LR
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Gearbox & transferMedium severity

Notchy changes or jumping out of gear on LT77 and R380

Will get worse if left.

Symptoms

Second gear crunches when cold, fifth or reverse jumps out, rattles at idle in neutral.

Likely cause

Worn synchro, incorrect oil, worn selector components or worn layshaft bearings.

Suggested fixes

Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.

  1. 1

    Change to the correct gearbox oil

    LT77 boxes were specified with ATF. R380 uses MTF94. Fresh oil of the right type often improves cold changes.

    Difficulty:
    Easy DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)
  2. 2

    Adjust or replace the selector mechanism

    Check the bias spring adjustment and gear lever bushes.

    Difficulty:
    Moderate DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)
  3. 3

    Fit an exchange gearbox

    For worn synchros and bearings, a reconditioned exchange unit is often best value.

    Difficulty:
    Experienced DIY
    Cost:
    £££ (Over about £300)

This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.

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