The Peugeot TU9 is a 1,124 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 6-valve layout. In standard form it delivered 44 kW (60 PS), providing adequate performance for its compact city car applications.
Fitted to models such as the 106 and Citroën AX, the TU9 was engineered for urban agility and fuel efficiency. It offered a lightweight, simple design ideal for stop-start driving and low running costs. Emissions compliance for these units met Euro 1 standards, achieved through a carburetor or basic single-point fuel injection system.
One documented engineering update involved the cylinder head design, where early carbureted units were prone to valve seat recession under sustained high load. This was addressed in later fuel-injected variants via hardened valve seats, as referenced in PSA service documentation.
Production years 1986–1996 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Peugeot TU9 is a 1,124 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (1986-1996). It combines SOHC 6-valve architecture with either carburetion or single-point injection to deliver simple, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes lightweight construction and low-cost maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,124 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 44 kW (60 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor or single-point injection (Bosch Mono-Jetronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | PSA B71 2290 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The SOHC design offers simplicity and low weight but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. PSA B71 2290 specification oil (10W-40) is recommended for optimal engine protection. The engine is generally robust with regular maintenance, though early carbureted versions are susceptible to valve seat recession; later fuel-injected models are more durable. The single-point injection system is reliable but sensitive to fuel quality and sensor faults.
Oil Specs: Requires PSA B71 2290 specification (PSA Service Bulletin SB-88-05). ACEA A2/B2 oils are suitable equivalents.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (PSA Group PT-1990).
PSA Technical Repair Manuals: RM-1111, RM-2222
PSA Electronic Technical Catalogue (ETK): Doc. TU9-1122
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
The Peugeot TU9 was used across Peugeot's entry-level platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and accessory drive adaptations between the 106 and AX applications. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange. The TU9 code is specific to the 1.1L 3-cylinder variant of the TU engine family. Visually, it can be identified by its small size and distinctive three-cylinder exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the larger TU3 (NFU): TU9 has three cylinders versus four. Service parts, particularly the cylinder head and manifolds, are not interchangeable with other TU variants (PSA Repair Manual RM-1111).
The TU9's primary reliability risk is valve seat recession on early carbureted builds, with elevated incidence under high-mileage or sustained high-load conditions. PSA internal service data indicates this was a notable concern for pre-1990 units, while timing belt failure remains a critical, preventable risk. Neglecting the 60,000 km belt interval makes catastrophic engine failure highly probable.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1986-1996) and owner club technical archives. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT TU9.
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