Thread: Disco 2 new purchase what to check + rear main and front engine oil leaks

I have just bought a 2003 Disco 2 4.0 fortunately it was cheap as I know despite its service history it needs some work, it done 170000 KM. It currently has a rear main engine leak ( I pulled the crank inspection plugs and I can see and feel black oil on the back of the flywheel, also after cleaning the whole motor and after only a 200 metre drive oil was dripping from the very bottom of the bellhousing only) it also is leaking from the front of the crankshaft. I have also been told I should pull the heads and check them for warping although the engine does not use coolant I am adviced this is a good maintenance measure. I need some advise as follows;
I figure from what I have read about the oil pump I will obviusly be checking this and likley replacing the front crankcase cover along with oil gears.
Should I pull the engine and work on it out of the vehicle or remove the gearbox and work with it in, I do have a pit so can remove the gearbox and have good access under the vehicle.
Does it make sense to pull the heads and check for warping
if I pull the heads should I dissamble and check everything, valves, valve guides rockers et
As I will have the sump off should I check the crank, bearings, pistons........ just how far do I go otherwise I will end up dismantling the whole engine and I wouldnt mind using it sometime soon....


I seriously appreciate all the help and advice this will be my 7th Landrover but aside from a S3 2.6 rebiuld some years ago this will be the most work I have done on any of my vehicles myself but I cant afford specialist repair costs. I am struggling to know how far to go on this but I do like things working 100% and done properly.

Thanks for all the comments so I guess its out with the motor , and check everything to factory tolerance and take it from there.

Many Thanks