New member hello with 96 LR Disco 5speed!

[rripatti]

Hi All,

I stumbled upon this sight about a week ago and cannot believe my good fortune! The sight is wonderfully informative with interests aligned to my own.

I've always loved Landrover's and have been dreaming of purchasing one since I watching movies of Land Rover's in roaming around in Africa.

Around February of this year, I had had it with my 1990 Jeep Cherokee. It was feeling very cramped (i'm 6'5, 240lbs), becoming very squeaky (daily driven in the very rough Brooklyn roads and I drive to Maine and beyond at least 12 times a year), and simply was not able to carry much weight in stock form so I sold it.

Last April I purchased a pristine 1996 Land Rover Discovery 5-speed with cloth manual seats and no sunroofs in the interest of simplicity/reliability :wings: Since then, I have removed the front brush bar, sidesteps, added a OME HD 2" lift, waxoyled the entire chassis including parts of the drivetrain, replaced slightly rusted exhaust with a borla catback. (I've attached a picture from when i first bought it, sorry its so crappy and small, I'll update this with new pictures as soon as I get a new digital camera!)

Talk about a difference from the Cherokkee!! Where the Cherokee was cramped, squeaky and did not like carrying more then 500lbs, the Discovery is a tank! :safari-rig: The Disco doesn't squeak at all, has so much more space (especially headroom!) and with the OME HD suspension shrugged off a 1,000+lb load I had in the truck last weekend (5 up of 200lb'ers plus loaded truck)!!

As I want to keep this truck forever and given my lifestyle (active in gym, hiking, beach etc) I wanted to preserve my seats for as long as possible. So after a lot of research, I ordered a complete set of seat covers from www.wetokole.com in tan with black piping and two LR logos for the front seats. From the specs they look to be exactly what i'm looking for! They should be arriving in two weeks time! :wings:

Now here is where I'm hoping you guys can help a brand new member! On the manual discovery seats on the inboard side, reside two manual adjustors. The lower larger one adjust seat rake and the smaller one above is for the lumbar support adjustment. Does anybody know how to remove these so that I can install the seat covers wtihout slicing a huge cut into each cover to accommadate the knobs? Its just not readily apparent to me :(

Thanks guys for looking at my very first threat and providing any help or assistance you may have!

Raul

ps. My next 3 mods will be Scorpion Racing 30mm spacers to help compensate the 2" lift in COG, 245/75/16 BF AT tires and 4.6L with tourquer cam added. I'll be sure to comment and provide feedback on each of these mods as I add them over the course of the next 8 months.

[Scott Brady]

Hey, that truck looks familiar :) (I have a '95, white, manual, cloth)

For the covers, since they are neoprene, I would suggest fitting them to the seats and then cutting a small hole, then stretching the neoprene over the adjustment handles.

Great to have you on the forum.

[Desertoutpost]

Welcome to Expo,

Nice Disco. Look forward to watching your mods.

[Andrew Walcker]

Welcome Aboard! :beer:

Nice Dicso w/ 5 speed! I agree w/ Scott that a slice in the neopreme would be the way to do. Neopreme stretches wonderfully and is very hard to tear. If you are really concerned have the slice seam stitched and it will look factory.

[rripatti]

Hi Scot,

Thanks for the welcome! :) I just read up on your truck and i thought for a second that I was seeing double LOL. I am looking forward to seeing how you will build up your truck. I read with great interest on your choice to do steel wheels as I was on the fence at the point between steel wheels and spacers. As an FYI, I decided to go with the Scorpion Racer wheel spacers instead of steelies for the following reasons:
1. Depending on quality, steelies may possibly be more involved to balance
2. higher maintenance in terms of ensuring no rust
3. additional sprung weight when compared to running spacers.

With that said, the spacer I purchased, while hubcentric, will require additional labor to ensure they are tight (thinking low strength loctite when i install them) and when i need to do rotor swaps etc. Plus they are slighly less backspacing at about 1" per side.

Another thing that I find interesting about your 95 versus my 96 is that you have the CUX14 ecu and distributor while I have the GEMS ECU (i think i got that right) and distributor less system. I'm curious how both are from a reliability standpoint. From a modification perspective, your system is much more friendly with several chips available to accommodate engine mods versus what i have.

Okay back to the neoprene seat covers from wet okole (edit: to clarify i bought cover's for the rear seats too). So it looks like common concensus is to cut a slit just large enough to slide the cover over the knobs and then possibly stich a seam on the ends of the cut. Is this something i can stitch myself (i can barely sew my own buttons on my clothes! LOL)?

Thanks again guys!



Hey, that truck looks familiar :) (I have a '95, white, manual, cloth)

For the covers, since they are neoprene, I would suggest fitting them to the seats and then cutting a small hole, then stretching the neoprene over the adjustment handles.

Great to have you on the forum.

[rripatti]

Thanks! I love the D2's as well, just wish they came with a stickshift! How noisy is your roof rack at say highway speeds? i am thinking of eventually purchasing one?


Welcome to Expo,

Nice Disco. Look forward to watching your mods.

[rripatti]

Thanks for the welcome Andrwe!

As i wrote in my prior post, its great to know that neoprene is very hard to tear, even after i slice it (going to buy a new box cutter for that) as these wet okole's were pretty pricey :jumping:

i have to see about that stitching thing. perhaps i can put a stitch myself at both ends of the slit with heavy duty black nylon thread??


Welcome Aboard! :beer:

Nice Dicso w/ 5 speed! I agree w/ Scott that a slice in the neopreme would be the way to do. Neopreme stretches wonderfully and is very hard to tear. If you are really concerned have the slice seam stitched and it will look factory.

[Andrew Walcker]

Thanks for the welcome Andrwe!

As i wrote in my prior post, its great to know that neoprene is very hard to tear, even after i slice it (going to buy a new box cutter for that) as these wet okole's were pretty pricey :jumping:

i have to see about that stitching thing. perhaps i can put a stitch myself at both ends of the slit with heavy duty black nylon thread??

Start with a very small hole as it is always easier to keep going bigger than smaller. Maybe even a "X" instead of an "l" would allow the knobs to pass through easier. Not sure on the stitching? There is an upholster near me that I've always used so never had to think about it myself. If you did end up stitching it, I'd just copy whatever thread they use from the factory.

[Desertoutpost]

Thanks! I love the D2's as well, just wish they came with a stickshift! How noisy is your roof rack at say highway speeds? i am thinking of eventually purchasing one?

Don't even know its up there to be perfectly honest with you. It makes zero noise, no whistling or anything. Although one time the flooring vibrated and made a little noise but that was in 50-70 mph wind and I was driving about 45-55, other than this have heard nothing. After making it though that I feel very confident in the rack, I just check the attachment bolts for being tight about once a month. Good luck.

[rripatti]

Hi Andrew,

Thanks for the advice on an "X" slit. I may do just that and keep it as small as possible. as i am keeping the slit small, I may attempt it myself as the actual slit will be hidden from the knob given the stretch qualities. i will contact wet okole and see if they can provide me with extra threading.

Thanks!


Start with a very small hole as it is always easier to keep going bigger than smaller. Maybe even a "X" instead of an "l" would allow the knobs to pass through easier. Not sure on the stitching? There is an upholster near me that I've always used so never had to think about it myself. If you did end up stitching it, I'd just copy whatever thread they use from the factory.

[rripatti]

Thanks for the input desertoutpost...its amazing that you don't hear additional windnoise. i had a rack on my previous jeep and that thing howled.

so far the discovery has swallowed everything i have asked of it. however this coming summer, i will be towing a trailer with two jetski's and will have 5 people onboard from Brooklyn to Maine (fiancee's family has a cabin on one of the lakes up there situated on dirt roads). I may have to procure a rack for that trip depending on how much cargo will be brought up.

thanks again for your reply


Don't even know its up there to be perfectly honest with you. It makes zero noise, no whistling or anything. Although one time the flooring vibrated and made a little noise but that was in 50-70 mph wind and I was driving about 45-55, other than this have heard nothing. After making it though that I feel very confident in the rack, I just check the attachment bolts for being tight about once a month. Good luck.

[Desertoutpost]

Thanks for the input desertoutpost...its amazing that you don't hear additional windnoise. i had a rack on my previous jeep and that thing howled.

so far the discovery has swallowed everything i have asked of it. however this coming summer, i will be towing a trailer with two jetski's and will have 5 people onboard from Brooklyn to Maine (fiancee's family has a cabin on one of the lakes up there situated on dirt roads). I may have to procure a rack for that trip depending on how much cargo will be brought up.

thanks again for your reply

Check on craigs list, there are some racks going for good prices, ie...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Genuine-OEM-Land-Rover-Safari-Roof-Rack-Discovery-95-99_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33651QQihZ010QQitemZ 200170437793QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

Just make sure you stay to the SD or SD style rack, they are quiet and you can load a ton of gear up there. These racks are the ones the G4 used.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a346/hotrodtuna/100_0155.jpg

[rripatti]

Thanks for the link! there looks to be good deals out there.

Quick question, given their sheer size, these racks can certainly carry a lot of goods which equates to weight. have you noticed any deterioration to your rain gutters (bending/cracking etc?)

By the way, love the look of the rack in the pic! :)

Just wondering. Thanks.


Check on craigs list, there are some racks going for good prices, ie...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Genuine-OEM-Land-Rover-Safari-Roof-Rack-Discovery-95-99_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33651QQihZ010QQitemZ 200170437793QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

Just make sure you stay to the SD or SD style rack, they are quiet and you can load a ton of gear up there. These racks are the ones the G4 used.

[Desertoutpost]

Thanks for the link! there looks to be good deals out there.

Quick question, given their sheer size, these racks can certainly carry a lot of goods which equates to weight. have you noticed any deterioration to your rain gutters (bending/cracking etc?)

By the way, love the look of the rack in the pic! :)

Just wondering. Thanks.

Simple answer, no. I have heard of nothing either, which I think I would have. With the four attachment points and their sheer width, and the fact that the rain gutters on a Rover are the size of most house gutters, you will be fine. The racks are very large but very, very light. I could hold the hole rack over my head when we installed it, and I assure you I'm not built like a fire plug, more like the hose! As for the link, when these racks come up they do not last long, maybe a day or two tops. You have to jump on them quick and they usually fetch a price well over $1000.00, so move quick! Good luck.

[Scott Brady]

I went for the steel wheels to understate the looks of the Discovery, and make it a little more field repairable. These are the NATO wheels, with a smaller safety bead, hence easier to field fix a tire. And I like how they look :)

An aluminum wheel is almost always a better performance choice.

[Desertoutpost]

I went for the steel wheels to understate the looks of the Discovery, and make it a little more field repairable. These are the NATO wheels, with a smaller safety bead, hence easier to field fix a tire. And I like how they look :)

An aluminum wheel is almost always a better performance choice.

Scott do you have them mouned up yet, I want to do the same and was waiting for your pics??

[bovw]

Welcome aboard,nice D1 you have. I'm looking forward to seeing all you're mods.

[rripatti]

hi desertoutpost, that's great to know! i thought those racks must have weighed at least 100lbs+, i learn a new thing everyday!


Simple answer, no. I have heard of nothing either, which I think I would have. With the four attachment points and their sheer width, and the fact that the rain gutters on a Rover are the size of most house gutters, you will be fine. The racks are very large but very, very light. I could hold the hole rack over my head when we installed it, and I assure you I'm not built like a fire plug, more like the hose! As for the link, when these racks come up they do not last long, maybe a day or two tops. You have to jump on them quick and they usually fetch a price well over $1000.00, so move quick! Good luck.

[rripatti]

Hi Scot,

I can certainly appreciate the look of steelies on a disco (i think i have watched every single camel trophy event up to 1996) and love the simplicity and strength as well as being able to "hammer" it back to shape close enough maintain integrity of the tire. :clapsmile

So far in my minimal offroad excursions in Maine and hitting various potholes (read craters) in Brooklyn, the alloy wheels hold up remarkably well.

so until they break, i will keep them on to keep as much of a stock look as possible while optimizing what i have which is the ome hd lift, soon to come bfg at ko tires along with the spacers.

however I can't wait to see your disco with the steelies! it may just make me change my mind:jump:


I went for the steel wheels to understate the looks of the Discovery, and make it a little more field repairable. These are the NATO wheels, with a smaller safety bead, hence easier to field fix a tire. And I like how they look :)

An aluminwheel is almost always a better performance choice.

[rripatti]

thanks bovw! i'll take pictures of how the truck looks now this friday when i have time and show you the progress as i move foward.

so far the first pic is bone stock at the dealership.

the next pics i will take on Friday will show it with the ome lift, borla and removal of sidesteps and brush guards.

after that will be wet okoles and then spacers. early next year the bfg's and 4.6!


Welcome aboard,nice D1 you have. I'm looking forward to seeing all you're mods.

[Schattenjager]

Late in the game here - but - WELCOME to ExPo!!! You are sure to enjoy your time - be sure to check the other forums such as General Mods, Gear, Adventures, GPS / Computers etc. Lots of good info for you to read and a place to share you own stories.

Cheers!

[Stock Tyres]

Where are all these white 5 speed discos coming from (I thought mine was special )

Welcome to the site, looking forward to see your build!

[rripatti]

thanks guys! i really appreciate your warm welcomes! i look forward to combing this site and looking through all the great stuff to improve upon my discovery!

Oh and I dont know what it is, but i really always wanted a white discovery with a stickshift and i happen to find this on a friday in April. That saturday I signed the papers!:wings:

[Andrew Walcker]

Dang it, all you guys with your Expo White Disco 1's w/ the 5 speed are making me want one. I actually walked up to a white Disco 1 today parked on the street to see if it had cloth seats and a stick....It's really all of your faults:)

[Green96D1]

Welcome buddy.

I love white Discos as well.

and the truck looks nice and clean.

White + black Steelies= awesome combo.

I love my green Disco but If I were to ever change a color it would be white.

[rripatti]

Thanks guys!!!

A couple of things:

1. You guys are killing me with the black steelies! I'll see how I do with the Scorpion Racing spacers first. In theory it should help with the stability of the vehicle as well as help me better fit the bfg at's that will go on.
2. Green 96D1: I noted that you have 32" tires. Given that stock is only 29", have you noticed a marked loss in power on the road, particularly at highway speeds? I'm trying to determine the bfg tire size i will end up with and a big concern of mine is driving from NYC to Maine fully loaded up (5 people plus gear/luggage for a week) particularly through the hilly sections. Even having theoretically the lightest version of the D1 with a stickshift, I've tend to floor the pedal more than I would like (keeping the engine in the optimum powerband ofcourse). That's why I am going to put in the 4.6 with a mild torque cam. But I might also consider gearing down as well.

Thanks guys!


Welcome buddy.

I love white Discos as well.

and the truck looks nice and clean.

White + black Steelies= awesome combo.

I love my green Disco but If I were to ever change a color it would be white.

[Green96D1]

with 32"s you won't have to regear. anything above then yes regearing will help.

I have noticed a little loss in power with the 32's but not enough for me to regear.

if I'm climbing hills on the freeway Then I kickdown to gear 3 or 2. I have a automatic.

with you dropping a 4.6 in the Disco you will have a good amount of power

gas mileage will slightly drop with anything larger than say a 245/75/16

or a "30.5" inch tire. but not much for you to really notice it.

[rripatti]

Hi Green96,

Thanks for the info! considering that you have a 3" inch larger circumference, not to mention a heavier tire its pretty amazing that you have noticed only a slight loss in power!

Given what you said, I think i'll go with the 245/75/16 bfg at ko. seems to be a great all round tire. not excellent in anything but great in everything.

one last question, wiht the 32's, did you have to do any fender cuts?


with 32"s you won't have to regear. anything above then yes regearing will help.

I have noticed a little loss in power with the 32's but not enough for me to regear.

if I'm climbing hills on the freeway Then I kickdown to gear 3 or 2. I have a automatic.

with you dropping a 4.6 in the Disco you will have a good amount of power

gas mileage will slightly drop with anything larger than say a 245/75/16

or a "30.5" inch tire. but not much for you to really notice it.

[craig]

Gas mileage will increase with the 4.6 and 32a on the freeway, but be lower around town. Once you get them moving, they keep going pretty easy. Definately don't need to regear with 32s. :)

C

[Redline]

What sized 32s are you guys talking about? Don’t know much about Rovers but I assume they were all/mostly 16-inch wheels.

If so, I bet the most common 32-in. tire is a 265/75R16, but what about the thinner but same height 235/85R16. What is the width of the wheels?

[craig]

From a gearing standpoint, only the diameter matters, but to answer your question...

265/75/16s on either a 7" Land Rover Alloy or an 8" Pro comp steel wheel w/ stock Disco gearing has been fine even in the Washington Cascades. I have a 4.6 though... w/ the 4.0 it was pretty sluggish.

Craig

[Redline]

"From a gearing standpoint, only the diameter matters, but to answer your question..."

Yep, I understand gearing, just wondering which "32s", and hoping maybe someone would surprise me by saying they were running the skinny 235/85 :-)

What is the stock gearing in the Discos?



From a gearing standpoint, only the diameter matters, but to answer your question...

265/75/16s on either a 7" Land Rover Alloy or an 8" Pro comp steel wheel w/ stock Disco gearing has been fine even in the Washington Cascades. I have a 4.6 though... w/ the 4.0 it was pretty sluggish.

Craig

[Green96D1]

I'm sorry

I'm running the 265/75/16.

aka 32 x 10

i'm thinking of switching to the 235/85/16 as they are easier on the drivetrain

[rripatti]

Thanks for the reply Craig!

I was kinda hoping the gas mileage will increase a bit on the freeway with the larger diameter (though i'll be going with the 245/75/16 or 30.5 inch, as my fiance, who is quite short refuses any higher lol) but hopefully it will not be that much worse around town. Right now i get around 17 on the highway and 15 in town.

By the way Craig, i noted in your later post that you said weight (intertia) doesn't matter. Wouldn't you think that both diameter and the actual increased inertia from the additional weight of the tire will affect mpg and acceleration? The 245/75 bfg load e is pretty heavy at 50lbs versus my stock ones at ~30lbs. Thats an 80lb increase allround! :oops:

Fortunately the Disco's have pretty hefty suspension from what i've seen (underneath) so not to worried about durability.

on a different note, I will definitely post detailed descriptions (and before/after pics) as I put the wet okole seats, wheel spacers, 4.6 and tires (in that order) on! Can't wait!!:wings:




Gas mileage will increase with the 4.6 and 32a on the freeway, but be lower around town. Once you get them moving, they keep going pretty easy. Definately don't need to regear with 32s. :)

C

[rripatti]

Hi Craig,

I just realized you had a 4.6! Awesome! Am i right to assume it has the same power characteristics as the 4.6, just with the power band shifted up by 50hp/50tqe or so?

did you have to switch out the injectors/fuel pump/mass air or did your stock components cope?

Finally, did you tweak your computer with a chip or leave the stock tune? It seems to be a challenge to optimize these infernal Land Rover ecu's :(

thanks for all your input Craig and helping out a novice here!


From a gearing standpoint, only the diameter matters, but to answer your question...

265/75/16s on either a 7" Land Rover Alloy or an 8" Pro comp steel wheel w/ stock Disco gearing has been fine even in the Washington Cascades. I have a 4.6 though... w/ the 4.0 it was pretty sluggish.

Craig

[Gunther MXP]

Hi,
I friend of mine that works with land rovers said that the knobs need to be detach from inside, needs first take the seat cover base (see pict.) and slide the cover up so you can have access to knob from inside...
12030

Gunther

[Gunther MXP]

I'm sorry

I'm running the 265/75/16.

aka 32 x 10

i'm thinking of switching to the 235/85/16 as they are easier on the drivetrain

Hi,

Don't forget to mension that you will need to cut the rear wheel fender in order to fit those tires in a stock LR 96D1.

FYI, is really easy.. 1 grinder, 1 file, touch paint and send your significan other away from the garage.. is going to be loud.

Gunther

[Green96D1]

hello

I have trimmed a little. and you were right i did in my friends garage.

my mom wasn't having all that noise:)

[rripatti]

hi Gunther, thanks for the tip! i am still waiting for the seat coves but i will post pics of them as soon as they arrive!


Hi,
I friend of mine that works with land rovers said that the knobs need to be detach from inside, needs first take the seat cover base (see pict.) and slide the cover up so you can have access to knob from inside...
12030

Gunther

[Gunther MXP]

hi Gunther, thanks for the tip! i am still waiting for the seat coves but i will post pics of them as soon as they arrive!
Raul,

I also started with a white Disco 98, attached are the upgrades including a color change to Sand Glow LR236...enjoy your project and keep us update with the pictures.
12132

Gunther

[rripatti]

Hi Gunther!

That is simply outstanding! The whole reason I became a super fan of the discovery was watching all the camel trophies and the sheer capability of man and machine when faced with those incredible obstacles! do you have a link per chance showing your buildup?

If I may ask, how did you go from a white discovery to deciding to modify it to the way it exists today? either way, simply one heck of an amazing rig you have!

cheers,
Raul

:jumping:


Raul,

I also started with a white Disco 98, attached are the upgrades including a color change to Sand Glow LR236...enjoy your project and keep us update with the pictures.
12132

Gunther

[Gunther MXP]

Raul,

Also I am a Camel Trophy fan, specially the Mundo Maya 95, I just returned from Belize and Guatemala border with two D1's (I have 2 and an my friend James has 1 more) all identical.
In San Isidro Belize we hired a guide so we can explore different routes in the Belize jungle, to my surprise when I ask him if he likes Land Rover he replied” I was in the Support team for the Mundo Maya Camel trophy and currently I do all the preparation for the Land Rover Experience team for Europe”. That was a nice surprise and we are planning to go back and do 5 days expeditions next year to follow the “Herman Cortez Route” with him.

After the first trip to Guatemala we decide to get more serious about the creation of a real expedition team and follow the Camel trophy concept and that’s why we have 3 D1’s and working in the 4th.
In the next 12 months we will be able to “re-create” the camel Trophy event starting with :
Mundo Maya 95 and later the Atacama Desert Camel Trophy 94. We already have all the logistic and the tech support in Central America for that… we only need 1 more car.

I do not have a buildup information but I can send you a PM will all the parts and links including prices.
You can see more information about us in http://www.mundoxpeditions.com

Gunther

[bovw]

Gunther, I was looking at the galleries on your site, very nice. Where did you get the tail light guards you have on the truck? I really like those and wouldn't mind having a set. Thanks.

[Gunther MXP]

Gunther, I was looking at the galleries on your site, very nice. Where did you get the tail light guards you have on the truck? I really like those and wouldn't mind having a set. Thanks.

I get almost everything from British pacific http://www.landroverparts.us/landroverparts/Discovery1lampguard.html
There is another type (see picture) that I do not recommend because is secured between the tail light rubber and the body frame of the car, and in the event that the "guard" is pulled from the side it will break the tail light.

Gunther
12234

[bovw]

Thanks, I have the factory style with the rubber strip on the side. I like the one you have better, I'll have to get a set.

[Overland Hadley]

i am still waiting for the seat coves but i will post pics of them as soon as they arrive!

Nice truck, I like the white.

I will be interested in seeing how you like the Wetokole seat covers, they are on my list for my truck. Did you order them dirrect from Wetokole? Also, do you know if they are 100% waterproof?

[rripatti]

Hi Gunther,

Thanks for your story, i think its amazing that your guide was part of the camel trophy history!!!! he must have had some amazing stories!

if you could pm me with some of the links/parts/prices that would be awesome. thanks so much Gunther!


Raul,

Also I am a Camel Trophy fan, specially the Mundo Maya 95, I just returned from Belize and Guatemala border with two D1's (I have 2 and an my friend James has 1 more) all identical.
In San Isidro Belize we hired a guide so we can explore different routes in the Belize jungle, to my surprise when I ask him if he likes Land Rover he replied” I was in the Support team for the Mundo Maya Camel trophy and currently I do all the preparation for the Land Rover Experience team for Europe”. That was a nice surprise and we are planning to go back and do 5 days expeditions next year to follow the “Herman Cortez Route” with him.

After the first trip to Guatemala we decide to get more serious about the creation of a real expedition team and follow the Camel trophy concept and that’s why we have 3 D1’s and working in the 4th.
In the next 12 months we will be able to “re-create” the camel Trophy event starting with :
Mundo Maya 95 and later the Atacama Desert Camel Trophy 94. We already have all the logistic and the tech support in Central America for that… we only need 1 more car.

I do not have a buildup information but I can send you a PM will all the parts and links including prices.
You can see more information about us in http://www.mundoxpeditions.com

Gunther

[rripatti]

Hey Hadley,

I'm still waiting on my delivery (i have about a week left) but i will be posting pictures of the covers and i'll see about taking some for when i install them!

i ordered directly from wet okole's california distributor. before i ordered i took several pictures of my truck interior to minimize mistakes when they made them for my truck. they are quite expensive but i ordered several extras including LR logos, full black piping, rear map pockets sewn on and cleaning kit.

I just wished I had the seat covers yesterday as i spilled an entire bottle of coffee creamer on my rear seats...grrrrrrrr:(


[QUOTE=Overland Hadley]Nice truck, I like the white.

I will be interested in seeing how you like the Wetokole seat covers, they are on my list for my truck. Did you order them dirrect from Wetokole? Also, do you know if they are 100% waterproof?

[Funrover]

Hi .. Welcome.... And Nice rig!

[Overland Hadley]

I just wished I had the seat covers yesterday as i spilled an entire bottle of coffee creamer on my rear seats...grrrrrrrr:(


That's a drag!

[rripatti]

Tell me about it, now the truck smells like oil/oxy upholstery cleaner/hazlenut cream :eek:


That's a drag!

[rripatti]

Hi Guys,

Just found out my seat covers from Wet Okole came in!!:jump: I'm going to install them this Saturday, time permitting, and i'll be sure to take tons of pictures and a quick write up!

:xxrotflma

[Green96D1]

white discos are quite attractive.

that picture looks so majestic

[craig]

Hi Craig,

I just realized you had a 4.6! Awesome! Am i right to assume it has the same power characteristics as the 4.6, just with the power band shifted up by 50hp/50tqe or so?

did you have to switch out the injectors/fuel pump/mass air or did your stock components cope?

Finally, did you tweak your computer with a chip or leave the stock tune? It seems to be a challenge to optimize these infernal Land Rover ecu's :(

thanks for all your input Craig and helping out a novice here!

Sorry for the late reply. I didn't see this post until now.

I have a DII. I put a 4.6l shortblock in, and re-used everything from the top. The computer was able to compensate w/o re-chipping, but I could definately get more out of it if I did.

Craig

[rripatti]

I can totally relate. i think its the image of all those white series roaming around the African plains that i saw on tv growing up plus pretty much any commercial today that deals with adventure etc.

whoops, almost forgot, is one of those disco's yours? if so, which one? what are you mods so far? Have you had any reliability issues with the 5-speed? mine's been flawless so far but am curious to see how it will hold up with the 4.6L swap plus torquer cam i'll be installing.


MMMMM feel the white disco love....
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2185/2050817819_3d152b4ac7_o.jpg

I have a white 96 5 Speed as well...

[rripatti]

Hi Craig,

Thanks for the input! I'm assuming the extra ~50-70 hp/tq goes a long way to improving the performance of the truck :safari-rig:


Sorry for the late reply. I didn't see this post until now.

I have a DII. I put a 4.6l shortblock in, and re-used everything from the top. The computer was able to compensate w/o re-chipping, but I could definately get more out of it if I did.

Craig

[revor]

Welcome rripatti!

I'm a newbie too..

I love my Disco..

It's funny, after I picked the Queen Mary (D110) and enjoyed it's spaciousness, it's 300Tdi torque, simplicity and the fact that I can "probably" fit everything my wife wants to bring on a trip in it I hopped into my (sorry black) Disco for a ride.

With the 4.6, 4.11, gears and a host of other "stuff" I was thrilled by how fast and sporty it was (!?!?!)

Definately (for now :) ) more "fun" to drive.

[rripatti]

Hi Keith!

Thanks for the input! Maybe i'm confused but do you mean you are a newbie to this site? I've seen your website and think your products are awesome for the rover community! the minute anything breaks in my driveline (axles in particular) i'll be sure to give you a call.

I love the 110's! if only they produced more over here. my dream one would be a 110 with a warmed over 4.6, r-380, ome hd kit, bfg at ko's and drive it forever :D

back to your discovery, is your 4.6 a stock swap or did you warm it over with a cam/head work etc? do you have a stock computer? also did you put the 4.10's in conjuction with larger tires?
thanks!


Welcome rripatti!

I'm a newbie too..

I love my Disco..

It's funny, after I picked the Queen Mary (D110) and enjoyed it's spaciousness, it's 300Tdi torque, simplicity and the fact that I can "probably" fit everything my wife wants to bring on a trip in it I hopped into my (sorry black) Disco for a ride.

With the 4.6, 4.11, gears and a host of other "stuff" I was thrilled by how fast and sporty it was (!?!?!)

Definately (for now :) ) more "fun" to drive.

[craig]

Hi Craig,

Thanks for the input! I'm assuming the extra ~50-70 hp/tq goes a long way to improving the performance of the truck :safari-rig:

Yeah, with the 4.6, stock gears, and 265/75/16s it moves very comfortably. I rarely need to get on the throttle at all, and can pull 75mph over the various Cascade Mountain passes we have here.

If I go any taller on the tire, I'll probably re-gear, but that is to improve the crawl ratio when walking down hills. I'm sure there is enough power there for a slightly larger tire.

Craig

[rripatti]

Hi Craig, thanks for the input. The power increase is pretty much inline with my expectations. Low range crawling is awesome as it is. my main reason for the warmed over 4.6 swap is when i drive up to Maine from NYC fully loaded (1085lbs in passengers before our gear/luggage!) and even with the 5-speed I am floored in third to keep up with traffic on some of the steeper sections through CT.

Plus the largest tire i'll fit is a 245/75/16 so i should be good with the stock gears.

Thanks again!



Yeah, with the 4.6, stock gears, and 265/75/16s it moves very comfortably. I rarely need to get on the throttle at all, and can pull 75mph over the various Cascade Mountain passes we have here.

If I go any taller on the tire, I'll probably re-gear, but that is to improve the crawl ratio when walking down hills. I'm sure there is enough power there for a slightly larger tire.

Craig

[revor]

Ahh..back to your discovery, is your 4.6 a stock swap or did you warm it over with a cam/head work etc? do you have a stock computer? also did you put the 4.10's in conjuction with larger tires?
thanks!

I needed more power because i'm running 35's so the gears and the motor "about" even things out.

My 4.6 has a stock cam with slightly ported (more like polished ports) heads. I ran a stock 4.0 chip for a while and then switched up to a Superchip, it made a difference. To make things worse I tossed in a set of 22 lb bosch injectors (for a Ford 302) That helped too.. Then Headers added another improvment but quite noisy.. To make it even more exciting I tossed an early Rimmer blower on it (now this was fun) When the engine was cool I could get a serious 4 wheel "Chrip" going from 1st to second! Fun!!!! Alas I couldn't keep the charge air cool enough and worried about my pistons getting holes in them so i took it off.. A bigger blower and an intercooler woudl help a lot.. I'll save that for the 5.0 I'm having put together :) The Motor will have big valve heads, be ported and the usual polishing, we're putting in the equal of a real steel torquer cam.. It's a 4.6 crank offset ground to a 3.4" stroke, using 305 cheeby pistonsand custom eagle H beam rods, the compression ratio should be about 9.5:1. Rob Dassler took over for me when I found I couldn't finish it do to time constraints.. It shoudl get worse (than 10) mpg's than the 4.6! But shoudl a boat load of fun to drive..

Either that or I'll dump a 300 in it.. :yikes:

[Overland Hadley]

Hi Guys,

Just found out my seat covers from Wet Okole came in!!:jump: I'm going to install them this Saturday, time permitting, and i'll be sure to take tons of pictures and a quick write up!

:xxrotflma


Excellent!

I was going to ask if they had come, or if you were still waiting. I am going to order a pair for my Tacoma soon. Will be interested in seeing what you think of them. They should be better than the coffee creamer and oil you have going now! Please take some close up pics of the fit and detail. Look forward to your report!

[rripatti]

this is too funny!

I love your post on your 4.6! I can completely relate on the power need. i actually come from a mustang background and have had three for mustangs. stock 302 injectors are 19lb'ers so you must have gotten the svo (or frpp now) versions at 22 unless the new ford 4.6 runs 22"s?

my final mustang was an 88 with port/polished e7 (stock) heads with 1.94/1.64 valves and kept the compression at around 9.5 with an s-trim vortech. a ton of fun back in the day!

now however i have a 2003corvette z06 (i know i switched camps) for the summer days/fun on the track and my rover is for every day driving, expedition exploration and ofcourse future family exucursions (i'm engaged to be married august 23rd!).

with that in mind, i want to keep it to a mild 4.6 with a torquer cam (increase the curve and not shift it upwards in the rpm band).

with that in mind, how did the superchips turn out? was it a simple plug and play? i wonder because i'm having a heck of a time finding a place that has a chip for a 5-speed disco with a 4.6 swap.

oh well, i can't wait to see if you bore it out to a full 300ci! :bowdown:


Ahh..back to your discovery, is your 4.6 a stock swap or did you warm it over with a cam/head work etc? do you have a stock computer? also did you put the 4.10's in conjuction with larger tires?
thanks!

I needed more power because i'm running 35's so the gears and the motor "about" even things out.

My 4.6 has a stock cam with slightly ported (more like polished ports) heads. I ran a stock 4.0 chip for a while and then switched up to a Superchip, it made a difference. To make things worse I tossed in a set of 22 lb bosch injectors (for a Ford 302) That helped too.. Then Headers added another improvment but quite noisy.. To make it even more exciting I tossed an early Rimmer blower on it (now this was fun) When the engine was cool I could get a serious 4 wheel "Chrip" going from 1st to second! Fun!!!! Alas I couldn't keep the charge air cool enough and worried about my pistons getting holes in them so i took it off.. A bigger blower and an intercooler woudl help a lot.. I'll save that for the 5.0 I'm having put together :) The Motor will have big valve heads, be ported and the usual polishing, we're putting in the equal of a real steel torquer cam.. It's a 4.6 crank offset ground to a 3.4" stroke, using 305 cheeby pistonsand custom eagle H beam rods, the compression ratio should be about 9.5:1. Rob Dassler took over for me when I found I couldn't finish it do to time constraints.. It shoudl get worse (than 10) mpg's than the 4.6! But shoudl a boat load of fun to drive..

Either that or I'll dump a 300 in it.. :yikes:

[rripatti]

Hi Hadley,

Absolutely! I plan to take pretty detailed pictures. I'll start with how it comes in the box, and unfold the various components, take pics of my interior as it is now, the process of installing it and the final end product. i'm hoping it won't take more then 4-5 hours, but we'll see!

and you will not belive it, but despite the hours i spent with oxy car cleaner and fabreeze, the car still has the occasional scent of creamer! can't wait to put these seats in!:p

Excellent!

I was going to ask if they had come, or if you were still waiting. I am going to order a pair for my Tacoma soon. Will be interested in seeing what you think of them. They should be better than the coffee creamer and oil you have going now! Please take some close up pics of the fit and detail. Look forward to your report!

[sinuhexavier]

whoops, almost forgot, is one of those disco's yours? if so, which one? what are you mods so far? Have you had any reliability issues with the 5-speed? mine's been flawless so far but am curious to see how it will hold up with the 4.6L swap plus torquer cam i'll be installing.

Mine is not in that pic, I'm actually standing on top mine to shoot the pic...

Here is mine...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2054/2008871463_3e03bab096_o.jpg

I use mine mainly to get out and rock climb, canyoneer or hunt rock art on the Colorado Plateau, so my engine is bone stock with all mods being for safety and travel considerations. The best mod as far as I'm concerned is the box in the back. The left drawer holds my kitchen, and the slot holds all my sleeping equipment. The box holds two 1650 pelicans with OEM LR tie downs.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2256/1956554789_e877cd331f_o.jpg

Here is a list of mods I have done that have served me well. John and Ho from Expedition Exchange along with Steve Rupp, Rob Davison and Marc Olivares have all been invaluable in helping me build a truck that has everything I need and not a thing I don't.

ARB Front bumper (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/arb/)
Rovertym HD Springs (http://www.rovertym.com/)
OME HD Shocks (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/ome/indexshocks.htm)
EE Shackle Mounts (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/smb/)
EE SS brake lines (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/brakehoses/)
EE Double Jerry Can holder
Warn 9000 Winch
Synthetic Winch Line
Olivares Spring retainers
Olivares Sliders
Olivares Steering dampener reloc kit
U-Joint Conversion
ARB 45qt fridge (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/arb/)
Safety Devices Low Profile Rack (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/safetydevices/)
6 IPF 900XS Aux. Lights
Optima Yellow top battery (being replaced w/ odyssey)
D2 Rearview mirror with map lights
D2 Convex DS Mirror
Custom drawer unit in the back

Soon to change:
BFG AT
Olivares rear door fold out table

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2294/2098847148_54fe0243c6_o.jpg
This is the back of Steve Rupp's D1 Photo by John Lee

[rripatti]

Hi Sinuhexavier,

Thanks for posting the pics and description of your rig. A very well thought out and comprehensive upgrade. I have a couple of questions if you don't mind:

1. As I have the entire OME HD package I'm curious as to how your RTE HD springs work with the OME shocks?
2. Do know approximately how much heavier the ARB bumper is compared to stock and did significantly affect the handling of the rig both off and onroad?
3. How was the steering damper relocation kit install? was it pretty much bolt on?
4. what size tire are you running?

Thanks!
Raul


Mine is not in that pic, I'm actually standing on top mine to shoot the pic...

Here is mine...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2054/2008871463_3e03bab096_o.jpg

I use mine mainly to get out and rock climb, canyoneer or hunt rock art on the Colorado Plateau, so my engine is bone stock with all mods being for safety and travel considerations. The best mod as far as I'm concerned is the box in the back. The left drawer holds my kitchen, and the slot holds all my sleeping equipment. The box holds two 1650 pelicans with OEM LR tie downs.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2256/1956554789_e877cd331f_o.jpg

Here is a list of mods I have done that have served me well. John and Ho from Expedition Exchange along with Steve Rupp, Rob Davison and Marc Olivares have all been invaluable in helping me build a truck that has everything I need and not a thing I don't.

ARB Front bumper (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/arb/)
Rovertym HD Springs (http://www.rovertym.com/)
OME HD Shocks (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/ome/indexshocks.htm)
EE Shackle Mounts (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/smb/)
EE SS brake lines (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/brakehoses/)
EE Double Jerry Can holder
Warn 9000 Winch
Synthetic Winch Line
Olivares Spring retainers
Olivares Sliders
Olivares Steering dampener reloc kit
U-Joint Conversion
ARB 45qt fridge (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/arb/)
Safety Devices Low Profile Rack (https://www.expeditionexchange.com/safetydevices/)
6 IPF 900XS Aux. Lights
Optima Yellow top battery (being replaced w/ odyssey)
D2 Rearview mirror with map lights
D2 Convex DS Mirror
Custom drawer unit in the back

Soon to change:
BFG AT
Olivares rear door fold out table

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2294/2098847148_54fe0243c6_o.jpg
This is the back of Steve Rupp's D1 Photo by John Lee

[rripatti]

By the way guys,

I managed to install the wet okoke seat covers over the weekend. wasn't too bad of an install though having smaller forearms would certainly have helped...thank god for my fiancee!!

I'm at work right now so i only have time to attach this one picture of the seat covers installed. I think they look awesome! perfect fit, very supportive, don't slide and don't get hot or cold!

more to pics and details to follow :coffeedrink:

[revor]

Nice Seat covers!!! I need to find something like that for my PRP Racing seats!!! They smell like... Well everything that soaks into them :Wow1:

As for motor builds ala' Rover/buick.. For a milder build on the 4.6 don't do a chip. You won't find one for a 4.6 D1 anyway because they never made one.. Mines for a P38 and this makes for some interesting check engine lights.No plug and play either. Anytime you change the ECU (or part of it) you need to have a Testbook, rovacom or whatever diag tool to reset the security unit to be in sync with the ECU..

Stick with a crower hydraulic cam for a 215 buick, open up the exhaust a bit and it will go nicely. The computor will adjust and you shoudl have no problems..As it is mine just barely passes emmisions..

Oh yeah, the 5.0L is a go, just building slowly due to lack of time. Pistons are done Rods are done, crank is done.. Gotta send them down to NM to be put together.

[sinuhexavier]

Hi Sinuhexavier,

Thanks for posting the pics and description of your rig. A very well thought out and comprehensive upgrade. I have a couple of questions if you don't mind:

1. As I have the entire OME HD package I'm curious as to how your RTE HD springs work with the OME shocks?
2. Do know approximately how much heavier the ARB bumper is compared to stock and did significantly affect the handling of the rig both off and onroad?
3. How was the steering damper relocation kit install? was it pretty much bolt on?
4. what size tire are you running?

Thanks!
Raul

1. RTE Springs work great with my OME shocks
2. My best estimate would be 100lbs heavier. With the HD Springs and shocks it drives great.
3. Super easy bolt on, you will probably need to get your steering aligned afterwards.
4. Not sure what size those are...

[rripatti]

Hi everybody,

I've got a bit of time and figured now would be a good opportunity to do a quick write up on my Wet Okole seat covers. The whole package weighed around 30 lbs and when I opened the box I was amazed at the initial quality feel. The seams are nice and tight, the padding is thick and they simply looked great :jumping:

[rripatti]

Before I continue, I want to apologize for the darkness, I went xmas tree shopping with my fiance and did not get back till around 7pm.

But to continue, I brought the seats down to the LR and placed them on the seats. At this point, I was thinking that any rational person would call it quits for a night and start in the morning. But ofcourse ignored rationality and proceeded to install.

By the way, I also attached a couple of pics of my underside so you guys can see the waxoyl coating. Does wonders over here in New England where they literally dump tons of salt on the highway!

[rripatti]

Each seat bottom cover has three straps, two front to back and one side to side. They have snap on latches with adjustment straps to place them on snug and tight. Now here is where I encountered a bit of a problem, I'm 6'5 245lbs and I don't have exactly the smallest forearms. It was a pain in the you know what to get my hands/forearms to fit underneath the front seats to even get the straps connected.

Thanks to my fiance (picture also attached) who graciously helped me, I managed got the straps connected and adjusted. The bottom seat covers fit amazingly well, completely form fitting to the seat bottoms and they don't move at all. It practically looks like I recovered the seats :clapsmile

[rripatti]

Unfortunately I started to run out of space in my camera so I didn't post pics of the back seat covering. They were extremely easy to do in comparison to the fronts as they fold down and flip forward for very easy installation of the snap straps. The tops of the back seats simply slide on and attach with very high grade velcro.

Now the front covers also slipped on relatively easily with the exception that it was an absolute bear to get the bottom halves to stretch enough to velcro together. Took me about 30 minutes to force and "massage" the covers to velcro together.

As I have the manual adjustable seats, I was very apprehensive about cutting my brand new and very expensive seat covers to fit the knobs. I initially tried to disconnect the knobs but I couldn't find the snap ring or any internal screw and from what I read on discoweb, they are removed from internally which I did not want to do.

So I cut a slit about half the diameter of the top adjuster knob and wrestled the knob through the slit. The neoprene material is amazing, its very resistant to tear and I have every confidence that it will not tear further then the original slit i did. For the larger reclining knob, I decided it was not worth the huge slit and simply adjusted the seat cover around the knob. Since the knob is at the very bottom I think it turned out nicely.

The seat covers themselves virtually transform the interior, making it look much classier with the piping and ribbing combined with the Land Rover logo. the covers themselves feel neither cold nor warm from what I have experienced so far and the best part is that after sweating like a pig on the gym, they remain impervious to sweat and stench!:luxhello:

I dig these seat covers so much i'm considering having them custom do my headrests!

Next on my to do list will be the wheel spacers, 4.6 liter swap and finally the bgf at ko's!

From my initial impression, i heavily recommend these seat covers despite the hefty initial price. Let me know if you have any questions!

[Green96D1]

those look good.

I like um:wings:

[bovw]

Looking good!

[Andrew Walcker]

Very nice, looks great!

[Spenser]

Quick question for those of you that have the wet okoles-dont they get pretty hot and sweaty in the summer, since they are neoprene? I am a large person that can sweat just thinking about sweat and would like to get them but see my back looking like a scalded pig when I get out of the car. Just curious because I have never seen them but need seat covers from my jeep.

[rripatti]

I'll let you know come summer time :)

From what I have read the neoprene does not conduct or retain either cold or heat at least in theory. I'm looking forward to finding out.


Quick question for those of you that have the wet okoles-dont they get pretty hot and sweaty in the summer, since they are neoprene? I am a large person that can sweat just thinking about sweat and would like to get them but see my back looking like a scalded pig when I get out of the car. Just curious because I have never seen them but need seat covers from my jeep.

[kellymoe]

I'll let you know come summer time :)

From what I have read the neoprene does not conduct or retain either cold or heat at least in theory. I'm looking forward to finding out.

I would think it would be cooler than leather or vinyl.

When you ordered the covers did you call and order or do it online? I am thinking of doing the same for my Defender.

[rripatti]

I intially emailed them and then called them directly as I wanted to ensure that i was getting exactly what i wanted. they have so many different combinations that it gets confusing online.

hope that helps.


I would think it would be cooler than leather or vinyl.

When you ordered the covers did you call and order or do it online? I am thinking of doing the same for my Defender.

[kellymoe]

Thanks, when I get ready to do it I will give them a call.


I intially emailed them and then called them directly as I wanted to ensure that i was getting exactly what i wanted. they have so many different combinations that it gets confusing online.

hope that helps.

[Overland Hadley]

I dig these seat covers so much i'm considering having them custom do my headrests!

From my initial impression, i heavily recommend these seat covers despite the hefty initial price. Let me know if you have any questions!

Thanks rripatti, great report and photos.

Wet Okoles are now near the top of my list for the truck. I have the Toyota TRD seats and they get discolored if they get the least bit wet, I have no idea why. Now I need to decide what color to get, I was going to go with a standard grey that would match the seats color, but I am kind of thinking about going with black. Black with grey piping would look sharp and would be different.

[rripatti]

Hi there,

I can definitely tell you that in the flesh the full piping makes the seat covers look very smart! after a week of use now, i still love how they maintain form and don't budge despite my 245lbs. also, i hit the gym 5-6 days a week and come back soaked and their is no discoloration or even the typical gym smell! :wings:

plus during our last snow storm on Sunday, they got covered in snow from my passengers and they just shrug it off. i love these things!


Thanks rripatti, great report and photos.

Wet Okoles are now near the top of my list for the truck. I have the Toyota TRD seats and they get discolored if they get the least bit wet, I have no idea why. Now I need to decide what color to get, I was going to go with a standard grey that would match the seats color, but I am kind of thinking about going with black. Black with grey piping would look sharp and would be different.