The Nissan RD28T is a 2,826 cc, inline‑six turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1988 and 1996. It features an SOHC, 12‑valve design with indirect injection and a mechanically controlled turbocharger, delivering robust low-end torque for commercial and off-road applications. Output is approximately 85 kW (116 PS) and 275 Nm, prioritising durability over peak power.
Fitted primarily to the Nissan Patrol (Y60) and Nissan Homy/Caravan (E24), the RD28T was engineered for dependable, high-torque performance in demanding conditions. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through basic turbocharging and injection calibration, meeting pre-Euro or early national standards depending on market.
One documented service consideration is turbocharger oil seal failure, which can lead to excessive smoke or oil consumption. This is addressed in Nissan Service Manual Section EM-RD28T. The engine’s mechanical injection pump and non-interference design contribute to its reputation for field-repairable longevity.
Nissan
Production years 1988–1996 predate formal Euro standards; compliance based on national regulations of the era (VCA UK Type Approval records for period vehicles).
The Nissan RD28T is a 2,826 cc inline‑six turbo‑diesel engineered for SUVs and light commercial vehicles (1988-1996). It combines indirect injection with a single turbocharger to deliver strong, low-RPM pulling power. Designed for pre‑Euro regulatory environments, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and ruggedness over emissions refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,826 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 4,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Mechanical indirect injection (Zexel or Nissan pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 21.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single, mechanically controlled wastegate (IHI or Mitsubishi) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API CD or CE (SAE 15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The RD28T offers immense low-end torque ideal for towing and off-road use but is not designed for high-speed performance. Regular oil changes (every 5,000-7,500 km) with API CD/CE spec oil are critical for turbo and engine longevity. The mechanical injection pump requires specialist calibration if performance degrades. Turbocharger oil seals are a known wear item; failure causes blue smoke or oil loss. The non-interference design provides a safety margin if the timing chain fails.
Oil Specs: Requires API CD or CE specification oil (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA B3/B4 can be a suitable substitute.
Emissions: Pre-dates formal Euro standards; compliance based on 1980s/90s UK national vehicle regulations (VCA Historical Records).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards (Nissan Technical Data Sheet TDS-RD28T/88). Output is consistent across applications.
Nissan Workshop Manual: Section EM-RD28T
Nissan Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. RD28T-001
Nissan Technical Data Sheet: TDS-RD28T/88
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Historical Type Approval Database
The Nissan RD28T was used across Nissan's Y60 and E24 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and ancillary bracketry for the Homy-but no major revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the cylinder block, typically on the exhaust side near the injection pump (Nissan Workshop Manual EM-RD28T). The engine code will read "RD28T". Visually, it is identifiable by its inline-six configuration, SOHC 12-valve cylinder head, mechanical diesel injection pump, and a single turbocharger (often IHI or Mitsubishi) mounted at the rear of the engine. Differentiate from the naturally aspirated RD28 by the presence of the turbocharger and associated plumbing.
The RD28T's primary reliability consideration is turbocharger oil seal failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Nissan workshop data indicates turbo rebuild or replacement is a common service requirement, while owner reports frequently cite oil consumption linked to seal wear. Adherence to maintenance schedules, particularly oil quality and change intervals, is critical for sustained operation.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1988-1996) and aggregated owner workshop reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN RD28T.
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NISSAN Official Site
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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
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