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About David Scott
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
Questions regarding the advisability of different kinds of modifications to Samurai/Sidekick/Tracker or various kinds of off-road usage. I will not attempt to do more than provide links for questions about other Suzukis such as Vitara, Grand Vitara, etc. I may or may not give generalized advice for newer models, but have no experience regarding newer models, and will not attempt to give more than the most generalized answers for questions regarding vehicles later than '95 manufacture. I will however provide a link that will help you contact a professional in your region.

Experience
I've been a professional mechanic for over thirty five years, live in the center of the Rocky Mountains, and have been active in exploring the old mining/4wd roads for decades. I've specific experience with Samurai modification, because that's my personal vehicle.

Education/Credentials
Thirty five years of advanced, intensive classes for experienced professionals only. Manufacturer seminars and training classes averaging four to six weeks per year. I'm now a professional heavy duty fleet mechanic, and no longer deal with issues such as MIL (check engine) lights

You are here: Experts > Autos > Trucks > Suzuki

Questions Answered By Expert David Scott
In Category Suzuki

Subject	Date Asked

1990 Samurai	9/4/2008
Q: When I bought this car three months a go, needed a fuel pump, and fuel filter. It was working with ... A: I only have books that cover carbureted samurai. While I understand the basics of injection, and ...
95 sidekick jx 5spd electrcal problem	8/26/2008
Q: You have helped me greatly before and I hope you can help again. Left turn signal started clicking ... A: Check the gauge, circuit board and power and grounds first. Then find the wire that comes from the ...
95 sidekick jx 5spd electrcal problem	8/25/2008
Q: You have helped me greatly before and I hope you can help again. Left turn signal started clicking ... A: The only place I can think of is in a Suzuki FACTORY Manual. The Chilton and Haines are "generic" ...
1987 suzuki samurai engine problems	8/15/2008
Q: Engine was running great then started to miss. Thought it was bad gas . Changed fuel filter and ... A: It could be an ignition problem, as in cap, rotor, wires, or plugs, but what you describe sounds ...
RON 97 and RON 98	8/14/2008
Q: My Suzuki car manual book recommended fuel type for my car is RON 98. But my country only selling ... A: The difference between RON(research octane number)97 and 98 is so small as to be negligible. Many ...
clutch, frontwheel hub	8/13/2008
Q: a couple of questions. I have a 1988.5 samurai 5 speed. I will be replacing the clutch pretty soon, ... A: Nothing else for the clutch. It's probable that the leaning in at the top is loose wheel bearings. ...
Headlights, power loss.	8/11/2008
Q: I have a 1987 Suzuki Samurai 1.3. When i have the engine running it usually sits at between 800 and ... A: The carburetor has an "idle up" function operated by vacuum. I suspect that one of the mechanical ...
1995 sidekick turn signals	8/9/2008
Q: I have a 1995 sidekick. there are two main concerns. first, my turn signals only work when they ... A: The squeaking is probably the fan and alternator belt. Replace it with a new one. As for the ...
sidekick driveshaft	8/6/2008
Q: if i take out my front driveshaft on my 89 suzuki sidekick can i still drive it or will i lose my ... A: If I remember correctly, the driveshaft has flanges on both ends of the driveshaft. If so, you're ...
87 suzuki samurai	8/5/2008
Q: My samurai dies sometimes. It will not charge the battery. I put in a new battery and it's dead ... A: Do a voltage drop test. This is done by taking a voltmeter (even a cheap one will do)and setting it ...
samurai idle problem when warmed up	8/4/2008
Q: I have swapped a 92efi 1.3 for my 88 samurai. Since the swap the idle in fast in the mornings which ... A: First, make certain the egr isn't partially activated, and that the egr valve isn't stuck partway ...
95 Suzuki Sidekick JX	8/3/2008
Q: Vehicle was running. I changed plugs, wires, rotor and cap. After that it ran like it was missing ... A: The oxy sensor could be involved. Just leave it unplugged. It will go to a neutral state, and ...
95 Suzuki Sidekick JX	8/3/2008
Q: Vehicle was running. I changed plugs, wires, rotor and cap. After that it ran like it was missing ... A: The only thing I can think of is that perhaps the plug wires are not installed in the correct firing ...
Towing a samarai	8/2/2008
Q: I want to tow a 1987 manual transmission samarai on a tow dolley. It has manual hub locks. Can I ... A: DON'T PUT THE 4WD SHIFTER IN NEUTRAL!! THAT PUTS THE TRANSFER CASE IN 4WD!! NOT A GOOD THING!! IT ...
Suzuki SJ losing Power	7/30/2008
Q: I own a suzuki SJ JX 1987. The car is losing power on long runs which requires that I stop the car ... A: I suspect something like dirty linkage It's a Mikuni in heritage, if not in fact, and has a "wax ...
Suzuki SJ losing Power	7/28/2008
Q: I own a suzuki SJ JX 1987. The car is losing power on long runs which requires that I stop the car ... A: I had a similar problem on my Samurai. It turned out to be old fuel hoses between the body and the ...
Starting problems	7/13/2008
Q: I also have the intermitent starting problem. I looked on the izook site for the relay kit you ... A: It's very simple. The relay is a magnetically actuated set of contacts. The contacts power the ...
Can Vitara run on LPG/CNG?	7/13/2008
Q: Hope you are doing good. I would appreciate if you can help me on my fuel concern. I have a grand ... A: It can be done. The greatest difficulty will be finding a technician, and a system to install. The ...
Starting problems	7/12/2008
Q: I also have the intermitent starting problem. I looked on the izook site for the relay kit you ... A: Here's what the syndrome is about. There's too much power lost between the battery and the starter ...
Starting problems	7/12/2008
Q: I also have the intermitent starting problem. I looked on the izook site for the relay kit you ... A: It's there. Go to izook dot com, click links, click rocky road outfitters, click engine, and it's in ...
Diffy Lock and shackles	7/11/2008
Q: I own a 87 suzuki samurai stock i want to put 2" shackles on it. will i need a extension for ... A: There are a couple of other things you should consider. If you are going to 31s, you should get rims ...
Diffy Lock and shackles	7/10/2008
Q: I own a 87 suzuki samurai stock i want to put 2" shackles on it. will i need a extension for ... A: I started that way modifying my 87 samurai. I had to fabricate a shock mount at the axle that ...
Car A/c and battery problem	7/5/2008
Q: I have a Maruti zen LX 2000 Model.My car's slows down and pick up dries up when I on A/C and the the ... A: Sorry, I have no idea what a Maruti is. I live in the mountains of Colorado in the U.S., and am not ...
Suzuki Esteem	7/4/2008
Q: I have never changed out strut assembly on my 1999 Esteem 1.6l before. Is there a trick or a web ... A: I've never as much as ridden in an esteem, and only have knowledge about Samurai and ...
Suzuki Samurai	7/2/2008
Q: I have a 1987 Suzuki Samurai. That apparently the previous owner beat pretty badly. The car did not ... A: If the valves clatter badly, you need to adjust them. If the valves are badly out of adjustment, it ...
1995 suzuki sidekick jx 5 speed 1.6 16 valve	6/8/2008
Q: Driving last night ( I use my car for delivery of papers) car ran fine all night then near the end ... A: There is a device that controls the amount of air at idle, and is variable, and is controlled by the ...
car dies randomly	6/7/2008
Q: I have a 1997 Suzuki Sidekick 4*4 2 DOOR 1.6LTER tHE CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP MANY OF TIMES ... A: RE: EGR VALVE .... As I remember, it's vacuum operated, so disconnecting the vacuum hose would ...
follow up	6/4/2008
Q: Dave, I cant pass a smog test in Las Vegas, NV ( 1996 Suzuki Sidekick) cuz the "check engine" light ... A: The only way you will ever know for sure is to remove the bulb and measure it's continuity with an ...
"check engine light"	6/3/2008
Q: Dave, I cant pass a smog test in Las Vegas, NV ( 1996 Suzuki Sidekick) cuz the "check engine" light ... A: If I remember correctly each bulb is in a holder that rotates about a quarter turn and comes out. ...
Emissions failed	6/2/2008
Q: Why would my 1993 Suzuki sidekick fail emissions? He said it was the Nox part. A: I haven't done emissions since 89, and am now doing fleet diesels, so my knowledge of this is out of ...
1995 SUZUKI SIDEKICK 1.6 16 VALVE	5/29/2008
Q: ENGINE RUNS BUT NOT WELL. HAS ABSOLUTELY NO POWER AND HAS GREAT HESITATION OR BOGS DOWN WHEN GIVEN ... A: You need to go back and check ALL the most basic engine parameters, starting with compression, and ...
1997 Suzuki Sidekick	5/24/2008
Q: Car does not want to start. It gets close in starting, but no cigar. I've changed egr valve and ... A: There's usually a port on the injector log(the transverse pipe that supplies the injectors with ...
auto transmission towing	5/20/2008
Q: will a 91 sidekick automatic transmission tow light loads A: Yes. You could even tow a heavy load a short distance in low range, but you would be going rather ...
Engine dies when clutch is pressed down!	5/13/2008
Q: I have a suzuki samurai jeep, that dies everytime I push down the clutch. And if I press down the ... A: In gear, or in neutral? If it's in gear, I suspect a clutch part issue such as a pilot bearing, ...
possible crankshaft oil seal leak	5/9/2008
Q: 1995 sidekick jx . ON occasion I am getting a slight spray of oil that seems to be originating ... A: Do it this way - Take the cap off, and have someone crank the motor, and look at which way the rotor ...
possible crankshaft oil seal leak	5/8/2008
Q: 1995 sidekick jx . ON occasion I am getting a slight spray of oil that seems to be originating ... A: Usually, this is a symptom of a couple of things, most likely are timing too advanced, or a lean ...
possible crankshaft oil seal leak	5/7/2008
Q: 1995 sidekick jx . ON occasion I am getting a slight spray of oil that seems to be originating ... A: I would expect that it would leak at a continuous rate, but I'm just a mere human, and am not privy ...
Samurai stalling	5/2/2008
Q: I have a 1988 Samurai 1300 that has been running great, but 2 days ago while returning home from a ... A: If the belt jumped time, it's time to replace it. It's pretty easy as far as those go, but while ...
1995 sidekick	4/26/2008
Q: While making left hand turns my temp gauge goes up then when I straighten out it goes back down. ... A: I suspect that there's a connection at or near the engine that flexes slightly when the engine moves ...
1995 sidekick	4/26/2008
Q: While making left hand turns my temp gauge goes up then when I straighten out it goes back down. ... A: I suspect that there's a wiring issue involved. It takes longer than a single left turn for the ...
A/C	4/12/2008
Q: is it difficult to add A/C to a suzuki sami that is not equiped origianally and how expensive would ... A: I wouldn't. Many of the early Samurais had a warning that under no circumstances was A/C to be ...
1997 Suzuki Sidekick	3/31/2008
Q: Car does not want to start. It gets close in starting, but no cigar. I've changed egr valve and ... A: A flooded motor sometimes will not start until the oil is changed,and the plugs are replaced I ...
odometer	3/30/2008
Q: i am looking to buy a 1989 suzuki samurai and the owner says it has 70,000 miles on it and i was ... A: I'm not absolutely certain about an '89, but my '87 has read "00000" three times now in it's life. ...
1986 Samurai differental gearing	3/30/2008
Q: . I only want to drive my Samurai on the street and would like to gear it higher. I purchased a ... A: You could probably use Samurai diff gears. Ask at izook.com at one of the companies on "links" that ...
Suzuki Sidekick 96 4wd 1.6	3/24/2008
Q: Issues with misfiring? Problem seemed to improve after changing o2 sensor, timing belt... But, ... A: The EGR valve meters exhaust gas, which is inert as far a combustion is concerned into the intake at ...
Alternator?	3/17/2008
Q: My 96' Suzuki Sidekick Jlx Sport battery has been charged. My cables are good. And the car will ... A: Do the headlights shine brightly? Are the battery posts, and the inside of the cable ends clean? ...
car air conditioning	3/13/2008
Q: i have maruti zen lx 1998 model. my car performance is a bit gud, but i find my air conditioning is ... A: If the motor runs well enough to pull the vehicle, and run the air conditioner at the same time, ...
cutting out	3/9/2008
Q: I have a 2000 1.3 swift, always starts first time, but if i start from cold and attempt to go up a ... A: I don't have any experience with your car. I do have a Geo Metro, which is a Swift body, but it is ...
suzuki rev probloms	3/5/2008
Q: there’s a switch on the carbie with a couple of vacuum hoses coming off it when i removed the ... A: What kind of suzuki? What year? What engine? Which switch on the carb? There are more than one to ...
88 Samurai Brake Metering Valve	3/4/2008
Q: just purchased my first Samurai and have a question about the brake system. There is an assem. ... A: I had the same problem. I solved it by removing the valve, and placing a hose clamp so the cover on ...
What engine will fit?	2/29/2008
Q: I have a 1988 suzuki sammy with the original 1.3 liter in it,which is kind of slow,will be ok for ... A: I've seen good success with 1600 8 valve transplants, and the VW Diesel is highly thought of. ...
2004 Suzuki XL-7	2/26/2008
Q: I have a Suzuki 2004 XL-7 and the high beams will not go out if when the car is turned off and smoke ... A: I'm not entirely certain, but I think the headlight high/low/flasher switch on the steering column ...
96 Suzuki - towing	2/25/2008
Q: I am looking at purchasing a 1995 Suzuki. The owners have told me there is 290K on the vehicle, and ... A: If they just put it in neutral and the t-case in 2wd, the speedometer will reflect whatever distance ...
SJ410 Transfer case stuck in Neutral	2/18/2008
Q: I recently changed the oil on my SJ410('84) Transfer case and now it is stuck in N! After draining ... A: All my experience is with USA 86 and later, but I'm led to believe they're virtually identical. The ...
tracker engine	2/14/2008
Q: I'm the recent owner of a '93 tracker with 75k on it. i love the car and plan to keep it forever. ... A: Change the oil every 3k max, or with the change of the season. Do the rest of maintenance at least ...
suzuki engines	2/11/2008
Q: Is it impossible to replace a16valve engine with an eight? Will they bolt up to each other's ... A: I'm not certain about fuel pressures, as I've only had 8valve vehicles, and have never checked a ...
suzuki engines	2/11/2008
Q: Is it impossible to replace a16valve engine with an eight? Will they bolt up to each other's ... A: Sidekicks of your vintage are 1.6 liter, both 8 and 16valve versions. Yes, they will mate to the ...
Sidekick Starting Problems	2/7/2008
Q: I have 93 sidekick that has a starting problem.The fuel pump relay clicks rapidly at first,and then ... A: The relay is merely a magnetically operated switch. There's a fault in either the relay, it's ...
suzuki jimny	2/6/2008
Q: i have 2003 suzuki,and last year the malfunction indicator light stayed on,i had my engine checked ... A: An 03 Jimny? What country do you reside in? I'm not at all familiar with what devices couold cause ...
410 shifting problem	2/3/2008
Q: Shifting up 1-2-3-4 no problem. Down shifting from 4 to 3 grinding...4 to 2 no problem. Any idea ... A: I'd say the third gear synchro ring is worn. The trans is small and light, and fairly easy to ...
99 Chevy Tracker 3 door	2/2/2008
Q: I just bought this rig, and love it. I read your disclaimer but the other experts either are not ... A: Try unscrewing the screws, and then tapping on them with a screwdriver handle, or a small hammer. ...
performance	2/1/2008
Q: are there any performance chips for 87 suzuki samurai A: Nope. Chips only work on computer controlled fuel injection systems. An 87 Samurai is a ...
Suzuki 4x4 96	1/31/2008
Q: My lovely wife pulled the heater chord out from the engine. Where does it go back in? Any advice ... A: Um ....I've never put one in, or replaced one, and am not sure exactly which location is used on ...
Suzuki Samurai or SJ410 coil suspension	1/30/2008
Q: I recently bought a very well looked after SJ410. Will fitting a coil spring suspension (like OME) ... A: You can do the damper at any point. Check with OME about which shocks, and whether you can use the ...
free wheeling hubs	1/30/2008
Q: have a 93 vitara and cnt engage 4wd,locking in hubs makes no difference, there simply isn't any ... A: What the heck, take 'em off and apart and see if you can see a problem. One thing I've seen a lot ...
Suzuki Samurai or SJ410 coil suspension	1/29/2008
Q: I recently bought a very well looked after SJ410. Will fitting a coil spring suspension (like OME) ... A: Coil spring suspension will make it ride softer, but will probably increase body lean when ...
What kind of Engine/Motors in the Suv's	1/28/2008
Q: Dave I need to know what kind of engines/motors are there in the Susuzki Suv's I need to find that ... A: Do a search on Suzuki History (Suzuki/Geo at off-road.com has a great article) There's the SJ10 with ...
Timing a Suzuki engine	1/27/2008
Q: My son took on a job to change the timing belt on a 1996 Geo and I assume the engine is a Suzuki ... A: I only have and work on 8 valve 1300s, I am not at all familiar with 16 valve 1600s. I would NEVER ...
Timing a Suzuki engine	1/27/2008
Q: My son took on a job to change the timing belt on a 1996 Geo and I assume the engine is a Suzuki ... A: I have always only used repair manuals that are "factory", and have always avoided Haines, Chilton, ...
Water Leaking from Exhaust	1/26/2008
Q: which is leaking water from the exhaust, we bought it 2 weeks ago and the garage said they had ... A: Let's talk first about the moisture and where it comes from. When an internal combustion motor ...
bigger shackles	1/23/2008
Q: i have a 1988 suzuki samurai with the sprung over lift and i was thinking about puting bigger ... A: It will change how the steering behaves when braking. A two inch longer shackle will result in a ...
Suzuki Vitara Free Wheel Hubs	1/22/2008
Q: I have a 1993 Vitara Sport. I have heard about free wheeling hubs but I don't know if my car has got ... A: Most 4wd vehicles have one of three types of front hub arrangements. GM and some other domestics ...
white smoke	1/17/2008
Q: Aloha David, i have a 88 lifted samari when it warms up it starts blowing white smoke the heads ... A: If its a coolant (antifreeze leak), it will consume coolant, and the exhaust will smell sweetish. ...
samurai	1/13/2008
Q: I have an 86 sami with a new motor,and had a diaphragm failure in my fuel pump. I,ve changed the oil ... A: If the bottom end is knocking, then it's almost certainly a bearing failure. Remove the oil pan, ...
car shake and engine click	1/8/2008
Q: hey scotty, My 1986 suzuki samurai has been having trouble recently when going over bumps, the ... A: The steering wheel shake is most probably a weak steering damper. The click and no start may well ...
vitara v6	12/29/2007
Q: any help greatfullly received thanx simon A: Usually, a hesitation is caused by a fuel mixture issue. What about Oxy sensor, and the other ...
headlight dimmer switch.	12/28/2007
Q: and when i went to turn on the lights the other night . I blew a fuse, The hearlights and turn ... A: I suspect a short to ground. First visually inspect the wires. It's also possible that the license ...
4x4 indicator	12/27/2007
Q: Grand Vitara 2003. Why while driving on 4H/4L gear the 4x4 indicator lamp sometimes is switching off ... A: Your question was not entirely clear as to whether it was in 2wd or 4wd initially. I am not the guy ...
Speedometer	12/26/2007
Q: The speedometer on my 1993 sidekick stopped registering at exactly 50,000 miles. The trip odometer ... A: While many of the earlier (pre 94) Suzis have a mechanism in the speedo that lights a periodic ...
Want to buy early model Sami 4x4	12/25/2007
Q: I would like your advice. We are considering on purchasing a Sami 4x4. I don't know much about them, ... A: A Sami is a good fun car, and you can get a good one for a pretty reasonable price, considering that ...
head gasket	12/23/2007
Q: i own a vitara 1997 sidekick 4x4.1.8 engine.it is leaking and when i looked it is from the head ... A: Drain the coolant, disconnect intake piping, exhaust as necessary,(sometimes it's easier to remove ...
4 wheel drive	12/20/2007
Q: When I am in 4 wheel drive my 2005 Suzuki XL-7 pulls me all over the road, but it does not do it in ... A: You need to verify that the tires are the same size, with the same amount of wear, and with the ...
Reset transmission computer	12/19/2007
Q: 1992 sidekick jx automatic4speed w/over drive, 16 valve engine,I reset ses, then pulled codes on ... A: All my experience is with standard trans Suzukis, and earlier ones at that. Sorry, I've never dealt ...
Stuttering engine when cold	12/16/2007
Q: I have an 87 sami that is stuttering when I accelerate. It seems to happen at the higher RPM range ... A: There are a couple of possibilities. The most probable, given that you haven't said it continues ...
suzuki, Samurai	12/11/2007
Q: i have a 1988 samurai, i put a lift kit on it about 3 years ago. now it starts to vibrate and shake ... A: The question you need to answer is whether any of the selector sticks vibrate wildly. That would ...
2005 suzuki forenza air bag	12/11/2007
Q: I have a 2005 suzuki forneza s with 58,000 miles on it and the air bag light is on. The dealer said ... A: Sorry, I have no experience with late Suzukis. I know lots about early Samurai/Sidekick/Tracker, ...
engine	12/8/2007
Q: I have a 87 suzuki samuri with 1.3 liter. The more you push on the accelerator the more the blue ... A: Without doing a dry and wet compression test and a leak down test, I would say it's rings and ...
suzuki vitara 2003	12/3/2007
Q: my suzuki vitara keeps blowing fuse in engine compartment when it does the motor shuts down could ... A: I'm very good with Samurai, and Sidekick, but have never even ridden in a Vitara. Get a wiring ...
1998 suzuki esteem	12/2/2007
Q: You had told me to do this. " reset the throttle body sensors and switches" How do I reset the TPS ... A: In order to make the settings on the tps, you need to have access to a factory service manual. I ...
1998 Suzuki Esteem timing issue	12/2/2007
Q: I noticed my car leaking oil. I tracked it down to the Crank seal. I bought a new timing belt, ... A: You've ventured into portions of the control system on a car that I've never even as much as ridden ...
timing chain and damaged valves on v-6	11/30/2007
Q: I have a chevy tracker, 2001 4x4, v6 duel overhead cam, Suzuki engine with 94,000 miles. My timing ... A: There are a couple of ways to go about this. A complete rebuild, or a rebuilt motor, most ...
91 Suzuki Sidekick intermittent No Start	11/27/2007
Q: 91 Suzuki Sidekick JX, 1.6L Engine, 4 Door, 4 WD with Manual Transmission has Intermittent ... A: Check the voltage with a digital volt meter at the solenoid actuating wire (the small one) with the ...
1998 Suzuki Esteem timing issue	11/25/2007
Q: I noticed my car leaking oil. I tracked it down to the Crank seal. I bought a new timing belt, ... A: You will have to query the ECM memory, and solve the light problem, see if the idle problem went ...
Check Engine Diagnostics	11/25/2007
Q: I had a check engine light, and checked it . It gave me 3 problems, and i have no clue what they ... A: I'm just giving you a place to start from, not a certain fault. It's probable the oxy sensor voltage ...
1998 Suzuki Esteem timing issue	11/24/2007
Q: I noticed my car leaking oil. I tracked it down to the Crank seal. I bought a new timing belt, ... A: Look at where the belt turns the compressor pulley. When you turn on the A/C, do ALL of the parts ...
97 Suzuki sidekick engine swap with 96	11/24/2007
Q: I have '97 sidekick 4x4 automatic. Needs crankshaft, bearings, etc. Found a '96 2WD manual ... A: As long as it's still got the same displacement, and same number of valves, you'll be ok. A salvage ...
1988 suzuki samari	11/20/2007
Q: Any way to take the slack out of rear end on a 1988 stock model. If you jack the vehicle up and ... A: Try this: with the rear wheels on the ground, and the trans in neutral, and the t-case in 2wd high, ...
suzuki jimny	11/19/2007
Q: i have a 2000 suzuki jimny and find that it tends to skid when on a tight turning circle, any ideas ... A: I need lots of information about the speed, kind of road surface, whether it's wet or not, whether ...
1993 suzuki sidekick	11/8/2007
Q: I recently changed the main fuse under the hood and my truck has ran right since. The battery keeps ... A: It's possible the alternator is the cause of the battery going dead. It's equally probable that ...
Suzuki Samurai Clutch Cables	11/6/2007
Q: Can you advise me regarding which manufacturers of Samurai clutch cables actually use the metal ... A: I haven't taken any apart to see, and just buy mine from one of the sources available in the links ...
Suzi vitara 1995 (sidekick)	11/6/2007
Q: I have just fitted a new head gasket to my 16 valve 1.6l ohc engine. I have triple checked all ... A: If it ran before, something was incorrectly hooked up in reassembly. Go to the fuel injection ...
Suzuki Free wheel hubs	10/30/2007
Q: My 1998 Suzki vitara is an exelent offroad machine, but I'v had enough of turning the free wheeling ... A: You can leave the hubs in, but as soon as you get to hardpacked dirt, take the transfer case out of ...
rpm return	10/25/2007
Q: hey scotty, follow up to the valve chatter, when im driving after the car warms up, when i put the ... A: That doesn't sound that abnormal, but if you suspect a vacuum leak, take a propane torch, DON'T ...
valve chatter	10/24/2007
Q: hey scotty, the engine trouble turned out to be a timing belt that had jumped some knotches when it ... A: There should be some audible clicking from the lifters. It's better to be on the side of slightly ...
Muffler Problem	10/24/2007
Q: Hey, i have a suzuki esteem 1998. It has a muffler leak i believe. I got it welded, and again at the ... A: The problem is that the metal is weakest right next to the weld, because of the heat of welding. it ...
Convert 4 cylinder engine to 3 in 98 Swift?	10/22/2007
Q: Hey Scotty!! Will a 3 cylinder engine bolt up to the automatic trans in a 4 cylinder ... A: The issues I see are: Engine mounts Shift linkage You'll need the fuel system ecm from the 3cyl, ...
Convert 4 cylinder engine to 3 in 98 Swift?	10/22/2007
Q: Hey Scotty!! Will a 3 cylinder engine bolt up to the automatic trans in a 4 cylinder ... A: I've never tried, and have no idea. A 3cyl mated to an auto trans? Why? If you just HAVE to, why ...
wont shift into reverse	10/22/2007
Q: 1989 suzuki samuri. While driving I smelt something burning and then it started shaking and the ... A: Does the trans have enough lube? Have you drained and refilled it, paying very close attention to ...
95 susuki stalls	10/18/2007
Q: My 95 Susuki Sidekick stalls when I press on the accelerator. I put new wires and plugs in and the ... A: If it backfires, it's too lean (not enough fuel, not flooding) The tps (throttle position sensor) ...
dieseling	10/11/2007
Q: hey scotty, it got really cold in michigan, down to the 50's, anyway the car was running well until ... A: Didn't you say you had a Weber carb instead of the oem one? Does it have an idle shut off solenoid? ...
1986 Suzuki Samurai Vacuum System	10/7/2007
Q: Where can I find a diagram for carburetor vacuum hoses? A: On the inside of the hood. If you can't find one there, and don't have access to a factory shop ...
1998 Suzuki Esteem Gas Economy	10/7/2007
Q: I want to know how much a regular full tank of gas would run a suzuki esteem 1998 for? Can u help me ... A: This isn't something I can diagnose with a CRT and keyboard. I would have to be there in person. I ...
stalling	10/5/2007
Q: I have a 89 suzuki sidekick fuel injected. I live at sea level and suzuki works fine. When I go ... A: The oxygen sensor is one of the main rich/lean modifiers, along with the temp sensor. First, I ...
suzuki vitara	10/4/2007
Q: I have a 2001 suzuki vitara 2.0. Recently, I started having a problem starting the engine when hot. ... A: I wonder if the fuel tank vent and carbon cannister hoses are somehow not allowing air in to replace ...
too much oil	10/1/2007
Q: hey scotty, 500 miles ago i changed my oil, started the car up, said "wow, i didn't add enough", ... A: So long as it's not MORE than a quart/liter overfull, no problem. The tales of blowing out the main ...
carburator	10/1/2007
Q: A 86 samurai owns me. It has an hesitation when start. Is there a modification to the carburetor ... A: Two possibilities. First, it has an accelerator pump. if you take the cover off, and with the ...
1998 Suzuki Esteem Gas Economy	9/30/2007
Q: I want to know how much a regular full tank of gas would run a suzuki esteem 1998 for? Can u help me ... A: What's your highway only mileage, driving conservatively? Is the mileage you've listed highway, ...
carberators	9/26/2007
Q: hey scotty, i've got a weber on my suzuki, but i don't know much about it, i did want to drop the ... A: Sounds like it's rich. You need to turn the mixture screw in until the idle roughens slightly. ...
rising oil?	9/24/2007
Q: hey, i've been checking my oil every three days for the past week and a half, it's weird i've been ... A: If it's coolant, the oil will look like a chocolate or vanilla milk shake. Does it smell a little ...
engine smells	9/24/2007
Q: hey scotty, we decided to get a new cylinder head for the samurai to eliminate the smoking on ... A: Go to www.izook.com, and from the links go to "Hawk Suzuki". I've seen completely rebuilt heads for ...
Flat-Towing a Samurai	9/16/2007
Q: You've recommended towing a Samurai in 2WD and neutral. The owners manual recommends transfer-case ... A: T-case 2wd and trans neutral has always been the best without disconnecting the rear driveshaft. ...
mayonnaise in the engine cap	9/16/2007
Q: hey scotty, as i mentioned earlier, i have water cooling my engine down, and im not sure if the ... A: you are getting that because I'll bet your vehicle doesn't run for more than a half hour AFTER ...
visual enhancements part 2	9/11/2007
Q: hey scotty, so i was looking at izook, nice website, and i found those shackle kits you were talking ... A: A two inch longer shackle front and rear will result in a one inch lift. Another inexpensive lift ...
suzuki samurai/goe tracker	9/11/2007
Q: wanting to convert a 90 geo tracker 2wd to 4x4 with a 86 samurai front end and t-case? easy/hard ... A: The conversion would be much more straightforward if you used parts from a sidekick/tracker, ...
best visual enhancements for a samurai	9/11/2007
Q: hey scotty, got the sammi running well, it was a combination of a bad pcv valve and loose head bolts ... A: Have I got the site for you! www.izook.com It has links to most everyone who makes Sammi stuff. ...
esteem problem	9/10/2007
Q: I have a 2001 esteem, with a 1.8. I have had a check engine light for a month or so now and I had ... A: No idea. My field of expertise is Samurai/Sidekick/Tracker late eighties and early nineties. You ...
tires	9/9/2007
Q: What are the best size and type tires for a 97 Suzuki Sidekick 4x4? A: There is a sticker on the door or door post giving the size, and inflation pressures. The type of ...
1998 Suzuki Swift service engine soon light	9/8/2007
Q: I was driving home and the "service engine soon" light came on. What are the possible causes? What ... A: You will need to hook up a scan tool and find out what caused the "MIL"(malfunction indicator light) ...
97 suzukisidekick clutch cable	9/8/2007
Q: I started to have trouble getting my car in gear, so I adjusted the clutch cable a little.. the it ... A: Based on your answer, I'm of the opinion that the cable was going bad, and the pedal breakage was a ...
97 suzukisidekick clutch cable	9/7/2007
Q: I started to have trouble getting my car in gear, so I adjusted the clutch cable a little.. the it ... A: The most important question is whether the pedal effort was abnormally high as compared with other ...
spark plug oil	9/7/2007
Q: hey scotty, thanks again for the info, on cylinders 2 and 4, there is a enough oil of the spark ... A: a leak down test uses a special gauge set, and is done with each cylinder individually at top dead ...
spark plug oil	9/6/2007
Q: hey scotty, thanks again for the info, on cylinders 2 and 4, there is a enough oil of the spark ... A: If the cylinders are shiny with oil after a warm up, and a five minute run on the highway, do a leak ...
Water in the exhaust	9/6/2007
Q: Getting water in the exhaust along with exhaust gas indicates a well tuned engine (considering no ... A: I'm going to answer it this way. Moisture is a normal component of exhaust. Moisture will be evident ...
Check engine light	9/4/2007
Q: I own a 2001 Suzuki Esteem. The check engine light keeps coming on. What does this indicate and how ... A: The light indicates that some portion of the engine management system is operating out of normal ...
bluish smoke coming from tail pipe at startup idle	9/3/2007
Q: i recently had an engine rebuild, complete engine block overhaul, but the head wasn't touched, just ... A: A wet and dry compression test, and a cylinder leak down test will narrow down this issue. It's not ...
suzuki	9/3/2007
Q: How does one attach a tow bar to a 1991 suzuki side kick? ANd... do you recommend a particular brand ... A: I don't tow, and have no experience with tow bars, although those who do usually end up getting the ...
CNG in Suzuki Swift	8/30/2007
Q: I would like to know if CNG is advisable for a Suzuki 'Swift' petrol MPFI. Thanks. ANSWER: CNG ... A: There is a small power loss using CNG. It is offset by the fact that the engine runs cleaner, there ...
CNG in Suzuki Swift	8/29/2007
Q: I would like to know if CNG is advisable for a Suzuki 'Swift' petrol MPFI. Thanks. A: CNG (compressed natural gas), due to the fact that it is delivered into the motor in a gaseous ...
98 suzuki swift	8/26/2007
Q: I just bought a 98 Suzuki swift with 91000km 1.3, 4 cyl. For my daughter, a few times it did not ... A: To run, a car needs spark, fuel, and the events timed correctly. You can take the top of the timing ...
Car Dolly Towing	8/22/2007
Q: I desire to tow my 1995 Sidekick 4X4 with manual transmission and auto-hubs using a car dolly. ... A: Towing backwards with auto hubs would guarantee that they would be engaged, and would also rotate ...
Tracker	8/21/2007
Q: Can I put a 1990 sidekick motor in a 1991 tracker as a straight swap. ANSWER: If they are both the ... A: you need a wiring diagram. if you can't get an official Suzuki manual, go to iatn.net, and use the ...
Oxy sensor moding/fixing...	8/20/2007
Q: i have a 1990 suzuki vitara/escudo/sidekick/etc with the g16a soc motor, and i would like to know if ... A: The sensor typically generates a .2 to .8 volt signal when hot, and in relationship to the presence ...
Lever Arm on the Suzuki	8/18/2007
Q: But the lever arm seems jammed in place and won't budge, so when I tighten the cable, it puts all ... A: If it's the clutch lever arm, it usually takes a couple of hundred pounds of force, which is why the ...
97 Suzuki Sidekick 1.6L	8/16/2007
Q: I have a manual transmission. I was on the road in a traffic jam and it became difficult to get my ... A: The "linkage" is merely the clutch pedal (it's a pivoted lever arm), and a lever arm at the ...
88 Samuri 5 speed Xmsn replacement	8/12/2007
Q: My 5 speed in my Samuri is about gone. What is the P.N. on this trans? Was it used in the Tracker, ... A: Go to izook.com and search the links. I've dealt with Rocky Road Outfitters, Hawk Suzuki, And ...
MVA & TOWING DAMAGE	8/2/2007
Q: I had a MVA, and the repairs were done at the body shop, the frame was bent etc. The vechile was ... A: Yes, what you suggest IS possible, it may have been towed in park. You need to be aware that it ...
Differential gear change	7/26/2007
Q: I just bought 1986 suzuki samurai and it had been modified by having the differential gears welded ... A: Usually, the spider gears are welded. This usually consists of putting a weld bead in each spider ...
1995 Susuki Vitara Engine Smoke	7/22/2007
Q: Well i have a 95 suzuki Vitara and it has the V6, 24 valve 2.0 engine I have got some engine problem ... A: Here are the possible sources of white smoke in the exhaust. First, moisture in the exhaust that ...
wont take fuel	7/16/2007
Q: my 86 Suzuki samurai dies on me when the temperature goes over 110 degrees out side, I live in ... A: You need to find out if, when it's hot, and it dies, whether the carb is receiving fuel from the ...
1988 suzuki samuri	7/16/2007
Q: back fires has vacuum leaks I believe...would like to know if this will cause it to choke out on ... A: There's a diagram on a decal under the hood. I don't have one, because my intake/emissions system ...
88 Suzuki Samurai	7/14/2007
Q: My head lights come on when they want to, won't go off when I want them to. I've replaced the ... A: I heard of a situation like that that was caused by a short circuit in the fuse block. The only ...
1998 Suzuki Esteem - Engine Loosing Power	7/14/2007
Q: I have been having an intermitant problem with my '98 suzuki esteem wagon. The engine will start ... A: Anytime I acquire any vehicle, the first purchase I make is a factory service manual and all ...
oil/water in exhaust	7/12/2007
Q: Hey, I've noticed when I start my Sami up, there appears to be a small patch of oil and water on the ... A: First things first. Is the level of coolant dropping? Is the oil milky looking, kind of like a ...
1998 Suzuki Esteem - Engine Loosing Power	7/11/2007
Q: I have been having an intermitant problem with my '98 suzuki esteem wagon. The engine will start ... A: I suspect a fuel delivery problem. You should hook up a fuel pressure gauge, and drive it until the ...
susuki vitara	7/9/2007
Q: tell me the correct method of idling adjusting the idle speed. year 1997 suzuki vitara engine module ... A: Yeah, I know, this is going to sound like an evasion.... But...since I don't have the data in my ...
Can I install AC in samurai	7/2/2007
Q: I recently bought a 1989 Samurai that has no AC - meaning none was ever fitted by the factory. Is it ... A: Yes, it's possible, there were Samis with A/C. If you're an accomplished, patient and talented ...
Service Engine Light on 96 Suzuki Sidekick	6/29/2007
Q: Took my Sidekick to dealer for Service Engine Light. They reported it was code P0740 and they ... A: While it may be somewhat frustrating for you, it is absolutely mandatory to point out that those two ...
No water droplets from exhaust pipe	6/27/2007
Q: I'm having a WagonR (Maruti Suzuki make in INDIA)equivalent to Euro III standard.Recently I observed ... A: The water droplets only show up when the vehicle is first operated, and the exhaust is cool enough ...
Tracker rear wheel seal	6/24/2007
Q: I have a right rear wheel that is leaking grease. I have it apart down to having the brake shoes ... A: Yes, you have to pull the axle. The seal that keeps differential lube inside is behind the bearing. ...
Running sluggish.	6/23/2007
Q: I have a 1995 Suzuki sikekick, that I have had since it was 4 yrs old. Just lately it has been ... A: This should be easy to differentiate. If it's the clutch, the engine will race and rev up without ...
intake manifold	6/21/2007
Q: its leaking gas how do i tell if the gasket or the manifolds craked A: If it's leaking gas to the outside while the engine is running, it's probably not the intake ...
Code 751 Shift solenoid A on a '96 Suzuki Sidekick	6/19/2007
Q: Scott, I have owned my 1996 Suzuki Sidekick JLX (Sport Model) 1.8L for about 2 years, I bought it ... A: The trans has electric solenoids that work with a fairly simple control unit to determine when to ...
Suzuki Samurai 1988 No electric power	6/11/2007
Q: No electric power at all. No lights, radio, no clicking or starting. I replaced battery and battery ... A: Grounds? There has to be a good connection from the negative post of the battery to the block, and ...
Suzuki Samuri transmission	6/8/2007
Q: Help. My Suzuki samuri is stuck in third gear. Can I fix this myself? A: There is a pin locating the shifter at the top of the transmission. It can "jump", allowing the end ...
samari engine swap	6/5/2007
Q: do you know if it is good to swap a 1.6 16valve engine into a 88 sami the 16 valve is fuel inj. the ... A: Whether an 8 valve or a 16 valve is good depends on how you're going to use it. The eight valve has ...
Reverse Fuse breaking	6/3/2007
Q: Hey, every time I take my 1997 4 door side kick into reverse my fuse breaks. The fuse controls my ... A: The reverse light switch is on the transmission, It's possible that the harness goes through the ...
Retrieving codes and resetting 1988 Samurai check engine light	6/1/2007
Q: I have a 1988 Samurai and the check engine light blinks on and off in no set patter but I have been ... A: An '88? Right? To the best of my knowledge, all the 88 has is a "sensor" light. It is triggered ...
tracker a/c	5/31/2007
Q: 2001 tracker blows a/c fuse when using a/c,and the defroster setting for heat in winter. thanks A: I don't have any short cuts or tricks up my sleeve for this. It will take a wiring diagram, test ...
flat towing a Samurai	5/27/2007
Q: i have recently purchased a 1988 Samurai. 4WD 5 speed manual transmission. Appears to be mostly ... A: You can flat tow. The best safest way would be to leave the front hubs "out" or "free", and ...
camshaft	5/16/2007
Q: sir,ihave just had a headgasket repaired, after travelling 8 miles the camshaft broke do you think ... A: IF the camshaft broke in the middle, or other than at the timing belt pulley area, I don't think ...
Towing a Sidekick automatic	5/13/2007
Q: Saw your note a on towing standard, what about an automatic Sidekick? I am thinking of upgrading ... A: You'll have to disconnect the rear driveshaft from the rear axle, or trailer it. The reason is that ...
2000 tracker front rt side axle assy leaking	4/29/2007
Q: i pulled my left and right front and rear springs and put some 2" spacers in, extended the struts ... A: All you do is loosen the suspension, turn the steering wheel all the way to one side, which lets the ...
2000 tracker front rt side axle assy leaking	4/29/2007
Q: i pulled my left and right front and rear springs and put some 2" spacers in, extended the struts ... A: Take suspension members loose and turn the steering all the way to one side to allow the axle to be ...
SJ410 - Front wheel play	4/29/2007
Q: I have a SJ410 that has very slight play on both front wheels. Initially I thought it was the ... A: Actually, the play you have is from the bearings above and below the felt seal. Go to ...
2000 tracker front rt side axle assy leaking	4/28/2007
Q: i pulled my left and right front and rear springs and put some 2" spacers in, extended the struts ... A: I thought I answered this, but it is still on my list of questions, so here ya go.... The inner ...
water in the engine	4/24/2007
Q: I have a 1990 Suzuki sidekick that in the past december pass water inside the engine, so i change ... A: The major question is whether the intake manifold gaskets are leaking. If they have been changed to ...
Car A/C coolant flushed out through coolant storage tank.how?why?	4/23/2007
Q: sir, i have a Maruti 800 Euro II model (INDIA). Today, a very strange incident happened (for the ... A: Does your vehicle have an electrically powered radiator fan? It's entirely possible, and I suspect ...
air condition	4/15/2007
Q: the work shop recharges freon 12 instead of 134 and without oil refill after a leakage due to a hole ... A: If it's supposed to have 134, refill with 134. The oil and the desiccant (a moisture absorbent) are ...
car A/C	4/13/2007
Q: sir, i bought a maruti suzuki 800 but the air conditioner cooling is not well i am not feeling the ... A: A condensor is the "radiator" for the A/C, (the hot high pressure gas condenses into high pressure ...
resetting a service engine soon light	4/10/2007
Q: I have a 1996 Suzuki Sidekick Sport. How do I re-set the "service engine soon" light? A: All cars sold in the US from 1996 on are required to have OBD II (on board diagnostics level 2) as ...
car A/C	4/7/2007
Q: sir, i bought a maruti suzuki 800 but the air conditioner cooling is not well i am not feeling the ... A: It's possible that the condensor in the front of the vehicle is dirty, or that in some way the free ...
Instant oil change gone wrong	4/3/2007
Q: whose's at fault? Do you think their insurance company will rule in my favor? I went to Valvoline ... A: You need to have as many people as possible that heard the noise verify that it was there before ...
pc=6;	3/31/2007
Q: My bright light indicator will stay on even when i turn the key off and take it out. i was going to ... A: This sort of problem comes from blown fuses, bad grounds, or faulty switches. I suspect fuses ...
sidekick headgasket or bad rings	3/30/2007
Q: 6 engine in it with 200,000 miles on it and i just got it to run but it seems like its been awhile ... A: First change the oil and filter. Then look at the vacuum hose for the fuel pressure regulator. ...
pc=6;	3/30/2007
Q: My bright light indicator will stay on even when i turn the key off and take it out. i was going to ... A: Is your vehicle one of the ones that has the capacity to flash the high beams by pulling back on the ...
sidekick headgasket or bad rings	3/30/2007
Q: 6 engine in it with 200,000 miles on it and i just got it to run but it seems like its been awhile ... A: Ok, from your response, it seems likely that you have a ring issue. There is something that may be ...
2005 kawasaki doesn't start and low compession	3/26/2007
Q: I have a 2005 kawasaki brute force 750. it has low low compression its at about 5-8 psi and the ... A: I have never seen one of those, but I suggest you try adjusting the valves and recheck compression. ...
sidekick headgasket or bad rings	3/26/2007
Q: 6 engine in it with 200,000 miles on it and i just got it to run but it seems like its been awhile ... A: Ok, there are a couple of possibilities for each of what you described. The white stuff on the oil ...
Suzuki Esteem	3/20/2007
Q: '01 Suzuki Esteem GL, auto, sedan, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. After starting and putting ... A: This is one of the "got to be there" kind of problems. Look at the shop finder at IATN.NET to find a ...
1990 SUZUKI SIDE KICK	3/8/2007
Q: TWO QUESTION ARE IN NEED OF SOME ANSWERS FIRST OF ALL HI ARE YOU DOING THAT WAS NOT MY QUESTIONS. ... A: There's an electrically controlled air valve on the side of the throttle body. The service manual ...
4WD vs 2WD	2/22/2007
Q: Is 4WD SUV gas-mileage more than 2WD of same kind SUV, why? and where can I find more info on this. ... A: It's like this.... All wheel drive like Audi and Subaru and a few others is designed to split the ...
wheel play	2/9/2007
Q: I have a Suzuki SJ410 with free wheel hubs on the front. There is a bit of play on the one front ... A: You have to remove the free wheel hub (unscrew the allen head bolts) then remove the circlip that ...
esteem catlytic converter	2/1/2007
Q: I know you are a truck guy - but here goes. - I was losing power and Suzuki has diagnosed cracked ... A: Yeah. Here's the straight poop. You can probably find a shop. Try IATN.NET They have a shop ...
RESET SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT	1/22/2007
Q: I HAVE A 1999 SUZUKI VITRA.THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" LIGHT CAME ON DUE TO A MISS FIRE.PROBLEM HAS ... A: I believe that it will have to be reset using a "scan tool" that permits access to the computer ...
Suzuki escudo1991 manual	11/27/2006
Q: I have a display that keeps on coming up on the speedo panel on the left it looks like a diff or ... A: I have no idea whatsoever. I live in the US, and have no idea what an escudo is. It's not imported ...
transmission change	11/10/2006
Q: will a 5 speed transmission from a 4x4 2000 model tracker work in 1998 suzuki sidekick jx 4x4 ? ... A: Do they both have the same basic engine? If not, getting the trans to mate up to the engine without ...
what kind of tow bar and where to attach it	10/26/2006
Q: You have helped us so much! But please one more question. What type of tow bar for our Suzuki Sport ... A: I'm not at all sure about the tow bar. I've seen some fancy folding tow bars that have one leg ...
91 suzuki fuel problem	10/25/2006
Q: I have a 91 sidekick,died on the way to work one day thought it was fuel pump but it was fine.car ... A: Does it idle the same with the oxygen sensor disconnected? If you very slowly and gently depress ...
sometimes my tracker 99 loss power	10/19/2006
Q: When I driving my car loss power and I have to pull over and wait 10´ or 20´ and star again I don´t ... A: Two possibilities come to mind. The first is that the fuel filter is partially obstructed, and is ...
Electric windows no longer work	10/16/2006
Q: I have recently bought a Suzuki Alto two weeks in the windows have stopped working. They are all ... A: Let's try some basic checks first. Obviously there are fuses, and you check them.... There are ...
towing a Suzuki Sidekick	10/11/2006
Q: One more question please: Would you leave both gear boxes in neutral while towing? Again, my ... A: Put the transfer case in 2wheel high, and the trans in neutral. I would have to check to be ...
towing a Suzuki Sidekick	10/10/2006
Q: We're thrilled we found your web site! I do the computer and my husband is asking the question. This ... A: Yes, you can tow it without any special modifications. There are a couple of conditions: 1)It must ...

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