Generation:
Second Generation (P38A)
Model Years Covered:
1986-1994
Chassis Codes:
Classic / P38A (transition period, with some overlap and evolution within the 1986-1994 range, though this manual primarily covers the latter part of the Classic era leading into the P38A development and early models)
Engine Codes:
Rover V8 (3.5L, 3.9L, 4.2L), BMW M51 (2.5L TD)
Segment:
Luxury SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Brand Perception:
Renowned for its off-road capability, luxury, and go-anywhere attitude.
Competitors:
Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Toyota Land Cruiser, Ford Bronco (earlier models), Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero
Design:
Boxy, utilitarian yet elegant design, commanding driving position, robust body-on-frame construction.
Drivetrain:
Permanent Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) system, known for its off-road prowess.
Suspension:
Coil springs or Electronic Air Suspension (EAS) for adjustable ride height and comfort.
Powertrain:
Engine (Rover V8, BMW Diesel), Fuel System (Petrol, Diesel), Cooling System (Petrol, Diesel), Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Gearbox
Chassis:
Suspension (including EAS - Electronic Air Suspension for later models in the range), Brakes, Steering, Driveline (including differentials, transfer case, driveshafts)
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, ECUs (Engine Control Units), Body Electrical (windows, locks, mirrors), Audio System
Body:
Bodywork Repair, Interior Trim, Glass and Seals, Paint and Corrosion Protection
Emissions:
Emission Control Systems, Catalytic Converters, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable), diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical components, bodywork, etc.
Rebuilds:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul instructions
Installation:
Component replacement and installation guidance
Depth:
Highly detailed, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to full component overhauls.
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic data
Rover V8 Displacement:
3.5L, 3.9L, 4.2L (refer to specific model year and variant)
Bmw Diesel Displacement:
2.5L (M51 Turbocharged Diesel)
Rover V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 165-190 hp (varies by displacement and tuning)
Rover V8 Torque:
Approx. 200-250 lb-ft (varies by displacement and tuning)
Bmw Diesel Horsepower:
Approx. 113 hp
Bmw Diesel Torque:
Approx. 177 lb-ft
V8 Petrol Injection:
Lucas/Bosch electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Diesel Injection:
Bosch VE rotary or inline injection pump
Manual Gearbox:
4-speed or 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., LT77, R380 for later models)
Automatic Gearbox:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF 4HP22, GM TH400 for earlier models in the range)
Transfer Case:
2-speed transfer case with lockable center differential
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100 inches (2540 mm) for standard wheelbase models.
Length:
Approx. 175-180 inches (4445-4572 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70-72 inches (1778-1829 mm)
Height:
Approx. 65-66 inches (1651-1676 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,200 - 4,800 lbs (1905 - 2177 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 5,800-6,200 lbs.
Crash Test Performance:
Early models from this era may not have standardized crash test ratings comparable to modern vehicles. Structural integrity and occupant protection were focused on robustness for off-road use.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, often with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later models.
Traction Control:
Some later models may feature early forms of traction control or electronic aids.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1990s, passenger airbag on later models within the range.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants.
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio cassette players, often with premium speaker systems. Later models may have CD players.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation systems were introduced on some later models within this timeframe.
Cruise Control:
Factory fitted cruise control systems are covered.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) diagnostics and repair.
Central Locking:
Central locking systems and power window mechanisms are detailed.
Oil Change Petrol:
Typically every 6,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for exact specs).
Oil Change Diesel:
Typically every 6,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for exact specs).
Major Service:
At 12,000 or 24,000 mile intervals, including spark plugs, fuel filters, air filters, etc.
Engine Oil V8:
e.g., Castrol GTX 20W-50 or 10W-40, API SG or higher (refer to manual for precise specification and capacity)
Engine Oil Diesel:
e.g., Castrol GTX Diesel 15W-40, API CD or higher (refer to manual for precise specification and capacity)
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water (refer to manual for type and capacity)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
e.g., Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific type and capacity)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
e.g., EP 80W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific type and capacity)
Transfer Case Oil:
e.g., EP 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for specific type and capacity)
Differential Oil:
e.g., EP 80W-90 (refer to manual for specific type and capacity)
Eas Suspension:
Air leaks in the air springs, compressor failures, valve block issues are common on EAS-equipped models.
Rover V8 Gaskets:
Head gasket leaks and intake manifold gasket leaks can occur.
Rust:
Corrosion, particularly in wheel arches, sills, and tailgate, is a prevalent issue due to age and environmental exposure.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Brand Origin:
British, founded by the Wilks brothers in 1948.
Brand Philosophy:
Focus on ruggedness, off-road capability, and go-anywhere vehicles.
First Generation:
The 'Classic' Range Rover, introduced in 1970, set the template for the luxury SUV. This manual covers the later years of this iconic generation.
Transition To P38A:
The 1986-1994 period represents the evolution of the original Range Rover, culminating in its design and engineering that paved the way for the P38A generation launched in 1994.
Manufacturing Locations:
Solihull, England.
