QuestionI live in Germany, my husband is stationed here with the military. I took my discovery to the mechanic on base. They told me I need new rotors and brake pads, front and rear. Parts are $463. They can't fix the car, though, due to needing a special tool to remove the hub. I don't know what that is but, I needed to know if that is a tool that only a Land Rover dealer/mechanic would have. I don't know if I can find one in Germany. Do you have resources for finding Land Rover mechanics overseas? The internet search isn't helping me. Thanks.
AnswerHi Tara,
You are getting a great price for all those parts! Bravo!
As for removing the hub, its not difficult at all. I've done it in my driveway! With all the hummers and large military vehicles on base, I can't imagine why those mechanics can't find a deep socket 2 1/16 inch socket. I found mine at a parts depot.
There is no complicated trick to removing the hub. For those mechanics, I think the size of the nut is the big surprise (there's a joke in there somewhere but we won't go there!). This lock nut is not commonly found on 4x4's. Maybe Hummer H2's? After removing the locknut there is a washer that is deliberately bent over on one side. Usually this washer is replaced BUT you could reuse it just once if your really have too (so I have been told).
There is a paper gasket that is usually placed between the rotor and the lock nut. You'll have to replace this.
LR OEM lock washer part number is FTC3179; gasket is FTC3646
So go back to your mechanic and tell them that the only tool needed to remove the locknut is a 2 1/16 inch deep socket (two and one sixteenth). No other special tool is used. With all those large vehicles, this should not be considered a special tool.
As for finding LR mechanics...you are much closer to Euro mechanics than I am. Germany should have Land Rover dealers in most major cities. If you are really stuck and REALLY REALLY want to have an overpriced LR dealership repair your vehicle, please write me back and I'll find one for you. Just let me know the nearest city you want to have the work done at.
If you can have the mechanics on base do the work...you'll save lots of money! Those parts prices you mention are fantastic. For example, one rotor costs about $120 retail here, pads are about $30 each.
Best of luck...
JohnMc
NB: Write back if you need more help. I am always glad to help the military and their families. I have cousins over there too!
