Originally Posted by
Rick
There is no OE manifold that you can use on the zetec that bolts straight on, so I can see why people use specialist items.
What? Are you saying Zetec engines don't come with manifolds from the factory?
Originally Posted by
Rick
I think the coments used against Simons manifolds are harsh, what's the justification for it being a poor item? 13.1 is dam good in an Escort, how many are faster? Power output would be a better way to gauge a manifold imo.
I didn't say anything about his manifold. The bottom line is there are faster cars on OE manifolds so using the time as an indication of manifold performance is silly. As you correctly say, inlet manifold design is about maximum flow and equal distribution (in this context), neither of which are demonstrated in drag racing really.
Originally Posted by
Rick
Most Zetec engine's i've seen aren't really making big power when compared to other forced 16V 2l's. At 350-400hp, I don't think the inlet is being pushed so power differences between them are going to be small. We all know flowbench figures are of limited value when it comes to predecting the dynamic charcteristics of an internal combustion engine. Until somone straps them all to the same 500bhp+ engine on a dyno it's all speculation.
This is the thing. These engines are not new. People have been building and developing turbocharged zetecs on engine dynos for yonks - it's just they don't come on the internet to waffle about it. I think the important thing that a lot of people forget on this site is that PF is not the be-all and end-all of Ford tuning, infact it barely scrapes the surface.