Land Rover Repair: major leak inside my discovery, land rover discovery, engine firewall

Question
Hi John,
This afternoon I realized that the entire floor in the front of the passenger seat of my 97 Land Rover Discovery is soaking wet.  I have no idea where the water / fluid is coming from.  Any ideas?  Has this happened to you or anyone you know?  Please let me know if you have any ideas what is causing this to happen.
Thanks.  Monique

Answer
Hi Monique,

my heart goes out to you...I am having that exact problem with my '95 Disco.  On the drivers side, I found that the underside of the car, just above the mud flaps, has developed cracks in the weld.  With the mud flaps moving back and forth over time, the cracks have multiplied and the the water penetrates from there.  Its a nightmare to repair because its just above the frame and above the muffler.  I'm removing the carpet and floor sponge to repair the floor.  I use fiberglass as its almost as strong as steel and easy to apply.  Of course, I have to remove all the rust first.

As for the passenger side, I suspect the same problem PLUS the firewall.  Yes, the engine firewall may be rusted and water is slipping in from there and pooling down into the passenger side.  I also think the corner post may have a leak somewhere near the fender.  I'm getting to that problem after my driver's side is fully repaired.

Its a real mess and it really tries your patience....


Best of luck,

JohnMc