GETTING EXPEDITION READY
THE ARTIC & SAHARA STORY
Curtis first met and used Cooper Auto Services in 2018. Curtis was in the process of building a Land Rover Defender 110 for overlanding and expedition adventures. With the Artic Expedition fast approaching, Curtis felt it best to seek some expert advice. Curtis received sound advice from the initial consultation.
A note from Curtis:
"Cooper Auto Services used their extensive knowledge and expert craftsmanship to 'expedition ready' my Land Rover. Thanks to Graeme and Ross, I have succesfully completed both my expeditions to Norway and The Sahara with no vehicle issues. I am already in discussions with Graeme regarding an upcoming Scandinavian adventure that is penciled in the calendar for 2025.
I can’t recommend Cooper Auto Services and their attention to detail enough. I should add his costs are decent and fair, but then I hold to ....you only get what you pay for and in the Arctic or Sahara good prep and good kit are essential."
Please find a breif account from Curtis below....
ARTIC
The goal was to travel to Nordkapp in Norway in August / September 2019.
Whilst progressing the build Graeme and Ross from Cooper Auto Services were invaluable for advice on the pros and cons on all aspects:
-
Suspension
-
Engine (ECU)
-
Storage
-
Tyres/wheels
-
Electrics
This was a rebuild, so soundproofing and waxing were first. Heating and electrical needs next. Then suspension, tyres, wheels and storage and safety considerations, cages, storage and security measures. Cooper Auto Services advice was invaluable and the Land Rover completed 6000 miles in 6 weeks with ease.
SAHARA
Firstly, Cooper Auto Services assessed the Land Rover in its current condition and needed to know the demands of the trip. Their assessment was that the vehicle needed another engine, receiving new core plugs, glow plugs, water pump, crankshaft oil seal, pulleys and belts. Given the harsh terrain, temperature extremes and the amount of dust expected, Graeme and Ross went over everything with eagle eye prior to refitting the new engine.
A new clutch, differential guards and dislocation cones for the rear suspension were all advised as necessary (especially after a ‘loaded’ off road test when the suspension ‘popped out’) and a change to steel wheels was made. Six new tyres were fitted as well (2 spares being mandatory). The car performed impeccably doing 5000 miles in less than 4 weeks. Graeme's advice was superb, and the car and tyres setup was remarked upon by others in the group. It had no punctures or mishaps . Of the 13 vehicles on the expedition, 7 had issues with the 3 Toyota’ s developing serious problems. I believe Graeme's attitude ensured our Land Rover was as good as it could be (within a budget).
In addition, Cooper Auto Services helped with backup parts/spares , all oils, filters, Propshaft UJ’s , bearings as well as a host of other parts due to being an official BRITPART stockists. Our expedition organisers demanded these parts and we got them with ease!
