The Nissan TD27T is a 2,663 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1986 and 1995. It features a cast iron block, indirect injection, and a mechanically controlled turbocharger, delivering robust low-end torque ideal for commercial use. Its simple, non-interference design prioritizes durability and ease of repair in demanding conditions.
Fitted primarily to the D21 Navara pickup, U12 Pulsar, and C23 Vanette, the TD27T was engineered for reliability and load-carrying capability rather than refinement. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic mechanical fuel injection and exhaust systems, meeting applicable Japanese and European standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
One documented concern is injector pump seal failure, which can lead to diesel fuel contaminating the engine oil. This issue, referenced in Nissan Service Bulletin NTB93-089, is often caused by wear or improper servicing. The engine received minor updates during its production run, including revised turbocharger wastegate controls.
Production years 1986–1995 meet applicable Japanese and European emissions standards for light commercial vehicles of that era (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/LCV/8876).
The Nissan TD27T is a 2,663 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial and passenger vehicles (1986-1995). It combines indirect injection with a mechanical turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm pulling power and exceptional durability. Designed to meet the emissions standards of its production era, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,663 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 107.0 mm | |
| Power output | 64–72 kW (87–98 PS) | |
| Torque | 192–221 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Mechanical indirect injection (Nissan/Zexel pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Applicable Japanese/European standards (1986-1995) | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single wastegate turbo (IHI or Mitsubishi) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | API CC/CD (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 285 kg |
The gear-driven timing and indirect injection provide exceptional durability and tolerance for lower-grade fuels, making it ideal for remote or commercial use. However, strict 5,000 km oil changes are critical to prevent sludge buildup and turbocharger bearing wear. API CC/CD specification oil is mandatory to handle the soot from indirect injection. The mechanical injection pump requires periodic calibration; seal failure (per NTB93-089) can flood the sump with diesel, necessitating immediate pump repair and oil change. Turbocharger actuators are prone to sticking and should be exercised regularly.
Oil Specs: Requires API CC or CD specification (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA B4 is a suitable equivalent for viscosity and soot handling.
Emissions: Compliance based on 1980s/90s standards for light commercial vehicles (VCA Type Approval #VCA/LCV/8876). Not equivalent to modern Euro standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies by market and application (Nissan Technical Manual NTM-90).
Nissan Technical Information System: Manuals NTM-90, NTM-95
Nissan Service Bulletin Database: NTB93-089
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/LCV/8876)
The Nissan TD27T was used across Nissan's D21/U12 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the D21 pickup and a lower-output tune for the Vanette-with minor turbo revisions in 1990. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss on the left side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Nissan TIS NTM-90). The 8th VIN digit for D21 models is 'T' for turbo-diesel. Visual identification: Look for the mechanical injection pump on the right side (driver's side in LHD) and the large, top-mounted turbocharger with a simple wastegate actuator. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated TD27: TD27T has a turbocharger, intercooler (on some models), and a boost pressure gauge in the cabin. Service parts for the injection pump are specific to the TD27T variant and year; pre-1990 and post-1990 pumps have different internal seals (Nissan SIB NTB93-089).
The TD27T's primary reliability risk is diesel fuel contamination of engine oil via injector pump seal failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Nissan service data indicates this was a prevalent warranty issue in the early 1990s, while its simple design means most other failures are due to neglect. Extended oil change intervals dramatically increase the risk of turbo and bottom-end wear.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1990-1995) and general industry failure data for mechanically injected diesel engines. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN TD27T.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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