Description
1957 88" Series One Land Rover. Originally CKD to Australia, was last on the road there in 1980 according to the South Australia windscreen sticker. Re-imported a few years ago as a barn find. I bought it from the importer and have done all that was needed to make it a usable and reliable vehicle again. As with most Australian vehicles there is no rot. Bulkhead is perfect and chassis has only surface rust. Every single nut and bolt I needed to undo came free without seizing, even the brake pipe clips! I've kept the body exactly as it was as far as possible, but have done the following work:
New brake cylinders, shoes and springs. New drums front, master cylinder rebuilt and new brake pipes. Rear axle converted to fully floating using correct S1 halfshafts. Front axle rebuilt and converted to Railko bushes. Both diffs were good and just needed the pinion bearings adjusting up. All new track rod ends, steering box and relay checked and oils replaced. New front springs (Jones). New fuel tank. New old stock clutch pedal and clutch relay shaft. along with new bushes. New clutch. Good used factory refurb gearbox fitted (original available if you want it). New wiring harness and voltage regulator. Radiator re-cored and new water pump and hoses. New carb. Engine was pretty good so has needed no major work. Runs well with good oil pressure, doesn't smoke. Has had a flush and two further oil changes.
Has a pair of good door tops and a usable canvas. New seat bases and aircraft lap belts fitted.
Ex-military 5. 5" rims and 750 G90 tyres.
Now runs and drives well for a Series One and cosmetically wears it's years with pride. I've had many Land Rovers since the 1980's and fancied another. Now it's back as it should be and I'm wanting a fresh project. It's genuine "patina" adds to the charm.
