Land Rover Repair: landrover 90, low gears, journey home

Question
hello john,
i have a 1987 landrover 90 TD.
a couple of weeks ago my landy started getting a bit sluggish,fuel filter most probably.so anyway,in a foolish attempt to make it the old thing feel better,i gave it a bit of engine oil,it would appear that i topped it just over the level.so ive been driving around for a couple of weeks not knowing,then yesterday after work,started her up,sounded flat,puff of white smoke.on the journey home more than usual rattle and tapping,and BLACK smoke in low gears from starting off?could this be a result of slight oil over filling?or was the lack of power in first place a sign off something up?any advice or ideas would be great,thanks
stuart

Answer
Hi Stuart,

don't worry about the slight overfill of oil as this should not cause the problem you have.  This sounds more like an ignition related problem.  Puffs of smoke, rattles and tapping are clear signs that your Landy is struggling during compression or firing.  
Could be timing problem...worn chain perhaps, or could be turbo related.  You'll have to get this sick Landy to a mechanic who can monitor this more accurately.

Best of luck,

JohnMc