RRC Rebuild?

[Landrovernick]

I have finally done it. I have pulled my 89 RRC off the road for a total "rebuild" but I need advice. I know there are things that must be rectified on my rover to make it more roadworthy. These are the things clearly visible (like suspension, steering swivels, interior, engine etc.) The problem I'm having is that there are spots of rust on the skeleton of the rover some spots are quite soft almost to the point of being able to push right through. The floorboards are completely rotted through on the outside corners etc. My question is, would it be worth it to buy a new frame or should I just have the old one repaired. I haven't removed the fenders or other body panels to see whats hidden but I would assume it to be the same if not worse. If anyone has undertaken a rebuild of their classic what should I do, not do, look out for etc. As this is the first vehicle I have ever worked on like this help from the experienced would be great. I dont mind having the rover off the road for awhile as my intention is do the work right the first time but I would like advice from those who have undertaken such a journey!

 

[Steve83]

There are a few here in Memphis for sale - it might cost you less to trade up, even considering travel costs. There's a decent one ('96 I think) for $5000 and a wrecked '95 that's still driveable (not sure of the price). Then there's a LWB...

 

[jasonm]

Nicholas,
If you haven't already found it check out
http://www.rovermechanic.com

Read my rover diary section that details the first six months of rover ownership for me. The rover is a second car for me so I can afford to have it in my garage for months on end. Most recently I've been doing frame repair to it.

If you have any questions I'd be happy to answer them!

Jason M
89RR

 

[Landrovernick]

That is exactly what I did as well. I went out and purchased a new car so that the Rover could relax inside the garage. I plan on completely tearing it down and doing all major repairs. I have succeeded so far in removing most of the interior. It is quite disconcerting to see how much rust was hidden by the carpet. Especially on the rear wheel arches where the seat belts bolt on. I plan on delving deeper into that website. By the way you mention your diary? Is that site your diary or is your diary located in another spot. I appreciate all the help with this.

 

[alia176]

Corrosion is very cancerous and spreads everywhere in the LRs. The scope of this project will expand forever if you don't have a set budget or a set time. The proverbial saying "while I'm in there, why don't I improve this" can take you to new heights of frustration and expense. Just be wary of this before totally tearing into this project. Perhaps you want to get "intimately" familiar with the inner workings of your RRC and this is definitely the way to do so.

As others have suggested, do take into consideration at looking rust free LRs from certain parts of this country. You can always transfer your goodies to the new(er) RR and not be in so deep with your time and perhaps money.

This is all my personal philosophy so take it for what it's worth. It's fun to tinker on a vehicle but it's also fun to drive it! Have fun with your endeavor!

 

[Orlando]

I started rebuilding mine 3 years ago and am now finishing up my rebuild. Had some rust, but didn't get it all. Time and money are the major consumers on projects like such. I didn't address everything yet but I just got it running. There are still more issues to address. I have a 77 2 dr range rover and had to upgrade many parts. Most of the rust was in the wheel wells no, rust in the frame. I pulled the carpet, door panels, and head liner and found rust right behind the rear side window frame.

 

[jenzz1]

Orlando,
do you have pictures of the rebuild?
Can you roughly sum up how many hours went into this thing?

 

[Orlando]

I don't know how many hours I can say too too many. Off and on for three years. I am a college student so funding was and is low. I still have unfinished things to address. I have pictures as the rebuild took place. some were done on a 35mm camera so I can't scan them. The ones i do have are were the vehcile is almost done. If you have specific questions go ahead and ask. Most of my stuff was custom built. I redid the interior with an exception of the dash which still to be done. I bedlined the inside and replaced the seats. Custom front and rear bumpers. Total of 4 inch lift, 3 inch springs and 1 inch spacers. Trailing arms, radius arms, extended brake lines, relocated shock mounts were all addressed. I had custom adapters made to connect the extended brake lines from rovertym to conncect with the threads on my rover. Replaced older brake and clutch master cylinder with those of a newer rover. 95 D1, 3.9 engine with carb setup. Custom double, double cardan drive shaft. Custom aluminum roof rack, DAP cutout fender flares. upgraded grille, and tail lights. i currently have some 34 inch Ltb's off of my dodge, but will be running Q-78 TSL's. All custom fab was done by a freind of mine. I did the installations and upgrades myself. Lots of research to find parts that would work on my rover and last minute changes after some of the work had been done. I will take some pics tomorrow and post.

 

[jenzz1]

Sounds like a really nice trail rig. Any Pic would be fine.

 

[Orlando]

]Here is a pic

 

[jenzz1]

It has a very clean look, you paid much attention to details. I especially like the sliders.
Is the roof rack really made from aluminium?

 

[Orlando]

Yes, the roof rack is made out of aluminum. 1 inch, schedule 40 pipe. It weights from about 20-40 pounds not sure since I have not weighed it. The only part that is steel are the exterior clamps that hold the rack in place. Those are not shown in the picture.