Safari 2.8 questions

[DaveM]

Looking at a '99 model Safari (SWB GU shape) but it's running a 2.8 turbo with auto.

I'm not overly keen on this set up, but would like to know if it has the power/reliability to run up to 35's (compared to a n/a TD42).

When money allowed, it would be converted to a 4.2 manual or V8, but it would be some time down the track.
Also, are the manual/auto gearboxes the same as the 4.2's?


Cheers

[GQTROL]

The 2.8 GU has the same RD28-T base engine as the GQ Spirits, so it will have the same limitations as its GQ counterparts.

HAving said that, I know a dude in Norway with LWB GQ with RD28-T and he runs the same modified fuel injection pump as us (12mm plunger etc), plus propane injection....and that thing would spank alot of moderately turboed TD42's around! He runs 35's on road and 37's for snow work I think?

With the GU you're starting with a good looking truck with decent diffs to handle the HP you're going to put through it with V8 or turboed TD42. I'm keen to do the same thing, but using a GU with a dead RD28-T engine and therefore lower purchase price.

Manual /auto boxes are different on RD28-T compared to TD42. They're like a car gearbox in comparison.

[fishjoe]

I would suggest you go for it if you are not towing anything.
yes, this RD28ETi motor is not very different than previous RD28T from factory, but for the "i" letter in the engine model, with small modification you will get much improvement on the performance! absolutely enough for general offroad use, if you are not towing or in competition. Its also more economy and really reliable! check on http://www.patrol4x4.com for those threads about the 2.8 GU patrols, which are powered with the same motors, you will findout proofs of what I said. I bought a 3.0 one cost me $10000.00 more than the 2.8, and now the little problems being disscussed with this motor worries me so much. really regreat I didn't get a 2.8 one.

And for the low price, you safe money on a V8!!!!

For the gearbox, I'd say they are the same, but check the number as long as it is RE4R03A (Auto) then go for it.

[rolling_deep]

Im looking at buying a 1996 RD28-T powered GQ Spirit / SWB with auto trans for around $8000. Seems tidy enough , has done 197000km's and has had cam belts done quite recently.

I read another thread which someone posted the SWB 4.2 Safaris have a tare weight of around 2300kg so I guess the 2.8 would be just a bit less than this?

I am quite new to 4wding having at this time done a few beach runs in a mates Pathfinder but keen to look into doing some usual mods like snorkel, exhaust, 2" lift, big wheels and possible turbo / intercooler upgrades. Fuel economy is also a consideration as it will be a daily driver for the miss and I (hence the auto trans ).

Any help you guys could offer in issues to look for / recommendations etc would be much appreciated.


/first post

[muskie]

i watched the free dvd i got with the ozzie 4x4 magazine, it was about buying a used gu. i am only quoting what they said. steer clear from early 2.8 gu's as the sump was too small and starved the engine of oil thus causing an early demise, around 99-2001 after that they increased the sump capacity. aparently these engines are a time bomb..

i am only saying what was in the dvd, it could be down to hotter temps in oz, i dont know. australian 4wd action magazine is where the dvd came from and was within the last 2 months.

[Summit033]

Muskie, is there any way you could get that DVD on buying second hand GU on the net somehow, you tube or something? Would be a very interesting watch...

Did they say anything about the ZD30 3.0ltr engine? I thought this one, not the 2.8 was supposed to be the "Time Bomb"? :scratch:

[Summit033]

DaveM, not sure if you have found this before, but there is loads of info here GU Bible on the GU's.

[DaveM]

Would more than likely be the 3.0 they were referring to in the video, as the oil feed was a well known problem, right up until the '06 model by the sound of it.

I picked up my Safari yesterday, and the drive to Wellington was great. Was totally suprised at how well the 2.8 auto went (both of which I swore I would never own).

Still not convinced I like autos as I feel a lack of control due to no engine braking, but guess I will get used to it or eventually convert it.

Be interesting to see how it handles off road and bigger tyres in the near future, but it is that nice to drive, it seems a waste to lift it and throw big tyres on, must just be getting soft due to lack of off roading

[muskie]

Muskie, is there any way you could get that DVD on buying second hand GU on the net somehow, you tube or something? Would be a very interesting watch...

Did they say anything about the ZD30 3.0ltr engine? I thought this one, not the 2.8 was supposed to be the "Time Bomb"? :scratch:

i have mis informed you sorry, i have just watched it again you are right it was the 3 litre version sorry..

[muskie]

http://www.4wdaction.com.au you may find the info on there

[rolling_deep]

Im looking at buying a 1996 RD28-T powered GQ Spirit / SWB with auto trans for around $8000. Seems tidy enough , has done 197000km's and has had cam belts done quite recently.

I test drove this one on the weekend but it was not the 4wd for me, floated around like a boat in the front end and blew a fair bit of dark smoke out the rear despite being nicely warmed up. Although it was cool to hear the turbo wind up! Also test drove a SWB 4.2 granroad auto with a much tougher suspension set-up. This was the better example but outside of my price range.

The 1996 2.8t:





The 1992 4.2:

[fishjoe]

i watched the free dvd i got with the ozzie 4x4 magazine, it was about buying a used gu. i am only quoting what they said. steer clear from early 2.8 gu's as the sump was too small and starved the engine of oil thus causing an early demise, around 99-2001 after that they increased the sump capacity. aparently these engines are a time bomb..

i am only saying what was in the dvd, it could be down to hotter temps in oz, i dont know. australian 4wd action magazine is where the dvd came from and was within the last 2 months.

I think they were talking about the 3.0 one not 2.8. I am pretty sure cos I am driving one of these time bombs now and I have done a lot of reasearch on these motors. The recent 3.0 engine may take 8ltr engine oil while my one can only take less than 6ltr.

So far the only problem found on the GU 2.8 is hot start problem, which can be easily solved.

[Summit033]

So far the only problem found on the GU 2.8 is hot start problem, which can be easily solved.

Fishjoe what is the hot start problem then, and how is it easily solved......

[DaveM]

I've heard the 2.8 can get a small amount of play in the injector pump, which can be solved by putting a spacer plate in.
I haven't read enough about it to know how/why it does this exactly, but will try to find a link to the uk sites that have the info.

[fishjoe]

So far the only problem found on the GU 2.8 is hot start problem, which can be easily solved.

Fishjoe what is the hot start problem then, and how is it easily solved......

Sorry to come back a year later. Just in case if you still read this.

The Hot start problem is one little sensor faulty causing the engine cannot restart when its hot, I mean just after been used. Its not a big problem.

[DaveM]

I take it the hot start problem you are referring to is on the GQ motors, and not GU, which is caused by a worn pump and requires a plate to help mask the problem?

[fishjoe]

I take it the hot start problem you are referring to is on the GQ motors, and not GU, which is caused by a worn pump and requires a plate to help mask the problem?

I am not quite sure but Australian GU owner with RD28Eti motor has actually found the problem, and provided solution. Do a search for the keywords in major Forums answer would show up.