Going against all rules of green-laning, we set off on a solo green-laning trip, as the daylight faded. That would be fine on say, a firm, gravelly track. However, the particular track we chose is difficult to say the least. We've done it 3 or 4 times before, each time it's been pretty hair raising thanks to a one foot drop onto a "shelf" on a hillside that steps down, quite literally.  What with all the rain recently this plateau has been made even worse as it's now covered in a slimy slick of thick, gloopy mud! On the way down the track we couldn't tell how bad it was as the lane had overgrown with grass. Fitted with decent Mud Terrains  on each corner we had a false sense of security. The lane was actually covered in a three inch thick slurry, which really should have warned us off. But alas, we carried on to the shelf about half-way down the lane.

We put the Landy into low box, locked the centre diff and dropped off the lip as per usual. Because of the rain we've had this year, the height of this step-down seems to have increased somewhat, which took us by an unexpected surprise. This is where we came unstuck. Or rather the opposite, quite literally. The 90 got into a little bit of a pickle and wouldn't drive out backwards. Rather than keep trying to dislodge ourselves and make matters worse (as it turns out, things were pretty bad!), we had only one logical option, Call up the  WEST YORKSHIRE 4x4 Volunteers!

One of their "Responders" quickly came to our help, with a fully kitted out Double cab 110. Let me tell you, the sound of a Land Rover gently edging down a lane to your rescue is a very comforting one. The Responder's 110 was attached to the FunRover 90 and we'd be home in a jiffy. Unfortunately, not so! It turns out that the lack of grip on the lane made rescuing the Landy very tricky. It wasn't helped by the fact that to navigate down the ledge, it's safer to approach at an angle away from the direction of the narrow lane. So the effectiveness of the snatch was reduced. After a bit of head scratching, and realising that the angle our Landy was at had put it at risk of rolling over, another Wy4x4 Volunteer came to our help. This additional 4x4 again travelled well out of their way, using their own time and resources to come to our assistance. The second 4x4 rolled up at around 10pm  and was hooked up to the first responder in a chain sequence. Surely, this train of horsepower and torque would free our Land Rover. Unfortunately, NO!

The angle our Landy was at just made the whole thing very precarious. With each attempt to free the 90, it just slid sideways along a banking, making the rescue even tougher! Most 4x4 rescue teams might have given up now, perhaps deciding to come back in better light the next day! Not the Wy4x4 Volunteers. They contacted one of their responders with a winch to come assist, but he was unfortunately unavailable. So, another two Landies were called in. The third vehicle to be attached to the rescue chain was a really unique hybrid vehicle. The fourth got stuck attempting to navigate up the lane, showing how daft we were to try and go down this in the first place. With three 4x4 vehicles shackled up in succession to each other, you'd think the 90 would be freed? Unfortunately, NO!

The angle of the Landy became worse and worse! The shunts weren't pulling the vehicle up and back out, but instead sort of nudging and sliding it sideways, till the chassis came to rest on a wall and the front wheels were resting on fresh air. The car sat at a rather unearthly angle, to the point where if the rescue convoy had unhitched, it would have probably have rolled completely over!

However, the WY4x4 guys are a brave and persevering lot and eventually, by means of using a series of  Waffle boards and jacking up the wheels with a hi-lift, the Landy eventually came unstuck! It was an absolute relief as I remember sitting in the cab just thinking "it's going to roll". Quickly, the fourth responder Landy was rescued and everyone set off home at around 3.30 a.m. The guy's must have been knackered and thoroughly wet through.

I've told you this story for a few reasons. Firstly, it shows you should always:

• Walk a lane or rough section before driving it
• Never go solo-greenlaning
• If you have a winch, fit it!

But secondly and more importantly , I just want to thank "the team" for their help. Some of the guys drove an hour to help and this was on a weekday work night, during personal time, so I really, really can't thank them enough. Other members offered to drive from as far as Thirsk in North Yorkshire to help, but were politely declined!  The Volunteer's  commitment can only be described as unquestionable and its obvious they are genuine enthusiasts, complete and utter life (and Land Rover) savers.

The day after I sat down and it hit me, things could have been a lot worse. At the very least, my Landy could have rolled over, tumbling down the 45 degree slope (to the front of the darkened pictues) and have been a total write off. Even more concerning, I thought I could have been seriously injured too. I was embarrassed, my off road capability and pride in question. Its made me think more about the risks and I take nothing for granted.

It's because of these guys that I have my Land Rover home safe and sound,  so I really want to thank them, I really do owe you all a massive debt of gratitude chaps!  A massive Thank You once again !

Please take 5 minutes to check out the Wy4x4 Volunteers site and if you can, please register as a member to help the team respond to as many incidents as possible when adverse weather hits!

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Titan Exhaust Air Jack Vehicle Lift New TTC-2.0 $27.73 (5 Bids) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 18:28:15 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Titan Exhaust Air Jack 3 - Ton $69.00 End Date: Sunday Jun-16-2013 12:42:32 PDT Buy It Now for only: $69.00 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Unitec RakJak 2 Ton Triple Bag Air Jack TBT2 $415.00 End Date: Wednesday May-22-2013 19:00:00 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Double-Bag Air Jack Herkules AJ2 $499.99 End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 13:48:42 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Titan Exhaust Air Jack Vehicle Lift New TTC-2.0 $49.99 End Date: Monday Jun-3-2013 12:25:24 PDT Buy It Now for only: $49.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

8 Ton Long Ram Manual Hydraulic Air Jack Cherry Picker piston pump new $49.95 End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 19:08:36 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

3 New 2 " X 20' Ratchet Tie Down 4,500 Lb "J" Hook -s- Towing Tow Strap Cargo $34.88 End Date: Monday May-20-2013 15:35:44 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

8 Ton Long Ram Manual Hydraulic Air Jack Cherry Picker piston pump new $49.95 End Date: Monday May-20-2013 14:59:37 PDT Buy It Now for only: $49.95 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

CESS 30ft 6600lb 9m 3ton OFF ROAD 4x4 4WD WINCH SNATCH TOW STRAP WITH HOOKS $1.29 (4 Bids) End Date: Saturday May-18-2013 23:30:00 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

CLEVIS SHACKLE 1/2" SCREW PIN 3- Ton $4.00 End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 5:07:21 PDT Buy It Now for only: $5.60 Buy It Now | Bid now | Add to watch list

Stay tuned for a video guide on how to make your very own in cab hammock for your Defender.

Ebay

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MENS TIMBERLAND HIKING BOOTS WATERPROOF BOOTS SIZE 9 M ---EARTHKEEPERS $39.00 (1 Bid) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 14:41:18 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

USED WOLVERINE MULTISHOX CONTOUR WELT MEN'S WATERPROOF BOOTS SIZE 8 1/2 EW $19.99 End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 17:18:38 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

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Alpinestars GPS 3 Waterproof Boots Euro 50 / US 15 $29.00 (14 Bids) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 19:15:00 PDT Buy It Now for only: $200.00 Buy It Now | Bid now | Add to watch list

sperry top sider GIRLS pink and grey waterproof boots hiking, outdoor 13 $14.99 (1 Bid) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 20:08:27 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

NIKE AIR MAX GOADOME GTX 314346 001 BLACK LEATHER GORE-TEX waterproof boots $54.99 End Date: Sunday Jun-16-2013 16:38:26 PDT Buy It Now for only: $54.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

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Ariat Terrain H20 Roper Waterproof Boots Ladies UK 3.5 US 6 EU 36 COFFEE $29.99 (1 Bid) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 10:26:39 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

TIMBERLAND 33511 STAMFORD MEN'S BLACK GORE-TEX WATERPROOF BOOTS,RET$140. $59.99 End Date: Wednesday May-22-2013 19:39:18 PDT Buy It Now for only: $59.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

CLARKS Mens 10.5 M Street Hi GTX Waterproof Boots Brown Leather Active Air ankle $20.49 (2 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 12:00:28 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Men's Merrell World Guide Waterproof boots size 11 mens new without box $59.99 End Date: Monday May-20-2013 12:55:02 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

TIMBERLAND 33511 STAMFORD MEN'S BLACK GORE-TEX WATERPROOF BOOTS,RET$140. $59.99 End Date: Wednesday May-22-2013 19:39:18 PDT Buy It Now for only: $59.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Martino NEW Frosty Black Leather Faux Fur Cuff Lined Waterproof Boots Shoes 9 $5.50 (2 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 15:37:47 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Martino NEW Frosty Black Leather Faux Fur Cuff Lined Waterproof Boots Shoes 8.5 $6.38 (4 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 17:08:09 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

TIMBERLAND 33511 STAMFORD MEN'S BLACK GORE-TEX WATERPROOF BOOTS,RET$140. $59.99 End Date: Wednesday May-22-2013 19:39:18 PDT Buy It Now for only: $59.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Martino NEW Frosty Black Leather Faux Fur Cuff Lined Waterproof Boots Shoes 8.5 $1.04 (2 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 18:26:47 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Martino NEW Frosty Black Leather Faux Fur Cuff Lined Waterproof Boots Shoes 7.5 $0.99 (1 Bid) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 19:06:26 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

TIMBERLAND 33511 STAMFORD MEN'S BLACK GORE-TEX WATERPROOF BOOTS,RET$140. $59.99 End Date: Wednesday May-22-2013 19:39:18 PDT Buy It Now for only: $59.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

We're not sure on absolute specifics, but first, we'd like to know whether there's an interest for something along the lines of this, for around £10-15k.

Shoot us an email to funrover(at)gmail.com. We'd love to hear your thoughts.

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Land Rover : Defender 90 1986 landrover 90 TDI $12,000.00 (15 Bids) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 13:28:59 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender DEFENDER 110 COUNTY STATION WAGON 300 Tdi 110 COUNTY STATION WAGON 300 Tdi SUPERB LOW MILEAGE EXAMPLE *INCLUDES SHIPPING* $19,463.63 End Date: Tuesday Jun-4-2013 6:08:04 PDT Buy It Now for only: $19,463.63 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender 90 LHD 1987 Defender 90 LHD 2.5 Diesel, HardTop/SoftTop $21,000.00 End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 20:00:00 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender 101 Land Rover 101GS Defender expedition rig $13,655.00 (7 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 8:16:13 PDT Buy It Now for only: $30,000.00 Buy It Now | Bid now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender County 6 seats 1988 Land Rover Defender County 90 Diesel (shipping included ) $9,999.00 End Date: Tuesday May-21-2013 3:32:02 PDT Buy It Now for only: $9,999.00 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender 90 XTREMELY RARE 4.0 4WD VERY WELL MAINTAINED 1 OWNER T/ HITCH REAR SEATING SIDEWAY $22,100.00 (16 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 8:55:03 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender 90 1997 Land Rover Defender 90 $40,200.00 (7 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 12:55:29 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender County 1984 Land Rover Defender 110 300tdi Turbo Diesel Left Hand Drive Ready To Drive $39,500.00 End Date: Saturday May-25-2013 13:18:01 PDT Buy It Now for only: $39,500.00 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender 110 1985 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 STATION WAGON NAS SPEC FULLY RESTORED $12,101.02 (10 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 18:30:00 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Land Rover : Defender 110 NAS SPEC 5.0 V8 AUTOMATIC 1987 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 BLR 5.0 V8 CUSTOM BUILD LHD N.A.S. STATION WGN $38,100.00 (12 Bids) End Date: Monday May-20-2013 18:30:00 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

The Irwin Bolt-Grip Kit

It was quickly apparent we needed to try something else on the bolt. Penetrant fluid had been applied, blow torches had been burned and it still didn't shift. So, a quick Google and we came across Irwin Bolt-Grip. And they are excellent!]

Each grip has hexagonal sides to work with adjustable spanners, or it can be used on a 3/8in socket / impact fitting.

The Irwin extractors work beautifully. You get 5 sizes in the kit (an add-on / expansion set are available, there are places for these to put in the original box for safe keeping, producing one super set).

• 3/8in (10mm)
• 7/16in (11mm)
• 1/2in (13mm)
• 9/16in (14mm)
• 5/8in (16mm)

The sizes are great as these seem to cover pretty much most bolt sizes you'll find on a Defender and we've not had come across one that has stumped us yet. The grips are 3/8” square drive for use with hand ratchets, impact wrenches and air ratchets, however, each grip also has hexagonal sides, as though it too were a bolt allowing you to use it with an appropriate size socket piece or an adjustable wrench for example. That means the kit is highly flexible and you should be able to get purchase on pretty much any stuck bolt!

Here's how we removed the bolt in the end

1. Before removing the bolt, we hurried on over to Huddersfield Land Rover Centre, where we purchased 4 calliper bolts (just in case, each calliper takes 2 bolts). Then we had the parts needed to keep the Land Rover rolling.

2. The old bolts presumably were original items and so were heavily corroded. Each bolt was soaked in penetrant fluid (being careful not to spray onto the brake disc). The correct bolt-grip (in this case we used the 1/2in  13mm grip) was lightly tapped onto the bolt. This allows the carbon steel, reverse spiral flute grip to bite into the bolt head. Then, it's simple a matter of turning the bolt as you would normal.

The first half turn might be a tough and you should expect the bolt to suddenly "crack" sending you and your fingers flying. Be ready for that and make sure you don't cut or slice any part of your person.

3. Once the bolt-grip has sunk it's spiral flute into the bolt, you can unwind till it's removed. If you're removing a nut, you may find it easier to remove using the original bolt if you can, or a flat headed screwdriver, as the nut will be stuck right in there!

The grips work under load such as on this impact tool

This set is the first time we've seen bolt extractors work. And to be fair, they are quite pricey! With an RRP of £33.65, these bolt-grips are quite costly, but a worthwhile investment! They save you time and hassle and can remove the even the most stubborn, corroded and rounded bolts & nuts.

• Great product
• Compact carry case
• Works flawlessly
• Very high quality
• Highly recommended by FunRover!

Check out Irwin Bolt Grips on eBay

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IRWIN BOLT GRIP DAMAGED NUT REMOVER EXPANSION SET 5PC $6.48 (2 Bids) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 18:16:27 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Bolt Screw Extractor, irwin power-grip 394100 7pc Bulk $12.99 End Date: Sunday Jun-2-2013 4:19:43 PDT Buy It Now for only: $12.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

NEW NIP IRWIN 394100 7 PIECE POWER-GRIP BOLT & SCREW EXTRACTOR REMOVER USA $16.99 End Date: Friday May-31-2013 7:12:20 PDT Buy It Now for only: $16.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

IRWIN 394002 BOLT-GRIP 5 PIECE EXPANSION SET - NEW $21.00 End Date: Friday Jun-14-2013 15:37:59 PDT Buy It Now for only: $21.00 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Bolt Screw Extractor, irwin power-grip 394100 7pc set $15.99 End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 15:25:14 PDT Buy It Now for only: $15.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Irwin #394001 Bolt-Grip Damaged Nut & Bolt Remover MADE IN THE USA! IN STOCK! $24.95 End Date: Sunday May-26-2013 13:24:40 PDT Buy It Now for only: $24.95 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

IRWIN BOLT GRIP BOLT OUTS TO COMPLETE BASE SET NEW FREE SHIPPING $19.99 End Date: Thursday Jun-13-2013 9:20:35 PDT Buy It Now for only: $19.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

IRWIN HANSON POWER GRIP Bolt Extractor Set, 3/16 to1/2, 10mm, 7 Pc SET #394100 $25.00 End Date: Wednesday May-29-2013 13:06:10 PDT Buy It Now for only: $25.00 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Irwin 394001 - 5pc Bolt-Grip Bolt Extractor Base Set $26.55 End Date: Monday May-27-2013 22:18:24 PDT Buy It Now for only: $26.55 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Here's what we're planning & how you can get involved.

The FunRover Fuel Challenge, the ultimate goal: to produce a one-stop resource for Land Rover owners who wish to save money on fuel. Let's face it, fuel is getting more and more expensive and Land Rovers, well, aren't exactly in the super-economy vehicles bracket. However, we feel that every single Land Rover can have some fuel-efficiency locked away, just waiting to be tapped (or corked) and so we are rallying our members to help us produce an eBook that will be available to all who want to start cutting running costs and increasing fuel economy. Want to be involved?

Taking part is very easy. We're going to be using a service called "Fuelly". Fuelly is an excellent service that allows you to track your fuel economy, allowing to keep a track of past trips, average fuel economy and general running costs. To take part in the challenge, go ahead and sign-up to Fuelly (it's free) and enter the basic model info of your Land Rover / Range Rover. Then all you need to do is go about your day to day driving for a week. Enter in the relevant fuel information and you'll get an MPG figure calculated for you.

Using that base number, we want to see how much we can improve a vehicles MPG from what it is currently achieving. So, if you want to take part, have made a modification and seen improvements (or seen a decrease) then please fill out the Fuel Challenge survey.

We'll keep a track on the changes and mods and produce the final book with credit given to each individual who in effect, researched the modification. If you come up with a particularly novel, or interesting tweak, we'll make sure to have you write up a post for the site & you'll be compensated via PayPal.

So that's the challenge. Are you ready to take part? Fill out the form with your initial MPG then add any decreases (or increases and the change you've made). You can post them in the comments here, or using the anonymous (if you want it to be) poll daddy survey!

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Used Jerry Can Spout w/Screen 14" $10.50 (2 Bids) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 8:29:15 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

LOT 4 NATO 5 Gallon Jerry Can Gasoline Fuel Refill Steel Tank w/ Nozzle Military $168.99 End Date: Wednesday May-29-2013 1:10:23 PDT Buy It Now for only: $168.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

METAL JERRY CAN SPOUT - 1 1/4" DIAMETER FLEXIBLE SPOUT SCREW TOP MESH STRAINER $39.95 (1 Bid) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 12:27:23 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

METAL JERRY CAN SPOUT - 3/4" DIAMETER FLEXIBLE SPOUT BRASS MESH STRAINER $12.95 End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 12:46:38 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Military Jerry can nozzle, 5 gallon jerrycan nozzle, Scepter fuel spout for 5gal $21.87 End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 21:19:37 PDT Buy It Now for only: $21.87 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Jerry Can Mount / Needs Paint! $9.99 (1 Bid) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 12:50:58 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

1991 Bellino 20 L Army Jerry Can Gerry Gas jug metal military green 5 gallon $19.99 (1 Bid) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 17:05:15 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

20 Liter Nato Germany Military Gas / Diesel / Fuel Tank Steel Jerry Can Green $55.99 End Date: Sunday Jun-9-2013 9:28:32 PDT Buy It Now for only: $55.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Lot of 3 Vintage Jerry Can Gas Flex Nozzles $20.50 (2 Bids) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 19:05:53 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

Matt Harvey sent us this great post about the day to day ownership of a Land Rover. Every single one is completely true!

1: Ghosts

All series and defenders have a ghost, it usually appears at night in the back window and looks a lot like the driver.

2: Spiders

All series and defenders have Spiders, a sack full of spider eggs are fit at Solihull behind the mirror glass, even brand new ones come withSpiders.

3: To Do Lists

If you own a Land Rover you also own a “To Do” list, this can be split into upgrades, essential and pie in the sky and should be then categorized by budget and time.

4: Weathered Right Arm

Due to a lack of space your right arm is always out of the window, tanned in summer, windswept and wet in winter.

5: Paranoia

Every funny smell from outside, every strange noise while waiting at junctions sends a driver in to a nervous twitch checking temp gauges, gear levers, opening vents to get better listen to the engine. Usually followed by sigh as you realise it’s an old GPO Sherpa Van is along side you. This can also include driving in the inside lane on motorways as it’s closer to the hard shoulder (especially in traffic jams)

6: Surprise Relief

When you go away for a weekend in the family car usually about 20 minutes before you get home your thoughts turn to likelihood of your Land Rover still being on the driveway and surprise and delight when you see it’s still there.

7: Laissez faire Driving

You can’t go fast, you sit up high and see more, you relax, you let people out, you become a better driver.

8: Tourettes

While driving, sat in a cafe, office etc. If you see one you find yourself saying ‘Land Rover’ out loud and then congratulating yourself on spotting it. Friends and family will come to accept this but not really understand it and think you’re a bit weird.

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FatMat 50SqFt Audio Sound Deadener Noise Killer For All Cars & Trucks #1 Selling $89.99 End Date: Saturday Jun-1-2013 9:08:21 PDT Buy It Now for only: $89.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

GameMax ATX Mid Tower HDD NOISE KILLER PC Desktop Gamer Gaming PC Computer Case $69.95 (1 Bid) End Date: Sunday May-19-2013 18:38:14 PDT Bid now | Add to watch list

FatMat 10SqFt Audio Sound Deadener Noise Killer For All Cars & Trucks #1 Selling $24.99 End Date: Saturday Jun-1-2013 8:43:27 PDT Buy It Now for only: $24.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

1 NEW Bulk Roll Mat 100 sqft BUTYL RUBBER use as Auto Sound Deadener Material $99.99 End Date: Wednesday May-29-2013 8:15:43 PDT Buy It Now for only: $99.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

FatMat 125 SQ FT Sound Deadener Car Automotive Noise Killer! Stops Vibrations $179.99 End Date: Wednesday Jun-5-2013 7:35:18 PDT Buy It Now for only: $179.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

FatMat 25SqFt Audio Sound Deadener Noise Killer For All Cars & Trucks #1 Selling $54.99 End Date: Saturday Jun-1-2013 9:00:09 PDT Buy It Now for only: $54.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

1 NEW Bulk Roll 10 sqft BUTYL RUBBER Mat use as Auto Sound Deadener Material $24.99 End Date: Monday Jun-17-2013 15:14:54 PDT Buy It Now for only: $24.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

FatMat Trunk Kit Audio Sound Deadener Noise Killer For Cars & Trucks #1 Selling $54.99 End Date: Thursday May-23-2013 13:15:56 PDT Buy It Now for only: $54.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

** FLOOR KIT ** NEW 75sqft GTMAT 80mil Ultra Auto Sound Deadener Material Kit $144.99 End Date: Sunday May-26-2013 1:34:41 PDT Buy It Now for only: $144.99 Buy It Now | Add to watch list

Wildtrackers VampyreBATT

When you see custom builds in the mags, they throw words around like 'beast' & 'monster' far too often, probably to try and liven up a run-of-the-mill project. This Land Rover is no run-of-the-mill project. And it's not even a monster. It's an out-right, titan! The vehicle was originally a Land Rover 130, so it started out quite big. There's not very much Defender left though, the underwhelming and noisy diesel engine swapped out for a 410 Horsepower Chevy Engine, straight from a corvette. This thing will shift like a Bat, hence the name!

• Roll cage...fully demountable in 3 sections depending on what is required.
• Tilt cover over cage for weather protection. Removable in 3 sections as per roll cage.
• 12 volt on board power to front and rear platforms
• 240 volt on board power...(underslung/removable 2.1KVA generator.)
• Roof mounting points for Pursuit Arm crane or Russian Arm.
• Extra platform for front and rear.
• Extra plating for bonnet and roof to enable them to be used as platforms.
• Scaffold fittings for rear deck when roll cage is removed.
• Peltor Wireless Dectcom intercom system linked to unit radio comms.

• Front mounted winch to enable vehicle to act as re-positionable crane base for difficult locations and for self loading of kit onto rear.

The mods didn't stop there though, The Land Rover axles were swapped for Dynatrac replacements, brake calipers from an Aston Martin were fitted and to add even more class, a Rolls Royce Merlin engine starter button was thrown into the build. Wildtrackers describe this as a rally raid vehicle built for filming and from the brands and specs they've used, you can see why.

The cab of the 130 remained, though a custom dash was installed which houses all the connectors and inputs for directors to sit in a co-drive seat and monitor what's being filmed. The back of the Land Rover has a large custom aluminium bed which will provide a good base for crane and jib shots on the move. The landy has more connectors and power outlets fitted around the back. Twin shocks have been added on all four corners to help maintain the shock performance when seeing heavy, aggressive use.

The rear load bed has been cleverly designed to offer lot's of set-up configurations. Seats can be attached using a neat cargo rail mod. The entire rear flatbed can be enclosed with a cage, which offers both protection and more camera mounting options. The cage has been shaped so a platfrom can be bolted over the bonnet for a camera operator to sit on.

Not content with having the ability to mount the camera almost anywhere on the vehicle whilst being able to carry half a dozen burly TV crew, the designers went one step further. The VampyreBatt also doubles as a transporter for the smaller VampyreQuad vehicle. What a Land Rover!

Camera Tracking's Land Rover 127

Off-road tracking

Anybody know which beach this is?

And it keeps going on the rougher stuff, even with those A/T tyres.

The 3.9 V8 127 tracking a Datsun

Either they've been pulled or they're filming for The Interceptors on Channel 5.

The crew plot their next move

Here's a 110 Pick-up that's been converted to run on rails - interesting.

It would appear this vehicle has now been retired, after clocking up around 200,000 miles. This vehicle is based around a 3.9 V8 127" chassis. In the cab you find LCD monitors for the driver & director as well as a 4-way walkie talkie system with 6 portable walkie-takies linked into that.

All rigged up with a large crane and what appears to be ballast / storage on the front.

The vehicle has 12V ports around it's body and the camera can be mounted in a variety of positions due to the roll cage and rear-low-level-platform. This can be lowered to just 8 inches from ground - which is close enough on the rough stuff. Unfortunately, this Land Rover has now been retired - but if it's for sale, please do contact us

Seen any unusual Land Rover conversions? Email us: hello@funrover.com

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eBay

When researching products and parts, eBay is usually one of the first places you should stop. There are several custom made snow ploughs (though you may have to search for the american-english snow plow, notice the spelling!) that have been designed to fit 4x4's, if not specifically Land Rovers. They look to be very high quality, usually finished in a fluorescent yellow for safety reasons, but the designs vary from supplier to supplier.

Monty007cat

Monty007cat builds some seriously high quality snow ploughs for Land Rovers. They manufacture 2 different types, a manually operated model, or a plough that can be adjusted via a winch.

Manual

The design of the montycat stuff is excellent. It's elegantly simple and looks brilliant. The manually operated plough mounts to adapters that literally bolt straight onto the Defender's chassis. This design should fit any 90, 110, 130 and Series 1, 2 & 3 models. The only slight caveat is Defenders with Air-con fitted will require the A-Bar modifying slightly due to the grill which is placed further out on these models.

The plough itself is made of sturdy 4mm steel, which is obviously very strong and rugged. You needn't worry about accidentally scooping up rocks. With 5 different positions for the blade, this plow is extremely flexible and will suit most surfaces and ground undulations. The blade is locked in place using a removable pin. The best part of this design is that it uses 2 tow balls mounted to the A-Bar brackets, allowing the whole thing to pivot up and down, as well as 'floating' with the surface it is ploughing. Using tow balls means removal of the entire blade takes less than a minute, but the fixing remains in place for a quick re-fit. The two caster like wheels are attached to adjustable hacks, again given more flexibility for the area being cleared. Along the lower edge of the plough sits a rubber strip (that is removable and replaceable). This strip flexes along with the ground, creating a snug fit and peeling snow up to the cutting edge of the actual plough. These strips should be viewed as consumables due to contact with the ground.

Driving with a plough on the front of a Defender is quite tough, as the edges could be obscured when the plough is lowered, so each end has a marker for the driver (and other motorists) to clearly see the sides of the blade.  Adjusting the up and down position of the manual blade is done via ratchet strap, though a small winch could be fitted to this model for remote adjusting (for example, from the cab). The whole unit is finished in a high-vis yellow coating for protection, as well as to help keep the plow surface clear of snow.

Winch-Operated

There are numerous advantages to the winch powered Snow Plough. Firstly, you can raise the blade remotely. This makes the blade much easier (and warmer) to operate. Secondly, the winch model fits to a Terrafirma winch bumper, and as such, should couple to the Discovery version of the bumper too. Thirdly, it means you won't have to remove any winches currently fitted to bolt on the plough. Montycat are able to supply the bumper in question separately, should your own winch bumper not be compatible. It appears to be the very same plough design as the manually operated model, with slight variations due to the winch bumper mounting.

As before, the plough mounts using two tow balls and can be adjusted to five different positions. It has the same adjustable wheel jacks and side markers, as well as the leading edge rubber strip. The only difference is the a-bar has gone, replaced with an a-shaped yoke on top of the blade which the winch hook attaches to. The blade is then able to raise and lower with the power of the winch, whilst removal will be no more complicated or lengthy. A great design and 2 excellent looking products!

Bunce Snow Ploughs

Bunce (Ashbury) Ltd are Britain's oldest manufacturer of snow clearing equipment. Founded in 1896, Bunce are now offering a lightweight 4x4 snow plough for clearing 'light snow'. This lightweight plough will suit only Defenders as the suspension fitted to standard Discoveries and Freelancers is not robust enough.

The Bunce blade is actually made of a lightweight polymer skin, bolted to a steel skeleton that keeps the blade light but very strong. The leading edge is fitted with 4 sprung wearing squeegees. The plough has a hydraulic lifting arm and stabilizer bar, for remote operation, and the unit can be manually angled left or right using a hand pump. To keep the whole plough moving, behind the blade sit a pair of heigh adjustable castor wheels. The Bunce literature however states this is only ideal for light snow. A number of optional extras are available, such as rubber squeegees, a safety guard and an electro-hydraulic power pack to replace the hand pump

Jake Wright Snow Plough

Jake Wright Land Rovers sell their own 2 metre wide snow plough. There's not a great deal of information on the site, but it appears to include an a-bar for fitting to the bumper and the plough can be made to raise or lower with an optional hydraulic extra.

Here's some Land Rovers fitted with ploughs:

FunRover reader Bill from 4x4 Scotland sent us this shot

Bill's using Snow Way 22 Series ploughs which look fantastic!

Update: Snow Plough Legalities

We couldn't find any specific legal information on the use of snow ploughs. Nothing about side markers, using amber lights e.t.c or atleast nothing specific. So one of our team sent an email off to the the Department of Transport in the UK.

Here's the reply we received:

Thank you for your email of 10 November regarding the use of a snow plough fitted to the front of your vehicle.

Although the regulations in the Construction and Use Regulations 1986 (as amended) do not explicitly specify a ban on a detachable snow ploughs, there is a regulation (No 100) that prohibits anything which might be dangerous. Regulation 100 states:

(1) A motor vehicle, every trailer drawn thereby and all parts and accessories of such vehicle and trailer shall at all times be in such condition, and the number of passengers carried by such vehicle or trailer, the manner in which any passengers are carried in or on such vehicle or trailer, and the weight, distribution, packing and adjustment of the load of such vehicle or trailer shall at all times be such, that no danger is caused or is likely to be caused to any person in or on the vehicle or trailer or on a road.
(2) The load carried by a motor vehicle or trailer shall at all times be so secured, if necessary by physical restraint other than its own weight, and be in such a position, that neither danger nor nuisance is likely to be caused to any person or property by reason of the load or any part thereof falling or being blown from the vehicle or by reason of any other movement of the load or any part thereof in relation to the vehicle.
(3) No motor vehicle or trailer shall be used for any purpose for which it is so unsuitable as to cause or be likely to cause danger or nuisance to any person in or on the vehicle or trailer or on a road.

In our opinion, a detachable snow plough for the front of a Land Rover Defender is unlikely to be considered a danger. However, this is our view of the regulations and it should be treated purely as advice since it is ultimately for the courts to determine whether or not the legislation has been breached. Enforcement of these regulations is a matter for the Police and/or VOSA. If you remain unsure of your compliance with the law we recommend you seek independent expert (perhaps legal) advice to assist you.

So, fundamentally, a plough should be fine. Just make sure to take pre-cautions i.e. make sure any plough or make or purchase is high-vis yellow, has proper side markers and if you are travelling at slow speeds, consider using amber beacons if local legislation allows.

In part 2 of this post, we'll look at salt gritters, and then in part 3, we'll design our own plough that could be built with some simple DIY tools.

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You may have seen these before as metal MOD parts fitted to Wolf Military Land Rovers, but MUD have reworked the design to create their very own ABS vent.

These vents stop snow, mud & water from entering the win-top heater intake, maintaining optimal heater performance, which is crucial when the mercury heads below zero. MUD's snow cowls will also help prevent a sludgy build up (and eventual blockage) in the bottom of the heater inlet pipe.

The MOD cowls are much more susceptible to damage, as MUD made their cowl from a flexible, tough ABS plastic. Supplied with extra long, stainless steel screws to cater for those with chequer plate kits, these vents are available now for both RHD & LHD models.

MUD Snow Cowls are available now for only £35.00 inc VAT. Check it out on MUD STUFF. We'll be purchasing one soon for review. You can view our reviews of other MUD products here & here.

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As part of our commitment to continued public service, we're looking to procure a workshop in 2012. We want somewhere we can work on the Landy, but more importantly, that can be used as a photo studio at the same time. We've searched high and low for something suitable but are really struggling. So, we've decided to ask the FunRover community for a little help. If you own or know of a yard, lock-up, workshop, unit or similar that suits the below, please get in touch with us.

Here's what we're after:

• A lock-up, yard, workshop, unit, double garage, corner of a warehouse or similar (even a piece of land or field will do)
• Somewhere we are able to work on the Land Rover - so any buildings must have reasonable access for a vehicle
• We have a budget but will discuss this via email
• Somewhere within range of the following:

Cleckheaton is the centre-point of this map roughly

If you, or anyone you know can help, please contact us here

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