Purchasing a new GU 4.2TDI...

Trol,
Take a look at my rig pic and list of what i've added to get some ideas.
A few months ago I posted stories about how the old girl (2000 model T/D but not intercooled) was "over-warming".
I did the following things:
1.Moved the Lightforce 240s to the top of the bullbar (might move em back now)
2.Cut a hole in bonnett over turbo and added a GU scoop
3. Removed the plastic air dam under the radiator (since put back on)
4. Finally, I shelled out $300+ for a new fan clutch....problem solved.
I have read that it's not wise to put mesh in front of radiator to stop bugs etc. However, I'm about to go back to Narrandera next weekend to see family (about 1,000klm each way) and reckon I might add some shade cloth to stop the locusts which are in plague proportions at present.
The 4.2 went through a period where 5th gear was a weak point, but I reckon that's all been fixed now on the last couple of years' models.

As Roachie said the only thing I have read about is 5th gear going but only if towing & lagging motor to much in 5th.

Hi Trol
I have a 2002GU Ute.
5th gear problem was fix in 2001, now no problem
My Ute had a fuel pump problem, after being replaced found that the camper needed better earthing as the earth was returning through pump.
Great vehicle no problems with overheating.
Ray

I have a 2003 4.2 wagon.

Aftermarket springs and shocks made a big difference to ride comfort and improve clearance. Full synthetic oil lifted economy about 5%. Snorkel keeps the dust out. They are the mods I have found best.

Definately need plates to protect the lower part of the radiator both from front and below.

I reckon a long range tank is needed to boost range.

Sean

Have a look at the pix on the homepage at www.patrol4wd.org of the update to the GU Patrol. Apparently its due here in september or October. I'd wait and either buy the current model when they are in runout mode or get the new one to avoid a drop in resale.

Hi Trol Have a 2003 4.2Tdi ST Wagon and are very happy with it, had no probs doesn't get hot with the 4.8 radiator in it. Had a 2" lift kit fitted & both Long Ranger Tanks fitted 147 & 70ltrs makes a difference, its done 16,000ks & is getting better all the time a 3" pipe & some playing around with the aneroid valve while its on the dyno will get this thing humping.13-14lts to 100ks is the norm. This is our 6th 4.2 Patrol & you just cant beat simplicity while you are living and working in the bush.

Hi Trol Have a 2003 4.2Tdi ST Wagon and are very happy with it, had no probs doesn't get hot with the 4.8 radiator in it. Had a 2" lift kit fitted & both Long Ranger Tanks fitted 147 & 70ltrs makes a difference, its done 16,000ks & is getting better all the time a 3" pipe & some playing around with the aneroid valve while its on the dyno will get this thing humping.13-14lts to 100ks is the norm. This is our 6th 4.2 Patrol & you just cant beat simplicity while you are living and working in the bush.

Cheers Steve

Got a 2000 series I, had the turbo replaced the other day (oil leak) at about 90,000. Glad I had the extended warranty. Never had any overheating probs, think the gearbox 5th probs mentioned were with early series II.
Main grizzle is all the plastic and shoddy service from dealers (going to look for a non-Nissan place for servicing till warranty is run out, then do it myself).
Gerry

Trol Haven't fitted the 3" pipe yet, it will happen though they say 15 to 25% difference I want to be there when they dyno it, will be interesting to watch.
The 4.8 radiator is standard in the TDI 4.2 as for nissan warranty and dealers there not worth a pinch of SH 1 T. I do all my own servicing better than having apprentices that dont give a rats ass & dont know what they are looking for.
So a 3" pipe shouldn't make any difference to warranty plus if you buy a 4.2 I doubt you will get any major warranty probs. Not like the 3ltr that has annoying little things popping up???
Cheer Steve

Hi Trol If u find a good dealer that gives great service your a mile in front but Ive had several bad experiences and shouldn't paint them all with same brush. Long distances travelled to have a job half done or the oil light coming on & finding the filter hanging by a thread leaves a bad taste in your mouth.

Best of luck with your purchase Steve (P.S)

Motsons in Coopers Plain QLD do the 3" & aneroid adjustment, dyno,$1265

I've got a 2000 model. 5th gear gone, locking hub gone, bullbar fell to pieces, rear spring towers cracked and tore chassis but otherwise rides good. Should be great vehiclce if 1. It is never loaded, 2. never driven off bitumen or on rough roads. DO NOT FIT ANY REAR SUSPENSION AIDS TO REAR COIL SPRINGS!!! such as polyair, heavier springs etc to increase ride height (rear end drags on ground when fully laden) as Nissan will void warranty.

Good luck!

Trol
Its been my experience Nissan don't like any claims (not suprising!). The difference is of course they're like insurance companies - they'll look for any excuse not to pay up! Any modifications gives them an out ... so be careful!
Regards
peck