© www.roversd1.info
Interested in buying an SD1? Read this first!
On this website you can see the various models. The SD1 can be divided in three petrol
running cars, the 2000, 2300-2600 six cilinders and the V8 engine. Apart from the 2000 all
engines are available in a series 1 or a series 2 (Mark one and mark two). If you have set
your mind on a particular car there are a few things to look after once you are buying one
of these classic Rovers.
And this is not to discourage you but the Rover SD1 is not well known for its build quality.
Rover had great difficulties to built a reasonable priced car which was reliable. The SD1
built quality where famous but not in a positive way. In particular the series one where
poor but also series two had their problems.
And it is not only rust that Rover has to deal with. Poor quality of door panels, wiring
(Lucas electrical system are known as the “prince of darkness”) are just a few.
Rover SD1 buyers guide
Rust, what to look out for?!
Rust, oh yes these cars can rust. On various spots on the car, here are just a few items to
look after.
1) Doors,
Both front and rear. These door panels are folded at the edges as can be seen in this
picture and water comes to places it can not leave. Look out for rust in these areas. New
doors are difficult to find although you might find some door skins. A few years ago
Rimmer Bros bought many Rover SD1 parts from the bankrupt India Rover factory so you
might find new doors from them. However these doors are more heavy and have side
impact protection and can be more difficult to fix on to the car.
2) Sunroof:
Yes, it it wonderful driving your SD1 with a sunroof. However, these can
be a real pain. The panels are very rusty and as with the doors they are
no longer produced. Find a proper one or you end up with problems.
3) Windows.
The SD1 has a special front window which is a bit curved giving structure to the chassis.
When you lift the car with a 2 column lift the chassis will bends causing the windscreen
to come of the car. And that is a area for water to enter the car. Around the front window
behind the chrome striping water comes in at the top or behind the dash. The result is
clear, rust around the screen but also in the foot well.
But also check the rear booth. The large rear window is only mounted in a very thin
rubber which over the years has been perished. Water can enter the booth via the rear
window or the rear taillight. You can check the booth below (spare wheel area) to feel if
there is moisture. Also if the headlining is hanging this is an
indication there is moisture inside the car.
4) Suspension:
The rear suspension from the SD1 is from Boge. It is a self levelling
system which holds the car up with heavy load. These units can go
wrong two ways, either they leak and your car has a very fluffy
rear end. Or the unit sets itself up high, like in the image. The unit
get stiff and harsh an no longer operates as a shock absorber and
the car starts dribbling. Check when you are interested in a car
what suspension is used, Boge units no longer been manufactured
and suspension gets difficult for these cars.
Engines and gearboxes.
The O-Series engine fitted to the 2000 is generally very reliable.
They show up in some other Leyland cars and are rugged and
reliable.
Inline sixes (2300-2600) should be closely checked for signs of camshaft wear and top end
noise. These engines have their problems with engine cooloing and lubrication of the
camshaft. Check the oil and oil pressure carefully. Also heating and cooling of the engine.
And see if it runs smoothly with enough power.
V8s are long-lived, and you can find these engines in many BL cars ranging from Land
Rovers to TWR, and from busses to carriers. Parts are not so much an issue here but this
is different with the EFI and Vitesse models. Electronic parts become a rarity nowadays.
Be sure the engine has a good oil pressure and revs freely. Carefully look for signs of any
overheating, and ensure that there is evidence of regular oil changes.
The 77mm gearboxes are generally reliable, but it is not unknown for these to break.
Automatic gearboxes are reliable if they are serviced regular, so it is essential to check
that drive and reverse engage without a “thump” and that all changes are smooth and
slurred. Also check for oil leaking under the car.
Other things to inspect are:
Differential, check for oil leaking, when the oil gets too low these can sieze.
Rear dampers; Rover SD1 cars ranging from 2600 upwards are equiped with Boge Nivomat
self levelling suspension as can be read on the website. Replacement can be done
nowadays but unit are way over 500 euro a set.
Paint: series one cars are known for bad paintwork it is highly unlikely you will find one
that has not received some paint later in life. Check everywhere, and inparticular areas
like:
° Front and rear wheel arches.
° Boot floor.
° Sunroof mechanisms and drain holes.
° Outer sills.
° Door bottoms.
° Valance panels, front and rear.
° Bonnet and tailgate – inside and out.
° Floors – lift carpets to check for signs of water damage.
° Leaky windscreens – check surrounding panels