Advice Sought - buying '97 Wizard

[hobie16]

Hi Guys,

My good lady and I are looking at buying a 1997 Wizard.

Any advice on what to look for?

Common failure points?

Comments about engine?

Any problems with the transmission or drive train to watch?

Any area's of rust?

Thanks in advance!

Hobie

[Graham]

If that's the one with the 4JX1 ?? engine model, 3.0TD with very high output (140kw?) then they have gotten a bit of a reputation for killing motors.

Apparently the religous use of good oil and the right type changed every 5,000Kms is the key, but failing proper maintenance the valve seals go, followed by oil getting into the cylinders or something and things getting worse from there.

So be careful about the motor if it's this type, but if it is all OK then knowing the above it should be fine. You can find other threads on this forum with more factual details than my memory has provided above.

If it's just the old 3.1TD with about 85 - 95kW then it's a good thing and go for it.

Cheers, Graham.

[geeves]

if its a 97 then it will be the 4jg1 maybe with electronic control of the injectors but still mechanical injectors This is a 3.0779 or 3.1 cc engine that has given very good service if maintained well ie oil every 5k filter every 10k more if paranoid and cam belt every 100k They have been known to crack heads but only if overheated and its not a common occurance.
The 4jx1 engine came out in 98 This engine is easily identified as it is double overhead cam and runs like a petrol engine in performance but ecconomy that puts motor bikes to shame. If its this engine then demand that the dealer replaces the injector seals or proves they have been done as all these engines before 2001 had faulty seals that mix diesel with your oil when they fail The cost of seal replacment is around $500 the cost of not doing them is a very expensive overhaul Otherwise change the oil religiously every 5k with 5w30 synthetic replace the main filter every 5k and replace the second filter on the left side of the motor every 20k (this filter supplies oil to the injectors and most mechanics dont know its there. )
As for your other query re diesel I havnt heard of problems but it should only effect 95 and earlier diesels and its only 150s worth of seals to replace

[Andrew]

As mentioned above the seals "may" need replacing.

Its a simple job that the Yard / Dealer should cover under warrenty.

The actual cost of the seal kit to the dealer / mechanic is very little. Various costs for having the work done has been from $100 - $800... depends on what life style your mechanic has.

I am currently trying (with little luck I may add ) to get some of these kits from Cable Price ( NZ Isuzu Owners ).

Dont let this put you off the vehicle if you have found one, this is the only issue I have heard from owners, and there are a few that have these off road as well with no problems.