The fifth generation of the once-popular Escort model had the 1.6-liter Ford L1E or Escort 1.6 Zetec 16v engine installed in all of its bodies. The engine was manufactured between 1992 and 1995. The Mondeo 1, however, had a nearly identical power unit installed under a different L1F index.
The Zetec family also includes engines: L1N, EYDC, RKB, NGA, EYDB, EDDB and EDDC.
The engine was installed on:
- Ford Escort Mk5 in 1992 – 1995.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-1995 |
| Displacement, cc | 1597 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 90 |
| Torque output, Nm | 134 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 76 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 88 |
| Compression ratio | 10.3 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.2 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Ford Escort 1994) — city — highway — combined |
9.2 5.7 6.9 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~320 000 |
Disadvantages of the Ford L1E engine
The gas tank’s constantly clogged filter is the biggest issue for owners;
The fuel pump will fail if you drive in this manner and disregard traction issues;
The timing belt is supposed to last 120 thousand kilometers, but it is preferable to replace it twice as frequently;
The front and rear crankshaft oil seals should be the first places to look for the leak’s source;
The hydraulic lifters are rapidly impacted by the use of inferior lubricant.