LAND-ROVER SERIES III

"MATILDA"

Known History

This vehicle was manufatured in 1976, possibly assembled in Australia. Her first owner used her on a farm in the Kwazulu Natal Midlands. She was sold to someone on the Kwazulu Natal Northcoast, who used her for towing skiboats & fishing. In about 1994 she ended up in Durban, and stood in a neighbour's garage for over a year without moving. After protracted negotiations I finally bought her in Oct 1995.

Name

Due to a loose steering box adjustment this vehicle wandered over the road and she was christened "Waltzing Matilda". When we finally figured out what the problem was, it was corrected and the name was shortened to Matilda.

Specifications

Mechanical State

• CURRENT STATUS: Not mobile due to leaking fuel tank (4 Feb 2000)
• Chassis: Rear section is in a good state, but the front cracked just in front of the engine mounts. We repaired this, but is only a temporary measure until time can be found to replace the chassis.
• Engine: Runs well. Replaced the Zenith car with a Weber. I suspect that the distributor needs to be reconditioned.
• Bodywork: No major dings or dents. After 24 years all the rubber seals need replacing.
• Gearbox: Jumps out of first gear when running against engine compression.
• Diffs: Salisbury rear diff. Freewheeling front hubs.

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