Thread: Thinking about buying my first Disco...

Originally Posted by Mjt084

Fausto,

I was under the impression that April 94 was the changeover? I may be wrong though. Are the engines visually similar?

The owner has a full service history and has passed on the name of their mechanic if I want to have a chat to him so I will check up on what has been done.

they are visually similar. but some easily spotted differences like the turbo on a 200tdi sits up high and does not have integrated manifold as bee utey mentioned. the 300tdi turbo sits lower and has the bullhorn manifold which is part of the turbo housing. other things such as alternator, vacuum pump etc are less subtle unless you know how they look in each engine. the engine on the picture shown is definitely a 300tdi. as i mentioned i could be wrong about the changeover date. you probably know better than me as you seem to know the month and year.

id rather the 300tdi anyway. parts for the 200 are becoming rare. you wont get a new head for one unless someone has been storing it since they stopped making them.

In addition to the things mentioned previously, check if the filter inside the gearbox has been changed as they can be neglected and clog up causing wear of parts.
Timing belt is essential at 80,000ks, and replace the other belt and hoses.
Cooling system is pressurized and if leaking the coolant may not be pushed to the top of the engine, causing hot running.
They rust in the front footwells, opera windows and luggage area floor.
Our heater split at 300,000ks and flooded the driver's footwell. It is possible to bypass the heater.
Air con and electrics could be pricey to fix.
They are a good thing if looked after.


Sent from my SM-G900I using AULRO mobile app

Things that I would check are;

1. Lift the rear mats/carpet in the cargo area and check the rear floor and side for rust.

2. Check the timing belt. This will not cost a $1000 if you are capable of doing it yourself - probably about $300 or so for parts (do the inner seals and o ring etc whilst you are there).

3. If replacing the timing belt I would consider fitting a new P gasket while the front of the motor is off.

4. Check the cooling system. Especially the reservoir tank. It's worth the @$70 for a new one for your peace of mind (the old ones tend to crack and kill your motor). Fit a low water alarm and digital temp guage with alarm.

That would be the first things thaty I would check/fit. Others will probably think of more.

best luck,
Tom.