Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Zetec Maintenance Dead Automatic,ZX2/Contour engine/trans swap?

The automatic trans in my 96 contour is junk and will cost at least $2000CDN to fix.(anyone else have problems with their auto?) I atill owe money from the lease buy out so ordering an SVT Focus isn't an option. I have the opportunity to steal a hit-in-the-side- write-off 98 ZX2 with only 80,000kms. I can get the whole car for the cost of rebuilding/replacing my trans. Can I swap the ZX2's engine/trans/clutch/shifter
/computer into the subframe of my conour? I know about the difference between the older zetecs and the 98 and newer ones. I figured I would use the engine accesories from the contour. The catch is that the ZX2 is a 5-speed. I wanted a 5-speed from the get go but the dealer couldn't find me a zetec/5-sp combo so I settled for the auto. Does anyone have any info/advice on this swap? Will the ZX2 engine harness fit the contour fuse block? What about ABS? I have until the snow flies so time is not an option and I'm not afraid to fabricate. I also hope to part out the ZX2 to recoup some of my costs(the airbags aren't blown) Any help will be greatly appreiciated.

96 Contour
195,000kms
One dead tranny

Just a few things:

1. Sorry to hear about your tranny, they seem to be pretty reliable by my POV.

2. The job you're considering(assuming it'll work) is a HUGE job.

3. For one, your switching to an escort zx2, from an ATX to MTX, AND 96 to 98. You listed about everything you'll need(major components). Problem is the difference in the cars chassiss, the engine isn't too big a concern but mounted with the tranny it might not even fit into your bay. Electronics are likely to be somewhat different.

4. Another concern would be the jump from 96 to 98, that zx2 engine might have VCT so you'll need the PCM from that, which in turn might not work right with your guages.

5. Basically, research all you can into this before buying the car...you might end up with a useless zx2. Try hunting around some zx2 boards and websites for info from their side. Good luck, you're gonna need it And please, keep us all updated on your progress if you discover this venture will, in fact, work.

HTH