The Ford 4DA is a 1,298 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and belt-driven valvetrain, designed for compact passenger vehicles. With a power output of 40 kW (54 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 98 Nm of torque, it delivers reliable performance suited to urban and light-duty applications.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Fiesta (MK3) and Escort (MK4), the 4DA engine was engineered for fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs. It uses a carburettor-based fuel system (Weber 28/32 TLA) and relies on a conventional distributor ignition system. Emissions control is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an air injection system, meeting Euro 1 standards from 1992 onward.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in early production units, particularly those operated under extended oil change intervals. Highlighted in Ford Service Communication 86-08-03, this issue stems from inadequate lubrication at the cam lobes due to oil passage design. In 1988, Ford revised the oil gallery machining process and updated the camshaft material specification to improve durability.
Production years 1985–1991 meet pre-Euro standards; 1992–1993 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford 4DA is a 1,298 cc inline-four petrol engine developed for compact Ford models (1985–1993). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with carburettor fuel delivery to provide economical operation and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet evolving emissions requirements, it balances drivability with serviceability for mass-market appeal.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,298 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.9 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 40 kW (54 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 98 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 28/32 TLA carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1985–1991), Euro 1 (1992–1993) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 mineral (API SE/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design with carburettor fueling ensures straightforward maintenance and cold-start reliability, ideal for city driving and first-time owners. The non-interference timing belt design reduces risk of catastrophic failure, though replacement every 90,000 km is recommended per Ford Service Bulletin 85-10-02. SAE 10W-30 mineral oil meeting API SE/CC is required to maintain camshaft lobe lubrication and prevent premature wear. The Weber 28/32 TLA carburettor should be inspected annually for float level and jet blockages, especially in high-humidity environments. Post-1988 models benefit from improved camshaft metallurgy; pre-1988 units should follow Ford Service Communication 86-08-03 for oil passage inspection.
Oil Specs: Requires API SE/CC-rated 10W-30 mineral oil (Ford Service Bulletin 86-08-03). Synthetic oils not approved for original specification.
Emissions: Euro 1 applies only to 1992–1993 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Pre-1992 models meet baseline EU emission limits without formal certification.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets and fuel grades.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B14205, 85-10-02, 86-08-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing
The Ford 4DA was used across Ford's Fiesta and Escort platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifold in the Fiesta and revised exhaust routing in the Escort-and from 1988 the updated Fiesta MK3 adopted improved oil gallery machining, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the starter motor mounting flange (Ford TIS B14220). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for 4DA series). Pre-1988 models have a cast iron carburettor heat shield with "4DA" cast into the intake manifold; post-1988 units use a flat aluminium cover with a label. Critical differentiation from CVH engine: 4DA uses a single Weber 28/32 TLA carburettor mounted directly to the intake, while CVH engines use a twin-choke unit with linkage. Service parts require model-year verification - camshafts for pre-1988 models are incompatible with later units due to material and oil passage differences (Ford Service Communication 86-08-03).
The 4DA's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early production engines, with higher incidence in vehicles with irregular servicing. Internal Ford field reports from 1991 noted a significant share of pre-1988 units requiring camshaft replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show ignition and fuel system faults dominate pre-1990 MOT failures. Extended oil change intervals and use of incorrect viscosity oil accelerate wear, making adherence to 15,000 km service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1985-1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985-1993). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 4DA.
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