🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Daihatsu

Model:

Feroza

Year:

1988

Engine Code Covered:

HD

Chassis Codes:

F300, F310

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Daihatsu Feroza was positioned as a compact, affordable, and capable off-road capable SUV, competing with vehicles like the Suzuki Vitara and early Jeep Cherokees. It appealed to buyers seeking utility and ruggedness in a smaller package.

Competitive Analysis Notes:

Offered a robust 4WD system and a relatively simple mechanical design, making it a cost-effective alternative for off-road enthusiasts and those needing light utility.

Key Features Vehicle:

Compact SUV body, available soft-top or hard-top, part-time or full-time 4WD system, compact and reliable engine, distinctive styling.

Key Features Manual:

Focus on the HD engine provides in-depth mechanical guidance. User-friendly format with sequential steps for ease of use by mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and service for Daihatsu Feroza HD Engine, covering all installation, removal, disassembly, assembly, repair, and check procedures.

Page Count:

N/A (Digital Format - likely extensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF or similar, implied by description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, including cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshaft, timing system, lubrication system, and cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, and evaporative emission control system.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), and ECU control.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and emission control components.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms, and transmission fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul (if applicable to model variant), torque converter, valve body, and ATF specifications.

Drivetrain 4Wd:

Transfer case operation and service, front and rear differentials, drive shafts, and CV joints.

Brakes:

Brake system inspection, hydraulic components, disc brake pads/rotors, drum brake shoes/cylinders, parking brake, and ABS (if equipped).

Suspension Front:

MacPherson strut suspension, control arms, ball joints, coil springs, shock absorbers, and steering knuckle.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack/box, tie rod ends, and steering column.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams.

Body Interior:

Door mechanisms, seat adjustments, interior trim removal/installation, and dashboard components.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal/installation, bumpers, fenders, hood, tailgate, and glass replacement.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, ventilation controls, and cabin air filter (if applicable).

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link independent rear suspension (typical for Feroza), trailing arms, shock absorbers, coil springs, and control links.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, and lubrication.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if OBD-I or similar present).

Repair:

Detailed repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component disassembly, reassembly, and adjustment.

Installation:

Instructions for installing new or replacement parts and accessories.

Specifications Torques:

Torque specifications for all critical fasteners and bolts.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Extensive coverage, from basic DIY maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for both novice enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Typically provided as a searchable PDF file for easy navigation and printing.

Print Quality Notes:

Digital format allows for high-resolution viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type Notes:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type Notes:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), naturally aspirated

Engine Displacement:

1589 cc (1.6 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

76.0 mm x 87.0 mm (typical for this engine family)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on market variant)

Engine Code:

HD-C (Carbureted) or HD-E (Fuel Injected) – Manual specifies HD Engine, likely encompassing both variants or the prevalent EFI.

Horsepower Ps:

Approx. 70-80 PS (metric horsepower) at 5000-5500 rpm (exact figures vary by market and fuel system)

Torque Nm:

Approx. 115-125 Nm (Newton-meters) at 3000-3500 rpm (exact figures vary by market and fuel system)

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Denso or similar system, or Carburetor (depending on model variant)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per manufacturer recommendation, typically 91 RON or higher)

Cooling System Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system with thermostat and radiator fan.

Oil Capacity Liters:

Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 Liters (including oil filter)

Oil Viscosity SAE:

SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 (check owner's manual or manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (available on certain trims/markets)

Drivetrain Configuration:

Part-time 4WD system with selectable 2WD/4WD High/4WD Low, or Full-time 4WD with center differential on some models.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil (verify capacity and specific type in manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron II or equivalent (verify specific type and capacity in manual)

Manual Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 2.0 - 2.5 Liters

Transfer Case Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.0 - 1.5 Liters

Front Differential Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.8 - 1.0 Liters

Rear Differential Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.9 - 1.1 Liters

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

Approx. 3860 - 3965 mm (depending on bumper style)

Width Mm:

Approx. 1650 - 1690 mm

Height Mm:

Approx. 1640 - 1700 mm (depending on roof type and suspension)

Wheelbase Mm:

Approx. 2300 - 2320 mm

Ground Clearance Mm:

Approx. 190 - 200 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 1100 - 1250 kg (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

Approx. 1650 - 1750 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

N/A - Vehicle safety standards and testing protocols were less stringent in 1988 compared to modern standards. Specific official ratings are unlikely.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes (front) and rear drum brakes (standard), optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some later models or higher trims.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (front and rear), reinforced chassis, and energy-absorbing steering column. Airbags were generally not standard or available on this model year.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analogue radio with AM/FM, cassette player (optional). No advanced infotainment systems available.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited. Optional ABS on later models/trims. Primarily relies on driver skill and the mechanical 4WD system for traction.

Connectivity Features:

None. Designed before widespread automotive connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 km or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (depending on plug type - refer to manual).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 80,000 - 100,000 km or 5 years (critical maintenance item - consult manual for exact interval).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 40,000 km or 24 months.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 24 months, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific requirement)

Known Issues Common:

Rust/corrosion on body panels and frame (especially in wet climates), potential for head gasket leaks, worn clutch components, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), starter motor issues, and carburetor problems on non-EFI models.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Notes:

Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has a long history of producing small, efficient, and reliable vehicles, often specializing in compact cars and light commercial vehicles.

Model Evolution Notes:

The Feroza (also known as Rocky or Sportrak in some markets) was launched in 1984 as a successor to the Daihatsu Taft. It offered a more modern design and improved comfort while retaining its off-road capabilities. The 1988 model represents an early iteration of this generation.

Production Years:

1984 - 2002 (for the second generation Feroza/Rocky/Sportrak, with the first generation running until 1989, making the 1988 model a first-generation vehicle).

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability:

While not winning specific 'awards', the Feroza was recognized for its strong off-road credentials relative to its size and price point, often praised by enthusiast publications for its trail performance.

Reliability Perception:

Generally considered reliable due to its simple mechanicals, though maintenance and rust prevention are key to long-term durability.