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Transit Connect Guide

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  1. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from BSUPC in Possible first time owner   
    I catch at least 10 per year on the backside.  Sometimes they get past me though.
     
    Good catch
  2. Like
    Transit Connect Guide reacted to sKiZo in I'm sKiZo, and my favorite color is blue ...   
    Saw a 2011 Transit Connect XLT for sale, test drove it, and thought "this could be nice!" - drove it home that day.
     
    High hopes for converting it into an overnite camper - I've seen some interesting plans and pics here and there that lead me to believe it could work for me. It's a panel van (no rear glass) and it already has a 1000 watt inverter and dual battery system installed. As is, I expect I could just jam my Aerobed in the back and do take out until I get further along in the build. Final results (hopefully) will include a convertible couch/bed, storage, and a mini kitchen with water and stove, as well as a porta potty for emergencies. Install slider windows in the rear doors and sides for ventilation, and a fan-tastic fan in the roof. The inverter is already rigged for solar, so a couple panels for keeping the batteries topped off as well. And speaking of roofs - already looking into popping the top for additional headroom.
     
    Should be a fun project!
     
  3. Thanks
    Transit Connect Guide reacted to BSUPC in Possible first time owner   
    The two spam bots have been removed.      Anytime you see these things popup in a thread or any where on the forum, please use the report feature and it will be dealt with.
     
     
  4. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from gracie in 2017 Ordering Guide   
    Here's the 2017 Ford Transit Connect Schedule:
    Order Banks Open: 04-11-16
    Scheduling for Building Begins: 05-12-16
    JOB1 Start of Production: 07-04-16
  5. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from snowbird in Welcome, snowbird   
    Hello snowbird,
    Welcome to Ford Transit Connect Forum. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.
    snowbird joined on the 11 May 2016.
    View snowbird's Profile
  6. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from Knolly in 2017 Ordering Guide   
    Here's the 2017 Ford Transit Connect Schedule:
    Order Banks Open: 04-11-16
    Scheduling for Building Begins: 05-12-16
    JOB1 Start of Production: 07-04-16
  7. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from DapperVan in 2017 Ford Transit Connect Build Information   
    2017 Ford Transit Connect Build Information
    Order Banks Open: 04-11-16
    Scheduling for Building Begins: 05-12-16
    JOB1 Start of Production: 07-04-16
  8. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from DapperVan in 2017 Ordering Guide   
    Here's the 2017 Ford Transit Connect Schedule:
    Order Banks Open: 04-11-16
    Scheduling for Building Begins: 05-12-16
    JOB1 Start of Production: 07-04-16
  9. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from JJ Honeycutt in Welcome, JJ Honeycutt   
    Hello JJ Honeycutt,
    Welcome to Ford Transit Connect Forum. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.
    JJ Honeycutt joined on the 26 Mar 2016.
    View JJ Honeycutt's Profile
  10. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from operating engineer O/O in Ford Transit Connect Winter Tires - Do I Need Them?   
    Ford Transit Connect Winter Tires



    Ford Transit Connect Forum - Driving on winter tires provides added safety and peace of mind in wet, snowy and icy conditions. Stopping distances are reduced, grip is greatly increased and the construction and tread pattern of winter tires is designed specifically to cope with extreme weather conditions.

    1) Why should I fit winter tires?
    Primarily winter tires are designed for temperatures below 70C or 44.6 F. They are safer in cold conditions, wet or dry , because the tread compounds heat up quicker to create better grip in lower temperatures. Winter tires use a higher proportion of natural rubber in the tread, minimizing the hardening effect at low temperatures. This results in a higher level of grip providing improved braking distances compared to standard summer tires - 10% in rain, 20% in snow.

    2) Are winter tires only for use in snow?
    Winter tires are not ‘snow’ tires and will outperform standard summer tires in all conditions below 70C or 44.6 F, not just snow and ice. The wider grooves on the winter tire tread pattern are more effective in slush as well as snow, giving additional traction. The large amount of ‘sipes’ in the tread area create a large number of biting edges which interlock with the surface conditions and improve braking and traction/acceleration. Sipes are tiny slits in the tread blocks that run across the width of many winter tires: they allow better contact between the tyre and wet, muddy and icy roads. The rubber compounds used for winter tires are much softer, which prevents hardening at cold temperatures resulting in improved handling.

    3) How do winter tyres perform in wet conditions?
    Modern high-performance standard tires have a harder tread compound which is engineered to ensure grip at medium/high temperatures. The molecules in the tread rubber freeze and harden as temperatures fall, thereby increasing the risk of aquaplaning and increasing braking distance. When temperatures drop below 70C or 44.6 F, winter tiresretain more flexibility and are less prone to aquaplaning.

    4) Why should winter tyres be fitted in sets of four?
    Tires need to perform consistently, particularly braking in severe weather conditions. Fitting winter tires only on the driving wheels is not recommended. If your car is front-wheel drive and the winter tires are only fitted on the front wheels you risk spinning. If your car is rear-wheel drive and the tires are only fitted on the rear wheels you risk sliding off the road while turning. You should ensure that all tires are of the same speed rating and load index. Consequently a mix of winter tires and standard summer tires should not be fitted to your vehicle.

    5) Do Winter tires affect my insurance?
    While winter tires should reduce the risk of accident when temperatures drop below 70C or 44.6 F, their fitment may be viewed as a modification. They should be in line with the motor manufacturer’s specification and fitted by a reputable dealer. Although fitment of winter tires should not affect your insurance premium, it is best practice to notify your insurance company.

    6) If I fit winter tires do I have to drive more slowly?
    Winter tires have a lower speed rating than standard summer tires. However the lower speed rating should be adequate in winter conditions – for example dropping down from a V rating (max 149 mph) to an H rating (max 131 mph).

    7) Do I have to fit winter tires when driving in Europe?
    Before travelling to Europe in the winter months you should check the legislation as winter tires are mandatory in some countries such as Austria, Germany, Finland and Sweden. You should also note that some countries require a higher minimum tread depth (e.g. 3mm) than the legal minimum of 1.6 mm in the UK.

    8) What happens when temperatures rise above 70C or 44.6 F?
    As the average temperatures between October and March are below 70C or 44.6 F., you should consider waiting until April before changing back to standard summer tires.
  11. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from Jeff Morton in Welcome, Jeff Morton   
    Hello Jeff Morton,
    Welcome to Ford Transit Connect Forum. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.
    Jeff Morton joined on the 13 Aug 2015.
    View Jeff Morton's Profile
  12. Like
    Transit Connect Guide got a reaction from frangeame in Ford Introduces 2014 Transit Connect Wagon: 30 MPG   
    Ford Introduces New Seven-Passenger People Mover with a Difference: Transit Connect Wagon First to Exceed 30 MPG

    Ford brings the compact Transit Connect Wagon to market, a vehicle so unique it is a revolution in seven-passenger transportation

    Transit Connect Wagon expected to deliver at least 5 mpg better fuel economy on the highway and 2 mpg better in the city than a seven-seat Toyota Sienna minivan, and more cargo space and passenger seating than Mazda5, yet hauls a heavier payload than a Toyota Tacoma Double Cab pickup or Dodge Grand Caravan

    Anticipating up to 30 mpg-plus on the highway with EcoBoost® power, Transit Connect Wagon offers a choice of two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, two wheelbase lengths and three series models – XL, XLT and range-topping Titanium

    Transit Connect Wagon takes adaptability to a new level with the convenience of sliding side doors, fold-flat second- and third-row seating, a 1,200-pound-plus payload, and choice of a rear liftgate or symmetrical, side-hinged cargo doors



    SOUNDBITES: 2014 Transit Connect Wagon

    FORD TRANSIT CONNECT FORUM – Ford, the most fuel-efficient full-line manufacturer, introduces the first seven-passenger people mover expected to break the 30 mpg-plus highway barrier with the all-new Transit Connect Wagon, which drives like a car, has the flexibility of a utility and can haul the payload of a full-size pickup.

    “Transit Connect Wagon gives young families and people on the go the fun-to-drive and efficient vehicle they’ve been looking for,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas. “It’s an all-new, smaller seven-seater that has better mileage than larger vans and creates a segment of its own. Customers also will love the unique combination of style, adaptability and affordability this wagon brings.”

    Transit Connect Wagon is offered in two wheelbase lengths, in five- and seven-passenger configurations, and in XL, XLT and Titanium series levels. No other wagon in the market today offers the convenience of fold-flat seating, at least a 1,200-pound payload and more than 100 cubic feet of cargo space.

    When properly equipped, this versatile wagon is approved to tow up to 2,000 pounds, 500 pounds more than a four-cylinder Toyota Highlander SUV.

    Have it your way
    Transit Connect Wagon offers customers a choice between two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines – a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an optional 1.6-liter EcoBoost® that is estimated to deliver 30 mpg-plus on the highway. This powertrain makes Transit Connect Wagon the gas mileage leader among seven-passenger vehicles.

    Both engines come mated to a convenient six-speed automatic transmission, geared for around-town responsiveness and low-rpm highway cruising.

    Transit Connect Wagon is available in a wide variety of configurations and series levels, offering unexpected features in a high-value package with low operating costs.

    This stylish, contemporary design is offered in two wheelbase lengths, a choice of five- or seven-passenger seating arrangements, and offers meaningful options like a full-glass panoramic roof, rear view camera, 6.5-inch touch screen display with navigation, and SYNC® with MyFord Touch® – Ford’s highly acclaimed voice-activated communications and entertainment system.

    Transit Connect Wagon’s global design includes premium cues throughout such as available full body-color exterior accents with jewel-like chrome trim and high-gloss interior trim pieces. A range of seating surfaces, from luxurious leather, comfortable cloth and heavy-duty vinyl, is available to suit the specific needs of a wide variety of potential customers.

    Commercial-strength DNA in a family versatility vehicle
    Transit Connect Wagon’s work-hard/play-hard nature is reflected in cargo-carrying capacity and room for
    up to seven comfortably seated passengers, wrapped in a high-strength body engineered to rigorous global commercial vehicle durability standards.

    The all-new Transit Connect Wagon builds on the foundation of reliability and durability established by the current Transit Connect compact van. Introduced in North America in 2009, Transit Connect has become the must-have vehicle for small business proprietors, thanks to its unmatched combination of payload and cargo capacities, adaptability, fuel efficiency, maneuverability and overall ease of driving.

    Transit Connect was recognized as an innovative “white space” vehicle – literally carving out a new category in the market – by the automotive industry press corps when it was named North American Truck of the Year in January 2010 at the North American International Auto Show.

    Now selling at a pace of 35,000 units per year, Transit Connect has become a favorite of small businesses, corporate fleets, taxi operators and a few individualistic owners who find its combination of a car-like ride and the cargo capacity of a van just right for their personal use.

    “The all-new Transit Connect Wagon will expand the personal-use audience for this versatile nameplate by offering up to seven-passenger capacity across three rows of seating in a fully trimmed interior,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford vice president of Global Engineering, Global Product Development. “It has an extensive selection of comfort, convenience and connectivity options, and a full complement of safety features – making it a modern, family-friendly alternative to oversized minivans.”

    All Transit Connect Wagon models feature first-row frontal, pelvis and side airbags, with first-, second- and third-row side curtain airbags in long-wheelbase models. Short-wheelbase versions get first- and second-row side curtain airbags.

    Ford’s award-winning MyKey® programmable ignition key enables restricting maximum vehicle speed and audio system volume, bringing additional peace of mind to both parents and fleet administrators alike.

    Click to download PDF.

    Transit Connect Wagon even offers a child observation mirror so parents can keep track of children safely belted in second- and third-row seats.
    Infinite adaptability
    Inside, the Transit Connect Wagon package is a rolling showcase for adaptability in hauling both people and cargo.

    From its 60/40 three-passenger second-row bench seat through fold-flat second- and third-row seating with third-row independent fore-and-aft sliding capability, Transit Connect Wagon quickly adapts to accommodate multiple combinations of people and cargo.

    Also available is an electric windshield defroster, making short work of icy windshields in wintry conditions and when parking Transit Connect Wagon on the street.

    The versatile Transit Connect Wagon offers far better fuel efficiency than traditional minivans, compact-car-like maneuverability and handling, combined with unprecedented payload and cargo capabilities.

    Look for Transit Connect Wagon to appear in North American Ford dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2013. Consumers can get more information and learn more about the Transit Connect Wagon at http://ford.com/transitconnectwagon.
  13. Like
    Transit Connect Guide reacted to GTWE in Hello from New Orleans!!   
    How's it going, everybody! Just took delivery of our new TC on Monday! It is an XLT van with a couple of options, notably the SYNC system. Had a partition installed behind the front seats. Love it already! Love the European styling and features. It drives well and I love how solid and well finished it feels. You don't get the "tin can" feeling that you do from other cargo vans.
    We are a wholesale wheel and tire distributor and will be using the TC for deliveries. Of course, one of the first modifications we'll be making will be wheels and tires! We may go for a wrap as well. Hopefully, I'll be able to keep you guys updated as this work in progress begins!
  14. Like
    Transit Connect Guide reacted to Scratch in My new center console!   
    I’m a visual guy. I’m the guy who asks for a picture menu at McDonalds. I like to see pics on threads too so I’m posting a bunch of pics on this thread. If you don’t like it, hit the back button, cuz I gotta story to tell… I hope you enjoy it.
    I install security systems during the day, and do metalwork on nights and weekends. I also moonlight as a level 3, super top secret, government spy when I get the time, but since I just said that last one, it’s obvious I’m not a very good one.
    Anyways, for my install job, I used to drive a full sized van. Now my company decided to get us all Transit Connects.
    My old van had a sweet center console that I could put file folders in, and had a flip down top that I could as a writing surface.
    The Connect is.... let's just say, lacking a little in the "room" department...
    Here’s my temporary solution to the problem. Classy right.

    It’s not like I’m the only one complaining about this either, there are 9 of us, and my bosses solution was to buy us each one of these:

    Awesome right.
    I decided to build one.
    I have the technology…. (6 million dollar man reference there guys…)
    I built this out of 14 G steel, probably shoulda went thinner as it’s kind of heavy and I’m concerned about the TC being able to hit 60 miles per hour now, but oh well. On the plus side, I can toss it out the window knowing it has enough mass to stop those pesky black SUV’s that chase me during my black OPS days… shhhhh….

    The holes in the side are for ratchet straps to go under the seat. It'll go in the passenger seat since nobody in their right mind will ride with me.
    In the TC, there’s not a lot of room for things like my calculator and gas card either, so I put these babies on it.

    I’m not a caveman who stores his ball point pens in his butt cheeks, so I made some hi-tech storage containers for them.

    In this pic you can also see the “relief cuts” since I don’t have any way to make nice bends in 14G steel yet. I use those a lot on stuff like this.
    I like my writing surfaces, like I like my women... flat and close to me. So I incorporated a sweet sliding top for it, so I don’t have to reach over that darn shifter.

    Yeah, I know what you’re thinking “Two separate tops, and ball bearing sliding rails for it, all in 14 gauge steel… that top’s gotta be heavy!” You’re right. My pencil thin arms and weak muscles are no match for it, but I have a big fat head filled with what I assume is Ramen noodles, and brains, so I came up with this: HYDRAULIC ASSIST BABY!

    That large caevernous area on the right is where the file folders will now sit.
    I even put a little shelf inside to hold all my stuff like extra pens, business cards, brass knuckles, poison darts, and my lucky rabbits foot.

    Hey look at that, the pen holder is only held in place with magnets, in case he really doesn’t need any more pens! Someone was using his ramen noodles again…..

    I hope you enjoyed reading about this, as much as I enjoyed making it, now I'm going to go burn that old cardboard file box, in defiance.
  15. Like
    Transit Connect Guide reacted to vdubsrus in Hello from london uk   
    Hey guys hope all is good
    Two weeks ago I got hold off a connect TDDI with a blown engine (hole in block due to neglect of engine oil by previous owner). These engine are well know for little end problems!
    There has always been this one question ask time and time again "Will the ford focus tddi engine fit the ford transit connect tddi"
    I am a capable mechanic and will undertake this project to see if this can be done.
    WHY?......
    In the uk the ford focus tddi grows on trees, you can find plenty ford focus tddi engines on ebay all day long with a price range of £250 to £450. Average mileage is around 90000.
    Ford transit connect TDDI engine are like gold dust on ebay price range from £750 to £1250.
    Sorry to you USA connect owners I no you don't have the TDDI model connect.
    So far I no for sure that these are a perfect match:
    Connect cylinder head same as ford focus (tddi)
    Connect gearbox will fit ford focus engine (tddi)
    Connect engine block is same as ford focus block, HOWEVER! both these blocks are a two part block, (top and bottom). from looking at both blocks together the connect engine bottom drive shaft bracket looks slightly higher.
    Will get some photos up on here later
    Buy for now
  16. Like
    Transit Connect Guide reacted to Scratch in Them dang rear locking doors!   
    Here's what I do.... I pull up to a job, get out of my TC, open up the side slider to get my tool belt. Then I go to the rear doors to get my tool box.....
    DANG IT!!! They're locked still! I have to hit the stupid "rear unlock" button on the fob to unlock the rear doors!
    Can the rear doors be programmed, or re-wired to unlock "with" the side sliders?
    I know I can hit the "unlock" button on the fob twice, or hit that "rear unlcok" button, but I just want all the cargo doors to unlock together.
    Can this be done?
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