Starting to plan a MK 4 roadster build

[4.6 litre]

I want to build a Mk 4 roadster for about $45K. I intend to start with the FFR Mark 4 complete kit and come up with a street roadster with about 400HP that rides somewhat like my 4.6L 2007 Mustang GT. The 4.6L modular is great but its torque rating drops out at the high end. The problem I'm having right now is determining what engine/transmission combo I can get for about $10-12K that will fit these expectations. I've looked at 5.0L crate engines, Coyotes and 302's but I can't seem to find an engine/transmission duo that will fit into my budget. I need to know if my expectations are realistic. Y'all have more experience than me. I'm just looking to build a smooth roaster that will beat most commercial production cars and one that I can be proud to drive. Can you help me with this?

[CraigS]

Buy this
http://www.fordcobraengines.com/engine/351w-cobra-kit-crate-engine/
and add a TKO500 and use the 331 gear rear axle and have a blast. Also call Forte and get a quote for something similar. There two schools of thought re; engines. I really like ones like this that just look right when you open the hood. You do need to get familiar w/ the characteristics of driving a carbed car. But it is a really simple installation and the only unusual driving part is during engine warmup. If you think about the mod motor route do a search for a mod motor sub forum. there is also one of these on the other forum. The mod motor w/ all the modern computer control will be a more complex thing to get right but it can be done.

[Slider]

I went with the Coyote and a TK0600, both bought through Mike Forte. Final cost was probably a bit (but not much) above your $12k goal. I could not be happier. And frankly, the install was not that difficult, and probably easier now because more guys have done it. For instance, FF didn't have the Coyote install kit at the time I purchased, so I had to fabricate or source my own parts to do it. The wiring was a piece of cake, certainly not the most difficult thing done on the build. And, when it was all wired, i put the key in and turned it on, and it started up the first time just like a brand new car would and I don't have to mess with it when the temperature changes or when I drive to a location with a significantly different altitude. And with the power to weight ratio with this combination, there aren't many drivers of any production car that are anxious to see how their ride compares. Keep in mind, I'm running a stock Coyote, so not taxing it at all. It is capable of much more, but at 412HP and 390lb torque, unmodified, it is a rocket ship that will run forever. My build was only slightly over the $45k you are targeting. It can be done. Oh, and by the way... It sounds great!

[4.6 litre]

On the Factory Five Mark 4 Roadster web page there is a parts list for a 5.0L Coyote. I ran the figures and I come up with approximately $12K. The Ford Performance Racing 5.0L Coyote with 420HP was listed on sale at $6.3K. Of course these are just part prices.

I've ridden in my friends 351W, EFI, 412HP Mark 4 Cobra and I was going to build the same one. I still may. In the long run maybe the Coyote will run me $15K and for the present time I'll be planning on that. I'll get some estimates from vendors and look for the best deal. I can always have the engine/transmission assembled by some local club members.

This project is a retirement gift to myself. I'm 65 and I hope I live long enough not only to build this car but also to enjoy it.

Let's hope my wallet will hold.

[NukeMMC]

PM me your email and I will send you my spreadsheet that I used in my decision making. While it is far from perfect or complete. It helped me realize I couldn't afford the $10-12K for the engine right away. I "settled" for a 351W, both for cost and so I could actually do some of the engine build.

[4.6 litre]

I received a quote from Mike Forte for the M-6007M-50 Coyote with TKO 600, starter, alternator, bellhousing, engine control, ..etc for under $12K. He'll also work the transmission to make it fit the Mark 4. Looks pretty good to me and a few others who reviewed it too. I'm still in for the Coyote at the present time.

[bil1024]

Good for you! Go for it!

[Avalanche325]

You should be able to get into that budget as long as you don't go crazy. I would think about what type of engine you want as it will have a lot as far a determining the personality of the car. I wouldn't make a Windsor / Modular / Coyote decision based on dollars alone. just about anything in one of these will beat most production cars.

[4.6 litre]

Engine selection was a major cost item for me but pedal box space is a make it or break it concern. I’ve ridden in a Mk 3.1 and I would like a little wider pedal box. It's my understanding that the Coyote engine/transmission duo takes up more pedal box area. If necessary can the MK 4 chassis be modified to expand the peddle box area? Can this be done by the factory or do I need a certified engineer to design it?

[Plebeian]

I don't see how you expand the footbox width with that engine/trans combo in the way. There is very little clearance to work with. Perhaps if someone moved the engine forward you'd get more clearance, but that would cause other potential issues.

[MPTech]

Footbox room was part of my decision criteria for going with a 302. There were other reasons too, but it was a factor.
The Coyote will definitely reduce the DS footbox and I think it's about maxed on the MK4.
With the 302, I was able to add about 1 1/2" in the DS FB over the standard FB. And significantly added to the Passenger Footbox.
There are several Topics on the other site that describes this mod. I'll post a link if you are interested, but these are not applicable for the Mod & Coyote motor installations.

[edwardb]

Engine selection was a major cost item for me but pedal box space is a make it or break it concern. I’ve ridden in a Mk 3.1 and I would like a little wider pedal box. It's my understanding that the Coyote engine/transmission duo takes up more pedal box area. If necessary can the MK 4 chassis be modified to expand the peddle box area? Can this be done by the factory or do I need a certified engineer to design it?

The Mk4 has more footbox area on the driver's side than a Mk3. But it's mainly on the LH side (outside). The Mk3 has a gap between the side footbox aluminum and the body. The Mk4 nearly fills that gap, so it's maybe 1-2 inches wider. Makes a difference. But you're up against the side of the fiberglass body at that point. The front of the DS footbox is limited by the headers, and the RH side (inside) is limited by the engine. So basically, all sides are maxed out on the Mk4 at that point.

A Windsor motor will give options to expand slightly on the inside of the driver's footbox, and also there are mods to change the aluminum panels on the PS to make it longer and a bit wider. But again the limits are fixed (engine, headers, body, etc.) so nothing the factory or an engineer can do.

The Mk4 is the best design yet for giving the most space to the driver and passenger. Pretty big guys are able to make them work.

[2bking]

I'm retired like you and needed a project that I was interested in to fill my spare time. I saw a 427 Cobra at the local Ford Dealer in the late 60's that I have never forgotten. I didn't know too much about the Cobra back then but I liked what I saw. I don't remember what color but it was a small car with an engine compartment totally full and looked really fast.

I'm currently building a Coyote Mk4 and have made DS footbox mods to regain the area removed with the Mod engine sheet metal that FFR supplies. I can share my build costs so far if your are interested.

[4.6 litre]

Thanks for the heads up. Looks like I have some investigating to do. I'll need to get a feel for the size and configuration of the foot box. Anyone in the Huntsville, AL area who has a Mk 4 that I could look at.

[CraigS]

I'd recommend do a separate thread trying to find someone nearby. I think to many may miss your request being 14 posts deep in your original thread.

[4.6 litre]

CraigS,

That's okay. I've come to the conclusion that I will put off the engine decision until I complete the Build school. I'm going through a lot of build threads trying to spot potential pitfalls. I'm not in the position to talk intelligently with an owner, at least not face to face. It's just part of the process of being a newbie. I need to do more homework.

Thanks for all the info

[4.6 litre]

Mark 4 Coyote Builders,

Can someone give me the dimensions of their MK4 foot box area with the coyote engine installed? If the foot box space is adequate, I'm going with the coyote. I retire in January. I'm signing up for the Build school in March. I've called FFR and Mike Forte but I still don't have a good feel for the leg room area. I’d appreciate it if someone could give me some dimensions or guidance on this, thanks.

[chopthebass]

Mark 4 Coyote Builders,

Can someone give me the dimensions of their MK4 foot box area with the coyote engine installed? If the foot box space is adequate, I'm going with the coyote. I retire in January. I'm signing up for the Build school in March. I've called FFR and Mike Forte but I still don't have a good feel for the leg room area. I’d appreciate it if someone could give me some dimensions or guidance on this, thanks.

I am also at the planning stage. I changed my mind on the Coyote for a few reasons. Mainly that I wanted the engine to look old school and I want a carburated engine. I have heard that the footwell is smaller with the Coyote and being 6'2" with feet to match I didn't want any restriction. Slider is the best person to respond here though.

[Jester]

Several builders have posted the DS footbox mods for the Coyote under the Coyote forum. - see the following link (as well as others) http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?7163-Coyote-Install-in-MK4-Drivers-side-footbox-question

I made 2 mods to the DS footbox 1) for the upper DS footbox for Coyote head clearance - added approx. 1 inch to allow better clearance and 2) DS gas pedal foot box area - I added ~ 2 inches to allow for regular shoes (I have size 12 wide - no issues with the added space).

Note I also added approx 1 1/2 inches to the PS foot box (engine side of footbox) and if I were to build another, I would also extend the PS footbox beyond the lower frame round tube ~ at least 2 additional inches available to extend the PS footbox forward.

These are not difficult or expensive modifications to make - just time and materials. The DS gas pedal area footbox mod provides as much space as available with the standard 302 build footbox panels. I know this as I initially built my foot boxes for a standard 302 build and changed the build plan for the Coyote (dismantled the footbox and installed the new modular engine footbox panels - Mods were made after the new coyote footbox panels were installed which allowed for test fitting of the Coyote for proper measurements to accommodate the modifications. If I were to do this again I would use temporary sheet metal fasteners to assemble the footbox - test fit the Coyote and mark up the appropriate modifications etc.

good luck

[Slider]

Hi all, I have the MK4 with Coyote. No problems on the footbox size what-so-ever. We did not have to reduce the size of the footbox on either side where it would impact footspace. I did have to cut it down at the top on the Drivers side, because FF didn't have the modified box (for the Coyote) when I bought. In fact, we probably squeezed a little extra footroom at the bottom. I'm not 6'2", but since we didn't need to squeeze the footbox ANY, I can't see it being a problem. The only thing I did do is move the gas pedal from one side of the bracket to the other to give a little extra room between it and the inside wall of the footbox. Works perfectly. Seriously, don't avoid the Coyote because of this perceived footbox issue. it doesn't exist.
I am also at the planning stage. I changed my mind on the Coyote for a few reasons. Mainly that I wanted the engine to look old school and I want a carburated engine. I have heard that the footwell is smaller with the Coyote and being 6'2" with feet to match I didn't want any restriction. Slider is the best person to respond here though.

[2bking]

I made some replacement sheet metal that gives back the foot room the factory modular engine metal takes away. I'm using the Stainless Headers 4:1:4 headers and can get them off and on with the engine installed. I have drawings if anyone is interested. You can check out my build thread for pictures.

[DaleG]

I received a quote from Mike Forte for the M-6007M-50 Coyote with TKO 600, starter, alternator, bellhousing, engine control, ..etc for under $12K. He'll also work the transmission to make it fit the Mark 4. Looks pretty good to me and a few others who reviewed it too. I'm still in for the Coyote at the present time.

Exactly the way I went (except w/ TKO 500). Very satisfied, and Mike is great to work with.

[4.6 litre]

I made some replacement sheet metal that gives back the foot room the factory modular engine metal takes away. I'm using the Stainless Headers 4:1:4 headers and can get them off and on with the engine installed. I have drawings if anyone is interested. You can check out my build thread for pictures.

I have been reviewing your Build thread and also Slider's. I have sent both of you PM,s. I hope you both received them. At the present time I intend to follow in your footsteps. From your posts, it appears you modified the chassis to either accommodate the Coyote engine or to increase the foot box space. I don't think Slider did that. Slider's last post seemed to indicate that no appreciable modifications were required in the foot box to accommodate the Coyote. So I'm a little confused as to how much modification is required to the foot box or chassis. Can you clear this up for me?

Thanks,

4.6 Litre

[FormulaGod]

I sat in a Coyote MK4 and asked what mods were made to the footbox. The answer was "nothing."
There was a surprising amount of room. I could even drop my foot down left of the clutch. Whatever problems there were with the previous generations; they don't exist with the MK4.

[4.6 litre]

I sat in a Coyote MK4 and asked what mods were made to the footbox. The answer was "nothing."
There was a surprising amount of room. I could even drop my foot down left of the clutch. Whatever problems there were with the previous generations; they don't exist with the MK4.

Thanks for your reply. I'm really encouraged by what you say. Most people on this Forum may believe that I'm way overthinking this but $50-60K doesn't grow on trees and I want to be reasonably certain I will be happy with what I will build before I build it. I reviewed the FFR Coyote Installation Guide and it shows the modified panel next to accelerator foot pedal. I was encouraged by what I saw. If I can build the MK 4 Coyote at $50K or less and have adequate DS and PS foot space then that's the way I will go. If not, then I'll drop back to a MK 4, 351W with EFI. The 351W maybe the more authentic choice but I'm looking for a quieter, smoother ride.

Some folks on this Forum have been corresponding with me via PM and I am very grateful for their help, likewise, I am very appreciative of your input too. I keep going over the Build threads, the MK 4 Assembly manual and D. Brian Smith's book. This is what everyone goes through. To me it looks like the MK 4 Coyote could finally cost me $55K-60K tops. Once I make a decision and purchase a kit, I'm pretty much locked in. So I'm being cautious.

[Avalanche325]

I see you have budget creep already. :)

If you are in the 55 - 60k range, you shoud be able to do just about anything you want. You should be able to get in cheaper than that IMHO.

Thinking, overthinking, re-thinking, and research does NOT go to waste. You are absolutely doing the right thing. These cars can be built a million different ways. The more you have mentally locked in up front, the better.

[MPTech]

Be Aware!

Surfin' this site and FFCars will cost you more money, cause you to NEED more mods, and directly impact your build time! (depending on your view, each of these can be considered a Pro and/or a Con!)

Regardless, DO IT! You will not regret it! I thought building it was the coolest thing I'd ever done, but driving what you built it even BETTER!

Good luck on your research and decisions and keep us posted.
(btw, I bet I spend more time researching and posting, than I do building & driving. But it is time well spent. Building straight by the book is really nice, but adding your personal touches and decisions is even more rewarding)
It's great to get opinions, but build what YOU want. :cool:

[FormulaGod]

Take the trip to the FF factory. Dave Smith keeps his Coyote MK4 in the showroom, and they will be more than willing to have you sit in it. Like I said, I was VERY surprised. I'm 5'11", have average width shoes. No problem at all.

[skullandbones]

Engine selection was a major cost item for me but pedal box space is a make it or break it concern. I’ve ridden in a Mk 3.1 and I would like a little wider pedal box. It's my understanding that the Coyote engine/transmission duo takes up more pedal box area. If necessary can the MK 4 chassis be modified to expand the peddle box area? Can this be done by the factory or do I need a certified engineer to design it?

Hi 4.6 litre,

I was driving my MKIII yesterday thinking, this thing fits me like a glove. It wasn't by accident. I did three mods to the foot box to achieve that extra leg room. I also changed the placement of the driver's seat by raising it a little for more comfort. I also installed a quick release hub to be able to get in and out easier. But I really do fit in it like it was made for me because it was. I have sliders in case my wife wants to try it out but that's it. The reason I mention this is you have lots of room made into your MKIV. I wouldn't give any of it up by putting a large engine in. There is a 351 rated at 385 hp at 5800 rpms on the ATK web site (ATK performance engines). I'm sure they could tweek that one to meet your requirements without breaking the bank. Have a look. You will be surprised, I bet. JMO, WEK.

[4.6 litre]

Hi 4.6 litre,

I was driving my MKIII yesterday thinking, this thing fits me like a glove. It wasn't by accident. I did three mods to the foot box to achieve that extra leg room. I also changed the placement of the driver's seat by raising it a little for more comfort. I also installed a quick release hub to be able to get in and out easier. But I really do fit in it like it was made for me because it was. I have sliders in case my wife wants to try it out but that's it. The reason I mention this is you have lots of room made into your MKIV. I wouldn't give any of it up by putting a large engine in. There is a 351 rated at 385 hp at 5800 rpms on the ATK web site (ATK performance engines). I'm sure they could tweek that one to meet your requirements without breaking the bank. Have a look. You will be surprised, I bet. JMO, WEK.

Skullandbones,

I think you've exposed the crux of the matter.............Do I have the experience, know how, and tools to take on the task of building a Coyote MK 4. That's why I'm struggling with this. I know what I would like to do but it's really a question of what I'm capable of doing. That's the 800 pound elephant sitting in the middle of this Thread.

I've gotten some real good advise on this Forum. It's helping me address this question. I hope to come to a decision soon.

Thanks for your input.

[4.6 litre]

Take the trip to the FF factory. Dave Smith keeps his Coyote MK4 in the showroom, and they will be more than willing to have you sit in it. Like I said, I was VERY surprised. I'm 5'11", have average width shoes. No problem at all.

I sent FF an email on Dec. 21st requesting the dimensions for the MK 4 DS footbox. I haven't received a response yet. If everything goes according to plan, I'll be going to FF to place an order after Build school. Hopefully Build school will resolve most of my questions.

Thanks

[4.6 litre]

Here is the last email reply I received. I think it's good advice so I'm putting this discussion to bed. I sign up for Build school tonight. Thanks for all you advice.


"Honestly, the Coyote wouldn't be that tough so long as you're ready to work with all the computer wiring, electronic throttle, and things like that.

The modifications that people are making to the footboxes are fairly minor. If you can build the rest of the car, you can modify the footbox. I wouldn't sweat it."

[Jester]

That's some sound advice

If you look at many pro builds and even FFR competitors - many are going to (or offering) the Coyote as it offers the latest technology from Ford Racing for this segment. Light weight, high horse power +426 /torque, modern controls, accurate response, fuel efficient and stable plus you can add HP if necessary (boss intake and blower - not today buy never say never).

I went with the Coyote it exceeds my expectations. FFR techs helped me with this decision and they were absolutely correct. Actually a very simple install and FFR has very simple instructions. Many members on the forum to help you.

Note: for a little comfort regarding the cost, you may want to create a spreadsheet with all parts required for the Coyote install (as per the FFR Coyote parts list) and compare against the various alternative engines. If you want EFI, the cost of the Coyote will be similar to many of the alternatives with similar HP ( that was my experience). Plus once you are finished (if you go with the Coyote) you will have a modern engine to Match FFR's modern suspension and design -a truly modern tribute.

If you are going for a vintage tribute, than old school is the way to go.

Good luck

[Jazzman]

I went with the Coyote and a TK0600, both bought through Mike Forte.

Slider: What rear end did you choose? I have been thinking about this combination. My only concern is that it just looks "wrong" under a Cobra hood. I know, I know, I am not going for replica accuracy. I like the combination. Do you have photos of your completed engine already installed? I am wondering how much extra space there is inside the engine compartment. Thanks for any thoughts.

Jazz

[DaleG]

Engine selection was a major cost item for me but pedal box space is a make it or break it concern. I’ve ridden in a Mk 3.1 and I would like a little wider pedal box. It's my understanding that the Coyote engine/transmission duo takes up more pedal box area. If necessary can the MK 4 chassis be modified to expand the peddle box area? Can this be done by the factory or do I need a certified engineer to design it?

PM 2bking on the ffcars forum. He has a footbox mod design for the Coyote that takes advantage of all available space, without chassis mods. May give you enough room. EDIT: I see king already replied, above.

Forte supplied my Coyote engine and drivetrain at a lower cost than the competition.

[4.6 litre]

DaleG/2bking,

I punched the ticket on a FF MK IV Coyote Complete kit yesterday. I've gotten over the DS footbox space issue. I don't think it will be a problem but if it is I'll work something out. I'm not an automotive mechanic or mechanical engineer. I consider myself an assembler however this roadster is on my bucket list so I'm taking the prudent way out. I have a quote from Mike Forte for everything else except the tires and paint job. If needed the North Alabama Cobra Club has offered to help me and of course I've always got the Forum, FF and Mike Forte for advice. In addition, I'm going to the Mott Community College FF Build school so I've surrounded myself with pretty knowledgeable people.

PS, ABS, AC and turn signals are being excluded from my purchase so here's what I signed up for from FF:

MK IV COMPLETE KIT

POWDER COATING ROADSTER CHASSIS
ROADSTER COYOTE STRAIGHT TUBES
COYOTE/3V HEADERS WITH FASTENERS
ROADSTER MODULAR ENG/TRANS MOUNT KIT
31 SPLINE 12.875 DRIVESHAFT
BODY CUT-OUTS
BOX 9 B BLACK LEATHER SEATS UPGRADE
FRONT LOWER ARMS - STANDARD WIDTH
IRS COMPONENTS
FFR ELECTRIC VINTAGE GAUGE UPGRADE
WITH MPH SPEEDOMETER
87-93 17" 5 LUG HALIBRAND REPLICA WHEELS
WIND WINGS
SUN VISORS
WINDSHIELD WIPER KIT-ROADSTER
ROADSTER HEATER/DEFROSTER
BATTERY CUT-OFF SWITCH
1.50" MK IV RH POWDER COATED ROLL BAR
1.50" ROLLBAR GROMMET SET
ROADSTER COYOTE INSTALLATION KIT

I have a generic quote from Mike Forte and I'll be working those details out with him soon. So I've essentially reached the end of my planning process. I feel pretty confident this will work out. I want to thank everyone for their inputs. I have read many roadster build threads and they were a great help in getting to this point.


4.6 L

[DaleG]

I don't see how you expand the footbox width with that engine/trans combo in the way. There is very little clearance to work with. Perhaps if someone moved the engine forward you'd get more clearance, but that would cause other potential issues.

2bking has the best solution I've seen; takes advantage of ALL available space for foot room AND allows for easy fit of the left head. PM him. He posted a few responses up.

Consider getting all powder coating done locally; your local economy will appreciate it, and I'm sure the cost will be the same or less.

If power is your concern, plan in the future (a good winter project) to replace the pipes and headers.

[2bking]

Congratulations! You will enjoy the adventure and perhaps one day you, Dale, and I can meet and share stories. Good luck and make a build thread so we can share in your journey.

[jimgood]

Erik W. Treves (http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/member.php?28-Erik-W-Treves) is in Huntsville but I don't think he has a Mk4. Wayne Presley (http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/member.php?8-Wayne-Presley) is a builder in Enterprise and may have a Mk4 in his shop.

[Jester]

DaleG/2bking,

I punched the ticket on a FF MK IV Coyote Complete kit yesterday. I've gotten over the DS footbox space issue. I don't think it will be a problem but if it is I'll work something out. I'm not an automotive mechanic or mechanical engineer. I consider myself an assembler however this roadster is on my bucket list so I'm taking the prudent way out. I have a quote from Mike Forte for everything else except the tires and paint job. If needed the North Alabama Cobra Club has offered to help me and of course I've always got the Forum, FF and Mike Forte for advice. In addition, I'm going to the Mott Community College FF Build school so I've surrounded myself with pretty knowledgeable people.

PS, ABS, AC and turn signals are being excluded from my purchase so here's what I signed up for from FF:

MK IV COMPLETE KIT

POWDER COATING ROADSTER CHASSIS
ROADSTER COYOTE STRAIGHT TUBES
COYOTE/3V HEADERS WITH FASTENERS
ROADSTER MODULAR ENG/TRANS MOUNT KIT
31 SPLINE 12.875 DRIVESHAFT
BODY CUT-OUTS
BOX 9 B BLACK LEATHER SEATS UPGRADE
FRONT LOWER ARMS - STANDARD WIDTH
IRS COMPONENTS
FFR ELECTRIC VINTAGE GAUGE UPGRADE
WITH MPH SPEEDOMETER
87-93 17" 5 LUG HALIBRAND REPLICA WHEELS
WIND WINGS
SUN VISORS
WINDSHIELD WIPER KIT-ROADSTER
ROADSTER HEATER/DEFROSTER
BATTERY CUT-OFF SWITCH
1.50" MK IV RH POWDER COATED ROLL BAR
1.50" ROLLBAR GROMMET SET
ROADSTER COYOTE INSTALLATION KIT

I have a generic quote from Mike Forte and I'll be working those details out with him soon. So I've essentially reached the end of my planning process. I feel pretty confident this will work out. I want to thank everyone for their inputs. I have read many roadster build threads and they were a great help in getting to this point.


4.6 L

Congrats!

You may have already done so but did you also order the Chassis wiring harness? The Ron Francis harness simplifies the electrical part of the build

Welcome to the club

[CraigS]

4.6L, I don't remember if your footbox concerns were due to wide feet or a tall body but..I noticed recently that FFR has a 'big and tall guy' version of their leather seats.
http://www.factoryfiveparts.com/interior-accessories/
I can see that the seat bottom cushion is definitely thinner to help w/ tall guys and they say it is "built to position the driver lower and further back in the cockpit."

[NukeMMC]

DaleG/2bking,

I punched the ticket on a FF MK IV Coyote Complete kit yesterday.
COYOTE/3V HEADERS WITH FASTENERS
I have a generic quote from Mike Forte and I'll be working those details out with him soon. So I've essentially reached the end of my planning process. I feel pretty confident this will work out. I want to thank everyone for their inputs. I have read many roadster build threads and they were a great help in getting to this point.


4.6 L

You may want to check some of the Coyote build threads here on the other forum. Specifically, ClemsonS197 on the other forum had issues with the FFR Coyote headers and ended up with a set of Stainless Headers' 4:1:4 headers that fit right in. The added complexity of the Coyote install was why I went with a 351W. I also heard and read plenty of issues with fitting 351W headers. That is why I went the Stainless Header route.

[ckrueger]

Take the trip to the FF factory. Dave Smith keeps his Coyote MK4 in the showroom, and they will be more than willing to have you sit in it. Like I said, I was VERY surprised. I'm 5'11", have average width shoes. No problem at all.

I just did the trip and sat in Dave's with the Coyote. No problem at all for me (5'8").

[4.6 litre]

Does anyone have plans for building a chassis dolly and recommendations for an electric drill rivet adapter and digital torque wrench.

Thanks

4.6l

[edwardb]

Can't help you with the electric drill rivet adapter. I used a Campbell Hausfeld air powered rivet gun on my Mk4 build, and it was great. From a local tool store. As I recall it was around $75 and worked very well. I know some guys have bought cheaper ones at Harbor Freight. Some reported good results. Some not so much.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/edwardb123/Factory%20Five%20Mark%204%20Roadster%20Build/Update%2011212012/th_IMG_1873.jpg (http://s867.photobucket.com/user/edwardb123/media/Factory%20Five%20Mark%204%20Roadster%20Build/Update%2011212012/IMG_1873.jpg.html)

For a digital torque wrench, this one was advertised over on the other other forum, and seemed like a good deal so I bought one. http://www.amazon.com/Brown-BLD0212-Digital-Torque-Wrench/dp/B0032A60W2 I've used it a lot during my Mk4 build, and very happy with it.

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/edwardb123/Factory%20Five%20Mark%204%20Roadster%20Build/Engine/th_IMG_2172_zpsf0140f41.jpg (http://s867.photobucket.com/user/edwardb123/media/Factory%20Five%20Mark%204%20Roadster%20Build/Engine/IMG_2172_zpsf0140f41.jpg.html)

[DaleG]

RF Harness comes with the Complete kit.

[4.6 litre]

LAST POST FOR PLANNING A MK IV BUILD

My wife and I just returned from the FF MK IV Mott Community College Build School in Howell, MI. I wished I had attended this school about 3-4 months earlier. If I had most of the questions I posted on this thread would have been unnecessary. Nobody at this class had purchased a kit yet. They were all in the planning stage. It's worth the money to attend the class in the planning stage because by the end of the class you will discover that you can build this car. I am totally at ease and looking forward to this project . The instructors were thoroughly knowledgeable in the building process and provide you with plenty of tips to make your build simpler. I'm beginning to build the body buck and chassis dolly now. The next you hear from me it will be on my Build Thread. I want to thank 2bking for his help.

Thank you all for your responses to my Planning thread.

4.6 Litre

[68GT500MAN]

The Build School is a great place to leave any concerns about jumping into a project like this. Since your wife went to school with you it sounds like this will be a family build. Looking forward to your build thread.
Doug