Hey everyone

Well we are new to this forum and took the plunge on a 1999 D2 with (claimed) head gasket issues. We bought the Rover for $1500 Cdn and is in a 8/10 condition (except engine) and looks as if nobody even used the back seats. I have pulled the engine which was suffering from milkshake oil syndrome even though previous owner had change the head gaskets.

We decided to tear down the whole engine and are going to check the block as well as the heads. I have discovered the engine has been out before as I found the middle back (behind flexplate) frost plug has RTV smeared on it.

I have a hunch the block maybe the issue and because we venture deep into the backcountry we decided to resleeve for extra piece of mind.

I am down to a short block right now and was wondering if any one has delt with Q&E Machine before? I talked to LA Sleeve about sending the sleeves to us and doing the work here but, my machinist thinks it might be cheaper to send it out.

I will post some pics of the rebuild as we go along.

Chris & Ali

 

That's a bummer dude, but it sounds like you got a handle on whats next. Forthcoming PO's are a rare breed these days it seems. Well welcome to the forum and welcome to the machine...

 

Well, if a block pressure test does not show a leak from behind the cylinder liners, you might consider pinning the existing liners. There are write ups on that process as well.

 

you could look for a 4.0 block and fill it with you 4.6 inners

 

Correct me if I am wrong but aren't the 4.0 and 4.6 the same block and have the same bore size.

 

Yep. See attached page from workshop manual.

 

they are; that is why you can put your 4.6 crank and rods in it and you will have a 4.6

 

Hmmm... Now all I need is 4.6 crank and rods.
The extra HP is very enticing
And will all the sensors still all work?

 

I think the MAF and the air intake hose are little different in size to account for the extra air needed for the extra 0.6 liter, but I would test the block, if it passes then I would have the heads done and do a PROPER head gasket job. Chances are if the block is good it was botched headgasket job that failed again. The 4.0 has plenty of muscle as long as your not drag racing. Especially in low range since your going into the back country. Going into the back country you dont want to create any new problems for yourselves. Not to mention a little extra fuel economy.

 

I agree and 4 days into a backcountry trip would not be the best time to find an issue. What my main concern is how did the coolant get into the oil, I have heard about timing cover issues, cracked heads, to bad blocks that tested ok. I have built a few engines from stock to full race and this is the first Rover engine for me. I should be stripped down to a bare block today, then will clean this dirty lump and get ready to pressure test. Hey if I can save a buck fine but I won't skimp on reliability especially when I have my family with me.