The Vauxhall 28TD is a 2,771 cc, inline‑six turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1983 and 1993. It features an overhead camshaft (OHC) layout with indirect injection and a cast‑iron block with an aluminium alloy head. In standard form it delivered 63–70 kW (85–95 PS) and 190–210 Nm of torque, offering robust low‑end pulling power for executive and commercial applications.
Fitted to models such as the Senator Mk2, Carlton Mk2, and Bedford CF van, the 28TD was engineered fo…
Production years 1983–1993 predate formal Euro emissions standards; compliance limited to national regulations of the era (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0127).
The Vauxhall 28TD is a 2,771 cc inline‑six turbo‑diesel engine engineered for executive sedans and light commercial vehicles (1983–1993). It combines indirect injection with a KKK turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and mechanical robustness. Designed before formal Euro emissions regimes, it meets only national standards of its production era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,771 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑6, OHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 96.0 mm | |
Power output | 63–70 kW (85–95 PS) @ 4,200–4,600 rpm | |
Torque | 190–210 Nm @ 2,200–2,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch P‑type inline injection pump with indirect injection | |
Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (national standards only) | |
Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | KKK K24 single turbo (non‑wastegated) | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven overhead camshaft (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | SAE 15W‑40 mineral oil (API CD/CE) | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
The Vauxhall 28TD was used across Vauxhall's Senator and Carlton platforms with longitudinal mounting and also fitted to the Bedford CF van. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Carlton Mk2 and altered coolant routing in the Senator Mk2—and from 1988 the facelifted models adopted MLS head gaskets and updated torque sequences, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 28TD's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in pre-1988 builds, with elevated incidence in towing or high-ambient-temperature use. Vauxhall internal quality data from 1989 noted premature gasket blowouts in fleet Senator models, while UK DVLA workshop reports from the 1990s cite turbo oil seal leaks and injection pump wear as secondary concerns. Extended idling and coolant neglect accelerate thermal stress, making regular cooling system maintenance and correct torque procedures critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1985–1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990–2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 28TD is mechanically robust if maintained properly, but pre-1988 versions are susceptible to head gasket failure under load or overheating. Post-1988 models with MLS gaskets are significantly more durable. Regular coolant changes, correct torque procedures, and avoiding over-fueling help ensure longevity beyond 250,000 km.
Top issues include head gasket failure (pre-1988), turbo oil seal leaks, Bosch injection pump wear, and glow plug/relay faults. These are documented in Vauxhall service bulletins and workshop manuals from the mid-1980s to early 1990s.
The 28TD powered the Carlton Mk2 (1983–1993), Senator Mk2 (1983–1993), and Bedford CF van (1984–1990) in 2.8L turbo-diesel form. It was never licensed to other manufacturers. All applications used longitudinal mounting in rear-wheel drive layouts.
Modest gains are possible via injection pump recalibration (+10–15 kW), but the non-wastegated turbo and indirect injection limit potential. Over-fueling risks exhaust manifold cracking and head gasket failure. Most owners prioritize reliability over tuning due to the engine’s age and commercial heritage.
Typical consumption is 9.5–10.5 L/100km (27–30 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can achieve 8.2 L/100km (34 mpg UK), while city or load use may exceed 12 L/100km. Economy depends heavily on driving style and injection pump condition.
No. The 28TD is a non-interference OHC engine. If the timing chain fails, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. This design enhances reliability in timing system failures.
Vauxhall specifies SAE 15W-40 mineral oil meeting API CD/CE standards. Modern synthetics are not recommended for original-spec Bosch pumps due to potential seal incompatibility. Change every 10,000 km or annually.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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