Forward Control 2b Overlander

[Bilulu FC2b]

Hi all, a brief introduction to my 2b FC Camper called Bilulu.
I'm based in Wicklow Ireland and have been maintaining a selection of Range Rover Classics (300tdi, Mazda 35slti & 4.2V8) for many years but last year acquired Bilulu. This South African CKD beauty that was apparently assembled sometime in the 1990's by Gulf industries and driven to UK and some years later to Ireland. I'm looking for more information on these vehicles if anyone out there has some?

I intend using her for camping trips with the children but I'm finding the 2.6 6cyl is rather thirsty (7.5mpg) thus limiting longer trips. I’d appreciate views / suggestions regarding whether conversion to diesel is sensible /feasible. The two engines I’ve experience with are Tdi and the Mazda 35slti. Other than possible re-powering I’d like to fit power steering there is a Dutch system (HST/TDZ) that looks promising has anyone used it?
I'll post some pics once she's out of winter storage later this month
Looking forward to lots of responses, cheers!
Enda

[DasLandRoverMan]

I've got an SLT in my 110 with an autobox behind it, storming engine and I reckon one would make a IIB move rather well.

There's a lot to be said for a nice original truck, but if a diesel will see it being used more then fair enough.
Everything's possible with Land Rovers, there's always someone somewhere who'll have fitted the engine you're thinking of doing.
There's a few methods of doing power steering on them as well, depends how you want to go about it really.

It'll be interesting to see photos anyways.

[Bilulu FC2b]

I agree the main reason for a re-power is to facilitate more usage but I'm aware that originality can have a premium but I'd be happier getting lots of use and fun from her.
Has anyone done a 35SLTi into a FC?
Also what other power steering options are available?
E.

[JPC]

There is hardly a FC left here in SA with the original gearbox and engine. With a stronger engine also comes a Std gearbox, to give it "longer legs". The common engines used here were 4.1 6cyl chev, 2.8 6cyl Nissan, or a Ford/Chev V8. Fuel consumption they say is horrendous, but you have more power and speed. Do you have LPG available where you are? It might be an idea to go the LPG route if it is affordable. Recently here, some owners had success with the Toyota 3CT transplant on the low ratio box. It has no effect on the top speed, but good fuel consumption. The Ford/Mazda WL2.5 (perkins 4.152) is also becoming popular.
Good luck.

[DasLandRoverMan]

There's a few ways of doing PAS, hydraulic assistance on the standard setup (summit like the Heystee setup) try and get hold of a steering box as used on leaf sprung armour (the old Northern Ireland fleet) which is apparently very similar to an old BMW fitment.

There's also the option of adapting a P38 box to work in there, a defender/disco one, or one from an LDV van.

Depends how much chopping you want to do really.

[parksy64]

I take it you have seen this thread:
http://www.900club.org/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=306

[Bilulu FC2b]

Yep saw that thread looks like a cool trip.

[JPC]

Hi Bilulu

Could you perhaps provide me some info about your 2B FC. A PM if you wish.

We are trying to figure out at around which time the "clam shell" chassis was introduced in SA.

332 00 136E has ENV axles and the normal 4 sided, 4 weld chassis.

Could you send me some info from the Data plate please, if it is still there.

Thanks

JP