10/27/2026
We have had a ton of messages on the Focus platform for stock rules racing. This will help many of those searching answers. I will use comparison to a Cavy for those that are familiar.
Body style Model years Engine considerations
ZX3 – 3-door hatchback 2000–2007 Zetec early, 2.3L available in 2003–2004 applications (CA emissions=lower hp), 2.0L Duratec in 2005–2007
ZX5 – 5-door hatchback 2002–2007 Zetec early, limited early 2.3L availability, 2.0L Duratec in 2005–2007
Sedan / ZX4 2000–2007 SPI, Zetec, and Duratec options varied by year; 2.3L ST in 2005–2007
⚙️ There are 3 different gearing options for the Duratec. A 3.41, 3.56 and 3.82. The 3.82 is most common and will be in the 2005-2007 cars. Don’t even consider an Auto. They are absolute garbage and won’t even get through the pits 🤣🤣
👷 Building a car: There are some differences when it comes to building a Focus versus a Cavy. Particularly in the stripping process. A Ford’s security system is difficult and can throw major issues. When you go to strip a car, do not cut any of the main wiring harness. You can cut the door wires and the head/tail light plugs. THAT IS IT. Building a wiring harness is a labor intensive process for these cars and we MUST have the full harness. A Focus core harness is $600 🤯 there is that much wiring (see pic). As far as roll cages, the measurements are identical to a cavy, just taller. I have used a cavy cage bends and measurements with just a taller main cage.
🚘 Motor: A straight, from the salvage yard 2.0 is what will work perfect. They don’t have balance shafts, they don’t have timing problems. WARNING!! DO NOT LOOSEN THE HARMONIC BALANCER WITHOUT THE PROPER TOOLS!!! These motors are not pinned to keep timing like a cavy. Search on Amazon: Duratec Timing Tools if you plan on retiming a motor. As far as spark plugs and all that: use Motorcraft stuff. It is more pricey than a Cavy, but it was made for the car.
😱 Suspension: The most difficult part of a Focus compared to a Cavy is the difference in driving. The Focus has independent rear suspension unlike a Cavy. It has shock and springs on the rear. A huge benefit if you know how to use it. Also the roll center is different. The current setup we will be offering has over 4 years of testing, planning and races on them. And a ton of huge wins… 🏁 You would be working with the best suspension mind in the game and we will get you in a setup that fits your style. Believe me, we’ve tried it all!! We are offering a RR safety hub and trailing arm as well. We will also have a dirt and asphalt setup available. We’ve got wins on both surfaces.
🛞 Wheels and Tires: There are many options for wheels for the Aluminum wheels guys. 4x108 is a common Ford lug pattern. The older 4 lug Mustang wheels are a good option.
💭 Final Thoughts: If you don’t want to learn something new, do not switch. But don’t complain when you get left behind! Just because it’s not a Cavy, doesn’t mean its illegal. It means they have learned and maybe you should too… 🤔
We are supplying parts currently for 2005-2007 2.0 Duratec Manuals. Sunday!! Prices will be released Sunday. Also a friendly reminder: if you see the prices and don’t like them, go find another Ford racing parts supplier 😉
