No automobile manufacturer knows how to build a hardworking engine like Isuzu. The rugged vehicle specialist was the first to start working on industrial diesel engines in Japan. They began sales in 1952, earning consumers' trust to supply their robust engines to other leading vehicle brands worldwide like General Motors, Toyota, Mazda, Honda, Nissan, Saab, Renault, and Opel. While diesel engines might be their forte, their gasoline engines are no slouch either. Isuzu guarantees you a long-lasting, high-performance engine.
As a vehicle owner, you know that the engine is a crucial component of your car. If your vehicle has an Isuzu engine, it's important to know where you can get replacement engines from, the different types of Isuzu engines available, and some notable ones. Additionally, taking good care of your Isuzu engine is crucial, ensuring that it performs optimally and lasts for a long time.
Key Features of Isuzu Engines
Isuzu has pioneered many engine technologies that have become indispensable in today's engines. They were the first to develop electronically controlled and direct injection diesel engines for light-duty trucks for greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Their engines have also become legendary for their durability and low maintenance, largely thanks to stringent production standards and engine designs oriented to ease of servicing.
Sourcing Isuzu Engines (OEM vs. Aftermarket)
When you purchase a brand new Isuzu, it comes with an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) engine made by Isuzu. Engines made by third-party manufacturers and usable in Isuzu fall under the "Aftermarket" parts category.
Unless the engine of your Isuzu is out of production and impossible to find, we recommend investing in an original Isuzu engine to return your car to its original level of performance. Because of the more stringent levels of manufacturing, you'll likely get more use out of an OEM replacement. Aftermarket engines might not only be excluded from Isuzu's warranty, but they could also void the warranty and even damage your vehicle when installed. Moreover, they might not even fit into your Isuzu's engine bay properly. When it comes to an expensive part like the engine, it's prudent to avoid taking chances and to go with the original.
Types of Isuzu Engines
Gasoline Engines
Gasoline engines are lighter, higher revving, quieter, and require less maintenance. This makes them the ideal candidate to power the vast majority of automobiles. Isuzu's gasoline engines range from four to twelve cylinders, with sizes ranging from 1.3L to 3.5L.
Diesel Engines
Diesel engines offer better acceleration, fuel efficiency, and hauling potential. As such, in addition to being used in passenger cars, they are also widely applied in heavy vehicles.
Isuzu's diesel engines feature highly advanced common-rail diesel technology that strikes the perfect balance between engine power and exceptional fuel efficiency. In their turbo diesel engines is the high-pressure common rail fuel system, which also aims for minimal fuel consumption and maximum power.
Isuzu's diesel engines range from two to twelve cylinders, with displacements between 660cc and 22.8L.
Engines Used in Hybrid Cars
The main advantages of hybrids are cleaner emissions and greater fuel efficiency. Isuzu's ELF Diesel Hybrid system is based on the 4.8L 4HL1 diesel engine and incorporates a 25.5kw electric motor to achieve up to a 35% improvement in fuel efficiency.
Notable Isuzu Engine Series
Two-cylinder Diesel Engine Series
Isuzu's two-cylinder diesel series has primarily seen use in tractors and boats. The lineup includes the 1.0L 2AA1 and the 1.2L 2AB1 and versions of them converted for maritime use.
Three-cylinder Diesel Engine Series
Over the years, Isuzu has produced three-cylinder diesel engines like the 1.5L 3AA1 from 1972 to 1990, as well as those from the ongoing lightweight Fixed and Variable speed C-Series capable of substantial power for their weight, such as the 1.6L 3CE1.
Four-cylinder Petrol GH Engine Series
Isuzu's first petrol engine, the GH engine, was manufactured in 1953. It was first called the GH10 and had a displacement of 1.3L. It was updated to the 1.4L GH12 in 1955 and then to the GH100 in 1956, each capable of higher output than the previous iteration.
Duramax Diesel Engine Series
A collaboration between Isuzu and General Motors, the Ohio-based DMAX manufactures diesel engines for pickups, vans, and medium-sized trucks from Chevrolet and GMC. The 6.6L Duramax V8 engine is their mainstay and has become the benchmark for V8 diesel engines because of their reliability.
Maintenance & Care of Your Isuzu Engine
To realize your Isuzu engine's fullest potential, both in terms of performance and longevity, you must pay attention and care for it properly. Given the high cost of an engine replacement, you'll be doing a favor for your Isuzu engine and your wallet.
Key Routine Maintenance Tasks
Besides sending your Isuzu for its regular inspection, here are some simple maintenance tasks that you can do yourself to keep your vehicle in good condition:
1. Regularly change the engine oil to keep the parts lubricated.
2. Check and maintain the coolant levels.
3. Be aware of any leaks and address them promptly.
4. Replace the spark plugs, wires, and fuel filters when necessary.
Common Issues & How to Address Them
You might encounter these common engine issues while owning your Isuzu. One might be engine overheating, which can be due to a leak in the cooling system, a bad radiator fan, a faulty water pump, a faulty thermostat, or low engine oil levels. Another is engine noises due to anything from a bearing to a timing shaft problem.
Some Isuzu engines have been reported to have developed clogs in their fuel injectors, possibly causing damage to the engine. In Isuzu engines like the 2.2L, a faulty ignition system is one of the more common issues. Fixes for these will involve repairing or replacing the necessary parts or topping up engine oil. If significant damage to the engine has already occurred, you may need to replace the entire unit.
Are Isuzu Engines Expensive?
Isuzu engines and engine parts are known for being readily available and for their simple design, which makes them comparatively affordable.
Where to Buy Genuine Isuzu Engines Online
Brand-new OEM crate engines can be purchased directly from your country's Isuzu and OEM parts retailers. On the other hand, second-hand Isuzu engines can be a cost-effective alternative. These are in great condition and at affordable prices here at BE FORWARD Auto Parts.
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