RR20AC Build Thread

[RR20AC]

Today was a good day. A window of no rain and my kit was delivered. Driver was awesome. Was suppose to be the very last stop on the truck. A 33 roadster was sitting over mine. In the garage now. Wow can't believe it is here. Thanks Factory Five!

[David Hodgkins]

Fantastic news! I've upgraded your account so you can use the pic albums here and update your profile.

Here's how to change your thread title as you go:
http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?19402-Changing-The-Thread-Title-Guidelines

And this is how to embed pics using the Image Gallery:
http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?18962-How-to-use-the-Image-Gallery-to-embed-pictures-in-posts

I'm looking forward to watching the build. Where are you located?

:)

[RR20AC]

Just got my inventory done after being gone for the weekend and then working nonstop. The body is now ready to come off. I am building the buck tonight. A few parts missing and a few on the POL. I am in Puyallup, Washington. Car still seems like a dream.

[ryanmac]

Congrats on the delivery! Looks great on the checkered garage floor.

Did you decide on an engine and trans yet? At build school, you were still considering a few options...

[RR20AC]

Congrats on the delivery! Looks great on the checkered garage floor.

Did you decide on an engine and trans yet? At build school, you were still considering a few options...

Was going with the Engine Factory till the Build school then went to Roush Plant and took a tour. Thought long and hard about paying an extra 4 grand for a name brand package I really liked. Then communicated with smeding. Really liked their engines. Right down to it I called Mike Forte on his B-day and we came up with an engine/tranny package that I really liked. Wow, I think I talked with everyone including EdwardB and have some good ideas in the works. I am so excited that I can finally do this. Jim

[KDubU]

Congrats! You will have a blast building it.

[David Hodgkins]

Is that a 20th anniversary car? The frame looks like silver instead of gray though. I see you chose IRS. What else can you tell us about your build plans. Also, and most importantly, looks like your wife might be clue'd in to all the fun she's gonna have riding in it when it's done. MOST important!

:)

[RR20AC]

Hi David, your build is incredible, by the way. I have car #18 of 20. With the holidays and work, it has been hard to get going on the build. Still getting some parts and tools delivered. I am going with a 351w, 427 heads from Mike Forte. TKO600 and his hydraulic clutch. Body is on the buck now and I have to remove the few mounted panels it came with. The rest were boxed and powder coated. I think I will powder coat all of them to match the chassis. Should get the tires this week. Toyo proxies-R888s. ryanmac, I will have to follow your build. I did find a bias adjuster they talked about at the build school. It was at summit and looks easy to install. My wife is very supportive and has a quilt business that is helping to fund my build.

[RR20AC]

After taking the holidays off and then spending the next month researching for my build, gathering parts, powder coating, painting, I finally got going on my build the first week of February. Front end is almost complete. Just got the unisteer electric steering package two days ago. Have to make a mounting bracket for that still. Rear differential is in. It was easier than I thought it would be. My axles still are on back order along with the windshield. Engine was on the dyno last Friday and waiting to hear the results. I am about ready to put the IRS together minus the axles so I have a rolling chassis and will be able to get the engine -tranny in when they arrive.

[RR20AC]

Got some more done over the last two weeks. Worked on the IRS but had to stop because there are no CV axles yet. Really didn't want to get the rest of it together and take it all apart later. Spindles and hubs were painted with por 15 and the aluminum spindles were primed first with por15 self etching primer. Hope it holds? Did the heater install last night and it looks like the 2 1/2" box I made was enough to get the premade dash to fit with the glovebox. Working on building a mounting bracket now for my electra steering unit. I'll make it out of wood and then hopefully my brother will take it to the trade school he teaches at and get it made of metal. I think this location is the best and with a insulated extended hood toward the header it should fit perfectly. Next is the drop battery box from FFMetal. Here's some recent pics.

[RR20AC]

Here's a picture of the premade dash. I am going to leave it as is. It has a grain to it and is set up perfectly for my needs.

[2bking]

You have a very nice build going and I like the red on the IRS parts. You have a simple solution to moving the heater back to miss the glove box. Before you nail it down you may want to consider a revision. There have been a few comments about unwanted air that comes through when the heater is turned off because of the high pressure under the hood. It also lets the unwanted engine smells, if any, come through. Some build a box around the heater that ducts the air from inside the car and I have seen some that just bag it in the summer to stop the air flow. I have a AC/heater and it pulls air from inside the car rather than from under the hood so I don't have any real experience with the under hood air but thought you may want to research it a bit further.

[RR20AC]

Hi, King. Yes I thought about those issues when I built the heater box and figured I would mount some snaps or band a cover over the unit when not needed. I also may add a valve to the plumbing to stop the core from heating then too. Are you going for a top with the ac and all added. I'm not and trying to keep it as simple as possible for an open cockpit car. Most of the year in Washington is kind of cool and some heat can be nice. I'm going for fuel injection and I think smells won't be to bad. My car will be red and I think the red parts through the spokes of the 18 inch wheels and wildwoods will add a slight visual effect similar to my sport bike with red springs and brake parts. Took another look at your build and you really go the extra mile on things that can be done. Nice. I just put my ff metals battery box over the rear differential and it touches it. Not sure what to do other than raise the box about the height of a carpet install in the trunk and leave the cover uncovered with just powder coat showing. Just about got all my parts cut for my electric steering and will have them welded and powdered soon. Jim

[2bking]

Hi, King. Yes I thought about those issues when I built the heater box and figured I would mount some snaps or band a cover over the unit when not needed. I also may add a valve to the plumbing to stop the core from heating then too. Are you going for a top with the ac and all added. I'm not and trying to keep it as simple as possible for an open cockpit car. Most of the year in Washington is kind of cool and some heat can be nice. I'm going for fuel injection and I think smells won't be to bad. My car will be red and I think the red parts through the spokes of the 18 inch wheels and wildwoods will add a slight visual effect similar to my sport bike with red springs and brake parts. Took another look at your build and you really go the extra mile on things that can be done. Nice. I just put my ff metals battery box over the rear differential and it touches it. Not sure what to do other than raise the box about the height of a carpet install in the trunk and leave the cover uncovered with just powder coat showing. Just about got all my parts cut for my electric steering and will have them welded and powdered soon. Jim
When I decided on the AC I knew it wasn't going to do any good without a top so I got the FFR premium Top. It's a very nice design.

I think if you do the dropped trunk mod you could turn the battery box on its side like mine and mount it to the front wall. You'll have to use the Optima Battery but it makes access to the battery so much easier. With the full box like yours, it should be easy to structurally integrate it. The Optima might be shorter than what the box is designed for so you may be able to cut the box down and mount it as intended.

[RR20AC]

Thanks King, those are some good ideas

[RR20AC]

I have been working a lot lately so the build is kind of slow. I am almost done with my electric steering unit. Just need it powder coated. Thinking about the heater box drawing air from the engine compartment and everyone's fix, I think I may just make a type of shell around my unit with a air draw going through the firewall. Should be simple enough. I think I have a good idea on my dash mounting. On another project I used this method and it is still functional several years later. I will use some piano wire and some aluminum tube about the same diameter as the wire. Bend the wire and the tube together around the upper part of the dash. Then cut the tube in 2 to 3 inch lengths. After fastening every other one to the frame and dash with the wire inside, it will provide a way of holding it in place and ad rigidity to it. To remove the dash you just pull the piano wire from the ends of the dash and the dash comes free. It will line up easy, no bolts through the front. Also still no axles or windshield yet. Called them today and they said somehow I was left off the list but they are on the way now.

[rmiller64]

Congrats on your build Jim. I'm just finishing up my build up in Ferndale that started 15 months ago. It's been alot of fun and considering a 289 FIA build in the future

[RR20AC]

Thanks Rick, I have been on your build site several times. This forum is fantastic for getting things right. I'm going to try to get mine done in a year too. Would love to come up and see your car sometime. Looks like your about two and a half hours away. Have yet to ride in one of these things. Jim

[6t8dart]

Here's a picture of the premade dash. I am going to leave it as is. It has a grain to it and is set up perfectly for my needs.

Great idea for the heater box! You actually gave me an idea for what I want to do with mine, i am going to mount mine from the inside, but create a bump-out design like yours, but it will draw from inside cabin air. and then I will have a fresh air kit coming from the brake ducts also.

[RR20AC]

Someone else was talking about the fan engine in the cockpit being very loud so I made sure it was under the hood. After I install the v8 I will see how much room is left for a shroud to go over the unit with a intake that can be shuddered and come from the cockpit.

[rmiller64]

Thanks Rick, I have been on your build site several times. This forum is fantastic for getting things right. I'm going to try to get mine done in a year too. Would love to come up and see your car sometime. Looks like your about two and a half hours away. Have yet to ride in one of these things. Jim

Welcome to stop by anytime Jim I'll PM you my info. I've had 3 forum visitors in the past 5 day, another member stopping tomorrow from Sammamish on way home from Canada trip. I didn't get my first ride until well into the build

[WIS89]

Jim-

Your build is looking sharp! I really like the contrasting red color you are using. I think it will pop, just as you described.

Keep up the good work, and thanks for posting your progress!

Regards,

Steve

[RR20AC]

Thanks Steve, my axles are due in next week and I will then make an effort to finish the IRS up. Jim

[edwardb]

Hey Jim! Looking really great. You have some interesting touches there to make it your own. Cool.

[RR20AC]

Here is the completed bracket for the electric steering unit. Getting it powder coated on Monday.

[rmiller64]

Nice clean Fab work there Jim, Looks great.

[RR20AC]

Thanks Rick, I now know not to turn the camera on it side. No matter how I edit the pictures for display they stay turned in my post.

[RR20AC]

Here is a picture of the unit finally done. 52530

[Lancaster Lad]

Mr RR20AC

I have a roadster due sometime April or May and also am using electric steer. I see that it is solid mounted to frame. But am curious as to
the tin on the left side. Looks to be a heat shield for the motor?

On another note someone posted that unisteer has a variable assist module instead of only all on or switched off. I am thinking of trying
it and see if I can link to engine harness to make it speed dependent on the amount of assist.

Thank you for posting your progress for those that follow.


Cecil

[RR20AC]

Yes that is a heat shield. I will lizard skin the back side for heat protection from the header. I do have the variable assist module that has to be mounted on the bracket I made. The 3/4' tube it is mounted to is very thin so I used steel wool as a binder and JB Weld two make a 1 inch solid space for the grade 8 bolts to pass through. This will keep the tube from crushing. I am not quite satisfied with my end I made on the lower steering shaft so I am having it machined out of a solid piece. One thing I don't like about the manual steering rack is the boots on the rack rub the frame. May be a different design change.

[RR20AC]

Worked on the car this week. Been busy with everything else but lately. Seems to go together easy. Still having fun. Got the axles a week and a half ago. So work on the rear end after a long wait. Also got the pedal box in. Going with a hydraulic clutch which is due in about a week with the engine tranny package. The box was over toward the drivers side about quarter of an inch and the rear mount wouldn't line up on the frame so I expanded some of the holes sliding the box that quarter to the right. This seemed to aid in the trimming the clutch pedal needed. Still should be plenty of room with that expanded foot box. The cut acts as a clutch stop. Mounted the e-brake. Next up is the gas tank and brake and fuel lines.

[Jazzman]

I love the red accents. Nice touch. It makes me wish I had done the same on my build. Oh well, they are certainly not coming back out now!

[RR20AC]

Thanks Jazzman, I seem get to think a lot about what I am going to do next as I don't get the time to work on it. So I am going to do these small details to just have fun with it. Jim

[RR20AC]

Marathon 2 days worth of work, hope to some of these panels glued and riveted Wednesday. Engine is going to be delivered today or tomorrow. Figured I better take a few days off to try and catch up with some of you incredibly fast guys.

[RR20AC]

An evening to update my post. Well, it has been awhile. Spring and summer came and took opportunities away from me to work on my kit. Then my computer was some how hacked and I formatted and had to reinstall everything. Got going again and now its time for some updates. I would like to thank everyone that posts their progress and mostly Paul for his detailed write-ups. Sure gives us all good ideas and makes it easier to succeed.

First things I got going on again were the brake and fuel lines. Used some matching paint. Worked on my reservoirs which I had ordered two more for the two for brakes and one for the forte hydraulic clutch. Sealing up the firewall, I noticed some missing parts on the front of the drivers side foot box. Factory Five said it was the wrong one sent with the kit and they would send a new one. Well, I was to far along to want to replace the whole piece so they made a patch for the front. Next I finished up the wiring to the back of the car with the breeze larger cable kit and the switch on the back wall of the cockpit. Built a charcoal vapor canister. Finished up the rest of the panels and worked on the seat heaters and the breeze seat pans. I like the way they tip back, very comfortable. After sanding down everything inside the trunk and cockpit I have been taping for a few days. I hope to get the lizard skin sprayed this labor day weekend and move on to some more wiring before the engine install in a couple of weeks. Sure feels good to get going again. I also contacted Miller Customs about body work and paint. May be an option in the future. Its great to have experience on your side.

Some pics of my progress.....

[RR20AC]

More pics.

[RR20AC]

More pics...

[RR20AC]

More Pics.
Also ordered the GP headers for the 351w. The BBK headers that came with the kit didn't really fit with my fuel injection system setup. May need to sell these sometime. Oxygen sensor location is now under the hood instead of under the passenger door.

[RR20AC]

Saturday I applied two coats of sound control in my shop, Today I topped it off with two coats of ceramic insulation. This part of the process was rather easy compared to two days of taping. Seems rather thin but sticks very well. Took the tape off while it was still drying. Here is the results. Will be working on some more wiring then the engine install next.

[edwardb]

Looking good! You're making great progress. :cool:

[RR20AC]

Thanks Paul, you have helped make this build process easier with all your detailed input. Jim

[ryanmac]

Nice work Jim. Very clean!

You'll be go-kart before you know it. :)

[RR20AC]

Ryanmac, I'm sure you have been enjoying yours, I'm just not that fast.I work to much.

[ryanmac]

We put about six hundred miles on it in August...first full month it was legal.

Enjoy the chassis and go-kart phases, lots of milestones and great firsts.


About work...hmmm...I do have an extra week of vacation this year...build-school reunion in washington?!? The girls can quilt while the boys turn wrenches. lol

[RR20AC]

I would hope maybe next year, cars done and working less. Glad you are enjoying yours.

[RR20AC]

Got together with another forum member this week. Met Cgundermann and spent several hours talking about our builds and getting some good insight from one another. He is quite a bit further than me and it was great to actually see his wiring and hear his car run. Very nice build coming together too. I think we will be great cobra friends as we are close by and seem to think a lot alike.

Worked on the wiring this week after having my son in from pilot training and family activities. Spent a full day of wire dieting and rewrapping everything. The engine bay is now completed enough to get the engine in so I will get the engine lift put together today in my tiny shop and install the tranny on the engine. Cgundermann may come over for all of that and I could probably use the help as this is my first build with no engine install experience. Here is a few pics taken today and a video and graph of the engine from Forte's parts connection. Engine output is around 454 horsepower at 490 foot pounds of torque. Sounds like enough.

[RR20AC]

couldn't get the video or the graph to show. will have to try again later.

[AC Bill]

I really enjoy reading threads others post on their new builds. Brings back a lot of (mostly) fond memory's of building mine. The ups and downs, figuring out solutions for things not covered in the manual, adding personal touches, and modifications.

It's good your taking your time, and thinking things through as you go. I found that you had to always think two or three steps further into the build, to avoid having to redo something over. Inevitably that will still happen at some point, but the more you can avoid the better..:)

A couple hints..
Simply cosmetic, but you can hide the wiring coming out of your heater, by removing the fan motor screws, and clocking the motor, so the wires are then at the bottom.

The wiper cable needs to go into a sheath of sorts. Some use copper, others have used plastic truck air brake hose, etc. Regardless, to get the wipers to work, you need to keep that sheath in a nice smooth arc from the wiper motor, and from wiper wheel-box to wheel-box.
It may just be the photo, but I worry that your fabricated heater box may prevent that, without adjusting the angle of the motor a tad more. You don't want a kink in the cable sheath as it pass's over that upper corner. Maybe slip the sheath on and see if there is clearance. Easier to adjust now then after the body is on..
This antiquated British wiper system is fragile enough as it is, to get working correctly...:p

[RR20AC]

My concerns are exactly yours on the wiper cable. I am waiting to install the sheath when the body goes on and I can see exactly where it needs to go. The corner of the box may get a notch in it as the heater is round inside. I am actually going to make a housing to fit over the front of the heater and the intake will be under the fuel regulator. that's why the regulator is so high on the firewall. When I started this build I thought I would be way farther along at this point. Parts on backorder and other happenings slowed me down, but gave me a different view as to how proceed and look several steps ahead. Thanks.

[cgundermann]

It was great to meet up with you Jim and share thoughts/experiences! You are doing a meticulous and beautiful anniversary build so far and can't wait to hear that monster light off! Love your nothing ventured, nothing gained approach to your ingenuity with various parts! Hopefully we will get that tranny mounted to that beast of a motor this weekend...

[RR20AC]

Chris, I would say we ventured far today. Wow, engine in, all in an hour and a half. Thanks for your insight.

[cgundermann]

We were lucky, came together nicely and it went in far easier than mine! Tomorrow - hopefully the same ease with the rest of the remaining installation!

[RR20AC]

Today we finished with the engine install. A couple of conflicts cropped up though. The dart block for the 351w has an extra rib placed right behind the motor mounts on both sides, which made us research the problem. For a while I thought I had the wrong mounts. Found that someone else had this problem and a notch in the mount was a good fix. My bumped out heater box has a pipe to close to the valve cover. I will place a 90 degree joint closer in and that should fix it. The pro 5.0 mid-shifter will conflict with the cross brace and I need to decide what to do there. Thanks again Cgundermann for your help and hope I can help you with yours too. Some pics from today....

[edwardb]

The dart block for the 351w has an extra rib placed right behind the motor mounts on both sides, which made us research the problem. For a while I thought I had the wrong mounts. Found that someone else had this problem and a notch in the mount was a good fix.

I had the same issue with the DART block in #7750. I called my engine builder and asked whether I should clearance the mounts or clearance the ribs on the block. Stupid question I guess... After an audible gasp, he very quickly said to clearance the motor mounts and not touch the DART block. Good advice. Sounds like exactly what you did. Your build is looking outstanding.

[cgundermann]

Your holding out on me Jim; you waited till I left to put the air cleaner on - nice! Also, anyone that missed the limited production of the bolt on Metco driveshaft safety loop, I ordered one this weekend and they still have some...saw Jim's and it is a very nicely engineered piece!

[RR20AC]

Paul thanks for the complement. I should have known you had it documented. Chris and I searched a lot of places except #7750. You have been a great help with all your write-ups. I think it rubs off just a little, and gives me an idea what is next. My main concern is the mid-shift location. I think I can cut 3/4 of the diagonal brace away and still have a solid piece across the gap. May add a piece to the back side. Factory Five had a mid shift in their anniversary car. Coyote motor, so the alignment would be different. They don't detail it anywhere though.
Chris, I like the way that air cleaner looks. Not sure if it will work though. Another build had shown it contacting the body in back. May need a smaller oval size like #7750 has. Mike Forte originally sent a drop base air cleaner that would allow more flow. Went to install it and it was not usable with the Holley EFI. I would really like more flow which the current air cleaner does not have. I know the GP headers Laid side by side with the BBKs I have are about 25 percent larger on the inside.

[RR20AC]

Couple more updates on my build. Taking a week off work to build. Good week for it as it is very stormy outside. I placed a 90 degree elbow on my heater box pipe and routed the lines. I will install the shutoff when the dash gets placed. A new air cleaner with more flow has been added. I am installing the gates power grip clamps on all the hoses. CGunderman had them on his and I really liked how they look. GP headers are on now and seem to align with the side pipes very well. Still need to make up some plates to go under the tranny mount, about 3/4 of an inch. I ended up cutting the cross brace for the mid-shifter. Not sure if I need to add a piece across to strengthen it? All bolts are now torqued down and the tranny if filled with fluid. After I get the seats back in I will figure how much I want to cut off the stick-shift and weld it back up. Still need to blend the wiring for the unisteer and the front harness. Dash work is next on the list too.

[RR20AC]

Finished with the tranny spacer. Ended up being 11/16ths. Coated it with por 15 and installed it. Then worked on the metco hoop. After bending, grinding and aligning, I think I found a center that will work with the park brake cables and the drive shaft.

[AC Bill]

I ended up cutting the cross brace for the mid-shifter. Not sure if I need to add a piece across to strengthen it?

Several builders have had their tube frames buckle in the middle, the first time they hit a bump with that piece removed, and having done nothing to reinforce it.

[AC Bill]

I'm guessing you realized I was kidding, right....:p

The earlier model FFR's didn't have any where near the strength the new frames have, and they are still on the road. I wouldn't fret about that at all,

[RR20AC]

Thanks AC Bill, I was still going to call Factory Five tomorrow to get their opinion. Hope you took note that I clocked my heater motor like you pointed out. Should make the shroud I will add later fit a little better. Thanks.

[RR20AC]

Worked most of today on the throttle. Very nice piece as most have said. I had to place a plate to hold the wiring harness down for clearance. I have full range of motion on the throttle with room to go less if I want. Called Factory Five about the brace I cut out for the pro shifter and they said to replace it. I'm sure they could only say that to protect themselves so I should not have even asked. Tonight I'll work on that and finish up the hyd. clutch and get it bled. Pics of the throttle...

[ryanmac]

Cool throttle linkage!

And, I wouldn't worry about the missing section of the 3/4" tubing for the mid-shifter. The real rigidity in their frame design comes from the 4" DOM main frame and 2" rectangular tube at the firewall. The 3/4" tubing is for aluminum panel support, which will get stronger once riveted together. If it really bothers you, weld in a new tube.

[cgundermann]

Heater tube mods looked great and I sure wish I would have used the Gates PowerClamps on ALL my tubing. Throttle linkage turned out super! Like how you painted your tranny spacer to match the rest of your suspension pieces...sure hope you can get that first air cleaner to clearance/if not - they both look good though...

Ended up getting shipped machined aliminum spacers from Metco for my driveshaft hoop to clearance it. If I'm still not enough - I will use your idea to use a floor jack to bend upward.

[RR20AC]

Thanks cgundermann, Well, have to take a step back. After working on the car most of the week, I went past a part that needed attention way back. Not familiar with clutch setups. (Seems that there is confusion for a lot of installs). Cgundermann made note of the clutch fork location when we were installing the engine. I said don't worry about it as mike's shop has it all ready to be mated with the transmission and installed. After talking with mike yesterday. I found this is something I should have paid more attention to. Yes the pivot ball for the fork needs to be adjusted out so the fork is spaced back in the bell housing opening. I now need separate the tranny from the engine and try to adjust the fork travel. One concern is torqueing down the drive shaft with red Loctite. Hope this comes free. Also looking at the metco hoop, I may move it over to have the brake cables go through the hoop instead of outside it.

[RR20AC]

Success, Everything I wanted to take apart, came apart. Pulled the fork and adjusted the pivot. Now have plenty of travel. Got the tranny back on the engine and tomorrow I should be back to where I was. Thanks Mike for the good instructions and pictures of what I needed to do.

[wareaglescott]

That is a good thought on putting the cables through the metco hoop. I ran into a similar interference issue. I basically insulated the cables with fuel line hose and secured in position at the point where they were likely to rub the hoop. I am not sure this is the best long term solution. Never occurred to me to move the hoop in the opposite direction towards the cables. I positioned mine biased towards the drivers side to give as much clearance as possible. IF you move these could you please post a couple pictures?

Here is what I did:
http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=58122&d=1472837575

[RR20AC]

Yes, I will post a picture after I get it all together again. I trial fitted it before moving the tranny back to work on my clutch fork and I do have plenty of clearance for them to go through the hoop.

[RR20AC]

The hoop lines up much better now with the brake wires through it. Clutch has full movement now with the fork adjusted back.

[Straversi]

Great build. I've enjoyed following. Thanks for the photos of the drive shaft hoop and e-brake. I have been debating the hoop and interference I had read about. Didn't know if I felt like doing the e-brake mod. Like your solution.
Steve

[RR20AC]

Thanks Steve, Does not touch now. Simple bending up of the hoop with the floor jack solved the alignment problem instead of spacers. Keep building and take your time. What do they say "measure twice, Cut once". My build will get done someday, just not right away. I did wait almost most of my life to finally build a car.

[RR20AC]

Another update here after making a trip to Hawaii and getting really sick from someone on the plane ride over there. After about 12 days of recovery I got back after it. Installed the radiator with the Breeze upper and lower mounts. My radiator hoses were installed with some 90 degree elbows that breeze made up for me along with the power grip clamps for the hoses. Mounted the overflow tank too. Horns are mounted. Never really found any info on installing them except for a picture of them installed on Edwardb's site. My front wiring harness is complete with the electric steering wiring incorporated into it. I will be installing the Tangent fog lamps in the lower scoop so I ran a wire from about above the horns where the running lights tee to the center of the radiator. Also used the extra wire for the radiator temperature sensor to power the fog lights. Front of the driver foot box is now complete also.

[cgundermann]

Looking great Jim!

[RR20AC]

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! The year is going by and I am still not done. Oh well. Still having a good time learning to build a car. Seat heaters are all wired now. Center tranny cover is done too. I am getting a short mid shift stick shift delivered from Forte tomorrow. Working on the dash now. Took me a couple of hours to decide the correct height to install it. Seems like the frame I will be installing it on is high on the passenger side. When it was transported to my house it left rub marks on the body there. And a level shows the dash is high on that side if I line it up with that. I going with a level dash so it doesn't quite line up here, but will be lower than the top on that high side. Will be working on mounting this over the next couple of days.

On a side note. I really am thankful for my kids serving our country. My oldest is flying f-16s in South Korea. And his brother is following in his footsteps. He just got to solo the t-38 yesterday and sent us this great pic.

[cgundermann]

Trucking along! Need to get busy so we can coordinate and be off to paint at the same time...

[edwardb]

Congrats to your son! Very cool. I'd recommend you take another look at that dash placement. That's a lot of dash tube showing at the center. The roll on the body may not reach the top of the dash. That wouldn't be a good look. Keep in mind the body doesn't sit all the way down on the dash tube. I agree putting a level along the bottom of the dash is a good idea. Assuming the chassis itself is level. But something doesn't seem right.

[RR20AC]

Thanks for your input Paul. I have looked at this problem for a couple of hours now and I think it is too low.

[RR20AC]

Cgundermann, you will have to come over and try these seats out with these breeze seat mounts installed to see if your legs still fit under the dash. I think I have a lot to do to catch up with you.

[RR20AC]

Mounted the dash with safety wire around brass tube with a brass wire to hold in place I have used this epoxy for 20+ years now and is still holding strong. The adhesive I used for the dash should hold on the back just fine I did a test sample about 3 months ago and can't get it off.

[cgundermann]

Cgundermann, you will have to come over and try these seats out with these breeze seat mounts installed to see if your legs still fit under the dash. I think I have a lot to do to catch up with you.

I need to do that, I have been reading that it is a concern for taller drivers...but my bride wants to adjust it to drive it. I prefer to be lower...

So ingenious for your removable dash!

[RR20AC]

The top mount works fantastic with a brass rod to pull, letting go 16 attach points that hold it on. I used the breeze lower brackets that I had powder coated. Made up a center console for my wilwood bias adjuster, electric steering adjuster, usb and 12 volt outlet. The cover is hinged and is made of stainless. I also received my shifter boot and it is setting there also. I think a few more switches mounted on the dash and the RT steering unit mounted and I can then start the final wiring.

[cgundermann]

Looks fantastic!

[RR20AC]

Installed the heater valve along with the bias adjuster cable after the switches on the dash were placed where I like them. Also installed the steering system. Time to get started on the wiring so I can get this thing started.

[RR20AC]

Spent the last two weeks on the dash and made some progress. Wired in the turn signals and switches. I added the micro setting switches to my center switch box I made so there will be no hidden switches under the dash besides the inertia switch. I plumbed all the heater vent tubes and there was plenty of room for them. Called Mike Forte a couple of weeks ago about a mid shift stick and he sent one out. He also made note that I could get a free ball from Tremec with the coupon that came with my transmission. Couple of final pictures here.

[cgundermann]

Very, very nice work Jim.

[RR20AC]

Tested all the electric systems today. Started off with the ones that are on all the time, like the horn, brakes and lights. Got nothing. My friend Cgundermann was over to help and I thought it was going to be a long day. Then I threw the main kill switch and the brake lights came on telling me that the brake switch needs adjusting. That and the clutch start switch was also a little short which was remedied by just taking the nuts off the back side which then made them the right length. Tested all the systems and all worked except the courtesy light. I guess the tang was bent over when I put the plug on so that was an easy fix. The electric steering work perfect and am excited to see how it performs. Interior is now complete except for the carpet which will go in after the body work. Next up is the first start and probably a go cart if no leaks are found. Very good day.

[edwardb]

Looking great Jim! You've made a bunch of progress. Feels good getting the electrical part working doesn't it? But nothing like the first start and go-kart. Good luck with those. :o

[ThickCobra]

Spent the last two weeks on the dash and made some progress. Wired in the turn signals and switches. I added the micro setting switches to my center switch box I made so there will be no hidden switches under the dash besides the inertia switch. I plumbed all the heater vent tubes and there was plenty of room for them. Called Mike Forte a couple of weeks ago about a mid shift stick and he sent one out. He also made note that I could get a free ball from Tremec with the coupon that came with my transmission. Couple of final pictures here.

Removed question. Read back thru your build.

[2FAST4U]

Wow! What an incredible build. Such beautiful attention to detail. Well done!!

[RR20AC]

Thanks you guys! Using this forum makes this all possible for a first time builder. Paul, I have a go pro account set up now so I should get a great first start video. Will have to get it done when the weather and work allows. Working on the hinges now along with the Kleiner rear quick jack mod. Also am going to install the driver foot box panels. Noticed in other builds that the access cover has conflicting problems with the body. Hard to see that far ahead. I think I solved it though. The top three bolts in conflict will be ground down a bit so the top is flat. I will use so thread locker to lock these in place at the right height to allow the cover which will be slotted at those holes. It should hold that side of the cover down nicely. I will have a follow up pic when complete.

[RR20AC]

Got a lot done this weekend. My friend Cgundermann came over and we talked cars and he provided me with a bung for the driver side GP header. Thanks Chris. Also Got the quick jack mod done in the back. Drivers foot box is in and I still need to fill the seams and fix the lid. GPS antennae is in right on the front of the trunk.. Side pipes seem straight after just oversizing the driver side holes on the side pipe. I will work on the alignment the rest of this week an hopefully by next weekend I will have a first start video.

[wareaglescott]

Looking great! I really enjoy this thread. The organized shop and that awesome floor just make it seem that much more professional.
First I have seen that location for the gps antenna. How did you decide on that?

[RR20AC]

Thanks Wareaglescott. Plenty of wire on the antennae to go almost anywhere on the car, and trunk or dash seemed the most protected. I just liked the sky view a little better at this location. The windshield metal covers the sky at different angles. I had problems with older GPS handhelds while traveling. May not be an issue these days with more sats in the sky but we will see. I went to the build school and then stopped by Edwardb's place on the way back to the airport. Both made me want to do this build with some order to it and I am really trying, which I think shows. I know my shop completely gets trashed if I try and do several projects a once.

[RR20AC]

A few more things added before my first start. I fixed the lid to the drivers foot box. Will be able to remove it now with the body installed. Fire extinguisher is now in. I did a quick alignment with my alignment tools, so it will be close if I get a go-cart in tomorrow. Also added a battery tender which hooks up well with the battery posts from Breeze. Tomorrow is the day.

[RR20AC]

Quick update. Today we had the first start and it went according to plan. A little fuel, set the fuel regulator, and some water. Got it to fire on the first crank but the holley fuel injection system still had to learn so it took a few times. Nice and steady it ran after that. Tested the clutch with a small amount of rubber left on the driveway. Wow, the hydraulic clutch is nice, along with the forte throttle linkage. No leaks and spent the afternoon draining the water and replacing it with antifreeze, topping it off. Started it maybe 25 times and drove it back and forth down my 100 ft driveway. I'm excited to start the body and hopefully get this done by summer. Video coming soon....

[wareaglescott]

Nice work. Congrats!

[RR20AC]

Here is the link to my first start. https://youtu.be/APIy4cL-TF4

[edwardb]

Looks and sounds great! Congratulations. :cool:

[M3ichael]

Congratulations!

[RR20AC]

Another very nice day outside to heat cycle the engine and look for leaks. Every thing seems top notch and I put the other air filter on which I lowered a bit. I like the looks of this one much better. Also read about my fuel pump regulator. The instructions said to leave the vacuum hose disconnected while setting then connect. Read more about it on their site and it says to connect for different system than mine. Leave it open to the air with no vacuum, so I did.

[blitzkreig baja]

Very nice build. Keep the pictures coming.

[RR20AC]

Another update. Ground down the lips on the cockpit fiberglass. Jeff Miller gave me some detail to follow along with taking a 1/4 of an inch off the panels at the back of the car to make the backend fit a little better. I am trying to get all the parts fitted or installed before I place the body on. Got the radiator protector from speedway and formed a frame with some anodized aluminum. Put together and mounted the hood and trunk hinges. Trunk light is now in along with another outlet panel in the trunk. Bulb seal and the foam striping is on and I am about ready to put the body on. I plan on fitting the lights and bumpers, wipers and windshield. I am really happy with talking to Jeff Miller about taking the car down to him to have him do the paint and body work. I have a few more weeks till the car is gone for part of the spring and summer.

[RR20AC]

Exciting day for me to finally fit the body. I used some wax paper on the bulb seal. Very tight fit, mounting the front first and pulling it over the back. Seems like there is less gap between the body and the rear tires compared to the front. May need to raise the ride height in the back. Ride height is now set at 4.5 inches all the way round. Will fit the windshield tomorrow along with some of the parts that need fitting before paint. Looks like the cutout for the exhaust needs some trimming on the front side of both. I will trim off just enough to get the side pipes on. Jeff Miller said he would do the rest. Cutouts for the defrost vents were spot on and the wipers are assembled except for the last piece going to the motor. I did have to cut a notch in my heater box extension but there was a gap on the back side there and worked out well

[RR20AC]

Installed the Windshield, Roll bar and Gas cap in the last two days. Getting closer to send it off to Mr. Miller. Hope he has time for me.

[RR20AC]

Took the car outside today for one last picture before I take off all the parts I fitted to the body. Still runs good. Fit the rear bumper last night. Went back and forth on which install to do. The extra bolt or place the nuts inside the over riders. Ended up with the nuts in the over riders but it was really hard to do. I think this looks a little cleaner and will only need to do it once more. Now I just need to pack this all away and get ready to ship it. Wow no car work for probably 4 months after working on this for almost a year and a half.

[wareaglescott]

Looks great. I feel ya. I am in serious withdrawal while the car is away for paint! When does yours head out and what are you going to do in the free time?
Any tips for getting those bolts on the bumpers? That is my plan but I didn't mock it up so will have to get it right the first time.

[Ducky2009]

That's exactly what I want to do with my heater so I can have a glove box too. Have you checked your clearance to the engine? Are you using a Coyote? (I am)
Thx, David

[RR20AC]

Mine heads out first week of April with another down to Jeff Miller. I asked that question about how to mount the bumper and got two methods. Of coarse they are on edwards build toward the end of his assembly. I added a 2.5 inch bump out which was just enough for the glove box and just had to add a 90 degree elbow on one heater line for engine clearance

[edwardb]

Your build looks great. You've done a really nice job putting it together. Wow, 4 months for paint? That won't be an easy wait. Hopefully you'll get pictures like I did. Especially with it being that far away. I hear you about withdrawal. Mine's been done for only a couple weeks and I'm feeling it too.

[BigUgly]

RR20AC,

I'm just curious if you tried to pull that rod out to release the dash and then reinstalled it with the body on. It looks like it could be quite a task.

BigUgly

[RR20AC]

The rod goes right through the door opening and each tube self aligns. Everyone has said they can't find anything to stick to the dash. I think I found the answer with the 3m product I used. It's flexible like the dash and if you use a scratch awl to get some deep marks in the material it bonds nicely and won't come off.

[BigUgly]

Good Job. You're doing an excellent job on the build.

BigUgly

[RR20AC]

Yes, Edwardb, 4 months till I get it back. I have about a month till it leaves. Jeff Miller said 3 months for two builds to get done and I can imagine he is Fairly busy after the advertisement of Barrett Jackson build. I have let my yard go along with some other things around here so I am happy I can get after these other things... I fitted as much as possible on my build so it should be quick to get it on the road. No inspection in Washington and a quick run to the licensing office is all that is required. So I'm told. Wish me luck

[rmiller64]

Great talking to you today Jim!

You have done an outstanding job on your build and I look forward to seeing pictures after J.Miller gets done with the paint

Color combo?

[RR20AC]

Yes it was. Thanks for the info on licensing. Just got CGundermann's body on his today. We are on our way to sending these out. I'm going with a red with white stripes. Have not had a red vehicle since I had a red Toyota 4X4 pickup out of high school. Jim

[RR20AC]

Loaded the car on the transport last night, along with my friends car. They should be down at Millers paint shop in a couple of days. Jeff says he has reserved us spots so we will just have to wait for progress. Wanted to have it ready for Huntington Beach this year. To many delays with back orders and then finally just saying take my time, change that plan. Much better off this way. Made a new forum friend. and the car is the way I want it. Another milestone.

I also am celebrating my son' drop party tonight. He will be getting his fighter aircraft airframe given to him with 9 more months of flight training. Very proud of my two fighter pilots sons!

[cgundermann]

Exciting send off; next time we see our cars together the twins will be wearing their party dresses...

[RR20AC]

Celebrate. Well yes. Not about the car, but about exciting times. My wife got a new car. Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT. I got a new pulling machine for my cobra. Maybe another autocross car? Now just have to research trailers for the cobra. Also went to my sons graduation from pilot training. Probably one of the best weekends ever as my son took most of the awards given including top stick, commanders trophy, and the academic award!. He is now a F-16 pilot like his brother. Another surprise for the weekend was his brother flew in from South Korea just for the occasion. What a surprise as we didn't think he could get away from that hot bed. Max Thunder is going full blast..

[wareaglescott]

Man that is awesome. Congrats to your son and your family! Getting those Air Force wings is a huge accomplishment. The Air Force sure is getting some mileage out of those T-38s! The shifter in my car is from the very T-38 my dad flew in 1968. Wonder if it is still the same stick. Best of luck to him in the F-16. I know you are so proud to have two officers in the US Military. Thank them for their service from me.

PS...that is a pretty sweet tow vehicle as well!

[RR20AC]

I will thank them and show them your car. Very nice build. Cool story about your Dad. T-38 were built in 59 and a few years following. Now if I can just get my car done before summer is over?

[RR20AC]

Very busy summer so have been patiently waiting on an update. Looks like we are on our way to getting these back soon.

[RR20AC]

Final paint is on and I think this Nissan Plasma Red is going to be just right. Jeff Miller sent me this picture today and said the clear coat is on too. Few more weeks and I think I will have me a car!

[edwardb]

Very nice. Looks great. But then I've been accused of being partial to red. :o

[RR20AC]

Thanks Paul, I remember stopping by your house and seeing the start of your build and wondering if I could actually build one of these machines. You have helped me tremendously.

[RR20AC]

Chris, Jeff does do amazing work. Thanks for going in on this with me.

[RR20AC]

Just have to go down to have a visit at the Bat Cave and thank Jeff for a job well Done.

[Paul2STL]

Beautiful paint, worth the wait. Now just get that rocketship back up here while we still have this nice weather. Cant wait to see it in person.

[RR20AC]

Paul, get your kit yet? RxBill from up north with about your same list of parts is going down to see the Bat Cave with me. Let me know if you still need that body buck. It's taken apart and numbered for easy assembly.

[Paul2STL]

Its on the truck traveling around the country, delivery date of Aug. 11. Don the driver is hitting Fl., Ohio, Phoenix, LA, San Fran., then me. I still need the body buck and was hoping your car would be back before then. That way I could pick it up and check out your car at the same time. If its not back by then I can still come get it this weekend if possible.

[RR20AC]

Due back on the 19th. Let me know

[GoDadGo]

Great Color

[RR20AC]

Visited my car at the cave today and am impressed with how Jeff puts the cars together after we sent them to him. Picked his brain for some installation tips on what I need to do after I get it back and why he did things a certain way that I wouldn't have thought of. Thanks Jeff you are a master craftsman.

[wareaglescott]

looking awesome. Congrats. Wont be long now and you will be on the road. How difficult is the registration process in Washington state?

[RR20AC]

Thanks Scott, I researched the process in the spring and should be easier than most states. A hotrod bill was passes a couple of years ago and you fill out the paperwork, and take it to licensing. No emissions and no inspection.

[ryanmac]

Super paint job by a super(hero) painter.

Sweeeet!

[RR20AC]

This is almost like the day my kit arrived from factory five. Got her in the garage and had to just stare. Wow on the final stretch now.

[wareaglescott]

Looks awesome. Congrats on getting her home. Final stages now!

[Yama-Bro]

looks amazing!

[Straversi]

Looks great. Love the way your stripes taper inside the lower air intake opening. Some finish inside, some outside. I'm at the point where I'm starting to obsess over details like that.
-Steve

[RR20AC]

Steve, I like the stripes inside the opening too. That is a Jeff special.

[RR20AC]

Got the trunk patterns out that I made before the car went off to paint. Spent a day cutting carpet that I orderd extra for the trunk. I used the 77 spray and the 90 that was in the build manual. The 90 had a tip that was easier to spray. Both worked about the same. I laid down some weed eater cord on the area sprayed so I could position the carpet, pulling the cord out after it was in place. Worked good! Next up is the carpet in the cockpit. I removed the dash so I would have more room and also thought it would be easier to install the windshield and defrosters. The Vinyl dash held up great the way I installed it. Bought a new radiator cap. The one that came with the kit seemed to work sporatically and the overflow tank did overflow. Put the two caps side by side and the new cap had a spring in the center relief valve that the other did not. Still only going to put a third of a tank in there. Really getting excited about seeing the car on the road.
l

[cgundermann]

Trucking along!

[RR20AC]

Almost done with the carpet. Worked it the last couple of days. Had to stop for the adhesive to dry on the sill plates , so I Got the fire extinguisher, stick shift and emergency brake done. Windshield and dash will be next.

[RR20AC]

Finished the sills today with the binder another forum member had mentioned purchased from amazon. Tricky to get it just right but doable.

[David Hodgkins]

The little details seem to take FOREVER! Keep the hammer down, almost home!

:)

[Paul2STL]

Jim,
Coming together nicely, cant wait to see the finished product. Looks like the binder for the carpet is working out pretty well.

[RR20AC]

David, I hope to have it going before winter sets in. It would be nice to drive on the cool fall days coming up. Next year we will be down your way at Huntington Beach, so I hope we will be able to join in all the festivities.
Sprayed the carpet with Scotchgard tonight before I installed the seats and the seat belts. I will get the roll bar in tomorrow. Also will be working on a trunk prop that I came up with. Still so much to do.....

[RR20AC]

Four more things checked off the list. Guess I will stay at the back of the car the next day or two and finish the bumper and install the tail lights.

[RXBill]

Jim,

Looks absolutely amazing. Looking forward to seeing the completed car in person. We saw the painted car together, but adding the finishing touches takes it to a whole new level of COOOOL !

I am writing from The Woodlands (North of Houston) where our youngest son's home was flooded during THE STORM. Tearing off sheetrock, removing carpet, yada, yada, yada. Will be back in a week.

Bill

[RR20AC]

Yikes.Hope you and yours will be able to recover from this giant disaster.

[RR20AC]

Bumper is on now along with the tail lights. Just need a license plate to finish off the back end. Not going anywhere for the holiday so this should be a good weekend for car work.

[WIS89]

Jim-

The car looks awesome! I really like the color you picked. The finishing details look terrific too!

Looks like you will have her buttoned up this weekend. I look forward to seeing her all finished!

Regards,

Steve

[RR20AC]

Thanks Steve, one box left. May get most of it done by Monday night. Except for the wheel well liners.

[RR20AC]

Worked on as much as I could this weekend Getting the radiator shroud, front over-riders and most of the interior done. The windshield took up most of my time. I had to shim the drivers side and also grind a groove in the paint and body to have that corner low enough so the rubber flap would set on the body. I have seen other builds and there is a gap on the drivers side; Also sealed the holes the window post go through with silicone as others have said in a rain storm the water pours down the post and goes directly into the fuse box. Still need the door panels on, but the interior is almost complete.

[Straversi]

Beautiful!
I noticed you had the windshield on once prior to paint. Did you have it fully assembled or just mocked up? Curious about having to adjust/grind body after paint. Sounds nerve racking.

-Steve

[RR20AC]

I just had it mocked up with clamps. Having the dash out made it easier for more exact adjustments. I was not happy with the gap in that area before paint and I asked Jeff Miller if the firewall needed to be trimmed down in the center to close that gap. He did not so I trimmed into the body to lower that corner. It was just trimmed where the point was resting on the body. About the width of the trim and 3/4 of an inch to make it lower.

[RR20AC]

Worked hard all weekend on the car. Couldn't get it done. Closer. Door panels by ********** were installed. Side louvers are now in. and the front is close to being done. Today I finally got hold of the powder coater that said they could do the spinners and hubs to match the wheels. The owner contacted me today and said two of the spinners were bonded to the hubs. I told him that one was already destroyed and one of the two just destroyed was my buddies. I remember telling them to treat them like 8 parts not four and they did it again. I guess he will either fix the two or pay for 5 new sets.

[RR20AC]

Today I finished up the front fog lamps with an emblem I wanted on the car. Also used the dye that Edwardb recommended. The leather turned out awesome and I still have enough to share with my other cobra buddies all building right now. I think you can do about 4 cars worth of dye.

[edwardb]

Wow, looking really great. That's a cool and very original idea for the emblem! Glad those leather materials worked out for you. Agreed there's enough to do multiple builds. Well unless you spill it. Also permanently dyes concrete. I just happen to know that. :p

[RR20AC]

I was really stressed about getting these done as others have said they are rather feeble. Took my time as I did when I did some of the flares in the spring. I just needed to complete the last piece to the motor today for correct length. Ended up working out well. I think the most important issue is the tube. It seems to close up at the flair because the material is so hard. It takes a lot of clamp pressure to keep it from slipping. so I tested each flared end with the left over cable that goes through it and they were all extremely tight. I used a dremel with stone tips to open them up. The whole system now moves effortlessly and my wipers function great. Side pipes and wheel wells is all I have left.:)

[RR20AC]

I have worked on the car almost every day. Small details that just could get done while I wait for a few more parts to show up. Did the panels behind the door frame where there was a gap. Elephant ears are on with bulb seal. Radiator shroud needed some attention and I stuck a piece of leftover powder coated aluminum over the rivets holding on the lower shroud and behind the holes for the oil cooler tubes. Couldn't come up with any thing else satisfactory to plug them. Thought about making a whole new piece but then it would be back to the powder coater and more time. My hood was rolling the front d seal up and called Jeff Miller which he had an answer to. "Just trim the seal back to the hinges as nothing is sealed really anyway with the hood scoop and side louvers present". So I did and it works perfect. I actually like the cleaner look up front when the hood is open. Just have to finish up these wheel wells. I finally found the material I was looking for to make some removable half liners. I'm going with another Jeff idea as the whole wheel wells don't need to be covered, just the back half. I'm using a heat moldable material inside the wells with monstaliner over the top. They should be totally removable. I had to order more of the stuff so should get it tomorrow and apply the bed liner on Thursday or Friday. My car should be on the deck by the weekend and ready for the next step- registration and licensing.

[cgundermann]

Almost there! I'm lagging behind...

[RR20AC]

Worked till late last night on my liners. Monstaliner goes on thick on the second coat per the instructions. It soaked 3/4 of the way through my heat moldable material. Just about what I wanted for stiffness. I said totally removable in my last post and this statement is true for the backs of the front wheel wells. The rest had to be sealed to the body. Just have to get some nutserts through the removable pieces and should be complete. I think the way the bottoms of the moldable panels fit should protect the lower edges of the body with these.

[cgundermann]

That turned out great bud!!

[wareaglescott]

Love those wheel well liners. Very nice work!

[WIS89]

Jim-

All the finishing touches look great, especially the wheel well liners. Very nice work.

One question... could you post a close-up picture of the emblem you placed in the radiator opening?

Thanks, and I can't wait to see the graduation post!

Regards,

Steve

[RR20AC]

Thanks Scott and Steve. Steve here is a close up of the emblem. I think it turned out well. The wheel well liners took way more time than I thought it would. A lot of edges that needed to be perfect. Today I am going to lower the car to the ground. I'm excited that it is getting this close to driving. The five spinners came in from Factory Five that needed to be replaced after the powder coater said he could do them. Destroyed my four plus a friends I had borrowed. Stopped by there the other day and the owner wrote a check for all five. He kept his word on either fixing them or replacement. I just need to give him a ride sometime. I have the side emblems coming on Thursday too. Took the 20th anniversary side emblems out and the chrome was all bubbled up. Called Factory Five and they are shipping replacements out and need the ones I have back. I wonder if this has been a quality control issue with a vendor? Here is five pictures I took this morning. Try to get it outside for another this afternoon if the weather is good. Jim

[RR20AC]

Did make it outside today in between rain showers. I think I am going to like the next part that comes after the build. Had to do a 8 ft tire test and it worked. Here is a youtube of the car. https://youtu.be/KN6d_jDqlMA

[wareaglescott]

I am feeling incredibly ripped off. I was anticipating video of the tire test! hahaha
Looks and sounds wonderful. I would like to encourage you to go out tomorrow and video the tire test though ;)

[RR20AC]

But the results are there in the video?

[wareaglescott]

But the results are there in the video?

I was anticipating seeing the action that left those tire marks behind the car. The video I watched was just 29 seconds of the car running at idle with nobody in it. I was thinking I was going to see a burnout. :D

[cgundermann]

I am feeling incredibly ripped off. I was anticipating video of the tire test! hahaha
Looks and sounds wonderful. I would like to encourage you to go out tomorrow and video the tire test though ;)

I know right! He sent me the video via a text and he said he did a burnout and nothing...one of the twins is going to graduate soon...the other got held back...

[cgundermann]

But the results are there in the video?

I dunno...you're pretty arts & craftsy...

[RR20AC]

Quite children, can't give the treats all out at once

[cgundermann]

Quite children, can't give the treats all out at once

Lol...almost like when your bride says she is going to send you a hot pic and when you get it - she is at the BBQ grilling you chicken breasts...just sayin...

[RR20AC]

Went to the DOL today and it took all of 10 minutes to get my plates. The hard part I am dealing with is my insurance carrier is State Farm and they want an appraisal of the car and the cost of labor to build one of these too. I told them I have all the receipts and the labor is not included in the total because it is a kit and we build these cars ourselves. They wont insure me.

[Jazzman]

Went to the DOL today and it took all of 10 minutes to get my plates. The hard part I am dealing with is my insurance carrier is State Farm and they want an appraisal of the car and the cost of labor to build one of these too. I told them I have all the receipts and the labor is not included in the total because it is a kit and we build these cars ourselves. They wont insure me.

I don't know if state farm will do it, but I already talked to my Allstate rep and they will do a "stated value policy". You state the value, they figure out what it will cost you to insure it. I don't know if I will use Allstate to insure the car after it is licensed, but it is an option. I currently have it insured with Midwest Classic Insurance on a "stated value basis". Price was right and they are very easy to work with.

[WIS89]

Jim-

Thanks for the detailed pics of the emblem you made. I really like it, and like Paul (EdwardB) said, it looks great down there in the oil cooler opening.

Your paint looks terrific too! The red really pops, and really looks awesome! Very nice paint job!

Not sure how I feel about that teaser video... Like the others, I was expecting to see how those marks on the pavement came to be. I will look forward to some action shots sometime soon.

Thanks again for the pics!

Regards,

Steve

[RR20AC]

Steve I'll try for some action shots here soon a long with some traveling pics. I have everything in order. Spent last night going over my checklist and am going for its first road test today!

[RR20AC]

Wow, The power is incredible. Tracks true down the road and on the freeway. It is very loud, but at 1800 rpms it is fairly quite and that is the setting I shoot for traveling in the different gears. A neighbor watching me launch off the corner did say he saw some gas leave the back passenger corner. The metal down tube going into the gas tank does seem like it needs maybe a zip tie around it. Can't think of anything else to do with it except replace it. This is with a full tank of gas. Here is another video and it is not a tire test, sorry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJVo17ieBnU

[wareaglescott]

Sounds great in the video

[Straversi]

Video played for me. Looks good, sounds good.
-Steve

[Ducky2009]

Went to the DOL today and it took all of 10 minutes to get my plates. The hard part I am dealing with is my insurance carrier is State Farm and they want an appraisal of the car and the cost of labor to build one of these too. I told them I have all the receipts and the labor is not included in the total because it is a kit and we build these cars ourselves. They wont insure me.

I tried a few different insurance companies. Grundy, State Farm, and a local guy that insures kit cars. Ended up going with Midwest Classic (888-271-4000, Robbin Terry) and they had the better price for $50k value.

[RR20AC]

Thanks ducky, I did go with Midwest.

[RR20AC]

Fixed my gas leak today. Ended up being the grommet that the fuel down spout goes into was cracked. The new one was hard to get in too. All is sealed now and put another 58 miles on the car today. Visited my friend Chris and took him and his bride for a little spin for inspiration as we had them painted down in California together and I worked nonstop to get mine done before the weather sets in. I think they were as impressed as I am about how the car handles (like its on rails) and massive power to use. Got home in the dark. It was a full day after work and then a cobra cruise. Here is another pic at home.

[edwardb]

Very cool. So pleased to see you driving now and that you're happy with it. Looks amazing too. With all the latest stuff the Anniversary builds have on them plus set up properly, they ride and drive amazingly well. I know it's early, but what's your impression of the UniSteer electric steering so far?

[cgundermann]

Fixed my gas leak today. Ended up being the grommet that the fuel down spout goes into was cracked. The new one was hard to get in too. All is sealed now and put another 58 miles on the car today. Visited my friend Chris and took him and his bride for a little spin for inspiration as we had them painted down in California together and I worked nonstop to get mine done before the weather sets in. I think they were as impressed as I am about how the car handles (like its on rails) and massive power to use. Got home in the dark. It was a full day after work and then a cobra cruise. Here is another pic at home.

It was a blast and a great motivator. My bride wants me to hurry up and get mine on the road. I was very impressed with the ride as well as the handling. It will be interesting to see how my straight 3 link axle compares...

[RR20AC]

The UniSteer electric steering is amazing when on. Feels smooth and crisp. Turn it down and the work load just goes up. I don't know if it would be good to compare to other manual steering cars as I set the alignment for power steering. My manual may be just slightly harder than others. It's nice to compare both on this car though.

[RR20AC]

We had a really good day of driving on this graduation day. A Fall day with cooler crisp air. Now we are at 220 miles. I am really impressed with the Holley Fuel injection. Starts every time and I never stall at takeoff. Used the electric steering more today switching it to different settings on the curves. I guess I like both or in between. Car just drives amazing. Went over to the water front today to get some pics and stopped by the Lemay Car Museum. The front was coned off so we pulled to the curb to take some pics. Out came the workers and said to pull up front. Got some good pictures and a lot of people came out to see the car. Next we went to Point Defiance Park and got a few more. I am really happy I built this car and feel like it is a part of me now.
I would like to thank Factory Five For making such an awesome car. Edwardb also helped me a lot with all his posts. Thanks Paul. Also *David Hodgkins for running this forum and making it all possible, as I don't think I could have done this all myself. Mike Forte helped me with an incredible engine package. I say wow to that part. Breeze provided me with so many parts I am very thankful.

Chris can't wait to have yours at this point too. We are going to have a lot of adventures. I am sure of that.

I hope to get another 300 or so miles before the weather gets to wet. Then I can go through it completely again.

[RR20AC]

Jeff Miller, I didn't forget you as you made this all possible with your ability to make these cars come alive. Thanks. Hope to see you at Huntington Beach this next year!

[wareaglescott]

Spectacular build. Great pics! Wishing you many happy miles ahead. Enjoyed following along your build thread. Keep it going with periodic updates please.

[edwardb]

Thanks for the shout out. You're certainly welcome. You did an awesome job on the build and now the fun of driving and owning. Get used to the attention. It doesn't stop. Or get old. I wonder how many of the 20th Anniversary Roadsters are done? There was a pretty good accounting of where they all went when sold. But I only know about yours and mine that are actually done and driving.

[cgundermann]

The pics turned out fantastic! I can vouch that it even looks better up close...iI'll be there soon. Love the Museum photo!

[Straversi]

Stunning. Thank you for posting your build thread. I've learned something valuable from every build thread. Especially enjoyed following this one. Congratulations.
-Steve

[Railroad]

Looking Good!

[David Hodgkins]

OUTSTANDING build! Every one of these 20-year cars is turning out special. LOVE the paint. The whole car looks magnificent!

Here's to MANY happy miles ahead!

:)

[WIS89]

Jim-

Congratulations on getting her all done; she really looks fantastic!! The paint is really awesome, and I know it must look special in person!

She really looks great in each of your pictures, and I know you must be very proud. I hope she gives you nothing but pleasure.

Well done!

Regards,

Steve

[Jazzman]

Congratulations on completing your Roadster. You have clearly done a wonderful job. May you have many more safe miles ahead!

[cgundermann]

Jim took me out this afternoon in his car for most of the latter part of the day and I could not be more impressed with how she drove, shifted, braked and her overall ride quality. He was nice enough to let me drive her for a bit and now I have kicked my build into overdrive to get mine out there.

SUPER fast and the variable electronic steering is freaking awesome to play with on the fly. Jim should be happy with his gorgeous Cobra; totally addictive to drive!

Much to be proud of my friend!

Chris

[wareaglescott]

Jim took me out this afternoon in his car for most of the latter part of the day and I could not be more impressed with how she drove, shifted, braked and her overall ride quality. He was nice enough to let me drive her for a bit and now I have kicked my build into overdrive to get mine out there.

SUPER fast and the variable electronic steering is freaking awesome to play with on the fly. Jim should be happy with his gorgeous Cobra; totally addictive to drive!

Much to be proud of my friend!

Chris

Awesome! Glad you got a ride and some extra motivation. Of course this means now both of you have failed me on positing an action video! haha

[cgundermann]

Awesome! Glad you got a ride and some extra motivation. Of course this means now both of you have failed me on positing an action video! haha

Wait for it...I was the GoPro operator and Jim is going to post soon...

[RR20AC]

Well as Chris said, I enjoyed my car all weekend and am now at 453 miles on the odometer. Car is amazing to drive. Been all over the place and I hope I have spread out the noisy takeoffs so no one is offended with me. Took my friend on some roads with a lot of curves and stops. These cars set up with about 21 lbs in the tires, sway bars, high performance shocks on the factory setting give a nice ride. With the toyo 888's the grip is more incredible than anything I have ever drove. Saturday I spent some time in the driveway making adjustments with the bias adjuster I installed in the cockpit. Part way through the ride on Sunday, we found a wide paved area off the road and did some aggressive full stops. Chris verified the stopping ability as he has some background in analyzing braking patterns. Car seems dialed in and stops extremely fast. Very happy with how the car performs and just need another 50 miles or so to do a full oil change, re-lube and over all inspection. I have had the car up on the stands six times over the last two weeks. An odd transmission leak has perplexed me. I have a pro shifter in the mid-shift location. The transmission tunnel is non removable. I have had a fluid leak up top. I originally though that I did not seal the pro-shifter properly. Hard to really see up there. After several checks I came to the conclusion that the plate the pro-shifter sits on was not sealed all the way around on its mounting surface. It has small allen wrench bolts which I can get to barely. They won't turn and must have Loctite on them. The front left and back right on this plate is where the leaks are. I did wipe down the front left with acetone and applied some heat with a heat gun. Then applied some silicone gasket sealant and it seems sealed. No more leak on that side. Just have to do the other side and I shouldn't have any leaks anywhere after that. Just have to see if this fix will hold. The next best fix for those leaks will be a transmission removal this winter. I hope not but may have to.

Here is the Video that Chris was talking about. I'm very happy with the way my car turned out and performs. https://youtu.be/Ymeq9AQ8qlI

[wareaglescott]

Really enjoyed the video. Thanks for posting. Looks like you have some great driving roads near you. Hope you have a great time driving!
I am going to hope for a Seattle layover in the future so I can hit you up for a ride!

[cgundermann]

Really enjoyed the video. Thanks for posting. Looks like you have some great driving roads near you. Hope you have a great time driving!
I am going to hope for a Seattle layover in the future so I can hit you up for a ride!

Best day ever! Then afterwards we had pizza & adult beverages...life is good. Let us know Scott if you do have a layover - one of us will pick you up...

[wareaglescott]

Best day ever! Then afterwards we had pizza & adult beverages...life is good. Let us know Scott if you do have a layover - one of us will pick you up...

Will do thanks. My current aircraft rarely makes it to Seattle from the Atlanta base but maybe I will get lucky.

[RR20AC]

Changed the oil and filter. Lubed the chassis. Found a small leak in one of the fittings going into the heater core. A quick tightening fixed that. The transmission leak I had is now solved. Both corners of the plate the pro shifter sits on are now sealed.
Today was a beautiful cool fall day. About 55 degrees. My wife and I got to go on another 50 miles drive and everything checks out well. All I have left to do now is get some wax on her now as the paint is over the 3 month wait period.
Drives amazing.....

[RR20AC]

Happy New Year. Didn't really think about going out today as it has been a bit cold. Not quite as cold as other places, but cold. Roads were dry. My wife suggested it. So we put another 50 or so miles on. Heated seats with the heater does a fantastic job of keeping us warm. Car is ready for the summer. Can't wait. Stopped by my friends house for a quick visit too. Chris I thought I had a good picture of your dash but the sun was too bright. That carbon fiber just lights up the pic.
Every one have a safe New Year! Jim

[cgundermann]

Medusa’s sister was looking really good in the sunshine. Every time I’m with your car, it makes both anxious, excited and pushes me on the final leg of my build. Can’t wait to get the twins out with our wife’s - happy times/travels this spring!

Chris

[RR20AC]

Finish line meatball installed today. # 18 of 20 anniversary kits so it looked like a good number to me. Have it up on stands to adjust and set the shocks. Just have to see if there is any adjustment from factory soft as others have said the springs are to stiff for swaybars. We’ll see. Tomorrow is going to be really nice around here so I’ll have to take the day off and do some testing for the upcoming auto cross next weekend.

[wareaglescott]

meatballs looks great. Good idea with the #18!

[RR20AC]

Time for an update picture https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=90655&d=1533323240

[wareaglescott]

Great pic!
Tire lettering a new addition?

[RR20AC]

Yes it's new. Added for a night photo shoot tomorrow. I have been slow to post all my pics as I have been busy and frustrated the last time I did them and after a couple of hours all I had was pics way to big to view.

[wareaglescott]

Not sure if you are an iPhone user but I just get the pics to my phone and then email them back to myself and when you email from he phone it allows you to select size. I just pick medium and they are sized for you that way and ready to upload right to the forum.

The tire lettering looks awesome. It will be appearing on my Cobra instagram page tomorrow! haha

[RR20AC]

Just one of those pre-fall days and no work so headed to the mountains over Chinook pass. Stopped by my friends house to check on his status and couldn't get him to bite at taking his Cobra out. Cruised by The ski resort we ski at and headed up high. Car runs amazingly well. Now have 2600 miles on. Car is perfect for the long cruise. Just chugs away at about 20 MPG. Just a few more miles before the next oil change. I still can't believe this car is mine. Will cherish it always. Next up is a few car shows and then off to Chandler AZ for the Bob Bondurant Racing School. I have 4 days booked and am excited for the opportunity to meet a driver of his caliper. This car has brought me some fantastic adventures. Jim

[Mark Eaton]

So Jealous! I had to work today.:( The photos look great.

[Fixit]

That is beautiful!

(I'm gonna print a few, tack 'em on the wall with a caption... "Get Busy - This could be YOU!")

[wareaglescott]

Awesome pics. Looks like a great day for a drive and beautiful places to visit!

[edwardb]

Great pics and write-up. You couldn't get your buddy to join you? I'd have been behind you in a heartbeat. Looks like a great place for a cruise. So great to hear how much you're enjoying your Roadster. :o

[RR20AC]

Fixit, this will be you. Have fun with the build. Stay focused with what is to come. Edward your build is amazing and I only wish I could do another but I think my name will be on a kit plane next. Can't wait to see the finished coupe. These areas over the passes have been shut down for rides like this as the forest fires have blanketed the area. Finally getting some relief. Next week the rain sets in and water will be pouring off the mountain slopes

[RR20AC]

This is what I'm talking about. Life is short. Work hard, play hard. https://youtu.be/GHr_U0qc4Vs Trent Palmer. Next project will be something like this. Took this about 6 years ago. Built my dream car and in a couple of years?

[Paul2STL]

I would of took the day off to cruise with you. I have 250 miles on her and finally dialed in the alignment. Let me know when you are headed out again.

[DavidW]

Fun, FUn, FUN!

[RR20AC]

Shoot Paul. I should have called you. Have not hear from RXBill yet on his build and the Alignment tools. Let you know when I get them back. Next nice weather stretch I'll give you a call. Going to have mine on the Dyno on the 14th for a baseline, before I get some new side pipes. I'll let you know the HP and maybe I can get it weighed the same time. Jim

[cgundermann]

Just one of those pre-fall days and no work so headed to the mountains over Chinook pass. Stopped by my friends house to check on his status and couldn't get him to bite at taking his Cobra out. Cruised by The ski resort we ski at and headed up high. Car runs amazingly well. Now have 2600 miles on. Car is perfect for the long cruise. Just chugs away at about 20 MPG. Just a few more miles before the next oil change. I still can't believe this car is mine. Will cherish it always. Next up is a few car shows and then off to Chandler AZ for the Bob Bondurant Racing School. I have 4 days booked and am excited for the opportunity to meet a driver of his caliper. This car has brought me some fantastic adventures. Jim

Oh the guilt...

Would of, but I was knee deep in that 442 project. Definitely missed a beautiful day and run with you!

Chris

[RR20AC]

We got by with no rain on Saturday. So Chris and I went to a small car show called Northwest GTO Legends Car Club at Griot's. Just selected a few pics that stood out on my camera. The blue car only has 10 miles on it and the owner has another just like it that he drives. Chris got two awards and I got one. Finally got him out of his cave and it was a fun day.

[cgundermann]

Thanks for pulling me out of my snake pit (too many project commitments). It was a really fun day and the twins did awesome!

Chris

[RR20AC]

Nice day between a lot of rain falling yesterday and the rest of the week. Griots had Their theme Race cars so I put my meatballs on and went for some coffee and donuts. Met my friend Paul there who is taking his to Miller and also saw 3 other cobras there.

[RR20AC]

Went on an Autumn Drive Tour hosted by NW Citroen Owners Club. A Panhard Paul Drive. Spectacular views were had cruising up to the Hood canal area yesterday. Some how six of us Cobra guys showed up and yes we made a lot of noise. Awesome day.https://youtu.be/8przvaYUDyg

[cgundermann]

What a great day and a beautiful ride! The spousal units appeared to have a good time as well...

Chris

[BadAsp427]

Thanks for the shout out. You're certainly welcome. You did an awesome job on the build and now the fun of driving and owning. Get used to the attention. It doesn't stop. Or get old. I wonder how many of the 20th Anniversary Roadsters are done? There was a pretty good accounting of where they all went when sold. But I only know about yours and mine that are actually done and driving.

It won't be long before #008 is out and about... I have to say, RR20AC is a great looking car... I'm planning to go with a very similar color, but most likely a light gray strip -vs- the white.... Beautiful photos you have of your car...

[RR20AC]

Thanks Carl, can't wait to see another anniversary car on the road with your ideas to make it your own.

[RR20AC]

Starting school today. Looks like it’s going to be a get week. Hellcat way!

[Paul2STL]

Looks like a fun time. ����

[RR20AC]

So much fun today. They ramp it up fast and before you know it your on tracking your own wide body hellcat hauling fast. So new they don’t have the school stickers on yet. Also got Bob to sign my glove box. Very nice guy and his museum has loads of racing memorabilia.

[Yama-Bro]

That looks awesome!

[RR20AC]

Bob Bondurant Racing School is now in the books. A lot happened. I did get the approval to get a racing license. The cars were awesome. They teach you the skills and you drive as fast as your skills will let you. Number Six was mine for three days.

[RR20AC]

Finally made a short video of my experience at Bondurant Racing School- https://youtu.be/uZSjcIUFtIc

[RR20AC]

A Few Pictures from Bondurant

[RR20AC]

and a few more including a map of the track we practiced on.

[RR20AC]

Bad news today. One of the first and best Cobra drivers had to shut the doors to the racing school. Hope those instructors can find another place quickly. Here’s a longer version of my time there. https://youtu.be/7bKVHCt7FZ0

[cgundermann]

That’s a shame!

Chris

[Cruzzz]

Really like you solution for the heater while still having a glove box (post #10). What are the dimensions of the extended box you built? how did you determine where to cut the opening in the firewall? Did you end up needing to build another box around the blower and run a hose to capture fresh air from the cockpit? I am waiting on delivery so some of this may be more clear once I see it in person but trying to organize all my thoughts on enhancements like this. Thanks in advance!

[RR20AC]

I probably would build a box over the blower if I get a top. I feel there is no need with an open cockpit. The box has to be 2.5”s deep and the other dimensions are just enough for the core to fit inside. I got lucky with placement and only needed to groove the corner for the wiper tube to go by.

[Pat427]

Congrats!

[SSNK4US]

OMG!!! Seriously?? (sorry a little late) that is so sad!!!! I’ve been through a few of his courses and have had the privilege of actually having Bob for an instructor. Total class act...so very sad to hear of it’s closing :(

[RR20AC]

3000 mile oil change and inspection done. A few added upgrades too. I added some new headlights that have the option of a running light inside and upgraded bulbs. Needed to rework these after installation as the manufacturing oils inside smoked the glass after first on. My oil pan and bell housing have always concerned me also, as they both were about 3/4 of an inch below the frame rails. Trimmed the housing and the 7 1/2 inch Milodon pan is now installed. Fel Pro has a product called SnapUps that made installation easy under the car. Watched several youtube videos on oil pan installs and the engine were all upside down. Not as easy under the car. SnapUps helped hold and line everything up while installing.
Here's a couple of pictures.

[RR20AC]

Quick test drive today in fantastic weather. Wife even went. I guess the car is ready for summer.

[BadAsp427]

It looks sooooo good.... I'm so excited to be getting another 20th Anniversary Roadster on the road.... Tell me, what color red is that? Thanks...

[RR20AC]

Nissan plasma red per da Bat