The Ford MWB is a 1,597 cc, inline-four, overhead valve (OHV) petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1995. It features a carburettor or throttle-body fuel injection (TBI) system, cast-iron block, and aluminium head, delivering 60 kW (82 PS) in standard tune with 127 Nm of torque. Designed for durability and ease of service, it was commonly used in commercial and fleet applications where mechanical simplicity and repairability were prioritised.
Fitted to the Ford Transit (1983–1994), Ford Sierra (1983–1988), and Ford Granada (1985–1987), the MWB was engineered for steady, low-revving operation with strong low-end torque. Emissions control relied on an air injection system and catalytic converter in later models, allowing Euro 1 compliance from 1992. Its design reflects pre-OBD engine management principles, with minimal electronic integration and reliance on mechanical adjustment.
One documented concern is premature camshaft lobe wear, particularly in engines operated with infrequent oil changes or incorrect viscosity. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Bulletin 87-12-01, is linked to inadequate lubrication of the flat-tappet cam system. From 1987, Ford introduced revised camshaft metallurgy and lifters in high-production variants, improving wear resistance in service fleets.
Production years 1992–1995 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Ford MWB is a 1,597 cc inline-four OHV petrol engine engineered for commercial and fleet applications (1983–1995). It combines a carburettor or throttle-body injection system with a robust cast-iron block to deliver reliable low-RPM performance. Designed to meet early emissions standards, it serves as a durable, service-friendly powertrain for high-mileage utilitarian use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 72.0 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or throttle-body injection (TBI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1992–1995) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (duplex, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | API SF/SG, 15W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The MWB's OHV design enables strong low-RPM torque ideal for load-carrying applications but requires regular valve clearance checks and timing chain inspection. API SF/SG 15W-40 oil is essential due to its zinc content protecting the flat-tappet camshaft. Extended oil intervals or low-quality oil increase risk of cam lobe wear. Carburettor-equipped units are sensitive to fuel quality and require periodic adjustment, while TBI versions offer improved cold-start reliability. Post-1987 models feature improved camshaft hardening; pre-1987 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 87-12-01. Catalytic converters on Euro 1 models depend on consistent fuel trim and proper warm-up cycles.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/SG 15W-40 oil (Ford SIB 87-12-01). Zinc-phosphate additives critical for camshaft protection.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1992–1995 production only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output assumes clean air filter and correct ignition timing (Ford TIS Doc. F14600).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F14567, F14789, SIB 87-12-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
DIN: 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Ford MWB was used across Ford's E2/T4 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the Transit and revised exhaust manifolds in the Sierra-and from 1987 the updated Transit Mk3 models adopted the MWB with improved camshaft metallurgy, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head (Ford TIS F14650). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for MWB series). Pre-1987 models have cast-iron valve covers with ribbed design; post-1987 units use revised cam covers with improved sealing. Critical differentiation from CVH variants: MWB features OHV pushrods and a carburettor/TBI system. Service parts require production date verification - camshafts and lifters for engines before 08/1987 are incompatible with later units due to metallurgy changes (Ford SIB 87-12-01).
The MWB's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage commercial use. Internal Ford quality reports from 1988 noted a significant share of pre-1987 engines requiring cam replacement before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to carburettor misadjustment in high-mileage vehicles. Infrequent oil changes and use of non-ZDDP oil increase cam and lifter stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1985-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD MWB.
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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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