Build School

[Scud67]

Have any of you guys (or girls) been to the FFR build school? If so, was it worth going, or could you have built your car as easily without going?

[RdstrRod]

I did attend the Build School as it was only 10 miles from my house here in S.E. Michigan. Could I be building this car without it? Having the experience of working in the research & engineering center for a major auto company for 34 years, I have the knowledge of how a car is developed, top to bottom, from concept to customer. I also have about 20 years of vintage motorcycle restoration under my belt. Therefore, with the expertise & assistance of the people on forums like this along with the detailed FFR build manual, I think I could have done it. However, the build school was fun & informative, and the instructors made it even more so. Seeing an actual car being assembled gave me the confidence to proceed. I took lots of notes & pictures. 15 of us built a MK4 Roadster in 3 days, and an instructor drove it out the door. Pretty Cool!
Rod

[edwardb]

Have any of you guys (or girls) been to the FFR build school? If so, was it worth going, or could you have built your car as easily without going?

I have done both of my builds without the build school. So, yes it's possible without. As easily? Hard to say. I've spoken with a number of people who have attended, and unanimously they said it was a great experience, didn't regret, and gave them the knowledge and confidence to build their own. From what I've heard, take lots of notes and pictures.

Regardless of your decision, this forum (and the other one) are invaluable resources.

[Scud67]

I am "on the fence" for attending. I have tons of automotive experience and still have all of my tools and a lift in the garage. The money spent on getting to and staying in MI for the build school along with the cost for the school itself, might be better spent on "upgrades"..... not sure.

[Scud67]

and thank you for the replies!

[Pylons]

Remember that you get $500 off your FF order if you attend the school.

I attended in Feb and started building about a month ago. I've got the tools and the lift...experience with some things, but not "tons." I think it would be valuable even for someone with tons of experience. There are things about this car that are very unique and the instructors were outstanding. Because the don't work for FF, they are free to share with you the weaknesses of the kit and suggest parts/strategies to improve/bypass those weaknesses. (which unfortunately often leads to spending more money...but at least you're doing it in smart places). They've also got great tips on when *not* to follow the manual.

I have no doubt you can do it without attending the school. If you were steadfastly thinking "I want to really feel like I did this on my own," I'd say skip it. Since you're on the fence, I'd say do it.

[Scud67]

Thanks Pylons. I hope that by the time I save up enough $$ for the kit, they still offer the build school. Who knows how long it will take me to save up.....