Thread: Can my Disco Td5 survive the Cape? (And back)

If my 1992 RRC can thrive going to Cape York, I see no reason that a D2 TD5 cannot as it is 10 years younger.
The key to any big trip is preparation. You MUST check all of the maintenance items which on a D2 comprise at least.
Radiator , radiator hoses. completely replace all hoses and thermostat if they haven't been done for 5 years. Replace the radiator if it is original.

Replace the alternator belt , and carry spare. Likewise how old are the tensioner and idler . Replace if over 5 years and keep the old ones as spares.
Is the alternator covered in oil from a leaking rocker cover gasket or camshaft plug? if so pull it out and clean it up, and or replace it.
Is the fuel pressure regulator leaking all over the starter. ditto. Is the fuel cooler leaking water. if so fix it.
Replace the oil and service the auto.
Check the front ball joints and replace if the boots are shot.
Check the brake pads and replace if worn, change the discs if heavily worn.
Check the shocks and if any are covered in oil, replace them.
Check the suspension bushes.
Check the front driveshaft by checking the rear double Cardan joint for wear.
if you have over say 160kk up, check the starter.
Of course do a complete service including changing all the oils and filters.


If you do the above you have a good chance of having a trouble free trip.
My RRC went all over the roughest roads in Australia before I sold it and still drives like a new car, according to the enthusiast that bought it.

lastly maybe get premium roadside assistance from NRMA or similar.
Regard sPhilip A

I don't know about your D2, but many D2's have made the return journey.

See if you can find a set of 5 (or 6) 16" wheels and offroad tyres to substitute for your "townies".

It's not a lemon, but may need some careful assessment/maintenance/repair to get it "tuned up" for offroading - remember it's been a town car, and much of its capability is not exercised in the 'burbs!

Our rocket's been all over the top end with a camper on the back, and touch wood, only one escapade in the Kimberley with a feral rock smashing the fuel filter to bits.

I'd take a well checked over D2a in a heartbeat.

Pete

If they didn't get Landies up the Cape, how would they recover all the rest of the crap that conks out?
If you prep your vehicle appropriately (snorkel and good tyres basically) then you'll be laughing.

You purchased the vehicle when it was about 9 years old. Chances are that the guy before you did not service it properly...who knows for example whether the oil in the front diff had been changed or the level at least checked. What is the service interval on a radiator hose...well 140,000k is well over the interval, so it was probably original. Alternator...well these vehicles have a lot of power goodies, so they cop a hiding. Mine was done at about 170,000 in my V8. Now yours is done you dont have to worry for another 100,000 plus...

I have owned my 02 since new. Drove it out of the showroom with 50 kilometres on the clock and its now done 220,000 with original diffs.

The D2 is an honest truck, especially in base form with no ACE or air suspension to let things 'down'. The D2 will get you further and back than most if not all stock 4wd's of different brands of the same vintage, if well looked after.

Cheers

its been done in landies with no primary parts being newer than 20 years old..

pretty confident a spritely 11 yo vehicle might just have enough life left in it to have a go.

Originally Posted by Slunnie

I don't know about your D2, but many D2's have made the return journey.

My D2a 'town classic' did it twice,including the OTT up and back both times,no worries at all.

Good set of boots(i ditched the 18's and fitted it with 16's)from new,and a good look over the vehicle before you go and you should be OK.

There are numerous good threads on here about things to keep an eye on with a D2.

Maybe it's time to investigate whether you're being well looked after by your chosen mech....

Pete