Having had Dutchess rebuilt on a new chassis, and (at the time of writing) new suspension awaiting delivery, I'd thought that the wish list would be a bit smaller than it used to be. But it seems that for every idea I manage to see thought to completion, half a dozen fresh ideas take it's place.

It might help at this stage if I "put down on paper" what my final goals are...

1. I want a vehicle that's capable of taking a driver and passenger anywhere I want to go in reasonable comfort and time. To effect that, the engine, gearboxes, and suspension all need upgrading.

2. I want to be as self sufficient as possible as far as accommodation is concerned. To that end, I'm planning to equip the interior along the same lines as a Dormobile camper with the exception of the pop up roof and beds. While being totally self contained would be nice, the roof would make it impossible to fit a full external roll cage. Safety first!

3. Improved range is always a dream. Watching the fuel gauge sink with alarming speed while driving any distance is depressing. To that end, I plan to fit one or possibly two extra fuel tanks under the front seat box. Onboard water and propane storage would be nice too, but at this stage, they haven't graduated past the wish list.

4.The standard electrics are a joke!! Only 4 fuses in the circuit... and one of them's a spare???...gimme a break!!! She needs...front foglights, reverse lights, internal lights, auxiliary lights for off road use (front and rear), rear washer/wiper, heated rear window and proper circuit protection, too.

5. Decent road pattern tires have always been on the list, but not at the expense or losing mud and snow traction...The ideal solution would be a second set of rims with road pattern tires. At this point, a set of 130 rims with BFG Trackedge boots is a hot favourite...

6. Sound proofing has always been a major problem. Between tire noise, engine noise, exhaust noise, transmission howl from the overdrive and the spare wheel drummin on the back door, communication at speeds over 45 mph is with hand signals only...and that's WITH a sound proofing kit fitted...MUST tackle the causes, NOT the symptoms.

7. Anyone who services their own Landrover will be more than familiar with that thick mess that coats the gearboxes and makes your coveralls a REAL favourite come wash day. Between this, and getting tired of stripping out, cleaning and replacing the axle breathers, I'm considering a full set of remote breathers run up through a raised air intake.

8. Ever wonder what the condensation capacity is for the inside of a long wheelbase roof? I can tell you...! Guess who needs to insulate the hard top roof and sides?