Unlocking the Power of the RB20: A Comprehensive Guide

The RB20 is a legendary inline-six engine that has left an enduring mark on the automotive industry. Known for its robust construction, impressive power output, and unmistakable exhaust note, this engine has powered some of the most iconic cars of all time. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the realm of the RB20, exploring its history, specifications, performance capabilities, and the impact it has made on the automotive world.

Origins and Evolution

The RB20 was conceived in the late 1980s by Nissan's legendary engineers at a time when the company was pushing the boundaries of automotive performance. It was initially designed to power the Nissan Skyline GT-R (also known as the Godzilla), a car that would become synonymous with high-performance driving.

The first iteration of the RB20, known as the RB20DET, debuted in 1989 and featured a single turbocharger. It quickly gained recognition for its impressive power output, producing 212 horsepower from a displacement of just 2.0 liters. Subsequent generations of the RB20, including the RB20DET-R and RB20DETT, further refined the design, incorporating twin turbochargers and other performance enhancements.

Specifications and Performance

The RB20 is a straight-six engine with a bore of 78 mm and a stroke of 69.7 mm, resulting in a displacement of 1,998 cc. It features a cast-iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, with a double overhead camshaft design.

RB20DET

• Power: 212 horsepower at 6,400 rpm
• Torque: 206 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm
• Boost pressure: 7.2 psi

RB20DET-R

• Power: 235 horsepower at 6,800 rpm
• Torque: 214 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm
• Boost pressure: 10.4 psi

RB20DETT

• Power: 276 horsepower at 6,800 rpm
• Torque: 260 lb-ft at 4,400 rpm
• Boost pressure: 14.5 psi

The RB20 is renowned for its smooth and responsive power delivery, with a linear torque curve that ensures strong acceleration throughout the rev range. Its twin-cam design allows for efficient airflow and high-RPM performance, making it a popular choice for tuners and enthusiasts looking to extract even more power.

Applications

The RB20 has been used in a wide range of Nissan vehicles, including:

• Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32, R33, R34)
• Nissan Silvia S13/S14/S15
• Nissan 180SX
• Nissan Stagea
• Nissan Cefiro

In addition to its factory applications, the RB20 has also gained popularity as a swap engine in other vehicles, thanks to its compact size, reliable construction, and impressive power potential.

Impact on the Automotive World

The RB20 has had a profound impact on the automotive world, both in terms of performance and cultural significance. It was one of the first turbocharged engines to achieve widespread success in production cars, paving the way for the use of turbocharging in mainstream vehicles.

The RB20-powered Nissan Skyline GT-R became a legend in the world of motorsport, dominating touring car championships and setting lap records on race tracks around the world. Its combination of power, handling, and reliability made it a formidable competitor and a dream car for enthusiasts.

Why the RB20 Matters

There are several reasons why the RB20 remains an important engine in the automotive world today:

• Power and Performance: The RB20 is capable of producing impressive power and torque, making it a great choice for performance-oriented applications. Its twin-cam design and efficient air flow ensure strong acceleration and high-RPM performance.

• Reliability: The RB20 has a reputation for being a very reliable engine, even under high-performance conditions. Its cast-iron block and robust construction make it capable of handling the stresses of hard driving.

• Tunability: The RB20 is a highly tunable engine, with a wide range of aftermarket parts and performance upgrades available. This makes it possible to extract even more power and performance from the engine, catering to the needs of enthusiasts and tuners alike.

• Cultural Significance: The RB20 is an iconic engine that has become synonymous with high-performance driving and Japanese automotive culture. Its presence in the Nissan Skyline GT-R and other legendary cars has left an enduring mark on the automotive world.

Tips and Tricks for RB20 Owners

• Regular Maintenance: As with any engine, regular maintenance is essential for the longevity of the RB20. This includes timely oil changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups.

• Proper Warm-Up: The RB20 is a turbocharged engine, which means it is important to warm it up properly before driving hard. This allows the oil to reach its operating temperature and lubricate the vital components of the engine.

• Avoid Detonation: Detonation is a destructive phenomenon that can occur in turbocharged engines when the air/fuel mixture ignites prematurely. Using high-quality fuel and avoiding excessive boost pressure can help prevent detonation from occurring.

• Upgrade the Cooling System: For performance applications, it is recommended to upgrade the cooling system of the RB20 to ensure that it can handle the increased heat generated by boost and high-RPM driving. This may include installing a larger radiator and upgraded fans.

• Invest in Aftermarket Parts: There are a wide range of aftermarket parts available for the RB20, including performance upgrades, cooling modifications, and exhaust systems. These parts can help improve the power, reliability, and overall performance of the engine.

How to: Step-by-Step Approach

• Installing an RB20 into a Non-Nissan Vehicle: Swapping an RB20 into a non-Nissan vehicle can be a complex process, but it is possible with the right knowledge and tools. Here is a general step-by-step approach:

1. Remove the existing engine and transmission from the vehicle.
2. Prepare the engine bay for the RB20, including any necessary modifications to the engine mounts and firewall.
3. Install the RB20 engine and transmission into the vehicle.
4. Connect all necessary wiring, plumbing, and accessories.
5. Perform a break-in process to ensure proper seating of the engine components.

• Upgrading the RB20 for Performance: There are several ways to upgrade the RB20 for improved performance, depending on your goals and budget. Here are some common upgrades:

1. Install a larger turbocharger to increase boost pressure and airflow.
2. Upgrade the fuel system with higher-flow injectors and a fuel pump to support the increased air flow.
3. Install an aftermarket intercooler to reduce intake temperatures and improve power density.
4. Replace the stock exhaust system with a high-flow performance exhaust to reduce backpressure and improve scavenging.

• Troubleshooting Common RB20 Issues: While the RB20 is a reliable engine, it is not immune to potential issues. Here are some common problems and their potential solutions:

1. Oil Leaks: Oil leaks can occur from various points on the RB20, such as the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Replacing the affected gasket or seal is typically necessary to resolve the issue.
2. Turbocharger Failure: Turbocharger failure can be caused by a lack of oil, excessive heat, or mechanical damage. If the turbocharger fails, it will need to be replaced or rebuilt.
3. Timing Belt Failure: The RB20 uses a timing belt to synchronize the camshafts and crankshaft. A failed timing belt can result in catastrophic engine damage. It is crucial to replace the timing belt at the recommended intervals to prevent this issue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the difference between the RB20DET, RB20DET-R, and RB20DETT engines?

A1: The main difference between these engines is the number of turbochargers used. The RB20DET has a single turbocharger, the RB20DET-R has two smaller turbochargers, and the RB20DETT has two larger turbochargers. This results in different power outputs and performance characteristics.

Q2: Can the RB20 be used in a rear-wheel drive configuration?

A2: Yes, the RB20 can be used in a rear-wheel drive configuration with the appropriate transmission and modifications. This is a popular setup for drift cars and performance applications.

Q3: What is the maximum safe boost pressure for an RB20 engine?

A3: The maximum safe boost pressure for an RB20 engine depends on several factors, including the specific engine build, fuel quality, and tuning. Generally, it is recommended to keep boost pressure below 1.2 bar (17.4 psi) on a stock engine to maintain reliability.

Q4: How much horsepower can an RB20 produce?

A4: The amount of horsepower an RB20 can produce depends on the engine build, turbocharger setup, and tuning. With stock components, the RB20DET produces around 212