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| The ERA Story
The history of ERA and the story behind the development of the ERA Mini Turbo. |
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 Engine & Instruments |
| Fuel & Exhaust System |
| Electrical System |
| Brakes & Suspension |
| Interior Trim |
| Body & Wheels |
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Engine & Instrumentation
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The engine is identical to that fitted to the MG Metro Turbo. It has a capacity of 1275cc and is fitted with a Garret T3 Turbocharger. The following points should be checked when examining this unit:- Ensure that the engine serial number, marked on an aluminium plate riveted to the radiator end of the engine block, has the prefix 12HD26******. This prefix is unique to the turbocharged engine. |
| The correct cylinder head for this engine is fitted with sodium filed exhaust valves and the casting is especially chosen for maximum water capacity. Externally, the cylinder head is a standard 12G 294 casting but, to identify it as a genuine ‘turbo' head, it is stamped with a capital letter ‘T', adjacent to the heater take-off hose at the clutch end of the engine. If this marking is not present, then the cylinder head may have been substituted. |  |
The correct clutch is of the Verto type, which is identified by the short, hydraulically actuated release lever, secured to the clutch housing cover via an inclined metal mounting plate.
Cranked crankcase breather pipes are fitted to both the clutch housing and to the timing chain cover.
An ECU controlled Boost Modulator is attached to the top radiator support bracket and two wires connect it to the ECU, which is located under the passenger side parcel shelf. Any deviation from this standard configuration suggests a mechanical, manual boost valve has been fitted, which may have compromised engine life, due to the application of excessive boost.
Auxiliary coolant and oil radiators are fitted to the front of the engine bay, the latter mounted horizontally behind a scoop attached to the nearside rear of the front grill. Check that both these radiators and their associated pipe work are free from damage and leaks.
The main radiator is a special model, having an additional inlet pipe at the lower front corner where it connects to the auxiliary coolant radiator. Because of this, ensure that the radiator is in good condition, as it will be expensive to repair.
When starting the engine, the amber Oil Pressure lamp should illuminate when the key is set to position II. The lamp should subsequently extinguish whilst the engine is being started, then illuminate immediately the ignition key is released from the ‘Start' position (Position III). After approximately 2 to 3 seconds, when the oil pressure switch closes, the lamp should again extinguish. Any deviation from this operating sequence indicates that the engine electrical system has been altered or is defective.
The engine, when warm, should idle smoothly, with an indicated oil pressure of approximately 4 bar, and even when hot should not fall below 1 bar at the correct idle speed of between 830 and 930 rpm.
Boost will not indicate above 0.5 bar when the vehicle is stationary, irrespective of engine speed.
Engine Oil Temperature will normally only indicate after a long run at high speed.
Water temperature should not rise above 90 deg C when cruising. It may rise during a high speed run on a warm day, but should fall immediately to the previous figure after returning to normal legal cruising speed.
The Battery Condition indicator should not indicate above 14.4V, irrespective of engine revs, and should not fall below 11V at idle, with all lights lit.