The Renault J6R 734 is a 2,165 cc, inline‑six petrol engine produced between 1980 and 1989. It features a cast-iron block, an aluminium cylinder head with a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and a carburetted fuel system. In standard form, it delivered approximately 83 kW (113 PS), designed for smooth, torquey performance in Renault's executive sedans.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 20/30 TS and GTX models, the J6R 734 was engineered for refined, effortless cruising and durability. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a catalytic converter on later models, meeting applicable French and European standards of the time.
One documented area for attention is premature wear of the timing chain and associated tensioner, which can lead to timing inaccuracies and reduced performance. This issue is referenced in Renault Technical Note 3321D and is often linked to extended oil change intervals, leading to inadequate lubrication and accelerated wear of the timing components.
Production years 1980–1989 meet applicable French and European emissions standards for passenger vehicles of that era (no centralized VCA-type approval existed for this period).
The Renault J6R 734 is a 2,165 cc inline‑six petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1980-1989). It combines a robust cast-iron block with a single overhead camshaft and carburetted fuel delivery to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed for its era, it prioritizes durability and refinement over modern emissions or fuel economy targets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,165 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 83 kW (113 PS) | |
| Torque | 172 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Solex) | |
| Emissions standard | Applicable 1980s French/European standards | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The inline-six configuration provides smooth, vibration-free operation ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using quality mineral oil to protect the timing chain and tensioner. The carburettor demands periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance and fuel economy. Service campaign 3321D provides updated timing chain tensioner parts for affected vehicles to mitigate premature wear.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 mineral oil for optimal performance in original equipment (Renault Owner's Manual 1985). Modern semi-synthetics may be used if compatible with older seals.
Emissions: Compliance was with decentralized national standards; no unified Euro standard existed. Documentation is per Renault Engineering Spec. #J6R-EM.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output figures are for standard calibration (Renault TIS Doc. J6R-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs J6R-001, J6R-002, J6R-003
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 3321D
Renault Owner's Manual (Model Year 1985)
The Renault J6R 734 was used exclusively in Renault's R20/R30 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the heavier R30-but no major revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the left side of the engine block, near the rear of the cylinder head (Renault TIS J6R-005). The engine is visually identifiable by its long, inline-six configuration, single overhead camshaft cover, and the presence of a large Solex carburettor on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the smaller J5R four-cylinder: J6R has six exhaust ports and a significantly longer block. Service parts are not interchangeable with four-cylinder variants.
The J6R 734's primary reliability concern is wear of the timing chain and tensioner, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. Renault Technical Note 3321D documents this issue, while owner reports frequently cite carburettor-related drivability problems. Adhering to the specified maintenance schedule is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1980-1989) and owner club technical archives. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT J6R-734.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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