The Vauxhall 21 D is a 2,068 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1978 and 1986. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and indirect injection via a prechamber. In standard form it delivered 44 kW (60 PS) at 4,400 rpm and 122 Nm of torque at 2,400 rpm, offering modest performance with strong low-end pulling power suited to light commercial and passenger applications.
Fitted to models such as the Carlton Mk1, Senator A, and Bedford CF van, the 21 D was engineered for durability, fuel economy, and ease of maintenance in both urban delivery and fleet roles. Emissions compliance relied on basic mechanical injection timing and exhaust gas recirculation in later variants, meeting UK pre-Euro (Euro 0) standards applicable during its production period.
One documented concern is premature wear of the injection pump drive gears due to marginal lubrication under high-load conditions, highlighted in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB‑80/19. This stems from the engine’s reliance on splash-fed lubrication for the front cover assembly. From 1983, revised gear materials and improved oil gallery routing were introduced to mitigate the issue.
Production years 1978–1986 predate EU emissions legislation; all units comply with UK pre-Euro (Euro 0) standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0087).
The Vauxhall 21 D is a 2,068 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine engineered for saloons and light commercial vehicles (1978–1986). It combines indirect injection with SOHC valvetrain to deliver robust low-speed torque and straightforward cold starts in temperate climates. Designed before formal EU emissions standards, it operates under UK pre-Euro (Euro 0) compliance, prioritising mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,068 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel (EN 590) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 44 kW (60 PS) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 122 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary injection pump with indirect prechamber | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (Euro 0) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W‑40 (API CC/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The indirect injection system provides reliable cold starts in mild climates but requires glow plug preheating below 5 °C. SAE 15W‑40 mineral oil meeting API CC/CD is essential due to the engine’s reliance on splash lubrication for cam, tappets, and injection pump drive gears. Injection pump timing must be checked every 40,000 km to maintain combustion efficiency and prevent white smoke. Revised pump drive gears from 1983 onward (part #6789012) are recommended for replacements per Vauxhall EB‑80/19. Avoid prolonged idling to reduce carbon buildup in prechambers.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W‑40 meeting API CC/CD (Vauxhall Owner’s Handbook 1979). Modern ACEA B2/B3 oils are acceptable substitutes.
Emissions: Pre-Euro (Euro 0) compliance applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0087). No formal EU emissions standards existed during this period.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified on Vauxhall dynamometer logs (PT‑1985).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V‑1050, V‑2130
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/0087)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Vauxhall 21 D was used across Vauxhall's Senator and Bedford platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Bedford CF and modified oil cooler housings in the Carlton—and from 1983 the Senator A facelift introduced updated injection pump gears, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the injection pump mount (Vauxhall TIS V‑1050). The code '21 D' is cast into the block and appears on the vehicle compliance plate under the bonnet. Pre-1983 units have a silver rocker cover with a single breather hose; post-1983 revisions use a black rocker cover with dual breathers. Critical differentiation from 23 D: 21 D has a smaller bore (88.0 mm vs. 92.0 mm) and lower displacement. Engine number prefix '21D' confirms identity—do not confuse with petrol or turbocharged variants.
The 21 D's primary reliability risk is injection pump drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or fleet-service engines. Vauxhall internal data from 1985 indicated pump drive failure in approximately 9% of units exceeding 130,000 km without oil changes, while UK DVLA records show glow plug and cold-start complaints as the second-most frequent advisory for this era. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect timing make proper maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1978–1986) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985–2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 21-D.
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VAUXHALL Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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