how many v8 owners have had engine problemz

Basically as it says in the title.

Could you include mileage and issue, repair costs. Thanks.

Thinking of getting a 1 owner 4.6

I've had my LPG'd '02 4.6 for nearly 20 months now. It had a replacement full engine from LR at 60k & LPG system was installed shortly after this at a cost of £2800. I bought it with 104k on the clock (44k on new engine). It had 3 previous owners.
First 6 months were problem free, then i had both head gaskets go within 2 months, around 116K (should have made sure both heads were done when the right bank went) This cost in total of approx £100 in total & i had new OEM leads & plugs fitted.
Now done 132K & no problems since....touch wood.
So the cost the V8 engine has incurred is £1000 + £60 LPG service in my ownership. I did also have the cooling system replaced when i first bought it (rad, waterpump, coolant) as a precaution. Never overheated in my ownership.
No other issues with engine but plenty of mechanical replacements elsewhere as with any P38.
A 1 owner P38 should be a safer bet, as long as they have looked after it & have all service records etc.

I've got a P38 4.6 V8 1998, owned for 5 years. Had head gasket failure on left bank, but that was due to thermostat sticking shut and me not paying attention until it was too late. Did both HG myself, daunting, but turned out to be straightforward job following RAVE and advice on here. Replaced the waterpump, viscous coupling & of course thermostat at the same time. Cost of parts. No problems since; but will be changing exhaust pretty soon.

I have had mine for 18 months now.

Bought it with 67,000 on the clock, installed LPG myself in first week of ownership.

Now up to 82,000 with no issues so far...I have an oil leak that I can't find. Thought it might be the sump but I've removed and re-sealed it and it's still leaking! I just keep it topped up with oil.

I've had no other issues at all. Last time I changed the spark plugs they looked in good nick with no signs of bad combustion so I'm just keeping going!

Elsewhere I've replaced or repaired all the niggles (window regulator, air con, heater o rings) and it's been great so far. My cruise control has just stopped working, so that's the next job.

Ask SandyT -

He has rebuilt his about 3-4 times I think...

Was hoping for positives. Not negatives lol

langley said:

Was hoping for positives. Not negatives lol

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But you asked for problemz lol

Sarcasm...

langley said:

Was hoping for positives. Not negatives lol

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Sorry. I'll change my post.
I've had my P38 from new, never been serviced, no problems at all, 280k on the clock. Most reliable motor you can buy.
At 60 mpg for the 4.6 V8 its economical too.
You should get one.

kevwill said:

Sorry. I'll change my post.
I've had my P38 from new, never been serviced, no problems at all, 280k on the clock. Most reliable motor you can buy.
At 60 mpg for the 4.6 V8 its economical too.
You should get one.

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YOu only get 60mpg?? Needs a good service... lol

One im looking at is a vogue se, one owner from new with 97K on the clock.. FSH etc etc...

You would received far fewer replies if you ask how many had NOT had problems with the V8.

Mines a Vogue SE. Loads of toys & they ALL still work
Mines also cost me a small fortune keeping it in A1 condition though
What year is it?

martynv8 said:

Mines a Vogue SE. Loads of toys & they ALL still work
Mines also cost me a small fortune keeping it in A1 condition though
What year is it?

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Its a 1999 on a V plate..

Is it Gems or Thor?

martynv8 said:

Is it Gems or Thor?

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Havent been to see it yet, an wouldnt probably know from just looking..

New to V8s, used to have a doozel..

How much you looking to pay??

kevwill said:

How much you looking to pay??

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They have a it listed at 3100, but i cant see why it cant be beaten down

I think '99 was changeover year from Gems to Thor (Bosch Motronic).
The Gems will have 4.6 on the plenum chamber. The Thor will have what appears to be a bunch of bananas as the manifold. The Thor is the better system with more low down torque & generally a more robust electrical system.

Ah ok, will be giving it a right going over.. I know its got the tango indictators and clear headlights. SO does look a little dated..

I guess it's the Gems then.
Are you thinking of LPG'ing it? If so it might be better getting one with it already fitted