Hi Gilbertd. Many thanks for the explanation, sounds like temperature sensor should be an easy test/fix.

The gearbox fault showed after ~5 mins driving. The engine was running well - then missed one spark - then ran well again. Shortly after running well again, the gearbox fault message was displayed. (IMO) the single miss would not have slowed the engine enough to effect the alternator output.

Starter motor turns engine nice and fast.

When working, the gearbox felt good (but I'm no expert).

Sounds like this could be a viable car, needing some rotten cabling addressing.

Thanks again.

Hi, I'm still looking to buy a p38 thor.

Viewed one today, owned by a very friendly/helpful guy in Wales.

Two problems that are new to me.

Problem 1.
Car is not obviously overheating and temp gauge looks normal. Diagnostics shows silly high temperatures (150 cel?). Has new temperature sensor, same 'error' as old sensor.

I'm worried this could be rot in a ecu connector or loom.

The car has a problematic crank sensor. Runs for a few minutes, then obd shows dead crank sensor.
This is being replaced.

Problem 2.
Dash displayed "gearbox fault", vehicle then feels sluggish (as if in too high a gear). Seller feels this is related to crank sensor - but engine was running well (maybe just a single misfire 10 seconds before the gearbox error).

Many years ago, I was developing OBD systems and I cant think of a link (other than rotten loom) between these errors (gearbox, cranksensor, temp sender).

The seller feels all three issues are linked and should resolve when the crank sensor is changed.

I don't share the sellers view.

Am I being overly sceptical?

I don't expect to find a p38 without faults, but I am looking at expensive ones - hoping for something that is running well at the point of purchase.

All info greatfuly received.

Keith

My gems 4.6 seems to only lose coolant when heater is in on. It only drops 1.5 inches in the header tank, then stops leaking. Damp sweet smelling carpet - assumed it's matrix o-rings (or matrix), bigger problems today.

Hi all, I've had the 'pleasure' of owning my first rr ('99 4.6 GEMS) for four years now. It has enough problems for me to move it on (probably scrap it).

LPG lead me to range rovers, and I would like another P38 4.6

One of the leading guys from LPG forum recommended this site and one particular member. (I have PMed that member but he is currently away).

As the search for a replacement continues, is it OK for me to post links to the current adverts and ask loose questions on this forum?

Thanks for a great site.

Keith