Land Rover Repair: Defender Td5 stutter, low gears, vacuum leak

Question
My Td5 tends to stutter/misfire when I put on the power under load (up a slope etc). It's more noticable in lower gears but is there in all gears. I've seen stuff on the net about ECU software and wonder if this is the problem or if it's ignition, injection or clutch.
It's a Sept 2000 with 30,000m on the clock

Answer
Hi Will,

could be a few things but I don't think its your clutch. If it was your clutch, you'd know it every time you shift.  Believe me, its a terrible sound.  

Sounds more like fuel feed or ignition related.  Have your injectors tested by the dealer or a local shop.  Could be a glow plug problem, vacuum leak or even a filter problem. Wax buildup? Have your injection system tested and cleaned.

The fact that you notice this in low gears leads me to this conclusion.  What also helps is the low, low mileage you have.  

Best of luck,

JohnMc