Description
About This Engine
The Nissan RB30 is the 3.0 liter SOHC inline six produced from 1985 to 1991 for the Australian, New Zealand, South African, and Middle Eastern markets. The engine was developed for the Holden VL Commodore (1986 onward) when Holden needed a six cylinder that could run on Australian unleaded petrol after the older 3.3 liter Holden six fell behind tightening emission standards. Nissan supplied the RB30 in three variants: RB30S (carbureted, GQ Patrol, some Middle East R31), RB30E (fuel injected, VL Commodore, Australian R31 Skyline), and RB30ET (fuel injected and turbocharged, sold ONLY in the VL Commodore Turbo, never in any Nissan production vehicle).
The RB30 architecture is a cast iron block with a 7 bearing forged steel crankshaft, forged steel connecting rods, a crossflow aluminum SOHC head with 12 valves, and a belt driven camshaft. The bore and stroke is 86 by 85 mm for a total displacement of 2,962 cc. The RB30E and RB30ET use the Nissan ECCS (Electronically Concentrated Control System) fuel injection. The RB30S uses a carburetor. The naturally aspirated variants run 9.0:1 compression. The turbocharged RB30ET runs 7.8:1 compression with stronger internals, an oil pump upgrade, piston cooling oil jets, and a Garrett T3 turbocharger.
There were two block series. The Series 1 (S1) block came first in early VL Commodores. The Series 2 (S2) block followed about 11 months later and added provisions on the rear of the block for turbo oil supply, oil return, and a coolant line. Both series can be used for naturally aspirated builds, but turbo and hybrid builds prefer the S2 block for its tapped provisions. RB30ET is always built on the S2 block.
The RB30 is famous in performance circles primarily for the RB30 hybrid stroker build, where the RB30 cast iron block (with its longer stroke than the RB25 or RB26) is mated with the twin cam DOHC head from the RB25DET or RB26DETT. This combination, known as the RB30DET (or RB26/30 stroker), produces more torque than a stock RB26DETT due to the longer stroke and bigger displacement. RB30 stroker builds have been documented to make 800 plus horsepower with appropriate supporting hardware. A documented used OEM RB30 with verified variant, block series, and compression results is the right starting point for restoration, replacement, or stroker projects.
Signs You Need a Replacement Engine
- Excessive oil consumption beyond 1 quart per 1,500 miles
- Bottom end knock or rod knock under load
- Loss of compression on one or more cylinders
- Cylinder head warping (the alloy head can warp from overheating, particularly on VL Commodore due to lower radiator placement)
- Cracked head between exhaust valves on overheated units
- Worn timing belt that has been ignored beyond service interval
- Turbocharger shaft play or oil leak (RB30ET only)
- Oil pump failure causing low pressure at high RPM (factory pump is borderline at high power)
Known Things to Know Before You Buy
- Variant matters: RB30S is carbureted, RB30E is fuel injected, RB30ET is fuel injected AND turbocharged. The RB30ET was sold ONLY in the Holden VL Commodore Turbo, never in any Nissan factory vehicle. Confirm variant before ordering.
- Series 1 vs Series 2 block: S1 blocks came first. S2 blocks have provisions on the rear for turbo oil feed, oil return, and a coolant line. All RB30ET turbos have S2 blocks. S2 blocks are preferred for any turbo or hybrid stroker build.
- Australian market only: The RB30 was never sold in Japan or North America from the factory. All RB30 engines for sale in the US are imports from Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa, or from JDM-spec markets where the engine was supplied to those markets.
- VL Commodore overheating: The VL Commodore radiator sits lower than the engine, causing air locks in the alloy head and head warping if the bleeding procedure is not followed correctly. R31 Skylines have a higher radiator and do not have this issue. Inspect any RB30 head pulled from a VL for warping.
- Hybrid stroker: The most popular RB30 use case in the US is the RB30/RB26 hybrid stroker, where the RB30 cast iron block is mated with an RB26DETT twin cam head. The bore is shared (86 mm), so the head fits. This produces 3.0L of displacement with the DOHC RB26 head, producing more torque than a stock RB26 due to the longer stroke. RB25DE and RB25DET heads also fit. RB20DE / RB20DET heads do NOT fit because the bore is different (78 mm).
- Oil pump upgrade: The factory oil pump is rated for stock power. Any RB30 build above 350 horsepower benefits from an N1 or aftermarket oil pump (Tomei, Reimax, Nitto). High RPM oil pressure is the limiting factor on factory pumps.
- Timing belt is a wear item. Replace at 60,000 mile intervals or every 7 years. The RB30 is an interference engine; a snapped belt will damage valves.
RB30 Variants by Application
Verified factory variants:
| Variant | Years | Application | HP | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RB30S (Carby) | 1985 to 1990 | Holden VL Commodore early, GQ Patrol, Middle East R31 | 134 hp at 4,800 RPM | Carbureted single cam. 165 lb-ft. |
| RB30E (Fuel Injected) | 1986 to 1991 | Holden VL Commodore, Australian R31 Skyline, S.Africa R31 | 153 hp (early) to 169 hp (S.Africa) | ECCS fuel injection. 9.0:1 compression. 182 lb-ft. |
| RB30E GTS1 | 1988 to 1990 | R31 Skyline GTS1 (Australian) | 174 hp at 5,500 RPM | Special cam, exhaust. 188 lb-ft. NSV Australia. |
| RB30E GTS2 | 1989 to 1990 | R31 Skyline GTS2 (Australian) | 188 hp at 5,600 RPM | Special cam, exhaust, ECU, valve porting. 200 lb-ft. |
| RB30ET (Turbo) | 1986 to 1988 | Holden VL Commodore Turbo ONLY | 201 hp at 5,600 RPM | Garrett T3 turbo. 7.8:1 compression. 218 lb-ft. Holden exclusive. |
| Tommykaira M30 (rare) | 1988 | Tommykaira M30 (Japan limited edition) | 237 hp at 7,000 RPM | RB30E block with modified RB20DE head. 217 lb-ft. |
| The RB30E and RB30ET are the most commonly sourced RB30 variants. RB30S is mainly found in GQ Patrols and Middle East R31s. The Tommykaira M30 is a rare collectible. Call (240) 301-0095 to discuss variant availability. |
|---|
What Is Included, What Is Not Included
| INCLUDED, Long Block | Block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, cylinder head, valve train, timing cover, oil pan as configured, valve cover. Turbocharger included on RB30ET units. |
|---|---|
| NOT INCLUDED | Intake manifold (variant specific), carburetor (RB30S) or fuel rail and injectors (RB30E/ET), distributor, ignition components, accessory drive, ECU, harness, flywheel or flexplate, exhaust manifold (sometimes), turbocharger oil and water lines (RB30ET, available separately). |
| Short Block Option | Call (240) 301-0095 if you need a short block only for hybrid stroker builds. |
| Core Note | No core charge. You are not required to return your old engine. |
Vehicle Compatibility, Direct Fit
Direct factory applications (Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Middle East):
| Holden VL Commodore (Berlina, Calais) | 1986 to 1988 (RB30E and RB30ET turbo) |
|---|---|
| Holden VL Commodore Turbo | 1986 to 1988 (RB30ET ONLY) |
| Nissan R31 Skyline (Australian) | 1986 to 1990 (RB30E) |
| Nissan R31 Skyline GTS1 / GTS2 (Australian) | 1988 to 1990 (RB30E special spec) |
| Nissan R31 Skyline (South Africa) | 1986 to 1992 (RB30E, 169 hp) |
| Nissan R31 Skyline (Middle East) | 1986 to 1990 (RB30S carby) |
| Nissan Patrol GQ / Y60 series | 1987 to 1997 (RB30S carby) |
| Nissan Cefiro A31 (rare) | Limited applications |
| Nissan Laurel C32 (rare) | Limited applications |
| Tommykaira M30 (rare collectible) | 1988 (RB30 with modified RB20DE head) |
Common Swap Targets and Hybrid Builds
The RB30 is one of the most popular RB series engines for hybrid stroker builds. Common configurations:
| R32, R33, R34 Skyline GT-R chassis | RB30/RB26 hybrid stroker (RB26 head on RB30 block) |
|---|---|
| R32, R33, R34 Skyline GTS-T chassis | RB30/RB25 hybrid stroker |
| S13, S14, S15 Silvia / 240SX chassis | RB30 swap (mount kit and harness required) |
| Datsun 240Z / 260Z / 280Z chassis | RB30 swap (popular L-series replacement) |
| Nissan Patrol Y60 / Y61 | RB30 retrofit upgrade from diesel |
| Various hot rod and custom builds | Strong cast iron block for high power builds |
Transmission compatibility (factory pairings): R31 Skyline used the RB series 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic Jatco. VL Commodore used the Borg Warner 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic. GQ Patrol used the FS5R30A 5 speed manual. For RB30 swaps in non-factory chassis, the RB25 / RB26 5 or 6 speed manuals (FS5R30A, Getrag 6 speed) are common pairings with adapter or direct fitment depending on chassis.
Not sure if this fits your project (factory replacement, restoration, or hybrid stroker)? Call (240) 301-0095 with your year, model, and intended build. We confirm variant, block series, and compression before every order ships.
Common Names and Search Terms
| RB30 | Most common technical search |
|---|---|
| RB30E | Fuel injected variant |
| RB30ET | Turbo variant (Holden only) |
| RB30S | Carbureted variant |
| Nissan 3.0 inline six | Architecture search |
| Holden 6Ei | Holden Powertech designation for RB30E |
| VL Commodore engine | VL Commodore search |
| R31 Skyline engine | R31 Skyline search |
| GQ Patrol engine | GQ Patrol search |
| RB30/26 stroker | Hybrid stroker search |
| RB30DET | Hybrid DOHC turbo build |
Used OEM vs Rebuilt vs Hybrid Stroker RB30
A documented used OEM RB30 from a known donor (R31 Skyline, VL Commodore, GQ Patrol, A31 Cefiro) with verified variant and compression results is the most cost effective starting point for restoration projects and hybrid stroker builds. Pricing is roughly half of a rebuilt unit. Our RB30s are compression tested across all 6 cylinders, variant confirmed, block series documented, and donor history disclosed where available.
A professionally rebuilt RB30 from an Australian or specialty Nissan shop typically runs $7,500 to $12,000 depending on variant and rebuild specification. Standard rebuild includes new bearings, rings, gaskets, head gasket, oil pump, water pump, and timing components.
A built RB30 hybrid stroker (RB30 block with RB26DETT or RB25DET head) targeting 600 to 1,000 horsepower runs $12,000 to $25,000 plus depending on bottom end specification, head choice, and turbo. Built makes sense for serious R32 / R33 / R34 GT-R replacement, drag race builds, or top tier track applications.
Condition and Inspection Process
- Compression test across all 6 cylinders, pressure per cylinder recorded
- Visual inspection of block for cracks, especially around the head bolts
- Cylinder head inspection for warping (common on overheated VL Commodore units)
- Variant confirmed (RB30S carby, RB30E fuel injected, RB30ET turbo)
- Block series documented (S1 or S2 with turbo oil/water provisions)
- Turbocharger condition disclosed on RB30ET units (Garrett T3 inspection)
- Donor vehicle and verified mileage where available
- Spark plug and valve cover inspection
- Timing belt condition and last replacement disclosed where known
Mileage on imported RB30 engines is documented from the donor vehicle paperwork when available. Australian and South African sourced engines often come from low to medium mileage donors. Where mileage cannot be verified, we disclose this clearly before shipping.
Buyer Tips, What to Know Before You Order
- Confirm variant first: RB30S carby (134 hp), RB30E fuel injected (153-188 hp), RB30ET turbo Holden-only (201 hp). Match your build goal.
- For hybrid stroker projects, prioritize the Series 2 (S2) block. It has the rear oil and water provisions for turbo plumbing and is preferred for serious builds.
- RB20DE / RB20DET heads do NOT fit the RB30 block (different bore: 78 mm vs 86 mm). RB25DE, RB25DET, and RB26DETT heads DO fit (86 mm bore shared).
- Oil pump upgrade is mandatory for any RB30 build above 350 horsepower. The factory pump is borderline. Tomei, Reimax, and Nitto offer suitable upgrades.
- Plan for new timing belt, water pump, and tensioner at install regardless of unit history. The RB30 is an interference engine.
- VL Commodore donor units may have head warping due to the radiator location issue. Inspect carefully or plan for a head resurface at install.
- For restorations, donor history matters. R31 Skyline GTS1 / GTS2 RB30Es are more valuable than standard R31 RB30Es due to the special cam, exhaust, and ECU.
Why Buy From Vaz Auto Solutions
- Variant confirmed before you pay (RB30S carby, RB30E fuel injected, or RB30ET turbo)
- Block series documented (S1 or S2 with turbo provisions)
- Donor vehicle disclosed (R31 Skyline, VL Commodore, GQ Patrol, A31 Cefiro)
- All 6 cylinders compression tested, results shared before order is confirmed
- Cylinder head inspected for warping (critical on VL Commodore donors)
- Turbocharger condition documented on RB30ET units
- Fitment verified for your specific application or hybrid stroker project
- No core charge, keep your old engine
- Free crated freight delivery to all 50 states
- 15 day replacement warranty on internal engine defects
- Call (240) 301-0095, talk to someone who actually understands the RB30S vs RB30E vs RB30ET differences and the Series 1 vs Series 2 block distinction
Hugh Austin (verified owner) –
Smooth transaction, got it quicker than expected. The engine itself? Solid build, runs like a dream. Been cruising with it for a couple of months now, no complaints. Definitely worth the investment if you’re looking to upgrade.
Hank Calaway (verified owner) –
Delivery was on point, arrived in good shape. As for the engine, it’s a powerhouse. Installed it in my project car, and it’s been tearing up the asphalt ever since. No regrets on this purchase, great performance and reliable as they come
Hugh A., Sacramento CA –
Bought an RB30E S2 block from Vaz for my RB30/26 stroker project. They confirmed Series 2 block with the rear turbo oil and water provisions, came out of a 1989 R31 Skyline GTS2. Compression was strong across all 6, head was inspected for warping (clean). Block was clean and ready for machining. The hybrid build is now running 700 hp on the dyno with the RB26DETT head. Could not be happier.
Hank C., Phoenix AZ –
Sourced an RB30ET from Vaz to replace the original in my VL Turbo restoration. Vaz confirmed RB30ET (turbo, Holden-only variant), Series 2 block, and pulled it from a 1988 VL Turbo donor. Garrett T3 turbo verified healthy, compression solid. Half star off because the head needed resurfacing due to the VL overheating issue (Vaz disclosed this risk before I paid). Engine is back in the car and running strong.