Hi all,

Purchased a 2000 Disco II w/ 141k miles at the beginning of the summer and the number of problems has continued to increase. Very interested in doing all work possible on my own (both for educational and cost-related reasons), but this is also my daily driver so I'm a bit SOL without it.

Earlier in the summer the coolant lines (specifically the T connection that's front and center under the hood) ruptured for reasons unknown to me - perhaps the coolant ran out without my knowledge (embarrassing, though don't think it caused any permanent damage). Replaced the hoses, flushed and refilled coolant, etc. There's been a slow but steady coolant leak since that time, though I've been unable to identify the source (any speculation on why this may have happened in the first place?).

Now I'm at about 143,000 miles and recently changed the oil and filter (put in Castrol Edge Syntec 10-40, I'm located in SoCal). There was first an occasional high-pitched whine I couldn't find the source of. It seemed to be coming from the power steering area but never confirmed; it was louder inside the truck than out, but the noise has since disappeared. Even more recently, the engine has developed a ticking from what sounds to be the engine at warm idle. Got a wireless OBDII scanner and the Fusion iPhone app and it pulled:

P1412
P1415
P1171
P1174

The SAI pump is really noisy upon cold startup. I thought this was normal but with the 1412/1415 codes I'm guessing there's a problem with that system, and 1171/1174 point towards trouble in the same vein, I believe.

So, I have a coolant leak and what appear to be SAI issues (please correct me if I'm misguided there). There also appears to be an oil leak with gunk buildup on the transmission, etc. I've read on other threads that leaking oil covering 02 sensors can be a problem that produces some of the codes I pulled, and I assume an oil leak could also account for a coolant leak (?), but I'm not sure if these problems are related, or exactly how to diagnose/address them.

Also - no check engine light on the dash. I obviously have a lot to learn about buying used vehicles, but curious if the previous owner worked a little magic to disable the light. Might just be that I'm bitter and paranoid at this point.

Anyway, I'm stupid, willing, and mostly able. Any thoughts? Have the RAVE manual downloaded and a decent array of tools to get me started.

Bonus problems:
Temperature gauge light comes on when needle is fully down/engine is cool, then goes away when the gauge spikes up to the regular mid-range temp.

Squeaking brakes at low speeds (backing out of spots, for example). Time for new pads + rotors?

 

it'd be prudent to find the source of the leak. could be head gaskets could be forced outta the overflow...........
recommend you do a pressure test on the system. it will be easier to find the source..there is also a dye and blacklight procedure.
also, would be wise to update and check all related cooling issues= electric fan, fan clutch, 180 t-stat, etc..

sai related codes= i'd start by checking the vacuum lines

 

Much obliged - I'll start looking for the best way to go about finding the leak, and thanks for the lead there. In general, do you think that the coolant issue could be related to the "ticking" noise, or just a separate issue? My major concern is doing the engine harm by continuing to drive without resolving the problem.

 

and someone correct me if need be, but i think 1171 1174 point to maf. cleaning or replacement in order

 

depends on tick. hard to hear it from here, could the ticking sound be of exhaust escape?.....
the coolant loss leads to overheating leads to noise and all sorts of bad news
a $5 auto stethoscope can be purchased at parts store to chase down noises

 

those vac lines head behind right wheel well

 

Bonus problems:
Temperature gauge light comes on when needle is fully down/engine is cool, then goes away when the gauge spikes up to the regular mid-range temp.

this is no bonus this is the problem that is going to cost you an engine.

 

First, leave the MAF alone, with the codes you have, it is not the problem.
With all your issues and being new to Rover, why don't you send me your number and lets talk thru each of your issues.

 

The ticking sound could be related to the failing SAI system. When the valves fail exhaust leaks back through the tubes on the valve covers, clogs up the vac activated control valves and then the vac lines producing a tick and a low sounding rumble.

If the SAI is loud at startup this is a clue. Bearings going bad in the pump... looks and sounds like a worn out hair dryer.

The Solenoid is a cheap DIY fix, The bearings on the pump, not so cheap but easy.

The pump is located on the passenger side firewall.

 

Thanks all! I'm going to try to speak to Mike and see if he can walk me through some of this. Seems like one step at a time with the SAI system and then on from there. You guys are really outstanding when it comes to the help in these forums - can't tell you how much I appreciate it.