1988 LAND ROVER ONE TEN
AIMEE HOWARD, RAILWAY MANAGER, SHREWSBURY, SHROPSHIRE
How did you find this Land Rover?
I saved some pennies during the first lockdown before deciding it was time to find an off-roader for travel abroad. I found this one on ebay, drove down to Christchurch and fell in love with it, despite wanting to change every aspect of its appearance.
What’s the story so far?
I’ve had it for 11 months and Land Rover ownership is anything but simple. As with any 33-year-old vehicle, it’s got its flaws, which I am sorting bit by bit. I plan on fitting such items as a 3mm galvanised rear crossmember.
How is the engine running?
Currently not running. All of its oil came out via the turbo oil return pipe after a day of off-roading. This was caused by excessive crank case pressure due to wear and tear. A new bottom end is currently being rebuilt and hopefully you will see me in it at the Billing Off Road Show. I’ve decided to stick with a 200Tdi for now; that might change in the future.
What are your plans with it?
Whilst I do enjoy off-roading my bigger plans are to travel in it. First we have to get it in great running order. Once the mechanics are sorted I will make it more travel-friendly. I’m looking to travel to Norway, Morocco and most of Europe in it.
What have you done so far?
It looks so different to when I bought it. The first thing I did was to replace the old bumper with a Winchmax bumper. I accidentally ripped the snorkel off while off-roading so that was replaced too. I removed the external visor and spot lights, replacing them with a light bar on my roofrack. It’s got new wheel arches and I fitted BF Goodrich mud terrains. Underneath it’s had new Terrafirma 4 stage adjustable shocks and a steering damper, skeleton turrets, a couple of wheel bearings, UJS and Gwyn Lewis sumo bars fitted. Then I soundproofed it and put a new carpet in the back along with two folding seats.
What next?
Currently waiting to fit smoked LED lights, a MUD console and a diesel heater. Plus some storage. I would like a small folddown table and seat in the back. I can’t wait to get started on that. It does need a respray, maybe a nice smooth coat of Raptor paint?
What is the hardest part of this project? Time management. Sometimes I just want it on the road, now and ready to go.
I know that I am doing the right thing by replacing bits.
You’ve had a bit of bad luck with it?
Oh haven’t I just! Luckily, I’m surrounded by great people. My most memorable moment so far is when I decided to brim the fuel tank before travelling down to Cornwall, at which point it started leaking diesel all over the forecourt. It was just a split in the fuel breather pipe and I had some tools with me to fix it there and then.
When will it be finished?
I think it will probably be an ongoing labour of love for years to come, but in that time I’ll have had the chance to make many great memories in it. One of the lower priority additions I’d like to make is mounting a motorbike on the back. I’ve had my motorbike licence for about 15 years now and it’s still a passion of mine so I’d love to combine it with travelling in my 110.
Who is helping you with the project? Family and friends have been great. If they weren’t enthusiasts before, they sure are now. I’m keen to learn about the mechanics of this vehicle and fortunately I’ve got good support around me for that.
How can readers follow what you are doing?
You can follow me on Instagram @aimee_ goes_on_adventures as I post regular updates.