🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

Trooper

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

UCS

Vin Prefix Start:

4

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 Isuzu Trooper was a highly capable, body-on-frame SUV known for its ruggedness, off-road prowess, and utility. It competed in a segment with vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Cherokee, and Ford Explorer.

Competitive Analysis:

The Trooper offered a distinct blend of refinement for its time, often exceeding some competitors in ride comfort and interior amenities, while retaining strong off-road capabilities due to its robust chassis and available 4WD systems. Its V6 engine option provided competitive power for its class.

Key Features:

Body-on-frame construction, optional 3.2L V6 engine, available 4WD (Part-time and Full-time), comfortable ride for an SUV of its era, spacious interior, strong towing capacity, good off-road articulation.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All major mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, chassis, and accessories for the 1996 Isuzu Trooper.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service & Repair Manual (Software).

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital (likely CD-ROM or downloadable format).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (4ZE1, 6VE1), Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Manual Transmission (MUA, MUA5), Automatic Transmission (RGS, RGS5), Transfer Case, Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear Independent), Steering System, Brake System (ABS), Chassis, Body Electrical, HVAC, Emissions Control, Diagnostics & Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Body & Frame.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, component testing, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts, repair and overhaul instructions for all major systems, body panel removal/installation, electrical component repair, emissions system adjustments, ABS system bleeding and repair.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic preventive maintenance and fluid specifications to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission rebuilds, and electrical system troubleshooting. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearance measurements, and component tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely proprietary software format or PDF (depending on licensing/distribution).

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format) - Content is typically based on original factory print quality.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.2L SOHC V6 (6VD1)

Horsepower 6Vd1:

175 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)

Torque 6Vd1:

184 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System 6Vd1:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-Port Injection (MPI).

Engine Variant 2 Code:

4ZE1

Engine Variant 2 Displacement:

2.6L SOHC Inline-4

Engine Variant 2 Horsepower:

123 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Engine Variant 2 Torque:

144 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm (approx.)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (MUA5 / MUA)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (RGS / RGS5)

Transfer Case Type:

Part-time 4WD with 2WD/4WD High/4WD Low options, or Full-time 4WD with locking center differential (depending on trim and options).

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Check specific manual for exact spec).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent DEXRON-III H).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2770 mm (109.1 inches)

Length:

4680 mm (184.3 inches)

Width:

1780 mm (70.1 inches)

Height:

1770 mm (69.7 inches)

Curb Weight Approx:

1900-2100 kg (4200-4600 lbs) depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Four-star (for 1996 model year, typically).

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - typically standard on V6 models, optional or unavailable on some 4-cylinder models.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, reinforced body structure, child safety seat anchors (LATCH system not present in this generation).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM/Cassette player with optional CD player. Manual climate controls with optional automatic climate control.

Driver Assistance:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was the primary driver assistance feature available.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic audio system; no integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity typical of modern vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation, check manual for specific engine/oil type).

Engine Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 24 months (check manual for specific coolant type).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:

Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for exact type and gap).

Engine Oil Type V6:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for viscosity range based on temperature).

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

5.3 US quarts (5.0 Liters) with filter change.

Engine Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, green color (typically).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Known Issues:

Head gasket issues on V6 engines (especially earlier models), differential seals leaking, transfer case chain wear, catalytic converter failure, interior trim pieces becoming brittle, power window regulator failures, potential ECU issues.

OBD I Standard:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics I).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Isuzu has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its robust trucks and SUVs. They partnered with General Motors for many vehicles sold in North America, often rebadging and distributing Isuzu-designed vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The 1996 model year marked the second generation of the Isuzu Trooper (UBS series), which was a significant redesign from the first generation. It featured more car-like handling, independent front suspension, and a more modern interior and exterior design, moving it closer to a premium SUV segment.

Production Years Generation 2:

1992-2002 (North America).

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Fujisawa Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Often praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its off-road capability and durability, though it may not have received specific major 'Car of the Year' awards in the same vein as more mainstream SUVs.