The Ford LAR is a 2,394 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1988. Part of the Ford Pinto engine family, it features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and carburettor fuel delivery. Designed for mid-to-large executive vehicles, it produces 96 kW (131 PS) and 205 Nm of torque, offering improved low-end pull over smaller variants.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Granada (Mk3) and Scorpio (early development models), the LAR was engineered for smooth highway cruising and enhanced drivability in heavier platforms. Emissions control is achieved via an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and catalytic converter, enabling compliance with early Euro 1 precursor standards in West Germany and the UK by 1986.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, particularly in units subjected to extended oil change intervals or incorrect viscosity grades. This issue is addressed in Ford Technical Service Bulletin 86-18-04, which attributes wear to inadequate lubrication at the cam lobes under high-load conditions. Later production engines incorporated revised camshaft metallurgy and hardened bearing surfaces to improve durability.
Production years 1984–1985 meet domestic emissions standards; 1986–1988 models comply with Euro 1 equivalent regulations (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Ford LAR is a 2,394 cc inline-four SOHC petrol engine developed for executive and fleet applications (1984–1988). It features a cast-iron block, carburettor induction, and increased displacement for improved torque delivery. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances performance with reliability in large sedan applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,394 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (131 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 34 DATR twin-barrel carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 equivalent (1986–1988) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral (API SH) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The SOHC carburetted design delivers strong mid-range torque ideal for relaxed driving, but requires regular carburettor adjustment and choke maintenance in cold climates. SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SH is required due to the engine's bearing clearances and camshaft lubrication needs. Extended oil intervals increase the risk of camshaft lobe wear, particularly under sustained highway loads. The Weber 34 DATR carburettor is sensitive to fuel quality and should be cleaned annually to prevent mixture imbalance. Vehicles used in mixed driving should have cooling system inspections every 24,000 km to maintain longevity. Post-1986 models feature improved camshaft hardening; pre-1986 units should be checked for lobe wear during rebuilds.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SH (Ford Owner's Manual 1985). Synthetic blends not advised for original-spec preservation.
Emissions: Euro 1 equivalent certification applies to 1986–1988 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Pre-1986 models met national standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies with carburettor calibration and ambient temperature (Ford Group PT-1986).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs PNT-ENG-86, PNT-2394-02, SIB 86-18-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Ford LAR was used across Ford's Mk3 Granada and early Scorpio development platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external usage. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-fuel mixture tuning for automatic transmission variants and revised exhaust manifolds for estate models-and from 1987 the facelifted Granada adopted fuel injection (LAR-i), creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Ford TIS PNT-86-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 2.4L Pinto). Pre-1985 units have a chrome valve cover with "Pinto" script; post-1985 models use black paint. Critical differentiation from LAR-i: Original LAR uses a Weber 34 DATR carburettor with manual choke, while LAR-i has Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. Service parts require casting number verification - camshafts before 06/1986 (casting #1118121) are prone to wear and should be inspected.
The LAR's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Ford internal reports from 1987 indicated a significant number of pre-1986 engines required camshaft replacement before 140,000 km, while VCA field data shows emissions-related failures were a leading cause of vintage vehicle inspection failures. Extended oil intervals and incorrect viscosity amplify wear, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1984-1988) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LAR.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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