The 2.8-liter Nissan RD28T diesel engine was produced from 1987 to 1998 in Japan and was installed on the most popular full-size SUVs of the Patrol and Safari companies. This unit existed in a version with an electronically controlled high pressure fuel pump under the symbol RD28ET.
RD family: RD28, RD28T, RD28ETi.
Specifications
| Production years | 1987-1998 |
| Displacement, cc | 2825 |
| Fuel system | vortex chamber |
| Power output, hp | 115 – 125 |
| Torque output, Nm | 235 – 255 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R6 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 85 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83 |
| Compression ratio | 19 – 22 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | one Garrett turbine |
| Recommended engine oil | 10W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.4 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 1/2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Patrol 1995) — city — highway — combined |
15.1 9.9 12.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~320 000 |
| Weight, kg | 235 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Safari 1 (Y60) in 1994 – 1997;
- Nissan Patrol 4 (Y60) in 1987 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the RD28T engine
- This diesel engine is very afraid of overheating, it often cracks the cylinder head;
- The culprits for uneven operation of the motor are most often sensors and their wiring;
- Glow plug control unit burns out due to poor location;
- When the timing belt breaks, the valve always bends, so follow the replacement schedule;
- After 100 – 150 thousand kilometers, hydraulic lifters usually start to knock;
- The sources of oil leakage are the crankshaft oil seal and the oil cooler gasket;
- The EGR valve quickly clogs with carbon deposits, you will know about it by engine traction failures.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan RD28T
How much power does the Nissan RD28T make?
The Nissan RD28T develops 115 - 125 hp and 235 - 255 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan RD28T take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 6.4 liters. Recommended oil: 10W-40.
Does the Nissan RD28T have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan RD28T uses a timing belt.
Is the Nissan RD28T turbocharged?
Yes, the Nissan RD28T is turbocharged (one Garrett turbine).
Does the Nissan RD28T need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Nissan RD28T has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Nissan RD28T last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan RD28T is ~320 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan RD28T?
Nissan Patrol 1995: city 15.1, highway 9.9, combined 12.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan RD28T installed on?
Nissan Safari 1 (Y60) in 1994 - 1997; Nissan Patrol 4 (Y60) in 1987 - 1998.
What are the common problems of the Nissan RD28T?
This diesel engine is very afraid of overheating, it often cracks the cylinder head. The culprits for uneven operation of the motor are most often sensors and their wiring. All known problems.





