I think anyone that is doing a Zetec isn't doing it for the cost benefits, but more for the Ford engine in an escort thing... Apart from the bellhousing bolting up, after that its pretty much fabricate your own or buy overpriced conversion alternatives. Cost wise, if you want a modern 16v RWD platform, you cant beat a 4age or MX5 variant.

That said, whilst not a purist by any stretch of the imagination, I still like to see a ford badge on the engine.....


Shaun

quote:

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Originally posted by ratta tat tat

I just have to say after reading 3 pages of the zetec conversion, it sure does appear to be one very costly, time-consuming and overly technical project. If there were at least some benefits from doing this conversion (aside from the horsepower & ford rocker cover) then I might feel peruaded. I mean come on,, look at all the work involved. I'm just going to find an MX5 that's taken a hit in the ass and save myself some money & headaches.

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What's the cost of the MX5 set-up including gearbox etc?

I already had the running gear and have made the majority of my own conversion parts (the engine cost <$200). Being a project car (read hobby) and not a daily driver I'm enjoying the challenge to do as much of the conversion (and other parts) myself. For me the FORD badge was a small consideration but moreso the 2.0L capacity as it's an RS2000 and I wanted that to correspond at least

Each to their own and there are many engine configurations out there which can be suitable for a RWD configuration. It all comes down to personel choice and circumstances.

quote:

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Originally posted by Paul DunstanWhat's the cost of the MX5 set-up including gearbox etc?

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Bout this much

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320549270889&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT


I guess a zetec conversion can suit a few people who have a lot of time up their sleeve and a shell that doesn't need to be on the road right away. My escort doesn't need to be used at all due to my work vehicle, but it is a back-up car so I don't want to leave it undrivable for too long.

quote:

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Originally posted by ratta tat tat

quote:

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Originally posted by Paul DunstanWhat's the cost of the MX5 set-up including gearbox etc?

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Bout this much

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320549270889&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

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My conversion will cost a lot less than that incl rebuilding the Zetec

But as you say - it will not be a weekend swap and go.

Hmmm got a bit of a problem. Got the motor and type 9 in the car. Hooked up the clutch cable and I don't have enough travel on the release arm to work the clutch. I'm using an xflow release bearing carrier. Does the pinto release bearing carrier have an inch or so thick spacer so the release bearing starts out closer to the pressure plate?????????
With the benefit of hinsight I should have checked earlier. The full combination is 1.8 Zetec flywheel redrilled to suit pinto clutch, pinto friction and pressure plate, pinto release bearing, xflow bearin carrier, release arm and bellhousing onto type 9 gearbox.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated

Cheers

The Pinto does have a spacer behind the pivot end of the arm, from memory about 13mm thick.

Cheers.

Hi

Got the clutch sorted and the car driving; thanks to all for the input thus far.

I'm running zx9r carbs, Megajolt ignition on an otherwise standard motor and am generally pretty pleased with the performance and driveabiltiy. The only problem i have is that it's a total pain to start; Idles and drives fine.

It's got a brand new starter & 650cca battery it seems to start eventually after endless cranking and playing with the choke and butterfly position.....Any ideas out there??

Cheers