Zetec SE 1.4 - what gearbox? Tuning?

[Flat-6]

Hi all, ive just picked up a new-old-stock Zetec SE 1.4 (ZSG414) that I intend to wedge into an MG Midget.

The first thing is gearboxes, what will fit? I can see that a Ford type-9 + special bellhousing will work but that's a good £400 all in, for an old box.
I've been seeing talk of MX5 boxes fitting, can anyone shed any light on that?

Also, I want this to be a fun road and track car, it should give about 80bhp stock which is "ok" but what can be done wo ring more power out without breaking the bank? Cams? Bike carbs? Webers?

[Flat-6]

Thanks guys, ok so after a little more research, its either the Type9 or the RX8 on a 1.6 Zetec SE.

Tell me more about the bellhousing Ugg - where are you based? how many beer tokens do you require to let go? :-)

[Flat-6]

Actually I was looking at the 5-speed, as i really dont need 6 for what im doing.

So are they a lot heavier than the cast Type 9?

[Flat-6]

Thanks ugg - if indeed that is your real name.... !

OK 10kg is quite a lump, considering ive saved that by going with an alloy block instead of steel.

I'll let you know about the bellhousing, as I'm still weighing up my options.

Another option is to go with an MX5 complete engine and box....

[Flat-6]

OK, so having stood scratching my head (and other bits) in the shed most of yesterday, I've decided to change plans a bit.

My plan now is to get an ST170 engine, and mate that to an RX8 5-speed box via a matching plate.

Why? Power and cost.

Power will be about double with throttle bodies and cams, cost will be about half.

Oh and bonus, I can use the flywheel off the 1.6 to replace the dual mass thing on the ST170 and fit a mondeo clutch plate to mate to the input shaft of the RX8 box.

I think.

Edited by Flat-6 on Monday 18th December 10:01

[Flat-6]

I have a monstrous bulge just thinking about this.

[Flat-6]

dai1983 said:

If you’re going 2.0 with cams and ITBs then just get a Duratec. It’s all alloy unlike the st170 “Duratec” and doesn’t have VCT to mess about with. There’s also a 2.3 version found in the Mazda 6 that has VCT but 166bhp as standard. Think they mate to the rx8/mx box too.

Too late! Already got an st170.

Anyone want a free standard st170 gearbox??!!