The Ford F37A is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, overhead-valve (OHV) petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1991. It was developed as a larger-capacity evolution of the EY series, designed for enhanced torque and durability in medium-duty applications. Equipped with a single-barrel carburettor and distributor-based ignition, it delivered 62 kW (84 PS) and 150 Nm of torque, providing steady performance for commercial and family transport.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Granada Mark III (LX) and Scorpio (1985 facelift), the F37A was engineered for smooth highway cruising and fleet reliability. Its cast-iron construction and proven OHV architecture prioritized mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance. Emissions control was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), air injection, and a catalytic converter on later models, enabling compliance with early Euro 1 standards.
One documented update involves the cylinder head gasket design, addressed in Ford Service Action 86M02. Early units exhibited coolant leakage under sustained load due to head gasket degradation from thermal cycling. In 1986, Ford introduced an improved multi-layer steel (MLS) gasket with revised sealing geometry, significantly improving long-term integrity across high-mileage applications.
Production years 1984–1986 meet pre-Euro 1 emissions benchmarks; 1987–1991 models comply with Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Ford F37A is a 1,998 cc inline-four OHV petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and fleet applications (1984–1991). It builds on the EY platform with increased displacement and updated emissions controls to meet evolving regulations. Designed for durability and smooth operation, it balances low-end torque with acceptable fuel economy for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 62 kW (84 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Motorcraft 1V carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro to Euro 1 (1987+) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, thermostat-controlled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SG | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The OHV design provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for urban and highway cruising but requires regular valve clearance checks to maintain performance. SAE 10W-40 oil is essential for camshaft and lifter lubrication, particularly in high-temperature operation. Carburettor tuning and choke adjustment are critical for cold-start reliability. The cast-iron block is durable but susceptible to core plug corrosion in poorly maintained cooling systems. Post-1987 models meet Euro 1 standards per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680, requiring catalytic converter use. EGR system maintenance prevents carbon buildup in the intake manifold. Head gasket upgrades per Ford Service Action 86M02 resolve coolant leakage issues in early units.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG-rated 10W-40 (Ford Owner Handbook Mk3). Non-synthetic oils acceptable with biannual changes.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1987–1991 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). Pre-1987 units meet national pre-regulation standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020. Output is consistent across model years with minor calibration differences (Ford PT-1984 Series).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-F37A-207, Svc. Bull. 86M02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
DIN 70020 - Power Measurement Standard for Road Vehicles
The Ford F37A was used across Ford's LX and Scorpio platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised carburettor tuning for automatic transmission models and enhanced cooling for taxi variants-and from 1987 the facelifted Granada Mark III adopted the Euro 1-compliant variant with updated EGR and ignition timing, 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, just below the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS ENG-F37A-207). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for F37A series). Pre-1987 models use a silver cam cover with a Ford script badge; post-1987 units feature a black cam cover. Critical differentiation from Pinto engines: F37A uses a front-mounted distributor and chain-driven cam, while early Pinto units use gear drive. Service parts require model year verification—head gaskets before 1986 are not compatible with post-86 MLS units (Ford Svc. Bull. 86M02).
The F37A's primary reliability risk is cylinder head gasket failure on pre-1986 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly cooled applications. Ford's internal field reports from 1987 indicated over 14% of early F37A engines required head work before 140,000 km, while UK DVSA historic data shows cooling system neglect as a top contributor to engine-related MOT failures. Infrequent oil changes and thermostat faults increase thermal cycling stress, making coolant maintenance and timely gasket upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1984-1991) and UK DVSA historic failure statistics (1985-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F37A.
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