1st time Disco owner

I am looking for a second hand Discovery. It will probably one of the older ones (1993-95) probably diesel but maybe a V8 which I can convert to LPG. Being mechanically handy but having no experience of Discoverys what, if any, are the common problems that I need to look for, rust areas, engine/gearbox/transmission noises etc.

Yep they all sound like good areas to start with!!!....

Only joking. I'm now on my second disco, i started with a h reg 200 tdi and now have a p reg 300tdi.
How much do you know about the disco? there are a few diferences between the 200 and 300 series.
Forgive me if i'm telling you what you already know.
When it was launched the Disco deisel started with a 200tdi engine and the LT77 gearbox, these wereused until the launch of the 300tdi at the end of 1994 (i think?) then it was 300tdi which a quieter, smoother, and more economical engine, and also coupled with an R380 gearbox.
The LT77 box had problems with wear on the output shaft, which caused a knocking noise on the transmission. I had this problem on my 200, it didn't sound so good but drove fine.
As far as im aware there are no common faults on the R380 aside from the odd whine. If your not sure how to check which box is fitted (as they are interchangable) On the LT77 reverse is next to first gear, and on the R380 it is below 5th gear.
As for rust, as with any Land Rover, check the chassis. They all rust in the bumpers,passenger side front wings often have a slot on on the 200tdi where the wheel arch liner wears through.....
I could go on all day..
All in all the Discos are a very good motor in my eyes, they are almost as capable as the 90's offroad with the added bonus of comfort.

I hope this helps a little, if there's anything in particular you need to know, get posting and i'm sure one of us will be able to help...

Oh and welcome to Landyzone

Finally got close to buying a Disco today L reg 200tdi with the LT77 box, 93000 miles 1800 quid. Sounds like bargain but body work was scruffy, top rear door hinge was badly worn, all the doors had seperated at the bottom and there was a lot of rust underneath it didnt appear terminal but was certainly extensive. The rear diff pan looked really crusty but the front had been protected by oil leaks from the engine area. Interior was also tatty but probably nothing that wouldnt clean up but the owner had bypassed the central locking system (also the Alarm??) as it had failed. The exhaust was missing its tail pipe - and the rear mudflap hangers were missing on the right hand side. Tyres were well worn but just about legal. Engine started first time and wasnt too smokey even for a diesel. I hasnt been on the road for 7 months and there is no MOT. I didnt feel to happy about it, so walked away. Did I pass up a bargain or did I do the right thing?

Sounds like you did the right thing there fella.

You will get one better than that for a few hundred quid more.

Sounds like you would be buying someone elses box of problems.

Thats a relief. I forgot to mention that the gearbox had been replaced recently it certainly felt nice and tight but the clutch must have acquired some oil at some stage because of the way if jumped as you let the clutch bite - the clutch must also have been badly worn/adjusted because the box wouldnt go from 3rd to 2nd with stopping. The guy I was buying it off said that he paid 5200 quid 18months ago - I guess he was ripped off.