Thread: X-Treme Dilemma

G'day guys. This is a little bit similar to an earlier post, so please bear with me, but I'm on the verge of forking out the cash for a TD5 X-Treme and am looking for some final reassurrance or otherwise.
Basically, I've been looking around for a second-hand Defender. The toss-up is between one with a computer-controlled engine (i.e. 1999 onwards) of which there are a few around or say a 1997/98 without engine management unit, of which there are not many for sale in Queensland. I'll be doing a fair bit of beach driving (fishing) and am considering trips to Alice Springs and surrounds and at least one Top End expedition in the future. As far as I can tell, those with an ECU are pretty reliable but I understand that you can really find yourself in the sh*t if it packs it in. I'd be interested in the experiences of anyone with similar vehicles (good and bad) who use them for similar purposes and any solutions to fixable problems
I've already received some great tips with regards to minimising water and dust ingress - thanks very much for that.
I'd be interested in any recall problems as well. I've read about potential problems with wiring looms, oil pump sprocket bolts, front brake hose chafing and oil leaks in engine harness - all of which are easily fixable if they haven't already been fixed in a well used and cared for vehicle.

Don't get me wrong - I am pretty much sold on all other aspects of the Defender and by all reports they are a great off-road vehicle (and have plenty of character), but with a young family I need to be pretty sure I'm making the right decision. I'd reckon there'd be plenty of people around in the places I'd go who'd lend a hand if necessary but it would be nice to know I could fix any problems or not get into them in the first place.

Cheers
Gascoigne

8O Off topic 8O

teedeefive

Good luck with Monica...it appears that she is turning into a category 5 bitch 8O