1987 Land Rover Defender 110 – 12J 2.5 NA Diesel + LT77 5-Speed Manual + LT230 Transfer Case
Mileage: 99,600 (dashboard reading)
Sold As-Is |
This is a classic early Defender 110 powered by the original 12J 2.5-litre naturally aspirated diesel paired with the period-correct LT77 5-speed manual gearbox and LT230 transfer case.
Engine – 12J 2.5 NA Diesel
The 12J is Land Rover’s robust 2,495 cc inline-4 naturally aspirated diesel used in Ninety/One Ten and early Defenders (roughly 1984–1994). Key details:
• Cast-iron block and head, OHV pushrod valvetrain with belt-driven camshaft
• Bore × Stroke: 90.47 mm × 97 mm
• Compression ratio: 21.0:1
• Lucas-CAV DPS rotary injection pump with CAV Pintaux injectors
• Power: approximately 68 hp (51 kW) @ ~4,200 rpm
• Torque: approximately 114 lb-ft (155 N·m) @ 1,800 rpm
• Simple, durable, field-serviceable design with usable low-end torque for off-road and utility work
• Evolved from the earlier 2.25-litre 10J; shares architecture with the turbocharged 19J
It is known for longevity when maintained, straightforward repairs, and the classic agricultural character of early Defenders. Military examples of this family were widely used and later versions added features such as centrifugal oil separators.
Transmission – LT77 5-Speed Manual
The LT77 is the 5-speed manual gearbox fitted to 4-cylinder Ninety/One Ten/Defender models of this era (and related vehicles). “77” refers to the centerline spacing between mainshaft and layshaft. Features include:
• 5 forward gears + reverse
• Typical pre-200Tdi 90/110 ratios (approx.): 1st ~3.59, 2nd ~2.30, 3rd ~1.51, 4th 1.00, 5th ~0.83, Reverse ~3.70 (exact ratios depend on specific suffix/serial; common civilian 4-cyl boxes are in the 50A family)
• Synchromesh on forward gears; reverse is unsynchronized
• Separate bellhousing for the 4-cylinder engines
• Known for durability in utility use; later LT77S versions improved synchromesh, but this is the period LT77
It is mated directly to the LT230 transfer case via the output flange.
Transfer Case – LT230
The LT230 is the classic full-time 4WD transfer case used with the LT77 (and later R380) on Defenders and related models. Key points:
• Permanent four-wheel drive with a lockable mechanical center differential
• High and low range (typical high ratio around 1.410:1 for many 4-cylinder Defenders of this period; low ratio ~3.32:1)
• All-gear design, robust for off-road and towing
• Mounted directly to the rear of the LT77
• Includes high/low selector and differential lock linkage
This is the standard pairing for a 1987 Defender 110 with the 12J and LT77.
Condition & Notes
• Mileage: 99,600 miles shown on the dashboard.
It sat for a period; the reason it is not starting is unknown (possible electrical issue, fuel system, or other common storage-related causes). It was running fine previously.
• Video: YouTube video of the vehicle (running/operating previously):
https://youtu.be/Rcy-ctjsSvc?si=vAM9jQprQ34bqVQu
• Sold as-is, where-is. No warranties expressed or implied. Buyer is responsible for inspection, transport, and any repairs. Ideal for restoration, project. Classic early Defender 110 platform with the desirable original 12J + LT77 + LT230 drivetrain combination.
Serious inquiries only. Please review the video and ask any questions before bidding. Local pickup preferred (or arrange your own transport).
This is a solid base for someone looking for a period-correct 12J-powered 110 to revive or restore.
