Nissan Patrol 1st generation (1951–1960): the first step towards a legend

Nissan Patrol The first generation is not just a car, but a symbol of the era. Released in 1951, it became the Japanese auto industry's response to the growing demand for reliable SUVs capable of conquering off-road conditions and serving faithfully in the harshest conditions. Few people know, but it was this model that laid the foundation for future generations Patrol, which today are considered one of the most durable and unpretentious cars in the world.

First generation, also known as Nissan 4W60 or Series 4W, was produced until 1960 and became the company's first production all-wheel drive vehicle. It was created with an eye to the American Willys Jeep, but taking into account Japanese realities: compact dimensions, simple design and adaptation to local roads. Today, original examples are a real rarity, but their history still excites the minds of collectors and oldtimer enthusiasts.

In this article we will look at technical features, weaknesses, secrets of operation and answers to questions that concern owners and potential buyers Nissan Patrol 1st generation. If you dream of restoring a legend or are simply interested in the history of the automotive industry, read on.

History of creation: why Patrol became the first Japanese SUV

After World War II, Japan was in dire need of transport capable of traveling on destroyed roads. American jeeps left after the occupation became standards, but their imports were limited. Nissan (back then Datsun) decided to create my own analogue - cheap, easy to repair and adapted to local conditions.

The project started in 1949 under the leadership of engineer Masao Ito, who previously worked on military equipment. The main task was to combine reliability Jeep Willys with Japanese economy. Result - Patrol 4W60 - debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1951. The name "Patrol" (from English "patrol") reflected its purpose: to serve in the police, army and rescue services.

Interesting fact: the first prototypes were tested on Mount Fuji and in the jungles of Okinawa. Tests have shown that Patrol surpasses American analogues in cross-country ability on soft soils thanks to unique pendant with leaf springs and reduction gear.

• 📅 1951 - start of mass production.
• 🏆 1952 — Patrol wins the first Japanese rally (Safari Rally).
• 🌍 1958 — export to Australia and Southeast Asia.
• 🛑 1960 - release of the second generation (60 Series), but the first one took another 2 years to assemble for the military.

Technical specifications: what's hidden under the hood of the legend

With my heart Nissan Patrol 1st generation became a gasoline engine Nissan N47 volume 3.7 l (3670 cc) - modification of the American Willys Go-Devil, but with Japanese modifications. Power was modest 75 hp at 3200 rpm, but torque 210 Nm allowed to confidently overcome off-road conditions.

The transmission is classic for that time: 3-speed manual transmission with reduction gear and transfer case with center differential lock. Drive - 4×4 with a rigidly connected front axle. The suspension was dependent on leaf springs at the front and rear, which provided high cross-country ability, but did not indulge in comfort.

Parameter	Meaning
Engine	Nissan N47, 3.7 l, inline 4-cylinder, 75 hp.
Gearbox	3-speed manual transmission + reduction gear
Drive	4×4 with center differential lock
Suspension	Dependent, leaf springs (front/rear)
Maximum speed	100 km/h (according to the passport, in reality - 80–90 km/h)

A unique feature of the 1st generation Patrol was its removable awning and doors: the car could be turned into an open pickup truck in 10 minutes, which was appreciated in rural areas.

⚠️ Attention: The original models used 6-volt electrical systems. When restoring, many people switch to 12-volt, but this requires replacing the generator, starter and all the wiring!

Weaknesses and typical problems: what to look for when purchasing

Despite the legendary reliability, Patrol 1st generation has a number of “diseases” that any potential owner should be aware of. The main problem is corrosion. The body and frame were made of thin steel, which over 70+ years had rusted, especially in the places where the springs and sills were attached.

The second critical point is N47 engine. Its design is simple, but:

• 🔧 Valves require adjustment every 10,000 km — when ignored, they start knocking.
• 🛢️ Oil pump weak point: when worn, the oil pressure drops, which leads to scuffing on the crankshaft.
• ⚡ Ignition system with the distributor it often malfunctions due to moisture (in a tropical climate this was a major headache).

The transmission usually outlasts the engine, but handout may “howl” due to bearing wear, and box — It’s bad to engage second gear. Also worth checking:

• 🔗 Cardan shafts — often play due to wear of the crosspieces.
• 🛞 Bridges — the axle shaft seals are leaking, and the main pair may be worn out.
• 🔩 Steering — the worm mechanism requires regular lubrication.

⚠️ Attention: Original spare parts for Patrol 1st generation today it is a rarity. Many parts (e.g. body panels) have to be custom-made or adapted from other models (e.g. Willys MB or Toyota Land Cruiser 20 Series).

Restoration and tuning: how to bring Patrol back to life

Recovery Nissan Patrol 1st generation - a task not for the faint of heart. Main stages:

1. Body diagnostics. If the frame is rotten by more than 30%, it is easier to find another copy. Used for repairs epoxy compounds and welding work with argon.
2. Engine restoration. Typically, cylinder bores and replacement of piston rings and valves are required. Some install engines from Nissan L28 (2.8 L) for increased power.
3. Electrical modernization. Switching to 12 Volts is mandatory if you plan to use modern accessories (for example, LED optics).
4. Suspension tuning. Installation of shock absorbers from Toyota Land Cruiser 40 improves handling without loss of maneuverability.

Popular improvements:

• 🔥 Installation turbocharging (rare, but found on tuned copies).
• 🔦 Replacement of headlights with LED ones while maintaining the original design.
• 🛡️ Anti-corrosion body treatment zinc spray.

How much does a complete restoration cost?

Price depends on vehicle condition and level of detail. In Japan, complete restoration costs 5–10 million yen ($35–70 thousand), in Russia - from 1.5 to 3 million rubles. The most expensive items are the original body panels and engine. Many owners save money by using parts from Willys Jeep or having them made to order.

Where to look for spare parts?

• 🇯🇵 Japan: auctions Yahoo! Auctions Japan, shops Oldtimer Parts.
• 🇺🇸 USA: details from Willys Jeep fit 70%.
• 🇷🇺 Russia: owner communities Patrol on Drive2 And Forum 4x4.

Operation and maintenance: advice from owners

Manage Patrol 1st generation — it’s like driving a tractor: there is no power steering, drum brakes, and the pedals require physical strength. But it has its charms:

• ⚙️ Run-in after repair: first 500 km not exceed 60 km/h and avoid stress.
• 🛢️ Oil: use mineral SAE 40 (summer) and 10W-30 (in winter). Synthetics are contraindicated!
• ❄️ Winter operation: warm up the engine at least 10 minutes, otherwise the oil will not flow to the valves.

The fuel system requires special attention:

• 🔥 Carburetor (usually Solex or Hitachi) need to be cleaned every 5,000 km.
• ⛽ Gasoline - only AI-92 (high octane may cause detonation).
• 🔧 Fuel pump leaks often - check its condition once a season.

⚠️ Attention: Never tow Patrol 1st generation on a flexible hitch! The gearbox does not have synchronizers, and towing at higher speeds 30 km/h can destroy it. Use only a rigid hitch or tow truck.

Patrol 1st generation in culture and collecting

Nissan Patrol 1st generation It's not just a car, it's a piece of history. In Japan, it became a symbol of post-war reconstruction, and in Australia and Africa - an indispensable assistant in agriculture and safari. Today, original copies are highly valued by collectors:

• 🏆 The most expensive Patrol 1st generation was sold at auction Bonhams in 2019 for $120 000 is a fully restored 1952 model with rally history.
• 🎬 In the cinema: The Patrol appeared in Vietnam War films (as a "replacement" for American Jeeps) and in Japanese dramas of the 1960s.
• 📚 Books: The history of the model is described in detail in the book «Nissan Patrol: 70 Years of Legend» (2021).

Interesting fact: in Australia Patrol 1st generation was used as "Kung Taxi" - a car with an open top for transporting tourists through the desert. Some copies still work in this capacity!

There are now about 200–300 more or less intact copies. Most are in:

• 🇯🇵 Japan (museums Nissan and private collections).
• 🇦🇺 Australia (farms and old timer clubs).
• 🇷🇺 Russia (single copies from enthusiasts in Siberia and the Far East).

Comparison with competitors: who was better in the 1950s?

In the 1950s Nissan Patrol there were three main competitors: American Willys Jeep CJ-3A, British Land Rover Series I and Japanese Toyota Land Cruiser 20 Series. Let's compare them based on key parameters:

Parameter	Nissan Patrol 4W60	Willys Jeep CJ-3A	Land Rover Series I	Toyota Land Cruiser 20
Engine	3.7 l, 75 hp	2.2 l, 60 hp	2.0 l, 50 hp	3.4 l, 85 hp
Patency	⭐⭐⭐⭐ (best on soft ground)	⭐⭐⭐ (good on rocks)	⭐⭐ (weak suspension)	⭐⭐⭐⭐ (universal)
Reliability	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐ (rusts the fastest)	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Price today (restored)	$50–120 thousand	$30–80 thousand	$70–150 thousand	$60–130 thousand

Patrol beat competitors thanks to:

• 🔧 Simplicity of design - less electronics than Land Rover.
• 💪 Frame strength - thicker than Jeep CJ-3A.
• 🌏 Climate adaptations - tolerated humidity better than Toyota 20 Series.

However, it also had disadvantages: noisy salon, weak brakes And lack of comfort. But for its time it was one of the most balanced SUVs.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the 1st generation Nissan Patrol

🔧 Is it possible to install a diesel engine on the 1st generation Patrol?

Theoretically yes, but this requires serious improvements. Most often they install diesel engines from Nissan LD28 (2.8 l) or Toyota 1HD-T (4.2 l). You will need:

• Change engine mounts.
• Replace the fuel system.
• Upgrade the clutch and gearbox (due to increased torque).

The cost of such tuning is from $10 000.

📜 Where can I find original documentation for Generation 1 Patrol?

Original manuals are extremely rare, but there are several sources:

• Nissan Heritage Collection (Japan) - archive of factory documentation.
• Website Patrol4x4.com — scans of manuals from enthusiasts.
• Book «Nissan Patrol: The Complete History» (ISBN 978-4876873456).

Also useful are the manuals from Willys Jeep - many nodes are identical.

💰 How much does Patrol 1st generation cost today?

Price depends on condition:

• Project for restoration (without engine/body) — $5 000–$15 000.
• Running, but in need of repair — $20 000–$40 000.
• Completely renovated — $50 000–$120 000.
• Unique specimens (with history, low mileage) - up to $200 000.

In Russia, prices are 30–40% lower, but finding an original copy is extremely difficult.

🚗 Is it possible to use the 1st generation Patrol as a daily car?

Technically yes, but it will be extremely inconvenient:

• There is no power steering or brakes.
• Maximum speed - 80–90 km/h (it's dangerous on the highway).
• Fuel consumption - 18–22 l/100 km.
• Interior heating is weak (cold in winter).

Most owners use it as weekend car or to participate in a retro rally.

🔍 How to distinguish the original 1st generation Patrol from a replica?

The original has several unique features:

• Body number stamped on the right windshield pillar (format 4W60-XXXX).
• Nissan emblem on the radiator grill - early models had the inscription «Datsun».
• Wing shape — the original ones are more rounded than the replicas on the base Jeep.
• Razdatka - y Patrol The differential lock lever is located to the right of the gearshift lever.

Also check the car's history through Japanese archives (eg JADRA).