Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size SUV, Luxury SUV
Brand Philosophy:
Land Rover is synonymous with off-road capability, durability, and a certain rugged luxury.
Competitors:
Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Mitsubishi Montero
Off Road Prowess:
The Discovery is renowned for its sophisticated four-wheel-drive system (often including center and rear differentials), robust chassis, and generous ground clearance.
Versatility:
A capable family vehicle suitable for everyday use and extreme off-road adventures.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Value Proposition:
Provides the comprehensive factory information needed to maintain and repair the vehicle efficiently and accurately.
Primary Focus:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Rebuilding, Refurbishing, Restoration
Estimated Pages:
Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Compatibility:
Windows and MAC
Distribution:
Instant Digital Download
Powertrain:
V8 Engine, Emission Control, Engine Management System, Cooling System, Manifolds and Exhaust Systems, Clutch, R380 Manual Gearbox, ZF 4HP22-24 Automatic Gearbox, Transfer Box (LT230SE), Propeller Shafts, Front Axle, Rear Axle
Chassis And Suspension:
Steering, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brakes
Body And Interior:
Doors, Exterior Fittings, Interior Trim Components, Screens, Seats, Sunroof, Chassis and Body Dimensions, Panel Repairs, Body Sealing Materials, Corrosion Prevention and Sealing, Painting
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring Schematics, Charging and Starting, Lighting, Body Control Unit, Alarm System and Horn, Windows, In-Car Entertainment, Harnesses, Instruments, Navigation System, Driving Aids
Climate Control:
Heating and Ventilation, Air Conditioning
Accessories:
Wipers and Washers
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, common issue identification
Rebuilding:
Detailed rebuild procedures for engine, transmissions, axles
Restoration:
Guidance on refurbishment and restoration tasks
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds
Engine Type:
V8 (likely the Rover 4.0L or 4.6L)
Engine Code Example:
22D, 42D (e.g., 4.0L V8 OHV EFI)
Displacement Liter 4.0:
3947 cc
Displacement Liter 4.6:
4554 cc
Horsepower 4.0 Approx:
182 hp @ 4750 rpm
Torque 4.0 Approx:
233 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Horsepower 4.6 Approx:
222 hp @ 4750 rpm
Torque 4.6 Approx:
280 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended for optimal performance)
System Type:
Likely Lucas 14CUX or GEMS engine management system
Gearbox Type Standard:
R380 5-speed Manual Transmission
Gearbox Type Optional:
ZF 4HP22-24 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transfer Case:
LT230SE 2-speed transfer case with locking center differential
Gear Ratios R380 Example:
Approx. 3.32:1 (1st), 2.14:1 (2nd), 1.34:1 (3rd), 1.00:1 (4th), 0.73:1 (5th) - Varies slightly by specific model.
Fluid Type Manual:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90 or equivalent.
Fluid Type Automatic:
ESSO LT 71141 Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
High center of gravity can contribute to rollover risk; AWD systems and careful driving are essential.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (Vented front, solid rear typically), often with ABS.
Traction Control:
Often available with Electronic Traction Control (ETC) systems.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags are standard.
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts for all occupants, including three-point belts in the rear.
Audio System:
Factory-installed radio/cassette player, often with optional CD changer. Speaker configurations vary.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is typically standard.
Hill Descent Control:
Not typically featured on this generation, emphasis is on driver control and low-range gearing.
OBD Ii:
The 1997 model should feature an OBD-II diagnostic port, allowing for scan tool use.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-6,000 miles or 6 months (consult manual for precise interval).
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Interval Auto:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or as per manual recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles, depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating for V8 engine).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Rover silicate-free).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket failures (especially earlier V8s), oil leaks from various seals and gaskets, potential for viscous fan clutch failure, ignition coil issues.
Cooling System Common Problems:
Plastic expansion tank cracks, radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks, water pump failure.
Electrical Common Problems:
Wiring harness degradation, window regulator failures, central locking issues, alarm system quirks, headlamp leveling system faults.
Suspension Common Problems:
Air suspension (if equipped, less common on early '97 models) leaks, coil spring sag, worn radius arm bushings, track rod end wear.
Transmission Common Problems:
R380 gearbox can have input shaft bearing issues, clutch slave cylinder leaks. ZF automatic can develop torque converter issues or solenoid pack failures.
Brand Identity:
Land Rover has a long-standing reputation for building robust, go-anywhere vehicles, originating from its military roots.
Discovery Lineage:
The Discovery was introduced to fill the gap between the more utilitarian Defender and the luxurious Range Rover. The 'Discovery 2' designation refers to the first generation (LD) models produced from 1989-1998, with updates and facelifts occurring during this period. This 1997 model is near the end of this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Solihull, United Kingdom
Production Years Ld Gen:
1989-1998