Original Purpose:
Designed as a robust, go-anywhere utility vehicle, iconic for its off-road capability and durability.
Competitors 1980S:
Jeep CJ series, Toyota Land Cruiser (FJ series), Mitsubishi Pajero.
Design Philosophy:
Body-on-frame construction, solid axles, rugged and simple mechanicals for reliability and off-road performance.
Versatility:
Available in various wheelbase lengths (including the 110), body styles (Station Wagon, Hardtop, Soft-top, Pickup), and configurations.
Off Road Capability:
Permanent four-wheel drive, low-range transfer case, excellent approach/departure angles, ground clearance.
General:
Complete workshop coverage for all repair and maintenance procedures.
Engine:
Engine tuning, disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, fuel system, cooling system.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, manual gearbox, transfer box, propeller shafts, rear axle, final drive.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Steering system, suspension components, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagrams, component testing, wiring repairs.
Estimated:
Varies by specific edition, but factory service manuals are typically extensive (hundreds of pages).
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Digital Features:
Searchable text, zoom in/out functionality.
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for extraction)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train.
Engine Fuel:
Carburetor (if applicable) or Fuel Injection system components, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines.
Engine Cooling:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan.
Clutch Assembly:
Clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, clutch hydraulics.
Gearbox Manual:
Gearbox internals, synchronizers, bearings, seals, shift mechanism.
Transfer Case:
Transfer case internals, lubrication, operation, and repair.
Driveshafts Axles:
Propeller shafts, U-joints, drive shafts, differential, axle assemblies.
Steering System:
Steering box, steering column, tie rods, ball joints, power steering (if equipped).
Suspension Front:
Coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, sway bar.
Suspension Rear:
Leaf springs (typical for Defender), shock absorbers, trailing arms, Panhard rod.
Brake System:
Disc brakes (front and rear), brake calipers, pads, rotors, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring harnesses.
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, fluid level checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major components.
Adjustments:
Engine tuning, carburetor/fuel injection adjustments, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments.
Replacements:
Component replacement procedures (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter, brake pads, clutch).
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams for troubleshooting electrical faults, testing of electrical components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and detailed diagnostics.
Detail Level:
Includes step-by-step instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, fluid capacities, and specifications.
Engine Type:
Likely a 2.25L Petrol (144 cid) or 2.5L Diesel (153 cid) for the 1984 Defender 110. V8 variants (3.5L) also existed.
Bore Stroke:
Varies by engine. For example, 2.25L Petrol: ~88.9mm x 97.5mm.
Horsepower Petrol 2 25L:
Approximately 75 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque Petrol 2 25L:
Approximately 120 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Horsepower Diesel 2 5L:
Approximately 65 hp @ 3500 rpm
Torque Diesel 2 5L:
Approximately 110 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Type:
Carburetor (e.g., Zenith Stromberg) or Lucas fuel injection depending on market and specific engine variant.
Type:
Distributor-based ignition system.
Wheelbase:
110 inches (2794 mm).
Length:
Varies by body style, but typically around 178 inches (4520 mm) for a 110 Station Wagon.
Width:
Approximately 68.2 inches (1732 mm) without mirrors.
Height:
Varies by body style and suspension, typically around 78 inches (1980 mm) for a Station Wagon.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by configuration, but typically in the range of 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Typically around 6,000 - 6,500 lbs (2721 - 2948 kg).
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on usage. Consult manual for specifics.
Filter Replacement:
Air filter and fuel filter typically replaced annually or based on mileage intervals.
Spark Plugs:
Inspection and replacement based on mileage or time, specified in manual.
Engine Oil:
API SF or SG grade, SAE 20W/50 or 10W/40 (seasonal variation). Exact spec in manual.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Castrol Classic Coolant) mixed with distilled water. Capacity approx. 10-12 liters.
Gearbox Oil:
API GL-4, SAE 90 or 80W-90 hypoid gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.5L for main gearbox.
Transfer Case Oil:
API GL-4, SAE 90 or 80W-90 hypoid gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.5L.
Axle Oil:
API GL-5, SAE 90 or 85W-140 hypoid gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.5L per axle.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Corrosion:
Rust and corrosion, particularly in the chassis, body panels, and outriggers, is a common concern for vehicles of this age.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older electrical systems can develop issues with wiring, connections, and components due to age and exposure.
Cooling System:
Overheating can occur if the cooling system is not properly maintained (radiator, hoses, thermostat).
Suspension Wear:
Leaf springs can sag, and bushings/joints can wear out over time, affecting ride and handling.
Origin:
Land Rover has a long history of producing rugged, utilitarian 4x4 vehicles dating back to the original Land Rover Series I in 1948.
Defender Lineage:
The Defender is the direct descendant of the Land Rover Series III, carrying forward its core design principles.
Defender Introduction:
The Defender nameplate was officially introduced in 1983, though the vehicle was largely an evolution of the existing Series III.
Production Period Defender:
1983-2016 (original generation).
Manufacturing Location:
Solihull, United Kingdom.