Positioning:
Rugged, capable off-road utility vehicle, often referred to as a Light Utility Vehicle (LUV) or Sport Utility Truck (SUT) in some markets. Competed with vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and Suzuki Samurai.
Key Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Mitsubishi Montero, Suzuki Samurai/Vitara, Jeep Cherokee (XJ)
Drivetrain:
Body-on-frame construction, selectable 4WD with low range, solid rear axle.
Body Styles:
Typically offered in short-wheelbase (SWB) 2-door and long-wheelbase (LWB) 4-door configurations, sometimes with soft-top or removable hardtop options.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a reliable and capable off-road vehicle, farmers, tradespeople, and individuals needing a durable utility vehicle.
Engine Mechanical:
Yes (overhaul, diagnosis, components)
Engine Electrical:
Yes (ignition, starting, charging, sensors)
Fuel System:
Yes (carburetor/injection, fuel pump, lines)
Cooling System:
Yes (radiator, thermostat, water pump)
Exhaust System:
Yes (manifold, pipes, muffler)
Transmission Manual:
Yes (overhaul, diagnosis, components)
Transmission Automatic:
Yes (if applicable, overhaul, diagnosis, components)
Transfer Case:
Yes (operation, maintenance, overhaul)
Drivetrain Axles:
Yes (front/rear axles, CV joints, differentials)
Suspension Front:
Yes (components, alignment, repair)
Suspension Rear:
Yes (components, alignment, repair)
Steering System:
Yes (power steering, steering column, linkages)
Brake System:
Yes (discs, drums, hydraulics, parking brake)
Electrical System Lighting:
Yes (headlights, taillights, interior lights)
Electrical System Instruments:
Yes (dashboard, gauges, warning lights)
Electrical System Accessories:
Yes (wipers, horn, power windows, radio)
Climate Control:
Yes (HVAC, A/C system components)
Body And Chassis:
Yes (frame, panels, doors, glass)
Body Hardware:
Yes (latches, hinges, locks)
Interior Trim:
Yes (seats, dashboard, carpets)
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes (comprehensive electrical schematics)
Routine Maintenance:
Yes (oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (diagnostic charts, symptom analysis)
Component Repair:
Yes (step-by-step repair instructions)
Component Overhaul:
Yes (rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials)
Disassembly Assembly:
Yes (complete vehicle and component breakdown)
Adjustment Procedures:
Yes (valve adjustments, clutch adjustments, brake adjustments)
Specifications Data:
Yes (torques, clearances, fluid capacities)
Maintenance Schedule:
Yes (recommended service intervals)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Engine Code Common:
4Y (2.0L SOHC Inline-4 Petrol), 2L-T (2.4L SOHC Turbocharged Diesel), 2LT-II (2.4L SOHC Turbocharged Diesel)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 80-95 hp for naturally aspirated petrol, 90-105 hp for diesel variants, 110-125 hp for turbocharged diesel variants.
Torque Range:
Approx. 115-140 lb-ft for petrol, 130-155 lb-ft for diesel variants.
Carburetor Models:
Common on 2.0L petrol engines (e.g., Aisin carburetors)
Injection Models:
Some later petrol models and potentially diesel fuel injection pumps.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) for manual transmissions, and 20,000-40,000 miles (30,000-60,000 km) for automatics, depending on usage.
Coolant Change:
Every 24,000-36,000 miles (40,000-60,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 typically recommended (refer to manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 typically recommended.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped).
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 typically recommended.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (manual transmission), brake component wear, exhaust system rust, potential for oil leaks from engine and drivetrain seals, transfer case seals.
Diesel Engine Specific:
Glow plug issues, injector pump maintenance, turbocharger wear (if applicable).
Electrical Issues:
Aging wiring harnesses, corrosion on connectors, ignition switch wear.