Has anybody tried Zetec Power?

[TerryG]

I have just been reading one of the classic car mags that was sitting about at work and have seen that the ford Zetec lump bolts straight onto a type 9 box. Has anybody tried fitting one of these to a mog? I am presently scrimping the pennies to get the parts from JLH to do a K series conversion but i thought (after reading how to do a RWD conversion to a zetec) that this may be an alternative power plant.

[chickenjohn]

Terry, with all due respect, if you want K series engine and coil over dampers- then simply buy a modern Rover as they all come equipped like that.

Enjoy the Morris Minor as it is with its nice "A" series engine, torsion bars, leaf springs and lever arm dampers!

and save yourself a lot of cash and grief into the bargain too!

[jonathon]

With all due respect John, the end result is like chalk and cheese. By all means enjoy your standard Minor to the full. However with a modern power plant, handling and braking packages, the Minor is so much more enjoyable. Ok it will not be to everyones taste but for those wanting a more efficient/exciting retro looking car, but with modern car performance its the way to go. Lets not cast judgement until you have tried it. I think its unfair to advise against a product unless in a position of knowledge.
Terry, would be great to have you in the K series club, you will not be dissapointed. The Zetec or Duratec or what ever its called today, is a great engine, and will directly fit the Type 9 box. The problem is engine length and the fact that the water pipes exit right onto the bulkhead cross member.
I'm sure it can be made to fit, but will require much time and money to develop as a useable kit. The motor is a bit heavier than the K series, which is in turn 15kg lighter than the A series.

[jonathon]

John, forgot to ask what grief is there with fitting the K series and coil -overs?

[TerryG]

I have a standard 2 door that looks good and save for being converted to unleaded its standard. What I want is a car that looks 30 years old that will give the GTI boys a run for their money. I also want to use it every day without having to adjust the brakes weekly and service it every month! I had a Rover 45 for my company car for 7 months before I got annoyed with it's trim falling apart and having to use hot glue to put it back on again.
Jonathon: I am going to have to upgrade my car in stages (as finances allow) i.e. suspension, brakes and chassis first then engine box and axle later. (I have a ford type 9 box and a mk1 escort axle and prop shaft sitting in my garage)