The water pump from 2nd gen Ford Escorts was designed much simpler than the 3rd gen. A clear case of over-engineering on Ford's behalf. The tensioner is also manually adjustable and simpler as well. Last, the 1.9 water pump offers some but not much weight reduction.

Also, 2nd gen water pumps are cheaper. Auto Zone list their Duralast water pump for the 1.9L at $45.99 and includes the timing tensioner. Their Duralast pump for the 2.OL SPI is $59.99 and the tensioner is sold separatly and cost an additional $47.99 from Auto Zone for a total of $107.98.

It's interesting to note that a 2.0 L timing belt will work on a 1.9 water pump. However a 1.9 timing belt will not work on a 2.0 water pump if it's being installed in a 1.9 block for whatever the reason may be (such as having a new one laying around). The pulley is slightly larger on the 2.0 L water pump, and placed differently, requiring a slightly longer belt. However the adjust ability of the 1.9 tensioner allows the belt to function.

Also see

• Timing belt replacement for the procedure on getting to the water pump.
• Water pump replacement for the procedure of actually removing and installing the water pump.
• Ford Escort & ZX2 section for the entire index of all Ford Escort and ZX2 related articles.