I have recentlymoved to Nepal where I will be living for a few years. I have bought a year 2000 model (although I haven't checked serial numbers) Defender. I think that it has been used as a rough and ready work-horse - understandable in these conditions, but I am keen to tidy it up a tad.

The steering wheel has deteriorated badly which is probably a result of the hot and humid conditions, with a few months of hot monsoon (now). Can anyone recommend a suitable and practical alternative, or would you suggest sourcing a cheap but good second hand original from UK?

Similarly with the seats - there are a few splits in the front two seats, and the original material seems awfully hot and sticky! I am tempted to try to get them re-covered with some more breathable material, orbuycotton covers. Someone else suggested a cheap and cheerful alternative was just to use those wooden bead covers, and I used one today and i must admit it was much, much more comfortable....just not sure I like the look! Any suggestions?

Oh, finally lights - thinking of adding a pair of driving lights to the already fitted bull-bars - again, any particular suggestions?

Finally, I guess I should add that I don't want to spent a fortune on this. I have enough extra unforeseen expenses in these earlier days of re-establishing myself here!

Hope to hear from some of you,

 

you might be able to find a steering wheel on eBay, that would need to be replaced most likely, as for covers, get a light colored cotton cover. (tan preferably or even white o.O). the driving lights are simple to add, im not a good electrician so i cant tell you exactly how. if you get a lower voltage light, some defenders have a fog light accsorie plug.