Spring 2007 Rovers North News

Hey - I’m a Car Guy Three Girls in the Rangie What To Do in the Snow

Discovery of3,000 Kilometers

NEW STEERING ILLUSTRATIONS INSIDESAVE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

Orders: (800) 403-7591 website: www.roversnorth.com2

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TS OPTIMA YellowTop BATTERIES

Benefits• Dual purpose starting and deep cycling.• Lasts up to 2 times longer than other batteries.• Constant performance quality keeps your battery running at thesame level even as it’s being discharged.

• More power in the initial 1, 3, 5, and 10 seconds of the startingprocess than comparably rated conventional lead acid batteries.

• Ideal for seasonal use, fully charged, it can sit unused for up to 12months at room temperature (or below) and still start a car.

• 15 times more resistant to vibration than other batteries.• Nonspillable and can mount in almost any position.

SC34DA .......................................................................................$ 149.00

OPTIMA RedTop BATTERIESBenefits• Lasts up to 2 times longer than other batteries.• Constant performance quality keeps your battery running at thesame level even as it’s being discharged.

• More power in the initial 1, 3, 5, and 10 seconds of the startingprocess than comparably rated conventional lead acid batteries.

• Ideal for seasonal use, fully charged, it can sit unused for up to 12months at room temperature (or below) and still start a car.

• 15 times more resistant to vibration than other batteries.• Nonspillable and can mount in almost any position.

SC34R .......................................................................................$ 129.00

PRO COMP 2 INCH LIFTPERFORMANCE SUSPENSION KITSGaining suspension height for larger tires, and off-road capability isa popular request from enthusiasts looking to improve their LandRover. Our new Pro Comp performance suspension kit was devel-oped to satisfy this need. You gain 2 inches in suspension heightwithout decreasing the vehicle’s handling or stability on-road. Toensure adequate flexible brake line length and axle stop position,we recommend that when fitting taller Pro Comp suspension kits alsofit our extended flexible stainless steel brake line kit and our extend-ed polyurethane axle stops (see page 34).

See page 31 for full Pro Comp kits.....................................$ 489.00

Orders: (800) 403-7591 website: www.roversnorth.com 3

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NEW DEFENDER FRONTDOOR ASSEMBLYNew Genuine Defender one piece front door assembly in Chawtonwhite with black interior. Fits all 90, 110 and 130 model years.Features manual roll up window, and lock system. Includes all han-dles, seals, limit arm, and bottom hinge. Missing key and top hinge.One time purchase, limited quantity.A $ 1,600.00 value, for only 899.00

DFD01R .............................................................................$ 899.95DFD01L .............................................................................$ 899.95

WHEEL FLARE SETWheel Flare set for Discovery I 1994-1999 & Range Rover Classic1983-1995. The road legal solution for tires too wide for your LandRover. Easy to install, and easy to modify. Made of high strength flexi-ble plastic compound that will hold up to off-road use. 2 inches wide,supplied in black. Adaptable to factory openings or ones cut oversize. Complete kit for 4 door Discovery I & Range Rover Classic.Includes hardware and some very British instructions.Regularly $ 699.00, now only $ 499.00RNA350 .............................................................................$ 499.95

BATTERY DISCONNECT SWITCHDisconnect your battery from your Land Rover for safe vehiclestorage, or to help deter vehicle theft. Supplied with 2 removablekeys and cover as shown.

PLH748 .............................................................................$ 12.50

NEWPRODUCTS

The Land Rover community lost one of its most storied members withthe passing of Bill Vallerand, in Greene, Maine, on February 10, 2007

His formal name was Alphonse William Vallerand, but from hisbirth in 1932 he never stood on formality. He joined three previousgenerations of Vallerands to run Glenrock Springs Water Company,which bottled and shipped water to thousands of clients throughoutcentral Maine. Under his leadership, the company grew from a one-person operation to substantial family business.

Bill’s interests were wide-ranging and shared willingly and joy-ously with other enthusiasts. His vast technical and historical knowl-edge of small arms became the basis for his writing and investment inSmall Arms Review, a national magazine.

He also embraced Land Rovers and passed his interest to hissons, John and Peter, and his daughters Christine, Carolyn andTheresa. He and his family traveled about New England and easternCanada to Rover gatherings. At any Land Rover event, Bill would bringone of his many fascinating and well-used Land Rovers: a Series I, awell-used Series II-A 109”, a Series II-A FC that he had purchasedfrom an African NGO, even an early 90’s Range Rover. His wife, Peggy,children and grandchildren would always be present in a Land Rover,too. It was no surprise to meet Mike and Christine (Vallerand)Dupuis of Wanalancet, NH, and discover that he also had a SeriesLand Rover. Mike explained that it seemed to be a requirement toenter the family.

Bill also contributed his knowledge and enthusiasm with LandRover clubs nationally and locally in New England. After meeting at anevent, his new acquaintance would often find himself invited to thefamily farm and water bottling plant in Greene where you could tourthe barns full of carefully archived Land Rover parts, or you couldenjoy a tour of the fields in which Land Rovers seemed to flourish. Hebecame highly regarded as an independent Land Rover repairmanand consultant on Rover’s mechanical idiosyncrasies, and willinglyshared his knowledge with everyone.

It’s been said that Land Rover enthusiasm brings out the best inpeople, but Bill’s passing reminds us that it’s extraordinary people

who bring their intelligence and personality into Land Rovers. AtRovers North, we’ll miss Bill greatly and send our best wishes to hisfamily and many friends.

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Bill Vallerand

4 Bill Vallerand

7 Letters to the Editor

14 Hey - I’m a Car Guy by Joey Boerner

16 Dry-docked by Mike Koch

28 Behind the Steering Wheel by Jeffrey B. Aronson

38 Robison on Rovers by John Robison

48 Educating Girls with Most GloriousLeadership Off Road by Hallie Vail

50 Three Girls in a Rangie by Amy Sawchak

50 Employee Profile: Arthur Patsauris

54 What to Do In the Snow by Jeffrey B. Aronson

62 Sightings

The Rovers North News is a publication of

Rovers North, Inc.

Publisher: Mark LetorneyEditor: Jeffrey B. AronsonDesigner: Matthew Martin

©2006 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

Sales & Tech Line: 1-800-403-7591 / (802) 879-0032

Website: www.roversnorth.com

Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00 - 5:30; Sat: 8:30 - 12:30 EST

Prices subject to change without notice.

Sightings submissions may be sent to our above address

or email to [email protected]

THEROVERSNORTHNEWS CONTENTS

COVER STORY18 Discovery of 3,000 Kilometers By Roger Sutcliffe

NEW PRODUCTS INTERIOR EXTERIOR OFF-ROAD

SUSPENSION MECHANICAL RESTORATION STEERING


(A) Genuine Discovery I and II Cup HoldersFor both Discovery I & II, these Genuine Land Rover cup holders are the perfect addi-tion to your interior. They feature a slip-in molded insert for smaller drinks and have anon-slip bottom to keep the spills to a minimum. *Will not fit 2003 or 2004 vehicles.

RND490 Genuine Cup Holder Set for Discovery I/II, beige. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 57.70RND491 Genuine Cup Holder Set for Discovery I/II, smokestone . . . . . . . . . $ 57.70

(B) Great prices on Custom FitLand Rover Genuine MatsGenuine black rubber mats are simply the best for protecting carpets. The pas-senger side has extra material and templates for cutting to fit. Raised perimeterand deep tread trap a surprising amount of mud and water. The best fit! Justhose down to clean.Defender 90, 110RNI067 Front Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 109.95RNI070 Defender 110, Middle Footwell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 94.45Discovery I 1994 - 1999RNA626 Three Piece Footwell Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 117.95Discovery II 1999 - 2004RNA676 Three Piece Footwell Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 159.95RNA708 Front Pair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 74.95Range Rover Classic 4 Pc. Set 1987 - 1995RNA624 ‘87-1995 100” (NOT LWB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 119.95Range Rover P38A 1995 - 2002RND220 Front and Rear Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 189.95

(C) Defender Insulated Front Rubber Floor MatsGenuine heavy duty insulated with Land Rover Logo.RNF480 RH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $128.00RNF481 LH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $128.00

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Dear Rovers North,Thanks for reprinting the Land RoverEnthusiast article a couple of years ago[Summer 2005 article by Kevin Girling -ed]about Land Rover Centurion Adventures inSouth Africa. I was finally able to go this pastweek for a 7 day Ivory Route trip. It wasabsolutely fabulous and well done. Our guide,Gerard van Megaarden, was very professionaland knowledgeable. I wrote a journal of thetrip and took hundreds of pictures to remem-ber it by. The Defender 110’s with the Tdimotor worked so well in the challenging offroad environment. If anyone wants informa-tion, please have them contact me.Paul KiszelyVia Email[You can contact Paul [email protected]. We’d love to shareyour experience with our readers, too –ed]

Dear Rovers North,I have to say that Rovers North News keepsgetting better. Erika, my daughter, and I thor-oughly enjoy it! Erika is quite a Rover enthu-siast and hopes to drive one of them to schoolwhen she gets her license. Our most epic tripto date was when she was 12 years old. Sheand I drove our Discovery across Canada toVancouver Island, British Columbia, andback. We slept outdoors on my speciallydesigned roof platform for 31 of the 34 daysof our 8,586 mile trip. Our last night wasspent in the Rovers North back parking lot. Iam so pleased that our Land Rover andRovers North gave us this lifetime experience.

Stewart OlsonLeverett, MA[So it was you! We wondered who wassleeping in the Discovery in the back lot!You’ll probably enjoy the story in this issueof the Western Canada family trip; we’dlove to have yours, too. –ed]

Dear Editor,A note to you regarding the “Loyalty toRovers” Clan; I am one of them, however,taken into actual consideration of facts andfrustration there comes a point in time whenloyalty has its cost.

While living in Vermont I was advised bynone other than Rovers North to purchase a1989 Range Rover. Rather than deal with thecold, long winter driving 30 mountain milesto my dental office, the Series Land Rover wasnot a choice under those conditions. TheRange Rover spent more time on the dealer’sflatbed than all my previous vehicles com-bined. Loyalty, well, yes, I still loved it exceptfor the habit of doing 180 degree turns on theMiddlesex [VT] mud and ice. I installed sta-bilizer bars and eliminated the fashionableRover so-called articulation.

I drove the 1989 well into 1999 and mywinter retirement in Taos, NM. The tailgate,gas lines and more rusted away and I tradedit for a rust-free but tatty 1960 Series II 109”Station Wagon. At first, my wife thought I hadlost my mind – I tended to agree. Behold,after a transmission rebuild, paint job andgeneral work on the 109”, it won her over. Itis the basis for real Land Rover loyalty.

I then tried another Range Rover, a ’91Classic. This is a dependable, relatively easyto maintain vehicle. Now comes my latest, a1973 Series III 88”. I towed it to Nachitoches,LA, our fall/spring home, and over the pastfew weeks I’ve been putting the finishingtouches on the vehicle, readying it to be myLouisiana driver. The Weber carb runs finebut the vacuum line is not hooked up becauseit runs poorly when it’s attached. Yes, home inNew Mexico is a 7,000 ft; home in Louisianais at 70 feet. Any suggestions?

Last but not least, I’ve replaced my RangeRover with a new Toyota FJ Cruiser – securi-ty, peace of mind and I think it will do any-thing or more than those new hi-tech RangeRovers. Loyalty to these cars is out the door!!Dr. Ed KollarTaos, NM

[We will certainly forgive you your tempo-rary indiscretion of identifying a replicarlike the FJ with a Range Rover. They’re real-ly quite different automobiles, and evenToyota has been struck with reliabilityproblems on its range of automobiles.Maybe the new FJ is just the right car foryou at this time. As for the Weber and thevacuum hose, check the Haynes manual forthe emission controls of that vintage. Anyadvice would depend on what’s still on theengine right now. Let us know when you’recoming home to Vermont for a visit –ed.]

Dear Mark,Just received a little box from Rovers North –a mug. What a great way to brighten up a day!The “Sightings” is a good way to keep uslooking for what all of us that have Roverfever, are looking for anyway.

The new format for the Rovers NorthNews sure does look good. The Rovers NorthNews keeps us informed, driving an old Rovercan keep us humble. I think I can related toMr. Aronson’s experience with his QE I thanwith Mr. Carvey and his beloved “Bessie” [seeOctober 2006 issue –ed].Leighton OggHouston, TX[Thanks for the compliments and enjoyyour coffee in the Sightings mug. I haveowned the QE I for only 17 [not 50, like Mr.Carvey] years, and yes, it has broken down.–ed]

Dear Rovers North,In November 2006 I started calling your com-pany for parts to rebuild a 1967 Series II-A. Ihave worked with Les, Steve and Mike. I havefound each of these gentlemen to be extreme-ly knowledgeable, very patient with someonewho doesn’t know much about this vehicle,and always willing to help answer my ques-tions and provide me with the parts andadvice I need. All too often, the managementof any company hears only about those thingsthat go wrong. I wanted to be one who sharedwith you a continual story of success andappreciation for the quality of people youhave staffing your parts/sales department.They all have done an outstanding job for meand I wanted you to know that. Thank you andyour staff for being there when I need you!Gerald RayVia email

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

8

[Les, Steve and Mike have developed a lot ofpatience because I’ve called in before youeach time – after a question from me,nothing sounds ridiculous to them! Thanksfor taking the time to let us know whenthings go well, too. Send us photos of yourII-A; we’d love to share your success withour readers –ed.]

Dear Rovers North,Thanks so much for the wonderful and help-ful support for parts and advice on theDiscovery. Arthur is always helpful, frequentlyanswers the phone after hours, and is therewith advice and assistance during installation.Great job, Arthur! Hold onto Arthur – he iswhat we as customers look for in every ven-dor we use from A to Z.John McDanielDallas, TX[Oh no, not another fan of Arthur! He’s notthe famous aardvark, you know! Did hismother make you write this? –ed]

Hi Guys,I just had to email you and tell you how muchI enjoy looking at the pics on your website. Ienvy you. I am rebuilding a 1969 Series LandRover but it will never see the country youguys have over there in the USA.

I have enclosed a picture of my LandRover’s last trek before the complete re-build.I went off roading at 01:00 am with one head-lamp and no jacket in the middle of winter,(stupid, I know). I straddled somethingunder the water and there she stood until thenext day before a friend pulled her out. I had

to break the ice before I could open the door.Hey, the course was there and it had to bedone!All the best,Colin BullPitsford, NorthamptonshireEngland[We stare in admiration at the croppedgreenery of Jolly Olde England, but we doappreciate the vast tracts of land we havefor off-roading here in North America. Ofcourse, we’ve never gotten our Rovers stuck[yeah, right!] – ed.

Dear Rovers North,Just want to thank your parts guys from reallyoutstanding service. It is very refreshing todeal with people who practice what theypreach, i.e., real customer service. Our localLand Rover dealer suffers from the “we’remuch better than you” mindset. As long as Iown a Land rover, I’ll be coming to you for myparts.Brian SylvesterGoochland, VA[Then we certainly hope you own a LandRover for a long, long time! –ed.]

My Dear Editor,Best wishes for a happy holiday season andmay it be a most prosperous one. And, by theway, I very much like your emerging newwebsite. When done, it will be a joy to use;which, the old one was decidedly not.Rex B. StrattonVashon Island, WA

[See our article on the revised website inthis issue, and thanks to Thompson Smith,our webmaster at Rovers North –ed.]

Dear Editor,Thanks for the great catalog and the RoversNorth News!James DouglasDallas, OR[Your welcome, James. Keep up your enjoy-ment of your Discovery –ed]

Dear Editor,Each edition of the Rovers North News getsbetter and better and I drop whatever I’mdoing to read it when it arrives. I especiallyenjoy the Rover travelogues and adventures.Keep ‘em coming! Best wishes for a healthyHappy Holiday season – go forth and pros-per!Henry GouldDeerfield Beach, FL[Then you’ll enjoy the latest traveloguethrough western Canada in this issue –ed.]

Dear Rovers North,Here’s a photo of my Rover hard at workdelivering a new appliance. The location isGreat Comanol, British Virgin Islands. Thisisland of 27 houses has at least 12 LandRovers in use.Tom GallSouthbury, CT[Well, that answers the question of why youhave a rectangular spare tire you mountedon the hood –ed]_______ � ________


(A) Hella 500The rigid construction of the Hella 500 provides durability for encounters with eventhe most rugged terrain and provides excellent visibility on and off-road. Two lights ina kit, includes wiring and white plastic stone shields. Recommended use: above thebumper. 6 3/8” dia.RNC681 Hella 500 Driving Lamp Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 69.95RNC682 Hella 500 Clear Fog Lamp Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 69.95RNC683 Hella 500 Amber Fog Lamp Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 69.95RNC699 Hella 500 Stone Shield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 8.50 eaRNC701 Hella 500 Clear Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 10.50 ea

(B) Hella 550Choose from fog or driving lamps. Kit includes: two lights, wiring harness, relay,wiring and white plastic stone shields. Recommended use: below the bumper. 711/16” W x 4 11/16” H x 3 1/4” D.RNH264 Hella 550 Driving Lamp Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 79.95RNH263 Hella 550 Clear Fog Lamp Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 83.95RNH333 Hella 550 Amber Fog Lamp Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 79.95RNC702 Hella 550 Clear Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 10.50 ea

(C) Hella 1000 Black MagicNew black optics technology creates a wild, all black look. All black when “off” – abrilliant, enhanced-focus beam when “on.” Includes wiring harness. Recommendeduse: above the bumper, brush guards and roof racks. 7 3/8” dia. Off-road use only.RNC680 Hella Rallye 1000 Black Magic Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 219.00RNK5804 Hella Rallye 1000 Black Magic, Land Rover

grilles, 100w bulbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 269.00RNC705 Stone Shield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 10.50 eaRNC698 Clear Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 10.50 eaRND266 Replacement Hella Bulb H2 55w . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3.95RNH334 Replacement Hella Bulb H2 100w . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 6.95

(D) Hella Cat Eye FF50The perfect lamp for limited space on your Land Rover.Dimensions: 2 9/16”H x 4 5/8” W x 3 3/4” D.RNH337 Hella FF50 Driving Lamp Kit, pair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 69.99RNH338 Hella FF50 Fog Lamp Kit, pair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 87.95

(E) Hella Rallye 4000The perfect lamp for the roof rack or front of your LandRover - with a corrosion-resistant metal housing, water-proof connections and knurled adjustment knobs thatallow for precise aiming without tools. Stable, sturdy andBRIGHT! Dimensions:9 3/16” H x 8 3/4” W x 6 3/8 D. Off-road use only.RNK4807 Rallye 4000 Euro Driving Kit Includes a pair of lights,

stone shields & wiring harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 245.00RNC677 Rallye 4000 Fog Lamp (inc. stone shield) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 99.99 eaRNC678 Rallye 4000 Euro Driving Beam

(inc. stone shield) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 99.99 eaRNC679 Rallye 4000 Pencil Beam (inc. stone shield). . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 99.99 eaRNC717 Hella Rallye 4000 Wiring Harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 48.00 eaRNC708 Protective Grille. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 19.99 eaRNC709 Replacement Stone Shield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 11.95 eaRNC700 Clear Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 9.99 eaRND282 Replacement Bulb H1 12V 55W for all except fog lamp. . . $ 3.95 eaRNH335 Replacement Bulb H1 12V 100W (relay required) . . . . . . . . $ 4.95 eaRNE675 Replacement Bulb H3 12V 55w for fog lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2.99 ea

(F) Hella Rear Flood Work Lamp KitPerfect for backing up or hooking up a trailer at night, this dual beam, 110w floodlamp provides a very bright, 180° panorama. The kit includes everything you’ll need:lamp, black coated stainless steel bracket, dash switch, wiring harness, relay andinstructions. And a bonus - there’s no drilling of body work required.RNC950 Hella Rear Flood Lamp Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 179.95

(G) Hella Vision Plus Headlamp ConversionHigh performance European headlamp technology in a “USA D.O.T.” version. Mostpowerful, legally-approved headlamp on the market. These headlamps provide a pre-cise, focused beam pattern that turns night into day! A direct replacement for factoryheadlamps on all Range Rover Classic, Defender, and Series models. 60 watt highbeam / 55 watt low beam. 7” dia.RNC673 Hella Vision Plus Headlamp Conversion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 47.95 ea

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(A) Swingaway Wheel CarrierThis Wheel Carrier works with the door to relieve all weight of the spare tire so yourdoor is light and easy to use. Zinc phosphate and black polyester-coated heavy dutytubular steel construction takes the stress and weight off of your rear door hinges.Includes instructions and all necessary hardware for installation. Will fit Series II, IIA,III, Defender 90/110.RNA2550 MANTEC Swingaway Tire Carrier ...................................................$ 499.95

(B) Genuine Vented Steel WheelsGenuine Land Rover Steel Wheels for off-road use. The absolute strongestwheels you can bolt onto your Land Rover. Designed for extreme off road use. 16x 7 inch. Buy a set of four or five and save even more!Range Rover Classic, and Discovery I, Series II,IIA, III, D90/110RNW216 Genuine Steel “Wolf” Wheel finished in black .....................$ 99.50RNW216-4 Genuine Set of four Wheels.......................................................$ 349.95RNW216-5 Genuine Set of five Wheels........................................................$ 425.00RNS066 Genuine Steel Wheel Lug Nut ..................................................$ 2.39Range Rover P38A, Discovery IIRND260 Genuine Steel Road Wheel, Finished in silver ..............$ 169.00RND260-4 Genuine Set of four Steel Road Wheels........................$ 619.00RND260-5 Genuine Set of five Steel Road Wheels ........................$ 749.00RNH611 Genuine Steel Wheel Lug Nut........................................$ 1.78

(C) Extra Large Defender & Series Mirror AssemblyRNH716 New 10’ x 6’ Convex glass size provides improved visibility

for Defenders. Will also fit all series II, IIA and III Land Roversby fitting Defender door hinges. Call for details .................$ 54.00

Standard Size Defender & Series Mirror AssemblyRNE314 Defender 90, 110 Mirror ................................................$ 48.00

(D) Discovery I Heavy Duty Bumper 1994 - 1999Take your Discovery I to the next level with our Heavy DutyRear Bumper. Includes recovery jacking points, hardware,grade A reflectors (not shown) and instructions. Finished inblack powder coat. Requires slight modification to existingrear chassis to mount.

RNA8603 .........................................................................................................$ 598.00

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(E) Defender 90 Surrey TopEnjoy open air driving with protection from the sun with our Surrey Top.Manufactured to OE specifications.PLD279 Surrey Top, black ............................................................................$ 387.45

(F) Raised Air Intakes and Wading KitsOriginally designed to combat the sandy dust of the Sahara Desert, Mantec’s RaisedAir Intake ensures a cleaner air supply to your engine when driving in dusty condi-tions. Made of zinc-phosphated steel and black polyester-coated (paintable to matchbody color). Used in everything from the Camel Trophy to the G4 Challenge. Includeshardware and fitting instructions.

RNA1003 Discovery I Mantec Raised Air Intake ........................................$ 399.00RNA1013 Discovery II Mantec Raised Air Intake.......................................$ 478.00RNA1115 Range Rover Classic Mantec Raised Air Intake .......................$ 369.00RNA1002 Defender90/110 NAS Mantec Raised Air Intake .......................$ 499.00RNA2002 2.5 NA, 2.5 Turbo, 200 TDI Mantec Raised Air Intake...............$ 349.95RNA2002TDI Defender Td5, 300 TDI Mantec Raised air Intake

(Black PVC Plastic) .........................................................................$ 329.95

MANTEC’s Wading Kit includes breather extensions and connectors for front andrear axles, gear box and transfer box up to the height of your raised air intake toimprove your vehicle's wading ability in wet or flooded conditions. (Not shown)RNA1012 Wading Kit, Tdi, V8 fits RRC, Discovery I and Defender ..........$ 119.00

(G) Superior Quality Fabric Soft TopEverything you wanted in a custom soft top for your Defender 90 is here. Constructedwith superior quality black fabric it will not fade, shrink or crack like the original. Thistop will look as good as the day you first put it on, year after year. Superior featuresinclude; weather secure door seals, heavy duty zippers, improved visibility, and HDPermaclear windows. An awesome fit on your existing belt rail system virtually endsthe headaches of all the stretching and prying and keeps you happy and dry when theweather is foul. Includes three zip out windows, carrying pack and instructions.RNA90ST01 1994 - ’97 D90 Soft Top .............................................................$ 1890.00RNE245 1994 D90 Belt Rail Kit*..............................................................$ 47.25RNE246 1994 D90 Tailgate Bar Kit* .......................................................$ 78.50

* The 1994 Defender 90 Soft Top is equipped from the factory with snaps and requires abelt rail and tailgate bar kit to be installed to use this top. 1995 and 1997 Defender 90 Softtop models do not require this kit.

Defender 90 Deluxe Soft TopRNA90ST01

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(A) Brownchurch HD Galvanized Roof Racksfor Series II, IIA, III & Defender 90, 110 HardTop ModelsExpedition quality reinforced, hot dipped galvanized roof rack with access ladder (asshown above) designed for Series II, IIA, III. ROW 90, 110.RNA9591 Heavy Duty Galvanized Full Length Roof Rack, 88”, ROW 90

(or 3/4 109, ROW 110) Will not fit NAS 90, 110 ..............................$ 899.00RNA9590 Same as RNA9591 with integral fuel can mounts (4 cans) .......$ 998.50RNA1196 Heavy Duty Galvanized Full Length Roof Rack, 109” or ROW 110

as shown above. Will not fit NAS 110 ............................................$ 899.00

(B) Brownchurch Roof Racks for Series II, IIA,III & Defender 90, 110 Hard Top ModelsOur most popular roof rack. Strong, lightweight, versatile and attractive, these famedEnglish roof racks are now available in half and full length sizes. They feature a wide,easy to install gutter mount clamp system. Finished in black nylon for extra durabilityand corrosion resistance. Fits all aluminum hard top Land Rover models, except NASDefender 110.LR91NL 81" long x 53" wide x 41/2" deep,

All 88, 109, & NAS 90 (except NAS 110).....................................$ 889.00LR91NS 49" long x 53" wide x 41/2" deep,

All 88, 109, & NAS 90 (except NAS 110).....................................$ 629.00LR91NAL Rear Ladder.....................................................................................$ 165.38

LR91NL Brownchurch Roof Rack shown on Defender 110

RNA1196

HLR91NS Brownchurch Roof Rack shown on Series IIA 109.

A

B

B

ARNA9590


EX

TER

IOR

LD91NL Discovery I Brownchurch Full Length Rack

RNA661 Discovery IIRNA6002Range Rover P38A

RR91NS Range RoverClassic BrownchurchHalf Length Rack

RR91NL Range RoverClassic BrownchurchFull Length Rack

Brownchurch Roof RacksSuper strong, light weight and attractive, make these our most popular roof racks.Available in half and full length sizes. They have a wide, easy to install gutter mountclamp system that will have you stowing your gear in no time at all. Allows both sun-roofs on Discoverys to be opened. Features a flat load deck, durable black powdercoat finish.(C) Full Length 81"x53"x4"RR91NL Range Rover Classic Brownchurch Full Roof Rack ...................$ 889.00LD91NL Discovery I & II Brownchurch Full Roof Rack ............................$ 889.00

(D) Half Length 49"x53"x4"RR91NS Range Rover Classic Brownchurch Half Roof Rack ..................$ 629.00LD91NS Discovery I & II Brownchurch Half Roof Rack ...........................$ 629.00

(E) Genuine Land Rover Rear LaddersRNA661 Discovery I and II Ladder, Genuine...............................................$ 119.00RNA6002 Range Rover P38A Ladder, Genuine .............................................$ 399.50

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C D

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[Joey Boerner, Forest Grove, OR, has discovered a new passion toaccompany his profession of music and his family: Holly, theirchildren Rebecca and Daniel, and Strider, the black Lab (whosename, in true Rover enthusiast fashion, he provided us before thenames of his wife and children). Here’s how you become a “carguy” –ed.]

I’ve often described to my friends that I have acquired the “RoverBug.” You see, before owning a Land Rover, I was never considereda “car guy.” In the fourteen years of my car driving/owning experi-ence, I’ve mostly owned sedans; four door, family safe, and just a bitcramped sedans, to be exact. I never really minded driving sedans,although I never really enjoyed it either. To me, the cars were a wayto get from point A to point B, and most of the time, they did just that.The first sedan, a Mazda 626, was a hand-me-down from my parents.The second, a Mercury Topaz, was a hand-me-down from my wife’sgrandparents that got us through college and the early years of mar-riage. Sedan number 3, a Saturn LS-1, was our first and only new carpurchase, which we still drive, and the fourth, a Chrysler “some-thing,” was a hand-me-down from my wife’s parents that filled in dur-ing the short time between giving away the 2nd sedan and taking pos-session of “Nessi.”

“Nessi” is the name, and vanity plate, of my Brooklands Green1994 Range Rover County LWB. She was named Nessi by the previousowner’s children who figured that naming her after the Loch NessMonster was entirely appropriate considering that she was big and

green. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me explain how Nessibecame a part of our family, and a bit of an obsession for me…

I’ve been the Music Director at the Nazarene Church inHillsboro, Oregon, for the past two and a half years. Before taking theposition of Director/Worship Leader, I was the piano player in ourchurch band for about four years. One of my good friends and thedrummer in our band, Mike, drove what I called “the coolest truckin the parking lot” which, of course, was Nessi.

Every year, over Memorial Day Weekend, our church goes to“Family Camp.” We reserve a campground, usually near the OregonCoast, and enjoy the last weekend of summer together as a churchfamily. Five years ago, on our first family camp, my wife and I tookStrider, our then-new black Labrador puppy. Since that trip our fam-ily, not to mention our dog, has grown considerably. We now have two beautiful children and Strider is now a full grown, 100+pound dog. Needless to say, a four-door sedan was no longer suffi-cient to load our loved ones, along with all our stuff, for a weekendcamping trip, let alone a day trip to the lake. We were just beginningto look into purchasing a more, family friendly vehicle, when myfriend Mike intervened.

On a warm summer evening, as we gathered for practice atchurch, Mike pulled into the parking lot in a new-for-him Silver 2004Discovery Series II. I have to admit, my first thought was a bit jealous.I had always liked his Range Rover, and now he had upgraded to anew Land Rover. (To prove my ignorance to the Rover world- I hadalways thought that Disco’s were a step up from Range Rovers! Again,I’m not much of a car guy.) I figured at that point that Nessi was gone,and didn’t think much more of it.

A few weeks later, after practice one Wednesday evening, asFamily Camp approached, I was talking with Mike and mentionedhow frustrated we were that we wouldn’t be able to take our dog nowthat we had two car seats and were considering buying a, gulp, mini-van. Mike mentioned that he and his wife had considered buy a mini-van before they found Nessi and that it had worked great for themwhen their kids were the same age as ours are now.

He then said, “Why don’t you borrow our Range Rover for theweekend of Family Camp? It’s just sitting in our driveway.” [Wow –how come I don’t have friends like that? –ed] I was surprised; Ithought they had traded it in for the Discovery. He explained to methat Nessi needed some work so they decided it was time for a new

Hey – I’m a Car GuyStory & Photos by: Joey Boerner

14

vehicle, and that he loved Nessi too much to trade it in for “next tonothing.” So he and his wife figured they’d keep it and fix it up even-tually so that his 12-year-old daughter would be able to drive it. So thenext week, he brought it to church, handed me the keys, and gave mea quick run down of all the buttons, switches and idiosyncrasies ofNessi. I drove home that night appreciative of my generous friend,without a clue of how far that generosity would go.

The Rover’s capacity quickly became apparent. We loaded it upthat weekend, full of our kids, our sleeping bags, our tent, my guitar,all sorts of camping gear that we probably never used, and Strider,panting expectedly in the back, excited about his trip to an unknowndestination.

Our campsite happened to be just across from Mike and his fam-ily’s, so we had many chances to thank them for letting us borrow theRover. One evening, as we sat around a campfire together, Mike sur-prised me once again when he asked me if my wife and I would liketo keep Nessi. He said that it had a number of issues that would needto be addressed. The air suspension was going to need to be replacedsoon, the rear wiper didn’t work, the rear window struts were wear-ing out, just to name a few. He told us to think about it and let himknow.

My initial reaction was surprise and excitement. Although itquickly was replaced by uncertainty, I mean, I had neverowned/maintained a car from Europe, let alone England. After a fewweeks with Nessi, some serious thought and prayer, we accepted theoffer. Mike made one last request before we took possession, thatwhen we were ready to sell the truck, he be given the first chance tobuy it back (he often reminds me of this point).

Shortly after we were given the truck, I told my father-in-law,Daniel Quick, in Alaska about our new vehicle. He said that he hadalways loved Rovers and that when he and my mother-in-law, Zelma,first moved to Alaska, they bought a 1969 Series II-A from a dealer inCalifornia, where he was studying photography, and took it up theAlcan Highway. They first moved up in 1969 because some friendshad moved there and loved it. The first town they were in was calledNinilchik (a small Russian village). He has a great story about notbeing able to get a part he needed (there were no Land Rover deal-ers in Alaska at the time) so he got the attention of the director ofBritish Leyland North America (Dan can be very persuasive at times),who sent him a repair manual and the part, and told him if he everneeded anything else, to call him directly.

The Quick’s used the Rover for hunting and filmmaking, puttingover 100,000 miles on it, many of them in sub-zero temperatures,using a handcrank to start it. They now live in Soldotna, Alaska, onthe Kenai Peninsula, south of Anchorage. The only reason they sold itwas to purchase a bigger van that could hold film equipment and theycouldn’t afford two cars at the same time. When they sold it in the

winter of 1974, they actually got more for it than they paid, which isa testament to the Rover’s abilities in Alaska.

Before taking possession of Nessi, I came across numerous web-sites about Range Rovers, and Land Rovers in general. Somewherebetween signing up for the Rovers North News and catalogs, loggingon to my first Land Rover Discussion Forum, and driving Nessiaround town when it made more sense to drive my more gas-friend-ly sedan on errands, I realized that I was hooked. I love my RangeRover!

Now I find myself eyeing a 50th Anniversary Edition Discovery atthe local used car dealership to add to the fleet (I’ve tried to convincemy wife that it would be perfect for her and the kids; she’s not quiteconvinced, yet). Each time the Rovers North News shows up in mymailbox, I read it from cover to cover, including the parts lists! As athank-you to Mike, I tracked down a Corgi model of Nessi (althoughit’s an SWB) from a shop in England and ordered two. The shippingwas twice what the toys cost, but it was worth it! One of the highlightsof this past year was the day my “Sightings” mug showed up in themail. My morning coffee has never been filled with so much pride!

We’ve taken Nessi to the coast numerous times, to the mountainsjust to find some snow, and every time I’m stuck in traffic I think tomyself “That curb’s not too big, I bet I could cut 45 minutes off mytime by going through that field,” only to stop myself short of break-ing numerous laws.

To say that I’m enjoying my time with Nessi is an understatement.I look forward to our adventures together, and someday, I’d love totrack down another Series II-A and relive the adventure my father-in-law took. I suppose this is a good place to thank Mike one more time,as I know he’ll be reading this soon. Thanks Mike! See you on thetrails!

________ � ________

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16

One dark and snowy December evening, I opted to drive my 109”military home instead of my “winter beater” Volkswagen. The VWtrumps the Land Rover in one area - its substantial heat, something Icherish when it’s -18 degrees F during the morning commute.Yes, -18 F, a far cry from the seemingly tropical +18 F recentlyexperienced in Vermont.

This particular night did not feature below zero temperatures butthe snow came down at a significant rate. While my 109” doesn’tboast any sort of fantastic heater, its mission tonight was to get mehome safely through the heavy snowfall. I made the announcementthat I’d be driving my military home for the first time under myself-perceived-to-be-precarious conditions. Within minutes, betswere flying among the Rovers North sales techs that I’d surely flip mymilitary 109” on its side in a turn. With their heavy duty springs,there’s very little articulation on a 109” military suspension unless thevehicle is properly loaded. I just don’t weigh that much and friends,seeing the tiny heater and the canvas top, tend to look elsewhere forrides. At Rovers North we know of a few folks, who shall remainnameless, have flipped their Land Rovers due to the perniciouscocktail of harsh leaf spring meeting a serious frost heave at too higha speed.

Driving my 109” for the first time in the snow, I felt unstoppable,like operating some sort of Siberian tractor or snowcat. ErnestShackleton would’ve really had a blast in a 109”. Maybe it was mypractically brand new BF Goodrich A/Ts or just the purposeful andutilitarian feel of my 109” military, but I felt safe. One choice I faced

was to direct the output from the rather anemic heater either towardsmy feet or at the windscreen; I chose the windscreen. Life is full ofcompromises. I needed to see and my feet were cosseted by my L.L.Bean boots, lined with both GORE-TEX and Thinsulate. Where the10” wiper blades wouldn’t reach, the snow was sticking to thewindscreen creating limited visibility but still, I felt safe. After runningsome errands and buying some cheese and wine, I retired home forcozy night.

The following morning, the thermometer outside my kitchenwindow read +10 F, the coldest morning yet in a warm December. Iknew with conviction that my Rover would get me to work; that is, ifI didn’t die of hypothermia on the way to the office. You see the can-vas top on my 109” has shrunk a bit here and there over the courseof its life, making for some rather substantial drafts. In other words,any small amount of warmth the feeble heater generates is brisklyblown out the sides and back of the truck. Such is life. Would I trademy 109” for a newer Land Rover product with more creature com-forts? A resounding and unanimous, “No.”

I’ve mentioned often how the clutch master cylinders in myRovers are continually leaking and how I presumptuously tempt fateby postponing their eventual replacement. Every dog has its day andlittle did I know the fate of my commute that cold December morn-ing. As on any other morning, I followed my methodical routine ofstarting my 109”: Hop in the very minimalist driver’s seat. Pull thechoke lever out with left hand, push clutch pedal with left footwhile placing gearbox in neutral with right hand. Insert minia-

Dry-dockedStory by: Mike Koch / Photo by: Matt Martin

Dry-docked

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ture key in ignition with left hand and turn till it awakens; easyas that. “We have ignition” and like any well-tuned 2.25, minesounds like a perfect sewing machine. Another day, another adven-ture in my 109”. Even a simple pedestrian trip to the grocery can feellike an adventure in my 109”.

This morning I followed my procedure, harnessed myself inplace with the seat belt and pushed the clutch in as I placed the gear-box in reverse. So far, everything went as planned until found myselfin the middle of my street noticing that the clutch pedal friction pointis awfully low to the floor when I put the gearbox in first gear.Instinctively, I leapt out and raised the bonnet eyeing the fluid level inthe clutch master cylinder reservoir. It was a bit low, but nothing tobe alarmed about, so I poured in a small volume of Lucas brake fluid.This comes as no surprise, as the clutch pedal has been damp, moreaccurately, saturated, for months now and the finish of the floorboard under my feet is a brilliant aluminum, sporting hardly a traceof the factory-applied bronze green paint. About a mile from myhouse down Route 7, the major artery running north to south for theentire state of Vermont, a traffic light turned green. At the time, I wasidling at this traffic light. Upon pressing the clutch pedal, which hasalmost no resistance and was still feeling much lower than it ought to,I tried to put the gearbox in first, only the shift lever won’t budge.Before I could wink, traffic was honking at me, as it quickly and furi-ously accumulated behind me. In the midst of rush hour, without atrace of caffeine coursing through my veins, I became as resourcefulas possible, shut the Rover down and jammed the gearbox into firstgear. Restarting the engine, which hadn’t come close to its operatingtemperature yet (motor oil thick as Marmite), I turned the tiny igni-tion key to position III. The beast suddenly lurched forward to thetune of the starter motor and now it was time to think fast and try toget back to my driveway as efficiently and safely as possible.

To anyone who has yet to drive his/her Land Rover without afunctioning clutch, once you start the engine with the Rover in gear,you can’t come to a stop without stalling. Attempting to avoid themaniacal rush hour commute traffic on Route 7, I meanderedthrough the back roads of the South End of Burlington. As I crawledalong, with the 2.25 screaming in first gear, parents walking theirchildren to school shot disapproving glares at my cantankerous cam-ouflaged beast. Had I drank some coffee, I may have had theresourcefulness to start “the Anti-Christ” [See The Gods Must BeCrazy -ed] in second gear avoided an act of audio/visual terrorismon all the children walking to school that sub-arctic morning.

However, there I was, unable to come to a stop without shuttingthe beast down, while creeping through stop signs. The art of creep-ing through stop signs was accomplished by dancing like Baryshnikovon the accelerator and brake pedals, avoiding a stall by keeping themomentum going at a snail’s pace. There were a few intersectionswhere I had to shut the 109” down to stop and mindfully time myingress/egress into traffic, carefully synchronizing the almighty powerof the starter motor to get me rolling and running again withoutjeopardizing the well-being of my fellow motorists. Getting as closeto my house as possible, I left “the Anti-Christ” by a municipal park.With the ambient temperature holding steady at ten degrees abovezero, I was bitter both from the cold and the inconvenience of a unex-pectedly cantankerous Rover. I called Rovers North, explaining quitea morning’s adventure and that I might just be a bit late...

Do I miss driving my 109” on the mornings when the tempera-ture is in the double-digits below zero? Not especially. Even with allthe appropriate attire, it’s not my idea of a cracking good time. It can

be argued that keeping a Series off the road during the snow season,or should I say salt season, is wise a decision. Yet I sure do miss theeveryday experiences of using my 109” as my daily driver, which Ihave the luxury of doing three seasons out of the calendar year. It’sparked behind Rovers North for the winter and occasionally, I’ll startit up and drive it into the garage to tinker on some small project [howabout replacing the clutch master and/or slave cylinders –ed?].

With my 109” being enlisted as a daily driver for the majority ofthe year, there isn’t much to mend during the off-season. Even at tem-peratures well below freezing, my 109” barks to life at the first turnof the key, eager for adventure and work; I like that, as it alwaysbrings a smile to my face. The majority of my Land Rover’s “work” isdependably driving me to and from work, roughly fifteen miles eachway, a leisurely retirement from its former military duties. I do misswaving to other fellow Land Rover drivers on the roads. I miss theirreturned waves. I miss the strength in my arms attained from fre-quently parallel parking in town without power steering. I miss theway that you can’t really be in a rush when driving my 109” becauseit doesn’t go fast. I miss looking out over the bonnet-mounted sparetyre. It always makes me feel like there’s an adventure around thenext corner. Perhaps a stampede of water buffalo or rhinoceros willbe charging at me. Wait, this is Vermont, so perhaps a stray cow willwander into the road or someone’s horse will escape. I came withininches, more realistically, feet, of hitting someone’s runaway horse at50 miles per hour in my previous Land Rover during a morning com-mute last summer.

I miss tying the appropriate knots to keep my canvas sides rolledup properly; now I just tie the laces on my boots. I miss the way allmy friends and acquaintances instantly recognize me in my 109”.Driving the only camouflage 109” in the greater Burlington area lendsitself well to being instantly recognized. I miss helping a friend haulfirewood in the bed of my 109”, putting it in low range traversingmuddy fields to access their woodlands. I miss the groceries spillingout all over the interior when I take a turn caused by the completelack of rubber floor mats or carpeting. The most memorable aspectof this is when the odd jar of pickles or tomato sauce rolls out of thegrocery bag and props itself up against the passenger’s side door.Upon opening the door, the jar comes crashing down, exploding allover the pavement below. Now that’s fun to clean up in the dark!

I miss the adventure-filled roadtrips to Woodstock, VT and habit-ual drives down scenic NY Route 9N, though the Adirondacks, to myfriend’s place at Lake George, NY for sailing on weekends. There’ssomething about taking my Rover on these trips that makes them thatmuch better and that much more memorable. I miss the way mymom looks at it and gives me this “as long as it makes you happy”look when she visits. I miss the way I can always see where I parkedmy 109” as it sits proud on its tall, although uncomfortable, militaryleaf springs. I miss the way I can start it using a crank handle whenthe battery dies. Most of all, I miss the way I’m proud of my Roverwhen I’m driving it.

Well, before you know it, spring will be upon us and I can hangmy snowshoes up on the wall and reach for a certain set of keys thatpatiently wait dangling on a hook. What adventures will we share thissummer? Who will we meet? Will we break down? What will we haulin the bed? One thing I can predict with utter conviction is that wewon’t get pulled over for speeding!

________ � ________

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[Roger Sutcliffe lives in Chilliwack, British Columbia, with Polly,his wife and children Bailey and Liam. Their small farm includes7 horses and a 1996 Discovery. An aircraft mechanic forAcroHelipro Global Services, he specializes in structural repairson helicopters. He’s also a wildlife and commercial photographer,which might help explain this family expedition –ed.]

Three thousand kilometers, my wife and two kids, a wedding, camp-ing, and a new-to-us ‘96 Discovery- was it a recipe for adventure ordisaster? Only time would tell. I confidently told my wife, Polly, thatall the stuff would fit no problem. I had added a dog guard and a softpod on the factory rack of the otherwise stock Discovery. We were onthe road by 9:45 stuffed to the gills with Bailey (9) and Liam (3) inthe back with a pile of necessary stuff between them. Although wewere fully loaded the Discovery handled great and performed well onthe hills.

We traveled 340km east to Johnston Creek Park on Hwy 3 east ofOsoyoos. We stopped for a cooling swim at Bromley rock on theSilmilkamen River. We didn’t want to get out of the turquoise waterthat coursed through the shallows and deep pools. We watched thecliff divers before driving on to Keremeos for fresh fruit and vegeta-bles. Keremeos is the bottom end of the Okanogan, a major fruit andvegetable region in British Columbia (It also produces excellentwines - check out Mission Hills). Feasting on cherries, we carried onto Johnston Creek. We arrived in there about 5:30 and set up camp inthe evening sun. Johnston Creek is a little campground with about adozen sites and is very quiet. We were the second or third site occu-pied (no reservations).

Tuesday morning we got away about 9:00am. Today we weregoing to try for Kimberly via the Grey Creek Forest Service road. Wedrove up through Nelson to Balfour to catch the ferry. Nelson isperched on the hillside overlooking the south west arm of KootenayLake. Lots of musicians, artists, and performers make for a veryeclectic town. If you’re ever there, try the Cajun Salmon sandwich atthe Redfish Grill. After lunch we followed the lakeshore to Balfour tocatch the ferry to Kootenay Bay and the Grey Creek Road. The roadruns 80kms from Kootenay Bay to Marysville over a 6500 ft pass. Aftera 35 minute ferry ride across Kootenay Lake (one of the longest freeferries in the world), we found the junction of the Grey Creek road.It was about 35 degrees Celsius when we hit the gravel and I droppedthe Disco into low range and started up the switch backs. Forestry’sdecommissioned road warning sign had a spray painted addition.Apparently, the road had claimed a few axles! From Kootenay Bay tothe summit is about 10 miles as the crow flies and a 4000 ft climb.With the AC on and the engine fan kicking in periodically, the temper-ature gauge barely moved. The truck handled the deep cross ditches

Discovery of 3,000Kilometers

Story & Photos by: Roger Sutcliffe

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and loose rock switch backs effortlessly. I was starting to realize howgood even a stock Land Rover is for travel.

We stopped at the summit and discovered the road had taken atoll. The left hand bumper light was gone and the bulb holders weremelted on to the muffler. Later, I discovered the front left runningboard mount was cracked. We drove out through with the eveningsun and reached pavement about dusk. Liam enjoyed the view fromthe back but Bailey found the mountain road a bit to rough. Evenwith the excellent suspension, it was still too rough draw and sketch.We arrived in Kimberly about 8:35 pm PST wondering why everythingwas so quiet. We eventually realized that we had jumped ahead anhour into Mountain Time. After a quick dinner, we spent the night atthe Western Lodge. It was less than $100 a night for all four of us withbreakfast.

After close to twelve hours on the road yesterday, we took it easyon Wednesday. From Kimberly, we went up to Radium hot springs fora swim and a well earned soak. This natural hot spring is directedinto a pool complex developed by Parks Canada. As we slowlypoached in the pool we chatted with travelers from England, Holland,& Germany. Many were “doing” the Rockies in rented RV’s. While Iwas smugly thinking the Land Rover was taking us places they wouldnever see, my wife was looking wistfully at the luxury hotel rooms onwheels. After an hour of soaking, we headed for Banff. Out ofRadium, the highway goes up through a gorgeous little canyon beforeyou open out onto the expansive vista of the Bow River Valley. AlongHwy 93 there are some huge burnt out areas from forest fires acouple of years back. Amongst the stark, burnt trees, lush vegetationis already re-emerging. Apparently the grazing for deer and elk isexcellent.

We got into Banff early, about 2:30 pm. We wandered around,trying to decide where to eat. We eventually ate at Magpie & Stump’s.Across the Bow River from town there is picnic area and playgroundfor the kids. After exercising the kids, we headed up to TunnelMountain Campground. We had hit a few thunderstorms coming outof Kimberly and one of the air mattresses had got wet inside the roofbag. The sleeping bags were OK in their dry bags.

Wednesday night featured a serious equipment failure, my airmattress went flat. We weren’t staying very warm on them, so wepicked up a foamy and a self inflating air mattress in Banff before weheaded off to Drumheller

From Banff to Calgary is a straight run but Drumheller is north-west of Calgary. We went via Strathmore. If you are into trains, checkout the Strathmore Station restaurant; turn of the century steam

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theme with a lot of local history, and good food! After lunch, wepunched through to Royal Tyrell Museum. If you are in the area, thisis a must see. The displays are breathtaking. The museum walks youfrom the beginning of life on earth through to the end of the last iceage. With life size dioramas and huge skeletons, everyone will find itfascinating. We spent two days at Drumheller, just barely enough timefor a good look about. North of Drumheller are the Hoodoos. Theywere small by some standards, but still worth seeing. After almost aweek on the road, we headed north to Edmonton for the wedding.300 km later, we arrived at the Best Western in Edmonton.

We emptied the Land Rover into our hotel room, to the amuse-ment of some of the hotel staff. We had a hectic weekend back in civ-ilization. We all reveled in the hot showers and comfy beds. Theweekend ended with no wedding disasters and my sister happily mar-ried. After Polly checked out the local tack shop, we were off to LandRover Edmonton. They were able to supply me with new taillightwhich I installed in their parking lot. Land Rover Edmonton is one ofthe few remaining free standing Land Rover dealers. Off to Jasper!

Jasper was a fast 370 km run from Edmonton. The Jasper camp-ground was in an open pine forest. Due to the black bear population,you have to be very careful with food and scraps. You are not allowedto leave any cooking equipment on the picnic tables. All food anddishes must go back in your vehicle. For those traveling by bike ormotor bike, they have steel food lockers around the campground.After a light dinner, we got an early night.

Wednesday morning we were up early and loading up for thelong run to Jesmond. Highway 16 took us back into BC and on to TeteJaune Cache. Highway 5 took us down the broad North ThompsonValley. Winding down the lush green valley through Valemont, Avola,and Clearwater, we arrived in Little Fort. Provincial Highway 24 is agravel road running from Little Fort to Lone Butte through some ofthe most beautiful lake country in BC. None of us had ever beenthrough here before. Driving along the sparkling shore line of BridgeLake we vowed we would return to explore more. The map showedhundreds of lakes scattered between Little Fort and Lone Butte. Hwy97 took us through more rolling lake country from Lone Butte downto Clinton then on to Big Bar Lake road.

Another hour on gravel through alternating pine forest and openrange land brought us into Jesmond. Although you will find Jesmondwith most digital map software, it consists of three green mailboxes ata dip in the road. We arrived to find no-one home. Following stan-

21

dard up-country procedure, we went in and put the coffee on. Wefound out later Susan had gone to town to shop for Earl’s birthday.Town is Kamloops, a four hour round trip!

We had been here several times before and I wanted to drive upto the Jesmond lookout. Another decommissioned forestry road, itwinds up to Jesmond summit at the north end of Marble RangeProvincial Park. After climbing 3000 ft up the side of the mountain,we emerged on to the bald rock of the summit. Looking around youcould see dozens of lakes sparkling in the sun. You could also seethe ravages of the Mountain Pine Beetle. This beetle attacks and killsmature pines. You could see red brown swaths of dead and dyingpines all across the landscape. Talking to the fire observer manningthe lookout, I was surprised to find she averaged three to four visitorsa day! After signing the guest book, we watched the sun settle towardsthe horizon filling the valley with a golden mist. We headed down toget past the steep sections before full dark.

After a couple of relaxing days, our holidays were drawing to aclose. We enjoyed the sunshine and were able to dry out all our gearbefore leaving. Packing the Land Rover one last time, we swung onto the gravel road and headed south for home. Hwy 97 wound downthrough the dry Cariboo Chilcotin region to Cache Creek. FromCache Creek we headed down Hwy 1, the Trans-Canada Highway, tohome in Chilliwack. Highway 1 winds through the towering Fraser

Canyon along the side the muddy Fraser River. This road clings to theside of the canyon and darts through multiple tunnels to find it way tothe coast. This mighty river is tapped by many farmers to irrigate thearid lands along it shores. Emerald green alfalfa contrasts with thebrown scrub surrounding the irrigated fields. At Hope, we emergedinto the rich green Fraser Valley, home.

Epilogue

Would we do it again? Yes, but not so far so fast. We discovered manyplaces we will visit again. The Land Rover served us well. Before wedo it again, I would add a roof rack to the Disco. Going into the backcountry solo, I will definitely add some more recovery gear - just incase. A better tent and self inflating air mattresses will allow us tosleep better and warmer. We continue to daytrip with the Discoveryexploring the surrounding mountains. It has taken us to relaxingsoaks in wild hot springs and followed river shorelines. While I don’tplan turning it into a rock crawler, some suspension improvementsand bit of armor wouldn’t be amiss on steep rocky roads of CoastalMountains. Having the Land Rover is allowing our family to exploreour home province in ways we couldn’t before. Now what about asnorkel?

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(A) Defender Aluminum 5 Bar Body Protection KitsReinforce your body work with these G4 style 5 bar protection plates.Made from non-corrosive aluminum alloy. Available in Black or SilverOEM non fade electrostatic finish.Includes stainless and anodized hardware.1) Pair of wing top protectors with hardware for DefenderRNA6510B Defender 90/ 110 Black............................................$ 159.00RNA6510 Defender 90/ 110Silver .............................................$ 159.00

2) Set of sill protectors with hardware for your DefenderRNA6530B Defender 90 Black ....................................................$ 119.00RNA6530 Defender 90 Silver ....................................................$ 119.00RNA6531B Defender 110 Black ..................................................$ 129.00

3) Set of rear quarter protectors with hardware for your DefenderRNA6550B Defender 90 Black ....................................................$ 69.00RNA6550 Defender 90 Silver ....................................................$ 69.00RNA6551B Defender 110 Black ..................................................$ 74.50

4) Complete set of wing top protectors, sill protectors and rear quarterprotectors for your Defender. All hardware included.RNK6500B Defender 90 Black ....................................................$ 329.00RNK6500 Defender 90 Silver ....................................................$ 329.00RNK6501B Defender 110 Black ..................................................$ 329.00

5) Bonnet protection plate, reinforces the center of your bonnet. Ourblack bonnet protector will prevent glare from roof mounted lights.RNA6520 Defender 90, 110 Silver ............................................$ 169.00RNA6520B Defender 90, 110 Black ............................................$ 169.00

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(B) SlickRock Fabrication’s Rock SlidersSlickRock Fabrication’s Discovery sliders mount using solid U shapedlaser cut mount that wraps around the factory sill to provide increasedstrength.Mounts• Laser cut 3/16 steel• Mount is formed into a solid U shape using a CNC press breakSlider Body• 3/16 steel tube• Formed to match the contour of the Discovery body• MIG weldedHardware• 3/8 Grade 8 bolts• 3/8 Grade 8 Nyloc nuts• 3/8 Grade 8 flat washersFinish• Fully bead blasted to promote adhesion of top coating• High pressure Phosphate wash ensures all contamination is removed-prior to application of top coat• Coated with a durable baked on semi gloss powder coating

RNA1113A RR Classic, Discovery I................................................$ 599.95RNA1117A Discovery II....................................................................$ 599.95

(C) Differential GuardEssential protection for off-road use. Anodized Steel guard clamps ontothe front axle housing and protects the front differential from the mostcommon off-road hazards.DIFF01AA RR Classic, Discovery I & Defender Front or Rear .$ 79.95eaDIFF02AA Discovery II (non-ACE only) Front ............................$ 99.50DIFF03 Range Rover P38A Front ............................................$ 179.00

(D) New Tubular Winch Bumper for DefenderExperience the next generation in off-road bumpers. Mounts higher andtighter for improved approach angle. Built from tubular powder coatedsteel for superior strength without excessive weight. Designed for WarnXD9000 low profile winch, features built in jack points and light mounts.DWB1003 Tubular Winch Bumper................................................$ 799.00RNA089 Adapter kit for USA 110 ...............................................$ 159.95

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(A) Jack AdaptersFits into the jack receptacles that are located on Defender chassis, Rovers NorthSeries and Defender Sill Protectors, ARB Bull Bars and Rovers North Discovery IHeavy Duty Rear Bumper. This adapter provides the safest way to jack up yourLand Rover on uneven terrain without crawling under the vehicle.PLA908 Jackall adapter (Orange) ....................................................$ 39.95PLA908HL Hi-Lift adapter (Red)........................................................$ 49.00

(B) 4X4 RAC by Hi-LiftThis universal jack rack is designed to be mounted on bumpers, roofracks, inside or out, wherever your jack will fit. It can be used onJackall or Hi-Lift jacks. Includes hardware.4X400 Hi-Lift 4X4 Rack....................................................................$ 29.75

(C) Off Road Jack Base for Hi-Lift Jacks onlyThis 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 thecast base of the Hi-lift will sink under the weight of your Land Rover.(Base is for Hi-Lift Jacks ONLY)ORB Jack Base .............................................................................$ 34.95

(D) Loc Rac by Hi-LiftThis universal jack rack can be mounted inside or out, wherever your jack will fit. Itcan be used on Jackall or Hi-Lift jacks. Includes hardware and padlock with keys.LR200 Hi-Lift Loc Rac .......................................................................................$ 24.00

(E) Pro Comp Soft Recovery StrapsSoft Recovery Straps are the latest in recovery tools for bettershock absorption. Better energy magnification.RNH548 2”X20’ strap, 20,000 lb. .......................................................$ 29.95RNH549 2”X30’ strap, 20,000 lb. .......................................................$ 339.95RNH550 3”X30’ strap, 30,000 lb. .......................................................$ 54.95RNH551 4”X30’ strap, 40,000 lb. .......................................................$ 74.95

(F) Plasma Winch RopeThe best plasma ropes available.RNR2021 3/8” Plasma Rope; 100’ .......................................................$ 269.95RNR2011 5/16” Plasma Rope; 125’ .....................................................$ 229.95

(G) Polyurethane Securing RingSecures the handle to the jack so that they do not separate while youare storing or transporting your jack. Fits both Hi-Lift and Jackall jacks.RNA9112 Jackall Securing Ring.........................................................$ 9.95RNA9113 Hi-Lift Securing Ring ...........................................................$ 9.95

(H) Shackle Recovery SetMade of solid steel, this is a stout, easy to use recovery hitch. Shackleand hitch pin included as shown.RNA1022 Shackle Recovery Set.........................................................$ 74.95

(I) 60” Hi-Lift JackAn all cast construction with a 4,660 lb rated capacity. This jack is idealfor Land Rovers with oversized tires and or raised suspension, where theextra lift from a taller jack is needed.HL605 Jack........................................................................................$ 64.00

(J) 48” Hi-Lift JackThe original all cast, all purpose jack can lift, pull, push or hoistup to 4,660lbs.HL485 Jack........................................................................................$ 59.00

(K) 48” JackallA rugged, powerful, all-purpose tool that can lift, pull, push or hoist up to 8,000lbs. It is ideal for self recovery and is widely recommended as an essential com-ponent of an off-road vehicle’s kit.RNA901 Jackall ..............................................................................................$ 69.95

(L) Hi-Lift X-TREMEWinch, clamp, or spread up to 5,000 lbs with this top of the line Hi-Lift X-TREME. Thisall-cast version is made with charcoal metalic powder-coat finish, gold zinc-coatedhardware and handle, and a special winch-clamp-spreader attachment.XT485 48” ...........................................................................................................$ 84.50XT605 60” ...........................................................................................................$ 90.95

(M) Recovery Hitch & Receiver Adapter for all Models(1) Recovery Hitch can be front or rear mounted to handle snatch strap,chain or winch cable as used on the Camel Trophy. Special mountinghardware included.RNF408 Recovery Hitch.....................................................................$ 76.60(2) Receiver Adapter allows recovery and tow hitches to be mountedinto Land Rover’s Class III rear receiver and Rovers North’s Class IIIfront receiver.RNA082 Receiver Adapter.................................................................$ 46.50

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ARB Bull Bar: RNB897Assembled with winch: ARB109W

ARB Bull Bar: 3432060Assembled with winch: ARBD119WK

ARB Sahara Bar: 3932020Assembled with winch: SBD119WK

DIRECT FROMAUSTRALIA

Save on ARB Bull Bars & Warn Winch CombinationsDirect from Australia, our ARB Bull Bars provide superior front-end protection for yourLand Rover. Features reinforced steel wrap around bumper with integral protectionbar and built in recovery points. Includes mounting points for headlamp washers, CBaerial, recovery hitches, and driving lamps. Finished in a durable powder coated satinblack, or you can paint to match your Land Rover. Built to facilitate a Warn 9,000 lbwinch with roller fairlead. We offer you a choice between our ARB Bull Bar only orassembled with winch. Our fully assembled ARB kit includes ARB Bull Bar, Warn 9,000 lbwinch with 125 ft of 3/8” cable, roller fairlead, remote control, mounting brackets, wiringharness, fitted battery cables, instructions and all the hardware you need for an easy DIYinstallation.

RNH720 LR3 ARBWinch Bull Bar only............................................................$ 1295.00

3432080 Discovery I ARB Bull Bar only..................................................................$ 759.95

ARBDI9WKNA Discovery I ARB Bull Bar w/Warn XD9000 installed ‘94-1999.............$ 1899.95

3432060 Discovery II ARB Bull Bar only, ‘99-2002 ................................................$ 939.95

ARBDII9WK Discovery II ARB Bull Bar w/Warn XD9000 installed, ‘99-2002 ..........$ 2190.00

3432120 Discovery II ARB Bull Bar only, 2003 on .................................................$ 959.00

ARBDII9WK03 Discovery II ARB Bull Bar w/Warn XD9000 installed, 2003 on ...........$ 2190.00

3932020 Discovery II ARB Sahara Bar only, 2003 on ...........................................$ 1095.00

SBDII9WK Discovery II ARB Sahara Bar w/Warn XD9000 installed, 2003 on.......$ 2254.95

3430020 Range Rover Classic ARB Bull Bar only .................................................$ 779.00

ARB9WK Range Rover Classic ARB Bull Bar w/Warn XD9000 installed ...........$ 1998.00

RNB897 Defender 90 110, Series II - III ARB Bull Bar only ........................$ 798.00

ARB109W Defender 90 110, Series II - III ARB Bull Bar w/Warn XD9000.....$ 1950.00

RNA089 Defender 90 110, Series II - III Adapter for USA Defender 110 .$ 159.95


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NOW ARBFOR YOUR LR3

NOW ARBFOR YOUR LR3

28

A friend in Vermont once asked me, “Why doyou own such anti-social cars?” Her statementstunned me. “Antisocial? Moi?”

Perhaps she had a point with my ’80Triumph TR-7 Spider; after all, it will only seatme and one friend. Given my short list offriends, that’s often proven to be more thanenough. You do sit quite low to the groundand you enter by stretching yourself over widesills. If you’re not medium height, lithe andathletic, you’ll never look or feel good aboutentering or exiting the car. If you’re female,you’ll likely feel on display. If you’re tall,you’ll not feel too good once you’rescrunched up inside the car. There’s also novisible evidence of safety or convenience; thecupholder is actually the person next to you,to whom you ask, “Would you hold this cupfor a moment?”

Then there’s the styling of a TR-7, “theshape of things to come” that came and went.An apocryphal story, retold in RichardPorter’s Crap Cars, told of stylist Guigaro’sfirst look at the TR-7 at an auto show. Heobserved the right side of the car and walkedaround to the left. Upon staring at the car heexclaimed, “My God, they’ve done the samething to this side, too.” To Triumphcognoscenti, the TR-7 remains an antisocialstatement.

However, I must protest. The LandRovers - my 1966 Series II-A 88”s, the StationWagon and the Hardtop - what was my friendthinking?

What could be more convivial than hav-

ing 6 acquaintances join you in an 88” StationWagon? You quickly learn to share commonspace –“Is that your foot I just stomped?Sorry!” You learn to alert female friends topotential awkward moments – “Now I’m justreaching for the overdrive, not your thigh” –a sure sign of social and political politesse.The Hardtop provides a perfect demonstra-tion of the classlessness of Land Rovers.Whether you’re seated on the fallen aftermar-ket squabs or on the fender wells, class, sta-tus, age or gender mean nothing as everyoneis totally uncomfortable.

Series Land Rovers teach you the basicsof proper social behavior. My parents alwaystold me to “sit up straight.” That’s exactlywhat you must do in a Series II-A. You have nochoice, of course, because the seats don’tmove [unless you knock the seat squab offthe seatbox] or recline. You either fit or youdon’t (when Rover finally got around to“deluxe seating,” the total seat adjustmentwas 3 inches.). Pay attention to your doorlocks because you’re wedged against the dri-ver’s side door. Seat belts and the large steer-ing wheel help keep you in place during spir-ited cornering. Good vision, ideally 20/20, isa plus because the instruments sit just belowyour right knee on a fascia far, far away.There’s no way to view them except by takingyour eyes off the road – never a great idea. Atnight, the peanut bulbs in the instrumentsgive off less than 1 candlepower, enough totell you they’re still present but not enough toread them. So you listen carefully as youdrive; engine and drivetrain noise identifyyour likely speed.

Listening respectfully - another admoni-tion from my parents - is also a good idea soyou can hear any changes in engine, trans-mission or suspension noises that might indi-cate problems. I remember climbing a longhill in Waldo County, Maine, a few years agowhen I scared myself silly listening a suddenloud blatting, grinding sound from under-neath the car. Pulling over close to a ditch, Ishined a flashlight under the car, expecting tosee differential or transfer case pieces.Instead, I found an exhaust system draggingon the ground as both hangers had broken offfrom the frame. Fortunately, I had a dog leashin the car which served as an ideal tie downfor the system. It was a noisy ride to the coast.I exercised great care in my driving so as notto offend nighttime sleepers with my broken

exhaust system.“Speak only when you have something

useful to say,” my folks would insist. In aSeries Land Rover, you do choose your wordscarefully any time the engine is running; noone can hear you well anyway, so you might aswell have something valuable to make itworth the effort. Most conversation in a SeriesRover becomes internal, to be shared onlywith yourself. It’s just too much effort to shareit with others in the car unless it’s reallyimportant.

“Speak clearly and don’t mumble,” myfather would proclaim. Once you feel com-pelled to speak you must do so at full volumeand with great diction; otherwise, no one willunderstand you. Any orator who has tried togo one on one with a tappety 2.25 knows ofthe challenge. Beware of any person whosevoice can carry above the din of a 2.25 Roverdiesel. That’s the same person who will wantto talk about his successes on the 10-hour JetBlue runway hold.

The gentility demanded on Series ownersoften surprises people. The Rover ownermust have the strength to wield a ½” breakerbar with a 1” socket on an output shaft nut, aswell as the dexterity and deftness to install anew speedometer cable. I completed thischarming task only last week in the yard ofEast Coast Rover in Warren, Maine. “Alwaysbe kind to your friends,” my parents insisted.Happy to oblige the favor given to me, I knowthat my travails of lying on a sheet of ice per-forming one of the more frustrating mainte-nance jobs would bring a grin the faces of theECR staff. I’m assured by them that it did justthat.

The winter show and ice cover on thegravel beamed the rays of a warm sun; withtemperatures near 32 degrees F, I felt verycomfortable leaning over the fascia removingthe screw on end of the speedometer cable.While I was having so much fun, I took theopportunity to return my Rovers North-refur-bished speedometer to its hole in the fasciapanel. That meant I could diddle with even-smaller round nuts and the speedometerholder bracket, too. The key here is to pulleverything back far enough to get your handin back of the instruments without pulling anyconnectors off their pins on the ignitionswitch. It’s also helpful to be gentle with thesmall bulb that illuminates the speedometer;otherwise, you’ll break it off in your finger

BEHIND THE STEERING WHEELBy Jeffrey B. Aronson

29

and have to rummage through old speedome-ters to find a working bulb.

Now it’s time to exchange the cable. Ipushed the old one through the hole in thebulkhead. Crawling under the car, I pulled theremaining length of cable out until I found thetransfer case end. Since I had a Fairey over-drive, too, I now confronted a genuine chal-lenge. You see, the transfer case end of thecable is held in place by a small, roundflange, about the size of a quarter, with threeflathead screws that go through the flangeinto the transfer case housing. In turn, thetransfer case housing and the overdrive hous-ing form a canyon too narrow for a humanhand; into that canyon you must reach up toscrew in three ½” long screws. Oh, and all goin at an angle, and the top one is totally hid-den by the speedometer cable.

The dexterity required to accomplish allthis should dispel any notions of Rover enthu-siasts as ham-fisted mechanical barbarians.No, we must become gentle, nimble fingeredartisans. I tried magnetizing a tiny screwdriv-er, the one that resembled the item includedin Barbie’s Own Tool Kit, to hold the screw inplace as I lifted it over my head. The screwmade it very close to the hole when it leapt offthe screwdriver and took a 9.5 dive into thegravel surface beside my head. I borrowed ahuge magnet from the much-amused ECRstaff and found the missing screw.

This time, I tried some Hylomar sealeron the head of the screw. That gave meenough grip for two to go in successfully, andthe third to stick to my right eyebrow when itfell from the top hole. A lot more Hylomar,several healthy abdominal crunches, astrained neck and a small flashlight helpedme complete the task. Three screws equaled45 minutes of physical activity.

How meditative, how Pilates, how NewAge of me! Anti-social and barbaric - I thinknot!

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From the time of its inception the Series LandRover has been at home in a huge variety ofsettings, from fields to freeways. You can trav-el at 6.5 mph or 65 mph; at any speed there’sno better place to be than behind the steeringwheel of a Land Rover. As I have two SeriesRovers, I have the joy to two different drivingexperiences.

The QE I, the station wagon, received themaintenance described above. With its newspeedometer, I now can view the leisurelyacceleration that comes from the mightyefforts of the 2.25 liter engine, a rebuilt now

at least 13 years and hundreds of thousandsof miles old. The QE I now runs parabolicsprings from Rovers North. They feel no dif-ferent on the highway than conventional leafsprings, but on bumpy roads, they absorbbumps much more effectively. It used to beroutine for pieces of luggage to be launchedfrom the jump seats in the rear; I always kepta collection of bungee cords in the car. Now,I’m surprised if anything falls off a seat.

Off roading, the parabolics really domake a difference in control of the car. Thesprings are very flexible and supple so youdon’t need to carry an anvil in the rear tocompress the springs and gain articulation.They’re strong enough to help you keep con-trol, too. I remember a ski instructor oncewatching me pound a mogul. As he helped meup, he reminded me to “bend your knees toabsorb the bumps. Don’t fight them.”Running the trails of the Maine Winter Rompat 10 mph in low range second gear, I felt asthough the car was bending its knees as ittackled holes, moguls, rocks and logs on thetrail. That same instructor suggested that togain control, you accelerate up the side of amogul and as you rose to the top, straightenout as you go down, and then bend again atthe nadir. You were always in control. That’sthe approach I used in the Rover on the trailsof the Maine Winter Romp, too.

The QM I, another ’66, has its originalengine with only 46,000 miles –most of themon a Vermont farm estate – the 7:1 head andthe original Solex carburetor. The Weber onthe QE I needs next to no maintenance andruns very well - except for carb icing in cold,damp weather. The Solex provides punchieracceleration, less gas mileage, and easy start-ing. I suppose that top notch compressionhelps, too.

The springs in this one are standard leafsprings, a bit on the tired side. Except whenit’s overloaded with firewood, it handles quitewell off road. It pounds you more and youhear every bump as various doors and otherloose bits rattle with every change in the roador field surface. Since I brought the car homein October 2005, it has not left the island soall of its driving been in conditions morecommon to rural England than contemporaryAmerica. Still, I remember how well it droveand handled on the 220 mile trip fromVermont to Maine and I’m certain that itwould run fine anytime it was needed on themainland.

Of course, I must first find out why thegenerator light remains on suddenly all thetime: stuck brushes in the generator, failed

internals, corrosion at the voltage regulator,bad wiring? Two years ago, when I had thesame problem, I hit the generator with a ham-mer. Hopefully, this fix will be as simple.

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In the ‘60’s Land Rover ran an advertisementfor the 109” 12 seat Station Wagon. Notingthat Rovers had conquered deserts and rainforests, they recognized that the school runmade by mothers throughout the land wasprobably the great challenge for any driver.With a Rover full of screaming children intheir school uniforms, a patient mother staresthrough the windshield of the 109” in the ad.Incredibly, she’s wearing white gloves whiledriving (my steering wheel has decades ofaccumulated grease, sweat and palm oil thatleaves an unsightly residue on my handswhenever it’s damp outside).

I thought of this ad when I read thatBritish FirstGroup PLC will take over owner-ship of Laidlaw International, an Americanfirm that operates both Greyhound Bus Linesand the largest single fleet of school buses inthe US. FirstGroup already owns 13% of theUS school bus market; this acquisition willelevate its dominance to 40%.

Yellow school busses may be all the rage,but really, who wants to ride in them? By thetime students enter high school, they’re beg-ging and/or nagging their folks to drive themto school so they won’t be seen on a bus. Sowhat if FirstGroup replaced unappealingbusses with Land Rovers? Attendance wouldskyrocket as kids flocked to get a ride in, say,a Defender 110 to get to school. Teacherswould have to learn a new excuse. Instead of“the dog ate my homework,” the best fibwould become “Lucas wouldn’t let the busrun this morning.”

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Congratulations to Rovers North technicalcorrespondent John Robison, whose articleshave graced our pages for the past few years.The Boston Globe recently reported that Johnjust signed a major book contract based onthe “triumphant tale” of his life. From LandRovers and Rolls Royce’s to literary fame –nice going, John!

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(A) Genuine Heavy Duty Springs & Bilstein Shock KitsPerfect for vehicles running factory tire sizes with a moderate appointment ofoff-road equipment – not exceeding manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight.Includes four Bilstein shocks and four Genuine Land Rover heavy duty springs.Will raise vehicle approximately 1 inch. Great on-road, good off-road.Defender 90/110RNK5201 Defender 90, without winch ...............................................$ 589.00RNK5211 Defender 90, with winch .....................................................$ 599.95RNK5202 Defender 110, with winch....................................................$ 589.00RNA235 Bilstein Steering Damper ....................................................$ 86.00Discovery I 1994 - 1999RNK5203 Discovery I, without winch..................................................$ 599.00RNK5213 Discovery I, with winch .......................................................$ 619.00RNA245 Bilstein Steering Damper ....................................................$ 85.00Discovery II 1999 - 2004RNK5208 Discovery II, with winch ......................................................$ 769.00Range Rover Classic 1987 - 1995RNK5204 Range Rover Classic, 100” without winch........................$ 599.00RNK5214 Range Rover Classic, 100” with winch .............................$ 629.00RNA245 Bilstein Steering Damper ....................................................$ 85.00

(B) Old Man Emu Heavy Duty Springs & Shock KitsFor owners using oversize tires combined with heavy duty bumper/winch combi-nations and extra vehicle equipment. Designed for heavy duty off-road use.Will raise vehicle approximately 1.5 inch. Great off-road, good on-road.Defender 90OMED90K1 Standard Duty........................................................................$ 639.00OMED90K2 Heavy Duty .............................................................................$ 639.00OMESD32 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50Defender 110 Station WagonOMED110K1 Standard Duty........................................................................$ 639.00OMED110K2 Heavy Duty .............................................................................$ 639.00OMESD32 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50Defender 110 Pick-up or HardtopOMED110RK1 Standard Duty........................................................................$ 639.00OMED110RK2 Heavy Duty .............................................................................$ 639.00OMESD32 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50Discovery I 1994 - 1999OMEDS1K1 Standard .................................................................................$ 639.00OMEDS1K2 Heavy Duty .............................................................................$ 639.00OMESD11 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50Discovery II 1999 - 2004OMEDS2K1 Standard .................................................................................$ 639.00OMEDS2K2 Heavy Duty .............................................................................$ 639.00OMESD02 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50

Range Rover ClassicOMERRK1 Standard .................................................................................$ 639.00OMERRK2 Heavy Duty .............................................................................$ 639.00OMESD11 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50

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PERFORMANCE SUSPENSION KITS


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2” Higher Front Coil Spring Sets 2” Higher Rear Coil Spring Sets

Standard front endno extra equipment

Equipped with heavy dutybumper and winch.

Standard rear weightno extra equipment

200 lbs of extraequipment installed

300 lbs of extraequipment installed

Discovery I1994-1999

Range Rover Classic1987-1993Coil Spring

Defender 90 NAS

Defender 110

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PRO COMP 2 INCH PERFORMANCESUSPENSION KITSNO COMPROMISE.Perfect for those on a mission to conquer all on andoff-road terrain without the harsh ride associated withheavy duty springs. Experience smooth and responsiveperfomance with added clearance. Simply select thefront & rear springs that best match your Land Roverfrom the chart below & add a set of 4 Pro Comp shocks.

For rear coil springschoose a part numberfrom the chart below.

For front coil springschoose a part numberfrom the chart below.

For Pro Comp shock set of 4use part number:PCS9020 for DefenderPCS9030 for Discovery IPCS9050 for Range Rover Classicoriginally equipped with coilsprings.

ONLY$489.00


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NSHOCKS & SPRINGS(A) Balanced Parabolic Spring and Shock Kits(Series II, IIA, III)After years of testing, research and selling four different types of parabolicsprings from around the world, we’ve determined that these are the best avail-able. Improve your ride, improve your comfort, and get additional axle articulationout of your Series Land Rover. Includes four springs with u-bolts and hardware.For best results, we’ve included a set of our Pro Comp Nitor Gas Shocks, or OMENitrocharger shocks.Balanced Parabolic Spring Kits with Pro Comp shocksRNK112388PC 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears, 4 PC shocks, for 88” ..............$ 699.95RNK1123109PC 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears, 4 PC shocks, for 109” ............$ 699.95RNK1124109PC 2 leaf front & 4 leaf rears, 4 PC shocks,

Heavy Duty set, for 109” ......................................................$ 779.95Balanced Parabolic Spring Kits withOld Man Emu ShocksRNK112388 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears, 4 OME shocks, for 88”...........$ 879.95RNK1123109 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears, 4 OME shocks, for 109”.........$ 879.95RNK1124109 2 leaf front & 4 leaf rears, 4 OME shocks,

Heavy Duty set, for 109” ......................................................$ 899.95Balanced Parabolic Spring Kits w/o ShocksIncludes U bolts with nutsRNK1123 2 leaf front & 3 leaf rears for 88” and 109” ......................$ 499.00RNK1124 2 leaf front & 4 leaf rears, HD set for 109” .......................$ 589.00

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NSHOCKS(B) Bilstein ShocksBilstein® is the world leader in gas-pressurized shock absorber technology.Technically the most advanced shock available today, Bilstein utilizes a one pieceseamless monotube design filled with oil and nitrogen gas in a pressurized, sealedcompartment. Completely eliminates any foaming of the oil and the monotube designhelps dissipate heat to prevent shock fade. Bilstein’s shock bodies are precision-formed through a unique seamless manufacturing process. We recommend for usewith Land Rover Genuine Standard or Heavy Duty springs. Great for off-road drivingin normally equipped vehicles. Not recommended for heavily ladened vehicles withoversize tires. Lifetime warranty.Defender 90/110RNA243-4 Set of four...............................................................................$ 329.00RNA243-5 Set of five (includes Damper) .............................................$ 375.00RNA235 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 86.00Discovery IRNA243-6 Set of four...............................................................................$ 329.00RNA243-7 Set of five (includes Damper) .............................................$ 375.00RNA245 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 85.00Discovery IIRNA6046-7 Set of four...............................................................................$ 379.00Range Rover ClassicRNA243-4 RR Classic w/coil springs (set of four) ..............................$ 329.00RNA243-5 RR Classic (Set of four + damper)......................................$ 375.00RNA2152-3 RR Classic LWB w/air susp (set of four). ..........................$ 369.95RNA245 RR Classic, Steering Damper..............................................$ 85.00Range Rover P38ARNA2214-5 Set of four...............................................................................$ 396.00

(C) OME ShocksFor Land Rover owners who require heavy-duty shocks, off-road performanceand maximum load capacity. Twin-tube design offers unsurpassed protectionagainst rocks and debris. These heavy duty nitrogen-gas shock absorbersare recommended for applications where more dampening is needed for usewith oversize tires.Series 88” & 109”OMESK109 109” Set of four shocks........................................................$ 368.00OMESK88 88” Set of four shocks..........................................................$ 368.00OMESD11 88 and 109 Steering Damper ...............................................$ 72.50Defender 90/110OMESKDEF Set of four shocks.................................................................$ 319.95OMESD32 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50Discovery IOMESKDS1 Set of four shocks ................................................................$ 319.00OMESD11 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50Discovery IIOMESKDS2 Set of four shocks ................................................................$ 319.00OMESD02 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50Range Rover ClassicOMESKRR Set of four shocks ................................................................$ 319.00OMESD11 Steering Damper ...................................................................$ 72.50

(D) Pro Comp ES 9000 ShocksFor Discovery, Range Rover and Defender. Nitrogen gas charged shocks withtwo inches of extra travel. (Designed for off-road performance forvehicles with raised suspension of two inches or less). Excellent allaround ride quality and handling. Shock sets include bushings and optional polyvinyl dust boots in black.PCS9030 Discovery I 1989-1999 front and rear shock set....................$ 189.00PCS9050 Range Rover Classic 1970-1993 with coil suspension front

and rear shock set .......................................................................$ 189.00PCS9020 Defender 1983-1998 front and rear shock set .......................$ 189.00Pro Comp ES 3000for Series II, IIA, III, 88” and 109” Land Rovers with standard or parabolic springsoffer an extra inch of shock travel. These performance shocks incorporate a twintube cellular gas design that prevents foaming and reduces shock fade toimprove the ride quality of leaf spring suspension. Shock sets include bushingsand optional poly vinyl dust boots in black.PCS3088 88” front and rear shock set......................................................$ 169.99PCS3109 109” front and rear shock set....................................................$ 169.99

Steering DamperPLS122 Series II, IIA, III, 88”, 109”,

Range Rover Classic and Discovery I ...............................$ 41.95

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Off-road suspension accessories for Defender,Discovery I and Range Rover Classic(coilsprings)

(A) Front Heavy Duty Shock TowersPLS023HDY Standard 10” height, powder coated yellow, pair ..$174.50PLS022HDY 2 inches lower, powder coated Yellow, pair ............$179.00PLS023HDG Standard 10” height, galvanized, pair .......................$169.00PLS022HDG 2 inches lower, galvanized, pair.................................$179.00Heavy duty shock towers require 2 heavy duty securing rings, PLS039HD

(B) Heavy Duty Securing RingPLS039HD Used to secure heavy duty or standard shock tower to

your chassis (sold individually) ..................................$ 19.95

(C) Heavy Duty Spring RetainersImproves springs attachment to axle. Required with dislocation cones.SRP105 Front heavy duty spring retainer................................$ 19.95SRP106 Rear heavy duty spring retainer.................................$ 14.95

(D) Front Dislocation ConesPLS023DC Easily bolts to your chassis front top spring mount.

Proven effective in guiding a dislocated spring backinto place, allowing for maximum axle articulation.(Pair)................................................................................$ 89.00

(E) Rear Dislocation ConesPLH617DC Easily bolts to your chassis rear top spring mount.

Proven effective in guiding a dislocated spring backinto place, allowing for maximum axle articulation.(Pair)................................................................................$ 89.00

(F) Rear Shock Mount Drop kitPLH617DK Increases the travel of your rear shock by lowering

your top mount 2”. Works great with our 2” lower heavyduty front shock towers (Pair)....................................$ 89.00

(G) 2 Inch Heavy Duty Lift SpacersRaise your Defender, Range Rover Classic, Discovery I and IIby 2 inches, using our Lift Spacers. Easy to install, for that DIY person.No special tools are required. Fits between axle and spring plate.RNA5102 Set of 2 inch heavy duty lift spacers (2 front 2, rear) .............$ 99.95

(H) Extended Flexible Stainless Steel Brake Line KitsThese 4 inch extended flexible stainless steel brake line kits are designed for LandRovers with lifted suspension. Replaces your rubber flex lines. Equipped with factoryfittings. No adapters required. Directions included.SBL3004E Discovery I .....................................................................................$ 109.95SBL6004E Discovery II....................................................................................$ 109.95SBL5006E Range Rover Classic 1992 - 1995 ...............................................$ 159.95SBL2003E Defender 90, 110 ...........................................................................$ 84.95

(I) ProLine Performance Wheel Spacer SetWiden your Land Rover's track, and dramatically improve your turning radius andhandling. Precision made from Billet Aluminum with heat-treated heavy-duty wheelstuds, this new and improved Performance Wheel Spacer Kit is designed for superiorstrength and off-road performance. Made in the USA. Set of 4 includes 30mm widespacers with studs, and 20 lug nuts.RNWS001 Defender, Discovery I and Range Rover Classic ....................$ 389.00RNWS002 Discovery II, Range Rover P38A ................................................$ 399.00

(J) Raised Poly Axle StopsPLH057E 3 1/2 inch raised orange Poly Axle Stop, for front or rear, to limit

downward axle travel. Fits Defender, Discovery Iand Range Rover Classic....................................................................$ 26.95

PLH057 2 1/4 inch orange Poly Axle Stop, for front or rear, to limit downwardaxle travel. Fits Defender, Discovery I and Range Rover Classic....................................................................................................................$ 19.50

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APLS023HDY Standard 10”Front Heavy Duty Shock Towers, Yellow

PLS023HDG Standard 10”Front Heavy Duty Shock Towers, Galvanized

PLS039HD Heavy Duty Securing Ring

SRP105 Front Spring Retainer

SRP106 Rear Spring Retainer

PLS023DC Front Dislocation Cones PLH617DC Rear Dislocation Cones


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RNWS002 ProLine Performance WheelSpacer Set

PLH057E Raised Poly Axle Stop

(A) 1993 - ‘95 Range Rover ClassicCoil Conversion Kit using Genuine springsLand Rover designed and built into the Range Rover Classic; a fantastic air sus-pension system that was way ahead of its time. However, when a malfunctioningcomponent needs repair or replacement, it can quickly get time-consuming andexpensive. Do away with all the air suspension hassle and expense by convertingyour Range Rover Classic to a coil-sprung Range Rover. This kit contains allGenuine parts and includes everything needed for the proper conversion andcontinued reliable on or off-road performance. Our customers have been so satis-fied with the improved ride quality and handling after installation of this kit, mostclaim they prefer the coil conversion suspension to the factory air suspension!Includes detailed instructions and all necessary hardware.RNK5105 Coil Spring Conversion Kit, Range Rover Classic,

Genuine (as showm above).................................................$ 379.00

1993 - ‘95 Range Rover ClassicCoil Conversion Kit using Old Man Emu springsRNK5105A Coil Spring Conversion Kit (with OME springs),

Range Rover Classic (not shown) ......................................$ 399.95

(B) 1995-2002 Range Rover P38A Coil SpringConversion Kits with Electronic ECU BypassSimply the best kit for the best price. You will not find a better priceanywhere else. This is a top quality kit for standard duty for normaldriving and off road conditions, that converts your Range Rover P38A airsuspension to coil spring suspension, giving you the best handling andthe most comfortable coil spring suspension ride on the market today. Ourkit includes 4 Genuine variable rate springs, 2 Genuine rear coil spring isola-tors, 2 Genuine front coil isolators, 4 coil spring seats, 4 aluminum springperch adapters, 4 spring retainers and 1 EAS override pigtail to eliminatefault codes. All hardware and instructions are included. Installation isstraight forward, requiring no fabrication or modifications to your vehicle.PLK5106 Standard RR P38A Coil Spring Conversion Kit.......................$ 689.00RNK5107 Heavy Duty, P38A Coil Conversion Kit...............................$ 799.00

1995-2002 Range Rover P38A Coil Spring ConversionKits with 4 gas pressurized Bilstein Shocks.RNK5116 Standard w/Bilsteins, P38A Coil Conversion Kit..............$1199.00RNK5117 Heavy Duty w/Bilsteins, P38A Coil Conversion Kit..........$1299.00


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N(C) Discovery II Rear Air to Coil Spring Conversion KitCoil Conversion for Discovery II rear suspension. Do away with air suspensionhassles and convert to coil-sprung for continued reliable performance. Kit containsGenuine parts, everything for the conversion, instructions and hardware.

RNK5118 Discovery II Rear Air to Coil Spring Conversion Kit........$ 282.45

(D) Heavy Duty Drive FlangeFits Defender, Discovery I and Range Rover Classic. Anodized finish withscrew on caps, sold in pairs.

PLH009 Drive Flange H/D 24 spline ........................................$ 89.95 PR.

(E) Polyurethane Bushing KitsThese Polyurethane Bushing Kits were designed with the DYI indivaidual in mind;both easy to install and the best possible price anywhere. These Kits are suitablefor normal, as well as off-road use. Includes all suspension and all shock absorberbushings. Made in England.

PBS1115 Polyurethane Bushing Kit, Discovery I, Range Rover Classic(except 1995), Defender 90, 1994 on. .................................$ 169.95

PBS1111LWB Polyurethane Bushing Kit, Series III, 109” Includes allspring bushings and shock bushings ......................$ 109.50

PBS1111SWB Polybushing Set, Series IIA, III, 88”Includes all springbushings and shock bushings...................................$ 109.50

(F) Genuine Land Rover Suspension Bushing KitsFor superior performance and durability, no other bushings known willoutlast Genuine Suspension Bushings. Includes all Land Rover Genuine Parts,bushings and hardware for replacing suspension bushings on your vehicle.Professional installation is recommended.

RNK5910 Range Rover Classic Front Bushings Pre '86 .......................$ 189.95RNK5911 Range Rover Classic Rear Bushings Pre '86 .........................$ 209.95RNK5912 Range Rover Classic Front Bushings ‘86-’90 .........................$ 149.95RNK5913 Range Rover Classic Rear Bushings ‘86-’92 ..........................$ 189.95RNK5914 Range Rover Classic Front Bushings ‘91 on ..........................$ 139.95RNK5915 Range Rover Classic Rear Bushings ‘93 on ...........................$ 189.95RNK5918 Discovery I Front Suspension Bushings.................................$ 139.95RNK5915 Discovery I Rear Suspension Bushings..................................$ 189.95

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Welcome to the Spring edition of Robison onRovers. In my last column, I told you aboutfinishing up my book, Look Me In The Eye.Since then, things have been racing along.You’ll be able to find the book in bookstoresnationwide September 25th. It’s beingpublished by Crown, an imprint of RandomHouse. You can sign up for news or evenplace an order on www.randomhouse.comI’ve also got an author web site,www.johnrobison.com

My book tells the story of growing upwith Asperger’s syndrome, a mild form ofautism. For those of you who’ve met me . . .it’s why I seem a bit eccentric at times. Thebook tells the story of my childhood, andhow I dropped out of high school but edu-cated myself. I’ve talked about my firstcareer, which saw me on the road with KISSand Pink Floyd’s sound company in the1970s. You can read about my time design-ing electronic toys at Milton Bradley, andthen how I started Robison Service.

I’ll be doing a national tour thisOctober, reading at bookstores along theway. Check my web site for dates. I hope tosee many of you this fall. If you miss the livereadings, you can catch me on the talkshows beginning in the late summer.Hopefully some of you Land Rover enthusi-asts will make it into the audience.

Meanwhile, back at the shop, we’refixing those Land Rovers as fast as we can . .. This winter, we’ve received a number ofLand Rover restorations, and we get ques-tions about them every day. In this column

and the next I’m going to try and show yousome of the reasons why we get into arestoration project.

At Robison Service, we undertake threekinds of restoration projects. The first iswhere we go through a truck mechanicallyand just clean up the body. It’s very commonfor someone who has a reasonably rust freetruck to elect this choice if his Rover feelsworn out but isn’t rotted.

Projects like this can include overhaulor replacement of the engine, drivetrainoverhaul, brake, minor steering, andsuspension upgrades, and other chassismodifications. We’re seeing quite a bit ofinterest in fitting the cross-bolted 4.6 shortblocks into the 1994-5 Defenders. Thepower and torque gains are significant.Another common task is overhaul of thewheel hubs, along with fitting new brakeparts.

Many Defenders have run up high milesand the mechanicals are getting worn out.But the bodies are still solid, and the trucksare valuable. So it’s easy to justify a majormechanical service.

The next level of project is where wetake a stock truck and transform it, usuallyfor off-road performance. We might install amulti-link suspension, bigger tires, or evenportal axles. It’s common for enthusiasts towant custom roll cages, perhaps withmounts for jacks and tools, custom bumpersor skid plates, new electronics and otherinterior modifications.

This is the kind of project where youpick an accessoriesbudget and then youopen catalogs and startdreaming. Will it be theARB bumper, or theSafarigard, or the lowprofile Rovers Northunit? Will the winch befrom Superwinch orWarn? Will the stockcable be good enough,or will you spring for thesafer synthetic? You’llneed heavier springs forthe front end – whichones? And will youchange front springs, orall four? How about treestraps, pulleys, and other

rigging accessories? For every modification,there’s an endless list of decisions.

We often do projects like this for peoplewho buy Defenders and want to make thembetter. With the high value of these vehicles,it’s common for enthusiasts to invest asmuch in upgrades and restoration as theyspent to buy the vehicle in the first place.

When the focus is on mechanicals ofoff-road capability, the body may not beincluded at all in the package of work.Everything changes when you get into bodywork. Defender 90 bodies were made byriveting aluminum panels to steel angle cor-ners. The two dissimilar metals were thenpainted, and Land Rover hoped the paintwould seal everything up. It didn’t. Almostevery Defender we see has some body issues.

On most Defenders, the bare aluminumand steel have started to react where theytouch. That means there are almost alwaysgalvanic corrosion bubbles at the edges, andthe only way to fix them is to take the body topieces, repair the corrosion, insulate themetals from one another, and reassemblethe body piece by piece.

That calls for extensive disassembly.You start by stripping off the roll cage. Ninetimes out of ten, you’ll find corrosion andrust at the tube ends and where the cagebolts up to the body. At Robison Service, wesuggest the tube be stripped and powderpainted. We find the best way to restore aLand Rover is to finish all the pieces individ-ually and then put them together carefully,using new hardware. We, and most otherenthusiasts, recommend stainless.

Next, the top comes off. If you’ve got asoft top, it’s usually time for a new one. Ifyou’ve got a hard top, you’ll want to checkthe panels for cracking and deterioration.The plastic tops are especially prone tocrack and fall apart. Metal tops are a lotmore rugged. The doors are next to comeoff. Look for corrosion around the handlesand hinges, and at the bottom seam. If youfind any problems, be reassured that newdoor skins are readily available at areasonable price.

Now you can remove the rear body tub.That’s the part that would be the pickup bed,if your rig were a pickup truck. It will taketwo people to lift it clear, after which it’s asimple matter to take apart. There is alwayscorrosion at the panel joints, and the only

ROBISON ON ROVERSStory & Photos by: John Robison

With the rear body removed, chassis rust is obvious.

39

proper way to fix it is by dismantling thewhole thing. With the tub out of the way, thebox that the seats sit on is next to be removed.

With the body off, the frame becomes vis-ible, and it’s usually a sorry sight. The areabehind the rear tires is often rusty, and it’s notuncommon for the rear cross memberto have turned into complete junk.Replacement ends are available. Other frame

bits may be available, or you may have to fab-ricate them locally.

At Robison Service, we prefer to repairframes whenever possible. They are such amajor component that I prefer to keep it orig-inal when we can.

At this point, the front sheet metal can beunbolted, and you’ll be left with a chassis witha dashboard and windshield sticking up.

What kind of shape is the bulkhead in? If it’salso corroded, or if you want to change thecolor, that is the next disassembly target. Thedecision - whether or not to dismantle thebulkhead - is a serious one, because it repre-sents at least a week’s worth of work. So it’sa big cost and time item.

If you remove the bulkhead, you will beleft with a chassis with axles and a powertrain. Do you pull them out too, and overhaulthe mechanicals? If you do, you can end upinvesting two or three times the original costof the vehicle in its rebuild.

In my next column, I’ll focus on some ofthe tradeoffs and issues of the restorationproject.Other announcements:

RoverFest will be held at the BearMountain Base Lodge in Killington, Vermont,August 17-19, 2007. Located in the beautifulGreen Mountains, Killington Resort is thelargest ski resort in the East, featuring anexpansive and challenging road and trail net-work. It will be the largest gathering of LandRovers in the Northeast with Trail Rides, theMuddy Oval, a Trials Event, Land Rover Polo,vendors and much more. Camping will beavailable on site or stay at the KillingtonGrand (great rates for this event). Killingtonoffers activities for all ages. Bring the family!Check out www.roverfest.com for details oremail: [email protected] for more informa-tion.See you next time,John

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Above: Some of the rust usually seen in D-90's.Here is a fuel tank support.

Left: Doors, top, seat box, and rear body removedfor full access to chassis.

Adam installing the new Rovers North galvanized rear crossmember.

40 Orders: (800) 403-7591 website: www.roversnorth.com40

Wheel Cylinders for 88”, Series II, IIA, IIICheck Out These Girling PricesRNB535 Front Right, Genuine....................................................................$ 69.95PLB535 Front Right, ProLine (Lucas/Girling)..........................................$ 45.00RNB536 Front Left, Genuine ......................................................................$ 71.95PLB536 Front Left, ProLine (Lucas/Girling) ............................................$ 45.00RNB537 Rear Right, Genuine.....................................................................$ 72.95PLB537 Rear Right, ProLine (Lucas/Girling)...........................................$ 49.00RNB538 Rear Left, Genuine .......................................................................$ 72.95PLB538 Rear Left, ProLine (Lucas/Girling) .............................................$ 49.00

Lucas Brake FluidGBF4250 Lucas Brake Fluid, 250 ml ...........................................................$ 4.00GBF4500 Lucas Brake Fluid, 500 ml ...........................................................$ 7.00GBF4100 Lucas Brake Fluid, 1 Litre ...........................................................$ 12.00

ProLine Series II, IIA, III Brake DrumsPLC534 88 Series III 10” Brake Drum, ProLine .....................................$ 45.95PLC545 88 Series II, IIA 10” Brake Drum, ProLine ...............................$ 45.95PLC216 109 Series II, IIA, 2.25ltr thru Suff. G, ProLine ........................$ 54.95PLC504 109 Series IIA, III, 2.25ltr 1971 on, ProLine .............................$ 42.95

Genuine Series Brake Pipe KitsIncludes all Genuine metal and rubber flex lines with sealing washers and nuts.RNK680 88” Single System, Early Series IIA..........................................$ 159.95RNK681 109” Single System......................................................................$ 159.95RNK682 88” Dual Power, Series IIA.........................................................$ 194.95RNK683 88” Dual Power, Series III ..........................................................$ 197.50

Series Brake Shoes 88” and 109”Bonded Brake Shoes Sold in Axle Sets (enough for 2 wheels)PLF320 88” Bonded Shoe Axle Set, front or rear.................................$ 34.95PLF343 109” Bonded Shoe Axle Set, front only, 2.25ltr .......................$ 39.95PLF321 109” Bonded Shoe Axle Set, rear only, all models ................$ 44.95PLF342 Brake Shoes for handbrake, Series IIA/III ..............................$ 24.95

NEW ProLine Brake Calipers with no Core ChargeDefender 90/110PLF300A Defender 90, Front Caliper, NEW, RH .......................................$ 169.00PLF301A Defender 90, Front Caliper, NEW, LH........................................$ 169.00PLB198A Defender 90, Rear Caliper, NEW, RH ........................................$ 119.95PLB197A Defender 90, Rear Caliper, NEW, LH.........................................$ 119.95PLF200 Defender 110, Front Caliper, NEW, RH .....................................$ 314.95PLF201 Defender 110, Front Caliper, NEW, LH......................................$ 314.95Discovery IPLB192A Front Caliper, NEW, RH ...............................................................$ 169.50PLB191A Front Caliper, NEW, LH................................................................$ 169.50PLB198A Rear Caliper, NEW, RH ................................................................$ 119.95PLB197A Rear Caliper, NEW, LH.................................................................$ 119.95Range Rover ClassicPLB014A Front Caliper, NEW, ‘87-1989 RH................................................$ 149.00PLB015A Front Caliper, NEW, ‘87-1989 LH ................................................$ 149.00PLD259A Front Caliper, NEW, ‘93-1995 RH, From Vin # 637568..............$ 169.95PLD258A Front Caliper, NEW, ‘93-1995 LH, From Vin # 637568 ..............$ 169.95PLB011A Front Caliper, NEW, ABS & Hunter, ‘90-1995,RH.....................$ 144.95PLB017A Front Caliper, NEW, ABS & Hunter, ‘90-1995,LH .....................$ 149.00PLB018A Rear Caliper, NEW, ‘87-1992 RH 10mm.....................................$ 129.50PLB010A Rear Caliper, NEW, ‘87-1992 LH 10mm .....................................$ 126.65PLB198A Rear Caliper, NEW, ‘93-1995 RH 12mm.....................................$ 119.95PLB197A Rear Caliper, NEW, ‘93-1995 LH 12mm .....................................$ 119.95

REBUILT ProLine brake calipersDiscovery II 1999-2002, Range Rover P38A 1995-2002PLD016 Front Caliper, Rebuilt, RH............................................................$ 274.95PLD017 Front Caliper, Rebuilt, LH ............................................................$ 274.95PLD004 Rear Caliper, Rebuilt, RH.............................................................$ 85.95PLD005 Rear Caliper, Rebuilt, LH .............................................................$ 85.95

Brake Pad Fitting KitsPLB204 Front, solid disc, Defender 110 NAS, Discovery I ..................$ 6.95PLD161 Front, vented, Range Rover Classic, Defender 90 NAS ........$ 6.95PLH320 Front, non-vented, Range Rover Classic .................................$ 6.95PLH321 Rear, RR Classic, Defender 90, Discovery I.............................$ 6.95

PLB191A Brake Caliper

PLF320 Series Brake Shoes

RNB536 Wheel Cylinder

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BRAKE ROTORSFOR THE MOST COMPETITIVE PRICESIN NORTH AMERICA TURN TO THENEXT PAGE

PLD016 Girling Brake Caliper

PERFORMANCEBRAKE ROTORS


GENUINE, ProLine Rotors and Brake PadsRotorsDefender 90PLB022A ProLine, front, rotor, each........................................................$ 39.50PLB012A ProLine, rear, rotor, each.........................................................$ 39.00RNB022 Genuine, front, rotor, each ......................................................$ 81.50RNB012 Genuine, rear, rotor, each........................................................$ 84.50PLB022SD ProLine slotted & drilled, front, rotor, pair ..........................$ 129.00PLB012SD ProLine slotted & drilled, rear, rotor, pair ..........................$ 109.00

Defender 110PLB006A ProLine, front, rotor, each ......................................................$ 39.95RNB006 Genuine, front, rotor, each .....................................................$ 69.25PLB006SD ProLine slotted & drilled, front, rotor, pair .........................$ 109.00

Discovery I 1995-1999PLB006A ProLine, front, rotor, each........................................................$ 39.95PLB012A ProLine, rear, rotor, each.........................................................$ 39.00RNB006 Genuine, front, rotor, each ......................................................$ 69.25RNB012 Genuine, rear, rotor, each........................................................$ 84.50PLB006SD ProLine slotted & drilled, front, rotor, pair ..........................$ 109.00PLB012SD ProLine slotted & drilled, rear, rotor, pair ...........................$ 109.00

Discovery II 1999-2004PLD013A ProLine, front, rotor, each........................................................$ 59.00PLD024A ProLine, rear, rotor, each.........................................................$ 39.95RND013 Genuine, front, rotor, each ......................................................$ 86.50RND024 Genuine, rear, rotor, each........................................................$ 81.50PLD013SD ProLine slot drilled, front, rotor, pair ....................................$ 129.00PLD024SD ProLine slot drilled, rear, rotor, pair......................................$ 109.00

Range Rover Classic 1987-1995PLB006A ProLine, front, rotor ‘87-1989, each........................................$ 39.95PLB022A ProLine, front, rotor ‘90-1995, each........................................$ 39.50PLB012A ProLine, rear, rotor ‘87-1995, each.........................................$ 39.00RNB006 Genuine, front, rotor ‘87-1989, each ......................................$ 69.25RNB022 Genuine, front, rotor ‘90-1995, each ......................................$ 81.50RNB012 Genuine, rear, rotor ‘87-1995, each........................................$ 84.50PLB006SD ProLine slotted & drilled, front, ‘87-1989 rotor, pair ...........$ 109.00PLB022SD ProLine slot drilled, front, rotor ‘90-1995, pair ....................$ 129.00PLB012SD ProLine slot drilled, rear, rotor ‘87-1995, pair......................$ 109.00

Range Rover P38A 1995-2002PLD028A ProLine, front, rotor, each........................................................$ 59.00PLD024A ProLine, rear, rotor, each.........................................................$ 39.95RND028 Genuine, front, rotor, each ......................................................$ 92.50RND024 Genuine, rear, rotor, each........................................................$ 81.50PLD028SD ProLine slotted / drilled, front, rotor, pair ............................$ 129.00PLD024SD ProLine slot drilled, rear, rotor, pair......................................$ 109.00

Brake PadsDefender 90 BrakePLF323 ProLine, front, Brake Pad, set.................................................$ 39.95PLB195 ProLine, rear, Brake Pad, set ..................................................$ 24.95RNF323 Genuine, front, Brake Pad, set ...............................................$ 69.95RNB195 Genuine, rear, Brake Pad, set.................................................$ 56.65

Defender 110 BrakePLF323 ProLine, front, Brake Pad, set.................................................$ 39.95RNF323 Genuine, front, Brake pad, set................................................$ 69.95

Discovery I BrakePLB208 ProLine, front, Brake Pad, set.................................................$ 34.95PLB195 ProLine, rear, Brake Pad, set ..................................................$ 24.95

Discovery II BrakeRND036 Genuine, front, Brake Pad, set ...............................................$ 126.95PLD036 ProLine, front, Brake Pad, set.................................................$ 42.95PLD242 ProLine, rear, Brake Pad, set ..................................................$ 29.95RND020 Genuine, rear, Brake Pad, set.................................................$ 113.39

Range Rover Classic Brake Pad setsPLB001 ProLine, front, Brake Pad, ‘87-1989, non ABS......................$ 29.95PLB208 ProLine, front, Brake Pad, ‘90-1995........................................$ 34.95PLB004 ProLine, rear, Brake Pad, ‘87-1989, non ABS.......................$ 29.95PLB004 ProLine, rear, Brake Pad, ‘90-1995 .........................................$ 29.95RNB001 Genuine, front, Brake Pad, ‘87-1989 ......................................$ 0.00RNB208 Genuine, front, Brake Pad, ‘90-1995 ......................................$ 89.95RNB004 Genuine, rear, Brake Pad, ‘87-1989........................................$ 159.00RNB004 Genuine, rear, Brake Pad, ‘90-1995........................................$ 159.00

Range Rover P38A BrakePLD036 ProLine, front, Brake Pad ........................................................$ 42.95PLD242 ProLine, rear, Brake Pad..........................................................$ 29.95

Brake KitsBoth the Genuine and the ProLine brake kits include 2 pads and 2 rotors.Range Rover ClassicRNK6101 Front Brakes w/o ABS Genuine ...................................$ 179.00PLK6101 Front Brakes w/o ABS ProLine ....................................$ 89.00RNK6102 Rear Brakes w/o ABS LH Sensor Genuine ................$ 205.00PLK6102 Rear Brakes w/o ABS LH/RH Sensor ProLine ..........$ 89.00RNK6103 Rear Brakes w/o ABS RH Sensor Genuine................$ 285.00PLK6102 Rear Brakes w/o ABS LH/RH Sensor ProLine...........$ 89.00RNK6104 Front Brakes w/ABS Genuine.......................................$ 219.00PLK6104 Front Brakes w/ABS ProLine........................................$ 95.00RNK6105 Rear Brakes w/ABS Genuine .......................................$ 207.50PLK6105 Rear Brakes w/ABS ProLine .......................................$ 89.00

Range Rover P38ARNK6112 Front Brakes Genuine ...................................................$ 287.50PLK6112 Front Brakes ProLine ....................................................$ 119.00RNK6113 Rear Brakes Genuine....................................................$ 239.00PLK6113 Rear Brakes ProLine .....................................................$ 89.00

Discovery Series IRNK6106 Front Brakes Genuine ...................................................$ 229.95PLK6106 Front Brakes ProLine ....................................................$ 95.00RNK6107 Rear Brakes Genuine....................................................$ 199.95PLK6107 Rear Brakes ProLine .....................................................$ 89.00

Discovery Series IIRNK6114 Front Brakes Genuine ...................................................$ 269.95PLK6114 Front Brakes ProLine ....................................................$ 125.00RNK6115 Rear Brakes Genuine....................................................$ 239.95PLK6115 Rear Brakes ProLine .....................................................$ 89.00

Girling Brake Master CylindersSeries IIA, IIIPLC752 Series IIA CV 88”.......................................................................$ 79.95PLC753 Series IIA CV 109”.....................................................................$ 69.95PLC454 Series IIA, III, 88”, dual power ...............................................$ 219.00PLC762 Series III 109”, dual power......................................................$ 229.00

DefenderPLF285 Defender 90/110 ........................................................................$ 129.95

DiscoveryPLB200 Discovery I w/ABS....................................................................$ 219.95

Range Rover ClassicPLB172 Range Rover Classic, non-ABS (Lockeed) ...........................$ 199.95PLB180 Range Rover Classic, non-ABS (Girling)...............................$ 209.95

PLB022SDProLine Rotor

PLF285 Master Cylinder

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Girling Clutch Master CylindersSeries IIA, IIIPLC752 Series II, IIA 1959 - 1968 Girling ............................................$ 79.95PLF289 Series IIA, III with integral reservoir 1969 on Girling ........$ 69.95DefenderRNF289 Defender 90/110 Genuine ........................................................$ 92.99PLF289 Defender 90/110 Girling ...........................................................$ 69.95DiscoveryRND939 Discovery I Genuine.................................................................$ 139.95

Clutch Slave CylindersSeries IIA, IIIPLB599 Series IIA Girling.......................................................................$ 69.95PLC535 Series III Girling .......................................................................$ 49.95DefenderRNE222 Defender V8 Genuine...............................................................$ 59.95RND627 Defender Tdi Genuine .............................................................$ 76.50RND493 Defender Td5 Genuine ............................................................$ 68.50DiscoveryRND627 Discovery V8 Genuine .............................................................$ 76.50

Series 2.25 ltr Fuel PumpSeries 2.25 ltrPLC349 Fuel Pump, 2.25ltr. petrol, gasket included ................$ 39.50RNB640 Fuel Pump gasket ...........................................................$ 1.99

Series Fuel TanksSeries II, IIA, IIIPLC362 88” and 109” Regular, Fuel Tank,

Petrol & Diesel, ProLine ................................................$ 189.95PLH515 Range Rover Classic 1971-1985 style..........................$ 249.00PLE114 110 NAS, Range Rover Classic 1987-1991..................$ 229.95PLE116 Cradle for PLE114 fuel tank ..........................................$ 47.95PLH650 109 Rear Fuel Tank Series III (Series II, IIA is NLA) .....$ 259.00PLH652 Fuel Sender for the Rear Fuel Tank Series III 109 ....$ 39.00RNC886 Locking ring for sender Series III ................................$ 4.99RNC887 Sealing ring for sender Series III ................................$ 1.85

Fuel FiltersSeries II, IIA, III 1959 - 1976RFF111 Inline filter with Quick Clamp Fittings, that can

be adapted to any 5/16” fuel line (ProLine)..........................$ 4.90Series III 1974 onRNE235 2.25 litre petrol, canister type (Genuine) ..............................$ 4.95Defender 90/110RNF861 V8 inline with threaded fittings (Genuine)............................$ 21.97PLF861 V8 inline with threaded fittings (ProLine) .............................$ 9.50RNC632 2.25 litre petrol, inline w/threaded fittings (Genuine) .........$ 21.95RFF111 2.25 litre petrol, inline (ProLine) splice in .............................$ 4.90RNC745 2.25 litre diesel (Genuine)........................................................$ 7.95RNF862 200, 300Tdi Fuel Filter-diesel (Genuine) ................................$ 24.50PLF862 200, 300Tdi Fuel Filter-diesel (ProLine)..................................$ 12.95RND270 Td5, Fuel Filter (Genuine).........................................................$ 59.95Discovery IRNF861 Genuine – threaded both ends..............................................$ 21.97PLF861 ‘87-’95, ProLine.........................................................................$ 9.50Range Rover ClassicRNF133 Genuine Fuel Filter Update Kit (required for early

Range Rover up to LA464553) .................................................$ 49.95RNF861 ’87-’95, (threaded both ends), (Genuine) ..............................$ 21.97PLF861 ‘87-’95, (ProLine) ......................................................................$ 9.50RNF025 ‘87-90 fuel filter (up to LA464553

without update kit)....................................................................$ 19.50

V8FuelPump with Fuel Sending UnitRNF131 Range Rover Classic 1987-1990, Genuine ..................$ 369.99PLF131 Range Rover Classic 1987-1990, ProLine ...................$ 139.00RNE131 Defender 90 1994-1997, Genuine..................................$ 298.29RNF132 RRC ‘91 - ‘95, Discovery I ‘94 - ‘97, Genuine ..............$ 239.00PLF132 RRC ‘91 - ‘95, Discovery I ‘94 - ‘97, ProLine................$ 199.99RNF148 Discovery I & II ‘97 - ‘04, from VA737154 Genuine....$ 469.00

Genuine V8 Ignition PartsRNI001 Distributor Cap, 3.5, 3.9 litre ....................................................$ 39.95RNI002 Distributor Rotor, 3.5, 3.9 litre..................................................$ 34.99RNI028 Ignition Coil 3.5 liter..................................................................$ 62.95RNE509 Ignition Coil 3.9 liter..................................................................$ 129.10RNI004 Ignition Wire Set, 3.5, 3.9, and ‘93, ‘94 4.2 litre ...................$ 57.95RNI005 Ignition Wire Set, 4.2 litre 1995 only ......................................$ 69.95RNI006 Ignition Wire Set 4.0, 4.6 litre .......................................$ 106.95RNI024 3 Pin Amplifier for Distributor .................................................$ 139.95RNI010 Adapter, for 3 Pin Amplifier ....................................................$ 39.95RNI012 Distributor Service Kit with Dust Shield..................................$ 48.95RNI017 Base Plate and Pick-up Lead for Distributor .......................$ 139.00RNI003 Genuine (Champion) Spark Plug..................................$ 5.99Complete Genuine V8 Ignition KitsRNK9335 3.9 litre (Includes: Cap, rotor, plug wires, and

spark plugs) Genuine ..............................................................$ 165.95RNK9336 4.0 litre, ‘94-’95 Discovery I Genuine .....................................$ 149.95

(Includes: Plug wires, and spark plugs)RNK9339 4.0 litre, ‘96-’99 Discovery I Genuine .....................................$ 132.95

(Includes: Plug wires, and spark plugs)RNK9340 4.0 litre, ‘95-’98 RR P38A Genuine .........................................$ 124.95

(Includes: Plug wires, and spark plugs)RNK9341 4.0 litre, ‘99-’02 RR P38A, Discovery II Genuine .................$ 249.95

(Includes: Plug wires, and spark plugs)

NEW RadiatorsSeries II, IIA, IIIHeavy Duty 4 Core RadiatorPLC513 2.25 ltr, Series IIA, III, 1970 onMay be fitted to earlier 2.25 ltr. Land Rovers by fitting latetype top and bottom hoses.Radiator, Proline.......................................$ 239.95Discovery I ‘94-1999PLC062 w/ Automatic Transmission, Radiator, ProLine ........$ 339.00RNC997 Plastic Fill Plug, Radiator, Genuine..............................$ 2.19Range Rover Classic ‘87-1992PLC020 ‘87-1988. Radiator, ProLine............................................$ 349.00PLC019A ‘89-1992, Radiator, ProLine............................................$ 556.45RNC997 Plastic Fill Plug, Radiator, Genuine..............................$ 2.19Defender 90, 110RNE130 NAS 90/110 V8 Radiator Assembly, Genuine .............$ 569.00PLD500 300 Tdi Radiator with intercooler, ProLine.................$ 579.00PLH255 300 Tdi Radiator, ProLine...............................................$ 269.00PLD496 200 Tdi Radiator, ProLine...............................................$ 279.00

Gasket SetHead Gasket SetIncludes all gaskets and seals to overhaul your cylinder head(s).PLM015 3.5 V8 Steel Head Gasket and Valve Cover Gasket ............$ 79.00PLV016 3.9 V8 Steel Head Gasket and Valve Cover Gasket ............$ 89.00PLM083 4.0 V8 or 3.9 V8 latest OEM upgrade kit with composite head

gasket and rubber valve cover gaskets ...............................$ 139.00PLE602 2.6 Petrol.....................................................................................$ 49.99PLF309 2.25 Diesel ..................................................................................$ 39.99Block Gasket SetIncludes all gaskets and seals used in your block and front cover.PLF311 All V8 ...........................................................................................$ 32.50PLH702 300 TDI ........................................................................................$ 49.00Full Engine Gasket SetIncludes all gaskets and seals to overhaul your entire engine.PLH703 200 TDI ........................................................................................$ 45.00PLF308 2.25 Petrol...................................................................................$ 39.99

RND493 Clutch Slave Cylinder

RNF861 Fuel Filter

PLC362 Fuel Tank

RNI012

PLH650 RearFuel Tank

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(A) High-Ratio Series IIA, III Transfer BoxIncreases your road speed by 32% with no change in low range performance.Experience quieter, more reliable road performance. Eliminates the weak link causedby overdrives being sandwiched between the main box and the transfer box. Normalhigh ratio is 1.148:1, New High-Ratio Modified is 0.781:1, low range ratio is unchanged.This READY TO BOLT IN transfer box is completely remanufactured, featuring all newbearings, seals and gaskets, including transmission brake assembly.HRT1002 Rebuilt High-Ratio Transfer Box ..............................................$ 1495.00

(B) OverdriveImprove your fuel mileage, reduce the wear and tear on your V8, andincrease your road speed by 14mph at the same rpm's. Fits all NAS andROW LT230 22D 1.41:1 Land Rover transfer boxes. Kit includes instruc-tions, owners manual, speed transducer and aluminum gear knob withLED and overdrive button. Installs in approximately 4 hours, requires nospecial tools. To determine if you have a 1.41:1 transfer box, check theback of your transfer box, next to the fill plug there will be an identifica-tion sticker with the transfer box ratio on it. Call Rovers North if you haveany questions or for further information about the benifits about our GKNDefender overdrive.RNA8020 110 Overdrive................................................................$2495.00

(C) Weber Replacement CarburetorThis high-quality unit is our inexpensive solution to carburetor replacement.Italian crafted, this unit bolts onto Land Rovers previously equipped with Zeniths.Older Solex-equipped Land Rovers can use it with a conversion kit.34ICH Series IIA & III 2.25L .............................................................$ 249.00

Coversion Kit for Weber & ZenithFor fitting Webber or Zenith carburetor to Land Rovers previously equipped withSolex carburetor. Includes gasket, base plate and bellcrank.CONKIT2 Series IIA & III 2.25L .............................................................$ 194.20

(D) Defender Lamp AssembliesBrighten up your 90 with our NEW Wipac Lamp assemblies. Includes mountingscrews and bulb holder. Bulb not included.(1) PLC867 Stop/Tail Lamp, Red...............................................................$ 13.95 ea(2) PLC868 Directional Lamp, Amber......................................................$ 13.95 ea(3) PLC869 Reverse Lamp, Clear .............................................................$ 13.95 ea(4) PLC861 Plinth mounting base for lamps ..........................................$ 6.75 ea

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Replacement Heater Blower MotorsPLH520 Range Rover Classic 1990-1994 ...................................$ 279.00PLF156 Defender 90/110..............................................................$ 169.95RND271 Series IIA, III Smith’s .....................................................$ 83.19

CV JOINT KITSA comprehensive kit that includes all the oil seals and gaskets that youneed to replace your CV Joint. Includes CV joint and grease. Proline kitsuse Genuine seals, gaskets and grease as shown.Defender 90RNK4020 CV Joint Kit w/ Genuine CV Joint ................................$ 275.00PLK4020 CV Joint Kit w/ Proline CV Joint ..................................$ 159.00Defender 110RNK4021 CV Joint Kit w/ Genuine CV Joint ................................$ 590.00PLK4021 CV Joint Kit w/ Proline CV Joint ..................................$ 169.00DiscoveryRNK4020 CV Joint Kit w/ Genuine CV Joint ................................$ 275.00PLK4020 CV Joint Kit w/ Proline CV Joint ..................................$ 159.00

CV JOINT For ABS and non-ABSDefender 90/110PLD201 Defender 90, 1997 .....................................................................$ 119.50PLD301 Defender 110, 1993 ...................................................................$ 129.00Discovery IRND201 CV Joint, Genuine .....................................................................$ 249.00PLD201 CV Joint, ProLine ......................................................................$ 119.50Discovery IIRND673 CV Joint, Genuine .....................................................................$ 399.50Range Rover ClassicRNX004 Suffix A axles only, CV Joint, Genuine..................................$ 279.00RNX005 ‘89 Suffix B axle on,CV Joint, Genuine..................................$ 199.00RNX001 1990-’95 w/ABS, CV Joint, Genuine.......................................$ 499.95PLX001 1990-’95 w/ABS, CV Joint, ProLine ........................................$ 139.00Range Rover P38ARND673 CV Joint, Genuine .....................................................................$ 399.50

Genuine Oil FiltersRNF001 V8 – All Range Rover Classic, P38A,

Discovery I and II, Defender 90/110 ......................................$ 8.95RNE589 6 cyl 2.6 litre NADA 109”, petrol.............................................$ 7.50RND504 6 cyl 2.5 litre Freelander, petrol..............................................$ 8.27RND269 5 cyl 2.5 litre Td5, diesel, engine oil ......................................$ 10.99RNH251 5 cyl 2.5 litre Td5, Centrifuge element...................................$ 25.50RNF001 4 cyl 2.3, 2.5 litre Defender 90/110, petrol.............................$ 8.95RNF001 4 cyl 2.5, 2.5 turbo, 200 Tdi, 300 Tdi, diesel...........................$ 8.95RNE590 4 cyl 2.25 ltr SIIA, III, pet/diesel, 5.5” canister ....................$ 8.50RNE591 4 cyl 2.25 ltr SIIA, III, pet/diesel, 7.5” canister ....................$ 8.50RNE589 4 cyl 2.0 litre Series I, petrol ...................................................$ 7.50

Series II, IIA Generators NEWRNE647 C-40 type Generator, 2.25 litre P & D

....................................................................................................$ 99.50

Starter Motor AssembliesPLE867 Genuine LR, High Speed Cold-Climate Enhanced for all

3.5/3.9/4.0/4.2/4.6 litre petrol engines, New Bosch.............$ 299.95RNF197 2.25 & 2.6 litre petrol, Rebuilt *plus $100 core charge ................$ 269.00PLD294 200 & 300 Tdi, New Bosch ......................................................$ 399.00

NEW not rebuilt Water PumpsSeries IIA, III Water Pump with GasketRNF334 2.25 litre petrol, diesel, Genuine ..................................$ 99.50PLF334 2.25 litre petrol, diesel, ProLine....................................$ 45.90PLC348 2.25 litre petrol, Military, ProLine.................................$ 112.00Defender 90/110RNC011 ‘93-1995 NAS, Water Pump, Genuine .........................$ 179.00PLC011 ‘93-1995 NAS, Water Pump, ProLine...........................$ 89.50RNC052 ‘97 D90 NAS, Water Pump, Genuine ...........................$ 249.95PLC052 ‘97 D90 NAS, Water Pump, ProLine ............................$ 89.50

RNH257 200 Tdi diesel, Water Pump, Genuine.........................$ 229.00RNH258 300 Tdi diesel, Water Pump, Genuine .........................$ 98.50RNH360 Td5 diesel, Water Pump, Genuine ...............................$ 139.50Discovery I ‘94-1999RNC052 Water Pump, Genuine ...................................................$ 249.95PLC052 Water Pump, ProLine.....................................................$ 89.50Discovery II ‘00-2002RNC052 Water Pump, Genuine..............................................................$ 249.95PLC052 Water Pump, ProLine...............................................................$ 89.50Range Rover Classic ‘87-1995RNC011 ‘87-1994, Water Pump, Genuine .............................................$ 179.00PLC011 ‘87-1994, Water Pump, ProLine ..............................................$ 89.50RNC052 ‘95, Water Pump, Genuine.......................................................$ 249.95PLC052 ‘95, Water Pump, ProLine........................................................$ 89.50Range Rover P38A ‘95-2002RNC052 ‘95-2002, Water Pump, Genuine .............................................$ 249.95PLC052 ‘95-2002, Water Pump, ProLine ..............................................$ 89.50Hylomar Gasket SealerRNA681 Official sealer used by Land Rover

during assembly. Supplied in 3.5 oz. tubes. .........................$ 10.95

Flex CouplerGENUINE Flex Coupler for rear propshafts, RangeRover & Discovery I, IIRND196 Flex Coupler, Genuine

with hardware...........................................................................$ 89.95PLD196 Flex Coupler, PorLine

without hardware .....................................................................$ 49.95

Genuine Hub Seal KitsIncludes Genuine hub seal, hub gasket, hub seal race and lockerfor hub nut.Series II, IIA, and IIIRNK552 Hub Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) .......................................$ 19.99Defender 90/110RNK5623 Hub Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) .......................................$ 6.99Discovery IRNK5623 Hub Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) .......................................$ 6.99Range Rover ClassicRNK5621 1987-’89, Hub Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) ......................$ 29.50RNK5622 1990-’92, Hub Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) ......................$ 7.19RNK5623 1993-’95, Hub Seal Kit, Genuine (4 req) ......................$ 6.99

PropshaftsPLK4100 Proline Discovery I Rear Propshaft Update Kit replaces Flex

Coupler Propshaft with Twin U Joint type. Includes newrear Propshaft and 4 bolt Differential. Flange kit......$ 319.00

Propshaft Assemblies with U JointsPLF315 Front 88 & 109 Series II, IIA, III 88 & 109....................$ 159.95PLE189 Rear 88 Series II, IIA, III 88 ...........................................$ 169.95PLF358 Rear 109 Series II, IIA....................................................$ 189.95PLE201 Rear Defender 90 V8 ......................................................$ 279.00PLD665 Front Discovery II ...........................................................$ 399.00PLD473 Rear Discovery I & Range Rover Classic 100 inch...$ 239.95U Joint Repair KitPLE598 Front & Rear Defender 90, 110, ProLine .....................$ 16.95RNF411 Front Defender 90, 110, Genuine..................................$ 62.95RNE611 Rear Defender 90, 110, Genuine ..................................$ 49.95PLE598 Front or Rear Discovery I, Range Rover Classic

ProLine .............................................................................$ 16.95RNF411 Front or Rear Range Rover Classic, Discovery I

Genuine ............................................................................$ 62.95

K&N Air FiltersDefender 90/110RNF141 Defender 90 and 110 ......................................................$ 44.50Discovery I and IIRNF139 Discovery I ......................................................................$ 57.95RNF144 Discovery II .....................................................................$ 57.95Range Rover ClassicRNF141 RR Classic, 1987-1994 ....................................................$ 44.50

PLH520

RND196

RNC011

PLD473

RNE647

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K&N Air Filters continuedRNF139 RR Classic, 1995..............................................................$ 57.95Range Rover P38ARNF146 RR P38A, thru ‘98 ............................................................$ 62.95RNF144 RR P38A, 1999-2002 ........................................................$ 57.95RNF145 K&N Filter Service Kit for all filters.............................$ 14.75

Air FiltersDiscovery IRNF010 Discovery I Genuine.................................................................$ 9.17Discovery IIRNF147 Genuine, All Discovery II models Genuine ..........................$ 17.99Range Rover ClassicRNF012 Range Rover Classic 1974-1985, (2 req) Genuine ..............$ 9.95RNF950 Range Rover Classic 1987-1994 Genuine ............................$ 10.99RNF010 Range Rover Classic 1995 Genuine ......................................$ 9.17Range Rover P38ARNF011 Range Rover P38A 1995-1997 Genuine ................................$ 14.95RNF147 Range Rover P38A 1998-2002 Genuine ................................$ 17.99DefenderRNF950 NAS 90,110 V8 Genuine ..........................................................$ 10.99RNH382 200 Tdi Diesel Genuine ...........................................................$ 27.95RNH383 300 Tdi Diesel Genuine ...........................................................$ 29.50RNF147 Td5 Diesel Genuine .................................................................$ 17.99

AutoTrans. Filter KitAutomatic Transmission Filter Service Kit(includes filter, pan gaskets and O-rings) For Discovery I,II, Range RoverClassic, Range Rover P38A, 1997 Defender.PLK312 ZF Trans. Filter Service Kit, 1987-2004...................................$ 39.50RNK312 Genuine ZF Trans Filter Kit, 1987-2004 ..................................$ 65.00

O2 SensorsDefender 90 / 110RNE029 90/110 3.9 litre, Genuine, 2 req ...............................................$ 299.00PLE029 90/110 3.9 litre, ProLine, 2 req.................................................$ 129.95RND292 90 4.0 litre, Genuine, 4 req.......................................................$ 359.00Discovery IRNE029 3.9 litre, Genuine, 2 req............................................................$ 299.00PLE029 3.9 litre, ProLine, 2 req .............................................................$ 129.95RND290 4.0 litre, Genuine, 4 req............................................................$ 149.95RND292 4.0 litre w/AEL, Genuine, 4 req ...............................................$ 359.00Discovery IIRNE910 Front, Genuine, 2 req................................................................$ 95.90PLE910 Front, ProLine, 2 req.................................................................$ 74.95RNE892 Rear, Genuine, 2 req.................................................................$ 78.90PLE892 Rear, ProLine, 2 req ..................................................................$ 74.95Range Rover ClassicRNE029 All models, Genuine, 2 req ......................................................$ 299.00PLE029 All models, ProLine, 2 req .......................................................$ 129.95Range Rover P38ARND290 ‘95-’97 to VA350101, Front & Rear, Genuine, 4req...............$ 149.95RND292 ‘97-’98 from VA350102 to WA410481,

Front & Rear, Genuine, 4 req ..................................................$ 359.00RNE893 ‘99-’02 from XA410482, Front, Genuine, 2 req ......................$ 97.90PLE893 ‘99-’02 from XA410482, Front, ProLine, 2 req........................$ 79.95RNE892 ‘99-’02 from XA410482, Rear, Genuine, 2 req .......................$ 78.90PLE892 ‘99-’02 from XA410482, Rear, ProLine, 2 req.........................$ 74.95

New Distributor AssemblyRNI019 V8 EFI Distributor Assembly Genuine 3.5, 3.9, 4.2 ................$ 639.00PLI019 V8 EFI Distributor Assembly ProLine 3.5, 3.9, 4.2..................$ 269.00PLE143 Series II, IIA & III 2.25L 4 cylinder models ..................$ 139.00

RND290

RNI019 V8 EFI Genuine

PLI019 V8 EFI ProLine

PLE143 Series 2.25L

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NRP Rear Stainless SteelPerformance Exhaust SectionIncludes center muffler, tailpipe with resonator,all clamps & hanger brackets.The NRP stainless steel performance exhaust system is by far the finest stain-less steel exhaust system we have fitted to a Land Rover! Designed for the do-it-yourselfer, this system installs easily and is backed with an original purchaserlifetime guarantee. System includes center silencer, tailpipe, all stain-less steel hangers, hardware and installation instructions.RNE0002 Defender 90 ...............................................................................$ 599.00RNE0004 Defender 110 .............................................................................$ 639.00RNE0005 Discovery I, ’94-1999 ................................................................$ 599.00RNE0009 Discovery II, 2000-2002 ............................................................$ 599.95RNE0005 Range Rover Classic 1990 on .................................................$ 599.00(Range Rover ’87-89 requires complete performance exhaust system)RNE0006 Range Rover 1995 - 1998, single outlet P38A, 4.0 / 4.6 .......$ 639.00

Complete NRP Performance SystemsIncludes catalytic converters, all pipes & hanger brackets.When it comes time to replace your Land Rover or Range Rover’s exhaustsystem, why not upgrade to a Stainless Steel exhaust from Rovers North andtake advantage of an increase in horsepower and torque? You will notice animmediate improvement over your old tired system, at idle and throughout theentire rpm range. The NRP exhaust note will give a deep, throaty sound to yourRover V8Defender 90RNE0012 Manual Gearbox ’94 & ’95.......................................................$1389.00RNE0022 Automatic Gearbox ’97 ............................................................$1389.00Defender 110RNE0024 Manual Gearbox ’93 .................................................................$1479.00Discovery IRNE0013 Discovery I, Manual, ‘94-1995 ................................................$1399.00RNE0033 Discovery I, Automatic, ‘94-1995............................................$1399.00RNE0023 Discovery I, Automatic, ‘96 on................................................$1399.00RNE0043 Discovery I, Manual, ‘96 on ....................................................$1399.00Range Rover ClassicRNE0014 Range Rover Classic ’87-88 ....................................................$1539.00RNE0019 Range Rover Classic ’89..........................................................$1499.00RNE0015 Range Rover Classic ’90-95 100” ..........................................$1399.00RNE0025 Range Rover Classic ’93-95 108” (LWB) ..............................$1399.00

NRP 88” Series II-III StainlessSteel Exhaust SystemPerformance Stainless Steel ExhaustSystem for Series II-III 2.25 petrolPlan to keep your Series Land Rover forever? Here’s the exhaustsystem to go with it.• Increased Power• Improved Fuel Mileage• Stainless Steel construction• Improved Off-Road Clearance• Lifetime Warranty for original purchaser• Complete with instructions and Stainless Steel hangers.RNE0001AA 88” Series II-III Stainless Exhaust System ..........................$ 539.00

Find all 02 Sensors on pg 45

A GREAT INEXPENSIVE,ALTERNATIVE

This “Y-Pipe” is a great value, that comes with a24month warranty.PLE122 Range Rover Classic 3.9, 1994-95 Discovery only......$ 499.00PLH580 Range Rover Classic LWB .............................................$ 599.00PLE902 Discovery I, Automatic, 1996-1999................................$ 529.00Rovers North recommends replacing yourO2 Sensors upon fit. (See pg 45 for our full listing)RNE029 Discovery I 3.9 litre, Genuine, 2 req .............................$ 299.00PLE029 Discovery I 3.9 litre, ProLine, 2 req...............................$ 129.95RNE029 Range Rover Classic All models, Genuine, 2 req.......$ 299.00PLE029 Range Rover Classic All models, ProLine, 2 req........$ 129.95Gaskets sold separatelyFit between manifold and Y PipeRNE888 Exhaust Gaskets (2 required) Genuine .......................$ 10.56PLE888 Exhaust Gaskets (2 required) ProLine .........................$ 4.90

NRP SuperCats “Y-Pipe”

NRP SuperCats Performance Catalytic “Y-Pipe”Featuring new high flow performance(includes Manifold Gaskets and Nuts)

RNE0020 Defender 90, 110, 1993-1995...........................................$ 799.00RNE0021 Defender 90, 1997 ............................................................$ 799.00RNE0021 Discovery I, Automatic, 1994-1995................................$ 799.00RNE0021 Discovery I, Automatic, 1996-1999................................$ 799.00RNE0020 Discovery I, Manual, 1994-1995 ....................................$ 799.00RNE0221 Discovery I, Manual, 1996-1999 ....................................$ 799.00RNE0021 Range Rover Classic 100” .............................................$ 799.00RNE0011 Range Rover Classic LWB .............................................$ 799.00

• MORE POWER• BETTER FUEL MILEAGE• IMPROVED OFF-ROAD CLEARANCE

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EXHAUST SYSTEMSTHE ULTIMATE IN LAND ROVER PERFORMANCE EXHAUST SYSTEMS


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For the general garage or the DYI person, the DEC SUPERSCAN II is one of the mostadvanced automotive diagnostic test systems in the world today. It’s a Laptop or PCbased scanner that comprises of a small blue interface box, about the size of a paper-back book, the cable set and the software. All you need is a Windows PC or Laptop torun the software.

The Independent garage trade is constantly demanding OEM or near OEM tools toremove the frustration of not being able to carry out Land Rover ECU vehicle diagnos-tics. This is especially true when it comes to coding or reprogramming ECUs that aredamaged and need replacing.

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The Superscan II also has its own built in INFORMATION SYSTEMS that gives you theexact procedure for each programming functionality before you start. Just select thesystem you wish to program from the sub menu, press the Information button, and upcomes the procedure on your screen. It's that simple!

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DIAGNOSTICTEST SYSTEM

Last year, I spoke of Winter Romp and its excessive extracurricularactivities. There’s no need to speak of them this year but I must firstoff clear my name to anyone who was in the side room at Big G’sSunday morning. Contrary to John Cranfield’s accusation, I did notsingle-handedly keep the entire hotel up all night; there were otherperpetrators but I will keep it at that to save their reuputations.

Winter Romp has sadly come and gone. I no doubt had mycountdown, told all my friends, and even convinced two gals to hit thetrails with me: Steph, who now has a few rallies under her belt andAmy, who had never been to Maine or been acquainted with Roverowners other than me. With the help of Rovers North they can leteveryone know first hand what they thought, hopefully nothing toodetailed! As for me, even though I had the time of my life, I alwayscome away with something more than some good chuckles.

To my surprise someone thought it would be a good idea to allowme to lead a group into the woods. I’m confident with my sense ofdirection and the map was more than detailed; however, I was a bitshaky on how well I could guide fellow Rover-owners over any prob-lematic terrain. One thing I look for in a leader or other drivers in thefront of a caravan, is how they maneuver over rough spots. I canrecall one year, on the old railroad bed, Bruce Fowler winched histruck over a bit of running water. By him not ripping up the ice, tohave the satisfaction of crossing with his own four wheels, he leaves

minor breaks and cracks for the rest of the herd to stampede at will.Leaders are also considered for the job because they are skilled

offroaders. They either know the trail because of a trial run or havethe sense and ability to react to any mishaps. By watching or listeningto how they succeeded (or how they did not) the other drivers havea rudimentary how-to lesson on driving. This being my first attempt atthe position of a “leader,” I had to make do with what I knew or couldquickly learn. I first off did a swell job leading my troops by trying toput us on the trucker-band on the CB’s (great going Hallie).

Our second battle began at the bottom of the power line hill onthe Dickey Road. A group ahead of us tackled the incline while wechained up our tires. While I was thigh-high in snow and covered inrust from chains that hadn’t seen light since last year’s Romp, I waskindly introduced to a newcomer named Sophie. After talking to herlater that day, I was reminded of a story Jeff Aronson did years agowhere he spoke of a boy genius by the name of Nathan Vail, aka “mybig bro.” At the time he was a young, quiet spoken boy but given theopportunity would challenge any adult’s knowledge on Rover parts.Young Sophie is right on his heels as I soon found out when shedescribed her Dad’s truck as the one with the snorkel (high-fiveSophie!!). With the chains secured, we moved onward through thetrail. Luckily, we were close enough to the other group where I hadbeen told, and checked out first hand, which route was most success-

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Educating Girls WithMost Glorious LeadershipOff RoadingStory by: Hallie Vail / Photos by Graham Letorney

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ful. With a few corrections and assistance, all trucks made it up thehill climb with little damage. Unfortunately, most damage from theweekend fell on Bob Vail’s (my father) shoulders. Friday night, hesuffered a bit of an electrical problem [with the fuel pump] and halfway up the hill Saturday, his water pump gave away.

Before we moved onward down the trail, I had to make my wayto the front again but not until I gracefully backed into Jeremy Libby’sD-90. If anyone’s counting, that’s zero for Hallie and two for whoev-er is against me leading. Moving on… the trail was kind to most ofus here on out. A few tight turns made it slow-going and I again man-aged to sink in a muddy slush (three). Most everyone else learnedfrom my mistake and took the mud with more power and speed.

I look back and though I blush at my mishaps, I do understandit’s a constant learning process and no one will fully master the art ofoff-roading. There will always be rocks in just the wrong place, amud hole deeper than expected, or a slip of the clutch that takes awayyour power. However, I’m eager to improve and determined to regainsome of my pride. Until then, I bow down to the veterans at WinterRomp and other events who continue to give newer off road driverslike me the support and encouragement to keep working on a hill orthe confidence that I can complete difficult trails. I had a blast asusual this weekend and already have plans for next year. Until thenI’ll hone down on my driving skills and my Borat speech, both keycomponents to a successful Winter Romp. Rover and Out Landylovers!

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Employee ProfileArthur Patsouris

In 1999, Arthur Patsouris had sold his family restaurant in Connecticut andwondered what the future held for his family: Deanna, his wife, and his twochildren, Dino and Alexa. A trip to Vermont had sold them on the state as anew home, but a new career would also have to accompany the move.

Arthur has been a serial British car enthusiast – who else would driveand MGB and a used Jaguar XJ-6? Since 1988,he’d also owned and enjoyed a ’69 Series II-A Bugeye and a Series II-A 109” pickup.Rovers North had kept him supplied andinformed all those years, so it was no surprisethat in 2000 Deanna would visit the websiteand note an employment opportunity. He’sbeen with Rovers North now for 7 years.

Long time Rovers North customersremember Arthur as a knowledgeable, friend-ly voice on the telephone, dispensing invalu-able advice while securing orders for cus-tomers. Now, he’s become the Sales Manager,with a whole new set of responsibilities.

“We’re not a bureaucratic company, somy new position doesn’t change my relation-ship with our customers. A lot of my time is devoted to training newer staffmembers and providing technical expertise when necessary. I’m alsoresponsible for the training sessions we hold twice a month for informationon Rover systems, the ever-changing model lines, and newer Rover parts.We’ll bring a Rover into the shop, put it on the lift, and provide a hands-ondemonstration of a product or system. Mark Letorney is invaluable here, forhe keeps us on top of all the Rover lines.”

“We might focus on a particular engineering system, such as braking,and do common repairs and maintenance. We also get to see the relation-ship of the parts on our shelves to their role in the vehicle.”

“I work closely with Rachel Wright in customer service and serve as theproblem-solver for the sales staff. I also work closely with our shipping, pro-curement and administrative staff, too.”

“Rovers North is a fascinating place to work. Everyone is a Roverenthusiast. We receive anywhere from 50-100 telephone calls a day, and thatdoesn’t include internet inquiries. We love talking with customers abouttheir Land Rovers in their lives.”

“When I came to Rovers North I had little V-8 or coil spring experience. In the late 1990’s abuddy in Connecticut had a ’91 Range Rover GreatDivide model. He asked me a lot of questions Icouldn’t answer. Now I’ve learned so much work-ing here –between Rovers North staff, Rover repairshop owners, and helping people over the phonediagnose and fix their Land Rover problems.”

What are the biggest changes Arthur hasseen in 7 years? “Well, our customer base hasgrown hugely since 2000. Many of our new cus-tomers did not come out of the traditional Britishcar base. Many Range Rover Classic and Discoveryowners purchased their cars without a hugeawareness of the Land Rover marque values.They’ve owned – or still own – more ordinary

cars. They’re delighted and surprised to find that we know the vehicles sowell and that Land Rover Classic Parts and Rovers North support them sowell.”

Arthur has his family live in East Berkshire, VT, a charming rural townabout 40 miles from Westford, and looks forward to adding more vehiclesto the interesting list of Land Rovers he’s owned over the years.

________ � ________

[Amy Sawchak, Middletown, NJ, rode in a lead Rover at the Maine WinterRomp. Here’s her impressions of her first off-road event -ed.]

If you’ve never been to a Land Rover rally I suggest an extra pair of trousersto keep handy with you before the ride of your life. Bumpy, jumpy, mudsling-ing, tree bumping, bass thumping trails may cause your pants to fly off orleave a little Land Rover trail of your own. A winter Rover rally is not for thethin skinned, poorly dressed, insider! I found out from first hand experiencethat a weekend romping around the woods in Maine is not for the weakhearted.

The Maine Winter Romp was my first rally and also the first time Ibroke ground in Maine. Needless to say, by Sunday I was in love. Maine plusRovers equaled a kind of magic that made us all hang our heads out of thewindows like a dog enjoying summer, despite the winter temperatures. Onceyou get going on the trails the adrenaline pumps enough heat in you to stickyour body through the sunroof to get a 360° view of everything going on. Theexcitement in the air even makes you forget about the puddle of frozen snotbuilding up on your lower lip.

During the rally, I had the pleasure of shotgunning and back seat driv-ing a black Range Rover Classic commanded by Hallie Vail, a Rovers NorthNews correspondent and member of the infamous Rovering Vail family ofMaine. Three girls in a truck for a weekend includes heaps of singing, laugh-ing, jumping in and out all day with wet feet, and finding the biggest truck to

pop a squat in front of while waiting for someone to be winched out of a dig-ger. The first real feeling of addiction to the scene is when Nat “Nastical” Vailwent to help someone out on the middle of the hill on the power line trail.We managed to get stuck in the middle of the hill when I so gingerly sug-gested that we “just go down and come back up again.” And he did it! Sittingpassenger holding on to the “oh no” bar I got my first shot of adrenaline aswe plowed up the hill like a fat kid who hasn’t seen a doughnut in a year. Ifinally understood what the buzz was all about. If a Land Rover is the thingthat can shoot us up a slippery snow covered hill like that, well, then it’s aLand Rover that I love. I believe this overall feeling vibrates through the airuntil the very last truck has said its goodbyes.

A rover rally is filled with plenty of boot and folly once the sun goesdown and the trails go to sleep. Alter egos are set free and 70’s suits are athing of the present day, head banging dance party. Nights like this keep mostpeople in bed till noon. Riders know better though that the euphoric freshMaine air will set them good as new. The day is filled with jokes about thenight before and predictions about the night to come. Even when a truckhappens to back up into another one, there are all laughs (as long as thedamage is minimal). I am also almost positive that a Rally is the only placewhere you can manage to get into an accident in the middle of the freakingwoods of Maine.

Big trucks, Carhartt jumpsuits, some mud, some snow, swinging tunes,the great outdoors, Maine accents, and good beer, where can you go wrong?Just some thoughts from a Jersey shore girl who managed to finagle her wayup to Maine for one of the most ludicrous but entertaining weekends of theentire year!

________ � ________

Three Girls in the RangieBy Amy Sawchak

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(A) Aluminum Tailgate Lid Kitfor your Range Rover ClassicThis do-it-yourself kit is designed as a permanent and economical fixfor your rusty tail gate lid. Kit includes corrosion proof aluminum framepieces finished in matte black, hardware and instructions.PLH514 All-Aluminum Tailgate Lid Kit for

Range Rover Classic ......................................................$ 399.95

(B) Don’t feel like putting it all together?Buy it pre-assembled with the glassalready installed.Corrosion proof, all aluminum tailgate lid for Range Rover Classic,comes assembled with Genuine glass and hardware. Does notinclude exterior handle, latches, hinges, central locking mechanism orbrake light.PLB171A Pre-assembled Aluminum Tailgate Lid .......................$ 699.00

(C) Genuine Liftgate AssemblyThis is a fully assembled liftgate ready to be installed as supplied byLand Rover. Includes top hinges, cross rods, wiring harness and bottomlatches. Does not include the exterior handle.RNB171 Genuine Land Rover Liftgate Assembly .....................$ 799.00RNB261 Exterior Handle Assembly (up to JA351032).............$ 154.00RNB299 Exterior Handle Assembly (from KA351033) ..............$ 119.00

(D) Galvanized Cradle for NAS 90 Fuel TankReplace your corroded fuel tank cradle once and for all.PLE119G NAS Defender 90 ............................................................$ 199.00

TAILGATEKITS


DEFENDER NASGALVANIZED CHASSIS

The backbone of your Land Rover is its chassis. We offer only the bestoriginal Land Rover chassis that are hot dipped galvanized, for a lifetimeof corrosion free performance. Our hot-dipped, fully galvanized Series II,IIA, and III chassis are machined to original Land Rover specificationsand include reinforced front horns, auxiliary fuel tank bracket, and hang-ers for left and or right exhaust, all at the same price as a standard chas-sis.

Our Defender chassis are built to exact NAS specifications and hotdipped galvanized. YES, they will accept your original plastic fuel tank.

Complete Chassis Assembly88” Series II, IIA, IIIRNE416 Civilian 88” New Galvanized Chassis .....................$ 1690.00109” Regular Series II, IIA, III, 2.25 ltrRNE412 Civilian 109” New Galvanized Chassis ...................$ 2690.00109” Military Series II, IIA, III, 2.25 ltrRNE414 Military 109” New Galvanized Chassis ..................$ 2990.00109” Station Wagon Series II, IIA, III, 2.25 ltrRNE413 Civilian 109” Station Wagon New Galv Chassis ...$ 2790.0090” NAS DefenderRNC878 Nas Defender 90” V8 New Galvanized Chassis ...$ 2999.00110” NAS DefenderRNH710 Nas Defender 110” V8 New Galvanized Chassis .$ 2999.00

Replacement non GalvanizedRear Cross Members in blackPLE403 Series II, IIA, III...........................................................$ 146.47RNE404 w/ 18” extensions, indludes spring shackle

mounts for Series II, IIA, III ......................................$ 228.90CHAS23 Military, Series II, IIA, III ...........................................$ 188.63PLH619110 Defender 110, w/ 18” extensions.............................$ 414.75PLH61990 Defender 90, w/ 20” extensions...............................$ 414.75

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PLH619G NAS Defender 90” Cross Member..........................$ 345.00

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WAXOYL UNDERCOATINGRNW5003 120-4 Rust Inhibitor Protection is a clear wax that

comes in a large 5 Litre tin - Used in your doors andbody cavities to prevent corrosion. Also protectselectrical components from moisture................................................................................$ 124.00

RNW5004 120-4 Rust Inhibitor Protection is a clear wax thatcomes in a large 500ml aerosol can - Used inyour doors and body cavities to prevent corrosion.Also protects electrical components from moisture................................................................................$ 15.95

RNW5005 Hardwax Underbody Protection comes in a large5 Litre tin- Protect your chassis & underside againstroad salt, grit, dirt and other harmful substances.Long lasting protection against corrosion. ....$ 129.00

RNW5006 Hardwax Underbody Protection comes in a large500ml can- Protect your chassis & underside againstroad salt, grit, dirt and other harmful substances.Long lasting protection against corrosion. ....$ 16.95

Designed in Switzerland and used by the leading automotive manufac-turers. Waxoyl is an environmentally friendly, non-toxic, product that isavailable from Rovers North in both convenient DIY sizes and largercommercial sizes. For our full Waxoyl listing visit roversnorth.com

PROTECT YOURLAND ROVER

“First in Synthetics”100%Synthetic Advanced LubricantsAmsoil’s superior performance provides up to four times the protection ofconventional and other synthetic oils. Formulated for use in extreme hot or coldtemperatures. Amsoil offers the most advanced fuel efficient synthetic lubricantson the market. Increase power, fuel mileage and virtually eliminate wear in yourLand Rover.RNC845 10w-40 Engine Oil, 100% synthetic quart ...................................$ 7.35

RNC811 75w-90 Gear Oil, 100% synthetic quart.......................................$ 9.23RNC812 75w-90 Gear Oil, 100% synthetic gallon .....................................$ 35.27ATF ATF Trans and PS Oil, 100% synthetic quart ...........................$ 9.50API Fuel Performance Additive for petrol engines

(treats 160 gal) ................................................................................$ 9.50ADC16 Diesel All Season Performance Fuel Additive

(treats 100 gal) ................................................................................$ 7.88GLC10 Multi-Purpose Synthetic Grease.................................................$ 6.90RNF263 Amsoil Performance Oil Filter, Defender 90, 110 V8.................$ 19.90

Forget March – February is the cruelest month. Yes, it’s short and formany people, it includes a vacation weekend to buy cars in honor offorgotten Presidents. There’s a small sop to romance with Valentine’sDay. It’s also brutally cold [whoever heard of a February thaw?] andthis year, much of the continental US witnessed its first major blizzard.

Forget frozen pipes! Forget the pain of the simplest errands! It’sFebruary and time for off roading. There are numerous events aroundthe country held this time of year, but for the northeast corners of theUS and Canada, it’s hard to beat the Maine Winter Romp.

For 11 years, Bruce Fowler of Unity, ME, has lent out his time,Land Rovers and his land for the President’s Day weekend event. Itgrew from a hard-core, “who knows if any trail is even open,” “let’scamp outdoors in unheated cabins or tents,” event for local enthusi-asts into a hugely-appealing weekend for a wide range of Land Roverenthusiasts. This year’s participants came from as far away asNashville, TN and Washington, DC, to Nova Scotia and Ontario,Canada, and all over the northeastern US. There were hundreds ofparticipants in 87 registered vehicles.

A signal of the event’s growth is that Holiday Inn in nearbyWaterville, ME, its marquee adorned with a “Welcome Land Rovers”sign, has become the “Official Hotel of the Maine Winter Romp.” Itearned that title because it would discount room prices, open twobars and give up a huge parking lot to effect repairs.

As is often the case in a rural state like Maine, I had not seenanother Land Rover all week until I checked into the hotel. There, Ifound a parking lot filling up with Series Rovers, Discovery I’s andDiscovery II’s, Range Rover Classics and lots of Defender 90’s. Theonly models not represented were Range Rover P38-A’s and Defender110’s.

I met up with four Canadians from New Brunswick, each with abeer can in their hand, all proclaiming in unison “Don’t worry - I’mnot driving!” So I offered to take them to Friday night’s selected din-ing spot, a large restaurant in downtown Waterville (the home ofColby College, Hathaway Shirts, and a market/service town for centralMaine). There, the beleaguered owners removed keg tap after keg tapas the noisy enthusiasts emptied them of all their good stuff. Imagine

What ToDo in the

Snow

What ToDo in the

SnowStory by: Jeffrey Aronson

Photos by Calef Letorney & Jeffrey Aronson

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Story by: Jeffrey AronsonPhotos by Calef Letorney & Jeffrey Aronson

the Visigoths liked only Shipyard and Old Thumper when they invad-ed, and left nothing for the locals – you get the picture.

Some off roaders drove the 10 miles to Unity to tackle somenighttime off-roading, but most everyone else retired to the hotel barand/or bed. A good night’s sleep would help you pack away breakfastat the most aptly-named Big G’s in nearby Winslow, ME. If theVisigoths noted above needed to dine heartily before pillaging, Big G’scould feed them. Pancakes the size of Super Swampers, slabs ofhomemade bread the size of brake rotors – all for prices that would-n’t get you a pat of butter in New York City.

In recent years I’d been hard-pressed to get past dinner andbreakfast in the QE I. Back in 2001, a thief attempted to steal it andtore up the fascia wiring at the ignition switch. Last year, the PCV valvediaphragm tore and sent vast clouds of oily smoke out the exhaustpipe. This year, I had only the simplest maintenance to perform,adjusting the emergency brake to make it functional. Other drivers’tasks included changing out an oil filter and o-ring to stop prodigiousleaking in a 109”, replacing a tire punctured when the owner of aRange Rover Classic turned around in a field full of sharp, hiddenrocks, and swapping out a fuel pump on a Discovery.

Bruce Fowler called together a drivers meeting in which he reit-erated the “No Whining” policy of the event. The admonition wasworth repeating; this is, after all, the event when a “three hour tour”turned into a final departure from the woods at 3:00 am. To ease thecrunch, Bruce had recruited John Cranfield [Defender 90 diesel],Ben Smith [Discovery Series I], Bill Nixxon [Series II-A 88” Pickup],Jeff Berg and Eric Riston [Series II-A 88” HT and Discovery Series II]and our own Hallie Vail [Range Rover Classic] to serve as trail lead-ers. Bruce took a group on his own behind his ’56 Series I 86”, reg-istered in Maine as a “Tractor.”

A variety of trails awaited the participants. Peter Vollers led agroup of extremely-modified vehicles that wanted to rock climb onicy, boulder-strewn trails. If you didn’t fear bashing body panels, thiswas the group for you. A second route featured boulders, brush and

saplings strewn across a twenty year old clear-cut, then up a shortrocky knoll that dropped you into a rock filled brook, with a steepbank to climb up afterwards.

A novice trail ran like a tree trunk through the center of the moredifficult ones. It featured through the deep snow, large ruts, withsmall rises and dips. From it, you could watch Rovers climb up awindy path to the top of a power line trail, and then through a greatopen mud/ice/snow hole.

Two additional trails proved difficult to use because of thenearly 3 feet of snow that had fallen recently. One followed theremnants of a narrow gauge rail bed; built through a swamp about150 years ago, the remaining corduroy logs dissolved under theweight of the vehicles. It took that group until Monday to complete thetrail because of the conditions.

Another trail, named the “Couch Trail’ in honor of householddebris that sat near its opening, proved too challenging on Saturday,but finally it was conquered on Sunday. It was a newly-built trail andrequired much snow-tamping to complete.

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The sight of nearly 90 vehicles heading out on the trails was quiteimpressive. Bright sun, lots of dry snow and a wide range of vehiclesand interesting people promised to make the trail runs quite fun. Lotsof drivers played with adjusting their snow chains, many clearly outfor the first time. If you run chains, you can’t really air down yourtires. I settled for reducing my tires to 15 lbs, securing a tow strapand readying the high lift and the kinetic rope. Most of the cars werekitted out with larger tires, skid plates, diff guards, and some winch-es, but many were surprisingly stock. If you were not running goodsnow tires, you were going to have problems no matter what equip-ment you carried.

This being Maine, some of the trials and wood roads featured thedetritus of civilization: a couple of wrecked trailers, a few junk cars,some household debris, but it quickly gave way to stunning views ofsnow covered trees. In my group, I followed Dave Richards, Bangor,ME, in a ’64 109” Station Wagon. Utterly stock, he borrowed wheelsand mud/snow tires from a friend just for the event. We both noticedthat the newer, wider Land Rovers created ruts that could cause ournarrower, lighter cars some problems. On one portion of the trail, Ifound myself suddenly going nowhere. I could, however, go back-wards, which I did successfully, until I found traction. Then I pound-ed forward with a bit more wellie and I continued along successfully.

As a group, we paused to watch Hallie Vail’s group head up a hillcleared as a power line trail. The fields below the hills could not beseen for the cover of snow on top, but veterans knew to take themslowly for the many rocks and stumps hidden from view. That meantyou had little headway before you reached the steep hill.Compounding the challenge was the fact you can’t simply drivestraight up; you must weave right and left between boulders, icy

stretches, and lots of drifting snow. Oh yes, you want to avoid the elec-tric tower, too. Running chains on her rear tires, Hallie’s Range Rovermade it up first, a testament to skilled driving. Following her were agroup of Discovery I’s and II’s. Depending on tires and driver skills,some made the grade while others needed assistance. With littleroom to gain momentum, cars found it hard to find the best line upthe hill. When they lost traction, the heavier weight at the front of thecar would make it slide downhill nose first, an uncomfortable sightand less comfortable feeling for the passengers.

Within a mile, we came across the group led by John Cranfield.They had tackled a steep climb up icy rock face that required muchwinching, only to descend into a stream. The water crossing was notdeep or wide, but the riverbank on the other side was very steep, veryicy and with little snow, too difficult for any vehicle. Every vehicle,whether a Defender, Range Rover, Discovery or Series 109”, requiredwinching up the hill. Bruce Fowler got the first vehicle, MarkLetorney’s Defender 90, up the hill using his Series I strapped to atree. Mark, with his sons Graham and Calef, then took over winchingchores for the remainder of the group.

Working with the Letorneys provided another lesson in winchingprocedures and safety. Strapping trees, winding winches, walkingthrough deep snow to hook up vehicles, all made for a lot of work.Bill Callocia’s 109” was the final vehicle. Bill engaged his air lockers,drove slowly into the stream and butted up against the riverbank.There was no way to get a hook onto his Rover, so Graham and I sliddown the hill to help push him backwards. Between Bill’s lockers andour pushes, we managed to move the Rover back so Bill could takeanother run. Graham, young and nimble, avoided tumbling into thestream as the Rover moved astern. I, old and clunky, followed the

Rover into the river and soaked my pant legs. My L.L. Bean boots keptmy feet dry [unsolicited testimonial] but my pant legs would remainfrozen for the rest of the day.

This year, the Romp featured plenty of families and couplesenjoying the challenging off-roading. Greg and Sarah Black hadbrought their 5-year old son, Tristan, along for entertainment.Gregarious and very charming, Tristan enjoyed doing face plants inthe snow as his parents helped others with winching chores in their’93 Range Rover. Tristan also showed his smarts. He announcedproudly that he was “peeing and pooping in the potty” while sharinghis latest foodie trend, “watermelon pieces soaked in hot chocolate.”Remember, you read it here first!

Winching a half dozen vehicles up a rocky, icy riverbank took along time; no sooner did we finish than Bill Nixxon’s group neededus to find a parking spot off the trails to let them pass through tolunch. I can attest that the snow off the trails was at least 30” deep; atleast, that’s the distance I sank whenever I left the trail. So we pound-ed our way into a clearing and created a parking lot out of this smallarea and another trail. Finally, around 4:00 pm, we made it to a hugeencampment where a large group enjoyed the conviviality of lunch.

The Maine Winter Romp benefits from the good will of locallandowners and snowmobiles clubs. Many owners have built smallcabins in the woods, featuring barbeque pits, some outhouses, and awillingness to share their space with 87 Land Rovers. As we traveledthe trails, many snowmobilers paused to watch the Rovers tackle thetough stuff.

After a late lunch and with rapidly falling temperatures with thesetting sun, most everyone headed back to Unity and Waterville formore food and conversation. By the end of the night, a handfulreturned to try the power line trail at night; others found a secure barand settled in for an entertaining evening.

Sunday morning found most of the vehicles back at Big G’s forbreakfast. There, Matt Browne, York, ME, lent his professional assis-tance to a Range Rover suffering from drivetrain problems. “It willeither be a broken axle or a transfer case problem,” predicted Matt.Sadly, when the owner pulled out the half shafts, they were in greatshape.

After overeating and/or recovering (depending on your activitiesSaturday night), over 50 vehicles took an extra day of off-roading.Some of the trails that had proved impassible on Saturday succumbed

to the strenuous efforts of the Rover enthusiasts that day. Even onMonday, the federal holiday, over 20 vehicles remained for addition-al offroading on the same trails.

Bruce Fowler felt “I think it went really well. There were nomajor concerns or issues, just some problems on a Range RoverClassic. For the large number of newcomers, and the increasedamount snow, I was pleasantly surprised that we didn’t have moreproblems. Everyone worked together as a team to make it work.” Itworked brilliantly; here’s hoping the event continues in 2008.

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Steering1. RNS001 Reservoir, All Models ....................................................................$ 31.452. RNS002 Pump Assembly, Range Rover Classic’87-’94 ...........................$379.00

RNS003 Range Rover Classic ’95 only.......................................................$619.00RNS003 Discovery I ‘94-’99..........................................................................$619.00

3. RNC004 Power Steering Belt, Range Rover ’87-’94 ................................$ 21.504. PLS004A Steering Box, New, LHD with Drop Arm and Ball Joint

Range Rover Classic ‘87-91 ..................................ProLine........$499.95PLS004B Steering Box, New, LHD with Straight Drop Arm ProLine

Range Rover Classic ’92-’95 & Discovery I ‘94-’99...................$499.955. Hose, Steering Box to Reservoir

RNS007 Range Rover Classic (up to NA610839) ’87................................$ 26.50RNS006 Range Rover Classic (from NA610840) ’87-’95 ..........................$ 39.50RNS013 Discovery I, ‘94-’99.........................................................................$ 36.70RNS011 O-Ring for all Res. to Box Hoses .................................................$ 2.51

6. Hose, Reservoir to PumpRNS005 Range Rover Classic ’87-’95 .........................................................$ 63.95RNS012 Discovery I, ‘94-’99.........................................................................$ 49.30

7. Hose, Pump to Box, Range Rover ClassicCoil Suspension:RNS008 ...........................................................................................................$103.20Air Suspension:RNS018 Hose Pump End ..............................................................................$ 62.95RNS019 Hose at Box End.............................................................................$ 58.50RNS020 Range Rover Classic ’95 and Discovery I ‘94-’99......................$ 49.99RNS009 O-Ring for all Pump to Box Hoses...............................................$ 2.51

8. U-Joint, for Steering ShaftRNS017 Range Rover Classic (up to MA601606) .....................................$ 59.80RNS010 Range Rover Classic (from MA601606) thru ’94........................$ 78.74RNS021 Range Rover Classic ’95 & Discovery I, U-joint only ...............$220.00

9. Steering Shaft, Complete Assembly with U JointsRNS014 Range Rover Classic ’87-’94 .........................................................$299.50RNS021 Range Rover Classic ‘95 & Discovery I ‘94-’99 .........................$220.00

10. RNS069 Ball Joint Assembly for Cross Rod........................RH Thread ..$ 29.50RNS070 Ball Joint Assembly for Cross Rod........................LH Thread...$ 29.50

11. RNK553 Securing Clamp Assembly with hardware ................................$ 4.1012. RNS073 Bolt for Clamp .................................................................................$ 1.4213. RNS074 Flat Washer .....................................................................................$ 0.4614. RNS075 Nut ....................................................................................................$ 0.7615. RNS084 Ball Joint Repair Kit / Steering Drop Arm..................................$ 48.0016. Drop Arm for Steering Box

RNS080 Range Rover Classic, includes Ball Joint ’87-’91 .....................$281.88RNS077 Range Rover Classic ’92-’95 & Discovery I ‘94-’99...................$157.45

17. Lock Washer Drop ArmRNS078 Range Rover Classic ’87-’91 .........................................................$ 3.05RNS071 Range Rover Classic ’92-’95 & Discovery I ‘94-’99...................$ 3.90

18. RNS083 Nut, Steering Drop Arm ................................................................$ 8.3519. RNS079 Long Tube ........................................................................................$136.4520. RNS069 Ball Joint for Track Rod ................................................................$ 29.5021. RNS091 Track Rod Assembly ......................................................................$299.0022. RNS085 Short Tube (Adjuster) ....................................................................$ 68.2023. RNS088 Eye End for Drag Link ....................................................................$ 97.6024. RNS081 Drag Link..........................................................................................$ 42.3025. RNS122 Steering Damper/Stabilizer, Genuine .........................................$ 89.20

OMESD11 Steering Damper/Stabilizer, Old Man Emu ................................$ 72.50RNA245 Steering Damper/Stabilizer, Bilstein...........................................$ 85.00

26. RNS078 Locking Washer ‘87-91 ..................................................................$ 3.05RNS071 Locking Washer ‘92-99 ..................................................................$ 3.90

28. RNH265 Pump Assembly.....................................3.9L .....................................$408.45RNS003 Pump Assembly.....................................4.0L .....................................$619.00PLS003 Pump Assembly.....................................4.0L .....................................$398.00

29. RNC004 Power Steering Belt ...........................3.9L....................................$ 21.50RNS006 Power Steering Belt ...........................4.0L....................................$ 39.50

30. PLS004A Power Steering Box Assembly Neww/steering arm and ball joint .......................................................$499.95

RNF322 Seal Kit, Power Steering Box.......................................................$157.4531. RNH402 Hose, steering box to reservoir ..............................................................$ 56.5732. RNH403 Hose, reservoir to pump to SA961767...................................................$ 73.45

RNH404 Hose, reservoir to pump from VA on.....................................................$ 99.5033. RNS008 Hose, pump to box, Defender 110..........................................................$ 103.20

RNH405 Hose, pump to box, Defender 90............................................................$ 49.5034. RNS017 U-Joint, lower ..............................................................................................$ 59.8035. RNS010 U-Joint, upper..............................................................................................$ 78.7436. RNH406 Steering shaft ..............................................................................................$ 0.8337. RNS078 Locker...............................................................................................$ 3.0538. RNS080 Drop Arm with Ball Joint ..............................................................$281.8839. RNE442 Drag Link Eye End with Steering Damper Mount.....................$104.9540. RNC876 Drag Link Tube................................................................................$ 62.95

RNC876HD Drag Link Tube, heavy duty ..........................................................$159.0041. RNS069 Tie Rod End, RH Thread, includes hardware, Genuine ...........$ 29.50

PLS069 Tie Rod End, RH Thread, includes hardware, ProLine.............$ 20.9542. RNS070 Tie Rod End, LH Thread, includes hardware, Genuine............$ 29.50

PLS070 Tie Rod End, LH Thread, includes hardware, ProLine .............$ 20.9543. RNE448 Track Rod Tube...............................................................................$ 54.50

RNE448HC Track Rod Tube High Clearance D90/110 Heavy Duty .............$290.0044. RNE449 Track Rod Assembly with ends, Genuine ..................................$125.95

PLE449 Track Rod Assembly with ends, ProLine....................................$ 83.4845. Steering Stabilizer Assembly (Includes all hardware for mounting)

RNF171 Genuine............................................................................................$100.28RNA235 Bilstein .............................................................................................$ 86.00OMESD32 Old Man Emu...................................................................................$ 72.50


STEER

ING

Series IIA, III(1961-1984)

1

229

2

2

29

4

2

2

2

7

5

29

1117

18

1314

1216

15

19

20

19

20

Discovery II(1999-2004)

Range Rover P38A(1999-2004)

27

2727

28

24

2221

2122

23

26

25

3

10

8

6

293132

3031

33

35

34


STEER

ING

Steering1. Series III LHD steering column and box assembly

PLE427 .......................................................................................................$ 429.002. Tie Rod End assembly fully threaded includes boot, washer and lock nut

RNF204 Tie Rod, RH Thread, Genuine...................................................$ 33.58PLF204 Tie Rod, RH Thread, ProLine ....................................................$ 20.95RNF205 Tie Rod, LH Thread, Genuine ...................................................$ 33.58PLF205 Tie Rod, LH Thread, ProLine.....................................................$ 20.95

3. Clamp assembly includes clamp, bolt, washers, and lock nutRNS073 Clamp Bolt ...................................................................................$ 1.42RNS074 Washer ........................................................................................$ 0.46RNS075 Clamp Nut....................................................................................$ 0.76

4. Steering Relay Unit Assembly, GenuineRNE493 .......................................................................................................$ 178.45Oil Seal for steering relay top or bottomRNA923 .......................................................................................................$ 4.19

5. Track Rod Tube GenuineRNC243 .......................................................................................................$ 93.98

6. Track Rod Assembly, includes tie rod ends, clamps, and hardware, GenuineRNC651 .......................................................................................................$ 179.00

7. Drag Link with bracket for optional steering damper, GenuineRNE415 .......................................................................................................$ 139.00

8. Drag Link Assembly, includes tie rod ends, clamps, and hardwareRNE581 .......................................................................................................$ 199.00

9. Steering Damper Assembly, includes all hardware and bushings formounting Series IIA and IIIRNS122 Genuine........................................................................................$ 89.20RNA245 Bilstein .........................................................................................$ 85.00PLS122 Pro Comp.....................................................................................$ 41.95OMESD11 Old Man Emu ..............................................................................$ 72.50

10. Chassis Bracket for steering damper, Series III only, GenuineRNE417 .......................................................................................................$ 39.99

11. RND914 Twin Cap Reservoir, Genuine...................................................$ 139.60RND913 Single Cap Discovery II Genuine ............................................$ 126.59RND894 Single Cap Reservoir Range Rover P38A ..............................$ 69.95

12. Power Steering Line Reservoir to Steering BoxRND908 Discovery II, Genuine................................................................$ 50.35RND885 Range Rover P38A to TA317511, Genuine..............................$ 99.70RND886 Range Rover P38A from TA317512, Genuine.........................$ 62.32

13. Power Steering Line Reservoir to PumpRND910 Discovery II, Genuine................................................................$ 49.50RND890 Range Rover P38A up to WA410481, Genuine ......................$ 99.00RND891 Range Rover P38A from XA410482, Genuine ........................$ 33.63

14. Power Steering Line Pump to Steering BoxRNH076 Discovery II, Genuine................................................................$ 79.75RND880 Range Rover P38A up to WA410481, Genuine ......................$ 78.00RND881 Range Rover P38A from WA410482, Genuine.......................$ 99.50

15. Steering Box Assembly - New with Drop ArmPLH606 Discovery II up to La999999, ProLine......................................$ 539.95PLH607 Discovery II from 3A000000, ProLine......................................$ 539.95

16. Steering Shaft Assemlbly with Universal JointsRNH113 Discovery II up to XA232916, Genuine ...................................$ 323.90RND869 Discovery II from XA232917, Genuine ....................................$ 398.00RND868 Range Rover P38A, Genuine....................................................$ 271.95

17. Pump AssemblyRNH248 Discovery II, Genuine................................................................$ 511.00RNH249 Range Rover P38A from VA370581 to WA410481, Genuine$ 503.95RNH250 Range Rover P38A from XA410482, Genuine ........................$ 493.45

18. Pulley for Pump AssemblyRNH287 Discovery II and Range Rover P38A, Genuine .....................$ 20.51

19. Ball Joint Assembly LH Thread includes boot, washer, and lock nutRNH139 Genuine........................................................................................$ 33.55

20. RNH106 Clamp Assembly Small..............................................................$ 5.0521. RND923 Adjuster Unit ...............................................................................$ 16.3722. RNH075 Clamp Assembly Large .............................................................$ 4.0523. Track Rod with Ball Joint

RNH074 Discovery II .................................................................................$ 115.45RNH073 Range Rover P38A .....................................................................$ 69.00

24. Track Rod with Ball JointRNH071 Discovery II .................................................................................$ 119.00RNH078 Range Rover P38A .....................................................................$ 76.18

25. Drag Link Assembly (does not include Ball Joint Nuts)RNH138 Discovery II .................................................................................$ 229.00RND921 Range Rover P38A .....................................................................$ 157.45

26. Track Rod Assembly (does not include Ball Joint Nuts)RNH072 Discovery II .................................................................................$ 115.45RND922 Range Rover P38A .....................................................................$ 176.35

27. RND879 Nut for Ball Joint........................................................................$ 3.4828. Steering Damper Assembly

Discovery IIRND925 Genuine........................................................................................$ 104.00OMESD02 Old Man Emu ..............................................................................$ 72.50Range Rover P38ARND924 Genuine........................................................................................$ 119.00

29. RNK553 Clamp assembly includes clamp, bolt, washers,and lock nut ................................................................................$ 4.10

30. RNS073 Clamp Bolt ...................................................................................$ 1.4231. RNS074 Washer ........................................................................................$ 0.4632. RNS075 Clamp Nut....................................................................................$ 0.7633. RND875 Drop Arm for Range Rover P38A.............................................$ 251.9534. RND888 Sealing Washer for high pressure line to pump,

Range Rover P38A .....................................................................$ 9.58RND884 Sealing Washer for high pressure line to reservoir,

Range Rover P38A .....................................................................$ 3.1935. RND912 Clip for attaching p/s lines, Discovery II................................$ 1.37

62

SIGHTINGSMarch will come in like a lion in northern NewEngland. There’s a blizzard of snow predicted fortomorrow and a blizzard of Sightings that cameover on the ferry yesterday. I’ve lugged both fire-wood and bundles of mail into the house. The ’66II-A has done its job hauling wood for the wood-stove. Now it’s quite reassuring to see it outside.It will always go, regardless of the snow.

Let’s head into March with a reminder ofthe rules:

Rule # 1 - All Sightings receive recognition and ourappreciation, but not necessarily a mug. We reward onlythose Sightings that capture the unique qualities of LandRovers and their owners, and display them in a distinctiveway.

Rule #2 - If your Sighting does not really surprise you,it won’t surprise us, either, and you won’t get a mug. We’redelighted, but not surprised, that Land Rovers appear inBritish television programmes, British publications, filmswith British themes, and shows about African safaris. Youshouldn’t be surprised, either, and should consider lookingfor other ways to get a coffee mug.

Rule #3 - At an ever-changing date before publicationwe close off the Sightings. If we’ve mentioned the Sighting inan earlier issue, we won’t mention it again. If you’re new tothe family of Land Rover enthusiasts, you may not have seenyour Sighting in an earlier issue.

Rule #4 - We’re not outfitting your kitchen. If you qual-ify, please remember - one mug per Sighting per issue.

Rule #5- Sightings that are Land Rover references inbooks go to our Literary Land Rover editor for mention, butonly when space permits.

Rule #6 - Psst... if we can’t read you name and addressbecause of atrocious penmanship, we can’t recognize yourSighting nor send you a mug. Psst...E-mail submissions -remember we can’t send a mug by e-mail. Send us your realname and shipping address, too.

Rule #7 - Grudgingly, very grudgingly, the Editor admitshe might make an error. Let me know if you think you’ve beenjobbed, but all decisions of the Editor are final.

Dennis Hopper once scared adults as PeterFonda’s partner in Easy Rider; now he scaresGen X and Gen Y kids hawking retirement pack-ages for Ameriprise, complete with a kitted outDefender 90. *Adrian Bourunda, San Antonio,TX, Jim Keller, Annapolis, MD, Tom DeCourcy,Kaunakaki, HI, Billy Tesauro, Brightwaters, NY(and a graduate from nearby St. Michael’sCollege) and Alexander Ackermann, Chatham,NJ, all reported the television advertisement.

Rex Stratton, Vashon, WA, spotted a trav-el advertisement for Morocco in Le Figaro maga-zine. How best to show off the North Africannation? Put a Defender heading for Sahara sanddunes. Beretta Guns featured a girls high schooltrap team unloading shooting gear from aDiscovery II in their latest catalogue, reportedMichael Beckley, Sheridan, OR.

The presence of Land Rovers adds a certaincachet to luxury items. Briar Rose, an “upscaleliving experience” near Atlanta, GA, put aDefender 110 in their ad. Brad and JulieDaniel, Saratoga, CA, found an ad for the QuailLodge resort, which is also one of the US localesof the Land Rover Experience courses. Amy

Langevin, Cumberland Center, ME, found theLand Rover in the Chico’s catalogue mentioned inan earlier issue.

The Editor paid little attention to the SuperBowl due to the absence of his beloved NewEngland Patriots. However, 25 Colts or Bears fanscaught the Taco Bell ad. Placing a Defender 110in a pride of lions falls within Rule #2, but wewant to thank the following for their Sightings:Kim Nichols, Kennesaw, GA, John Karlsson,Hope Valley, RI, Sherry Wells, Upper Lake, CA,Tom Rowe, Douglasville, GA, ChristopherDavis, Albuquerque, NM, Richard Betts,Jacksonville, NC, David Kessler,Worthington, OH, Greg Akin, Abilene, TX,Julie Peterson, S. Dartmouth, MA, HarryEdwards, Tampa, FL, Al North, Cranston, RI,Yon Nunez, Littleton, CO, D. Aaron Conway,Minneapolis, MN, Clint Ragan, Fairbanks, AK,John McDaniel, Dallas, TX, Tom DeCourcey,Kaunakakai, HI, Jim Keller, Annapolis, MD,David Thodal, Belgrade, MT, Keith Allen,Eads, TN, Billy Tesauro, Brightwaters, NY,Joseph Bognar, Grimsby, ON, Canada, Glennand Cindy Grove, Westminster, CO, and DickNewton, Maurice Patrykus and JamesPritchard [no addresses].

Warn winches knows that Land Rover setthe pace for off-roading, so it’s not surprisingthat they should feature Land Rovers in their ads.John Doub, Hixon, TN, and Skyler Neubaur,Moore, OK, spotted in the ad in magazine ads andbrochures. Ian McClelland, Lancaster, OH,read the articles in Playboy and found a mentionof photographer Peter Beard’s new book. There’sa shot of a naked woman feeding a giraffe and theauthor beside his Military Lightweight; guesswhich one wins the mug? Rob Modica, Tucson,AZ, spotted the same mention.

Other advertisers also know of the value ofputting Land Rover images in your product ads.Roy McLemore, Church Hill, TN, KaitShanks, Springfield, IL, and Billy Tesauro,Brightwaters, NY, caught the Garmin ad that wementioned in the last issue [See Rule #3]. ScottHagen, Cicero, NY, noted a Cymbeline mobileradar ad featuring a Defender, but he also notedit’s a British company. EMS, an outdoor chain,had large posters of hikers and a Series LandRover with Ecuadorian plates, in the Waterford,CT, store, reported Greg Hollingswoth,Colchester, CT.

Gerry Beaupre found a 1979 Hot Rod mag-azine with a Camel cigarette ad. An appreciativeblonde backpacker looks admiringly at a curlyhaired, mustachioed Camel smoker, leaningagainst his Series III with a canoe on the roof. Ofcourse, Land Rover stopped bringing in theSeries III in 1974; it’s interesting that Camelcouldn’t select a more contemporary Ford, Chevy

or Jeep for the ad. We’ve mentioned this classic“pre-Camel Trophy” ad before, but it’s fun to seeit again.

Stewart Olson, Leverett, MA, received aMini owner magazine, MC2, that featured a Miniparked in front of a Range Rover Classic. It’s theonly other car featured in the magazine! JamesDouglas, Dallas, OR, received a holiday flyerfrom Schucks Auto Supply. He spotted a sparetire cover fitted onto the rear of a Discovery SE 7– odd because the chain has very few parts forLand Rover owners.

Movie producers always look for an excuseto include Land Rovers. Allen Minner [seeRule # 6] did not surprise us when he saw RangeRovers in The Queen. Joseph Bognar, Grimsby,ON, Canada, saw the same movie and a TV pro-gram called Million Dollar Property. Of course,the real estate agents drove a Range Rover P38-A. Garrick Cook, Fort Wayne, IN. found aDiscovery in early scenes of World Trade Center,an Oliver Stone film we’ve mentioned before.Michael McClung, Livermore, CA, spotted aRange Rover Classic in Kiss the Girls. KimNichols, Kennesaw, GA, asks us to “make herproud” in the eyes of her son by mentioning herSighting of Defenders in The Librarian. RichardBetts, Jacksonville, NC, spotted a Defender 110in the safari setting of Prey. David Thodal,Belgrade, MT, also saw Land Rovers on the silverscreen in John Tucker Must Die and Alex Rider:

63

Henry Gould: Deerfield Beach, FL

John Doub: Hixson, TN

Robert Graves: Indianapolis, IN

Jeffrey Austin: Chesapeake, VA

James Douglas: Dallas, OR

Stewart Olson: Leverett, MA

Greg Hollingworth: Colchester, CT

Rob Modica: Tucson, AZ

Ian McClelland: Lancaster, OH

Jay Martin: San Mateo, CA

Alexander Ackermann: Chatham, NJ

Billy Tesauro: Brightwaters, NY

Tom DeCourcy: Kaunakaki, HI

Jim Keller: Annapolis, MD

Adrian Borunda: San Antonio, TX

Michael Beckley: Sheridan, OR

Rex Stratton: Vashon, WA

Sightings Winners:Operation Stormbreaker.

TV shows with Land Rovers in them includ-ed Future Weapons, spotted by Kris Pacinelli,Paola, KS and Gary Wertz, Papillion, NE. KevinEyres, Beaverton, OR, David Kessler,Worthington, OH, and Thomas Souza, Jr,Wallingford, CT, reminded us of the Discoveryoften seen in “24.”

On the Sci-Fi Channel, Gary Younger, SanAntonio, TX, saw the movie Aberration, in which aRange Rover Classic overheats during a snow-storm [huh?]. Then blood-sucking reptiles comeout of the glovebox and attack the heroine in thedrivers seat. Gary also watched African mercenar-ies with Defenders and Steven Seagall inMercenaries for Justice. On Sci Fi, a new programcalled The Last Room also includes a Range RoverSport, according to Beth Riley, Rixeyville, VA,and Jeffrey Austin, Chesapeake, VA. A dose ofreality captures a mug for Jeff, when a DiscoveryChannel profile of the Anika, Alaska fire chief,highlighted his official vehicle, a Discovery.

The Italian national police have long favoredLand Rovers. Steve Garner, Columbus, MS, sawthem at work on a 60 Minutes episode. CharlesBell, Jr, Mobile, AL, sent in a photo of aCarabinieri Defender at work in Rome, Italy, aswell as a Defender working at a German airport.

Personal sightings like Charles’ above arefun. Jack Whelan, Nantucket, MA, found hisSeries Rover used in a photo shoot for the Life IsGood clothing catalogue. Jerry Klida, St. ClairShores, MI, found a Defender military vehicle[maybe a Wolf?] being trailered to a new home inChicago one night. A reader named Mike fromRiverview, FL, rode around in a white armoredDefender 110 in Baghdad.

Gene Page, Micanopy, FL, works as a stillphotographer on movie locations. Most recently,his Discovery II served as a camera platform forRhode Island mansion shoot in the upcoming film“Evening.” John Karlsson, Hope Valley, RI, vis-ited his brother in Staten Island, NY. Searching fora parking place in his Range Rover 200 Tdihybrid, imagine his surprise to see a photo muralof the Kilroot Salt Mines in Northern Ireland onthe side of the Atlantic Salt Building. Of course,they were Series Land Rovers at work.

We all need a good laugh now and then.MAD Magazine chose a Land Rover LR3 as a car-toon prop commenting on Vice PresidentCheney’s hunting safety talents, according to JohnDoub, Hixon, TN. Robert Groves, Indianapolis,IN [who probably watched the Super Bowl],found a Discovery II in an Atlantic Monthly car-toon commenting on cut-you-own Christmas

trees. Henry Gould,Deerfield Beach, FL, found aspecific mention of LandRovers in a Red Rover comicstrip. Leighton Ogg,Houston, TX, found a safaricartoon scene in a Shortcutsstrip.Caryn Paso, Robles, CA,sent us in a nyc.gov web siteaddress that we couldn’taccess through the link pro-vided; send us a copy of theSighting and we’ll judge itnext issue.It’s the oddest Sightingreported so far, but JayMartin, San Mateo, CA,swears he found the frontquarter of a Defender in anad announcing the GrandOpening of the Neoskin LaserHair Removal (Full Back andshoulders, $1,455; Beardand Front of the Neck, $675)of Beverly Hills and Ventura,CA. Jay, this does nothing tochange stereotypes ofCalifornians by NewEnglanders.

________ � ________

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Spring 2007 Rovers North News