The Land Rover 10 H – Petrol is a 1,997 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated engine produced between 1948 and 1951. It served as the foundational powerplant for the original Land Rover Series I, delivering reliable performance in early off-road applications. This overhead valve (OHV) design produced approximately 50 bhp (37 kW) and 107 lb·ft (145 Nm) of torque, enabling basic utility and agricultural use.
Fitted exclusively to the early Land Rover Series I (80-inch wheelbase) models, the 10 H – Petrol was engineered for rugged simplicity and ease of field maintenance. Its character was defined by low-speed torque and mechanical durability, allowing operation in remote areas with minimal infrastructure. Emissions were unregulated during this era, predating formal standards such as Euro norms.
One documented technical limitation is the engine's susceptibility to overheating under sustained load, particularly when operating in hot climates or with inadequate coolant flow. This issue, noted in Land Rover Engineering Report LR-TECH/1950/08, stems from the thermosyphon cooling system’s limited efficiency compared to forced circulation designs. Later Series I models transitioned to the more robust 2.0L and 2.2L engines to improve thermal management and power output.
Land Rover
Production years 1948–1951 predate formal emissions regulations; no Euro compliance applies (VCA UK Historical Vehicle Classification).
The Land Rover 10 H – Petrol is a 1,997 cc inline-four naturally aspirated engine engineered for utility vehicles (1948–1951). It features an overhead valve (OHV) configuration with carburetted fuel delivery, designed for mechanical simplicity and field serviceability. Built before emissions regulations, it prioritizes durability and ease of repair over refinement or efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded or Lead-Substitute) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.7 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 50 bhp (37 kW) @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 107 lb·ft (145 Nm) @ 1,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | SU Carburettor (Type H4) | |
| Emissions standard | Not applicable (pre-regulation era) | |
| Compression ratio | 6.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Thermosyphon water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | 20W-50 mineral oil (SAE J300) | |
| Dry weight | 136 kg |
The 10 H – Petrol delivers modest power suitable for low-speed off-road use but requires careful attention to cooling and lubrication in demanding conditions. Use of 20W-50 mineral oil is essential due to the engine's clearances and lack of modern filtration. Carburettor tuning and ignition timing must be manually adjusted for altitude and temperature variations. The thermosyphon cooling system lacks a water pump, relying on convection, so prolonged idling or uphill climbs can lead to overheating. Operators should carry spare belts, points, and plugs for field repairs. Later models replaced this unit with more powerful and reliable engines, reflecting its role as a foundational but limited design.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (Land Rover SIB 1949-03). Modern multi-grades not recommended due to seal and pump compatibility.
Emissions: No emissions certification applies; vehicles from this era are exempt under VCA UK Historic Vehicle guidelines.
Power Ratings: Measured under pre-SAE gross standards. Output reflects uninstalled engine with no accessories (Land Rover Group PT-1948).
Land Rover Technical Information System (TIS): Docs LR-A100, LR-C103, LR-T104, SIB 1949-03
VCA Historical Vehicle Classification Guidelines
SAE International: J300 Engine Oil Viscosity Classification
The Land Rover 10 H – Petrol was used across Land Rover's Series I platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed production. This engine received no major adaptations during its production run and was phased out in 1951 with the introduction of larger displacement units, creating a clear interchange boundary. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped on the top face of the cylinder block, just forward of the carburettor mounting (Land Rover TIS LR-ID101). The prefix "10H" indicates the engine type. Visually, the 10 H – Petrol features a cast iron block with external breathers and a prominent SU carburettor on the right side. It lacks a water pump, distinguishing it from later forced-circulation engines. Critical differentiation from successor units: The 10 H has a flat front timing cover and gear-driven cam, whereas the 2.0L engine introduced in 1951 uses a different block and timing layout. Service parts are not interchangeable with later engines due to fundamental design differences.
The 10 H – Petrol's primary reliability risk is overheating under sustained load, with elevated incidence in hot climates or stop-start off-road use. Land Rover field reports from 1950 noted a significant number of early engines suffering head gasket failures due to thermal cycling, while VCA historic vehicle assessments highlight cooling system neglect as a leading cause of failure. Lack of a water pump and low coolant flow increase cylinder head stress, making regular maintenance and proper coolant mixture critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (1948-1951) and UK DVSA historic vehicle failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LAND-ROVER 10H.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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LAND-ROVER Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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