ST3 Mk2 engine weaknesses @ Stage 2?

[griffster]

Hi - considering buying a c 80k miles std 5 cylinder 225 St3 and basic tuning to c 290bhp

I have read about non closed deck issues - advice plse - are there inexpensive mods to engine for reliability when getting it mapped (sports CAT down pipe and sensible back box)

Essential supporting mods if being used as a mildly spirited daily driver and not endlessly ragged / tracked?

Best value tuner for all above mods?
thx

[Ultrafunkula]

griffster said:

Hi - considering buying a c 80k miles std 5 cylinder 225 St3 and basic tuning to c 290bhp

I have read about non closed deck issues - advice plse - are there inexpensive mods to engine for reliability when getting it mapped (sports CAT down pipe and sensible back box)

Essential supporting mods if being used as a mildly spirited daily driver and not endlessly ragged / tracked?

Best value tuner for all above mods?
thx

I ran stage 2 Bluefin for a few years on mine with a sports exhaust and uprated intercooler. I also had the engine mounts changed (as the car hopped sometimes when accelerating from low speeds) along with short shifter and uprated brake pads. Made for a good riding and quick hatch, with some occasional traction problems, just added to the fun IMO.
A block mod is recommended, kits can be obtained from most Ford aftermarket tuners (Dreamscience etc.) for around £800 I think.

[Podie]

Block mod is a good preventative measure - but at that ages it probably needs the belts doing anyway (and maybe the water pump). £550-800 seems about the going rate.

Large bushes on front suspension go in time, and they have a reputation for driveshafts (never happened to me, despite being lowered and having 50% more power than standard).

OEM suspension a bit floaty (probably worse now with age) but cn be made to go round corners rather well if prepared to spend the money.

[griffster]

thanks guys - on a severe initial budget as current car now failed with zero residual.

so would target an ST3 (has to be leather for that feeling of luxury

Hope to be able to afford add ons next year

The block liner wobble obviously worries me as u cant help thinking that the cheaper ebay examples are likely to be hiding such probs - how does it first show itself / how do u test for damage - £800 being 25% of purchase price and havin someone inside an engine that age and mileage is likely to have its downside - an 'expert' in Coalville was highly regarded, then came numerous complaints - being an example

So, can we list in order, the first 10 things that dont cost a fortune, to upgrade & why plse?

Eg are there engine parts that can be upgraded in other areas to prevent failure / improve performance

Best exhaust mod: large bore MOT friendly hi-flow CAT section? - best value?

Looking for a mellow mature 'woofle' not cracks, bangs and flames!!

Best value induction kit that enhances the 5 cylinder warble? - The exhausts just tend to hiss or roar when on boost because of turbo, but possibly more can be gained with induction?

Anyone tried fitting an audio transducer to inlet plenum somewhere and playin through equaliser into stereo speakers?

Does std clutch tolerate 290 bhp / stage 2 level of tune - Dont need to exceed 300 bhp and want to maximise economy

Engine mount upgrade to limit axle tramp?

Best cheap suspension mod to enhance handling without spoiling ride comfort

etc..

thx

..or alternative £3k car suggestions..

[Ultrafunkula]

I would consider an RS clutch at some point as a remap will cause the standard clutch to slip, I never really considered the block mod tbh as liner failure was estimated to be only in a few percent of engines.
The first thing I would look at would be de resonating the exhaust, cheap and makes the standard exhaust sound louder without drone. Louder bangs too.

[griffster]

not looking for too much exhaust harshness but do like the look of the RS 'Rally style' rear box - is there an affordable replica for the ST3

May run Stage 1 to avoid cost of clutch and IC upgrades..280 bhp and lb ft should be fine after my Mondeo diesel

[RichardDastardly]

I found stage 1 without any other bolt-ons a definite step up from stock. You’ll get used to it and want more after a bit though - but that always happens!

I definitely wouldn’t upgrade the IC unless you’re making more significant mods. I stupidly upgraded the IC while running stage 1 and feel like that’s created a bit of turbo lag.

If you’re unlucky you might still end up needing an RS clutch with stage 1 though.

[griffster]

I guess an RS clutch + DMF / alternative fitted is gonna be pricey... anyone do a lightweight non DM alternative that works ok?

[Ultrafunkula]

I retained the standard DMF in mine when I had the RS clutch fitted. Personally, I would get the stage 1 map on first as it's such an improvement then see if you think a lighter flywheel would be beneficial.
I think an uprated lower engine mount would be a higher priority as the increased torque led to wheel hop in mine.

[griffster]

thx - might be worth risking a cheap ST3, fit hiflo downpipe and St1 + bottom mnt upgrade

anything else inexpensive and worthwhile? -Any cold induction kit give a better 5 cylinder character?