For fans of the 4G1x engines…

It all started in 2005 when I created the Carburetor Forum for enthusiasts of the 4G1-series engine, with 1,300 and 1,500 cc engine car owners consisting of mainly Malaysian-made cars which are highly affordable, have durable engines and an abundance of spare parts.

Proton Iswara 1.5- powered by Mitsubishi’s durable 1,468cc 4G15 SOHC.

Before 2005, I’ve gone through several Sagas, Iswaras and Satrias and I have meddled extensively with the engine internals. It went to an extent that in one particular year I had to change more than three engines! For more than 10 years, the 4G1-series single cam engine has been in my bloodline. I once converted to the Mitsubishi 4G9-series engine but it wasn’t meant to be. Due to certain family commitments, I had to revert back to a year 1999 Wira 1.5(A).

However, this was by no means a downgrade. I have been successfully campaigning this car in GRA ( Grassroots Racing Autosports) competitions since year 2006 and at one time was placed as high as second against a field of competitors with cars that were much more highly regarded, much to my competitors’ embarassment. I have also been active in many motorsports events over the years.

Fred in action at GRA.

The 4G1 Series forum was started by me to give all members a chance to understand this underrated but wonderfully versatile engine which can dish out a minimum of 99 hp with the right modifications that are both affordable and compliant with the strict regulations of our road transport department. With the help of all other car modders in our forum, we provide a sense of belonging to 4G1-series owners since this humble single cam engine has been already replaced by Campro engines.

Currently, we have 150 active members nationwide including some from East Malaysia. Our members are involved in the whole range of modifications that are available for the 4G1-series, from performance carburettor, naturally aspirated and force induction. Our community organizes regular meet-ups and outings of various kinds to keep each other engaged in our passion.

We welcome the participation of more owners of the 4G1-series engine in its various incarnations to join our small but vibrant community.

Fred Foong
4G1 Series Forum

Editorial Note:

Before switching to the Waja, my previous ride was a 2002 Iswara 1.5 auto, shown in the picture above. I went to that car after three years driving a Wira 1.6 XLi(A), and let’s just say that the transition wasn’t very pleasant. For a start, I hated the archaic 3-speed automatic transmission, which meant that I had a car which clocks the same kind of FC in urban and highway driving.

However, as time went on, my feelings for the car began to warm. It might not be particularly fast, but it was a willing workhorse. The engine was a smooth revver, and archaic as it might be, that auto gearbox can take tons of abuse without showing any signs of breaking down. Best thing I liked about that car was its maneuverability. There are times, when I attempt to squeeze through tight spaces in my Lotus-tuned Waja, I think back to the humble Iswara which would have wiggled through the gap quite easily. – KON