Nissan Navara D22 engine block
Nissan Navara D22 (1997–2015+) used several different engine blocks depending on the market (Europe, Australia, Africa, or Asia) and the production year. Identifying the correct block is critical because mounting points and bellhousing patterns vary significantly between the diesel and petrol versions.
1. Primary Engine Block Options
| Engine Code | Type | Displacement | Block Material | Key Features |
| YD25DDTi | Diesel | 2.5L | Cast Iron | The most common D22 turbo-diesel. Uses a dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) aluminum head. |
| ZD30DDT | Diesel | 3.0L | Cast Iron | Found in updated D22 models (2001–2008). Known for high torque and a “bomb-proof” lower end. |
| TD27 / QD32 | Diesel | 2.7L / 3.2L | Cast Iron | Older, gear-driven or timing-belt mechanical engines. Famous for extreme durability in harsh environments. |
| VG33E | Petrol | 3.3L V6 | Cast Iron | The flagship V6 petrol block. Shares architecture with the Pathfinder/Xterra. |
| KA24DE | Petrol | 2.4L | Cast Iron | The standard 4-cylinder petrol workhorse. |
2. Common Technical Issues & Inspection Points
If you are sourcing or inspecting a used D22 block, prioritize these areas:
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YD25 Timing Chain Stretch: This is the #1 “killer” of the YD25 block. If the single-row timing chain stretches or snaps, the valves hit the pistons, often cracking the piston crowns or scoring the cylinder walls. Many owners upgrade to a double-row timing chain during a rebuild.
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Cylinder 4 Overheating: In the YD25 and ZD30, the rear cylinder (No. 4) can run hotter than the others. Check for signs of head gasket failure or hairline cracks in the block deck near the water jackets of the fourth cylinder.
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Oil Pump Gears: On high-mileage YD25 blocks, the oil pump gears can wear, leading to a sudden drop in oil pressure. It is standard practice to replace the oil pump whenever the block is stripped.
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Coolant Cavitation: Check the front of the block where the water pump mounts. In older TD27 or QD32 engines, electrolysis or poor coolant maintenance can cause “pitting” in the iron, which can lead to leaks even with a new gasket.
3. Block Identification Locations
To ensure you have the correct version for your chassis:
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YD25: Stamped on the front-right side of the block, near the alternator bracket.
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ZD30: Stamped on the side of the block, typically near the injection pump.
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TD27/QD32: Located on the left side (passenger side for RHD) near the engine mount.
Inventory / Professional Tip
If you are listing a YD25 block, specify if it is the Common Rail (CRD) version or the earlier VP44 Rotary Pump version. While the iron blocks are physically similar, the mounting holes for the high-pressure pump and certain sensors are different, making them difficult to interchange without modification.







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