Land Rover Repair: water leak onto right rear speaker area; power steering leak, water ingress, power steering fluid


Question
Hello, I have a '95 disco, 3.9 gas. I see water leaking down the back panel from the bottom of the top, right-hand, rear speaker. I've re-sealed the roof window and the back side cargo area window but I still see the water coming in, leaking down the visible side of the panel from the bottom of the speaker.  I tested the area for leaks with the upholstery panels removed and didn't see any leaks. The speaker doesn't seem to be getting wet...any ideas? Also, I'm loosing power steering fluid from the steering box. Are the seals in the box replaceable and do they have part numbers.

Thank you very much in advance?  

Answer
Hi Vic,

water ingress has to be door seals.  On my '95, I found that same problem.  I replaced the door seals but it did not stop the water from getting in.  Aerodynamics forces water up and over the seals - along with fine dirt and grit.  

I suspect my Disco's real problem is the hinges on the rear door.  I've replaced them both but perhaps they are not shimmed properly.  In your case, it could very well be that the rear door has shifted and the rubber seals are not doing their job.  There had to be some pressure on those seals to prevent water ingress.  If the door has shifted (worn hinges) then the seal is not being pushed against the body of the vehicle.

You could try an experiment.  Tape paper towels just behind the seals and see if they get wet.  Roll up a paper towel into a long cigar then tape against the seal.  Wait for the next rain and after driving, inspect the paper.  

As for the power steering box, Atlantic British has a kit for about $110.  All the seals are there.

Roverparts.com

Steering box available too - expensive though: $850 (rebuilt).

Best of luck,

JohnMc