Purchase suggestions

[Noel]

I've just joined the club in anticipation of buying a 2000 Defender 90 td5. It has 50000k and full documentation (Fron England with RHD but registered here by present owner). It has a 5 speed manual. Looks good but would appreciate any suggestions regarding potential issues that typically arise with these vehicles. Any ideas would be appreciated.
Thanks

[swamijake]

If you have a good set of sockets and wrenches, a multimeter, a hi-lift jack and a big hammer, there is nothing you can't fix on that defender.

Couple items to look out for:

rusty and or cracked frame, look for cracks at the weld of where the outriggers attach to the frame, and rear cross member.
td5's have an issue with the wiring loom to the injectors going south and causing weird issues as they age, the loom is cheap so just plan to change it.
its a timing chain so no belt to worry about

Expect leaky top, mediocre heater and oil drips on your driveway.

50,000k is barely broken in, so it should look in really good shape. If it has 50,000 on the odometer but it looks like it has done 250,000 get suspicious.

Now that you have the illness, welcome to the support group.

[Noel]

Many thanks for your advice. Hopefully there is no rust or cracks on the frame.
If someone has set back mileage then there usually are telltale signs of wear. If I purchase it will replace the wiring loom to injectors.
Again thanks

[red90]

Also look for rust on the bulkhead especially around the footwells and the bottom of the doors. It should be able to cruise at 110 and stop well. It would help to take someone that knows Defenders with you.

[Crs]

I'd agree with all of the above. Rust is the big enemy. Everything else can be fixed. Remember, body is aluminium, so the rust is not out in easy to see places.

If you don't know how they are supposed to drive, the advice to take a knowledgeable friends is very good.

Having one already registered avoids a number of hurdles.

[rayhyland]

I had a 2005 TD5 110. Great truck. If it looks good go for it.


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[CDN38]

Along with rust, galvanic corrosion (corrosion where aluminum and steel meet) are things to look for. Look on the ends of the seatbox, where the seatbelt is bolted in place, as well, the brackets that hold the rear seat in. It's not uncommon to see holes corroded through the aluminum. And of course, if there's holes there, in comes a lot of water.

Doors are also prime areas for rust, as well, the rear crossmember.

Ultimately, you would be best served taking it to a Defender specialist and get a full pre purchase inspection.