Help...buying my first Defender...

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Also one other issue... something was bolted to the upper rear quarter panel at the back. The holes have been blanked and the panel is a bit damaged/weak.

Are the rear window framing panels available or would that be a, 'weld a plate in job' to sort it out?

Appreciate the help guys...

Rob
OK thanks AI, great - Seal = Foam right!!
The seal between the bulkhead top and the bottom of the screen frame is a thick, closed cell foam type material, so yes.
Removing the upper, rear quarter panel is a big job. It's pop riveted/spot welded together, bolted to the roof and bolted to the lower quarter panel/tub. I would be tempted to get the holes cleaned up and painted and a couple of blanking grommets put in, wouldn't look too bad. Or, bolt an LED light in. Looks like something like that was on there. Very low though?[/QUOTE]
 
It was the bottom of a TV aerial, Patriot roof rack was used for camera work...

It has fractured the panel which is annoying but could be liveable with...
 
It was the bottom of a TV aerial, Patriot roof rack was used for camera work...

It has fractured the panel which is annoying but could be liveable with...
I can't see the fracture in the pictures, but sounds like that kicks the grommet idea in to touch. Is it fracture across between the two holes?
 
I can't see the fracture in the pictures, but sounds like that kicks the grommet idea in to touch. Is it fracture across between the two holes?

Yep, I’d say double fracture...two cracks in line with top and bottom of the plugs....where the bolts would have been flexing...
 
Yep, I’d say double fracture...two cracks in line with top and bottom of the plugs....where the bolts would have been flexing...
 

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Now that the aerial isn't on, the cracks probably won't creep any more. Doesn't look great though. I would probably clean it up/rub area down. Bond a small plate across the inside. Fill the holes, rub it down, prime and paint it.
 
Now that the aerial isn't on, the cracks probably won't creep any more. Doesn't look great though. I would probably clean it up/rub area down. Bond a small plate across the inside. Fill the holes, rub it down, prime and paint it.
Ok, thanks AI, you’re a gentleman, that’s been a great help...R
 
Ok, thanks AI, you’re a gentleman, that’s been a great help...R
No bother.
Do have a look through that list of things to look for that Doriz posted.
Check the top of the bulkhead, just under that windscreen frame. It's steel and a keen rot spot.
Check front foot wells. Lift carpet and see how much rust is on the bottom of the sloping panel behind the pedals and equivalent area on passenger side.
Check the inside, bottom of the front door frames for rust
Check sides of seat box for aluminium corrosion. White powder or white paste if wet
Check behind seats where the seat belt bolt to the rear tub shelf for aluminium corrosion

There are lots of other areas :rolleyes:
Good luck, hope you get a good one.
 
I will only give you two pieces of advice when buying your first Defender.....

1) Make sure you have plenty of money in your bank account

2) Ensure you have good breakdown cover in place.
 
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