Offroad-Express

hey dudes

mates looking at mu's just wanted to know how people have found the 2.8 in the way of reliability and economy, what their common problems are. what are the manual transmissions like?

Good little 4x4. 2.8 is excellent diesel - one of the best small diesels to come out of japan - IF it has had oil changes every 5k. I know of one that has done over 1,000,000ks and still going well. Manual trans and drivetrain good. Quite a reliable and robust little truck with no major weaknesses, but you will replace all the usual add-ons like starter motors, alternators etc as with any make. As with any diesel 15 years old, look for one well maintained in past. Better motor than the 3.1, but they also can do big ks.

Very economical - expect 30-32 mpg, and motor easy to tune for extra 30-40hp. Have had a couple of 2.8s for over 125ks or so, and found them v good trucks. Easy to develop for offroading.

Check for leaks in diesel pump, steering box, rear main seal, rear pinion seal. Usually puff a little blue on cold startup but not otherwise.

I've had one mu and my mate's had a couple. i loved the 2.8 and i never had any problems with it. peppy little motor for the truck. heard over 10 people that i know have problems with the 3.1s in them tho... would stay away from them.
Good luck

i got a 2.8 mu and i love it. no real issues wit mine jus the usual like alternator brushes and starter motor bearings over time. and the odd seal. pretty much bullet proof haven't even managed to snap a cv joint yet either............touch wood had mine almost 2 years and all i done is few seals starter bearings alt brushes and bearings and a clutch.

My older Bighorn has the 2.8 in it, and I agree, great economy, reliable, and peppy little engine, and I'm as slack as, when it comes to oil changes , and it's never given me a problem.
I now have a 3.1 Bighorn as well, but it's now the shiney, so I'm sure it will get better treated than the old one was, which is now the dedicated off road truck

I had a 2.8 for seven years,the only problem was the emission control gear blowing dirty oil back into motor,shouldn't say this but take it off put a plate over it,put the air breather hose to the ground, then the motor will last forever..a really great little motor...