Initial Positioning:
The Range Rover (Classic) was launched as a premium, versatile vehicle, combining off-road capability with on-road comfort, setting a new standard in the burgeoning SUV market.
Key Competitors Era:
While unique, it competed indirectly with luxury sedans for on-road comfort and with robust utility vehicles for off-road prowess. It largely created its own segment.
Vehicle Defining Attributes:
Permanent four-wheel drive, coil spring suspension (a significant departure from leaf springs), strong V8 engine, robust chassis, and a distinctive, utilitarian yet luxurious design.
Benefit To Owner:
An invaluable resource for maintaining and repairing a classic vehicle, saving significant costs associated with dealership service and ensuring proper upkeep for longevity and optimal performance.
Primary Coverage:
All major mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, and maintenance procedures for the 1970-1985 Land Rover Range Rover.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely extensive, typical of factory service manuals covering multiple years and engine variants (estimated 1000+ pages based on scope).
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (V8 and Diesel variants where applicable), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission (synchromesh), Automatic Transmission (supplemental), Propeller Shafts, Front Axle & Final Drive, Rear Axle & Final Drive.
Chassis And Suspension:
Steering System, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brakes, Wheels and Tyres.
Body And Electrical:
Body Construction and Repair, Paintwork, Heating and Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Wipers and Washers, Electrical System (wiring diagrams, components, troubleshooting), Instruments, Optional Equipment.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, fluid checks and changes, lubrication, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Diagnostics And Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic information, disassembly and reassembly instructions.
Special Procedures:
Engine tuning, emission control systems, torque wrench settings, fitting instructions, lubricant specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete disassembly and overhaul. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Type:
Rover 3.5L V8 (OHV, pushrod, 90-degree V8)
Engine Displacement:
3528 cc (3.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 78 mm
Compression Ratio:
Typically 8.0:1 or 8.5:1 depending on year and market (later models may have higher ratios).
Horsepower Early Models:
Approximately 130-135 bhp (gross) at 4000-4500 rpm (net figures lower).
Torque Early Models:
Approximately 185-190 lb-ft (gross) at 2500-2750 rpm (net figures lower).
Fuel Delivery Early:
Twin-choke SU carburetors (e.g., HS6) or Zenith Stromberg carburetors depending on year and market.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (later models, earlier models may require leaded fuel or an additive).
Other Engines Covered:
May cover early diesel variants (e.g., Land Rover 300Tdi, though primarily V8 focused for Range Rover).
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual Synchromesh
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic (BorgWarner Type 35 or 40, typically found in later models within this range, covered in a supplement).
Transfer Case:
Permanent Four-Wheel Drive with locking center differential (Roces lock).
Gear Ratios Manual Typical:
Specific ratios will vary by year and model, but typically include a low-range gear set for off-road use. Manual ratios generally aimed at a balance of torque and highway cruising.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 hypoid gear oil (e.g., SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90) specified for the gearbox and transfer case. Specific part numbers or brands would be detailed in the manual.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent for automatic gearbox variants.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100 inches (2540 mm)
Length:
Approx. 160-170 inches (4064-4318 mm) depending on model year and specific body style.
Width:
Approx. 69-70 inches (1753-1778 mm)
Height:
Approx. 65-67 inches (1651-1702 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 5,500-5,800 lbs (2495-2630 kg).
Towing Capacity:
Variable, but generally rated for substantial towing, often around 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) or more.
Crash Test Data Era:
Formal crash test ratings as we know them today were not standard for vehicles of this era. However, its robust construction and ladder frame chassis provided a degree of inherent occupant protection.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Later models might feature all-around discs. ABS was not a feature in this period.
Chassis Structure:
Body-on-frame construction with a separate chassis provides significant rigidity. Roll-over protection is inherent to the structure.
Seatbelts:
Typically lap and shoulder belts in the front, lap belts in the rear.
Audio System Era:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player in later models. Speakers typically limited to front doors or dashboard.
Assistance Features:
Limited to power steering and standard braking systems. No electronic stability control, traction control, or advanced driver aids were available.
Connectivity Features:
None beyond basic 12V power outlet for accessories.
Oil Change Interval Engine:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Specific intervals detailed in manual.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual gearbox and transfer case fluid: every 24,000-30,000 miles. Automatic gearbox: more frequent, often 12,000-15,000 miles. Specifics in manual.
Tune Up Schedule:
Spark plugs, points, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment typically needed every 10,000-15,000 miles or as per manual recommendations.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF or SG rated oils, SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 recommended for most climates. Manual will specify exact grades and capacities.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Mixture ratio (50/50) and type (e.g., green, long-life) specified in manual.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Rust (body and chassis), carburetor issues, cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), ignition system components, front suspension bushings, rear air suspension (if fitted) or coil springs, clutch wear.
V8 Engine Specifics:
Valve stem seals, oil leaks from gaskets, timing chain wear, carburetor tuning can be critical for performance and economy.
Land Rover Legacy:
Land Rover has a long history of producing robust, go-anywhere utility vehicles, epitomized by the Land Rover Series (Defender predecessor). The Range Rover was intended to bring luxury and comfort to this capability.
Range Rover Classic Development:
Developed in the 1960s and launched in 1970, the Range Rover was revolutionary. It remained in production in various forms until 1996, with the early models (like those covered here) retaining much of their original design and engineering philosophy.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Solihull, England.
Production Period Covered By Manual:
1970-1985. This period saw significant evolution, including the introduction of the 4-door model (1981), fuel injection (later models), and automatic transmissions.
Automotive Recognition:
The Range Rover was widely acclaimed upon its release as a groundbreaking vehicle, often cited for its innovation in combining luxury, comfort, and off-road capability. It set the benchmark for the modern SUV.
Design Awards:
Recognized in the Louvre's 'Arts of the 20th Century' exhibition as a design icon, highlighting its enduring aesthetic appeal and engineering significance.
