Parts are expensive in Africa; labour is cheap. Start by taking everything you are going to need for the periodic services en-route - I got services carried out at Casablanca, Accra, and Youndé (so far).

You will need at least one spare air filter (bulky), and extra fuel filters are a must as you will find you pick up lots of dirty fuel  - make sure you know how to drain your filter and sedimenter if one is fitted.

Before you set out check your vehicle thoroughly for things that are on their way out - shocks, bushes and seals in particular - as they will definitely suffer on African roads - it will pay to gauge the life left in your brake pads and take a spare set if necessary. Timing belt failure can be a disaster on a Landy, so consider renewing your belt if it's getting anywhere near the end of its service life.

Brownchurch helped out with a list of suggested spares in event of breakdown - some of which we used and others which we could easily have sold along the way or on arrival - you're best bet is to talk to your garage about what they think you are likely to use - I used the following parts en-route (in order of use):

• Clutch kit - cost £280 to ship out via DHL as it wasn't available in Dakar
• Oil Filter
• Cylinder head gasket - ditto - amazing what you can't get in West Africa
• Master and Slave Clutch cylinder repair kits
• Rear brake discs and rear left break pipe (after losing a wheel)
• Fuel filter
• Radial arm bushes
• Front brake pads
• Rear left spring (unlucky side of the car it seems)
• Rear brake pads again