Hi Josh and Libby,
Memory fades, so I'm having difficulty working out which of my trucks had what engine/transmission, but ...
I think my last S1 (with S2 foundations) was fitted with 3.5 Range Rover diffs, and 205 tyres, which the 2286 petrol pulled with contemptuous ease.
While my S2 TD (not TDi) LWB, on standard S2 diffs, but 245 (?) chunky tyres pulled like a train, unless attempting a hill start with 1000+ kg on the hook. But WAS it on standard diffs?
Don't trust my memory ... I have learned not to.
Me? I would avoid a Salisbury axle, but I have nothing to base that on, other than the worry of complications if anything breaks ... but DO they break? I'm guessing that the unsprung weight of a Salisbury axle is a significant factor when deciding to go parabolic, or even on standard S2 springs.
I'm guessing that the weight of a Salisbury axle would be a significant factor for for the average home mechanic.
I believe the Salisbury axle requires a shorter prop-shaft, which might be a factor on an 88" ... the propshaft has to bend at a steeper angle.
Many years ago, I was in communication with somebody (I think his name was TONY RELF) on DIFFLOCK.COM, about the joys of a medical retirement when one is young enough to enjoy it. I think he will remember me, but I don't know if it was MY advice that persuaded him to go for it. I seldom visit DIFFLOCK nowadays, but his name still seems to crop up, when I do.
I think it was Tony who founded TEAM HOOLIGAN (a sort of charity to raise money for the disabled). He campaigned an S2 88" off-road... I don't know if he had Salisbury axles, but he mentioned having problems with the bigger 1-ton brakes. They were too powerful. I assume you are able to balance the braking between front and rear, if you have a standard LR front axle, and a 1-ton rear?
Me? From ignorance, but assuming I was well-heeled, and was only interested in road use, in an 88" I'd go for an over-drive ... long legs for normal use ... short legs when I needed serious grunt. Anything else, I'd compare what I've got, with what I could have, and compare my thoughts and findings with what Land Rover thought suitable for both sizes of Defender. Weight v Axle Ratio v Tyre Turns per Mile.
But that's me.
602