So, I am going to purchase my first discovery here pretty soon. I am looking at a 1998 Discovery about 130 miles from where I live. I am going to drive down and pick it up, but the owner said the only problem is a rubbing sound coming from the rear on one side. She has told me that her dad said a new bearing is needed. I am a complete noob when it comes to mechanics, so I don't know how accurate her dad's opinion is and if I should trust it.

My main question here, is whether or not it will be safe to drive home (130 miles). Also how much will I have to pay to replace what may be wrong. Lets go with a worst case, and best case scenario here since I am unaware of the exact problem.

Any help is greatly appreciated,

Nate Michaud

 

if its the bearing in the axle then you wont get very far unless you tighten it up for the short while. if its the engine then you are screwed. but it could be the brakes.

nate, I am not at the vehicle. Did you get a look at the vehicle first instead of buying as is? Where are you located?

 

Yeah if it is a wheel bearing you will not make it 20 miles let alone 130.
You can buy the parts (check the DI tech section) and take them with you.
Then drive it to the nearest muffler shop and have them replace the wheel bearings for you.
If you try and drive it the bearing will seize and it will also chew up the stub axle.

 

Thanks for your help! I have not purchased the car yet, I am going to go look at it tomorrow with the intention to purchase it, if and only if everything looks okay, and this problem isn't too large.

I am located in Eugene, OR but the vehicle is in Medford, OR.

She has told me that she currently uses this to get around, and has been driving on it for a while, so I am assuming it is not the bearing from what both of you have said, as she would not make it more then twenty miles.

My next question if you two would be so kind, is what should I look for in order to make sure it is not the engine? Any pointers in checking this specific problem out before purchasing?

 

Go over to the DI section and read up on the "tech section", that will answer 95% of your questions.