d love to have it featured in your catalogue if you’re looking for entries. Michael Williams St. James, NY [Better yet, we’ll include it in this issue of the Rovers North News. For additional information we urge readers to visit www.roverhaul.com. . The restoration looks terrific! It can proudly join your 2003 Range Rover in your Land Rover stable -ed] ________ P ________
Dear Rovers North, I just wanted to let you know that your “Roverhauln” for Jeff Aronson is unbelievable. Although I am still looking for my own Land Rover,. I check your BBS (www.roversnorth.com) and your website every day for information, updates, etc., and I have to tell you that all of my money will got to you just for what you’ve done. I follow his comings and goings in the Rovers North News and Land Rover Enthusiast; just in case no one thanks you, well, thank you. David Stoll Galway, NY [The story begins in this issue of the Rovers North News; for additional information, visit www.eastcoastrover.com. Just as importantly, since you’re looking for a Land Rover, read their admonitions with care. Believe me, I have only begun to thank friends, colleagues and enthusiasts in the Land Rover world for helping me relaunch the QE I , my Series II-A! -ed.] ________ P ________
________ P ________
Dear Rovers North, Because Santa brought me a great 1994 Defender 90 on Christmas Eve, I now have two Rovers in the garage, the other being my 1995 Range Rover Classic. It seems I’ll be spending some of my down time in the garage with these two gentle beasts, and I was delighted that you’ve been appointed the first official distributorship for Land Rover Classic Parts. Steven Walls Baton Rouge, LA [You received the Defender 90?!! That’s where it went. I’m sure Santa was supposed to deliver it to
Dear Rovers North, I’m the proud owner of a 2000 Discovery and a 1971 Series II-A 88”. A growing family has caused my II-A to sit on the sidelines but I do drive my Discovery daily. My family and I have made the Low Country our new home, so please keep the Rovers North News and catalogues coming to our new address! Drew Heinold Mt. Pleasant, SC ________ P ________
Dear Rovers North, The morning after receiving your always informative and enjoyable winter edition of The Rovers North News, here in northwestern Connecticut we’re expecting eight inches of snow for our ‘98 Epsom Green Discovery Series I. I look forward to getting out in the snow.
By the way, does anyone have a “Moose” spare tire cover from a Land Rover dealer out there? We bought ours at Land Rover - Rockville (MD) before moving to Connecticut. Jim Senior Terryville, CT [Maine, Vermont or New Hampshire Land Rover Centers might have the moose logo you seek. We certainly have enough moose in northern New England; I saw 3 along rural roads over the past two weeks. If not, why not look at the Africa theme ones we feature at Rovers North? -ed] ________ P ________
Dear Rovers North, The postman just delivered my “Sightings” award mug. Great logo! Thank you and I really enjoy the Rovers North News. Pat Defender 90 #1196 [We’re delighted that you enjoy the News; we enjoy the effort you put into your Sightings -ed] ________ P ________
Dear Rovers North, I have to put on the winter top on the D-90 today as rain is predicted. It’s rough here in Southern California! Gordon Miller Sierra Madre, CA [You can have the ran and the mudslides in Southern California - we’ll take the endless snowstorms in northern New England. Fortunately, we both have Land Rovers to tackle gnarly weather -ed]
Genuine and ProLine Radiators all NEW radiators the BEST PRICES period Series II, IIA, III PLC513 2.25 ltr, Series IIA, III, 1970 on. May be fitted to earlier 2.25 ltr. Land Rovers by fitting late type top and bottom hoses. Radiator, Proline
..............................................$ 239.95 Discovery I ‘94-1999 PLC062 w/ Automatic Transmission, Radiator, Proline................$ 379.00 RNC997 Plastic Fill Plug, Radiator, Genuine ..............................................$ 2.09 Range Rover Classic ‘87-1992 PLC020 ‘87-1998. Radiator, Proline ..............................................$ 309.00 PLC019 ‘89-1992, Radiator, Proline ..............................................$ 399.00 RNC997 Plastic Fill Plug, Radiator, Genuine ..............................................$ 2.09 Defender 90, 110 PLD500 300 Tdi radiator with intercooler, Proline.................................$ 499.00 PLD496 200 Tdi radiator only, Proline ..............................................$ 279.00
Cargo Tire Covers and Fitted Rear Tire Covers
Cargo Tire Cover shown open with zippered flap for easy access, and (inset) shown zipped closed.
Choose from our two styles of high quality rear tire covers. Keep your recovery gear organized and handy with our innovative Cargo Tire Cover. It is designed with three large storage pockets under the zippered flap to allow easy access to your gear when you need it. Or choose our fitted Rear Tire Cover to protect your spare tire from the elements. Both styles are made of thick, durable black vinyl with elastic back to ensure a snug fit. Choose the Land Rover Logo or one of our Safari themes shown. Covers with suffix A fit original equipment standard tire sizes 205/80x18”, 235/70x16”, 255/75x18”. Covers with suffix B fit larger than standard tire sizes 245/75x16”, 750x16”, 235/85x16” and 265/75x16” [1]
[1] Land Rover RNCCLRA Cargo Cover, standard................$ RNCCLRB Cargo Cover, large ......................$ RNE387 Tier Cover, standard....................$ RNE386 Tier Cover, large ..........................$
139.00 149.00 99.00 119.00
[2] 88” Series on Safari RNCCSA Cargo Cover, standard................$ RNCCSB Cargo Cover, large ......................$ RNTCSA Tier Cover, standard....................$ RNTCSB Tier Cover, large ..........................$
139.00 149.00 99.00 99.00
[3] Elephant RNCCEA RNCCEB RNTCEA RNTCEB
Cargo Cover, standard................$ Cargo Cover, large ......................$ Tier Cover, standard....................$ Tier Cover, large ..........................$
139.00 149.00 99.00 99.00
[4] Tiger RNCCTA RNCCTB RNTCTA RNTCTB
Cargo Cover, standard................$ Cargo Cover, large ......................$ Tier Cover, standard....................$ Tier Cover, large ..........................$
139.00 149.00 99.00 99.00
[5] Rhino RNCCRA RNCCRB RNTCRA RNTCRB
Cargo Cover, standard................$ Cargo Cover, large ......................$ Tier Cover, standard....................$ Tier Cover, large ..........................$
139.00 149.00 99.00 99.00
[2]
[4]
[3]
[5]
Orders: 1-800-403-7591 Tech: (802) 879-0032 website: www.roversnorth.com
A world of
enthusiasts. © 2005 Rovers North Inc 1319 VT Route 128, Westford, Vermont 05494-9601, USA 1-800 403-7591 • Tech: 802.879.0032 roversnorth.com / Code # NSP55
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
PAID PERMIT NO. 21 Burlington, VT