PassionFord - Ford Focus, Escort & RS Forum Discussion - what should i change for better performance?

PassionFord - Ford Focus, Escort & RS Forum Discussion (https://passionford.com/forum/index.php)

- Other Marques (https://passionford.com/forum/other-marques-10/)

- - what should i change for better performance? (https://passionford.com/forum/other-marques/140524-what-should-i-change-for-better-performance.html)

what should i change for better performance?

Re: what should i change for better performance?

Quote:

Originally Posted by lworbey

Hi all,

I have a Ford Escort Finesse 1999, 1.6L 16v Zetec and all I have changed so far is the back box and added a K&N induction kit.

I am not too worried about cosmetics for now and I was wondering which of the following changes I have planned for the future are going to affect the performance the most?

I am looking at getting an FSE Power Boost Valve but I cannot find any reviews of them as to how much they affect performance? Not much point in adjustable fuel pressure mate as the engine spec is more or less standard

At some stage I would like to have lowered suspension, strut bar, performance spark plugs & leads... Uprated suspension is a worthwhile buy, but stick to a decent manufacturer, and do go for the lowest you can get, make sure it actually works. Koni shocks and Eibach springs are a good combo. Same for the strut brace. It's help. As for the plugs and leads, nothing works better than the OE stuff. So get down to fords for new OE plugs and leads, it will make a difference

Are any of these not worth getting or can anyone else think of anything I could get that might make a difference?

P.S. within reason on price as I'm not rich but have a bit of money to spend...

Thanks!

Lee

See my comments above, but my first port of call would be to replace the rest of your exhaust with a free flowing one. After that it's all cams and headwork which is utterly pointless on the 1600 zetec.

Next thing would be to find an 1800 130 spec zetec from the XR3i which will slip in no bother.

My advice is make it handle and stop, better brakes are a big bonus, then save your cash for a better base for tuning. :top:

EXACTLY what Rab said.

No point tuning the 1600 past exhaust/air filter stage. Power boost valves are a waste of time on this car tbh.

Make it handle and brake better and be surprised at the speeds you can carry through the twisties :top:

Even with a full aftermarket ECU, throttle bodies etc and 1.6 will still only make 125 bhp. Fit a 2ltr and you have got 136 bhp straight way.

Chips, FSE valves and back boxes do bugger all too. No such thing as performance spark plus and leads, they either work or they dont.