🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Isuzu

Model:

Trooper

Year:

1998-2004

Chassis Codes:

UB16, UB17, UB18, UB26, UB27, UB28, UB40, UB41, UB42, UB46, UB47, UB48

Vin Decoder Digit 1:

J

Vin Decoder Digit 3:

U

Vin Decoder Digit 4:

S

Vin Decoder Digit 5:

Z

Vin Decoder Digit 6:

U

Vin Decoder Digit 7:

D

Vin Decoder Digit 8:

X

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size SUV, known for off-road capability and utility. Competed with vehicles like Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder.

Competitive Advantages:

Robust body-on-frame construction, reliable diesel engine options (in some markets), strong 4WD systems, good towing capacity.

Body Styles:

2-door and 4-door SUV variants. Station wagon configuration.

Trim Levels:

Various trim levels typically included Base, LS, XS, and Limited, often with different feature packages.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth, factory-level information crucial for owners and independent repair shops to maintain and repair this robust SUV effectively, avoiding costly mistakes from incomplete sources.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Workshop

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (indicative of full workshop manual scope)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF, likely high-resolution scans of original manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, internal components, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (EFI), ignition systems, emission control systems, ECU diagnostics and troubleshooting, sensor data, wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear selection mechanisms, removal and installation, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, electronic controls (if applicable), removal, installation, and overhaul.

Drivetrain 4Wd:

Transfer case operation and repair, front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, hubs, operation of 2WD/4WD engagement.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (coil springs, torsion bars, control arms, links), shock absorbers, power steering system, steering gear, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic components, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems, ignition switch, power distribution, fuses, relays.

Body And Chassis:

Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, glass replacement.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics, repair of blower motor, evaporator, condenser, heater core.

Body Electrical:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, audio system wiring, alarm system (if applicable), instrument cluster, warning lights.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code identification and resolution, common issues and their fixes.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation across all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical circuit testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes.

Technical Depth:

Full engine rebuild specifications, transmission overhaul procedures, complete electrical system diagnostics, chassis component replacement, bodywork repair.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, measurements, and material tolerances for all critical engine, transmission, and chassis components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, including power distribution, grounds, component connections, and color coding.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allowing quick access to information via keywords. Likely high-resolution scans for clarity.

Print Quality:

High quality, printable pages with clear text and diagrams, designed for workshop use.

Binding Type:

Not applicable for digital format; if printed, likely professional coil-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability.

Paper Type:

Not applicable for digital format; if printed, expect durable, semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

3.2L V6 (6VD1-W) Gasoline

Engine Option 2:

3.5L V6 (6VE1-W) Gasoline

Engine Option 3:

3.0L 4-Cylinder Diesel (4JX1-TC) (primarily in international markets)

3.2L V6 Horsepower:

190 HP @ 5200 RPM (approx.)

3.2L V6 Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 3000 RPM (approx.)

3.5L V6 Horsepower:

215 HP @ 5200 RPM (approx.)

3.5L V6 Torque:

230 lb-ft @ 3000 RPM (approx.)

3.0L Diesel Horsepower:

130 HP @ 3700 RPM (approx.)

3.0L Diesel Torque:

243 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (approx.)

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for gasoline engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for diesel.

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher), Diesel fuel for diesel variants.

V6 Engine Code:

6VD1-W, 6VE1-W

Diesel Engine Code:

4JX1-TC

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Option 1:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Option 2:

5-speed Manual Transmission (less common on later models/US market)

Transmission Features:

Part-time 4WD with selectable 2WD/4WD, available full-time 4WD (Torque-On-Demand) on some models. Selectable low-range gearing.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.5 inches (2654 mm) for 4-door models

Length:

179.9 inches (4570 mm) for 4-door models

Width:

71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Height:

66.5 inches (1689 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

4,200 - 4,800 lbs (1905 - 2177 kg) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) (check specific vehicle configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Likely 4-star for driver, 4-star for passenger (based on similar era SUVs, check specific year)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for models tested, check specific year)

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (4W-ABS) available on most models.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger front airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, reinforced body structure.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system introduced later in the generation.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Base models typically had AM/FM radio with CD player. Higher trims offered premium audio systems, often with cassette and CD changers. Optional navigation was rare.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. ABS was the primary driver assistance system. Cruise control was standard on most trims.

Connectivity Features:

Basic connectivity through auxiliary input jacks for external audio devices on some later models. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific oil type and severe service recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic, check manual for specific intervals and procedures.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific engine and temperature ranges)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) for V6 engines (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Green ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Known Issue 1:

Variable valve timing (VVT) system issues on later V6 engines, leading to rough idle or loss of power. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures.

Known Issue 2:

Cracked cylinder heads (on some early models of this generation or specific engine variants) due to thermal stress. Manual will cover inspection and replacement.

Known Issue 3:

Automatic transmission shift problems or hesitation. Manual will offer troubleshooting for solenoids, valve body, and fluid condition.

Known Issue 4:

Power steering pump leaks or noisy operation. The manual provides replacement and bleeding procedures.

Known Issue 5:

Corrosion on chassis components, especially in areas with road salt. Manual covers frame inspection and repair.

📚 Vehicle History

Isuzu Legacy:

Isuzu, a long-standing Japanese manufacturer with a history in trucks, commercial vehicles, and diesel engines, brought its expertise to SUVs with the Trooper.

Third Generation Trooper:

The 1998-2004 models represent the third generation, characterized by a more refined, car-like body-on-frame design, independent front suspension (on most models), and updated powertrains. It was a significant departure from earlier, more utilitarian designs.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Fuji Heavy Industries/Subaru production for some models) and also assembled in other global locations.

Model Run:

1998-2004 (for this specific manual's coverage)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific major awards for this exact generation are less prominent than some competitors, the Trooper consistently received positive reviews for its ruggedness and off-road prowess, earning a reputation as a capable and durable SUV.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Ratings varied by year and specific configurations, but generally praised for reliability and capability, with some noted concerns about fuel economy and occasional powertrain issues.