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 for durability, towing capability, and long‑haul reliability. Emissions compliance was limited to early UK and EU standards; most units predate formal Euro classifications.
One documented concern is premature head gasket failure under sustained high‑load conditions, particularly when coolant maintenance is neglected. This issue, noted in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB/87/09, stems from thermal stress at the fire ring due to marginal clamping force in early gasket designs. From 1988 onward, revised multi‑layer steel (MLS) gaskets and updated torque sequences were introduced to mitigate this failure mode.
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 indirect injection system provides mechanical simplicity and cold‑start reliability but delivers modest specific output by modern standards. Engines built before 1988 are especially vulnerable to head gasket failure under sustained load due to early gasket design. Coolant must be replaced every 24 months with Vauxhall-approved ethylene glycol mix to prevent liner pitting and overheating. The KKK K24 turbo lacks a wastegate, so boost is controlled solely by exhaust backpressure—excessive fueling can cause over‑boost and exhaust manifold cracking. Use of ultra‑low‑sulfur diesel (ULSD) is acceptable, but lubricity additives are recommended for older Bosch pumps. Regular valve clearance checks (every 20,000 km) remain essential due to mechanical tappet design.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 mineral oil meeting API CD/CE (Vauxhall Owner’s Handbook 1985). Synthetic oils not recommended for original-spec pumps.
Emissions: Pre-Euro engine; no formal EU emissions certification (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0127). Subject only to national standards of production era.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies slightly by injection pump calibration and model year (Vauxhall Group PT‑1988).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V-28TD-01, V-28TD-02, V-28TD-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/0127)
Vauxhall Engineering Bulletin EB/87/09
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-hand side of the block near the distributor mounting boss (Vauxhall TIS V-28TD-04). The code '28TD' appears as a raised casting on early units and as a machined stamp on later builds. Pre-1988 engines use composite head gaskets and have a single vacuum port on the inlet manifold; post-1988 versions feature MLS gaskets and dual ports. Critical differentiation from petrol 2800 '28S' engine: 28TD has turbocharger, indirect injection glow plugs, and Bosch P-pump on the right side. Injection pump calibration code (e.g., 'DW') must match vehicle application during rebuilds.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 28-TD.
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
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