Part out, repair or replace?

[Trundle]

So I'm in a quandary. I have a '96 130 (Molly), and I've been waiting two weeks to install the new gearbox, transfer box, clutch etc, when I get a phone call from the mechanic after pulling all the floors up and discovering a section at the base of the passenger side A-pillar eaten out.
So he has put it to me, that I have a few options;
A: that instead of installing the boxes, I sell them off and don't lose any more money on installing them, and then proceed to part out the rest of the car.
B: that I look for a clean front cab, and replace that.
C: I repair the affected area...


Option D: is just put the new boxes in and drive her until she completely falls apart, although this isn't really an option due to the safety implications.
I am waiting for a panel beaters assessment as to the cost and viability of the repairs, but thought I'd ask here for any suggestions, ideas, input.
I'm not looking forward to going home and explaining that I'm about to part out Molly or fork out $$$$$...
Feeling a growing pit of sickness right now.

[Phil B]

Trundle,

Personally I would replace the cab and at the same time refurbish chassis, springs etc. You would end up with a newly refurbished vehicle that would last another 10 years.
I'm not sure of your personal situation though so it's hard to tell.

Regards,

Phil.

[Dopey]

G'day mate,
YRM metal solutions in the UK do replacement pillars and panels, they are not that expensive (although freight may be).
http://www.yrmlandrover.com
They also sell them on eBay as well.
Regards, mike.


http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/LAND-ROVER...-/280700176934

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Land-Rover...-/111278829843

[Trundle]

Trundle,

Personally I would replace the cab and at the same time refurbish chassis, springs etc. You would end up with a newly refurbished vehicle that would last another 10 years.
I'm not sure of your personal situation though so it's hard to tell.

Regards,

Phil.

You don't happen to have a spare cab lying around I'm guessing...

[Phil B]

Trundle,

No I don't but others do.
Not sure about LR breakers in WA but there are a few in NSW.
One of them advertises in AULRO.
Sorry- just not sure if we are allowed to name them here.

Regards,
Phil.

[Vanderz]

post some pics if you can. that way we can see the extent and give better opinions on your next step...

[Trundle]

It's not the greatest quality, but you can see the damage.

[Scouse]

Sorry- just not sure if we are allowed to name them here.

Go for it.
It's just trading between members that needs to be via PM.

[steveG]

What is the rest of the vehicle like, and how quickly do you need to have it on the road?

Without having a good look at it, I'd probably be doing a quick repair to get it structural again (doesn't have to look pretty) so I could use it, then assessing my longer term options from there. If you have to do anything major in a hurry most places will tear you a new orifice for the privilege, but if you've got time up your sleeve you've got options.

Steve

[Dopey]

Left hand footwell panel would also come in handy,

LAND ROVER DEFENDER L/H FOOTWELL REPAIR PANEL RHD | eBay

Before fixing the footwell and the bottom of the A panel, it would do to check the top of the bulkhead around the windscreen mounts and also behind the dash.

You can get new bulkhead top corners if needed, however if it is really badly rusted it may be easier to replace the bulkhead (if you can find one in good condition, otherwise there are companies in the UK that rebuild and galvanise bulkheads).

Regards,
Mike.