A Defender Called Hektor
Hektor: from Ancient Greek meaning "to hold fast"
In Homer's Iliad Hektor is a Trojan prince. The ideal warrior and the greatest defender of Troy. Envied by all other fighters. Even after death the gods protect his body from mutilation and corruption.
“As for me, I am tormented with an everlasting itch for things remote. I love to sail forbidden seas, and land on barbarous coasts.” - Herman Melville, Moby Dick
Hektor is a 2003 110 Station Wagon 300Tdi Landrover Defender. He's a rather rare Rest of the World addition (ROW) which means he's one of the last non-computerised Defenders. Perfect for travelling in remote regions of Africa where the option to hook up to a modern diagnostics kit isn't likely to be available. Instead he can be mended by most rural mechanics - or at a pinch by ourselves (maybe with a quick call to our friends at Foleys back in the UK).
The 300 Tdi was replaced in 1998 by the TD5 to meet EU emissions tests - but the MOD and Aid Agencies preferred the older non-electronic versioned engines. So Landrover continued making the ROW model, for export only, until 2006. Luckily for us some of the TD5 extras, including air conditioning, where included in our model - a great boon in 100 degree plus heat - when it works. That said the vent flaps under the windscreen do a pretty good job of keeping the temperature in the cab down. We've also found that having them open in dusty conditions keeps the cabin at a positive pressure relative to the outside which helps keep the dust from seeping in through the door edges etc.
Hector has been modified with a snorkel and breather tubes for river crossings. Has a winch if we get stuck. We've added a second fuel tank, a water tank and purifier, a roof tent, an onboard fridge and more comfortable seats. For security there's a rear shelving system inside a cage and darkened windows. Other security devices have been added but they are top secret! For safety we've added roll bars and enhanced suspension.
We also carry two calor gas bottles for our stove, two spare wheels, additional water and fuel jerry cans and a full tool kit and cargo of spares. As well as all the essentials for day to day living. Hektor is our home for the next six months after all. And we feel very lucky to be travelling with him.
