The Ford HCPA is a 1,597 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1994. It belongs to the Ford CVH (Compound Valve-angle Hemispherical) engine family, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI). In standard tune, it delivered 60 kW (82 PS), with a torque output of 127 Nm, offering responsive urban performance and improved fuel efficiency over carburetted predecessors.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Escort MkV, Ford Orion, and Ford Fiesta Mk3, the HCPA engine was engineered for compact and family vehicle applications where compact packaging, fuel economy, and emissions compliance were prioritized. It met EU Stage I emissions standards through the use of a three-way catalytic converter, oxygen sensor feedback control, and electronic ignition management. The engine's design emphasized serviceability and reliability for high-mileage fleet and private use.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking between the exhaust valves, particularly under sustained high-load operation. This issue is referenced in Ford Service Communication 89/612, which notes that early casting designs had reduced material thickness in this zone. From 1990 onward, Ford introduced revised cylinder heads with reinforced valve bridges to mitigate cracking risk, a change verified in Ford TIS Doc. HCPA-ENG-04.
Production years 1987–1990 meet EU Stage I emissions; 1991–1994 models comply with EU Stage II (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Ford HCPA is a 1,597 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (1987–1994). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver refined throttle response and improved emissions. Designed to meet early EU emissions directives, it balances compact packaging with serviceability for high-volume applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) | |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Ford EEC-IV multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | EU Stage I (pre-1991); EU Stage II (1991–1994) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber toothed belt, non-interference design | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30, API SG/CC | |
| Dry weight | 124 kg |
The SOHC MPFI configuration provides smooth power delivery but requires valve clearance checks (0.15 mm intake, 0.25 mm exhaust) every 30,000 km. SAE 10W-30 oil is recommended due to the hydraulic tappet system and belt tensioner lubrication. The rubber timing belt must be replaced every 60,000 km or 4 years—failure can disrupt ignition timing but will not cause valve-to-piston contact due to non-interference design. The EEC-IV system requires periodic oxygen sensor replacement and fuel injector cleaning to maintain emissions compliance. Post-1990 heads with reinforced valve bridges significantly reduce cracking risk. Catalytic converter integrity depends on correct air-fuel ratio and use of unleaded fuel.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 API SG/CC specification (Ford SIB 89/612). Modern equivalents acceptable if meeting hydraulic tappet compatibility.
Emissions: EU Stage I applies to 1987–1990 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). EU Stage II compliance from 1991 onward includes enhanced catalyst efficiency and oxygen sensor feedback.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across variants due to EEC-IV calibration (Ford TIS Doc. HCPA-POWER-88).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs HCPA-ENG-01, HCPA-FUEL-14, SIB 89/612
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585:1976 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Ford HCPA was used across Ford's MkV Escort/Mk3 Fiesta platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with TVR via component supply agreements in niche European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the Fiesta and revised intake manifolds in the Escort-and from 1991 the facelifted Orion GLSi adopted the HCPA-MPFI variant with updated ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed TVR's Tamora prototype to use a high-lift cam variant. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS HCPA-ID-06). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for HCPA series). All HCPA units have black plastic intake manifolds with MPFI injectors; pre-1990 models use grey valve covers, while post-1990 units use black. Critical differentiation from standard CVH: HCPA features revised ECU mapping and catalytic converter integration. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1990 engines are not compatible with later MPFI variants due to different tensioner geometry (Ford SIB 90/105).
The HCPA's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for prolonged highway driving or in hot climates. Internal Ford quality reports from 1991 indicated a measurable failure rate in pre-1990 heads before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA historic failure logs show lean mixture conditions as a key contributor. High thermal load and incorrect air-fuel ratio increase cracking risk, making oxygen sensor and ECU function verification critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1987-1994) and UK DVSA historic failure statistics (1987-1994). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD HCPA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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