1985 Stage 1 109-inch Electronic Warfare dual-wheel conversion New Zealand Defence Force

Chassis number: SALLBCAV1AF558576

Registration number: C632 XRT / MM979

Engine type: 300 Tdi

Gearbox type: 4 Speed

Vehicle spec:
This vehicle is one of around 566 assembled from CKD kits to fulfil an order from the New Zealand Defence Force. All were V8-engined, 24-volt and fitted with sturdy brush bars and Jerry can mountings. Many had mesh roof racks mounted on tubular supports that were designed to support camouflage netting. The electrical system gave endless problems and was only finally resolved when electronic ignition was installed.

This example is one of four converted for an Electronic Warfare role, which involved fitting 300Tdi engines, hardtops, radio tower and a roof rack to accommodate an aerial mast, while the interior was fitted out with radio and surveillance equipment. Disc brakes were also fitted, and the spare wheel was repositioned to the front bumper. The battery box was relocated from under the passenger seat to a position between the driver and passenger. To reduce weight over the rear axle, the rear fuel tank was removed and replaced with side tanks, both of which are filled from the side of the vehicle.

To cope with the significant increase in weight and the raising of the vehicle’s centre of gravity, ‘anti sway’ bars were fitted to the rear axle together with tandem wheels and bespoke rear mudguards.