QuestionHello, I think I blew my engine, and someone is selling one on Ebay right now for pretty cheap. I have a 98 Disco 4.0, but the one on Ebay is a 99 4.0. Can I put this one in my truck with no problem? Also, what questions should I ask the seller before buying? I am a military spouse whose husband is deployed, so I am trying to do this alone. Thanks for the help. You're very knowledgeable, and I trust your honesty.
Answer##########################
Christina,
how is the engine problem working out? You mentioned in your email that a base mechanic is now helping you. Is there any other help you would need for this problem?
Regards,
JohnMc
###################################################
*******************
Christina,
a fellow Disco owner (Navy serviceman) suggested the following:
depending on what service your husband is in, contact your "Relief Society" branch and ask them for guidance. They may be able to help you with this. IF you need assurance that you are not being cheated, they could help you with that.
ALSO, go to the following website for LR engine prices:
http://www.roverlandparts.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=76
It will give you a good idea about how much to pay for an engine.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
NB: Special thanks to the Navy serviceman who pass these tips along for you.
***************************
Hi Christina,
I'm sorry to learn that you have to replace your Disco's engine. I hope you are not alone in this decision process. I can give you some advice that might make this purchase a little easier...
Have you looked at purchasing a salvaged engine from a local salvage yard? I use a website that can poll 100's of salvage yard across N.America and can locate the parts I need (even engines) at a reasonable price.
Most 'yards' have a warranty (not sure about Ebay vendor) and may even be able to install it for you for a reasonable rate. I've done this before and was satisfied with the outcome. Mind you, it was with my Buick Park Avenue - but the procedure is just the same (same stress too).
Use this tool to locate an engine nearest you:
www.car-part.com
Even if you decide to go with Ebay, at least you've search for and gotten as much info as possible. This is crucial in making this kind of purchase.
When I was looking to replace an engine, I had a few criteria that I found important:
who's selling the engine?
price
mileage on engine
location
warranty
installation
In your case, your '98 Disco can have an engine from most Series II Disco's. The 4.0 litre engine to go for would be one that is newer. A '99 would work and may even be better than your '98.
Next, asking for assistance is very good. There's not much I can do from here BUT I can advise you to carefully look at who's selling you the engine. I trust my intuition but rely on lots of questions - no matter how confrontational they may sound. Be honest and expect the same.
I would also contact your local LR enthusiasts club. Some of those guys have big hearts and would gladly help a fellow LR owner. My parents raised me to help others, especially those who need it most. There are more like I out there...just have to find them.
Most women, I'm sorry to say, have it more difficult in this situation that you are faced with. My concern is that you could be cheated by rogues who care less about you and more about your money. If you can find someone near you who is comfortable with LR parts, engines, etc., the better off your purchase will be.
We recently purchased a new vehicle and next to the stress levels of this type of purchase is the search for a LR salvaged engine. Going into a car dealership is like swimming in Hawaii...looks good but remember there are sharks out there.
I can help you with this by pointing you to a LR club in your area. The more knowledge you have, the better. Just send me an email and let me know roughly where you are located. Don't publish that info here. An email is best. I'll contact a few clubs and see if someone is willing to help a serviceman's wife. You won't be alone.
jmcinnis64@hotmail.com
IF you have decided to take the Ebay engine, the question you have to ask are the same for most purchases with Ebay 'classifieds' and auctions:
Why are you selling this?
Where did the engine come from?
How many miles were on the engine?
What problems does the engine have?
What components are sold with it?
What warranty do you offer?
What organizations do you belong too? BBB etc.
Sometimes this info is already posted within the item info.
Low mileage is very difficult to prove. If possible, have them attempt to prove the mileage amount. Seeing the engine and the odometer on the vehicle (before you 'pull it out') really helps.
I hope this gives you more information. Let me know if you need to find a local LR club and a contact name.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
NB: I took a quick look at www.car-part.com and found engine prices from $350 to $3500. Also, email me the ebay info and I'll take a look for you.
