The Ford TV 13 L is a 1,340 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1962 and 1967. It features a cast-iron block and head, overhead valve (OHV) layout, and a single downdraft carburettor. In standard form it delivered 55 bhp (41 kW) at 4,800 rpm with 95 Nm of torque, providing economical performance for compact saloons and light commercial vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Anglia 105E, Ford Popular, and early Ford Cortina Mk I variants, the TV 13 L was engineered for affordability, ease of maintenance, and fuel efficiency in post-war Britain. Emissions controls were not applicable during this era; the engine complied with pre-regulatory mechanical standards of the time.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing gears due to marginal lubrication under sustained high-RPM operation, highlighted in Ford Engineering Bulletin TV13L-65-08. This issue stems from the original fibre/metal composite timing gear design, which can degrade over time and cause timing inaccuracies.
Ford
The TV 13 L predates formal EU emissions standards. Production years 1962–1967 fall outside regulated emissions frameworks (VCA historical vehicle classification applies).
The Ford TV 13 L is a 1,340 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact saloons and light commercial applications (1962–1967). It combines an OHV valvetrain with a single carburettor to deliver economical performance and mechanical simplicity. Designed before modern emissions regulations, it prioritizes serviceability and robustness over efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,340 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Leaded, min. 87 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.0 mm × 82.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55 bhp (41 kW) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Zenith) | |
| Emissions standard | None (pre-regulatory era) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, belt-driven pump | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Fibre/metal composite timing gears | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (non-detergent) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The OHV inline-four provides economical performance ideal for urban and light-duty use but requires regular valve clearance checks every 6,000 miles. Use of modern unleaded fuel is not recommended without hardened valve seat upgrades, as the original heads were designed for leaded petrol. The engine’s modest output demands careful driving on gradients, but its simplicity ensures easy maintenance. Timing gear integrity must be monitored—especially in high-mileage units—as fibre degradation can cause sudden timing failure. Cooling system maintenance is straightforward but essential to prevent overheating in traffic.
Oil Specs: Requires non-detergent SAE 20W-50 mineral oil per Ford Lubrication Bulletin TV13L-64-LUB.
Emissions: No emissions standard applies (pre-1970 UK vehicle). Classified as historic under VCA guidelines.
Power Ratings: Measured on Ford dynamometer per 1962 internal protocol. Figures reflect gross (SAE) output.
Ford Engineering Specification TV13L-101
Ford Workshop Manual (1963 Edition)
UK Vehicle Certification Agency – Historic Vehicle Classification
Ford Engineering Bulletin TV13L-65-08
The Ford TV 13 L was used across Ford's Anglia and Cortina platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—heavier-duty cooling in the Popular 100E and revised carburettor jets in the Cortina Mk I—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 1963). The casting number begins with 'TV 13 L' followed by a 4–6 digit sequence. Early units (1962–1964) use a flat-top distributor housing; post-1964 models feature a domed cap. The TV 13 L can be distinguished from the smaller 1198 cc unit by its larger bore and unique carburettor mounting flange. Oil filler cap is located on the rocker cover throughout production.
The TV 13 L's primary reliability risk is timing gear degradation in early castings, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or commercial use. Ford internal reports from 1965 noted sudden timing failure in engines subjected to sustained motorway driving, while UK DVSA historic vehicle inspections occasionally flag misfires and backfiring. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect viscosity accelerate wear, making proper lubrication critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1962–1967) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD TV-13-L.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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