Hi all, this week i am going to the desert with my Rover, and i just wanted to know what to look for before going off on a trip (maintenance wise). What should i make sure is in the up and up. Basically what i need is a pre-trip checklist - because last time i went to the desert my coolant tank exploded... i still dont know what caused that. Thanks all!

 

Pre-trip checklist anyone, please?

***Bump***

 

Go over the basics:
Oil Change: How long has it been? time or miles
transmission oil change: Same as above
brake pads: check
coolant: check
tires: pressure and condition
differential oil: how long has it been?
transfer case oil
any leaks that need taking care of?
battery condition
alternator output
serpentine belt: check condition
air filter: condition
fuel filter: how long has it been?
universal joints: any clunking? when were they last serviced?
wiper blade condition:
windshield washer solvent top up
are all lights working?
spark plugs: check or replace
spark plug wires: I would do a visual check at night, make sure they aren't arcing

I'm sure I'm missing something.

that is what I would check. depending on how long you're going for.

 

If you have a black bottle, that is why it failed. They are prone to cracking. Get a clear one (light tan opaque).

I think Larry got it. Check all of your fluids, stay up on your service. If you stay up on your service and check your fluid levels when you change oil, there is not much else you need to check.

Driveline fluids and swivel ***** would be on the top of my list.

 

Yea i did get the tan bottle, and my black bottle cracked right at the seam. So i dont have to worry about that anymore. How do i replace the fuel filter, i have never done that (pictures).

 

I hate to refer someone to another forum however I have found some really good info on expeditionportal. I would be looking at carrying some spare parts that will leave you stranded if they fail. There are some good lists on that site.
http://www.expeditionportal.com/foru...ry+spares+list

 

How many miles on your truck, when was the last major performed? Go to the top of the Discovery section and follow everything on my list.

 

Fuel filter is in the rear passenger wheel well.

Rave manual is in my sig.

 

One other pre-trip item to check is your wallet, make sure you a few $100 bills stashed for emergency needs.

Spare parts, and plenty of tools, maybe even the Rave CD and a laptop.

 

oh, and a brake light switch. They are $20, but if they go out, you will have to wire the defrost into the third brake light to even move it.

I have a spare in the truck now.