Squirrel2

Thank you for the guidance on these. I’ll make a plan to strip these down and renew the seals but will check the wiped surfaces for pits as suggested. I’ve never heard the swivel housings being referred to as a ‘chalice’ before; I like that... Bill

Hi, I’ve got grease weeping slightly from the swivel housings of my 1997 Defender 300tdi. This is the first Land Rover I’ve owned with grease-filled swivels, all previous ones had EP90 so, to me this looks unacceptable, if grease is leaking out dirt and water can get in? The vehicle is new to me this year and it looks like they’ve been weeping for a while. I just wanted to ask if this is an acceptable rate of leak? Both sides are the same and the seal-wiped surfaces are in good condition. Pics attached. Thanks, Bill

A blown head gasket would give a continuous ‘tick-tick-tick...’. that increases when engine is under load. This noise is not continuous and sounds metallic. Suggest taking the rocker cover off and start with a thorough inspection of the rockers and valve springs. Have you tried using a sounding stick to try pinpoint the source? Bill

Hi, This is the type of alternator that is fitted to my 300Tdi 110 Wolf: Part number RRC8642 rated output 50A at 24V. Available here: RRC8642 WOLF LANDROVER ALTERNATOR - EICS-Products Ltd The 'chimney' that faces upwards is fitted with a rubber 'snorkle' that appears to be to remove dust and mud from the cooling air. Otherwise the unit is as 'open' as any other automotive or marine alternator. Bill

Thank you for this. I've obtained a copy of the parts manual and have been able to see a bit more and know now what items to look out for to re-equip it. I've got another question, please? The alternator appears to have a protected cooling air duct but on mine it looks like this: I think this unit is an air filter but seems to be missing a top cap? The illustration in the parts book appears that way... Thanks again. Bill (AKA Squirrel2)

Hi, I've just collected a newly purchased 1997 Defender TUM RHD soft-top with the intention of preserving and improving it. For a twenty five year-old Land Rover the condition of the chassis and bulkhead is quite impressive and despite obvious hard-usage the vehicle has clearly been well-maintained. I have previously owned a 1983 Lightweight GS and until very recently a One Tonne FC 101" GS, the sale of which funded this Wolf purchase. Could I ask a question about equipment mounted on the bonnet and wing tops, please? Ringed in orange on my photograph are various mounts for items of equipment most of which I'm not familiar with - apart from the shovel on N/S of bonnet - can someone enlighten me? Many thanks, Bill (AKA Squirrel2)