What's this hole??

[alvin]

I've had a quick look in the manual and couldn't see a reference to this hole in the body frame/pillar on the door hinge face.
It's on both sides of the vehicle and looks original.
Down here in Tas at the moment it's almost defeating the heater as it allows the outside cold air to blow in under force while driving (;->

Is this important to keep open or can I stick a rubber bung in both of them (they even cut the vinyl covering around the hole to keep it open)... and more importantly, what is it/was it for apart from keeping you cool while driving?

[Dervish]

I'd say your Perentie has had a replacement bulkhead, as that hole is for a door switch (for the interior light) on a Defender. It's also possible that later build Perenties had the holes in from the factory, although I haven't noticed any with the hole thus far. Normally there is alloy trim over the area. I don't know why the trim is cut away, but possibly so Inox or similar can be sprayed in to prevent the bulkhead from rusting (again?).

Needless to say; stick a bung in 'em.

[FFRMAN]

I've got two Perenties, one with a replaced bulkhead and one still original (early one - 1988) so I'll compare the two and let you know if the replaced one has the holes

[alvin]

Thanks FFRMAN & Dervish, interesting info.

Well mine's a 91 FFR if that's any use.

Yes, it's a little odd to me, but then I don't know these vehicles well, having only had IIA's years ago.

If it's of any help, this vehicle supposedly came from QLD out of the auctions up there possibly 2 years ago, so is it possible this was a local Army mod to the existing hole behind the trim to help stay cool while driving, as the outside air certainly rushes through these holes?

[Dervish]

It's certainly possible, but that would be air from the engine bay - so not the nicest, coolest air around.