Bill & Laura's MK4 build thread. [Archive]

wallace18

05-20-2016, 07:13 AM

I had the fortune of meeting Bill and Laura at a Bible study class last year at my church. We became friends and found out Bill had a interest in cars like I do. They had a big block Corvette years ago and Bill still had an itch for a sports car. One time when they were over our home for dinner, we showed them my MK4 under construction. I gave them a FFR catalog and DVD to take home with them. Well that is all it took, LOL. We soon got together for dinner at their home and made a plan for their MK4 build. Bill ordered the kit on the 50% sale on 4/22/16 from Courtnie. I am going to be involved in the build as well as Bill is going to work on it at my shop as well. I have enjoyed seeing the excitement on their faces of this build and the anticipation of getting everything. I am starting their build log and will document it as I do for all my builds here on the forum. Bill and I are going to go get the kit on July 23rd give or take a day. Also picking up an engine trans. combo from Mike Forte and some parts from Mike Everson as well. We are using lots of FFR forum vendors for the build as I try to do each time. All of them will be listed. I really appreciate their help and great parts that enhance the build IMO. Her are some details of the build.

From FFR. http://www.factoryfive.com/

MK4 complete kit, powder coated chassis, 351 headers, 302-351 engine mounts, 31 spline 2015 IRS drive shaft, Body cut outs, leather seats, P/S components, 2015 IRS, GPS gauge set, 17x9/10.5 Halibrands, rear nudge bar, 4 over-riders, wind wings, sun visors, front sway bar kit, rear sway bar kit, Floor mats, Chrome roll bars, 2015 stock brakes, extra side view mirror, drivers seat slider, side louvers, and MK4 soft top.

From Mike Forte. http://www.fortesparts.com/
427 ford engine, TKO600 transmission and all associated parts for drop in install. As well as Vintage Air front runner system.

From Replicaparts, Mike Everson. http://replicaparts.com/
Radiator shroud, radiator panel, dash filler panel, windshield trim plates, steering wheel trim plate, seat belt trim plates, trunk lift kit and weather strip kit.

From Breeze Automotive, Mark Reynolds. http://www.breezeautomotive.com/
Upper radiator hose and tube kit, HD upper radiator hinge kit, Lower radiator support kit, Engine compartment battery kit, Complete front grill set, Cobra shift knob, Lower radiator tube and hose kit and Quiet side pipes.

From Russ's garage, Russ Thompson. http://www.norcal-cobras.com/store/russ_garage/russ_garage.htm
3 pedal set.

From Finish Line Accessories. http://www.**********accessories.com/
Ceramic heat shields, front grommets and 427 emblems.

North Racecars, Richard. http://www.northracecars.com/
Roadster A/C package, tunnel mount E-Brake.

Other parts will come from other sources and I will list them as well during the build. Lots of misc. stuff from Summit as well. I really am looking forward to this build as mine should be done in about 3 weeks. :cool:

aks801

06-02-2016, 05:52 PM

Let's see more!

carlewms

06-02-2016, 08:35 PM

This will be great to follow ... Thanks for starting the new thread!

wallace18

06-03-2016, 06:21 AM

There is a possibility of us going to go get the kit early in July. Mike Forte may have the engine done sooner than the 23rd. Bill is going to try to coordinate FFR and Mike so we can get it around 7/5/16 give or take a few days. Some parts are already here and Bill has paid for everything in full. It will be nice to build with all the parts here at the start for a change. I will keep everyone posted as best I can. Bill is so excited, it is a joy to see. I got him some 427 emblems to put on his desk while he waits for the kit, LOL.

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WIS89

06-03-2016, 12:27 PM

What a terrific plan! I know they will love working with you to build this car; you do great work!

I look forward to following along like I have your other builds.

A great way to celebrate Independence Day is picking up a new MK IV and engine. Grab me an engine while you are there; Mike will never know! ;-o)

Regards,

Steve

Carlos C

06-03-2016, 11:12 PM

Tom:

You sure stay busy. Can't wait to see how this one turns out.

Carlos

wallace18

07-12-2016, 09:27 AM

Well we head out early Wednesday morning about 2:00 AM to go get the kit and drive train. We will use Bill's truck and my enclosed trailer. Hope to be at Mike Forte's on Thursday afternoon and FFR Friday morning. We will stop over night at my brother Curt's in State College, PA. I will try to post some during the trip if I can. Wish us safe travels. TW.

Courtnie Provencher

07-12-2016, 09:57 AM

Can't wait to see you again, Tom! Also can't wait to meet Bill! Safe Travels.. See you Friday

wallace18

07-14-2016, 06:09 PM

Made it to my brother Curt's place Wednesday about 6:30 PM. Got woke up by a thunderstorm and left for FFR by 5:30 AM. We got to Mike Forte's about 12:30 and picked up 427, TKO600 and IRS parts. Then got to FFR about 3:30 PM. Met Dave and all the staff. Got Bill the full tour and I took his pic in front of the place. We will load the kit and take more photos in the AM tomorrow. Then head back to my brothers and be back in Florida Saturday night. Always great to meet my friends at FFR and catch up. Some cool stuff in the future in the works.

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WIS89

07-14-2016, 09:04 PM

Tom-

That's a very sexy engine! That should put down some nice power for Bill and Laura.

I am sure Bill enjoyed the tour of the Factory. They do a great job showing off their work!

So, are you sworn to secrecy on the future plans, or can you share?

Travel safely, and I look forward to following this build as well!

Regards,

Steve

wallace18

07-15-2016, 04:36 AM

sworn to secrecy. lol

wallace18

07-17-2016, 05:26 AM

We loaded up Friday morning and had a packed trailer and truck bed. Thanks to Dave, Courtnie, Nate and all the staff at FFR. We would have liked to stay longer but had to hit the road. We made it to State College by 6PM and had dinner with Curt and a good night sleep. We were on the road by 6AM Saturday and made it home about midnight. Had a few close calls coming home but made it home safe and sound. We are taking today off and will unload and inventory Monday morning. Here is some pics. Bill was all smiles when he saw his MK4 in the flesh.

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btc1956

07-17-2016, 11:53 AM

We had a great trip and made very good time. I am excited about inventory on the boxes and getting started on the build. Tom mentioned some exciting moments, one was following Google maps routing. We missed a turn and tried to reroute the trip, here is a picture of the highway through western Maryland we were routed through. Stay on the interstates when you can :)56288

wallace18

07-18-2016, 03:28 PM

Today we unloaded everything out of the trailer and truck. Did inventory and strip chassis down to bare chassis. Unfortunately a few POL parts and a few missing from the boxes, but that is to be expected. Plenty to do for the next 2 weeks that Bill has vacation. We do take the Lord's day off on Sunday. Here is some pics.

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David Hodgkins

07-18-2016, 03:52 PM

Bill (btc1956),

I updated your profile so you have full access. Congratulations! Looking forward to following your build!

:)

btc1956

07-18-2016, 05:27 PM

Thanks Dave!

wallace18

07-19-2016, 04:48 PM

Today we were able to Mock up the foot boxes, front splash panels, firewall and coat some stuff as well as paint some of the unpainted metal parts black. The foot boxes are done with Lizard skin sound deadner and ceramic heat coating on the outside. Splash shields with truck bed liner. Bill working hard on trunk aluminum.

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WIS89

07-19-2016, 08:24 PM

Tom-

If they are able to match your build pace, they will be driving in gel coat before the summer is out!

I think I need to check out the real estate in your neighborhood, so I can get access to your skills. HA

Great start Bill; keep up the good work!

Regards,

Steve

Carlos C

07-19-2016, 09:58 PM

wallace18

07-20-2016, 04:27 AM

Tom:

Are you actually powder-coating parts? I ask because you have previously posted that you did not have good results, and that you had given up on it; yet, it seems you're at it. If that's the case, I'm wondering if you're having a much better experience this time around.

Carlos

I have powder coated some stuff with better results. What you see in the photo is I used Eastwood rust encapsulater and then chassis paint then baked it on in the oven.

wallace18

07-20-2016, 02:56 PM

Today we finished up mocking up trunk, interior and firewall aluminum. I also mocked up A/C housing for firewall as well. I coated the trunk and firewall stuff with Lizard Skin like the foot boxes. Note how the sound deadener coating is grey and the ceramic heat coating is black. Lots of drilling and clecos today. Both Bill and I stopped at 3ish so we could take our wife's out for date night for dinner.

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Aso544

07-20-2016, 04:04 PM

Tom,

What look is he going for? More original, modern, or a mixture. Any idea what color he will go with?

Mac

btc1956

07-20-2016, 05:36 PM

Hey Mac,

It will be a mixture with mostly old look from the outside but with stereo and AC. Since we are going with the IRS we decided to go with the 17” FFR wheels. Don’t know the color yet, considering a grey or light blue color. We are strongly considering the shade of blue the ’66 was available in. Bill

WIS89

07-20-2016, 09:03 PM

Bill, Laura, or Tom-

What A/C unit did you all choose? Are you also going to run the heat/defrost as well?

Thanks in advance.

Regards,

Steve

wallace18

07-21-2016, 06:18 AM

Same as my MK4 the unit from North racecars. A/C, heat and defrost.

http://www.northracecars.com/AirCon.html

WIS89

07-21-2016, 07:40 AM

Same as my MK4 the unit from North racecars. A/C, heat and defrost.

http://www.northracecars.com/AirCon.html

Thanks Tom, I appreciate the info!

Regards,

Steve

wallace18

07-21-2016, 03:55 PM

Today we finished up coating all the aluminum and reinstalled most of it. Bill mounted the front suspension and steering rack. I installed the pedal assembly and helped out where needed. I really like the Russ Thompson pedals. The brake stuff is back ordered as well as a lot of the IRS stuff. We will have to skip around some to stay busy. We are going to take weekends off. I unfortunately had a friend pass away and must go to Orlando for the funeral. We will work some tomorrow. here is a few pics.

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Aso544

07-21-2016, 05:16 PM

Well it will be one fine built machine. Tom does amazing work and takes the FFR kit to another level with his attention to detail and ingenuity.

Hey Mac,

It will be a mixture with mostly old look from the outside but with stereo and AC. Since we are going with the IRS we decided to go with the 17” FFR wheels. Don’t know the color yet, considering a grey or light blue color. We are strongly considering the shade of blue the ’66 was available in. Bill

wallace18

07-22-2016, 03:28 PM

Today Bill finished up the passenger foot boxes, Started on the fuel tank and mocked up the trans tunnel cover. A box of POL parts came from FFR and Bill inventoried them as well. I worked on the IRS stuff some as well as the radiator, shroud and top swivel mount. Painted a few more aluminum and metal parts as well. It gets to about 100-104 in the afternoon in the shop. Fans and Gatorade keep us from passing out, LOL. My neighbor is Dr. Cade's daughter the guy who invented the stuff. Taking the weekend off and will get back at it on Monday.

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wallace18

07-25-2016, 04:58 PM

Today we got a late start. I installed the drivers floor and inner panel. Then installed all the metal brake lines. I also installed the fuel line and pump. Bill mocked up all the rear suspension parts. We drilled out the rear knuckles and differential. Then installed the rear end in the chassis. I painted a few more parts as well.

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wallace18

07-26-2016, 03:40 PM

Today was a good day. Bill installed all the rear suspension parts we have till the POL parts come in. I finished up the brake reservoir can and hoses. I also installed the steering shaft from the rack to the inside of the foot box. We both installed the gas tank and hooked up the lines. I tapped the rear end for the breather hose. Then we installed part of the wiring harness so everything was OK to install the 427 engine and TKO 600 transmission. Then we installed the engine, transmission and drive shaft. The motor mounts gave us fits but I won the War, LOL.

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wallace18

07-27-2016, 03:35 PM

Today Bill did some caulking and insulated the passenger foot box. He also installed the rear trunk aluminum. I installed the radiator with Breeze upper and lower mounts. Also we used Breeze upper and lower tubes and hoses as well. I also installed the A/C condenser. I made extra brackets and clamps to hold the tubes for the condenser in place better than just tightening them in place. We made a Auto store run for fluids and topped off the engine, transmission and differential. Unfortunately some of the A/C parts are incorrect so Bill will go and get the correct low side straight fitting we are missing. Car is coming along nice though, IMO.

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flynntuna

07-28-2016, 01:31 PM

Wow, you've got two weeks in this build and you're not done yet? Slacker. LOL
For an old guy you move fast. :D looking good, I need some of your energy.

Courtnie Provencher

07-28-2016, 02:38 PM

You guys are making killer progress! I love following along. Thanks for the build thread guys :o

wallace18

07-28-2016, 03:12 PM

Thanks flynntuna and Courtnie. We try to do are best even though we are old guys, LOL. Today Bill mocked up the seats and drivers slider to the chassis. The he insulated the drivers side of the car. I finished up the A/C, heater and drain hoses. I also mounted the Evap/heater core unit and heater valve. I also installed the throttle cable. Lots of fab work for the hoses and lines so they do not get loose or out of hand down the road.

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wallace18

07-29-2016, 03:34 PM

Well today was Bill's last day of vacation to work on the MK4. I think I may have worn him out some, LOL. Bill finished up the passenger floor insulation as well as some drivers foot box insulation as well. He remounted the trunk hinges after we painted them. Both of us swapped out the valve covers for these awesome 427 units. I really like how they change the whole look of the engine. It looks so much bigger now. We also swapped out the ignition wires with ceramic end ones from Accel. We then added some nice polished wire looms. I finished up all the various hose clamps to the frame and firewall. I also made a fuel line from the carb to the tank line. I also did a little heat insulation near the passenger side rear header pipe. Mounted the coolant over flow tank as well. I had to modify the air cleaner so it would not hit the A/C housing. We are going to take a week off of the build. I have a wedding in Houston to go to and some 818E work as well.

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wallace18

08-02-2016, 04:10 PM

Well I was supposed to be working on the 818E but parts issues struck again. So I was able to install the headers with Kook's gaskets and stage 8 bolts. Also I wired up most of the engine and fuel pump to the main harness. Also installed the clutch cable and clutch optimizer from Forte. Hope to get a few more things done before I leave for Houston for a wedding this weekend.

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wallace18

08-09-2016, 03:29 PM

Back working on the MK4. Some POL parts came in last Friday while I was out of town. I was able to install the carbon canister for the fuel tank and secure hoses and lines in the tank area. I also installed the P/S return hose that came in. I installed the battery in the front Breeze mount. I have started to mock up the dash. I use aluminum tabs so I can screw the dash in and remove it easy with the body on. Also mounted the North racecars e-Brake handle. Hope to have electrics done this week and maybe fire up the engine.

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wallace18

08-10-2016, 03:51 PM

After mowing the lawn I got a few hours in the build. Today I mocked up the dash and lower dash from Replicaparts. I modify it some for a center console. I mounted 4" speakers on each side as well. I also finished up the positive side of the battery to the starter as well. I mounted the H/B and T/S indicator lights. I also installed the heater valve cable. I hope to mock up the center console and radio, A/C vents and controls tomorrow.

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wallace18

08-11-2016, 04:39 PM

Today I worked on the speakers some and the center console stuff. I also finished up the negative side of the battery circuit as well. I have to get with Bill my customer on his choice for A/C vents other than the center ones tomorrow.

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carlewms

08-11-2016, 08:13 PM

Great photo documentation... Thanks.

What Optima Battery did you install?

Thanks,

Carl

wallace18

08-12-2016, 06:01 AM

Great photo documentation... Thanks.

What Optima Battery did you install?

Thanks,

Carl

Optima yellow top size 51.

wallace18

08-12-2016, 03:20 PM

wallace18

08-17-2016, 03:23 PM

For the last 3 days I have been working on this MK4 and a 818E. I was able to cover the dash and the 3 panels for the center console. I can wire it all up tomorrow for sure. Working on 2 cars at the same time can get a little hectic, but I can manage.

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wallace18

08-18-2016, 01:31 PM

I was able to wire up the dash and fan today. I added some gas and started up the 427. Sorry Bill, I know you wanted to be here for the start but you are out of town and I had to get along with the build. Here is a video. After fixing a slight fuel and P/S pump leak all is well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NqpOiXuyRA&feature=youtu.be

Everything works as it should. Woo Hoo!

btc1956

08-18-2016, 01:50 PM

Thanks Tom for that clip. That is what I was hoping for.

Thanks to Mike Forte as well, great result. Bill

WIS89

08-18-2016, 03:10 PM

WOW!

Engine sounds great Tom. Bill, I know you must be happy to hear that sexy sound!

Great milestone, and so fun to see. Making great time on this build, and she looks great.

Regards,

Steve

wallace18

08-19-2016, 03:24 PM

Today I charged the A/C and set engine timing and idle speed. The A/C blows nice and cold. Heat works well too. Then I plumbed the defrost valve and Y-pipe. Also installed the defrost cable assembly. Make sure you always insulate all the low side lines in the car so condensation does not come back to haunt you, LOL. Then I plumbed up the A/C vent and center console with switches. I also installed the under dash LED lights. I hope to install the roll bars and the CV joints and sway bars tomorrow. Still waiting on rear springs and front and rear brake parts.

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Aso544

08-19-2016, 10:14 PM

Sounds amazing!!!

wallace18

08-20-2016, 04:45 PM

Got a lot done today. I installed the L&R CV-Axles and installed all I could in the rear suspension. I also installed the rear sway bar and front one as well. I mocked up the roll bars. I actually drove it off my lift so I could change oil on my wife's BRZ and 570 EFI side by side. No brakes so I took it easy, LOL.

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wallace18

08-21-2016, 06:35 PM

Bill and Laura came by today to look, see and hear their MK4 at this point in the build. They were very happy with everything so far. Laura had questions about hearing each other driving. Of course she just heard their 427 with open headers, LOL. I gave them the keys to my MK4 with the breeze quiet pipes. They had a great drive and she was ecstatic about the car. She could not believe how smooth the car rode. Both had ear to ear grins on their faces. Bill can hardly wait for his to be done. But patience is key in building these I told him. Here is a photos of them in my MK4.

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wallace18

08-23-2016, 03:00 PM

After busting a part of my LF tooth with a 24MM impact socket Saturday I spent 3.5 hours at the dentist on Monday. The good news is I am fine now. Today I made the trunk rear cover I use to hide the seat belts and speakers. I think it trims up the trunk nice too. I also mounted Replicaparts trunk lifts and the horns. Also mounted the weather seal for the chassis to the body area. Waiting on some parts that should be here next week to be able to go-cart. This will allow me to install the FI on my MK4 in the mean time.

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wallace18

08-31-2016, 10:09 AM

Well the springs and some of the brake parts came the last few days. I was able to finish up the front brakes, rear springs, set ride height and do a preliminary front and rear alignment. Waiting on FFR engineering for new rear caliper hardware setup. Should be soon. Here is some pics.

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MPTech

09-01-2016, 09:50 AM

Looks like fun building all of these FFR kits and this is going to be another QUALITY build. Nice work!

may I ask, what tires (brand & model#) are those?

wallace18

09-01-2016, 03:00 PM

Looks like fun building all of these FFR kits and this is going to be another QUALITY build. Nice work!

may I ask, what tires (brand & model#) are those?

Nitto NT555 g2 same size FFR suggests for the 17" staggered rims.

MPTech

09-01-2016, 03:27 PM

Thank you VERY MUCH, NT555 G2 is what I've been looking at and about to pull the trigger. My Sumo's have about had it. Baby needs new shoes.

HappiestDays

09-12-2016, 03:58 PM

wallace18

09-12-2016, 06:06 PM

Well, I must be addicted to your update posts, Tom, because I keep looking and now that it has been over a week since a post, I am experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Your shop didn't blow away in the hurricane I hope?

No we have been stopped by back ordered parts. They are due here tomorrow. Both Bill and I are ready to get back at it.

adubbelde

09-13-2016, 07:13 AM

740iLn

09-13-2016, 12:52 PM

I second that emotion :)

Agreed. Love the detail and the pictures!

wallace18

09-14-2016, 03:21 PM

The Back ordered brake parts came yesterday. I painted them and installed the rear brakes, e-Cables and bled the entire system. My lovely wife Marsha is an expert brake bleeder helper, LOL. She has helped me with 7 different builds so far. Now we can go-cart it and have a alignment shop do a proper alignment on the car. I really do not trust my stuff to get it spot on. I can get it close but I want this perfect for Bill and Laura. Now the only parts we are waiting on are the door latches.

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wallace18

09-15-2016, 06:21 PM

Today I was able to go-cart Bill's MK4. Wow! Very powerful, loud and fast. I had Bill come over and test it out also. He took it nice and easy. His smile says it all. Here is a video and some pics next to my MK4.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWGkr6_wTjA

wallace18

09-16-2016, 06:08 PM

Took the go-cart to have the 4-wheel alignment today. When we got it home I took it for a good test run. All I can say is WOW!!!!. We put the body on it tonight. Going to get after it next week and hope to get it to Huegenics for paint by the first week of Oct.

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RickP

09-16-2016, 07:47 PM

I had too watch the gokart video a couple of times. How exciting that must feel. I'm inching closer to that day!

wallace18

09-20-2016, 03:54 PM

It was great to get back working on the MK4. I first mounted the rear bumper bolts. Next I mounted the front overriders and Turn signal brackets. I add 2 10/24 screws with nuts to the brackets to have everything stay in place when it is time to put everything back together after paint. I also use all S/S fasteners. You can access the nuts for the rear bolts thru the tank plates above. I do not mount the bolts like the manual says. I put the nuts on the inside of the frame and the bolt or studs from the outside going in. No need to drop the fuel tank this way. I also mounted the front T/S ?parking lights. Then I fitted the hood, installed the scoop, hinges, struts and handles. Coming along very nice. Got some bad news the door latches are not due to come in till mid Nov. :(

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wallace18

09-21-2016, 10:38 AM

OK if you are building a MK4 or thinking of building one please pay close attention. I have been fortunate to build 7 FFR kits. One thing about this is that I made some mistakes but learned how to avoid some headaches. Here is my 2 cents worth on MK4 windshield installation. Be very careful installing the side bars screws. It is very easy to strip or cross thread them. You will most likely have to take them on and off several times. You will also have to install the windshield on and off the car several times to get everything correct. Follow the manual as far as how to install it. I pay to have FFR do the cutouts on the body when I purchase a kit, well worth it to me. Still you will have to open up the windshield holes some. Lay the trim part that covers the hole when finished on the slot and trace the outline. This will give you a idea of what you can trim without losing sealing. You will have to most likely trim about 1&1/2" to 2" off the bottom of the side supports to get it close to seating properly. Place the windshield in place and make sure you have a good seal on the black weather strip on the bottom to the body. See the critical area pic. Must have the windshield pushed down far enough to get this area sealed up good. Mark your holes for mounting and drill to 5/8" hole so you can make small adjustments later. Take out the windshield and take it all apart. Drill out the side bars on a drill press if you have access to one. Most important is to separate the chrome frame from the glass and install your sun visor clips now. As you can see in the photo the screws will protrude through the frame and Will crack the windshield if you do not remove the frame. I use a Dremel tool to grind the screws flat on the inside of the frame. Then I spray some silicone spray and assemble everything back. This will save you from having to buy another windshield, ask me I know,LOL. Use care with all screws putting it back together. I do not use the lock nuts at this point to bolt down the windshield. You have to take it off for paint later why make it hard on yourself, use plain nuts for now. Make sure the distance from the door opening to the top screw is 27"- 27&1/8" so you can install a soft top later if you decide to. Take these easy steps and you will have great results down the road. I hope learning from mistakes I made on my MK4 will help others down the road.

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wallace18

09-21-2016, 10:42 AM

Here is the pics of the side measurement for proper soft top install later. 27to 27&1/8" from door opening to top screw.

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6t8dart

09-21-2016, 12:09 PM

Awesome info, thank you. You answered a lot of questions for me that I didn't know to ask.

wallace18

09-21-2016, 02:36 PM

Got a lot of stuff done today. Windshield all done. I mounted and gapped the doors and mounted and gapped the trunk. Still a little left to finish up the trunk tomorrow. I know I shown this before but I mount the doors in the doorway. Then I use 3/16" tape around the door cutout area all around the door. Then I trace a black market to the tape. When I pull the tape off I am left with what I need to remove to get my 3/16" gap. I just sand down to the line and there you go. Just repeat for other door, trunk and hood. I really like Replicaparts trunk kit. It keeps it open without having to use a prop rod. Hopefully will have some door latches and hardware from WIS89 soon. Thanks again. Here is some pics.

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MisterAdam

09-21-2016, 02:59 PM

Today was mostly wiring up stuff. Not the things for great pictures. I wired up the all the circuits and tested them. I really like this self-canceling T/S module. Uses 2 momentary switches I got from Radio Shack. The longer you press the button the longer the T/S flash. Press both at the same time and 4-way flashers work. Very easy to install. 6 simple wires. Here is some photos of it. I used the same one on my Type 65. I wish I used this on my MK4. I may have to do a retro fit, LOL.

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sorry if i am a little late to the game here. I think there is a simpler way to wire this in. I used an on/off toggle between the solid black and purple (L/R turn). this act as my hazard mode switch. i used a mom-on/off/mom-on toggle for the directionals. with the hazard mode "off" the directions work as normal. with the hazard mode "on" either direction with send a signal to both sides (thru the hazard mode switch) which triggers the module to hazards. another directional trip will shut them off. turn "off' the mode switch and you are back to regular operation. amazing how many ways there are to skin a cat!!

M3ichael

09-21-2016, 03:26 PM

Subscribed.

btc1956

09-21-2016, 07:02 PM

Looking great, like a car!

wallace18

09-22-2016, 01:38 PM

Today I finished up the trunk and installed the roll bars and grommets. Had some honey do's to do this afternoon so I will get back at it tomorrow.

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wallace18

09-23-2016, 03:54 PM

Today I mounted and wired all the lights on the car. I use Weather-Pac connectors on all of these. I also started to mock install the oil cooler . I have to fabricate a lot of the front aluminum due to use using the Breeze radiator mounts. But this way I can make sure all fits nice and tight to the body so all the air goes to the radiator. I am taking a few days off for my Anniversary. My wonderful wife Marsha has been my best friend and helper for 17 years on Sunday. God Bless her for putting up with all my car stuff. She is a keeper for sure!!

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wallace18

09-24-2016, 12:10 PM

Had 3 free hours this morning. I mocked up the front and rear wheel well splash shields. I also make my own for the big gap in the front of the rear wheel wells as well. I make a card board template and transfer to aluminum. I attach it to the square tube that runs vertical with 1/8" rivets when paint is done and body back on. They will be coated with black truck bed liner material and have seals on the ends.

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wallace18

09-28-2016, 03:06 PM

Well the latches from WIS89 came UPS and I was able to install them. Thanks Steve. I also mocked up the oil cooler lines and finished up the aluminum in the radiator area. All will be coated black. I also mocked up the side pipes. I only have the mirrors and door bottom aluminum left to mock up. I will strip the car down some and take it to Huegenics on Friday for paint work.

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wallace18

09-29-2016, 10:07 AM

Today I finished up the aluminum in the lower door area and did the hardware drilling for the soft top. Car is ready to go to Huegenics for paint tomorrow morning. Here it is being loaded up ready to go.

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btc1956

09-29-2016, 11:36 AM

Looks great Tom. We will see you out there in the morning.

WIS89

09-29-2016, 05:22 PM

Tom-

I don't remember seeing it, but have Bill and Laura selected a paint (and stripe) color?

Everything looks great! You sure do nice work, and at a pace that exhausts me just reading it!

How long will it be at paint? Hopefully it will be back in time for some serious driving before it gets cool down there.

Regards,

Steve

wallace18

09-30-2016, 10:13 AM

They are going with a silver/gray color with black stripes. Should be done sometime in Nov. It never gets too cold to drive down here. LOL. Thanks again for your help.

Aso544

09-30-2016, 07:33 PM

Tom makes it look so easy!!!

btc1956

10-01-2016, 11:50 AM

Hey Steve, the look Laura likes is the color they used for the original Eleanor mustang. Tom's Factory Five Daytona was a great looking grey/silver that Chris came up with. We are going to look at the cards he did for Tom and compare to the Eleanor colors. I will post that when we make that final decision. Getting real excited now that it is at the paint shop. Bill

WIS89

10-01-2016, 03:45 PM

Bill-

That would be a great color combination. There are a lot of grey's that work well too, so lots of choices for you to consider.

She looks really great! I look forward to seeing her all dressed up. Tom's done a great job.

Regards,

Steve

wallace18

10-10-2016, 05:45 PM

Today I prepped and coated all the aluminum that goes in wheel wells, etc. Bill and Laura decided on the Elenor paint color with black stripes. I will be working on my customers 818E while Bill's car is a Huegenics for paint.

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Aso544

11-05-2016, 09:08 AM

Tom,

Are you getting close to completing the car? Hopefully the paint is close to being finished.

MAC

wallace18

11-05-2016, 02:00 PM

Car is at Huegenics for paint work. Trunk lid was warped and FFR sent us a new one. I think it will be late Dec. till car is done.

wallace18

11-16-2016, 12:02 PM

Stopped by Huegenics to drop off different trunk struts. I was able to get a few pics. Lots of body work on this one for some reason compared to mine. Drivers door has the cut out for more shoulder room done. Passenger side yet to be done. Hood and trunk fit real nice and door areas all cleaned up as well. Still IMO a lot of work before body comes off.

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wallace18

11-25-2016, 03:32 PM

Went today to Huegenics to take the body off the frame and put it on a body buck for paint. All the gaps are perfect. Lots of work to clean up all the dust and get the chassis ready for the body when done. I am taking my customers 818E chassis up to his home in Atlanta area on Monday so I will have plenty of room for the MK4.

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wallace18

12-04-2016, 05:22 PM

Spent the last few days cleaning the fiberglass dust off the chassis and everything else. I did make up the sun visors and I did my rear bumper mounting modification. I do not like how the directions have you lower the gas tank to install this rear bumper. I use 7/16" all threads you can just slide it into place and use lock nuts on the chassis. Not tank removal needed.

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wallace18

12-08-2016, 01:02 PM

Finished up cleaning the underside of the chassis today. I also painted the radiator/condenser black as per our painter and me. LOL.

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btc1956

12-11-2016, 05:02 AM

It is looking great Tom. Chris sent a picture of the body on Friday, it had a coat of primer put on yesterday.61834

wallace18

12-11-2016, 07:23 AM

It is looking great Tom. Chris sent a picture of the body on Friday, it had a coat of primer put on yesterday.61834

Thanks Bill. I know they had to do a ton of work to make the body right. I sent pictures to FFR. This body took way more work to get right vs mine. Lucky for us Huegenics does such great work. I can't wait to see it all painted. :cool:

Straversi

12-11-2016, 10:26 AM

wallace18

12-11-2016, 11:36 AM

Drivers door has the cut out for more shoulder room done. Passenger side yet to be done. Hood and trunk fit real nice and door areas all cleaned up as well. Still IMO a lot of work before body comes off.

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Is this a common modification? Have not hear of trimming out the door wider before.
-Steve[/QUOTE]

Steve I am not sure how common it is. But I can tell you I will have it done on any MK4 I build. The difference is substantial. With this modification you can drive the car so much more comfortably. Especially if you are wide in the shoulders. Otherwise you would have to drive with your arm on top of the door, IMO.

wallace18

12-12-2016, 04:29 PM

Kind of cool and humid here today in the morning. I replaced the header gaskets with the Remflex ones. very nice stuff. I torqued it all and installed locks. Remflex says no retorque is needed, time will tell. I started on the trunk carpet this afternoon.I will post pics when done. I hope to get all carpet, seats and belts in this week.

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wallace18

12-13-2016, 04:00 PM

I finished up the trunk carpet and started on the interior carpet. Bill those rear speakers sound good. Not sure how much you will listen to radio with the music from that 427 though, LOL.

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wallace18

12-14-2016, 03:21 PM

Finished up the carpet in the interior today. Also installed the shifter boot, Knob and E-Brake boot. Check out that cool looking shifter knob! Tomorrow is belts, seats, door checks and replace steering wheel I scratched. That one is on me, ouch!

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wallace18

12-17-2016, 11:40 AM

I have been busy with changing out my trailer stuff last few days. Today I was able to finish up seats, belts, new steering wheel and install floor mats. Looks pretty good to me. All that is left is door checks and spinners. Should have that done by Tuesday next week. Then it is just waiting on paint to be done around Jan 20th.

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Vette1972

12-17-2016, 01:35 PM

Very nice! This has been fun to follow. Thanks!

Aso544

12-17-2016, 09:03 PM

Be ready to roll when good weather rolls back in !!!!

wallace18

12-19-2016, 11:27 AM

This morning I finished up the last 2 things before we put the body back on. I installed the checks straps. Laura did a great job dyeing the straps black. I also finished up the spinners. I documented in my MK4 build this tip, but I felt I needed to do it again. The spinners will just spin inside the wheel as they come. If any corrosion sets in it could be a major deal to get them off down the road. I do a simple fix, IMO. I use a 8-32 drill tap and drill 2 holes about 180 degrees apart in the nut. I then install 2 allen set screws from inside. Then I put it in the wheel and install the lug nut cover and spinner temporarily with some anti-seize on the threads. I then tighten the set screws and now the nut stays put and is perfectly centered. I then remove the spinner and lug nut cover reinstall the wheel and put it all back on. This will make removal down the road much easier, IMO. I know there are several other methods used, but this is mine. I hope it is of some help to other builders. I am going to store the 427 MK4 till the body is painted. I have some body stuff to do on the 818E and have to put the engine back in my MK4 when it arrives on Dec. 27th.

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wallace18

12-20-2016, 08:13 AM

Change of plans. I decided to put Bill's 427 in my home garage to store and that allowed me to put my MK4 on the 2-post lift for the engine install after Christmas. Bill is coming over on MLK day since he has off and polish up the shiny stuff on the 427 MK4. This way I will not have to move the 818E body off the 4-post lift. We should all have these problems, LOL. :cool:

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wallace18

01-12-2017, 07:18 AM

Stopped by Huegenics yesterday. First coat of color on Bill's MK4. Stripes and clear coat to follow.

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btc1956

01-13-2017, 03:48 AM

Got a couple of pictures from Chris today. the stripes are on, should get a picture without the tape today

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btc1956

01-14-2017, 07:22 AM

The painting is complete- let the wet sanding begin!!

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wallace18

01-14-2017, 06:56 PM

Bill just sent this pic to me. Looks killer!

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RickP

01-14-2017, 08:05 PM

that's a killer paint job. Really sharp.

Aso544

01-15-2017, 10:35 PM

Wow....great color !!!!

btc1956

01-20-2017, 05:21 AM

Tom is just about finished! the body is now back on.

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wallace18

01-20-2017, 06:21 AM

Hope to finish up the roll bar grommets, side pipes and front lights today. Huegenics still has some touch up work to do. I will bring it to my shop on Monday to install oil cooler, splash shields, soft top and misc.

wallace18

01-20-2017, 01:42 PM

Today by noon I finished up the lights, roll bar grommets and side pipes. Huegenics has some final stuff to do. Customers are going to go look at it Saturday morning. Monday morning I will bring it here to my shop to finish up.

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btc1956

01-22-2017, 06:18 AM

Tom has done an outstanding job and Chris and Scooter at Huegenics just finished it off. We stopped by yesterday and got a few shots. it is interesting how two different phones can pick-up different colors. In the booth Laura's phone picked up the green to show just how the light can make it look.

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wallace18

01-23-2017, 05:27 PM

Brought Bill and Laura's MK4 to my shop this morning. I installed the oil cooler and shrouds, splash shields and passenger side outside mirror. I like to install my own splash shield in the front area of the rear tire, I really seals up that area well, IMO. Have trunk to finish up and soft top install then it is off to its owners home on Thursday.

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wallace18

01-24-2017, 10:03 AM

This morning I finished up the trunk, door panels and installed the soft top mounts. I took it for a 1 mile ride. Wow what a nice ride! My pictures do not due the car justice. It is awesome in person. Hope to deliver it on Thursday afternoon.

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btc1956

01-26-2017, 05:03 AM

wallace18

01-26-2017, 06:01 AM

Thanks for everything Tom, it looks great. The car is in the garage now so I can start learning how to operate the radio. waiting for an appointment to get the title and tag is not going to be easy. Bill

Your welcome Bill and Laura. It was an honor to build your dream car for you as well as fun to have you help build it the first few weeks. I want to thank all the vendors listed in the first post as well as Factory Five Racing and Courtney at FFR for all their help as well. I will be over tonight to show you the soft top and go over the entire car operation. May you both have many fun times and miles in this beautiful MK4. Most of all it is so nice to call you both good friends in Christ as well. TW

wallace18

01-26-2017, 06:52 PM

Went over to Bill and Laura's to go over the car with them tonight. After having a nice meal with them I found out something I would like to pass on to others. If you install the sun visors as in the picture in the FFR directions the soft top will not go on. I did not have my tools with me and I will go over on Saturday morning to flip the brackets on the windshield. They must point down not up as in the picture. I thought I had installed mine backwards on my MK4 when I looked at the directions only to find out mine are correct. Just food for thought. Bill was very nice and did not kill me, LOL. I was very embarrassed though.
We did do the handing of the keys over and I wanted a picture of both of them in the car. Unfortunately it was a wet day here, so no test drive. :(
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