ZX3beast, unfortunately I have you beat, class of 1970. Oh well, think young. Wonder if Ford would give $400 college rebate to "oldest" graduate class?
Hi, gang! No luck with the bike rack. None of the bike dealers around me have racks that would work well on the ZX3. Anyone else have better results in their search? There is always the one in the Focus Accessories catalog (those of you who didn't get one should contact Ford Connection and have one sent to you just for information), but I don't know if it is compatible with the moonroof.
Here's my only problem with the calicomobile. The driver's shoulder belt. It's a detestable thing. I'm about 5'9" (I've shrunk since hitting middle age, but that's another story!), and I have to contort myself all around in order to grab the belt to put it on. Then, it is rough pulling it because of the position of my seat back, and it doesn't go back in when I take it off. Is it just me? Does anyone else have this problem? I will ask about it when I take it in for the recall, but it would be great to have your opinions before I say anything to the dealer.
I'll be absent from the team for a few days -- business trip (flying, unfortunately). I know I'll miss the calicomobile terribly! (the husband and cat, too, of course!)
Be safe out there, guys! No going 125 on real roads! It's a holiday weekend, and everyone doesn't drive like they have as much to live for as those of us who have ZX3s! Take care! Calico1
i also agree with torinopaddy,a lot of time and a lot of money for very little increase in horsepower(20).the zetec is very liveable the way it has been designed by ford.there are of course other tuning factors worked in the equation of 130hp to extract max power + delivery of decent mileage.i believe the desigers perfomed a very respectable balance of the two. i also agree with silver bullet on pulling issue. good tires as he suggestested would cure that problem.my experience with front drive design has always been that front end always had that inherent tendacy to pull. not very unusual at all.
Someone mentioned Honda's S2000 making 230 hp out of the same 2.0 Liters of displacement as the Focus.
Just want to say that I've driven a S2000 and those 230 hp are almost useless. There is almost no torque. The hp comes on at around ~5100 rpms.
I can guarantee you I will be able to outrun almost every S2000 on the street, simply because owners will never wind them out to their potential. It's just too much trouble. And noise.
Granted it is fun to drive...but like a motorcycle. I like my Focus more. It's like a go-cart.
I got involved into a few discussions with neon, golf/gti,echo owners all saying how much better their cars were. I just realized that it is all so personal, what is great for me does not have to be great for you. I will no more say what is better and what is not.You like ketchup and I like mustard and that's it. Those just can't be compared ,so I'm happy with my zx3 and you be happy with your neon,echo,sentra,golf ... Let me say last time, FOCUS RULES BIG TIME!!!
kdominczak- i posted one comment + last in that focus vs. neon nonsense. i appreciate the thought- ful + courtesy members of this discussion group. i,personally have found very valuable + useful info here.enjoy+look forward to reading everyones input daily.i said my peace there,if they dont get it ,so be it.ive seen more old fords on the road then any other nameplate such as mustang,maverick, thunderbird,torino,.falcon, fairmont,granada,ltd, fairlane,lincoln .ford engines are workhorses,contrary to that stupid, idiotic, ignorant ,simple-minded,clueless,fix or repair daily tag.i respect others purchases of mopar etc. after all its their money,i dont respect the ford bashing however.if you go head to head in every category from econobox to luxury,i believe ford offers the best overall value for dollar spent. of course theres always the point of diminishing return,im not claiming that ford beats every car in every class.im just saying that the zx3 is a no brainer.do the homework.
let me say again, i know many of you seem opposed to modifying your zx3's and you are right, the zx3 is great as it is. but part of it is personalizing your car, and in a couple of months or years the zx3 is gonna be running around all over the place. according to SCC, a great marketing value of the zx3 is it's tunability, something that's almost non existent in american compact cars. also replacing the exhaust, adding an intake and chip are not major modifications. and i know i have to do much more research before i decide to get those 17 inch wheels. i also don't understand why you compare the zx3 to the s2000, when i was shopping around for cars an s2000 never came into my mind. i understand the thing about the displacement but there are plenty of cars with the same displacement producing much more power (anyone see the impreza 22b on motorweek?) About the increase in horsepower. I don't think companies like borla, focussport, or superchips can be around if the actual added horsepower is 0+0+0. Maybe 20 is overstated but borla and ford specialist claims 10% increase, superchips claims a 10 horsepower increase and around 7 on the wheels across the whole powerband and not just at peak rpms, and i know it requires premium gas but the chip is supposed to add 1 to 2 miles per gallon, and focussport (intake) rates the increase in horsepower from 3 to 5. I think anywhere between 10-20 is reasonable. who knows, maybe it's not x+y+z maybe it's ax+by+cz. i know from a previous post someone who did the same modifications claimed he was getting 155-160 horsepower and noted he got an extra kick in the pants at 4000, perhaps that's subjective but i doubt it's a placebo effect. And one extra point, don't worry about the money, i'm not spending yours. keep the comments coming, frankly i'd rather see posts concerning the actual car rather than who's gonna lead the next zx3 club or what we should name it, or how many deer there are in pennsylvania.
first of all, thanks for your post silver bullet about the unsprung weight and improved tires. It seems smarter to do a tire upgrade and save a lot of money. as for the point torinopaddy made about why ford doesn't make those improvement. As for the intake, the engineers when designing an intake make it as quiet as possible even if that means a loss in slight power. For the chip, ford doesn't do this upgrade because it forces you to use premium gasoline and not everyone wants to put premium gasoline in their cars everytime. As for the exhaust, did you ever notice how cheap it is and looks? they couldn't even add a nice stainless steel exhaust tip, something we all can get from a bmw dealership for around ten bucks. by the way i can't take credit for all this info whether you think it deserves any merit or not. i believe i've read every post on all 6 parts of these discussions.
the 170 horsepower focus r, if it comes to the states will put you back pretty close to 20 grand. speaking power strictly, that's more than 1000 for 10 horsepower. if a 150 svt comes to the states, it'll be around 16-17 grand, still over 1000 per 10 horsepower.
You are correct about the intake design and chip calibration. Unfortunately, there is a fair bit of "design it for the lowest common denominator" thinking going on when a production car is designed. I chipped a 318is I once owned and never looked back - it made a difference you could feel, but mostly in basic driveability. As for intake mods, yes, noise levels are a big concern, but don't underestimate the importance of a cold air intake. You will definitely make less power pulling hot air into the engine. Overall, I'd have to say that my "career" as an amateur automotive engineer (aka "bolt-on parts addict") made me appreciate what a nice balance the factory folks were able to achieve - asuming you start with a vehicle as nicely designed as our ZX3s, of course! Going for that extra bit of performance is what makes the aftermarket thrive, and makes car ownership fun :-) Just remember: lightness; simplicity; strength.
rubberban-lighten -up,of course you can spend your money anyway you like.i agree part of the lore of add-ons is the fun factor.however i dont think the difference in percieved hp increase makes the investment worthwile .only one opinion being shared ,no offense intended.on matters of other subjects of posting -thats what makes this group special.cars,the drivers,+their experiences.i think the majority do care who will lead the zx3club.part of that reason being -we would be a little more focused.
i guess i got a bit carried away on the aftermarket thing but as it was something I was considering doing myself, I had looked into it a bit and then had second thoughts.
Believe me, if it's something you want to do, rubberban, go for it. I was just relating how I felt after researching a bit into this business. If the guy you mentioned really got 160 bhp with these minor mods, then it seems well worth it. Did he actually get the power output measured at 160bhp, or was it a subjective guess? To me, anyway, a kick at 4000 rpm means that the torque band has a peak there but how has it been achieved. Is it much higher than the standard engine or is there a hole in the remapped band before it hits 4000 revs? You'll have guessed by now, that I am an incurable sceptic! You really got to me with the 'if it doesn't work why do people buy it' stuff though. Check out the infomercials which claim to give you a great figure on their sports equipment if you use it for a few minutes a day. These guys are making money hand over fist but do you really believe the hype? We all want something for (relatively) little these days. A lot of these companies are satisfying that desire, whether it be for ripped abs or otherwise. It is hard to sift the wheat from the chaff.
I mentioned the S2000 as the displacement is the same but the quoted hp is incredible, even if the engine doesn't develop much torque. In the real world a high peak power output doesn't necessarily translate into a fast or useable street car. Why didn't I compare it to a Subaru? The Impreza has a whopping great turbo charger forcing cooled (the B has a water-sprayed intercooler I believe) air into the engine, different story. Now if you want to turbo the engine, that will bring notable performance benefits!
As for the focus r, the power strictly thing is misleading, you would also be looking at a lot of mechanical and equipment changes, all-round disk brakes, body kit, better alloys, lots of electronic gizmos, maybe 4wd. And they may go for a 200bhp turbo, to compete against the Seat Leon (I don't know if you get Seat in the States - Spanish division of VW - the Leon is a 5dr hatch based on the Golf/Rabbit platform). The 'hot' version is out here now with 180bhp and a 6sp box but I've seen tests of a 4wd version on the running gear of the audi tt quattro.
Hmmmm,
About the tyre stuff, the Focus here (at least the model I ordered) comes with Pirelli P6000 as standard, so I don't think that's the problem, and as for it being normal behaviour in front-wheel drive cars, I am talking here of a little more than a casual drift one way or the other. i don't know exactly what the problem is, the story in the press was not exhaustive, but they did state that Ford dealers had been issued with instructions on how to correct it, so I presume it has been enough of a problem to enough people to warrant such a move.
Rubberban - The vibrations you're experiencing are a result of the way you are breaking in the engine. Since it's never experienced high rpms the engine now has to "break-in" at those revs.
The worst way to break-in an engine is to keep the rpms low and slowly increase the revs (by the book). ProjectZX3 has the right idea. After keeping under @4500 for the first hundred miles or so, you should be shifting just after peak HP (and gradually to redline) in first, then after 50 miles or so in second, etc.
What you don't want to do is bog the engine or run in fourth or fifth above 4500 RPMs for at least the first 500M (other than very short bursts).
The absolute worse is to drive at highway speeds for long periods of time, before the engine is broken in.
I know many will disagree with this opinion, but that is my belief after more than few years of experience with cars and motorcycles.
going on a road trip this weekend in my ZX3! To see BRUCE (the boss) no less!
Calico, (my fellow bruce fan) if you go to the Yakima.com page they will tell you exactly what you need for your bike rack, it's the same as the one Ford will sell you for the focus. By the time you get all the parts though so it will carry your bikes, it comes to like 400$ or so, a little steep for me. The Thule.com page also has racks that will fit on the top of the ZX3 OR 2 that will fit on the back against the hatchback. THey don't list prices but they do have a listing of dealers in "your area." Good luck and let me know what if any you end up with!
I just followed the copartfinder link - it features a dozen photos of wrecked foci to be parted out. Only 1 zx3 but OUCH it hurts to see those pics. Mental note to self: Don't drive like an idiot, and watch out for those who do!
Thanks to everyone who responded to my post. I just called the dealer and, indeed, the 1000 mile service is free ... guess it depends on your dealer. (Mine is Koons Ford of Annapolis, MD.) Sounds like the main thing they do is change the oil. What the heck, guess I'll go since it's free.
I thought i was being light when i mentioned those things about the club and spending my money. they had humorous intentions, if you took offense, my apologies because i really love this forum. as for the aftermarket goodies, if i feel it that'll be good enough for me. i'm not gonna go out there and do dyno tests or anything like that. and i though of the intake, chip and exhaust as sort of a package mod. you're lucky torinodaddy, you seem to get cooler versions of cars where you are our stock tires here are goodyear rsa's and i'm sure your pirelli's are a whole lot better. and frankly for us dwellers in the states, a 200 horsepower awd focus is either a fantasy or a long ways off. look how long we had to wait for wrx subaru impreza. well, thanks for all your comments and if anyone has yet done modifications on your focus i'd really like to get feedback from you.
Hi all, I just wanted to post here a list for Focus owners who are into Solo racing of any type (autocross, rallycross, time trials, road rally, etc.) The Focusolo list's goal is to form a sense of community and share ideas, tips, and suggestions as they pertain to the Focus Solo Racer.
I am in the market too for a new bike rack for the ZX3, and according to the Thule website, the two rear mounted are the 978/Easy Rider series which goes for about $125, and the 975/voyager series which is about $75.00
I found both of these for sale at rei.com, in the 'Racks' section. I currently have a Rhode Gear model, and it looks likes they have some new ones out too, at their website rhodegear.com. These are also at REI's site as well.
I personally like the Rhode Gear one I have now, but am looking to upgrade. Their quality has been very good, and I have had many years of use out of mine with no problems. Never scratched the finish on my old car, or caused any other problems. Plus the fact that the rear mounted can come off easily when you are done with them, no need to leave it on all of the time. BUT, that also means that they come off easily for those with sticky fingers!
well, those prices are MUCH better! I saw somebody with a back rack on a hatch and they were able to raise the back without removing the rack (Bike was off of course) can you do that? Also wondered if the rack will hold a crate or anything for other outside-the-car carrying. Wish I could get a "factory style" rack installed on top but doesn't look like anybody does that.
The S2000 is a silly comparision. That engine was designed to be driven at abnormally high RPM. If driven correctly, it's a blast. There's a good Car & Driver article on this.
As far as Echo and Neon drivers go...c'mon... The Echo is designed to be an econobox--no comparison. The Neon is close to the Focus in numbers, but it has classic American car flaws (cheap knobs, chinsy parts, generally poorly put together). In fact, it's like most Fords, or at least those that aren't designed/spec'ed by Ford of Europe. Check your climate control knobs, then check the ones in a Neon. This will show you the difference in quality.
As a euro car driver all my life, I never thought I'd be in a Ford, until I saw a ZX3 in Rome. Of course, I was sure they wouldn't bring it to the states. Point is, the feel of this car is much more euro than anything. That is why the only comparison I like is the Golf/GTI. They are built similarly. My roommate has a GTI VR6 (by the way, the most fun engine ever), and the overall quality of parts, etc. is very similar.
Now, when the Focus R comes out, I'll smoke his VR6... ;?)
I already own a roof mount Yakima. (picked it up used for the right price) It is an extremely durable rack and Yakima makes clamps and holders and doohickey jobbers for just about anything you might want to put up there. I'm not putting this on my focus for several reasons. 1. The cross members I currently have for it are way too big for my focus. (I could move the feet inwards and have cross-posts sticking out past the width of my car....but it looks silly, and I would always be bumping my head on the front one as I got in/out) 2.It's a pain to put the bike way up there. 3. I've got a cool-looking car, I'll get a rear mount rack and keep some of the streamlining and style.
Just past 1000 miles, and 4 months since my car's build date, so I did an oil & filter change today using the Motorcraft filter and Mobil 1 5W30. With the car on a set of Rhino Ramps (Walmart, $30), this job is about as easy as they come. While the oil was draining, I spent some time looking around under there... some very elegant engineering. Looks like changing the front shocks would be a snap - they are retained in a pinch bolt fitting at the hub carrier. The radiator is fitted with a drain plug that will help minimize a splashy mess when its time for a coolant change. I'm impressed!
While driving home last night in heavy traffic from work and after dark, I spotted something about 10 car lengths ahead that appeared to be flying above all the other cars in traffic. I maneuvered my way up, weaving in and out until I caught it. It was a pitch black ZX3 (just like I ordered). I watched it move through traffic and followed it off a down ramp so I got to see it move in a circle, viewing all sides as I slowed. It was definitely cool........hurry up train, bring my ZX3!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just took another trip to my local Ford dealership about my suspension. I truely believe that the service advisors are clueless. While giving him the low down on the ride characteristics of my car, he told me that my description of the problem was not clear enough and that he would have to be able to describe the problem to the service technician. He had a sour attitude as well. I noticed this the last time I was in for an oil change.
I almost asked him why I was talking to him (sevice advisor) instead of the technican who will actually work on my suspension. I don't understand the Ford service system. Anyway, they said that two technicans drove the car and could not reproduce the noise in the rear. Basically, they were chasing down noise instead of analyzing the way my car handled. I am very upset.
I guess the only way to get results is to pay a mechanic to do what Ford's service department is not capabale of doing.
bjammin2, I am interested in finding out how your rear suspension was bent out of alignment. This might be the same problem I am having with my car. How does your car ride and handle? I would certainly appreciate any information you can provide.
When you ask your dealer how your ZX3 is coming along, he gives you a number - 01 thru 09. The above address will give you the meaning of the numbers. Should be same here south of the border.
do you remember where you seen article about possible front-end problem?has anyone else heard?nice comments on aftermarket mods.i as well am a sceptic,has a lot to do with selling aftermarket products.i would like to believe that rubberban could achieve that 160hp.i do it myself, if it wouldnt have any negative affect on the overall balance of factors in the original engineered design,changing to 16in wheels alone affects gearing ratios. as stated previously by silver bullet , the stock zx3 is a very well-balanced machine.id rather trade-up to a factory turbo if made available in the future ,than tinker with unproven aftermarket theories.
I just received a stainless steel mug in the mail from Ford. It has "Focus The North American Car of The Year" on the outside. This their gift for the recall problem I believe. If this is what they give for troubles, I think I am going to have a nice collection of Ford trinkets. Sorry, I'm bitter over my suspension problems:(
My twilight blue ZX3 turned two weeks old yesterday, and I love it more every time I get in.
Major kudos to Ford for fit and finish, outstanding engine, handling and appointments. As a 47 year old, I'm also liking the power windows, tilt/telescope wheel, and cruise control!
Disappointments? The cup holders do NOT work well with a grande Starbucks cup...and the shifter (5-sp) is still stiff when cold, I'm hoping it will loosen up soon.
For those with automatic and wondering about the overdrive button: I had this feature on my 96 Contour SE and on my 98 Explorer, and in both cases turning the overdrive off also reprogrammed the shift points for more performance...quicker off the line, and upshifts happened at higher revs. When I wanted a little extra kick, I'd start with O/D off, then engage it when I got up to speed. See if you have the same experience with the Focus.
As for break-in, I'm giving the ZX3 a little of what it will see all the time (occasional short burst to 5K rpms), and lots of variation in speed/conditions.
I've had such good experiences with Hawkinson Ford in Oak Lawn Il, this is my third purchase from them. I just checked their web site and they have 12 ZX3s in stock...almost all colors, but every one of them is an automatic. If you're in the midwest, they might be able to solve your availability problems. Also their service dept is open 24 hours a day 5 days a week! Their web site is www.hawkford.com My sales rep was Mike Allison, and I'd recommend him VERY highly.
Welcome to the family. About the cup holders, can you try different cups than 1/2 gallon ones. Remember that Focus was designed in Europe and over there no one is drinking from such a "small" cups.
Woohoo! Picked up my rainforest green ZX3 today. Put about 50 miles on it driving it around doing an errand or two, then drove out to a shooting range (on a muddy road :-( ) with a friend so we could shoot his semi-auto pistol... First time I've shot a pistol, quite a bit of fun :-)
Still need to get used to driving a manual. I'm getting smoother at it though... still a bit jerky
but now I have mud on my ZX3, so I guess I'll have to clean it tomorrow. I know the quickie car wash places arent the best but it's my only real option for now.
------
I was reading the Focus Sedan forum, and it looked like a few people had problems with cracks appearing out of nowhere in their windshields. Havent really seen anything about this on the ZX3... could this be because the ZX3's are built in Mexico and the sedans are built in the states? Different parts maybe?
This is my first car, hope it lasts me a good many reliable years (crossing fingers)
ford4ever- Trust me...Starting off with your overdrive button off will not make your car accelerate any faster. That would require a change in the transmission gear ratios or the final drive ratio. That requires a change of parts...not just a push of a button.
To everybody confused about the overdrive button: Turn it on and leave it on. It provides better fuel economy and when you depress the accelerator the transmission will automatically (hence the name) downshift to provide better acceleration.
Bdshort- If you drive a brand new car off road the first day you get it...NO it probably won't last "a good many reliable years."
It wasnt offroad... just on a dirt road that was muddy because of leftover snow... I wasnt expecting it to be so muddy. The road wasnt rough, and I made sure I kept the speed very low in parts the parts that were bumpy. It's not an activity I plan to do everyday
I just looked at the crash test results, expecially at the femur section. They numbers were definitely very high compared to other cars However, the units given on the chart are not the same as for the graphs that give injury probability. Does anyone know how to convert between the two units given? On the chart they were given in lbs, on the graphs they were listed as KN. FYI, the numbers on the ZX3 were in the 5000 - 6000lb range while the sedan was in the 1000lb range... quite a bit of difference I think.
Received the little yellow box yesterday. Almost exactly 30 days from delivery date. Extremely NICE!!!! I can't believe they send this to you just for buying a car, I car I love I should add. It's a little big for a girl but my husband loves it..so it's his. Have a good week end all...
Just installed a cold air kit on a friends Honda Civic. It feels like a power increase was made but it's so hard to tell. The Focus air intake design looks really restrictive. Goes down under the battery and back up again. I think some improvements could be easily made. One thing that bothers me is the noise. I didn't realize how noisy a cold air kit makes the car. It gave the civic a deep roaring sound when accelerating. It's nicer than loud exhausts that make them sound like motorcycles.
I forgot to mention in my earlier post that the government standard for femur load, according to the engineer I spoke with, is 2250 lb. The Focus is in the 4000-6000 lb range. This sounds really bad.
However, I just spoke to a guy who thinks the KN in the NHSTA chart is kilo Newtons. If so, it appears that there is less than a 1% chance of fumur fracture.
That is kind of what I thought it stood for, but my physics are rusty, and I dont remember what the conversion is. I doubt Ford would have let the car out if the femur load was in practicallity that much worse than other vehicles, but you never know.
YES.....IF the overdrive button changes the shift points, this could make it accelerate faster, granted, not until it shifts gears. I don't know if the button changes shift points or not, but since modern automatics are electronically controlled, it could.
I want to let you guys know about a great custom part for your Foci. Check out www.flameball.com. Let me start by saying I have no affiliation with the manufacturer other than being a satisfied customer. I have a black flameball with red-outlined pearl flames on my '84 Camaro, and it looks great. I'll be sure to get another flameball knob when my ZX3 arrives(I'm selling the Camaro, BTW - too much work) These knobs are perfectly sized, and you can even select your own color combination to match your car and your personality. The prices are also better than a lot of the flashy parts companies, and I think the knobs are handmade, too. I sent email to verify that they would work with the Focus reverse lockout ring, and here's the reply I got from Gene Zapsky:
"We fit all the threads and I'm sure that we fit the Ford Focus. We also put the lock out countersink into the ball also, only we have no information on the Focus in our library yet and would need one of their original shift knobs in our hands to take measurements. If you or anyone else is interested, let us know. Thanks for the feed back and also for the comments on our other knob."
Since these knobs are custom made, I don't think a group order would work well, but if you decide to buy one, tell Gene that Erik sent you. I don't expect to get anything from this, but I told Gene that he may have a lot of orders coming his way soon for Focus knobs.
Comments
Wonder if Ford would give $400 college rebate to "oldest" graduate class?
cool man!
Here's my only problem with the calicomobile. The driver's shoulder belt. It's a detestable thing. I'm about 5'9" (I've shrunk since hitting middle age, but that's another story!), and I have to contort myself all around in order to grab the belt to put it on. Then, it is rough pulling it because of the position of my seat back, and it doesn't go back in when I take it off. Is it just me? Does anyone else have this problem? I will ask about it when I take it in for the recall, but it would be great to have your opinions before I say anything to the dealer.
I'll be absent from the team for a few days -- business trip (flying, unfortunately). I know I'll miss the calicomobile terribly! (the husband and cat, too, of course!)
Be safe out there, guys! No going 125 on real roads! It's a holiday weekend, and everyone doesn't drive like they have as much to live for as those of us who have ZX3s! Take care!
Calico1
a lot of money for very little increase in horsepower(20).the zetec is very liveable the way
it has been designed by ford.there are of course
other tuning factors worked in the equation of
130hp to extract max power + delivery of decent mileage.i believe the desigers perfomed a very
respectable balance of the two.
i also agree with silver bullet on pulling issue.
good tires as he suggestested would cure that problem.my experience with front drive design has
always been that front end always had that inherent tendacy to pull. not very unusual at all.
Just want to say that I've driven a S2000 and those 230 hp are almost useless. There is almost no torque. The hp comes on at around ~5100 rpms.
I can guarantee you I will be able to outrun almost every S2000 on the street, simply because owners will never wind them out to their potential. It's just too much trouble. And noise.
Granted it is fun to drive...but like a motorcycle. I like my Focus more. It's like a go-cart.
I just realized that it is all so personal, what is great for me does not have to be great for you.
I will no more say what is better and what is not.You like ketchup and I like mustard and that's it. Those just can't be compared ,so I'm happy with my zx3 and you be happy with your neon,echo,sentra,golf ...
Let me say last time, FOCUS RULES BIG TIME!!!
focus vs. neon nonsense. i appreciate the thought-
ful + courtesy members of this discussion group.
i,personally have found very valuable + useful
info here.enjoy+look forward to reading everyones input daily.i said my peace there,if they dont get
it ,so be it.ive seen more old fords on the road then any other nameplate such as mustang,maverick,
thunderbird,torino,.falcon, fairmont,granada,ltd,
fairlane,lincoln .ford engines are workhorses,contrary to that stupid, idiotic,
ignorant ,simple-minded,clueless,fix or repair daily tag.i respect others purchases of mopar etc.
after all its their money,i dont respect the ford bashing however.if you go head to head in every
category from econobox to luxury,i believe ford
offers the best overall value for dollar spent.
of course theres always the point of diminishing return,im not claiming that ford beats every car in every class.im just saying that the zx3 is a no brainer.do the homework.
About the increase in horsepower. I don't think companies like borla, focussport, or superchips can be around if the actual added horsepower is 0+0+0. Maybe 20 is overstated but borla and ford specialist claims 10% increase, superchips claims a 10 horsepower increase and around 7 on the wheels across the whole powerband and not just at peak rpms, and i know it requires premium gas but the chip is supposed to add 1 to 2 miles per gallon, and focussport (intake) rates the increase in horsepower from 3 to 5. I think anywhere between 10-20 is reasonable. who knows, maybe it's not x+y+z maybe it's ax+by+cz. i know from a previous post someone who did the same modifications claimed he was getting 155-160 horsepower and noted he got an extra kick in the pants at 4000, perhaps that's subjective but i doubt it's a placebo effect. And one extra point, don't worry about the money, i'm not spending yours. keep the comments coming, frankly i'd rather see posts concerning the actual car rather than who's gonna lead the next zx3 club or what we should name it, or how many deer there are in pennsylvania.
of add-ons is the fun factor.however i dont think
the difference in percieved hp increase makes
the investment worthwile .only one opinion being
shared ,no offense intended.on matters of other subjects of posting -thats what makes this group
special.cars,the drivers,+their experiences.i
think the majority do care who will lead the zx3club.part of that reason being -we would be a
little more focused.
Believe me, if it's something you want to do, rubberban, go for it. I was just relating how I felt after researching a bit into this business. If the guy you mentioned really got 160 bhp with these minor mods, then it seems well worth it. Did he actually get the power output measured at 160bhp, or was it a subjective guess? To me, anyway, a kick at 4000 rpm means that the torque band has a peak there but how has it been achieved. Is it much higher than the standard engine or is there a hole in the remapped band before it hits 4000 revs?
You'll have guessed by now, that I am an incurable sceptic! You really got to me with the 'if it doesn't work why do people buy it' stuff though. Check out the infomercials which claim to give you a great figure on their sports equipment if you use it for a few minutes a day. These guys are making money hand over fist but do you really believe the hype? We all want something for (relatively) little these days. A lot of these companies are satisfying that desire, whether it be for ripped abs or otherwise. It is hard to sift the wheat from the chaff.
I mentioned the S2000 as the displacement is the same but the quoted hp is incredible, even if the engine doesn't develop much torque. In the real world a high peak power output doesn't necessarily translate into a fast or useable street car. Why didn't I compare it to a Subaru? The Impreza has a whopping great turbo charger forcing cooled (the B has a water-sprayed intercooler I believe) air into the engine, different story. Now if you want to turbo the engine, that will bring notable performance benefits!
As for the focus r, the power strictly thing is misleading, you would also be looking at a lot of mechanical and equipment changes, all-round disk brakes, body kit, better alloys, lots of electronic gizmos, maybe 4wd. And they may go for a 200bhp turbo, to compete against the Seat Leon (I don't know if you get Seat in the States - Spanish division of VW - the Leon is a 5dr hatch based on the Golf/Rabbit platform). The 'hot' version is out here now with 180bhp and a 6sp box but I've seen tests of a 4wd version on the running gear of the audi tt quattro.
Hmmmm,
About the tyre stuff, the Focus here (at least the model I ordered) comes with Pirelli P6000 as standard, so I don't think that's the problem, and as for it being normal behaviour in front-wheel drive cars, I am talking here of a little more than a casual drift one way or the other. i don't know exactly what the problem is, the story in the press was not exhaustive, but they did state that Ford dealers had been issued with instructions on how to correct it, so I presume it has been enough of a problem to enough people to warrant such a move.
The worst way to break-in an engine is to keep the rpms low and slowly increase the revs (by the book). ProjectZX3 has the right idea. After keeping under @4500 for the first hundred miles or so, you should be shifting just after peak HP (and gradually to redline) in first, then after 50 miles or so in second, etc.
What you don't want to do is bog the engine or run in fourth or fifth above 4500 RPMs for at least the first 500M (other than very short bursts).
The absolute worse is to drive at highway speeds for long periods of time, before the engine is broken in.
I know many will disagree with this opinion, but that is my belief after more than few years of experience with cars and motorcycles.
Besides, I bet projectzx3 is having more fun.
Calico, (my fellow bruce fan) if you go to the Yakima.com page they will tell you exactly what you need for your bike rack, it's the same as the one Ford will sell you for the focus. By the time you get all the parts though so it will carry your bikes, it comes to like 400$ or so, a little steep for me. The Thule.com page also has racks that will fit on the top of the ZX3 OR 2 that will fit on the back against the hatchback. THey don't list prices but they do have a listing of dealers in "your area." Good luck and let me know what if any you end up with!
just send an email to:
focusolo-subscribe@egroups.com
Thanks!
Joe
I found both of these for sale at rei.com, in the 'Racks' section. I currently have a Rhode Gear model, and it looks likes they have some new ones out too, at their website rhodegear.com. These are also at REI's site as well.
I personally like the Rhode Gear one I have now, but am looking to upgrade. Their quality has been very good, and I have had many years of use out of mine with no problems. Never scratched the finish on my old car, or caused any other problems. Plus the fact that the rear mounted can come off easily when you are done with them, no need to leave it on all of the time. BUT, that also means that they come off easily for those with sticky fingers!
Hope the info helps...
Kevin A. Boyce
Thanks for the info!
As far as Echo and Neon drivers go...c'mon... The Echo is designed to be an econobox--no comparison. The Neon is close to the Focus in numbers, but it has classic American car flaws (cheap knobs, chinsy parts, generally poorly put together). In fact, it's like most Fords, or at least those that aren't designed/spec'ed by Ford of Europe. Check your climate control knobs, then check the ones in a Neon. This will show you the difference in quality.
As a euro car driver all my life, I never thought I'd be in a Ford, until I saw a ZX3 in Rome. Of course, I was sure they wouldn't bring it to the states. Point is, the feel of this car is much more euro than anything. That is why the only comparison I like is the Golf/GTI. They are built similarly. My roommate has a GTI VR6 (by the way, the most fun engine ever), and the overall quality of parts, etc. is very similar.
Now, when the Focus R comes out, I'll smoke his VR6... ;?)
I already own a roof mount Yakima. (picked it up used for the right price) It is an extremely durable rack and Yakima makes clamps and holders and doohickey jobbers for just about anything you might want to put up there. I'm not putting this on my focus for several reasons.
1. The cross members I currently have for it are way too big for my focus. (I could move the feet inwards and have cross-posts sticking out past the width of my car....but it looks silly, and I would always be bumping my head on the front one as I got in/out)
2.It's a pain to put the bike way up there.
3. I've got a cool-looking car, I'll get a rear mount rack and keep some of the streamlining and style.
Enough rantings from me.
I'm getting a Saris - Bones Rack. website: http://www.saris-products.com/
Sample price
http://www.aardvarkcycles.com/saris.bones.html
A review of this rack can be seen at:
http://www.bicyclingmagazine.com/gear/newprod/sarisrack.htm
Two and three bike models are available in this format.
ok, bye,
Gabe
It was definitely cool........hurry up train, bring my ZX3!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I almost asked him why I was talking to him (sevice advisor) instead of the technican who will actually work on my suspension. I don't understand the Ford service system. Anyway, they said that two technicans drove the car and could not reproduce the noise in the rear. Basically, they were chasing down noise instead of analyzing the way my car handled. I am very upset.
I guess the only way to get results is to pay a mechanic to do what Ford's service department is not capabale of doing.
When you ask your dealer how your ZX3 is coming along, he gives you a number - 01 thru 09. The above address will give you the meaning of the numbers. Should be same here south of the border.
Thank Chuck and Kevin for the info.
When the ZX3 arrives, ENJOY!!!
Pat
Pat
possible front-end problem?has anyone else heard?nice comments on aftermarket mods.i as well
am a sceptic,has a lot to do with selling aftermarket products.i would like to believe that
rubberban could achieve that 160hp.i do it myself,
if it wouldnt have any negative affect on the
overall balance of factors in the original
engineered design,changing to 16in wheels alone affects gearing ratios. as stated previously by silver bullet , the stock zx3 is a very well-balanced
machine.id rather trade-up to a factory turbo if
made available in the future ,than tinker with unproven aftermarket theories.
An engineer at NHTSA told me that the femur aspect of the test is not included in the star ratings since it would not cause a fatal injury.
However, it concerns me that it was such a bad rating. I would like to know that my legs/hips will work after an accident.
anyone have any input? I really want to buy a Focus!
My twilight blue ZX3 turned two weeks old yesterday, and I love it more every time I get in.
Major kudos to Ford for fit and finish, outstanding engine, handling and appointments. As a 47 year old, I'm also liking the power windows, tilt/telescope wheel, and cruise control!
Disappointments? The cup holders do NOT work well with a grande Starbucks cup...and the shifter (5-sp) is still stiff when cold, I'm hoping it will loosen up soon.
For those with automatic and wondering about the overdrive button: I had this feature on my 96 Contour SE and on my 98 Explorer, and in both cases turning the overdrive off also reprogrammed the shift points for more performance...quicker off the line, and upshifts happened at higher revs. When I wanted a little extra kick, I'd start with O/D off, then engage it when I got up to speed. See if you have the same experience with the Focus.
As for break-in, I'm giving the ZX3 a little of what it will see all the time (occasional short burst to 5K rpms), and lots of variation in speed/conditions.
I've had such good experiences with Hawkinson Ford in Oak Lawn Il, this is my third purchase from them. I just checked their web site and they have 12 ZX3s in stock...almost all colors, but every one of them is an automatic. If you're in the midwest, they might be able to solve your availability problems. Also their service dept is open 24 hours a day 5 days a week! Their web site is www.hawkford.com My sales rep was Mike Allison, and I'd recommend him VERY highly.
Don
About the cup holders, can you try different cups than 1/2 gallon ones.
Remember that Focus was designed in Europe and over there no one is drinking from such a "small" cups.
Put about 50 miles on it driving it around doing an errand or two, then drove out to a shooting
range (on a muddy road :-( ) with a friend so we
could shoot his semi-auto pistol... First time I've shot a pistol, quite a bit of fun :-)
Still need to get used to driving a manual. I'm
getting smoother at it though... still a bit jerky
but now I have mud on my ZX3, so I guess I'll have
to clean it tomorrow. I know the quickie car wash
places arent the best but it's my only real option
for now.
------
I was reading the Focus Sedan forum, and it looked
like a few people had problems with cracks
appearing out of nowhere in their windshields.
Havent really seen anything about this on the
ZX3... could this be because the ZX3's are built in Mexico and the sedans are built in the states?
Different parts maybe?
This is my first car, hope it lasts me a good many
reliable years (crossing fingers)
Trust me...Starting off with your overdrive button off will not make your car accelerate any faster. That would require a change in the transmission gear ratios or the final drive ratio. That requires a change of parts...not just a push of a button.
To everybody confused about the overdrive button:
Turn it on and leave it on. It provides better fuel economy and when you depress the accelerator the transmission will automatically (hence the name) downshift to provide better acceleration.
Bdshort-
If you drive a brand new car off road the first day you get it...NO it probably won't last "a good many reliable years."
muddy because of leftover snow... I wasnt expecting it to be so muddy. The road wasnt rough, and I made sure I kept the speed very low in parts the parts that were bumpy. It's not an activity I plan to do everyday
Honda Civic. It feels like a power increase was made but it's so hard to tell. The Focus air intake design looks really restrictive. Goes down under the battery and back up again. I think some improvements could be easily made. One thing that bothers me is the noise. I didn't realize how noisy a cold air kit makes the car. It gave the civic a deep roaring sound when accelerating. It's nicer than loud exhausts that make them sound like motorcycles.
However, I just spoke to a guy who thinks the KN in the NHSTA chart is kilo Newtons. If so, it appears that there is less than a 1% chance of fumur fracture.
cheers!
Hopefully it wont end up being a big deal.
"We fit all the threads and I'm sure that we fit the Ford Focus. We also put the lock out countersink into the ball also, only we have no information on the Focus in our library yet and would need one of their original shift knobs in our hands to take measurements. If you or anyone else is interested, let us know.
Thanks for the feed back and also for the comments on our other knob."
Since these knobs are custom made, I don't think a group order would work well, but if you decide to buy one, tell Gene that Erik sent you. I don't expect to get anything from this, but I told Gene that he may have a lot of orders coming his way soon for Focus knobs.
Audiolizard