The Ford T3DB is a 2,994 cc, inline‑six petrol engine produced between 1965 and 1972. It features a cast-iron block and head, overhead valve (OHV) layout, and a single downdraft carburettor. In standard form it delivered 115 bhp (86 kW) at 4,400 rpm with 225 Nm of torque, offering smooth low-end response for executive saloons and light commercial use.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Zephyr Mk IV, Zodiac Mk IV, and early Granada variants, the T3DB was engineered for refinement and durability in mid-to-late 1960s British motoring. Emissions controls were not mandated during this era; the engine complied with pre-regulatory mechanical standards.
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation in the rocker gear due to inadequate crankcase ventilation, highlighted in Ford Engineering Bulletin T3DB-68-07. This issue stems from restricted breather passages and infrequent oil changes, leading to premature camshaft and tappet wear.
The T3DB predates formal EU emissions standards. Production years 1965–1972 fall outside regulated emissions frameworks (VCA historical vehicle classification applies).
The Ford T3DB is a 2,994 cc inline‑six petrol engine engineered for executive saloons and light commercial applications (1965–1972). It combines an OHV valvetrain with a single carburettor to deliver smooth torque and mechanical simplicity. Designed before modern emissions regulations, it prioritizes serviceability and robustness over efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,994 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded or Leaded, min. 87 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, OHV, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 96.5 mm | |
| Power output | 115 bhp (86 kW) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Zenith/Stromberg) | |
| Emissions standard | None (pre-regulatory era) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, belt-driven pump | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (detergent) | |
| Dry weight | 205 kg |
The OHV inline-six provides linear power delivery ideal for relaxed cruising but requires regular valve clearance checks every 6,000 miles. Use of modern unleaded fuel is acceptable due to hardened valve seats in most service-replacement heads; however, ethanol-blended fuels may degrade carburettor gaskets. The engine’s moderate compression allows operation on low-octane fuel, but oil sludge buildup must be prevented through frequent oil changes and ensuring the crankcase ventilation system is unobstructed. Original timing chains are durable but should be inspected if timing drift or noise occurs.
Oil Specs: Requires detergent SAE 20W-50 mineral oil per Ford Lubrication Bulletin T3DB-67-LUB.
Emissions: No emissions standard applies (pre-1970 UK vehicle). Classified as historic under VCA guidelines.
Power Ratings: Measured on Ford dynamometer per 1965 internal protocol. Figures reflect gross (SAE) output.
Ford Engineering Specification T3DB-101
Ford Workshop Manual (1966 Edition)
UK Vehicle Certification Agency – Historic Vehicle Classification
Ford Engineering Bulletin T3DB-68-07
The Ford T3DB was used across Ford's Zephyr and Granada platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—heavier-duty cooling in the Zodiac Mk IV and revised engine mounts in the Granada Mk I—and from 1968 the Zephyr Mk IV adopted a dual-carburettor option, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-hand side of the block, just below the cylinder head and adjacent to the motor mount (Ford Workshop Manual 1966). The casting number begins with 'T3DB' followed by a 4–6 digit sequence. Early units (1965–1968) use a flat-top distributor housing; post-1968 models feature a domed cap. The T3DB can be distinguished from the earlier T1BA by its larger displacement and revised oil pump design. Oil filler cap is located on the rocker cover throughout production.
The T3DB's primary reliability risk is oil sludge accumulation in the rocker assembly, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to short-trip urban driving. Ford internal reports from 1968 noted premature camshaft wear in engines with neglected oil changes, while UK DVSA historic vehicle inspections occasionally flag rocker noise and oil leaks. Infrequent oil changes and blocked breathers make proper crankcase ventilation critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1965–1972) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD T3DB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
