Installing a new clutch in a Nissan Patrol GU ZD30 3.0 turbo diesel single mass flywheel conversion
Date Posted:23 August 2026
Good morning, guys. This is Chris from The Clutch Hub, and today we're taking a look at a clutch kit for a Nissan Patrol.
This kit suits the Nissan Patrol GU (Y61) powered by the ZD30 3.0L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine.
From the factory, these vehicles come equipped with a Dual-Mass Flywheel (DMF) system. What we are showing today is the conversion kit to step away from the troublesome dual-mass setup and convert to a reliable Single-Mass Solid Flywheel (SMF). It is an extremely popular, high-quality, and cost-effective conversion.
What’s Included in the Clutch Assembly Package
This conversion package incorporates genuine Exedy Safari Tuff performance components:
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Exedy Safari Tuff Pressure Plate (Clutch Cover): Heavy-duty, high-clamp pressure plate featuring an upgraded diaphragm for extra holding power and a burst-proof ductile iron casting built for tough 4WD touring and towing conditions.
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Exedy Organic Friction Disc: High-tier organic friction material designed for superior heat resistance, long wear life, and smooth daily pedal engagement.
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Release Bearing (Thrust Bearing): Brand-new heavy-duty release bearing.
Bearing Press Fit Warning
On the Nissan Patrol ZD30 gearbox, the release bearing MUST be pressed off your original cast carrier sleeve, and the new thrust bearing pressed back onto the original carrier using a workshop hydraulic press.
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Spigot Bush: Includes a fresh brass pilot/spigot bush (note: Nissan Patrol crankshafts utilize a solid bush rather than a needle roller bearing).
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Clutch Alignment Tool: Supplied for precise disc alignment during installation.
Blusteele Billet Solid Flywheel Conversion & Model Year Split
The package includes a premium Blusteele Solid Billet Flywheel. When ordering or fitting this single-mass conversion kit, you must verify your Patrol's exact build date due to a critical factory fly-wheel and starter ring gear design change.
| Model Production Window | Ring Gear Configuration | Flywheel Hardware Notes |
| Early GU ZD30 (Up to 11/2004) | Ring gear is integrated directly onto the flywheel. | Supplied with a new ring gear fitted to the solid flywheel. |
| Late GU ZD30 (11/2004 Onward) | Ring gear is located on a separate flexible drive plate. | You reuse your factory ring gear drive plate alongside the new solid flywheel. |
Fastener Note: You will reuse your factory flywheel bolts during this solid flywheel conversion setup.
Summary
Combining the reliability of a Blusteele Billet Solid Flywheel with the proven clamping strength of an Exedy Safari Tuff clutch kit creates the ultimate bulletproof driveline upgrade for your 3.0L ZD30 Nissan Patrol GU.
This is Chris from The Clutch Hub. Safe motoring!
This product video is for:
Exedy NSK-7235ST Safari Tuff Clutch Kit & Blusteele SMF Chromoly Flwheel for Nissan Patrol GU ZD30 10/2004 -on
Exedy NSK-7235ST Safari Tuff Clutch Kit & Blusteele Solid Chromoly Flywheel for Nissan Patrol GU ZD30 2000- 9/2004
Exedy NSK-7235ST Safari Tuff Clutch Kit & Blusteele smf Chromoly Flwheel for Nissan Patrol GU ZD30 2000- 9/2004