The 4JJ1 engine from Isuzu is a reliable diesel engine that has been produced since 2004 and is installed in popular models of pickup trucks and SUVs. Some of the most famous vehicles equipped with this engine are the Isuzu D-Max and MU-X. Modifications of this engine include both passenger car versions and commercial vehicle versions such as 4JJ1-T, 4JJ1-X, 4JJ1-TCN and 4JJ1-TCS.
Main specifications of the Isuzu 4JJ1 3.0 TD engine
| Modification | 4JJ1-TC | 4JJ1-TCX | 4JJ1-TC HI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precise volume | 2999 cm³ | 2999 cm³ | 2999 cm³ |
| Power System | Common Rail | Common Rail | Common Rail |
| Drive power | 146 hp | 163 – 177 hp | 177 hp |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 360 – 380 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 | cast iron R4 | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v | aluminum 16v | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder diameter | 95.4 mm | 95.4 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Piston stroke | 104.9 mm | 104.9 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 17.5 | 17.3 to 17.5 | 16.5 |
| Features | DOHC | DOHC | DOHC |
| Hydrocompensators | no | no | no |
| Transmission of the timing gear | chain and gears | chain and pinions | chain and pinions |
| Fasoregulator | no | no | no |
| Turbocharging | IHI RHV4 | IHI RHV5 | IHI RHV5 |
| Oil | 7.0 liter 5W-30 | 7.0 liter 5W-30 | 7.0 liter 5W-30 |
| Fuel type | diesel | diesel | diesel |
| Environmental class | EURO 2/3 | EURO 3/4 | EURO 5 |
| Example life | 500,000 km | 500,000 km | 450,000 km |
Application of Isuzu 4JJ1 engine
The 4JJ1 engine is used in various models of Isuzu vehicles. It was installed on pickup trucks and SUVs, as well as on commercial vehicles:
- Isuzu D-Max 1 (RA): 2002 – 2012.
- Isuzu D-Max 2 (RT): 2011 – present.
- Isuzu MU-7 1 (510): 2004 – 2013.
- Isuzu MU-X 1 (RF): 2013 – 2021.
The 4JJ1 engine’s problems and shortcomings
Despite its reliability and durability, the 4JJ1 has a few typical problems:
- Noise and Vibrations: The engine is quite noisy and prone to vibrations.
- Sensitivity to fuel quality: The Denso fuel system requires quality diesel fuel, otherwise breakdowns are possible.
- GRM: The timing chain lasts a long time, but the chain tensioner can fail after about 200,000 kilometers of driving.
- EGR valve: Many problems are due to a dirty EGR valve, which requires periodic cleaning.
- Valve adjustment: The lack of hydrocompensators makes regular valve adjustment necessary.
Thus, Isuzu 4JJ1 is a strong, tough and durable diesel engine with excellent performance, but with some features that require additional maintenance.
The 4JJ1 engine – reviews of problems
Owners of modern diesel cars often encounter two major problems: the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and the diesel particulate filter (DPF). These systems, despite their environmentally friendly purpose, often have a negative impact on engine performance, causing premature wear and reduced efficiency. This is especially true for Isuzu owners with the 4JJ1 engine.
EGR system and its effects
The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system is a requirement of Euro 4 standards. It returns a portion of the exhaust gases back to the engine, reducing emissions. However, this recirculation causes hot gases with carbon deposits to circulate through the intake system, contaminating it and contributing to wear and tear.
Particulate Particulate Filter (DPF)
The Euro-5 particulate filter performs the task of filtering fine exhaust particles, reducing emissions. However, the filter becomes clogged over time, which negatively affects engine performance, increases fuel consumption and leads to the need to replace or clean it.
The solution to the problem is the EGR Delete Kit
To combat these problems, Australian manufacturer Munji has come up with a simple and effective solution – EGR Delete Kit for Isuzu 4JJ1 engine. This device hardware deactivates the EGR valve, improving engine performance, reducing fuel consumption and extending the life of the intake system. It is important to note that installing this device does not cause any error codes to appear, and it can be easily removed prior to a maintenance visit.
The kit costs around AU$119, making it affordable for Isuzu owners despite possible shipping costs and customs duties.
Reviews and testimonials
Australian owners of vehicles with the 4JJ1 engine note that the EGR Delete Kit really improves engine performance and makes the engine run more “cleaner”. Turning off the EGR valve reduces carbon deposits, resulting in smoother engine operation and increased engine longevity.
Some forum users note that for best effect, you should also remove the particulate filter and install sensor cheats to avoid errors in the engine management system. This solution requires program intervention, which may be difficult to implement in Russia and CIS countries, where access to qualified specialists is limited.