The Mitsubishi 4D56-TD is a 2,477 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1986 and 2008. It features a cast‑iron block, SOHC 8‑valve architecture, and indirect injection with a mechanical or electronic rotary injection pump depending on model year. In standard form it delivered 63–85 kW (85–115 PS), with torque figures between 192–235 Nm, offering rugged low‑end pulling power ideal for utility and off‑road use.
Fitted to models such as the Pajero (V11/V20/V30), L200/Triton (K74/K84/K94), and Delica (L300/L400), including commercial variants like the L400 Space Gear, the 4D56-TD was engineered for durability, simplicity, and serviceability in demanding conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and oxidation catalysts in later models, meeting Euro 2 standards from 1996 onward in European markets.
One documented concern is head gasket failure in high‑load or overheated conditions, particularly on pre‑1995 units with single‑layer steel gaskets. This issue was addressed in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ME‑94‑012, which recommended multi‑layer steel (MLS) gaskets and revised torque procedures. From 1995 onward, updated cylinder head castings and improved coolant flow reduced thermal stress and enhanced reliability.
Production years 1986–1995 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1996–2008 models meet Euro 2 compliance depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/2341).
The Mitsubishi 4D56-TD is a 2,477 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for SUVs, pickups, and light commercial vehicles (1986–2008). It combines indirect fuel injection with a mechanically or electronically controlled rotary injection pump to deliver robust low‑rpm torque and field‑proven durability. Designed to meet pre‑Euro and Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes serviceability and reliability over refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,477 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (non‑intercooled) | |
| Bore × stroke | 91.1 mm × 95.0 mm | |
| Power output | 63–85 kW (85–115 PS) | |
| Torque | 192–235 Nm @ 2,000–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection; Bosch VE rotary pump (mechanical or electronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (1986–1995); Euro 2 (1996–2008) | |
| Compression ratio | 21.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (IHI or Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Gear‑driven camshaft (maintenance‑free) | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi DiaQueen 15W‑40 (API CF/CE) | |
| Dry weight | 225 kg |
The gear-driven SOHC design ensures long-term timing reliability but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using API CF/CE 15W‑40 oil to protect the rotary injection pump and turbo bearings. Pre-1995 engines are prone to head gasket failure under sustained high load or overheating—inspect coolant condition and consider MLS gasket upgrade per TSB ME‑94‑012. Fuel quality is critical: use ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent pump wear. No intercooler is fitted, so boost levels are modest; excessive tuning risks head cracking. Glow plug system must be maintained for cold starts below 5 °C.
Oil Specs: Requires Mitsubishi DiaQueen 15W‑40 or API CF/CE equivalent (Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual L200 K94).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1996–2008 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/2341). Pre-1996 units are non‑compliant with EU emissions directives.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. 85 kW output requires RON 95-equivalent cetane rating ≥51 (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. DI‑4D56).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs DI‑4D56, M08‑2134
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/2341)
ISO 1585:1999 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 4D56-TD was used across Mitsubishi's V11/K74/L300 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sumps in the L200 K94 and revised coolant manifolds in the Pajero V30—and from 1996 the Euro 2–compliant Delica L400 models adopted electronic pump control, creating minor ECU and harness interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the injection pump (Mitsubishi TIS DI‑4D56). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for 4D56 series). Early models (1986–1995) have mechanical Bosch VE pumps with cable throttle; post-1996 units use electronic pumps with ECU control. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated 4D56: 4D56-TD has a turbocharger mounted on the exhaust manifold and oil feed/return lines. Service parts require production date verification—head gaskets for engines before 01/1995 are incompatible with later blocks due to fire ring redesign (Mitsubishi TSB ME‑94‑012).
The 4D56-TD's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in early builds (1986–1995), with elevated incidence in sustained high-load or desert use. Mitsubishi internal durability reports from 1994 indicated a significant subset of pre-1995 engines required head reconditioning before 150,000 km, while EU service data shows turbo oil seal leaks as a secondary concern in high-mileage units. Overheating and extended service intervals exacerbate thermal stress, making coolant maintenance and correct torque procedures critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1994–2005) and EU national vehicle inspection failure statistics (2000–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4D56-TD.
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