1976 Land Rover 101 Forward Control

Highlights

• Ex-British military 1-tonne gun tractor/utility truck with genuine military provenance
• Left-hand drive example, currently registered in Germany
• Fitted with a Nissan LD28 inline-six diesel engine, LT95 gearbox with overdrive, and power steering
• In current ownership since 2020
• Fine bones for a restoration project
• Will require a trailer

The Appeal

Designed in the early 1970s to meet a demanding British military brief, hauling field guns and heavy loads across the harshest terrain, the 101 has since earned a devoted following among overlanders and adventurers who prize substance over style. With permanent four-wheel drive, generous ground clearance, and a go-anywhere attitude baked into its DNA, the 101 remains a highly regarded expedition platform nearly half a century on.

This 1976 left-hand drive example was demobbed after the 1980s and has since been fitted with a Nissan LD28 inline-six diesel engine paired with the LT95 gearbox and overdrive. Power steering has been added, along with new dampers and a new alternator. A secondary fuel tank with transfer pump and inline filter extends the vehicle's range.

Acquired by the current owner in 2020 with ambitions of world travel, this 101 is offered as a restorable classic rather than a concours piece - a grand prospect for restoration at its core. Whether destined for overlanding, camper conversion, it's sure to be a rewarding project.

History and Paperwork

• 1976 left-hand drive Land Rover 101 Forward Control
• Ex-British military vehicle, originally built as a 1-tonne gun tractor/utility truck
• Demobbed sometime after the 1980s
• Current owner since 2020
• Reimported from Germany
• Odometer reads 18,500 km but is noted as inoperative
• MOT exempt
• Currently with 4x4 Stock, a Land Rover specialist, who are able to complete work or continue storage if the buyer wishes

The Condition

• Bodywork a little tired and would benefit from cosmetic work
• Everything is very original
• The vendor informs us that the underside is in original good condition with a solid, uncut chassis
• Some corrosion to the crossmembers and suspension
• Underbody treatment has been applied
• Fitted with BF Goodrich tyres and a spare wheel
• Interior is basic military-spec but functional and tidy
• Driver's seat replaced with a Mazda MX-5 seat
• 24V electrical system
• The vendor describes it as spartan but comfortable enough for longer drives
• Tall seating position providing good visibility
• Age-commensurate wear throughout

The Mechanics

• 2.8-litre Nissan LD28 inline 6-cylinder OHC diesel engine
• Manual transmission with 4 gears, LT95 gearbox with overdrive
• Four-wheel drive with vacuum switch to engage/disengage
• Power steering fitted
• New dampers fitted
• New alternator fitted
• The vendor reports the Nissan LD28 diesel runs smoothly with good power delivery, no smoke or unusual noises
• Reported to pull well through the gears with strong low-range torque
• LT95 gearbox reportedly shifts well with no crunching
• Overdrive engages and disengages cleanly
• Some electrical issues:
  • Relay for starter motor appears permanently closed
  • Leak in the brake system, so a trailer would be needed along with new batteries
  • The vendor observes that when he last drove it, the alternator was newly fitted and running fine - so this may be due to a fuse or wiring
• 4WD interlock selection is positive
• Big bore stainless steel exhaust fitted
• Secondary fuel tank with a fuel transfer pump and an inline filter

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