FYI: A wrecked Ford Focus RS, once a rally star, finds new life and thrills in Kansas through dedicated refurbishment efforts.
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### Kansas Colossal: Bringing a Rally Icon Back from the Brink
When faced with the challenge of reviving a battered vehicle, YouTuber and car enthusiast Westen Champlin, residing in Kansas, saw not a lost cause, but an opportunity. Buying a heavily wrecked 2017 Ford Focus RS didn’t deter him; instead, it set the stage for an automotive adventure.
### The Challenge Awaits
Champlin, known for his daring automotive endeavors—like navigating a sight-unseen mini truck over a 1,000-mile journey—decided to acquire the cheapest Ford Focus RS he could find. Unsurprisingly, its price reflected its severe condition: a rally car that had taken a battering to its front right side. But for Champlin, its damaged state meant it was ripe for restoration—and all at a bargain price.
### Restorative Ingenuity in Play
Determined to resurrect the vehicle, Champlin rolled up his sleeves. Priority number one was addressing the non-functional Engine Control Module. This task involved a trip to a local Ford dealership for specialized programming. Remarkably, once repaired, the rally car’s robust engine roared to life again.
Yet, the work didn’t end there. Repairing the suspension, installing a new control arm, and outfitting the car with fresh wheels and tires were essential undertakings in Champlin’s comprehensive overhaul.
### Revived for the Thrill
With the mechanical issues resolved, it was time for the ultimate test drive. The rejuvenated Ford Focus RS proved to be an exhilarating powerhouse, perfectly suited for enthusiastic maneuvers. Champlin exuberantly put the car through its paces, executing dynamic turns and stirring up clouds of dust. The revived rally car’s speed and agility were back, underscoring that even a vehicle with a troubled past can reclaim its rightful place on the track.
### Final Drive
In the end, Champlin’s journey with the Ford Focus RS is a testament to the potential hidden in seemingly unsalvageable cars. His efforts showcase how passion and dedication can breathe new life into automotive legends. For insights and updates on extraordinary car stories, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
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William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi
