Bought a Disco hours ago, now what?

[urface]

Hey everyone. First off, I know nothing about the discovery model, but I know what a good deal is and I feel that I got a REALLY good deal, so why not buy it. I am buying this truck for my girlfriend and while we already have a off road buggy, I want to do subtle things to this to keep her happy that it's not built up, but me happy that it's not stock.

The model is a 96 SD.

Miles are about 125k and it looked to be taken care off. What are some common issue's I need to know. Simple mods that are a must? I know I am taking off the front bumper to put on an ARB bumper or something of the like (anyone know anything better) an maybe a roof rack, but what I am really looking for is advice and links. These are new to me and I have never sold a car I bought, so this will stay in the family until the world ends haha.

Take care an thanks for the help.

[Serg]

So what did you pay for it my man??

You found a good palce for it here.. For parts go to:

www.roversnorth.com
www.roversland.com
www.atlanticbritish.com


Serg

[urface]

$3800, I feel this was a good deal as we have been looking for the right 4x4 for her and it's conition. Two or three MINOR issues, but was I right to say this was a fair price? Thanks for the links and help with the name.

[02disco2]

Sounds like a great price!!! Man! A new front bumper and roof rack will exceed what you paid for the vehicle!!!

[kbj]

I'd start with the tires. Stick some 245/75/16 MeaTs on there. No lift necessary, just a minor steering stop adjustment. I dont think Im alone in saying that MTs will change the entire look of a disco.

The roofrack is a tradeoff. I think the safety devices roofrack design is the best auto-rack design around and highly functional but it costs me a major chunk of change at the gas station. It also will keep you from parking in many parking garages so be weary. If you plan on filling the rack up, the rear ladder is key.

With that arb bumper you may want to upgrade to heavy duty shocks in the front, many disco owners prefer the Old Man Emus. You may wish to consider simply removing the front airdam, it gives good clearance offroad and looks infinitely better than stock.

Engine- I took DiscoMike's advice and replaced the stock ignition wires and plugs with Magnecor 8mm wires and Bosch platinum plugs with amazing results. It makes a difference in low end torque. Small investment but big payoff in performance.

$3800 is sweet price if the truck is running well.

Good luck with your new toy and post some pics when you modify your tank!

[Hank]

For basic parts, you can't beat Nathans prices at www.discountbritishparts.com If you don't see what you need on his site, just call or e-mail him, he can get it.

As mentioned, if you are looking at a winch bumper, you may want to look at HD springs first. IMO, Rovertym has the shizel, www.rovertym.com

You don't want the ARB bumper. If you have a buggy, you know the issue with ground clearnce...An ARB is bulky and ugly. I like the looks of the TJM, but it's flimsey and the winch "basket" sucks. Rovertym has the best built bumper, but it's a little clunkly looking.

I feel a winch is a #1 priorty if you are going to wheel the truck. Then, sliders, diff guards, HD steering rods, etc.... Then look at lockers AND axles at the same time. Lockers and stock axles don't mix well on these trucks.

[Carlos]

urface:
That's a really good price.Please remember, as I posted in another thread, to check with your local Land Rover dealer if some recalls that were made on these vehicles were specifically performed on yours.They will check your vehicle for free(only for the recalls though ), and replace and/or fix some parts if the recalls have not been made.
Thanks,
Carlos

[urface]

Thanks for all the help.