The Nissan TB42E is a 4,169 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1997. It features an OHV, 12‑valve design with multi-point electronic fuel injection, prioritising low-end torque and mechanical simplicity for heavy-duty applications. Output is approximately 110 kW (150 PS) and 304 Nm, making it suitable for off-road and commercial use.
Fitted primarily to the Nissan Patrol (Y60) and Nissan Safari (Y60), the TB42E was engineered for dependable, high-torque performance in demanding conditions. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through basic electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter, meeting pre-Euro or early national standards depending on market.
One documented service consideration is distributor cap and rotor wear, which can lead to misfires under load or in damp conditions. This is addressed in Nissan Service Manual Section EM-TB42E. The engine’s robust, non-interference design and simple OHV layout contributed to its reputation for field-repairable longevity.
Production years 1987–1997 predate formal Euro standards; compliance based on national regulations of the era (VCA UK Type Approval records for period vehicles).
The Nissan TB42E is a 4,169 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engineered for SUVs and light commercial vehicles (1987-1997). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a simple OHV valvetrain 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 | 4,169 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, OHV, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 304 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point electronic fuel injection (Nissan ECCS) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SF or SG (SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The TB42E offers immense low-end torque ideal for towing and off-road use but is not designed for high-speed performance. Regular oil changes (every 5,000-8,000 km) with API SF/SG spec oil are essential. The distributor cap and rotor require periodic replacement to prevent misfires. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for noise or slack at high mileage. Its non-interference design provides a safety margin if the timing chain fails.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF or SG specification oil (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA A3 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-TB42E/87). Output is consistent across applications.
Nissan Workshop Manual: Section EM-TB42E
Nissan Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. TB42E-001
Nissan Technical Data Sheet: TDS-TB42E/87
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Historical Type Approval Database
The Nissan TB42E was used across Nissan's Y60 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All specifications 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 rear of the engine (Nissan Workshop Manual EM-TB42E). The engine code will read "TB42E". Visually, it is identifiable by its inline-six configuration, OHV design (rocker cover on top, pushrods visible underneath), multi-point fuel injection (with individual injectors and a fuel rail), and lack of turbocharging. Differentiate from the carburetted TB42 by the presence of fuel injectors and an electronic throttle body.
The TB42E's primary reliability consideration is ignition system wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Nissan workshop data indicates distributor cap and rotor replacement is a common service requirement, while owner reports frequently cite misfire-related performance issues. Adherence to maintenance schedules is critical for sustained operation.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1987-1997) and aggregated owner workshop reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN TB42E.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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