The 2.0-liter turbodiesel Nissan LD20T was built in Japan from 1982 to 1994 for the Caravan, Homy, Largo, Vanette and Bluebird. Like the LD20, it had a timing chain in the first generation and a belt in the second; output is 81 hp.
Specifications
| Production years | 1982-1994 |
| Displacement, cc | 1952 |
| Fuel system | vortex chamber |
| Power output, hp | 81 |
| Torque output, Nm | 162 |
| 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 | Garrett |
| 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 Caravan 1988) — city — highway — combined |
10.4 6.8 8.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 198 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Bluebird 6 (910) in 1982 – 1983, Bluebird 7 (U11) in 1983 – 1985;
- Nissan Caravan 2 (E23) in 1983 – 1986, Caravan 3 (E24) in 1986 – 1990;
- Nissan Homy 4 (E24) in 1986 – 1990;
- Nissan Largo 2 (C22) in 1988 – 1993;
- Nissan Vanette 2 (C22) in 1988 – 1994.
Disadvantages of the Nissan LD20T engine
- A reliable cast-iron diesel, but it is very afraid of overheating: high temperatures quickly destroy the gaskets;
- 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;
- Do not switch the engine off immediately after a long drive: let the turbocharger cool down.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan LD20T
How much power does the Nissan LD20T make?
The Nissan LD20T develops 81 hp and 162 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan LD20T take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 10W-40.
Does the Nissan LD20T have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan LD20T uses a timing chain.
Is the Nissan LD20T turbocharged?
Yes, the Nissan LD20T is turbocharged (Garrett).
Does the Nissan LD20T 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 LD20T last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan LD20T is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan LD20T?
Nissan Caravan 1988: city 10.4, highway 6.8, combined 8.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan LD20T installed on?
Nissan Bluebird 6 (910) in 1982 - 1983, Bluebird 7 (U11) in 1983 - 1985; Nissan Caravan 2 (E23) in 1983 - 1986, Caravan 3 (E24) in 1986 - 1990; Nissan Homy 4 (E24) in 1986 - 1990; Nissan Largo 2 (C22) in 1988 - 1993; Nissan Vanette 2 (C22) in 1988 - 1994.
What are the common problems of the Nissan LD20T?
A reliable cast-iron diesel, but it is very afraid of overheating: high temperatures quickly destroy the gaskets. 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. All known problems.
