4th of July in Germany is not a holiday, but I did have the day off. Drove the 2 hours NNW to Nakatanenga to pick up a cruise control for the Defender, and a few other items.
Peter was as always very helpful. We chatted vehicles, as they have some nice items about. A 130 HCPU is getting resto'd, and there are always Defenders and Discos in the work area. We also talked about how many American companies never replied to his inquiries for distributing Naka kit. He seems very happy to be allied with Jason at Series Defender Outfitters. I think this is a huge win formLR/Toyota/Jeep guys, as now their items are available in the US.
Got the cruise, the damper system for holding back door open, and discussed roof rack options. They carry Frontrunner and their own brand, the CargoBear.
https://www.nakatanenga.de/zubehoer...ar-systemdachtraeger-fuer-land-rover-defender
I currently have the Howling Moon tent on Thule crossbar system. While this works fine, there is no place to hold other (lightweight) cargo. My big limits are height and quick release. Some Frontrunner markets used to have a quick disconnect kit, but I believe this is no longer available. When I mentioned quick disconnect, Peter got a sparkle in his eye, and invited me to the "super secret R&D labs". It is well disguised as the back of the warehouse.
Peter has come up with a "why didn't I think of that" solution to RTT quick disconnects. It will be ready for release in 3-4mweeks, I believe. I am sworn to secrecy on most details, but my order is in! Imagine 4 bolts to place or remove tent, and the option to install in either side or back directions of opening any time you put the tent on. His solution is basic, but with the quality and engineering typical of the company. CNC milled, well designed. It is designed to fit vitually any rack or cross bar set up. To quote Vince from Slap-Chop, "Made in Germany, so you know it's good".
Pricewise, a little more than one would expect, until I considered the actual R&D costs, the materials, and the fit/finish of the product. Like I said, I ordered on, and on the spot bought the CargoBear full rack system.
Modular rack, fitted all the pieces in the back of the Defender for trip home. Airline rail type slots everywhere. Lightweight, and modular. I will install without diamond plate, as he also has new decking in R&D, and it is even lighter.
Hope to have cruise installed by Friday, doing it in pieces after work. The fridge is in, the stove and kitbox are loaded. We leave Friday for a 12 day trip from Stuttgart down through Switzerland, a bit of Italy, and on to Nice/Provance.
It typical LR fashion, I am carrying spares with me, as my appointment for tranny work (gearbox, not crossdressing) is not until the end of the month. Clutch, PP, throwout, and the Ashcroft intermediate shaft kit. If it goes to pieces, we should be able to find a garage to put it back together.
