As many of you have probably done I am joining this forum because I am in desperate need of help. (I joined a Volvo forum a year ago for that reason...over 500 posts and many $$$ later I have a nicely modified ride). Right now I am sitting in a hotel with my wife, 3-month old, and several suitcases, falling well short of my goal of Florida by tomorrow. My 2002 Discovery II decided it didn't want to make the trip without a detour to the side of the highway and a flatbed to the Dealership. The dealership isn't open until Monday so I need to gather as much information as possible about the problem so I can keep as much of the little money I have left (after the tow and the hotel).

Here is the background:

2002 Disco II with 57,000 miles (just bought it last month)
I was driving down the highway when the battery light flickered on then off on the dash. Within 10 seconds the back of my car looked like a crop dusted and smoke filled all the lanes behind me. I pulled over and the sweet smell of coolant overwhelmed my engine compartment. When I could pop the hood I realized a slippery redish liquid had sprayed the front and top of the engine and the coolant resevoir was empty. My fear was that the head was blown but now coolant is in the oil. I had it flatbedded to the nearest shop which mainly does tires and mufflers but I wanted to see if it was just a hose. Too bad when they started it a horrible clanking noise erupted and I immediately feared it was the water pump. Upon further inspection the belt from the fan pulley seems to now be contacting the fan (hence the clanking).

I did a search on your site and it appears to be consistant with a bad pump or bearings.... I have several questions:

-Does this sound to you to be a water pump, could it be anything else?
-How much is the dealer going to take me for with labor and parts?
-Does anyone know anything about Land Rover of Richmond, VA?
-Could you make me sound like I know what I am talking about when i talk to the service tech?

Thank you so much guys, I am really in a jam and any help would be appreciated. I am looking forward to learning from you all the best way to modify my new ride (once I get it running again).

 

Still stranded....

 

I was just in the Fredricksburg area for a business trip so don't know much about the LR dealerships. The dealership always charges more for parts so you'll probably pay premium for the water pump (sounds like its cooked). With labor fees, you might be lean for the remainder of your trip. I hope you get everything fixed and back on the road safely and within your budget. Good luck.

 

I personally hope that everything gets taken care of for you.

LR of Richmond, Can't help there, I deal with Fort Worth and San Antone.

Have you heard anything from LRNA? Do you still have warranty?

Good look brother