🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

Trooper

Year:

1987

Chassis Code:

UBS16, UBS17, UBS25, UBS26, UBS52, UBS55, UBS62, UBS66, UBS69, UBS73

Engine Codes:

C223, 4ZD1, 4ZE1

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact/Mid-size SUV, often referred to as a rugged off-road vehicle.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, off-roaders, and owners seeking to maintain or restore their vehicle.

Competitors 1987:

Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Bronco II.

Vehicle Type:

Body-on-frame SUV with selectable 4WD.

Utility:

Known for its robust construction and off-road capability.

Reliability:

Generally perceived as a durable and reliable vehicle, especially with proper maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, though not explicitly stated, typical for this type of product)

Page Count:

Extensive (Product description implies comprehensive coverage, typically 500+ pages for full service manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine overhaul, diagnostics, component replacement (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor/injection), ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, overhaul, clutch service, transfer case operation and repair.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle service, differential repair, driveshaft and U-joint maintenance, wheel hub and bearing service.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components (master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake lines), brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum servicing, parking brake system.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component inspection and replacement (shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints), power steering system service, steering gear repair.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting systems, instrument cluster, ignition switch, power windows, door locks, horn.

Body Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation, frame inspection and straightening (if applicable).

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service and repair, heater core replacement, blower motor service.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt adjustments, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, common fault identification and correction procedures.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.

Rebuild:

Comprehensive instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.

Refurbish:

Guidance on restoring worn or aged components.

Restoration:

Detailed information for bringing the vehicle back to original specifications.

Depth:

Highly detailed, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Assumed)

Searchable Text:

Likely searchable if a properly OCR'd PDF

Printable:

Likely printable

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

2.2L Diesel (C223)

Engine Type 2:

2.3L Petrol (4ZD1)

Engine Type 3:

2.6L Petrol (4ZE1)

Engine 2 2 L Diesel Hp:

Approx. 62 hp @ 3500 rpm

Engine 2 2 L Diesel Torque:

Approx. 105 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm

Engine 2 3 L Petrol Hp:

Approx. 108 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 2 3 L Petrol Torque:

Approx. 127 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm

Engine 2 6 L Petrol Hp:

Approx. 118 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 2 6 L Petrol Torque:

Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm

Engine 2 2 L Diesel Fuel System:

Indirect Injection Diesel, Rotary Injection Pump

Engine 2 3 L Petrol Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely Hitachi or similar)

Engine 2 6 L Petrol Fuel System:

Fuel Injection (likely electronic fuel injection - EFI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Common:

4-speed Manual, 5-speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed Automatic, 4-speed Automatic (depending on engine and trim)

Drivetrain Layout:

Part-time 4WD with 2-speed transfer case (selectable 2WD/4WD High/4WD Low).

Transfer Case:

Gear-driven, robust design for off-road use.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Wheelbase:

Approx. 98.0 inches (2489 mm)

Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:

Approx. 108.3 inches (2751 mm)

Length Short Wheelbase:

Approx. 168.9 inches (4300 mm)

Length Long Wheelbase:

Approx. 178.1 inches (4525 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.1 inches (1679 mm)

Height:

Approx. 64.2 inches (1631 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3,500 lbs (1588 kg)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 4,000 lbs (1814 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, typically around 5,500 lbs (2500 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not widely tested by NHTSA with standardized ratings as understood today for 1987 models. Focus was on mechanical robustness.

Active Safety Features Standard:

Four-wheel drive system for enhanced traction.

Passive Safety Features Standard:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts in front, lap belts in rear), padded dashboard, impact-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, analog gauges.

Driver Assistance Features:

None beyond the basic functionality of the vehicle's mechanical systems. No modern electronic aids.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval Petrol:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first. More frequent recommended for heavy use.

Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 6 months, replace every 12 months or 12,000 miles (19,200 km).

Fuel Filter Replacement Petrol:

Replace every 12 months or 12,000 miles (19,200 km).

Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:

Replace every 6 months or 6,000 miles (9,600 km).

Engine Oil Type Petrol:

API SF or SG Service Category, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Consider SAE 5W-30 in extreme cold.

Engine Oil Type Diesel:

API CD or CE Service Category, SAE 15W-40. Consider 10W-30 in extreme cold.

Engine Oil Capacity 4Zd1:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity 4Ze1:

Approx. 5.3 US quarts (5.0 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity C223:

Approx. 5.8 US quarts (5.5 liters) with filter.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.

Front Rear Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90. If equipped with limited-slip, API GL-5 with LS additive.

Transfer Case Fluid:

API GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Common Issue Diesel Glow Plugs:

Potential for glow plug failure or slow starting in cold weather, requiring inspection and replacement.

Common Issue Carburetor:

Carburetor (on 4ZD1) can require periodic adjustment or rebuilding due to wear.

Common Issue Suspension:

Wear in ball joints, bushings, and tie rod ends due to off-road use and age.

Common Issue Rust:

Like many vehicles of this era, particularly in rust-belt regions, frame and body corrosion can be a concern.

Common Issue Electrical:

Older electrical connectors and grounds can degrade, leading to intermittent issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Isuzu Heritage:

Isuzu Motors is a Japanese commercial vehicle and diesel engine manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1916. Known for its diesel engine technology and robust utility vehicles.

Trooper Generation 1 Start:

First generation launched in 1981.

Trooper Generation 1 End:

First generation spanned 1981-1991. The 1987 model falls within this significant first generation.

Key Changes 1987:

This period saw updates to available engines and features. The 2.6L EFI engine was a significant addition for improved performance and refinement.

Manufacturing Plant:

Fuji Heavy Industries (Subaru) in Japan also produced Troopers for Isuzu at various times. Primary Isuzu plants in Japan.

Production Years Generation 1:

1981 - 1991

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Reputation:

Highly regarded in off-road communities for its capability and durability, often favorably compared to contemporaries.

Consumer Ratings:

While specific awards are rare for this model year, it consistently received positive marks for utility and off-road performance from automotive publications of the era.