nissan problems

This is one of the most often topics discussed on ExplorOz - do a search, and you will get a hundred or so posts with helpful information. The modified (increased oil sump) motor came out in around October 2001, so i don't know which side of that the one you are asking about falls. Even that may not have solved the problem. Over boosting and associated high temperatures seems the most logical theory.

Motherhen (1/2002 3 ltr td owner)

Suggest you do a search on this forum, you'll find plenty.

See ya
Guy

Here's a little clip from a motoring journo.. Melted pistons, ouch..! Highway cruising the main culprit.

"IN THE SHOP"
While the Patrol is generally a rough and rugged vehicle with few faults, there is a cloud hanging over the 3.0-litre turbo diesel. The problem generally manifests itself in the form of melted pistons, but the most likely explanation is that it's caused by a piston oiling/cooling problem.

Not all engines are affected. Those most likely to succumb to the problem are those doing a lot of highway cruising.

Nissan has increased the oil fill and played with alignment of the nozzles that spray oil on the pistons for cooling and lubrication purposes, but there seems to be no consistent fix for the problem.

Its important to keep an eye on the oil level in all engines but particularly so in the 3.0-litre turbo diesel.

Apart from the 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine's woes, the Patrol is generally a tough and rugged vehicle that gives good service over the long term.

That said, the manual gearbox can have problems with the fifth gear spline and hub.

It's important to check for a service record, particularly if the vehicle has spent time off-road. It's also important to check under the vehicle for damage sustained off-road, like bashed suspension and chassis components, brackets, exhaust etc.

On the exterior, look for scratches and scrapes from trackside bushes during road excursions.

Consider carefully before buying a Patrol that has clearly been off-road as there are plenty that haven't spent much time off the black top and they are a better choice.

I wonder if 2-piece articulated Piston’s would sort the 3.0Ltr Patrol Problems out.

This is useful info - members here have referred to this page in a number of posts.

www.lonards-automotives.com.au/patrol.html

We now follow dealer recommendations of changing oil every 5,000 k (well, it was done twice during the 18,000 km we have just been), using Nissan filters, and using oil "ACEA B3 or JASO DH1 with a viscosity index of 10W40. Under no circumstances use API CG-4 oils" just in case!

OH YEAH, I don't know where you got the idea that Nissan patrols have engine problems?

They are the best car ever made, just like broken diffs, er, I mean Landcruisers, or cracked chassis, er, I mean Landcruisers!!!

HAHAHAHAHAHA

It seems that not many of the popular 4WD's are as good as they proffess to be, ar are as good as they used to be. If we could all afford to drive the new Rangie, then I guess we would find out about it's shortcomings. Being voted "best 4X4 2005" in nearly every 4WD magazine in the world must mean they've done something right.

Wait for it.....I can hear the sound of keyboards clicking away as Toyota owners franticaly type a retort at me.

AH, BITE ME !!!

Rex hunt would be very proud of all the fish you caught.

Here's the source on the problem, via Carsguide.com.au

Site Link

It was printed in the daily telegraph, Sydney last year in the cars guide section by Graham Smith. He does a vehicle review every week.