1987 Isuzu Trooper Owners Manual

The 1987 Isuzu Trooper is a rugged 4-wheel drive sport utility vehicle featuring a 2.3L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, 5-speed manual transmission, part-time 4WD system, power-assisted brakes, and versatile cargo capacity. Below are essential sections covering operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for proper vehicle care and optimal performance.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting & Driving 4. 4WD Operation 5. Specifications 6. Routine Maintenance 7. Fluid Capacities 8. Tire Information 9. Emergency Procedures 10. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 2.3L 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, part-time 4WD system, power steering, front disc/rear drum brakes.

ComponentDescription
Engine2.3L 4-cylinder gasoline, carbureted
Transmission5-speed manual with overdrive
4WD SystemPart-time with manual locking hubs
BrakesFront disc, rear drum with power assist
Fuel SystemCarburetor, 18.5 gallon fuel tank
SuspensionIndependent front, leaf spring rear
Cargo Capacity35.7 cubic feet (rear seats folded)
Towing Capacity2,000 lbs maximum
Seating5-passenger capacity
Ground Clearance8.1 inches

Instrument Panel

Main gauges and controls located on dashboard.

  1. Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph/kmh
  2. Tachometer: Engine RPM (if equipped)
  3. Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator
  4. Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
  5. Oil Pressure Warning: Low oil pressure alert
  6. 4WD Indicator: 4-wheel drive engagement
  7. Turn Signal Indicators: Left/right turn signals
  8. High Beam Indicator: Headlight high beams

WARNING! Address warning lights immediately; do not operate vehicle with red warning lights illuminated.

Starting & Driving

Proper starting procedure and driving techniques.

  1. Starting: Depress clutch, turn key to start position
  2. Shifting: Use clutch fully; shift smoothly through gears
  3. Parking: Set parking brake, shift to reverse (manual transmission)
  4. Braking: Allow greater stopping distance when loaded
  5. Fuel Economy: Varies by driving conditions; expect 17-22 mpg

CAUTION! Always depress clutch when starting; do not ride clutch during normal driving.

4WD Operation

WARNING! Do not use 4WD on dry pavement; can damage drivetrain.

Specifications

Routine Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

ServiceIntervalProcedure
Oil Change3,000 milesReplace oil filter, 5W-30 oil
Air Filter15,000 milesInspect and replace if dirty
Spark Plugs30,000 milesReplace with specified type
Coolant30,000 milesDrain and refill with 50/50 mix
Brake Fluid30,000 milesInspect level and condition
Transmission Oil30,000 milesCheck level, change if contaminated
Transfer Case Oil30,000 milesInspect and top up as needed

Fluid Capacities

Recommended fluids and capacities.

  1. Engine Oil: 5.1 quarts (with filter)
  2. Coolant: 9.5 quarts (including heater)
  3. Manual Transmission: 2.6 quarts (75W-90 GL-4)
  4. Transfer Case: 1.6 quarts (75W-90 GL-4)
  5. Front Differential: 1.6 quarts (80W-90 GL-5)
  6. Rear Differential: 2.6 quarts (80W-90 GL-5)
  7. Brake Fluid: DOT 3
  8. Power Steering: ATF Dexron II

Tire Information

Tire specifications and maintenance.

CAUTION! Maintain proper tire pressure; underinflation causes poor handling and reduced fuel economy.

Emergency Procedures

Handling common emergency situations.

  1. Overheating: Turn off A/C, turn on heater, stop safely
  2. Flat Tire: Use jack points specified in manual
  3. Dead Battery: Jump start following proper procedure
  4. Stuck Vehicle: Use 4WD Low, rock gently back and forth
  5. Brake Failure: Downshift gradually, use parking brake cautiously

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Hard startingWeak battery, fuel issueCheck battery, fuel pump, carburetor
Poor accelerationClutch slip, fuel filterInspect clutch, replace fuel filter
4WD won't engageHubs not locked, linkageLock manual hubs, check shift linkage
OverheatingLow coolant, thermostatCheck coolant level, replace thermostat
Brake vibrationWarped rotors, worn padsInspect brakes, resurface or replace
Transmission noiseLow oil, worn bearingsCheck oil level, inspect for wear

Service: Contact authorized Isuzu dealer for major repairs. Keep maintenance records for warranty claims.

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