Ok a few more questions have popped up as I continue my (rather long term) search, and maybe a couple thoughts too-
-Is the HD available on an SE on 2007 and later? If so, how do you know when it's locked?
-It seems like the cooler consoles aren't hard to come by and aren't overly expensive, so I'm not worried about trying to track down a LUX unless one falls in my lap.
-How much of a problem is the cracked dashboard? It seems to be limited to the 2005-2006?
DASH - In my searches I didn't come across any major dash issues and only slight barely noticable cracking near the airbag(which mine has).. It honestly looks like it belongs there.
LOCKER - Nice to have and i'd liked to have found one but in truth the LR3 traction control system is very well matched to its capablities. Basically IMO if you're in a situation where you need a rear locker over the traction control you're pushing it too hard(like on the rubicon hard). The easiest way to find out if it has a locker IMO is to simply obtain the vin and search here
http://www.vindecoderz.com/ That being said it will make driving off road much smoother. Buy for condition and not features would be my advice on the topic.
COOLER - I have one and like it. I put 4 waters in there and removed the coin tray. It cools better with the tray but if you're planning on adding a fridge just skip it for the regular console(I still wouldn't avoid it). I treat it like a cooler in the sense that it will keep things cold but not get them very cold unless you're driving far(needs power to work).
I'd go with the 4.4 HSE LR3 in whatever latest model you'd like to buy and shop for condition over model year. I'd gladly pay more for an enthusiast owned 06' over a run of the mill 09'. They very capable and reliable but need preventative maintenance like no other vehicle I've owned. I sum it up comparing it to my 2nd choice.. I'd rather maintain a LR3 than drive a GX470/4runner..
Some tips in no particular order(besides IIdtool being #1)
1. Buy an IIdtool. Yes its necessary IMO to the point where it should be considered in the purchase price/budget. It basically points you directly to any problem making DIY so simple a monkey could do it or allow you to research the problem so you don't get hosed by a shop.
2. If you have any suspension codes pop up(I did) simply replace the battery even if it appears to be working well. These things are crazy sensitive to voltage and need a good/fresh battery.
3. Brakes. It needs good pads and rotors for the traction control to work well.
4. Flush/change every fluid. All of the "for life" fluid was disgusting @ 120k miles(diffs/tranny/transfercase/etc). You'll hear you can only use the expensive stuff but its hooey. Ford mercon SP is the same as ZF lifeguard for 1/10 the cost.
5. Be careful slamming the doors(front particularly) with the window down. In its down condition its not supported very well and the plastic clips will break.. Worth noting LR doesn't sell them without a new window attached
6. Check brake lines.. I had a front to rear pop on me yesterday after replacing my rear brakes(and pumping the pedal really hard to close the caliper).. They aren't easy to replace and in some rare cases require the body be lifted off the frame to be done to factory specs(vs splicing/repairing the existing).
7. Buy a compressor dryer kit and refresh the one you have or you'll be replacing it down the road. Its a really easy job and the kit is $60.. Prevent vs repair.
Common problems are few and based on my research minor issues. Best of luck.
