Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara (D22), Mitsubishi Triton (MN/ML), Mazda BT-50 (early generation), Ford Ranger (early generation)
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust build, reliable engines, excellent off-road capability (especially 4x4 models), good utility and towing capacity.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level information to perform accurate diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs, saving time and money compared to dealership service.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU diagnostics), clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission (if applicable to variant), transfer case (4WD models), drive shafts, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front and rear, ABS if equipped), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, gauges, power windows, power door locks, wipers, horn, radio, fuse boxes, wiring diagrams, ECUs (engine control unit, body control module if applicable).
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, chassis frame inspection and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, lubrication, tune-ups, belt replacements, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for applicable systems, specific component testing procedures.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical system component repair.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics, equivalent to dealership technician level).
Printability:
Printable (allows for physical printing for workshop use)
Binding Type When Printed:
Spiral Bound or Perfect Bound (typical for professional workshop manuals)
Paper Quality When Printed:
Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments
Engine Code 2:
4JB1T (Turbocharged)
Description:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Diesel
Description:
2.8L Turbocharged Diesel
Description:
2.0L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
Description:
2.4L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (SOHC)
Approx Horsepower:
100-110 HP (varies by specific tune and market)
Approx Torque:
170-180 Nm (varies by specific tune and market)
Diesel Engines:
Indirect Injection (IDI) with mechanical injection pump
Petrol Engines:
Carburetor (early models) or Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) (later models)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, availability varies by market and engine)
4Wd System:
Part-time, manually engaged 4WD with hi-range and low-range gearing (on applicable models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, refer to specific vehicle VIN for exact type)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped)
Body Styles:
Single Cab, Extended Cab (Space Cab), Double Cab
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed, Long Bed (specific dimensions vary by cab style and region)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1400 kg - 1800 kg (varies significantly by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2400 kg - 2800 kg (varies by configuration)
Australian Ancap Rating:
Not widely tested or rated for early models; later TF models may have received a low rating (typically 1-2 stars for early 2000s models).
ABS:
Optional on some later models, not standard on most.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard on later models, passenger airbag optional or unavailable on early models.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners on front seats (standard).
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or single-disc CD player. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Features:
Limited to ABS on some later models. No advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring.
Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone connectivity. Aftermarket solutions required.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or 3 months (diesel), 7,500 km or 6 months (petrol) - typically shorter for severe use (consult manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 km or as needed based on operating conditions.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-40,000 km for diesel, consult manual for petrol.
Engine Oil Specification:
Diesel: API CD/CE/CF-4 or equivalent, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30. Petrol: API SG/SH or equivalent, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (verify with manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water (typically green coolant).
Diesel Engines:
Glow plug failure, injection pump issues (especially with fuel quality), turbocharger wear (4JB1T), oil leaks, potential head gasket issues if overheated.
Petrol Engines:
Carburetor issues (tuning, wear), ignition system component failures (distributor, coil), valve seat wear (older designs), oil consumption.
Chassis And Suspension:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, rust issues on chassis and bodywork (especially in coastal or high-humidity areas), leaf spring fatigue, shock absorber degradation.
Electrical:
Alternator failures, starter motor issues, wiring harness degradation (especially ground points), instrument cluster issues.
Isuzu Truck Legacy:
Isuzu has a long and respected history in commercial vehicles and robust utility vehicles, known for durability and reliability.
Kb Series:
The Isuzu KB series represents a long lineage of Isuzu pickup trucks, with the TF series being a significant iteration. In Australia, it was rebadged and sold as the Holden Rodeo.
Production Years Tf Series:
Approximately 1988-2002 (with continuous updates and facelifts)
Assembly Locations:
Japan (primary), Thailand, Australia (Holden assembly)
Market Perception:
Generally regarded as a tough, no-nonsense workhorse. Praised for durability and off-road capability. Criticized for interior comfort and refinement compared to later generations of rivals.
Vehicle Reliability:
Good to excellent for mechanical components, especially diesel engines, provided regular maintenance is performed. Body and interior components may show wear over time.
