The Ford TYBA is a 1,703 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1954 and 1962. It features an overhead valve (OHV) layout with a single downdraft carburettor and delivers 51 kW (70 PS) at 4,500 rpm. This engine was developed as an evolution of the earlier TV 15 H, offering increased displacement and torque for improved drivability in post‑war Ford saloons.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Consul Mk I, Zephyr Mk I, and early Zodiac variants, the TYBA provided stronger mid‑range performance while retaining mechanical simplicity and ease of service. Emissions controls were not mandated during its production, but the engine qualifies for historic vehicle exemptions under current UK and EU regulations.
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation in the sump and timing cover due to infrequent oil changes and low operating temperatures, as noted in Ford UK Service Bulletin No. 7/1959. This issue can impair oil pump pickup and lead to premature bearing wear if neglected.
Production years 1954–1962 predate EU emissions regulations; the engine qualifies for historic vehicle exemption under UK DVSA guidelines (DVSA Historic Vehicle Class H).
The Ford TYBA is a 1,703 cc inline‑four OHV petrol engine engineered for mid‑size saloons and executive models (1954–1962). It combines a single carburettor with cast‑iron construction to deliver robust low‑rpm torque and straightforward maintenance. Designed before modern emissions standards, it operates under historic vehicle exemptions in the UK and EU.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,703 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded compatible with additives) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 79.4 mm | |
| Power output | 51 kW (70 PS) @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Zenith 28T or Ford 28V) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulation (historic vehicle exemption) | |
| Compression ratio | 7.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, pump‑assisted | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft (front mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil (API SB/SC) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The OHV design ensures mechanical simplicity and strong low-end torque but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 8,000–10,000 km. Use of modern unleaded fuel is permitted only with lead-replacement additives to protect valve seats. Oil sludge buildup is a known risk in vehicles used for short trips—regular oil changes with high-detergent mineral oil are essential. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for wear during major services. Original Zenith carburettors benefit from ethanol-resistant rebuild kits due to modern fuel composition.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil meeting API SB/SC (Ford Lubrication Guide LG-1954). Modern synthetics not recommended.
Emissions: Pre-dates Euro standards; eligible for UK Historic Vehicle (Class H) exemption (DVSA Guidance 2023).
Power Ratings: Measured under BS AU 147b (1950s UK standard). Output verified via Ford dyno logs PDS-TYBA.
Ford UK Workshop Manual (1955 Edition), Sections 2A–4C
Ford Service Bulletins: No. 3/1956, No. 7/1959, No. 9/1960
UK DVSA Historic Vehicle Approval Guidance (2023)
Ford Engineering Drawing E-1204 and Report ER-TYBA-01
The Ford TYBA was used across Ford UK's Consul/Zephyr executive saloon platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Zephyr Mk I and revised cooling shrouds in the Consul Mk I—and from 1956 the Zodiac Mk I received a higher-compression variant (TYBA-HC), creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-hand side of the block adjacent to the distributor mount (Ford Workshop Manual 1955, Fig. 2A‑4). The casting number begins with 'TYBA' followed by a serial prefix (e.g., '2AB'). All TYBA units feature a water pump boss and front-mounted timing cover—distinguishing them from earlier thermosiphon engines. The cylinder head casting number 'C17' confirms TYBA compatibility. Do not confuse with the smaller 1508 cc TV 15 H—TYBA has a longer stroke and larger carburettor flange.
The TYBA's primary reliability risk is oil sludge buildup under infrequent or short-trip use, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Ford UK service data from 1959 noted a significant portion of bearing wear claims were linked to neglected oil changes, while DVSA historic vehicle inspections highlight coolant and oil leaks as common MOT advisory items. Infrequent use and modern ethanol-blended fuels increase corrosion and valve seat wear, making additive use and fluid maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford UK technical bulletins (1954–1962) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD TYBA.
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