The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated diesel Nissan LD20 was produced from 1980 to 2001 for the Vanette, Bluebird, Laurel, Skyline and Serena. The first generation of this swirl-chamber diesel had a timing chain, the second a timing belt; output is 65 hp.
Specifications
| Production years | 1980-2001 |
| Displacement, cc | 1952 |
| Fuel system | vortex chamber |
| Power output, hp | 65 |
| Torque output, Nm | 123 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | cast iron 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 85 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86 |
| Compression ratio | 22.2 |
| Features | OHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 10W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.7 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 0 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Vanette 1983) — city — highway — combined |
8.8 6.1 7.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~350 000 |
| Weight, kg | 192 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Bluebird 6 (910) in 1980 – 1983, Bluebird 7 (U11) in 1983 – 1990, Bluebird 8 (U12) in 1987 – 1991;
- Nissan Laurel 4 (C31) in 1980 – 1984;
- Nissan Serena 1 (C23) in 1991 – 2001;
- Nissan Skyline 6 (R30) in 1981 – 1990;
- Nissan Vanette 1 (C120) in 1981 – 1985, Vanette 2 (C22) in 1985 – 1994.
Disadvantages of the Nissan LD20 engine
- A reliable, long-lived diesel with a cast-iron block and head;
- Do not let the engine overheat, otherwise you will be fighting oil leaks for a long time;
- Second-generation engines have a timing belt that can jump if oil gets on it, which in the worst case destroys the camshaft, and new camshafts are scarce;
- Weak points also include the water pump and the glow plug relay.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan LD20
How much power does the Nissan LD20 make?
The Nissan LD20 develops 65 hp and 123 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan LD20 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 10W-40.
Does the Nissan LD20 have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan LD20 uses a timing chain.
Is the Nissan LD20 turbocharged?
No, the Nissan LD20 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Nissan LD20 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 LD20 last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan LD20 is ~350 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan LD20?
Nissan Vanette 1983: city 8.8, highway 6.1, combined 7.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan LD20 installed on?
Nissan Bluebird 6 (910) in 1980 - 1983, Bluebird 7 (U11) in 1983 - 1990, Bluebird 8 (U12) in 1987 - 1991; Nissan Laurel 4 (C31) in 1980 - 1984; Nissan Serena 1 (C23) in 1991 - 2001; Nissan Skyline 6 (R30) in 1981 - 1990; Nissan Vanette 1 (C120) in 1981 - 1985, Vanette 2 (C22) in 1985 - 1994.
What are the common problems of the Nissan LD20?
A reliable, long-lived diesel with a cast-iron block and head. Do not let the engine overheat, otherwise you will be fighting oil leaks for a long time. All known problems.
