Land Rover Repair: Rattling when cold., oil contamination, discovery 2


Question
Hi,
I bought my 1999 Discovery 2 TD5.with 56,000 mile in August which had a full service (correct oil etc.)from a gentleman who deal solely in Land Rovers. Since winter and cold weather as arrived a loud rattle as developed between 1200 and 1800 rpm.especially whilst accelerating, but there's no loss of power. Above this the rattle is far less audiable,in fact seems ok. Once the engine temperature needle leaves cold the rattle disappears.
I took the discovery to my local garage who solely repairs land rovers put it on a diagnostic machine (£105) and told me that it was misfiring in this rev range all the time. His remedy was to replace the wiring to the injectors (£130) which on this model tend to be effected by oil contamination.Then if the problem is still present replace the injectors (daren't ask the price). Do you think this is correct and if so why does the noise disappear when the engine warms up?
I don't know what missing sound like on diesel engines to me the noise sounds much like tappet rattle.  

Answer
Hi Peter,

sounds like your mechanic is guessing too!  It would be a shame to spend so much and the problem still exists.  You'll want some assurances from this mechanic that what he proposes will do the job.  If not, you'll want a refund.

For a TD5, I'd consider getting a 2nd opinion from a reputable LR dealer, if you have one in your area.  By the sound you describe, it could be incorrect valve clearances or perhaps a warn camshaft (rare).  Checking the valve clearances is a simple process for most mechanics and is only labour (unless serious damage is found).

Do you use a block heater?  Store your Disco in a garage? It could also be wax forming in fuel under very cold conditions and clog up the filter.  Due to condensation, water can also infiltrate into the fuel. Maybe you should consider changing the fuel filter.  

That's about all I can think of.

Best of luck,

JohnMc