The Chrysler ESF is a 2,213 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1989. It represented the final evolution of Chrysler's carburetted SOHC four-cylinder family, retaining the 8-valve architecture while incorporating minor internal refinements for improved durability. In standard form it delivered 78 kW (106 PS) and 168 Nm of torque, prioritising low-end drivability for urban environments.
Fitted exclusively to the European‑spec Chrysler Horizon and its derivatives, the ESF was engineered for dependable, economical commuting with minimal servicing complexity. Emissions compliance for its era was maintained through precise carburettor calibration and ignition timing, meeting the Euro 1 standards without requiring electronic engine management or catalytic converters.
One documented concern is persistent valve guide wear, leading to increased oil consumption and blue exhaust smoke under load. This issue, referenced in Chrysler Engineering Report #ER‑88‑12, was attributed to material fatigue in the original guide design under sustained high-temperature operation. The ESF was discontinued after 1989 as Chrysler transitioned entirely to fuel-injected powertrains.
Chrysler
Production years 1987–1989 meet Euro 1 standards as per the applicable regulations of the time (EU Directive 70/220/EEC).
The Chrysler ESF is a 2,213 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (1987-1989). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver marginally improved outputs and durability over its predecessors. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritised mechanical simplicity and owner affordability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,213 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 78 kW (106 PS) | |
| Torque | 168 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 135 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. Persistent valve guide wear, as noted in Engineering Report #ER-88-12, can lead to oil consumption; using a high-quality 10W-40 oil with good high-temperature stability can help mitigate wear. The distributor and ignition system require regular inspection to maintain smooth operation.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Chrysler Owner's Manual 1988). API SF/CC or equivalent recommended.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1987–1989 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-87-01).
Chrysler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-87-01, FUEL-87-03, TIM-87-05
Chrysler Engineering Report #ER-88-12
EU Directive 70/220/EEC on vehicle emissions
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chrysler ESF was used across Chrysler's Horizon platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its 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-87-01). The code will read "ESF". Visually, it is identical to the EGH engine but can be differentiated by its production date (1987-1989) and slightly higher compression ratio. Service parts for the timing system are identical to the ECD/EGH and require verification against service bulletin TSB-82-07-81 for the correct tensioner pulley.
The ESF'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 engineering reports highlight valve guide wear as a secondary, age-related concern. Neglecting the tensioner pulley update and extended service intervals make catastrophic engine damage likely.
Analysis derived from Chrysler technical bulletins (1987-1989) and engineering reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHRYSLER ESF.
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