The Mitsubishi G54B T/C is a 2,555 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1996. It features a cast‑iron block, SOHC 8‑valve architecture, and a single IHI turbocharger with a mechanical wastegate. In standard form it delivered 110–125 kW (150–170 PS), with torque figures between 235–265 Nm, offering strong low‑end pull and rally‑inspired performance.
Fitted to models such as the Pajero (V20/V30), L200/Triton (K84), and Starion (A184A), including the limited‑run Pajero Evolution prototype, the G54B T/C was engineered for off‑road durability and motorsport homologation. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic exhaust after‑treatment and an air injection system, meeting pre‑Euro standards in most markets and Euro 1 in select European applications from 1993 onward.
One documented concern is head gasket failure under sustained high load or overheating, highlighted in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑ME‑91‑006. This issue stems from thermal stress in the high‑compression (8.5:1) turbocharged design and marginal coolant flow in early cylinder heads. From 1992 onward, revised head castings with improved coolant passages and multi‑layer steel (MLS) gaskets were implemented.
Production years 1987–1992 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1993–1996 models meet Euro 1 compliance depending on market (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/1763).
The Mitsubishi G54B T/C is a 2,555 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for SUVs, pickups, and performance coupes (1987–1996). It combines SOHC 8‑valve architecture with a single IHI turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and robust off‑road capability. Designed to meet pre‑Euro and Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritizes durability over refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,555 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 91.1 mm × 98.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110–125 kW (150–170 PS) | |
| Torque | 235–265 Nm @ 2,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi‑point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (1987–1992); Euro 1 (1993–1996) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (IHI RHB52) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft (maintenance required every 80,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Mitsubishi DiaQueen 10W‑40 (API SF/SG) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve turbo design delivers strong torque for off-road use but requires strict adherence to 80,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. Mitsubishi DiaQueen 10W‑40 (or equivalent API SF/SG) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability for turbo bearings and camshaft. Head gasket integrity must be monitored—early builds are prone to failure under sustained load per TSB ME‑91‑006. Use only RON 95 fuel to prevent knock; ethanol blends above E5 accelerate injector coking. Cooling system must be maintained to prevent thermal stress in the high-compression turbo application.
Oil Specs: Requires Mitsubishi DiaQueen 10W‑40 or API SF/SG equivalent (Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual Pajero V30).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1993–1996 models only (JAMA Type Approval #JAMA/EMS/1763). Pre-1993 units are non‑compliant with EU emissions directives.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. 125 kW output requires RON 95 fuel (Mitsubishi TIS Doc. TC‑G54B).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TC‑G54B, M06‑2987
JAMA Type Approval Database (JAMA/EMS/1763)
ISO 1585:1999 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi G54B T/C was used across Mitsubishi's V20/K84 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sumps in the L200 K84 and revised coolant manifolds in the Pajero V30—and from 1992 the Euro 1–compliant Starion A184A models adopted updated head castings, creating minor gasket interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the turbocharger (Mitsubishi TIS TC‑G54B). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for G54B series). All T/C variants feature an IHI RHB52 turbo with external wastegate actuator and black intake manifold. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated G54B: T/C version has oil feed/return lines to turbo, reinforced pistons, and lower compression. Service parts require production date verification—head gaskets for engines before 01/1992 are incompatible with later units due to fire ring redesign (Mitsubishi TSB ME‑91‑006).
The G54B T/C's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure under sustained high load or overheating, with elevated incidence in desert or towing use. Mitsubishi internal durability reports from 1992 indicated that pre‑1992 engines showed frequent gasket breaches before 120,000 km in high‑stress applications, while EU service records show timing belt failure as a secondary concern in neglected examples. Extended oil change intervals and marginal cooling exacerbate thermal stress, making correct maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (1991–1996) and EU national vehicle inspection failure statistics (1995–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI G54B-T-C.
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