Thread: Used 4BD1-T

FWIW, I would buy a used genuine Isuzu before I bought a Chinese copy.

JC

I looked into this option but ended up modifying mine as it had low kms.

It will be difficult to tell what it will be like as you won't be able to listen to it under load. I would have doubts in my mind that a imported motor would have low kms if it is out of a commercial Isuzu truck being at least 15 yrs old. Having said that they are well known for being a long lasting motor.

You need to consider the following approx possible costs:
* larger exhaust $700;
* 12v alternator and starter (was quoted $1200 for both);
* spacer for the bottom mount spin on type oil filter housing to ensure the filters don't foul against anything (don't know the cost);
* possibly changing the sump;
* possibly replacing the turbo sooner or later (new prices range from $1200 for T25 up to about $1800 for T3 or IHI - depending on what manifold is on the block)
* fitting cost unless you do it yourself (I was quoted ball park of $1000 - $2000 depending on what dramas were encountered);
* possibly main bearings (unknown);
* probably injectors (parts $500 from memory - could be more);
* if it is fitted into a county modifying the air filter canister - fairly minor job, and air supply plumbing from the canister to the turbo.

As a price comparison I was offered a re-built imported one (unknown to what extent it was rebuilt) for $4500 buy outright (cant recall if included GST).

Its not cheap but the result is a smoother running motor, with much more power/torque, and less induction noise.

The price seems on the high side. A mate bought one from a truck wrecker in melbourne for a lot less - around $4k IRC. Maybe see what a whole wrecked NPR is going for at the damaged truck auctions?

Originally Posted by mudmouse

Hi All.

I'm going to have a look and listen at an import 4BD1-T next week.

It's going to be one of four they have just out of a container from Japan. I had a visual on them all and they're complete (fan to clutch) for $5500 plus GST, so a touch over 6 grand...

The bloke had a warehouse FULL of cabs big and little (Jap) diesels, diffs etc etc. He offered a 30 day replacement warranty with a $300 option for a two year $6000 warranty, which then replaces it if it all lets go - the fine print is yet to be seen, and that warranty is underwritten externally.

Now, the question is...what do I look, listen and ask for???

He told me it'll be set up on a tank so I can see it running and I'm sure It'll be nice and warm and singing sweetly when I do but what do you guys notice about your Suzu's when they need a touch up..?

He is unsure of the mileage as they're cut outs but he estimates 150,000 to 250,000 kms - that seems a bit much for me for that price..?

Are there leak down or compression figures he should have.

It's for a conversion so I'm aware of the electrical (24v) and possible sump issues. Had a look at the 'new' chinese 4BD1t and noted apart from the higher turbo and induction pipe, the fuel filter seems to be at the rear which may pose clearance issues...

Anyway, throw your two bob's in and I'll report back with photos and maybe a video (maybe).

Thanks all.

Have you driven an Isuzued rover yet? maybe you should before you hand over anything

Good advice.

Yep. Still want one

Well...

I had three suppliers to drop in on.

1st. $5 option.

Bloke says, 'Ah yeah. I thought it was a turbo but it's not'. I had a look anyway but what he showed me was a 4BE1. I pointed this out and had a look around then spotted the BD on a pallet I was assured it was an import with about 100,000km on it (yeah right). The block looked like it had been in a fire then painted in gloss black - by Stevie Wonder. Couldn't turn it over (no starter/flywheel) - thanks very much I'll see you later.


2nd. $6k option.

It was a cold start and fired up instantly before maintaining a solid idle. Usual lung full of smoke then cleaned up. It had about two foot of exhaust on it and I was surprised how quiet it was - considering I was in a warehouse.

After a while I undid the rocker cap and noticed a fair bit of pressure (blow by) and tried resting the cap on the hole but it blew it off. No smoke, just air. A few minutes later, no change to (no) smoke or idle. Gave it a quirt and it responded instantly with again a puff of smoke then cleared. Remained dry under the front and rear main seal and no leaks around the plugs or bolt-ons.

3rd. $5950 option.

Engine set up to run; Yep. 4BD1-t; Yep. So it's an import - 'Yep, sure is - low kay's too...' (me says) Okay, so whats that 'Built to comply with ADR 30 blah blah blah on the rocker'. Silence. Anyway, fires up instantly but remains a bit smokey throughout the run and doesn't clear up. Bit of blow by but its smokey too. Dry everywhere else and has been cleaned and looks presentable.


So. That's three runners I've seen this year - No matter what, a 15+ years old engine is going to have a few k's under its belt - as well as a fair bit of idleing time being a small delivery vehicle in metro areas. So I'm not looking at perfection and a blokes got to make a living so I won't find one in a $2 shop either.

Anyone else had experiences in looking for a used (little) diesel??

Regarding the photos................ camera pooed itself immediately after falling to the road when I got out of the car at the first place - the lens slide cover wouldn't open A thousand apologies.

Fellas, thanks for your input in response to the first post.

whos got the $5 one.......

no wait is there a more smiling smiley?......