Question-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Have a 2001 US spec Disco which we have had for 2 months. Suddenly it has developed an oil leak from the front end the origins of which I have not been able to discover. This was not a usual oil leak, it went from not there at all to being suddenly there in the space of an hour. ? Engine ? power steering. Any suggestions?
Dave, Florida
Answer -
Hi Dave,
you'll have to get a sample of the leak to determine if its oil or hydraulic fluid. If its black/brownish, its probably oil. If its red, its probably power steering fluid.
Where is the leak on the ground? If its near your wheels, it could be brake fluid. If its dead center, it could be oil from your oil filter, the oil pan or engine area. If the leak is on the driver's side, front of engine, its probably the power steering hose or pump.
If its green, you are looking at coolant. Usually in front and you should be able to smell this more readily than others.
Take a clean cloth and wipe around the pulley of your power steering pump. If you see fresh fluid, you may have a bearing that is failing and it will eventually seize.
Take a clean cloth and wipe around the oil pump. Same thing, if you see fresh oil...a bearing is about to give and you don't have a good seal.
There is a high pressure hose that comes from the power steering pump to the steering linkage. This hose has known to fail and cause leaks. Sometimes, the hose can deteriorate due to heat (its close to the engine block). Same with oil hoses leading into the radiator. This oil is cooled down after it passes thru the engine. These hoses also can break down over time (due to heat).
Since you are a Floridian, heat is a serious concern for you. If I was living in Florida, I'd be changing my coolant every year. Check your hoses and repair as soon as you spot a leak (no pun intended).
High pressure hoses are best purchased from the dealer. If you are mechanically inclined, you can save yourself the labour charges, otherwise, I'd suggest you have LR do the work.
It is possible that the oil pan gasket has developed a leak. There is no cork or rubber gasket that I am aware of, a liquid rubber gasket is the norm. You can purchase this liquid gasket from your LR dealer - parts department. Removing the oil pan requires you to remove the trackrod and steering damper (only on one end). Then you can remove the pan. Lots of patience is required and a steady hand.
Best of luck. Get back to me if you decide to do the work yourself. You'll have to determine where and what is leaking.
Regards,
JohnMc
LAND ROVER RECTIFIED FOLLOW UP
The fault was a front oil seal and a water pump replacement, now we are ready to go. Slight water leakeage from where hoses clamped which I will watch carefully with view to adding tightening clamps instead of the spring type. Now have to get familiar with this vehicle. Was used to an easy soft dash RR vintage '95 now I cannot even find the gear box/transfer box drain/fill plugs.
Cheers again
Dave
AnswerHi Dave,
glad to read that your oil leak was resolved. Water pump replacement must have been a surprise. I believe the gearbox fill plug is in front and high while the drain plug is low and rear on gearbox. At least that is the placement on my '95 Disco.
Best of luck with the Disco...I believe the 2001 has the Rangie suspension so at least the ride should be the same, if not better, than your old Rangie.
Regards,
JohnMc
