Simon dix

I grew up in Zimbabwe, went to UK after completing A levels and ended up studying and staying there for 10 years. The grey clouds got too much so then left to Aus on a 1 year visa and I now call Aus home. Been in Aus for 10 years and in that time have done 2 years in Malaysia and 1.5 years in NZ.

I am now working in Singapore where I stumbled across the beautiful U1300L 435 1986 Unimog. Axle ratio fast, 5 ton hydraulic rear mounted Werner winch, 8 forward, 8 reverse (2 crawler gears), OM366A, Turbo charged engine, Body type no. 2, Ringfeder trailer hitch. Not sure really what else to say about her?

I will build a camper and export back to Aus or maybe even track a bit through Asia. I have a lot to learn about this beast! I am totally new to the Unimog scene. I have always wanted one but they never seemed to come at the right price until now ?.

I will document what I do to my Mog from adding additional fuel tanks, Auxiliary battery boxes etc etc, to building a camper. I have already commenced a PPP documenting and will share for those that are interested. I removed the original battery box (& 160l tank) and modified a storage box and moved it further forward to accommodate a 190l tank. I also added a second 190l tank on the passenger side (Dual Draw) after removing the spare wheel and modifying the frame to suit an auxiliary battery box as well. I replaced all the fuel lines and made the dual draw system lines identical……..so far so good but the proof will be when I have driven her quite a bit to ensure tanks are drawing equally. I have designed and fabricated the roof rack and side stairs with the help of Jack (who works with me). The roof rack and stairs are over engineered however I wanted the square look to follow the mogs curves in a way plus I need good strength for the spare wheel hoist. I have also allowed enough height for the roof turret to work and also incorporated a removable spare wheel hoist.

The cab is now empty and awaiting a tow truck to take her to the spray booth. Although the chassis is free of rust and still has most of the rust proofing on her from 33 years ago I will get this stripped and redone for what its worth. In places the rust proof coating is brittle and peeling off and in time will need to be redone……..now is the time when the cab is taken off and the engine taken out.

Finding spare parts from Singapore will be interesting?

I look forward to learning from Unimog enthusiasts and the like.