Crossroads

[PHOENIX]

Hello all,
I'm at a cross roads; I have an old 109 safari that broke down six years ago, the body work is good ( except door tops, foot-wells etc ), the chassis is questionable, the engine had its timing chain break and was left where it lay since. I don't know whether to try to have it restored or go out and buy a second hand one.

I live in Ireland and the best advice I've got is to travel to L.M. (Landy Mecca) otherwise known as G.B. ( Great Britain ). That leaves me with the choice of transporting my old 109 to G.B. ( £££!)to be restored ( any ideas on a budget cost if restored by pros ), or leave my 109 to rot and go to a G.B. Landrover centre and pay a premium for one with M.O.T / Warranty or chance buying one from the classifieds. I'm looking for a 109 station wagon and from looking at the classifieds a diesel 109 are as rare as hens teeth. Any opinions on the above?

[bamarover]

I do not know what is available in Ireland, but in the US, all Series Rovers I have seen that have not already been restored have issues with the things you mention, some more than others. Chances are, if you buy another, you will have some of the same issues unless it has already been restored and that is expensive in the US.

If you can do the restoration work yourself - you have the tools, the room, the time, and the desire - then that is the least expensive thing to do, plus you know what you have already and can control quality and originality.

The condition of the bulkhead is also an important issue - can be expensive to fix right (professional welding skills required to do it right). Galvanized frame (a lot of work, but relatively inexpensive to acquire), some door tops (all aluminum available) and some engine work and you may be in pretty good shape.

I would replace all rubber, check brake and fuel lines, wiring harness, etc if you go the restore it route. Keep us posted.
Greg