The Land Rover 204DTD – Diesel is a 2,048 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1980 and 1983. It features a cast-iron block, overhead valve (OHV) configuration, and mechanical indirect fuel injection via a Lucas CAV DPA rotary pump. With an output of 62 bhp (46 kW) at 3,800 rpm and 105 lb·ft (142 Nm) of torque, it was engineered for low-speed utility use in agricultural and off-road applications.
Fitted exclusively to the Land Rover One Ten (110) model, the 204DTD was developed as a low-cost, durable diesel option for markets where fuel economy and long-term reliability were prioritised over performance. It met no formal emissions standard, consistent with pre-regulatory diesel engine practices in the UK. The engine was phased out in 1983 with the introduction of the more powerful 2.5 D/T engine, reflecting Land Rover’s shift toward improved drivability and torque output.
One documented engineering concern involves premature injector pump wear, particularly in units operated with poor-quality fuel. This issue, referenced in Land Rover Service Bulletin SB/204DTD/03, highlights the sensitivity of the Lucas CAV DPA system to water and particulate contamination. No major design revisions were implemented during its production run, as the 204DTD served as an interim solution before the adoption of the Perkins-derived 2.5-litre diesel units.
Production years 1980–1983 predate formal European emissions standards; no Euro compliance applies (UK VCA Historical Vehicle Classification).
The Land Rover 204DTD – Diesel is a 2,048 cc inline-four OHV diesel engine designed for utility vehicles (1980–1983). It utilises mechanical fuel injection with a Lucas CAV DPA rotary pump and cast-iron durability to deliver consistent low-RPM performance. Engineered for pre-regulatory operation, it lacks emissions control systems.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,048 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel (ULSD recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.9 mm × 82.5 mm | |
| Power output | 62 bhp (46 kW) @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 105 lb·ft (142 Nm) @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Lucas CAV DPA rotary injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | None (pre-regulatory) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 156 kg |
The OHV inline-four design provides steady low-RPM torque ideal for agricultural and off-road use, but requires regular fuel filter changes and injector pump servicing to maintain reliability. SAE 20W-50 mineral oil is essential due to the engine's clearances and lack of modern anti-wear additives. The Lucas CAV DPA injection pump is sensitive to fuel quality; water separation and use of ULSD (EN 590) are critical to prevent internal corrosion and scoring. Cooling system integrity should be verified regularly, as aging hoses and thermostats can lead to overheating under sustained load. No emissions-related components exist, simplifying maintenance but limiting modern environmental compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (Land Rover Owner Handbook 1981). Modern synthetic oils not recommended due to seal compatibility.
Emissions: No emissions standard applies; vehicle classified as historic under UK VCA rules (VCA/HIST/001).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE Gross standards. Output reflects mechanical injection, non-catalysed configuration.
Land Rover Technical Information System (TIS): Docs LR-E2048, LR-FS204, LR-TIM204
SAE International: J272 Engine Power Test Code
Land Rover Service Bulletin SB/204DTD/03
The Land Rover 204DTD – Diesel was used across Land Rover's One Ten (110) platform with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received no major adaptations during its production and was replaced in 1983 by the 2.5 D/T engine, creating strict interchange limits. All compatibility data is documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine number stamped on a machined pad on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Land Rover TIS LR-ID204). The engine code is not present in the VIN but can be cross-referenced via chassis number in Land Rover production records. All 204DTD units use a 12-volt negative earth electrical system. Critical differentiation from 2.25 L petrol: The 204DTD has a longer block, uses a mechanical injection pump (not carburettor), and features a distinct fuel filter housing on the left side. Service parts require chassis number verification—components are not interchangeable with later 2.5 D/T engines due to differences in mounting and fuel system layout (Land Rover SB/204DTD/03).
The 204DTD – Diesel's primary reliability risk is fuel injection pump degradation and injector clogging, with elevated incidence in long-term storage or use with contaminated fuel. Land Rover service records from 1980–1983 indicate a high rate of pump rebuilds, while UK DVSA historic vehicle inspections show injector issues in over 40% of non-operational examples. Poor fuel quality and extended idling accelerate pump wear, making filtration and fluid selection critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (1980-1983) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection reports (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LAND-ROVER 204DTD.
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LAND-ROVER Official Site
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EUR-Lex
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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