oil soaked D1 - how should I clean the under carriage to see what is leaking?

[DisKO]

OK, I'm new to Disco's and trying to get this jewel in shape as my daughters first truck (complete by 6-08) and I'm looking for some input.

The front crank seal will be replaced on this recently purchased 111K D1 and may also have them install my reman steering box (I'm not sure I'll have the steering box done as I feel comfortable tackling it after reading the service writeup).

From the front of the engine to well past the transfer case - we have the beginings of asphalt...oil from the crank seal, PS fluid from the gearbox and who know what else. So three questions:

1. how do I clean this jewel to the point I can tell what is leaking and what is collateral damage? I worry there is a rear main and perhpas tranny and transfer case leaks but there is no chance of doing a CSI style assessment to determine the leaking components with it dirty - or is there? It is clear the front crank seal and steering box seals are leaking.

2. Is there anything magical about replacing the front crank seal that an experienced, but non-dealer trained mechanic could screw up? I plan on providing him the LR seal.

3. Since we'll have a few items off the front of the engine, is there anything else I should do while it's in that state?

Since I'm a rookie on LR's and its been a few years since I've done these projects, I'd appreciate getting the benefit of your experience - just tell me what you'd do...

Thanks in advance -

 

[ebrown]

Good call on the D1, not trying to scare you or anything, but a friend of mine in HS walked away from a MAJOR accident in her '98 D1, and it went on to get in another major wreck that finished it off.

Anyways, I use Greased Lightning full strength with good success on most items, and it isn't as hard on rubber lines and rings. For the heavy stuff, anything with n/p-xylene in it, brake cleaner comes to mind. CCl4 if you can get some!

If the PS box is leaking from the input seal, have someone watch while you turn to the lock, and if the shaft moves in/out a lot then just replacing seals will be a shortlived band-aid. The two inner bushings are worn and will need replacing, a tougher job, but do-able.

There shouldn't be anything too spooky about the front engine seal, but you might check the oil pump and replace it if you are getting low O/P lights on start up or while driving. The only mechanics that have EVER complained about/had trouble working on my Rover were a few "import" shops, but the little guys and family shops have always come through for me in a pinch. One "import" mechanic almost cursed at me and turned red when I asked him a question about my Rover. He said that he doesn't work on Land Rovers, anymore!

Good luck!

 

[Porter]

Try a UV light and a dye, you can purchase it at an autoparts store. Just powerwash the underside, maybe spray some simple green or engine cleaner first. Add the dye and drive around. Check everyday for any leak using the UV light. If its a big leak you'll want to see it early, since the dye may spread out afterwards.

 

[DisKO]

Thanks for you insight.

FInal thought be fore putting the front end on stands and gettign a bunch opf rags and brushes:

Would it be asking for trouble if I steam cleaned the under carriage but carefully staying away from the top of the engine? It's a mess under there but I worry about waking the electrical gremlins who will never leave...

 

[QCNR]

Thanks for you insight.

FInal thought be fore putting the front end on stands and gettign a bunch opf rags and brushes:

Would it be asking for trouble if I steam cleaned the under carriage but carefully staying away from the top of the engine? It's a mess under there but I worry about waking the electrical gremlins who will never leave...

No, if you can start the engine straight after you have finished and go for a drive/ let it
warm up. I have washed the top of my 98 RR several times ( but using a brush, then rinsing with a gentle hose trickle) and never had problems.

Like you mention the problems come when 'pressure washing'. Water can be forced
into places it shouldnt and it's then more difficult to dry.

 

[joeb1]

I say leave it alone..

you will never seal it completely..

 

[Darren M.]

if you clean the oil, tranny fluid and or PS fluid off your truck, you will be removing all the rustproofing.