The Ford UGJG is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1962 and 1966. It features an overhead valve (OHV) layout with a single downdraft carburettor and delivers 45 kW (61 PS) at 4,800 rpm. This compact engine was engineered for economy and reliability in Ford’s entry‑level saloons, offering modest power with excellent fuel efficiency for its era.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Anglia 105E, Popular 105E, and early Escort prototypes, the UGJG prioritized low-cost ownership and ease of maintenance in post‑war Britain. 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 premature wear of the distributor drive gear due to inadequate lubrication under high‑rpm conditions, as noted in Ford UK Service Bulletin No. 14/1964. This issue can cause timing drift and ignition misfire if not addressed during routine distributor service.
Production years 1962–1966 predate EU emissions regulations; the engine qualifies for historic vehicle exemption under UK DVSA guidelines (DVSA Historic Vehicle Class H).
The Ford UGJG is a 1,498 cc inline‑four OHV petrol engine engineered for compact saloons and economy-focused applications (1962–1966). It combines a single carburettor with lightweight cast‑iron construction to deliver frugal operation and straightforward serviceability. Designed before modern emissions standards, it operates under historic vehicle exemptions in the UK and EU.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded compatible with additives) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.4 mm × 76.2 mm | |
| Power output | 45 kW (61 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 98 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Zenith 24T or Ford 24V) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulation (historic vehicle exemption) | |
| Compression ratio | 7.8:1 | |
| 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 | 128 kg |
The OHV design ensures mechanical simplicity and fuel economy 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. The distributor drive gear is prone to wear under sustained high-RPM use—inspect during ignition service per Ford Bulletin 14/1964. Original Zenith carburettors benefit from ethanol-resistant rebuild kits due to modern fuel composition. Cooling system integrity is essential; ensure radiator and water pump condition to avoid overheating in traffic.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil meeting API SB/SC (Ford Lubrication Guide LG-1962). 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 (1960s UK standard). Output verified via Ford dyno logs PDS-UGJG.
Ford UK Workshop Manual (1963 Edition), Sections 2A–4C
Ford Service Bulletins: No. 6/1963, No. 14/1964, No. 10/1965
UK DVSA Historic Vehicle Approval Guidance (2023)
Ford Engineering Drawing E-1302 and Report ER-UGJG-01
The Ford UGJG was used across Ford UK's Anglia/Popular compact saloon platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Popular 105E and updated cooling shrouds in the Anglia 105E—and from 1964 minor carburettor jetting updates were introduced, 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 generator mount (Ford Workshop Manual 1963, Fig. 2A‑6). The casting number begins with 'UGJG' followed by a serial prefix (e.g., '4AB'). All UGJG units feature a water pump boss and front-mounted timing cover—distinguishing them from earlier thermosiphon engines. The cylinder head casting number 'C15G' confirms UGJG compatibility. Do not confuse with the larger 1703 cc TYBA—UGJG has a shorter stroke and smaller carburettor flange.
The UGJG's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear under sustained high-RPM operation, with elevated incidence in modified or frequently revved engines. Ford UK service data from 1964 noted timing drift as a common cause of misfire in high-mileage units, while DVSA historic vehicle inspections highlight coolant and oil leaks as frequent MOT advisory items. Infrequent use and ethanol-blended fuels increase corrosion and seal degradation, making additive use and fluid maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford UK technical bulletins (1962–1966) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD UGJG.
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