98 HSE needing valve job/head gasket, etc.

Land Rover Forums Land Rover Classifieds Photo Gallery Member List Calendars Search Contact Us Sponsors
Land Rover Lineup News Forum FAQ Land Rover Recalls TSBs Timeslips Register Login

98 HSE needing valve job/head gasket, etc.

Printable Version

Land Rover >> Vehicle Line Up >> Range Rover >> 98 HSE needing valve job/head gasket, etc.

Page: [1]

Message

<< Older Topic Newer Topic >>

98 HSE needing valve job/head gasket, etc. - 7/29/2005 2:07:38 PM

fsufan8

Posts: 3
Joined: 7/29/2005
Status: offline

Hey all ...just joined today and am anxious to discuss these beasts we put up with b/c we love them so much.

I own a 1998 Range Rover HSE 4.6 with 101,300 miles on it. Overall in great shape (body, interior, mechanically I think). I have been using a few different mechanics here in sunny San Diego for routine maintenance and repairs. I got tired of ALL of the air suspension problems so I recently (3 months ago) swapped out the EAS system for the coil spring conversion kit ...cost about $1500 and the ride is not bad. I prefer to ride on air but I'll take this stiffer, bouncier ride over the numerous air system problems mine has had. Anyway, one of the mechanics I go to is now telling me that he thinks my head gasket is bad, my bearings (engine) are going out due to a very slight engine knock at start up, and it needs a valve job. I cannot believe this truck needs these type of things at 100K but I guess it all depends on the previous maintenance performed before I owned the truck (I bought it 2 years ago w/ 74K). Has anyone else had similar issues with their Rovers needing these things? I'm told this work will set me back $2-3K ...a chunk of money I just cannot cough up at the moment. I did use Alumiseal for the coolant leak (reason for needing a new head gasket) and have not had an ounce of oil or coolant leak since; however, I realize this is only a band aid for what's to come. Any suggestions or comments would be much appreciated!
Thanks!
Steve

Post #: 1

RE: 98 HSE needing valve job/head gasket, etc. - 8/5/2005 1:48:22 PM

duboff

Posts: 274
Joined: 6/30/2005
Status: offline

I would have someone else look at the rangie. a engine knock on start up is not all that rare. Had a similar problem with my 4.0 and went to high mileage oil and the problem solved. The valve thing needs to be tested with a wet and dry compression test. not a big deal. If you have the tool it can be done at home if you can change the spark plugs. A friend to help is a good thing. just makes it easier. Maintainence is the key thing in any vehicle, especially rovers. as soon as you can get the vehicle up and keep it up. It sounds like the tech is making more of a guess not to troubleshoot the problem. hope it helps. gotta love a rover. duboff

(in reply to fsufan8)

Post #: 2