1956 107" -Which Grill Panel ?

[Tote]

In my collection of Bits I have a steel Grille panel that came with Geraldine but was fitted with the Holden motor and is unlikely to be the original and an aluminium one that came attached to my parts 86" which is most likely the original one. The 86" is a 1955 model. The aluminium one is in better shape so I'm leaning towards it.
Which Grill is the correct one for a 1956 107? Aluminium or Steel?

Regards,
Tote

[JDNSW]

In my collection of Bits I have a steel Grille panel that came with Geraldine but was fitted with the Holden motor and is unlikely to be the original and an aluminium one that came attached to my parts 86" which is most likely the original one. The 86" is a 1955 model. The aluminium one is in better shape so I'm leaning towards it.
Which Grill is the correct one for a 1956 107? Aluminium or Steel?

Regards,
Tote

I have an idea I have seen a reference to the change somewhere - but I can't find it. I seem to remember that, as with a number of changes to Landrovers, it was not a clean change; i.e. they did not finish using one part and then only fit the new part.

If I had to guess, I would suggest that the more robust steel panel was introduced about the same time as the diesel engine to reduce the cracking from the vibration. Preproduction diesels started early 1956, so the change may have been during or as a result of that testing (which lasted all of the year according to John Smith). On that basis, either could be the 'right' one. I would just use the better one!

John

[Heley]

Could be both. I have 2 1956 86inch, the earlier one with chassis number 177600084 has the aluminium one and the later one with chassis number 177601341 has the steel one. Both original.
A mate of mine has a 1956 107inch with a steel grille and it is a late one, don't know if anyone would know the exact change over chassis number and doubt if there was one.
If you are a member of the Series One Club in England you can look on the vehicle register, this has many photos of member vehicles in chassis number order, you may be able to find a rough change over time going by the stated chassis numbers and photos.
Go with the aluminium if it's easier, only a real rivet counter would notice if it is wrong.

[Tote]

Thanks guys, the Ally one is straighter so It will win the guernsey.

Regards,
Tote

[russellrovers]

Thanks guys, the Ally one is straighter so It will win the guernsey.

Regards,
Totehi the steel type did not crack as the ally one did much stronger jim