SER1 The start of a new rebuild project

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Hello,
 
I am new to this mailing list and am seeking advice on rebuilding a SI
80”.  I currently live in Germany, am 45 years old and have been
involved with Land Rovers since 1987, when I bought my first one in
England, living in Sheffield at the time. I do own 5 Land Rovers:
Defender 110, SIII 88, SIIA 88, SII 88 and now this 1953 SI with a 2L
engine. The SIIA has been a rebuild from scratch taking everything
apart but the differentials.
 
I have been looking for a SI 80” for many years and have finally found
and bought it two days ago!

Now it is time to make an assessment and decide how to start the
rebuild. The chassis seems good. One dumb iron got twisted a little bit
but can easily be replaced. Closer inspection will show what to do with
the rear cross member. Replacements seem available as I have been told.

The bulk head has some rot in the lower parts of the a-posts. This is
also not critical. The horizontal section under the windscreen seems in
good condition. The vehicle is complete including all instruments and
apparently went out of use in 1968. Since then it stood in a garage of
a building company.

Now, where should I start? And what is most critical for replacement
parts?

My original idea is to take off all body components and do the axles
first. Then, when the chassis is done set in on the axles again and
tackle gearbox and engine. Only then start the bulkhead and the other
body parts.

Should the engine be too bad I will check whether a 2.25 will fit
together with a SII or SIII g'box as I have spare units of these.

I am thankful for any advice of people who have restored a SI 80" as to
the specil points to look for. The two links below lead to pictures of
the vehicle
 
http://imagehost.biz/ims/pic.php?u=36470tWtD&i=85853&c=.gif
 
http://imagehost.biz/ims/pic.php?u=36470tWtD&i=85852&c=.gif
 


Ulrico


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