Land Rover Repair: Disco and XJ6 oh no!, cylinder head bolts, cylinder head gasket

Question
I have a 1997 disco that has a leaky head gasket.  It only leaks coolant though.  I try to keep it from overheating by adding coolant.  I plan on getting it fixed but what are the best gaskets and what should I expect to pay.  Also I have a 1978 XJ6 with a horrible tick in the engine.  Are those engines prone to need readjustment or could it be more?

Thanks,

Joe

Answer
I only recommend the OEM gaskets as the rest are just not very good.  A full cylinder head gasket set runs about $400 (you can buy them through our website at www.britisheurotech.com if you wish).  You also need to buy cylinder head bolts.  If you are having it repaired at a shop, the price will depend on whether the cylinder heads need machining and the labor rate in your area.  In Los Angeles, the total price varies from around $1700 to around $3500, depending on where you go.

Your XJ6 could need the valve clearances adjusted and the exhaust side of the cylinder head may need a kit to hold down the cam follower retainers in place, as they come loose and knock.  Timing chains also need adjusting on a regular basis.