As a seasoned auto repair expert here at cardiagnosticnearme.com, I understand the frustration of dealing with truck issues, especially when information is scarce. I recently dug up an old case from my files that I think will be incredibly helpful for anyone working on a 2000 Nissan UD T 1400, particularly when it comes to diagnostics and those pesky turbo problems. Like many of you, I’ve experienced the pain of limited technical support for UD trucks, making even simple fixes seem like major hurdles.
My issue started with a 2007 UD 1400 Vortex H.A.T. (yes, a bit newer than 2000, but these issues are often similar across years) going into limp mode. The truck just wouldn’t deliver the power it needed, and the check engine light was flashing code 35. After some digging, I learned that code 35 typically points to problems with the turbo actuator. Now, when you’re trying to diagnose issues on a 2000 Nissan UD T 1400, or similar models, the first thing you often reach for is your OBD2 scanner. Locating the OBD2 connector on these trucks can sometimes be the first challenge! While I won’t delve into the exact location in this article (always consult your service manual for the precise location for your specific model year), understanding that these trucks are OBD2 compliant is crucial for starting your diagnostic journey.
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In my case, the OBD2 system helped point me towards the turbo actuator. Initially, thinking I could save time and money compared to the dealer’s quote, I decided to tackle the repair myself over a weekend. To get a better understanding of the actuator’s function, I had my son cycle the ignition (key on, engine off) while I watched the turbo actuator. It moved, but I could easily stop it with my finger. A closer inspection revealed a missing “C” clip on the push rod, causing binding. A quick fix with a new clip, some sanding, and high-temp grease got me back on the road!
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Unfortunately, this fix was short-lived, lasting only about six months before code 35 returned. Back to square one! Another weekend, more grease, and the clip was still in place. Cycling the key again showed minimal actuator movement, still easily stopped by hand. Remembering reading somewhere that turbo failures are rare on these trucks and actuators are the usual culprit, I decided to delve into the actuator itself.
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Upon removing and opening the actuator, I found a slightly burned pin on the internal connector, indicating excessive current without proper function. The electric motor within the actuator was incredibly stiff, barely movable even with pliers. Opening the motor revealed the real issue: metal shavings. The motor armature was rubbing against the magnets, creating magnetic metal debris that jammed everything up.
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After thoroughly cleaning out all the metal shavings and reassembling the motor and actuator, the difference was night and day. Cycling the key now resulted in a powerful actuator movement, impossible to stop with a finger! It’s been over a year and a half since this repair, and the truck has been running flawlessly.
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So, if you’re facing turbo actuator issues on your 2000 Nissan UD T 1400, or a similar UD model, and your OBD2 system is pointing you in that direction, consider inspecting and cleaning the actuator motor itself. It might just save you a lot of time and money, and hopefully, this experience helps someone out there struggling with the same lack of UD truck repair information.
