Thread: It was only a matter of time

That was most likely a damaged piston due to a dropped precombustion chamber - usually the result of overheating.

Originally Posted by Nick6273

Test fitting of the sides

Hi Nick,

Just came across your thread on a lazy New Year afternoon. And I'm very impressed with your progress on such a not insignificant project for a LR newbie.

My SIII ex-Army 1977 ute is still awaiting some attention to his body work after only 17 years...

As you have no doubt found, Series Land Rovers are like "Mechano for 'grown up' boys" and it's very satisfying to be able to fix and modify things yourself, despite not being a professional - especially with the help and extensive knowledge available here on AULRO. Over nearly 2 decades, I've fitted parabolic springs and new dampers, rebuilt the gearbox (don't know why they put so many unnecessary bits in those things...), repaired/replaced wheel bearings/brakes and kept the engine (albeit a Holden 202) running quite well.

From everything I've read the Series 2.25 diesel is a relaible old lump if given some reasonable maintenance - even if they are unlikely to ever light up the tyres. The diesel has a forged crankshaft that is (apparently) a lot stronger than the cast crank of the 2.25 petrol. The Lucas-CAV injection pump is the same type as fitted to lots of British diesel tractors, so a tractor place that likes to work on old tractors could be a good source of parts and expertice.

Please keep us up to date with progress and keep up the excellent work.