Loud bang Freelander

Hi, this has happened twice, the first time at about 40mph, the car was running fine then a loud pop/bang, the car momentarily lost power then continued OK. A week went by without any issues then whilst pulling away in 2nd gear at low speed today, same thing, loud bang, car stopped as if it wouldn't be drivable then after turning off engine and restarting seems to run smooth again. Nothing obviously hanging down from under the car or hoses blown off. Very confused any ideas or things to check most welcome? Not a mechanical person but able to follow instructions. Suspect moving parts under car as opposed to engine backfiring but no confidence in this diagnosis. Regards.

Impending IRD failure at a guess. Likely caused by a stiff VCU and / or incorrect tyre replacement. Don't drive the car again until you arrange to get it taken to a Freelander specialist.

Check that all 4 tyres are exactly the same. Newer ones at the back.
Do the wheel up test :search: and post results.

As above DO NOT DRIVE until above checks have been carried out and, prospectively, props have been removed.

How long have you had the Freelander and what model is it?
How many miles has it done?

Definitely sounds like IRD failure. Would suggest remove drive shaft to VCU, but, sounds like damage is already done.
Unfortunately, join the club and prepare your wallet for a new VCU and IRD.

Loss of drive would indicate (if IRD Failure) the gears near to the IRD Diff, not the crown wheel pinion. This kind of failure can cause cracking of the IRD case as the RH drive shaft IRD support bearing(S) fails leading to catastrophic failure if unattended.
You do NOT lose drive with an IRD failure of the PTO Crown wheel pinion - only in the event of the IRD DIFF drive system.
Best of luck.
Joe

Yes doc, your patient needs total rest until you've run your tests.

It does, on the face of it sound like something in the IRD has gone. I agree, if its total loss of drive, it isn't the usual rear pinion connection. I'd say the splines to the gearbox/LH wheel are the more likely culprits. I think it may be difficult to diagnose this problem without getting the IRD off the car.

If it is the IRD, it can be fixed - but as said, it will have been something else that took it out which will need addressing if it is not to happen again once fixed.

You don't say what model/engine you have - might help identify as well - you've gone all private on your profile, so can't tell from that.