Re: Longevity of Series Components Posted by Michael from Oz on October 29, 1998 at 15:14:20: In Reply to: Longevity of Series Components posted by Greg Chait on October 29, 1998 at 11:25:16: G'day The problem with old Land Rovers is not so much how strong they are or how well they were built, but what they have been doing for the tlast thirty years. A Land Rover that has been correctly maintained and used within its limitations will last a very long time. The Series IIa gearbox is a pretty tough beast but as it is often used incorrectly there can be damage to first gear. (Series I boxes are similar but seem to last even longer). I would suggest it will need (or at least benefit from) new bearings and probably a new first gear set. It is also probably tired in the 3-4 synchro. Old boxes love to slide out of 3rd and 4th on the over run. The transfer case is probably OK. They are very over engineered. It will benefit from bearings and new thrusts on the intermediate gear. The engine is very long lasting. If it has done over 200,000 miles it will probably be tired and in need of a rebore. The Zenith carby wears on the butterfly shaft and the top cover warps. Distributor may be clapped - no one ever oils them. Clutch is large and lasts well but has probably got oil on it and will be shuddery. The front gearbox "seaL" is pretty ineffective and the rear engine maine seal also leaks. (never park with the nose down hill on a steep hill for an extended period). The diffs last well though their pinion seals tend to leak. The swivel balls on the front axle are probably pitted and the big seals that run on them probably no longer hold oil. If not pitted, then just new seals. The wheel bearings are large and last forever if they are correctly lubricated. Prop shafts wear - especially the front one. The steering box is generally pretty good but will benefit from some fresh oil and perhaps some seals The electrics are British. 'nuff said. Brakes are simple and effective but will probably need a complete overhaul. I would use all new cylinders and hoses and I would replace at least the pipe under the battery as they often are rusty. Radiator is large and works well but time has probably taken its toll. And so on. Michael |
