What initial and preventative steps for new owner?

**Grumbles** · 24th October 2010, 08:46 AM

I would replace. They are not expensive. And be very careful that you don't lose that little srew which holds it in place.

And have a look here - lots of reading re this little unit. http://www.aulro.com/afvb/search.php'searchid=2067701

**wayneg** · 24th October 2010, 11:12 AM

Have I missed something here, There is no vacuum advance unit on a P38 as there is no Distributor.
One other easy upgrade is to extend the expansion tank overflow pipe down so it runs to the floor and not spray steam under the fusebox. While you are there make sure the pipe running from the top of the expansion tank to the rad is clear by blowing down it. Several members have added a low coolant level alarm which is sadly missing. As already stated the H/t leads are prone to failure and are a worthwhile change. Make sure you get the correct type with the correct fittings for the coil pack ends. These can be got from the UK pretty cheaply.

**Scouse** · 24th October 2010, 11:25 AM

Originally Posted by Grumbles

Oops -missed a word - sorry - - Vacuum Advance Unit.

Originally Posted by glenhendry

Can the Vacuum Advance Unit be repaired/overhauled, or is it easier to get it replaced? Although I know what it is and what it does, I see no mention of it in the workshop manual (unless I am searching incorrectly).

The P38 Range Rover does not have a vacuum advance unit.

In fact, it doesn't even have a distributor !!

**PaulP38a** · 24th October 2010, 12:15 PM

Originally Posted by Scouse

The P38 Range Rover does not have a vacuum advance unit.

In fact, it doesn't even have a distributor !!

Maybe they are referring to the vacuum unit on the Cruise Control situated behind the EAS Box?

**Grumbles** · 24th October 2010, 02:58 PM

Oops x 2. Got my engines mixed up. Have zipped my yapper, put my typing fingers in a straight jacket and jumped back in my box.

**glenhendry** · 26th October 2010, 06:39 AM

Thanks guys - all good stuff.

I intend to go around the engine bay and inspect/clean/wiggle electrical connections carefully to try to ward off intermittent faults in the future.

After all my reading this is other parts of my plan, can you please ratify?

- Additional earth strap from battery to chassis and engine/alternator to chassis
- Fusebox electrical track and fuse inspection and bolster where required
- Silicone spray lube all moving parts/springs/etc

My final question is, is it OK to degrease the whole engine bay? Obviously I dont want to flood the fuse box, but is the engine bay otherwise a degrease-able/spray-able area?

Thanks!

**wayneg** · 26th October 2010, 09:55 AM

Originally Posted by glenhendry

My final question is, is it OK to degrease the whole engine bay? Obviously I dont want to flood the fuse box, but is the engine bay otherwise a degrease-able/spray-able area?

Thanks!

On several occasions I have blasted the whole engine and bay with a pressure washer after a trip out into the bush. Maybe I have been lucky but have had no problems with starting afterwards or electrical gremlins. I have always sprayed WD40 or similar over the electrical connections and H/T leads so maybe that helped. Everything seems pretty waterproof but I would not get to to enthusiastic around the fuse box

**Aussie** · 26th October 2010, 01:02 PM

have read lots, but if you were to get a new Rangey with an uncertain history, what things would you do straight away?

Get a second job and talk to your Mrs about setting up a large overdraught, Those are the 2 things you should do 1st.

**cucinadio** · 26th October 2010, 01:24 PM

welcome mate......just remember all good intention on this forum come from people that are a breed of there own, they have a wealth of experience and advice (in my case more than any land rover spec around this area)...anything that goes to the shop will cost an arm and a leg (but money is not an issue, than your all good) don't get caught up in all crap that some chuck at each other as it only applies to them and if you get caught up in a moment of keyboard warrior'ism, than they will be sure to shot you down in one way from or an other....great forum for the good oil for your truck and many willing to share it with you ..enjoy, be careful tho...can be VA

cheers

**glenhendry** · 29th October 2010, 06:30 AM

Thanks for all your info. I have three more questions (with pics):

1) I have dual fuel, and I am still getting used to it. Lst night after driving around all day, I noticed a scary amount of black/dark smoke and soot coming out of the single exhaust when I blip the throttle. My friend thinks its a dual fuel residue/build-up. I have no idea. The previous owner normally used LPG and I have been using petrol on my first day - any ideas? It left a black smudge on the ground...

1a) Didnt 1999+ 4.6 models have dual pipes? Is a single pipe a common mod later?

2) The pic attached shows a white multiplug connector under the fusebox that is not connected. Any ideas what it is for?

3) The second pic shows a tube (looks like a vent or drain) that is behind the radiator overflow. It hook over and goes down behind the ABS. Is that normal or aftermarket. Its a hard poly tube, not soft like rubber.

Thanks agains folks, appreciate it.
Larger images at glenhendry.blogspot.com

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