ALDA Duratec ST 2.0 – Ford Focus ST170 Mk1 Head Gasket Keychain
ALDA Duratec ST — the heart of the original Focus ST170
Before turbocharged ST models became the norm, the first-generation Ford Focus ST170 took a different route. Its naturally aspirated 2.0-litre ALDA engine delivered 173 PS at 7,000 rpm, using variable intake valve timing, a dual-stage intake manifold and a tuned 4-2-1 stainless exhaust system to turn the ordinary Focus Zetec architecture into something much more special.
Developed with input from Ford's SVT engineering programme and Cosworth Technology, the ALDA combined a high-flow cylinder head, revised camshafts, forged connecting rods and a 10.2:1 compression ratio. Unlike the turbocharged performance Fords that followed, the ST170 made its character through revs, induction and naturally aspirated response.
This GasketKeys piece recreates the distinctive head-gasket profile of that engine as a compact stainless-steel tribute to one of the earliest cars to establish the ST badge as a Ford performance identity.
Engineering & Craftsmanship
- Industrial Grade Build: Precision laser-cut from premium 304 stainless steel, giving the miniature gasket a durable brushed-metal finish.
- Protective Frame: Presented inside a 3.3 mm CNC-machined PLY frame, protecting the detailed gasket profile while giving it a finished presentation.
- Technical Precision: Cylinder bores, coolant passages and major gasket features are digitally mapped from the original gasket geometry.
- Letterbox Friendly: The slim under-5 mm package format keeps UK delivery simple while retaining a distinctive presentation.
Those construction points follow the product structure specified by your GasketKeys framework.
A subtle piece of Ford performance history
The ST170 occupies an interesting point in Ford history: after the traditional hot Escorts but before the turbocharged Focus ST generations.
Rather than another large badge, logo or piece of branded merchandise, this keychain is intended as a small engineering memento — recognisable immediately to someone who knows what an ALDA or ST170 is, while remaining subtle enough to carry every day.
For an ST170 owner, previous owner, restorer or enthusiast, it represents the engine rather than merely the badge on the boot.
5. Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine code | ALDA |
| Ford designation | 2.0L Duratec-ST |
| Underlying engine family | Zetec derivative |
| Vehicle | Ford Focus ST170 |
| Generation | Mk1 / first generation |
| Production period | 2002–2004 |
| Displacement | 1,988 cc |
| Configuration | Inline-four |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, 16 valve |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Variable timing | Intake VCT |
| Bore | 84.8 mm |
| Stroke | 88.0 mm |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Maximum output | 127 kW / 173 PS |
| Peak power speed | 7,000 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 196 Nm @ 5,500 rpm |
| Fuel system | Sequential multipoint injection |
| Engine management | Black Oak |
| GasketKeys material | 304 stainless steel |
| Presentation frame | 3.3 mm CNC-machined PLY |
| Made in | United Kingdom |
Ford workshop data confirms the ALDA code, 1,988 cc displacement, 84.8 × 88.0 mm bore/stroke, 10.2:1 compression and 173 PS output.