fiestaturbo.com

[Makaveli]

Looking for information on turbocharging the zetec-se (sigma) engine found in the zetec-s and puma. Not really interested inthe low boost Van Aaken conversion, I'm talking about propper turbocharging

Had a look around the net the past couple of days but not found much. I know that I'll need to drop in forged pistons, custom manifold etc. But more interested in what the limit of the standard rods and crank. Also are there any parts readily available off the shelf (pistons, rods etc.) or is all custom build to order. Thinking of quite high boost levels and high revs.

Any help would be much appreciated

[jonyb4]

ive heard that the sigmas cylinder heads are too weak to support a big turbo, being aluminium and all

[Ruishy1]

ive heard that the sigmas cylinder heads are too weak to support a big turbo, being aluminium and all

If your putting on a large turbo, you always add a support brace to stop the damage due to weight

Ive not got any clue as to the SE mate, but its just the same as any other engine really, if you are aiming for high BHP, you will need forged rods aswell.
Most cranks are capable of alot of power before they start to throw a wobbily, just get it balanced, knife edged etc will help you loads

[Makaveli]

Cheers fellas

That's what I was thinking: rods pistons, usual up-rated bolts and bearings etc. Not sure where to look for components as the sigma engine seems a bit of an ugly duckling.

[Ruishy1]

From the info i can gather ( very little ! ) the crank is a strong mofo, the rods are made using powdered metal, but has a decent girdle support.

I think with pistons, rods, change the inlet for something a bit more boost friendly and a decent map, you could be onto a winner

[Makaveli]

I was thinking that the racing puma manifold or a custom set up and obviously a custom exhaust manifold (equal length tubular job with a nice ceramic coating) would do the trick.

I think the zetec-se shares lots of the plus points with the duratec but at a fraction of the price, such as an all aluminium construction and having the inlet on the front. I also I like the idea of keeping the original capacity.

[Rhinopower]

ive heard that the sigmas cylinder heads are too weak to support a big turbo, being aluminium and all

Maybe thats why zetec turbos dont make very good power, having an aluminium head themselves and all

[Makaveli]

ive heard that the sigmas cylinder heads are too weak to support a big turbo, being aluminium and all

Maybe thats why zetec turbos dont make very good power, having an aluminium head themselves and all

or 99% of all petrol engines for the past god knows how long

[sikora]

I do know the 1.7 has a stronger crank than the 1.6, so maybe the best option.

The mk1 Focus RS engine is a Zetec - despite its Duratec badge, so no excuse on the aluminium head really

[Makaveli]

The 1.7 is an option but not sure if it can be re-honed without costing the earth due to the Nikasil coated bores. Anyone know much about Nikasil? Other than its hate of high sulphur fuels I don't know alot about the stuff

[Ruishy1]

Apart from virtually every engine thats had it has went funlumps up, me neither

Seriously from what ive read, ive yet to hear of a car with nikasil liners thats not had to have expensive rectification work !

Stick with the 1.6