Steelslinger

Due to the engines being programmed to run lean and the emissions stuff.

Definitely going to want at least a 4500 or larger winch. 2500 lbs. winches are really only good for the smaller (under 500cc) machines. Or as a secondary use winch (game loader, etc).

I've been using the Quadboss QBT846, DOT compliant, good traction and quiet, plus inexpensive. 1000 miles and almost no signs of wear.

S3 has heavy duty springs that take the sag out.

I have heard other places that the drain hose from the AC system in some cases were pinched in a panel.

I believe it is in the transmission, or at the very least, not at the shift lever on the dash. I know there was someone that talked about doing the microswitch at the shift lever either here or on one of the many defender facebook groups. A hunt 2 remember - you can always add an alternate power and switch to the lights, so that it works with reverse gear or by use of a dash mounted manual switch for when not in reverse.

Could always rig up a momentary style microswitch on the shifter so that when it is reverse, it triggers the lights. Might do that this winter. I have seen at least one guy do that.

I run a Cabbed Max XT 10 with 30" tires, no ecu reflash or programmer, and I went with the EPI CAPS2 and QRS2 springs ($26 ea. + shipping for those that can't drive up to them). Excellent throttle response and pulls better.

Check into Moheadz Customs, steering rack brace. Without seeing a picture of where/how its breaking, not positive this will be the fix, but worth a look.

I installed Beamtech LED bulbs in the stock location for both Low and High Beams. Work just fine.

You can get a shutoff valve and place it in the radiator line that supplies the heater core to stop the heater from getting heat. The other issue is making sure all the openings in the front wall are closed/taped/sealed off as it could be hot air flow coming through the wall from the radiator itself.

Talk to the clutch guys at EPI Performance in Baxter, MN. I changed out my primary and secondary springs and it really changed the engagement of the belt. Less take up on initial acceleration. Cost less than $60. I have 30"x10" QBT 846 tires and no real power mods and I was recommended to go with the CAPS2/QRS2 springs.

There is a decent amount of sound dampening. I don't have any readings, but I could use a similar method and use an App on my phone to see what it is now. I do feel that it would be worth it. I don't think you get as much from resonance through the frame to cancel out what is deadened. I think a lot of the sound is just due to there being nothing to block it through the back wall and the spaces between the side panels and frame. Add in a foam and/or marine carpet layer, would kill it even more. It will never be car quiet, and frankly to expect that is foolish, but being able to converse a bit with the family without downright shouting will be nice.

You didn't cover enough of the back wall. You will have to cover the entire wall to make a difference in heat and sound. When I did mine, I took the rear seats out ('19 Max model) and covered every square inch from rear window down to the floor. I also spanned the gaps at the side panels. It cut down the noise, but I did it for the heat reduction so my kids could enough the ride with out sweating like they were being cooked. Also reduced the amount of dust coming in. All I used so far is the Kilmat 80 (similar to the product you used). I plan to all a finish layer of either foam or the acoustic panel from the 2020 limiteds.

Added lights, especially for plowing (with longer nights during winter), I changed out my primary & secondary springs to give me better throttle response and better grip on the belt, insulating the rear firewall so my kids don't get baked out of the machine, better bumper for dealing with brush when out hunting or trail breaking (not to mention protection from idiot riders), rock sliders to protect the cab, etc. Modifications are almost entirely necessary to get the machine set up for how you are going to use it and riding style. I've been lucky in that the dealer I bought my Max from has pretty good prices on parts, But I buy from many different vendors based on who has what I need and their prices.

Forget the XMR springs, spend the money and get S3 springs. Takes all the sag out of the suspension.