The CADILLAC DLT is a 2,779 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2004. It features a SOHC valvetrain, direct fuel injection, and cast-iron block construction, delivering robust low-end torque for utility and off-road applications. In standard tune it produced 70 kW (95 PS) with 205 Nm of torque, forming part of Daihatsu's D engine family.
Fitted to models such as the Daihatsu Delta, Hijet, and Rugger, the DLT was engineered for durability in rugged environments and fleet use. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing all units to meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9231).
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin 00-NA-033. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. In 2001, Daihatsu revised the tensioner design and updated oil pump calibration to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (1998–2004) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9231).
The CADILLAC DLT is a 2,779 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for utility and off-road models (1998–2004). It combines SOHC architecture with direct injection to deliver dependable low-RPM torque. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it represents a durable iteration of Daihatsu's commercial engine platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,779 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch VE-type rotary pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed-geometry turbo (IHI) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (API CF) | |
| Dry weight | 195 kg |
The gear-driven SOHC design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. SAE 15W-40 API CF oil is essential due to its stability under sustained load conditions. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The fuel system is sensitive to contamination; use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards prevents injector nozzle coking. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 API CF specification (Daihatsu Service Manual 1998-0364).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9231).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 70 kW output requires 48 RON fuel (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A24708).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24708, A25161, SIB 00-NA-033
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9231)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC DLT was used across Daihatsu's DXx and Rx platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Delta and revised cooling routing in the Hijet-and from 2001 the facelifted Rugger models adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Daihatsu TIS A25109). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('D' for D series). Pre-2001 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2001 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from DL: Original DLT has IHI turbocharger with external wastegate, while DL uses naturally aspirated design. Service parts require production date verification—timing tensioners before 09/2000 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB 00-NA-033).
The DLT's primary reliability risk is timing chain rattle, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving with frequent short trips. Internal Daihatsu quality reports from 2000 indicated a significant share of pre-2001 engines required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show drivability faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low coolant quality increase thermal stress, making oil maintenance and component upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (1998–2004) and NHTSA field reports (2000–2003). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU DLT.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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