Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Off-road vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, off-roaders, families seeking robust and capable transportation
Competitors:
Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder
Vehicle Strengths:
Body-on-frame construction, rugged durability, capable off-road performance, spacious interior
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners and mechanics to maintain and repair the Trooper to factory specifications, extending its lifespan and preserving its capability.
Engine:
All gasoline and diesel engine variants, including disassembly, assembly, tuning, and diagnostics
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions: inspection, overhaul, adjustments, and service
Drivetrain:
Transfer case, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, axles, CV joints, and hubs
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and alignment procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, tie rods, steering column, and alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, and rotors
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, and power accessories
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, lines, and evaporative emissions control (EVAP)
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, hoses, and coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, and piping
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, chassis structure, rust repair, and bodywork procedures
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and service
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, and specialized tool usage
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, electrical resistance values, system pressures
Depth:
In-depth, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers complete overhauls and complex diagnostics.
Engine Code:
3.5L V6 (6VD1-W)
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3494 cc)
Configuration:
SOHC V6, 24 valves
Horsepower:
Approx. 215 hp @ 5400 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Engine Code:
3.0L Turbo Diesel (4JX1)
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2999 cc)
Configuration:
DOHC Inline-4, 16 valves, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Horsepower:
Approx. 130 hp @ 3600 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 219 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Gasoline Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Diesel Injection:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Gasoline:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
Diesel:
Low-sulfur Diesel Fuel
Type:
4-speed Automatic (4L30-E) on most models
Type:
5-speed Manual (MUA5)
Transfer Case:
2-speed electronically controlled part-time 4WD system (RVS) with shift-on-the-fly capability
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Transfer Case Fluid:
Dexron-III (or equivalent)
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (may require limited-slip additive if equipped with LSD)
NHTSA Front Barrier Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - for models with dual front airbags
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags standard on most models; optional side airbags available
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
Rollover Protection:
Designed with a lower center of gravity and reinforced structure to mitigate rollover risk, though high center of gravity inherent to SUVs remains a consideration.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe conditions); 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions). Check manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with every oil change.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (V6), or 100,000 miles (V6 Iridium)
Fuel Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and fluid condition. Refer to manual for specific mileage.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Capacity:
V6: 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter; Diesel: 6.7 quarts (6.3 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Isuzu Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Dex-Cool compatible antifreeze
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and rear main seals can be prone to leaks.
Transmission Shifting:
Some automatic transmissions may develop shifting issues or torque converter problems.
Interior Rattles:
Common for interior trim panels to develop squeaks and rattles over time due to age and wear.
Fuel Injector Clogging:
V6 engines can experience fuel injector issues if fuel quality is poor or filters are neglected.
ABS Sensor Failure:
ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, triggering ABS warning lights.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings are common and can lead to noise and poor handling.
Manufacturer:
Isuzu Motors Ltd., Japan
Specialization:
Known for robust diesel engines and durable SUVs/trucks.
Generation Third:
1998-2004 (UBS/UC chassis) - major redesign, modern styling, new powertrains, more car-like refinement compared to previous generations.
Discontinuation Usdm:
Discontinued in the US market after the 2004 model year due to declining sales and Isuzu's exit from the passenger vehicle market.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan, Thailand, Ecuador, Poland (under license/collaboration)
