The Ford TYDA is a 1,796 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1995. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder, a cast‑iron block, and an aluminium head. In standard form it delivered 66 kW (90 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, offering balanced performance for compact family vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Escort Mk4, Orion, and early Fiesta Mk3 variants, the TYDA was engineered for cost‑effective manufacturing, serviceability, and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a basic catalytic converter and electronic fuel injection, meeting Euro 1 standards introduced in 1992 for new type approvals.
One documented concern is head gasket failure under sustained high thermal load, noted in Ford UK Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑89/12. This issue arises from thermal expansion mismatch between the cast‑iron block and aluminium head, particularly in vehicles with neglected cooling systems or modified cooling circuits.
Production years 1989–1992 meet pre‑Euro standards; 1993–1995 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Ford TYDA is a 1,796 cc inline‑four SOHC petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and saloons (1989–1995). It combines throttle-body fuel injection with a durable cast‑iron/aluminium architecture to deliver responsive low‑to‑mid range torque and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions from 1993 onward, it balances drivability with early regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Throttle-body injection (Ford EEC‑IV) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (1989–1992); Euro 1 (1993–1995) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with electric fan | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt (camshaft driven) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 mineral or semi‑synthetic (API SG/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 122 kg |
The SOHC design ensures mechanical simplicity and low-cost servicing but requires timing belt replacement every 60,000 km or 5 years—critical to prevent interference damage. Use of unleaded petrol is mandatory; leaded fuel will damage the catalytic converter (fitted from 1993). Head gasket integrity is highly dependent on cooling system health; ensure thermostat, radiator, and coolant mixture are maintained per OEM specs. The EEC‑IV system is robust but sensitive to poor grounding or aged oxygen sensors, which can cause erratic idle or increased emissions.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CD (Ford Lubrication Guide LG-1989). Modern ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable substitutes.
Emissions: Euro 1 compliance applies only to 1993–1995 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912). Pre-1993 units are pre-regulation.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE gross standards (Ford DR-1796). Output consistent across Escort, Orion, and Fiesta applications.
Ford UK Workshop Manual (1989) and Supplements
Ford Heritage Archive: HA/TYDA/1990, WL/1796, DR-1796
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912
Ford Parts Catalogue PC/ESCORT/1991
The Ford TYDA was used across Ford's Escort Mk4 and Orion platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Orion saloon and modified exhaust manifolds in the Escort van—and from 1995 was superseded by the Zetec‑E series. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the timing cover (Ford Workshop Manual 1989, Fig. 2B‑3). The code 'TYDA' confirms the 1.8L SOHC variant. Visual identification: black plastic rocker cover with '1.8i' badge, throttle-body injection unit mounted above the intake manifold, and distributor at the rear of the head. Differentiate from CVH engines by the absence of hemispherical combustion chambers and the presence of a single camshaft. No VIN correlation—engine number is standalone.
The TYDA's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure under thermal stress, with elevated incidence in vehicles with cooling system neglect or high ambient temperatures. Ford UK internal service data from 1991 noted recurring head gasket leaks in fleet vehicles operating in summer conditions, while DVSA historic MOT records show cooling system faults as a frequent advisory item. Proper coolant maintenance and adherence to timing belt intervals make thermal and mechanical management critical.
Analysis derived from Ford UK technical bulletins (1989–1995) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD TYDA.
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)
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.
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