Segment:
Compact to Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, fleet maintenance, professional repair shops
Key Competitors:
Toyota Hilux/Pickup, Nissan Hardbody, Mazda B-Series, Ford Ranger
Reliability:
Isuzu reputation for robust and dependable powertrains
Durability:
Built for work and general use, often with simple and effective engineering
Value Proposition:
Affordable and capable utility vehicle, appealing to budget-conscious buyers and tradespeople
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (if applicable), transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, axles
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension (e.g., independent, torsion bar), rear suspension (e.g., leaf spring), steering system (e.g., power steering components)
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, gauges, switches, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, fluid checks and top-offs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic charts, component testing procedures, electrical troubleshooting guides
Rebuilding:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, detailed component specifications for rebuilding
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements for all serviceable parts
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical system diagnostics and bodywork repairs.
Engine Family:
G-Series (e.g., G161, G180, G200)
Displacement Common:
1.6L (1584cc), 1.8L (1817cc), 2.0L (1949cc)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder (I4)
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated
Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV) or Overhead Cam (OHC), depending on specific engine code
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 70-95 hp (varies by engine and tuning)
Torque Range:
Approx. 80-120 lb-ft (varies by engine)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Keihin, Hitachi) for most models
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Example 2:
G180SS (1.8L with twin-carburetor option)
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Opt:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (THM200/30 series)
Drive Layout:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Transfer Case:
If 4WD, manual engagement transfer case (e.g., part-time 4WD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90 or 85W-90 (refer to manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec)
Body Styles:
Regular Cab (1-ton, 1/2-ton), Long Bed, Short Bed
Wheelbase Approx:
104.3 - 118.1 inches (2650 - 3000 mm), depending on configuration
Curb Weight Approx:
2,500 - 3,500 lbs (1134 - 1588 kg), depending on configuration
Payload Capacity Approx:
1,000 - 2,000 lbs (454 - 907 kg), depending on GVWR and configuration
NHTSA Ratings:
Not extensively tested by NHTSA under modern protocols; refer to period tests if available.
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum brakes; power assist often optional.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball type, optional power steering
Seat Belts:
Standard 3-point belts for front occupants
Crash Structure:
Body-on-frame construction, designed for durability rather than advanced crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise interval).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (refer to manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or equivalent, viscosity SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for exact spec).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 - 5.0 quarts (3.8 - 4.7 liters) with filter, depending on engine.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (green color typically), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Carburetor Issues:
Clogged jets, vacuum leaks, difficulty in tuning, especially with age and mileage.
Ignition System:
Distributor wear, coil failure, spark plug wire degradation.
Rust:
Common on body panels, frame rails, and wheel wells due to age and environmental exposure.
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings leading to steering looseness and poor handling.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and leaks in exhaust pipes, muffler, and catalytic converter (if fitted).
Manufacturer:
Isuzu Motors Ltd., Japan
Specialization:
Known for diesel engines, commercial vehicles, and reliable utility vehicles.
Previous Generation:
Preceded by earlier Isuzu Faster/KB models.
Generation Info:
This 1983 model typically belongs to the KB/TF generation, which saw significant updates throughout the 1980s.
Production Period:
1980s (specific model years covered by the manual)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, and potentially licensed assembly plants globally.
