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Ever since I took delivery, the rear<br />
differential leaked. It leaked horrendously,<br />
reminiscent of a colander, thanks to all those<br />
quaint Vermont winters. Objectively, I filled it<br />
every other day. I kept using Amsoil synthetic<br />
gear oil, knowing that if it were to empty, at least<br />
its bearing and gears would be coated in lush<br />
synthetic lubrication. I took it to a local Land<br />
Rover specialist who drained the differential,<br />
cleaned it, coated it in thick marine-grade<br />
epoxy, and covered the epoxy in black paint,<br />
after allowing it to harden at room temperature<br />
for a few days; the perfect fix for my $1,100<br />
Range Rover.<br />
Why not properly weld the axle case shut<br />
from the inside, and outside, whilst removing<br />
the rear differential? The labour bill for that job<br />
alone might cost more than what I paid for the<br />
entire Range Rover! That’s what makes these<br />
cars a great value. So long as you have<br />
an affordable source for quality parts, and<br />
you’re resourceful with your hands, these<br />
vehicles are a considerable value! Aside from<br />
its thirsty fuel habit and depreciation, this<br />
Rover is loaded to the gills with comfort and<br />
refinement, not to mention character that you<br />
just cannot put a price on. Is this Range Rover<br />
restorable? Surely, but it’s also replaceable! If<br />
something goes horribly wrong or it rots out<br />
beyond recognition, I’ll part it out and gladly<br />
buy a replacement. These cars aren’t nearly as<br />
restorable as a Series or Defender, seeing as<br />
they have more complex systems and some of<br />
the interior and exterior bits are no longer in<br />
production. In the meantime, mine will have a<br />
nice retirement, driving me to and from Rovers<br />
North. As for yourselves, go out and buy a<br />
Range Rover Classic. Once you take it home,<br />
acquaint yourself with all of its systems and stay<br />
on top of the maintenance. This isn’t a vehicle<br />
that only requires its owner to perform<br />
oil changes and a full tank of fuel. If you<br />
are balking at the fuel consumption bill, this<br />
probably isn’t the right car for you. Find a<br />
well-sorted example, or you’ll only condemn my<br />
recommendation.<br />
As for me, owning this Range Rover Classic<br />
is quite an upgrade in luxury from my 109”<br />
military. I can’t say that for a daily driver I’ll<br />
be back in my Series anytime soon.<br />
Let the Sisyphean task of Land Rover<br />
ownership and maintenance continue…<br />
_______ ________<br />
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