Why is it called a Barra engine?
The term "Barra engine" refers to a specific type of inline-four engine produced by Ford Australia. This engine was primarily used in Ford's Falcon and Territory models sold in Australia and other markets. The name "Barra" is derived from the Spanish word for "bar," which is a nod to the engine's inline-four cylinder configuration.
The Origins of the Barra Engine
The Barra engine was developed by Ford's Australian engineering team in the late 1990s as a replacement for the aging inline-six engines used in the Falcon lineup. The goal was to create a more modern, efficient, and powerful four-cylinder engine that could still provide the performance and towing capacity expected by Falcon buyers.
The Barra engine was designed from the ground up by Ford's Australian engineers, drawing on their expertise in developing high-performance engines for the local market. The "Barra" name was chosen to reflect the engine's inline-four cylinder layout, with "barra" being the Spanish word for "bar" or "rod."
Key Features of the Barra Engine
- Inline-Four Configuration: The Barra engine is an inline-four design, with four cylinders arranged in a straight line. This layout is known for its inherent balance and compact size, making it well-suited for use in the Falcon and Territory models.
- Displacement and Power: The Barra engine was available in various displacement sizes, ranging from 4.0 to 4.9 liters. These engines were capable of producing between 195 and 362 horsepower, depending on the specific model and tuning.
- Advanced Technologies: The Barra engine incorporated several advanced technologies, including variable valve timing, direct fuel injection, and turbocharging in some high-performance variants. These features helped improve the engine's efficiency, power output, and emissions performance.
The Barra engine's combination of power, efficiency, and reliability made it a popular choice for Ford's Australian models, and it remained in production until the discontinuation of the Falcon and Territory in the early 2010s.
How much power can a stock Barra handle?
How much boost can a stock Barra handle? Generally, these stronger motors will handle over 450rwkW, depending on boost levels and rpm.
What is the weakness of the Barra engine?
Ford didn't do quite as well equipping the Barra with valve springs. Stock springs only hold 50psi of seat pressure, so with 15psi boost, you've reduced seat pressure to 35psi. This isn't enough to keep the valves closed at high rpm, allowing boost to escape into the exhaust without being compressed.
What is the Barra weakness?
4. Oil Pump. There are a couple of weaknesses in the factory Barra motor, particularly early BA-BF examples. The factory oil pump gears have been known to fail with enthusiastic driving and a few revs, even in lightly modified cars, leading to catastrophic engine failure.
What is the problem with the Ford Barra engine?
The problem is usually caused by the filter or oil restrictor in the oil feed pipe, becoming fouled by dirty oil. This slows or completely blocks oil flow into the turbocharger CHRA, causing bearing failure and shaft seizure. Obviously the same goes if you are looking for a replacement Ford barra engine for sale.
How much HP can you get out of a Barra engine?
All Barras run the same 92.26mm-bore and 99.31mm-stroke iron block and 24-valve alloy head, but factory Barras produce anywhere from 209hp up to 435hp, depending on the specs.
What is the strongest Barra?
Barra 325T
Barra 325T
The final and most powerful variant of the Barra engine featured in the FG-X XR6 Sprint.
Why did the US never get the Barra engine?
The reasons for the Barra not being used in the USA is because most cars in the USA are front wheel drive and a straight 6 is hard to package in a vehicle of that configuration. Secondly pick up truck buyers favour V8's so no market there for the Barra.
Why is the Barra so strong?
By adding stronger valve springs, a huge turbo, and an electronic tune to harmonise it all, big numbers have been produced on stock bottom ends. Ramp up to a fully 'built' bottom end, reduce the compression ratio and the sky's the limit in both power and budget terms.
When did Ford stop making the Barra?
Discontinuation. On 23 May 2013, Ford Australia confirmed that the Barra engine would be discontinued along with the Ford Falcon and Territory by October 2016. Ford Australia's engine manufacturing operations ceased on 26 September 2016 and car assembly on 7 October 2016.
How much HP is in a Barra?
Inline-Six Barra Engine Specs
There are three naturally aspirated versions of the engine; the Barra 182, Barra 190, and Barra 195. From the factory, they made 244 horsepower, 255 hp, and 261 hp, respectively. The first two Barra engines made 282 lb-ft of torque, while the Barra 195 had 288 lb-ft of twist.
