I'm new to this site and the whole idea of DIY mechanics. But with a poorly Disco II I'm in desperate need of guidance. Car started over heating and losing water - AA man said probably thermostat. Replaced that and no real difference so probably head gasket. Referred to guy who good with these problems. He IDed that radiator shot so replaced it. Still no change in build up of pressure and resultant coolant loss. I drew the conclusion that it MUST be head gasket job. But now I read that one shouldn't be too hasty in changing. Where can I go from here without spending a fortune at a Land Rover garage? Thinking of DIY but is this perhaps a job too far?

paulth4 said:

I'm new to this site and the whole idea of DIY mechanics. But with a poorly Disco II I'm in desperate need of guidance. Car started over heating and losing water - AA man said probably thermostat. Replaced that and no real difference so probably head gasket. Referred to guy who good with these problems. He IDed that radiator shot so replaced it. Still no change in build up of pressure and resultant coolant loss. I drew the conclusion that it MUST be head gasket job. But now I read that one shouldn't be too hasty in changing. Where can I go from here without spending a fortune at a Land Rover garage? Thinking of DIY but is this perhaps a job too far?

Click to expand...

What engine has yer vehicle got in it?

You could get a pressure and or sniff test done on it to help confirm? If it's a TD5 and is building pressure up then HG is most likely.

It's a TD5 with standard engine. I've been told about a pressure test but apparently they work better on petrol than diesel engines? Also been told that even replacing the HG may not solve problem (build up of excessive pressure resulting in loss of coolant) and could then be looking at poss head replacement £2K + !! if found to be cracked. Seems its lots on money whatever.

paulth4 said:

It's a TD5 with standard engine. I've been told about a pressure test but apparently they work better on petrol than diesel engines? Also been told that even replacing the HG may not solve problem (build up of excessive pressure resulting in loss of coolant) and could then be looking at poss head replacement £2K + !! if found to be cracked. Seems its lots on money whatever.

Click to expand...

You can pick new spanish heads up for around £1200. I went for a known good secondhand head for mine and got it for £250 .

Early TD5s had plastic dowels to keep the head in place, once it has overheated these dowels melt & go out of shape, allowing the head to move slightly & cause the gasket to leak, this is the most likely cause of your problem.