Page 1 - Discourse 12 THE MAGAZINE OF THE DISCOVERY OWNERS CLUB Number 12 - June/July 2003 www.discoveryownersclub.com Land Rover Marque Day The 2003 Heritage Run LRO Show Wetherby ARC National at Doncaster Land Rover Marque Day The 2003 Heritage Run LRO Show Wetherby ARC National at Doncaster Member’s Arctic Experience Getting onto the DOC Forum Mounting a Farm Jack on the Dog Guard Power Boosting a 200Tdi Member’s Arctic Experience Getting onto the DOC Forum Mounting a Farm Jack on the Dog Guard Power Boosting a 200Tdi
Transcript
Page 1 - Discourse 12
THE MAGAZINE OF THE DISCOVERY OWNERS CLUB Number 12 - June/July 2003
www.discoveryownersclub.com
Land Rover Marque DayThe 2003 Heritage Run
LRO Show Wetherby ARC National at Doncaster
Land Rover Marque DayThe 2003 Heritage Run
LRO Show WetherbyARC National at Doncaster
Member’s Arctic ExperienceGetting onto the DOC Forum
Mounting a Farm Jack on the Dog GuardPower Boosting a 200Tdi
Member’s Arctic ExperienceGetting onto the DOC Forum
Mounting a Farm Jack on the Dog GuardPower Boosting a 200Tdi
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The Small PrintFor the purposes of this notice, ‘Discovery Owners Club’ and ‘Club’ are interchangeable and assumed to mean the same thing.
Discourse ArticlesThe Club reserves the right to edit or refuse articles received from members.
Views expressed by members contributing to this magazine are those of that member and may not necessarily be those of the Club. Every effort is made to verify the contents of member’s articles, but the Club can not accept responsibility for the veracity of its content.
Caveat EmptorEvery effort is made to ensure advertisements are bona fide. The Club can not accept responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised. The moral is “buyer beware”.
Public Liability InsuranceThe Club has Public Liability Insurance for registered Club events of a non-competitive nature. Cover is provided for full Club members, their spouse or partner and children residing at the same address. Family members as defined in the Club rules travelling in a separate vehicle are also covered. Road traffic accident risks are not covered by the Club’s Public Liability Insurance. It is the responsibility of the member to ensure that they have proper and legal Insurance cover for themselves and the vehicle from leaving home until returning home.
Club EventsActivities in particular but not excluding off-roading and green-laning are undertaken solely at the participants’ own risk. Vehicles should be suitably insured and prepared for the undertaken activity. Participation in any Club organised event is on the understanding and acceptance that safety is the responsibility of the participant.
Green LanesAll ‘green lanes’ are highways as defined by the Highways Act 1980. Green laning events
require the same level of insurance, road tax, MOT and driver’s licence as normal roads.
Association of Rover ClubsThe Club is a non-competitive member of the Association of Rover Clubs (ARC), an organisation bringing together all member Land Rover clubs for organising events (both competitive and non-competitive) and providing many essential services to member clubs.
GLASSThe Discovery Owners Club is a member of GLASS (Green Lane Association). GLASS is a national rights of way user group representing the interests of motor car users on unsurfaced minor highways or ‘green lanes’ in England and Wales. GLASS promotes responsible off-
roading and the Club endorses this.
Club Web Site & DOC Forumwww.discoveryownersclub.com is the Club’s website address. www.docforum.co.uk is the new forum address. For instant access, all you need is a valid membership number to register on site. Once registered, you can log on anywhere in the world to catch up with your favourite club, post replies and help fellow Discovery Owners.
Subjects range from Caravanning to Humour. There’s optional email notification for individual postings, entire topics or forums.
Back IssuesTwo ways for members to obtain Discourse back issues:
Printed copies at £2.50 ea together with a self addressed A4 envelope stamped at 41pence, or CD-ROM at £2.00 including postage (this would have all back issues).
Cheques should be made payable to ‘Discovery Owners Club’ and sent with your order to Lee Jones - Membership Secretary.
Advertising in DiscourseAdvertising space will be available in future issues of Discourse. Advertisements can be whole page, half page and quarter page in either black and white or full colour.
Suppliers and dealers wishing to advertise in Discourse should contact Alan Smart for a Rate Card and details of space available.
Small Ads for DOC MembersMembers can place small ads for Discovery stuff in Discourse for free.
However, if you have a cottage to let or anything else that would bring in some income, then you’ll also be able to advertise in the small ads section but will be expected to make a contribution to the production costs of Discourse.
Committee MeetingsUnder the rules of the club, members may attend, but not participate at committee meetings. If you plan to come along, please let the Club Secretary know in advance. The planned date for the next committee meeting is:
The third weekend in July at Billing.
If you have something you want raised at committee, please let a committee member know.
AcknowledgementsCover photograph by Alan Smart.
This issue has been designed and published by Focus TC.
In This Issue
Land Rover News 4Book Review 5Easter Weekend 6Land Rover Marque Day 8Heritage Run 9LRO Show Wetherby 11ARC National 11Member’s Ads 12Class of ’93 13ReDiscovered 13The Arctic Experience 13Love at First Sight 14On the way to The Forum 15Farm jack Mounting 16Brake Testing 17200Tdi Power Boost 17A Sunday Jaunt 18Point to Point 20Exmoor Lanes 21Write a Caption 23More Members Ads 23Something Old.. 24What’s On - Tim Arnold 26Calendar and Contacts 26Regional Meets 27
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Sean Pearce Club Shop Officer5 Dodlee Lane, Longwood, Huddersfield, Yorkshire, HD3 4TZ Tel: 01484 644764, Mobile: 07703 534453Email: [email protected]
John PattonYorkshire LSR43 Mountain Ash, Rooley Moor, Rochdale, OL12 7JD. Mobile: 07748 502200 From the Editor’s Keyboard
It’s showtime! We’ve just done the first three shows of the season and they’ve been a great success. You can read all about them in this issue. With the events planned for the rest of the year it should put us in good stead to increase membership and get the club on the map.
In this packed edition of Discourse you will see we now have the club merchandise that you can buy mail order as well as an introduction to the club internet forum. If you are e-enabled, why not join in on this wider aspect of the club’s activities. It’s packed full of useful information.
We still need more of you to be involved in the running of the club and its events. The current workload is making enormous demands on just a few peoples’ time. If you feel you can offer the club any assistance, please let a member of the committee know.
We are still on track to publish every other month so keep those contributions coming! Contributions need to be with me by 26th July at the very latest. The earlier you send them, the easier my job is. If you’re sending by e-mail, please send to my new address alan@the -bales.co.uk
Your Committee
Neil BrownleeChairman9 Lindisfarne Way, East Hunsbury, Northampton, NN4 0WG. Tel: 07768 366 157, Email: [email protected]
Gary TredwellVice Chairman, Central Southern LSR21 Wick Close, Peachcroft, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 2NQ. Tel: 01235 520240, Email: [email protected]
G4 Team Spirit Award for Tom PickeringTom Pickering was honoured with the coveted Team Spirit Award in the inaugural Land Rover G4 challenge. The 39-year-old from the Isle of Lewis was voted as having displayed the best team spirit during the four week long challenge.
Land Rover AuctionThe Heritage Centre at Gaydon is auctioning off some of the exhibits. At the time of going to press it’s unclear if all the Land Rovers scheduled to be auctioned will be available.
The oldest vehicle offered is 1906 Albion A2 12hp Wagonette with a guide price of £30,000 - £35,000 In case you’re feeling flush, these are the Land Rovers offered:
• 1970 Range Rover rolling chassis £500 - 1,000
• 1982 Range Rover Wood & Pickett, commissioned by Harrods with intention to provide a bespoke vehicle and liveried in their corporate colours £3,000 - 5,000
• 1986 Land Rover 100, Swiss Army prototype, petrol, auto £3,000 - 5,000
• 1987 Land Rover 90 rolling chassis £3,000 - 5,000
• 2001 Range Rover P38A 4.6 NAS, last 38A model off line, 120 miles £30,000 - 40,000
All lots shall be offered without reserve and shall sell to the highest bidder, whatever the price. Auction commences at 2.00pm Sunday 29 June, on view Saturday 28 June from 10.00am to 4.00pm, and on the day of sale from 10.00am. Although the Sale viewing shall be free, entry to the auction is strictly by catalogue only (admits two). Illustrated catalogues will be available early June priced £14 post paid UK, £15 overseas. Catalogues holders shall be granted a concessionary rate to view non-sale museum exhibits at the Heritage Motor Centre.
The 1993 Land Rover Discovery, sectioned ‘cutaway’.
The event took the teams from the bustle of New York City, through South Africa and Australia, before finally ending between the famous red cliffs of Moab, Utah in the USA.
While not the winner in this inspiring global challenge, Pickering was delighted with his award. “Being judged by my peers as having displayed the best team spirit is the most satisfying moment of the whole challenge,” beamed Pickering after the announcement. Only the competitors were allowed to vote for this award, and it was the plucky Brit who received the majority of the votes.
Pickering ended the challenge in 8th position and was characteristically upbeat at the end of the event. “During the last month I have driven thousands of miles through unbelievable scenery. I have done amazing things, seen amazing places and made many friends for life. In this event winning is really secondary – just being here and part of it is more than enough for me.”
The winner was the Belgian fighter pilot, Rudi Thoelen who was crowned as winner. The 31-year-old from Zoutleeuw outwitted and outlasted the other 15 men and women.
During the four-week challenge they have crossed four time zones, they have run, kayaked, biked and driven through some of the most striking scenery on the planet.
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Land Rover, The Unbeatable 4x4 by K & J SlavinFrom the Editor’s Bookshelf
Auction EnquiriesVehicles:
James Knight Tel 020 7393 3822, fax 020 7393 3915, email: [email protected]
Car Department, Bonhams 020 7393 3822 www.bonhams.com
Discovery Wins Again
The Land Rover Discovery has won an Auto Express Used Car honour for the second consecutive year with the ‘Used 4x4 of the Year’ accolade for 2003.
Chosen as the best vehicle in the 4x4 category, the Discovery was judged a superior used buy to the BMW X5 and Jeep Grand Cherokee. The vehicle has sold over 170,000 in the UK since its 1989 launch and has a history of success in Auto Express honours, with the ‘Best 4x4 off-roader’ accolade in the New Car Honours for 2001, New Car Honours for the 21st century and Used Car Honours for 2002.
Commenting on this latest award, marketing director for Land Rover UK, Colin Green said: “The Discovery is clearly a winner whether bought new or used, and the vehicle performs consistently year in year out in the hands of the toughest judges of any product - its customers. We hope that this award, coupled with the fact that there are excellent offers in Land Rover showrooms currently, makes the decision making a little easier on buyers before a busy Easter weekend of used vehicle shopping.”
This book is for anyone interested in the development of the Land Rover marque and models. What makes this book different from all the other history books is the 120 pages devoted to the Special Projects Department at Solihull (later to be known as Special Vehicles Operations) and some of the weird and wonderful models they produced. Some of their ideas found their way into mainstream production, like the four-door Range Rover but many never saw the light of day existing as one-off prototypes.
The development of Range Rover and Discovery are covered in detail (by none other than our own James Taylor) with many pictures. There’s also an extensive section on expeditions starting with some of the early exploits like the Cape Rally of 1951 through to Band Aid. This section then goes on to offer lots of advise about preparing for an expedition from vehicle preparation, what to carry, first aid and medical advice.
A good 350 plus page read that you can either dip into or read from end-to-end, well indexed and with plenty of pictures. If you’re serious about Land Rovers then this is a book for you.
Curly Dashes Go Straight
Curly dashes on 300 series Discoverys have been a problem for a while and Land Rover are no longer repairing them under warranty which, if you consider the youngest vehicle is now at least five years old, is not unreasonable.
Devon 4x4 Centre (01769 550900) have a kit for £55 + VAT + p&p in either grey or beige that can be fitted without taking out the windscreen. You tuck the lifted part under the original dash, fit the trim and it’s all held together with the self-tappers suplied.
Adventure Prize Winner at Gaydon
Young Nathan Wedgbury, aged ten from Solihull, was the winner of a Land Rover Adventure at Gaydon, when he was the first to correctly answer DOC Publicity Officer Jim Law’s question ‘In what year did the first Discovery hit the roads in the UK?’ The correct answer was ‘1989’. Nathan’s pictured here with Jim and commentator Diana Tigwell, receiving his prize .
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Easter WeekendChris Gorvin
Over the past few seasons my family has often commented “does the Discovery Owners Club do any thing but show stands and off road events?” Off roading to us means anything between the Paris-Dakar and driving along an old farm track.
As ardent caravaners we have always enjoyed the ability to take (tow) our home with us to different corners of the UK and Europe. Although we always seem to come back to the toe of Cornwall on a regular basis.
As an attendee and latterly organiser of show stands for the club, I have always thought that within our membership there are fellow members who with family or not, would be interested in events other than green lanes or driving up mountains. Perhaps many of you out there bought your Discovery as I did, as a tow vehicle.
Early this year I was asked by the committee to look into organising a camping caravanning weekend. One that was unrelated to any show or off roading trip, this is hoped to be the first of many around the country. Wether organised by myself or other willing members matters not, the idea is to provide a come-as-you-please weekend rally, some in fields (we are allowed via our exemption certificate with the ARC to hold our own rallies) some on limited facility sites, some with all the bells and whistles. The choice was therefore where to start, Easter was the first date. The type of site? A poll on the forum resulted in a even split between a site with a club and hook up, a basic site with hook up and a minimum facility site.
In the end the site chosen was Roundhill in the New Forest. The site we use annually for the 4x4 show held at Beaulieu, it’s close to the sea, near to Bournemouth, and being within the New Forest there are plenty of walking and cycling tracks, quaint pubs and interesting villages with plenty of shops. The site had toilet facilities only, but for an average of £5.75 per night on the rally field and the super scenery, who can complain?
The week preceding Good Friday was glorious, temperature in the mid twenties, very unusual for April, would it hold out? We set off from Tamworth at 6.40 on the Wednesday night, yes Wednesday. I have customers on the south coast and it gave us the chance of having an extra day with this weather, the trip needed to be completed by 10pm when the reception closed. 150 miles later, with an average of 49.1mph and a total driving time of just over 3 hours (GPS figures) made it with seven minutes to spare. After all that I was quite pleased with the wardens suggestion of pitching on the main field overnight.
Thursday - At around 7.30am we moved onto the rally field. My solitary caravan on a field which held 100 vans, we could go anywhere, I let Lynn pick the spot; normally I end up pitching it the wrong way round or with the sun on the in the wrong place at the wrong time. So I enjoyed the deliberation before the position was chosen. Once set up we left the van and headed off, I dropped Lynn and the kids in Poole and I went of to do my thing.
Heading back to the site in the late afternoon, I rang Neil, to see how he was getting on, not so well was the reply, ‘Piglet’, Neil’s well known trusty (normally) steed was overheating badly, they were having to drive with the heater full on, not the best thing to do when the temperature outside is 25ºC. They were not far away according to Neil’s GPS, and some thirty minutes later a very hot ‘Piglet’, Neil and Maddie swung into view A couple of cold beers later and at least two of them had cooled a little.
The next two outfits to arrive consisted of Vince and family and the ‘Mad’ man himself ‘Mad’ George and his good lady. Now the basic plan for pitching the caravans were in a arc around the BBQ area at one end of the field, Vince pitched up to this plan, George who drives an artic for a living, had a number of attempts to back into various positions, each ended some 20 feet from the last in the end we gave up and left him where he last ended up. As we all settled down for the evening with drinks in hand, Tim arrived plus two sleepy children. Tim had driven all the way from Kent, was having similar overheating concerns to Neil, both vowed to descend upon the local Land Rover dealers the next day on a thermostat hunt.
The beauty of this site is in the location and informality. Some of the New Forest sites are set deep amongst the trees or in leafy glades. Roundhill is on the forest edge with most of the site in more open shrubland, and pitching is informal on a ‘where you want to’ basis. The site will hold 500 plus the rally field so it is not a small site, however it was fully booked from the Wednesday night we arrived, driving round during the weekend it is clear that less scrupulous owners of sites would try to cram a few more in, by cutting down some of the bushes to allow for a more, but as it run at present there are still plenty of space between everybody, and the grass is kept short by the New Forest ponies, which are allowed to roam throughout the site.
Friday - dawned another glorious day – well I think it did, I was not up that early, the sun was shining through the cracks around the blinds and that did encourage us up from our slumber.
Owen and Bob trundled into view during breakfast, 2 adults, 2 kids and 2 dogs with each outfit, Bob was driving what we shall call a non Land Rover, the less said the better (I used to own one of these too). The highlight of any caravaners day, is sitting with a cup of tea or coffee and watching the latest arrivals manoeuvre to and fro, deciding were to pitch and watching cruelly as the struggle with poles and yards of canvas – go on admit it, we all do it. Well Owen is a disappointment as far as this goes, I am still convinced he has a hitch release next to the bonnet pull. As Bob drove passed the still moving Owen, both heading towards their pitch, Owen disappeared from my view for 5-10 seconds, he reappeared still moving slowly, but the van was now disconnected, electric uncoupled and with the jockey wheel down and in place, - amazing. His awning erection was not much slower.
We all agreed to meet back on the field for a BBQ at 5.30, this allowed everyone to do there own thing, some went off site to do a bit of shopping, others just relaxed in the hot spring sunshine. By mid afternoon we had all drifted back, sitting talking and having a few beers with friends old and new.
Recent Events
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The BBQ commenced late afternoon and continued on well into the evening, Owen’s quick witted repartee and George’s amusing antics, including pretending to chop off his leg whilst chopping wood, kept us all in good spirits, and many thanks to Vince and Dorien who literally did.
Saturday - started much the same as Friday, perhaps a little cooler, a leisurely get up, Neil and Maddie continued the weekend performance of being last up, no kids this weekend obviously paying off. By the time we had cleaned up our attempt at French Crèpes on the Cadac, most of folks had left for various shopping or sight seeing trips. Neil and Tim headed for the local dealers to get a thermostat for their overheating steeds.
Eventually we headed off towards Milton-on-Sea via Lymington. Milton, like most of the local villages, has a mix of grocery shops, tearooms and craft shops. We found a parking place on the high street and had only been in one shop when I noticed someone had placed a ‘Join the DOC ‘ booklet on my front screen. We found the culprits, George and Bridget, grinning from the back of a tearoom. We later went down to the sea front, not much sand. The coastline is quite flat with the sea front made up of a steep pebbly beach, with views out over the Solent to the Isle of Wight.
On Saturday evening the weather broke, wind and rain, for our happy campers; no problem – all safely tucked up in our awning, the addition of the arrival of John and his son Shaun, in a very tidy TD5 complete with roof tent, and the also recently arrived Steve and Lucy, completed our happy band. Lucy had come along to her first DOC event, not being into off road events this was a great place to start. The chat and the banter for those who wanted, went long into the evening.
Sunday – following the overnight rain, we all expected a muddy field, but we were all pleasantly surprised as the grass was no wetter than following a heavy dew. This morning’s interest revolved around fixing Neil’s cold water. He had hot water but no cold in his caravan, a strange problem as the cold water was obviously being pumped up and into the water heater. With the entire male contingent gathered around the water heater, lead by
George – resplendent in his carpet slippers we attacked the pipe work, George removed the carbon filter and found the contents empties out quiet readily – all over the grass, to the amusement of the assembled crowd, the fault was eventually tracked down to a blocked non return valve in the housing body.
Just before one, we all with the exception of Vince, set out for lunch, we have visited the Hare and Hounds at Sway before. The 200 year old coaching house set in the New Forest is well known for good food, with a children’s play area and beer garden, all are catered for. We arrived to find the small gravel car park mostly full, the addition of eight large 4x4 made for interesting parking.
During our lunch I got talked into going greenlaning, for those who know me, this is not my normal pleasure. Two hours later and suitable refreshed from our beer and roast we set off. I was not going to mention this off roading as this was meant to be a non off roading event, however for the sake of letting everyone know, I took my shiny ‘Monte’ down a green lane, it was worth it. To be honest it was more of a farm track and I don’t now what all these folks get so worked up about. But then, each to their own.
We left Neil, Tim, Owen and co after the first one to ‘do a few more’, which apparently included an attempted crossing of the river Avon - ask George about that one. We headed off to Burley, a quaint little village nestling on a hillside within the forest, full of gift shops and tearooms, for a browse around.
Our evening get together consisted of stories of the attempted river crossing and the discussion with the local farmer, interwoven with Owen and George’s school boy humour. Meanwhile the camp’s younger contingent played noisily outside the awning, all told, a very satisfying day.
Monday – all good things must end eventually, and so our first DOC camping event closed, one by one we all took down the awnings, loaded up our caravans and headed back to our corners of the country. Neil and Maddie were having children withdrawal symptoms, having left both with grandparents; the consequence of this was they were first off like a shot. By midday the rally field looked quiet and peaceful, John and Shawn along with Steve and Lucy had elected to stay another night, lucky people.
Postscript – did the event succeed? Yes, most definitely for a first event. Nine outfits allowed us all to get together when we all wanted to, without leaving any one out.
The future: At present, there are two more events planned this year: one near Cirencester in July and one next to Alton Towers over the August Bank holiday. See the Events list for the date and contact names of the rally organisers. We are also intending to have a rally in the North West before the year is out.
We hope that members, who do not fancy the shows or the off roading will come along, if anyone has suggestions for sites, areas or prefer hook up or not, please ring me, snail mail me or e- mail. This is your club.
Recent Events
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Recent Events
Land Rover Marque DayChris Gorvin
May Day bank holiday, whilst for some it invokes the traditional Labour Day, or merely the first gardening weekend or trip to B&Q. To the Land Rover fraternity it has become known as the first show of the year. Originally started to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of Land Rover, the first Heritage run ran through the main Solihull shopping streets, starring many of the now famous classic Land Rovers produced over the fifty year history. Since then the run from Lode Lane entrance at the Land Rover factory in Solihull, to the Gaydon Heritage museum has followed a leisurely drive through the Warwickshire countryside. Now in its 6th year, the event has become a regular meeting place for enthusiasts, and as members of the Discovery Owners Club, that includes us.
With the caravan duly restocked from our Easter break we set off. Gaydon is only a hour away from our house and is probably the most central event of the year and one of the easiest to get to. Upon arriving just before 11am, we spotted a few caravans on the camping field. This is situated above the museum bowl, off to the left as you drive down to the show area and museum complex. We were not first to arrive, Paul Clarke and George Neil, were there, first as usual, Garry, Paul Stevens, Mad George, Sean and the Northern crew had all arrived. They looked across in amazement, as after seeing them I drove 200 yards straight past before turning on to the field. They guessed right, I was avoiding the mud!
We all pitched up in a nice long line. Sean, John and co were putting up their new tents when we arrived, a daunting experience at any time, but with the collection of comments from their fellow members; some useful, other not, they did very well. Luckily for all of us, the weather was picking up and the sun was even peeking through.
One by one the regular crew rolled in, James Law, and Dyf, with Caroline, Kim and Jeanette, Owen with his children plus a stowaway in the form of Kevin.
We had arranged a committee meeting for 2.30, so after lunch we all packed into George Neal’s awning, 15 committee member plus two ordinary members – George (well it was his awning) and Paul. Lee, was running a little late, so we had a good look at the new and potential new regalia items. Once Lee arrived we got underway, we had all told our wives, girlfriends, etc. the meeting would only last one hour, at 5.30 we were getting those sort of looks that you know mean ‘for God sake hurry up’ so knowing Owen and co had gone to put the marquee up, business was concluded.
The wind was quite strong on Saturday, so the Gazebo when erected between the caravans was well tied down, and our BBQ line up was protected with some handy garden fencing. For those of you with Cadac’s a little tip from Paul and George, to stop the wind blowing the flame out, cut (carefully) the top and bottom of a beer can and slip over the flame tube, it still allows the air flow, but cuts down the wind effect. As with all our
events, good food, good beer and good company, the evening past too quickly, Ros and Andy came and joined us, As camping event marshals they both looked after the whole field, but with all their outfits now on site they could relax.
Lynn disappeared at some point during the evening, and when I found her she had given up on standing in the cold and along with, Dyf, Caroline, Owen, Kim and Jeanette had gone inside the latter’s caravan. Jim was also in there, having a drinking contest with himself using Lynn’s and Jeanette’s brandy. The rest were there for a warm.
The plan I thought on Sunday, was to get down to where the stand was to be at 9.00, set the stall up in our new marquee, however those brave sole who stayed out in the cold last night had decided to get up early to make sure it was done in time. Excellent I thought, as I sat down for more breakfast.
The new marquee only just made it, having arrived that week after many phone calls from Garry and Kevin. In one respect, we have gained as a result of this rigmarole; the original order could not be fulfilled and we received a replacement that has windows and is slightly larger at 8m x 4m rather than 6m x 3m. It’s certainly not as portable as the gazebo, but it does give the stand a much more professional look, and more places to hide from the sun or rain.
This year we had a decent site for the stand, the past two years have seen us, hidden in a corner behind the Camel stand, and last year on the entrance drive behind the organisers control lorry. This year, third time lucky we were sited directly in front of the museum on the grass. By 10am it was set up in all it’s glory, Sean’s new regalia collection adorned one end of the marquee, the new jacket, T-shirts, wheels covers and stickers all with the clubs logo or name, an excellent start to the year. The other end of the marquee had table and chairs, and this was to become meeting place for member old and new to sit and chat during the day.
Mad George had been given the task of marshalling the Discoverys for the stand and I don’t think P&O could have done a better job on a cross channel ferry. The number of vehicles changed during the day, the basic concept was to have the shiny Discoverys in the front, all three of us, many thanks to Ray and Jackie, who with only 100 miles on the clock put their two week old Td5 on the stand between the matching Monte Carlo blue Td5’s of Kim’s and my Disco. To much friendly banter from my nemesis, Paul Clarke parked behind, I also gave Monte a quick polish.
The remainder and the bulk of the stand was laid out in a vast arc, interrupted only by the marquee, where the balance of another 12 Disco’s in ‘off road ready’ condition had been neatly positioned. The arrival of the cavalcade squashed another 5 in between shinnies and muddies. 20 disco’s plus the marquee, the DOC stand was by far the most impressive.
Considering the previous week’s less than spring like weather, Sunday was truly remarkable. The Sun was up with the dawn and remained shining brightly throughout the day, and by early afternoon most where trying to find shade, some of us
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who are thinning slowly on top, had to resort to various forms of headwear. Lets hope it is a sign of the Summer to come.
One of the best aspects of shows, is the ability to put faces to names, whilst the camping field contained familiar faces, the constant flow of members onto the stand, really makes the day. To all those who I have now met after corresponding via mail phone or e-mail, I was great to meet you.
As the event crowd started to thin, thoughts turned to the evening BBQ and get-together; what we wanted to do was all get together in the marquee, fine – just one problem, the marquee was on the stand and we wanted it by the camping area. – What to do, shall we take it down? - No, we are the DOC, fourteen blokes around the base frame and we carried it, all through the car park, up the drive, over the hill, and onto the camping field, what do they say about an Englishman and his castle?
Suitably tied and strapped down as the wind was picking up, we retired to the marquee ‘en masse’ to discuss the day, plan the next one and generally have a good chin wag. I could wax lyrically on about the task to finish off John Neale’s 50 pint barrel, Mad George’s, Kevin and Owen’s jokes telling, and flat Eric! Well he is now; Garry dove over him. You will have to come along on the next one to find out the rest.
Monday morning was a lot cooler than the previous day, the northern crew where keen to get loaded, with all the regalia, which even after the good days sales yesterday, had grown with the remaining old stock. The gazebo, flags, banner and supports, their tents, and the marquee which even when stripped to its component parts, was large awkward and heavy. It took the combined capacity of their three Discoverys plus John’s roof to take the club stand on to the LRO Northern show.
One by one Kim, Garry, George all packed up and went home, the camping field which on Saturday night was a hive of activity with 51 caravans and tents was now left with the last few packing up, for some reason Paul Clarke, George Neil and ourselves always seem to be the last away, still only three weeks to the next one.
That was Gaydon 2003. Apologies to any one who I have failed to mention, I will give you a shout next time.
Heritage RunDyfed Bowen
It began for my wife and me on a cold hard floor of a tent in the Gaydon camping area. Looking out of the opening the weather seemed overcast but dry. Off we set towards Solihull and traffic was quite quiet. When we arrived about 9 am most of the cavalcade entries had already arrived save for a few from each model.
Once parked up, guided by a fellow DOC member to marshal (Tim Arnold) I went to pick up the run plate, memorial plaque, instructions, and there I meet up with former Discovery Owners
Recent Events
Club Chairman John Capewell who was handing out the run packs to the cavalcade members.
Once set up, we walked around the car park admiring the vehicles on display, from an early SII fire engine to a stretch limousine Range Rover. It was said that it had been in a film, not sure if it was a James Bond or the Tomb Raider one though. Quite a few fellow Discovery Owners Club members joined the run also, so it was a good time to have a chat as we had not seen each other since the AGM.
Once everyone was ready, off the cavalcade set towards Gaydon. The order of the vehicles was in order of when they were made, so the Discoverys were the penultimate model to join the run; the only newer model was the Freelander. It didn’t matter whether the Range Rover in front of you was brand new, it was done in order of when the first came out then it followed from then on until the newest, then the next model would be behind.
The route took us out towards Solihull Town Centre then join the A41 towards Knowle, a picturesque town, of which by now are probably used to seeing Land Rovers driving through. We then went towards the A46, a dual carriageway that headed back towards the M40. Crossing the motorway roundabout towards Cirencester must have been a bit of a gamble for the slower Series vehicles as modern day cars don’t hang about and even the Discoverys were left for dead on the junction!
Next village was Barford, where my sister in law lives so I was hoping to give a toot as we drove past but they had gone out! Typical! Once past Barford it was onto Wellesbourne and turn left through the village towards Kineton. This took us through the Fosse Way. Once into Kineton it took a bit of good driving as the roads are narrow and the oncoming traffic was unrelenting.
Next village was Gaydon itself, which is where most of the run was spent, in a queue! The traffic into the Heritage Motor Centre must have been bad as it was a good three quarters of a mile away and we were at a standstill. Initially we thought there was a problem up ahead as the road joined the main road that goes from Warwick down to Banbury, but when we got there the traffic continued up to the Entrance of the Museum. So whilst we were in the queue out we got with the cameras and took pictures of the Discoverys in a big line up on the road.
Eventually we slowly moved off again towards the centre, and eventually found out that the reason for the hold up was the queue for paying visitors into the centre itself which in turn held up the cavalcade. As the queue on the Main Road was quite bad we (Discoverys, and also the Freelanders) were directed onto the camping field to ease the pressure on the main road. It was quite a sight seeing all the Discoverys circling the field, I must say! After a slight hitch when the Discovery in front of me had a puncture in the field, where both I and Tim Arnold got out and lent a hand, we were ready to go into the main arena.
Eventually we got to enter down the main runway into the arena where the road was lined with crowds watching us come into the parking area. We’d finally arrived, slightly stiff from sitting in the car for so long, but really enjoyed the run!
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Gaydon
Wetherby
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LRO Show WetherebySean Pearce
This was the first major show to be held in our part of the world and if anyone was to ask me of one thing that I’ll always remember of the first Northern LRO show it would be the rain. Being a Yorkshire Lad born and bred I’m used to the rain, but for what seemed constant for four days it was a bit much. How June’s LRO have pictures set in sunshine must have been trick photography.
The show was set in idyllic surroundings of Bramham Park famous for its horse trials, with lovely green fields (had), large woods and a great stone building of a previous age. We arrived Thursday evening to set up along with Phil Probst, Derek and Christine Cole and drove across a nice green field to our stand location, but when I returned on Friday evening I drove across an off road course of thick mud. Phil, my wife Judith and Derek and Christine had braved the elements on Friday to erect the club’s new marquee, which was a godsend for the weekend. It was regularly full to capacity by anyone wishing to avoid the extremely heavy showers. We should have only allowed people in or out if they joined the club and we would have swelled membership immensely. As for membership we took 26 for the weekend with a large proportion coming from the north of England especially the North East.
It was nice to see members from all over the country popping in for a chat and, on occasions, a beer. We had a good line up of vehicles on the stand from Derek Cole’s H plate 200 to Dennis Berry’s 2003 Td5 and John Neale’s highly modified Td5.
The picture does not do John’s Td5 justice because early on the Monday morning Derek washed and polished half of John’s Discovery to much amusement to us and the Yorkshire off road club who were next door. In fact the Sunday night had proved a very successful evening with us and the YORC members putting the world to rights into the early hours of Sunday. We put it down to inter club liaisons others may call it something else. Phil Probst tried to show a different side to Discovery ownership with his Sailboard and bikes on board.
On the Saturday a strongest man contest was held and judged by Geoff Capes afterwards it was thrown open to the clubs, but seeing it was a Discovery they were pulling we had to have a go. A team of two was nominated and off John Neale and Dennis Berry went to see how far they could pull a Discovery. They achieved 20.9 metres, which was excellent but sadly we didn’t win.
There was a lot said about the off road course with mixed views from most. It was said that the camp site was harder to get round than the off road course with the toilet block been classed as extreme. It was OK, but the rain certainly helped. I think we sometimes forget that these courses are designed for novices and the more experienced among us don’t see them as a challenge. I enjoyed my trip around with seven on board, with the trial section been the most interesting. Andy Myers found some mud; in the woods, not the campsite.
It was a very successful weekend with some good stands and hopefully it can grow to rival Peterbough or even Billing as us folk oop north know how to have a good time, tha’ knows. Here’s to next year!
You can’t be extreme all the time, unless the teddy’s called Extreme. Yes he is asleep. Who was this at the LRO show?
ARC NationalAlan Smart
It was an omen. About two miles after the motorway sign declared ‘Welcome to South Yorkshire’ it rained! The running of this year’s National was dogged with problems and very nearly didn’t happen. Normally organised by one of the regional clubs, this year Denis Bourne and the ARC Council ended up running it. At very short notice, they pulled it off.
The Discovery Owners Club attended this year with one goal: to get the club on the ARC map; and we succeeded! We ran the Scenic Drive: this is where ARC club members can take their own vehicles on an off-road course. It has to be designed as non-damaging suitable for novice drivers. Sean Pearce, John Patton, Memsahib and myself set out to design and set out a course in about a day – after we had put up the club marquee in quite a fresh breeze.
South Yorkshire is not renown for its hills and the site at Loversall is no exception. All the best bits had been bagged by the Road Taxed Vehicle (RTV) and Cross Country Vehicle (CCV) trials and we were left with a selection of tracks. We walked some of the woods with the Event Director, Steve Wells and, with a clear mind as to what we were doing, set about driving the tracks. The first had a lot of buried rubble including paving slabs that were going to cause us a problem all weekend. The second track we selected had a couple of soft sections. Sean elected to go first having a fairly standard Discovery. I followed in the One-Ten ready to give a tug when needed. It was needed.
The first time a reroute was all that was needed but the second time it took an hour to dig and tow out Sean’s stricken Discovery. John reversed round the woods to pull him out forwards. We found another route through the woods to give a bit of interest.
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Saturday, the first day of the event started dull. Punters turning up for the Scenic Drive was slow but by the afternoon the traffic over the paving slabs meant we were constantly taking off the high spots and filling in the ruts. Trying to shift the slabs was difficult as the thick clay created a hydraulic lock that required a pickaxe to break. Saturday evening we rearranged the course as we could use some of the gentler RTV sections through the woods. This created a far more interesting drive. Using Kim’s Td5 with Jeanette as the ‘novice’ driver, the sections were laid out.
Sunday dawned and the punters rolled up. All was going well until just after lunch when it started to rain. The paving slabs were again giving problems. I went out and again started to take off the high spots and fill in the ruts. A Freelander was on the course and we advised him to miss that section, as he would surely have been left with all four wheels off the ground! A J**p Cherokee came through and suddenly there was a change in his exhaust note. He had grounded and pulled apart the joint between the box and front pipe. A bit further into the woods and the box dug into the ground and he was stranded. It was then the heavens opened. As Clerk of the Course I declared the course closed. It was no longer an undamaging, novice drive. By the use of Paul’s winch and George’s wet weather kit, the exhaust was fixed and the J**p extracted from the mire! (These few words sum up over an hour’s work!) It turned out he had sold his One-Ten for the J**p and was so impressed with the Discovery’s performance, he may very well buy one!
A course inspection on Monday morning, confirmed the worst. Although we there had been no further rain, the course was still waterlogged and would cut up too easily. By now the caravan field resembled an off road course and most decided to get away whilst they could. For those of us who stayed, we were treated to an excellent Comp Safari in dry, sunny weather. At the prize giving, our marshals won eight prizes (not bad considering the number of signed-on marshals).
Thanks to Sean, John and John, Garry, Tim, Jim, Lee, Richard, Kim, Graham, Paul, George, their good ladies for manning the stand, anyone I missed and to Andy Smith for providing the First Aid cover for the event. Next year, it’s Derbyshire. Who’s for a dirty weekend?
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Member’s Ads
For Sale - One Land Rover Discovery ES Wheel (grey centre Freestyle type) with tyre. Cost £120, offered at £100
Wanted - Discovery 300 Tdi ES radio with CD player
Contact - Jon on 07765 248113 or 07966 115502 anytime
For sale - Set of roof bars for 200/300 Disco £15 ono., pair of inward facing seats including all fixings and belts £100 ono., Rolla loadspace cover full kit Grey only 18 mouths old £40
Contact - Robert Milner 01274 562870 or 07967 120578
For Sale - 2 Simbars bike racks to fit Freelander and Discovery. Both as new £40 each Tel: Stephen 01264 781497 (Hants).
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ReDiscoveredAlan Smart
The story so far…. G226 EAC is a pre-production left-hand drive five door Discovery fitted with a 3.5 Efi engine. Over the last couple of months I’ve been getting to know the vehicle and all its little foibles and it’s got plenty of them!
The temperature gauge never reached a quarter and the heater was useless until I changed the thermostat and bled the cooling system. Problem solved. I’ve taken off the nudge bar (sold it at Sodbury sort out) and I’m going to take off the side steps as they’re in a poor state as well. The rear ladder will have to stay as the rear door is drilled for the fixings.
A good service has sorted out the misfire and hesitancy. New plugs, lead, distributor cap and rotor arm were sourced from MM4X4 at Martin Hussingtree (01905 451506) who will offer a discount to all members on selected lines. They carry a good stock of Discovery parts at good prices so it’s worth the drive (in the diesel Discovery!). Fitting the leads was a bit of a lottery. They come as a set so you have to work out which one goes where. I decided to start with the longest runs to the rear cylinders and work forward. I still ended up swapping a couple around. I also changed the ‘elephant’s trunk’ between the airflow unit and the plenum has this had deteriorated and I suspected it was leaking air. It was all worth it when I turned the key. You can’t beat the sound of a good V8. A test drive made it all worthwhile.
The front discs have been replaced which has taken some of the drama out of braking. It now stops with a degree of urgency and in a straight line. For the real anoraks amongst us, I noticed the handbook is for a three door model and the rear door handle assembly is smooth, not textured as if it were an early one off the tool. I’m still waiting for Land Rover’s traceability department to confirm the manufacturing details. The next job is to fix the water leaks (windscreen, Alpine lights, rear gutter) and then I can think about a new back floor. The central locking also has a mind of its own, but it’s not urgent.
Finally, an appeal: I’m after some Sonar blue interior trim for this five door; anything behind the C post including the roller blind. If you have some spare, give me a call.
The Arctic ExperienceJames Locke
(Following the exploits of our Andover member, who recently returned from a week spent in the Arctic Circle.) I was invited to join a group on a trip by a friend of long standing, Ray Mears, the BBC2 Survival presenter, photographer and author. Although an experienced expeditioner and Saharan explorer, for me this cold Arctic environment was a totally new experience and something of a challenge.
Class of ‘93Alan Smart
As spring has sprung, it was time to have a grand clean up of the fleet. The One-Ten was thoroughly pressure washed and Memsahib attacked the rear cross-member with a wire brush and some smooth Hammerite paint. I then managed to use two gallons of Waxoyl that was either injected into the various cavities or sprayed onto the underside. The Discovery and Range Rover then received the same treatment. Bob Dunlop came down with his S2 V8 which, at three years old and out of warranty also got ‘the treatment’. It’s worth noting on the earlier Discovery body, the plastic sill trim is held on with ten plastic rivets (part number 79086L). Use a small punch to knock the middle through into the sill cavity and the trim comes off. It’s worth doing as you will probably find the paint is worse for wear. I used Jenolite on the surface rust and repainted the sills before refitting the sill trims. The new rivets just need a good tap with a hammer to seat them.
MoT time for Range Rover was painful. 99,000 miles and ten years had taken its toll and the discs warranted a fail notice. They’ve attracted less than polite comments for the last two MoTs but this year they were declared past it. The space between the two layers that are meant to provide ventilation were full of rust scale and there was the first signs of the disc surface cracking up. We have also treated it to a new top tailgate and not before time. The lower edge was so rotten it was prone to popping open as you drove along. Memsahib declared that having it held closed with bungey cords was not acceptable so a new one was fitted.
The Discovery has been drama free since its previous exploits and is still wracking up the miles. Its only problem is a slow puncture that I must get fixed!
Members’ Stories
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Members StoriesMembers StoriesMembers’ Stories
Lowest temperatures experienced were minus 26°C, somewhat warmer than expected as minus 47°C was recorded during the same week the previous year. This relatively high temperature, although something of a disappointment, did enable me to learn and practice Arctic techniques. At temperatures of -10° to -15°, it is possible to make innumerable mistakes and simply get cold. At -15° to -25°, the number of mistakes allowed drops dramatically to two or three. -25° to -35° you’re allowed only one mistake, but below -35°C there are no mistakes allowed without dire consequences. Ten minutes without gloves at -26°C left me ‘with appendages to which were attached ten useless, painful sausages previously known as fingers’.
Nonetheless, sleeping in a snow trench lined with ‘posture springing’ Larch boughs in the forest each night proved a delight, particularly when the Northern Lights appeared in the clear atmosphere and night sky.
Cross-country skiing in deep snow and on ice, walking with snow shoes, wading in deep snow, driving a snow-mobile and learning to self-recover a bogged down machine were all practised, as were ice-hole fishing, trapping, fire lighting, sleeping on reindeer skins and shelter building. What became immediately obvious was the extra time required to achieve even the simplest of tasks and the danger of overheating, sweating and then freezing. Even the simplest of tasks, and one of the most essential, fire lighting, was very much more difficult and precise than it is elsewhere.
The countryside, people, climate made it an attractive proposition for a return visit. In fact, so much so that I plan to return for a backpacking and camping trip during the summer months to live in the forests and by the lakes for a week. Just as a matter of interest, Ryanair are flying me from Stansted to
Stockholm in August for just £19.98, plus airport taxes.
Love at First SightJean-Louis Merle
I saw our Discovery in a garage during our holidays in Britanny (near Quimper). I asked if by any chance, this very nice Discovery (300 Tdi-metallic grey-1998-60000 Kms) was for sale. The garage director answered “Oui” (my wife Marie-Andrée and my daughter Caroline, said “Oui” too!)
We live in the Auvergne which is in middle of France, nice country and mountains (Puy de Dome, Sancy). We were very happy but not able to drive the Discovery off-road as it had M+S Michelin tyres. We have now BF Goodrich 245/75 16 mud terrain (perhaps too big?) just for off-roading.
Tarriff: £ . pJacket Khaki 35.00Fleece Black 23.00Sweat Shirt Bl/Gn 16.50T Shirt Bl/Gn 10.00Polo Shirt Bl/Gn/Claret 12.50T Shirt Car Wash 12.50T Shirt Personalised 13.50Baseball Cap Black 7.50Belt Bag Gold 1.50
p&p £2.50 per itemCheques to Discovery Owners Club sent to:
Why a Land-Rover? We were very happy with an old Montego estate diesel (nice British Racing Green) but we wanted more space for holidays and golfing weekends and especially a car for the country and the mountains. In Auvergne the country is very nice but in winter very muddy and there is often some snow. We like to ‘go anywhere’! Above all, we like English cars; especially Rover and Land Rover. We have owned an Allegro, a Maestro, a Rover 800, a Montego Estate and now Discovery.
Why the Discovery? It is very attractive for our way of life: family life, country life, moutains, travels, golf. We like the metallic grey for Discovery (I’d like green too), but above all the diesel engine was interesting for us (in France, diesel is much less expensive than ‘essence’ - petrol). We bought (130,000 francs in 2001) this Discovery because the last owner was known (a Englishman who lives near Quimper). He had carefully maintaind his car (He has changed it for a faster car).
Why DOC? Because it is a club for Discovery only (in France there is not a club especialy for Discovery). A great club with a very good magazine. We like to come in Britain too!
...On the way to The ForumDyfed Bowen
As you may know, the Discovery Owners Club has an online Message Board, or Forum, where members have free access to open discussion, ranging from general chit-chat to technical help, caravanning information and events.
Members’ Stories
The Forum is accessed by going to www.docforum.co. uk on the internet. When logging in for the first time, you’ll need to have your membership number handy. Click on REGISTER, and follow the on-screen instructions. You simply give yourself a Username and Password and if it’s available, within a couple of hours you’ll get a confirmation email and be able to log in and start ‘posting’.
Some definitions:
Thread - A Discussion topic with replies.
Posting - A beginning or a reply to a topic.
Forum - The whole Message Board or a Listed Section.
Currently, the Listed Sections are:
Rovers Return - This is general chat. Recently discussed was the issue of information required for the 50th Anniversary Discoverys, where a number of questions were raised like: how many were built? Were any custom made or just factory fit? Does anybody in the club own one? Another important issue being discussed here is about the ‘impending’ Christmas party for the Northampton region of the club but I think that thread should be discussed in the Events section. One posting started by a member that lost his spare wheel cover has revealed that the club now sells wheel covers with the club logo. They were selling like hot cakes at Gaydon.
General Discussion - This is for more Land Rover related topics. Topics discussed here recently are about Speed Cameras on the M4, where the member posted that he had received information about number plate recognition on the motorway. Replies came in thick and fast from the regular M4 users as you can imagine! Another topic which is raised once in a while relates to the purchase and use of CB radio. Usually a member is looking for some feedback and advice and there’s always a lot of information from fellow members who have already got CBs installed.
Overleaf there’s a typical example of a thread in the General Discussion Section about fridges.
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Club Information
One member was asking forum users about breakdown recovery and who is best. Postings from regular Forum users aren’t just useful to the initiator and one think about the Forum is that you can just browse and read other members’ offerings without having to post. Another member asked about having a 12v Fridge in his car. I have one, so I responded saying that mine can also be used in the house. When you logon, you’ll see that I’ve got a lot to say about a few things and a little to say about a lot. I guess that’s the Welsh in me, eh?
Events - This Section is looked after by our Events Co-ordinator, Tim Arnold. Members can post details of forthcoming events, ranging from days out to Land Rover based weekends like shows, offroading, etc. Currently being discussed are the LRO Spring Show in Yorkshire, Billing show in Northampton, and the LRW show at Eastnor Castle. If you know of any forthcoming event that might be of interest to other club members, then you post it here and then we’ll all know. More often than not people will meet up with each other before these events and drive up together. Green laning weekends and caravanning weekends are other types of events which can be organised through this section of the Forum.
Modified Discovery - This section is for the anoraks amongst us and deals with things you can do to your car which will make it not standard any more; things like fitting ‘all terrain’ tyres, full suspension lift and other serious off roading kit. Other topics covered here range from under body protection in the form of guards, to fitting winches and winch bumpers. A recent conversation discussed related to obtaining a Saudi spec front grill for the 300 series Discovery. They’re no longer stocked by a reputed known supplier, so the discussion trailed around finding another supplier.
Caravan / Towing - As its title suggests, this section evolves around the Discovery’s ability to tow. Topics covered here range from purchasing caravans to using certain hitches on the tow bar to be able to tow Sankey trailers (the army ones). Recent topics include: Using a Td5 with ACE and towing, having a tow hitch attached to the front of the vehicle, the ‘Dixon Bate’ shock link attachment and last but not least, caravan sites worth using.
Technical Queries - This section covers the innards of the vehicle, ranging from LPG Conversions, chipping the Td5s, right down
to using Diesel Fuel Additive to improve performance. Recent topics include tail light conversions (differing combinations of the lights on the rear bumper of 300 series Discoverys), 300tdi Automatic performance, MOT, the infamous peeling dashboard repair kit, gearbox oils, and so on.
GPS and other Gadgets - Global Positioning Systems are becoming more common with the green-laners amongst us as they are invaluable tools in helping to map out routes, ongoing route planning and so on. This topic also covers the CB topics, as well as having electronic compasses in their vehicles. Recent topics include; which GPS to have; which CB to have; DVD entertainment kits.
Recommended Dealers / Mechanics - This section is a bit sensitive as members post both their good and bad experiences. If you have anything bad to say please use clean language and remember any club member can access this part of the Forum. Including members who are mechanics or work for the dealers.
For Sale / Wanted Items - Here we have two sections which are related to each other. Basically items such as parcel shelves for the car, wheel covers, even brochures of early Discoverys are sold here. You name it, its probably been for sale or wanted here. Even gearboxes have been known to trade places through here!
So there you have it, a brief overview of what goes on in the Discovery Owners Club forum. It’s time to logoff...
Farm Jack MountingRoger Spencer
I must start by saying sorry. In Discourse 9, I wrote about fitting my Discovery with a pair of Jackmates. In this item I mentioned mounting my Farm Jack on the dog guard and said ‘more at a later date’. Discourse 10 was missed due to the Discovery spending. At the time, it felt like it spent more days in the garage than on the road.
When ordering the Jackmates and the One-Ten adaptor from David Bowyer I also added a Jackall Mounting kit at £13.00p to the list. This consists of two steel brackets which hold your jacks in place by clamping around the jacks handle and rack (that’s the long black bit that looks like a bit of old railway line with holes in it) at one end. While the heavy end (the jack’s toe and foot plate) just rests in its bracket, the handle can be held securely by a padlock through the clamps bolt. Some owners use two of the clamps with a padlock in each.
The big problem was finding somewhere to mount all of this. Anyone who’s been to a Land Rover show or other 4x4 event (I’m told these exist) will have seen jacks mounted on the spare wheel. I didn’t want to do this as the jack’s pins and springs would be exposed to the weather and would rust.
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4x4 owners who drive off road a lot need to access their jacks easily and quickly, so they like to carry their jacks on the spare, on the roof rack or even on the front bumper. So as I don’t go off road that often I wanted to keep mine safe inside the vehicle. Another reason was the strain the extra weight would impose on an already sagging tailgate.
Offering up the jack to various parts of the interior soon found that the only place for it was the dog guard. This was because in my Discovery I have a rigid load-space liner and at times I lower one or both of the back seats. You may find this doesn’t apply to you and want to mount your jack across the back of the seats. This way your jack would be below the load-space cover and out of sight, but it would use up boot space.
Photo 1; shows the bracket with the clamp in position, the front plate has a lug that fits into one of the holes on the jack. A coat of black paint after a quick rub down would soon make the wood batten look like part of the guard. Photo 2; shows the jack in place below the level of the backseat headrests. This position doesn’t obscure the driver’s view out of the back window. I fixed the two brackets in place by bolting through the brackets, dog guard and a wood batten behind the backseat headrests. This was easy to do as the brackets come with a number of holes already drilled in them.
A word of warning. Before anyone writes in, you must ensure that anything you fit inside a vehicle is securely held in place. An object with the weight of a jack would be deadly if it were to go flying around the inside of a vehicle during an accident or when just driving off road. The dog guard I have is bolted into place; do not try this if you have one of the universal type guards that hold themselves in place by bracing against the roof and floor. David Bowyer’s web site is www.davidbowyer.com, a good site for jacks and extras as well as winches and general off road driving information. Fitting a jack this way shouldn’t take over an hour but would be even quicker with a second pair of hands. No special tools are needed and cost me nothing to make as I already had the wood batten and bolts.
Brake TestingDiether Hofmann
As everybody (hopefully) knows, the Discovery has a permanent four-wheel drive system. This is an important advantage both on and off-road where all four wheels are turning together.
But when the MoT is due, it is risky to use a conventional single axle rolling road as one axle will be turning and the other stationary. This will heavily stress the centre differential and could lead to failure if speeds greater than 3 mph (5 kph) are achieved. If the MoT station does not have a two axle rolling road, you should ask for a simple road test using a de-accelerometer.
200Tdi Power BoostTim Arnold
Getting more power out of your 200Tdi (or early 300 Tdi for that matter)? These engines are both fitted with the Bosch VE type fuel pumps.
This will void any remaining warranty. I MAKE NO GUARANTEES THAT THE ADJUSTMENTS ARE SAFE FOR YOUR ENGINE – IF YOU DO THESE ADJUSTMENTS THEY ARE DONE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
First you need to set the boost pressure to 1 bar. 200 Tdis run at 0.7 – 0.8 bar – you can safely increase this to 1 bar – 300Tdi’s run at 1 bar already – best left alone! To do this you will need a pressure gauge reading up to 2 bar but no more as you will not be able to read it accurately. Tee this into the wastegate actuator, you then need to find a hill so that you can maintain around 3000 rpm at full throttle, shorten the link to increase the pressure. Now you have more air you need some fuel to go with it. All Adjustments can be made without removing the pump from the engine.
Discovery Workshop
2
1
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Low manifold pressure (boost) fuel delivery adjustment. This adjustment is fairly simple and will help considerably around town at low engine speeds and low boost conditions. Remove the small cap in the centre of the ‘automatic fuel-control device’ (AFC) on top of the pump. Beneath the cap is a torx T-25 screw and a lock nut that holds it. Turn the T-25 screw 2 turns clockwise and tighten the locknut. For additional fuel (and smoke) the screw may be turned further (CW). Back it off (CCW) to reduce smoke. NOTE: this will increase the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) by about 75°F on long hills.
Full load fuel delivery rate adjustment. This adjustment will TURN UP THE POWER and smoke. NOTE: this will raise the EGT very quickly at full throttle. The main adjustment is found under the Diaphragm within the fuel control device described above. This is held in place with the 4-screw cover. MARK THE POSITION OF THE DIAPHRAGM, Rotate the diaphragm clockwise. You may want to start at 90 degrees, and then go further if that does not produce the power you want. The further you turn it, the higher and faster EGT will climb. The fuel stop lever runs up and down the conical section of this pin. CAUTION: mark stuff so you can put it back the way it was! After adjusting the diaphragm eccentric pin, the low boost fuel rate may need to be adjusted slightly to reduce low speed smoke.
Automatic Fuel Control Star Wheel Adjustment: Remove the cap fitted with the 4 straight head screws. Under the AFC diaphragm and spring is a star wheel adjustment which sets the spring tension on the FUEL DELIVERY RATE PIN diaphragm. If your star wheel (under the AFC spring) is set too high, the delivery rate pin won’t move downward as it should with increasing boost levels. Turning the star wheel up (counter-clockwise) increases the spring pressure, and slows the delivery rate. Turning the star wheel down (clockwise) in 1⁄4 turn increments until you smoke, then back off (counter-clockwise) until the smoke has gone to your satisfaction, or until just smokes under power (a black haze, not a black soot cloud) is OK. The retaining lock spring doesn’t have to be removed, the star wheel will rotate with a small screwdriver gently placed and pried between the wheel and it. CAUTION: Note the original location of the wheel, mark it, and count any turns for reference.
Full Power Adjustment: On the rear of the pump, partially concealed by the fuel lines, and under a plastic ‘anti-tamper’ cap is an other adjustment screw. Remove the plastic cap and the metal collar tack-welded to the screw, loosen the lock-nut and wind out the screw and locknut complete (do not move the locknut on the screw) plug the hole and then carefully grind off the collar clean thoroughly and refit to pump. Turn the power adjustment screw clockwise about 11⁄2 to 2 turns. After turning the Full Power Adjustment, you may need to re-adjust the Smoke Adjustment Screw to reduce low speed smoke, and the idle screw or throttle linkage to correct the idle speed.
Idle Adjustment: Once you have done the above, you will probably need to reset the idle speed adjustment. Loosen the lock nut and then unscrew (reduce revs) or screw in (increases revs) the idle stop until you get 750 – 800 RPM, then tighten the lock nut and recheck you haven’t moved the setting.
Additional Notes: If your smoke is only at full throttle load - back off the full load screw. If your smoke is at low end through pull-up to full power - back down the delivery rate. If smoke is heavy at immediate start-up - fine adjust the smoke set screw.
Remember - this will void any remaining warranty. I MAKE NO GUARANTEES THAT THE ADJUSTMENTS ARE SAFE FOR YOUR ENGINE – IF YOU DO THESE ADJUSTMENTS THEY ARE DONE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
I found some of these details after many hours of searching on the Internet. I got the bits on how to adjust the VE pump from the following site: www.dodgeram.com/technical/DIESEL/more_power/power_ve.htm A word of advice though: incorrect adjustment of any of the above may destroy your engine and or cause it to fail emission tests if not done correctly. Be sure you’re both competent and able to make the adjustments before attempting them. Do them at your own risk. If in doubt, pay for an expert to do them for you. You may need to inform your insurance company of the modifications you have made.
A Sunday JauntJohn Batchelor - Wales Group
Or how some of the Welsh DOC failed to climb ‘The Gap Road’ but still had a good day out!
Sunday 16th March dawned as a beautiful sunny spring morning. For my sins, I had agreed to lead a group of members over The Gap road from North to South and back, before our usual lunch at The Swan in Hay on Wye.
It had been arranged we would meet at Map Ref. SO 0385 2820 outside a school on the South side of Brecon town at 10 a.m. sharp and as I drove up to Brecon from my home near Llantrisant I had high hopes of finally driving this route. The Gap road has a permanent Traffic Regulation Order(TRO) on it and is only open to vehicles during March, September and
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the first two weeks of October each year. In the past I had walked over most of it and I knew that the last part of the climb from Brecon to ‘The Gap’ just below Pen Y Fan would not be easy due to the rough and stepped nature of the track.
10 o’clock came and went with only my old friends Mat and Ros turning up. We knew that two others had been forced to drop out at the last minute by that dreaded word WORK, but we had hoped for a few more of the members who usually attend our Hay on Wye get-togethers. Finally at 10:20 we decided no one else was coming so we set off.
The route starts around three miles South of the town with 150 yards of roughish loose stones through trees, which must once have been hedges. Through a gate and you are then out onto the West side of the beautiful Cwm Cynwyn valley, from which the road rises steadily but quite gently in a Southerly direction. For a couple of miles the track presents few problems, being mostly stone surfaced with only occasional rough spots. However, the last 3 - 400 yards to the crest of the Gap are
Tarriff: £ . pWheel Cover Black 20.00Umbrella Green 15.00Key Fob 2.00Tax Disk Holder 1.00Triangle Sticker 2.00Jigsaw Puzzle Personalised 12.00Mouse Mat Personalised 6.00Picture Mug Personalised 8.50DOC Mug Yellow 3.00Big Kid Sticker 3.50Van Sticker 3.5033 inch Sticker Silver 3.0022 inch Sticker Silver 2.00Website Sticker White 3.00Turn Me Over Red 6.00
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different! Here the surface is a mixture of loose stones, in sizes from small pebbles to boulders, and sharp rock steps. These steps occur in three groups, the first two being some 100 yards apart and the second and third being only some 10 yards apart but with a right turn round a rock face between them.
Now because I knew the way and Mat didn’t, it was my Michelin 205 shod 300Tdi, which was leading. I stopped a few yards short of the first group of steps and Mat and I walked up to the crest, doing a bit of ‘gardening’ with loose stones on the way to try to ease the size of each step. We thought the problems would mainly be with the turn to the right and lining up for the final steps, but re-assured each other that, if necessary, one would be able to turn round after the second steps and before the sharp curve.
Discourse 12 - page 20 Page 21 - Discourse 12
Down Your Way
Leaving Mat to watch my unguarded diffs and signal appropriately, I walked back to my Discovery and set off. The first steps were no problem and I slowly eased up to the second, larger ones quite confidently. Now the previous night had been very cold and we had seen ice in shaded places on the track. But at this point there was water flowing through the stones and we had not realised there was still ice beneath it! Took a try at it and scrabble, scrabble, stop! I dropped back a few yards and went again, and again, and again!!!
Each time I ended up getting my front wheels up the first of the steps at which point the off-side front was scrabbling in wet stones and ice at near full droop, while the near-side rear was in a similar state but also up against one of the steps. This being a classic ‘cross axle’ state, I just couldn’t get sufficient traction. After a number of increasingly violent attacks on this obstacle, I decided in the interests of preserving my diffs., half-shafts and tyres (I need the car for my work) enough was enough! In hindsight, if Mat had gone first, his BFG All Terrains might have had sufficient bite on the steps to lift him over that one, he might then have been able to pull me up the step. Whether we could then have climbed the next steps round the bend is another question, though an onlooker told us he’d seen a One-Ten make it on a previous occasion.
So now we have two Discoverys, a quarter of a mile apart, both facing the wrong way and with no obvious way to either turn them round or to get Mat’s to the front ‘cos the track is barely wide enough for one! The West side of the track goes steeply upwards and the East side even more steeply down, a LONG way down! Careful, very careful, study of the ground suggests that a little way behind Mat’s vehicle there is a slightly less steep piece of grass on the uphill side where it should be possible to get the back up the bank and make a multi-point turn around. So we backed his down the track to the selected spot and he slowly swung the back onto the grass. It went up about a third of a car length and then slipped sideways with a sickening lurch!! Pushing with all my strength on the downhill side, I yelled, “Pull forward!!!” Fortunately, he wound on left lock and eased forward, bringing things back on a more even keel. A couple more, less exciting, shunts and he was round.
With Mat guiding me, I now reversed the quarter mile down to the same spot. I picked a slightly firmer piece of grass and booted it backwards. Unfortunately, being pre-occupied with the angle of the ground after Mats’ escapade, I forgot to re-engage diff-lock. Thus I initially went backwards, and then as the momentum was lost I slid forward till my nose was almost against the wire netting of the long drop! Oops! However it stopped there and with the lever banged home I was able to complete the turn. We then set off back down the track to return to Brecon.
I haven’t mentioned it, but all the time we were on the track we had been chatting to trail bikers (mostly fast, noisy and quite mad!), mountain bikers and walkers. Nearing the Brecon end of the track we met and stopped for a couple more walkers, one of who also turned out to own a Discovery. He seemed keen, so
I pressed a membership form into his hand and perhaps he is now reading this in Discourse? Right at the end we also met and chatted to two Defender drivers who set off to try to do better than us. Since they were well kitted up they probably succeeded.
“What shall we do now?” we said. Well, by now it was too late to go on to Hay on Wye, so muggins said, “There’s another lane leads back to Brecon, lets try that”. We did and our paintwork has the scratches to prove it!! Good easy surface but very narrow and VERY overgrown. At one point I had difficulty opening my door to get out and shift some logs off the track. We’ll both have to use the p , ppol , its’ no good, I can’t write the word!
After that hunger pangs sent us up to the Beacons Visitor Centre for some of their excellent beef pies. Re-energised, we decided to nip over what turned out to be a surprisingly wet section of Sarn Helen before heading back to Senghenydd mountain and taking in a couple of lanes there. And so finally home, having done 95 miles of which about 8 were green lanes. We enjoyed ourselves and we really are very sorry for those of you who had to work instead of playing. If anyone out there wants the map references for the lanes, email me at [email protected]
Point to PointJohn Fancote - North Worcs. Group
Paul Walker (Yes, Donald’s Paul!) was organising this event so I thought I might need wellies, a wet suit, even a snorkel. Oh! We’ve already done those jokes.
On Saturday 22nd February the stalwart band that forms the DOC North Worcs. Group gathered at Paul’s’ house. Nine Discovery’s parked, pretty well anywhere they wanted to!
We formed up into eight teams: Paul and Debbie, Andy and Sarah, Chris and Vicky, Nick and Eve, Simon and Myself, Toby and Linda, Graham and Janice and Bob and his family.
The idea, for those of you not familiar with point to points is to navigate using grid references from one location to the next and collect the clues displayed on gate posts, trees, pubs etc. and write these on a sheet to hand in at the finish. All the clues were connected to the Discovery.
We drew lots to decide on the starting order and the first ones set off. Simon had drawn No. 5 and we duly set off to find the first clue. Simon drove his V8 while I acted as navigator and bomb aimer.
The first two clues were located and logged and we headed for clue 3. It was supposed to be at a ‘T’ junction of three single-track lanes. At one stage there were three Discoverys parked with crews scouring the hedges, trees and verges for the clue.
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Exmoor LanesPollyanna Robbins
This is a report on the Exmoor green laning event, organised by Paul Walker, which was held around the Exmoor area on Sunday 18th May 2003. We drove down the day before to enable us to spend a full day green laning. The group had the good fortune to be able to stop at the same hotel for the night in Minehead, and we met up on the Saturday evening to check our maps and have a short map-reading lesson!
Up early the next day, we drove from Minehead to our meeting point, Dunster Castle at 9.30am. We met a couple of other Discovery enthusiasts who had heard about the event but lived locally. We all posed for the traditional group photo, and then set off for our first lane, with Paul Walker driving at the front of the group and our car driving at the rear. We were all equipped with ‘walkie-talkies’ so we could communicate with each other. See picture 1.
Our first green lane was fairly gentle, and eased some of the less experienced drivers into driving off-road. It was Nigel’s first off-road adventure. It wound around the back of a hill from the main road, taking us into a small woodland and then between fields, where we could enjoy the hedgerows, before re-joining the road further along. The surface quality was good, consisting of firm soil with mud and puddles in places. Grass grew in the middle and the lane had only slight ruts in parts. This lane was not difficult at all and did not require low ratio.
Our second lane however, proved more of a challenge. In contrast to our first lane, the terrain of this track was fairly rocky with gravel and grass. Low ratio was needed with mirrors turned in! I would not recommend this one to any ‘shinies’ out there! There were considerable ruts on the right hand side of the lane which forced our vehicles to lean to the right, scraping the side on the hedgerow. After a kilometre, the lane improved greatly and widened out. The surface became firm with less ruts, but we still had rocks to contend with. We climbed a hill into beautiful green woodland. The track led us back down the hill again back onto tarmac. See picture 2.
We then pulled up and had a discussion about the third lane. Although clearly marked as a Road Used as Public Path (RUPP), there had been some conflict with the local landowner, as some off-roaders had attempted the first half of the lane and then ‘bottled out’, taking a short cut down the landowners own private track. A decision was made that we would attempt this lane, and if we needed to ‘bottle out’ ourselves, we would each turn our car around and drive back the way we came.
The first half of the lane was fairly bumpy with hardened mud and ruts filled with water, although this part of the lane was fairly wide. As with the second lane, ruts forced the vehicles to lean to the right, and demanded low ratio. The track then started to lead us down hill and we stopped to assess the second half. Paul Walker left his vehicle and walked down the track ahead to assess suitability. He returned and led the group, preparing
Down Your Way
Someone noticed that there were new pins in the wooden signpost so we assumed that the sign had been removed.
While the others had been searching for the clue, I had been marking the Grid Refs. on the OS Map as it is easier standing still than charging about at Warp speed!
Clue 4 came and went and on to clue 5. This was the first mis-direction of the day. The Grid Ref. said it was in a field down a private track. I had a guess that it was a typing error and we checked a railway bridge as we passed under it. There it was! No need to go on to the field, which we found out later a lot of other people had done!
Battling on we found clue 6, couldn’t find clue 7 and found clue 8 (No. 8 was at the end of the road that Donald went swimming in. See ‘Treasure Hunt’ Serial in previous Discourses).
We reached halfway - clue 15 - with no further problems. At clue 16 we stopped and had our packed lunch. Just in case anyone else came while we were there we parked in front of the clue!
The next clue to give us trouble was No. 21. We stopped and looked for it as did two other teams but we didn’t see it. Paul says it was there! Next stop was for fuel, Paul shouldn’t make these routes so long, us chaps in V8’s have to refuel! (Just ‘cos he’s got a diesel!)
Onwards to clue 22. This was the second mis-direction of the day. The Grid Ref. was in a field with no road or track to it. We decided to leave that one, as there was no way to work out where it should be. Only 8 clues to go and we thought that we were in the lead having passed all those who set out in front of us. Working our way back to Redditch we arrived 20 minutes before Nick and Eve.
I don’t know what the locals of Worcestershire thought of eight Discovery’s charging about down narrow lanes. We saw several of the other teams on our travels mostly going in the opposite direction! Also at times we joined forces to find a clue.
Unfortunately Bob and his family retired from the hunt, as one of the children was ill. Thanks to Paul for organising it and Yes, we did spot your deliberate mistakes!
The final results are as follows:
NAMESTART
POSITIONFINISH
POSITION POINTS PLACING
Bob & Family 1 Non Finish 0 8
Graham & Janice 2 3 22 6
Toby & Linda 3 6 24 4
Nick & Eve 4 2 24 3
Simon & John 5 1 25 =1
Paul & Debbie 6 5 22 5
Chris & Vicky 7 7 20 7
Andy & Sarah 8 4 25 =1
Discourse 12 - page 22 Page 23 - Discourse 12
them for what lay ahead! We continued down the lane which narrowed dramatically to approximately six feet. Mirrors definitely in; you couldn’t open the doors even if you wanted to! Steep banks and hedgerows were on both sides.
Picture 1: From left to right: Mark & Emma Sutton, Mike & Sheila Millar, Paul & Anne Walker in ‘Donald’, Nigel & Sherri Traves in ‘Rosy’, Toby & Linda Robbins & myself in ‘Bertie’, Martin & Alison Twigg in ‘Fido’. Picture 2: The second green lane. Picture 3: .‘Bertie’s’ mishap. The metal pole is part of our roof-rack!. Picture 4: The “Expedition” hits the Moors.
The track was steep, wet and very stony, giving us all a rough ride; especially Nigel and Sheri Traves, who nearly tipped ‘Rosy’ when their tyres fixed into a centre rut forcing their vehicle to climb the bank to the right. We all watched with bated breath as Nigel performed his Bond Movie stunt for about 100 yards. Fortunately, we did not have to resort to extreme rescue methods as he managed to get out of the rut and back onto terra firma! I will not repeat what he said after he made it out alive, but he and his good lady wife were clearly in a state of mild shock!!
Down Your Way
4
1
2 3
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We then drove to our last lane taking us back towards Minehead. This took us up a steep hill into some woods. The surface was quite bumpy with slippery mud, requiring caution on the second half of the lane which descended on a sharp right turn.
During our day around Exmoor we did a total of seven lanes, driving 53.8 miles; 32.7 of which were spent on tarmac going from lane to lane over eight and a half hours (which included an hour in a pub for lunch). On the same day we were off-roading, horse trials were being held, so we paid particular care and attention to avoid bridle paths and any other tracks which were not clearly marked as RUPPs or Byways Open to All Traffic (BOATs). The Exmoor Authorities had done an excellent job in clearly marking RUPPS and Bridleways. We all thoroughly enjoyed the event, and can’t wait for the next one!
Write a Caption
There’s no prize but we’ll print the best entries in the next issue of Discourse.
Send your entries (printable ones only please) to Alan Smart, The Bales, Cow Lane, Kimpton, Andover, SP11 8NY or email to [email protected].
More Member’s Ads
The Discovery Hotel in Blackpool, run by DOC members Denis and Brenda Askham, is situated between the Central and South Piers.
Bed and Breakfast from £15.00 for DOC members and their families. Weekly rates available.
Another casualty of this lane was Toby Robbins (yes, my dad!), or rather his Discovery, ‘Bertie’. Paul had advised Toby at the start of the lane to remove his roof rack and CB aerial but, wise words fell on deaf ears. The rear section of the roof rack was torn off with an awful crunch by a low hanging branch. Toby had to stop and climb out to retrieve the roof rack. A little cramped for space as we had a dog guard and two border collies in the back, we had to drive to the end of the lane with the rear section of the roof rack diagonally across the inside. Toby was able to borrow an Allen key and screwdriver to remove the aerial and dismantle the entire roof rack. It could then be put in the car to be hammered back into shape once we got back home! We lost some plastic trim, but gained a lovely new dent, which Bertie now displays with pride! This was definitely a more challenging green lane and I would not recommend it for the inexperienced or ‘shiny’ driver. See picture 3.
Once we had all recovered from the third lane, we drove through Exmoor’s stunning scenery to our next green lane. This started wide but narrowed as it went downhill. The surface was sticky red clay, punctuated with the odd rock. About half way down, we noted that the woodlands had been in use by other off road vehicles to ‘play’ and much of it had been churned up. We headed down the green lane, but unfortunately at the bottom, we were advised by Paul Walker that we could not continue as it was in very poor condition. It dropped into a step which would have ripped off rear bumpers, so one by one, we reversed back up the hill (which was a challenge in itself), and used the area damaged by other off-roaders to turn our vehicles and drive out of the lane the way we came in. While all this was going on, we caused great amusement to three young lads who raced up the hill on a quad-bike, cheering at us! Due to mud and rocks, this lane was considerably more difficult to climb than descend,.
After a pub lunch, we drove on to our fifth lane. This was a rather long lane and covered a variety of terrain. The drive started through woodland along a firm track.; the only hazard was slippery slate protruding from the lane which caused many a vehicle to slip when ascending the steep hill. The track ran along a ridge with steep banks to both sides which some found rather unnerving. However, at the top of this section the terrain changed to moorland. The track changed from firm to muddy with ruts, and lots of water! As sheep grazed on this land, we were careful to be observant and to close any gates as the last vehicle passed through. The lane then descended a hill, and brought us out near Tarr Steps, an ancient footbridge running across the river adjacent to a ford. See picture 4.
At this point the weather took a turn for the worse and the heavens opened. Although this is every rambler’s nightmare, the extra rain caused the river to swell making Tarr Steps much more fun! To the amusement of people visiting the Steps, our “expedition” (as one passer-by called us) drove through the water. Paul and ‘Donald’ (with snorkel) had to go through the ford twice, of course!! Ed: Shouldn’t that be three times??
We then moved on to our sixth lane which again carried us across moorland. The terrain was muddy, wet and slippery; care had to be taken to avoid losing control. This lane was fairly uncomplicated and there were no mishaps.
Discourse 12 - page 24 Page 25 - Discourse 12
Something Old, Something New...
This Discovery prototype was built about 1986 and has a Cardiff registration - Land Rover did things like this to avoid press attention. You can see the remains of the disguise black paint that would have drastically altered the shape of the vehicle especially when the disguise panels were fitted to hide the now famous roofline. Some prototypes had lines painted along the front wings to emulate the Range Rover’s clam shell bonnet to further throw people off the scent. We’ll try to find out more about this historic vehicle.
Is this poor quality spy-shot the prototype of the next generation of Discovery?
...Something Discovered, Something Blue
This Disco pick-up conversion was snapped last year at a vintage harvest event near Alton in Hampshire. I didn’t get to see who was driving but it’s based on an early three-door Tdi. The standard of workmanship was very good. The rear door had been cut down and was still side hung and the cab rear window is a Classic Range Rover upper tailgate. If anybody knows any more about it, I would be delighted to hear from you.
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V8 SPORTSEXHAUST
FITTING KITSALSO AVAILABLE
NON-LAND ROVER 4x4STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUSTSWe stock a limited range of systems.
WHEELS & TYRES We stock a large range of Alloy Wheels and Tyres for both Classic, Series 2 Range Rover & Discovery atsuperb package prices!16" Classic - set of 4 OE Alloys
Wheels only from £452.38Wheels/Tyres (fitted) from £775.00
18" Series 2 - set of 4 OE Alloys Wheels only from £581.63Wheels/Tyres (fitted) from £999.00
Wheel nuts (inc. locking nuts) & centres also available.
‘BROOKLANDS’ TYPE BODY KITWe are pleased to announce the launch of this superb, 4-piece kit. Finisher strips & fittings are included. Kits available for 2 door, 4 door & LSE (including air-bag models).
Full Kit 2 & 4 Door Models £750.00LSE Models £775.00
Part Kit All models (front/rear skirts only) £440.63
SERIES 2 LAMP UPGRADE KIT (2000 MODEL YEAR) - RHD or LHDUpdate your Series 2 to the later grey lens lamps - easy to fit!
Full Kit £581.63Kit less Fog Lights £464.13Kit less Headlights & Fog Lights £193.88
Why not combine with a set of 18" Hurricane Alloys andlater ‘Vogue’ chrome tailgate badge?
WE STOCK A LARGE RANGE OF PARTS
& ACCESSORIES FOR ALL LAND ROVER MODELS
108PAGES
96PAGES
OFFICIAL LAND ROVERPERSONAL ORGANISERSize: 14 x 20cm (Dark Burgundy)
Binder only £4.95Binder & Filofax insert £9.95
TURBO GROOVE DISCS & KEVLAR PADS
K&N FILTERSIdeal for LPG conversions!Discovery & Classic R/R
V8 Carb (pair) £72.734-Barrel Pancake also availableEFi from £48.12Diesel from £48.76
Series 2 Range Rover V8/Diesel (up to VIN XA) £49.94
VISITORS WELCOMEWe are open:-
MON – FRI; 8.30am to 5.30pm,SAT; 8.30am to 1.30pm.
EXHAUSTSSTAINLESS STEEL
FITTING KITSALSO AVAILABLE
FREELANDER1.8 Fi (Cat’ back) Sports inc Twin LB T/Pipes£309.002.0 TD (Cat’ back) Sports inc Twin LB T/Pipes£309.00V6 (Cat’ back) Sports inc Twin LB T/Pipes £329.001.8 Fi Catalyst (P) only £376.00
LAND ROVER80" Petrol systems from £169.0088" Short wheel base;Standard, Twin Box & Large Bore systems from £139.0088" Series 3 21/4 Petrol
Sports system (inc Manifold) £309.00109" 21/4 Petrol systems from £149.00
2.6 Petrol £205.003.5 V8 £269.0021/4 Diesel systems from £149.00
The Original Stainless Steel Performance Exhaust.90" 3.5 V8 Sports systems (3.5 & 3.9)£425.00
Single Large-Bore system with Tubular Manifolds & Fitting Kit.Manifold fitting kit also available separately.
90" 21/4 or 21/2 Petrol £203.003.5 V8 £209.003.9 V8 (Anniversary) Cat’ Back £269.002.5 Diesel £200.00Turbo Diesel £270.00200 Tdi Defender £309.00300 Tdi Defender (Non Cat’) £309.00300 Tdi Defender(Centre/Rear only) from £235.00300 Tdi Defender Catalyst only £311.38SPECIAL PRICES ON FULL SYSTEMS (with Catalysts)TD5 (Cat Back) £299.00
110" 3.5 V8 Sports Systems (3.5 & 3.9) £449.00The Original, Stainless Steel Performance Exhaust.Single Large-Bore system with Tubular Manifolds & Fitting Kit.Manifold fitting kit also available separately.
110" 21/4 or 21/2 Petrol £203.003.5 V8 £239.0021/2 Diesel £203.00Turbo Diesel £270.00200 TDi Defender £290.00300 TDi Defender (Non Cat’) £290.00300 TDi Defender Rear section (Cat’ back) £259.00300 TDi Defender Catalyst only £311.38SPECIAL PRICES ON FULL SYSTEMS (with Catalysts)TD5 (Cat Back) £309.00
130" 2 1/2 Petrol ‘95 on £330.002.5 Diesel (Non Turbo) ‘95 on £330.00300 TDi (Non Cat’) £330.00300 TDi Rear Section (Cat Back) £269.00300 TDi Catalyst only £311.38SPECIAL PRICES ON FULL SYSTEMS (with Catalysts)TD5 (Cat Back) £319.00V8 Sports System (Inc. Manifolds) £475.00
Request your free* catalogue today
CLASSIC & SERIES 2
SERIES 1
*One catalogue posted free, a small postage chargefor additional catalogues & overseas.
SERIES 2 RANGE ROVER TWIN EXIT LARGE
BORE EXHAUST
Discourse 12 - page 26 Page 27 - Discourse 12
family entertainment. This year also sees the marriage blessing of two club members at the event! Camping is available from Friday 11th September, day visitors are also most welcome and the club welcomes all makes.
Trade and Autojumble: - Jon & Sarah Ackroyd - 01274566672 (after 6pm)
Abingdon 4x4 Festival, 27 - 28 September
The club is in its third year of running this event in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Abingdon. As well as the off-road course there’s caravanning and camping with all the socialising that goes on, trade stands and the DOC stand. Organiser Garry Treadwell (01235 520240) promises that this year’s event will be even bigger and better than last year’s.
For more details speak to Garry especially if you can help before the event or during the weekend. We’ll have more details in the next edition of Discourse.
Marshals Wanted!
Have you ever fancied being a marshal? No, not the sort that wears a tin star and a low-slung holster. We’re talking about the ones who ensure the smooth running of an off-road event!
As we’re sure you all know, every year the DOC hosts the Abingdon 4x4 Festival, which is centered on an off-road course in excess of two miles long. This year the event, on the 27th & 28th September, is going to be bigger than ever and to make the course work we need volunteer marshals. No experience or special equipment is necessary – only the commitment of some time over the two days that the course will be open. Tasks will include managing traffic, offering advice and encouragement and maintaining safety, and all with a grandstand view of the action.
As an incentive all volunteer marshals will receive free entry to the event (worth up to £50.00 for the whole weekend) and the eternal gratitude of the event organizers!
If you would like to give it a go and be part of the biggest event on the Club calendar then please contact the Clerk of the Course, Darren Burgess, on 01344 445820 or email [email protected].
2003 Calendar and Contacts21-22 June - Land Rover World Show
Contact Neil Brownlee - 07768 366157
6 July - Training Day, NorthantsContact Kevin Beel - 01462 893886
18-20 July - Land Rover Enthusiasts Show, BillingContact Garry Tredwell - 01235 520240
12-13 July - Beaulieu 4x4 ShowContact Stefan Tapp - 02380 396591
What’s On - Tim Arnold
Advanced Training Day, 6 July
A training day has been booked the DOC. It’s limited to sixteen vehicles for a level one/recovery course using 3/4 instructors and some of our vehicles. The event will be at Rockingham Castle. Cost will be £65 per vehicle; higher than normal but the facility fee at the Castle is high. The lead insructor will be Vince Cobley.
Please book direct with Kevin Beel (01426 893886 or [email protected]), then send a deposit of £20 to Kevin (address in front). Cheques payable to V. Cobley. Balance due on the day.
Land Rover Enthusiasts Show, 18 - 20 July
At this year’s LRE Show at Billing we have arranged our own camping, this will enable us all to be together, the cost is £12.50 per night and includes show admission. To join us contact Garry Tredwell. Applications must be with him by 12th July to qualify.
.Beaulieu 4x4 Show, 12 - 13 July
Stefan Tapp is a man with a mission, he has plans for a themed display at Beaulieu and needs help with materials, if you can help contact Stefan direct.
Nostalgia Show - Cirencester, 25 July
The DOC will again be attending this show, which this year is at South Cerney Airfield, just south of Cirencester. As well as over 2,500 display vehicles, there is also a steam fair, autojumble and other attractions.
Detling Off Road, Kent 16 - 17 August
The Kent and East Sussex DOC are meeting up at Detling for a 4x4 fun day (www.kentpluggers.co.uk). Whether you’re a novice or an experienced driver, there’s something for everyone.
The site will be available for camping on the Saturday evening and opens Sunday 10 am until 5 pm. Price includes camping on the Saturday evening. Don Hoaglin, our very own Land Rover Experience instructor will be on hand to offer advice and tips and the Kent Land Rover club will be arranging some local Green Lane trips.
If you’re interested, it’s £20 per car for DOC members. Non members will be asked to pay £20 per car plus £5 for camping. For further details or to book contact Tim Arnold at [email protected] for more details. Places are limited.
Langley Farm 12 - 13 September
The Yorkshire Land Rover Owners & Rover Owners Club will be holding its annual 4x4 event at Langley Farm, Scissett near Huddersfield. The venue is easily accessible from Junctions 38 and 39 of the M1. This will be the event’s 22nd year.
Among the attractions are: a public off-road course of over a mile long, trade stands, auto jumble, interesting vehicle line-ups and
Events
Discourse 12 - page 26 Page 27 - Discourse 12
Northampton Location: Billing Quays, Northampton, (nr Aquadrome). When: First Thursday of each month. Time: 7:30 pm onwards Contact: George Glover. Tel: 01604 582252, 07721 559456
North West / Manchester Location: The Railway PH, 1 Avenue Street, Portwood, Stockport. When: Second Wednesday of each month Time: 8:00 pm onwards Contact: Kim Hollings. Tel: 0161 480 7096, 07831 541245
North Worcs / South Midlands Location: The White Hart PH, Evesham Road, Redditch, Worcs. When: Second Tuesday of each month Time: 8:00 pm onwards Contact: Paul Walker. Tel: 01527 404103, 07939 411995
South Staffs / North Birmingham Location: Moxull Hall Hotel, Holly Lane, Wishaw, nr Sutton Coldfield, B76 9PD. When: Last Thursday of each month Time: 7:30 pm onwards
Location: The White Hart PH, Wolverhampton Rd, Cannock When: Second Thursday of each month Time: 7:30 pm onwards Contact: Lee Jones. Tel: 0121 603 3632
Wales Location: The Felin Fach Griffin PH, Hay on Wye. When: First Sunday of each month Time: 1:00 pm onwards Contact: Gerard Brooks. Tel: 02920 757459, 07977 545790
Wessex Location: The Rack & Manger, Crawley, Hampshire. When: Second Wednesday of each month Time: 7:30 pm onwards Contact: Alan Smart. Tel: 01264 772851
West of England Location: The Wheatsheaf PH, High Street, Winterbourne, South Gloucestershire. When: Last Friday of each month Time: 8:00 pm onwards Contact: Post Vacant. Tel: Neil Brownlee.
Yorkshire Location: George & Dragon PH, Apperley Bridge, Bradford. When: Last Friday of each month. Time: 8:00 pm onwards Contact: John Patton. Tel: 07748 502200
Location: Sir Jacks PH, Bawtry Road, Bramley, Rotherham. When: First Sunday of each month. Time: 12:00 noon onwards Contact: Martin Thomas. Tel: 07985 736021
If you would like to form yor own Local Section of the Discovery Owners Club in any area not covered in those listed above, contact Neil Brownlee or any of the Local Section Representitives on the Committee who will be pleased to advise and assist you.
4 October - UK Rhino Charge at Pippingford Pk SussexContact Tim Arnold - 01323 489003
5 October London to Brighton LR Run Contact Tim Arnold - 01323 489003
Date TBA - National 4x4 Show (Trentham)Contact Lee Parkes and Lee Jones - 0121 328 0065
Date TBA - Green Lane Day, Yotkshire Contact John Patton - 07748 502200
Regional MeetsCentral Southern
Location: The Packhorse, Milton Hill, nr Abingdon, Oxford. When: Third Wednesday of each month Time: 7:30 pm onwards Contact: Garry Tredwell. Tel: 01235 520240, 07802 495658
East Sussex Location: The Horseshoe Inn, Windmill Hill, nr. Hailsham. When: Second Sunday of each month Time: 12:30 pm onwards Contact: Tim Arnold. Tel: 01323 489003
Home Counties North Location: George IV PH, London Road, Baldock, Herts. When: Third Tuesday of each month Time: 8:00 pm onwards Contact: Kevin Beel. Tel: 01462 893886
Kent Location: Black Lion, Southfleet. When: First Wednesday of each month. Time: 7:30 pm onwards Contact: Don Hoaglin. Tel: 01474 707531
