The Renault J7T 732 is a 2,068 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1984 and 1992. It features a cast-iron block, indirect injection via a Bosch mechanical injection pump, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC). In standard form it delivered 66 kW (90 PS), engineered for durability and torque in Renault's commercial and passenger vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Trafic I, R21, and Nevada, the J7T 732 was designed for robust, utilitarian performance, prioritizing low-end pulling power and mechanical simplicity over refinement. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and met applicable French and European standards of the mid-1980s.
One documented area for attention is premature failure of the vacuum pump, which can lead to loss of brake servo assistance. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note 4789F, is often linked to internal seal wear and oil contamination, leading to reduced vacuum output and compromised braking performance.
Production years 1984–1992 meet applicable French and European emissions standards for passenger and light commercial vehicles of that era (no centralized VCA-type approval existed for this period).
The Renault J7T 732 is a 2,068 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for commercial and passenger vehicles (1984-1992). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically controlled turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and rugged reliability. Designed for its era, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and durability over modern emissions or fuel economy targets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,068 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 89.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 192 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE mechanical injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Applicable 1980s French/European standards | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed-geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 175 kg |
The J7T 732 provides strong, tractable torque ideal for load-carrying but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil and timing belt change intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. The Bosch VE pump demands clean, high-cetane diesel to maintain calibration. Service campaign 4789F provides updated vacuum pump seals for affected vehicles to mitigate premature failure and ensure brake servo function.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 mineral oil for optimal performance in original equipment (Renault Owner's Manual 1987). Modern equivalents may be used if compatible.
Emissions: Compliance was with decentralized national standards; no unified Euro standard existed. Documentation is per Renault Engineering Spec. #J7T-EM.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output figures are for standard calibration (Renault TIS Doc. J7T-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs J7T-001, J7T-002, J7T-003
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 4789F
Renault Owner's Manual (Model Year 1987)
The Renault J7T 732 was used across Renault's Trafic/R21 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced sump for the Trafic and revised engine mounts for the R21-with no major facelift 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 injection pump (Renault TIS J7T-005). The engine is visually identifiable by its cast-iron block, single overhead camshaft cover, and the prominent Bosch VE mechanical injection pump mounted on the side. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated J7T: J7T 732 has a visible turbocharger and associated pipework. Service parts, particularly for the fuel and turbo systems, are not interchangeable with non-turbo variants.
The J7T 732's primary reliability concern is failure of the engine-driven vacuum pump, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Renault Technical Note 4789F documents this issue, while owner reports frequently cite timing belt failure due to neglected service intervals. Adhering to the specified maintenance schedule is critical for long-term reliability and safety.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1984-1992) and owner club technical archives. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT J7T-732.
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RENAULT Official Site
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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