Mitsubishi 4G64 Engine Review: Specs, Problems and Reliability

The Mitsubishi 4G64 engine is a part of the Sirius family and is shared by many other engines, including the 4G63, 4G63T, 4G61, 4G62, and others. It was released in 1989 for the Fifth-Generation Mitsubishi Galant model.

The Mitsubishi 4G64 engine is made in Shenyang by SAME and assembled through semi-knockdowns for complete knockdown kits. The first regular assembly took place in April 2000.

The Mitsubishi 4G64 engine produces the most torque at 3,500 rpm for enhanced power and usability when driving. Moreover, it does this while also delivering class-leading fuel economy.

Mitsubishi 4G64 engines and the more common 4G63 engines share many characteristics. The most popular variant of the latter is the 2.4 Liter displacement engine, which eventually replaced its predecessor, the 4G54. Engine blocks for both are cast from similar materials as well- closed deck block design with no oil jets to dampen piston movement- but there are significant differences between them that can be seen by looking at their height: a taller block on the former engine by 6 mm, a larger bore size and an increased stroke both result in having higher compression ratio relative to its smaller counterpart; this also results in better power output and overall performance for enthusiasts who value these statistics.

The Mitsubishi 4G64 engines have a 100-mm long-stroke crankshaft, and compression height is increased from 85 mm (4G63) to 86.5 mm in 4G64s. The connecting rods were also adjusted by 150mm and weighed 34.83 lbs, while the Chrysler versions feature fracture-split forged powder metal connecting rods for supporting pistons at 38 lbs weight only.

4G64 Engine Specs

ManufacturerShenyang Aerospace Mitsubishi Motors Engine Manufacturing Co Ltd
Shiga Plant
Also calledSirius
Production1983-nowadays
TypeIn-line
Valve per cylinderMIVEC intake
Oil pump typeInvolute gear type
Cooling systemWater-cooled forced circulation
Water pump typeCentrifugal impeller type
EGR systemSingle type
Injector type and numberElectromagnetic 4
Injector identification markN275H
Throttle position sensorVariable resistor type
Closed throttle position switchContact switch type, incorporated in idle speed control motor-TRUCK
Movable contact type, incorporated in throttle position sensor – EXPO
Number of cylinders

2

4

Total displacement, cc2,351
Cylinder bore mm86.5
Piston stroke mm100
Compression ratio8.5
9
9.5
11.5
Power output h.p at rpm112/5000
124/5000
132/5250
150/5000
150/5500
Torque output, Nm/rpm184/3500
189/3500
192/4000
214/4000
225/3500
Fuel consumption, for Eclipse III
  • city
  • highway
  • combined
  • 10.2
  • 7.6
  • 8.8
Oil consumption, L/1000 km
(qt. per miles)
up to 1.0
(1 qt. per 750 miles)
Recommended engine oil0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40, 5W-50, 10W-30, 10W-40, 10W-50, 10W-60, 15W-50
Engine Oil Capacity, L4.0
Oil change interval, km (miles)7,000-10,000
(4,500-6,000)
Engine lifespan, km (miles)
-Official information
-Real

400,000+ (245,000+)

Tuning, HP
-Max HP
-No life span loss
1000+

The 4G64 2.4L engine requires 4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) of new SAE 5W-20 oil for an oil change with a new oil filter.

Valve Timing

Intake valve Open BTDC20” 19”
Intake valve Close ABDC64” 57”
Exhaust valve Open BBDC64” 57”
Exhaust valve Close ATDC20” 19”

Torque Specifications

 Nmft.1b.s.
Cooling fan bolt118
Water pump pulley bolt – Engine without cooling fan97
Water pulley bolt pump – Engine with the cooling fan118
Generator brace bolt1410
Generator mounting bolt2417
Generator pivot nut2317
Crankshaft pulley bolt2518
Spark plug2518
Distributor nut118
Ignition coil bolt1410
Ignition power transistor nut1813
Tensioner bolt4935
Tensioner spacer4935
Oil pumps sprocket nut5540
Crankshaft sprocket bolt12087
Tensioner “B” bolt1914
Silent shaft sprocket bolt, right4633
The engine supports bracket bolt, left3626
Camshaft sprocket bolt9065
Throttle body bolt – SOHC129
Fuel rail bolt129
Fuel pressure regulator bolt97
Throttle position sensor bolt21.4
Idle speed control motor bolt3.52.5
Idle air control motor bolt3.52.5
Turbocharger wastegate actuator bolt129
Bearing cap bolt
M8x25
M8x65

24

20

17

14

Cylinder head bolt9569
Oil bolt75
Oil filter bracket bolt1914

What Cars Have The 4G64?

  • 1993-1997 Mitsubishi Chariot
  • 1988–2006 Mitsubishi Delica/Van
  • 1997-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Spyder Convertible FWD model equipped with a 141 hp (105 kW) 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC
  • 2000-2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  • 1994–2003 Mitsubishi Galant
  • 1990–present Mitsubishi L200
  • 1996–1998 Mitsubishi Magna (codenamed 4G64-S4 and fitted to the TE-TF series)
  • 1990–1996 Mitsubishi Mighty Max
  • 1998-2005 Mitsubishi Montero (V11 – 2 door) Latin America version
  • 2001 Mitsubishi Airtrek
  • 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
  • 1987–1990 Mitsubishi Sapporo
  • 1986-2005 Mitsubishi Triton
  • 2005 Mitsubishi Zinger
  • 2003-2006 Kia Sorento 2.4i Manual
  • 2004–present Brilliance BS6
  • 2008–present Chery V5
  • 1983–1992 Dodge Colt Vista (AWD only)
  • 1990–1992 Dodge Ram 50
  • 2006–present Great Wall Hover(X240 and V240)
  • 1986-1998 Hyundai Grandeur
  • 1989–1991 Hyundai Sonata
  • 1999–2005 Hyundai Sonata
  • 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe
  • 2000–2005 Kia Optima
  • 1998-2003 Mitsubishi Space Wagon

Sealant

 Specified sealantQuantity
Rocker cover3M ATD Part No. 8660 or equivalentAs required
Semi-circular packing3M ATD Part No. 8660 or equivalentAs required
Oil pan gasketMITSUBISHI GENUINE PART MD970389 or equivalentAs required
Engine coolant temperature gauge unit3M ATD Part No. 8660 or equivalentAs required
Engine coolant temperature sensor3M Nut Locking Part No. 4171 or equivalentAs required
Oil pressure switch3M ATD Part No. 8660 or equivalentAs required
Oil pressure gauge unit3M ATD Part No. 8660 or equivalentAs required

Mitsubishi 4G64 Engine Problems and Reliability

Mitsubishi’s 4G64 engine is identical to its 4G63 and shares many things including wear, problems, and issues. If you are concerned with premature or excessive wear of any part of the 4G64 engine’s parts or components, these observations should help keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently for years to come:

The vibration is most commonly felt on the left-hand side of the engine. If this happens, replacing loose engine mounts can fix it!

The main problem with the Mitsubishi 4G64 engine is vibration caused by its imbalance. The balance shaft aims to reduce this, but poor engine oil choices increase the risk of insufficient oil flow and a lack of hydraulic lifters means it can give out prematurely.

Rough idle can be attributed to neglect such as dirty air filters, fuel injectors and ECT sensors. Try checking these parts every now and again for changes or replacements.

The 4G64 has a hydraulically lifted head; This means you avoid having to adjust the valves yourself. In contrast, the Sirius family of engines requires the belt to be replaced at least every 60,000 miles.

4G64T Engine

In terms of turbo options, there are just two to consider: 4G64 SOHC and 4G64+4G63. For the former, you will need an EVO turbocharger, EVO header pipe, EVO intercooler, 560cc fuel injectors and radiator in order to upgrade your engine. The latter requires additional electronic components such as ECUs.

  • an Evo turbocharger
  • an Evo header
  • an Evo intercooler + pipes
  • a 2.5″ exhaust system
  • an Evo fuel pump or Walbro 255 lph
  • 560cc fuel injectors (Evolution)
  • a large radiator (e.g., Mishimoto)

A second option, the Mitsubishi 4G64 with Evo head, will produce better results. You’ll need a Mitsubishi Evolution head and all its respective equipment.

The list of main OEM and aftermarket parts:

  • an Evolution head
  • 150mm connecting rods (e.g., Manley)
  • ARP rod bolts
  • 87mm forged pistons
  • an Evo intake system
  • Evo spark plugs
  • Evo ignition coils
  • an Evo fuel system
  • 750 cc fuel injectors
  • a Walbro 255 fuel pump
  • an Evo turbo
  • an Evo header
  • a 3″ exhaust system from the beginning to the end.

Let’s go over some changes and additions to the list.

  • a cold air intake
  • a Mishimoto radiator
  • a 3″ ETS intercooler and pipes
  • an AMS intake manifold
  • Kelford 272 cams
  • adjustable cam gears
  • valve springs and retainers
  • an FP Green turbo + a manifold
  • an Aeromotive fuel rail
  • an Aeromotive fuel pressure regulator
  • 1,000 cc fuel injectors
  • an Aeromotive 340 lph
  • a TiAL bypass valve
  • an Evo turbo

The 4G64 cylinder block is notoriously rough on the balance shafts, so you will have to do some modification in order for your engine to produce an optimal 500 HP.

Your 4G64 turbo will then need refining + oil jets installed in the heads (to prevent dry starts) and extra-large valves giving out with valve springs and bronze guides.

4G64 Destroker

The 4G64 engine has a high rod-to-stroke ratio that is advantageous for reaching high revolutions. However, the reduction in displacement comes from long rods and short stroke camshafts which result in a 2.1l engine.

This can be remedied by taking a 4G64 block or using one of these blocks with an existing 4g63 that results in an 88mm crankshaft length. 156mm connecting rods are needed, as well as installation of oil jets into the block before you install your destroker kit due to ACL bearings and around 8 hours, work on average time per crank to have it ready.

Author

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The author and publisher make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information presented. The reader is advised to consult a qualified professional, such as a mechanic or dealership, before making any decisions related to their vehicle's engine oil or maintenance.

10 thoughts on “Mitsubishi 4G64 Engine Review: Specs, Problems and Reliability”

  1. Michael Garrity

    A lot of great information on the 4G64.
    What is the recommended oil filter for the 4G64?
    We have a Delica van.

  2. Charles Charles Rukuni

    ive been having problems with my particular engine and its been worked on by so many “specialists” im hoping you can help me by advising which engine can i swap it out with with minimal need for fabrication and as cheaply as possible. i have mitsubishi chariot. is diesel an option too??

  3. Juan Carlos Cruz

    Hi guys. I have a 1987 mitsubishi van 2.4 4G64 I believe. Did the head gasket, took to the machine shop and follow all the supplies steps. Head gasket still leaking, before it was leaking into the cylinder, now it’s mixing with oil. Checked compression, leakdownm. Nothing showing Any suggestion? Thanks in advance.

  4. Sean Tadlock

    I rebuilt my 2.4l 4g64 8v sohc engine.out my 92 Dodge ram50.and need 1 piston and connecting rod.i had one save up.please help.everything I ordered won’t fit

  5. My 4G64 engine in a mitsubishi space wagon 2003 has its four spark plugs carrying sooth and the makes the engine not to idle well or move. What do I do. I have changed nozzle whole set twice in a week. Likely problems and solution.

  6. Just imported my P24W 1994 Delica Exceed back in January. It’s got a 4G64 that I’m hoping to give more horsepower one day since it’s pretty gutless to be pushing around 4000 pounds. Currently, I have a small issue with it not wanting to start sometimes. It cold starts up just fine but once I’ve driven somewhere and shut it off, it tends not to want to start again. It just cranks and cranks and cranks. It usually takes me 5-10 minutes to get it going again. Any ideas?

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