I just picked up a 99 Discovery 1, needs some cosmetics and body work done but engine and trans are nice and smooth, though high mileage at 160k. After driving small sedans for the last decade, this is a nice step up, and it's pretty easy to find in a parking lot. I read a lot about the complaints of people with Discos, window regulators going out and leaking sunroofs and it all sounded like so much fun I couldn't resist. Small stuff first, sealing the windshield and getting my left passenger door open, then I might play with some bigger stuff like replacing the timing chain and other timing equipment. Nothing beats being on time. Luckily, when I eventually break something and can't drive it, I only live two miles from work, so it's not a huge deal (he says until he starts a fire playing with the fuel pump). Wish me luck!

 

Welcome to the group. Instead of worrying about the timing chain: spend some time reading up on head gasket replacement. With 160k on it; you will be needing to replace them soon if they have not been done recently. Not a terrible job but it is important to do before things get too out of control.

 

Welcome to the club!

Brian.

 

See, I was worrying about timing because I need knowledgeable people such as yourself to set me straight, and I very much appreciate that. I'm not seeing any indicators to suggest the gasket going out besides high mileage, but certainly better safe than sorry. Thank you!

 

At 160k, and as cheap and easy as a timing chain is to replace, it is definately worth checking,
If you want to do prevenative maintenance, I would replace it as well as the head gaskets, lifters, thermostat and waterpump.