I Suppose it Had to Come to This...

[DieselLSE]

For a little while now, I've been getting the low engine oil pressure light coming on at odd times. Indie has diagnosed it as most probably worn bearings. Car has done 185,000km with regular 10,000km oil and filter changes (along with regular flushes). Use has mostly been country driving, with very little stop/start city driving or short trips.

So, I'm joining the steadily growing list of TD/SDV6 engine failures. I certainly won't be driving it until it completely fails.

So, whilst looking at replacement options (Defender Hardtop, Grenadier) I'd probably much prefer to either put in a new block (and upgrade the inlet manifolds to aluminium) or strip my TDV6 down and upgrade the bearings and rebuild it. That, along perhaps with a gearbox overhaul and a few other bits and pieces would probably see the car last another decade or so which should see me out in terms of outback/bush travel.

[PerthDisco]

That’s not many kms.

You can change the bearings with engine in car removing the sump and oil pump.

Have you updated the oil pump?

Seems unusual unless it’s about to destroy itself.

I’d also make sure the pressure switch is not at fault.

[ChookD2]

Change the oil filter and cut the old one open see if there any shiny bits. Seems to a better indication of bearing or other metal failings.

[Graeme]

You can change the bearings with engine in car removing the sump and oil pump.
The rear seal should be changed given its age (it's probably already weeping) and that the old rubber won't like the crankshaft being slightly lowered when changing the mains.
There's not much work room around the crankshaft to be changing the bearings from underneath, especially with no bearing tabs to keep the shells in position while tightening the bolts.

[discomatt69]

If you consider the Grenadier I strongly advise the same as I tell people who are considering buying a LR.
sign up to the forum and do a lot of reading before you commit
Put a small lift in them and the front drive shaft fails, numerous electrical problems, heating and cooling problems, oil leaks, water leaks.
then there is the lack of service availability due to very limited dealers, dealers stopping Grenadier sales due to lack of sales and support from Ineos, no service manuals as promised and no aftermarket scan tool so you can’t even reset the service interval.
I would already own a Grenadier if they were half what was promised but sadly they have missed the mark on many fronts
i still wait and watch with hope because they are fantastic in design and engineering

[loanrangie]

If you consider the Grenadier I strongly advise the same as I tell people who are considering buying a LR.
sign up to the forum and do a lot of reading before you commit
Put a small lift in them and the front drive shaft fails, numerous electrical problems, heating and cooling problems, oil leaks, water leaks.
then there is the lack of service availability due to very limited dealers, dealers stopping Grenadier sales due to lack of sales and support from Ineos, no service manuals as promised and no aftermarket scan tool so you can’t even reset the service interval.
I would already own a Grenadier if they were half what was promised but sadly they have missed the mark on many fronts
i still wait and watch with hope because they are fantastic in design and engineering


Apart from 1 shaft failure in the US and some software issues i've not read of any of the other issues you listed ?
Still the only new vehicle i would consider buying.

[grey_ghost]

Apart from 1 shaft failure in the US and some software issues i've not read of any of the other issues you listed ?
Still the only new vehicle i would consider buying.

I have read of plenty of electrical isssues, water leaks (especially the front sunroofs).

A Grenadier owner turned up to my place (I sold him some Rangie parts). He showed me the common water leaks (sills and sunroofs). His car had been back to the dealer for multiple repairs…. And it still leaks.

Interesting he also owns a new Defender. When I quizzed him he said “you simply can’t compare a new Defender and Grenadier - they completely different vehicles”

His favourite? The Defender.

I expressed my interest in the Grenadier (I said “in a few years when they have ironed out the bugs”) and he said “Don’t hold your breath - I can’t see them lasting much longer. There are rumours they are in trouble “…

[discomatt69]

Apart from 1 shaft failure in the US and some software issues i've not read of any of the other issues you listed ?
Still the only new vehicle i would consider buying.
Well you really red to have a good look at the Grenadier forum, it’s not one front drive shaft failure it’s a failure that has or will shortly happen to every lifted Grenadier
I am waiting a minimum of a few years to see how the whole project pans out, at this stage they have issues a plenty and no solid fixes or help from Ineos

[Tins]

185K is nothing. I'd look further than bearings.

As for another, well the new Ranger SuperDuty looks like it will be awesome, if you can deal with a dual cab. (Wonder if Ford will bring some of the upgrades to the Everest). 4500kg towing is a game changer. With ball weight scales built in, ffs.

[Graeme]

Lots have failed at less than 150K as reported by the owners on this forum although mostly 3.0 engines.

[Tins]

Lots have failed at less than 150K as reported by the owners on this forum although mostly 3.0 engines.
Yes, but usually catastrophically, spun bearings etc. Of course, oil pressures have not been documented, so who knows? I would still want to investigate other reasons, such as release valves. Inspection of the oil filter is a must.

Lots of engines have done double that figure with no issues. But it’s easy to comment without seeing.

[Grentarc]

Yes, but usually catastrophically, spun bearings etc. Of course, oil pressures have not been documented, so who knows? I would still want to investigate other reasons, such as release valves. Inspection of the oil filter is a must.

Lots of engines have done double that figure with no issues. But it’s easy to comment without seeing.
Mine did 311k kms, and the oil pressure was checked and well within spec about 2 weeks before it went. The only possible sign of a warning was a slight groan from the engine when cold the day before, but once warmed up it sounded completely normal. The next day, my wife left home and 15 minutes later, oil pressure light came on hard with lack of engine power, she pulled over letting it idle for 5 mins, which it did with no bad noises. After she turned it off, the slag that was once bearings welded to the crank and it didn't turn over again.

I was in the process of fitting a permanent oil pressure gauge, which is why I had checked it 2 weeks prior, but not had the time to make it a permanent installation.

[DiscoJeffster]

Mine did 311k kms, and the oil pressure was checked and well within spec about 2 weeks before it went. The only possible sign of a warning was a slight groan from the engine when cold the day before, but once warmed up it sounded completely normal. The next day, my wife left home and 15 minutes later, oil pressure light came on hard with lack of engine power, she pulled over letting it idle for 5 mins, which it did with no bad noises. After she turned it off, the slag that was once bearings welded to the crank and it didn't turn over again.

I was in the process of fitting a permanent oil pressure gauge, which is why I had checked it 2 weeks prior, but not had the time to make it a permanent installation.

“Oil gauge”
And even if you had, it would have still lunched itself with nothing you could do about it.

[DiscoJeffster]

Lots of engines have done double that figure with no issues. But it’s easy to comment without seeing.


At 377k, but I had new bearings at 240k, so maybe not something to brag about. Thrust measure was way out of balance hence the recommendation to do the bearings, $10k later (plus heaps of other maintenance items). Labour adds up that’s for sure.

[Graeme]

Make sure that the oil filter spigot is in its hole in the housing because if not then oil will go out the open hole.

[DieselLSE]

Make sure that the oil filter spigot is in its hole in the housing because if not then oil will go out the open hole.
2013 D4. Not an issue.

[Graeme]

Sorry, had a D3 in mind. However a similar issue when the drain valve plug in the bottom of the filter housing is partly or totally missing or the spring is out of place. It's an issue for later 2.7 and all 3.0 TDV6, SDV6 and 4.4 TDV8/SDV8 engines.

Did the low oil pressure start after a filter change?

ML3Z-6A606-A is the plug's Ford part number but I don't know if it's available from Ford dealers in Australia.

[DieselLSE]

Did the low oil pressure start after a filter change?

Yes, it did as a matter of fact. At first I thought I may have over or under filled it, but I hadn't.

[shack]

Yes, it did as a matter of fact. At first I thought I may have over or under filled it, but I hadn't.Change the filter again would be my suggestion, what brand filter did you use?

[Graeme]

Remove the filter and check that the plug is in the correct position and that no part is missing.

[Dagilmo]

185K is nothing. I'd look further than bearings.

As for another, well the new Ranger SuperDuty looks like it will be awesome, if you can deal with a dual cab. (Wonder if Ford will bring some of the upgrades to the Everest). 4500kg towing is a game changer. With ball weight scales built in, ffs.

It looks very interesting. I'm just finishing refurbishing a Formula 233 boat and it has come in at 3.6t (full of fuel and water so can be about 3.25t empty) it has me thinking of tow options. One of the US trucks are unappealing but the Ranger is a perfect size. I'd struggle with the Ranger image and I love my LR so struggle to contemplate changing but...

[DieselLSE]

Change the filter again would be my suggestion, what brand filter did you use?
Genuine. I only use genuine parts.

[DieselLSE]

Remove the filter and check that the plug is in the correct position and that no part is missing.
Will do. Thanks.

[Saitch]

It looks very interesting. I'm just finishing refurbishing a Formula 233 boat and it has come in at 3.6t (full of fuel and water so can be about 3.25t empty) it has me thinking of tow options. One of the US trucks are unappealing but the Ranger is a perfect size. I'd struggle with the Ranger image and I love my LR so struggle to contemplate changing but...

Look, mate. I see what you're saying.
Being the sort of bloke that I am, I more than willing to swap a 13'6" tinny with 15hp tiller steer, for the Formula, to ease your towing quandary. No questions asked. Both tinny and motor in excellent condition.

PM me if interested :angel:

[V8Ian]

Look, mate. I see what you're saying.
Being the sort of bloke that I am, I more than willing to swap a 13'6" tinny with 15hp tiller steer, for the Formula, to ease your towing quandary. No questions asked. Both tinny and motor in excellent condition.

PM me if interested :angel:
Are you concerned about climate change?

[Saitch]

Are you concerned about climate change?

Nah. Got plenty of firewood here, after Cyclone Alfred.

[V8Ian]

Nah. Got plenty of firewood here, after Cyclone Alfred.
I was thinking more about raising sea level.

[Saitch]

I was thinking more about raising sea level.

Oh! Sorry, V8Moses.

[Graeme]

Will do. Thanks.
Burning oil when using revs after an oil change is another indicator that the plug may have failed as the oil flows into the separator flooding it so oil goes out with crankcase vapour into the inlet.

[John_D4]

TDV[emoji2[emoji2391]9[emoji2[emoji2391]9[emoji2[emoji2391]92]]] transplant?

[John_D4]

Would anyone know why I keep getting ask those regarded emoji’s in my replies? Tapatalk iPhone

[PerthDisco]

;[emoji639][emoji638][emoji640][emoji640][emoji[emoji6[emoji640][emoji638]][emoji640][emoji639]][emoji637][emoji639]]Would anyone know why I keep getting ask those regarded emoji’s in my replies? Tapatalk iPhone

Like you, If I try and use any numbers or symbols in my message it converts them to an emoji symbol. I use the non supported AULRO iPhone app.

[Loosenut]

Rubbish, so many engines out their with far more KM without low oil pressure issues.
It is a low oil pressure issue not a clapped out engine.
I just replaced my oil pressure sender unit, that was a lot less expensive than a replacement engine.

[PerthDisco]

Recent FB group post

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20250418/5ce0f2662ab3636324f2af1ab5df6e59.jpg

[cripesamighty]

You could add mine up there with 565k on it and another guy whose car I saw at my Indy who is not far behind. It's not all bad news! (touches wood and crosses fingers and toes...)

[BradC]

One fifth of all Discos were made on a Wednesday.

[V8Ian]

Full of woe. [bigrolf]

[DiscoJeffster]

One fifth of all Discos were made on a Wednesday.

This assumes they only work Monday to Friday, and equal numbers per day. I suspect they worked seven days and had Wednesday early finish hence why so few live a long life [emoji1787]

[Saitch]

This assumes they only work Monday to Friday, and equal numbers per day. I suspect they worked seven days and had Wednesday early finish hence why so few live a long life [emoji1787]

Mine may have a strike, or some type of industrial stoppage, as it has different dates on different components i.e. RH headlight 14/03/07. LH headlight 20/03/07.[biggrin]

I can't find a 'Build Date' with a day in it, anywhere. Decal on radiator cowling states 03/07 and door sill reads 05/07 (Aussie plate).

[Jeffoir]

Hi Don (Diesel LSE,)

Could you please update the thread on the status of your D4? Did you resolve it? I certainly hope you were able to. The D4 is magnificent!

Apologies if I have missed an update somewhere. I did have a look.

Best wishes, Jeff

[DieselLSE]

Hi Jeffrey,
I was planning on posting when I get the car back in a few weeks, but I'm having the engine rebuilt. The rebuilder is essentially blue-printing the motor. Remember, it was running fine but the oil pressure was low. His theory is that some blocks were not seasoned properly and over time they "shift". His solution is to meticulously line bore the block and balance everything.
My reasoning is that, if successful, the car should see out my Landrovering days. This would be good as I've set it up to suit the way we travel and camp and I don't really want to have to start over again with another vehicle. It took me ages to figure out the best way to wire up a Camping Mode switch, for example. I suppose it could work the same in an L663 but I would need to see a wiring diagram and I'm not even sure they're available.

[BradC]

If this works, I'd be tempted to buy a later model D4 and have it done over.

[Tombie]

I’m going 3.6tdv8 in the near future. I cannot wait for that day!

[Jeffoir]

Thank you Don,
I like your logic.
looking forward to hearing how it all went.
exciting times.
Jeff.

[RANDLOVER]

I’m going 3.6tdv8 in the near future. I cannot wait for that day!

I hope nothing has happened to your D4, and that you are just going to get a new engine for your birthday, which I see is today. Happy Birthday.

[loanrangie]

I’m going 3.6tdv8 in the near future. I cannot wait for that day!

that would be a better use of the cash.

[Tombie]

I hope nothing has happened to your D4, and that you are just going to get a new engine for your birthday, which I see is today. Happy Birthday.

Thanks mate.

Nothing untoward. Engines going just fine!

Once I got the approval for the GVM / GCM upgrade plans the engine upgrade got the nod [emoji41]

[jwb]

Hi Jeffrey,
I was planning on posting when I get the car back in a few weeks, but I'm having the engine rebuilt. The rebuilder is essentially blue-printing the motor. Remember, it was running fine but the oil pressure was low. His theory is that some blocks were not seasoned properly and over time they "shift". His solution is to meticulously line bore the block and balance everything.
My reasoning is that, if successful, the car should see out my Landrovering days. This would be good as I've set it up to suit the way we travel and camp and I don't really want to have to start over again with another vehicle. It took me ages to figure out the best way to wire up a Camping Mode switch, for example. I suppose it could work the same in an L663 but I would need to see a wiring diagram and I'm not even sure they're available.


Good to hear, Don, and hope you are back on the tracks soon. Interesting to watch LR Time line boring, ensuring the bearing gaps are all perfect and the like. He also checked a brand new out of the factory LR crankshaft and found it did not meet LR's own balance specification which he then fixed.
I have the L663 wiring diagrams so might try and pick your brains on the camping mode. They don't seem to be in a hurry to one via software.
Cheers, John

[DieselLSE]

I have the L663 wiring diagrams...
In what format? I'll PM you my email.