How wide is the rear track on a Escort mk2?
The rear track of a Ford Escort Mk2 is typically about 1,290 mm (50.8 inches), though exact figures vary slightly by model year and market.
The Mk2 Escort, produced from the mid-1970s into the early-1980s, used a traditional rear axle setup that defines its wheel track. Because Ford sold the Mk2 across different regions with small regional variations and trim differences, there isn’t a single universal figure. For the precise specification on a given car, check the factory workshop manual or a VIN-specific parts catalog.
Understanding rear track on the Mk2
The rear track is the horizontal distance between the centers of the two rear wheels. It affects handling, stability, and tire clearance, especially when fitting wider tires or aftermarket components. While the Mk2 shared a common design, minor market-specific differences can appear in official documentation.
Typical rear-track figures for the Mk2
Below are widely cited rear-track figures for Mk2 Escort variants. Since production varied by market and year, exact figures may differ slightly.
- Typical Mk2 rear track: approximately 1,290 mm (50.8 in).
- Some references list 1,320 mm (about 52 in) for certain markets or body styles.
- Real-world manufacturing tolerances mean a practical range around 1,285–1,320 mm (50.6–51.9 in).
These numbers serve as practical references for restoration, modification, or replacement parts. For a precise figure, consult the factory workshop manual or a dealer parts catalog using your car's VIN or body code.
Measuring the rear track yourself
To verify the rear-track width on your Mk2, use the following measurement procedure.
- Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake; place chocks on the front wheels.
- Support the car and remove the rear wheels to access the wheel mounting surfaces.
- Identify the exact measurement points: the centers of the rear wheel hubs or the inner surfaces of the wheel mounting flanges.
- Measure the horizontal distance between the centers of the two rear wheel mounting points. Use a straightedge or a long tape measure for accuracy.
- Record the measurement in millimeters and convert to inches if needed (1 inch = 25.4 mm).
- Repeat the measurement to confirm consistency; take an average if there is any variance.
- Reinstall wheels, lower the car, and recheck tire pressures and any suspension components if you’ve been under the car.
Notes: Ensure the suspension is unloaded and tires are at standard size; aftermarket components or worn joints can alter effective measurements slightly. This method yields the nominal track width. For an exact factory figure, rely on official documentation for your specific vehicle configuration.
Summary: The Mk2 Escort’s rear track is typically around 1,290 mm, with a narrow possible range depending on market and year. When precise figures are required—for restoration, racing prep, or compatibility checks—verify against the official workshop manual or VIN-specific catalog, or measure as outlined above.
What is the rarest Mk2 Escort?
RS1800
With just 109 examples ever produced, the RS1800 is one of those unicorn performance models from half a century ago that is in huge demand among enthusiasts and commanding jaw-dropping prices.
What is the spec of the Ford Escort Mk2?
1.6 liter 4 Cylinder Engine:
Head: Twin overhead camshaft cross flow. Fuel System: Single twin choke downdraft carburetor. Bore and Stroke: 80.98 x 77.62 mm. Power: 98 bhp (86 kW) @ 6000 rpm.
How wide is a 9 inch Ford rear end?
A Ford 9-inch rear end can range in width from approximately 57.25 to 69.25 inches, with a variety of widths available depending on the specific vehicle it came from. For example, a 1966-67 Mustang version is around 57.25 inches wide, while a 1974-86 full-size F-150 or Bronco can be up to 65 inches wide.
| Width (inches) | Example Vehicle |
|---|---|
| 57.25 | 1966-67 Mustang |
| 58 | 1966 Bronco, 1964 Falcon |
| 59.25 | 1967-70 Mustang |
| 65 | 1974-86 full-size F-150 or Bronco |
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To determine the exact width of a specific rear end, measure the distance between the axle flanges on the ends of the axle tubes, as shown in this Reddit post.
What are common Mk2 Escort problems?
Rust is the main problem with these Fords: all panels were welded and few were painted inside. Restoring a rotten one is a huge challenge so, unless you love cutting and welding, find a good one – which these days is likely to be an import.
