Hey all,
Just getting started on replacing my head gaskets on my Disco. My only real question was where I should get the parts? I've been told to go nowhere besides the dealer to ensure proper fitment etc. Is this true? I've done research on Atlantic British and they seem pretty legit. What do you guys recommend?

 

I'm just finishing a HG replacement with parts from AB. No fitment problems at all, and wherever available I bought the Land Rover OEM parts from them rather than 3rd party (water pump, pulleys, etc).

If you're in there, you might as well change the water pump (if it hasn't been done). I didn't know the history on mine, so I changed it. It was obviously 3rd party and I should have taken pictures of the new one - the difference is obvious (cheap stamped metal impeller on the 3rd party vs a cast brass impeller on the LR one). I also did the tensioner and idler pulleys.

Hoses won't hurt either.

And make sure you have some black RTV (hi temp, oil resistant) for the notches between the block and the heads (you don't need much at all) before you re-install the valley pan gasket.

The AB Head Gasket kit had everything I needed as far as gaskets, and then some (it had valve guide seals and several other parts I can't ID that I assume are for rebuilding the heads based on quantity). While you have a different motor, I think its a safe assumption that the AB kit for yours will be just as complete.

 

I say Atlantic British. They're great people to deal with and their prices are reasonable. I'm sure there are others, but I've never had a problem with AB. I only go to the dealer if I need something ASAP. Just shop around but try and get your parts from one source. Shipping charges add up quick!

Eric

 

AB is a great way to go. Also buy a new t/stst head bolts, belt if needed.
Then go to British Parts of Utah and buy their 8mm STI plug wires. From the parts store besides all the fluids,spark plugs, filters and cleaners, buy a bottle of either Water Wetter or Purple Ice to add to the coolant system.
Also, make sure you lube the new head bolt threads, lightly, so you get a better torque setting.

 

Thank you guys! Thank you for all your helpful feedback. I will certainly follow your guys' guidance to get this job done correctly.

I think my main concern was that the quality of the HG kit from AB was going to be just as good as the Land Rover Genuine parts. I don't want to be doing this job more than I have to I'm just concerned about any premature failures as a result in using other parts other than LR Genuine. Anyone want to give me some reassurance?

 

its better than the OEM kit. make sure you get new head bolts when you order the gasket kit, a new thermostat as well.

 

I bought my hg kit from Will Tillery. Better price than AB, with elring gaskets. You can call him at 434-251-9331

 

Thank you sir! Dually noted!

 

If things go well I will be picking up an 01 Disco SE7 tomorrow. Sounds like a nice rig, but it needs a headgasket job. Can anyone help me out with a list of any special tools I'm going to need for the job? I'm planning on doing a few other maint items while I'm in there like the water pump, thermostat, belts etc...

I've been lurking on this site for a little while and appreicate the community already. I've been members on a couple BMW and VW sites, and this one looks to be a good one as well. I'm looking forward to gettin this rig on the road.

Thanks!