In July I moved to southern Arizona and bought a 2004 Discovery 2 with 72000 miles for $7000. I don't screw around with it...I use it...for it's intended purpose, but it is my first 4 wheel drive vehicle. Last week I developed an overheating problem. I combed the web and followed the suggestions I found. I flushed the radiator and replaced the thermostat. This didn't work. A couple of mechanics told me it was for certain a head gasket issue and offered to help me out for a grand or so. I was at my wits end, but it didn 't seem like a head gasket...no leaks...no smoke in exhaust...no bubbles in oil. Today a young man who is friends with my 19 year old daughter told me the engine was dusty from being in the desert a lot. he told me to wash the outside of the radiator with a hose. I was about ready to park the thing and decided to try it. I spent about 10 minutes cleaning the radiator and problem solved! I have seen many complaints about heating issues that could not be solved and ended up causing the owner to ditch the vehicle, so I put this up here because this was a sure fix. 2 mechanics had both looked at it and said must be the head gasket...lol. Glad I didn't listen to them!

 

I used to do that with my other cars but stopped about 10 years ago (really don't know why...)

I will try that as well, being careful not to bend the fins.

Thanks!