Embodying the rugged spirit of rural New Zealand, the Nissan Patrol Safari D is much more than just a 4WD; it's a trusted workhorse, seamlessly transitioning from farm chores to thrilling off-road adventures. Renowned for its durability and simplicity, this icon has proven itself through decades of loyal service. Whether navigating rough terrains or handling the daily grind, the Patrol's unwavering performance and rugged design have made it a top choice for Kiwis, and its legacy continues to grow with each passing year.
Thoroughly inspect the chassis, body mounts, and floors for rust. Pay attention to suspension components (bushings, springs) and brake condition (lines, cylinders, pads/shoes). Check for excessive play or leaks in the steering system.
About the Nissan Patrol D
In the great outdoors of New Zealand, your Nissan Patrol Safari D may face some common challenges that require attention. Rust is a constant adversary, often targeting the chassis and body mounts. Therefore, regular rustproofing and inspections are essential for longevity. Given its popularity in demanding roles, components such as brake pads and rotors may need replacement around every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. Additionally, keep an eye on the cooling system, especially around the 150,000 km mark—parts like the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses should be inspected to prevent overheating, particularly when towing or carrying heavy loads.
Not to forget, differential wear can creep up on you, especially with heavy use. Steering box wear is also a known concern, making regular checks vital to keep your trusty 4WD on the road (or off it!). Visit our 'Braking' and 'Cooling' categories for service packs and parts tailored to enhance your Patrol's performance.
Questions owners ask
What are the common rust spots I should check on my 1979-1988 Nissan Patrol Safari in New Zealand?
Given New Zealand's climate, rust is a major concern for the Nissan Patrol Safari. Pay close attention to the chassis, body mounts, and floor panels. Regular rustproofing is highly recommended to prevent serious issues.
How often should I replace the brake pads and rotors on my Nissan Patrol Safari?
For a Nissan Patrol Safari used in New Zealand conditions, especially with its popularity in demanding roles, it's recommended to inspect your brake pads and rotors every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. Replacement may be necessary depending on wear.
My Nissan Patrol Safari is overheating, especially when towing. What should I check?
Overheating, particularly when towing or carrying heavy loads, is a common issue. Inspect the cooling system components, such as the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses, especially around the 150,000 km mark. Replacing these proactively can prevent overheating issues.
What are the key things a WOF inspector will look at on my 1979-1988 Nissan Patrol Safari?
For a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) in New Zealand, inspectors will thoroughly check the chassis, body mounts, and floors for rust. They'll also examine suspension components like bushings and springs, and the condition of your brakes, including lines, cylinders, pads, and shoes. Steering system play and leaks are also scrutinized.
How often should I service my Nissan Patrol Safari 1979-1988?
Given the Patrol Safari's robust nature but susceptibility to wear, a service interval of 5000km is recommended to maintain its reliability, especially if used for demanding tasks. Regular servicing helps combat rust and wear.
Where can I get replacement steering boxes for my Nissan Patrol Safari 1979-1988 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks a range of parts for the Nissan Patrol Safari 1979-1988, including steering components. Check our website or visit a store to see if we have a steering box to suit your vehicle. We stock 542 SKUs for this model.
What causes differential wear in my Nissan Patrol Safari, and how can I prevent it?
Differential wear in the Nissan Patrol Safari is often accelerated by heavy use and demanding conditions. Regular oil changes with the correct grade of oil, as well as avoiding excessive wheelspin, can help prolong the life of your differential. Listen for unusual noises from the diff, which can indicate wear.