Issuu

ISSUE 1 SUMMER/AUTUMN 2025

RIPON RENDEZVOUS

The Series I, II, III Club’s second annual rally deemed a REVVING success across the Yorkshire Dales

ZENITH 361V

OVERLANDING PREP

BACK IN BLACK

Rebuilding your Carb for reliable running

Tips for preparing your Series for a long haul

Rejuvenating fasteners with chemical blacking

FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to the first “proper” edition of Mixed Grilles. The Series I II III club intends for this to: • be the place to help build your technical knowledge • keep up to date with area activities • relish in the history of these wonderful and versatile vehicles • share your stories and experiences of Series ownership. We are making a slow but steady “low range” ascent with 2 planned digital issues/year. If finances and contributions allow, this will of course evolve, allowing us to push that red lever forward and offer even more to our members. We are keen that our articles are relatable to the average Series owner. What does that mean? Celebrating the well used survivors; undertaking rebuilds on your driveway; generally having a laugh with/at a good bunch of people. Derek Hernaman’s story contains much of this. Completing a charity fundraiser trip in his well used Series I, facing challenges and often being supported by complete strangers from the Land Rover community. It’s an inspiring story and if I could find time to finally fix mine, I’d like to think I could take on a similar journey. I’m also pleased to say we have been able to give Club Chairman, James Williams, a bit of a “grilling,” so members can learn a bit more about him. For those that don’t know, James has been…..excuse the pun…. the driving force behind the club and it certainly wouldn’t be where it is now without his continued contributions.

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

Richard 2

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

GRILLED

Getting grilled this issue is Club Chairman James Williams.

GOING COASTAL

OILY ENDEAVOURS

Derek Hernaman’s adventure driving around the coastline of the UK in a Series I and caravan for charity.

RIPON RENDEZVOUS

The Series I, II, III Club’s second annual rally gets off to a revving start, as Ian Garner reports.

SIXPENNY HANDLEY

James Williams reports on the fourteenth annual rally at Sixpenny.

28 62

RESTORING OLD FRIENDS

Cameron Bunn takes on restoring a Series IIA in memory of a lost friend and saves a Series III Long Wheel Base.

MY LIFE STORY

The life of Jorge Velozo’s Series III.

ALL TORQUE

Trevor Dawes explains the best methods to correctly torque fasteners.

THE ZENITH OF CARB REBUILDING

Martin Lawrie and Mark Saville show us how to rebuild a Zenith 361V

We hope you enjoy reading this issue and that it gives you some inspiration to get the spanners out/ plan an adventure/ meet up with some other like minded members. I look forward to meeting up with many of you in the coming year.

RICHARD ALLIN

BACK TO BLACK

Chris Pickett discusses the process for chemical blacking.

LAST MINUTE REBUILD

Eddie Grinstead cobbles together his 80” Series I in time for the Goodwood Revival.

SERIES REGULARS FROM THE GEARBOX Riveting News

Club Shop

Club Discounts

102

LUCAS SIX-WAY SWITCH

Lets talk about the Convoy light switch used on military Land Rovers.

FREEWHEELING HUBS

Gary Gosney takes a closer look at freewheeling hubs to determine if they are worth it.

CHECKIN’ OUT Duncombe Steam Rally

York Land Rover Show

RED AND YELLOW

Gunnar Miller covers the basics when it comes to your levers

PREP FOR ADVENTURE

Toby Savage shows us how to check and prepare ahead of a long journey.

OVERDRIVE Cross-axle Corner

Club Area Reports

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

NEWS

Riveting

NEWS

GOING LIMITED NEWS FROM THE GEARBOX We would personally like to thank all the Club Members that have supported us since inception to a now paid membership model. The Club had been running on a donation model for the past two years, and while this has served us well, it is not sustainable, and causes a hinderance in respect to planning future cashflow.

RALLY DEVON

2026

3RD to 7TH JUNE 2026 YEATHERIDGE FARM CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK EX17 4TN

BOOKING FORM 4

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

Some of the key milestones achieved this year.



ISSUE 1 | SPRING 2026

RIPON RENDEZVOUS

The Series I, II, III Club’s second annual rally deemed a REVVING success across the Yorkshire Dales

ZENITH 316V

OVERLANDING PREP

BACK IN BLACK

Rebuilding your Carb for reliable running

Tips for preparing your Series for a long haul

Rejuvenating fasteners with chemical blacking

Company Formation: Land Rover Series I, II, III Club Ltd – Company Number: 16714072 The company directors are listed below • James Williams, Chairman • Eddie Grinstead, Vice Chairman • David Whyte, Treasurer • Stuart Overington, Director • Gary Gosney, Director • Richard Allin, Director and Mixed Grilles Editor Design of our new Club Magazine, Mixed Grilles. Special Thanks to Katherine Gosney for the countless hours she has put into helping us bring our ideas to reality. ALRC Membership (Association of Land Rover Clubs) Non-Competitive The Membership Database migration to Crossmember Membership Platform.

Club activity across the UK and beyond continues to grow, and the Gearbox (management team) are working hard behind the scenes to prepare us for the next level. See you out there, under a bonnet maybe!

RALLY UPDATE BOOKING FORM NOW LIVE

Itineray (so far)

Join us from 3rd to 7th June 2026 at Yeatheridge Farm Caravan & Camping, Crediton, Devon for the Land Rover Series I, II, III Club 2026 National Rally.

Wednesday 3rd June Arrival

The Campsite The campsite has the following facilities: • •

• • •

Well stocked onsite shop Onsite Resturant offering Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Carvery on Sundays! 2x Heated indoor swimming pools Dog friendly bar, good dog walking/woods nearby Onsite Softplay, Games Room, Fishing lakes

Pricing 2 or 3 nights = £70 4 nights = £80 (Fourth night can be Wednesday 3rd June OR Sunday 7th June)

Thursday 4th June Nothing planned. Perhaps a trip to a local pub or the campsite bar or informal road run. Friday 5th June Greenlane exploration and pub stop. Departing circa 10:00 Packed lunch advised. Saturday 6th June Organised Greenlane route for all, going out in groups of six from 10:00. Pub stop mandatory. Packed lunch advised. Evening BBQ - Sausages and burgers sourced from Yeatheridge Farm. Sunday 8th June Pack up camp. Roast Carvery in the campsite restaurant (optional, to be booked directly with the campsite on the Friday).

Day visitors welcome

WITH THANKS... This first issue of the magazine wouldn’t have been possible without: • • • • • •

Toby Savage Mark Saville Martin Lawrie Chris Pickett Ian Garner Ben Drake

DISCLAIMER The entire content of Mixed Grilles is copyright of the Land Rover Series I, II, III Club Ltd and cannot be reproduced in any form without permission. We are unable to guarantee the bona fides of any of our advertisers. Readers are strongly recommended to take their own precautions before parting with any information or item of value, including, but not limited to money, manuscripts, photographs or personal information in response to any advertisements within this publication.

THE LRM PODCAST SURPASSES 100K DOWNLOADS SINCE LAUNCH The Land Rover community has embraced a new voice in the form of The LRM Podcast, which has surged past 100,000 downloads since its launch on 29 May 2024. Produced by the publishers of the world’s best-selling Land Rover magazine and organisers of The LRM Autojumbles and LRM Live, the podcast quickly established itself as the go-to listen for enthusiasts across the UK and beyond. Each episode, released every Wednesday morning, delivers a blend of light-hearted conversation, listener questions, and guest appearances — all centred on the passion and challenges of owning Land Rovers. Hosted by LRM publisher Steve Miller and editor Martin Domoney, the duo balances expert insight with downto-earth humour. Weekly emails from listeners provide fresh questions for the hosts to tackle, while regular guest contributors bring unique stories and perspectives from across the Land Rover scene. Its growing popularity shows how hungry the community was for a show that speaks directly to owners, restorers, adventurers, and casual fans alike. The milestone of 100,000 downloads is a testament not just to the dedication of its hosts, but also to the enthusiasm of Land Rover fans who tune in each week. “We’d like to thank everyone who has listened so far,” said the team. “This is just the beginning — and with more episodes and guests lined up, we’re excited to continue sharing stories and laughter with the Land Rover world.” Listeners can find new episodes of The LRM Podcast every Wednesday morning, available on all major podcast platforms. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

SHOP

Club SHOP

ALL CLOTHING IS PROVIDED BY RAVENSPRING. TO VIEW THEIR FULL RANGE, PLEASE GO TO THEIR WEBSITE

STICKERS

CLOTHING

RAVENSPRING WEBSITE

Club Car Sticker (external) 75mm Diameter

£2.50 EACH

BUY

EMBROIDERED Series I, II, III Club Available in a variety of colours

EMBROIDERED Series I, II, III Generic Available in a variety of colours

FROM £15.95 EACH (INC. VAT) Available in: • Ladies & Mens T-shirt • Ladies Long Sleeve T-shirt • Ladies T-shirt/Hoodie Dress • Ladies, Mens & Kids Hoodies (zip/no zip) • Apron

Club Area Car Sticker (external) Dimensions: 160mm x 45mm (various areas available)

FROM £18.95 EACH (INC. VAT) Available in: • Ladies & Mens T-shirt • Ladies Long Sleeve T-shirt • Ladies T-shirt/Hoodie Dress • Ladies & Mens Hoodies (zip/no zip) • Apron

£2.50 EACH

PLEASE NOTE International P&P will be invoiced via Paypal after your order has been placed. Typically this is an additional £2.50 depending on location.

MORE COMING SOON 6

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

FROM £16.96 EACH (INC. VAT) Available in: • Mens, Ladies & Kids T-shirts • Mens, Ladies & Kids Hoodies (zip/no zip) • Mens, Ladies & Kids Fleeces • Mens & Ladies Bodywarmers • Unisex Shell Jackets • Mens & Ladies Polo Shirts • Ladies T-shirt/Hoodie Dress • Kid’s Coverall • Apron

PRINTED Series I, II, III Club Available in a variety of colours

FROM £20.50 EACH (INC. VAT) Available in: • Ladies & Mens T-shirt • Ladies Long Sleeve T-shirt • Ladies T-shirt/Hoodie Dress • Ladies & Mens Hoodies (zip/no zip)

ACCESSORIES

BUY

EMBROIDERED Series I, II, III Club Logo Available in a variety of colours

Shopping Bag Available in a variety of colours

Jute Shopping Bag Available in a variety of colours

Organic Sea Bag Available in a variety of colours

Kids Backpack Available in a variety of colours

Beanie Available in a variety of colours

Adult/Kids Caps Available in a variety of colours

Apron Available in a variety of colours

FROM £10.95 EACH (INC. VAT)

FROM £14.75 EACH (INC. VAT)

FROM £25.95 EACH (INC. VAT)

FROM £27.54 EACH (INC. VAT)

FROM £14.50 EACH (INC. VAT)

FROM £16.20 EACH (INC. VAT)

FROM £34.96 EACH (INC. VAT) MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE What is your least favourite Land Rover job? Anything to do with removing the gearbox. Although the job is technically easy, the faff of removing so many items, just so you can make a start, can be a bit of a drag. What is your favourite modification/ upgrade? I couldn’t be without my Fairey Overdrive, and in more recent years the SU Carburettor for reliability. My favourite modification in a Series Land Rover would be a 2.5 petrol engine with an SU Carburettor and 2” bore exhaust.

JAMES WILLIAMS getsGRILLED G etting Grilled in our first issue is our Club Chairman James Williams. This is what happens when you start a new club! How did you catch the Series bug? I remember as a kid in the Air Training Corps, I always thought the look of the military 110 Defenders was cool. As I got a little older the realisation that I would never be able to afford one quickly became apparent. Although that still remained ‘a thing’ I started reading about overland stories in the 50s/60s, and quickly fell in love with the earlier classic look. At a young age that classic shape wasn’t far from a Defender, plus all the ones for sale were scratched and dented anyway. I loved that!

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

What was the first Land Rover you owned? A rather sketchy unloved 1982 Series III 88”. Ex-military with a five main bearing engine, and a gearbox that jumped out of reverse as soon as you let the clutch up. It was a solid buy back then, but needed everything doing to it. The damp carpet on the underside of the hardtop was a nice touch, and smell. What Series do you own now? I’ve had many over the years, but my staple is a 1966 Series IIA 109”, 2.25 engine running an SU carburettor on 2.5 petrol manifolds with a 6-cylinder exhaust system. The vehicle actually has the Series III bulkhead from my first Land Rover on it. I consider this an ‘upgrade’. When I rebuilt the vehicle nearly 20 years ago I couldn’t afford a good second hand bulkhead, so needs must. I also run a 1979 Series 3 Lightweight. 2.25 Petrol with an SU Carburettor. It’s original and is still sporting the original rims and 6.50 tyres.

My ‘project’ vehicle (in various bits currently) is a 1971 Series III 109” Carawagon. Let’s just say it’s going to take a while…

What’s the longest Series journey you’ve braved? Dorset to the Bodo, Norway, just inside the Arctic Circle and back. Our mission, conceived in a curry house, was to have a curry inside the Arctic Circle and drive our Land Rovers there. From memory that Madras in Bodo was considerably hotter than usual. What’s the worst crime you’ve committed on a Series? I did drill a rather large circular hole in my Series IIA passenger wing to accommodate the Series III heater matrix on the bulkhead. Not sure it was a crime, but I could feel the rivet counters screaming as I did it.

What advice would you give to someone wanting get their first leaf sprung Land Rover? Always buy on condition not age. Make sure the bulkhead and chassis are solid. Everything else can be fixed/replaced/ overhauled/sworn at. What’s the best thing about owning a Series? Every journey is a potential adventure waiting to happen. To me, it is a road trip car.

QUICKFIRE ROUND Biggest Series regret? I owned a 101” years ago, pre children. In hindsight I should have kept that! Awaiting recovery beverage? Robinsons Flagon Cider. Mmmm... Biggest Series myth? They are unreliable. They are not. You just need to keep on top of servicing them in accordance with workshop manual. Patina or shiny? Patina, every time. Where is someone most likely to find you? Pondering over OS Maps trying to map out the next adventure. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

Derek Hernaman recounts his coastal adventures around the UK with Series I George and caravan Mildred.

n the 8th March 2025, Derek Hernaman departed from Lynmouth, Devon on his 71st Birthday. He was behind the wheel of George, his 1956 Series I, towing Mildred his 1946 Caravan. His aim….to drive the coast of the UK and raise £10,000 for Alzheimer’s UK and Bowel Cancer UK. Many of you will have already followed his journey on social media earlier in the year and seen he was not only successful in completing the trip, but also smashed his fundraising target. Now the man himself will tell us more about this adventure.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

What inspired you to undertake the journey? My son Gareth gave me the first and last Overland books. Reading them, I thought to myself, “What can I do?”, and then I thought, “well nobody has driven around the UK with a Land Rover and caravan.” It then evolved into undertaking this to raise funds for Alzheimers Society and Bowel Cancer UK.

Tell me a bit about George and Mildred. So, I got George about 2 1/2 years ago, maybe nearly three - time flies. I’ve known about George since the 1970s. He used to belong to my ex brother-in-law who put various engines in him during ownership and eventually he was taken off the road and ended up in a shed for a long time. I rang him up and asked him if he wanted to sell it. It could have been a flat no, but he said, “well come over and we’ll look at it and we’ll think about it” and so that’s how it all came about. He’d put in a Rover 35 dash, seat and steering wheel, which needed to come out because I wanted to put it back to as an original state as possible. It also ended up needing a complete rewire. Rehashing it was a non-starter so my friend Nigel Webber completely took everything out with me and then rewired it.

GOING

COASTAL The gearbox had to be stripped down and new gears put in, however I should’ve changed third for the sake of an extra 60 quid but I didn’t. I only planned to use George locally so it didn’t seem so important at the time. All the way around the country, I’ve had to hold it in third gear because it jumps out.

How did you discover Mildred? What’s the story there? That was another friend of mine over at Instowe. They used it for glamping for a couple of years, but I think they found that it was a bit small for two people and so it was in his yard. I was over there one day and I just said, “well that’s a small little old caravan you got there” and he said, “yeah its up for sale if you want it?” I mentioned it to the wife, so we had a look at it and bought her. She’s 1946 and the pair go together so well because they’re only 10 years apart.

Were there any specific preparations you undertook? Yeah, leading up to the trip we had to rebuild the brakes on both George and Mildred, but this was the start of a catalogue of errors that only were fully sorted on George after the trip was completed.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

The brakes were bad. I had LWB brakes fitted and we bled them before I left, but I couldn’t get all the air out. We spent three or four days non-stop trying everything and then I got onto some friends of mine and they suggested putting on a different master cylinder. I didn’t compare it to the one I took off because I later found out that there were two different sizes.

Being filmed with Matthewsons was another anxious time, making sure I arrive there ok, but they were really nice people. We were talking for about half an hour before they actually started filming and then I had to go back out to Scarborough turn round and come back in like I just arrived. The donations took off like anything on the night it came out.

At one campsite wiithin half an hour of setting up there was a knock on the door and that was the lady with a tray of bread and butter and a bottle of beer and you know half an hour earlier, we’ve never met. Somebody gave me wine because it was my wedding anniversary and I had a painting done by a person……..the list goes on….

Nigel also put in a diesel heater, which was a good job because I used it quite a bit. Back in March, it was quite cold on a lot of the mornings. I was scraping the ice off the windscreen of the Land Rover.

What was the most enjoyable kind of roads you drove in particular?

Did you have any other issues?

I packed a few spare parts, took loads of electrical wires and connections and stuff, multimeter and a new wheel bearing, but didn’t need that.

How confident were you in meeting your targets of getting round the UK and also reaching your fundraising target? Well, at the time I thought, “if I make £10,000 I’ll be happy and I will give it my best shot.” I planned to stop as much as I could to collect donations whilst balancing my time driving.

What was a typical day like for you? Oh well, I was regularly leaving by 7:30 most mornings and reaching my first planned town stop in an hour or so to collection donations, though some places like Blackpool I just drove straight through as there’s nowhere to park. Other places I pulled up for a morning and had lots of donations, but had to leave to keep on schedule.

Was there anything that you were most nervous about before setting off? I was most anxious a couple of weeks before the actual start, as I was asked to start from the cliff railway. They put a call out for as many Land Rovers to come down as possible and I didn’t want to break down on the way there, before even setting off on the journey. 12

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

The West Coast of Cumbria was amazing. Going along there and heading up to Scotland. I’ve done Windermere and all that before, but I’ve never been along the actual Coast Road. That’s very scenic. Also, along the top of the Highlands was absolutely amazing. You know it was so vast and one morning I drove for about 3-4 hours and nothing came up behind me, which is a rarity in a Series Land Rover.

...not everybody thought that I would make it out of Lynmouth. You go straight up. What surprised you most during your trip? The hospitality of people was amazing you know. People were contacting me from the very start suggesting places to visit and stay. Daryl O’Hanlon was the reason I went out to Campbelltown where I had a lot of donations and I would’ve missed a lot if it hadn’t been for him. That night we went back to his place and I stayed on his farm in the caravan, plus meals and everything. I went in for a meal and his wife offered to wash and iron my clothes for me. The next morning it was all washed and ironed and ready to put back in the caravan, plus meal and everything and you know…. really amazing people.

I had taken a new distributor with me as I was getting problems and we changed all components one by one, but it still persisted. So I bit the bullet and fitted the distributor on the side of the road and then I never had any more problems with the electrics.

Were there any particularly hard hills? What was the hardest climb you had to go through?

So what is next for George and Mildred? Is it retirement for them or any other plans? In two years time I’m driving from Lynmouth to the Arctic Circle and that is going to be for the veterans foundation and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). On this one I told my friend Richard that I’ve been thinking about another journey and he said I’m coming with you. He will be driving his Land Rover, though that is currently still in the brambles so needs a bit of work. I’m just in the middle of sorting a chassis for it from Jon Holmes. We’re gonna pull the Land Rover out and rebuild it, and then he’s gonna put a roof box on his. Anyway, so Richard is coming and some other people have said they would like to come also, so it could be a convoy. The idea is to leave from Lynn Valley Classic Car Show, which would be a great send off for that mission.

Really the first one……. not everybody thought that I would make it out of Lynmouth. You go straight up. The first 200 yards is probably one in four and then it goes off to one in six for another mile, so I think a lot of people thought like he’s never gonna get up. This was quickly followed by the next challenge……going down Porlock Hill the other side!

I plan to support two different charities for this journey. The Veterans Charity, which was highlighted to me by Sally Anne Spence who came from Wiltshire across to Ipswich to do a podcast. And MS, because Kathy’s brother and her best friend that she started nursing with at Great Ormond Street about 45 years ago both died from MS, so it was close to our heart again.

With my braking issues, the descent required me to heavily rely on the gears as it was another one in six gradient.

And finally...

In terms of engine oil on EP 90 how much did you pack with you? And how much did you use? Yeah, I took about three litres of engine oil with me and I used probably about half of that so I used about 11/2 litres or something like that. And EP 90, I checked the gearbox/ transfer box/overdrive unit each Sunday. I only put in like 150ml in the gearbox and nothing in the overdrive box the whole of the journey. I had to top up the transfer box a little because there is a typical drip.

Derek would like to say thank you to all his family, friends and donors who made this possible.

Swiss CELEBRATION A

2027 will be the 40th anniversary of Land Rover Switzerland and in past I had the pleasure of meeting many of you from the UK so I'm hoping that we can gather as many Series I, II, III club members as possible in Wallis July 2027, not only the meet but also there are really great roadbook trips over the weekend that take us up onto the old Gottardo pass and the fortresses that doted along the Alpine route.

So drop Switzerland Area Rep, Simon Perks, an email if you’re thinking of coming. He promises a personalised Toblerone to the first 10 to get in touch. Simon Perks



MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

THE IMPORTANCE OF CORRECT TORQUE

All

TORQUE WORDS | TREVOR DAWES PHOTOS | KATHERINE GOSNEY

utomotive Engineering, as with many other branches of engineering is reliant on the correct, and accurate tightening of fasteners. The following article is an attempt to explain the importance of this often misunderstood subject.

Ensuring that fasteners are tightened correctly is critical to the safety, functionality, and longevity of any mechanical structure or device and the most reliable method of fastener installation is torque tightening—the process of applying the correct amount of rotational force to achieve a desired clamping load. Improper tightening can lead to component failure and have serious safety implications. Generally, fasteners below ¼ inch or 6mm do not require torque tightening. There are exceptions but nothing on a Series Land Rover of this size will require anymore than tightening with a spanner.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

Torque tightening is more than just tightening a bolt until it “feels tight.” Each fastener is designed to operate under a specific tension to ensure the integrity of the joint. When a bolt is torqued correctly, it stretches slightly and creates a clamping force that holds the components together. If the torque is too low, the bolt may loosen under vibration or load, potentially causing mechanical failure. Conversely, excessive torque can overstretch or even break the fastener, damage the threads, or otherwise damage components.

BEST PRACTICES

DIFFICULTY

For the Series Land Rover, the torque wrench will be the most often used method, aside from brute force and ignorance. To ensure accurate torque tightening, the following best practices should be followed:

Use the Right Tool: A torque wrench.

TORQUE-TENSION RELATIONSHIP Understanding the relationship between torque and tension is essential. Torque is the rotational force applied to a fastener, while tension is the resulting axial force that clamps components together. This relationship is influenced by various factors including friction, fastener material, thread condition, and lubrication. Since friction can account for up to 90% of the applied torque, inconsistencies in surface condition or lubrication can result in significantly different clamping forces even if the same torque is applied.

METHODS OF TORQUE TIGHTENING Methods for ensuring correct torque: Torque Wrench | A torque wrench is a calibrated tool used to apply a specific torque value. These come in mechanical (click-type), beam-type, and digital forms Torque Angle Method | After snug tightening, the bolt is turned a specific angle to achieve the desired preload, accounting for bolt stretch and thread pitch. Turn-of-Nut Method | This method uses visual markers and pre-calculated turns to control clamping force.

MAN

UA L

Follow Specifications: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended torque values and tightening sequence.

Clean and Lubricate Threads: Consistent lubrication and cleanliness reduce variability in friction. If lubrication is used then a small amount of thin oil (WD40) is all that is required. NEVER USE GREASE. Thin oil can reduce the torque required by around 10-20%, most torque wrenches are no more accurate than 5 – 10%.

Tighten in Sequence: When multiple bolts are used in a joint (such as a flange), use a crisscross or star pattern to distribute the load evenly. Most people adhere to this rule when working on their Cylinder head, but how many of you apply this rule when tightening you wheel nuts? Ignore the torque figure that is used on military wheel nuts Series Land Rovers wearing standard wheels require a torque figure of 75lb – 85lb, dry.

Re-Torque if necessary: Some assemblies require rechecking or re-torquing after initial operation to account for relaxation or creep the Cylinder head being a case in point. (yes, I do check composite gaskets as well). It is also good practice to check wheel nuts after a few miles.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

CALCULATING PRELOAD FROM TORQUE

CONFIRMATION OF RESULT

T=KxFxD

Note: This formula does not consider the screw pitch. Tightening torque (in consistent units, e.g., inch-lb or Nm) Torque coefficient or “nut factor” (dimensionless), accounts for friction and thread geometry Preload force (axial tension in the bolt) Nominal bolt diameter (usually in inches or meters)

SERIES III LAND ROVER WHEEL NUT

CALCULATING K

M16 x 1.5

The torque coefficient (K) depends on lubrication and surface finish: Dry threads

0.20 (approx)

Lubricated threads

0.15 (approx dependant on the lubricant)

0.6299”

Diameter

0.6299 inches

Torqued

900lb/inch (75lb/ft) Results confirmed using MechaniCalc

CALCULATING F Dry threads T (900) K (0.2) x D (0.6299)

= F (7,144lb)

So, from this we can see that when tightened to 75lb/ft the nut will generate a force of approximately 7,144lb. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lubricated threads T (900) K (0.15) x D (0.6299)

= F (9,525lb)

So, this shows that although the torque value remains the same, the force is now 9,525lb simply because we have lubricated the threads.

Reducing torque input by 20% to 720lb/inch (60lb/ft) T (720) K (0.15) x D (0.6299)

= F (7,620lb)

We are now getting close to the original answer.

The simple calculation above shows the effect that lubricating threads has on the resulting clamp force, and hopefully, also shows how easy it can be to over stress a thread.

Trevor is a Senior Mechanical Engineer who has worked within the Aerospace and Nuclear industries. He learned to drive at the age of 14 in a Series I Land Rover and currently owns two Land Rovers, a Series III SWB and a IIA LWB.

So the next time someone tells you they grease their nuts ... THINK!

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

The Zenith of

CARB REBUILDING Martin Lawrie reveals some of the pitfalls and challenges of rebuilding a Zenith 36IV carburettor

T ABOUT THE AUTHOR

My main focus is rebuilding carburettors – Solex, Zenith and Stromberg of all varieties – from pre-war up to the late 1970s. But not Weber, I don’t touch Webers, Dellortos or Mikunis. I’ve been messing about with cars since I was 14, and Fuggles Fettling has been going since 2019.

oday, I’m rebuilding a Zenith 36IV. These were fitted to civilian Series IIAs up to and including the Series IIIs, and various military variants of both models. Just to make life interesting, Land Rover fitted no fewer than seventeen different versions of this carburettor, but they all share the same jets. Rather than giving a step-by-step guide to stripping, cleaning and rebuilding a Zenith, I think it will be more useful to look at some of the pitfalls and challenges in the whole process. But before ripping your carb apart, you need to be as sure as you can be that the problem is with the carb; it may well be something else altogether.

ELIMINATE OTHER POTENTIAL FAULTS, FIRST If your Land Rover is running like a three-legged pig in stilettos, there are some basic checks you need to make first, which might save you a lot of time and money. Having restored carbs for so

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

WORDS | M ARTIN LAWRIE, MARK SAVILLE

PHOTOS | MARK SAVILLE Every carb is tested on Martin’s Series I Land Rover

long, I’ve come to release that 90-odd percent of carb issues are in fact ignition related – failing condensers, failing coils, dirty points, failing ignition leads, NGK spark plugs made in France (rather than the decent ones made in Japan). Apparently, there are now some from Thailand, but I don’t know if they’re any good, or not. Basically, make sure your ignition system is in perfect working order then if you still have running problems, it’s perhaps time to start looking at your carb. The Zenith is a well-design carburettor, as all the jets are held internally, within the emulsion block, as we’ll see later. The only one that’s external, and accessible from the outside, is the idle mixture screw. This means that there’s very little that can go wrong with them and there’s no adjustment you can make to them without taking the carb apart. So, if the problem you’re experiencing with your Zenith is above idle speed, you’re looking at a bigger job than if the problem is at idle speed.

IDLE SETTING AND ADJUSTMENT If it is ticking over lumpily or spitting back through the carb, you need to look at the idle circuit, and that is something that you can do from the outside, with the carb in-situ.

To adjust the idle, first warm-up the engine for a few minutes. Before you attempt adjusting the idle mixture, it’s worth bearing in mind that the engine has to be ticking over very slowly to begin with, because if it’s running too quickly, the engine’s speed will mask any changes the idle mixture can make to the engine speed, because the butterfly will be slightly open, allowing the engine to draw in fuel/air mixture. This is why it needs to be warm. Now turn the idle speed down until it’s barely ticking over. Then screw in the idle mixture jet until it just about stalls (too weak). Then count the number of turns as you unscrew it until it speeds up, and then begins to falter again (too rich). Once you’ve ascertained the number of turns of the screw you need from maximum to minimum fuel/air emulsion, turn the screw back in by half this number. Practically, it’s between 3/4 to one full turn between maximum and minimum. Lastly, readjust the idle speed screw to get a smooth tick-over. The most common issue I’ve found with these is banging and spitting back up the venturi, and I mean properly spitting and banging. The reason for this is usually because the very fine tip of the idle mixture screw has broken off and stuck in the hole, which means that no

The three idle mixture screw variants – you get all of them in the Burlen’s kit

The O-ring, the cause of many carb problems – always replace, carefully

matter what you do, adjustment makes no difference.

The other common issue is the rubber O-ring that goes between the emulsion block and the base of the carburettor, to separate the engine’s intake vacuum from the float chamber. Sometimes, they’re brittle and perished and sometimes they’ve been misfitted, and pinched between the two surfaces. Either way, a damaged O-ring allows excessive fuel to be drawn from the float chamber directly into the intake. Not a good thing; you’ll get black smoke and poor running.

There are three different types of idle screw and mixture screw, too. When I restore them, I always try to put back the simplest form of screw and spring arrangement I can, that only requires a standard flat-bladed screwdriver. In certain years, they fitted an anti-tamper plastic shroud that required a special tool that holds a round nut in place while the screwdriver turns the special screw. The good news is that the rebuild kit includes all three screw variants, but only for the idle mixture screw, not the idle speed screw, which also have one of these awkward, plastic anti-tamper ‘caps’.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS Jet measuring tool: even new jets are sometimes the incorrect size, despite correct labelling escape. The only part with a spring is the accelerator pump, but it hasn’t got enough spring pressure to launch itself.

PARTS PREPARATION I get the bodies vapour blasted but a sonicator (an ultrasonic parts cleaning ‘bath’) will do a good job, it all depends how fussy you are and how far you want to tear-down the carb. I take everything completely apart, including a very awkward ring spring that holds the choke abutment lever onto its shaft. I’ve made a special, conical tool to refit it; it’s almost impossible without this tool. Taking it apart is very difficult too. If you haven’t the tools, you don’t really need to take it apart, so leave it be.

PROBLEMS SETTING THE IDLE SPEED AND MIXTURE? If tweaking and resetting the idle mixture doesn’t work, the carb fault is more serious and you’ll need to strip it down to investigate and hopefully fix the problem. Before taking the carb apart, you really need to check this first. Take hold of the business end of the throttle spindle – the end sticking out with all the fancy brackets and levers on it – and give it a wiggle up and down, and side to side. If you feel any significant movement, it means the brass spindle has worn too much of the aluminium body away and is allowing air to be drawn into the carb, causing all sorts of poor running issues.

However, if you just want to check all the jets, you will need to remove the lid and then separate the emulsion block from it. You can then blow them through with a compressor, if you don’t have the proper jet cleaning tool.

THE STRIP-DOWN The only info you get with the service kit is an exploded diagram, so if this is your first time, take loads of photos as you strip the carb down, and everything that comes off the carb, put into a plastic box, don’t throw anything away until it’s back on the Land Rover and running like a clock. When you take the carburettor apart, there’s nothing inside trying to

One myth about Zenith carbs is that they warp. They don’t warp from the engine’s heat any more than any other carb, but they do become distorted by people over-tightening the screws in the lid, and the ones that hold the flange on. If you haven’t got a sanding wheel or a steel surface table, then find a piece of glass and lay it on something solid, like your kitchen table. I use 400 grit emery paper, and use short, straight movements to polish the marks out of the mating faces. I finish by using circular movements to remove any horizontal/ straight grooves that might cause an issue. If the faces are too pitted, I use the 60-grit sanding wheel with a little more bite before moving to the 400-grit and the surface table.

Checking spindle turns smoothly and freely without excessive movement

ZENITH 36IV TUNING OPTIONS

Long form reamer mounted in pillar drill for accurate alignment of both seats

THROTTLE SPINDLE BUSH SECRETS The only practical solution to a worn spindle housing, is to fit a brass bush into the carb body, suitable for a new, standard sized spindle. Using some tools I’ve made, and some off-the-shelf engineers’ kit, this is how I do it. The first step is to punch out the brass plug in the carb body, at the opposite side to the throttle lever. With the plug removed, I then temporarily fit a short guide tube in its place, that has a 6.3mm

Every carb I rebuild, I drill out the worn body seating and fit custom-made brass bushes. It’s a tricky job even if you have the correct tools and set up. But without the right tools, at best, you will struggle, and in all likelihood, you will fail. If you haven’t got access to the right tools or know someone who has, then perhaps you’d be better off either finding a properly reconditioned/restored carb, or send yours off to be reconditioned, instead. But, if your carb passes ‘the spindle test’, one of the simpler problems to sort is blocked jets, usually caused by a rusty fuel tank and the lack of a filter between it and your carb. 20

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

A metal surface table or a sheet of glass on a sturdy worktop are crucial to obtaining a flat surface finish

Critical detail: ensure mirror-smooth and flat mating surfaces, throughout

Stop ring does just that, to leave 1/16th inch of original seat material remaining

internal diameter. This is solely to support the narrow end of a stepped reamer. The thicker end of the reamer is about 7.5/8mm in diameter, matching the outer diameter of the custom-made brass bushes I’ve had made. It’s very important not to push the reamer right through the carb body – I leave 1/16th of inch original metal seat behind. I fit a locking ring to the reamer to limit how far it can travel. This is because the internal face of the venturi is perfectly machined for smooth air flow, and above all, to prevent an air leak along the spindle.

Given that all 17 versions of this Zenith had the same jets, somebody has clearly worked out the best balance between performance and economy already, so tuning isn’t really an option. This is the point where someone will say: ‘Throw away the Zenith (36mm choke) and fit a Weber (34mm choke)’. Oh dear… I don’t recommend it, why strangle your 2.25 engine with the smaller carb? The Weber is probably quite a reasonable swap for the Series I because the Solex only has a 32mm choke, so it would be bigger. If you face the hassle of rebuilding your carburettor yourself, then drop me a line (fugglesfettling.co.uk). When I restore a carburettor, I road-test each one on my Series I before shipping them. When it gets to you, all that needs doing is to set the idle speed.

The brass bush that I fit in the reamedout hole has a flat end. If you ream the hole right through into the venturi throat, the inner end of the brass bush would either interfere with the throttle butterfly, or if you didn’t push the bush all the way through, there would be a gap – an instant leak. It is possible, and I have done it, to press in a longer bush than you would normally fit and then very carefully file down the inner end, to give a smooth curve and prevent an air-leak, but it’s very time consuming. Once I’ve fitted the bush, I then use a long-form reamer and run it through the new bush, right through the other side of the carb body, to make sure everything is perfectly aligned, having first removed my temporary guide tube. I then refit the plug, at the non-business end of the spindle.

The finished article, next step is to bolt into my Series I and see how it runs

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

Back in estoring or maintaining a Land Rover often comes down to the small details like the appearance and durability of fasteners. I recently started chemical blacking fasteners for my Land Rover builds and have been very pleased with the results. It’s a straightforward process that not only improves the look of bolts and screws but also adds a degree of corrosion resistance. The method involves three key steps using three different solutions:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Chris has been playing Land Rovers since the age of 8 when his father cut his teeth on his 1955 Series I, and from then on he could not turn back. He bought his first Series II 30 years ago and had numerous others, but ‘Lucy’ is the one that seems to stay with him.

Last Minute

BLACK I

Chris Pickett discusses the process for chemical blacking fasteners for Land Rovers.

OILY ENDEAVOURS

DIFFICULTY

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

WORDS & PHOTOS | CHRIS PICKETT

ALKALINE CLEANER (10 minutes)

1 BLACKING SOLUTION (10 minutes)

This is the crucial first stage. The fasteners are soaked in a strong alkaline cleaner for 10 minutes to remove any grease, oil, or oxidation. After this, they’re rinsed thoroughly in fresh water and dried before moving on.

Once clean, the fasteners go into the blacking solution for another 10 minutes. This creates the chemical black finish, giving the hardware that classic matte black look. Again, they’re rinsed and dried after this step.

PROTECTIVE OIL The final step is a short dip— just 30 seconds—in a water(30 seconds) displacing protective oil. This helps seal in the finish and provides some resistance to moisture and corrosion.

The process is simple and efficient, with excellent visual results. It’s especially satisfying seeing old, dull fasteners transformed into something that looks both purposeful and professional. For those interested, chemical blacking kits are readily available on eBay for reasonable prices. More

premium options can be found from suppliers like frosts.co.uk, but the basic kits do the job well if you’re just getting started. Whether you’re restoring a classic or maintaining a working vehicle, this small investment in time and materials makes a noticeable difference.

REBUILD

Eddie Grinstead pulls some late nighters to cobble together his 80” Series I in time for the Goodwood Revival.

WORDS & PHOTOS | EDDIE GRINSTEAD

was driving my 80” Series I home from the 2020 Wiston Steam Rally when the driver’s door kept popping open. I was towing a small International Farmall tractor on my Ifor Williams trailer, just as I had many times before, and didn't read much into it at the time. A couple of weeks later whilst doing some routine maintenance, I discovered a nasty spot of rot in the chassis rail where the gearbox cross member is attached. The sort that grows when attacked with a hammer and looks challenging to repair without rolling the vehicle upside down. It was then that I realised why the door had kept popping open on that Wiston journey. The chassis had been flexing in the middle with the weight of the towed trailer, and because it had lost its integral strength, the decision was made to strip the body off, remove the engine, gearbox, axles, and bulkhead, and give the whole vehicle a thorough overhaul.

For the next few weeks I worked all hours to get it finished. Whilst we were at the LRO show I realised it wasn't going to happen, the four days remaining just wasn't enough time to get it done. I made the decision to call the revival office on the Monday morning and replace the 80” for my Series II 88” pickup.

I also planned on stripping the rough bodywork back to the bare metal, and having it ready to repaint and reassemble by the following summer.

I worked out that it would take about a day to fit rear bench seats, a rear step, swap its wheels with a standard set, and wipe it over with an oily rag to make it Goodwood ready.

As it came apart, that 12 month overhaul then became a three year project, which ended up becoming a five year full rebuild of every component apart from the engine and gearbox.

Monday came and I discovered that due to insurance implications, it was too late to duplicate it. So there was only one thing for it. Crack on!

Fast forward to this August just gone when I remembered I had entered it as the vehicle I would use in the Goodwood Revival Transport Corps. It was just a repaired and painted rolling chassis at this point.

I worked like Rumpelstiltskin late into the night, every night, until at 1 am Friday morning, the first day of the revival, it was all together and ready to go.

I was supposed to be reporting for duty with it at 7am! I was up at 5 am and after a quick cup of tea, I packed my emergency tools, which consist of cable ties, jumpstart pack, oil, water, jack and impact gun into the toolbox under the passenger seat, and then set off for a quick shake down drive of about a mile. Everything that needed to work, worked. I eventually left home suited and booted in period attire for Goodwood, and arrived there on time with no dramas 30 minutes later. It performed well all weekend, turning a few heads along the way. It was a great event and one I'd recommend a visit to. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Eddie passed his test in a Series II and has owned many Land Rovers over the years. His 86” and Series II are now both hobby vehicles and is currently overhauling his 80”. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

Lucas six way switch

FOR MILITARY LAND ROVER WORDS & PHOTOS | E NRICO AGOSTINELLI

Today let’s talk about something different, the Convoy light switch used on military Land Rover.

his switch has been used for over 30 years on the Series II, Series III, 101 Forward Control, Lightweight, and Defender models. There are two codes that identify the two main variants: PRC2088 – switch without ignition key PRC2089 – switch with ignition key, used on Series II The body is identical for both versions. The only visible difference is the presence of a key slot on the front knob, or the ignition switch terminals on the back (centre pins A and B, as shown in the diagram below). As with most Lucas components of the period, these switches are made from parts largely compatible

with the wider Lucas range. For example, the front turn knob is interchangeable with the PRS-type switch used on non-military Series II models, as well as Austin and Triumph vehicles.

has a small hole on the side (red arrow in the picture) with a retaining pin that must be pressed in. Apply some WD-40 and use a screwdriver to push in the locking pin – this will release the knob so it can be removed easily.

Military vehicles required a dedicated wiring harness, with additional functions to control the convoy light and tail light only. This setup minimized visibility at night, allowing full control of the vehicle’s lighting according to environmental conditions.

The switch came attached to a side panel along with several other switches, most likely from a Lightweight. The PRC2089 body is fixed to the panel with three screws (2BA × ½" flat pan head). Over time, these screws rust and seize to the switch’s metal plate. Removing them required more effort than expected – WD-40 and a standard screwdriver weren’t enough, so I welded an M6 nut to each screw head to extract them. Fortunately, the aluminium panel suffered no damage from the welding and can be reused.

This particular switch was sourced to complete my 1964 Land Rover FFR (Fitted For Radio), which for years ran with a standard side panel switch. I found a PRC2089 in reasonable condition which, with some restoration, can return to service on my FFR.

DISASSEMBLY First things first: remove the key and black knob to avoid damage. The knob

With the switch removed, focus on the rear terminals where the cables connect. The first thing to note is the rubber cover at the back of the body. It’s often

The knob has a small hole on the side.

A B 3

This switch was sourced for my 1964 Land Rover FFR.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

Remove the rubber cover at the back.

H.S.T.

Rear view of the switch showing the pin numbering and positions.

FUNCTION CHECK

5 5

2 4 1

2 4

2 1

5 4A

5 2 4A

2 6 41 A

5 B

in poor condition and difficult to remove, as the wiring passes through it via the base moulding. Once the rubber is moved aside, you’ll see the wire-to-terminal connections secured with small screws. In my case, some of the screws had fused to the terminals, forcing me to use an angle grinder (and plenty of patience) to remove them without destroying the connectors.

Be especially careful here – heat from the grinder can desolder internal connections. The wiring screws are 4BA × ¼" cheese head types. You’ll need eight for the PRC2089 or six for the PRC2088. Once the wiring harness is disconnected, it’s time for a good clean. I typically use brake cleaner, but in this case, I also gave the terminals a light sandblasting to restore the contact surfaces. The result speaks for itself.

Switch Positions:

2 6 1

6 B 6 A

T. – Tail lights only: Pin 1 feeds pins 5 and 6 OFF – Pin 1 is always connected to pin 6

2 4

5 4A

2 4 1

2 1

2 6 41 A

2 6 1

5 2 4A

5 A

5 B

2 6 41 A

2 6 1

5 B

4 5 4A

5 5

2 4 1

2 1

2 6 41 A

2 6 1

5 2 4A

5 A

5 B

6 B 6 A

2 4 1

2 1

2 6 41 A

2 6 1

5 2 4A

5 A

5 B

2 4 1

2 1

2 6 41 A

2 6 1

5 2 4A

5 A

5 B

4 6

5 4A

5 5

B 3 3

5 B

+24V +24V +24V +24V +24V +24V

2 4 1

2 1

2 6 41 A

2 6 1

5 2 4A

B 3

S CONV. 2 4

6 6

6 B 6 A B 3

6 B 6 A

A B3

B 3

+24V +24V +24V

5 4A

+24V +24V +24V 2 4

4 6

+24V +24V +24V 2 4

B 3

+24V +24V CONV. +24V

OFF

+24V +24V +24V

6 B 6 A

CONV. – Convoy light only: Pin 1 feeds pins 2 and 6

Finally, check continuity between pins A and B (on PRC2089 only), which serve as the ignition contacts operated by the key. The switch is now ready to be reinstalled in your military Land Rover – and to “ghost” the vehicle when needed!

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

2 1

I was fortunate – my switch worked perfectly, cycling through all six positions with proper continuity. If yours doesn’t function correctly, you’ll need to open the body by releasing the four rear tabs and carefully disassemble it. The process is very similar to the PRS3 restoration described in the OVLR May 2024 Newsletter.

B 3

To verify operation, check continuity between pins using the schematic diagram above. Pin 1 receives +24V (or +12V) and is always connected to pin 6.

The final result.

2 4 1 5 2 4A

S.CONV. – Side and Convoy lights: Pin 1 feeds pins 2, 4, and 6

The screws had fused to the terminals.

5 4A

6 B 6 A

2 4

+24V +24V +24V

H.S.T. – Head, Side, and Tail lights: Pin 1 feeds pins 3, 4, 5, and 6 S.T. – Side and Tail lights: Pin 1 feeds pins 4, 5, and 6

+24V +24V +24V

+24V +24V +24V 1

With the switch cleaned externally, testA A its function. The front knob should turn B3 B3 B 3 freely; if not, apply WD-40 through the small front and rear openings to loosen it. 3 3 3 Opposite is a diagram of the switch (rear view) showing pin numbering and positions.

+24V +24V +24V

S.T.

Replacement switches are not cheap: expect to pay £232.50 plus VAT and shipping. If you prefer not to rebuild it yourself, visit www.restotime.co.uk for professional restoration services.

CABLE CONNECTIONS AND COLOURS

COLOUR

FUNCTION

BROWN/PURPLE

Positive feed from IR relay

RED/YELLOW

Feed to convoy lamp

BLUE/BLACK

To terminal 5 on IR switch (if fitted), or linked to blue cable for flash/dip switch if no IR switch

RED

Front side lights

RED/BLACK

Tail and number plate lights

BROWN/YELLOW

Feed to fuse (always fed from terminal 1)

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

DIFFICULTY

Freewheeling

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Gary has owned Land Rover’s since he was 17 years old. Starting with his Grandad’s Series III, then acquired a Defender, before finding his passion for Series II and IIAs. He’s currently working on his Series II Fire Engine, which is a rolling restoration.

HUBS

Gary Gosney takes a closer look at freewheeling hubs to determine if they are worth it. WORDS & PHOTOS | GARY GOSNEY

reewheeling hubs can be an important part of the drivetrain of four-wheel-drive vehicles, especially Land Rover Series models. These hubs allow the front wheels to be disengaged from the drivetrain when four-wheel drive is not needed, which reduces drivetrain drag, improving fuel efficiency, and reducing wear. In the context of Land Rover Series vehicles (such as Series I, II, or III), freewheeling hubs are typically used to disengage the front axle from the rest of the drivetrain. This means the vehicle can operate in rear-wheel drive while keeping the front axle out of action. When you need four-wheel drive, you simply engage the hubs again.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

Having owned many Land Rovers over the years, with and without freewheeling hubs fitted; I have found that it doesn’t make much, if any, difference while driving on roads. Also, when off-roading, if you forget to engage your freewheeling hubs, it can be rather annoying to have to get out to lock them in, as usually it is on muddy ground or you’re in a tricky situation. Example of an automatic freewheeling hub

BENEFITS OF FREEWHEELING HUBS Reduced Drivetrain Wear | By disengaging the front axle when not needed, there’s less stress on the parts, which can lead to a longer lifespan for the drivetrain components. Improved Fuel Economy | With the front axle disengaged, there’s less friction, meaning the engine doesn’t have to work as hard, leading to better fuel efficiency. Improved Handling | Disengaging the front axle can reduce the “tight turning circle” issues common in vehicles with permanent four-wheel drive, leading to better handling in some situations.

TYPES OF FREEWHEELING HUBS FOR LAND ROVER SERIES Manual These require the driver to manually turn a dial or lever on each hub to engage or disengage the front axle. Automatic These hubs engage and disengage automatically depending on the vehicle’s speed and conditions (for example, when traction is lost, the half shafts spin faster, and with centrifugal force, engages the hubs). Some well-known brands that produced freewheeling hubs for Land Rover vehicles include Warn, AVM, MAP, and Fairey.

Example of a manual freewheeling hub by Fairey

INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE: Installation Installing freewheeling hubs on a Land Rover Series is generally straightforward, but you need to make sure you get the correct hubs for your specific model (Series I, II, or III) and axle type (early or late models, or specific modifications). They are 10 spline or 24 spline depending on the type of axles your vehicle has. Maintenance Regularly check the hubs for damage or wear. Lubricating them as per the manufacturer’s instructions is important to keep them functioning properly. If you notice any unusual noises or resistance, they may need to be inspected or replaced. Doing a quick search, there are numerous suppliers of refurbishment kits, like Emberton Imperial, John Craddock and Iroe, to name a few. Operation problems Simple checks are to make sure both hubs are engaged. Also by trying to rotate the front propshaft by hand; if you cannot move it, it is engaged and if it still rotates, you will have a hub issue. Another way of checking, is to jack up one front wheel and see if the front propshaft rotates.

ARE FREEWHEELING HUBS WORTH HAVING? This brings up many opinions when discussed; well they were an optional extra with purchasing a Series Land Rover new, so on that basis the company believed they had benefits to their customers.

HOWEVER! Some points to note about running your Land Rover with Free Wheeling Hubs in 2x4 for extended periods of time. 1.

As designed the top Railko bush in the swivel housing requires lubrication which is achieved by the universal joint flinging EP90 up at it from within the swivel housing. This will not be occurring in 2x4 as your front driveshafts will not be rotating.

Accelerated front propshaft wear. In 2x4 your front propshaft will remain in the same position during road use. Induced wear from undulations in the road surface and suspension movement on the front axle will result in accelerated wear of the sliding joint and universal joints as these are effectively held in the same position for potentially thousands of miles. In a 4x4 configuration the wear and shock loading is evenly distributed between the splines and bearings due to rotation.

CONCLUSION By using your freewheeling hubs correctly you can prevent additional drag and wear (within reason) on the front axle components. In my opinion they are worth having on a vehicle. Another bonus is the ability to isolate a failure in the front axle/prop. Like most things in life, they should be used in moderation. It is good practice to engage them every 500-1000 miles to mitigate some of the points above.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

REDand YELLOW

DIFFICULTY

Gunnar Miller covers the basics when it comes to your levers. WORDS | GUNNAR MILLER PHOTOS | GUNNAR MILLER & GARY GOSNEY

Gear Shift Lever

he Land Rover Series models are famed for their rugged simplicity, and nowhere is this more evident than in the arrangement of their driving levers. From early full-time 4WD systems to the familiar red and yellow transfer levers and optional overdrives, understanding their evolution and correct use is essential for owners and enthusiasts.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

The Ring-Pull Freewheel Transfer Case Lever

GEAR SHIFT LEVER This has always been in the standard “H-pattern” four forward with reverse pattern. However, the ‘agricultural’ nature of the gearbox is part of its charm ... and challenge. Some wags have pictured the actual shifting pattern as such:

TRANSFER CASE LEVERS | EARLY SERIES I (1948–1950): THE RING-PULL FREEWHEEL

First and second gear in Series Land Rovers were not synchromeshed until 1971, which means drivers had to double-(de)clutch when shifting into second to avoid gear grinding. On flat or downhill roads, experienced drivers of earlier trucks sometimes skip second gear entirely, shifting straight from first to third. Another common tip for Series drivers is to select first or reverse after stopping: because these gears are unsynchronized, trying to engage them while the transmission is still turning can cause

grinding. To avoid this, it’s best to shift into third gear first, then back into first or reverse once the transmission has slowed.

The original Land Rover was equipped with a full-time four-wheel-drive system, controlled by a red-knobbed range selector. However, it lacked a centre differential, so when 4WD was engaged, the front and rear axles were locked together, making it unsuitable for onroad use unless a freewheel unit was fitted. In early Series 1 models (1948– 1950), power was permanently delivered to both axles, but a freewheel unit on the front axle allowed the front wheels to disengage automatically during coasting or deceleration, a condition known as “overrun.” This helped prevent drivetrain wind-up when driving on hard surfaces. The driver could control this freewheel via a ring-pull lever mounted under the dash, through the bulkhead, or in the footwell. Pulling the ring locked the freewheel unit, engaging traditional

4WD behaviour with engine braking to all wheels. The mechanism typically operated a dog clutch in the transfer case. This system was derived from contemporary Rover cars and was innovative for its time. However, because it limited engine braking during normal use and added mechanical complexity, Land Rover eventually abandoned the freewheel concept in favour of a simpler, selectable 4WD layout using the familiar red and yellow levers. If your Series 1 still has the ring-pull and freewheel unit, congratulations ... you’re driving a rare and fascinating piece of Land Rover history. And if you’ve mastered how to use it, you’re probably already ahead of most of us.

In 1950 the ring pull was replaced by the familiar yellow knob, and pushing it down in high range would lock the freewheel device, as the ring pull had done before, and as before - stopping the vehicle. Changing down into low and back into high would unlock the freewheel device and make the spring loaded yellow knob pop back up. This arrangement only lasted for about a year until the transfer box was changed to rear wheel drive with selectable drive to the front wheels in the way we are familiar with in our later Series I’s, II’s and III’s.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

TRANSFER CASE LEVERS | LATE SERIES I (FROM 1950) ONWARDS: THE ICONIC RED AND YELLOW LEVERS From late 1950, Land Rover adopted a simpler part-time four-wheel-drive system, replacing the earlier freewheel unit. This was achieved by introducing the now-iconic two-lever arrangement on the transfer box: a red lever for high/low range selection, and a yellow knob to engage four-wheel drive in high range. This setup provided greater control and mechanical simplicity, enhancing durability and on-road behaviour. It goes without saying that all operations should be performed with the clutch fully depressed.

RED LEVER

RANGE SELECTOR

This long lever selects between high range and low range in the transfer box: Forward | High range Two-wheel drive (rear axle only), efficient for normal road use. Rearward | Low range Stop (or roll slowly) and pull it all the way back for low-range four-wheel drive. When in low range, four-wheel drive is always engaged, regardless of the yellow knob position.

Middle position | Neutral Used for stationary Power Take-Off (PTO) operation, which powers auxiliary equipment (through the aperture at the rear, if fitted). Neutral is rarely used outside of PTO applications and should not be confused with gear shift lever neutral.

YELLOW LEVER

FRONT WHEEL DRIVE LOCK

This short, spring-loaded lever engages four-wheel drive while in high range: Press it down while driving slowly in slippery conditions, off-road, towing, or when ascending gradients.

Note that pressing the yellow knob does not visibly move the lever; it stays down until disengaged by shifting to and from low range. To disengage, shift the red lever briefly into low range, then back to high range. The yellow knob will pop up automatically, returning the vehicle to rear-wheel drive for normal highway driving.

FUN FACT The 2015-16 Defender Heritage Edition pays homage to the classic Series Land Rovers by featuring yellow and red rings around the gearshift and range selector/differential lock levers, respectively, a subtle nod to the iconic original lever knob colours.

FORWARD HIGH RANGE 32

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

MIDDLE POSITION NEUTRAL

REARWARD LOW RANGE MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

IN SUMMARY R 1 3 2 4

Freewheeling Hub

Fairey Overdrive

Hand Brake Lever

OVERDRIVE

LOCKING FREEWHEEL HUBS

HAND BRAKE LEVER

FAIREY OVERDRIVE

In some late Series III models, freewheeling hubs were offered as an optional accessory or fitted aftermarket. These required manual engagement at the front axle ends to connect or disconnect drive to the front wheels. Freewheeling hubs also require owners to remember to get out and manually engage them before using 4WD ... something easy to forget in sudden weather or terrain changes.

The transmission brake lever operates a drum brake mounted on the gearbox output shaft. It serves as a parking brake and helps hold the vehicle on steep inclines. Press the thumb button to release the detent; pull up to engage, and push down to the floor to disengage.

The Fairey overdrive is an auxiliary gearbox bolted to the back of the main gearbox, providing an additional “overdrive” gear for more economical and relaxed cruising. Introduced in the early 1970s, it was designed primarily for use in third (effectively 3½) and fourth (effectively fifth) gears.

Original Series I Land Rovers, however, were built with permanently connected front axles, with drive engagement controlled internally via the transfer case, initially by a freewheel unit in early Series I models, and later by the red and yellow lever system. The factory setup is mechanically simpler and more robust, with no external moving parts at the hubs requiring maintenance or prone to failure. For this reason, restorers seeking period-correct authenticity typically remove aftermarket locking hubs and reinstall the original solid drive flanges, as per factory specification. Freewheeling hubs were mainly added to reduce fuel consumption, drivetrain wear, or noise, but they were not part of the Land Rover’s original engineering philosophy or intended driving experience. 34

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

Because the handbrake locks the propshaft rather than individual wheels, differential action can still allow axle rotation during certain lifting operations. For example, if only one rear wheel is lifted and the transmission brake is engaged, the opposite wheel can still rotate due to the differential. Even with both rear wheels off the ground, the axle may still move slightly, potentially destabilizing the vehicle. To avoid this, always use a jack stand or bottle jack with a curved saddle that securely cradles the axle tube. Originally supplied jacks included the Shelley LJ25C and later the Shelley Tangye LJ263, or suitable equivalents.

Whilst it can technically be engaged in all gears (particularly on early Series I vehicles), using overdrive in first or second gear places excessive strain on the unit’s planetary gearset, due to the high torque and low speeds involved. For this reason, overdrive should be reserved for faster road use rather than low-speed driving or off-road situations. To use it, engage overdrive at cruising speeds to reduce engine RPM and improve fuel efficiency. Disengage when more torque is needed, such as during acceleration, hill climbing, or driving at lower speeds. Note: Fitting a Fairey overdrive requires removal of the Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft, as both share the same gearbox output position.

LEVER

FUNCTION

POSITION/ACTION

NOTES

Gearshift

Select gears 1 to 4 and reverse Standard H pattern

Red

High/Low/Neutral

Forward | High Back | Low

Low | always 4-wheel drive

Yellow

Engage 4’wheel drive (high range)

Press to engage

Pops up when exiting low range

Handbrake

Transmission brake

Pull up to engage

Locks propshaft only

Overdrive

Adds gear range

Pull lever when cruising

Avoid in first and second

Gearbox fullly syncronised from 1971

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Situated on a little farmette outside of Frankfurt, Gunnar Miller has collected a number of Land Rovers, including a 1953 ex-RAF Series I 80”. Land Rovers have been part of his life since a young boy and as a high school student, he pulled a 1962 Series IIa 109” NADA Station Wagon out of the woods, restored it and then sold it on before attending college.

Customise your

LEVERS & KNOBS

If you’d like to customise your lever knobs, Charlesworth Mouldings makes a huge assortment from which to choose. That’s where I sourced my green Fairey overdrive knob to replace the original on which the original lettering had worn through.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

The brakes were to be the biggest job. Four seized calliper pistons eventually yielded to lubricant and leverage.

DIFFICULTY

ood planning and preparation are vital aspects of any trip in your Land Rover and there is no room for complacency based on the theory that it was okay last time. This applies as much to a weekend green-laning as to a trip to more exotic locations beyond our shores. Potential problems are far easier spotted and dealt with at home than in a rain-soaked lay-by halfway across Europe in the dark. I am writing this based on my own recent experience preparing my Carawagon for a big trip around Morocco and I hope the information will be of interest to readers.

INITIAL PREP I started the various checks a good month before departure, knowing issues could be fixed within a reasonable time frame. My last major trip was to drive through the Picos de Europas mountains in Spain and back home through rural France last summer. A journey of about 2,000 miles in total, and it all went well, free of mechanical issues.

PREP for ADVENTURE

Since then, I have only used the Carawagon for weekend camping trips and occasional festivals. But Morocco was going to be bigger. Probably 5,000 miles in total, so checks had to be thorough.

OILY ENDEAVOURS My first action was to head up to my son Matt’s place near Matlock for an initial check-over. Matt has three important assets; a big workshop, a four-poster ramp and above all, knowledge! We spent a leisurely day checking all of the drivetrain, the steering components and the brakes. We checked all of the fluid levels, topping up where necessary. The result of our day threw up a handful of items that needed attention. The rear off-side drive flange was very worn and we replaced that. Several of the disc brake pistons were seized. We freed them off with me pumping the pedal and Matt squirting the WD40 and levering them free with a big pry bar. It was late in the afternoon when we saw that the brake fluid was a nasty colour and needed replacing, but we had run out of time.

MOT The next stage in the preparation was an MOT test at my local independent specialists, Swinfield Cooper in Leicester. Whilst it does not officially need an MOT due to being registered in 1970, I felt it a good idea to have a fresh pair of eyes check everything and to have a piece of paper to thrust at the border staff in Morocco. Swinfield Coopers also replaced the brake fluid and the drop-arm balljoint.

Toby Savage sets out how to prepare your Series Land Rover for a long haul journey.

WORDS & PHOTOS | TOBY SAVAGE

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

The off-side drive flange was very worn and likely to fail, so a new one was fitted MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

OILY ENDEAVOURS

CREATURE COMFORTS With all of the serious checks completed and actioned, my attention turned to the many extras that I have fitted for expedition use. The phrase ‘they all worked last time I used them’ was not enough. First I checked the Viair on-board compressed air system. If we were going to go in soft sand the tyre pressures would be up and down several times and the compressor, air storage tank and tyre gauge would need to be in top condition. All was good, so that was ticked off.

The phrase ‘they all worked last time I used them’ was not enough.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

Next, I checked the winch by spooling out a few metres of cable. That was okay and so were the two snatch blocks I carry and the tow strap. I then checked the High-Lift jack. It has an off-the-shelf plastic cover which protects it from dirt. This has worked well and with a spray of WD40, the jack was perfect. I then checked the KC Daylighter spotlights. They had spent the summer covered and unused but lit up a treat when I tried them. Then there was the fridge to check. It runs off two leisure batteries that are charged by both a split-charge system and solar panels. I ran it for a couple of days and that worked as it should.

Toby’s old sand ladders had gone missing, but turned up at Matt’s workshop. Once straightened they were added to the Carawagon.

All that remained was to fit the sand ladders and the hardware checks were complete. I have a pair of sand ladders that Matt used to sell and they are perfect for recovering my Land Rover from soft sand. They are smaller than the regular sand ladders, but sadly, the chap who made them for Matt ceased trading and there are no more. In my head, I could see them propped up against the wall of my garage, but they weren’t there! I went up to my lock-up to check if I had stored them there. Not there either.

A quick check of the KC Daylighter auxiliary light showed that they were shining bright.

The venerable Superwinch that must be 20 years old worked perfectly, despite it’s appearance.

The on-board compressor system was tested by deflating and reinflating a tyre. This will be very useful in soft sand in Morocco.

The benefits of keeping a High-Lift jack covered from road dirt were obvious. A light spray of WD40 was all that was required to service this important extra.

With two days before departure, I was concerned. I called Matt to see if he knew where they might be and he confirmed that they were there. We had used them with my 80in six months before to move a shepherd’s hut over some muddy land. They were as bent as a couple of bananas and I had left them there to be straightened out at a later date. I went up to his place that evening to pick them up. A classic example of not leaving things to the last minute.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE ABOUT THE AUTHOR Toby Savage is a Professional Photographer, but since 1993 has been writing about his Land Rover experiences in most of the dedicated magazines and for the past 14 years, Classic Land Rover Magazine. He owns and uses his 1948 Land Rover that he bought for £85 in 1973 and has taken his Carawagon on many international adventures since he bought it in 1997.

Click here to buy directly from Toby Savage Click here to buy through Amazon

In 2024 he published his first book, Larking around in Land Rovers, which is available directly from him or on Amazon.

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS Next on the list were smaller items that make life easier and allow us to be prepared for whatever the trip throws at us. I assembled a basic tool kit, a tow strap, various ‘U’ bolt shackles, a red emergency triangle, a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and various cable ties, ratchet straps, new gaffer tape and a new can of WD40, plus spare fluids and oil.

I assembled a basic tool kit. Then there was the items that early overlanders didn’t even dream of. Google Maps on a tablet or phone offers fantastic navigation, but when there is no signal, I have an older Garmin Satnav and an even older Maritime GPS unit. If all of that fails, I have a map and compass! As most of these need to be charged, I take at least two leads for each item and store them in an orderly manner, not a tangled mess. All of these are checked to confirm they work. 40

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

PREPPING THE PAPERWORK

TOP TIPS

As well as the obvious passport, tickets, travel insurance details and wallet, I have found it very useful to have the following, should I be robbed. I have scanned and printed copies of my passport and driving licence. I produce a same-size copy of these, neatly folded and stored in my wallet and my phone case. I also email myself this, so it can be retrieved anywhere. The same with the phone numbers of credit card suppliers and the regular 16 digit card number. Whilst it is possible to make arrangements without this information, it makes negotiations a lot easier. Just in case of a big emergency, it is useful to have the contact details of your consulate in whichever country you are visiting.

Take cash If visiting anywhere in North Africa, it is still very much a cash economy. Cards are accepted in tourist places, but not in smaller guest houses and restaurants. Changing money in places like Morocco is simpler and better value exchanging cash for cash. Whilst you can stick your card in a machine at a bank, you will pay charges for all transactions.

Matt Savage supplies Viair compressed air systems to suit all applications and KC Daylighter lamps.

Problems occur Be aware that things will go wrong with the best-laid plans, but solving them prepares you better for your next adventure and gives you the confidence to travel further.

Click here to go to website

Whilst Apps like booking.com are very convenient, booking directly with the accommodation and turning up with a wad will often reward you with a hefty discount. Leave the extra baggage I never carry much in the way of spare parts as most are available in country and if not, international courier service will get you a Flux Capacitor delivered to your campsite within a couple of days. Parts also add weight. The biggest contributor to mishaps.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

CHECKIN’ OUT

Checkin’ DUNCOMBE STEAM Out

RALLY Ian Garner gives his thoughts on attending his first steam rally.

After work on the Friday, I packed Minty, and we set off for the 75-mile journey to Duncombe. Rain showers aside, it was all going well, then I got to the bottom of Sutton Bank. Friends of mine may recall a slight incident I had previously at the bottom of Sutton Bank, which required the assistance of Paddington the Series III. An event which I have since taken a lot of banter for. This time however, Paddington wasn’t required. A truck had got stuck and the road was closed. Oh dear. Quite a long detour and 30 minutes later than planned I arrived at the park. It was raining quite vigorously, to say the least - rain which hadn’t been forecast I might add. I really hope this wasn’t going to be the weather for the weekend I thought as I pulled up Minty in our designated spot.

Paul, another fellow club member was already in place with his rather tidy 1960 Series II and camping trailer, as was Keith who was sat in his Series III waiting for the rain to stop. Now it should be mentioned at this point that Paul doesn’t do things by half and just outside his camping trailer, which was his home for the weekend, were decking tiles. Yes, you read that correctly. Paul brought his own decking to the steam rally, and rather splendid it looked too I might add. The rain was on and off all evening as the other members of the club turned up, but it didn’t really matter to be honest as it wasn’t raining in the beer tent, which is where we all ended up.

That is one of the great things about the Land Rover community - whilst we were all members of the club, most of us didn’t really know one another. We had all met previously at different events, but we had never sat round a table as such and chatted. The beer flowed and the Rockabilly band played, and it was a rather pleasant evening indeed. By the time bed beckoned the rain had stopped, and the forecast for Saturday was looking good.

WORDS & PHOTOS | IAN GARNER

or as long as I can remember I have always wanted to visit a steam fair. I see them online and think, oh I would have liked to have gone to that, then never actually do anything about it the following year. So, imagine my delight when an invite to the Duncombe Steam Rally popped into my inbox. Would the club like to put on a display of our Land Rovers at this year’s event? Well, yes. Yes, we would. Duncombe Park is located at Helmsley, North Yorkshire and has been holding a Steam Rally for many years organised by the Great Yorkshire Traction Engine Club. It’s a great event and was well attended, with the option of camping for the entire weekend. Checking out the weather forecast, it looked quite mixed. Fine weather on Friday and Saturday, but thunderstorms were forecast on Sunday. Wishing to avoid a wet pack up I elected to sleep in Minty my 1967 109” which, when I bought it 8 years ago, came with a full-size caravan bed in the rear. So that was that sorted then.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

CHECKIN’ OUT Waking early, the coffee was brewed and we all gathered. The number of Land Rovers was increasing as other vehicles started to arrive. In front of us was the classic car section, which was also slowly filling up with various vehicles, one from 1911. Behind us was a fairly innocuous looking lorry, we had noticed it but didn’t really pay it any attention. Come the Saturday morning the side was opened and behind it was a vintage organ, this will sound lovely we all thought whilst we made breakfast.

Just as the organ started its repertoire, I decided to have a wander around to see what was on display. For those that like classic vehicles, a steam rally is a must. Alongside the Land Rovers and cars were displays of vintage commercial vehicles, old tractors and classic motorcycles. All lined up, looking rather splendid indeed. Then there were the Traction engines. As an engineer I just love the barn door engineering of these magnificent machines. Big gears, huge chains, very large flywheels and well-oiled pistons all reciprocating, turning and moving as the vehicles slowly trundled around. The displays covered everything, from immaculately polished and highly decorated examples to the more honest working vehicle that looked like it hadn’t been painted in several decades.

Getting back to the Land Rovers I sat down to listen to the aforementioned organ. It was a bit loud, making conversations difficult, but it did help the atmosphere of the event. But I must admit that after 20 minutes it was getting a bit, erm, repetitive? Throughout the day it belted out top tunes from the hit musical Grease, Swedish pop stars Abba and even the odd Celin Dion. Twice…. It did get a bit too much, and the best bit was certainly the Sound of Silence. No not the song, actual silence.

The day progressed and we met lots of nice people. It’s funny, but most people you meet have a Land Rover story from their past. Land Rovers are such a relatable vehicle and in my opinion the most classless vehicle ever made. Come the evening, several of the Traction engines were to drive into the centre of Helmsley so after a kind offer to drive from Ann, we all hopped into Paddington and went to join them. It’s fair to say that the centre of Helmsley was chaos, but good chaos. The atmosphere was fantastic, and the smell of the traction engines filled the air. We even had the local mayor welcome us from the back of an old trailer!

During the night, there were a few heavy showers, but come the morning it wasn’t that bad. We even joined the vehicle parade and drove around the central arena, chatting to the host about our Land Rovers. We all lined back up on the stand and spent the day looking around and chatting to more people. Come later afternoon, we all packed up and headed home. We had all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, and all vowed to return next year. The organisers did a great job and were more than happy for us to return next year – with more Land Rovers! Look out for more details next year!

After some time, we once again hopped into the back of Paddington and headed back to camp for some lovely Greek food courtesy of one of the many food trucks there, the beer tent beckoned again and this time we had the pleasure of listening to a Glam Rock band. Getting to bed, later that evening we braced ourselves for the thunder and lightning promised for the next day.

For those that like classic vehicles, a steam rally is a must.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

CHECKIN’ OUT

Checkin’ YORK LAND Out

ROVER SHOW Ian Garner checks out the York Land Rover Show WORDS & PHOTOS | IAN GARNER

Ever arrived at a show thinking you had forgotten something? On the Friday, I was all packed to go and did something I had never done before. Set off towing an empty car trailer. At the arrival gate I had strange looks as I mentioned I was on the Series I II III stand. I wasn’t driving, nor had I loaded on the trailer, a Series I, II or indeed III. So, what gives? Well, I mentioned that the show is run by RCM4x4, and the garage had been working on my Series III Bodied Range Rover hybrid for a few weeks, so it made sense to collect at the show. I parked up, walked to the garage section and collected my Landy and drove it though the arrival gate, this time the strange looks were more akin to haven’t we just seen you?

Over the next few hours more members turned up and pitched. As it was getting a bit later, a few of us were sat, beer in hand, chatting away when a 101 pulled up and I heard a voice say hello.

The evening went quickly as we all gathered around and spend the night chatting away with Allan supplying some very delicious liquids for us to sample.

I don’t know about you, but I tend to remember Land Rovers and their owners easier than faces and from a distance I couldn’t see who it was. Walking up I realised it was Allan Crow, our Scottish AR, with his son Cooper. We offered him a space on our stand and in no time at all, he too was sat down with a beer.

Flying the Flag for the Club as we all lined up

s Land Rover events go, the York show is a relative newbie in the calendar. Initially starting as a day event, the event is now held over the weekend, with people invited to camp over on the Friday and Saturday nights.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

The event itself is organised and ran by RCM4x4 with all profits going to charity. Last year was the first year the Series I II III club had a stand and the show managed to raise around £8,500. This year the club had a lot of interest by members, and in the end, we doubled last year’s Land Rover count with 10 members vehicles on display over the weekend. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

CHECKIN’ OUT Come the morning, we had a great line up on the stand. In addition to the 101 Forward Control, we had a two Series I’s, a Series IIa, four Series III’s (Including a Lightweight and a Stage 1), a Defender 110 Dormobile and my 100” Hybrid. The show itself is modest in size, but I say that in a good sense. Some of the larger shows feel too commercial, however the York show feels more like a gathering of friends. Walking around the show would take ages as you always bumped into people you knew. This meant the show had a familiar feel to it, it felt friendly and relaxed. Now most people will be aware that back in 2019, A certain Series I Land Rover drove from Singapore to London. Accompanying it were two Defenders, one of which lives at RCM4x4 and was on display. I had expected to see this, I must admit, but what a didn’t expect was that the owner and therefore one of the Last Overland team was also attending. It was great to meet Larry Leong in person and hear his stories. In the evening a few of us went up to the catering area. Hay bale seating waiting for us as did a selection of catering vehicles. The wood fired pizza was particularly nice, especially whilst washed down with a cool beverage. On Sunday, we awoke for a similar day to the one previous. Walking around, chatting and generally being social. It was also prize giving day, and I am pleased to say that Series I II III club member, James Smith, won the best restoration with his Stage I, which was proudly featured on our stand! Come late afternoon, it was time to pack up and leave. This involved driving my 100” onto the car trailer. Simple you would have thought - however, it didn’t have a lot of fuel in it, and when it climbed to get on the trailer the fuel ran to the back of the tank and well... it ran out of petrol, half on and half off the trailer. Whilst this did cause a certain amount of mirth and merriment to my fellow club members it was rather embarassing and I am sure it will be mentioned many times in my future. A huge thanks to those that helped me load it after this! All in all it’s a pleasant event, it’s a good weekend of relaxing and catching up. I look forward to next year indeed, oh and this year over £14,000 raised for the mountain rescue. James Smith’s award winning Stage 1 on display on our club stand

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

The York show feels more like a gathering of friends. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

RIPON RENDEZVOUS The Series I, II, III Club’s second annual rally gets off to a revving start, as Ian Garner reports. 50

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

WORDS & PHOTOS | IAN GARNER

f I am honest, I am not sure how I ended up organising the rally. I mentioned that Ripon would be a good venue based on past experiences and in a very short space I had the job! Luckily in the Yorkshire region we have a good team of helpers and in no time at all we had a team together!

SETTING UP As the event approached, we turned ourselves to planning the different Greenlane routes. North Yorkshire has a great selection of lanes, and after an initial planning session we selected the lanes and a few of us went to check them out. It was a tough job indeed, but someone had to do it!

As locations go, Ripon is well suited. Easy to travel to, being close to the A1, and on the edge of the wonderful natural beauty of North Yorkshire. David Cook and I arrived on Wednesday to get set up, with the Rally itself starting on Thursday. Throughout the day we had a steady stream of arrivals, and most people used this day to get set up. DAY 1 | TACKLING THE TERRAIN Over the next few days around 60 Land Rovers would turn up to enjoy the activities arranged. We had organised various green lanes routes with a mixture of self-led and group led and a mixture of difficulties. One of the self-led routes was nicknamed the Masham circular, which as you may have guessed, started and finished in the market town of Masham. Some of the more opportunistic club members also took this chance to visit the world-famous Black Sheep Brewery.

Over the next few days around 60 Land Rovers would turn up The route initially takes you over the grouse moors before heading towards Patley Bridge, home of the world’s oldest sweet shop. The route then takes you over the hill and down towards Scar House reservoir, with fantastic views of the dam. Once you have descended the steep and twisty track you drive over the dam and ascend the next land up Deadman’s Lane. As you start to ascend the route takes you through a small, wooded area where the lost village of Lodge was once located. If you stop and explore you can still see evidence of the housing and a couple of old wood fired ovens are still visible. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

DAY 2 | ROUND THE TWIST On Friday, we had arranged a visit to Twisted Automotive in Thirsk. Home of some of the best modified Land Rovers money can buy. After being met by the team we were offered coffee and bacon, before a talk by a former Land Rover technician. After this we were shown the workshop where we were taken through the process of turning Defenders into Twisted Defenders. The level of detail in their vehicles is amazing, as is the natural enthusiasm the team have for their product.

After our visit to Twisted, the group headed to the small market town of Helmsley, where we started the lanes. The first lane took you along the top of a hill which had a beautiful vista to the left. A few miles later we went through a farmyard and entered a pretty, wooded area. After this, we tackled Rudland Rigg, the longest Greenlane in England, before heading back to the camp site via another selection of local lanes.

One of the highlights of the visit was to see the recently launched Range Rover Classic. With an American V8 under the subtly modified exterior there is a lot to like. The wheel arches have been widened, not by bolted on extensions, but had hand rolled panels. This is a product where things have been done properly. The retro Rostyle wheels fill those arches, and everything looked just right, in proportion.

The level of detail in their vehicles is amazing Series Land Rovers line up outside the Old Cinema, home of Twisted Automotive.

The second Greenlane of Friday took us through a pretty farmyard and over a bridge.

Ruddland Rigg is the longest Greenlane in the UK and offers moorland views in all directions. 52

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

The climb up Fremington is very loose and steep, not for the faint hearted

Kat in her Series IIA tackles the ford as she exits Helwith.

As you near the top there are several axle twisting sections where a gun hoe approach often works best

Richard tackles the ford after you make the tight bend.

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

Once you got to the top, your heart rate had certainly up’d a few notches

DAY 3 | SETTING THE HEART PUMPING For the Saturday, we had a special treat for those greenlaning with the guided routes, but more on this later. When organising greenlaning you are always trying to balance difficulty with ability, so we decided to have two different routes to our destination – black and red. Both routes started in Leyburn and took us Northwest. Those on the black run tackled Fremington Edge, a lane which is not for the faint hearted. As you climb the hill, the surface is very rocky and loose with a big drop to the left at the start. As you near the top, you have the option to go left or right. Left is gentler but brings you close to the edge whereas right takes you on a very bumpy track indeed. With cross axles and a loose surface, you need a certain amount of vigor to maintain your momentum. Once you got to the top, your heart rate had certainly up’d a few notches and I found myself patting the bonnet of Minty my 1967 109” saying “Good Job” whilst having a grin a Cheshire cat would be proud off. Heading down the hill with camera in hand I filmed the others in my group also having fun with axles flexing and dirt and stones flying! 54

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

After Fremington, you meet up with the red route, which takes in Goats Bridge, the pinnacle of which is a tight hand hander which requires a shunt. Whilst a 88” had been known to get round in one go, the route taken was, well, very direct! From here you head down through a gate and across a ford. With the dry weather of late the ford was quite low, but still enough to cause a slash. Through the ford you climb and head to our planned destination, Helwith Tea Garden. A small unassuming farmyard, literally in the middle of nowhere, Helwith Tea Garden offers a nice stop off point. The lady of the farm will come out and offer you fresh scones, with Jam and Cream with your choice of Tea or Coffee, for only a few pounds. The garden itself is a very pleasant place to sit in the sun and talk about the morning laning with friends.

However, as we entered, we came across a fellow club member whose Land Rover was being towed. A fueling issue had stopped the engine and no amount of coaxing could get it started. Rather than tow with a soft strop on these country lanes, I offered to pick up my Defender and car trailer to ensure there were no accidents and 30 minutes later we were winching the stricken Land Rover onto the trailer. Ben’s Series I tackles the final ford of the day before heading back to camp.

Paddington heads the line up outside the Helwith Tea Gardens while the team pose for a photo after a lovely afternoon cream tea.

After the final few crumbs had been ingested, we started the next lane in the farmyard itself. A small ford and a tight left-hand bend took you over the hill and onwards. A couple more lanes later, one taking in a very nice ford, we stopped off at Brymor Ice cream for a treat.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

MANY THANKS You cannot organise these events without a significant amount of assistance. From helping with planning and checking Greenlane routes, manning the BBQ or running the raffle, the Yorkshire region are very lucky to have willing volunteers. A huge thank you goes to David Cook, Richard & Ann Trusson, Richard Hughes, Tom, Arthur, Maisey & Victoria Jobling, John Horne and Ben Drake. The first group head off after Helwith

EVENING ENTERTAINMENT

DAY 4 | SAY CHEESE

In the evening, we all gathered for a communal BBQ, raffle and Quiz. My wife Lola had been sent to do the shopping earlier that morning and arrived with a car full of food. A team of willing volunteers manned to BBQ and after a lot of effort in getting the BBQs lit, food was being served.

Sunday morning, we lined up for the obligatory group photo and we were done. Camp was dismantled, Land Rovers were packed and we all headed home.

Washed down with a few drinks, we held the raffle. Britpart, Paddocks, HNJ Engineering and www.lrlife.co.uk all provided prizes and a huge thank you goes them for their support.

Next year will be in Devon, I can’t wait. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ian currently owns four Series Land Rovers and enjoys using them for greenlaning, shows, drives out and camping. His fleet includes a 1967 109” Series IIA Camper, a 1971 Series IIA 88” soft top, a 1974 Range Rover Classic fitted with a Series III Stage 1 pick up body, as well as a 1968 88” station wagon which is currently being restored.

Small groups then found themselves huddling together waiting to tackle the evening quiz. Four rounds covering Food, Travel, Yorkshire and Leaf sprung Land Rovers were prepared and over the next hour or so you could see the groups in discussion trying to guess the correct answers. A slight difference of opinion later regarding the number of islands in Indonesia and we were done.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

I would also like to thank those that helped lead the various greenlaning groups throughout the weekend.

It was a busy weekend, but a good one, and what better way to end it with a firepit, friends and live music.

Chairman James also provided some bottles of local beer that he had procured the previous day. All proceeds from the raffle and BBQ went to Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Our initial estimate is that we raised £260, a good effort indeed.

Time to gather round the firepit and relax. A guitar appeared and so did an accordion, and soon we were treated to live music as the night turned into the morning.

And finally Lola who, despite not liking Camping nor old Land Rovers, drove from Huddersfield with the food and spent the evening helping the others cook.

After the chaos, music and a chill out was in order. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

...approximately 45 Series Land Rovers took part in a scenic drive...

Club Chairman and New Forest & Solent Area Rep, James is nuts about Land Rovers. His main Land Rover is Harriet, a 1966 Series IIa 109”, 2.25 petrol which he bought off Ebay for £100. He also owns a 1979 Series III Lightweight which is his main greenlaning vehicle.

WORDS & PHOTOS | JAMES WILLIAMS

SIXPENNY HANDLEY

James Williams reports on the fourteenth annual rally at Sixpenny Handley.

ourteen years we’ve been holding our annual gathering at Sixpenny Handley, Dorset.

On the Thursday evening approximately 40 of us descended on the Horseshoe Inn, Ebbesbourne Wake for our usual home cooked meal and local beer/cider.

Every one of those years we’ve had a campfire. Sizes have varied, but this year was different, the fire was not meant to be. A blistering hot summer and parched land meant we had to call it off. 2025 then will be remembered as the year with no fire.

On Friday approximately 45 Series Land Rovers took part in a scenic drive heading West into Dorset with a planned mid afternoon stop at the Gaggle of Geese, Buckland Newton. Plenty of car parking here, and thankfully two massive tents in the beer garden for us all to sit under. Food and drink might have been on the agenda.

Attendance on the other hand was excellent. We were joined by cohorts from South West, Thames & Chiltern and Surrey and Sussex, and of course the usual suspects who travel from far and wide for cider and cheese, you know who you are. 58

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

FRIDAY FROLICS

After the pub some headed back to the campsite for a cold shower, while others continued West taking in a few greenlanes with views of Cerne Abbas. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

All vehicles where back onsite for the 6pm buffet (thanks everyone!) which was laid out in the marquee. Special thanks also to Brian Deacon for supplying the massive pie from the pie shop! – Guess what next year’s theme is!? Not yet sure which dirty animal brought along the jar of Gherkins?! As the sun started to set (sponsored by Lucas), several owners attended to “essential vehicle maintenance,” the type that one only undertakes at a rally. Club members were also seen selling bits and pieces from the micro autojumbles outside their tents.

SATURDAY’S SCENERY Saturday was equally busy, with one large group going out on a scenic drive around Cranborne Chase led by Jeremy in his ever so shiny Series III V8. Thank you, Jeremy! The rest of the vehicles went out greenlaning for the day in groups of six at staggered times throughout the morning. Poor Brian in my group had fuel pump failure part way round the route. Not a problem for your average Series Land Rover owner, they just needed a rest for a while. Some sweaty Brian/overalls and new fuel pump later and we are back in business. He was very quick to the bar in the pub that afternoon let me tell you.

Poor Brian in my group had fuel pump failure part way round the route. Not a problem for your average Series Land Rover owner, they just needed a rest for a while.

A good mix of lanes around Cranborne Chase, and finishing near Martin’s Down and Whitsbury. Back to the campsite for 18:00 for the vehicle line up and photo, and of course the massive BBQ. This year I had ordered 10kg of North Cadbury Cheddar. And believe it not we got through about 9.5kg of it!

SUNDAY GOODBYES Sunday morning was another trip to the campsite café for breakfast and tea before contemplating taking the marquees down and packing up. Club Members said their goodbyes and drifted off throughout the day. Another well attended event, and lovely to see new local members coming along, and of course members from neighbouring areas who are always welcome. See you all again next year! 60

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

RESTORING

Old FRIENDS

Cameron Bunn takes on restoring a Series IIA in memory of a lost friend and saves a Series III Long Wheel Base. WORDS & PHOTOS | CAMERON BUNN

es, it’s slow, it leaks oil, and it rattles like a toolbox on gravel. But it has character — and a lot of history behind it.

I was fifteen when I got my hands on my first Land Rover. It was a blue 1963 Series IIA with a Holden 202 engine in it, given to me for free by Greg Ngeru, a good family friend. It came only a few months after we lost his son — a good mate of mine – in a motorbike accident. His name was Luke Ngeru. He was only fifteen when he passed, just missing his sixteenth birthday by a couple of months, meaning he never even got to have a driver’s license. Luke and I did so much together. We spent a lot of time on his farm, and I remember one occasion when we were playing in the old Land Rover

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

while it was parked up. I’ll never forget the things we used to do and all the times we spent together – which is why this Land Rover is really important to me. I was able to save the Land Rover from their farm, and just in time too – not long after I picked it up, the two cars next to it were buried to clear room in the shed. Once we got the Land Rover back home, we cleaned it up and put it on our lift to see what had corroded over the many years it had been sitting. We found rust in the usual places – outriggers, bulkhead, bonnet frame, and leaf springs. After our inspection, we decided to strip the old girl down and restore her, giving her another chance at life. Little did I know how much time, money, effort, and patience would be required to do a restoration like this – especially

I know most people my age are into Hiluxes, Rangers, flash cars or whatever goes fast and looks flash — but for me, nothing beats my old Series Land Rover.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

since I started the project at fifteen. I’m currently one and a half years into it and still haven’t got the chassis ready, due to an insane amount of rust discovered after sandblasting. The reason it’s taking so long is because I’m doing everything myself – from rust repair to painting, even the wiring – all done by me in my little old workshop in the middle of nowhere. A few months into the project, I was riding motorbikes on Greg’s farm – the same one the Land Rover came from – as he hosts trail rides there (the Purangi Trail Ride). That’s when he told me about another Land Rover in an old shed off the main track in the middle of the farm. After figuring out where to turn off, I headed down a small, narrow, slippery track to find this shed – and what would soon become my second Land Rover. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

When I first saw it, I was a bit worried – it looked rough and probably had little chance of ever starting, let alone driving up that dodgy track and over the small bridges crossing the Waitara River (which were made from old truck trailers) just to get back to the road. Later that day, I told Greg I’d be keen to try and save it, but he said I’d have to wait until midsummer since the track was too slick and the river too high – the bridges would’ve been underwater.

Cameron Bunn is 17 years old, from New Plymouth Taranaki New Zealand. His family has a sheep and beef farm which is were he works on his Land Rovers in a little place called Tarata (My paradise).

Fast forward to midsummer – Greg and I set out in his Land Cruiser to see if we could pull it out of the shed. His plan was to tow it up to the road, as it would be easier that way. Once we hooked up, he started pulling, and to my surprise, it rolled extremely well – and even more surprising, it still had brakes!

Two years ago, I was just a kid with a few cool old tractors and a Land Cruiser. Now I’m a kid who’s always busy in the workshop, fixing something 64

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

We soon hit a problem, though: once we reached the first uphill section, the Land Cruiser just spun out. We had no chance of pulling it out that way. After a minute, Greg decided to bring out his CAT D6 bulldozer to haul it up – and as expected, the dozer made light work of it. After reaching the top of the hill, I free-rolled down the long, steep slope using the Land Rover’s brakes to cross the bridge. We made it back to the road, where we towed it home with a strop. Once again, I had to rely on those old brakes – thankfully, they held together.

This Land Rover turned out to be a 1977 Series III LWB, and it became the new farm ute. The next task was to get it running, which surprisingly proved easy – all we had to do was adjust the distributor, pour some petrol down the gurgler, and cross the solenoid terminals. She roared into life with no smoke and no knocks. I was amazed. The next problem was a seized clutch, but with a new master cylinder, it was back in action – until I discovered the fuel tank was more sieve than tank, with holes everywhere! I ripped it out and replaced it with a SWB Land Rover under-seat fuel tank, making up some new brackets to fit it. After these repairs, the Land Rover proved great. I got a bull bar and a big winch so I could take it through muddy tracks without worrying about getting stuck.

gave me compliments. I’d never been happier… until the next morning, when I woke up with some of the worst back pain imaginable! Two years ago, I was just a kid with a few cool old tractors and a Land Cruiser. Now I’m a kid who’s always busy in the workshop, fixing something or continuing the Land Rover restoration – but I wouldn’t give them up for the world. I don’t know what it is, but there’s something special about saving these old machines and giving them a second chance. It makes me truly happy – and throughout the fixing and restoring, you meet all sorts of people and learn all sorts of skills that you just can’t learn in school.

My mates and I then tackled the Whangamomona Road track — it was awesome. All the locals loved the Land Rover, and some of the guys on the track

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE

WORDS | J ORGE VELOZO LOCATION | C HILE

was born in 1981 at the Santana Motor factory in Linares, Spain.

I arrived in Chile by ship in March 1982 and was purchased by my first owner, the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF). I travelled thousands of kilometres in central Chile with the Corporation’s inspectors. Later, in 1985, a gentleman from Santiago bought me. With him, his wife, and daughters, I travelled many roads in southern Chile, making the round trip from Santiago to visit the cities of Temuco, Villarrica, Pucón, Valdivia, Osorno, Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas, Llanquihue, and the island of Chiloé.

and Pichidangui, always pulling a trailer. Sometimes we carried vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, and onions; other times, it was coal and construction materials for his beach house in the small town of Pichidangui. On his property in Talca, using the same trailer, we performed many tasks, hauling firewood, construction materials, gravel, sand, and coal. We traveled throughout the region, from the mountains to the sea.

In 1988, a man living in the city of Talca in central Chile purchased me. With him, we travelled north to the cities of La Serena, Tongoy, Los Vilos,

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

TALES FROM THE TAILGATE rear compartment, and body sides. Work lights were added front and rear, plus a new radio and antenna. Later, they replaced the distributor with an electronic one and installed a new water pump. In 2017, after I had clocked over 400,000 kilometres, the engine was rebuilt. Most recently, in 2025, the starter motor was replaced. A retro 80s-style radio with Bluetooth and a USB charger was installed, along with a battery voltmeter, new rubber seals The most entertaining times were when his grandchildren visited from Santiago. We would take them on trips to the mountains, driving along dusty, loose dirt roads where I’d get lost in the clouds of dust, climbing the hills in the La Placeta area where this gentleman owned an 80-hectare field. We camped outdoors, enjoyed a good barbecue of roasted goat, and returned the next day to San Rafael, Talca. My owner’s son-in-law often drove me when we went rabbit hunting on the country roads. He would say how much he enjoyed driving me, and on one occasion, I heard him tell his father-in-law, “If you ever want to sell it, let me know. I’ll buy it”. My owner replied, “Absolutely, I’ll let you know”. Back then, my condition was relatively good, but I was gradually deteriorating. My original paint was fading. The spare tire mounted on the rear door was too heavy and damaged the hinges. Later, when it was moved to the hood, the same thing happened, and the hood began to warp. The interior suffered from sun damage and general wear. The rear seats were no longer original and didn’t fit properly; the upholstery was torn, and the dashboard was cracked. The radio that had been installed stopped working. The fuel tank filler neck was broken and would leak if overfilled. While the engine was functional, it hadn’t been properly tuned in a long time, the carburettor performed poorly, and fuel consumption was excessive. Around 1992, my owner lent me to some acquaintances who were helping him campaign for Mayor of San Rafael. They drove me around the commune but

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

for the air intakes, a fan cleaning, and a fuel gauge repair. Additionally, the double roof was replaced with thicker aluminium and new spacer pins, which reduced noise. Nowadays, I’m still on the property in San Rafael, near Talca. While my trips are shorter now, likely due to my high fuel consumption, I continue to do some heavy work with my owner, pulling my faithful companion – the same trailer I’ve had since 1985 – loaded with firewood, logs, coal, and other materials. Despite

everything, I’m happy! If I want mud, I’ll get mud; if I want dirt, I’ll get dirt; bad roads? Those too. And if I have to push myself, my spirit will always be willing. All I ask is to be cared for and always have a roof over my head, water, gasoline, and oil, so I can meet my owner’s demands – and hopefully those of his children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren, because I still feel healthy enough to last for generations. Thank you and greetings to all.

didn’t take proper care of me; they even dented my right front fender, requiring a trip to the mechanic for repairs. I was resigned to a slow decline in the countryside, expecting to be abandoned soon by my owner. He wasn’t using me much anymore, and trips to the mechanic became less frequent, usually only for minor fixes rather than the comprehensive overhaul I needed. I noticed my owner didn’t have the same energy as in the earlier years. My life became a slow routine: parked for months under a tin roof, my battery dead. My owner would occasionally remove the battery, charge it, and reinstall it just to start my engine, but it wasn’t often; I could tell his energy was fading. One day in 2008, the owner’s son-in-law again expressed interest in buying me if he decided to sell. The owner agreed, admitting he didn’t use me much anymore and that the deterioration would only worsen with time. So, Don Jorge bought me. He immediately took me to a painter in Talca, making my exterior look brand new. Then, he took me to Santiago and hired an aircraft upholsterer who refurbished the dashboard, reupholstered the seats in black leather, and redid the entire side panelling and headliner. Shortly after, he took me to the “El Dique” auto shop in Santiago, specialists in Santana Series vehicles. They installed power brakes and a new grille. They moved the spare tire from the hood (where the previous owner had put it) back to the rear door, but this time with a swing-away carrier arm to avoid stressing the door hinges. A new hood was fitted, along with diamond-plate aluminium trim on the front fenders,

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Former Carabineros de Chile (uniformed police), helicopter pilot and retired Colonel, Jorge Velozois is as passionate about his Land Rovers as he is about flying, which he uses to get the most out of it in tasks in the Chilean countryside.

If I want mud, I’ll get mud; if I want dirt, I’ll get dirt; bad roads? Those too. And if I have to push myself, my spirit will always be willing. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

Cross-axle CORNER

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

CROSS-AXLE CORNER

The place to share your Series Land Rover blunders.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

CLUB AREA REPORTS

WHAT’S BIN

OCCURIN’? Find out what’s been happening across the club and future dates for your diary

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

ANGLIA

SERIES ON THE STOUR After a two year break, Series Land Rovers returned to Clare Country Park for Series on the Stour. Jointly organising the day with the Series 2 Club, 28 vehicles attended ranging from Gary Gosney’s Series II fire Engine, to a 101 forward control.

AREA REPORTS

As per the previous event we organised a greenlaning route for those wanting to explore the area. AllterrainUK helped with our greenlaning by providing a drivers briefing and led one of the three groups that explored lanes across the border into Essex. Group one experienced a failure to proceed in the most remote spot of the route and waved Group two past whilst heads peered under the bonnet. Expertise and spares (neither supplied by myself) were on hand to sort the electrical gremlin which was resolved and thankfully never returned. The team leads created a Whatsapp group to share live location for the day which proved invaluable to track everyone’s progress and allowed us to pause groups to prevent unintended catch up on the lanes. Following on from this, AllterrainUK have offered to run a greenlaning planning session in Suffolk for any interested members. This will explain how to find legal routes and create digital route files that can be accessed though your phone. Anyone that is interested in this please drop me an email. We plan to repeat this event again next summer and hope we can recruit a few more volunteers to lead out groups.

STONHAM BARNS

AREA REP Richard Allin



Thanks to everyone that made it along to Stonham Barns on the 5th October. We had over 20 vehicles on display with club members coming down from Norfolk and up from Essex. We really seemed to draw a constant flow of interested visitors and being a little biased, think we had by far the best club stand. Some members (including myself) were not in a position to bring a working series, so brought other Land Rovers along. Much more important to get members together than worry about going Series only.

UPCOMING EVENTS Pub Meet 4th Wed of the month from 7pm Horse and Groom, Cornish Hall End CM7 4HF

Winter Wheel Wash 28th December 2025 from 10:30am Blake End Craft Centre, Rayne, Braintree CM77 6SH Gathering at Blake Hall Craft Centre followed by driving the numerous Fords of Essex/

Thriplow Daffodil Weekend 21st & 22nd March 2026 from 9:30am Thriplow, SG8 7HZ Annual Spring Weekend event with classic Land Rover gathering on both days, free to attend if displaying

Drive It Day 26th April 2026 Blake End Craft Centre, Rayne, Braintree CM77 6SH

WATCH THE ANGLIA AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

Now in its third year this show is steadily growing and I hope to see this continue. It was a great opportunity to bring together members from across the region and hope we can plan out a number of events in 2026 that will do the same. 74

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

BELGIUM AREA REPORTS

LAND ROVER AND MINERVA SORTOUT The biannual Land Rover and Minerva Sortout returned to Domein De Moervelden in Ranst, Belgium, on September 21st. Held in the spacious hangars of a former military base, the event combined a vibrant parts market with an impressive display of classic Land Rovers and Minerva’s. This year’s line-up was built around three themes: Belgian historical Land Rovers and Minervas, original soft-top vehicles, and station wagons ranging from the classic 107 SW to the latest new Defender. Highlights included the first Land Rover delivered to Belgium in 1948, the oldest surviving Minerva army vehicle, and the last 4x4 designed and built by Minerva in 1957, the C22.

UPCOMING EVENTS WATCH THE BELGIUM AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

Collectors and enthusiasts from Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK gathered to trade rare spare parts, share knowledge, and showcase their vehicles. Visitors were treated to a wide variety of original and restored Land Rovers, including a 1948 80”, a 1977 Series III with just 45,000 km, and several unique station wagons and military variants. Beyond the vehicles, the weekend featured a warm international atmosphere, from Saturday’s welcoming BBQ to the lively Sunday market. The event once again confirmed its reputation as a key meeting point for Land Rover enthusiasts in the region. See you again in 2027!

AREA REP Bjorn Aerts



MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

COTSWOLDS & NORTH WESSEX DOWNS

NEW PUB MEET ESTABLISHED

UPCOMING EVENTS

As one of the newer areas, we’re only just getting started! Our first pub night was held in June and to my great relief, I wasn’t drinking alone! Encouraged by that small success, we ran another in July, where attendance reached double figures. It is now a monthly event, taking place on the first Tuesday of the month at The Horse and Jockey in Stanford-inthe-Vale.

Pub Meet 1st Tuesday of the month fron 7pm

If anyone fancies starting up a similar pub night in the north or west of the area, let me know and we’ll make sure it’s publicised.

The Horse and Jockey, 25 Farindon Road, Stanford-in-the-Vale SN7 8NN

WEST OXON STEAM AND VINTAGE SHOW The West Oxon Steam and Vintage Show in Witney drew a strong turnout of older Land Rovers, as it always does. I attended with my local classic car club, parked next to a smart Lightweight owned by a Thames and Chiltern Area member. I have put the dates for next year’s show (18th and 19th July) on the area calendar and the organisers have said that if there is enough of us we can have our own section in the car display area.

Breakfast at Browns 1st Saturday of the month (except Aug) Browns Classics, Leckhampstead, Newbury RG20 8RD

Breakfast on the bonnet 29th December 2025 10am to 12pm

AREA REPORTS

White Horse Hill, Uffington, Oxfordshire Come and enjoy a couple of hours of Land Rovers, fresh air and good company between Christmas and New Year. Bring your own food and means of making a brew.

West Oxon Steam & Vintage Show 18th & 19th July 2026 Shores Green, Oxford hill, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX29 6UU

HENDRED CLASSIC VEHICLE MEET AREA REP Simon Bunyard



While area-led events are still finding their feet, members have already been busy elsewhere. A group flew the flag for Series Land Rovers at the excellent Hendred Classic Vehicle Meet on 22nd June, co-organised by member Stuart Taylor. It was a fantastic day, with a wide variety of vehicles on display — including our all-important Series I, II and III line-up.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

BREAKFAST AT BROWNS Another regular fixture is Breakfast at Browns in Leckhampstead, near Newbury, on the first Saturday of every month (except August). There are usually a few Series Land Rovers in attendance, alongside excellent breakfast rolls (all proceeds to Thames Valley Air Ambulance), interesting workshops to explore, and a welcoming atmosphere. I go whenever I can and will post reminders on the area Facebook page.

WATCH THE COTSWOLDS & NORTH WESSEX DOWNS AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

WATCH THE CUMBRIA & PENNINES AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS. ESKDALE SHOW There have been a number of local village and agricultural shows around the area and it is always a pleasure to bump in to fellow enthusiasts and guardians of green oval vehicles. Most recently I came across this interesting vehicle at the Eskdale Show. This EVLR will not be to everybody’s taste but the work has given it a new lease of life and believe me the finish is immaculate! Hopefully more to follow on this.

VICTOR’S REFRESH

AREA REP Jack Beach



UPCOMING EVENTS

Geographically we are a diverse and large area ranging from the Irish Sea coast through the Lake District and the Pennine hills on to the north east coast. Maybe a coast to coast scenic drive is called for. I myself live on the western edge of the area and it takes an hour and a half to leave the county! Over the next few months I would love to organise some gatherings. Initially I would be looking at the Western Lakes – if anyone has any ideas that they would like to put forward, please drop me a line. A pub meet may be a good starting point. If there are any members who would like to arrange something in the East, please do! If it is in the school holidays I will try to come along.

AREA REPORTS

CUMBRIA & PENNINES

HELLO FROM CUMBRIA & NORTH PENNINES

PATINA NATIONALS Dave Marsh, a local enthusiast with many projects on the go, recently ventured along with his daughter Kayla into foreign parts (Skipton) to participate in the Patina Nationals. Here he is driving Rocky – a lovely 80” belonging to Emrys Kirby. Kayla was sensible enough to exit the vehicle before this section – she wasn’t keen on getting wet. Sadly Rocky had to retire after nine sections due to a fractured rear spring. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

There has been a fair amount of maintenance going on at home. The once proud and shiny Victor (1961 88”) did not enjoy beach life and the salt water did its best to eat him. He is currently undergoing his second refit, including new doors, seatbelts, seriously uprated brakes (now with dual circuits, servo and 11” drums from a FC - better than my modern car), new lights (the headlights may not stay) and a lot of cleaning & de rusting. Hopefully he will be ready to go for next year, complete with a refreshed gearbox and an overdrive. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

UPCOMING EVENTS

It’s still in early days of the building phase over here, and distances are indeed long for our increasingly elderly vehicles to organise meetups, but I’ve been showing the flag at a number of events, and am doing my level best!

WATCH THE GERMANY AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS. CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

AREA REPORTS

GERMANY

CLUB GAINING TRACTION

The DLRC (Deutscher Land Rover Club) celebrated their 50th anniversary with a long weekend at Mammut Park in Stradtoldenberg. 350 trucks and at least twice as many participants from Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Belgium, Luxemborg, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Estonia and Scotland.

THE DÜSSELDORF CLASSIC DAYS SHOW In August, the Classic Days show near Düsseldorf had an offroad course and a number of Series entries.

AREA REP Gunnar Miller



LAND ROVER’S ON DISPLAY In April, there was the Cransburger Oldtimer event in Oberursel Altstadt, which was a very picturesque backdrop. The Central Garage 2025 season opener was also well attended. In May we also attended a Mother’s Day car show in Flörsheim, the Baron Knyphausen car show in Eltville, as well as the 34th edition of the Klassikertage in Hattersheim.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

HERTFORDSHIRE & UPPER GREAT OUSE

CAMPING IN BLUNHAM

TREE CLIMBING IN POWYS

It has been a busy summer season with members of our region attending both local and national I, II, III club events and even venturing over the channel to our near neighbours in France.

In May, members from our region headed over to the club event in Powys, plenty of laning and meeting up with members from all over the country. As is customary running repairs were required, and a bent bottom pulley required attention. Also, some time was spent climbing trees…..!

In April we held our first camp in Blunham. Many thanks to Chris for hosting us, who along with Russ organised the BBQ and fire to keep everyone warm. Liquid refreshments helped keep sprits up through the evening under canvas! The camp was timed to coincide with national Drive it Day on the Sunday, so after breakfast folks headed out for a bit of gentle laning and were also treated to a profusion of bluebells.



21st December 2025 North Herts Please contact Russ in advance if you are interested in attending these trailing events for the first time.

TBC - See Facebook page Herts & Upper Gt Ouse region Between Christmas and New Year we will be out laning somewhere in our region, details to follow nearer the time.

TRIP TO YEATHERAGE & WORKSHOP MEETING

AREA REPORTS ASSISTANT Russ Beck

BHCLRC trail

“Betwixtmas” 2025

In June, members from Herts UGO next ventured over to the south western region to Yeatherage for more camping and laning. Much wetter than it had been this summer but the weather didn’t dampen spirits. Later in June we held our region’s first workshop meeting up in Yardley Gobian, many thanks to Stuart for hosting us. Not sure what the balance between tea and cake consumption versus workshop activities was in the end! LOOKING AHEAD

AREA REP Greg Dean

UPCOMING EVENTS

By the time this goes to print we will have held our region’s second pub and final camping meet for this year over in Ridgmont, Bedfordshire at the Rose and Crown. Over the next few months we hope to organise some more green laning outings and we will schedule something to mark Christmas and the New Year. Details on the usual channels. If any local club members are interested in some friendly competitive trialling, a local club that Russ is involved with (Beds, Herts and Cambs LR club) would welcome any Series I, II, III club members along. All you would need is an RS Clubman’s Licence. (free from Motor Sport UK) and a road worthy / road taxed Land Rover with front and rear recovery points. Contact Russ Beck for more details if you are interested. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

AND THE TOUR GOES ON... Over the year, we have tried to vary the kind of events we have put on. However, we would love to hear what members would like to be doing over the coming months. Is it more pub meets, more camping, more laning or do you have an idea for something to do within our region? Please let us know and while we can’t promise to do everything that is suggested it will help us tailor our plans if we get some feedback!

In July and again later in August, to broaden our horizons and spread the leaf sprung message, we attended a local classics meet on the very picturesque Ickwell village green in Bedfordshire. A great chance to look at everything from vintage cars, trucks, other leaf sprung vehicles and all the way through to super cars. We felt we held our own well in mixed company!

This has been our first year as area reps for this region, and we would like to say a huge thank you to everyone that has supported the events that we have put on so far. We look forward to meeting more of you over the coming year.

Later in July, the national tour continued, and members from our region headed down to Sixpenny Handley for the New Forest and Solent camping weekend. It was a hot and dusty weekend, which required regular visits to the local hostelries to prevent dehydration setting it! Also, some interesting local signage was spotted!

Yardley Gobion Workshop Meet TBC - See Facebook page Yardley Gobion Details will be shared by email and Facebook once confirmed.

Future Events in 2026

We will be holding more regular pub, café or interesting destination meets in the coming months. If you have any ideas, please send us suggestions via email or Facebook.

WATCH THE HERTFORDSHIRE & UPPER GREAT OUSE AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

KENT

UPCOMING EVENTS Christmas Pub Meet

AREA REPORTS

12th December 2025 from 5pm Red Lion, Stodmarsh

Christmas Land Rover Meet 21st December 2025 2pm to 5pm Monkshill Farm, ME13 9EH

New Year’s Road Run 4th January 2026 TBC - See Facebook page WEALD OF KENT STEAM AND COUNTRY SHOW Its been a great few months for the Land Rover Series I, II, III Club Kent area, with some pub meets under our belt and our first Club Stand at the Weald Of Kent Steam and Country Show, next summer I can assure you will be packed with much more! Plans are underway for a Christmas/New Years road run too! I think a few cafe Lunch meet ups will be a great addition in the coming months when things are quieter for us all as well! Happy Landrovering everyone!

Coffee Mornings 7th February 2026 from 10am TBC - See Facebook page 14th March 2026 from 10am TBC - See Facebook page

WATCH THE KENT AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

AREA REP Liam Smith



MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

NEW FOREST & SOLENT

GREENLANING IN KNIGHTON

UPCOMING EVENTS

It’s been a busy season here in New Forest & Solent. Back in May a number of us ventured off to Knighton on the England/Wales border on our annual greenlane exploration trip. I think we had about 12 Land Rovers in total, with a good six or so heading up from New Forest & Solent and South West. Fantastic greenlanes & great company. The cider was good too!

Christmas Meal 5th December 2025 from 6pm The Yew Tree Inn, Odstock, Salisbury

New Forest & Solent New Years Run 4th January 2026 from 10am

AREA REPORTS

Opposite Co-Op Petrol Station, Solstice Park, Mid Summer Pl, Amesbury, Salisbury SP4 7SQ Our usual run on Salisbury Plain to test the mud and see how deep the water is! You are advised to bring basic recovery gear, WD40 if you are a petrol, fill up before we set out and bring a packed lunch and a flask.

Greenlaning Salisbury Plain 1st March 2026 Grid Reference: SU 02277 47548 Meet in Tank hardstanding at: SU 02277 47548 on the Tilshead/Chitterne Road.

Throughout late June and early July a number of use pre-drove some of our local greenlanes in preparation for the Sixpenny Handley rally mid July. It’s a good job we did, as there were some fallen trees that needed attending too. Thankfully we had come prepared and some time later the lane was open again.

Cranborne Chase Scenic Drive

And then of course our annual camping weekend at Sixpenny Handley in July, where we had over 100 people camping over a long weekend. Nearly 50 Series Land Rovers in attendance, and many field repairs to resolve on a daily basis! Love it!

AREA REP James Williams

After the gathering at Sixpenny Handley it was time to check the fluids and load the vehicle and trailer ready for the journey up north the Club rally at Ripon, Yorkshire. Three of us went up in convoy, which was a hoot!

 Please email for access to FB page

SIXPENNY HANDLEY RALLY

SOUTH WEST CAMPING WEEKEND In June several of us travelled down to Devon for the South West Camping weekend. It’s an 80 mile drive for me, which is about 2-3 hours in the Land Rover including stops, so not too far. As always, the company and lanes were fantastic. We are returning for the Club national rally next year, as the campsite and restaurant bar are excellent. Cider and cheese were consumed. Sandford Orchards, The General (8.4%) was the tipple of choice! MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

8th March 2026 from 10am Grid Reference: SU 18640 15659 Godshill Ridge Car Park, just up from the Fighting Cocks, Fordingbridge

15th Annversary Pub Meet 22nd March 2026 from 12pm The Catash Inn, North Cadbury, Yeovil, BA22 7DH

Greenlaning & Camping Weekend 14th to 17th May 2026 Knighton/Powys MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

NORFOLK AREA REPORTS

INTRODUCING THE NEW NORFOLK AREA REP Hi I’m Paul your new area Rep for Norfolk. Like many of you ,I’ve always had a passion for the iconic leaf-sprung Land Rover Series and I’m keen to connect with fellow enthusiasts to share our experiences and organise local meet-ups. Please feel free to get in touch for advice share stories, and attend upcoming event.

NORFOLK FIRE FIGHTERS CHARITY RUN 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS WATCH THE NORFOLK AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

So we started the day at Bawsey Country Park near Kings Lynn with around 340 Land Rover in attendance - from the iconic Series I to the latest version of the Land Rover Defender. We set off in convoy to travel through the Norfolk countryside to Muckleburgh Military Collection and then on to Holkham Hall. On the day £6,625 was raised for the Fire Fighters Charity. A big thank you to Rigil Kent and Ian Hunt for organising this enjoyable event. We will see you again next year!!!

AREA REP Paul Seely



SEPTEMBER RIDE OUT AND GUIDED TOUR OF TINDALLS BREWERY The drive out started on the outskirts of Norwich at McDonald’s. We had a very scenic drive heading towards Long Stratton and then on towards Harleston. Unfortunately we saw more of the countryside than planned as Gary Jarrald lost his phone signal and had no sat nav, but there you go. We all arrived at Tindalls Brewery at Seething, where we had a tour of the brewery. It would have been rude not to take the opportunity to sample their ales and craft beers, which were enjoyed by all who attended. We finished the day at Seething airfield where we had a line up of the iconic Land Rover Series for a club photo. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

RUTLAND

SUMMER CAMP

AREA REPORTS

EAST MIDLANDS STEAM AND COUNTRY SHOW “It’s been a busy Summer for the Rutland Land Rovers group, beginning with East Midlands Steam and Country Show, organised by Andrew Woolley & Steve Bryan, flying the Series I, II, III Club banner.

CLARKSON’S FARM WEEKEND

AREA REP John Stokes



A couple of weeks later, four Series Land Rovers set off for a Clarkson’s Farm weekend. With basecamp a mile from The Farmers Dog pub, we were well positioned for a great meal and trips to both The Hawkestone Brewery and Diddly Squat Farm Shop, all while taking in the stunning views of the Cotswolds Countryside. With great quantities of JC’s cider & lager and a roaring campfire over which to BBQ some of the stars of Clarkson’s Farm, we had a fantastic, fun weekend. Even though there were just four Series Land Rovers in convoy, we managed to get lost and lose one another quite often until we worked out that Adam was a leader and not a follower. A superb 300-mile trip by Series Land Rover, which we’re all set to repeat next Springtime. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

The annual Rutland Land Rovers Summer Camp took place again at Wing Hall Campsite, where we’ve been welcomed for 10 years in a row. For those that came along to the Club Rally last year, you’ll know this is a relaxed, well placed and scenic spot in rural Rutland, ideally situated for sightseeing and greenlaning adventures. Day one of the rally centred around collecting local specialty foods for a picnic on the North Shore of Rutland Water. We began with a visit to Rutland Vineyard to collect wine, then off to Makey’s Farm to pick strawberries and raspberries, then a green-lane or two to buy a famous pork pie, Stilton cheese etc. After multiple stops and the intensity of heat building, we had overheating brakes, vaporising carbs, leaking petrol pipes and the general feeling of being ‘cooked’ inside the lidded Series Land Rovers. Our plan was adapted and we recovered to the tranquility of the campsite to take refreshment and feast on the gathered food before setting about fixing up the troubled Land Rovers. There we were treated to a Spitfire acrobatic display and the Lancaster fly past (thanks BBMF). With contrasting ‘mildly moist’ conditions next day, we were glad to be inside the Nene Valley Railway Engine Sheds for a private tour, organised by Russ Jenner, our local Series 2 owner and NVR Guardsman. A fantastic few hours seeing and being told tales about some of the most iconic steams engines - my personal favourite climbing aboard the footplate of ‘Tornado’. From NVR, we took backroads to dry-off and take refreshment at the Oundle Tap Room and Brewery before heading back to camp for BBQ and storytelling. With the weather not improving next day, our planned photoshoot to Burleyhouse was sadly abandoned until next year.

UPCOMING EVENTS Pub Meet 3rd Thursday of the month from 6:30pm The Wheatsheaf, 5 King Edward’s Way, Edith Weston, Oakham LE15 8EZ

Christmas Meal 18th December 2025 The Wheatsheaf, 5 King Edward’s Way, Edith Weston, Oakham LE15 8EZ

New Years Breakfast Drive 4th January 2026 from 10am Ferneley’s, Brickfield Farm, Leesthorpe, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 2XJ

Clarkson’s Farm Weekender May 2026 (TBC) More information to follow

WATCH THE RUTLAND AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

SOUTH WEST AREA REPORTS

CAMPING WEEKEND Gathering together in Devon, members of the South West I II III Club enjoyed a weekend of green-laning in the beautiful East Devon countryside whilst staying at the Castle Brake Holiday Park at Woodbury, near Exmouth. Despite the threat of poor weather, a group of 16 of our members committed to navigating around the western end of Devon’s Jurassic Coast (England’s first national World Heritage site) and the Pebblebed Heath National Nature Reserve. Friday evening saw an excursion to a chip shop in Exmouth where the generous portions necessitated a brisk walk around the Marina. The evening ended with a coming together for many in the ‘The Castle Inn’.

UPCOMING EVENTS WATCH THE SOUTH WEST AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

On Saturday, a good breakfast at the nearby ‘Pitstop Café’ at the Greendale go-carting track, set us up before the green-laning commenced. Our nine vehicles formed two groups tackling 14 lanes, all within a five-mile radius of the campsite. The lanes varied in length, terrain and ‘scratchiness’. The previous week’s rain enhanced the fun with waterfeatures – and mud - adding to the challenge and to our enjoyment. We enjoy views, the refreshment stops and the camaraderie. Ice creams on Budleigh Salterton Seafront, alongside the pebble beach, were particularly popular! Sunshine largely prevailed. A barbeque in the evening, with good company, conversation, and satellite spotting was enjoyed by all until, under a starry sky, we finally took to our beds. Members had various forms of accommodation: tents on grass, vans on hardstanding pitches and for some the site’s camping pods, all within the Orchard section of the site. Sunday saw our tired but happy group disperse having packed up in the dry, before the weather warning hit later in the day! This event was greatly enjoyed by all. Do join us next time. We’d love to have you with us. Words by Tony Lockwood

AREA REP Sarah Headon



MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

BUMBLING BONNET

In June, about 30 of us with 16 Series Land Rovers of all models, and shades of colour, supported the Surrey Young Farmers at the Cowpie Show, by putting on an interesting display which included two recovery trucks. The first, an 88” was built and painted in tribute to the owners late father, who had operated a couple heavy wreckers back in the day. The other was a rare Sandringham 6x6 complete with Hiab. This particular vehicle was rescued from the outer Hebrides where it was used for recovering and transporting military drones in the cold-war era.

In 2022, before we started the Land Rover Series I II III club, many of you will remember that I was the local area representative for the Land Rover Series 2 Club. To celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Series II model, we thought it would be good fun to pass a SIIa bonnet around the country (aka The Bumbling Bonnet) with it traveling the length and breadth of the country, transported entirely by leaf sprung Land Rovers, visiting each of the 20 areas within the Series 2 Club raising funds for Children In Need along the way. Members from each area had a designated section of the bonnet to which they could decorate in a way to represent their area; Tanks and ponies for Wiltshire. Wilmington giant, and The Dunsfold collection for Surrey & Sussex. Oast houses and spitfires for Kent, etc etc.

Continuing with the military theme, we were also honoured with having an Australian ex military 109 on display, complete with its cut-away front wings and Roo-bar. The show was a great family day out (especially the wall of death) and our display attracted quite a lot of attention from the visiting public.

AREA REPORTS

SURREY & SUSSEX

COWPIE SHOW

AMBERLEY MUSEUM LAND ROVER DAY

AREA REP Eddie Grinstead



It was an early start for the “Bull Inn pubmeet team” as “Club Jester and professional Hiviz garment model Darren” volunteered the rest of the “nuts behind wheels” services as parking Marshalls. Soon “Team Hiviz” were waving their arms around and the LandRover models of all kinds were being welcomed through the gate. Around 100 of 120 that were pre-booked were present. One regular, a chap, his wife and dog made a two day drive from Germany in a diesel Santana version of our S3. They have been attending for a few years now, which reminds us of just how enthusiastic some owners really are. It was a great day, lots of interesting vehicles in a great setting and an opportunity to meet up with friends old and new. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

UPCOMING EVENTS Pub Meet Last Wednesday of the month from 7pm Bull Inn, Henfield, West Sussex BN5 9AD

Rover Social Breakfast Meet

The other object of the challenge was to encourage club members and enthusiasts out from behind their keyboards after covid, and physically meeting up and having a social together. The Dunsfold Collection very kindly offered the finished bonnet a permanent home on display in their museum at the end where it would be displayed for all to see. The project ran on a bit over time, because no one quite realised in those early days of planning, just how difficult logistics with strict conditions can be. The challenge raised an impressive £2600 for Children In Need and the official handover ceremony commenced on the 21st June 2025. Remember to look out for it on any future visits.

Last Sunday of the month 9am to 11am The Royal Oak, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 0EP

WATCH THE SURREY & SUSSEX AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

LAND ROVER OWNER INTERNATIONAL SHOW After just shy of a six hour journey due to heavy traffic, Lucinda and I made it to the 2025 LRO show, at Belvior Castle, where we joined Fen’s AR Vicky Turner, the Scotland AR’s Husband Allan Crow and a mix of members from East Anglia and East Midlands. LRO has a very relaxed feel about it, but is huge, there are rows and rows of roof tents on Land Rover models of all colours. On Saturday the main arena was soon buzzing with the sound of growling V8’s and Td5’s as the off-road fraternity showed off their vehicles and skills on the challenging offroad course in the middle of the arena. Lucinda and I trawled the auto jumble, bagged some bargains and found some sought after parts to finish off my 80” rebuild. Saturday evening brought more off-road play accompanied by colourful lighting. Then there was a firework display, followed by more off-road and coloured light play. Sunday morning I replaced the leaking gasket on the N\S/R axle drive member, with the side from a donated Granola box. It wasn’t long before we were clearing up, loading up, and saying our goodbyes for another year.

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

THAMES & CHILTERN AREA REPORTS AREA REP Brian Deacon



UPCOMING EVENTS Pub Meets 1st Thursday of the month from 7pm Harte and Magpies, Magpie Lane, Amersham HP7 0LU PUB AND BREAKFAST MEETS

ASTON HILL CLIMB

Our regular monthly pub meetings are going from strength to strength. The first Thursday of the month at the Harte and Magpies near Amersham is always well attended. Good food, good beer and good company. Our June meeting saw a record with twelve Series lined up in the car park.

17th May was the centenary celebration of the Aston Hill Climb. Only cars that could have taken part in 1925 were allowed to enter the run, but the car show at the top of the hill had a fantastic display of cars. The organisers were looking for support vehicles to be stationed at various posts up the hill just to move any cars which struggled into a safe place. Series Land Rovers were agreed as the best vehicles to fit the occasion and the I II III Club stepped in with four of us taking part. The only car which needed assistance was a steamer which ran out of steam. So our two capability was not required but I think Ian did give them a push. A great day but according the organisers it will not be repeated. Maybe in another 100 years!

The third Thursday in the month is the evening for a meet at the Victoria Arms, Old Marston near Oxford. This has gradually grown after a period during the winter when we stopped the meet. The pub has a beautiful setting by the river and an excellent menu. Well worth a try on a summer evening. We had a breakfast meet in May at Hildreth’s Garden Centre near Prestwood. Breakfast was followed by a short lane run - thanks to Mark for finding that - and then a pub stop.

TRACTOR RUN Four of our I II III Club members took part in the Chiltern Vintage Tractor run on Sunday 1st June. No land Rovers allowed but Simon and Mike have their own tractors and Simon loaned tractors to Ian and I. I have never driven a tractor so that was an experience. The event raised over £10K for the Air Ambulance so a very worthwhile day.

3rd Thursday of the month Mill Ln, Oxford OX3 0PZ

WATCH THE THAMES & CHILTERN AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.

LOOKING FOR BOATS NOTICE OF CLOSURE Some of you will remember the Air Raid Cafe near Wycombe. We had a few meets there and also supplied some Land Rovers for Chris’s Christmas video last year. Sad to say he has now closed. He is planning to have some time off travelling but all the 1940s artefacts are now in storage and we hope to see a new opening in the future, with more parking!

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

LPME GARAGE VISIT We had another breakfast run on 26th July. Breakfast by the river at Benson followed by a visit to LPME the Land Rover garage in Watlington. Peter Wlliams the owner gave us a tour of the workshop with much debate taking place about the projects in work. Most of us then adorned to the Lord Nelson for a well earned drink.

Bucks and Oxfordshire must be the worse places in the country for lanes. Plenty of scenic drives but when looking for BOATs we have a big blank space on GLASS TW2 maps. We have to travel to get some off roading and travel we do. There are also pay and play sites. Billing and Whadden being two. The private estate charity drives organised by Tom Stuart and Henry Anderson over the last few years have been very good, and local. If anybody out there has access to a site we could play on please get in touch. MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

YORKSHIRE AREA REPORTS

DUNCOMBE STEAM RALLY

UPCOMING EVENTS

Duncombe Park Steam Rally is held annually at Helmsley, but this was the first year the club attended. Upon arrival it was heavily raining. Club member Paul was already set up, but Keith was sitting in his Series III waiting for the rain to stop. The rain continued all evening as the other members of the club turned up, but it wasn’t raining in the beer tent, so we all ended up there. Waking early, the coffee was brewed and we all gathered. After a pleasant day walking around the steam fair, we were told several of the Engines were driving into Helmsley. So, we all hopped into the back of Paddington with Ann at the wheel and went to join them. The centre of Helmsley was chaos, but good chaos and the atmosphere was fantastic. Come the Sunday we joined the vehicle parade and drove around the central arena. The organisers were more than happy for us to return next year so look out for more details next year!

Waterside Weekender 2026 10th to 12th July 2026 Edale, Derbyshire Returning for its third year, it is a weekend of Camping, Laning and Saturday Social (with Live Band) held with the Land Rover Life Group. Watch out for more details.

Duncombe Steam Rally 4th to 5th July 2026 Helmsley, North Yorkshire MORE PHOTOS FROM THE LAND ROVER SERIES I II III CLUB RALLY

AREA REP Ian Garner

YORK LAND ROVER SHOW This year was the second year that the club had attended the York Land Rover show, and we doubled the number of vehicles we had on the stand! Most of the club turned up on the Friday, including Allan Crow (Scottish AR) who had travelled all the way from Scotland in his 101 with Son Cooper in tow. We had a good mix of Land Rovers on display. In addition to the 101 Forward Control, we had a two Series I’s, a Series IIa, four Series III’s (Including a Lightweight and a Stage 1), a Defender 110 Dormobile and my 100” Hybrid. On the Sunday it was good to see that the Stage One had been awarded a prize for the best restoration! It’s a great show and one which we will be returning too next year!

Following our initial visit, the club has been invited back for 2026

WATCH THE YORKSHIRE AREA TAB ON THE WEBSITE AND THE AREA FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING AREA EVENTS.



100

MIXED GRILLES | ISSUE 1

101