Cptnmorgan...

I had my engine (shortblock) replaced because of #1 when it was in its early 14k. And mine was an '01 too. So, I don't think that the issue is only isolated with '99s.

During the repair (under warranty), they replaced the shortblock and the timing belt since it was all taken apart. They assembled everything back with the other original parts. I believe that even though the incidences happen to VX owners every now and then, this is a common problem with the 3.5 and 3.2 engines which includes the Troopers and Rodeos (I think).

If the repair is done at the dealership, then it takes about a week or two to get it rolling again after receipt of the new shortblock. Good luck if you plan to pursue any type of warranty claim with Isuzu or someone else. Let us know of the final outcome.