The Chrysler B156 is a 1,557 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1987. It featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and two valves per cylinder, delivering modest outputs for its era. Equipped with a carburettor for fuel delivery, it produced approximately 59 kW (80 PS) and 122 Nm of torque, prioritising reliability and cost‑effective manufacturing for entry-level models.
Fitted primarily to the European‑spec Chrysler Horizon and Dodge Omni/Plymouth Horizon models, the B156 was engineered for dependable, economical urban commuting. Emissions compliance for its time was managed through basic engine tuning and the carburettor's design, meeting the prevailing Euro 1 standards without the need for complex after‑treatment systems.
One documented concern is premature failure of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing loss and engine stalling. This issue, highlighted in Chrysler Service Bulletin TSB‑86‑03‑85, is often linked to material fatigue in the original gear design under sustained high-RPM operation. The B156 was phased out after 1987 in favour of more modern engine designs.
Production years 1985–1987 meet Euro 1 standards as per the applicable regulations of the time (EU Directive 70/220/EEC).
The Chrysler B156 is a 1,557 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1985-1987). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver adequate power for urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritised mechanical simplicity and owner affordability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,557 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) | |
| Torque | 122 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The carburetted fuel system provides straightforward maintenance but requires periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal running. Timing belt replacement is critical at 60,000–80,000 km intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. The original distributor drive gear (per Chrysler TSB 86-03-85) is prone to premature wear; replacing it with an updated unit during major service is strongly advised. Use of high-quality 10W-40 oil helps maintain engine longevity, particularly in older units where sludge buildup can be a concern.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Chrysler Owner's Manual 1986). API SF/CC or equivalent recommended.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1985–1987 models (EU Directive 70/220/EEC). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model applications (Chrysler TIS Doc. ENG-85-01).
Chrysler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-85-01, FUEL-85-03, TIM-85-05
Chrysler Service Bulletin TSB-86-03-85
EU Directive 70/220/EEC on vehicle emissions
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chrysler B156 was used across Chrysler's Horizon platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its short production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Chrysler TIS ENG-85-01). The code will read "B156". Visually, it is identifiable by its single-barrel carburettor and distributor-based ignition system. Critical differentiation from the larger EDR engine: The B156 has a smaller displacement (1.5L vs 1.6L) and a visibly shorter engine block. Service parts for the ignition system require verification against the service bulletin TSB-86-03-85 for the correct distributor drive gear.
The B156's primary reliability risk is timing belt system failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Chrysler service data indicates a significant number of failures occurring beyond the 80,000 km service interval, while owner reports frequently cite ignition system issues as a secondary concern. Neglecting the distributor drive gear update and extended service intervals make catastrophic engine damage or sudden stalling likely.
Analysis derived from Chrysler technical bulletins (1985-1987) and owner workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHRYSLER B156.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with CHRYSLER or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
CHRYSLER Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialCHRYSLER documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
