The Mitsubishi 4D65 T is a 1,997 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1983 and 1995. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8 valves, and a mechanically controlled turbocharger without intercooler. In standard form it delivered 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) with torque figures between 137–162 Nm, offering robust low‑end pulling power for light commercial and passenger use.
Fitted to models such as the L200 (K74T), Pajero (V11/V20), and Galant (E38/E39), the 4D65 T was engineered for durability and simplicity in varied global markets. Emissions compliance was achieved through indirect injection and a basic exhaust after‑treatment system, allowing compliance with early Japanese and European emission standards of the era.
One documented concern is premature wear of the mechanical fuel injection pump, highlighted in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ME‑85‑004. This issue was linked to inadequate lubricity in low‑sulfur diesel fuels introduced in certain markets during the late 1980s. From 1989 onward, revised pump internals with hardened components were introduced across the 4D65 family.
Production years 1983–1988 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1989–1995 models may comply with early Euro 1 depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/2105).
The Mitsubishi 4D65 T is a 1,997 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine engineered for light commercial and SUV applications (1983–1995). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically governed turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and field‑serviceable reliability. Designed to meet pre‑Euro and early Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity over emissions sophistication.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel (min. 500 ppm sulfur recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (mechanical wastegate) | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–66 kW (75–90 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 137–162 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE-type mechanical injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (1983–1988); Euro 1 (1989–1995, market‑dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI RHB5 VJ12 (non‑intercooled) | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | API CD/CE, SAE 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The mechanical Bosch VE pump provides field‑serviceable reliability but is sensitive to fuel lubricity—low‑sulfur diesel can accelerate plunger wear, leading to hard starting and power loss. Use of diesel with ≥500 ppm sulfur or lubricity additives is recommended for pre‑1989 units. The non‑intercooled turbo limits peak power but enhances simplicity. Early engines require frequent valve clearance checks (every 20,000 km) due to SOHC thermal expansion. Post‑1989 pumps feature hardened internals per TSB‑ME‑85‑004 and tolerate modern fuels better. Oil changes with API CD/CE 15W‑40 every 7,500 km are critical to protect the turbo bearing and timing chain.
Oil Specs: Requires API CD or CE (SAE 15W‑40) specification (Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual). Modern CK‑4 oils are acceptable if sulfur content is managed.
Emissions: Pre‑Euro certification applies to 1983–1988 models (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/2105). Euro 1 compliance was achieved in select 1989–1995 export variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies by turbo calibration and altitude compensation (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. ME‑4D65‑04).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ME‑4D65‑01 to ME‑4D65‑04, TSB‑ME‑85‑004
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/2105)
JIS D 1001: Road vehicles — Engine power test code
The Mitsubishi 4D65 T was used across Mitsubishi's K74/V11 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced oil pans in the L200 and modified engine mounts in the Pajero—and from 1989 the updated Galant E39 adopted a revised injection pump calibration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the oil filter (Mitsubishi TIS ME‑4D65‑08). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for 4D6x series). Early engines (1983–1988) have silver valve covers with external mechanical injection pump linkage; post‑1989 units use black valve covers and updated pump housings. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated 4D65: 4D65 T has turbocharger, oil cooler, and unique exhaust manifold. Injection pump part numbers beginning with 0460xxx denote turbo variants. Service parts require production date verification—pump kits for engines before 01/1989 are incompatible with later units due to plunger hardening redesign (Mitsubishi TSB‑ME‑85‑004).
The 4D65 T's primary reliability risk is mechanical injection pump wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in regions adopting low‑sulfur diesel before 1990. Mitsubishi internal field reports from 1987 indicated a notable share of pre‑1989 engines requiring pump replacement before 100,000 km, while JAMA durability audits flagged marginal fuel system robustness under low‑lubricity conditions. Extended oil intervals and poor coolant maintenance accelerate turbo and head gasket issues, making fluid quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1985–1992) and JAMA failure statistics (1990–1998). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 4D65-T.
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