Common Mods To Help Get the Most From Your Nissan RB Engine

The Nissan RB engine holds a legendary status among automotive enthusiasts as a marvel of engineering. Tuners revere this inline-six engine for its robust performance, tuneability, and versatility. It’s a common engine in some of the most iconic vehicles in Nissan’s history, including the Skyline GT-R models.

The RB engine delivers exceptional performance with precise enhancements. Whether you’re interested in increasing horsepower, improving reliability, or refining drivability, proper modifications can unlock the engine’s true potential. Here’s a list of common mods that all tuners should consider to get the most from their Nissan RB engine.

The History of the Nissan RB Engine

Before we start listing all the ways to enhance the Nissan RB engine, let’s review the significance of its history. Introduced in the late 1980s, Nissan developed the RB engine series to power a range of its vehicles, including both family sedans and high-performance sports cars.

The RB26DETT, its most famous variant, rose to prominence as the power source of the R32, R33, and R34 Skyline GT-Rs. Featuring a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and twin camshaft layout, the RB engine could handle substantial power upgrades, which explains its popularity in the tuning community.

The RB Engine’s Potential and Challenges

The RB engine variants—ranging from the RB20 to the formidable RB30—offer a wide spectrum of capabilities. Many people who seek high-performance vehicles focus on the most iconic configurations, such as the RB25DET (single-turbocharged) and RB26DETT (twin-turbocharged). However, like any exceptional engine, the RB does have its vulnerabilities.

One issue pertains to the engine’s oiling system, particularly in high-revving or heavily modified setups. Problems with oil starvation and pump failures can occur. Additionally, cooling systems can struggle under the added stress of increased power output.

Extract Numerous Benefits out of a Nissan RB Engine

If you have a Nissan vehicle with an RB engine and are considering an upgrade, Clutch Masters can help! Keep reading about the common mods that will help drivers get the most from their Nissan RB engines, including an upgraded oil system and a performance clutch.

Upgrade the Oil System

When tuning an RB engine, a strong oiling system is key to generating power and establishing a reliable vehicle. Upgraded oil pumps and improved sump designs help prevent oil starvation, which is especially critical during track use. Pair these with high-performance engine oil and an oil cooler to create a solid foundation for any RB engine.

Improve the Ignition System

As power increases, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) ignition components may no longer perform effectively. Stock coil packs and spark plugs can struggle with increased cylinder pressures and heat. Choosing high-output coil packs and performance spark plugs is a great medication to maintain consistent ignition and avoid misfires.

Replace the Stock ECU With a Standalone

The factory electronic control unit (ECU) facilitates reliable, smooth daily driving. However, it restricts the engine’s ability to handle modifications. It lacks the flexibility to fully unlock the potential of an RB engine with performance upgrades.

Replacing the stock ECU with a standalone system like Haltech, Link, or AEM opens the door to greater customization. These systems allow for precise adjustments based on your preferred modifications, providing unmatched performance capabilities.

Schedule Professional Tuning

Investing in precise tuning provides the double benefit of increasing power output while ensuring your engine runs efficiently and safely across the entire RPM range. A professional can fine-tune air-fuel ratios, and ignition timing. Plus, they can boost the settings to guarantee your setup runs at its best.

Tuning also introduces critical safety features such as knock detection and boost cut-off limits. These measures protect the engine under aggressive driving conditions, reducing the risk of damage without hindering its performance.

Add Turbo Upgrades

Upgrading the turbocharger is a game-changer for the RB engine. Switching to a modern ball-bearing turbo improves spool response and supports higher airflow and power levels. Popular choices like Garrett’s G-Series turbos or BorgWarner’s EFR range deliver an increased engine performance.

Consider an Aftermarket Exhaust System

Upgrading the exhaust system is another common modification to help get the most out of your Nissan RB engine. Pairing a high-performance exhaust system with equal-length headers can enhance engine efficiency. By reducing backpressure and optimizing exhaust flow, you gain more power, improved throttle response, and unmistakable RB sound.

Upgrade the Cooling System

The RB engine is prone to heat soak under high pressure. Installing a large aluminum radiator, performance intercooler, and upgraded coolant lines ensures the engine doesn’t overheat under stress.

Choose an Aftermarket Performance Clutch

Once horsepower figures climb, the drivetrain must be ready to handle the added load. Stock components frequently struggle to keep up with increased power levels. Upgrading to an aftermarket performance clutch system is a critical step to ensure the effective delivery of the RB engine’s newfound power to the wheels without slippage or loss of efficiency. Performance clutches can endure the heat and stress of high-power applications, making them essential for reliable operation under demanding conditions.

Single-plate and twin-plate clutch systems are great for high-horsepower builds because they offer increased grip to transfer power smoothly. Twin-plate clutches provide greater durability and torque capacity, perfect for extreme power levels. Pairing these with lightweight flywheels reduces rotational mass, enhancing throttle response and making gear shifts quick and precise.

Why Upgrade Your Nissan RB Clutch With Clutch Masters

When you’re on the hunt for an aftermarket clutch, there are many suppliers to consider, but Clutch Masters stands out from the rest. Our performance clutches and flywheels provide superior quality and performance for Nissan RB engines and other vehicles. With decades of engineering expertise and a reputation for excellence, Clutch Masters’ clutches can withstand extreme horsepower and torque demands while maintaining seamless drivability.

Our hydraulic clutches for sale deliver enhanced responsiveness, durability, and power transfer to accommodate street and track applications. We pride ourselves on providing numerous solutions for a wide range of vehicles, so every driver can find the perfect fit for their vehicle’s performance goals.

Get More out of Your Nissan RB Engine

With a solid foundation and vast upgrade potential, the Nissan RB engine offers a rewarding experience. From improving the vehicle’s dependability to pushing for maximum output, a custom RB build can deliver exhilarating performance, whether you’re aiming for track times, perfect launches, or street power.

One of the most crucial mods for a Nissan RB engine is a high-quality performance clutch. Browse the aftermarket clutches available at Clutch Masters online. Contact our staff today to speak with an expert about the best upgrades for your vehicle.