🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu / Holden

Model:

Rodeo KB Series TF

Common Name:

Holden Rodeo TF

Platform Code:

KB / TF

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Pickup Truck / Utility Vehicle

Target Audience:

Light commercial use, recreational off-roading, daily utility

Key Competitors:

Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara (D22), Mitsubishi Triton (L200), Mazda BT-50 (early variants), Ford Ranger (early variants)

Vehicle Strengths:

Durability, reliability, off-road capability (especially 4x4 models), simple mechanicals, parts availability

Manual Value Proposition:

Cost-effective maintenance and repair, empowers DIY enthusiasts, essential for professional workshops

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1988-2003 (Exact years may vary by region and specific model variant within KB/TF series, this manual targets the core TF generation overlap)

Regions Covered:

Global (Primarily Australia, Asia, North America where Isuzu D-Max/Rodeo models were sold under various brands like Holden, Isuzu, Chevrolet)

Trim Levels Covered:

All TF Series variants including LT, LS, DX, Champ, etc.

Estimated Pages:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals covering multiple engine and body configurations)

Type:

Factory Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Yes (All gasoline and diesel variants offered in the TF generation)

Transmission:

Yes (Manual and Automatic transmissions)

Drivetrain:

Yes (2WD and 4WD systems, including transfer case and differentials)

Brakes:

Yes (Front disc, rear drum/disc depending on model, ABS if equipped)

Suspension:

Yes (Front torsion bar, rear leaf spring independent/dependent setups)

Steering:

Yes (Power and manual steering systems)

Electrical:

Yes (Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, accessories)

Body And Frame:

Yes (Chassis repair, body panel replacement, interior trim, glass)

HVAC:

Yes (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)

Fuel System:

Yes (Fuel tank, pump, injection/carburetion depending on engine)

Cooling System:

Yes (Radiator, thermostat, fans, water pump)

Exhaust System:

Yes (Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes)

Emission Controls:

Yes (Component locations and function)

Maintenance:

Yes (Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plugs, belts)

Troubleshooting:

Yes (Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms)

Repair:

Yes (Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, etc.)

Disassembly Reassembly:

Yes (Complete vehicle teardown and reassembly instructions)

Diagnostics:

Yes (On-board diagnostics (OBD) if applicable to the era, general electrical testing)

Alignment:

Yes (Wheel alignment specifications and procedures)

Specification Setting:

Yes (Torque values, clearances, measurements)

Depth:

Comprehensive Factory Level (Suitable for DIY and professional mechanics)

Detail Level:

Detailed illustrations, step-by-step instructions, exploded diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely Yes (Dependent on original document scanning quality)

Printable:

Yes (All pages printable as stated)

Operating Systems:

Windows and Mac OS compatible

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Gasoline Engines:

2.3L 4ZE1 (I4), 2.6L 4ZD1 (I4), 3.1L 4JG2 (I4 Turbo Diesel - often found in later TF models which evolved from KB)

Diesel Engines:

2.2L 4BA1 (I4 Diesel), 2.5L 4JA1 (I4 Diesel), 2.8L 4JB1 (I4 Diesel), 3.1L 4JG2-TC (I4 Turbo Diesel)

2.3L 4Ze1 Hp:

Approx. 100-110 HP (depending on tuning and year)

2.6L 4Zd1 Hp:

Approx. 110-120 HP (depending on tuning and year)

3.1L 4Jg2 Tc Hp:

Approx. 105-115 HP (depending on tuning and year)

Injection Type:

MPI (Multi-Point Injection) on later models, Carburetor on earlier KB models

Injection Type:

Direct Injection or Indirect Injection (depending on specific engine code)

Type:

Liquid Cooled, Pressurized

Oil Capacity Approx:

4.5 - 5.5 Liters (Varies by engine)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (e.g., JATCO 4F27E variants or similar)

Options:

RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive), 4WD (Part-time with manual or automatic hubs)

Type:

Dry single plate (Manual transmission)

Specification:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (Refer to manual for exact)

Specification:

Dexron III or equivalent (Refer to manual for exact)

📐 Dimensions

Approximate:

4700 - 5000 mm (Varies by cab type: single, extended, double)

Approximate:

1600 - 1750 mm

Approximate:

1600 - 1800 mm (Varies by 2WD/4WD and suspension)

Range:

2750 - 3030 mm (Varies by cab type and model)

Range:

1800 - 2100 mm (Varies by cab type and bed configuration)

Curb Weight Approx:

1400 - 1800 kg (Varies significantly by configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

2500 - 2900 kg

Approximate Maximum:

1500 - 2000 kg (Braked, varies by engine and configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

Seatbelts:

Yes (3-point front, 2-point or 3-point rear depending on seating configuration)

Body Construction:

Ladder frame chassis with steel body panels

ABS:

Available on some later models/trims

Limited Slip Differential Lsd:

Optional on some models

Crash Test Results:

Information generally not available for this era of pickup truck by modern standards. Vehicle was designed to meet regulations of its time.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard. Optional CD players and upgraded speaker systems.

Display:

Analog gauges and basic dashboard indicator lights.

Features:

Limited; ABS available on some later trims. Primarily mechanical systems.

Features:

None beyond basic accessory power outlets.

🔧 Maintenance

Interval Km:

5,000 - 10,000 km (Petrol), 5,000 - 7,500 km (Diesel) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (Consult manual for exact)

Interval Km:

Same as oil change

Interval Km:

15,000 - 30,000 km (More frequent in dusty conditions)

Interval Km:

20,000 - 40,000 km (Crucial for diesel longevity)

Interval Km:

30,000 - 60,000 km (Depending on plug type)

Specification:

API SG/SH/SJ, SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40, 5W-30 (Petrol/Diesel specific, cold weather considerations apply - consult manual)

Specification:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. (Specify color/type if known, e.g., Green Type A)

Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Check reservoir cap and manual)

Specification:

Dexron II/III or dedicated power steering fluid (Check reservoir and manual)

Engine Performance:

Potential for head gasket issues on some gasoline engines if overheated; diesel engines known for longevity but can suffer from injector wear or glow plug issues.

Drivetrain:

Transfer case chain stretch or wear in 4WD models; differential seal leaks; worn U-joints.

Suspension And Steering:

Worn torsion bar bushings (front), sagging leaf springs (rear), ball joint wear, steering idler arm wear.

Electrical:

Alternator/charging system issues; starter motor wear; corrosion on grounds and connectors, particularly in humid climates.

Body And Chassis:

Rust and corrosion on frame, body panels (especially wheel arches, rocker panels, and cab corners), tailgate hinges.

📚 Vehicle History

Isuzu Truck Division:

Isuzu has a long-standing reputation for producing robust and reliable light commercial vehicles and trucks since the mid-20th century.

Kb Series Origins:

The KB series was Isuzu's entry into the compact pickup truck market, originating from the late 1970s and evolving through multiple generations.

Tf Generation Introduction:

The TF generation (also known as the Faster or D-Max in some markets) was introduced in the late 1980s, replacing the KB series and offering updated styling, engines, and features.

Holden Rebadging:

Holden, the Australian automotive marque, sold rebadged Isuzu TF pickups as the Holden Rodeo, making it a popular choice in the Australian market.

Production Years:

Isuzu TF production spanned from approximately 1988 to 2002/2003, after which it was largely succeeded by the Isuzu D-Max.

Primary Locations:

Japan (Isuzu main plants), Thailand (later production for global markets), and assembly plants in various other countries including Australia (Holden).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reputation:

The Holden Rodeo TF was a consistently strong seller in Australia, known for its practicality and value for money, earning a reputation as a dependable workhorse.