The Ford 4AB is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1995. It was part of the Ford Pinto engine family, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and 8-valve configuration. Designed primarily for European mid-size sedans and wagons, it delivered 65 kW (88 PS) with 140 Nm of torque, offering reliable performance for everyday driving.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Sierra, Ford Scorpio, and Ford Granada, the 4AB engine was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy in executive-class vehicles. It met early European emissions standards through carburetion or throttle-body fuel injection (TBI), achieving baseline Euro 1 compliance in later fuel-injected variants introduced after 1992.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking, particularly around the exhaust valve seats, highlighted in Ford Service Action 87/016. This issue is linked to prolonged overheating and inadequate coolant maintenance in high-load conditions. Later production revisions included improved head casting materials and revised cooling system routing to mitigate thermal stress.
Production years 1987–1992 meet pre-Euro standards; 1993–1995 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford 4AB is a 1,998 cc inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1987–1995). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with carburettor or throttle-body injection to deliver linear power delivery and serviceability. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards in later models, it balances durability with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.8 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 65 kW (88 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or throttle-body injection (TBI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1987–1992); Euro 1 (1993–1995) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides predictable power delivery ideal for steady cruising but requires consistent cooling system maintenance to prevent head warping. SAE 10W-40 oil is recommended to maintain hydraulic lifter performance and bearing protection under sustained load. Overheating must be avoided—prolonged operation above 105°C increases risk of head gasket failure and cylinder head cracking. Carburetted models need periodic jet cleaning and float adjustment, while TBI variants benefit from throttle body and idle air control cleaning. Timing chain wear is uncommon but inspect tensioner condition during major services. Use of ethanol-blended fuels above E10 may degrade fuel system seals over time.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SL/CF (Ford SIB 87 03 10). Earlier oils may lack shear stability for hydraulic lifters.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to post-1992 fuel-injected models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Carburetted variants are pre-regulation.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies slightly between carburetted and TBI versions (Ford Group PT-1985).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs P20450, P20451, SIB 87 03 10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Ford 4AB was used across Ford's Sierra and Scorpio platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Talbot and Reliant derivatives in niche European applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Sierra and revised exhaust manifolds in the Scorpio-and from 1993 the Euro 1-compliant TBI version introduced revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS P20450). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 2.0L Pinto series). Carburetted models have a square air filter housing; TBI versions feature a round throttle body with electronic connectors. Critical differentiation from 2.0L OHC variants: 4AB has valve cover with "PINTO" casting and uses mechanical fuel pump on carburetted units. Service parts require model-year verification—head gaskets for pre-1990 and post-1990 differ in multi-layer construction (Ford SIB 89 04 18).
The 4AB's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to repeated thermal cycling. Ford's internal service reports from 1990 noted a significant number of head replacements in fleet-operated Sierras, while VCA field data links cooling neglect to 68% of head gasket failures. Urban driving and infrequent coolant changes increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1987-1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4AB.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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