Phil

Andy, yes, they we're added in the factory - they're part of a package that has the vehicle rated at 3500kg instead of the usual 3050kg. Question is, what happens if I remove them? I've found a copy of the workshop manual that says the main springs are as-fitted to non-HD 110 DCPUs and USWs. So, if I remove the helpers I should have the same suspension as those vehicles. Does that mean my vehicle will be high at the front, given the HD springs lift the front end? Has anyone actually done this?

I've just got an '08 DCPU which appears to have heavy duty suspension. I don't carry heavy loads so the rear in particular is very stiff indeed. There are no spring markings visible as the vehicle's been waxed underneath. Does anyone know whether I can simply remove the helper springs? Phil.

The gutter is full to within 1mm-2mm all round. I'm concerned that digging it out is likely to crack the paint, and I risk of exposing whatever seams lie beneath. It doesn't leak at the moment and I'm enjoying staying dry! Perhaps best forget the roofrack. Thanks, Phil.

I've just got an '08 DCPU and noticed that the rain gutter is almost filled with mastic. This looks to be how the vehicle came out of the factory; are they all like that? If they are, has anyone fitted a roofrack? If so, how did you get on? Strikes me there'll be mastic everywhere trying to get a firm footing for the mounts. Phil.

I recently swapped my '02 110 SW for an '08 DCPU. It took me a little while to get used to the clutch on the newer vehicle. Initially, I had some difficulty pulling away and changing gears smoothly. Maybe it's just lack of familiarity that's causing the issue you noticed? It's fine now I've got the hang of it and I like the 2.4Tdci engine. Phil.

I believe JATE rings were designed for attachment of the lifting strops used when moving vehicles as an underslung load beneath a helicopter. The army does use them for recovery, although we were taught not to on the driving course I did 30 years ago. I'm sure someone will be along to explain any technical issues, however, the main issue I've found is practical. I find it much easier to pop a recovery rope in the jaw of a tow hitch on the crossmember than to get under the vehicle and fix a strop to rear JATE rings which tend to be especially hard to reach when the vehicle's bogged down. Phil.

Mo, apologies for not responding sooner, I've been away. I couldn't haven given you the part numbers but happily the omniscient Ralph has! That is indeed the bit and it works well for me. All the best, Phil.

Land Rover does a kit for the Td5 which allows you to mount a hitch on the crossmember. It includes a spreader plate and reinforcing bracket. Like many Genuine Parts items it's not cheap, but it's quick and easy to fit. Phil.

Sean, yes, I tried that and indeed there is a (small) change in rpm when shifting high<>low. I've no idea if it's the right way round or not! I think the diagnostics computer is a Snap-On one (my son used one at the garage where he works). Phil.

Thanks for the replies. Andy, yes, the diff-lock light works and the computer shows the change when moving between high and low, although the wrong way round. Is this simply the computer not reading codes correctly, or is the car somehow wired in reverse? I'm not sure of the implications if the ECU is applying the 'low' mapping when the car's actually in high range, or vice versa. Any more thoughts? Phil.

A diagnostics computer plugged into my '02 Td5 110 says the vehicle's in low box when it's actually in high and vice versa. I recall reading something about this but can't remember the details or find the thread. Can anyone shed any light? Thanks, Phil.

Oh dear, I must pay more attention when posting. The vehicle's a 110 and, yes, right as always that is what I need. Many thanks!

What's the correct part number for the rear propshaft on an '02 Defender Td5 CSW, please? Paddock's website says FTC4189 but other sites list that as for different models. I know a lot of parts are interchangeable, but I'm not sure if this is! Thanks, Phil.

These are the bits I need!

Mo, thank you, tried them; no use. Following John's leads, it looks like the top is available as BA2123AMH. No sign it comes with the collar and clamp which is a nuisance. I've no doubt I could find a suitable clamp but where would I get the collar? Bit of a pain, this. Phil.