Thinking about a Roadster

[RdstrRod]

Hello FactoryFiveForum --

1st time poster here.
I have been thinking about building a Roadster for a long time. At 68 years old, hopefully there is still time. I started tinkering with cars in my teens. Had a muscle car in the 60s. Got drafted in the Army, and they made me a mechanic. Kept doing my own car work when I got out, and then started working on old motorcycles. Been doing that ever since.

So, back to the Roadster. I plan on taking the build course in Howell, MI. It makes a lot of sense to me to see what I'm getting into. It's also only 10 miles from where I live. Thoughts on the Roadster are: Complete kit, turnkey 302 or 351W, T5, 8.8 posi-trac w/3.55 gears & undecided on the 15" or 17" Halibrand replicas.

I'm open to any suggestions/tips on any of this.

Regards, Rod Dittmar (aka RdstrRod)

[Gordon Levy]

Welcome to the forum. That is a good start. Please feel free to ask questions.

[AZPete]

Many builders are older than you and the build school gets lots of rave reviews. You're lucky it's so close, so do it soon. If you haven't already read a lot of this forum make sure to spend some hours here learning how much fun we all get from building an FFR. For most, the build is fun and it's an amazing feeling driving along knowing you built your own car from a bare frame. I still admire Ferraris, Audi R8s, Maseratis, '14 Corvettes, etc. but also think, "He didn't build it." You've got a nice build plan so place your order. Oh, and welcome to the madness!

[UpstateCobraGuy]

Rod,

Welcome to the forum! Stop thinking about it and jump right in. Sounds like you have all the skills really needed to build one of these projects, just make sure you have enough free time.

Good luck and enjoy the journey!

Pat

[sethmark]

I'm sorry I messed around with other projects so long. My ffr roadster is one of the most satisfying motorsports projects I've done. Nothing like driving a rocket ship you assembled.

[Avalanche325]

It sounds like you definately have the skills. If you are going to up the HP, you may want a T5z or step into the TKO range. However, Dave Smith said that he has never broken a T5.
As far as wheels go:
15" wheels are the period correct size.
Very limited performance tire selection.
Not much upgrading can be done on brakes.

17" is a more modern look, but doesn't look out of place (IMO) on a MKIV. The fender wells hold them better visually than earlier versions. Again, IMO.
Huge selection of tires available.
You can go to "big brakes" for more stopping power.

The build school, especially right next door, sort of allows you to try it on before you buy.

Welcome. Not to put pressure on, but there is a nice sale going on right now.

[68GT500MAN]

Welcome to the forum. Your plan sounds like it will be a lot of fun. Give Gordon or Mike a call and they can help with any power train decisions you need. Gordon also has a rock solid T-5 that he sells.
Doug

[cobrajj]

My complete kit was delivered the same month I retired, so I could get on with the build. 67 when I started, finished it in 26 months. Great learning experience. I went with the 17" wheels, for a wider selection of tires. The 15" tire selection is getting limited.

[riptide motorsport]

Welcome to the madness!!!!!!!!!1

[FormulaGod]

Welcome Rod, I'm very new to this forum as well. I ordered my kit two weeks ago, and it should be ready for pickup on 12/21. Take advantage of the current 50/50 sale. I saved $5,500. If you care to take the class, there is one spot left for the one that starts 12/13.