95 Discovery Build up

[Brad]

Thought I would start a tracking thread of my Disco.
Starting photo:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/Bolam%20Pass%20Colorado/DSC00557.jpg

Newest photos. Trimmed the front spoiler off and took care of that pesky tire problem.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/61e7dc25.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/ddcddbca.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/db821c12.jpg

Next up, sliders w/ kickers, 2" lift. Stay tuned...

[AccordRanger]

Looks way better!

[Chris]

Nice start Brad! :thumb:

[KnuckleHead]

Nice rubber....

[Rob]

Very nice.

[Aaron]

Very nice. You gotta try out that rubber on some of the trails this weekend.... Tincup perhaps?

[Aaron]

Oh, and nice sticker!

[upnover]

Looks good!!! and the fun starts$$$$ lol

[Brad]

Thanks everyone! I am looking forward to getting ridiculous with this vehicle. :frontrange4x4:

[Funrover]

This will be a fun thread for me to watch! Are those tires the 245's?

[Brad]

Yes they are. BF Goodrich MT km2's 245/75/16. inspired by Dirt Claude aka Brad I went with the expensive ones. :D

[Dirt Claude]

Sweet tires Brad...you'll love'em!

[Chris]

Those will be my next tires too!

[Funrover]

So why does everyone like the BFG MT's so much? I am just curious. ColoDisco - what made you go that route?

[CR]

I personally don't really like driving mine on the road in ice or light snow. I think with a little siping you could limit the slipping and sliding some.
On the trail in dry conditions they are great. They lock up nice on the rocks and dig in well for the dirt.

[Brad]

I picked them due to ratings not only from Brad, but also on websites and fellow LR Disco owners. I am going to wait until we get snow and get the middle lugs siped like Brad, that or just get snows for my 944 and leave the rover at home.

[Chris]

Sidewall strength is rated as excellent which sways most people towards them. I've always run A/T's and they last a long time. Marty?Roktaxi is also running these and really likes them.

[Dirt Claude]

I had my BFG KM2's mounted and siped (middle lugs) the morning after a pretty good snowstorm back in March, driving home on them they felt great. I've run previous sets of the original BFG Muds, and yes... those were pretty scary at times on snow/ice. This is the first set of muds I've ever had siped, so far so good, no chuncking of the tires yet.

I also have another set of All Terrians that I run in the winter and on longer road trips. Better handling in the winter and try to get more life out of the KM2s.

[Brad]

I have batted around getting another set of LR wheels and putting road tires on them. LR wheels are relatively cheap to buy used.

[Dirt Claude]

Not a bad way to go if you have the space to store them.

[Funrover]

I have batted around getting another set of LR wheels and putting road tires on them. LR wheels are relatively cheap to buy used.

I have a set of off a '94 DI sitting at a buddies house.

[Brad]

I have a set of off a '94 DI sitting at a buddies house.

Aaaand? you heard about the relatively cheap part right? :D

[Funrover]

Yeah I will shoot you a PM when I get back monday!

[Brad]

Sounds good! :thumb:

[Rob]

I have batted around getting another set of LR wheels and putting road tires on them. LR wheels are relatively cheap to buy used.

That's what I do with the FJC. I kept the stock wheels and passenger tires and run them during the week when I'm not wheeling (or when Chris isn't using them to cruise back and forth to Air Care. :erm:) They look a little funny, but my AT KO's will last a lot longer that way.

[Chris]

:lmao: I'm maintaining a positive outlook that this process is ending Rob. Unfortunately I've become quite fond of the bling and may just stall another month or two after passing emissions.

[Brad]

:lmao:

[Rob]

I've become quite fond of the bling

:lmao: Feel free to paint 'em black.

[southpaws3]

nice

[Brad]

Just ordered the Trailgear sliders.
Soon: trip to Pete's for some fab time. :thumb:

[Brad]

Got 2 Bosch fog lights off eBay for cheap.
Need opinions on mounting. Here is where I am thinking:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/017a6452.jpg

[Brody]

Since these are fog and not driving or spots, my only concern would be how the pattern would affect driving at night. They may kick way too much light down into the cab whereas spots or driving with a narrow and more focused beam wouldn't.

The mounting position for lights is great as they are protected from tree limbs, etc.

[upnover]

I have a DII Bull bar we could MOD to fit the DI. It has mounts to put the fog lights? I agree that they will give you light but maybe not in the right place. I guess if you don't try you will never know and you can always move them if need be.

[Brad]

I agree Pete. I thought about making them rear mount which would make more sense. Will need to change the mounting bracket.

Thanks for the offer Jason, Pete is going to fab a bumper for me which I am hoping to mount a couple big round rallye lights to.

[Brad]

Upcoming new wheels. Here is a teaser!

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/acbd8e93.jpg

[Brody]

Hey Jason, post a picture of this. If we can't use it maybe someone else can if you are dying to get rid of it. I am all about trying to recycle stuff like this....

[upnover]

This is it!

[Patrolman]

Since these are fog and not driving or spots, my only concern would be how the pattern would affect driving at night. They may kick way too much light down into the cab whereas spots or driving with a narrow and more focused beam wouldn't.

The mounting position for lights is great as they are protected from tree limbs, etc.

Ditto. You are going to hate having your dash lit up bright as day. Move them back a tad if you can.

[Brody]

Thanks Jason! That be very easily adapted to just about any bumper, stock or custom. Clip off the bottom wrap around part and weld the top hoop to the bumper for a grill guard, etc, etc. Someone was looking for something like this for a Ford something or other not too long ago. Easy to make work, easy to sleeve and extend or shorten to fit....

[Brad]

I didn't know it was a factory one. What are you looking to get for it?

[Brody]

Yeah, Brad, you want it on the bumper for the Disco that you want me to build, let me know. Shouldn't be a problem. I found a tube bumper in a junkyard for $40 that was on a much narrower Yota. The bumper was fine and my friend picked it up for his Disco, I managed to sleeve, stretch, re weld, and alter it to fit and it now looks custom made for the Rover.

[Brad]

It would also help until I am ready for you to fab up what we talked about. :thumb:

[Brad]

Picking it up tonight Pete. I will see if it will bolt up but if not I may be in touch about how to attach it in a way that will work with the future bumper.

[Brody]

I am about 20 minutes or so from Prestige-Wadsworth and I70 area/6nd and Wadsworth, so if you want to stop by after work sometime (if you need to) just give a shout and we can take a look at it. 303-507-3066

[Brad]

Will do Pete. I am going to take a look tonight. If it is not a direct match I will give you a call.

[Fordguy77]

Will do Pete. I am going to take a look tonight. If it is not a direct match I will give you a call.

Hes just about a mile and half up the road from me, just so you know Brad.

[Brad]

Thanks Christopher!

Looks like it will bolt right up, I will be sure tomorrow. ;)

[Brad]

Here it is!

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/f5b7bcf3.jpg

Now you can really see the bumper is bent, it matches the dent in the bull bar! :thumb:

[Funrover]

So saw the teaser shot.. where are the newly blacked out rims already? lol

[Brad]

No black, look at the teaser shot again. ;)

[Brody]

So here are the pre paint pictures of the TG sliders mounted on Brad's Disco. I also clipped off the hanging horns on the brush guard.

I removed about 1" of the plastic "rockers" under the doors and did some cut outs for the slider tube. I left the rest as it incorporated itself into the slider design just fine. The bottom of the plastic is now even with the bottom of the pinch welds.

When I take the painted shots, I will also show the frame to slider standoffs that I did.

[Brody]

Here is the second group:

[Aaron]

Sweet!

[Brad]

Sick Pete!! :thumb:

[Rob]

Looking good. You should come on the Saturday run, Brad, and test them out.

[Brad]

I would love to. I don't fly back in from Vegas until 6pm. :frown:

Def next run tho!

[Chris]

Looks great! A couple days until I show mine off ;)

[AccordRanger]

Looks a lot better!

[CR]

Very nice!:thumb:

[Brody]

Here are a couple of shots with the paint. I'll let Brad post some better ones when he gets back.

[Brad]

Looks amazing Pete! Cannot wait to see them in person!

[Pathrat]

Looks great!

[Fordguy77]

I give the Sliders a :thumb: I cant wait to see how the por15 holds up

[wyota]

Did you guy's get any pic's of under the truck, where you attached the frame tubes to the frame. I'm doing this exact same thing here in a few days to my buddy's 97 LRDI but it looks like the frame tubes we got are too short. but they did sent us the 58'' set instead of the 63'' so maybe they will be longer in the 63'' kit.

[Brody]

Todd

Plan on using longer tubing from the frame to the base slider rail. I used the frame angle plates from TG for all except the very front and rear. Locate and weld in place the center two frame plates and tubing, welding the slider in pace on both sides. Then, from the frame, right above the angle frame plate, come off the frame with 3/4" or bigger tubing back down the to the horizontal frame to slider tube for the gusset. The front is a little more complicated as you have to mount the frame to slider tube high enough to clear the control arm, but there is a good place for this as you will see. For the back, you have a body mount that is in just about the perfect place, I ground off the rolled side of the body mount and used a piece of 1/4" x 1 1/2" steel plate from the slider all the way back to the frame, stitch welding it in place. The back piece is almost redundant, but it was what I would do on my rig, which is why I did it on Brads.

When everything was welded up, I ended up trimming about 1 1/4" off both the front and the rear for tire clearance.I believe I used 4 1/2" or 4 3/4" from the plastic rocker as a base measurement from the plastic rocker piece to the inside of the outer kicker as a base measurement which worked out fine.

[wyota]

Thanks Pete!

[Brad]

Ok.. I know this is waay past due. I finally put my rig on my lift at work today and took pictures of Pete's fine work!

Front end of my beast! Pete trimmed up the push bar perfectly.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/93a8024f.jpg

I know you all wish you had it this good! :D
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/3ee023a6.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/48ed1e3b.jpg

OK OK.. enough gloating.. Here are pics of the sliders and his fine additions.
They are wet from the snow today so don't mind the water driplets.. He did a excellent job with the POR 15!!
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/31080abb.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/b566c86d.jpg
This is the front support, same on both sides
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/f067c51c.jpg
This is the rear support. I really like how you integrated the support with the body mount!
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/338f3716.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/dc899d69.jpg

And here are the other addons he really did not tell me about, the gussets I bought with the
sliders. That little support mount above the gusset is what he added:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/ad3538d5.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/1fd44e24.jpg

Once again, Pete, your awesome! :thumb:

[Brody]

Thanks for the Thanks, Brad!

Sooner or later the push bar, or at least the top part, is going to be incorporated into a new winch bumper. Nothing like doing some recycling. I wonder how many rigs this push bar has now been on...This is pretty much what i am doing for the bumper on the FJ62 I am doing a lot of work on. That one has a 'transformer' style winch set up on it, and I am just going to modify it a bit and use that as the base for the new bumper.

[Mporter]

Nice work. I'm putting my sliders on tomorrow :D

[Brad]

Got to test them out Yesterday. Hit them on a couple rocks. Will do a damage assessment and post up pics.

[Mporter]

Where'd you end up taking em to test them out? I installed mine today (still have to paint them) and wanna test em out soon.

[AccordRanger]

Miller Rock.

[Roostercruiser]

looks good

[Brad]

Started the head gasket replacement this afternoon:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/c0a8cd62.jpg

2 hours in, should have it wrapped up tomorrow afternoon.

[Stephen]

Nice build, Brad, looks great! You get your lift yet?

[Chris]

2 hours in, should have it wrapped up tomorrow afternoon.

The clock's ticking Brad, how's it going?

[Brad]

Have been posting in the race to moab thread.

Here she is back together!
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/4abecd56.jpg

I have also added and wired the Hella 500ff's and thanks to Stephen I have ordered the clear covers. Never dawned on me something like that existed.

I have not gotten my lift but it will be done by summer. Getting the Terra Firma 2" medium duty lift for now. Bigger plans in a couple years for more substantial lift and drivetrain.

[Stephen]

I have not gotten my lift but it will be done by summer. Getting the Terra Firma 2" medium duty lift for now. Bigger plans in a couple years for more substantial lift and drivetrain.

That's how it starts, with the gateway lift. :D

[Brody]

Nice to see it back together!

[Brad]

Hoping to have the camper to you tomorrow Pete. Need to finish up the truck side trailer wiring first. :thumb:

[Brody]

Sweet! I have the propane holder/hold down/off road mount all good to go. Paint is drying on parts of it as I type....

Looks good, and is going to be bombproof. Just needs a home......

[Brad]

I am hoping to have it to you tomorrow afternoon. I will call you as soon as I am sure.

[Funrover]

Ah yes the 2" lift. Opens up a lot of doors. IMHO the OME 2" lift and 235 85's was my best set up

[Brad]

More cool stuff from Pete Brody!

Hi lift mount for my roof rack:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/ea2904f5.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/20d88f00.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/03204b77.jpg

Shovel mount for my roof rack:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/b6243d3c.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/3b7de653.jpg

Great Job again Pete! Thanks!! :thumb:

[Chris]

Looks good Brad, I'm guessing you are now ready for Moab!

I'm glad you guys are so well equipped, it makes it so much easier for me since I don't have little things like a Hi-Lift, shovel, Jerry cans, etc. :rolleyes:

[Brad]

I also bought the hi lift recovery kit with the tree saver strap and the chain attachment for using it as a winch. At least until I actually mount a winch on my vehicle. Although I might keep it after that just incase I need to winch from behind. Winch winch winch winch winch.. :D just seeing how many times I can fit that into one post. ;)

I am also getting a full size matching spare tire tomorrow. THEN! I will be ready for Moab. :thumb:

[Chris]

I kept the recovery kit but left the jack itself with the old truck. I got my full size spare yesterday, the price went up $50 since I bought the other 4. Yes, they matched the old price. ;)

[Brody]

Thanks!


I'm glad you guys are so well equipped, it makes it so much easier for me since I don't have little things like a Hi-Lift, shovel, Jerry cans, etc.

Doesn't mean that you can skate or that someone will stop and help you, you get into a jam....:D

[MelloYello]

Fancy. Looks like Pete did another great job! I too am glade you are so well equiped for the trip. : )

[Chris]

Doesn't mean that you can skate or that someone will stop and help you, you get into a jam....

You're now on my speed dial Pete! :D

[Brody]

You're now on my speed dial Pete!

Oh oh...now I done gone and done it.....Thought that I was going to escape that one simply because you didn't know how that function on your phone worked. I don't know how it does on mine.....

[Chris]

I have the technology edge Pete, I have kids to do it for me!

[scout man]

Alright Chris, if I am carrying all the tools that you are slacking on, then I think its only fair you pay a portion of my gas costs. :D

[Brad]

Or we can do a per use fee. :thumb:

[Chris]

You convinced me to bring tools Steve, I'd end up camping if I had to help cover your gas!

[Brad]

Back on track with this thread!

Well I have to say my Disco has performed incredibly. Time to give her a bit of a break and get some much needed maintenance and upgrades done.
On the list for this winter are going to be:
Lift- Terra firma HD 2"
Body lift- 1"
Front and rear offroad bumpers
Remove and refinish the roof rack
new diff guards and seals
Front and rear brake rotors and pads
Stainless steel brake lines (required if doing the lift)
Front skid plate
Rear fuel tank skid plate
Trim front and rear wheel wells and add arches as I want to add wider tires.
Axle upgrade with possible lockers to accomodate wider tires
New front and rear driveshafts (including removing my rear rotoflex) to accomodate wider tires
Build in rear cargo area secured through the floor of the vehicle. This is mostly for keeping tools and equipment stowed safely.

I am really hoping to wrap this up by feburary. I am also planning on a engine upgrade if I can find a used 4.6 reasonably. :thumb:

[Aaron]

Good list. Did you run this by Parliament?

[Stephen]

Looks like a good plan. Let me know if ya need a hand... even though you've had my old computer for a year now! Wait, you're probably funding this build with profits from a web site you started with all the hot pics of me I had on that old laptop!!! :mad:




:D

http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2011/03/15/1226021/459291-zoolander.jpg

[Brad]

Did you run this by Parliament?

No. I am the speaker of the house so it is all good! :thumb:

Your laptop is still sitting in my home office. gathering dust. :D
I think your old laptop is hopeless. But that zoolander pic is the best!

[Chris]

Looking forward to watching this Brad! :thumb:

[jesse05lj]

tires make a big differance. build is off to a nice start

[Brody]

Should end up a super nice rig, Brad!

[glacierpaul]

Cool Brad!! Looking forward to seeing you trick out your Disco!!

[jesse05lj]

Sounds like you have a good plan

[Brad]

Keep up the words of encouragment. I will think of those when I hit a snag! :D

[Aaron]

Keep up the words of encouragment. I will think of those when I hit a snag! :D

Whenever I hit a snag... I get a "spot of tea and some krimpets".

Seriously though... That seems like a lot of work!

[Brad]

It's always alot of work. Its a Land Rover. ;)

[Java]

Looking forward to wheeling with you after it's done!! That thing is a goat already with just upgraded tires.

[Popsgarage]

Lookin' good, guys!:thumb:

[Brad]

Well I meant to do this during winter but am starting now.
Anyone know of a good sand blasting place to get my roof rack done?

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/e60ba200.jpg

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/60e149eb.jpg

Still looks wierd to me.

[Brody]

Good Paint, LLC
5720 Holly St # D
Commerce City
(303) 289-1188

I have used them for quite a bit of stuff. The restaurant tables that I just finished are heading down to them shortly, then over to their powder coating shop (customer's request..)

[Brad]

Thanks Pete!

Now if this were easy to install:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/c3031575.jpg

[Brad]

Back on track with this thread!

Well I have to say my Disco has performed incredibly. Time to give her a bit of a break and get some much needed maintenance and upgrades done.
On the list for this winter are going to be:
Lift- Terra firma HD 2"
Body lift- 1"
Front and rear offroad bumpers
Remove and refinish the roof rack
new diff guards and seals
Front and rear brake rotors and pads
Stainless steel brake lines (required if doing the lift)
Front skid plate
Rear fuel tank skid plate
Trim front and rear wheel wells and add arches as I want to add wider tires.
Axle upgrade with possible lockers to accomodate wider tires
New front and rear driveshafts (including removing my rear rotoflex) to accomodate wider tires
Build in rear cargo area secured through the floor of the vehicle. This is mostly for keeping tools and equipment stowed safely.

I am really hoping to wrap this up by feburary. I am also planning on a engine upgrade if I can find a used 4.6 reasonably. :thumb:

Realizing with no job this is not all happening. I am moving forward with about half of the list.

[Funrover]

What made you go with the Terra Firma lift? Doing a lift on a Rover is actually pretty easy, if you want help let me know!

[Brad]

Stephen is going to help me but thanks Aaron!

As you know I am setting this up as a overlander more than anything. So I got the HD +2 springs and the big bore expedition shocks. I picked TerraFirma due to the additional accessories available. The lowered shock towers, TF wheels, anchoring points, additional shock mounts if needed, and wheel spacers. I figure if it is all by the same company it will work better together.

[Funrover]

Stephen is going to help me but thanks Aaron!

As you know I am setting this up as a overlander more than anything. So I got the HD +2 springs and the big bore expedition shocks. I picked TerraFirma due to the additional accessories available. The lowered shock towers, TF wheels, anchoring points, additional shock mounts if needed, and wheel spacers. I figure if it is all by the same company it will work better together.

Sounds good! I debate the wheel spacers myself from time to time. Have fun with it. With all the things done to your Rover I am gonna want to ride along one day!

[Brad]

All installed!
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/a86ddb65.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/1de8eda8.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/d686093c.jpg

The ride is amazing!

[scout man]

looks good Brad!

[upnover]

Awesome! Looks way better lifted. :thumb:

[Funrover]

Now begins the trouble!! LOL

[Brody]

Looks good, Brad!

[Colin]

Looks good!!!

[Java]

That looks GREAT!! :thumb:

[Brad]

Now begins the trouble!! LOL

Very true. I think I have driveline vibration on the freeway. Need to do the unjoint upgrade ASAP.

Thanks everyone! A special thanks to Stephen for helping me install this!

[scout man]

you know Brad... I never broke down before my lift started... just saying :D

[Roostercruiser]

Nice looking and less scraping

[Brad]

you know Brad... I never broke down before my lift started... just saying :D

Oh you are evil! :p

I gained a lot of clearance. I am guessing this has to add some driveline issues.

[Funrover]

Oh you are evil! :p

I gained a lot of clearance. I am guessing this has to add some driveline issues.

Did you also do new arms and such or just lift?

[Brad]

Just lift. Plan on doing the TF arms as well. Budget only allows so much at a time.

[MelloYello]

DAMN BUDGET!!!!!!

[Popsgarage]

Keep up the good work.

[Dirt Claude]

The Rover is looking good Brad!

[Brad]

Thanks everyone! Now I need to address the engine tick.

[Brad]

Recap! Here is what is done:
done! Lift- Terra firma HD 2"
Body lift- 1"
Front and rear offroad bumpers
done! Remove and refinish the roof rack
new diff guards and seals
Front and rear brake rotors and pads
done! Stainless steel brake lines (required if doing the lift)
Front skid plate
Rear fuel tank skid plate
Trim front and rear wheel wells and add arches as I want to add wider tires.
Axle upgrade with possible lockers to accomodate wider tires
front done! New front and rear driveshafts (including removing my rear rotoflex) to accomodate wider tires
Build in rear cargo area secured through the floor of the vehicle. This is mostly for keeping tools and equipment stowed safely

Plans are in the works for the bumpers and skid plates, brakes, diff guards and seals. Wheels and arches are going to be done at the same time next year, going terra firma with bead locks. Have plans to do a build out of the rear to include a fridge and drawers with a sleeping platform on top. Got this idea from a guy on expedition portal. Not sure I am going to do the body lift as the TF expedition lift raised it quite a bit and I am planning on only slightly bigger tires.

[glacierpaul]

Way to go Brad! Sounds like I am going to see a very different Disco at the clean-up!

[Brad]

Well much to my surprise after my lift I had to replace the rear driveshaft. As a result of trying to upgrade I ended up replacing the 3rd diff. Also replaced the Kickdown cable which I bought a year ago. Got a smoking deal on a CVT RTT w/ annex and awning with screen room so those are on their way. :thumb:

[AccordRanger]

Looking good Brad!

[glacierpaul]

Sweet Brad!!

[Brad]

Time for a update to this thread with some pics. Starting with what I added at the end of last summer to current.
1. CVT RTT and awning
2. CVT RTT and awning
3. My custom front bumper by Steve aka Scoutman
4. Roof rack mods to protect the RTT with limb lifter connecting points and limb lifters. Again courtesy of Steve aka Scoutman.
5. Same as 4 just a different angle.

[Brad]

Here is the picture I meant to post for #2. :)

[dscowell]

Good looking Discovery I Really like that front bumper! Discoverys have always been my favorite LR vehicle

[glacierpaul]

Sweet Brad!! Ready to roll, and camp:thumb:

[scout man]

First I have seen it with the limb lifter on! I like it! Nice to see the rack with the RTT on it too, looks like that will work real well for you.

[ExplorerTom]

That tent- do you leave it on 24/7/365? Or does it come off when there is a long period of not using it?

[Patrolman]

Nice work! It is a lot of great mods that have made for a great rig!

[Brad]

That tent- do you leave it on 24/7/365? Or does it come off when there is a long period of not using it?
Yes, year round for now. When I get a garage again I plan to make a winch pulley system to lift it off when I don't want to haul it around. We also have a 87 Starcraft popup camper which we want to use as a base camp when in a heavy trail area like Moab.

[Brad]

Added another cool recovery option! Just 2 for now.


http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/95%20Disco%20rear%20storage/d079a110d9383b20a5988afc2854c7ce.jpg

[Brucker]

Added another cool recovery option! Just 2 for now.



Congrats! Have you ever run into a situation locally where those have been needed?

[Brad]

Not yet, however this rig is being built to travel central and South America as well.

[Brucker]

Not yet, however this rig is being built to travel central and South America as well.

Very cool. Only asked as I have only run into one instance where they would have helped, and that was when there where no place to anchor our winch. And it was not in this State. Gotta tell you we were ecstatic when they worked so well for us. Good luck with them, and here's to hoping you never have to need them!

[glacierpaul]

Sweet Brad! Those can and will come in handy, if you ever go snow wheelin with me :).

[Java]

Awesome!! :thumb: Now you need a red set for the Porsche!

[Brad]

Porsche doesn't leave pavement! Well, maybe a dirt road or 2, but I am talking a level .5. :thumb:

We we will have to test them out GP!;)

[Brucker]

Porsche doesn't leave pavement! Well, maybe a dirt road or 2, but I am talking a level .5. :thumb:

We we will have to test them out GP!;)

944 turbo?

[Brad]

NA. Turbos are expensive to maintain. ;)

[Brad]

After my last trip in the 95, realizing our lamps were all out of juice, decided to rectify that. Added LED's to the awning and adding them to the tent as well.
Just the awning for now. Working on the tent today. Added a separate power junction and fuse block. Running my LED lights, CB and fridge freezer.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/CVT%20RTT%20and%20Awning/e808ba4f60bd0d2cc971c6aaf17d5a2d.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/CVT%20RTT%20and%20Awning/863edf32a8adedb460a435356cf0db17.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/CVT%20RTT%20and%20Awning/eb491c337f4c94c31071d78898893e1d.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/CVT%20RTT%20and%20Awning/4d51bc1938d3f50ccf44b772b090ce0c.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/CVT%20RTT%20and%20Awning/459f7dfb826c1eec7694341dfcdefcfc.jpg

[Patrolman]

I like your fuse block. I got the same one for my truck and 4Runner. Those are slick.

[xaza]

Where did you get the power junction? I need a couple and really like those.

[Brad]

Bus bar:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000OTJ89Q
fuse block:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000VU9D1G

[Brad]

Thanks to my boss Jeff I have the 4.6 for the 95 Disco.
*some assembly required
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/95%20discovery%20engine/c3f800350ab54d558af4f28ae2c5a379.jpg

[The StRanger]

I may have asked already, but.
Arent Rover 4.6s based on the Ford 4.6 ??

[Brad]

All the V8's up to 2004 discovery are based off the old Buick V8.

[Java]

Thanks to my boss Jeff I have the 4.6 for the 95 Disco.
*some assembly required
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/95%20discovery%20engine/c3f800350ab54d558af4f28ae2c5a379.jpg

wow! that's pretty. how much of an upgrade is it from the stock engine?

[Brad]

wow! that's pretty. how much of an upgrade is it from the stock engine?
95 3.9l engine specs:
Horsepower: 182 hp @ 4750 rpm
Torque: 232 ft-lbs. @ 3100 rpm

04 disco 4.6l specs:
BASE ENGINE SIZE 4.6
HORSEPOWER 217 hp @ 4750 rpm
TORQUE 300 ft-lbs. @ 2600 rpm

The torque is very noticeable. The 98 already has the 4.6 and it feels like a sports car compared to the 95.

[Hypoid]

It looks kinda scary. My engine experience is somewhat limited. Are these known for head gasket failure?

[Brad]

No. More known for slipping liners. We have a procedure known as pinning the liners which works.

[Brad]

Starting the 4.6 build for this rig! On the list for the next 2 months is engine install, winch install, dual battery install and transfer case reseal. Will be putting in some Saturday's.

[Hypoid]

A deep skirted block, cross bolted mains...I like it more after seeing that! :D

[Brad]

Installed the crank, checked my clearances. Installed new cam bearings and a new cam. This week installing reman heads I rebuilt and hopefully swapping the new engine in this weekend.

[Brad]

Forgot the pinned cylinder liner pictures!

[Patrolman]

Good progress! Nice to have a warm shop with all the tools, huh!

[Brucker]

Looking good! Congrats on the progress!

[Hypoid]

I take it you grind the pins down?

[Brad]

Yes! Warm shop and grind the pins down. Where the pins are located in the lower cylinder liner wall is a non ring contact area. Only the piston skirt passes by. It is also below the coolant jackets for the cylinders. I used a lot of red loctite to secure the pins in place.

[Brad]

Heads on. This weekend is the swap!

[Java]

Awesome!! :thumb: I'd love to see before / after speed test videos.

[Brad]

Spent my Friday evening pulling my engine!!

[Brad]

More

[Brad]

How I left her tonight:

[Jim]

Good progress!!!

[Patrolman]

Nice work! This should go quick!

[Brad]

Spent all day swapping the components installing new lifters new water pump new seals all around. Stabbed the engine back in. So busy I forgot to snap pics. Will post some in the morning.

[Funrover]

What is wrong with the old engine?

[xaza]

It's morning, got your coffee? :D

[Brad]

Aaron, tired 204k on the clock and won't get out of its own way. That being said I'm still keeping it as a spare just in case the 4.6 fails. I do plan on cleaning it up and refreshing the components.

Cliff, getting ready to go and get coffee as I type this. Today is the finish line!!

[Brad]

Engine in. Just doing the finishing work.

[Brad]

Not quite finished. Missed a couple oil galley plugs. Very rare mistake for me. Need to pull the engine again as they are on the back of the engine behind the flex plate. Next Friday/Sat will have it done.

[Funrover]

YAY!!!!

Glad to see ti's getting close to done. your rover is young! My ol green has 250K!

[JonPitts]

Great build, awesome to follow. Looks fantastic - jealous :P

[Brad]

Update. Instead of pulling the engine I pulled the transmission and t-case. Re sealed the t-case. After starting it up got liner knock. Despite my best efforts to pin the liners. Have now decided the 4.6 in the 95 is a no go. It is nice and has power but the risk of failure on the trail is just too great. I will be putting my 3.9 back in refreshed with new gaskets and most likely new bearings for the crank and rods. If I come across a 4.0 block I will have all the 4.6 stuff ready to build another setup. For now all my gear has been moved over to my 98 and the 95 is parked until I can get the motor swapped out in April.

[Patrolman]

Too bad. It was turning out to be a nice build. I am sure things will work out for the best though.

[Jim]

So your pinning of the 4.6 (liner movement) doesn't fully solve the issue... is there a solution? Does the factory have an answer?

[Brad]

The blocks in my 98 and 95 were from 03-04 discovery II's. At the time BMW owned Land Rover and the belief is that they took factory second 4.6 engines that they did not use in range rovers P38's and used them instead of making new power plants that were up to proper spec. It is very common to find knocking liners in those specific years.

The solution is putting in flanged liners (also called top hat liners) which will seal the liner against the head when it's torqued down. The 4.0 blocks did not have this issue, so what I can do is put my 4.6 crank, rods and Pistons and build a solid 4.6. Right now this is proving to be a costly mistake. The engine was provided for free thanks to Jeff and I knew it was a gamble. The costly bit is the cam, head machining, gasket sets, cam, rod and crank bearings. Not to mention all the time I have into the project. The 3.9 functions, does not nor will it ever knock. It's just slower.

[Brad]

Got the 95 disco back up and running with the 3.9, and as a bonus I think I found some of my sluggish issue. The vacuum advance is not working. Ordered a replacement today.
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/95%20discovery%20engine/2b02e0abd5c041f06c54df8cb7a1db40.jpg
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/flipswitch/95%20discovery%20engine/f92cced4c8b33f37cf728344e118a7c0.jpg

[Patrolman]

Yeah, the vac advance could easily cause it to be a dog. Hope that helps!

[Jim]

LOL - I see what you did there... let air out of the tyres to make it easier to reach into the engine bay.

[Funrover]

Good old 3.9!!

[Brad]

She sits kind of high and Steve's awesome bumper digs into my ribs if i don't lower it. :D