The Mitsubishi 4D55 2.3 liter engine was produced between 1980 and 1986 and was installed in both passenger cars such as the Mitsubishi Galant and Mitsubishi Pajero SUVs and L200 pickups. This diesel unit is known for frequent cylinder head problems, especially in early models before 1982. Despite this, the engine had good fuel economy and was popular for its endurance and ease of maintenance.
Mitsubishi 4D55 specifications
| Characteristics | 4D55 Non-Turbo 2.3 D 8v | 4D55T Non-Wastegated Turbo 2.3 TD 8v | 4D55T Wastegated Turbo 2.3 TD 8v |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volume | 2346 cm³ | 2346 cm³ | 2346 cm³ |
| Power System | Forcamera | Forcamera | Forcamera |
| Power | 65 – 75 hp | 80 hp | 84 – 95 hp |
| Torque | 137 – 147 Nm | 169 Nm | 175 – 182 Nm |
| Cylinder block | Cast iron, R4 | Cast iron, R4 | Cast iron, R4 |
| Block head | Aluminum, 8v | Aluminum, 8v | Aluminum, 8v |
| Cylinder diameter | 91.1 mm | 91.1 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Piston stroke | 90 mm | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Compression ratio | 21 | 21 | 21 |
| Hydrocompensators | No | No | No |
| Transmission timing | Belt drive | Belt drive | Belt drive |
| Fasoregulator | No | No | No |
| Turbocharging | No | MHI TC05 | MHI TD04 |
| Oil | 5.4 liters 5W-40 | 5.4 liters 5W-40 | 5.4 liters 5W-40 |
| Fuel | Diesel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Environmental class | EURO 1 | EURO 2 | EURO 2 |
| Resource | 300,000 km | 275,000 km | 275,000 km |
| Engine weight | 183 kg | 183 kg | 183 kg |
Vehicle models
| Model | Years of manufacture |
|---|---|
| Mitsubishi Pajero | 1982 – 1986 |
| Mitsubishi L200 | 1982 – 1986 |
| Mitsubishi Delica | 1982 – 1986 |
| Mitsubishi Galant | 1980 – 1983 |
Major Mitsubishi 4D55 engine problems
Cylinder Block Head (CBH)
On pre-1982 models, the cylinder head often cracked in the area around the foramen already at low mileage, requiring replacement.
After 1982, the cylinder head was improved, but the cracking problem did not disappear completely.
Oil Leaks
The gaskets and oil seals on this engine are prone to wear, resulting in oil leaks.
Engine Smoke
Heavy engine smoke is caused by worn injector atomizers, which is common in high-mileage models.
G timing belt
If the timing belt breaks, there is a risk of damage to the rockers. Timely belt replacement is recommended to prevent this problem.
Mitsubishi 4D55 is a good engine?
The Mitsubishi 4D55 is a classic example of an 80’s diesel engine with typical deficiencies of the time, including problems with the cylinder head and a weak timing belt drive.