I've got a 1996 Disco I (SE, automatic), 275,000 miles and I am the original owner and only driver. Transfer case is bad, but everything else looks and seems good. No problems, no burning oil, avg mileage (varied driving) is about 16 - 17 mpg.

With that kind of mileage but otherwise good condition is a transfer case a good idea? I am thinking in the direction of a used one, I've been told the 1997 & 1998 are "exact replacements", any input on if they are and any input on what other model years might be? What about Disco II?

Thanks,
Chris

 

Where are you located?
http://www.roverlandparts.com/discov...-complete.aspx

If I had one in that condition, I would definitely put a good rebuilt one in. You could get one from a recycler, but the above is already rebuilt and has a 6 month warranty.

I have seen used one go for a few hundred:
http://www.autosportsunlimited.com/u...uto_parts.html#

 

Yes I would replace the transfer case.
You can get one from any automatic transmission DI. ('94-99)
If you get one from a '99 just make sure it is a DI and NOT a DII as both were sold that year.

 

wow, thats a lot of miles, I'm kinda suprised that the TC is the thing that failed. If everything else is good dropping a few hundred on a TC doesn't sound out of line. Even if the truck craps out in a few years you could probably get your money back out of the TC and other parts.

 

As mention Roverlandparts.com is good, you can also find rebuilt units at Todd Co.
Do nut install anything from 94 or 95s, they did have some issues Rover had to correct and try to verify the mileage of any used one you look at including draining it and removing the inspection cover to make sure it is not failing.

 

what problems are you refering to? this is the first thing I've heard of problems with the TC, I thought they were pretty much the most reliable part of these trucks

 

It would be nice if we had a thread or some page or something where previous problem ranges such as Mike has just referred to could be documented and be available to everyone for future reference. I am sure everyone could gain from that collective experience that Mike and a few others have.

I have a pretty solid early 97 and am looking to add another of very similar vintage, preferrably something prior to the PA Emissions requirements which begin with model year 1996. Anything earlier is automatically exempt. I want as much commonality as possible.

If I don't find something reasonably soon, I may have to bite the bullet and pick up some other vehicle instead. I had a very solid 1986 420SEL until a few years back and I am also looking at that version or similar platform Benz, saw a nice silver 300SEL today that was absolute mint shape. Made me drool for one. Best road car ever made was that platform.

There are a multitude of interesting vehicles in this area for relatively low prices these days. I keep looking but waiting and hoping for another Discovery.