The Nissan RD28Ti is a 2,826 cc, inline‑six turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1990 and 1996. It features an SOHC, 12‑valve design with indirect injection and a Garrett T3 turbocharger, prioritising low-end torque and rugged durability. Peak output is rated at 98 kW (133 PS) and 294 Nm, making it suitable for heavy-duty SUVs and commercial vehicles where towing and load capacity were paramount.
Fitted primarily to the Patrol Y60 and Safari, the RD28Ti was engineered for dependable, off-road performance and long-distance touring. Its driving character is defined by abundant low-RPM torque and mechanical robustness, ideal for challenging terrain and heavy payloads. Emissions compliance relied on basic mechanical injection and exhaust aftertreatment, meeting Japanese 1988 emissions standards for its production period.
One documented concern is premature failure of the turbocharger oil feed line, which can lead to turbo bearing seizure and oil starvation. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB92-055, is often attributed to heat degradation of the rubber hose section or blockage from sludge. Production ended in 1996 as Nissan transitioned to more advanced direct injection designs.
Nissan
Production years 1990–1996 meet Japanese 1988 emissions standards for relevant markets (MLIT Japan Type Approval #JIS-D-1001).
The Nissan RD28Ti is a 2,826 cc inline‑six turbo‑diesel engineered for heavy-duty SUVs (1990-1996). It combines indirect injection with a robust SOHC valvetrain and a Garrett T3 turbo to deliver exceptional low‑end torque and legendary off-road durability. Designed to meet Japanese 1988 emissions standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity over emissions performance.
| 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 | 98 kW (133 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 294 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Zexel VE-type pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1988 | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T3 (non-intercooled) | |
| Timing system | Chain | |
| Oil type | API CD or equivalent (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 245 kg |
The high compression ratio provides strong starting and low-RPM torque but demands strict adherence to coolant maintenance. API CD specification oil is critical for protecting the injection pump and turbocharger. The non-intercooled turbo design is simple but prone to heat soak; allowing the engine to idle for 1-2 minutes after heavy load prevents turbo bearing damage. The timing chain is robust but should be inspected at major service intervals (150,000 km). The turbo oil feed line (NTB92-055) is a known failure point and should be inspected/replaced preventatively.
Oil Specs: Requires API CD (or ACEA B2) specification (Nissan SM-RD28). SAE 15W-40 is recommended for all climates.
Emissions: Japanese 1988 certification applies to all 1990-1996 models (MLIT Type Approval #JIS-D-1001). No formal Euro standards were targeted.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Nissan PT-1995).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs SM-RD28, NTB92-055
Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT)
MLIT Type Approval Database (JIS-D-1001)
Japanese Industrial Standards: JIS D 1001 Engine Power Certification
The Nissan RD28Ti was used across Nissan's heavy-duty SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts and transmission coolers in the Patrol for off-road use-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the left side of the cylinder block, near the rear freeze plug (Nissan SM-RD28). The engine is visually identifiable by its inline-six configuration, SOHC valve cover, and prominent Garrett T3 turbocharger mounted on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated RD28: RD28Ti has a turbocharger and associated plumbing. Service parts are generally compatible across all model years and applications.
The RD28Ti's primary reliability risk is turbocharger oil feed line failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Nissan internal service data indicated this was a leading cause of turbo-related repairs for this model, while its simple mechanical design otherwise proved exceptionally durable. Neglecting oil and coolant maintenance makes adherence to the OEM service schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1990-1996) and internal service reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN RD28TI.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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