Project Kermit 31: A Series Land Rover Full Restoration

Time to plumb in the engine cooling system, which also means it's time to sort out the front end - wings, bonnet and grill and possibly all in a way which will upset some purists!
Chapters:
0:00 Bulkhead Alignment
09:47 Collecting Bits
12:32 Air Filter
18:55 Dismantle/Test Fit Wings
27:12 Bonnet/Front Panel/Grill
36:45 Radiator Cradle(s)
Project Kermit is a 1978 Land Rover Series 3 109 (long wheel base) which is being stripped right down and rebuilt with a 200tdi engine and a few other improvements. The other videos in the series can be found in this playlist: • Project Kermit: A Seri...
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My website: maximusironthumper.co.uk/

[@garyhardman8369]

This is YOUR Land Rover build. You are building your vision, with what you have available. I would do exactly the same thing. Enjoying every minute!

[@ricoesnell1176]

I know nothing about cars and have no interest in mechanics but for some unknown reason I watch all your Kermit videos.

[@nigelwylie01]

Haha! That’s me too.

[@davidbrynhughes]

I am really enjoying your Kermit series, of course the work you are doing on the Land Rover is fascinating, but what blows me away is the quality of your editing, production and narration. Keep it up Max, I look forward to every new video👍

[@pauljones2633]

Loving the series. Rivet counters can complain all they like, but you are making a useable practicable vehicle that fits your needs. That’s all that matters

[@damianpeterkelly1234]

Spot on! Max’s Landy, Max does the work, Max can damn well please himself!!

[@R.Sole88109]

If you want a Defender look, get a Defender...plus factory tdi coils, discs, 5spd LT230 etc😘 You can fit a 200tdi in a series without sticking a stoopid Defender front on it.😉

[@pauljones2633]

@@R.Sole88109 Max isn’t aiming for a defender look. He’s making a vehicle that fits his needs with what he has available. Does it really matter what it looks like?

[@edgeeffect]

"Rivet counters" made me laugh.

[@highdownmartin]

@@R.Sole88109 quite agree. I curl my lip at early series twos and 2As that have ser3 bulkhead steering wheel etc. using defender stuff is just plain wrong!

[@mickb6285]

My Saturday evening routine, is now sit down with a beer, watch Max and unwind from the weeks hassles. Your videos are cracking, whether its Kermit, building sheds, planting spuds or blacksmithing, Keep em coming.

[@FourTrack2011]

Max, you give off the impression that you always used to talk to yourself while you worked, and it occurred to you that if you videoed yourself, you might be able to make a couple of quid. Or perhaps your videos are just well edited 😂. Love your videos, Land Rovers and your down to earth, no nonsense attitude.

[@TheUlrikkaul]

Nothing like a classic British car, always trying to beat you. But we love them....

[@stephenswift9868]

It’s your Land Rover, do what you want, that works for you. I’m here for the journey!

[@wombleflump1]

I could have easily watched another hour (or 2). Your personality shines through all the dents and brambles. Very enjoyable, thank you😊

[@user-sx3nj1nd6w]

If I see this landy on the street or somewhere else I will fall in love immediately. Fabulous Fromt End❤ Bravooo

[@TheMrWoodsman]

To the Land Rover purists you ain’t seen nothing yet! Brilliantly put Max! It’s your project and you finish it how you want! Regards

[@gbentley8176]

Superb stuff Max. My routine over 70 years has always been 2 hours on, then tea, think and back to the job. Always talk politely to the vehicle and swear at yourself. "Stupid Boy" from the immortal Dad's Army has served me well. God bless all mechanics great and small. Best wishes and to Grandad.

[@spoonerbooner]

Only fifty, totally agree with your comments and approach, can I recommend Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance. Good read

[@Lemma01]

Slow progress? There's more here than in a dozen episodes of "Binky"! Tremendous, Max.

[@petroldrinker]

Glad to hear the Santana getting a mention. Fewer than 200 on UK roads now and I'm the proud owner of one of them.

[@andrewrees5426]

The wonderful thing about old Land Rovers is that they are infinitely modifiable, you can make whatever you want. It’s your Land Rover Max so just make it how you want it and all the better for it! There are thousands with all the rivets in the correct place and todays trend of shiny immaculate old Land Rovers that in no way resemble what they actually looked like when they left the factory is just a fantasy world. More old Land Rovers need the Max treatment. Don’t get me wrong, I love the shiny immaculate versions too, it’s just that we also need the personalised versions to maintain the true mythical image of the legend! Just love that Max cheeky giggle.

[@davidbrodie5044]

I like the vision - it's a Series 4 Land Rover Max Edition.

[@martinjustice]

And not even a Mad Max version in these troubled times. Nothing fazes Max and he always appears grounded. Given that the whole thing has been dragged out of a hillside I'm going with Series IV LR Max Earth Edition.

[@fbollaert]

I have no interest in cars, at all (I drive a honda civic ...). But enjoying this "slow tv" a lot. Your channel is a breath of fresh air in a stressful world.

[@1unsung971]

Briiliant!!! Purists be gone. Terrific work Sir. I really like the black trim against the sand colour.

[@KevinLee-ww3ny]

Upset as many as you like! It's your Landie, do whatever you want!

[@CB1000FP1]

At last someone who knows what a stage 1 v8 is. I'm constantly asked why I've put a 110 front on a series 3, trying to explain that its a stage 1 is usually met with blank stares

[@gregdyar6451]

Max, your channel and Mike's channel are all I watch on KZbin

[@tombell9964]

Lanoguard…first time user but very impressed and think it would preserve all your hard work well

[@hammyh1165]

It's looking fantastic. I don't care what folk do with their Landys , there's plenty "correct" versions about.

[@randomgoose]

Absolutely fantastic. Crack on Max - it's your "Land Rover" it's already unique.

[@gigi3242]

"by stores, I mean brambles".. so you, lol The amount of effort you put into this, putting it all together, just to take it all apart, and then put it all back together again, wow. I think it's amazing that you are taking all these bits and pieces, and making a functional vehicle; you have mad skills. Thank you for sharing this project with us. Take care, be well

[@jrnmller1551]

Dont worry about the puristaasssees, your vehicle is your ideas, keep it up, its brilliant!!

[@pitt6801]

Landrovers are the ultimate upgradable meccano kit vehicle. There to be customised in any way you see fit. Go for it Max at least it will be used rather than scrapped. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@ianwallett7438]

Great job! From a Land Rover purist. 🙂👍

[@crispinleslie]

Max, you are one of my favorite channels - I particularly enjoy the way you are prepared to personalize your project and embrace the element of 'used' patina. Its refreshing and inspiring. Thanks for taking the time you do to share your unique talents and lifestyle.

[@dieselbushcraft1299]

“My truck, my vision” but more importantly you are breathing new life into a Landy and putting it back on the road,whatever anyone’s point of view is they can’t disagree that it’s far better than being on a scrap pile rotting away.

[@Stuartrusty]

An absolute masterclass in careful consideration of the modifications needed, actual cutting, welding and modifying, offering up, trial fitment and preparation. Any custom build needs a multitude of skills, consideration and industrial scale adjustments. Plus the correct application of brute force and hammering when needed. A joy to watch the whole process of construction, customisation, problem solving and the thinking behind it.

[@tomjohns8498]

Max it came to mind while watching this series you have taken on the heart of landrover and built the perfect landy for you 😊

[@Garrett053]

Lr manual: "adjustable with a hammer" It is so nice putting together parts that are clean and painted. I am in that stage on my own project too. Thanks for the video.

[@steveclancy6474]

Love it. Restored a Series 1 back in the 90s (aged in my 20s). God I miss it.

[@williamgable2297]

I love it when people do custom or unique builds. Like you say, it's not for the purists, but I think it's more interesting when you have your own "one of a kind" project car.

[@jjt1093]

Thats what mine ended up being :) disco 200tdi into a left hand drive series 3 109 bobtail :)

[@grayman1363]

Looks fantastic!!!, can’t wait to see the end result.

[@Bret4207]

Glad to see I'm not the only one that talks to himself while he's working!!! I'm in the States where anything Land Rover is exotic. But as you said, your truck, your vision. More power to you!!!!!

[@proluxelectronics7419]

Land Rover, the best Meccano set ever, Top restoration...❤❤

[@_zzpza]

I own a '72 S3 109 and have to say this is fantastic. I disagree when you said that it doesn't look like you've done much, this was a big step forwards - well done!

[@daviemaclean61]

I have a sticker on my '72 SWB - There are many Land Rovers, but this one's mine! You're putting your own mark on this one. More power to your elbow.

[@Wheelloader__]

Cool video Max. You’ll be roving the land soon. You made a vehicle that is uniquely your own.

[@steamwally]

Very good Max, it looks like the Land Rovers you used to see- in an entirely good way!

[@RubenKelevra]

I think a black bonnet and a black frame for the grill would look really dope

[@nickinthefield4202]

Absolutely loving the build mate. I have an early 110 defender which is somewhat bastardised and am definitely not a purest. I see Land Rovers as a continuum/ family. Keep up the great work. Fantastic channel. 👍👏

[@KuroSanArts]

I'm certain that all those old Land Rovers just came out of the factory with that dent in the left wing already there. It seems like every one I've ever seen has one in the same place! :D

[@R.Sole88109]

I love how Kermit is turning out till that front end. I admit I prefer my series to look like a series. Especially considering you can fit a 200TD in a series without the Defender front on. But the more important thing is you're saving an old Land Rover.👍🏻

[@BrizzleRocker]

It occurred to me that a ratchet strap would be your friend to adjust the bulkhead, tensioned to the correct location and left overnight? Good darts though Max, great to see the progress on this.

[@apollorobb]

I like the concept and i think you should build what ever you fancy and those that dont like it can bugger off straight away .

[@mully89]

Great progress, I think its going to look great, sod who ever might get upset 😂👍

[@Sethorion99]

"And by stores I mean brambles". 10/10

[@PauloLima-bm3eo]

Is coming along nicely 👌

[@tatankacleary]

Never a truer word said your truck your vision 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@EdNolan]

I love this project, dings and all, I wouldn't hammer any of them out.

[@Themrjakecollins]

Hour long episodes everytime yes please!

[@grahampartridge9335]

Hi. Nice work and coming along nicely. RE all your changes, your landy your rule's 👍.

[@MAMDAVEM]

My daily driver is a 1982 Series 3, and whilst I always try to use genuine parts for repairs I think it is more important that these vehicles are still on the road and used for their intended purpose than they look as originally built. Great video series, which takes me back 20 years to when I rebuilt my Landy.

[@joelburch8018]

Don't be sad, no need to explain. Only you know what is good and right for you. You will always be a legend.

[@rockhouserenovation2264]

Incredible work, Maximus. As the owner of a 1968 2a, I fully agree re the hammer marks and love taps evident on the bodywork. They all tell a story of the trucks life....:)

[@heavymetallife398]

coming together very quickly now, I do like the front end look, though she's gonna look more like an Ernie than a Kermit now with that colour

[@mumblbeebee6546]

Smallest school bus ever :) But there’s plenty yellow frogs with black markings out there - and they can kill you! 😎

[@huskyneusify]

I sure like the look of what you're trying to achieve there, a series IV ! Leafsprung , tough and ruthless :)

[@mumblbeebee6546]

So much to love, from the chicken sitting peacefully watching you to the fact that you prefer truth to filler (same here). What a brilliant channel where “going off into the weeds” is totally the point 😎

[@henkclaassen9267]

Building your own car from backyard recourses, birds singing in the background. Who could ask for more?

[@kevinisaac9139]

well done Max its looking good looking forward to the startup

[@ste76539]

I recently managed to fit a 200tdi full radiator/oil cooler and the intercooler onto a standard Series 3 front panel, the only clearance issue I had was the fan on the alternator hitting the bottom intercooler outlet (which I solved by just removing the fan for now - I just need to find the right intercooler that has the outlet in the other bottom corner WICBA). So I still have the proper Series 3 look, including the right bonnet. I'm not a purist though, so enjoying your build 🙂

[@livingoffgridinscotland]

I’m restoring my own landrover 110 200tdi right now, project NEXI, so yours and britannica restoration’s videos are a god send!

[@marksweetman8765]

Excellent video and editing skills just how I like it. Thanks for sharing 👍🏼

[@terrybullock3140]

Wouldn't normally have any particular interest in Land Rovers, but I'm loving this series. You can learn so much just by seeing someone else's approach to problem-solving and 'making it work'. Looking forward to the year 2033... Maximus Solarpunkus converts his Landie to hydrogen power with a system of his own invention, and ends up having to upgrade the speedo to the 200mph he can now do, while busy being an integral part of the people's revolution.

[@smays]

“My truck, my vision.” Not a bad life philosophy.

[@HootMaRoot]

You are a patient man lining the bulkhead solo that is a 2 or 3 man job

[@marketmalc]

Your Landy your way. I'm enjoying your journey. Thank you for sharing.

[@owenjoseph6097]

Loving these videos max. " When I say stores I mean brambles" made me laugh! You have an awesome vehicle really soon, one that you'll know like the back of your hand.

[@SHGRetro]

Your Truck so do as you want it. I personally kinda like the look with Black on Sand, wasn't sold on it when you first started but I think I know where you are going with this. Hope your putting the tread plates back on in Black? Top effort Max 👍👍

[@lazylad8544]

There's a fantastic amount of fabrication and engineering in this episode. I salute you and your endeavour 👍👍. Good job you've got plenty patience.

[@hansdenotter7376]

The only thing I can see is you’re full of genius solutions!

[@timlarcombe9096]

Excellent vlog and I appreciate the effort that it must have taken to do the editing. Very impressive but you are as mad as a box of frogs but in a lovely way.

[@Farlig69]

Nice job Max!!! Only one "complaint", my OCD was screaming on the grill mesh not being centred 🤔🤫🤭🤗😝

[@johnmarshall2118]

Great to watch you work and enjoying the process

[@billconiston8091]

Fantastic stuff! don't worry about the precious land rover types, your basically making an OEM+ vehicle, which is so much more interesting!

[@mumblbeebee6546]

All that careful effort to make the nice bulkhead and then he wallers at it like a hungry rhino 😜 I know nothing about this so this is not a critique, this is just how it looks like sofa squatters like myself! But it blows my mind that the tub is the true line, I would have thought that the bulkhead is a more important part of the whole thing, and everything else has to line up to that. Amazing how I can be wrong all the time - but I hugely enjoy watching you - be it wallering on a bulkhead or gardening or anything else. You are a good person to hang out with :)

[@alanalzee4849]

Good viewing as always Max, getting the body lined up is no small job, and when you stop and think of how much work you have put into the tub , bulkhead and chassis already its no surprise that "some adjustments" are required, keep up the great work.

[@stephendavies923]

As you rightly say Max, it is your vehicle, building it for yourself and doing a great job of effectively building a new Landy. Looking forward to seeing it running.

[@jonlloyd1985]

Looking really good! Makes me want to pull my finger out and fix some issues on my Defender that i've been putting off!

[@fergusmoloney]

@9:15 Max morphed into Grandad after that bulkhead adjustment. Mike at Brittanica Restorations should have suggested two sticks. One for setting the door gap and a longer one to keep you upright by the end of it. Great progress on Kermit. Well done.

[@ednasdiscomachine6049]

Completely love these videos. Kudos for building your own Series X Landrover. Max, you are a joy to watch.

[@johnshaw4140]

Certainly your own creation , and all the better for it . Fabulous attention to detail from an extremely skillfull engineer . The building process so far has been an inspiration and is coming along very nicely , a credit to it's creator . I can't wait to see the finished product and I'm sure you will have many years of happy motoring ahead , Grenadier drivers eat your hearts out 🤣

[@georgeclegg668]

I'm loving Kermit, make it what you want

[@upscaleshack]

Looks great! Not a fan of Defender grille conversions on Series Landys in general, but the Stage 1 look is nice. Plus it's imminently practical.

[@gogathome]

You're flying through this now, only seems like yesterday you were working on a bare chassis. Well done, loving the videos and really great to see it coming together for you. Great to see your goal being realised 👍

[@hugomartineau3196]

Max, add a deflector between the wing and the radiator, where there is a gap, otherwise air will go thru there instead of thru the rad.. ;)

[@petroldrinker]

Fantastic progress Max. This landy is going to be the envy of everyone. Keep the faith mate, it's looking great.

[@blankroomsoup666]

These vehicles were intended to work, therefore building it in a way that will be most practical for your needs seems much more appropriate than having a 100% original pristine example that will hardly leave the garage, never mind go off-road.

[@paulburroughs1313]

You're making all things new again Max, building a practicle and usable vehicle of your own vision. Very few people can do this work themselves. Congratuations and looking forward to the next installment!

[@marcustaylor9210]

You are doing a good job, Enjoying your Land Rover videos .

[@greggwallace7653]

Never think about the whole job. Just one little victory at a time 😂. I would have given up on many a project if I didn't just think about one problem at a time.

[@philhermetic]

that is a huge amount of progress! Try annealing the aluminium before you knock it back into shape, it really does make a difference! I'm lovin it! Phil

[@jongmans38]

Going well, it will last you a long time when finished and will be the way you want and like. I like that you are using whats at hand instead of spending large amounts of money on parts to finish, and have spent the money you have done wisely on engine, axles, and brakes.

[@nobbybrown8056]

Don't worry what other people want you to do, you have to build it FOR you. Personally I like every aspect of it. As long as you keep all the service items easy to get at I can see many happy years ahead with it.

[@darrenwade9787]

Good on you excellent build there the only tipe of vehicle you can still make your own every where you go every thing look the same it nice to see some think different

[@kevinsimpson7114]

Superb planning, excellent vision and a great deal of hard work. I cannot wait to see your next video Max.👍🏻👌🏻

[@joeb2224]

Your project, your rules! Great series, keep it up. Thanks.