Mike, 
Although it's nice to see a restored (I'm not so sure about over restored) early Land Rover it's also great to see a survivor 'as-is'.
Of course make it safe in terms of overhauling the brake system, possibly wiring (but please not a modern looking, PVC wrapped version), the motor etc., but leaving the panels/paintwork adds to the character.
Mine has most of the paint faded/worn off, the bulkhead is surface rust, the wiring is original (but I carry a fire extinguisher with me). I did re-paint the hard-top but it's a canvas covered plywood home made one and I was worried about it leaking. I used a small roller for the paintjob and used acrylic emulsion (after feedback from a vintage caravan forum) plus I didn't want to 'show up' the rest of the paintwork.
One area to check for an original paint sample is the handbrake blanking plate on the passenger side of the seatbox. Remove this and have a look at the underside for an idea of the original colour. 
Colin
				
			 
			
		 
			
				
			
			
				'56 Series 1 with homemade welder
'65 Series IIa Dormobile
'70 SIIa GS
'76 SIII 88" (Isuzu C240)
'81 SIII FFR
'95 Defender Tanami
Motorcycles :-
Vincent Rapide, Panther M100, Norton BIG4, Electra & Navigator, Matchless G80C, Suzuki SV650
			
			
		 
	
Bookmarks