Holden Jackaroo Problems

IT'S not recommended that you convert the Jackaroo to LPG because the engine isn't really compatible. Holden had an LPG option available on the Rodeo with the Isuzu V6, but it proved troublesome. It was an Impco air-valve system and had many driveability problems. If you really want to convert to LPG, George Peake, of Victorian Autogas Supplies, recommends you take your car to a cylinder-head specialist and have the heads fitted with hardened valve seats and valves, then find an installer who will fit it with a generic injection system.

THERE really isn't a rule of thumb you can use to determine if it would be beneficial to fit an external oil cooler. It comes down to the weight of the trailer you're towing and the conditions in which you'll be towing it. If the trailer or caravan you're towing is close to the rated limit of the tow vehicle, and you're planning to tow it in hot or hilly conditions, then it would be wise to consider fitting a cooler. Carmakers won't tell you that. They won't admit their cooling is inadequate or borderline. Most carmakers develop their cooling systems to cover average use, and some will offer an uprated system for those wanting to use their vehicle in more arduous conditions.

IT'S not normal. I would go to your nearest diesel-engine specialist and have them check the injectors for leakage. If the injectors are leaking you might be getting a fuel accumulation, which would make it harder to start. Once started the excess fuel would burn off and be seen as smoke.

No doubt the Rodeo delivers adequate brake performance -- it has to, to meet ADRs and customer expectations. But I'm sure you'd agree it doesn't brake as effectively as your BMW. The Rodeo doesn't have the high performance of the BMW so it doesn't need the same level of braking performance. German cars (including the Opel-sourced Holden) do tend to use a pad/rotor combination that gives good pedal feel and stopping performance, but higher wear. But all car companies are striving for greater braking performance and even homegrown models now chew up pads and discs in less than 60,000km.