The Nissan KA24E is a robust 2.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine developed by Nissan Motor Company for light trucks, SUVs, and commercial vehicle applications. This SOHC 12-valve engine features a simple and durable design with electronic fuel injection, delivering reliable performance, strong low-end torque, and excellent serviceability for off-road driving, utility work, and daily commuting. The KA24E powered numerous Nissan platforms globally, including the Pathfinder, Navara, Hardbody, and Urvan, earning a reputation for longevity and ease of maintenance in demanding conditions.
Technical Specifications:
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Engine Code: KA24E / KA24DE (DOHC variant)
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Engine Type: Inline-4, 4-stroke, water-cooled, naturally aspirated gasoline
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Displacement: 2.4 L (2,389 cc)
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Bore × Stroke: 89.0 mm × 96.0 mm
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Valve Configuration: SOHC 12-Valve (3 valves per cylinder: 2 intake, 1 exhaust)
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Valve Train: Chain-driven SOHC with hydraulic lifters (KA24E)
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Fuel System: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with electronic control
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Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 - 9.5:1 (market-dependent)
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Firing Order: 1-3-4-2
Performance Data:
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Maximum Power Output:
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105 kW (143 HP) @ 5,200 RPM (North American spec)
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95-100 kW (128-134 HP) @ 5,200 RPM (export markets)
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Maximum Torque:
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206-210 Nm @ 4,000 RPM (North American spec)
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190-200 Nm @ 4,000 RPM (export markets)
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Redline: Approximately 6,000-6,200 RPM
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Idle Speed: 750-850 RPM (warm engine)
Key Features:
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SOHC 12-Valve Design: Three-valve per cylinder layout (two intake, one exhaust) optimizes airflow for strong low-to-mid-range torque while maintaining mechanical simplicity
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Timing Chain Drive: Maintenance-free timing chain eliminates periodic belt replacement and enhances long-term reliability
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Hydraulic Lifters: Self-adjusting valve train reduces maintenance requirements and ensures consistent valve clearance
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Electronic Fuel Injection: Nissan ECCS (Electronic Concentrated Control System) delivers precise fuel metering for improved drivability, fuel economy, and cold-start performance
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Robust Construction: Cast iron cylinder block with aluminum alloy cylinder head balances durability with weight efficiency
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Thermal Management: Optimized cooling passages and oil jets (select variants) support sustained operation under load and in hot climates
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Serviceability: Accessible component layout and simple mechanical design enable straightforward maintenance and repair in field conditions
Applications:
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Nissan Pathfinder: WD21 generation (1987-1995, select markets)
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Nissan Navara / Hardbody: D21 pickup truck (1986-1997, global markets)
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Nissan Urvan / Vanette: Commercial van and passenger van variants
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Nissan Terrano: SUV variant for European and Asian markets
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Nissan Pickup / Frontier: Early generation light truck applications
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Nissan Cabstar / Atlas: Light commercial truck variants (select markets)
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Aftermarket & Conversions: Popular engine swap candidate for off-road builds, dune buggies, and utility vehicles