JAC Forklifts with XINCHANG engines
- Muzammil Chumroo
- May 12
- 3 min read

JAC Forklifts has set the standard in material handling with a powerful lineup of affordable 2‑ton to 12‑ton diesel, petrol, electric, and gas forklifts – all built for reliability and performance. With a massive production base and cutting‑edge technology, we’re trusted worldwide.
With the option of JAC/Xinchang engines or Isuzu/Nissan engines, and your choice of Duplex or Triplex mast, you get the flexibility to match your exact operational needs.
Let JAC do the heavy lifting. About Xinchai (the manufacturer)
Zhejiang Xinchai Co., Ltd. is a state-level high-tech enterprise that has been manufacturing multi-cylinder diesel engines for over 50 years. It plays a leading role in the small and medium tonnage forklift segment, with annual output exceeding 300,000 sets and over 3,000,000 engines already in the market.
Technical Specifications — C490BPG
Parameter | Spec |
Displacement | 2.67L |
Bore × Stroke | 90 × 105 mm |
Rated Power | 40 kW (53.6 hp) @ 2,650 RPM |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
Cooling | Water-cooled |
Start | Electric start |
Weight | ~220–300 kg |
Dimensions (L×W×H) | 751 × 565 × 700 mm |
Key Design Features
The C490BPG uses direct injection for fast and reliable ignition with low fuel consumption. The fuel system uses quality Bosch P Series injectors and VE pumps. It features a stable idle speed, low noise, and emissions meeting European e-Mark IIA regulations. Starter motors and generators use imported or nationally recognised brands to ensure engine reliability.
The C490 series was designed in collaboration with Ricardo of the UK and Austrian AVL company, giving it high stability, reliability, and technology content. It meets Tier IV emission standards.
C490 vs A490 — What's the Difference?
In 2–3.5 ton forklifts, the main Xinchai models used are A490BPG, C490BPG, and the older 490B. The main difference between A490 and C490 is that the C490 is more environmentally friendly — due to a more refined cylinder structure, its exhaust emission standards are stricter and emissions are lower. The crankshaft shells, connecting rod shells, and intake/exhaust valves are interchangeable across models, making cross-compatibility good for spare parts.
Applications
The C490BPG is a popular choice for Chinese brand forklifts including HELI, Hangcha, CHL, and JAC forklifts. It is commonly used in CPCD25 and CPCD30 models (2–3 ton capacity).
Reliability Assessment
Strengths:
The engine is built with high-quality materials and precision engineering for durability and long service life. Its design makes it easy to access and maintain, saving time and money over the engine's lifetime. Leadingforkliftparts
The engine is designed for fuel efficiency through an optimised fuel injection system and combustion process, and minimises noise and vibration for operator comfort. Leadingforkliftparts
Massive installed base (3M+ units globally) means parts availability is excellent and mechanics familiar with it are easy to find.
Practical considerations:
It is a naturally aspirated, mechanically injected engine — simpler than turbocharged or electronic common-rail engines, which translates to easier field repairs and lower maintenance costs.
Bosch VE pump injection is a proven, well-understood technology — serviceable anywhere.
Being Chinese-manufactured, quality can vary between genuine Xinchai and counterfeit parts, so sourcing genuine spares matters.
No electronic engine management means no ECU diagnostics — straightforward but also means no modern fault codes.
Relevance to JAC Forklift Context
Since JAC's CPCD30H uses this engine family, the C490BPG's wide adoption across HELI and Hangcha forklifts means spare parts are readily available internationally. For your after-sales operations in Mauritius, this is a significant advantage over more proprietary engine choices — parts can be sourced from multiple suppliers, and local mechanics with Chinese forklift experience will likely already know this engine.


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