Expert in training here: I had a lot of misfire and SAE-related codes come up (P0414, P0300, P0305, P0301, P1300) after a new engine install and it turned out to be a clogged catalytic converter on the drivers side. Now it runs perfectly: https://landroverforums.com/forum/di...et-lots-90161/

 

Ok a bit of an update. Checked for vacuum leaks(none). I have no catalytic converters so I know that’s not the problem. I’m now convinced it’s something electrical. I made a ground strap from the coil pack to firewall and that seemed to help a bit. Still getting a p303, p300 and 1300. The previous owner had the valve cover gaskets done. I saw somewhere about a ground strap being mounted on the drivers side. My(04) doesn’t have this, should it? Could it be some corrosion in the negative battery cable? Still pulling my hair out but I feel like I’ve made a hint of progress.
Stefan

 

Bump. Anyone?

Still getting a flashing engine light for #3.
Swapped a couple wires around today, no change. Cylinder 3 plug is wet when pulled but I can’t tell if it’s fuel or oil. I don’t think it could be coolant as I’m not visually loosing any. My compression tester arrives tomorrow. Could it be a bad valve? Perhaps a stuck injector? I haven’t read anything on these forums about injectors going bad so I fear the worst

 

What year/engine do you have? If 4.6 with a wet spark plug I wouldn't be so quick to rule out coolant.

Not enough coolant can seep through a cracked block to be noticeable in the overflow tank.

A good test for this is to pull the plug after the engine is up to temp and inspect with a boroscope. You can get a cheap USB one online... Look for bubbles around the seam between the block and the head.

 

Yup it’s an 04 with the 4.6. 168k or about 100k miles. I drive it to work daily and haven’t seen the coolant drop at all though. It’s about 50km round trip.

 

I edited after you posted, see my added comment above.

 

Gotcha, I’ll order one of those up too. My misfire sticks around after engine is warmed up. I certainly don’t mind doing head gaskets but would hate to waste my time if the block isn’t repairable. I’m kinda hoping it’s just an injector or wiring problem but I think I’ve completely ruled out(plugs, wires, coils)
I honestly want to just do the LS swap and get rid of this garbage engine. Problem is I’m moving provinces(Canada) next year and I don’t think I’ll pass inspection with an engine swap.
If anyone else sees this who has an ‘04. Can they please check their drivers side valve cover and let me know if it has a ground wire. Thank you

 

I might also add that the plug on #3 does not appear to be steam cleaned it’s more of a black carbon oily/fuel look

 

That is how mine looked when it had coolant on it.

 

Ok good to know, so it’s more likely a cracked block then a head gasket issue because the cooling passages are at either end and this misfire is isolated to #3?