Debuting in 1992, the transmission was developed in tandem with the
Zetec family of
engines. The transmission is optimised for transferring larger levels of
torque than the older iB-series unit used on the
Fiesta and
Escort models. Other features include the provision of equal length
driveshafts (to combat
torque steer) and
synchromesh on reverse gear. The transmission was first used on the Zetec-engined Escort Mk V (only XR3i), but its proper intended application was on the
Mondeo and its derivatives (the American
Ford Contour,
Mercury Mystique and the
New Edge Mercury/Ford Cougar). The 2000-2004 Focus with 2.0 litre Zetec engine, and the 2.3 liter Duratec engine with manual used this transmission, as well as all
diesel powered versions of the
Focus. It was also used in the 2.5 and 3.0 V6 versions of the manual transmission equipped Jaguar X-Type. The main change to the unit was to cable operation in 1996 on the facelifted Mondeo, as the rod-based linkage of the original unit attracted criticism for feeling vague and notchy. The open differential can be replaced by a plated or ATB Differential for motorsport use - Kaaz, Torsen, MFactory and
Quaife offer suitable units. ==VXT-75==