The Nissan LD28 is a 2,753 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1979 and 1986. It features a cast iron block and head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and indirect injection via a Bosch mechanical injection pump. This robust engine was designed for durability and torque in Nissan's commercial and passenger vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the C230 Vanette, Datsun 280ZX (S130), and Patrol (160), the LD28 was engineered for reliability und…
Production years 1979–1986 meet applicable Japanese and European emissions standards for their respective model years (VCA UK Type Approval data for imported models).
The Nissan LD28 is a 2,753 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated diesel engine engineered for vans, pickups, and passenger cars (1979-1986). It combines a durable cast iron construction with a simple SOHC valvetrain and indirect fuel injection to deliver strong, reliable torque. Designed to meet the emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability over refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,753 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
Power output | 59–66 kW (80–90 PS) | |
Torque | 182–196 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch mechanical indirect injection pump | |
Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (Meets 1970s/80s Japanese/European standards) | |
Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (Mineral Diesel Oil) | |
Dry weight | 265 kg |
The Nissan LD28 was used across Nissan's C230/S130/160 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the Patrol and different accessory brackets for the 280ZX-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
The LD28's primary reliability risk is cylinder head and head gasket failure, with elevated incidence in engines subjected to heavy loads or poor cooling system maintenance. Nissan workshop data indicates this is a frequent cause of coolant loss and overheating in neglected engines, while owner reports often cite injector pump issues as a secondary concern. Infrequent coolant changes and overheating events make adherence to the factory service schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1980-1986) and aggregated owner workshop data (1979-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LD28 is renowned for its rugged mechanical construction and can easily surpass 300,000 km with proper care. Its main weakness is the cylinder head, which is susceptible to cracking if the engine is allowed to overheat. Neglecting cooling system maintenance is the primary cause of premature failure.
The most frequent issues are cylinder head and head gasket failures (often due to overheating), Bosch injection pump wear leading to poor running, and the need for periodic valve clearance adjustments. Cooling system leaks from aging hoses and the water pump are also common as the engine ages.
The LD28 was primarily used in the Nissan Vanette (C230), the Datsun 280ZX (S130), and the Nissan Patrol (160). It was a versatile engine, powering everything from commercial vans to sports coupes and off-road SUVs during the early 1980s.
Yes, but gains are modest and risky. Popular upgrades include adjusting the injection pump for more fuel and installing a free-flow exhaust. Significant power increases usually require adding a turbocharger, which is complex and can overstress the stock internals, particularly the head and head gasket.
Fuel economy is moderate for a diesel of its size. Expect around 9.0–11.0 L/100km (31–26 mpg UK) in combined driving for a typical Vanette or Patrol. Economy is highly dependent on vehicle weight, driving style, and the condition of the injection pump.
No. The LD28 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, the pistons will not contact the valves. This design makes it much more forgiving of timing component failures, though a broken chain will still leave you stranded.
Nissan recommends SAE 15W-40 mineral diesel oil. This heavy-duty oil is necessary to handle the engine's high compression and thermal loads. Changing the oil and filter every 5,000–7,500 km is crucial for longevity, especially under heavy use.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
NISSAN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.