r/LandroverDefender

Looking at purchasing a classic Defender 110 but wanted to convert the transmission to an automatic, as they seem to be rare especially in the subcontinent. Does anyone know of a rough ball park of the cost to convert? And would this need to be done at a specialist garage? (South Asia). I wanted to also have it wrapped in Viridian green (Aston Martin) and have the interior redone in tan with Pepita inserts. Given the low cost of labour in South Asia I’d imagine that it wouldn’t be as costly. This one in particular that caught my eye has a 2.5 L motor from a ford puma, I’d I’d imagine it’s a lot more reliable than what it came with from factory.

Looking for honest opinions from Defender/restomod people before I make a potentially stupid financial decision.

Truck is a RHD Land Rover Defender 110 titled as a 1981 located in the US. Completely rebuilt on a new galvanized frame. Kahn wheels on 37s, RXI leather seats/interior, MSD fuel injected 3.9 V8, supposedly no leaks/issues, 162,000km on the odometer. Asking price is $85k. Attached are some of the photos.

Trying to figure out:
- Is this actually worth the money in today’s market? If not what pricing is realistic?
- Does the galvanized frame alone add huge value?
- How bad is RHD ownership in the US long term?
- What mechanical issues should I specifically look for on a build like this?
- What are the red flags with imported/titled Defenders?
- Would you daily drive something like this or keep it as a weekend vehicle?
- Does a 3.9 V8 on 37s become a reliability nightmare?
- What would you inspect immediately before buying/trading for it?

I understand these are emotional purchases more than practical ones, but I want opinions from people who actually own/work on these vehicles instead of Instagram comments.

Any insight appreciated!

Just an old girl with some shiny bits!

I have installed a new Lucari roof rack this afternoon. The quality is outstanding.

Anybody mount rear speakers in the original back electrical coverings (pictured)? I don’t really like the look of the Mudstuff plastic ones and don’t want them in the door. My thought was use Dynamat, secure well, foam gasket to isolate speaker, and I’m also planning to carpet them to match the rest of the vehicle. My main concern was potential humidity, but it’s not like the rest of the vehicle is air sealed anyway. I bought a Lasalle headliner which is great, but the speaker spots don’t fit 5.25” which is what I have.

Decided on LT285/55R20s. There's a little more road noise but barely noticeable at 60 miles per hour.

I'm looking for any suggestions for Digital information displays for my defender, I'd feel much safer knowing all my temps and I don't know if I can rely on the gauges on my TD5
Any help is appreciated.

You can say what you like about what I do or have done with my Land Rover and a lot of people often do, but this looks damn cool if I do say so myself.

https://www.instagram.com/bntdjs/

Hi all long time lurker. Finally in the position to pull the trigger on a 110. Ideally want a TD5 and found this one at £23,995.

On at 81,000 miles. With a good bit of work done/ electric rooftop tent and fridge slide, immobiliser, good service history, one owner.

Have posted some pictures of the chassis, would you be concerned with the rust/ condition?

There seems to be some oil on transfer case/ sump but not too concerned around this, landy after all.

Anyone more knowledgeable than myself able to help me make a decision?! Anything to be majorly concerned of here. I like that it hasn’t been hidden or treated so can see it.

Casually spotted it while on my commute from work

New here :) just got my DEFENDER, been a dream of mine since I was a teen. Would like to get some newbie tips or tricks or anything really. Otherwise good to be part of the community.

Lol also love the “DEFENDER WAVES 👋🏾”

1955 Land Rover Series 1. At a Glance:

Electronic Ignition | Engine Rebuild | Sympathetically Restored | ~8 Years Enthusiast Owned | Keen Reserve

You can see hundreds more photos and videos of this car, and bid, here: 1955 Land Rover Series 1 - bidding ends 28th May 2026

Few vehicles carry the charm and unmistakable character of an early Land Rover Series 1, and this 1955 example is no exception.

Imported from Australia in 2017 before undergoing a comprehensive restoration, this beautifully presented Series 1 has been carefully rebuilt by its current owner, with a strong focus on originality, usability and preserving the vehicle’s authentic character.

Coming to market from just over 8.5 with our vendor, this Series 1 has a freshly rebuilt engine, extensive restoration work and a wonderfully honest appearance throughout, it represents a fantastic opportunity to own one of Britain’s most iconic off-roaders.

This listing was written from information supplied by Ashley after meeting Bill the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

I suspect I have a warped exhaust manifold, high pitch squeal when cold on the odd occasion (thought it was the fan belt) hissing/whooshing noise that builds with the engine revs, turbo boost pipes checked, intercooler checked and all fine, but no loss of power as far as I can tell, no exhaust stains on the engine block, any ideas on how I can crack down on the issue and confirm if it’s an exhaust manifold or something else I’ve looked over? I have until Friday to fix it otherwise I have to cancel my trip!!! Oh and the exhaust manifold already has upgraded studs and has been dewebbed which suggests to me this has been a problem in the past

2003 16p TD5 defender 110, 240k miles