Does anyone know if i can do a zetec conversion on my mk2 escort legally in SA through regency park. I don't want to start purchasing items and starting the conversion if a am going to get defected off the road by the pol*ice. Has anyone done it before in SA?

Hi Paul

I don't think it has been done but I'm on the way with mine. Many similar conversiions have been successful and this is no different as long as it's done correctly.

Best speak to an engineer to get the guidelines on what you need to satisfy prior to getting in too far. At the end of the day it's mostly common sense moreso than legislation but it pays to get the opinions from the professionals.

I am going to try to speak to a engineer but i think they are expensive in SA. Going to submit the modification forms to reg park in the next few days and see what they have to say about it before i start.
Thanks for the reply Paul.

You can do an initial free consult with most automotive engineers.

I went to Tonkins @ Wayville and discussed my original concept prior and also applying through Transport SA.

To be honest applying to the authorities is useless as all it states is that they agree in principle - you will need engineering approval etc. You also only have a number of years (4 years?) to complete the project for inspection or you'll need to re-apply. Mine ran out a LOOOONG time ago!

Enquire with an engineer first as they're the ones that Transport SA will need to sign off the mods regardless. They just basically register the thing with the mods.

Paul D
I spoke to a tonkins engineer today. He said that i should be alright to get through regency without engineering as long as i keep the standard injection and ecu on the motor,yuk. Also to upgrade the brakes, i have the pedal box almost in. However i am doubtful about getting through inspection. The authorities may make me do the brake track testing thing with an engineer, if not the whole the conversion. Anyways i'll put the mod forms in and see what they want me to do. I will let you know what happens if you want. I am getting the motor 2morrow anyways

Thanks Paul

Hi Paul,

I had to go through an inspection after a defect. At the time I had the UPC big brake kit on the front and 200sx rear disc conversion and an adjustable pedal box. I removed the rear discs and went back to drums, and removed remote adjuster but retained the rest and I got caught up on the feed lines from fluid pots to m/c's not being ADR approved. I argued the point that they only need to be ADR approved if under pressure and got it passed.

Rhys

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Originally posted by Paul

Paul D
I spoke to a tonkins engineer today. He said that i should be alright to get through regency without engineering as long as i keep the standard injection and ecu on the motor,yuk. Also to upgrade the brakes, i have the pedal box almost in. However i am doubtful about getting through inspection. The authorities may make me do the brake track testing thing with an engineer, if not the whole the conversion. Anyways i'll put the mod forms in and see what they want me to do. I will let you know what happens if you want. I am getting the motor 2morrow anyways

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That's good news.

Yes, if playing with brakes it's best to get some professional opinions etc just to keep it all legal. At the end of the day if you're going through the hassle of a conversion you might as well do it properly.

What engine - Silvertop or Blacktop?

I'm keeping all the OEM gear to satisfy the regulators - see here http://classic-ford.org/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=9134&whichpage=13

I found out that i have to keep the Original Engine Management (ECU,Injection) on the blacktop to get through inspection without engineering certs. Otherwise its at least a $500 DTEI emission test in the Lab pass or fail. And then there is the extra bhp that will be gained by aftermarket throttle bodies that they will want to be engineered cert. Turb Tune at Edwardstown will hook the original ecu,injection up for me no worries. So i plan to get the zetec engine mod through inspection first then apply for the emission test later when i put throttle bodies on. Its a pain but seems the only way to get through regency without spending mega bucks on engineering.

You will not be able to retain the factory Escort brake booster etc when using the OEM Zetec manifold that is required to be used with the original ECU.

Playing with brakes means engineering [:(!]

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Originally posted by Paul Dunstan

You will not be able to retain the factory Escort brake booster etc when using the OEM Zetec manifold that is required to be used with the original ECU.

Playing with brakes means engineering [:(!]

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I think its ok to use the brake bias pedal box?, mines rally design brand. Also the 2lt scort guy Rhys, said he has already been through with it on. Its sounds like he had a line lock on that he had to take off.