QuestionQUESTION: I have a 99 lr discovery series 1. Recently it has been running a little rough at idle. When I turn the ignition it starts fine and the RPM's go to around 1500, but then the RPM's drop down to 200 or 100 RPM's. Sometimes it gains power and revs around 700 in idle other times it just shuts off completely. In addition, when I drive it, after putting it in park the rpms jump to about 1500 for a second or two. I've changed the fuel filter and I'm not sure where to go from here. Can you help?
ANSWER: I would start by servicing the engine: change the oil, clean the throttle body, replace air filter, if necessary, add fuel injection cleaner to the tank, use an upper cylinder lubricant, and re-set the base idle.
If that doesn't work, check back with me.
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QUESTION: Sir,
Thank you for your suggestions. Yesterday I changed the air filter and added injection cleaner. It seemed to be running a lot better. Than today it started running a little funny again. When I stopped the motor all of the coolant leaked out. When I tried to refill it, we couldnt see any holes in hoses. Then we noticed when I held the fan from each side there seemed to be a little movement of about a half inch. Does that mean the water pump bearing is going out?
Thank you
AnswerHalf inch play in the fan may not indicate water pump failure, it could also be the fan coupling. A closer inspection of both is necessary to determine which it is. Also, there should be evidence of coolant from the water pump if it is or has failed. Other components which may be the cause of your problem are the radiator, thermostat, etc.
