(This got pretty long...I've bolded the questions and important stuff. Feel free to skip the rest if you want the executive summary)
I just bought a 96 Discovery SD with 84k miles. It's my first Land Rover and 4WD.
Since I'm going in blind on what maintenance was done and when, I thought I'd do some preventative work. At least I'll have a bit of peace of mind while I get to know it.
Besides the list below, does anyone have suggestions on other things I can do/have done?
So far, it drives great. It's been neglected so the interior is dirty, the paint is oxidized, and most of the trim is loose due to a stereo install. I worked on a small section of the paint and it's great once I get through all the gunk. Interior is cleaning up nicely, and I'll get the front seats re-upholsterer.
Maintenance I'm planning to do:
--Change the oil, and put in either synthetic or a blend along with a 7500m or 10000m filter.
--Drain and fill trans fluid with Dextron III, also replacing the filter. (Repeat drain/fill 1 or 2 times after a few week interval)
--Air conditioning blows hot. My friendly mechanic is looking at that while he does my state inspections etc.
--Grease gun all the grease points I can find. (Are there any?)
--Check the coolant, perhaps drain and fill.
--Replace fuel filter.
--Replace hose(s). (They look pretty crusty).
--Timing Belt. (Is there one? If there is, it seems like 84k is about when I should replace it.)
--Other Belts...check and replace if needed.
--Have the tires inspected / balanced / rotated.
Anything else?
Also, allow me to ask a few newbie questions. I've noticed that Land Rover's are as common for do-it-yourselfers like me. I'm not expert, but I like getting my hands dirty and doing bigger jobs, but like to have some instructions. I see no Haynes or Chiltons manuals, and my local parts stores don't carry much for this truck.
Is there a factory service manual for these trucks that I can buy?
Am I getting most of my parts at the dealership? (Luckily, my local dealer is 2 blocks from my office!)
I'd love any other tips for a budding car man and new Discovery owner.
Keep on keepin on,
Matt in Utah
I just bought a 96 Discovery SD with 84k miles. It's my first Land Rover and 4WD.
Since I'm going in blind on what maintenance was done and when, I thought I'd do some preventative work. At least I'll have a bit of peace of mind while I get to know it.
Besides the list below, does anyone have suggestions on other things I can do/have done?
So far, it drives great. It's been neglected so the interior is dirty, the paint is oxidized, and most of the trim is loose due to a stereo install. I worked on a small section of the paint and it's great once I get through all the gunk. Interior is cleaning up nicely, and I'll get the front seats re-upholsterer.
Maintenance I'm planning to do:
--Change the oil, and put in either synthetic or a blend along with a 7500m or 10000m filter.
--Drain and fill trans fluid with Dextron III, also replacing the filter. (Repeat drain/fill 1 or 2 times after a few week interval)
--Air conditioning blows hot. My friendly mechanic is looking at that while he does my state inspections etc.
--Grease gun all the grease points I can find. (Are there any?)
--Check the coolant, perhaps drain and fill.
--Replace fuel filter.
--Replace hose(s). (They look pretty crusty).
--Timing Belt. (Is there one? If there is, it seems like 84k is about when I should replace it.)
--Other Belts...check and replace if needed.
--Have the tires inspected / balanced / rotated.
Anything else?
Also, allow me to ask a few newbie questions. I've noticed that Land Rover's are as common for do-it-yourselfers like me. I'm not expert, but I like getting my hands dirty and doing bigger jobs, but like to have some instructions. I see no Haynes or Chiltons manuals, and my local parts stores don't carry much for this truck.
Is there a factory service manual for these trucks that I can buy?
Am I getting most of my parts at the dealership? (Luckily, my local dealer is 2 blocks from my office!)
I'd love any other tips for a budding car man and new Discovery owner.
Keep on keepin on,
Matt in Utah