🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

Pick-up

Year:

1986

Chassis Codes:

KB20, KB26 (may vary based on specific market and configuration)

Engine Codes:

G180 (1.8L), C190 (1.9L Diesel), 4ZC1 (2.0L), 4ZD1 (2.3L) - Manual likely covers primary variants available in 1986

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Isuzu enthusiasts seeking in-depth repair and maintenance knowledge.

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance, saving significant costs compared to dealership service. Covers a wide range of potential issues for a well-aged vehicle.

Comparison To Factory Manuals:

While factory service manuals (FSMs) are authoritative, aftermarket manuals like this often consolidate information and provide clearer, more accessible explanations for the DIYer. May lack highly specific diagnostic tools referenced in FSMs.

Comprehensive Coverage:

Covers nearly all mechanical and electrical systems of the 1986 Isuzu Pick-up, from engine internals to bodywork.

Detailed Illustrations:

Includes exploded views, diagrams, and step-by-step photographic sequences (common in good manuals) to aid comprehension.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed (Paperback/Softcover) or Digital (PDF - assuming typical aftermarket manual format)

Page Count:

Estimated 800-1200+ pages (typical for a comprehensive full service manual of this era)

File Format:

If Digital: Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams. If Printed: Clear, legible text and diagrams.

Print Quality:

High-quality printing with clear, detailed illustrations and schematics. Pages designed for frequent reference in a workshop environment.

Binding Type:

If Printed: Perfect bound or spiral bound for durability and lay-flat usability.

Paper Type:

If Printed: Durable, high-quality paper stock resistant to tearing and smudging.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, timing components.

Engine Fuel System:

Fuel injection systems (if applicable), carburetors (likely for gasoline engines), fuel pumps, lines, filters, emissions controls.

Engine Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, pressure testing.

Engine Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, lubrication points, oil specifications.

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, assembly, repair, clutch system, gearshift linkage, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Component identification, removal, installation, internal operation (if equipped, may be less detailed than manual). Fluid specifications and checks.

Drivetrain Axles:

Rear axle assembly, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings, lubrication.

Drivetrain 4Wd:

Transfer case operation and repair, front axle engagement (if applicable), driveshafts, CV joints.

Suspension Front:

Independent front suspension (likely), control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, springs, shock absorbers, steering knuckles, alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers, bushings, rear axle mounting.

Steering System:

Steering gearbox, steering column, tie rods, power steering pump and system (if equipped), steering wheel removal.

Brake System Front:

Disc brake components, calipers, pads, rotors, lines, fluid specifications.

Brake System Rear:

Drum brake components, shoes, drums, wheel cylinders, parking brake mechanism, fluid specifications.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, wiring diagrams for charging system.

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, solenoid, ignition switch, wiring diagrams for starting system.

Electrical System Ignition:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing, wiring diagrams.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulbs, wiring diagrams.

Electrical System Instruments:

Dashboard gauges, warning lights, sensors, wiring.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, trim.

Body Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, interior trim panels, carpeting.

HVAC System:

Heating and ventilation components, controls, ducting, refrigerant system (if A/C equipped).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, lubrication points, belt tensioning, air filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based problem solving for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Engine Repair:

Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing belt/chain replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission rebuild procedures (both manual and automatic if applicable).

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, brake line replacement, brake bleeding.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, shock absorbers, steering box adjustments/replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Fuse and relay identification, circuit testing using multimeters, component testing (starter, alternator, etc.).

Body Panel Replacement:

Removal and installation of doors, fenders, hood, tailgate for repair or replacement.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring schematics for all major electrical systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step diagnostic sequences for common and complex issues.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners across all systems.

Alignment Specifications:

Front and rear wheel alignment angles, caster, camber, toe settings.

Clearances And Tolerances:

Specific measurements for engine internal components (e.g., piston-to-wall, bearing clearances).

Component Rebuild:

Complete instructions for rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, differentials, and carburetors.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1986:

Likely included 1.8L (G180), 1.9L Diesel (C190), 2.0L (4ZC1), and 2.3L (4ZD1) gasoline and diesel engines depending on market. Manual should cover the most prevalent.

Estimated Horsepower Range:

Gasoline: 75-105 HP, Diesel: 55-60 HP (approximate, varies by engine)

Estimated Torque Range:

Gasoline: 95-130 lb-ft, Diesel: 75-85 lb-ft (approximate, varies by engine)

Gasoline Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (likely for most 1986 gasoline engines) or early TBI/MPI systems depending on specific model/market. Manual will detail applicable system.

Diesel Fuel Delivery:

Indirect injection (IDI) diesel with rotary or inline injection pumps (likely).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission was common.

Optional Transmission Type:

3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission was likely available as an option on some models.

Drivetrain Options:

2WD (RWD) and 4WD (4x4) configurations were available, with the manual covering both transfer case operation for 4WD models.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Long Bed, Short Bed configurations likely.

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 2500-3500 lbs (1130-1590 kg) depending on configuration and engine.

Payload Capacity Estimate:

Typically around 1000-1500 lbs (450-680 kg) depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Safety Ratings:

No specific ratings readily available for this specific model year and region from publicly accessible databases. Safety features were basic by modern standards.

Active Safety Features:

Limited. Primarily mechanical braking system. ABS was not common in this era for light trucks.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder for front occupants), reinforced cab structure, shatter-resistant glass.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Speaker placement and quality were rudimentary.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focused purely on mechanical function and driver control.

Connectivity Features:

Not applicable. No provisions for external device connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and engine oil type used.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 25,000-50,000 miles (40,000-80,000 km). Automatic: Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 24,000-36,000 miles (40,000-60,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Gasoline: Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km), depending on plug type.

Engine Oil Type Gasoline:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions (refer to manual for exact spec).

Engine Oil Type Diesel:

API CD or CE, SAE 15W-40 recommended (refer to manual for exact spec).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based permanent antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific color may vary by manufacturer.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 recommended.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 or 85W-140 recommended for rear axle and front differential (if 4WD).

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, leaf spring bushings, clutch wear, exhaust system corrosion, alternator/starter motor wear, radiator leaks.

Engine Specific Concerns:

Potential for head gasket leaks on higher mileage gasoline engines, injector pump issues on diesel (depending on maintenance history).

Electrical Concerns:

Corrosion on grounds and connectors, aging wiring harnesses can lead to intermittent issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Isuzu Truck Legacy:

Isuzu has a long history of producing robust and reliable light-duty commercial vehicles and trucks globally, known for their durability and workhorse capabilities.

Predecessor Successor:

The KB series pick-ups were a significant model for Isuzu, preceding later generations like the TF/TFS and D-Max. This generation represented a key step in Isuzu's global truck market presence.

Production Era:

The Isuzu Pick-up (KB series) was produced globally for many years, with the 1986 model year falling within a well-established platform that saw various updates and engine options.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan by Isuzu, with some models also assembled in other global locations through joint ventures or licensing.