I just purchased my first Land Rover. It's a 2000 Disco II with 81,500 miles. It appears that the valve covers are leaking. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being a total engine rebuild and 1 knowing how to check the oil. How difficult is changing the valve cover? While I have things apart what else should I do? I already have the list form DiscoMike on the 60,000 mile service and that looks like a great start.

Thanks,

 

Might as well change the plugs and wires. Use Magnacor 8mm wires or you'll be replacing them again in 20,000 miles.

Dave

 

Follow the Rave CD instructions and call Disco Mike if you run into trouble ... should be a 5 or 6 on your scale.

 

Are you sure they leak. Mine appeared to be leaking when I bought it, but it uses no oil and nothing drips on the ground. Either they were leaking and had been replaced recently or it is just normal Land Rover seepage to let you know it has fluid in it. I think tightening them up may be an option, not sure though. Just a thought.

 

Since the Intake manifold needs to be removed to replace the v/c gaskets I would replace the plug wires for sure.
By the way, how bad is the leak, is it dripping on the ground, if not, power scrub the engine clean and leave well enough alone cause they will all seep a little with time.

 

The leak is a good one. I got two 6" spots on the ground after about 24 hours. I just took it the car wash to clean the underside. There is oil everywhere. This way I may be able to see the source.

Is there anything I should watch out for? I plan on changing the plug, plug wires and serpentine belt at the same time.

 

First, I would try to get to the valve covers and snug the bolts. Not real tight, just see if they are loose. Another thing to think about is sludge clogging the oil ports and keeping oil retained in the heads, causing more oil to leak out. Might want to consider an ATF flush before you pull the valve covers off.