Gutless

Hi, got some good advice from you before so; wonder if anyone knows why my '97 V8 3.9 is a bit gutless. Doesn't seem to accelerate as it's supposed to. Engine seems fine, except for slightly erratic tickover but revs fine. clutch slipping problem maybe?

If the clutch of a V8 was slipping buddy, and you kept your foot down, there would be a bad smell, lots of smoke, and a red hot ruined flywheel.

How anyone can fail to realise a clutch is slipping is beyond imagination.

If you let the clutch right up, then deck the gas pedal, and then the engine speeds up but the car doesn't, the clutch is slipping.

There's a solution - fit a new clutch.

CharlesY

Should have said, it's an auto box.

Has it been like that since you got it, or is it a recent problem. The Autos do seem to do a lot of churning with not a lot happening.

Automatics depend of clutches to make them move.
Every "gear" an automatic has is engaged by at least one clutch, either a multiplate disk clutch or an external contracting brake band clutch.

Read the manual very carefully and then once (IF ?) you understand what is meant by a "STALL SPEED CHECK" carry out the test EXACTLY as described.

You may have a torque converter problem, if you have a problem at all.
The stall speed test will tell you.

CharlesY

Hi, I've only had it about 6 weeks but yeah. I've never had a 3.9 V8 Disco Auto before but I've I've had a 4L Cherokee Auto (shouldn't mention that here, sorry) and a V8 RangeRover Auto which both seemed a lot more responsive, on accelarating whilst moving. It's not to bad if you floor it from standing if you need to pull away quickly from a busy junction etc. but sometimes it can be embarrassing if you try to overtake at 50+. I wouldn't of expected that of a V8 even taking in to account the 2000 odd kg it's got to pull. Also seems like you have to push your foot along way to activate the kickdown.

Thanks CharlesY, I'll try that.

I wouldn't expect it to be much different from the RR, so you may have a problem. What about kick down cable adjustment?

O.k. cheers. Will try that aswell. Thanks for your help. Let you and CharlesY know what happens. Also get aproblem with tickover fluctuating after I fill up with petrol. Posted this before but got no answer. Worth changing the petrol filter? thanks Mick