This Range Rover Classic started out as one of the best examples that I've ever seen. It's about to be driven much more regularly, so it's time to fix the few issues that it has and make it even better.
First, a few notes on the 1995 model.
In 1995, Land Rover introduced the new Range Rover (P38). They decided to keep making the original model and rebadge it the "Classic." But, it turned out to be quite a bit more than just the old Range Rover. The Classic got dual air bags and thus got a completely different interior - one that is significantly nicer, in my opinion. It also got quite a mechanical overhaul; now sharing many components with the Discovery and others with the P38. Many other components were completely new and unique to the 1995 Classic. Even the windshield is unique to this vehicle.
But... while the P38 sold well, no one (relatively) bought the Classic. Land Rover quit making them the same year.
Being a one-year-only model and having plenty of unique parts makes owning a 1995 Classic very similar to owning an orphaned vehicle. Finding the proper parts for this vehicle can be extremely challenging. Try looking for new air conditioning rigid pipes - they're unique to the 95 RRC and are not in the manual! Also, most internet search results apply to pre-1995 Classics, so most of the time the answer does not apply and other times the locations of things is completely different. And that's if it was even Classic-specific... most "1995 Range Rover" searches yield information and parts for a P38!
But, when it all does come together, the 1995 Classic really is the pinnacle of the RRC lineup. The work and suffering is worth it! So, let's dive in. The first order of business: fix all of these oil leaks! This example is looking like the Exxon Valdez.
The valley lip seals were leaking, which requires removing the intake manifold, which requires removing the fuel rails, which requires removing more stuff...
Up in the engine bay, all of the typical items will be replaced (ignition bits, s-belt, cooling hoses), but there is also a severe build-up of oil on the front cover. The valley lip seals are leaking and the whole intake manifold has to come off to replace that seal. And this is where things stand now. This also marks the point where the project started down the slippery slope known as: "while you're in there."
With about 94,000 miles on the engine, this original timing chain has an alarming amount of slack in it. The camshaft is showing moderate wear as well. Both will be replaced.
A Crower 50229 camshaft is selected as the replacement, which will give the Range Rover more low-end torque. A new timing chain and metal gears are installed, as well.
Anything that would typically be reaching the end of its useful life will be replaced, like the water pump, cooling hoses, all gearbox and oil cooling hoses/lines, etc.
This isn't a show car, but powder coating the engine covers makes for a very clean look. All of the metal bits that were originally plated were bead-blasted, then re-plated in yellow zinc. The fuel injectors were also cleaned, flow-tested, and installed to minimize flow deviation per bank.
Getting closer...
Ready for start-up!
All fluids are topped-off and it's time to fire up the engine and break-in the new camshaft.