4x4 Mag - Technical Tips

Technical Tips - October 1999

written by Graham Scott and John Deaville

Can I fit manual free-wheeling hubs to my 1988 Toyota Landcruiser to replace the automatic ones ?

We receive many requests for information regarding this topic and recognise that the automatic hubs can give problems in later life if they are not used regularly. To keep your hubs in tip-top condition you must engage them periodically to ensure lubrication of the insides. Manual locking hubs are available and can have some advantages over free-wheeling ones.

I own a 1994 standard specification Jeep Wrangler four litre automatic petrol model and want to do a bit of off-roading without compromising the on-road performance of the vehicle. What modifications would you suggest ?

In standard form this vehicle is quite capable, it's limits are defined by the underbody ground clearance and traction. Power wise all those horses allied to an auto box are a good combination. Suggest you change the tyres to either an All Terrain or Mud Terrain pattern, the choice will be determind by the amount of off-road driving you intend to do, and a larger size tyre will increase your ground clearance. A basic and relatively simple modification involves changing to gas shock absorbers, perhaps Explorer Pro-Comp and an uprated steering damper to help take the "shock" out of the steering. On road these can also increase ride comfort on rutted and underulating roads. Of course the ultimate is a suspension lift and this could be included at a later date if budget and off-road interests allow. There's plenty of suppliers of after market Jeep goodies, so get going and enjoy your off-roading.

Could you tell me something about the Mahindra Jeep. The model is an Indian Chief 2.1 diesel, L reg and a soft top having covered only 11,000 miles. What's it worth and is it worth buying ?

The Mahindra jeep really is a difficult vehicle to value, and not really within the scope of these pages, however, prices are known to range from £500 to £3,000 at "L" reg, long range valuing is not possible ! The Mahindra was never very popular in the UK and build quality was perceived to be less than good. Engine and transmission are substantial and sound, however, bodywork is prone to corrosion and electrical faults and poorly fitting hoods and accessories are often a problem. As regards off-roading it's not bad, remember there's a low shield under the gearbox which reduces your ramp break-over angle and the ride is a little "agricultural" being leaf sprung.

I have a 1983 Mercedes 280GE LWB "G" Wagen, can I fit free-wheeling hubs to the front ?

This practice is not recommended so the answer is no, you'll have to put up with the fuel consumption ! If you want increased rolling ability and higher gearing why not move up in tyre size, the LWB "G" is great with 7.50-16 tyres which will fit the stahdard rims.

I'm considering purchasing an early Land Rover 90 would you recommend petrol or diesel. I want to tow a caravan during the summer and commute about 200 miles a week to work the rest of the year.

The answer depends on your financial budget. The non turbo diesel 90 engine was not renowned for its power or longevity of life, around 60,000 miles and a rebuild would be recommended. The first Turbo 90s where not the best either as compared to the 200TDi or 300TDi models. If you consider a petrol the 4 cylinder engine is great, if a little thirsty when pushed hard, and examples of this kind are often considerably cheaper than their diesel counterparts. For the caravan towing, however, you need as much power and torque as possible, and for pure fun and performance of course the V8 is the only choice, it will tow the caravan great and at 200 miles a week won't be too expensive on the fuel. After all the choice is yours. We assume you're not planning on any off-roading, if you were the V8 is practically unsurpassed.

I have owned a 1992 Frontera SWB for several years and want to significantly improve its off-road ability. I already have Mud Terrain pattern tyres which make a big difference. Can you recommend any suppliers that can help me ?

Most accessories for Fronteras are not designed to assist off road and could be described by "serious" off-roaders as gimmicks, however, there appears to be a market for them. Sorry, we can't point you in any specific direction but would be pleased to hear from any reader who has succeeded in modifiying their Frontera with suspension lifts, steering guards etc.,