12th Jul 2013, 19:23

Sorry I didn't get back until now...

The car was fixed and broke down again. It seems this model is broken down more than it runs :(

I would never suggest anyone buys one really. The cars should have had a complete engine replacement, as they are useless. And with the costs so far, I might as well have purchased another car. Never ending problems!

12th Aug 2019, 03:11

Hello, my 2001 3L TD is now bullet proof after a few modifications.

Firstly the dual mass clutch and flywheel factory fitted is rubbish; replace with a new single mass clutch and flywheel combination. While the clutch is being replaced, have the engine sump removed and ask your mechanic to gusset weld around the two oil pickups. Replace the injectors and buy Caterpillar injectors. Make sure you do an oil and filter change every 4000km. Sorry about the 4000 bit, but it must be done, and use 5w40 full synth oil.

The hard starting behavior is another inherent problem; there's no fix I'm sorry to say, however it will only do that hard start once every daily start; don't just keep winding over hoping it will start; there's no such thing as a quick hurry start. First jump in, turn the ignition to glow, let glow then turn off, now glow again and hit it for only a couple of rotations. Turn off, wait 30 seconds or so, now repeat the process; it should hit up by the third try, it's a drain back issue. I have found that when I park up at home, I now back it up my steep driveway and shut it down facing downwards; this has made it harder for the draining back process.

This Isuzu engine will run forever, but it is proving to be an expensive vehicle to own just on the 4000km services.

Holden's oil fed injector system is no good.