THE FINISHED PRODUCT

“Looking back, I’m really pleased with how it’s turned out. The work I’ve done means I can now really appreciate the rigidity that has gone back into the body, particularly after I addressed the top of the bulkhead; the whole vehicle seems much more robust now that it is properly welded.

“I did make a few mistakes. For example, I started at one corner, completed that, then worked round the vehicle. But doing it that way meant that I had to revisit the paint finish once I’d finished. If I was doing it again I’d commit earlier to overall vehicle disassembly and complete all the chassis and bodywork repairs prior to painting and starting any mechanical work.

“I thoroughly enjoy reading Land Rover Monthly every month and I doubt whether I’d have attempted this restoration without knowing that there was knowledge and experience among other enthusiasts out there should I get really stuck – so thanks, LRM!

“What I find particularly satisfying is that it will be around for a good few years to come. I’ve not previously calculated the amount of work I’ve put into it in terms of time but I was at it for evenings and weekends for more than ten months, so I estimate about 600 hours overall, which seems like a lot, but I had always intended to carry out a vehicle restoration at some point, so that’s now done.

“Was it worth it? I think so!”