Nissan Patrol 4x4 (Africa)

I don't know whether this has been discussed before, but is there a rule of thumb or some guidelines as to when or how often one should have the injectors checked? My 1999 4.2D n/a has know clocked 140 000 km and although it has been regularly serviced, I doubt whether the injectors have ever been checked or tested! My vehicle is primarily been used for overlanding and I wouldn't like to get stuck in the gatkant of the world as result of something which could have been prevented. Any suggestions? Any signs to look out for? http://www.patrol4x4.co.za/posting.php?mode=post&f=44#

You'll slap yourself on the back for buying such a wonderful vehicle when you learn that the 4.2's injectors are very generic things that will only set you back about R300 each (I paid R270 each).

I had all six replaced - and a dyno done to ensure things were optimal - and it set me back around R2k5 a year ago. Very cheap when you consider that a single Land Rover TD5 injector sells for R5k!

Mine was done at about 260 000 kilos, and the dyno may have accounted for much of the improved running afterwards. But old injectors may develop weird spray patterns that in turn may cause hot spots & burnt pistons, so it's good practice to replace them regularly.

Thanks Christo, your inputs are appreciated.
So, with injectors being relatively inexpensive, where can I have them tested (Southern or Western Cape) without pulling them? I've heard of a gas test where a probe is apparently inserted somewhere in the exhaust line which then just about tells you everything of what goes on inside the oil burner. Sounds almost too good to be true but I'm willing to give it a go. Anybody who has had this test done? Any other recommendations?
Please note that I don't suspect that there is anything wrong with the injectors but it should be borne in mind that quite a big a portion of the Patrol's mileage was done in our neighbouring countries.....and I do have my doubts about the quality of their diesel.

Such a device does exist, and is called a "diesel smoke meter". That, coupled with an oil analysis probably can tell you just about everything you need to know about your engine's condition, with the exception that it cannot warn of handgrenade failures on TDI's.

However, I have no idea who has that equipment in your area. You could try sending a PM to Grootseun. He supplies this equipment, but is not active on this forum anymore and might not respond.

Dankie Piet, ek het so gemaak....hoop maar vir die beste.

I was told by a Bosch Diesel shop owner that the injectors on our 4.2 diesels are very VERY robust. There is no fancy electronics and are cheap to replace/recon. He also said that 90 000Km intervals is a good time to change them. With the sometimes suspicious diesel in Africa, and for the price, I am going to change mine now after 70 000Km

Hey Rickster,

And whom, if I may ask will be performing this jobbie? Who can you trust to work with your patrol's sensitive bits?

In the past I have dealt with SAC here in Boksburg, but I have heard some rumors that I should rather stay away?!?!

Regards,

Fanie,


Go to SAC Centurion. Myhard and Gerhards know the safari system. Mynhard probabaly fitted the system.

I did put a reply.... but it seems to have disappeared......hmmmm.... Friday gremlins

Change them every 90 000Km is what I was told by Bosch. I'm going to do mine now on 70 000Km, and will do it a SAC Centurion.

The injectors are easy to change though, just take extra care whith the fuel rail that takes the diesel back to the tank, as this can break easily when twisted while tightening the nuts holding the rail in place.... I had to replace mine...

OK so tat is for the petrol or 6 cylincer diesel, what about the 3.0l diesel? It is a more "refined" injector? Where would I have them tested in CT/Stellenbosch area, and if anyone knows what is the replacement cost?

Thanks
Phillip