14CUX rescue kit

Published: 2013-10-26

Lucas 14CUX rescue kit

Because of its relative simplicity, the Lucas 14CUX system itself is actually quite reliable. Still, there are a few components in it that may eventually need replacing, and it's helpful to carry spares of those items that can be easily replaced while out in the field. Pictured above is my kit, which contains:

  • 12VDC fluorescent work light: This one has a cigar-lighter plug, but it could also be clipped directly to the battery terminals with the help of an adapter (also included; lower right.)
  • Digital multimeter and probes: The one in my kit is an Innova 3320. Because this is going in a rescue kit that I hope to never need, I selected this particular meter for its astonishing cheapness rather than its quality. (It will probably be sufficient for an emergency roadside check, but if you're looking for one to use in your shop, don't buy a $19 meter. Get a US-made Fluke.)
  • Relays: You could conceivably need to replace the main relay and/or fuel pump relay, so it's nice to have a couple spares. They're a fairly standard 12V automotive type.
  • Idle air control valve and wrench: Carbon deposits on the control valve shaft can limit its movement; you'll want to carry a spare that has been disassembled and cleaned. A 32 mm wrench (or deep 32 mm socket) is required to change the valve. Also note that the AC Delco 217-437 seems to be a generic equivalent to the Land Rover IAC valve, and is much cheaper.
  • Distributor rotor: Oxidation and carbon deposits can reduce the rotor's conductivity over time.
  • Distributor cap: May crack or split after many seasons of heat cycling.
  • Fault Code Display Unit: This is the I2C display that was installed in North American 14CUX Land Rovers. It's more difficult to find in the UK and in Europe. It'll show the highest-priority stored fault code, and is definitely helpful if you don't have a laptop with RoverGauge.
  • 14CUX ECU: The ECU itself is pretty robust, but it's so easy to swap that it's worth carrying a spare.
  • Screwdrivers: A #2 Phillips and 3/16" slotted, just in case. Since these might be used on the side of the road in desperation, I went with the Wera 932-series "chisel drivers" that are designed to withstand some misuse (i.e. prying and hammering.)

I carry all of this in a Pelican 1550 case with a customized foam insert. There's plenty of room to spare, so I think that it would actually all fit in a 1500 series instead.