Description
About This Engine
The Mazda B2600 is a compact pickup truck produced from 1985 through 1993, sold under Mazda's own name and also rebadged as the Ford Courier (and later Ford Ranger in some international markets) due to Ford's partnership with Mazda during this period. The B2600 designation refers to the 2.6-liter engine- but which 2.6-liter engine depends entirely on the model year.
From 1986 to 1988, the B2600 used a Mitsubishi-sourced G54B engine. In 1989, Mazda replaced it with their own G6 engine- a completely new design that shares only its approximate displacement with the G54B. The G6 uses a different bore and stroke (92mm x 98mm vs the G54B's 91.1mm x 98mm), different block architecture, and Mazda's own twin-balance-shaft design. In North American specification the G6 produces 121 hp and 149 lb-ft of torque- a solid output for a naturally aspirated 2.6-liter four-cylinder of the era.
The B2600i (fuel-injected version) with the G6 engine is the most practical used replacement candidate. Parts support for the G6- while not as widespread as Japanese domestic market Mazda engines- is available through Mazda specialists and the dedicated B-series truck community.
Signs You Need a Replacement Engine
- Rough idle that does not respond to basic tune- mass airflow sensor or idle air control valve on EFI versions
- Oil burning on startup- valve stem seal wear on high-mileage G6 engines
- Loss of compression on one or more cylinders- ring wear or valve seat failure
- Coolant leak at head gasket- aluminum head gasket failure on high-mileage or overheated engines
- Balance shaft timing chain noise- the twin balance shafts add complexity and wear points
- Oil leaks at front cam seal or distributor o-ring- common on aged G6 engines
Known Problems With This Engine
- G54B vs G6 confusion: The most critical issue. A 1986 to 1988 B2600 uses the G54B (Mitsubishi). A 1989 to 1993 B2600 uses the G6 (Mazda). These engines use different blocks, different heads, different accessories, and are completely non-interchangeable. We confirm the engine variant for every order.
- Balance shaft timing: The G6's twin balance shafts add an additional timing component. If the balance shaft timing is off, the engine will vibrate excessively. We inspect the timing system for obvious issues before shipping.
- Head gasket sensitivity to overheating: The G6 aluminum head gasket can fail if the engine has been overheated. We compression test all 4 cylinders and inspect coolant for contamination before shipping.
- Limited rebuilder support: The G6 engine has fewer specialist rebuilders than mainstream Japanese engines like the Toyota 22R or Nissan KA24. When sourcing a used OEM unit, documented condition is especially important.
- EFI vs carburetor variants: Some B2600 models used carburetors rather than EFI. We confirm the fuel system type before shipping to ensure compatibility with your truck's existing fuel delivery system.
Mazda B2600 Engine Variants- G54B vs G6
Two completely different 2.6-liter engines were used across the B2600 production run:
| Engine | Years in B2600 | HP | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| G54B (Mitsubishi) | 1986 to 1988 | 109 hp | Mitsubishi-licensed engine. 2,555 cc. Different bore/stroke from G6. Also found in Mitsubishi trucks and vans of the era. |
| G6 (Mazda) | 1989 to 1993 | 121 hp (North America) | Mazda-designed engine. 2,606 cc. 92mm bore x 98mm stroke. Twin balance shafts. Unique to Mazda B-series trucks. |
What Is Included- What Is Not Included
| INCLUDED- Long Block | Block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, cylinder head, valve train, balance shaft assembly, oil pan, and timing cover. |
|---|---|
| NOT INCLUDED | Intake manifold, fuel injection system or carburetor, exhaust manifold, distributor and ignition, alternator, power steering pump, starter, flywheel, accessory brackets. |
| Core Note | No core charge. You are not required to return your old engine. |
Vehicle Compatibility
The Mazda G6 engine was factory installed in the following vehicles (1989 to 1993 only):
| Mazda B2600i Pickup (1989 to 1993) | 2WD and 4WD- G6 engine with EFI |
|---|---|
| Mazda MPV (1989 to 1994) | Some MPV applications also used the G6 engine |
| Ford Courier (some markets) | Ford-badged versions of the B2600 in select international markets |
The G6 uses Mazda B-series truck motor mount locations and bellhousing pattern. It is a direct replacement for any 1989 to 1993 B2600i. For 1986 to 1988 B2600 trucks with the G54B, the G6 is NOT a direct bolt-in and requires motor mount and accessory adaptation. Call (240) 301-0095 with your year and current engine and we will confirm compatibility before any order ships.
Transmission compatibility: Mazda R-series 5-speed manual- standard pairing | Mazda automatic (some applications). Both 2WD and 4WD versions available.
Not sure if this fits? Call (240) 301-0095. We verify fitment before every order ships.
Common Names and Search Terms
| Mazda B2600 engine | Most common buyer search |
|---|---|
| Mazda G6 engine | Engine code search |
| B2600 2.6L engine | Displacement buyer |
| Mazda B2600i engine | EFI fuel-injected version buyer |
| Mazda pickup 2.6 engine | Application descriptor |
| G6 Mazda engine | Code-specific buyer |
| Mazda B-series engine | Series designation buyer |
| 2.6L Mazda engine for sale | Displacement and make search |
| Mazda truck engine for sale | General Mazda truck buyer |
| Mazda B2600 motor | Motor vs engine buyer |
Used OEM vs Rebuilt- Which Is Right for You?
Used OEM is the right choice for a B2600i replacement- particularly where a compression-tested documented G6 unit is needed. Given the limited rebuilder network for the G6, a tested used OEM unit is often more practical than a rebuild.
A specialist rebuild makes sense if you need fresh tolerances or plan to modify the engine. Some Mazda B-series specialists do rebuild G6 engines. Call us and we can advise on current unit condition and whether a rebuild is more appropriate for your needs.
Condition and Inspection Process
- Compression test across all 4 cylinders- pressure per cylinder recorded before shipping
- G6 vs G54B engine variant confirmed- critical before every order
- Fuel system type confirmed- EFI or carburetor documented before shipping
- Balance shaft timing area inspected for obvious concerns
- Head gasket condition assessed- coolant inspected for cross-contamination
- Cam seal and distributor o-ring area inspected for oil seepage
Mileage varies by unit. Where available we provide it. Where it cannot be confirmed, we disclose this before your order is placed.
Buyer Tips- What to Know Before You Order
- Confirm your year first: 1986 to 1988 B2600 uses the G54B (Mitsubishi). 1989 to 1993 uses the G6 (Mazda). These are not interchangeable. Tell us your exact year and we will confirm the correct engine.
- Timing belt vs timing chain: The G6 uses a timing chain for the main camshaft drive. However the balance shaft system also uses a timing chain. Service the balance shaft chain at installation if mileage is unknown.
- Head gasket prevention: Service the entire cooling system at installation- new thermostat, hoses, and coolant flush. Overheating is the primary G6 head gasket killer.
- Parts sourcing: Connect with the Mazda B-series truck community (multiple active forums and Facebook groups) before purchasing. They maintain lists of parts suppliers and G6 engine resources.
- EFI components: If buying a B2600i with EFI and your truck is carbureted, you will need to convert the fuel delivery system. We advise on this before shipping if relevant.
Why Buy From Vaz Auto Solutions
- G6 vs G54B confirmed before you pay- the most critical distinction for B2600 engine sourcing
- Compression tested across all 4 cylinders- results shared before order confirmed
- Fuel system type confirmed- EFI or carburetor documented
- Head gasket condition assessed before shipping
- No core charge- keep your old engine
- Free freight pallet delivery to all 50 states
- 15 day replacement warranty on internal engine defects
- Call (240) 301-0095- speak with someone who understands the G6 vs G54B distinction and B2600 engine sourcing
John Davis (verified owner) –
Vaz Auto’s B2600 engine: Solid performer. Smooth operation, good power for daily use. Excellent customer service. Reliable choice for Mazda truck owners. Recommend for dependability and value.
Lisa Chen (verified owner) –
B2600 from Vaz Auto: Surprisingly robust. Easy install runs efficiently. Not flashy, but gets the job done. Fair price, good support. Ideal for practical truck owners seeking reliability.
Carlos M., San Antonio TX –
Needed a G6 engine for my B2600i. Vaz confirmed it was the 1989-and-newer G6 before shipping- not the earlier G54B- which was exactly the question I was worried about. Compression came back 168 to 174 across all 4. Engine is in and running strong. Best used engine purchase experience I have had.
Ray T., Tucson AZ –
Found a G6 for my B2600i here after searching for weeks. Vaz confirmed the EFI version which matches my truck’s setup. Compression was good across all 4. One distributor o-ring was seeping- they caught it during inspection and disclosed it before I bought. Fixed for $6 at install. Good honest seller for a hard-to-find engine.