I recommend throwing in shock bushes, full set F&R. I carried a full set of bushes for RA, trailing arms, shocks, steering (+ filters, belts and fluids). I had to call on the rear axle shock bushes on the trip. Wore out 2 sets of OEM. I had to go polybush (not for a defender) when the replacement set wore out. If they wear and start moving around the wear is exponential. You won't find defender shock bushes north of Townsville for love nor money.
Buy several rolls of rescue tape, good if you spring a leak in a radiator hose.
My show stopper was a split in the radiator hose at a juncture of a secondary hose. 5 days in Townsville waiting for the hose to fly in from LRA in Melb. Don't break down on a Thursday or Friday. Few mechanics open weekends, even in Townsville the LR dealership workshop is closed. Overnight by Australia Post does not apply to regional towns and Townsville is regional. Going Platinum only means you get parcel insurance and a little more love with tracking but no faster. If you need parts cough up for a national courier (TNT, Toll etc) but ask if is guaranteed overnight before you pay the premium service.
If you break down in or near Bamaga, Mark in Seisa is a good mechanic and nice fella.
final word, buy NRMA premium care. I had 2 breakdowns on the trip each requiring extended stays in Bamaga and Townsville. NRMA premium care paid for the accom while stranded, towing and a flight for my wife to fly from Bamaga to Cairns because the breakdown was going to make her late to return to work (I picked up the cost from Cairns to Sydney). I estimate about $3,000 in payments made by NRMA. I over index on NRMA's call out stats.
MLD
