Install removeable rear seat in a 3 door 110 defender?

[Chico]

Does anyone know if it is legal in Australia to install removeable or fixed rear seats in a 3 door 110 defender? I have seen this done in the UK and wonder if it is acceptable here and would like to hear if anyone has done this. Ultimately I would like to extend the use of a vehicle from 2 users to the ocasional 4-5 person trip.

Alternatively has anyone set up a five door 110 to be able to remove the rear seats and set up bedding and sensible camping equipment storage?

Thanks for your advice.

[Skiboy]

You would need to get an engineering certificate - there is a guy on lower Burleigh road that does these for about $80-100

Then you have to get it registered with Dept Qld Transport and they give you a blue modification plate for the engine pay to say that certified as a legal X seater.

Best option re the seat is to get a factory seat and use the factory seat mounts and seat belt mounts. If get a second hand seat and belts be prepared to replace the belt webbing in any signs of wear.

This will then cover you for insurance etc.

Skiboy

[CraigMarlow]

We have gone with the alternative, a 5 door where we take out the rear seats as required. We installed a drawer in the rear area to level up the wheel arches, then I made up a simple steel frame topped with ply covered in marine carpet to level off the seat area when we remove the seats.

It is trivial to remove the rear seats when required, and because we have the 5 door there is the added advantage of having access to the space under the frame through the rear doors.

[Chico]

Thanks for the advice. Both very solid advice and I particularly appreciated the pictures.