What you never want to have to txt

Just had a txt from a mate who's been working up in Geordieland on his way home in his 300TDi.

"Awaiting recovery with contents of sump all over A68. Have rescued what's left of Intercooler cowl. See you early doors with a bit of luck"

Hmmm, I guess those Rave CD's will be coming in handy...

And the cause was????

DOnt suppose you know which section of the A68 do you?!? Just so i can be prepared when i go up there shortly!

OK, more info. Happened just south of Tow Law.

After initial inspection of the damage (after a few beers in the pub carpark), the rocker cover is banana shaped with about a half inch gap over #4 cylinder. The other 3 are fine and it actually runs (noisily) on the other 3. The turbo looks to be a separate issue...

Probable cause without lifting the head is a stuck exhaust valve (had new tappets last month) and the pushrod has caused some damage. Will be taking the head off tomorrow with a bit of luck to see exactly what the damage is. Does anyone know the rough cost of a recon TD300, Turner Engineering don't advertise their price.

OK, Armstrong Massey have been excellent with their response (it was bought from there originally and serviced by them). The only damage is a broken rocker shaft. No bent con-rods, no bent valves, compression is as good as a brand new motor.

However, this is the first time they have ever seen a rocker shaft go and not break anything else. On closer inspection, you can see a classic creep failure, probably from a manufacturing defect. They are sending it back to Land Rover with the possibility of a warranty claim.