Engine Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS)

Displacement
1.3 L1295 cc
Power
75–85 hp
Torque
100–109 Nm
Timing drive
Chain
Lifespan
~300 000 km
Production
1989-1999

The 1.3 liter Nissan GA13 engine line was intended for the local market. The first carburetor versions were introduced in 1989, and with electronic injection they were assembled until 1999.

The engines of the GA13 family have a classic design for that time: a cast-iron block is combined with an aluminum head without hydraulic compensators. In the 12-valve version, there is one chain, and in the 16-valve version there are two at once: the large one goes from the intermediate shaft to the crankshaft, and the small one from it to both camshafts.

In total, 3 versions of the engine were produced with two different power systems:

GA13S – in this modification, an electronically controlled carburetor and only one camshaft for 12 valves. The first row of which opens with camshaft cams, and the second with rocker arms. Power 75 hp, torque 100 Nm.

GA13DS – here the carburetor is combined with a 16-valve block head and, accordingly, there are 2 camshafts. This gives it 79 hp and 104 Nm.

GA13DE – an advanced version received a DOHC 16v head and electronic fuel injection. This gives it 85 hp and 109 Nm.

GA family: GA13S, GA13DS, GA13DE, GA14S, GA14DS, GA14DE, GA15S, GA15E, GA15DS, GA15DE, GA16S, GA16DS, GA16DE.

Specifications

Production years 1989-1999
Displacement, cc 1295
Fuel system carburetor / injector
Power output, hp 75 – 85
Torque output, Nm 100 – 109
Cylinder block aluminum R4
Block head aluminum 12v / 16v
Cylinder bore, mm 71
Piston stroke, mm 81.8
Compression ratio 9.5
Features no
Hydraulic lifters no
Timing drive chain
Phase regulator no
Turbocharging no
Recommended engine oil 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, 10W-40
Weight, kg 143 (GA13DE)
Fuel type petrol
Euro standards EURO 1/2
Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Pulsar 1991)
— city
— highway
— combined
7.1
5.3
5.8
Engine lifespan, km ~300 000

The engine was installed on:

Disadvantages of the GA13DE engine

  • Especially often, owners of cars equipped with engines with a carburetor power system complain about floating engine speeds, and the reason for this is clogging of strainers and jets due to poor-quality fuel.
  • On injection versions, the speed most often floats when the idle valve or the mass air flow sensor breaks. Sometimes cleaning helps, sometimes just replacing.
  • The main problem of the GA series engines is the oil burner. It comes on long runs due to the occurrence of oil scraper rings. If you do not miss the moment, then you can get by with decarbonization, if not, then only a replacement. Sometimes a leaky gasket is to blame for engine oil consumption, which, by design, should not allow fuel and lubricants into the intake tract along with crankcase gases.

Frequently asked questions about the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS)

How much power does the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) make?

The Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) develops 75 - 85 hp and 100 - 109 Nm of torque.

How much oil does the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) take and which one?

Recommended oil: 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, 10W-40.

Does the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) have a timing belt or chain?

The Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) uses a timing chain.

Is the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) turbocharged?

No, the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) is naturally aspirated.

Does the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) need valve clearance adjustment?

Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.

How long does the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) last?

The typical lifespan of the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.

What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS)?

Nissan Pulsar 1991: city 7.1, highway 5.3, combined 5.8 L/100 km.

What cars was the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS) installed on?

Nissan Pulsar N14 in 1990 - 1995; Nissan Sentra 3 (B13) in 1990 - 1995; Nissan AD 2 (Y10) in 1990 - 1995.

What are the common problems of the Nissan GA13DE (GA13S/DS)?

Especially often, owners of cars equipped with engines with a carburetor power system complain about floating engine speeds, and the reason for this is clogging of strainers and jets due to poor-quality fuel. On injection versions, the speed most often floats when the idle valve or the mass air flow sensor breaks. Sometimes cleaning helps, sometimes just replacing. All known problems.

El Guardiola
Author
El Guardiola

Doctor of Technical Sciences, former engineer at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee (10 years of experience), holder of certificates and patents for inventions, author of a training manual for employees of the Volkswagen Group of America.
I consider the internal combustion engine to be the greatest technological achievement and I want to provide information about them to a wide range of car owners.

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