malcolmcelyn

Just an observation. There seems to be a lot of discussion on trying to circumvent the legality of vehicles using IVA. I don't have a problem with emissions, for example. If my engine is running correctly, I'm getting proper horsepower and mpg. I don't have an issue with IVA (beyond the grey areas - not really Land Rover friendly - cost etc) as I'm having a professional telling me, and my insurance company, that my vehicle is safe. Sometimes, it costs a bit more to do the job properly. Ce la vie. What I do find faintly ridiculous is having a V5 for a vehicle, the losing that registration for a Q-plate. If you bought a new chassis, reconditioned engine, bodywork from a scrapyard and axles off your mate, then a Q-plate is fine. But why, oh why, lose a registration you already have? I've read extensively here and on other forums (not a member elsewhere!) and it seems some people keep their registrations, whilst others don't, which seems to show that either IVA testers don't understand the regulations, or they do, and use a bit of common sense. Which type you get is down to luck.

This is my understanding too. Projections etc are tested for kit cars, home made vehicles, specials etc. Radically Altered Vehicles aren't covered except for 'the actual modifications' to a standard vehicle. Besides, I don't think IVA testers are idiots. They can tell what you're trying to achieve and generally are good sources of information, so I've been told.

Is this some sort of secret code? Lol

Thanks guys. As I surmised, IVA for more or less everything! Not a major issue in itself. Assuming I was correct about the engine age for emissions, that's not a problem either (I would want the engine in good condition obviously. I think what I'm getting at is that what I'm suggesting gets a Q-plate and there's no way of avoiding it? Perhaps I should get a Defender, take the wing arch extensions off, replace the windscreen and fit a SIII grill further back! lol

Quite hypothetical really, as I don't own a Land Rover (yet!), but suppose I have a Series 3, 88" Station Wagon, complete with V5c. 1. I'd like to make it coil sprung, so I buy a brand new chassis. As its new, do I ask the DVLA for a new chassis number, or take the VIN plate off the old one and attach to the new one? Does it need IVA or will the act of showing 'new replacement chassis' receipt from manufacturer be enough? Straight swap = keep number plate, IVA for 'modified, coil-sprung' chassis = Q-plate? Coil-sprung axles required, so Defender/Discovery items fitted. IVA required as they're so different? Or included with 'new chassis'. 2. Having resolved that with the DVLA, I fit the SIII bodywork. It's all pretty standard stuff, just the odd 'slight' modification to fit the new bodywork or strengthen with chequer plate etc. No DVLA/IVA issues there. Same I guess for fitting winch etc. 3. Now to the running gear. I want a better engine, so fit a second-hand Izusu turbo-diesel. Not a major problem. Let the DVLA know it's number (stamped on block) and type, i.e. Diesel, turbocharged, and age of engine (from internet or manufacturers database) to allow for emissions testing. No IVA required? 4. New engine installed, but now, gearbox, transfer box etc need replacing, as they're not up to the torque of the new engine. So I buy a second-hand gearbox, from a Defender/Discovery. IVA again? It's permanent four wheel drive, but is this enough of a change to require IVA? 5. Lastly, power steering, for comfort and convenience. Again Defender/Discovery parts. Again, is this enough to need IVA? Oh, and Hi. New member from Monmouth, South Wales. As stated, no Landie yet, but from the questions, I'm sure you can make out what sort of vehicle I'd like! I've no issue with doing an IVA, nor with emissions, I'd just prefer to avoid a Q-plate! Vanity I think.....