From the Workshop
Liam's GU S4
TD42t Conversion
Originally a ZD30 CRD, this GU S4 was transformed into a TD42t automatic — built as a daily driver with a towing setup.
The Story
Liam's GU Series 4 came to us as a ZD30 CRD — a capable rig, but like a lot of Patrol owners he was tired of wondering when the little diesel was going to let go. He didn't want a show car. He wanted a Patrol he could commute in all week, then hook the trailer up and head away without a second thought.
The answer was the conversion we know better than anyone: a TD42t. The 4.2-litre turbo diesel is famous for a reason — simple, strong, and happy to work hard for hundreds of thousands of kilometres. We paired it with an automatic so it's effortless in traffic and relaxed on the highway with weight behind it.
This wasn't a drop-in-and-go job. The engine got the full treatment: a UFI 12mm 230hp injector pump, UFI 21L turbo, custom intake plenum, Tillix high-mount manifold and our own custom stainless front-mount intercooler kit. Cooling and fuelling were sorted with a UFI high-flow fan, Derk hand-made water pump and Carter lift pump, and ARP head studs keep everything clamped down tight.
Behind it sits our GC Patrols TD42 auto conversion kit with a Wholesale Automatics Compushift controller, a heavy-duty flex plate and a dedicated trans cooler — so the gearbox is just as happy towing as the engine is pulling. A GC Patrols plug-and-play wiring loom ties it all together, and a hydro booster brake upgrade with braided hoses makes sure it stops as well as it goes.
The result is exactly what Liam asked for: a GU that starts every morning, tows all weekend, and does it all with the engine these Patrols should have had from the factory.
Build Highlights
The Brief
Liam wanted a Patrol he could drive every day and tow with on the weekend — without living with the ZD30's reputation. Reliability first, usable power second, and it had to feel like it left the factory this way.
The Engine
Out came the ZD30 CRD and in went a TD42t — the legendary 4.2L turbo diesel these GUs were born to run. Fed by a UFI 12mm 230hp pump and 21L turbo, and cooled by our custom stainless front-mount kit.
The Gearbox
Paired with an automatic for effortless daily driving and towing. A Wholesale Automatics Compushift controller keeps shifts crisp, and our own auto conversion kit and trans cooler keep temps in check under load.
The Finish
Every wire, hose and bracket was done properly — a GC Patrols plug-and-play loom, hydro-boosted brakes with braided lines, and a full check-over before it went home. Built to be driven, not babied.
What's In This Build
Every part chosen for reliability, driveability and tow performance. If you're planning a similar conversion, this is the recipe.
Engine Parts
- UFI high-flow radiator fan
- UFI 12mm 230hp injector pump
- UFI 21L turbo
- Custom intake plenum
- Derk high-flow hand-made water pump
- Tillix high-mount manifold
- GC Patrols custom stainless front-mount intercooler kit
- Carter lift pump
- ARP head studs
- 3 inch exhaust system
Auto Trans Parts
- Wholesale Automatics Compushift trans controller
- Heavy duty flex plate and spacer
- GC Patrols custom TD42 auto conversion kit
- GC Patrols custom auto trans intercooler kit
Wiring
- GC Patrols custom plug-and-play wiring loom
Brakes
- Hydro booster brake upgrade
- Braided brake hoses
Want a Build Like This?
We plan, supply and fit TD42 conversions, performance packages and full driveline upgrades for Nissan Patrols. Tell us what you're driving and what you want it to do.