Questions of a new Landy owner

Hi there, I've been pining over every Defender I see since arriving to the UK (from the US) about 8 months ago. Last month I could take no more, drove clear across England to the seller, and bought one: a 1987 Land Rover 110 V8 CSW.

I've got few questions (actually a bunch) and I hope you guys go easy on me: this is my first LZ post and I'm completely new to mechanics.

First, I'm looking for the fuel filter. The first photo shows what I think is the fuel filter housing. Whatever it is, it's just below the driver's foot well. Did I get it right? Also, any suggestions for blanking/plugging the fuel lines during disassembly?



Next, what is this? Is it a steering guard? It's rusted to bits and needs go. I'd like some reassurance that I'm not removing an anti-roll bar or something else important.



Last but not least, the transfer box is stuck in low-range. The seller warned me, but I had to test once I got home... The selector moves freely and doesn't seem to be engaged. (diff-lock works, tho) Any tricks or tips before I make a (very slow) trip to the garage?

Many thanks!

yes fuel filter inside,put tin under it not massive amounts of fuel come out
yes steering guard
check linkage (remove center seat base and access panel)
where are you

if ya restore that and wait 2 years ya can take it back to the states n sell it for big monies!
keep an eye on that rust tho

Many thanks! After it runs well enough, sorting out the rust is at the top of the (rather long) todo list. I suppose it depends on the extent of damage, but I'd appreciate any pointers for treating the rust areas. Or is that strictly a job for the garage?

I go back to the US in about 2 years and I plan to bring it back, but not sure if I'll sell it -- I rather like it. I got the '87 so it would be 25 years old when I return, hopefully making import a bit easier.

Also, profile updated. I'm in Gloucestershire, between Gloucester and Cirencester.

the good old angle grinder and thick paint works well for rust, also a mig welding plant might help for bad spots(garage job)