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[handcrank]

Thanks for the explanation. I am in the UK but do want parts to be available Europe and North Africa.
I wouldn't say money is no problem but I would rather take longer to aquire than buy cheap and pay the price later. I don't like waste though so don't fancy buying an expensive base vehicle to throw half of it away or not appreciate the cosmetics. I am happy to have an old base and spend more enhancing it.

I know this is a massive subject and there are many options.

The reason I was thinking of building was to know the condition of most parts of it. I take your point in general and would take the approach of buying a base vehicle nearest to my desires from which to start. I want the engine, transmission and the suspension to be the things I spend money on to get the right ones and if money is short I will compromise on the rest.

Thanks for the engine recommendation - I will do some investigation.

Any thoughts on transmission? I have been spoiled with automatics on the Range Rovers which have worked very well both on and off road. I do not know what are suitable for the diesel engine you recommend. Again your opinion would be appreciated.

Thanks. Sorry of I rattle on a bit too much but am new to this game.