Leyland DAF 45/150 - T244

Our truck started life as a standard 'Fitted for Radio' variant of the British Army LD 45/150 (T244). Like many others, we bought ours from Witham with the intention of self converting into an overlander.

For an in-depth view of the project so far, please have a look at our website at www.triptruck.net

What made you choose this one?
Settled on a LD having looked at a variety of other trucks and deciding that this was the platform that best served our particular purpose. Persuaded by simplicity, ruggedness, price, comparatively decent on-road performance and spares availability. This particular one was in good fettle and had done only 509.3 miles on release from the MoD.

Main criteria for this project?
To combine all we've learned form previous motorhome ownership and build a vehicle that will go just about anywhere with the layout that best suits our needs. Unlike many others we will have an on-road bias with only a very small proportion of our time at the limits of the chassis. Accordingly I've chosen to build on the standard (very rigid) bed and not worry about a custom torsion-free rig. The LD has a rudimentary rubber bush and bolt system of fastening the bed to the chassis anyway so there is at least a little give to spare both chassis rails and bed.

Modifications undertaken?
Chassis refurbished and cab fitted out. Downrated and made fully road legal. Habitation box built and fit-out now underway. Most of the life support gear is installed, currently building furniture.

Modifications yet to do?
May at some point convert to air suspension and am contemplating raising the overall gearing. Waiting to see how it feels fully laden before making any final decisions.

How does it perform?
Having soundproofed and insulated the cab - very well indeed. I've done about 1000 miles on and off road and have no complaints so far.

What would you do differently?
Nothing major - so far!

Comments (1)

off road practice
written by Tony Evans, September 18, 2011

Hi Guys,
Just a quick note to gauge any interest or ideas on how to organise some off road practice with our Leyland Daf 145 campers.
We have had our camper for 2 months and completed 2000miles of mostly road trips. I would like some practice off roading but we are struggling to find a suitable venue. Iv approached a few 4x4 friends but they are concerned that the weight/size of my truck would be a problem to recover if I got stuck.
I thought it might work to organise a gathering of similar vehicles to practice in the rough and also share experiences - ideas on our vehicles.
Let me know if there is any interest or ideas of where/when we could meet.
Tony Evans (based in Gloucestershire)
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P.S. Im trying to increase engine power, has anyone fitted an intercooler? Its listed as a factory option but I cant find a supplier. Any ideas?