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Hi, I've had a GU zd30 2004 since new. I became aware of the problem with that motor about 6 years ago. Researched it carefully via the patrol forum. Did the NADS mods (Nissan anti detonation system). This involved installing a catch can, blocking the EGR at top and bottom of the passage, a bigger intercooler from HPD, and a 3 inch exhaust. Blocking EGR is OK, but can lead to boost issues. So installed a needle valve and daws valve to limit and also control boost. Also installed WHAT temp gauge, and boost gauge. These will change your driving habits, especially the EGT gauge. Since doing the mods, it's run well. Did it at 90k, it's now done 205k. Oil never gets dirty and the manifold stays clean.

I'm getting 13 ltrs per 100k, but I've got roof rack, bull bar, side steps and rails, and I run 285/16 tyres (33s I think). I get between 15 and 18 ltrs per 100k towing my camper with the truck fully loaded as well.

If you get one, I'd be looking for one that's got low KMs for its age, preferably no earlier that 2004. That's because the earlier models pre series 3 had a higher chance of blowing cylinders 3 and 4. Ideally, it would be better to get one with the NADS done.

Alternately, go for the 4.2. there are quite a few for sale, but expensive especially with low KMs.

The next rig I'm getting will be either a 79 series Landy or an Isuzu DMax. But for now, the Patrol is running well, and there are quite a few trips left in her. This year's it's Birdsville and then on to Cape York.

If you need to know more, then message me. Happy to help out.

Cheers David M

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Well I have a 2002 model ZD30.  Yes the grenade model!!

Ive had the NADS modificatins done and fitted the guages as recommended.  I have a 2" lift, 33" ATs, winch but no lockers (actually just had a front locker fitted today so I haven't used it yet.  Can't wait!)

Its been bullet proof!

I'm in a 4WD club and go out at least twice a month.  I often do the more difficult, technical tracks like Mt Airly, Pipeline, Commando etc.

The Patrol is an extremely capable vehicle. You won't find better. The 80 series you're thinking of is also similarly capable as you probably already know.

Just got back from Mount Canobolas where we had 15 cars of various makes, many quite new vehicles with all the latest smarts.  On one particular hill where nearly everyone needed winching I was the last car to go up.  They all said I wouldn't get up because I didn't have any lockers.  Well they were wrong.  Drove straight up no problem.  Obviously a fair bit is down to driver experience and I had the advantage that I had watched several cars try to get up and seen where they had issues.

The ZD30 engine is a little underpowered as mentioned but I find it adequate and haven't felt the need to sqeeze more out of it. My Patrol is not my daily drive so I don't have to push it around in Sydney traffic.

One of the great things about the Patrol is that anything you can dream of doing to it has already been done millions of times and parts and accessories are readily available.

I've had a lot of touring type mods done like rear drawers, roof rack etc etc so my weight would be pretty well up there.  I should really go to a weighbridge and check.  I wouldn't be surprised if I am at my GVM limit.

I monitor fuel consumption pretty closely and am running at 12.75L/100km based on a mix of highway & offroad driving.  I've had as high as 30L/100 in sand.  I never tow anything so I don't have any numbers for that.

All I can say is that I'm extremely happy with my Patrol and I would recommend them to anyone.

At the end of the day there are a whole lot of things to consider when making your choice but if you decide on a Patrol I know you won't be disappointed.

Good luck

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Thurstain has mentioned previously that he would like to get into some of the 'extreme' type of 4wding that some do on this site; Alcorns, Ellis, Phone etc etc.  Why not keep his Navara as he admits he has spent heaps on it and as we all know, we never get close to getting the $$$ spent when we sell. If I was him, look for a 'bush pig', whether it be a GQ or a 80. There are still a few reasonable ones around, and as others have said, cheap to modify and if you damage it, which you will do..., it is no big deal. Keep the Navara for your touring type/easier 4wd trips; best of both worlds.

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Jeez this thread blew up worse than a Granade lol. Thank you all for the input. My intention is to keep the Navara still as it's perfect setup for camping and touring, but depends what I endup buying in the end and if I can afford 2 4wd's and a daily car... But knowing myself I can't just get a "Bush rig" thats about to fall apart and keep it as it is, I know I will modify and sink money into it, so I need to have a solid platform at least.. I looked at the cheaper alertnatives, petrol ones, found locked and lifted GQ's for $7k with RWC and everything but the TB42 kills it.. too much petrol to go anywhere and I will endup sinking money and getting rid of it sooner than later and will be the Navara scenario allover again.

Currently I'm still keeping my options open with a GU, GQ and 80 series (or similar) - as long as I find a good rig that I like. Mostly just wanted feedback whether or not I should bother with the 3 Lite GU, but from what you guys said it's definately a good contender and I should look into it further.

I did look into Jeeps (as someone on here suggested) to be honest but they are a bit out of my budget unless I get a shorty, which is not an option for me as I need the space.

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