Nissan Atlas 1987: everything you need to know about the iconic Japanese truck

Released 1987 Nissan Atlas has become one of the most reliable and popular medium-duty trucks in Japan and beyond. This model, belonging to the family H40/H41/H42, was famous for its simplicity, durability and adaptability to various operating conditions. Despite the fact that more than 35 years have passed since its release, many copies are still in working order, which indicates high build quality and thoughtful design.

In this article we will look at technical features Atlas 1987, typical problems that owners encounter, and we will give practical recommendations for maintenance. We will pay special attention unique Nissan solutions for this generation, such as all-wheel drive Part-Time 4WD and diesel engines series RD28, which are still valued for their reliability. If you own this truck or are considering purchasing one, here you will find up-to-date information based on the experience of mechanics and owners.

1987 Nissan Atlas Specifications

Model range Atlas 1987 included several modifications that differed in load capacity, body type and drive. Basic versions were equipped with rear-wheel drive (2WD), and more advanced ones - complete (4WD). Bodies ranged from standard flatbeds to vans and chassis for special vehicles. Below are the key parameters:

• 🔧 Engines: gasoline Z20 (2.0 l) and Z24 (2.4 l), diesel RD28 (2.8 l) and SD33 (3.3 l).
• 🚗 Gearbox: 4- or 5-speed manual transmission, optional 3-speed automatic (rare).
• 📏 Load capacity: from 1.5 to 3.5 tons depending on modification.
• 🔄 Drive: 2WD or Part-Time 4WD with transfer case.

Diesel deserves special attention RD28 - six-cylinder engine with indirect injection, which, with proper maintenance, easily exceeds the 500,000 km mark. However, its weak point is cylinder head, prone to cracks when overheated. Gasoline units Z-series less durable, but easier to repair and cheaper to operate.

Parameter	Z20 (petrol)	RD28 (diesel)	SD33 (diesel)
Volume, l	2.0	2.8	3.3
Power, hp	95	95	105
Torque, Nm	157	216	235
Injection type	Carburetor	Indirect (IDI)	Direct (DI)

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Atlas 1987 with diesel SD33 check the condition high pressure fuel pump (HPF). Its repair is expensive, and original spare parts are difficult to find.

Common problems and their solutions

Despite the legendary reliability, Nissan Atlas This generation has a number of “diseases” that every owner should know about. Most of them are related to age of the car and design features:

• 🔥 Engine overheating: A common problem with diesel engines RD28 due to a clogged radiator or faulty thermostat. The solution is to flush the cooling system and replace the thermostat every 2 years.
• 🛑 Brake problems: Corrosion of brake pipes and wear of the master cylinder. It is recommended to completely change the brake fluid every 12 months.
• 🔊 Noise in the transfer case: For models with 4WD Over time, transfer case bearings wear out. The symptom is a hum when driving at a speed of 60+ km/h.
• 💡 Electrical: Oxidation of contacts in the fuse box and problems with the generator (especially in cars with air conditioning).

One of the most unpleasant breakdowns is broken timing belt on gasoline engines Z20/Z24. Unlike modern engines, here this leads to valve bending, therefore the belt and rollers must be replaced every 60,000 km or once every 4 years. For diesels RD28 it is critical to monitor the condition timing chains — its stretching leads to a phase shift and a drop in power.

Maintenance and repair: what needs to be done regularly

To Nissan Atlas 1987 served faithfully, a strict maintenance schedule must be adhered to. Given the age of the car, some procedures need to be performed more often than indicated in the factory manual. Below - checklist of critical works:

Pay special attention transmission oils. It is recommended to use standard fluids in the transfer case and axles GL-5 80W-90, and for manual transmission - GL-4 75W-90. When changing diesel oil RD28 Be sure to wash the oil filter or install a new one - the old one may contain metal shavings.

Another important procedure is valve adjustment. On gasoline engines it is carried out every 20,000 km, on diesel engines - once every 40,000 km. Neglecting this operation leads to a drop in compression and an increase in fuel consumption. You will need a feeler gauge for adjustment. 0.20–0.25 mm for intake valves and 0.30–0.35 mm for graduation.

Tuning and modernization: what can be improved

Many owners Nissan Atlas strive to adapt it to modern realities. The most popular tuning areas:

• ⚡ Power increase: For diesels RD28 installation of a turbine is relevant (for example, Garrett T25) and chip tuning. Gasoline engines can be boosted by replacing the camshafts and exhaust system.
• 🛣️ Suspension: Replacing standard springs with reinforced ones (for example, from Toyota Dyna) or installing air suspension for comfort.
• 🔋 Electrical: Modernization of lighting (LED headlights, additional spotlights) and installation of a modern radio with support Bluetooth.
• 🛡️ Protection: Installation of crankcase and fuel tank guards for off-road use.

When tuning, it is important to remember cost-benefit ratio. For example, installing a turbine on RD28 will require strengthening the gearbox, since the standard manual transmission is not designed for increased torque. Alternative option - engine swap to a more modern one TD42 (from Nissan Patrol), but this will require modification of the fastenings and electrical wiring.

Which engine is better for a swap?

Diesels are considered the most compatible TD42 (4.2 l) and QD32 (3.2 l). The first gives a power increase of up to 150 hp, but requires modification of the pan and exhaust system. The second one is easier to install, but less powerful.

Where to find spare parts and how much they cost

The main problem of the owners Nissan Atlas 1987 — shortage of original spare parts. However, most units are unified with other models Nissan that period:

• 🔄 Engines: Details for Z20/Z24 suitable from Nissan Bluebird And Stanza. For RD28 - from Nissan Terrano And Pathfinder.
• 🚗 Transmission: Gearboxes and transfer cases are interchangeable with Nissan Cabstar And Homer.
• 🔧 Suspension: Springs, shock absorbers and wheel bearings can be found from Isuzu Elf or Mitsubishi Canter.

Prices for spare parts vary depending on rarity and manufacturer:

Detail	Original (Japan)	Analog (China/Taiwan)	Used (condition)
Block head RD28	~120 000 ₽	~45 000 ₽	20 000–50 000 ₽
Clutch basket	~35 000 ₽	~12 000 ₽	5 000–15 000 ₽
injection pump for SD33	~80 000 ₽	~30 000 ₽	15 000–40 000 ₽

When purchasing used spare parts, be sure to check them for wear and corrosion. For example, transfer cases are often sold with worn gears, and cylinder blocks with microcracks. The best sites to search for: Japanese auctions (USS Auction, TCV), groups on social networks and specialized forums (for example, Nissan Club Russia).

⚠️ Attention: When ordering spare parts from Japan, keep in mind that many parts for Atlas have left-handed location (e.g. tie rods). Check this with the seller to avoid mistakes.

Operation in Russian conditions: advice from owners

The climatic and road conditions of Russia place special demands on Nissan Atlas 1987. Experienced owners recommend:

1. Winter preparation: Install a pre-heater (for example, Webasto) and use winter diesel fuel with additives (Liquid Moly or Castrol).
2. Anti-corrosion treatment: Treat the underbody and wheel arches Movilem or Dinitrol once every 2 years. Pay special attention to the sills and side members.
3. Tires: Suitable for dirt roads Yokohama Geolandar or BFGoodrich All-Terrain. For the city - Michelin Agilis.

An important nuance - wheel alignment adjustment. After replacing springs or shock absorbers, be sure to visit the stand, since incorrect wheel alignment angles lead to accelerated tire wear and increased fuel consumption. Also follow steering play: y Atlas This is a weak point due to wear on the tie rods and rack.

Cost and prospects on the secondary market

Prices for Nissan Atlas 1987 in Russia vary from 150 000 to 600,000 rubles depending on condition, configuration and region. The most expensive copies are with diesel SD33 and all-wheel drive, the cheapest are gasoline 2WD in salvage condition.

When purchasing, pay attention to:

• 📄 Documents: Check the ownership history and availability of customs documents (if the car was imported from Japan).
• 🔍 Body: Rust on the side members, sills and places where the springs are attached is a critical flaw.
• 🔧 Engine: Listen to it when it's cold (knocks, smokey exhaust) and check the compression.

Prospects for growth in value Atlas 1987 limited - this is not a collector's model, but a workhorse. However, well-preserved examples with mileage up to 200,000 km may become a rarity over time, especially in the original configuration. For commercial use, it is better to choose versions with 4WD and diesel - they are in stable demand.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 1987 Nissan Atlas

Is it possible to install an automatic transmission in a 1987 Atlas?

Theoretically, yes, but this will require replacing the flywheel, clutch bell and modifying the transmission tunnel. The most compatible automatic transmission is RE4R01A from Nissan Pathfinder, but its installation will cost 150,000–200,000 rubles with work.

What is the real fuel consumption of the diesel Atlas?

For RD28 in a mixed cycle - 10–12 l/100 km, for SD33 — 12–14 l/100 km. When fully loaded, consumption can increase to 16–18 l/100 km. Gasoline versions consume 14–16 l/100 km.

What should I do if my Atlas won't start when cold?

The reasons may be different:

• For diesel: faulty glow plugs or injection pump (check fuel pressure).
• For gasoline: the carburetor is clogged or faulty Hall sensor.
• General: the battery is discharged or the terminals are corroded.

Start by diagnosing the starter and ignition system.

What kind of oil should I put in the transfer case and axles?

Recommended GL-5 80W-90 (For example, Castrol Axle EPX or Mobil Mobilube HD). The same oil is suitable for the transfer case, but it needs to be changed more often - once every 30,000 km.

Where can I find wiring diagrams for the 1987 Atlas?

Official diagrams are in the manuals Nissan Service Manual (FS5E-H40). They can be downloaded from the forums (Nissan Forum, Drive2) or buy the paper version at eBay (~1,500–2,000 rubles).