Landrover 109 an option?
 

Hi there,
I’m about to buy a Land Rover 109 to cross Africa. But before I purchase this car I would like to know if this is the right choice. I heard different stories about bad suspension etc. But I would like to have some straight forward answers from people who used this type of vehicle (late 70’s / early 80’s Laro). I know there are properly better 4wd’s but I want to know if it’s bearable or maybe even pleasant to take a Laro across Africa.
What kind of modifications should/can I make to improve its comfort.

Well, looking forward to your replies,

With kind regards,

Remi

Hi Remi,

Have a look at the Land Rover 110 post a few days before yours. I guess there's much more on this forum. http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb...ML/000088.html

Rob

Check these guys out:

http://www.drivearoundtheworld.com/

In 1999 they did a "latitude" expedition, read about it on the website.

Cheers,
Nick.

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www.nickt.com
96 BMW F650
96 Defender 90 300TDi
97 NAS D90
98 Camel Trophy 110

Thanks for the advice.
I all ready had a look at the sites.
I'm also looking for a site where I can buy the book 'Vehicle-dependent expeditions guide' from Tom Sheppard. Does anybody know where I can buy it or what it's isbn-number is?
thanks again,

Roland Koster

To my mind the key to this question is whether you want to keep the vehicle after the expedition.

For the long term go for a 110. If it is just for a trans africa trip then take a series III.

Most non essential modifications to a Series vehicle such as putting new salisbury axles with disk brakes, a new galvanised chassis and parabolic springs on a series III are arguably a waste of money as you wont recoup the cost when you sell at the end of the trip. If you have the money to pay for these things then buy a 110.

When buying a series vehicle for an expedition you must first ensure that the chassis is sound as a new one costs over 1000GBP. Then obviously the gear box and engine are very important. Check you can engage all the gears and high and low ratio. The gearbox and engine can be reconditioned and perhaps before buying you should get a quote from a workshop for this work, such that you have budgeted for this eventuality.

Having purchased the vehicle give it a thorough overhaul replacing parts where necessary & all fluids such that you leave with a sound vehicle.

Daily checks on expedition and "jobs a good un!"