Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Off-road Utility Vehicle
Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Land Rover Discovery
Drivetrain Options:
Part-time 4WD (standard on most trims), Full-time 4WD (optional or standard on higher trims depending on year/market)
Market Coverage:
North America (primarily, but likely includes global specifications due to Isuzu's reach)
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals covering multiple model years and engine types)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (Gasoline & Turbo Diesel), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (4WD System, Transfer Case, Differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, Hydraulic System), Fuel System, Exhaust System
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Accessories, ECU Diagnostics, Body Control Modules
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seating, HVAC System, Doors, Windows, Locks, Body Structure
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points, Tune-up Procedures
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, component-level repairs, and full system overhauls. Includes diagnostic procedures, specifications, and tolerances for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
Digital Format:
PDF (likely searchable text and high-resolution diagrams)
Print Quality:
Designed for clarity and usability when printed, with sharp text and detailed, legible diagrams.
Binding:
N/A (Downloadable format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Downloadable format)
Gasoline Engine Options:
3.2L 6VD1 SOHC V6 (190-205 hp), 3.5L 6VE1 DOHC V6 (215-230 hp)
Turbo Diesel Engine Options:
3.0L 4JX1 Turbo Diesel I4 (131-135 hp)
Torque Range:
184 - 290 lb-ft (approximate, varies by engine)
Fuel Delivery Gasoline:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Delivery Diesel:
Direct Injection (DI) with Turbocharging and Intercooling
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (common on lower trims and specific engine/market configurations)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (common across most trims and engine options)
Transfer Case:
2-speed transfer case with electronic or manual engagement (depending on trim/year), providing 2WD High, 4WD High, 4WD Low ranges.
Length:
Approx. 188-192 inches
Width:
Approx. 74-75 inches
Height:
Approx. 70-71 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111 inches
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,300 - 4,700 lbs (varies significantly by engine, drivetrain, and trim)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (check specific model year and configuration for exact ratings)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year. Generally good for its era, but specific ratings should be verified for individual model years.
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on higher trims, particularly later in the generation.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced roof structure (designed to withstand weight, but rollover potential exists in high-center-of-gravity SUVs of this era)
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player and cassette tape, often with premium speaker options.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, power sunroof (optional)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Check manual for exact recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., iridium vs. copper).
Engine Oil Type Gasoline:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for precise specification based on climate).
Engine Oil Type Diesel:
API CI-4 or CH-4, SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for precise specification).
Coolant:
Isuzu specified Long Life Coolant (LLC) or equivalent silicate-free OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90, to be confirmed in manual).
Transfer Case Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or GL-4/GL-5 gear oil (check manual for specific application).
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 gear oil (SAE 90 or 80W-90), potentially with limited-slip additive if equipped with LSD.
Head Gaskets:
Certain V6 engines (particularly earlier 3.2L variants) could be prone to head gasket issues if overheated. Proper cooling system maintenance is critical.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks.
4Wd System:
Actuators and sensors for the electronic 4WD system can fail. Regular engagement and maintenance of the transfer case and driveline components are beneficial.
Diesel Engine Reliability:
The 4JX1 turbo-diesel is generally robust, but requires diligent maintenance. Injector seals and glow plug issues can occur.
Isuzu SUV Legacy:
Isuzu has a long history of producing robust and capable off-road vehicles, dating back to its military and rugged utility vehicles. The Trooper nameplate itself has a strong lineage of go-anywhere capability.
Third Gen Introduction:
The third generation (UB) was a significant redesign, moving to a unibody construction for improved on-road manners and safety, while retaining off-road prowess. It was introduced for the 1992 model year globally and for the 1998 model year in North America.
Production Years Covered:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily), with potential assembly in other regions.
Off Road Reputation:
The Isuzu Trooper is widely recognized for its strong off-road capabilities, often outperforming many of its competitors in challenging terrain due to its robust chassis, effective 4WD system, and solid ground clearance.
Value For Money:
Often praised for offering significant capability and features at a competitive price point, especially in the used market.
