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MG MGB GT V8 Factory Originals Technical - Zetec Question

Im not that sure if anyone has asked this before but Ive got a Zetec (ford focus) 4 cylinder motor sitting in my garage that Im going to put into my B. Im looking for a dual Weber DCOE carb intake manifold but cant seem to find one other than that Weber alpha kit wish is a lot more than what im looking for. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks
JRod


Which version of the Zetec engine do you have JRod?

My understanding that there is a range of DOHC Zetec engines; and much must depend on which version you have. My initial reaction is unhelpful, namely that you would be better spending your money on a standard or modified MGB engine, or a Rover V8.

The Zetec-SE first appeared in 1995, in 1.25L capacity, it subsequently grew to 1.4L and 1.6L; later there have been 1.8L, and most recently 2.0L and 2.3L versions.

The standard engine in the current 2004 Ford Focus LX and Focus SE has a splitport induction system designed to balance power and economy, the peak output is 110 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm.

Some versions of this engine have a dualmode crank-shaft damper for refinement and re-calibrated management computers for better drive response.

Other versions have been developed in conjunction with Cosworth such as the SVT which I understand has a dual-stage intake manifold, variable cam timing on the intake camshaft with a peak output of 170 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm, and 145 ft lbs at 5,500 rpm.

Another version produced for cetain states in the US where there are particular difficulties in meeting emission standards is the 2.3L 4-cylinder PZEV engine which gives 148-hp @ 5,500 rpm.



Nigel Steward

Nigel

Isn't the 1.25 - 1.6litre varient alloy blocked and the 1.8litre upwards cast iron?

Dunno where the 1.7litre (in the Puma) fits. I assume it's a bored out alloy block.

Stuart Robson

Stuart, I'm not sure, so no comment - this are a large number of Zetec engines not only dfifferent capacities, but many different states of tune.

JRod, you might be interested in RaceLine

http://www.raceline.co.uk/zetecframes.htm

who offer a twin sidedraught Weber 40DCOE carburettor kit ("Raceline 160"). It gives you everything you need to convert a new or used Zetec engine to in-line installation. It includes; the Raceline wet sump kit; water rail, including thermostat housing, thermostat, and all fittings; inlet manifold; alternator mounting kit; 3D ignition electronic control unit (ecu) and wiring loom, including the throttle potentiometer; lightweight fully balanced flywheel, which positions the ring gear so the existing starter motor can be retained in most cases; and 8½in clutch kit.

RaceLine also offer 190bhp and 210bhp versions of this kit.

I have driven a Ginetta G20 with a RaceLine engine; it was certainly a strong and sweet engine, here are some links:-

http://www.feredaycars.co.uk

http://www.feredaycars.co.uk/Zetec/

http://www.feredaycars.co.uk/ginetta/

http://www.specialisedengines.co.uk/zetec/dir19.html

Finally 2nd user Webber Carbs. & kits +++ can be found here:-

http://www.rallyusedparts.co.uk/facilities/searches/searchfuel.cfm
do two searches one for "Carburettors" and one for "Ford".

I still believe that the Rover V8 is the way to go.

NJSS




Nigel Steward

<<I still believe that the Rover V8 is the way to go>>

Ditto

www.geocities.com/midgetv8
Stuart Robson

What about a gear box? These are for FWD engine set up to rear wheel drive.
The G

The G.

As mentioned above the Raceline kit:-

http://www.raceline.co.uk/zetecframes.htm

includes all that you need to convert a Zetec engine to in-line installation.

NJSS
Nigel Steward

The zetec motors that we have over here are all 2.0 Litre's. They are available in either 130 or 170 (the SVT version). Ive seen some pages on the internet where some people have made 160 hp out of the stock motor by just hooking up two Webers and jetting them right. Id rather have a good reliable 4 banger that can get 25+ mpg than an 8 cylinder, especially since gas is getting up to $2.30 a gallon. Just personal preference though, I guess.
Jarrod Hills

Looking for something on this side of the world.
The G

G,
I have gotten some information about using ford t5 trannies, like a mustang, behind them. the other option is the ford type 9 5 speed box. caterham usa uses the type 9 box behind their zetecs and theres a company that makes bellhousings for t5's
Jarrod Hills

How close are the ztech engines to Mazda Miata engines? I have not compaired them side by side but the overall look seems similar.
B Reeves

If your looking for a DOHC engine for a conversion, how about dropping in a Chrysler 2.5L K car motor with a twin cam head conversion and turbo.

http://images.cardomain.com/member_images/6/web/222000-222999/222979_23_full.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/~ozspeed/

Get a bellhousing from a 94-95 Dodge Dakota 2.5L and hook up a Toyota Supra Turbo 5-speed for RWD and you're off!

Greg
Greg

Rover V8 is ok SBF is better. However for someone that is not trying to get two far from the original concept of the MGB a modern 4 banger with EFI would be great.
The G

Ive considered a Miata motor but I dont think that they make too much power, when compared with the Zetec. Also, are there weber carb intake manifolds available for the miata?
Jarrod Hills

Why do all that work to removed a 4 cylinder and install another 4 cylinder. The Miata is allot of work and the Zech would be the same as the Miata, a bear to install in the B engine bay. No logic
Steve

Steve - you must not have read this whole thread. Go back and read it again.
160 HP (more than twice a stock B)
Reliability
25+ MPG
A 4-banger will also run cooler, weigh less and be easier to install than a 6 or an 8 cyl.
Mike

Mike,

With Supercharging route and crossflow route, originality can be maintained with performance.

The non longer produced Rover V8, weighing same as B does not alter handling, but will produce 270 - 370 bhp (if only a LS1 would fit!).

Frontline are now producing a K (just watch that coolant) kit for B although unfortunately not for KV6 which I would prefer at least to use in a B as Midgets run with 4pot.

The Duratec engine would be IMO a better alternative to Zetec.

Paul
Paul

A duratec might be better than a zetech but there is one problem with that, in the states the duratech just now came out in cars, specifically the focus. Its been used in the Ranger, a small pick up truck, for a few years now but since its a truck motor, its designed for that application. Also, its enlarged 1/3 litre but only makes 10 more HP so the difference isnt too substantial.

Reasons for a 4 cylinder:
***gas mileage***
reliability

One thing i dont understand is how a 4 cyl install is going to be harder than a v8 install. Please help me understand steve.

A crossflow and supercharger on a B motors yeilds about 90 rwhp which really, when you think about it, is pretty crappy when you balance that power with the amount of money you just spent. Originality is not a concern here.
Jarrod Hills

Jarrod,

A lot of development in UK which may cross pond

http://www.brookecars.co.uk/engine-220r.html

http://www.britishclassiccarspares.com/engine.html


Paul
Paul

A miata engine either the 1.8 or the earlier 1.6 liter can easily produce a reliable 200-230 rear wheel horsepower with the addition of a Flyin Miata turbo kit.
www.flyinmiata.com

Resourceful Miata owners have been able to replicate the performance of the Flyin Miata kit for $2,ooo with a standalone ECU and lots of fabricating/parts scrounging.
The standartd Miasta gearbox is a sweet shifting unit too.

But as far as four bangers go in the US, I gotta think the Neon SR4T engine is the way to go with Mopar approved mods to get you to 300 hp. Just the question of a gearbox. Anyone know if there is a mopar box that will row behind the neon motor?

Regards,

Brian C
Brian Corrigan

Only RWD gearbox I know of that will bolt behind a Neon 2.4L is the NV1500 out of a new 2003-04 Jeep Wrangler. Gearing is not so good.

Greg
Greg

This thread was discussed between 12/05/2004 and 26/05/2004

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