The Ford F57B is a 2,389 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1997. It belongs to the Ford Pinto engine family's final evolution, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and 8-valve configuration. Designed for medium-duty applications, it delivered 73 kW (99 PS) at 4,800 rpm and 174 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, providing dependable performance in base and fleet-trim vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Transit (1991–1997), Ford Scorpio (facelift), and Ford Granada Mark III, the F57B was engineered for durability and ease of service in commercial and executive segments. Emissions compliance was achieved via a catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing it to meet Euro 1 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking under sustained high load or thermal stress, highlighted in Ford Service Communication 92/61. This issue arises from the cast iron head's limited thermal expansion tolerance and is exacerbated by coolant neglect or improper head bolt torque sequencing. Later production units (post-1994) incorporated revised coolant jacket design and updated thermostat specifications to reduce crack formation risk.
Production years 1991–1995 meet Euro 1 standards; 1996–1997 models comply with Euro 2 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford F57B is a 2,389 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for commercial and executive vehicle platforms (1991–1997). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with Bosch Mono-Motronic fuel injection to deliver reliable, low-revving performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 (and market-specific Euro 2) standards, it prioritizes durability and serviceability over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,389 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 73 kW (99 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 174 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Mono-Motronic single-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (pre-1996); Euro 2 (1996–1997) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, non-interference) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SG/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides steady, predictable performance ideal for urban and highway driving but lacks high-RPM responsiveness. Regular cooling system maintenance is essential to prevent head cracking, particularly in high-load or warm-climate operation. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SG/CC standards is required to maintain bearing protection and reduce sludge buildup. The Bosch Mono-Motronic system is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks and injector coking; annual inspection of intake hoses and throttle body is advised. Post-1994 models should follow revised head bolt torque procedures per Ford SIB 92/61 to minimize cracking risk. Catalytic converters on Euro 2 models require unleaded fuel only and are prone to blockage if misfires occur.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SG/CC specification (Ford SIB 92/61). Supersedes earlier mineral oil standards.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to pre-1996 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). 1996–1997 models meet Euro 2 in UK and EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no performance variants documented.
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs PNT-57B-01, PNT-57B-02, SIB 92/61
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585:1976 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Ford F57B was used across Ford's Transit/Scorpio platforms with longitudinal mounting and adapted for Granada executive applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Transit and revised exhaust manifolds in the Scorpio-and from 1994 the facelifted Transit models adopted the updated Pinto 2.4L MPI variant with improved emissions control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS PNT-57B-03). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for 2.4L Pinto series). Pre-1994 models have a round air cleaner housing; post-1994 units use a rectangular intake box with integrated airflow sensor. Critical differentiation from 2.4L MPI: F57B uses Bosch Mono-Motronic with single-point injection, while MPI uses multi-point injection with a shared plenum. Service parts require production date verification - head gaskets for pre-1994 engines are not compatible with later revisions due to port reshaping (Ford SIB 92/61).
The F57B's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Internal Ford service reports from 1993 indicated a notable number of pre-1994 engines requiring head replacement before 160,000 km, while VCA records show increased emissions test failures linked to coolant system neglect in older examples. Extended idling and infrequent coolant changes increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1991-1997) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1993-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F57B.
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