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Date: Thu, 1 Jan 1998 08:43:34 +1100
From: Phillip Simpson <biochem_at_netcore.com.au> Subject: Disco Firewall cracks

In response to Ron's query re firewall cracks I can confirm that this is a fact and not just speculation or industry gossip.

I have a '95 TDi Disco woth 49000km on the clock. It has just returned from having the firewall cracks repaired. My vehicle runs on standard suspension but has been used for what it was designed for ie 4WD offroad use. At all times it is driven using the "TREAD LIGHTLY" approach and has certainly not been an off road racer.

In looking into this matter I found the following:

  1. I've seen the problem on Disco's from '93-96 construction.
  2. Problem is found on vehicles with standard and nonstandard suspension.
  3. Many owners are unaware of the problem in the early stages as they are difficult to see until they are quite advanced (unless you know what to look for). 4 In advanced stages the crack become big enough to put 2-3 fingers through.
  4. My vehicle was repaired under Land Rover Australia supervision, which indicates to me some knowledge of the situation.
  5. Initial ,and regretably current official thinking, is indicating that the problem is caused/exasperbated by fitment of nonstandard suspension to the Disco. I find this hard to understand considering my own vehicle. 7.I've heard of 3rd party service organisations who seem to service Disco's used for 4WD use and not just shopping trolleys, that a large majority of their customers vehicles have cracks in the firewall.

I am providing this response to Ron's query as I believe this is an important issue for all Disco owners. The firewall is part of the structual integrity of the vehicle and any cracks in this structure need attention. Now that my vehicle has been repaired it is my intention to keep using it for what I bought it for as I still believe it is one of the finest 4WD in the world.
I guess I have to admit I have Solihull fever.

Regards

Phillip Simpson

'95 TDi Disco
'87 Range Rover Hiline
'52 Series One + 2 others under restoration