Symptoms
None until a piston fails, usually number three or four. Warning signs include high EGTs when towing, boost spikes or drops under load, sooty oil, and oil consumption.
The fix, step by step
- Make sure the dipstick and service fill reflect Nissan's revised 8.3-litre capacity (a Nissan representative quoted on ExplorOz advised 9 litres at a change), use ACEA B3 or JASO DH-1 10W-40 oil, then check the oil daily on hard trips.
- Fit a boost gauge and a pyrometer (EGT gauge) and learn what's normal.
- One owner saw 300–450 °C at highway speed with the EGR working and about 600 °C on a steep climb at full throttle.
- Back off before EGTs climb.
- Fit a catch can so crankcase oil doesn't reach the intake and MAF sensor, and keep the MAF clean.
- Blanking the EGR is common but disputed: one owner saw lower highway boost and higher EGTs after blanking it and refitted the valve.
- It is also an emissions device, so check your local rules.
Tools & part numbers
- Pyrometer probe drilled into the exhaust manifold (pre-turbo)
- boost gauge tee into the intake
- catch can kit
- MAF cleaner
Where to buy the parts
VDO exhaust pyrometer (EGT) gauge kit, GQ/GUPatrolapart ↗Amazon ↗
Boost gaugesSupercheap Auto (search) ↗
Oil catch cansSupercheap Auto (search) ↗
Genuine Nissan oil filter, GU ZD30Patrolapart ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Nissan Patrol Y61 (GU) parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.