Thread: Rocky engine

The first one probably needs a new tensioner due to the spring losing tension, 2nd i would steer clear of unless its cheap enough to factor in a new head.
The head may be ok but there could be numerous causes for the gasket to go.

A D1 300tdi with 200,000kms on the clock sounds too good to be true. They are out there occasionally but that means it has done on average around 11,000kms/year if it is a '98 model. At least they are telling you about the problem and the fix which is good. Is the expansion tank black or white/cream? It should be a white/cream aftermarket one if the black one blew at the seams as the majority of people replace these with the aftermarket ones once the originals have blown. If it is still black then ask a few more questions.

Tensioner as already mentioned, check engine mounts, gearbox mounts, condition of hoses and any leaks especially on the engine block next to the alternator (potential p-gasket problem/water pump housing problem).

If it bothers you then go with your gut feel and not your heart. If you decide to buy then factor in the cost of a replacement head in your negotiations as loanrangie has indicated.

Thanks folks. I didnt take any notice of the expansion tank, but he did say its a replacement. He seems quite honest about the vehicle. He has had it 7 years and it had 120K on it when he purchased it...now at just over 200k.

The one with 320k is owned by British 4x4, they say they have had it 18 months, has had a head replacement at some stage, seems good, stable idle, powerful, has had a few things replaced. Has MadMan sensors setup which I like. Its a Rissignol supposedly. ES I think, full leather etc.

I also noticed the 200k one was quite seepy with oil down the side of the block, coming from rocker cover I guess so shouldn't be a big deal.

How long do auto trans last? With mostly on road and little heavy work?

A slow and rocky engine could be as simple as the valve clearances are set too tight, especially after a head gasket change. It's not a hard thing to check, a coupla spanners, a screwdriver and feeler gauges and it should take about 15 minutes.

Auto trans last as long as they last but a well maintained and lightly loaded one should see the high side of 400K.

I had to get my auto reconditioned at 260Ks approx. It had difficulty finding reverse 50% of the time.

Seeping oil from the rocker cover is probably just a new rocker cover gasket - cheap and easy to fix.