I have found out through the mechanical failure of 2 Duratec engines that they are a pike of junk, I want to fit the good old trusty Zetec in place of the Duratec but I'm unsure if it will go. Obviously, size wise, it will fit but will the input shaft from gearbox fit? Do i need to change ecu? I'm guessing I will as its different engine. Do I need to change wiring harness? I've never had problems with the Zetec whereas the duratec its one thing after another why Ford opted to use this motor is beyond me it really is a pile junk(to be polite lol). Please help any advice will be greatly appreciated.

 

eh? why do you think its a pile of junk?

 

I think its junk coz as I said its been one thing after another this is the 2nd engine that's gone kapput on me with no warning signs I've never had problems with other ford engines I've had, cvh, hcs, endura d, zetec, they've all been spot on but then this Ford badged Mazda engine they call the duratec is pathetic, I'm constantly under the bonnet fixing something.

 

I have to agree with you tbh, it's a good engine when running. But i personally know 2 vehicles with major engine problems which have been scrapped due to this and another which has needed a timing chain.

All are vehicles with average milage and full ford history.

I reckon the V6 is the only reliable mk3 mondeo available, wouldn't touch a 1.8/2.0 with a barge pole.

Incidently i'm intrigued if this is doo-able.....

 

My local Ford specialist even say the duratec its probably the worst engine Ford have ever used, and James, you have just proven my point, the first one to go kapput was due to cam chain breaking, the one in the car at min is still running but a piston ring has broke resulting in major piston slap and a lot of blue smoke. The V6 is fine as I do believe that's a Ford engine rather than an 'imported' unit. However, I don't wanna fit that for obvious economy issues, the 1.8 costs enough to run as it is which is one reason I'm wanting to fit the Zetec of same size even if it is down on power by ten ponies that can easily be sorted with a couple of tweeks as all the Zetec fans will be all to aware of but overall its a lot more reliable and easier to fix when things do go wrong and they alwys give you a warning when somethings about to go pop. It must be possible I just don't know how to go about it or what I'm going to need.