Dropping the oil pan is the easiest way to inspect the plate for cracks.

coors how much labor was involved?

Dropping the trans and installing new flexplate; I was charged 7.20 hours labor. $550. Maybe, a little high, but it saved me time and it's fixed. I'm happy:D

I supplied the flexplate from Atlantic Britsih: $45.00 http://www.roverparts.com/Parts/FTC4607.cfm

okay cool...thanks, good price...

If this indeed fixes it, it sounds like money well spent. Would love to hear more on this.

Thanks for the update. So this is not a shade tree job then. Appreciate the pics and the update.

I think I have this "ticking". Damn, and i just dropped the pan about 3 months ago to install new timing chain seals and pan seals.
Wish I would have seen this then. Glad to know you got it fixed though. I would hate to have to replace an entire transmission over a failing 45 dollar part.

The problem is fixed. No more ticking, rattling, or diesel sound.

My technician is a certified LR specialist, has been for like 30 years.

"Shade Tree job"? Not sure I follow. Haven't you ever heard of flexplates cracking in domestic cars. Happens all the time. Actually, I was shocked to find mine cracked. With all the chatter on here about bad oil pumps, slipped sleeves, and flat spots on cams; I was looking everywhere but at the flexplate.

What about all the discos that only make noise once they heat up? Mine is dead quiet at cold idle but on hot it sounds like a diesel.