FRS mk1 gearbox

[Ginger Dave]

Hey guys,

 

Will a gearbox from a mk1 Focus RS fit onto a zetec engine??

 

I think ive heard of someone doing this but im not 100% sure,

 

If it is possible then is there any benefit from fitting it??

 

and if it is possible then what would need doing and what sort of costs would you be looking at?

 

thanks for an info

 

Ginger Dave

[massivewangers]

It will bolt up to a Zetec engine, as the bolt pattern is the same.

 

But you'd need to use a different flywheel and clutch assembly. You could probably mix and match something from Focus/Escort parts, but I don't think there's a definitive guide on what works and what doesn't.

 

Then there's a whole host of other issues. The Focus uses a cable shift system, the Escort uses a rod linkage, the box mounts are different on a Focus so you'd have to fabricate new ones, and I should think the Focus uses a hydraulic clutch, so that would be another hurdle to overcome.

 

If you went through all that...you'd have a much stronger box than the standard IB5, but there are plenty of easier MTX75 options to fit. Not to mention that the ratios might be a bit funny for your engine, but I couldn't say what the difference is like between Escort and FRS. Of course you'd have the ATB diff from the FRS, which is a good thing.

 

But, if you want a funky diff, just buy one and fit it to an Escort box and save yourself a lot of ball ache

[Ginger Dave]

so yes it is possible ..... BUT its alot of work for not alot gain, correct?

[massivewangers]

so yes it is possible ..... BUT its alot of work for not alot gain, correct?

 

Indeed.

 

If you're going for big power increases (past 200bhp with plenty torque, so turbocharged really), then I would definately consider an MTX conversion of some kind, as they do seem to cope better. But I'd just find a box from an RS2000 or TDI and use that. Much easier to fit, much cheaper to buy too. Then you can fit a fancy diff if you feel the need. The ATB in the FRS was from Quaife, and is only about 500 notes new.

 

I've bought most of the bits to do the MTX conversion on my Escort, using a TDI box, and have spent about £50 so far, so much cheaper than having to go through all the work and hassle to fit a Focus gearbox, and will still be pretty strong. And then you can always add the fancy diff later.

[Ginger Dave]

Right thats answered my question,

 

cheers dude