Hi guys,

I've managed to find some time to get myself down to the garage again recently to crack on with the build a bit. Just to remind you it's a fairly basic Indy with a 1.8 pinto. So far the engine is fit, and almost kinda runs. The exhaust is on, propshaft fit, sump shortened etc.

Now I've seen how cheap it's possible to get hold of a Zetec! I'm looking at a 1.8/2.0 zetec from the mid 90's. How much hassle would it be to swap at this point? I know I'd need new engine mounts, but what about propshaft length/gearbox? Would I need to chop another sump? Anything else I've missed?

In the end I'd like something with around 100hp thats fun to race around on the road, but most of all I'd like it to be reliable. I just want to jump in and drive. Whats the best plan, in you're collective opinion?

Cheers
tr

the trick seems to be keeping the stock injection system to make it a cheap conversion cant help you with any other mods needed to get it fitted

Chop Sump - early 90s were all ali
Sort ignition and fuel / fit twin 40s and reject
Exhaust
Inlet manifold
Clutch / release bearing

If you're using a type 9 or mt75 then it'll bolt straight up with the right clutch/release bearing - no messing around with props etc

exhaust is in on the other side as well in case you have done the body work.

The inlet and exhaust are on opposite sides on the zetec for a start. The zetec has no distributor so you'll need some sort of ECU (megajolt ?) or cobble together something with an EDIS module from a late CVH escort ?. I'd be tempted at your stage to get the car on the road and SVA'd with the pinto , enjoy it for a while then change the engine. I started out with a 2.0L zetec and it cost a fair amount to get it in compared to what a pinto would have.

Don't let me put you off I wouldn't have anything but the zetec (great engine), but it seems that you've spent the money and done most of the hard work fitting the pinto. If you really want a more powerful engine why not swap the 1.8 for a 2.0 or custom 2.1 pinto. Spend the money you would have spent on the zetec on a cam some nice carbs and a rolling road session.

If you've started the bodywork, save for a while and get it on the road.

When the lust for power more comes (it will), you've got an easy path to Cossie Turbo, or the bodywork is ready to accept a duratec conversion - the price of these should come down over the next 18 months as cars with these get a little older and more are written off.

just my opinion having built an indy with a 1.8 pinto, i would complete and get through sva, put on a decent carb and you will have loads of fun with little expense and it will do exactly what you want it to do, you can always upgrade later if you wish a 2.0l pinto with bike carbs is cheap upgrade with little disruption to existing set up, or dependant on budget if you feel more power is required then go for a more modern engine or even bike engine.

If you've got this far then one route would be to carry on and get the car on the road for summer, there will be plenty to do to acheive this. Enjoy it, then when the ice comes around again you could always upgrade the power plant. BTW the exhaust comes out the same side on a Duratec as a pinto . You may also find that you will be stuck with pre '92 emmissions test.

Cheers,

Colin