Land Rover Repair: freelander 2003 Se - VCU, viscous coupling, angle grinder


Question
HI Nigel, while driving yesterday the the ring shaped rubber damper that surrounds the VCU came loose, fallig on the axle the noise was not that nice. I managed pushing the ring back on and it stayed on.
I'm now wondering about 2 things...
1 - Should I replace only damper of full VCU unit?
(No vibrations or any other 'strange noises' going on now)

2 - While awaiting delivery of new material, is it safe to cutt off(using angle grinder) the the ring shaped rubber damper that surrounds the VCU ?

thx in advance!
Paul

Answer
I would replace only the center support of the viscous coupling unit, as long as the VCU has not seized.  If it has seized, I would replace it with a new or used complete assembly.

I do not think it would be prudent to remove the center support with an angle grinder and operate the vehicle.  I strongly advise against it.