Next on the list........VCU

Having recently acquired my 1.8l 2000 SW, I am currently trying to get on top of the neccessary maintenance that may have been neglected.

Let me get in first - yeah, yeah, already considered the can of unleaded and matches option!!! Right - that's that dealt with!!!!

Last weekend saw a new cam belt go on and an oil change and now, I am turning my attention to other possible problems - as I say, this is all about preventative maintenance.

The vehicle has covered 101800 miles and, before I purchased it, had spent a couple of years in storage. I have noticed that the rear tyres have a bit of 'sawtooth' wear on them and when driving at around 40 mph, I notice what I can only describe as a rythmic thrumming noise (more noticeable with the windows open).

I'm guessing that the VCU is possibly past it's prime? Given that we plan to use the car for a holiday in the Lake Distric in July, I think I'm going to pop a new VCU in - for peace of mind.

Can anyone recommend a supplier? I see a few on the web and the Bay of E, but it's always nice to get other opinions before handing over your hard-earned.

Also, I'm guessing that this is a simple unbolt (front and rear propshafts and centre bearing). But any wisodm on doing this job will be appreciated.

Cheers,

Ian.

make sure least warn tyres on rear and see if it is better.


I claim the gallon of petrol and matches.

Bell transmissions seem to have a good reputation for all things Freelander drivetrain related - and they offer an exchange on your existing unit. It would be recommended to change the bearings at the same time...more expense I know, but worth it in the long run.

Thanks for the replies - will defintely try swapping the tyres around (the rears are actually a bit better than the fronts).

And will definitely replace the bearings (found them for £16.50 a pair - so it's rude not to).

Just out of interest, what's the best (in terms of mileage) that anyone has had from a VCU. Someone told me that they actually benefit from a bit of oof-road action once in a while. Suppose I can see the logic - keeps the fluid doing what it's meant to, rather than stagnating.

Cheers again,

Ian.

i also have an old freelander, the 99 2.0d 3dr. my vc unit seized up totally, took it out drilled 4 holes opposite each other in it and used a big wrench to turn it. it started turning again. welded the holes shut and replaced the hanger bearings. it worked for me.
easiest way to test the VC is to try and turn it. if it turns it is fine and if it does not turn it is seized - simple as that.
my latest problem is cold starting in the morning. i replaced glowplugs, injectors, relays. when hot it starts with 1 turn. when cold 4-5 glow cycles and a lot of turning

ANY ADVICE??

Vulcan426 said:

Thanks for the replies - will defintely try swapping the tyres around (the rears are actually a bit better than the fronts).

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To be honest, you are probably better keeping the better tyres at the rear anyway due to the unique way in which the front wheels are given more power than the rear ones...particularly if you suspect the VCU might be on the way out.

wot about the "always fit noo tyres to the front" rule?

always fit new tyres too the rear on a freelander if you aren't replacing all4 of them. You want bigger diameter rubbers on the rear to preserve the vcu.

is it more important to preserve the VCU than to change direction ?

Sean said:

is it more important to preserve the VCU than to change direction ?

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no

Don't use the cheap VCU bearings they don't last.
Don't swop the better rear tyres to the front just change side to side.

Bolla said:

i also have an old freelander, the 99 2.0d 3dr. my vc unit seized up totally, took it out drilled 4 holes opposite each other in it and used a big wrench to turn it. it started turning again. welded the holes shut and replaced the hanger bearings. it worked for me.
easiest way to test the VC is to try and turn it. if it turns it is fine and if it does not turn it is seized - simple as that.
my latest problem is cold starting in the morning. i replaced glowplugs, injectors, relays. when hot it starts with 1 turn. when cold 4-5 glow cycles and a lot of turning

ANY ADVICE??

Click to expand...

160000+ on my vc and still going strong

oops wrong quote:doh: