The Ford B4A is a 1,597 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1989. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and belt-driven valvetrain, designed for compact and mid-size passenger vehicles. With a power output of 55 kW (75 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 125 Nm of torque, it delivers reliable performance suited to urban and light-duty applications.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Escort (MK3) and Sierra, the B4A engine was engineered for fuel efficiency, low maintenance, and smooth operation. It uses a Weber 32/34 DFT twin-choke carburettor and a conventional distributor-based ignition system. Emissions control is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an air injection system, meeting pre-Euro baseline standards typical of early 1980s European emissions environments.
One documented concern is distributor cap arcing due to moisture ingress, particularly in high-humidity climates with frequent short journeys. Highlighted in Ford Service Communication 84-09-03, this issue arises from inadequate sealing in early cap designs. In 1986, Ford revised the distributor cap material and internal ribbing to improve dielectric strength and reduce misfire rates.
Production years 1983–1989 meet pre-Euro emissions standards; no formal Euro certification applies (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford B4A is a 1,597 cc inline-four petrol engine developed for Ford's European compact and mid-size models (1983–1989). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with twin-choke carburettor fuel delivery to provide reliable drivability and mechanical simplicity. Designed for pre-regulatory emissions environments, it prioritizes durability over refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.8 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 32/34 DFT twin-choke carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (unregulated) | |
| 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 | 118 kg |
The naturally aspirated design with twin-choke carburettor ensures predictable throttle response and cold-start reliability, ideal for city driving and first-time owners. The non-interference timing belt design reduces risk of catastrophic engine damage, though replacement every 90,000 km is recommended per Ford Service Bulletin 83-10-02. SAE 10W-30 mineral oil meeting API SE/CC is required to maintain valve train lubrication and prevent premature camshaft wear. The Weber 32/34 DFT carburettor should be inspected annually for float level and jet blockages, especially in high-humidity environments. Post-1986 models benefit from improved distributor cap dielectric properties; pre-1986 units should follow Ford Service Communication 84-09-03 for inspection and upgrade.
Oil Specs: Requires API SE/CC-rated 10W-30 mineral oil (Ford Service Bulletin 84-09-03). Synthetic oils not approved for original specification.
Emissions: No Euro standard applies; pre-regulatory design (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Emissions data not formally recorded.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets and fuel grades.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B14205, 83-10-02, 84-09-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing
The Ford B4A was used across Ford's Escort and Sierra platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifold in the Escort and revised exhaust routing in the Sierra-and from 1986 the updated Escort MK3 adopted improved distributor cap design, 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 ('B' for B4A series). Pre-1986 models have a ribbed distributor cap with visible vent slots; post-1986 units use a smooth-faced cap with internal ribs. Critical differentiation from CVH engine: B4A uses a single Weber 32/34 DFT twin-choke carburettor mounted directly to the intake, while CVH engines use a side-draft unit with linkage. Service parts require model-year verification - distributor caps for pre-1986 models are incompatible with later units due to internal design differences (Ford Service Communication 84-09-03).
The B4A's primary reliability risk is distributor cap arcing in early production engines, with higher incidence in vehicles operated in coastal or high-humidity regions with irregular servicing. Internal Ford field reports from 1988 noted a significant share of pre-1986 units requiring cap 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 (1983-1989) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1983-1989). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD B4A.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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