Land Rover Repair: 96 Disco engine noise - headgasket repair, head gasket repair, general mechanic

Question
I have a 1996 Disco I. I just had it worked on and got an estimate for head gasket repair job. Can a head gasket repair job be done by a standard service tech, or does it have to be done by a LR service tech? Furthermore, will this take of the tapping noise in the engine bay? Any comments are appreciated.

Thanks,

Calvin

Answer
Hi Calvin,

yes, most mechanics should be able to perform a headgasket job on you Disco.  The advantages of a dealer (arghhh) is that they have the experience on your specific engine type and know problem areas to inspect during the work.  A good example is the tapping* you mention.  The downside is the expensive parts and labour they charge.  Is it worth it?  That's a decision you have to make.

If the tapping is the result of exhaust valves sticking, most dealers would notice this.  A general mechanic may not know the history of LR engines and would not recognize problem areas.  If you have a timing problem, most mechanics should be able to correct this.  Most mechanics can read OBDII codes and should be able to service your Disco.  When specialize components fail, that's when LR diagnosis becomes beneficial.

The alternative is to find a mechanic familiar with bosch ems engines (VW mechanics?) used in many european cars BMW, VW's...

Best of luck,

JohnMc

*What fuel do you use in your Disco? Hopefully 91 octane or better.  Do you notice a loss of power on hills, towing or on hot humid days?  Could be sticking exhaust valves.