Technical New member with a new camper!

[Unclepete]

Hi everyone. Just completed a two week trip round France in my newly aquired ducato 1.9 td, year 2000, 36,000 mile, CI Autoroller 70 Motor home. I've a few questions that you may have answers to.
Firstly, before taking this trip I had it serviced and the garage said the gearbox oil had gone all 'milky' due to ingress of water. Is this possible, and will it have done any damage?

Secondly, whilst on our trip I noticed a bad vibration from the front suspension right hand side. Occurs around 45 to 55 mph but only when you have your foot on the power and is worse when turning left and going up a gradient. It is so bad that I think it will shake the bodywork off the chasis if not sorted out!

Thirdly, the 1.9 engine is very underpowered for the size of the van. Is it possible to fit a bigger unit, and would the 1.9 which is in good shape with under 40,000 miles on it be of value in an exchange deal?

A lot of questions I know, but hope to get some answers!
Thanks for reading

 

[stewartkingswood]

Hi,
With reference to your first point milky oil, it needs changing urgently as it is contaminated with water. As to damage depends how long this has been going on. Without stripping it down all I would say is see how it gos. It is a common problem with the earlier vans water enters via the bonnet and (as far as I know) runs into the gearbox via the breather. Check you battery as well as it has been known for this to fill up with water.

Cant assist with the vibration, I am sure someone else will be able to help.

Not sure about changing engines, possible the 2.0 HDI as AFAIK they appear very similar, but you wouldnt gain much. I had mine chipped to give it a bit more grunt, dont think you can do that with the 1.9TD.

Hope this helps.
Stewart

 

[Unclepete]

Hi Stewart

Don't worry, the oil was removed and replaced with fresh as soon as it was discovered.
I'll check the battery.
Thanks very much

Pete.