The only thing a head gasket job can't fix. Teen driver, smh.

 

I actually bought this Discovery. It needed a new ABS sensor, master cylinder and brake hose. $300 installed with used parts at Holland's Garage. The cats had actually been recently replaced but whoever did it didn't clear the code. Holland cleared the code, and the truck had no trouble passing Connecticut emissions.

Holland said that it was the "cleanest" D1 he's seen since the days when they were new, i.e., very little rust. I took it to a second independent Rover mechanic for a second opinion, and he agreed. Both commented on how smoothly it drives, particularly in light of its mileage and vintage.

Nine months and 4000 miles later, she still runs like a champ. Slight seepage around the valve cover gasket, but otherwise no active leaks (plenty of dried-on crud from days past, however).

I tried my damnedest all summer and couldn't make it overheat no matter what I did, e.g., steepest, longest hills I could find while blasting the A/C and pulling a trailer. (I was intentionally trying to get everything that was on the edge to break before winter set in).

The only other money I've put into it has been for new tires, battery and starter, and Waxoyl (to keep it "the cleanest"). Truetrac differentials going in next week.