[FrankS]

Hi There everyone!!! I have decided to by myself a 1997 tdi manual wagon, however I'm having trouble convincing "She who should be obeyed" of the fuel economy and service costs of these beasts!! I am a mechanic so working on them is no worries, just parts costs. What is the fuel economy like around town?? Also, what parts are prone to need replacing often and what are the costs like regarding them. Any help on these questions would be very much appreciated!!!

Cheers Beers; Pete Mayne (Albury/Wodonga, Australia)

Pete, good to see another Australian on forum, I'm a mechanic as well, if these trucks are maintained and serviced regularly you should get good reliability, I have a '93 Disco with 3.5L V8 and fuel Economy was non-existent, I have improved it out of sight with a set of extractors and a 2 1/2" exhaust system, I am now fitting a Snorkel to improve airflow, next I'm having a Unichip fitted by Coopers at St. Peters in Sydney.
In your case a TDi would benefit from a free flowing exhaust and a good air intake, they already are a Fuel miser, there are plenty of Land Rover specialists around , like Graeme Coopers that have reasonaly priced new and reco spares, these trucks ride like limos and will go just about anywhere, you shouldn't have any trouble convincing the "Minister for Finance" that your selection is justified, Regards Frank.

 

[FrankS]

Thanks for your reply Frank, "The Minister of Finance" has now been appeased somewhat!! (She is of the opinion that you think like me with the title you have given her). Every little bit of positive feedback I get can only help my cause!!! Hopefully this coming weekend I may purchase the Discovery. When I get it I shall post some pics and details.

Cheers Beers; Pete Mayne (Albury/Wodonga, Australia)

Pete, good luck mate, my missus has 2 portfolios she is the Minister of Finance and the Minister of War, LOL. Ive just replaced all the drive belts and the 2 idler pulley bearings ($75 ea. from Graeme Coopers, ($180 each from F.A.G. original equipment supplier). Next is a rear diff pinion seal and then a full seal and bearing kit for the front diff. then changing all the driveline oil for Synthetic. Have already fitted new Lovellls 2" lift Coils ($320 for lot) each spring is made for it's particular spot, also got a second hand full set of Bilstien Shocks and steering Damper (3000klms) for $500. Plenty of bargains around, Regards Frank.