05 Nissan Patrol

Hi Tricky.
All the infamous ZD30 problems are considered (and pretty well proven) to be resolved by 2003 so yours should be pretty safe.
You should certainly consider fitting an exhaust gas temperature guage (pyrometer) as these are almost essential when towing to ensure the motor does not get too stressed. An upgraded exhaust system is also good value in assisting engine performance and (more particularly) getting heat away from the motor. Also if funds permit, a performance chip helps with better low revs torque and some fuel consumption gains.
You will find many entries on this and the Patrol forum (http://www.patrol4x4.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=10) referencing mods to the ZD30 engine, but I believe the best insurance for any tow vehicle is the EGT guage.
Hope this helps,
Regards,
Jim.

Agree with GU Jim however best to be safe than sorry. As already suggested ask this question on the patrol forum there are a lot of GU 3lt owners that have a wealth of knowledge on these engines.

Tricky Dicky

.......All the infamous ZD30 problems are considered (and pretty well proven) to be resolved by 2003 so yours should be pretty safe.......

HA !!Well let me say, they are NOT pretty well proven !! Your question is a good one and I would hate to see any Patrol owner go through the same drama I did.

If you do a search on this forum for "FOUR CRACKED PISTONS" you can read about the saga I had with my 2005 ZD30 Patrol. Short story is it exploded at 112K. That is when I learned about the ZD30 'problems'.

As stated check the patrol4x4 forum. That's where I gained most of my knowledge.

In summary: This is what I did and why: (in this sequence)

1. Fit a boost gauge 0-30 psi - to check for overboosting issues. 10-14 psi considered OK.

2. Block the EGR Valve - stops the dirty exhaust gases going back through the engine and contaminating the oil.

3. After 2. it may be necessary to adjust the turbo screw to LOWER boost.

4. Fit a pyrometer (EGT gauge) - allows you to check the exhaust gas temperature after turbo. Over 550 degrees is considered to be getting too high and you should change down a gear (increases RPM) or back-off a bit.

5. Clean (or replace) the MAF Sensor - oil mists on the sensor can send incorrect info to the ECU (computer).

6. Remove and clean all the crap out of the intercooler and hoses. (I even did my inlet manifold because I was repairing the engine at the time). A good degreaser will do the trick. SC $2 per can.

7. Fit a Provent200 Oil Catch Can between the PCV hose. Stops oil misting up in the air filter hoses.

8. DO NOT drive in overdrive under 80kmh. Some say not at all when towing e.g over 1 tonne. But I do - drive to the conditions.

9. Engine oil changes every 5000km. A lot recommend DELO 400 15W/40. Myself, I used Mobil1 Full Synthetic 5W30. At $18 litre it can be expensive but oil changes can be extended to 10,000km.

10. Only use genuine Nissan Air and Fuel Filters. So they say.

After you have worked your way through that list I would feel fairly confident with the Patrol. It's still a great vehicle regardless of what all the knockers out there say.

If you need any further info feel free to PM me.

Malcolm

(Now done 10,000km on rebuilt engine). ;-)

thanks to all for your help
Tricky