The Ford LPA is a 2,933 cc, V6 petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1990. Part of the Ford Essex V6 engine family, it features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 12-valve configuration, and carburettor fuel delivery. Designed for executive and performance applications, it produces 110 kW (150 PS) and 245 Nm of torque, offering smooth high-capacity cruising with strong low-end pull.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Granada (Mk3 facelift), Ford Scorpio (pre-production), and Ford Capri (final generation), the LPA was engineered for relaxed highway driving and enhanced refinement in larger vehicles. Emissions control is achieved via an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and catalytic converter, enabling compliance with Euro 1 standards in West Germany and the UK by 1987.
One documented concern is distributor cap arcing and rotor wear, particularly under high humidity or sustained load conditions. This issue, highlighted in Ford Technical Service Bulletin 88-20-06, is attributed to inadequate dielectric insulation in early distributor assemblies. Later production units incorporated revised distributor caps with improved sealing and conductive coating to reduce electrical tracking.
Production years 1986–1987 meet domestic emissions standards; 1988–1990 models comply with Euro 1 regulations (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Ford LPA is a 2,933 cc V6 SOHC petrol engine developed for executive and performance applications (1986–1990). It features a cast-iron block and head, carburettor induction, and increased displacement for improved torque delivery. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards, it balances smooth power with durability in large sedan and coupe platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,933 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 69.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Weber 38 DGAS twin-barrel carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1988–1990) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral (API SH) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The SOHC carburetted V6 design delivers smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising, 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 lubrication demands. High humidity or infrequent use increases the risk of distributor cap arcing, particularly in pre-1988 units. The Weber 38 DGAS carburettor is sensitive to fuel quality and should be cleaned annually to prevent mixture imbalance. Vehicles used in coastal or high-moisture environments should have ignition system inspections every 24,000 km to maintain reliability. Post-1988 models feature improved distributor insulation; pre-1988 units should be checked for carbon tracking during tune-ups.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SH (Ford Owner's Manual 1987). Synthetic blends not advised for original-spec preservation.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1988–1990 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681). Pre-1988 models met national standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies with carburettor calibration and ambient temperature (Ford Group PT-1988).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ESX-ENG-88, ESX-2933-04, SIB 88-20-06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Ford LPA was used across Ford's Mk3 Granada and Capri 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 1989 the facelifted Scorpio adopted fuel injection (LPA-i), creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front lower edge of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Ford TIS ESX-88-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 3.0L Essex). Pre-1987 units have a chrome valve cover with "Essex V6" script; post-1987 models use black paint. Critical differentiation from LPA-i: Original LPA uses a Weber 38 DGAS carburettor with manual choke, while LPA-i has Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. Service parts require casting number verification - distributors before 07/1987 (part #1118123) are prone to arcing and should be inspected.
The LPA's primary reliability risk is distributor cap arcing, with elevated incidence in high-humidity or poorly maintained vehicles. Ford internal reports from 1989 indicated a significant number of pre-1988 engines required distributor replacement before 140,000 km, while VCA field data shows ignition-related failures were a leading cause of emissions non-compliance in vintage vehicle inspections. High moisture and infrequent use amplify electrical tracking, making ignition system maintenance and proper storage critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1986-1990) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD LPA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FORD Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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