Sorry guys, but I've got two stupid fluid questions:

[Meisterbr?wn]

Disclaimer:
1. I am an idiot.
2. I read the manual.
3. I searched the archives.

So here goes:
I was checking the fluids in the Disco last weekend after a longish road trip and noticed the power steering fluid was at or just below the "minimum" mark. In addition, the coolant level was a little below the "cold" mark after letting her cool down.

It *appears* the disco takes standard antifreeze (the red/orange stuff) but the manual says only use "O.A.T." antifreeze. The guys at my local autoparts store didn't seem to think that mattered, but I wasn't about to chance it. The antifreeze does say it is fine for use with aluminum engines and I'm under the impression that the antifreeze color is the critical part.

Second question is power steering fluid: the manual says it needs a "Texaco" brand and gives a part number, anyone know of a place to get this stuff or an equivalent? I went everywhere yesterday and struck out.

I'm very apprehensive about putting just anything in the truck as I know how specialized so many other parts are. Please let me know what y'all think.

Thanks in advance for your help - rig is a 2000 DII.

 

[Discodon]

I would suggest, for the fluids you mentioned, it doesnt really matter.

Anti-freeze, for alu engines, is anti-freeze (just make sure it has Glycol in it). Do not go to the bother of buying LR provided stuff. In the UK, LR wanted 100usd for the stuff, local store wanted 8. It IS the same stuff as long as it's for a Alu engine and inhibits corrosion. In a temperate climate, a 50/50 mix is suitable for most months, going up to an 80/20 mix in bad winters.

Power steering fluid - any make will do - it makes no difference.



When it comes to oils - that's a different matter. Ask around and buy specific fluids. I know what I like for my vehicle and I know what my vehicle likes.

I'm sure some people will have different opinions though.

 

[LRWheelman]

Yo! Adrian! 2000 D2 correct. I know nothing about your anti-freeze, but if it's orange, then you need orange anti-freeze. Just make sure it's compatible w/aluminium. I also know nothing about your ps fluid, so you will want to check before doing but I use NO LEAK ps fluid for amber leaks. When we bought the D1 it was wet in that area, I had used the stuff before (w/fords) and began using it. When the leak continued I began checking hoses and found loose clamp on hose that stopped the leak. DO NOT over fill either, as the expansion tank for the radiator may burst it's seam w/too much coolant (Mine did) or the ps system because it will leak from everywhere, including places where it's never been! Good Luck & Good Day, LRW.

 

[Discodon]

DO NOT be fooled by the colour!!!!

Anti-freeze comes in many colours. Some orange ones are NOT ali friendly, some blue ones are.

Read the lable - it will state catagoricaly if it can be used in aluminium engines.

 

[Discodon]

Oh, bye the way, the LR supplied orange OAT stuff is actually wrong as it ENGOURAGES corrosion. It is documents somewhere - but I cant find where.
maybe they have sorted it out but I would NOT buy that stuff!!!

 

[Greg French]

Any as long as it is safe foe aluminum.

El Cheap-o power steering fluid, as my box has a crack, and most of it ends up in my driveway eventually.

 

[Steve83]

The recommended PSF is special green LR brand ACE/PSF. Most of the aftermarket PSFs contain solvents that make all the rubber it touches soften & swell. That CAN stop leaks, but it usually STARTS more than it stops, because the shaft seal wears out very quickly thereafter. I'd stay away from them. D1s use Dexron ATF for PSF, but I don't know if it's compatible with D2s.

 

[smenzel]

Speaking of anti-freeze, has anyone used the dog-friendly stuff (Sierra) in their Discovery?

 

[bri]

"Yo! Adrian! 2000 D2 correct. I know nothing about your anti-freeze, but if it's orange, then you need orange anti-freeze. Just make sure it's compatible w/aluminium. "

Make sure it is good for Aluminum for sure, but do not assume what is in there is correct.