Yes, tap it on with the rolled edge out. Position the indented bumps so they are centered along the bottom and don't show. I tapped mine on until the end of the Ford tailpipe came to just about where the rolled part begins - that makes the finished tip just slightly longer than the factory pipe, and helps make the pipe less noticeable inside. Maybe you could use judas' or togneter's head to bang it on? :-)
Make sure your tailpipe is clean before you install the BMW tip. I polished the factory tailpipe with some metal polish (Simichrome) before I installed my tip - looks very nice, and makes the tip easier to install. BTW the gen-u-wine BMW factory part should have a little "51" stamped at one end - this is the diameter in mm.
Someone asked what car you could get for 20 grand with 220 HP. I told them. If you can't handle that that's your problem. Personally, I think this forum would be pretty boring if all people did was post the BMW part number over and over again, how to install the part (If you can't figure out how to install an exhaust tip, you've got problems), and how much they paid for their map lights and arm rest.
I think this board is here for us to help each other out. How cares if items/issues get reposted a couple of times or if someone doesn't know how to do something...this is the whole purpose of this. Why should someone pay more than they have to for the same item. It's kinda like comparison shopping but between "FRIENDS". Let's move on...
man, take a joke, it's all in fun. I agree that it's nice to have some variety in the conference for sure, it was just starting to sound a little like the focus vs. neon of focus vs. whatever conferences, where arguements can go back and forth endlessly on the merits ( or dissappointments)of both cars. "peace," man as the guy over in that forum always says....
Towcrazy2, Me too, 53 year old truckdriver who can't wait to get out of Freightshaker with tank behind it and get into my ZX3. There's just something about the ZX3, the way it handles, the pick up, and the feel of the car. Ford did something right. A little more horsepower would be nice, but it's okay the way it is. Sounds crazy, but I look forward to drive home from the terminal. Never felt that way before. Pat
It comes and it gos! Focus vs Honda, vs Neon, vs Mustang, vs whatever! It's okay as long as it doesn't get out of hand. Like a man and his best horse in the "old days". Stop and think of it, we've be going back and forth for years like this. Who's horse, bicycle, motorcycle, automobile, truck and airplane is fastest. Nothing new. All we have to do is keep it reasonable and in check. And all you guys/gals who want to prove it, please do it legal, like at the race track, not on the highway.
It is in the nature of these forums to be somewhat freewheeling, and occasionally repetitive - that's okay! Read what you like, skip what you don't, and learn what you can. As long as it revolves around the terrific little ZX3 we all enjoy so much, it belongs here. Judas, your Mustang comments are true - but wouldn't it be interesting if the Focus design team got their hands on it? Might be something like the cool little Ford Puma Special Edition available in the U.K.
Personally, I like a good debate, as long as those participating are willing to aknowledge the others' thoughts. (and there aren't any "Yo momma" retorts!) Also, it's my opinion that the zx3 can take on most anything under 20k, and I like to hear arguments on the topic. It's always fun to compare cars, just don't take it all too seriously. As to mustang vs. focus, it's an apples to oranges comparison. (Rear wheel drive/front wheel drive, 8 cyl/4 cyl, etc.) How 'bout starting a separate forum dedicated to focus vs. challengers?
I think Judas was calling tickbitty dumb as a rock when he said and i quote "(If you can't figure out how to install an exhaust tip, you've got problems)." I guess he's saying tickbitty has some mental retardation problems cuz she can't figure out how to install the exhaust tip. wooooooo, them r fightin words. How's that for a nice, heated debate??? hehe
Check this site www.victoriatire.com , im sure you've heard of it. they have plenty of wheels to chose from and the prices are not bad and so are the tires they sell. To all the who have experience with rims....what are your opinion(s)? are they worth it to buy?
You're absolutely right that Focus R vs Mustang is a silly discussion. That's why my original comment was "Yeah, but who'd want to drive a Mustang...?" The "Yeah" part was concession that the Mustang has more power. The rest was an assertion that I prefer a more well rounded car. You see, I've driven the new Mustang a few times, and I don't like the way it handles. Also, like most American Fords (Taurus, Escort, Contour, etc.) the finish is pretty poor.
Why do you think the Focus wins awards, and the others don't?
I also agree that some good natured banter in addition to parts/aftermarket/recall/etc. type information is good for the board. As long as people respond to comments, and don't resort to personal insults. That just shows a lack of intelligence.
Personally, I want to thank silver_bullet for his always well-considered, informative, and thorough cooments and responses. Very helpful to the rest of us.
Hey, Gabe and Silver Bullet, what's the progress on Team ZX3? Any news? I know you guys will let us know, but just wondering.
Tickbitty, I think your question was fine. I'd hate to be the person behind you when the BMW tip fell off because it wasn't on all the way, and I'd hate to be you when you take the ZX3 in for inspection (something I remember from my life in the midatlantic) and they can't separate the tailpipe from the tip. See, it was a GOOD question. Now, play nice, boys!
The calicomobile hit 1000 miles today and went in for her recall. Big day -- I gave her a good wash, and enjoyed doing it. She now gleams malibu blue. Here's a question, though....on my drivers' front wheel spokes, there is a great deal of black dust that almost looks like the diesel dust on the backs of the late '70s model mercedes and volvo diesels. It came off easily (probably a duster would have taken it off), but I would like to know what it is. Is it just the normal wear and tear from breaking in the engine, or should I be concerned? There was a minimal amount on the passenger front wheel, too, but none on the rears.
cefurod and imsoyboy--I wasn't far from either of you last weekend. I still haven't decided whether to drive or fly up to go to Cape May this summer. I made the plane reservations long before taking delivery of the ZX3, but it seems a shame not to have such an awesome Jersey shore car with me up there! Anyway, safe Garden State travels to you both. Wish I were there.
I was actually kidding about which part faced out but really didn't know how far on to tap it, and thanks SilverB.
Calico, I think you are seeing the brake dust everybody complains about. It is inevitable and tough to clean off, but you have to because it will damage the painted finish on the wheels eventually.
Welcome to the wonderful world of brake dust. The rears stay pretty clean because drum brakes contain most of the dust generated, and are lightly stressed to boot. Front discs do most of your stopping, and the dust you see is a fine mix of the pad material and the binder that holds it together. The most important thing is to wash your wheels weekly so it doesn't build up and bake on (your wheels get pretty hot after a vigorous drive - they act like "heat sinks" and absorb the heat from your brakes and hubs). Use Simple Green or Clear Magic, rinse well, and put a coat of wax on them when they are clean and dry and you'll be fine. There are alternatives to the dusty OEM brake pads, BTW.
I feel a bit guilty about keeping this debate going but I can't keep my big mouth shut!
Before I start, I need to point out that I've never driven a mustang and probably never will but that's beside the point. Another proviso is that I love small fast cars.
I agree whole-heartedly with the comment that these cars are apples and oranges, but have to disagree that the performance of the focus is in any way inferior to the mustang, particularly on the road. Total power output of an engine may be something to brag about to your mates, but there are plenty of other factors at play, not least of which is the mass. The mustang is a lot heavier than the focus (almost 700lbs heavier) which makes it harder to accelerate, slow down and turn. Even in a standard ZX3, a focus driver wouldn't be far behind the mustang in anything but a straight line. With a power/weight ratio of 177bhp/metric tonne the mustang is considerably down powerwise on the focus R's 190bhp/metric tonne. Add in the effect of the lighter mass in braking and weight transfer in the twisty bits , better weight distribution and consider the suspension set-up on the focus, and the mustang driver doesn't stand a chance.
If I am making all this up, then where's the Mustang WRC? In my mind, rallying is a real test of a car's ability on the road. The focus came in first and second in the rally in Spain recently, and though the WRC version is heavily modified, I still think it says a lot for the basic car underneath.
What is most important to me, in the end however, is that the car should be FUN to drive, even at slower speeds. A quick glance through the enthusiastic posts on this board just goes to show how well the ZX3 achieves this.
Apples: the mustang is for guys for whom sitting behind a 4.6L V8 makes them feel potent;
Oranges: the focus (R or even ZX3) is for people who get a kick out of driving.
which is why I've gone and bought a focus (which still hasn't arrived, let's hope the stork doesn't get lost along the way)
interesting post, I'd love to be able to try your car out and see how it compares. You have me wondering if I shouldn't do it myself.
As for the 109mph limit, I guess the chip should eliminate that. In any case, there is a simple and easy way to find out!
Ok it is hardly legal on the roads, but you could always ask at a local airfield if they wouldn't mind you roaring up the runway, or just take it down to a local racetrack. Life is simpler here in Italy, I regulary did 120+mph along the highway on my way to work. Anyway, re my previous post, it makes little difference in the end whether it will do 109mph or 125mph, what matters is that it makes you grin at your regular driving speed.
As for the rev-limiter, it isn't that hard to find out when that kicks in at legal speeds, just keep your foot down.
The following is a quote from the Washington Post Metro section.....
A woman was arrested yesterday after crashing her 2000 Ford Focus at an estimated 70MPH into the rear of a parked fire truck which was parked on the shoulder of a highway at the scene of an accident. The woman was charged with drunken driving in relation to the accident. The woman had to be extricated from the vehicle after the crash and is being treated for a broken femur (leg). Don't like the idea of drunk driving but.... 70MPH into a parked fire truck and only got a broken leg out of it, not too shabby....
count me in,still ticking at 45.the zx3 has appeal across all age groups+both genders.never been thrilled with a car as much as this.as soon as i seen it ,then driven it,i wanted it. i didnt realize the demand+wait till i started reading the post here.i went to the dealership one sat. in jan. they had one black 5spd.and that was that.the most satisfying auto purchase i ever made.i always wanted another mustang-but the handling + overall ride is far superior in the zx3.its just plain more fun to drive.
I now have 1600km which is 1000miles and plan on doing my oil change tomorrow. Picked up a UAP/NAPA Professional filter (don't know who makes it) and a jug of Castrol GTX 5W30. I've heard that the change is fairly simple on this car. Can anyone back that up with some first hand knowledge?
I have news! As many of you have read, my Sangria Red Focus has been at the dealership since February 4th waiting for parts to be repaired. (The repairs were due to two accidents that occurred in my parking lot where I live and once by a Deer---obviously this was not a warranty issue). During this time, I phoned customer service (25 times), the dealership (50 times), the area manager (10 times) and wrote 2 letters to Ford in Dearborn Michigan to complain because my car could not be fixed due to the lack of parts. I made very pointed arguments and was always pleasant and professional, but was also not shy about stating exactly how I felt. I also told anybody who would listen to my predicament. I never lost my temper, but was persistent.
I was waiting on a single part for 5 weeks. A below 10 dollar part called an ABS ring. Finally, the Ford Motor Company finally admitted that they cannot fix my car in a timely manner and REPLACED my Focus with a BRAND new ZX-3. I am amazed.
I now drive a Forest Green (charcoal interior) zx-3 with tilt/telescope wheel, power door locks, mirrors and windows. When I picked it up, it had 4.3 miles on it!! I am more or less thrilled with the result.
I strongly recommend to anyone who has a legitimate complaint regarding their car to be firm and professional to get what you want.
I suggest to anyone to write to:
Mr. James O'Connor Ford Motor Company Regent Court 16800 Executive Plaza Drive Mail Drop 10SWA Dearborn, MI 48126
He is the president of Ford Motor Company.
Please Note: Do not buy a prestine used Sangria Red Ford Focus with ABS and Airbags with 3400 miles on it. It has been in 2 accidents!!!!
I will end this note with my title which I like very much!
NorwayDoug, Congradulations, Living proof that they do and can listen and do care! Enjoy! Nice to know that someone out there in "Corporate America" is concerned with real customer relations.
Was reading the mail one last time before hitting the rack and just had to log in and respond.
Norway, we have been vicariously living out your tragedy for what seems like years. And green no less, my favorite color after black( how much more black could it be, eh? none more black) I just read about 250 posts tonight, so I'got the mouse hand going. I have started to drive more and more aggresively. I keep blasting by the slammed import crowd, its really immature, but it really puts a grin on my face. Got a ticket my first day, the cop said I was driving "in an aggressive manner". I was only going 40 in a 25 zone, aw come on! This engine has balls in third and fourth gears, man! Going 80 in fourth is such a sick thrill, and thats not even 5000 rpm. There is no way it only goes 0-60 in nine seconds, thats just not the car I'am driving, I don't know what those articles are talking about. PS: Just ordered my vanity plates: FEMURZX3
I've always thought that Ford should replace your car, and they did. Congratulations, now you've got a power windows and mirrors ,tilt st. wheel and power door locks. So Ford did the right thing, better late than never.I'm happy for you and Ford, because you both have won. I wish you more luck at the parking spot, though.
I made my post specifically with Drebe73 in mind. My sole goal is to inspire him/her to push for what is right. I think Drebe has been ill-treated by Ford. Please Drebe73...if you still are waiting for your Focus....write letters, call Customer Service, talk to the manager of the dealership, talk to the area manager. Make them hear your views. Prior to phoning or seeing them....write a note with all your points to ensure that you say all you want when you talk to the Ford representative. If I could do it...you can do it!
Signed....a happy Guy---but worked like crazy to be one again!
Congrats ND for your persistence. You deserve a new ZX3 just for keeping your cool and not visiting your dealership with an assault rifle in hand :-( I'll bet you that your old car is either 1) going to a local salvage auction, or 2) may be serving as a donor car for other area Foci waiting on some minor parts to be roadworthy. Enjoy that green beastie!
I think it is great that you got a new car out of the whole deal. It is a shame, though, that it took three months for it to happen. Good luck and happy driving!
BTW - James O'Connor is the President of Ford Division. Jac Nasser is President & CEO of the Company.
Actually, the exhaust tip comment wasn't directed at anyone in particular. The only reason I said what I said is because a few people jumped on me for what I said previously, and you have to admit, a lot of this topic revolves around that exhaust tip and map lights. Also, if you scroll up, when I made the mustang comment I wasn't comparing it to a focus or anything. I was just pointing out if they do make a 220 HP Focus it will not be the only car with that amount of power in that price range. Personally, I think the Focus seems like a great car, which is why I check in here once and a while. The handling is impressive (In motortrend, i think, they pointed out that the Focus has a higher slalom than a 95 ZR-1 Vette. Although some of that is probably due to the Focus diminuative size). If they do make a Focus R with anywhere over 180 or 190 HP I will definitely think about getting it. And if they make a ZX3 with over 200 HP and AWD I will definitely get it, as long as MSRP doesn't break 25K or so. But I think an AWD ZX3 in the US is wishful thinking. As far as the Focus takinge on anything under 20K, for less than 20K I'd have a Stang (For a RWD) or a GTI 1.8T for FWD. ZX3 would definitely by in the top 5 though.
Comments
I got my BMW tip. Very nice. How far do I tap it on there? And it's rolled edge out, right?
Drebe and Norwaydoug, you guys still out there? Any progress? Haven't heard from you in a while and we're getting worried!
Me too, 53 year old truckdriver who can't wait to get out of Freightshaker with tank behind it and get into my ZX3. There's just something about the ZX3, the way it handles, the pick up, and the feel of the car. Ford did something right. A little more horsepower would be nice, but it's okay the way it is. Sounds crazy, but I look forward to drive home from the terminal. Never felt that way before.
Pat
Have a safe day,
Pat
How's that for a nice, heated debate??? hehe
are they worth it to buy?
Why do you think the Focus wins awards, and the others don't?
I also agree that some good natured banter in addition to parts/aftermarket/recall/etc. type information is good for the board. As long as people respond to comments, and don't resort to personal insults. That just shows a lack of intelligence.
Personally, I want to thank silver_bullet for his always well-considered, informative, and thorough cooments and responses. Very helpful to the rest of us.
And the Neon...Puh-leease...
Tickbitty, I think your question was fine. I'd hate to be the person behind you when the BMW tip fell off because it wasn't on all the way, and I'd hate to be you when you take the ZX3 in for inspection (something I remember from my life in the midatlantic) and they can't separate the tailpipe from the tip. See, it was a GOOD question. Now, play nice, boys!
The calicomobile hit 1000 miles today and went in for her recall. Big day -- I gave her a good wash, and enjoyed doing it. She now gleams malibu blue. Here's a question, though....on my drivers' front wheel spokes, there is a great deal of black dust that almost looks like the diesel dust on the backs of the late '70s model mercedes and volvo diesels. It came off easily (probably a duster would have taken it off), but I would like to know what it is. Is it just the normal wear and tear from breaking in the engine, or should I be concerned? There was a minimal amount on the passenger front wheel, too, but none on the rears.
cefurod and imsoyboy--I wasn't far from either of you last weekend. I still haven't decided whether to drive or fly up to go to Cape May this summer. I made the plane reservations long before taking delivery of the ZX3, but it seems a shame not to have such an awesome Jersey shore car with me up there! Anyway, safe Garden State travels to you both. Wish I were there.
Calico1
Calico, I think you are seeing the brake dust everybody complains about. It is inevitable and tough to clean off, but you have to because it will damage the painted finish on the wheels eventually.
Before I start, I need to point out that I've never driven a mustang and probably never will but that's beside the point. Another proviso is that I love small fast cars.
I agree whole-heartedly with the comment that these cars are apples and oranges, but have to disagree that the performance of the focus is in any way inferior to the mustang, particularly on the road. Total power output of an engine may be something to brag about to your mates, but there are plenty of other factors at play, not least of which is the mass. The mustang is a lot heavier than the focus (almost 700lbs heavier) which makes it harder to accelerate, slow down and turn. Even in a standard ZX3, a focus driver wouldn't be far behind the mustang in anything but a straight line. With a power/weight ratio of 177bhp/metric tonne the mustang is considerably down powerwise on the focus R's 190bhp/metric tonne. Add in the effect of the lighter mass in braking and weight transfer in the twisty bits , better weight distribution and consider the suspension set-up on the focus, and the mustang driver doesn't stand a chance.
If I am making all this up, then where's the Mustang WRC? In my mind, rallying is a real test of a car's ability on the road. The focus came in first and second in the rally in Spain recently, and though the WRC version is heavily modified, I still think it says a lot for the basic car underneath.
What is most important to me, in the end however, is that the car should be FUN to drive, even at slower speeds. A quick glance through the enthusiastic posts on this board just goes to show how well the ZX3 achieves this.
Apples: the mustang is for guys for whom sitting behind a 4.6L V8 makes them feel potent;
Oranges: the focus (R or even ZX3) is for people who get a kick out of driving.
which is why I've gone and bought a focus (which still hasn't arrived, let's hope the stork doesn't get lost along the way)
As for the 109mph limit, I guess the chip should eliminate that. In any case, there is a simple and easy way to find out!
Ok it is hardly legal on the roads, but you could always ask at a local airfield if they wouldn't mind you roaring up the runway, or just take it down to a local racetrack. Life is simpler here in Italy, I regulary did 120+mph along the highway on my way to work. Anyway, re my previous post, it makes little difference in the end whether it will do 109mph or 125mph, what matters is that it makes you grin at your regular driving speed.
As for the rev-limiter, it isn't that hard to find out when that kicks in at legal speeds, just keep your foot down.
Keep the posts coming. Cheers.
The following is a quote from the Washington Post Metro section.....
A woman was arrested yesterday after crashing her 2000 Ford Focus at an
estimated 70MPH into the rear of a parked fire truck which was parked on the
shoulder of a highway at the scene of an accident. The woman was charged
with drunken driving in relation to the accident. The woman had to be
extricated from the vehicle after the crash and is being treated for a
broken femur (leg). Don't like the idea of drunk driving but.... 70MPH into
a parked fire truck and only got a broken leg out of it, not too shabby....
across all age groups+both genders.never been
thrilled with a car as much as this.as soon as i seen it ,then driven it,i wanted it. i didnt
realize the demand+wait till i started reading the post here.i went to the dealership one sat. in jan.
they had one black 5spd.and that was that.the
most satisfying auto purchase i ever made.i always
wanted another mustang-but the handling + overall
ride is far superior in the zx3.its just plain more fun to drive.
I have news! As many of you have read, my Sangria Red Focus has been at the dealership since February 4th waiting for parts to be repaired. (The repairs were due to two accidents that occurred in my parking lot where I live and once by a Deer---obviously this was not a warranty issue). During this time, I phoned customer service (25 times), the dealership (50 times), the area manager (10 times) and wrote 2 letters to Ford in Dearborn Michigan to complain because my car could not be fixed due to the lack of parts. I made very pointed arguments and was always pleasant and professional, but was also not shy about stating exactly how I felt. I also told anybody who would listen to my predicament. I never lost my temper, but was persistent.
I was waiting on a single part for 5 weeks. A below 10 dollar part called an ABS ring. Finally, the Ford Motor Company finally admitted that they cannot fix my car in a timely manner and REPLACED my Focus with a BRAND new ZX-3. I am amazed.
I now drive a Forest Green (charcoal interior) zx-3 with tilt/telescope wheel, power door locks, mirrors and windows. When I picked it up, it had 4.3 miles on it!! I am more or less thrilled with the result.
I strongly recommend to anyone who has a legitimate complaint regarding their car to be firm and professional to get what you want.
I suggest to anyone to write to:
Mr. James O'Connor
Ford Motor Company
Regent Court
16800 Executive Plaza Drive
Mail Drop 10SWA
Dearborn, MI
48126
He is the president of Ford Motor Company.
Please Note: Do not buy a prestine used Sangria Red Ford Focus with ABS and Airbags with 3400 miles on it. It has been in 2 accidents!!!!
I will end this note with my title which I like very much!
NORWAYDOUG DEGEATS the FORD MOTOR COMPANY,
Happy Motoring,
ND
Congradulations, Living proof that they do and can listen and do care! Enjoy! Nice to know that someone out there in "Corporate America" is concerned with real customer relations.
Was reading the mail one last time before hitting the rack and just had to log in and respond.
Again, welcome home!
Pat
I just love my ZX-3!,
ND
I just read about 250 posts tonight, so I'got the mouse hand going. I have started to drive more and more aggresively. I keep blasting by the slammed import crowd, its really immature, but it really puts a grin on my face. Got a ticket my first day, the cop said I was driving "in an aggressive manner". I was only going 40 in a 25 zone, aw come on! This engine has balls in third and fourth gears, man! Going 80 in fourth is such a sick thrill, and thats not even 5000 rpm. There is no way it only goes 0-60 in nine seconds, thats just not the car I'am driving, I don't know what those articles are talking about.
PS: Just ordered my vanity plates: FEMURZX3
I wish you more luck at the parking spot, though.
Good Luck in your FEMURZX3.
ford to shake a leg,uh excuse me......femur
I can't wait to get my 2nd G-shock!
Thanks for the support!!!
I made my post specifically with Drebe73 in mind. My sole goal is to inspire him/her to push for what is right. I think Drebe has been ill-treated by Ford. Please Drebe73...if you still are waiting for your Focus....write letters, call Customer Service, talk to the manager of the dealership, talk to the area manager. Make them hear your views. Prior to phoning or seeing them....write a note with all your points to ensure that you say all you want when you talk to the Ford representative. If I could do it...you can do it!
Signed....a happy Guy---but worked like crazy to be one again!
ND
Torinopaddy, interesting points, don't feel "guilty!" I'd be dead (not just my femur) if I ever drove to work at 120mph though!
Hatchqueen, caught the Tap reference, Haha, I must have seen that movie 80 times (15 yrs ago!)
BTW - James O'Connor is the President of Ford Division. Jac Nasser is President & CEO of the Company.
As far as the Focus takinge on anything under 20K, for less than 20K I'd have a Stang (For a RWD) or a GTI 1.8T for FWD. ZX3 would definitely by in the top 5 though.
carlady/host