This Land Rover 109 was built in October 1966 specifically for the British military. It rolled off the assembly line and was shipped to the Central Army Vehicle Depot in Gloucertershire. It is not known if it saw action but it appeared to be in well used condition when we received it. The odometer shows under 5000 miles which it typical of military vehicles, these must have been hard miles, the 109 was in dire need of a full restoration. When it came time to restore the vehicle we knew that it deserved our NAO Series IIA full restoration which incorporates a full package of modern improvements. However when it came to aesthetics, we decided on a slightly different approach. Instead of returning the 109’s body to like-new condition we decided to preserve all the bumps and bruises and its utilitarian nature. The resulting combination is a highly useful and enjoyable vehicle. Our NAO Series IIA restoration package provides the benefit of modern parts and technology. The less-than-perfect paint allows full use of the vehicles utilitarian design and lends an authentic character to this unique vehicle.
Engine
The original 2.25 liter four cylinder gasoline engine was fully rebuilt. We used a different cam and slightly raised the compression ratio to make a mild horsepower increase. The head was also modified to run on unleaded gas.
Fuel System
The carburetor and mechanical fuel pump of the original fuel system are prone to vapor lock when using 10% ethanol gasoline. We installed electronic fuel injection to solve these problems.
Transmission and Transfer Case
The original IIA transmission requires double clutching between 1st and second gear. This is not something that many people know how to do so we opted to install a rebuilt Series III synchronized 4 speed transmission. The iconic IIA double bent shifter was retained.
Cooling
The cooling system was completely restored. We use a modern voltage stabilizer so the the coolant temperature gauge reads accurately unlike the originals.
Frame
A new military spec galvanized frame is the back bone of the vehicle. All original military bumperettes and air lift rings have been retained. A Warn M8000 winch has been added to aid in self recovery of the vehicle off road.
Axles
The front and rear axles are fully rebuilt. The original rear half shafts are prone to breaking so we installed high strength 24 spline units. We also installed high strength ring and pinion gears with a higher gear ratio to allow for a 60 mph cruising speed.
Steering
The steering system was completely rebuilt. The result is a vehicle that steers and tracks nicely. A banjo wheel replaced the original 3 spoke wheel. The vehicle was converted to LHD for ease of driving in the US.
Brakes
We upgraded the original drum brakes and single master cylinder brake system to power dual circuit four wheel disc brakes.
Suspension
Parabolic springs and Old Man Emu gas shocks were installed and offer a softer ride compared to the original military springs.
Body
A new galvanized steel bulkhead was installed so that rot would not be a problem in the future. The pick up top can be removed for an open air driving experience.
Interior
The Series IIA is very unique in that the same finishes of the exterior are carried through into the interior: painted aluminum, galvanized steel and exposed fasteners. Defender seat belts are installed for safety. A Mt. Mansfield high output heater/defroster was installed to make driving on very cold days much more comfortable.
Electrical
The original electrical system of the Series IIA was not a very good design even in the 1960s. We installed a new electrical system that makes use of completely modern electronics.
Tires and Wheels
The original wheels require old fashioned tube-type tires and are hard to balance. We used brand new tubeless welded wheels that have the exact same appearance as the originals but with a slightly wider off-set for improved turning radius and handling. We installed new Michelin XZL radials, these are the same tire currently used by the British military. They have a correct look and are very durable with steel belted sidewalls.
Optional Soft Top and Rear Seats
The pick up cab can be unbolted and canvas soft top installed in its place. It is very easy to roll up the sides and back of the soft top for fair weather driving. The soft top can also be completely removed for open top driving. The soft top is available at an extra charge. Additionally, seating and seatbelts for 8 passengers can be installed in the back for an extra charge.
Engine
Fuel System
Exhaust System
Transmission and Transfer Case
Cooling and Heating
Frame
Axles
Steering
Brakes
Suspension
Body
Interior
Pickup Specific
Electrical and Wipers
Tire and Wheels
Military Features
Options
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