Hi Reg, I have been in the Iltis since it first joined the CF.
So far on its history is correct. Except that when Bombardier build the Canadian version they did some interresting changes. The metal is thinner so like a pop or beer can, with just normal useage and driving x-country the unibody frame cracks and breaks. They used Teflon in the tie rods, resulting in early wear in the mud and sand
Also they took the VW engine, and took out the expensive fuel injection and replaced it with a carb...resulting in the engine running hot and increasing down time.
The thing could not mount a weapon for self defense.
And when you shut down the engine to listen for the enemy.. about 10 seconds later, the electric fan started up and it is noisy. Turn off the engine you say? The fan still starts up
:
Getting into the front seats is nice.... if your over 5ft 5, you don't want to get in the back... also against the Geneva Accords to put a PW back there
Going X-country is fair, not good. Its a great veh for an LO, no good for fighting troops...glad it see it go.
Now my old 1970 pattern CJ5 was a nice Recce veh
hope that helps.
Andrew