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I spoke with the local LR dealer service manager. He's from overseas and appears to know his stuff and products. Long time racer also. His words to me were to drive it hard to knock loose as much of the carbon build-up as possible, also some cleaners wouldn't hurt. He went on to say that these are rarely driven hard enough to keep combustion temps high enough to keep clean and a thourough burn. Somewhat makes sense since the engine laboring at 1100 RPM at 45-50 MPH and the mapping of the fuel injection (rich at bottom end). This would carbon up any engine. I have to keep in mind that this is a 4L V8 pushing 4800 pounds. This truck needs to run rich to get it to go. In the end he said that at some point the valve guides would need to be opened up, the tollerances are too tight, then add some carbon to them and that's what sticks. Have you needed head work done to yours??
Thanks- Paul
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LR dealer inspected- clean bill of health, said it would be certified. good maintanence history. One owner. Recalls are done also. There is no mud in the usual braketry and orphises, so I beleive its been on paved roads all it's life. We can fix that :-) Thanks for your help, I'll be in touch- Are altinators a common failure??
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I'm looking at maybe buying a very clean 2001 Disc II SD. I do not have a strong backround in Land Rovers but I am ASE certified tech. Was wondering what to expect from the vehicle interms of reliability, repairs, and expected life. It has a gas engine, 38,100 miles. I have not driven it yet for fear of making a rash purchase. Your input would be great!
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Hi Paul,
on a 2001 Disco, have it inspected by a LR dealership mechanic. Areas of focus should be suspension system and electronics (windows, doors, security system).
38100 miles is low so I doubt it was taken off-roading.
Repairs are very expensive but the Disco should last you a good many years. Mine is 10 years old and has over 310,000 kms on it. Mind you, I've changed the clutch, CV, Master Cyl, Slave cyl., alternator (several times), power steering pump, numerous electricals. I have to look at as a 10 year old Disco. Still looks good - most 10 year old 4x4's are either rusted heaps or in worse shape than mine.
So...have it thoroughly inspected by a LR dealership. It will cost you about $100 but you'll get a list of all that has been done and what will be needed in the near future.
Regards,
JohnMc
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Hi Pual,
for Series I Disco's, yes alternators were a big headache. For Series II Disco's, I think the alt problem is less but there are more complicated problems to deal with:
The exhaust valves stick and thus every 50,000 miles or so, you have to have a valve job done. Depends on how well the vehicle is maintained, the quality of the fuel purchased over the life of the Disco, how hard a driver the owner was or is.
The suspension system can be a real pain...those fitted with Range Rover air compression systems have seen compressor failures that can prevent the Disco from moving (unless you don't mind rubbing the tires raw!).
The HDC, ETC and ABS lights (three amigo's) can randomly act up and cause the vehicle owner's to break out in rashes and fever: by this I mean the worry of driving or towing into the dealership and having each one of these components tested and/or replaced. BIG REPAIR BILLS there.
The are common problems with failing door locks and power windows. All are linked into the security system and the immobiliser has been known to fail. Lots of labour charges with this problem.
Also, many LR's have "water ingress" or leaks around the windshield and the alpine windows in the rear. Carefully look for watermarks or carpet and ceiling stains.
SO, if the LR dealership says "all is well" ask them about the sticking valve problems on series II Disco's. I'd be curious to hear what they have to say.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
AnswerHi Paul,
the Series II has a common problem with the exhaust valves sticking. No additive can remove this BECAUSE its on the exhaust side. These engines run hot - always! Its their nature. Using the highest octane available helps with performance and aids in reducing emissions. HOWEVER, the sticking valve problem IS a problem with Series II Disco's...no doubt about that. The problem will come back after 50,000miles of additional driving. The only cure is a valve job.
NO, this problem does not affect the Series I Disco's, especially the 3.9l engines. I'm lucky on this point. With over 310,000kms (190,000 miles) on my Disco, I'd hate to have done 3 valve jobs by now. ouch.
I'd take the service managers advise with caution...never run any engine too hard. People will misinterpret hard with abuse and that can be expensive. Additives only work on the intake side and are always burned off BEFORE the exhaust side. Deposits are solid wastes that just seem to build up on the valves.
If you have regular maintenance routines and use only the best products, your Disco will last longer. Goes for any make and model.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
