Land Rover Repair: Flasher Problem?, land rover discovery, nanobyte

Question
Hello,

I have a 1998 Discovery LE and I came across a flasher relay problem. The right turn flasher started to blink about twice as quick as it supposed to do when I turn it on. I believe this is something to do with the relay problem.

My question is:

1. Is this something that I could get a part and fix myself? I have almost no experience in repairing automobiles. I am a computer engineer, though, so I guess I have general understandings of those physics.
2. Could you advice me how I could locate the parts and instructions(service manual)?

I just do not want to spend so much money to bring my vehicle to the dealer and have them repair the problem.

I would very much appreciate your advise.

Regards,
-Gon

Answer
Hello Gon,

I too am a software engineer.  Have been for 20 years.  You'll find that LR has incorporated small trouble signals that will help you with diagnosing problems.  A rapid flashing turn signal could indicate a problem with your flasher module, the relay or even one of the bulbs.

If you are capable of performing IML's on sophisticated network components, able to leap tall bix panels in a single bound, faster than a speeding nanobyte, then you can probably do maintenance on your Disco.  (My strange sense of humour)

Seriously, I think you can do this work.  If its the flasher, you would purchase this from your local LR dealer. Ask the parts guy if he can give you any install information.  They have parts catalogues and sometimes install instructions that they can printout for you.  I know my parts guy very well (too many visits) and he helps me whenever he can.

I would strongly advise you to purchase the Haynes Service and Repair manual for the LR Discovery.  It is one of the only manuals that don't cost over $200 and is easy to read.

Land Rover Discovery 1989 to 1998 Petrol and Diesel
Haynes #3016
Cost:  $30 - 40
Order from your local parts supplier
LR won't have this...they want you to buy theirs!  $$$$
Covers everything that a DIY'er needs to know about servicing your Disco in your own garage.  Also handy when you want to take your Disco to a local mechanic.  LR does lots of things that most general mechanics will think are weird.  Gives them a good reference point to start with.

I understand your position on LR service costs.  Its sad but true...they overcharge and nickel and dime you for every little thing.  I also found that they don't do problem solving. Swapping modules until the problem is fixed is not very efficient and VERY COSTLY.  I speak from 1st hand experience.  

If you are really stuck and cannot get the above manual, I suggest you visit the following website:  www.discoweb.org

Excellent site.  Tech photos, bulletin board.  Read about other Disco98 problems-  fixes. Register and you can post.

Best of luck,

JohnMc