I have a 97' disco 1, with 125,000 miles on her. On hot summer days after driving a minimal distance and turning the car off, I return to the car, it starts up fine, but idles very rough and dies. Any attempt to start up after that fails completely. After about an hour of sitting there and cooling down the engine starts up fine. Engine temperature remains at normal level and never over heats. I did some searching to try and figure out what it could be. Most of what Ive read pointed towards the fuel temp sensor. So here is what Ive replaced so far:

Fuel temp sensor
New wires and spark plugs
Air Filter
Fuel Filter
Oil change/filter
Cleaned the MAF sensor

After all of that my problem seemed to disappear, but after a much further drive across town the same problem occurred. After waiting an hour I headed home and the check engine light came on. My obd sensor pulled up codes 1187 and 1187ph. My question is should I replace all four oxygen sensors and where can I find them for a good buy? Also Ive seen other people state that this problem happens even after the sensors are replaced, so any other ideas of what I might need to look for or test?
I appreciate any input, Thank you.

 

Would believe you are suffering a bad CKP (crank shaft position sensor). When it fails, it won't return to normal until engine block cools off. Shuts off or distorts spark.

To prove, re-create situation with you returning home and parking before restart attempt. When it acts up, pour cool water on sensor or blow with compresed air.

 

I experienced very similar symptoms as what you described and replaced my fuel temp sensor. I never got to the point of a CEL, but had very rough idle (to the point I couldn't start it at times).

Might be a cheaper fix than new O2 sensors. If you know someone with a D1 near you, maybe they'd let you remove theirs and test it in yours? Just an idea...

 

I had the same issue your having and I also have a 97. it was the fuel temperature sensor. Pretty easy fix, i got a used one from a low mileage junker.

 

Pour cold water on the fuel temp sensor on driver side of fuel rail.

 

I have already purchased a brand new fuel temp sensor, and put it in but the problem still persists. I was able to get two oxygen sensors ordered and will install them tomorrow and see how that does. Ive read the upstream sensors are the ones I should replace, but any other opinions on that as far as the downstream ones as well? I will also take the same drive and try cooling off the CKP, if that works then I'll know my problem and replace that sensor as well.