Unfortunately not driving it is out of the question for now. Im in Ft Myers atm with my wife and kids and need to get back to Jacksonville. Its about a 5 hr drive so im just gonna have to bite the bullet and drive since i have no other option. Ill monitor oil and coolant lvls on the way back and fill as needed. I know im taking a big risk but i have no other options.

 

If it is an exhaust leak only, you shouldn't lose coolant. I bought an 03 for parts that had the same problem and I drove it from the buy to home, about 30 minutes.

I didn't mean to be bossy. I was just typing on my phone. The risk of driving is that the exhaust can groove the heads or block deck. Did I say that already? Anyway, they are both fixable problems and if you don't have a choice then I'd drive it, same as you.

What you may see is oil pushing out. So I'd check the oil halfway through the trip. The 03 I parted had gunk everywhere from oil being pushed out.

Good luck.

 

So i decided to attempt the job my self, anything i should do extra while the head is off?

 

Be sure to change the injector o rings, which should come with the kit. Also there is a great youtube video on how to clean your injectors for the price of a couple of small hoses and some carb cleaner. I always clean my heads inside and out while they are off. If you want a belt and suspenders you should just take the heads to an engine shop to have them checked (to be sure they are true, but I'd bet yours are since there has been no overheat; still the check should b super cheap).

Good decision, IMHO.

When I said "exhaust leak" above I meant cylinder pressure... I know you've already ruled out an exhaust leak.

You will lose coolant when you take off the heads so it never hurts to flush instead of just adding more coolant.

 

What about timing chain and oil pump gear? Should i replace them while im in there. Disco has 155k mile btw.

 

Yeah as long as you are there you might consider replacing the water pump too if that is original.

 

Ok so this is what im ordering as of now let me know if im missing anything.

 

Those are super cheap prices! WTF™ I need for you to do my next order. Unfortunately I can't zoom in so I can't tell if the HG kit has the plenum gasket. Be sure you get that. Also you will need the exhaust manifold and flange gaskets. They may be in there but I can't see.

Only other comment I have is to maybe not get the Motorad thermostat. If you search here there are a lot of cautionary tales on them. I'd get the soft spring 180 if you go OEM (it is gray) or, and this is my favorite mod, do the inline thermostat mod for close to the same money.

 

Day 1 update. The wife and i started on the disco.

Intake off.


Engine drained of coolant lol


More stuff off.




Just residual coolant in rear cylinder.


Well there's your problem.


Driver side head.


Passenger side head.


Help from friends.


End of day 1.

 

Great pictures! I like the way you just jumped in.