Having bought scruffy old Silvertop 1.6, am now faced with the prob of how to organise the ignition etc.

Big Wasa's thread ( http://www.locostbuilders.co.uk/viewthread.php?tid=179921a) covers some of the issues involved, but also notes that a matching ign key is essential. And there's the prob, i.e. no ECU, no key.

Where should I start? Is an aftermarket ECU recommended (e.g. MSpark)? Hoping to see sample installations at Stoneleigh, but which day depends on the weather.

Ford Escort 1.6 16v Zetec ECU Set &' Lock set + KEY - From M reg MK5 Model Hatch

Aftermarket will cost you £££ compared to the ford item.

Megasquirt will top £600 minimum with a rolling road, my Emerald after buying loom etc and RR will top £1,200

If you plan to retain the 1.6 engine and not fiddle the OEM ECU has to be a winner IMHO, want to add throttle bodies etc then it goes the other way.

Thanks for your comments, and suggestions.

What do you want to end up with ?

Your engine is going to give you around 90 bhp. An after market ecu and throttle bodies won't give huge rewards but will cost loads so if your happy with what you have ? Give the oem ecu a try. It can be had for £20 if you look a little harder on eblag.