The CADILLAC F6 is a 1,587 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1988. It features a SOHC valvetrain, carburetted fuel delivery, and cast-iron block construction, delivering dependable performance for compact and utility applications. In standard tune it produced 64 kW (87 PS) with 125 Nm of torque, forming part of Daihatsu's F engine family.
Fitted to models such as the Daihatsu Charmant, Delta, and Applause, the F6 was engineered for durability in fleet and everyday driving conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and air injection, allowing all units to meet early Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9235).
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, highlighted in Daihatsu Service Information Bulletin 85-NA-037. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the camshaft lobes during sustained high-RPM operation and extended oil change intervals. In 1986, Daihatsu revised the oil pump design and updated lifter profiles to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
All production years (1983–1988) meet early Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9235).
The CADILLAC F6 is a 1,587 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and utility vehicles (1983–1988). It combines robust SOHC architecture with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver reliable urban and highway performance. Designed to meet early European emissions standards, it represents a durable iteration of Daihatsu's mid-displacement engine platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,587 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 82.5 mm | |
| Power output | 64 kW (87 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SF) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The gear-driven SOHC design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. SAE 10W-30 API SF oil is essential due to its stability under sustained load conditions. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The carburettor system is sensitive to cold starts; use of winter-grade petrol meeting EN 228 standards prevents icing and mixture imbalance. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 API SF specification (Daihatsu Service Manual 1983-0368).
Emissions: Certified to early Euro 1 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9235).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 64 kW output requires 87 RON fuel (Daihatsu TIS Doc. A24713).
Daihatsu Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24713, A25165, SIB 85-NA-037
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9235)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The CADILLAC F6 was used across Daihatsu's CHx and DXx platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Charmant and revised cooling routing in the Delta-and from 1986 the facelifted Applause models adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the oil filter housing (Daihatsu TIS A25113). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('F' for F series). Pre-1986 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-1986 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from F5: Original F6 has Mikuni carburettor with manual choke, while F5 uses automatic choke. Service parts require production date verification—lifters before 09/1985 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Daihatsu SIB 85-NA-037).
The F6's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear, with elevated incidence in sustained highway driving with frequent short trips. Internal Daihatsu quality reports from 1985 indicated a significant share of pre-1986 engines required camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show drivability faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low coolant quality increase thermal stress, making oil maintenance and component upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Daihatsu technical bulletins (1983–1988) and NHTSA field reports (1985–1987). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAIHATSU F6.
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