How do the taller drivers do it???

[gazcoonar]

Gday guys

I just wanted to see if there were any tall defender drivers on this forum. It may sound like an odd request, but I can explain.. :angel:

You see, I love the look and capabilities of the defender and would really love to buy the new Defender 90. The problem is that I am 6foot 6inches tall and 115 kilos – all in all a big boy.
I took out the defender for a spin yesterday and found it to be very cramped – to the point where I could not turn the steering without rubbing it hard against my right thigh. Also, I found it quite difficult to get my foot off the accelerator and on to the clutch when changing gears.
When I returned the demo to the dealership I was advised that I could install the aftermarket Mulgo seat rail extensions and that should provide me some extra leg room.
Now, to me that sounds like a perfect solution, but I am a bit hesitant on investing 45k into the machine and then finding out that the Mulgo extension still doesn’t provide me the leg space that I need to drive the car safely.

I would be really keen to hear from any tall drivers who have come up with a workable solution to solve this problem..

Cheers guys

[PhilipA]

I cannot fit in one and I am only 188Cm and 113Kg.
My problem is that my shoulder is on the door pillar, among other things.eg left leg into hand brake, knee hits sterring wheel lifting off clutch.
I was really interested in a 90 until I tried to sit in one at the Land Rover Expo.
Better than a Defender truck cab though. I couldn't even fit my legs in.
Basically the same as a series 1 107 I once drove.
One would think the Poms had worked out that people are bigger now than in 1948.
Regards Philip A

[chook73]

Gday guys

I just wanted to see if there were any tall defender drivers on this forum. It may sound like an odd request, but I can explain.. :angel:

You see, I love the look and capabilities of the defender and would really love to buy the new Defender 90. The problem is that I am 6foot 6inches tall and 115 kilos – all in all a big boy.
I took out the defender for a spin yesterday and found it to be very cramped – to the point where I could not turn the steering without rubbing it hard against my right thigh. Also, I found it quite difficult to get my foot off the accelerator and on to the clutch when changing gears.
When I returned the demo to the dealership I was advised that I could install the aftermarket Mulgo seat rail extensions and that should provide me some extra leg room.
Now, to me that sounds like a perfect solution, but I am a bit hesitant on investing 45k into the machine and then finding out that the Mulgo extension still doesn’t provide me the leg space that I need to drive the car safely.

I would be really keen to hear from any tall drivers who have come up with a workable solution to solve this problem..

Cheers guys

Might I suggest calling Daniel at Mulgo, he is a really helpful and passionate guy and I think (don't quote me) he has a puma with the seat rail extensions fitted and he might let you try it out.

Dont mind me I just realised your in Melbourne, maybe someone on here has one with SR Ext fitted you could try.

[n plus one]

Gday guys

I just wanted to see if there were any tall defender drivers on this forum. It may sound like an odd request, but I can explain.. :angel:

You see, I love the look and capabilities of the defender and would really love to buy the new Defender 90. The problem is that I am 6foot 6inches tall and 115 kilos – all in all a big boy.
I took out the defender for a spin yesterday and found it to be very cramped – to the point where I could not turn the steering without rubbing it hard against my right thigh. Also, I found it quite difficult to get my foot off the accelerator and on to the clutch when changing gears.
When I returned the demo to the dealership I was advised that I could install the aftermarket Mulgo seat rail extensions and that should provide me some extra leg room.
Now, to me that sounds like a perfect solution, but I am a bit hesitant on investing 45k into the machine and then finding out that the Mulgo extension still doesn’t provide me the leg space that I need to drive the car safely.

I would be really keen to hear from any tall drivers who have come up with a workable solution to solve this problem..

Cheers guys

I think you may ultimately struggle to fit at your height/weight.

I'm 184cm and currently close to my racing weight (76kg, but have been as high as 95kg while owning a Defender) and I fit perfectly - no need for seat rails, shoulder pressed against b pillar, left leg resting on handbrake, seat adjusted 30mm forward from rear most position and seat back at around 80 degree angle.

You need to understand/accept that a Defender was never designed to provided the interior room that we have come to expect from other cars - it's more of a wedged in fit which, frankly, works better off road anyway (no room for slapping around inside the truck).

I find it to be the most comfortable thing I've ever driven.

I'm sure some of the taller boys will chime in shortly...

[Landy Smurf]

it is times like this I am glad i am a little shorter.
There is a defender extra cab for sale atm 170,000kms with rego $8500

[Leyland1980]

I am 6'4 and ~100kgs and have no problems, however I drive a 110. I have recently added MUD seat extensions which has increased the distance the seat can go back but is more of a luxury rather than a necessity.

I am pretty sure that the limit to seat movement in a 90 is not the rails but rather the bulkhead behind the seats. I learnt to drive in a 90 over 15 years ago and fitted then.

[Lagerfan]

6'4" here at 95kg and fit our 90 (new) with no probs. I find it very comfortable but I like the seat virtually upright (in any car) and did get the Mulgo rails too. They make a difference but I'm not sure they make THAT much of a difference that you'll magically fit and be comfortable if you're not/can't without them.

I sat in one of Daniel's 110s (Mulgo) this year at the Vic 4wd show and I recall there was even more travel in there with the rails (no crossbar like the 90 I guess?) so that might be a better option?

[butundede]

I'm 6'6'' and 95 Kg, Haven't got seat rail extensions. Recently drove Melbourne to Ceduna only stopping for fuel and had no dramas.
In saying that though I will be getting seat rail extensions as everyone says it makes it so much better again.

[Loubrey]

The seat rails (Mulgo or MUD) makes a significant difference. Even if you are comfortable in the car, they just add an extra dimension of seat adjustment.

I'm not that tall at 6'1", but with the seat slid back all the way on the rails (Mulgo) and the seat back on a modest tilt up to the stiffener bar (there is no bulkhead in 90 SW since 1999...:)) I'm almost too far back to feel in full control of the car. My seat is around 80% slid back and reasonably upright for that matter.

It is really all about your personal build ratios - legs vs torso length, arm length etc. These all play a factor and reading your post most of your hight sounds to be in your legs, which will most probably always be an issue...

Best option would be to have go in one with seat rails fitted, as I agree it's an expensive risk without knowing.

Cheers,

Lou

[BigJon]

I am 6'4" and about 125 kg (all muscle, I promise). I can barely get the door shut in any Defender, then actually operating the clutch and brake is a definite challenge. Turning the steering wheel is difficult because I get jammed up against the B pillar as well.

I suspect that when it comes to taller drivers the shoulder width and leg length become critical measurements with regards to comfort. I am very comfortable in my Rangie classic and even moreso in my newer Vogue.

[Chucaro]

I cannot fit in one and I am only 188Cm and 113Kg.
My problem is that my shoulder is on the door pillar, among other things.eg left leg into hand brake, knee hits sterring wheel lifting off clutch.
I was really interested in a 90 until I tried to sit in one at the Land Rover Expo.
Better than a Defender truck cab though. I couldn't even fit my legs in.
Basically the same as a series 1 107 I once drove.
One would think the Poms had worked out that people are bigger now than in 1948.
Regards Philip A
You are not alone mate and in long distance trip it can be a bit painful.
Also I found out that the head room on the rear seats is terrible and dangerous in a off road rough terrain were there is the possibility of a nasty neck damage.

[gazcoonar]

Thanks for all the feedback gents. I already have a Discovery 3 V8 and jumping into it after getting out of the defender felt like I was sitting on a luxurious couch in a mansion.. : )

I am not really looking at the defender as the more comfortable option - I just was to be able to drive it safely, without getting the steering stuck on my knee heading into on coming traffic..:p

[NT5224]

Hi

I'm 6' 3" (maybe just over) and 92 kg. I drive a MY2012 Puma single cab (so seats cannot be tilted at full travel back because they hit the real cab wall.

I stressed loads before ordering Hector worried that I might not fit, but my fears were ill founded. I actually find the truck very comfortable.

Here's how I do it. I sit in the cab with my seat more or less upright (brilliant driving position -and quite comfortable when you get used to it) and my knees go either side of the wheel. Right knee just brushes the door but left leg has never contacted the hand brake -dunno what folks complain about!

Sometimes it useful to have the window open for manoeuvring, but otherwise all very comfy. That's just my personal experience.

Some people recommend Mulgo rails for taller drivers. Having test driven dual cabs and station wagons, I honestly don't think I would need them.

Hope this is helpful.

Good luck

Alan

[The ho har's]

We knew hh would not fit in any defender as the seat does not go back far enough:(

Hey, the 130 duel cab:) seat goes back into the rear passenger area, we

have a lambswool seat belt thingo on the hand brake and he lies his leg on it

all day:D You guys have to think out side the square sometimes;)

And he doesn't have the window wound down usually to put his arm out:)

fits like a glove;):)

Mrs hh:angel:

[Tusker]

I'm in the same boat.

Installing a smaller diameter steering wheel makes a world of difference. I can now get in.

But even so, left ft on the clutch & the knee turns off the indicators. Ditto the brake pedal, right knee & the wipers.

When I looked at the seat rails, they have to clear a lip. On a 110 anyway. So the seat goes back & up. Crouching down to look under the visor doesn't appeal... Things might have changed though.

And the new Defenders are worse. The Puma's dashboard intrudes several inches further into the cabin than TD5s & Tdis. I cannot physically get in a standard Puma. But can happily put in a 12 hr day in my Xtreme 110, standard seats, just the smaller wheel.

Regards
Max P

[Aaron]

Im 6'5 and test drove my Puma 110 with no rails and at 125kg. (no beer gut though) It was not comfortable at all.

I Installed the MUD rails and it makes a world of difference. I also took the door handle off and made my own out of webbing. Similar to this MUD Flexible Grab Handle - Interior Trim - Products (http://www.mudstuff.co.uk/products/interior-trim/mud-flexible-grab-handle.html)

I'm not sure if the Mulgo seat rails make any further leg clearence because mine don't fit for some reason. In saying that Id buy Mulgo over MUD because everyone else speaks so highly of them, and they are better quality than the MUD (AND Australian of course)

Mulgo Seat Rail Extensions | Mulgo Expedition Vehicles (http://www.mulgo.com.au/portfolio/mulgo-seat-rail-extensions/)

[isuzurover]

This all goes to show that series drivers are tougher than defender drivers...

I am 6'3" and my dad is 6'1". We both drove his 88" IIA and my 109" IIA ute despite both having less leg room than a 90/110.

In fack Killer on here must be about 6'4" and he bought dad's IIA, and I believe drives it every day.

Anyway, back on 110s and 90s... My 110 was fitted with home made seat rails when I bought it, that moves the seat up 1" and back 2".

[landcol]

This was one thing i was stressed about, im 6'6 85 kg but was pleasantly surprised how comfortable it really was, i read of all the complaints about handbrake and pillar etc but find it nice and comfy. Cosy even. Ive an 03 110 though not sure if they are any roomier..

[landybehr]

You may have noticed I´m new to this forum and may have missed something and posting sth. which all of you already know.

Ok, that said, have you tried a different steering wheel ?
The seat extension helped me to gain space (not enough for me, 1,9metres) but the smaller steering wheel has even more effect for the taller drivers (not quite RRC-drivers geometry but quite acceptable). It also does improve the handling. I like it a lot.

Sportlenkrad RAID 36cm, Echtleder mit Nabe, Land Rover Defender - Artikeldetailansicht - Nakatanenga 4x4-Equipment für Land Rover & Outdoor (http://nakatanenga-tours.de/shop/article_SLR%2520DEF/Sportlenkrad-RAID-36cm%2C-Echtleder-mit-Nabe%2C-Land-Rover-Defender.html'sessid=fJzH6vTHndZDGM4QVUwl6821SQnOF 6MGhraWq9TITH5YdTitos67xmbqFztyqyX5&shop_param=cid%3D8%26aid%3DSLR%2520DEF%26)

[Aaron]

Ive been tempted but Im worried that it will black the view of the instrument panel and I'm not sure how comfortable the driving position would be with your hands close together

[landybehr]

For what I can tell - do it. My wife liked it immediately. Me too. It handles very well with the smaller steering wheel. I´ve never heard anyone been sorry with it (and many people on the local forums use it).

[rovercare]

I'm 6'3" and 90kg

I extended a cab, moved the seats back, put on a 14" steering wheel and it still sucked

If you have good posture, like to sit bolt upright then a defender is for you, if seen lots bigger blokes comfy in them, but if your a bad posture, slouchy loungey person you will hate it

[Mettalique]

I guess you guys are lucky you don't have the opposite problem. My wife is Asian and 5'2'' or something and I have to provide a stepladder for her to climb in :D
The first few days were quite amusing....and she won't use it if anyone is watching.

[sheerluck]

I guess you guys are lucky you don't have the opposite problem. My wife is Asian and 5'2'' or something and I have to provide a stepladder for her to climb in :D
The first few days were quite amusing....and she won't use it if anyone is watching.

My wife isn't Asian, but is still only 5'2". Watching her getting in and out of my lifted D1 (no side steps or sliders) is quite amusing. :D

[Pickles2]

Wifey & I are reasonably sized, so I don't think we'll have any issues when we take delivery of our "90", but getting wifey's 87 y.o. mum (she had a Landrover in the UK years ago) in, may be "interesting?
Cheers, Pickles.

[Aaron]

Sit her on an air bag jack.

[Pickles2]

Sit her on an air bag jack.
Thanks!!!...I'll discuss this idea with Wifey....her mum gets a bit aggro at times.
Cheers, Pickles.

[Landy Smurf]

The 90 still comes with seats in the back doesn't?

[mick88]

Sit her on an air bag jack.

Mangar Elk would be the go!

Elk Emergency Lifting Cushion (Battery) - Elk Emergency Lifting Cushion | Emergency Lifting Equipment - Mangar International (http://www.mangar.co.uk/product/mpca070200/elk-emergency-lifting-cushion)

Cheers, Mick.

[Pickles2]

Mangar Elk would be the go!

Elk Emergency Lifting Cushion (Battery) - Elk Emergency Lifting Cushion | Emergency Lifting Equipment - Mangar International (http://www.mangar.co.uk/product/mpca070200/elk-emergency-lifting-cushion)

Cheers, Mick.
Ha ha...I had alook at that!
Cheers, Pickles.