The Nissan RD28 is a 2,826 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1988 and 1999. It features a cast iron block and head, indirect injection, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. This robust engine was designed for durability and high torque output in Nissan's commercial and off-road vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Patrol (Y60/Y61), Navara (D21), and Caravan (E24/E25), the RD28 was engineered for reliable performance under heavy load and in demanding conditions. It offered strong low-end torque suitable for towing, off-roading, and commercial use, prioritizing longevity over peak horsepower. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through basic mechanical injection and combustion chamber design.
One documented concern is premature failure of the cylinder head gasket, particularly in high-load or overheated conditions. This issue, noted in Nissan service documentation, is often linked to the engine's high compression ratio and thermal stress. In 1993, Nissan revised the head gasket material and torque procedure to improve sealing reliability.
Production years 1988–1999 meet applicable Japanese emissions standards for their respective model years (Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB-90-015).
The Nissan RD28 is a 2,826 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated diesel engine engineered for SUVs, trucks, and vans (1988-1999). It combines a robust cast iron construction with indirect injection and SOHC valvetrain to deliver reliable, high-torque performance. Designed to meet emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes durability and serviceability for demanding applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,826 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70–75 kW (95–102 PS) | |
| Torque | 206–217 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection, mechanical rotary pump | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1990s standards | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (API CD/CE) | |
| Dry weight | 265 kg |
The high-compression SOHC design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and off-roading but requires strict adherence to 5,000-10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent premature wear. SAE 15W-40 oil meeting API CD/CE is critical due to its formulation for high-compression diesel engines. The 1993 head gasket revision improved reliability; pre-1993 models should have the updated gasket and torque procedure applied per Nissan NTB-90-015. Fuel quality is paramount; contaminated diesel can damage the mechanical injection pump.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 meeting API CD/CE specification (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern API CK-4 equivalents are suitable.
Emissions: Meets Japanese emissions standards applicable to 1988-1999 model years (Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB-90-015).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies slightly by model application and market (Nissan Group PT-1995).
Nissan Service Manual (SM-RD28)
Nissan EPC Documentation (RD28-001)
Nissan Technical Bulletin (NTB-90-015)
Nissan Owner's Manuals (Patrol Y60, Navara D21)
The Nissan RD28 was used across Nissan's Y60/Y61, D21, and E24/E25 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts for the Patrol and different accessory brackets for the Caravan-creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Nissan SM-RD28). The 8th digit of the VIN for Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles often corresponds to the engine type ('R' for RD-series). Visually, it can be identified by its long inline-six configuration and mechanical fuel injection pump. Critical differentiation from the RD28T: The RD28 is naturally aspirated, while the RD28T has a turbocharger; engine blocks and cylinder heads are similar but turbo models have different pistons and head gaskets.
The RD28's primary reliability risk is cylinder head gasket failure, with elevated incidence in pre-1993 models or vehicles subjected to overheating. Nissan service data indicates head gasket repairs are common on early builds, while owner reports frequently cite injector pump issues. Vehicles used for towing or in hot climates make cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1988-1999) and owner workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN RD28.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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