waynem Posted October 4, 2002 Share Posted October 4, 2002 Okay, next year I plan to start my build and I'm currently trying to keep my likely cost down, hence the donor vehicle approach. Just how many useful bits can you get off a donor (ideally XR4x4 if one becomes available). Gearbox and diff I know. I want a Zetec, so not interested in the engine... Rear brake calipers (XR4x4) ? Output Shafts ? Hubs ? Uprights ? I realise the front-end is pretty much all Cortina (hubs, uprights and callipers) It seems to me that there is a bit of a hotch-potch of Ford bits plus a lot of special Westfield parts.... It doesn't seem worth getting a donor car for just callipers, diff and gearbox when these are easily available already reconditioned.I've ordered a build manual to help solve this confusion, but no doubt others experience will be invaluable!! Please help, or else the wife won't let me build it!! Ta!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fast Westie Posted October 4, 2002 Share Posted October 4, 2002 Rear brake calipers, diff, lobro joints, errr...that's about it. If you use the 4x4 gearbox you will need to change the tailshaft housing for a 2wd one. If it is a 2.8L box the input shaft is too long. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blatman Posted October 4, 2002 Share Posted October 4, 2002 XR4x4 gearbox won't fit anyway, as it has the transfer case section stuck on the side. The only bit's you'd be able to use would be the diff (excellent choice, BTW), rear brake calipers, and maybe the driveshafts. Scanning the pages of Motorsport News would see you with the right bits, and less waste/hassle, as you'll have a scrap XR4x4 to get shot of............. If you meant an XR4, then things will be a little different, 'cos the gearbox from that car will fit......... Mornin' FW.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
waynem Posted October 4, 2002 Author Share Posted October 4, 2002 So.... XR4x4 Diff (LSD ?) Other Sierra Gearbox + diff (non-LSD) Few callipers and lobros.. Doesn't seem worth it. I was a little concerned with lowering the tone of the neighbourhood by having a rusting pile of junk in front of the house.... Sourcing the right bits from various breakers/adverts seems to be the way to go then. From the ads I've seen, it doesn't even need to be that expensive... Didn't realise how tricky this car building can be with so much to take in! Just been reading about pre-95 engines re SVA emissions and also problems mating Zetec to Type-9. Also carbing a non-carbed engine. Jeez! Does it ever end!!!!! Just glad I'm starting my research early!! No doubt I'll be posting more soon!! Cheers Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mike H Posted October 4, 2002 Share Posted October 4, 2002 Good idea to start asking early - just don't ask if you should go VX instead of Zetec! I would ring Westfield and get an illustrated parts catalogue also - they list everything you get in the starter kit. But I reckon you want - Front End: Cortina - get it all from www.locostspares.co.uk Sourcing Cortina parts from scrappies is a nightmare! Rear End: Uprights are Westfield alloy jobs and come in the kit Outer hubs but not splined half shafts come in the kit Main drive shafts come in the kit So you need - XR4 (2WD) LSD, outer splined shafts, Sierra rear brake calipers, Escort front discs (I think) and I would get NEW CV joints. Don't forget your 'Allagro' steering column and Escort rack if you want to save on those bits. So I think the answer is don't bother getting a single car for your parts. It's complicated but fun! cheers Mike Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
waynem Posted October 4, 2002 Author Share Posted October 4, 2002 Thanks for that... I've got a westfield part catalogue, and as an exercise I've put all the bits I need in along with the Westfield prices and potential prices if sourced elsewhere. Frightening thing to do... To match the 1800Q spec (without engine and gearbox) I estimated around £9000 for all Westfield bits. There are saving to be had for sure. E.g Westfield Front hub/brake/upright asembly £499 LSD Rear Diff £881.25 Carumba!!! Sourcing just these from the small ads etc will save around a grand alone!!!!! Salvaged 1.8 Zetec (pre-95) £400 from my local yard.. Obviously carb conversion required. £610 for Westfield carb kit, although secondhand others must be cheaper... Regarding the engine, I suppose you do have the piece of mind that the carbs have been setup reasonably well if sourced from Westfield, but the price is steep!! It's all these permutations I need to consider. I don't want to start a donor route and then really struggle to find bits or have dodgy parts bolted on. But conversly, I don't want to pay through the nose for new bits when reconned second-handers are just as good!! True what you say though. There is definitely fun to be had!!!! Cheers BTW, Where on earth do you find Allegros these days ? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark Stanton Posted October 4, 2002 Share Posted October 4, 2002 I suppose you do have the piece of mind that the carbs have been setup reasonably well if sourced from Westfield With no disrespect to anyone - You can only be assured 100% if it's been on a Rolling road / dyno regardless of where purchased from. It always pays to have everything checked on a RR once your car is built Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
waynem Posted October 4, 2002 Author Share Posted October 4, 2002 Hi Mark, I understand what you are saying, but I was thinking more about just getting the thing to fire on all four instead of coughing and spluttering. I agree, dynoing is the only way to get it in that sweet spot. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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