The Renault F2N 730 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. Output ranged from 64 kW (87 PS) to 72 kW (98 PS), depending on the application and year, providing adequate performance for its era.
Fitted primarily to the R19 and early Kangoo models, the F2N 730 was engineered for durability and cost-effective ownership. It offered a linear power delivery suited for urban and highway driving, prioritising reliability over outright performance. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through carburettor or single-point injection systems, meeting the applicable standards of the time.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not replaced preventatively. This issue, addressed in Renault service documentation, is often linked to the design of the original tensioner bearing. Later production runs incorporated revised components to improve longevity.
Production years 1985–1996 predate the Euro 1 standard; emissions compliance is based on national regulations in effect at time of manufacture (French DRIRE Type Approval).
The Renault F2N 730 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and light commercial vehicles (1985-1996). It combines a robust cast iron block with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver dependable, low-maintenance performance. Designed for the emissions regulations of its era, it prioritises mechanical durability over high-tech efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.7 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 64–72 kW (87–98 PS) | |
| Torque | 147–155 Nm @ 2,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or Single-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W-40 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The simple SOHC design offers mechanical robustness but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage from belt failure. The use of mineral oil is specified due to the engine's design tolerances and era. Carburettor models are sensitive to fuel quality and require periodic tuning. The timing belt tensioner pulley is a known wear item; preventative replacement with the belt is strongly advised per Renault service guidelines. Cooling system maintenance is critical to prevent head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral 15W-40 or 10W-40 specification (Renault Service Manual 77 11 065 670). Synthetic oils not recommended for original equipment.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification based on French national regulations in effect (DRIRE Type Approval). No EU-wide standard applicable.
Power Ratings: Measured under CEE/ECE standards. Output varies by model year and fuel system (Renault Homologation Dossier).
Renault Service Manual (Ref. 77 11 065 670)
Renault Technical Note (TN 045/87)
Renault EPC (Ref. 77 11 296 558)
French DRIRE Type Approval Documentation
The Renault F2N 730 was used across Renault's R19 platform with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minor updates over its lifespan, including a transition from carburettor to single-point injection around 1990, creating minor parts differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange. The full code (e.g., F2N 730) should be clearly visible. Differentiate from the similar F3N engine by displacement (F2N is 2.0L, F3N is 1.8L) and power output. Carburettor models (pre-1990) have a large carburettor atop the intake manifold, while later SPI models have a throttle body and fuel rail. Service parts, particularly for the ignition and fuel system, are specific to the carburettor or SPI variant.
The F2N 730's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected service intervals. Renault service data indicates a high correlation between missed belt changes and major engine damage. The simple design is otherwise robust, but cooling system neglect and fuel system issues on carburettor models are common secondary failure points.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1996) and French DRIRE service data (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F2N-730.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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