🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

Pick-ups

Model Generations:

KB (Second Generation), TF (Third Generation)

Chassis Codes:

KB26, TF14, TF21, TF22, TF23, TF25, TF41, TF42, TF45, TF46, TF61, TF62, TF65, TF71, TF72, TF75, TF76

Engine Codes:

G161, G180, G200 (Gasoline); C190, C223, C223T, 4FC1, 4JA1, 4JB1 (Diesel)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Isuzu Pick-ups of this era were known for their ruggedness, reliability, and excellent diesel engine options, often competing with domestic manufacturers and other Japanese imports like Toyota and Nissan in the compact and mid-size truck segments. They offered a strong value proposition for tradespeople and outdoor enthusiasts.

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Mazda B-Series, Toyota Pickup (Hilux), Nissan Hardbody, Chevrolet S-10/Sonoma.

Notable Features:

Durable chassis, reliable engines (especially the diesel variants), excellent payload capacity for their size, available 4WD, straightforward mechanicals contributing to ease of maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993

Regions Covered:

Global (specific variations may apply)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500+ (depending on specific vehicle configurations and included supplements)

Type:

Factory Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Gasoline (G161, G180, G200), Diesel (C190, C223, C223T, 4FC1, 4JA1, 4JB1) - including overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection (mechanical and early electronic), emissions control

Transmission:

Manual (4-speed, 5-speed), Automatic (3-speed, 4-speed) - including disassembly, assembly, overhaul, fluid specifications, troubleshooting

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD/4x4) - including differentials, driveshafts, transfer case, axle bearings, seals

Suspension:

Front and Rear (Independent Front Suspension on some models, Solid Front Axle on others, Leaf Spring Rear) - including ball joints, tie rods, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front Disc, Rear Drum - including hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, brake pads, brake shoes, parking brake, bleeding procedures, specifications

Steering:

Power and Manual Steering - including steering gear, power steering pump, hoses, linkages, steering column, alignment specifications

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System (alternator, regulator), Starting System (starter motor), Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Gauges, Wiper System, Horn, Wiring Diagrams (comprehensive)

Body:

Body panels, doors, latches, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, bumpers, fenders, hood, tailgate

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (if equipped) - including system components, refrigerant, troubleshooting

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, timing belt/chain inspection, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault codes (where applicable), symptom-based diagnosis

Repair:

Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension and brake component replacement, electrical system repairs, bodywork

Adjustments:

Ignition timing, carburetor adjustments, valve clearance adjustments, parking brake adjustment, clutch adjustment

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, performance data

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical system analysis.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

High-resolution PDF, typically searchable text, allowing for easy navigation and printing.

Quality:

Excellent digital reproduction of original factory manuals, often including clear diagrams and photographs.

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Popular Gasoline Engine:

G200 (2.0L Inline-4)

Popular Diesel Engine:

C223T (2.2L Turbo Diesel)

G200 Specs:

Displacement: 1949 cc; Bore x Stroke: 84.0 mm x 88.0 mm; Compression Ratio: ~8.7:1; Horsepower: ~90-100 hp @ 4800-5200 rpm; Torque: ~110-120 lb-ft @ 2800-3200 rpm

C223T Specs:

Displacement: 2238 cc; Bore x Stroke: 84.0 mm x 100.0 mm; Compression Ratio: ~21.0:1; Horsepower: ~94-96 hp @ 4000-4300 rpm; Torque: ~130-140 lb-ft @ 2200-2400 rpm

General Performance Characteristics:

Engines prioritize durability and fuel economy over outright performance, with diesel engines offering strong low-end torque for towing and hauling.

Gasoline Fuel System:

Carbureted (early models) and early Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems

Diesel Fuel System:

Mechanical Direct Injection (JPT/P-type injection pumps) or Indirect Injection systems

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed and 5-speed Manual Transmissions

Optional Transmission:

3-speed and 4-speed Automatic Transmissions

Transmission Features:

Robust construction, known for longevity. Clutch systems are typically hydraulic. Transfer case for 4WD models is typically gear-driven.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Common wheelbases include 104.3 inches (short bed) and 118.1 inches (long bed).

Bed Length Options:

Standard bed (approx. 6 feet) and long bed (approx. 7 feet).

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 2,600 - 3,500 lbs (depending on configuration: 2WD/4WD, engine, cab type).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by model, typically between 4,000 - 5,500 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

As this era predates widespread standardized crash testing by organizations like IIHS and NHTSA in their current form, specific ratings are limited. However, these trucks were designed to meet basic safety standards of the time.

Active Safety Features:

Typically limited to standard braking systems. ABS was not common on base models during this period.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder), reinforced cab structure, crumple zones (basic design principles applied).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel, temperature, and oil pressure. Very limited electronic features by modern standards.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern definition. Features such as cruise control were optional on higher trims.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated connectivity (Bluetooth, USB, etc.). Connectivity was limited to aftermarket radio installations.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on engine and oil specification.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Inspect periodically, change if contaminated or according to severe service schedule. Automatic: Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles. Consult manual for specific fluid type and capacity.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles, using the correct type of antifreeze.

Engine Oil Specification:

Varies by engine and climate. Common recommendations include API SF/SG/SH rated oils. Viscosities like 10W-30, 10W-40, or 5W-30 (for colder climates) are typical. Diesel engines may require specific diesel engine oils.

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a green or yellow type, requiring a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for exact specifications.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on model year and system requirements.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 rated gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-II or Dexron-III compatible fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, clutch wear, exhaust systems (corrosion), radiator hoses, starter motors, glow plugs (diesel).

Diesel Specific Concerns:

Injection pump timing and seals, turbocharger wear (on turbo models), pre-combustion chamber wear, carbon buildup in intake manifold and exhaust ports.

Gasoline Specific Concerns:

Carburetor performance issues, ignition system components (points, condenser, distributor cap/rotor), valve seat wear on earlier models.

📚 Vehicle History

Isuzu Truck Heritage:

Isuzu has a long history of building robust commercial vehicles and trucks, which directly influenced the design and engineering of their light-duty pick-ups, emphasizing durability and utility.

Kb Tf Evolution:

The manual covers the transition from the second-generation Isuzu KB (often sold in various markets under different names like Chevrolet LUV and early Holden Rodeo) to the third-generation Isuzu TF (also rebadged extensively, including Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Holden Rodeo, and Isuzu D-Max in later iterations).

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, with significant assembly plants and collaborations in other countries (e.g., Thailand, Australia, USA via partnerships).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition:

Isuzu pick-ups from this era were often praised by automotive publications and owners for their 'no-nonsense' approach to utility, durability, and the fuel efficiency offered by their diesel engines, particularly in the commercial and work-truck segments.