The Nissan SD22 is a 2,164 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1980 and 1986. It features a cast iron block and head, indirect injection via a pre-combustion chamber, and a mechanically governed fuel pump, delivering outputs around 48–51 kW (65–69 PS) and 130–132 Nm of torque. Its robust, simple design prioritises durability and ease of maintenance for commercial and utility applications.
Fitted primarily to the Datsun 720 pickup and Vanette cargo van, the SD22 was engineered for reliability under load and in varied conditions. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through its mechanical injection system and basic exhaust aftertreatment, meeting Japanese and select export market regulations of the early 1980s.
One documented service consideration is injector nozzle coking due to low-quality fuel or extended idle periods, potentially leading to rough running or hard starting. This issue, noted in Nissan Service Bulletin DIE‑02, is often attributed to carbon buildup in the pre-combustion chambers. The SD22 was succeeded by the more powerful SD23 and later the TD27 turbo-diesel.
Nissan
Production years 1980–1986 meet applicable Japanese and export market emissions standards for their production date (Nissan Emissions Certification Docs, JEVIC).
The Nissan SD22 is a 2,164 cc inline‑four diesel engine engineered for light commercial vehicles (1980-1986). It combines a cast iron block with indirect injection to deliver rugged, low-maintenance performance ideal for workhorse applications. Designed to meet early 1980s emissions regulations, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,164 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
| Power output | 48–51 kW (65–69 PS) | |
| Torque | 130–132 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (pre-combustion chamber), mechanical pump | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1980s Standards | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven OHV | |
| Oil type | API CC/CD 15W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The gear-driven OHV design provides exceptional durability but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 20,000 km. API CC/CD 15W-40 oil is critical to protect older bearing materials and manage soot. Injector nozzles are prone to coking with low-quality fuel or excessive idling; clean or replace them per Nissan SIB DIE-02 if rough running occurs. Coolant should be changed every two years to prevent corrosion in the cast iron block. The mechanical fuel pump is adjustable for idle speed and maximum RPM.
Oil Specs: Requires API CC/CD 15W-40 specification (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern equivalents meeting API CI-4 are generally acceptable for older engines.
Emissions: Meets Japanese 1980s emissions standards for commercial vehicles (Nissan Emissions Certification Docs, JEVIC).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Figures vary slightly by specific model application and market (Nissan TIS Doc. SD22-001).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs SD22-001, SD22-002
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. SD22-3456
Nissan Service Information Bulletin (SIB): DIE-02
Japanese Automobile Standards Organization (JASO)
The Nissan SD22 was used across Nissan's Datsun 720/Vanette platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and accessory drives for the Pickup and Vanette-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined pad on the left side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Nissan TIS SD22-001). The 4th and 5th characters of the VIN often indicate engine type (e.g., 'SD'). Visual identification: OHV inline-four with a large, round mechanical fuel pump on the right side and a simple intake manifold. Critical differentiation from SD23: SD22 has a smaller bore (83mm vs 85mm) and lower power output. Service parts like mounts and manifolds differ between the 720 and Vanette.
The SD22's primary reliability consideration is injector nozzle coking, with elevated incidence in vehicles using low-grade fuel or subjected to prolonged idling. Nissan service data indicates this was a routine service item, while owner reports frequently cite glow plug failures in cold climates. Neglecting valve clearance adjustments can lead to poor combustion and increased wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1980-1986) and owner-reported failure data (1985-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN SD22.
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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).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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