Lister LT, LV

With such a lengthy production run there have been numerous changes to many parts of the engine, so if ordering parts an engine number is a very useful starting point. As with all Listers however, the engine number alone may not suffice to identify changeover points for modified components, so it is not always possible to acquire all the parts you may need in advance.
Although robustly built, the LT and LV have their problems, the most significant of which is the absence of any oil filtration provision on single cylinder versions; there is not even a pick up gauze fitted. Consequently, unlike most contemporary Listers, significant bearing and crank wear is a distinct possibility on engines which have not enjoyed appropriate oil changes. LT2 and LV2 are fitted with an oil filter. Early engines also suffered from a design fault that allowed excess oil to the cylinder heads, along with inadequate drain back provision, in some cases leading to starvation. If you have a choice, LT series with build versions 1 - 8 are probably best avoided.

Below are listed some useful tips on what to look for when ordering some of the more common pieces for your LT or LV If you think we have missed something useful, or got something wrong, please email and let us know. We welcome any suggestions for improving the usefulness of this page.

is attached to a corner of the rocker cover. On the T series, it is connected directly to the cylinder head.

Lister LT, LV Parts Availability:

Routine Service Items -- 100% availability. If ordering, please note the following first:

Oil Filter. None fitted to single cylinder versions; just one fitment for twin cylinder units.

Fuel Filter. There are two patterns of fuel filter used on the LT and LV range.
1. Small paper element type contained within a metal bowl; the bowl is secured by a single bolt from the bottom.

2. Small cylindrical filter contained within the fuel tank. Allow some time for this job; it can be quite a fiddle to remove the old filter.

Air Filter There are just two air filter elements listed for the LT and LV; one for single cylinder and one for twin cylinder. As with many Lister applications however, depending on the equipment it is powering, the equipment maker may have specified their own alternative.

External Components --- Near 100% availability.

Charging System.
LT and LV series fitted with a charging system use charge windings fitted within the flywheel and a regulator mounted close by the flywheel housing. There have been changes both of supplier and design over time. If you think you need replacement parts we will want to know how many terminals on the regulator (a photo is handy) plus the engine number. Some combinations are obsolete and an effective repair may include flywheel removal. Our experience is that generally all the flywheel charge systems leave something to be desired and are prone to various failings. We are able to supply test data if you wish to check where your problem may be.
It is important not to run the engine with the battery out of circuit and any evidence of oil within the flywheel housing should be investigated as it has a detrimental effect on the charge windings insulation and function.

Starter Motors
If you are shopping around for a starter motor (if fitted) for your LT / LV be aware there is often considerable confusion among non-Lister sources over the issue of rotation. If you have a clockwise LT / LV you will need an anti-clockwise rotation starter motor and vice versa. The rotation of a starter motor is determined by which way the pinion turns as viewed from the pinion end of the motor. Many starter suppliers simply refer to rotation without being clear whether they mean the starter or the engine, or indeed without knowing how Lister define rotation. (the way the flywheel turns when viewed from the flywheel end of the engine)

Motor availability is good.

Protection devices. Rarely found on single cylinder versions and not particularly common on twins. Availability good.
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Fuel Injectors No problem.

Fuel Injection Pumps No supply issues. If you're not sure what you are doing with these pumps, the job is best left to a person with suitable experience.

Fuel Lift Pump (Where fitted) Readily available.

Gaskets and Joints 100% availabilty; sets or individually.

Internal Components

Good, but not 100% availability. Over time there have been numerous changes, plus equipment offered that may be long obsolete now. If buying an LT, unless it is clearly in good order, Build 1 - 8 are probably best avoided due to component differences.

Complete Engines
New engines long unobtainable. We carry a good selection of core units and will usually be able to offer a rebuilt exchange engine to meet your specification. We sometimes have good used engines available.

Top Tip !

If buying an LT or LV, satisfy yourself as far as possible it is in good order. Many have had hard lives in the construction and associated industries; this plus inadequate maintenance means a higher proportion than is usual with Lister engines of terminally tired units. Despite their modest size, parts are not bargain basement price, so a rebuild

may set you back more than you expect. Perceptible end float on the crank, or lateral play at the flywheel are sure indicators you should probably walk away.

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