L200 Gearbox Explained

It's a common query for any vehicle owner to understand the intricacies of their car's drivetrain, and for those looking at the Mitsubishi L200, particularly the Series 4, the question of its gearbox is paramount. While the information provided references a "Ford L200", it's important to clarify that the L200 is a Mitsubishi vehicle. Perhaps the confusion arises from comparisons with other popular pick-up trucks like the Ford Ranger. Nevertheless, let's delve into the transmission specifics of the Mitsubishi L200 Series 4.

Understanding the L200 Series 4 Transmission

The Mitsubishi L200 Series 4, which was in production from 2005 until its replacement by the Series 5 in 2015, offered a range of models catering to different needs, from work-focused variants like the 4Work and 4Life to more luxurious double-cab options such as the Trojan, Warrior, Barbarian, and Walkinshaw. Across these models, the transmission system plays a crucial role in delivering power to the wheels, especially with its standard part-time four-wheel-drive system.

Manual vs. Automatic: The L200 Series 4 Options

For the L200 Series 4, powered by Mitsubishi's robust 2.5-litre common-rail diesel engine, there were distinct transmission choices depending on the engine output. Models with the 134bhp engine, typically found in the 4Work and 4Life ranges, came equipped with a five-speed manual transmission as standard. This offered drivers direct control over gear selection, ideal for various driving conditions and load-carrying scenarios.

For those seeking a more relaxed driving experience, or perhaps for specific urban driving conditions, a five-speed automatic transmission was available as an option. However, this automatic gearbox was exclusively paired with the more powerful 175bhp engine, which was generally found in the higher-specification double-cab models. This meant that if you opted for the higher performance L200 Series 4, you had the choice between a manual or an automatic gearbox.

The Super Select 4WD System

Beyond the primary transmission, the L200 Series 4 also featured Mitsubishi's renowned Super Select four-wheel-drive system on most models, excluding the base 4Work and 4Life variants. This system offered drivers greater flexibility in managing traction. It allowed for seamless switching between two-wheel drive (for fuel efficiency on good roads) and four-wheel drive (for enhanced grip in challenging conditions). The Super Select system provided different modes, including 2H (2WD High), 4H (4WD High), 4HLc (4WD High with Locked Centre Differential), and 4LLc (4WD Low with Locked Centre Differential), giving drivers the capability to tackle a wide array of terrains.

Key Transmission Features and Considerations

When considering the gearbox of the L200 Series 4, it's worth noting a few key aspects:

• Durability: Mitsubishi has a reputation for building durable drivetrains, and the L200 is no exception. The manual gearbox is known for its robustness, while the automatic transmission, when properly maintained, also offers reliable service.
• Driving Experience: The five-speed manual provides a more engaging driving experience, allowing for precise gear changes. The automatic offers convenience, particularly in stop-start traffic or when towing.
• Fuel Economy: While the L200 Series 4 wasn't primarily designed for hypermiling, its transmission choices do impact fuel consumption. The manual gearbox generally offers slightly better fuel economy than the automatic, though the difference might not be substantial. The official combined fuel consumption figures for both the 134bhp and 175bhp engines were quoted at 36.7mpg, with CO2 emissions of 204g/km, though real-world figures often fell into the low 30s mpg.

Service Intervals and Maintenance

For any vehicle, understanding service intervals is crucial for maintaining the longevity and performance of its gearbox. The L200 Series 4 had service intervals of nine-thousand miles. It's essential to adhere to these schedules, which typically include checks and potential fluid changes for the gearbox. Regular maintenance, including ensuring the correct type and level of transmission fluid, is vital for the smooth operation of both manual and automatic gearboxes.

Frequently Asked Questions about the L200 Gearbox

Q1: Does the L200 Series 4 have a manual gearbox?
Yes, all L200 Series 4 models were available with a five-speed manual transmission. This was standard on the 134bhp models and an option on the 175bhp models.

Q2: Is there an automatic gearbox option for the L200 Series 4?
Yes, a five-speed automatic transmission was available as an option, but only for the higher-specification models equipped with the 175bhp engine.

Q3: What is the Super Select 4WD system?
The Super Select 4WD system, found on most L200 Series 4 models (excluding 4Work and 4Life), allows drivers to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes, including locked centre differential options, for enhanced traction and versatility.

Q4: How do the L200 Series 4 gearbox options compare to rivals like the Ford Ranger?
While specific gearbox configurations vary between model years and trims of rivals like the Ford Ranger, the L200 Series 4 offered a solid five-speed manual as standard and a five-speed automatic as an option for its more powerful variants. Comparisons in terms of performance and efficiency would depend on the specific engine and transmission pairing of each vehicle.

In conclusion, the Mitsubishi L200 Series 4 most certainly has a gearbox, offering a reliable five-speed manual as standard and a five-speed automatic as an option for its more powerful engines. Understanding these options, alongside the capable Super Select 4WD system, is key to appreciating the versatility and performance of this popular pick-up truck.