From 1995 to 2006, the Mazda WL-T 2.5-liter turbo diesel engine was manufactured in Japan and installed in rear and all-wheel drive models like the MPV, Bongo Friendee, and Proceed Marvie. WL-TE refers to modifications of this power unit that include an electronically controlled high pressure fuel pump.
The WL-T engine debuted in 1995 when a turbocharger was added to the Mazda WL pre-chamber diesel engine. Its four-cylinder cast-iron block, aluminum 12-valve SOHC head without hydraulic compensators (three valves per cylinder), combined timing belt drive from a camshaft to a high-pressure fuel pump, and six-gear system are all very traditional for its era. A standard IHI RHF5 turbine and an intercooler were installed in versions of this motor with 110–115 horsepower, while more potent versions of the unit featured the same turbine with a different geometry. Additionally, the crankcase contains a block of balancing shafts to lessen engine vibrations.
This diesel engine had a mechanical high-pressure fuel pump from Zexel (also known as Bosch) until September 1999. After that, an electronically operated Zexel high-pressure fuel pump was installed. Such a motor is sometimes referred to as WL-TE.
The engine was mounted on:
- Mazda B-series 4 (UF) in 1995 – 1998;
- Mazda B-series 5 (UN) in 1998 – 2006;
- Mazda Bongo 4 (SG) in 1995 – 2005;
- Mazda Bongo Friendee 1 (SG) in 1995 – 2005;
- Mazda MPV 1 (LV) in 1995 – 1999;
- Mazda Proceed Marvie 1 (UV) in 1996 – 1999;
- Ford Courier Mk3 in 1995 – 1998;
- Ford Freda Mk1 in 1995 – 2000;
- Ford Raider Mk1 in 1996 – 1997;
- Ford Ranger Mk1 in 1998 – 2006.
Specifications
| Production years | 1995-2006 |
| Displacement, cc | 2499 |
| Fuel system | prechambers |
| Power output, hp | 110 – 130 |
| Torque output, Nm | 265 – 295 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 93 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 92 |
| Compression ratio | 20 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Turbocharging | yes |
| Recommended engine oil | 10W-30, 10W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.7 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda Bongo Friendee 1997) — city — highway — combined |
11.7 7.2 8.9 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~500 000 |
| Weight, kg | 234 (with attachment) |
Disadvantages of the Mazda WL-T engine
Although this diesel unit is quite inventive and dependable, it is terrified of overheating. If gases started to appear in the expansion tank, it would be impossible to replace the gasket; cracks are typically found in the block’s head, and you would need to search for the cylinder head during disassembly.
The crankshaft and camshaft oil seals, which are squeezed out so frequently that many replace them when changing the timing belt, are another weak point of this unit. Additionally, oil frequently climbs from beneath the intake manifold or the valve cover.
Owners report weak exhaust manifold studs, an electronically controlled high-pressure fuel pump, and a short supply of glow plugs on specialized forums. Additionally, remember to adjust the thermal gaps because these valves frequently burn out.