QuestionThanks, John! The tires are in great shape. We actually did check them first. I should have told you that in my question! Oops! Anyhow, my husband thinks that it is a suspension problem, too. The front shocks need to be replaced badly, too. Next week I actually have to take my Disco in to have the gas tank replaced from a recall, so I thought I'd have the guys there take a peek while the truck is with them. I'll let you know what the issue was when we find it and get it fixed so that you pass it on to other folks who may post with similar problems. Thanks again for your help!
Crystal
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Followup To
Question -
Hi, John,
Within the last few months my Disovery has developed a front vibration when I reach 60-65 mph. Around 65 mph or so it will even out and be fine. The vibration is strong enough to where it would spill a cup of coffee sitting in the cupholder. I have also noticed that it is especially rough going this speed while turning the wheel. Any ideas on what the problem could be and the cost to fix it? Let me know if you need further info. Thanks for your help!
Crystal
Answer -
Hi Crystal,
my first thought is the to determine the condition of your tires. I've known some steel belted tires to 'separate' internally and this can result in uneven wear and a very rough ride at higher speeds.
You could look at the tires yourself to see if they are wearing down unevenly. Usually, when tires are defective, they begin to wear prematurely and quite noticeable, especially the front tires. Just measure the depth of the treads with a small ruler across the tire. You can also examine the tires treads by driving in sand or fine crushed gravel. The treadmarks left behind are the best measure of the condition of your tires.
You should take your Disco to a reputable tire/suspension shop (Firestone, Goodyear and the like) and have them perform some analysis. They can examine the tires for separation, balance all the wheels involved (especially the front) and attempt to perform a wheel alignment.
If you have any steering or suspension problems, the wheel alignment should detect this and a GOOD technician will know to look at possible causes - like balljoints, trackrods, etc.
Make sure the wheel alignment is done for FOUR WHEEL DRIVE vehicles. I once went to a shop that was unfamiliar with LandRover and had to tell them that my Disco was FULL TIME FOUR WHEEL DRIVE. They did not know. I left without using their services.
If its suspension related, its possible to have strong vibrations but usually after riding over potholes, train tracks or bridges. I've had numerous problems with the steering damper on my '95 Disco and usually at highway speeds. If your shocks are worn, especially in the front, you could have more difficulty steering and even braking suddenly at highway speeds. To cause coffee to spill...that's what makes this problem unusual.
So, at this point, I think it could be tires or possibly suspension related. The costs could be: new tires ($150 each); wheel balancing ($15 per tire); wheel alignment ($75); balljoint replacement (@/$120 parts + labour); monroe shocks ($75 @ + labour)
I hope this helps.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
NB: prices are what I've paid on my '95 Disco, labour is usually $75/hr and depends on where you live, dealership, type of garage.
AnswerHi Crystal,
ahh you are having your tank replaced too! Well done.
Yes, have LR check the shocks but you don't have to have them do the work...unless they give you a price that is very hard to beat.
I recently changed the shocks on my Disco and it cost me $160 for all four (Monroe shocks). I did the work myself and saved at least another $200 in labour. If you or your husband are able, you can do this on a Saturday afternoon. Monroe or Bilstein shocks are good choices.
If you suspect suspension problems, raise the Disco and then try to move each front tire. Grab the tire on either side and jolt the wheel left and right, up and down. If you hear 'clunks' it could be balljoint related.
Best of luck and yes, please let me know how it goes,
JohnMc
