Hi ACY 76,
I have just found this site, and am delighted to find a few similar enthusiasts for the Isuzu 2.8 diesel engine. I am in Ireland, and I have 3 x 2.8 turbo Troopers [4JB1], and an NHR 2.5 truck [4JA1 engine]. I would also have a good supplier of new {costly!} and good used parts {still not cheap!}.
I would have a lot of parts that I will never use, and would be delighted to see them go into a good vehicle, so, if there is anything you are having trouble locating, feel free to ask.
The 4JB1 engine is fantastic -but if you are looking for reliability, economy and ability to take abuse, there is nothing that can beat the 4JA1 [normally aspirated].Ok - it doesnt have the power of the turbo, but who cares when you get [so far] 250,000 miles @ 42mpg! The turbo has so much power that it wears the clutch if it is given too much throttle.
I read somewhere here that someone had a clutch problem due to build up of dust between the disc and flywheel.A sure sign of this problem is that the clutch pedal "catches" higher than before. Having pulled two transmissions to find that this was the problem, I decided to cut out a section of the bell housing and put in a cover plate. Now , every 6 months I remove the plate. insert an industrial vacuum cleaner, raise the back wheels, start the engine and operate the clutch a few times. It is amazing how much dust comes out, even with my conservative driving.
Finally - a tip for anyone doing their own transmission removal.It is always difficult to separate the bell housing from the engine. A great aid is to bolt[ 1 bolt is enough] a hand operated winch to the rear differential, bolt a suitable eye to the transfer case, connect and put some tension on the winch and gently shock the transmission while winding the winch. The transmission will move in a very controlled way. Do NOT use an electric winch, as you will have no control over tension.
I am very impressed with the lengths you have gone to, to do this conversion, and wish you luck.
Chris