SDEC 54kW Diesel Engine 4ZT3.5-G21

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Bradley: +27 62 743 5089 | bradley@sdecpower.co.za
Ruan: +27 66 511 2009 | ruan@sdecpower.co.za

We offer industry leading 24 month / 1,000 hour warranties on our engines and diesel generators.

The SDEC 54kW Diesel Engine (4ZT3.5-G21) is a high-performance 3.5L inline 4-cylinder engine built for mid-tier commercial backup, retail applications and intensive pump systems. Configured for 50kVA to 55kVA generators, this model delivers excellent load stability within an efficient physical footprint.

  • Power Output: Delivers 54kW maximum standby power at 1500 RPM (50Hz), ensuring a rapid response during sudden load connections.
  • Forced Induction: Features a 3.5L turbocharged layout that maximises power output without increasing the engine’s physical size.
  • Durable Layout: Built with a high 18:1 compression ratio and a wet-liner block design made for harsh South African and Sub-Saharan conditions.
  • Logistics & Support: Backed by The Generator King with technical assistance, fast cross-border shipping, and a ready stock of genuine OEM parts.

We offer delivery across Sub-Saharan Africa at the best prices.

RELIABLE POWER GENERATION

SDEC was founded in 1947 and is a diesel engine manufacturer. They are ISO9001, QS9000 and TS16949 certified, which is testament to their quality and reliability.

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

SDEC 54kW Diesel Engine

Efficient Power and Fast Response

The SDEC 4ZT3.5-G21 engine uses forced induction to get the most out of its 3.5L displacement. This inline 4-cylinder layout is built for applications that need a space-saving engine that does not sacrifice power stability. It handles sudden electrical demands smoothly, preventing voltage drops when your business equipment restarts.

Reliable Performance in Harsh Climates

Built with an 18:1 compression ratio and a wet-liner block layout, this engine is engineered to handle the tough environments common across South African farms and Sub-Saharan commercial sectors. The wet-liner design routes cooling fluid directly around the cylinders to pull heat away quickly, keeping running temperatures completely stable during long standby cycles.

Reliable Build and Steady Torque

Made with a high strength cast iron block and an integrated cylinder head, this engine uses premium components to handle demanding workloads. It delivers excellent fuel efficiency and steady torque, making it a popular choice for commercial, agricultural, and industrial generator setups.

The straightforward mechanical layout reduces the number of moving parts, keeping maintenance simple and ensuring the engine stays operational in tough conditions.

Key Technical Features

  • Durable Engineering: The strong cylinder block and integrated head are built with top quality parts to improve efficiency and extend the engine's working life.

  • Precision Manufacturing: Built under the strict quality controls of SAIC Motor and verified by German automotive production standards for dependable consistency and performance.

  • All-Weather Starting: Starts instantly without a pre-heater in temperatures down to -10°C, and handles extreme cold down to -30°C when paired with an auxiliary heating device.

  • Clean and Efficient: Complies with Off-Road Stage II emission standards, ensuring a cleaner fuel burn and highly efficient consumption profiles.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Weight 285 kg
Dimensions 84.8 × 60.8 × 90.9 cm
Brand

SDEC

Product Type

Diesel Engine

Prime Power (kW)

49kW

Standby Power(kW)

54kW

Prime Power

50kVA

Standby Power

55kVA

Engine Type

In-line, 4 Strokes, 4 Valves, Water-cooled

Aspiration

Turbo Charged

Cylinder Type

Dry Liner

Cylinders

4 Cylinders

Bore × Stroke

98mm x 115mm

Displacement

3.5L

Compression Ratio

18 : 1

Firing Order

1-3-4-2

Injection Timing

14° – 17°

Flywheel Housing (SAE)

SAE NO.3

Flywheel Clutch Size (Inches)

SAE NO.11.5 (gear tooth number:120)

Fuel Consumption @ 100%

12.3 l/h

Fuel Consumption @ 75%

9.4 l/h

Fuel Consumption @ 50%

6.6 l/h

Fuel Consumption @ 25%

4.1 l/h

Injection Pump

KangDa

Governor

Electronic Regulator

Feed Pump

Mechanical Type

Injection Nozzle

Multi hole Type

Opening Pressure

24MPa

Fuel Filter

Full Flow, Cartridge Type

Fuel Type

Diesel Fuel Oil

Mechanism Type

Overhead Valve

Number of Valves

Intake: 1, Exhuast: 1 Per Cylinder

Valve Lashes - Cold

Intake: 0.35mm, Exhaust: 0.45mm

Lubrication Method

Fully Forced Pressure Feed Type

Oil Pump

Gear Type Driven by Crankshaft

Oil Filter

Full Flow, Cartridge Type

Oil Pan Capacity

High Level: 7 litres, Low Level: 6 litres

Lubrication Angularity Limit

Front Down: 25 degrees, Front Up: 35 degrees, Side to Side: 35 degrees

Lubrication Oil

Refer to Operation Manual

Intake Valve Timing

Opening: 15°BTDC, Closing: 30°ABDC

Exhaust Valve Timing

Opening: 45°BBDC, Closing: 13°ATDC

Cooling Method

Fresh Water Forced Circulation

Water Capacity (Engine Only)

5.75 litres

Lid Minimum Pressure

70kPa

Water Pump

Centrifugal Type Driven by Belt

Water Pump Capacity

155L/min

Thermostat

Wax–pellet Type. Opening Temp. 72°C, Full Open Temp. 82°C

Cooling Fan

Plastic Blower. 490 mm diameter, 7 blades

Heat Rejection to Coolant

5.3 kcal/sec

Air Flow

5.2m3/min

Exhaust Gas Flow

14.1m3/min

Exhaust Gas Temperature

480 °C

Maximum Permissible Altitude

2000 m

Charging Generator

14V×35A

Voltage Regulator

Built-in IC Regulator

Starting Motor

12V×3.8kW

Battery Voltage

12V

Battery Capacity

120 AH

Category:
A partner in power generation

World-Class Manufacturing, Fast Regional Distribution

We source and manufacture high-quality generators, engines, and parts directly from leading global factories, including SDEC. By dealing with us directly, you cut out the middlemen, saving you time and money.

Every engine, alternator, and spare part we supply is built to international standards and fully tested to handle South African conditions. Whether you are a local generator builder looking for loose components or a business needing a complete commercial power setup, we ensure fast delivery, guaranteed stock availability, and dependable performance.

SDEC FACTORY | ROBOTIC ENGINE MANUFACTURING ASSEMBLY LINE

Our Delivery Channels

Sub-Saharan Logistics

We ship SDEC engines, diesel generators, alternators and parts throughout South Africa and across the continent, including Namibia, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, and Lesotho.

Our team handles the entire logistics process, from factory  loading to cross-border transport, ensuring your equipment arrives safely and on time.

We hold a large volume of stock and genuine replacement parts at our warehouses so we can supply clients across Africa quickly and efficiently.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Does the price include installation?

No, installation is not included in the price. Any qualified electrician can install the kit and provide a Certificate of Compliance (COC) for the installation as per legislation.

Do you offer installation?

No, we do not offer any installation services, but, any qualified electrician can install our products.

Does the price include delivery?

Delivery is not included in any of the prices. However, delivery will be calculated in your cart at checkout based on your location and product selection.

Tell me about the Warranty

Our product warranty is detailed on each product page and as per our standard terms along with a valid COC. It is a limited warranty.

Price validity

All pricing is valid while stocks last as reflected on your quotation, as specified therein.Â