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View Full Version : Papa's MKIV Roadster Build - #9115 (Post Grad) - One million + views!!!



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Papa
05-13-2018, 01:41 PM
Here's a short video walk around with the body on and the car idling right after a cold start.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doBle7rb7hI

Clover
05-13-2018, 02:02 PM
Looking and sounding good Dave.

Mark Eaton
05-13-2018, 11:49 PM
I love the sound Dave!

Papa
05-14-2018, 08:02 AM
Looking and sounding good Dave.


I love the sound Dave!

Thanks guys! Now that the exhaust is right, the car sounds the way its supposed to.

Scubasommer
05-14-2018, 10:37 AM
[QUOTE=Papa;325227]Herr's a short video walk around with the body on and the car idling right after a cold start.

That’s Sooooo freakin cool Dave!!!!!

Papa
05-19-2018, 03:24 PM
Work continues with body fitment. I'm going very slowly and removing tiny amounts of material as I go then refitting and so on. Today I worked on the area around my CNC brake reservoir to allow the body to settle over the bracket I installed. I still have some additional work to do around the side pipe exits and it looks like I can start fitting the hood. Based on what it looks like right now, I'm just going to trim about 1/16" off all the way around to see if I can get the hood to rest in the opening. Once it is sitting in the opening I can start to work the gap consistency a bit more.

Question for the experts is what I should be thinking about for the front wheel openings. I haven't done any ride height adjustments yet and I don't have any of the weather strip in place right now, but had a very slight rub on the right front after a test drive with the body on. Should I need to trim the wheel well at all?

wallace18
05-19-2018, 04:11 PM
You should set ride height and alignment. zi have never had to trim a fender in any of my MK4 builds.

Papa
05-19-2018, 04:20 PM
You should set ride height and alignment. zi have never had to trim a fender in any of my MK4 builds.

Thank you, sir! That's what I would expect, but just wanted to be sure. The car is sitting very low at the moment, probably 1/2 - 3/4" lower than final ride height and I expect the weather strip to raise the body 1/4" or so.

Dave

stevant
05-19-2018, 05:39 PM
Sounds great Dave..........nice to see your progress!!! Great Job!!

GoDadGo
05-19-2018, 07:58 PM
Love Those Chevy Inspired Side Pipe Supports!

Congratulations!

Jeff Kleiner
05-20-2018, 06:23 AM
Question for the experts is what I should be thinking about for the front wheel openings. I haven't done any ride height adjustments yet and I don't have any of the weather strip in place right now, but had a very slight rub on the right front after a test drive with the body on. Should I need to trim the wheel well at all?

"Need" is somewhat dependent on ride height, alignment, spindles used, tire size and wheel specs. Contact at the front is not rare, especially when running in the lower caster ranges but as has been mentioned you really won't know what is absolutely necessary until the body is in it's final position with ride height and alignment reasonably close to their finished settings.

No matter, I always trim the mold flanges back, not only to assure clearance but simply because I think it looks better and more original/authentic---remember the original bodies had the aluminum skin formed and rolled around 3/16" rods in these areas. I take them from this:

http://www.ffcars.com/photopost/data/500/medium/returns1.jpg

To something like this with the lips rolled to approximately 1/4" diameter:

http://www.ffcars.com/photopost/data/500/medium/returns3.jpg

Straight from the molds the forward edge of the front wheel openings have some odd curves, waves and "elbows" (particularly at the nose cap parting line) at the transition from the sides to the lower valance and over the the oil cooler opening that I trim and shape into a smoother more flowing curve like so:

http://www.ffcars.com/photopost/data/500/medium/returns2.jpg

All that said though if you are not planning to do your own body & paint work just do the minimum necessary for clearance and leave it for your body guy to do the finish work.

Cheers,
Jeff

Papa
05-25-2018, 01:38 PM
Today I wanted to get the hood trimmed enough to lay in the opening, but first things first. It's nearly 90 degrees and barely a wisp of cloud in the sky; I'm going for a ride!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k96cfeR7Co&feature=youtu.be

Papa
05-25-2018, 04:04 PM
Okay, the fun is over and time to get to the day's task. I started by laying the hood over the opening and running a strip of tape to act as a mark to sand to.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=86242&d=1527281853

Next I used my mini belt sander to sand off the very small amounts of martial up to the tape.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=86244&d=1527281870

I repeated these steps until the hood just barely rested in the opening. I hand sanded the sharp edges just a bit. The gaps will need to be worked, but that I'll leave to the professionals.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=86247&d=1527281901

Once that was done, I dug out all the hood hinge parts and realized that I needed to make a trip to the powder coater. I wish I'd done that six months ago. The parts should be done next week.

DavidW
05-25-2018, 09:06 PM
Wow, thats a nice hood fit. I have to use the closure to pull the hood down in the corners, even then its not all the way down and my gaps are at least 3 times bigger.

Papa
05-26-2018, 08:56 AM
Wow, thats a nice hood fit. I have to use the closure to pull the hood down in the corners, even then its not all the way down and my gaps are at least 3 times bigger.

Thanks, David. It's just sitting there under gravity's influence in that picture. I don't even have any rubber sitting under it. I went tediously slow and worked from side to side until it fit. The tape marker I used was really just eyeballed to mirror the body opening. I think overall, I probably removed just under 1/4" or less material from the sides, less than 1/8" from each side, and maybe 1/16 - 3/32 from the front.

Papa
05-31-2018, 10:04 PM
I got approval from my lovely wife to go ahead and order a lift for my shop! I ended up ordering a Bendpak XPR-10AS-LP two-post lift.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=86558&d=1527822040

I found a local installer that I'll have the lift shipped to and then they will bring it to my home and install it. I have an install date of July 10th. In the meantime, I'll need to wire the 220v circuit. Thanks to everyone who provided feedback on their lifts. I was really torn between the Bendpak and Atlas and ultimately decided that I would go with the Bendpak.

Papa
06-02-2018, 11:00 AM
I had a request to provide my template that I used to fabricate my floor mounted headlight dimmer switch bracket. I drafted up a quick CAD drawing for anyone that wants to use it.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=86613&d=1527954971

The scale is 1:1, so you can just print the picture without resizing it as a starting point. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the dimensions to fit your car.

Dave

Mark Eaton
06-03-2018, 10:59 AM
great news on the lift Dave. I am interested in your CAD drawing for the switch bracket. PM sent

Papa
06-03-2018, 01:18 PM
Ugh - Still waiting for the powder coater to finish my brackets I dropped off that were promised in three days ten days ago. Oh well, more time to do yard work.

Papa
06-04-2018, 07:35 PM
My powder coating is done on all my hood and trunk brackets. What is the best way to get the coating out of the holes where the bushings need to go without damaging the finish on the bracket? I'm thinking of using an abrasive drum on my die grinder, but I'm open to any recommendations.

stevant
06-04-2018, 11:04 PM
I got approval from my lovely wife to go ahead and order a lift for my shop! I ended up ordering a Bendpak XPR-10AS-LP two-post lift.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=86558&d=1527822040

I found a local installer that I'll have the lift shipped to and then they will bring it to my home and install it. I have an install date of July 10th. In the meantime, I'll need to wire the 220v circuit. Thanks to everyone who provided feedback on their lifts. I was really torn between the Bendpak and Atlas and ultimately decided that I would go with the Bendpak.

I have the approval, just don’t have the height. I’m envious. I’m trying to convince the wife that we only need 6 foot ceilings in the bedroom so the lift will work! Don’t think I’m selling her on that one!!

Enjoy it!

Papa
06-05-2018, 07:14 AM
I have the approval, just don’t have the height. I’m envious. I’m trying to convince the wife that we only need 6 foot ceilings in the bedroom so the lift will work! Don’t think I’m selling her on that one!!

Enjoy it!

Have you looked at Bendpak's Gand-prix series?

https://www.bestbuyautoequipment.com/grandprix-bi-metric-low-ceiling-2-post-lift-p/BendPakGP-7.htm?gclid=CjwKCAjw6djYBRB8EiwAoAF6oVFxj67Uc1sGU9 jB3rVsK7hw3RShmNCMk7WogeoNDIlQfURlOpTQdhoCweEQAvD_ BwE

stevant
06-05-2018, 12:49 PM
I only have 89”.....It’s real low! I have quickjacks, better than nothing. I can get the entire car about 23”’off thr ground. Better than nothing,

Papa
06-14-2018, 02:53 PM
It's been a couple weeks since I've had any time to devote to my build, but today I was able to get my freshly powder coated hood hinges assembled.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87312&d=1529005761

I hope to finish the hood install and get the trunk lid mounted in the next couple of days.

Papa
06-17-2018, 03:26 PM
All I wanted for Father's Day this year was to have some time to actually work on my car. So, today I finished the hood install.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87458&d=1529266198

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87460&d=1529266234

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87461&d=1529266256

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87459&d=1529266211

The gaps will all need to be worked to perfection, but that will be left to the pros. All I'm looking for right now is basic fit and function.

All the big tasks that are left before body & paint:

1) Mount the doors
2) Mount the trunk lid
3) Install the gas cap
4) Mount the windshield
5) Install the wipers
6) Wire and install the lighting
7) Blow it all apart and undercoat the body
8) Install the carpet
9) Install all the weather strip
10) Reassemble
11) Attempt Colorado Registration
12) Deliver to Jeff when he's ready for it sometime this winter

Yama-Bro
06-18-2018, 10:50 AM
Is it starting to feel like you are on the final stretch?

Papa
06-18-2018, 06:21 PM
Is it starting to feel like you are on the final stretch?

It certainly does, but at the same time it feels like the end is miles away.

stevant
06-18-2018, 08:22 PM
Looking good Dave!!!!

Papa
06-23-2018, 04:39 PM
Today's number one task was to run my 220V circuit in preparation for my lift install. Crawling around in an insulated attic is no fun, but I have my circuit ready for the lift. The only task I completed on the car today was to work the side louvre openings. I did the body cutout option from FFR, so they were in the ballpark and just needed some refinement. Next, I'll try to get the mounting posts set using High Strength Repair Filler -- expensive stuff! I'm also toying with the idea of using the same 3M fastener tape that I used on my tunnel cover to make the louvres easy to remove for access if I need it later.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87658&d=1529791693

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=87659&d=1529791888

Papa
07-02-2018, 01:31 PM
I'm on vacation this week and hope to get to spend a lot more time on the car. Today I installed and wired up the tail lights. I had to open up the holes a bit larger than the pre-cut openings to get them to sit flush against the body.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88267&d=1530555864

I used weatherpack connectors to connect them up and I'm happy to report that the lights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard flashers all work correctly. I did have to adjust the brake light switch to get it where I wanted it, but all is good!

MarM
07-03-2018, 01:26 PM
Nice work. I read your whole post, every word last night. That looks exactly like what I have been dreaming about.

Papa
07-03-2018, 04:32 PM
Nice work. I read your whole post, every word last night. That looks exactly like what I have been dreaming about.

Welcome to the forum and thanks for taking time to read through my build thread. Don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions.

Dave

Papa
07-03-2018, 04:45 PM
Another day with time to work on the car! Today I tackled the front marker/signal lights. These seemingly simple jobs always eat up much more time than you think they are going to take. In my case, I spent a lot of time tweaking the brackets that go from the front of the frame where the quick jack bolts attach out to the marker light opening. I carefully bent the powder coated brackets to get them the sit flush against the body and then spent a bit of time massaging the fiberglass openings to get them large enough to allow the lights to sit flush against the body. On to the electrical. I installed weather pack connectors for these lights as well and all functions work correctly!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88332&d=1530653943

Have a great 4th of July everyone!

GoDadGo
07-03-2018, 08:04 PM
Looking Good Papa and by the way, thanks for posting pics of your hood hinges.

Also, consider adding additional grounds for your high load items like your head lights and cooling fan.
Heck consider adding pig tails out back for your tail lights too if have the time.

It Can't Hurt To Have Extra Grounds On These Fiberglass Bodied Cars Of Ours!

Steve

Papa
07-04-2018, 11:08 AM
Looking Good Papa and by the way, thanks for posting pics of your hood hinges.

Also, consider adding additional grounds for your high load items like your head lights and cooling fan.
Heck consider adding pig tails out back for your tail lights too if have the time. I won't do anything with the doors until later, and I left the openings for the side pipes close for now.

It Can't Hurt To Have Extra Grounds On These Fiberglass Bodied Cars Of Ours!

Steve

Thanks, Steve. On the front, I pigtailed the ground so that I could easily remove each light fixture separately. I'm going to go back and redo the wiring on the rear to do the same thing for the grounds as well as the other shared wires. The way I have it right now, I have to disassemble the plugs to separate the two tail lights to remove them from the body -- not sure what I was thinking when I put them together like that.


Dave

japollon
07-04-2018, 12:08 PM
Dave, In your initial fitment and positioning of the body, did you leave the bulb seal off? Thanks, Joel

Papa
07-04-2018, 12:12 PM
Dave, In your initial fitment and positioning of the body, did you leave the bulb seal off? Thanks, Joel

Joel,

I don't have any weather strip in place yet. Once I get the basic fit and function I plan to blow it back apart and get the seals in place.

Dave

japollon
07-04-2018, 01:20 PM
Perfect! My plan too. Joel

Tex2131
07-04-2018, 08:40 PM
Dave, I would appreciate some pictures when you wire your license plate light. I've studied the forum and think the wiring goes into the trunk lid but not sure where. Thanks, Don.

Papa
07-05-2018, 09:50 AM
Dave, I would appreciate some pictures when you wire your license plate light. I've studied the forum and think the wiring goes into the trunk lid but not sure where. Thanks, Don.

I'm going to follow eduardb's example from his 20th Anniversary build thread. In one of his finished car pictures you can see where he brings the wires in at a point between the passenger hinge mount and the ribbing. Look at the fourth picture in post #593 of his build thread:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?18591-EdwardBs-Mk4-8674-20th-Anniversary-Build&p=269183&viewfull=1#post269183

Papa
07-05-2018, 06:17 PM
More progress today! First, I installed the trunk lid. I didn't trim anything and it fits in the opening pretty well; good enough for now.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88395&d=1530832147

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88399&d=1530832194

Next, I hung the doors. The passenger side is pretty close, but the driver's side is going to be a challenge. I'm going to hold off on mounting the latches for now.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88397&d=1530832175

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88400&d=1530832202

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88401&d=1530832214

And lastly, I finished up connecting my seat heater harnesses in the tunnel and installed the shift boot and trim ring.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88398&d=1530832183

I spent the rest of the day moving my shelves with all my parts from my shop into my other garage in preparation for the lift install that is scheduled for Tuesday. All in all, a very productive day today.

stevant
07-05-2018, 07:22 PM
Car is looking sweet!!!! Like the leather!!!!

Tex2131
07-06-2018, 02:55 PM
I'm going to follow eduardb's example from his 20th Anniversary build thread. In one of his finished car pictures you can see where he brings the wires in at a point between the passenger hinge mount and the ribbing. Look at the fourth picture in post #593 of his build thread:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?18591-EdwardBs-Mk4-8674-20th-Anniversary-Build&p=269183&viewfull=1#post269183

Perfect! You are the man.

Papa
07-06-2018, 07:08 PM
Today I installed the gas cap. While tightening the screws, I snapped the head off one of them before it could thread itself into the 7/64" pilot hole. I picked up a pack at my local HD and also picked up a box of oval-head 8-32 x 1" stainless with washers and lock nuts. I think I'm just going to go with machine screws all around on the cap.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88501&d=1530921660

Next, I started on the license plate bracket. I started doing the Kleiner mod and stopped before cutting the clear lens. From my test fit, it still looks like I'll be a bit into the trunk handle with the bottom of the plate. I think I'm going to modify the plate hanger as Jeff instructs, but will do a cutout on the aluminum stock to fit the shape of the light. I'll do the same with the plate and that should get me where I need to be. I'll be sure to post pictures when I have my final design completed.

broku518
07-06-2018, 08:48 PM
Hi Dave. That gas cap is looking so shiny! One thing I had to do, use some locktite on that inside screw that holds the spring plate. I pulled up at the gas station and...poof!

For the plate mod, I did Jeff's mod as well. Didn't cut the clear cover. I removed it all together for now.

Papa
07-06-2018, 09:44 PM
Hi Dave. That gas cap is looking so shiny! One thing I had to do, use some locktite on that inside screw that holds the spring plate. I pulled up at the gas station and...poof!

For the plate mod, I did Jeff's mod as well. Didn't cut the clear cover. I removed it all together for now.

Martin,

Thanks for that tip! I'll take care of it tomorrow.

Dave

DA2EASy
07-07-2018, 12:17 AM
Hi Dave-

I’ve read through a number of build threads but yours is worthy of my first forum post! What an amazing job you’re doing.

I’m in the reasearch stage, meaning, convince the wife this is a wonderful use of resources...:D. Probably a year and a half away from pulling the trigger. I’ve certainly been bit pretty hard by this bug.

I realized last night that you’re just on the other side of the city dfrom me, I’m in NW Arvada. Would you be open to tour of your project? I’d like to see one in person during the build stage to have a better understanding of what I’ll be getting myself into. Looking forward to following your progress!!

Cheers,

Michael

Papa
07-07-2018, 08:30 AM
I realized last night that you’re just on the other side of the city dfrom me, I’m in NW Arvada. Would you be open to tour of your project? I’d like to see one in person during the build stage to have a better understanding of what I’ll be getting myself into. Looking forward to following your progress!!

Cheers,

Michael

Michael,

I'm always open to having perspective builders/buyers come by and have done so for several over the last year. A couple of them are now building their own cars! Check your Private Messages for my contact info and feel free to give me a call or text.

Dave

japollon
07-07-2018, 09:30 AM
Dave, Did you pad your transmission tunnel cover under the leather? Joel

Papa
07-07-2018, 09:33 AM
Dave, Did you pad your transmission tunnel cover under the leather? Joel

Hey Joel,

I had the upholstery shop pad it with a thin (~1/8") dense pad. It softens it a bit without the puffy look and it adds a bit of sound & heat insulation at the same time.

Dave

Papa
07-07-2018, 07:49 PM
I spent most of the day doing things around the house, but I did have the opportunity to have two forum members come by to visit; one local, DA2EASy and his son, and one from Indiana, Indy Shu and his wife. We had a great time chatting about these cars and DA2EASy got a two-for-one opportunity to see both a build-in-progress and a beautifully completed car. It was great meeting you all today. Just another example of how tight the FFR community is.

stevant
07-07-2018, 09:29 PM
Dave,

Did you use rivets to hold the floor panels top edge to the tranny tunnel? The Build manual says to only use silicone. I purchased flat rivets. If so did it effect the fit of the panel you had covered with leather when putting it in place?

Thanks,

Steve

Papa
07-07-2018, 09:33 PM
Dave,

Did you use rivets to hold the floor panels top edge to the tranny tunnel? The Build manual says to only use silicone. I purchased flat rivets. If so did it effect the fit of the panel you had covered with leather when putting it in place?

Thanks,

Steve

I didn't use any rivets, but that was before I did the cover in leather. I'll likely go back and add some now that you made me think about it. :)

Dave

DA2EASy
07-08-2018, 09:16 AM
Thanks Dave! We had a blast.

Papa
07-08-2018, 10:05 AM
Thanks Dave! We had a blast.

You're welcome! I was so wrapped up in the discussion that I didn't think to take any pictures. If you have a couple that you'd like to share, I'd be happy to post them here.

Dave

Jeff Kleiner
07-08-2018, 11:20 AM
...but I did have the opportunity to have two forum members come by to visit...one from Indiana, Indy Shu and his wife.

Hey! I know that guy! Glad you got a chance to meet :)

Jeff

Papa
07-08-2018, 12:46 PM
Hey! I know that guy! Glad you got a chance to meet :)

Jeff

I know! He had a lot to say about you … all good. :)

Papa
07-11-2018, 07:35 PM
My lift was supposed to be installed on Tuesday, but the installer's wife went into labor that morning. So, I'm rescheduled for next Monday. After a good week of productive work on the car, I haven't been able to get any garage time in a few days now. I did get some items I ordered to continue where I left off, so hopefully this weekend I'll be able to get some more done.

Indy Shu
07-11-2018, 09:53 PM
I spent most of the day doing things around the house, but I did have the opportunity to have two forum members come by to visit; one local, DA2EASy and his son, and one from Indiana, Indy Shu and his wife. We had a great time chatting about these cars and DA2EASy got a two-for-one opportunity to see both a build-in-progress and a beautifully completed car. It was great meeting you all today. Just another example of how tight the FFR community is.


You're welcome! I was so wrapped up in the discussion that I didn't think to take any pictures. If you have a couple that you'd like to share, I'd be happy to post them here.

Dave

Dave,
It was great meeting you and getting to see your awesome build, and getting to meet Michael and his son. I'm back in Indy now but spent 5 days of spectacular cruising in the mountains. We saw Rocky Mountain National Park, Mt. Evans (all 14,130'), and more canyons, gulches, passes, hairpin turns, etc. than I can count. Even stopped by the huge monthly car show in Golden Saturday night. I know your enjoying the build, but you've got some great driving to look forward to! Cruising in a roadster in that scenery is the best. I'll bet Michael's wife would like to thank us for fanning the flame!

John

Papa
07-13-2018, 11:24 PM
Dave,
It was great meeting you and getting to see your awesome build, and getting to meet Michael and his son. I'm back in Indy now but spent 5 days of spectacular cruising in the mountains. We saw Rocky Mountain National Park, Mt. Evans (all 14,130'), and more canyons, gulches, passes, hairpin turns, etc. than I can count. Even stopped by the huge monthly car show in Golden Saturday night. I know your enjoying the build, but you've got some great driving to look forward to! Cruising in a roadster in that scenery is the best. I'll bet Michael's wife would like to thank us for fanning the flame!

John

Please look me up if you get back out here with your car. I should be road ready by then and it would be great to go do some of those mountain drives together.

Dave

Papa
07-14-2018, 08:30 PM
Today I worked on the license plate holder. Like I mentioned a week or two ago, I started making the "Kleiner Mod" to the bracket and at the point I would need to cut the clear light cover, I took a few more measurements and realized that I'd still be about a 1/2" too low on the plate. So, I looked at what Jeff did with the last step, the bracket, and decided I could make that a bit larger and then notch the top of the plate to fit around the light and still clear the trunk handle. Here is what it looks like:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88908&d=1531617695

I plan to replace the button-head screws with some flat-head and counter sink the aluminum so that the plate will sit flat.

In Colorado, you keep your old plates when you sell a car, so I have a few sets laying around that I can cut up to try things out. Here is what it looks like with a plate in position and how much I had to cut out to get it to fit.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88909&d=1531617702

I plan to mount the plate from behind with studded rubber bumpers secured with stainless cap nuts on the front side of the plate. I'll also use the bumpers on the bottom holes to ensure the metal plate never comes in contact with the paint.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=88910&d=1531617708

I know a lot of guys are completely against cutting the plate, but I'm sure nobody will be able to tell mine is modified unless they are right up close to it.

GoDadGo
07-14-2018, 10:11 PM
Interesting Solution!

Proves there are many ways to skin this snake.

Looks like it works to me.

Papa
07-14-2018, 10:29 PM
Interesting Solution!

Proves there are many ways to skin this snake.

Looks like it works to me.

I'd like to see a remote trunk release engineered for this application. I think I recall seeing someone use an electric one in a thread I read a long time ago. I'm thinking something more simple, maybe using something like these from McMaster-Carr:

https://www.mcmaster.com/#remote-action-latches/=1dpufho

GoDadGo
07-14-2018, 10:53 PM
I'd like to see a remote trunk release engineered for this application. I think I recall seeing someone use an electric one in a thread I read a long time ago. I'm thinking something more simple, maybe using something like these from McMaster-Carr:

https://www.mcmaster.com/#remote-action-latches/=1dpufho

I'm thinking you are on to something for sure.
If the trunk pull is behind either the drivers or passengers seat it might be a pretty decent option.
At least they have multiple configurations so a solution is more than doable.

https://www.mcmaster.com/#remote-action-latches/=1dpup3a

TexasAviator
07-14-2018, 11:46 PM
Nice work Papa, I am not a fan of these license place mods. We are all having to cut up the plate and I really dont like it. I wish we could run a smaller plate somehow.

Papa
07-15-2018, 01:18 PM
Nice work Papa, I am not a fan of these license place mods. We are all having to cut up the plate and I really dont like it. I wish we could run a smaller plate somehow.

I've been researching to see if I could get a "special" plate that would fit better. I was hoping I could run a motorcycle-sized plate (4"x7"), but no luck there. I also thought I might be able to run a European-style plate, but no luck there either. The closest thing I've come across in Colorado is if you have a historical car, like a Model T, you can register it with the original plate from the manufacturing year.

Jdav
07-15-2018, 01:35 PM
I switched to a different, smaller light that allowed me to move it up: https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?23204-JDav-s-MK4-9028-Build-Thread&p=304905#post304905

Papa
07-16-2018, 06:12 PM
The new lift was installed today! Dang this thing's big.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=89012&d=1531782473

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=89013&d=1531782482

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=89014&d=1531782492

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=89015&d=1531782500

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=89016&d=1531782514

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=89017&d=1531782525

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=89018&d=1531782536

Gromit
07-16-2018, 07:01 PM
Super jealous... But I think in that last photo your Roadsters rear end was showing so Now I'm a bit embarrassed for you :p

Kennyr
07-16-2018, 07:57 PM
Very, very nice! Which model Bendpak did you get & how high is your ceiling?

Papa
07-16-2018, 08:18 PM
Very, very nice! Which model Bendpak did you get & how high is your ceiling?

Thanks! It's a Bendpak XPR-10AS-LP Dual-Width, 10,000 Lb. Low Profile. My ceilings are 12'-3". I installed it in the narrow configuration due to space, and thankfully realized after it was installed that the narrow configuration is at the limit to get the front arms under the 4" frame. Had I gone wide, the arms would be too short.

Higgybulin
07-17-2018, 05:59 AM
No more rolling around on the creeper!! Your gonna love it! I have a 4 poster and it was the best thing I bought in a while.

DA2EASy
07-17-2018, 07:04 AM
I’ve been anxiously awaiting the lift picks! Looks amazing!

DA2EASy
07-17-2018, 07:09 AM
Dave,
It was great meeting you and getting to see your awesome build, and getting to meet Michael and his son. I'm back in Indy now but spent 5 days of spectacular cruising in the mountains. We saw Rocky Mountain National Park, Mt. Evans (all 14,130'), and more canyons, gulches, passes, hairpin turns, etc. than I can count. Even stopped by the huge monthly car show in Golden Saturday night. I know your enjoying the build, but you've got some great driving to look forward to! Cruising in a roadster in that scenery is the best. I'll bet Michael's wife would like to thank us for fanning the flame!

John


Great to meet you and your wife! Thank you so much for the drive. Soren took a quick video, we both have the goofiest grins on our faces. I’ll just call it the cobra grin :D

Papa
07-17-2018, 09:57 PM
I’ve been anxiously awaiting the lift picks! Looks amazing!

Michael,

So, I have to ask. Is your wife upset with us for trying to seduce you with the sexy curves and exhaust notes of the roadsters? :cool:

Dave

DA2EASy
07-18-2018, 07:16 AM
Michael,

So, I have to ask. Is your wife upset with us for trying to seduce you with the sexy curves and exhaust notes of the roadsters? :cool:

Dave

Haha! No, she understands. She hasn’t given in yet but I feel like we’re turning the corner. I have a new strategy, I’m taking her to the Shelby museum in Boulder this weekend. ;)

Papa
07-18-2018, 09:01 AM
Haha! No, she understands. She hasn’t given in yet but I feel like we’re turning the corner. I have a new strategy, I’m taking her to the Shelby museum in Boulder this weekend. ;)

Good deal. Don't underestimate the power of using the bonding opportunity for you and your son in your strategy.

GoDadGo
07-18-2018, 09:19 AM
Very Nice & I Am So Jealous!

Also, be careful tugging on stuff while under the car.
The round frame tubes simply don't give you much traction since the contact patches are so small.
It is easy to tug the car off of a supports because of the smooth powder coated surface on the tubes.
Floor jacks also tend to slip and I learned the hard way so take a little extra care poking around down there.

Yama-Bro
07-18-2018, 12:17 PM
Very nice! Now things are looking up.:rolleyes: LOL, sorry couldn't pass it up.

cv2065
07-21-2018, 12:39 AM
Nice lift Dave. And I thought I had high ceilings. I'm sure one could get light headed at the top of your garage. Wish I could fit one, but I'm at 10' ceilings, and although they do make a 'home version' from a height perspective, I still don't think I'd be able to stand under it, so I'll be creeping. I did have what they call a 'Quick Lift' at one point. Pretty cool piece, but my driveway already slopes at about a 20 degree angle, and I could never easily get up on the ramps.

Papa
07-21-2018, 10:52 AM
Nice lift Dave. And I thought I had high ceilings. I'm sure one could get light headed at the top of your garage. Wish I could fit one, but I'm at 10' ceilings, and although they do make a 'home version' from a height perspective, I still don't think I'd be able to stand under it, so I'll be creeping. I did have what they call a 'Quick Lift' at one point. Pretty cool piece, but my driveway already slopes at about a 20 degree angle, and I could never easily get up on the ramps.

Thanks. When I designed my building, I actually planned to do a lift in the back bay, which is two feet taller with 14' ceilings. That 13'x30' bay now houses my tractor, so the front bay got the lift. If I could do it over, I would have done two doors on the front of the building vs. the one large door. I'm just grateful to have such a nice place to tinker in. My wife calls my shop the "Toy Box".

Papa
07-29-2018, 06:51 PM
I only had a couple of hours to tinker on the car today, so I decided to redo the wiring on my tail lights. When I originally wired them, I wired the two lights together and used a single 4-pin Weatherpack connector. Well, it worked fine, but wouldn't be too great when I needed to remove the lights. So, today I pigtailed the ground and tan wires off the RF harness and used separate three-pin connectors on the lights; much better design.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=89590&d=1532907927

i.e.427
07-29-2018, 08:01 PM
I'd like to see a remote trunk release engineered for this application.

Look towards the end of the page.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?12909-MKIV-Trunk-Lid-on-a-MK3-How-To&p=133895#post133895

Papa
07-29-2018, 08:35 PM
Look towards the end of the page.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?12909-MKIV-Trunk-Lid-on-a-MK3-How-To&p=133895#post133895

I think that's the thread I recall reading before. Cool idea, but a bit too much for me to tackle.

Papa
08-04-2018, 04:09 PM
Today I installed my replica Lucas PL-700 headlights. I'm really happy with the period look of these.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=90693&d=1533416839

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=90692&d=1533416824

Clover
08-04-2018, 04:19 PM
I agree, those are some nice looking headlights. Good find.

Papa
08-04-2018, 04:23 PM
I agree, those are some nice looking headlights. Good find.

Hey man! How's the Coupe coming?

BadAsp427
08-04-2018, 10:34 PM
It's Rustoleum Bedliner spray.

https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/fb41bc50-3139-431f-a187-082d9bfeff62_1.2a026b6d9ad15938e75f0b9850cbea73.jp eg?odnHeight=450&odnWidth=450&odnBg=FFFFFF

Hello Papa.... I was wondering now that you've had your Roadster for awhile, are you happy with the performance of the Rustoleum Bedliner spray you used on the aluminum panels? Any problem with it chipping off or otherwise deteriorating? I'm going to be starting my build at the beginning of Oct (late Sept, if it is here by then) and really like that look, but worry about its ability to adhere to the aluminum.

Papa
08-05-2018, 08:22 AM
Hello Papa.... I was wondering now that you've had your Roadster for awhile, are you happy with the performance of the Rustoleum Bedliner spray you used on the aluminum panels? Any problem with it chipping off or otherwise deteriorating? I'm going to be starting my build at the beginning of Oct (late Sept, if it is here by then) and really like that look, but worry about its ability to adhere to the aluminum.

If I could do it over I'd have powder coated the panels or left them bare aluminum. If you really want bed liner look with durability, mark all the overlaps on the panels, mask them, and get them sprayed in Line-X. Or better yet, find a coater that can apply this:

https://www.prismaticpowders.com/shop/powder-coating-colors/PTB-7102/black-satin-texture?gclid=CjwKCAjwwJrbBRAoEiwAGA1B_ZR0lO8fqfCw Ii1W-YK_LQarie6MCAkTEZyBmub81PtgfKJVQQsYPhoCfbkQAvD_BwE

Dave

BadAsp427
08-05-2018, 10:46 AM
If I could do it over I'd have powder coated the panels or left them bare aluminum. If you really want bed liner look with durability, mark all the overlaps on the panels, mask them, and get them sprayed in Line-X. Or better yet, find a coater that can apply this:

https://www.prismaticpowders.com/shop/powder-coating-colors/PTB-7102/black-satin-texture?gclid=CjwKCAjwwJrbBRAoEiwAGA1B_ZR0lO8fqfCw Ii1W-YK_LQarie6MCAkTEZyBmub81PtgfKJVQQsYPhoCfbkQAvD_BwE

Dave

Thanks Dave,
Over the past 24 hours I have read every one of your build posts... Very nice and well presented... your car is looking fantastic. Hope to meet you some day... Carl

Papa
08-05-2018, 10:57 AM
Thanks Dave,
Over the past 24 hours I have read every one of your build posts... Very nice and well presented... your car is looking fantastic. Hope to meet you some day... Carl

Thank you, and I'm glad my thread was useful. Have fun with your build and just ask if you ever have any questions.

Dave

japollon
08-05-2018, 11:20 AM
Dave, The headlights are so frigging cool. Where did you source them. I want them for my 289 FIA. Thanks, Joel

Papa
08-05-2018, 11:30 AM
Dave, The headlights are so frigging cool. Where did you source them. I want them for my 289 FIA. Thanks, Joel

I got mine from NOSLOCATORS on eBay.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/360488873351

Dave

NA5KAR
08-10-2018, 06:30 PM
Hi Papa. I'm new to the forum and I'm grateful that I found your build thread. You are an inspiration. I am in South Florida and I received my Mk4 kit last month. I've studied your thread, and with yours and the other great guys here, I am confident that I can build an amazing car. The only thing I want to ask you is about the bedliner coating on the aluminum panels. A few posts back you said that if you had it to do over again, you would go with bare aluminum or powder coated. I'm curious why. Your panels look awesome and I want to create the same effect. What is it that you regret about the coating? Thanks a million. Dan

Papa
08-10-2018, 08:01 PM
Hi Papa. I'm new to the forum and I'm grateful that I found your build thread. You are an inspiration. I am in South Florida and I received my Mk4 kit last month. I've studied your thread, and with yours and the other great guys here, I am confident that I can build an amazing car. The only thing I want to ask you is about the bedliner coating on the aluminum panels. A few posts back you said that if you had it to do over again, you would go with bare aluminum or powder coated. I'm curious why. Your panels look awesome and I want to create the same effect. What is it that you regret about the coating? Thanks a million. Dan

Dan,

Thanks for the kind words. You will have a blast building your car. The problem with the rattle can bedliner is with the durability. It scratches and chips really easily. The good thing is it's easy to touch up. There is a powder coat that has the same texture and if you really like the look, I'd go that route. At least in the areas exposed to the road and tires.

Dave

NA5KAR
08-10-2018, 08:53 PM
Thanks so much Dave. I will definitely look into powder coating. Keep up the great work!

Papa
08-18-2018, 09:37 PM
I took the roadster to its first car show today. One of my neighbors put on a neighborhood show and here are some highlights.

My car sitting between a couple of old iron beauties.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=91589&d=1534645606

This 1966 Chevelle is one of the nicest I've ever seen anywhere.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=91600&d=1534645669

The 66's 555 cubic inch power plant!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=91599&d=1534645661

I fell in love with the bronze and black Nomad, and the Nova in the garage has a 572 big block.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=91591&d=1534645631

This van was really nicely done.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=91590&d=1534645621

And the star of the show was this Fox Body Mustang making 2500 horse power on alcohol.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=91592&d=1534645642


https://youtu.be/wc1HRvhWcqY

Jazzman
08-18-2018, 10:06 PM
You have a very cool neighborhood!! That's a lot of beautiful cars in one neighborhood. You had to feel very good getting your Roadster out and showing it off! It is coming along great.

I am not sure which I am more jealous of: Your lift or your 12' ceilings!! You are going to love having both!

cv2065
08-19-2018, 10:11 AM
Very cool neighborhood Dave!

PeteMeindl
08-19-2018, 01:20 PM
Geez, Papa - what a neighborhood car show! I'm very impressed. Sign me up for living in a place like that!

Papa
08-19-2018, 06:04 PM
You have a very cool neighborhood!! That's a lot of beautiful cars in one neighborhood. You had to feel very good getting your Roadster out and showing it off! It is coming along great.

I am not sure which I am more jealous of: Your lift or your 12' ceilings!! You are going to love having both!


Very cool neighborhood Dave!


Geez, Papa - what a neighborhood car show! I'm very impressed. Sign me up for living in a place like that!

Definitely some serious gear heads in the neighborhood. It's pretty sad to rumble into a car show in a 400+ h.p. car and feel woefully inadequate. :o

I did get a lot of questions and comments on the car and everyone had a great time. I can hardly wait to start showing the car after it's finished.

Papa
08-24-2018, 07:01 PM
I'll be swapping out my FAST EFI for a Holley Sniper over the coming couple of weeks. I've been trying to resolve a hyper-rich condition and after not making any progress, I'm going to try a different system. I'll likely remove the body to have easy access to the wiring. I planned to do that anyway to install the weather seals and undercoat the body.

chuckster
08-25-2018, 12:45 PM
The nice thing with these lights, is that you can get 55w low beam. 100w high beam bulbs for them. The 100w highs help with the problem of outrunning your headlights at night.

Papa
08-25-2018, 07:25 PM
The nice thing with these lights, is that you can get 55w low beam. 100w high beam bulbs for them. The 100w highs help with the problem of outrunning your headlights at night.

The housings of the PL700 headlights will accept any H4 bulb. I'm not a fan of the high wattage bulbs as they tend to be too bright for oncoming traffic even when properly aimed. I like the Sylvania Silver Star Ultra 60w bulbs. They provide a nice, clear, white light in the 4100K range.

Papa
08-26-2018, 11:42 AM
Today will be disassembly day now that everything has been loosely fitted to the body; I'll let Jeff do the gaps and final fitting. I'll get all the lights back off, hood, doors, and trunk as well to allow me to get the body back off. Then I'll swap out the EFI. Once it's running good, I'll do the bulb and other weather seals, undercoat the body, and put it back together along with carpet and seatbelts. Sometime this winter season, I'll ship the car out to Jeff for body and paint. I'm definitely in the home stretch now!

GoDadGo
08-26-2018, 12:07 PM
I'll be swapping out my FAST EFI for a Holley Sniper over the coming couple of weeks. I've been trying to resolve a hyper-rich condition and after not making any progress, I'm going to try a different system. I'll likely remove the body to have easy access to the wiring. I planned to do that anyway to install the weather seals and undercoat the body.

Replacing your EFI System is about as much fun as replacing a block.
.Sorry Papa Dave, Hang In There Brother!

Papa
08-26-2018, 03:06 PM
Replacing your EFI System is about as much fun as replacing a block.


Steve,

I'm not sure that's true.

Dave

Papa
08-26-2018, 03:15 PM
Everything is back off the body; much easier to take things off than to put them on for the first time. The body will come off when I can get my son-in-law to come give me a hand later this week. Then, Labor Day weekend will be EFI swap time. Everything electrical connection-wise should swap right over except for the fuel pump control. The FAST system is negative control and wired to the inertia switch. The Sniper will require reconfiguring the wiring to the positive side of the fuel pump circuit and reconnecting the chassis ground on the inertia switch. I'll need to remove the FAST fuel pressure regulator and use a union to complete my return line; I need to get that ordered! The Sniper has a built-in regulator on the return side.

Mick40
08-27-2018, 06:07 PM
Love watching first starts!!!!

Papa
08-27-2018, 08:42 PM
Love watching first starts!!!!

Let's hope for the same result after the EFI swap!

OnlyAndy
08-27-2018, 08:52 PM
I'm a watchin' this EFI project. I am going carb conversion to EFI on a SBC but have NO idea which one to choose. Am hoping to get notice any day now that Stewart has picked up my 33'. They thought last Friday but no como yet.

Papa
08-27-2018, 09:15 PM
I'm a watchin' this EFI project. I am going carb conversion to EFI on a SBC but have NO idea which one to choose. Am hoping to get notice any day now that Stewart has picked up my 33'. They thought last Friday but no como yet.

My house is at 6,100 ft. elevation and everywhere worth driving from the house is up with the best drives pushing 12,000-14,000 feet. EFI is a must-have for me. I'm not sure what is happening with the FAST EFI, but it just seems like I fell off the fuel map. It seems fine at WOT, but not how you want to drive in traffic. I have about 70 miles on the car just making a trip around my neighborhood every few weeks, and I'm getting about 4 mpg with occasional fouled plugs and a lot of popping on decel as the raw fuel detonates in the exhaust. I've heard a lot of good things about the Holly Sniper, so I fully expect to solve my hyper-rich condition with this swap.

GoDadGo
08-28-2018, 02:13 AM
Steve,

I'm not sure that's true.

Dave

Both Are Expensive & Both Are Big Pains In Our Necks & Wallets!
Also, my set up very easy to R & R compared to most.
I just hope both of our changes solve our problems.
Leaner Will Be Meaner So Good Luck Papa Dave!

tmmski
08-31-2018, 07:35 PM
My house is at 6,100 ft. elevation and everywhere worth driving from the house is up with the best drives pushing 12,000-14,000 feet. EFI is a must-have for me. I'm not sure what is happening with the FAST EFI, but it just seems like I fell off the fuel map. It seems fine at WOT, but not how you want to drive in traffic. I have about 70 miles on the car just making a trip around my neighborhood every few weeks, and I'm getting about 4 mpg with occasional fouled plugs and a lot of popping on decal as the raw fuel detonates in the exhaust. I've heard a lot of good things about the Holly Sniper, so I fully expect to solve my hyper-rich condition with this swap.

Hi Papa
I"ve got a FAST EFI system also on a BP 306, I just got back from a 15 mile cruise around HB, CA - I'm not at 6100ft I'm at about 100 ft. :)
2 questions - where did you mount the 02 module? I've got the 4 to 1 header into the SPs, I mounted my 02 module on cylinder 7 - 18 inches from manifold. I have my own opinions after about 600 miles driven. I've got what you describe, plus a miss at about 1200 RPM's. Could I PM you and pick you brain abit more?

Papa
08-31-2018, 07:51 PM
Hi Papa
I"ve got a FAST EFI system also on a BP 306, I just got back from a 15 mile cruise around HB, CA - I'm not at 6100ft I'm at about 100 ft. :)
2 questions - where did you mount the 02 module? I've got the 4 to 1 header into the SPs, I mounted my 02 module on cylinder 7 - 18 inches from manifold. I have my own opinions after about 600 miles driven. I've got what you describe, plus a miss at about 1200 RPM's. Could I PM you and pick you brain abit more?

My headers have a double collector with the O2 sensor sampling the entire right bank of the engine.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=85406&d=1525487679

PM me anytime.

Dave

Donkeyteeth
09-01-2018, 11:52 AM
Papa, I just converted my Edelbrock carb to a Holley Sniper and I love it! Works great with about 200 miles on it so far. Finally drove to work the other day and it ran great in town hitting all the traffic lights. I had some minor tuning to do but believe it was my mistake that caused the tuning problem. Good luck, hope you love it!

Papa
09-02-2018, 11:40 AM
And we're off! Off with the body that is. Now I can get started with the FFI swap.

Papa
09-02-2018, 06:55 PM
Okay fellas, day one of the EFI swap is in the books. I removed the body first thing this morning. She hasn't looked this naked in months!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92494&d=1535931758

The next task was to remove the FAST system, starting with disconnecting the wiring harness. Just like gutting a fish.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92495&d=1535931766

Once the FAST system was removed, I set the new Holley in its place.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92496&d=1535931775

I'm reusing the FAST throttle cable bracket as the one I bought for the swap is too shallow to allow the throttle linkage to clear the bracket. A couple more pictures:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92497&d=1535931783

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92498&d=1535931791

I was able to reuse my fuel supply line, but had to redo the return line since there is no external pressure regulator with the Holley. I started sorting out the wiring and have everything ready to tackle tomorrow. I did rewire the inertia switch. One of the larger Holley plugs is full of wires that I don't need, so per their direction, I de-pinned the plug and left only what I'll be using. The wires for the battery connection are way too short to reach the back of the car, so I'll have to extend them (not happy about that). I'll be running the fuel pump control wire back to the pump and pulling the RF fuel pump relay to keep the setup simple. I hope to have everything done tomorrow and the car running again by the end of the day.

Higgybulin
09-03-2018, 06:33 AM
Very purrrrrrrdy! That is automotive porn right there. Post up your re-first start if you have time! Good luck
Higgy

EZ$
09-03-2018, 01:06 PM
Dave,
You have me nervous about the FAST 2.0 that I'll be using in my car! I'm doing stack injection, so I'm sure it'll be tough regardless. Especially since I am electrically challenged!I finally got a chance to go through most of your build thread. I saw where you were interested in a trunk popper, and where Frank responded with his solution. Dale also had a solution that I ultimately went with. Used a Taurus trunk latch which has a cable with a release that you can operate with a screwdriver. drill a hole behind the license plate, where it won't be seen, and if the battery goes dead, all you do is remove the plate, and turn the release with the same screwdriver an viola! Since I've got a Mr. Bruce body, the holes were not drilled for anything, so I adjusted the license bracket up as high as I could, which left me with enough room, even with the plate mounted, to mount the handle a bit lower than it normally would be. It's just that though, a handle to lift the trunk lid up. Totally non-operational. I mounted the latch to the trunk lid, and am using the same long bolt and sleeve that the original latch would use. Dale's thread is great on the detail. Also, just thought to myself, it may have been Dale's previous build to the one he's on now. My build is taking so long that everyone else that I'm getting ideas from have built multiple cars! Oh well, some day....

Rick

EZ$
09-03-2018, 01:33 PM
Dave,
Just wanted to let you know, in case you search for Dale on this site. All of my conversation with him, and his build site, were on the other site. Just do a search for trunk popper, and you'll get a bunch of hits, and a bunch of ideas.

Rick

Papa
09-03-2018, 03:17 PM
It is ALIVE!!!! Started right up with the new Sniper EFI. Brought the car up to running temperature and adjusted the idle screw per the quick start guide. Fan kicked on when it should, and idle is smooth. Now I just need to let it cool down so I can wrap and tie all the wiring back up. I'll post some video later this evening.

Papa
09-03-2018, 06:07 PM
Here's a quick video.


https://youtu.be/kt9uvHWulP0

I took it out for a loop around the block and the difference is incredible. No stumbling or misfiring at all. Smooth acceleration and deceleration. I still had some popping, but it seemed to be improving even with the short drive. We'll see how it goes with time.

GoDadGo
09-03-2018, 06:53 PM
Congratulations!

OnlyAndy
09-03-2018, 07:30 PM
I think that is as good a recommendation as I will need. Sniper may be the one for me. Another question. Has anybody used the Dorman hard nylon fuel line with quick disconnects to plumb their car??? I saw a build video on 33' that used this system and it looked like it made a clean installation. Used a Corvette filter with built in regulator so return fuel line was very short. So, does it work as good as it looks....? Tool is pricey but if it works as good as it looks I may be up for it on my build.

Papa
09-03-2018, 07:31 PM
Congratulations!

Thanks, Steve. Having worked through the first EFI install made this one go much easier I think. All but two of the electrical connections were the same, so I just connected up the battery wires, fan control wire, and 12volt switched power to the same wires that were already there. The tach signal needed to go directly to the coil(-) and I had to tap into the fuel pump circuit. To do the fuel pump without cutting any of the RF harness, I just pulled the downstream fuel pump wire from the Weatherpack connector and ran it into a new connector with my new fuel pump control wire feeding the existing fuel pump wire. I even left the RF relay in place.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92581&d=1536020966

Now I just need to tidy up the wiring and figure out where I want to mount the handheld.

Papa
09-03-2018, 09:25 PM
Dave,
Just wanted to let you know, in case you search for Dale on this site. All of my conversation with him, and his build site, were on the other site. Just do a search for trunk popper, and you'll get a bunch of hits, and a bunch of ideas.

Rick

Thanks, Rick.

EZ$
09-03-2018, 11:58 PM
No worries. Fantastic result with the Holley Sniper! Glad it worked out so well. I'm still hoping the FAST system works out for me.

Rick

cv2065
09-04-2018, 03:55 PM
Looks and sounds great Dave. Now I know where to go if I'm ever in the market for FI. Seems like Holley has it worked out.

Papa
09-04-2018, 04:02 PM
Looks and sounds great Dave. Now I know where to go if I'm ever in the market for FI. Seems like Holley has it worked out.

I'm sure my FAST system was just defective, as there are a lot of them out there that are working just fine. I do have to say that the Holley is much closer in appearance to a carburetor than the FAST, and with the built in pressure regulator, the plumbing is slightly simpler. I'll keep everyone posted on how the system works as it has time to learn.

BadAsp427
09-04-2018, 05:58 PM
Papa, If I'm understanding the Sniper system correctly, it does not use an O2 sensor, is that correct?

Papa
09-04-2018, 06:17 PM
Papa, If I'm understanding the Sniper system correctly, it does not use an O2 sensor, is that correct?

There is an O2 sensor on the Sniper. The biggest physical difference is that the computer is integrated into the throttle body, as is the pressure regulator.

Clover
09-04-2018, 07:12 PM
Papa, glad to see the Sniper system seems to be working out for you. It does look like a nice piece sitting atop that eye candy intake you have. I bet most will assume it is a carb once the air filter is on above it but I fully agree that FI is the way to go up here at elevation. Keep up the good work.

Yama-Bro
09-04-2018, 08:33 PM
Looking and sounding good...again! Glad it's working good for you!

Papa
09-04-2018, 09:13 PM
Looking and sounding good...again! Glad it's working good for you!

Thanks, Frank. And thanks to BluePrint Engines for having such a fantastic warranty and stepping up to the plate when their customers need their support.

Papa
09-05-2018, 08:47 PM
Papa, glad to see the Sniper system seems to be working out for you. It does look like a nice piece sitting atop that eye candy intake you have. I bet most will assume it is a carb once the air filter is on above it but I fully agree that FI is the way to go up here at elevation. Keep up the good work.

Thanks, Clover. Let's see some pictures of that Coupe!

cv2065
09-07-2018, 11:24 PM
I installed the steering rack and shaft today.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=84523&d=1524419859

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=84524&d=1524419867

When I installed the shaft onto the rack, the rack's splined shaft bottomed out into the lower steering shaft, but left some splines showing. I assume this is normal?

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=84525&d=1524419877

Hey Dave. I'm at this point in my build. Did you find that the screw fitting with the nut on the end of it (in the above picture) hit some of the splines instead of that bare spot in between splines on the shaft when bottomed out? If I tighten it down, just wondering if it would damage the splines in the event that I need to take it apart again.

Also, you have the exact same PS from FFR that I do. Do you remember how much threading you had left on each tie rod end when the rack was centered and hubs aligned straight ahead?

Papa
09-08-2018, 09:13 AM
Hey Dave. I'm at this point in my build. Did you find that the screw fitting with the nut on the end of it (in the above picture) hit some of the splines instead of that bare spot in between splines on the shaft when bottomed out? If I tighten it down, just wondering if it would damage the splines in the event that I need to take it apart again.

Also, you have the exact same PS from FFR that I do. Do you remember how much threading you had left on each tie rod end when the rack was centered and hubs aligned straight ahead?

I honestly can't recall how far the splines extended on the PS rack, but I doubt that the set screw will cause any damage to the splines unless it is overtightened.

Papa
09-08-2018, 05:10 PM
I came down with a cold yesterday, so not much energy today. I did get some work done and focused on the side louvres. I started with a couple bags of these:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92893&d=1536443967

Next, I trimmed the pads so they wouldn't interfere with the louvre and mounted the angle brackets to the louvres using stainless screws.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92892&d=1536443954

After that, I massaged the opening in the body and test fit the louvre.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92894&d=1536444413

Finally, I made a transfer template to apply to the opposite side to ensure both openings were the same size.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92890&d=1536443936

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92889&d=1536443928

I also did some trimming along the cowl edge and the lip around the hood opening. And finally, I plugged in and tested my seat heaters. Both are working as they should.

Papa
09-09-2018, 08:11 PM
I'm still trying to shake a cold, but made an attempt at carpeting my trunk today. Right now, I'm not thrilled with the result and may start over.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92966&d=1536541722

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=92965&d=1536541715

Any tips or tricks to getting this task done and looking good are welcome.

BadAsp427
09-09-2018, 08:28 PM
I'm still trying to shake a cold, but made an attempt at carpeting my trunk today. Right now, I'm not thrilled with the result and may start over.
Any tips or tricks to getting this task done and looking good are welcome.
Papa, the photo isn't the greatest, but I really like what you did. I really like the way you have the carpet going around the frame. Almost looks like it is a spray in product of some kind. In fact, having just said that, I wonder what the trunk would look like with a good Rhino Liner coating. Hmmm But seriously to me, that looks good. Hope you feel better soon.

Fixit
09-09-2018, 08:59 PM
Invest the time & materials to make up some upper trunk inside panels. Once carpeted the trunk sidewalls will look like a continuous sheet. I'm doing the Breeze cubby hole conversion, but you'll get the idea from the pics.

92975 92976

(Is that the "stretchy" speaker box type carpet?)

Papa
09-09-2018, 09:12 PM
Invest the time & materials to make up some upper trunk inside panels. Once carpeted the trunk sidewalls will look like a continuous sheet. I'm doing the Breeze cubby hole conversion, but you'll get the idea from the pics.

92975 92976

(Is that the "stretchy" speaker box type carpet?)

Great idea to add the inner panels, and yes, the fabric is what you would use to cover a speaker box. I've used it before in an El Camino and like the way you can make it conform to pretty much any shape.

Indy Shu
09-10-2018, 09:15 AM
Papa,
I think you had mentioned possibly doing the Breeze roll bars. Now would be the time to do that with the body off, much easier. The holes in the body will likely need some adjusting too before paint. Good to see your your fuel issue fixed!
John

Papa
09-10-2018, 10:14 AM
Papa,
I think you had mentioned possibly doing the Breeze roll bars. Now would be the time to do that with the body off, much easier. The holes in the body will likely need some adjusting too before paint. Good to see your your fuel issue fixed!
John

John,

I have an inquiry in to Breeze about the stainless roll bars. They are currently unavailable due to material costs. We'll see what happens.

Dave

TexasAviator
09-10-2018, 10:26 PM
Just caught up on the build, what was our thinking of going with the sniper over say something like Fitech? Just curious. Glad you got it all worked out, the car is coming along nicely.

Papa
09-11-2018, 07:56 AM
Just caught up on the build, what was our thinking of going with the sniper over say something like Fitech? Just curious. Glad you got it all worked out, the car is coming along nicely.

Brandon,

The replacement was provided to me as a warranty item by BluePrint.

Dave

Papa
09-15-2018, 03:56 PM
Today I tackled the rest of the trunk carpeting. It's not perfect, but it turned out good enough that I'm going to go with it. I wasn't sure about carpeting the access covers, but after trying it on the battery cover I think I'll go ahead and do the other two for the fuel tank as well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93590&d=1537044534

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93589&d=1537044521

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93588&d=1537044508

As much as I hate doing upholstery work, I also put a new seat bottom cover on my driver's seat in my 2007 F250. The leather was still in great shape, but the vinyl side panel was starting to crack, so I ordered a replacement cover and spent two hours removing the seat from the truck, disassembling the seat (power, heated, lumbar), and replacing the cover. In the process, I shaved a portion of one of my fingers on the razor-sharp metal seat frame. I'm relaxing the rest of the weekend!

Papa
09-16-2018, 05:32 PM
While I'm sitting here watching the Raiders beat up on my Broncos, I decided to work on a task that has been on my list for a while and make a cover for the teardrop opening in the trunk lid.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93640&d=1537136763

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93639&d=1537136754

I have the aluminum rough cut and shaped to fit. After the game I'll go finish the edges up; wife would have a fit if I started filing on a piece of aluminum in my study. I'll be running the wires into the trunk up near the hinge like edwardb's 20th Anniversary build.

GoDadGo
09-17-2018, 05:40 AM
All I Can Say Is:

https://youtu.be/k0AuipqPqsU

Papa
09-17-2018, 06:18 PM
All I Can Say Is:

https://youtu.be/k0AuipqPqsU

Steve,

It's good to have you back here in full GoDadGo mode!

Dave

Papa
09-17-2018, 08:30 PM
I finished up filing and dressing the cover for the trunk. I think it looks pretty sharp.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93722&d=1537234125

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93723&d=1537234136

Clover
09-17-2018, 08:41 PM
Looks good Dave, I vote you leave that unpainted as bare aluminum. I think a nice little piece of hand shaped aluminum that you made under there would be cool to see each time you opened it up.

Papa
09-17-2018, 09:15 PM
Looks good Dave, I vote you leave that unpainted as bare aluminum. I think a nice little piece of hand shaped aluminum that you made under there would be cool to see each time you opened it up.

Clover,

I'm thinking the same thing. I may just clear it to keep it from smudging and call it good.

Dave

stevencj67
09-18-2018, 12:33 AM
Hmm, clearing it would look good, but what about adding a Cobra emblem? :-) https://www.cjponyparts.com/scott-drake-fender-emblem-cobra-passenger-side-1994-2004/p/EMC6R/?year=1998&msclkid=5490b55f37d61264c502eeffb9c5c870&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=New%20Bing%20Shopping%20Ads&utm_term=1101206496747&utm_content=All%20Products

GoDadGo
09-18-2018, 07:13 AM
Steve,

It's good to have you back here in full GoDadGo mode!

Dave

Thanks Papa Dave!

Papa
09-18-2018, 08:02 AM
Hmm, clearing it would look good, but what about adding a Cobra emblem? :-) https://www.cjponyparts.com/scott-drake-fender-emblem-cobra-passenger-side-1994-2004/p/EMC6R/?year=1998&msclkid=5490b55f37d61264c502eeffb9c5c870&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=New%20Bing%20Shopping%20Ads&utm_term=1101206496747&utm_content=All%20Products

I like the concept of embellishing the panel, but maybe doing something with an engraved design?

Dave

Fixit
09-20-2018, 08:05 PM
I'm thinking the same thing. I may just clear it to keep it from smudging and call it good.

I vote for the "less is more".

Papa
09-20-2018, 08:14 PM
I vote for the "less is more".

Yep. After thinking about it I'm staying plain aluminum, but I will countersink the screws to give it more of an aircraft look. I'm laying out the screw pattern right now - going with eight total.

Dave

Papa
09-21-2018, 05:21 PM
Okay, I know my trunk panel isn't the most exciting thing I can be talking about, but here are the final pictures. I drilled and countersank the holes in the panel.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93969&d=1537568026

When I attached it to the trunk, all but one screw went in clean. The fiberglass in the flange for the screw at the narrowest portion of the panel (bottom screw in the picture), didn't have anything to bite into.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93967&d=1537567913

I'll just use a machine screw in that hole.

Finally, I covered the two fuel tank access covers with carpet and replaced all the screws for the cover plates with black oxide button head screws.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93968&d=1537567921

Other than getting the bulb seal on, the trunk is done. I will still need to drill for the back leg of the roll bars, but want to wait until they are permanently installed since I'm using the Tangent hidden bolts and don't know exactly where the tubing will bottom out on the main hoop.

Fixit
09-21-2018, 05:25 PM
93970

BadAsp427
09-21-2018, 06:37 PM
Okay, I know my trunk panel isn't the most exciting thing I can be talking about, but here are the final pictures. I drilled and countersank the holes in the panel.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93969&d=1537568026

When I attached it to the trunk, all but one screw went in clean. The fiberglass in the flange for the screw at the narrowest portion of the panel (bottom screw in the picture), didn't have anything to bite into.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93967&d=1537567913

I'll just use a machine screw in that hole.

Finally, I covered the two fuel tank access covers with carpet and replaced all the screws for the cover plates with black oxide button head screws.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=93968&d=1537567921

Other than getting the bulb seal on, the trunk is done. I will still need to drill for the back leg of the roll bars, but want to wait until they are permanently installed since I'm using the Tangent hidden bolts and don't know exactly where the tubing will bottom out on the main hoop.

This looks fantastic... great job!!!

japollon
09-22-2018, 03:25 PM
Dave,

Everything looks fabulous. I finished my trunk panel just as you did and will leave it in natural aluminum. I used #10 nut plates on the underside bonded to the fiberglass with 3M HSRF. Attached with #10 button head machine screws.

Joel

Papa
09-22-2018, 05:50 PM
Today I got a couple more things done. First, I drilled the holes for the seatbelts in preparation for getting the carpet installed.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94008&d=1537656301

I also drilled through the inboard tabs into the tunnel for those two attachments.

Next, I decided I wanted a USB charger/12 volt power point and picked up a simple one. I located a spot on the passenger side of the car up under the dash and made a bracket to fit.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94006&d=1537656018

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94007&d=1537656027

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94009&d=1537656759

I wired it to the 12 volt switched (radio) wire that I wasn't using for anything. Next on the list is carpet and getting the underside of the body coated with bed liner.

Jazzman
09-22-2018, 11:59 PM
You are doing such a great job, Papa! It is great to see all the care you have put into each piece. You can be very proud of your creation. I can't wait to see the finished rolling artwork! Keep up the great work and nice documentation. You are truly inspiring others.

Papa
09-23-2018, 09:02 AM
You are doing such a great job, Papa! It is great to see all the care you have put into each piece. You can be very proud of your creation. I can't wait to see the finished rolling artwork! Keep up the great work and nice documentation. You are truly inspiring others.

Thank you. That means a lot. Your build was so far beyond the typical, and I really enjoyed watching yours, too.

Dave

Papa
09-23-2018, 01:06 PM
I have an afternoon/evening event to attend later today, so just a little time in the shop today. I spent most of it cleaning up all the stuff I had left laying around on my work benches from my previous tasks. I did do one thing on the car. I ran the wires for the license plate light into the trunk lid and installed a Weatherpack connector to allow the trunk to be installed and removed without cutting any wires.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94018&d=1537725611

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94019&d=1537725621

Duck62
09-24-2018, 03:05 PM
I have an afternoon/evening event to attend later today, so just a little time in the shop today. I spent most of it cleaning up all the stuff I had left laying around on my work benches from my previous tasks. I did do one thing on the car. I ran the wires for the license plate light into the trunk lid and installed a Weatherpack connector to allow the trunk to be installed and removed without cutting any wires.


Where did you get the Weatherpack connectors? Do you need a special tool to make the conncections?

Papa
09-24-2018, 04:10 PM
Where did you get the Weatherpack connectors? Do you need a special tool to make the conncections?

I get my connectors from Amazon or eBay in packs of 10 or more pretty cheap. Pay attention to the gauge rating for the plugs you buy and be sure to match them to the circuits you are wiring. You can crimp them without a special crimp tool, but the tool makes perfect connections with ease.

Papa
09-29-2018, 05:43 PM
I didn't get to work on the car today, but I did spend the day in the garage. I moved my lift to make it easier to get a car on it. Now I can drive straight in with the nose of the car aimed at the corner of the garage. The roadster as well as my daily driver and my wife's SUV are now all able to use the lift. In the narrow configuration my truck is too big, but I can practically sit under it, so no big deal.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94376&d=1538260740

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94375&d=1538260732

cv2065
09-29-2018, 07:57 PM
Dave - Thanks for the pics on the USB Charger. I'll be using it for the same. Must be a great feeling that now that the roadster is just about done and everything is cleaned up and orderly once again. I'm looking forward to that point.

Papa
09-29-2018, 08:29 PM
Dave - Thanks for the pics on the USB Charger. I'll be using it for the same. Must be a great feeling that now that the roadster is just about done and everything is cleaned up and orderly once again. I'm looking forward to that point.

I'm glad you liked the USB power point. I had originally planned to include one, but forgot about it. It wasn't until redoing the EFI wiring that I remembered the extra couple of wires I had tucked away. Pretty much all I have left to do is get the carpet in and then put all the weather strip and bulb seals. Once I get the body back on with all that stuff, I'll see if I can get all the splash panels in the wheel wells and work on the radiator aluminum.

1932
09-29-2018, 10:13 PM
You keep your work place so nice, me not so much!

Mark Eaton
09-30-2018, 09:46 AM
Dave,

Can you elaborate for me on the type of carpet you used in your trunk? It looks really good, did you glue it in?

Mark

Higgybulin
09-30-2018, 10:18 AM
Dave,

Can you elaborate for me on the type of carpet you used in your trunk? It looks really good, did you glue it in?

Mark

Post #643 mentions the type of carpet, I didn't see a mention of how it was glued down......spray adhesive?...

Papa
09-30-2018, 11:41 AM
Post #643 mentions the type of carpet, I didn't see a mention of how it was glued down......spray adhesive?...

I used 3M 77. It works really well and isn't so strong that you can't pull the material off down the road if you need to.

Papa
09-30-2018, 11:48 AM
Dave,

Can you elaborate for me on the type of carpet you used in your trunk? It looks really good, did you glue it in?

Mark

Here is what I bought: https://www.hifisoundconnection.com/Shop/Control/Product/fp/vpid/8754929/vpcsid/0/SFV/30046

Super easy to work with and not expensive if you happen to make a mistake. I used 3M 77 spray adhesive to glue it in.

ZachT
10-01-2018, 07:03 AM
Thanks for the detailed thread! Keep up the good work!

Papa
10-03-2018, 09:41 AM
After moving the lift, I tested it out on my wife's SUV. It is so much better now that I can just drive directly in without the 20-point turn.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94608&d=1538577473

I'll get the roadster back up on it soon to install a driveline safety hoop.

Jeff Kleiner
10-03-2018, 10:24 AM
Change of direction here but I'm envious of your bolt bins! I had a semi organized setup at the old place but when we moved and I built the new shop that kind of went all to hell and it's sort of like a Fastenall store exploded :eek:

Cheers,
Jeff

Papa
10-03-2018, 10:49 AM
Change of direction here but I'm envious of your bolt bins! I had a semi organized setup at the old place but when we moved and I built the new shop that kind of went all to hell and it's sort of like a Fastenall store exploded :eek:

Cheers,
Jeff

Thanks, Jeff. Those bins are mostly full of sprinkler parts. I have about 1000' of polly line on my property with drip irrigation to about 40 trees. The darned rabbits like to chew on the drip lines, so I keep a lot of spare fittings and other components on hand.

Dave

Papa
10-03-2018, 01:43 PM
I had a couple of hours to tinker this morning, so I installed my drive line safety hoop.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94617&d=1538592041

Pretty slick setup and very simple to install. I hope I never need it, but feel better with it installed considering the proximity of the drive shaft to my spine and other critical body parts.

Yama-Bro
10-03-2018, 03:11 PM
I had a couple of hours to tinker this morning, so I installed my drive line safety hoop.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94617&d=1538592041

Pretty slick setup and very simple to install. I hope I never need it, but feel better with it installed considering the proximity of the drive shaft to my spine and other critical body parts.

Nice! I agree that's a necessity. Who made this safety loop?

Papa
10-03-2018, 03:36 PM
Nice! I agree that's a necessity. Who made this safety loop?

Frank,

The hoop I installed is from METCO.

https://www.metcomotorsports.com/proddetail.asp?prod=MDL2500

Dave

miller7448
10-07-2018, 07:03 PM
I think I have the same Bendpak. Your floor bolt patterns for the prior location match mine with 6 anchors per post. In the new location it only looks like you used 4 per post. Are you going with that permanent?

Papa
10-07-2018, 07:12 PM
I think I have the same Bendpak. Your floor bolt patterns for the prior location match mine with 6 anchors per post. In the new location it only looks like you used 4 per post. Are you going with that permanent?

I used all six anchors per post. The ones on the back of the post are hidden by the gusset at the base, but they are all in and torqued to 150 ft. lbs..

Papa
10-08-2018, 04:09 PM
I had the day off today, so I worked on attaching the side louvres. Following edwardb's (Paul) example, I used HSRF to attach my mounting pads. After prepping the surface that the pads would attach to, I slipped on a couple of washers to space the louvre up off of the backside of the pad. Next, I spread a glob of HSRF onto the pads and then positioned the louvre in place. I used a couple of zip ties and paint stir sticks to hold it in place while the HSRF hardened. After about 20 minutes, I removed the louver and extra washers from the pads and sanded down the HSRF to the desired thickness before then adding more HSRF to feather from the pads out, completely encapsulating the pad. Another 20 minutes and I hit it with the sander again to smooth out the surface and mounted the louvre.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94851&d=1539032869

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=94852&d=1539032879

I'll clean up the area a bit more and trim the threaded studs down before I roll on the bed liner.

Papa
10-17-2018, 03:03 PM
My top arrived today! This thing looks a little intimidating right now. :o I expect it will likely either be on or off when I take the car out as packing it into the trunk might be a bit much. Unpacking and repacking it will also not be something that seems reasonable when out on the road, but I'm excited to have the option regardless.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=95739&d=1539806218

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=95740&d=1539806226

I went with the zippered rear window, but passed on the quarter windows. Once I get the body back on the car, I'll fit the top and get the holes drilled before shipping the car out to Jeff for paint this winter.

CVOBill
10-17-2018, 04:32 PM
Very similar to the Top on my 33. Rod Tops does an outstanding job on these and they fit very nice. It looks intimidating at first but with you attention to detail you will find its actually pretty easy to install. I have mine with me when I'm driving and have put it on and or taking it off while out with the car as the weather changes a little quicker than we might like.

Papa
10-17-2018, 06:25 PM
Very similar to the Top on my 33. Rod Tops does an outstanding job on these and they fit very nice. It looks intimidating at first but with you attention to detail you will find its actually pretty easy to install. I have mine with me when I'm driving and have put it on and or taking it off while out with the car as the weather changes a little quicker than we might like.

You can definitely see and feel the quality of the top. I was a little surprised at how heavy the thing is.

Yama-Bro
10-18-2018, 02:52 PM
Very nice top! That will be handy on the mountain top cruises.

Jazzman
10-20-2018, 05:30 PM
Watching your experience with the top and learning with you. Thanks for keeping us apprised of the progress on the top!

Papa
10-20-2018, 07:23 PM
I installed the carpet today. This wasn't as bad a task as I had feared it would be and I got it all in in about three hours.

Here is the first piece!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=95885&d=1540081023

It is a snug fit, but the carpet on the tunnel sides is tucked up under my upholstered tunnel cover.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=95884&d=1540081011

I bought a grommet for my floor mounted dimmer switch.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=95883&d=1540080999

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=95882&d=1540080988

And the finished product!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=95881&d=1540080976

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=95880&d=1540080964

That's all I had in me today.

Papa
10-20-2018, 08:18 PM
Watching your experience with the top and learning with you. Thanks for keeping us apprised of the progress on the top!

I'll be fitting it once I get the body back on my car and mount the windshield. Stay tuned!

Dave

cgundermann
10-20-2018, 08:30 PM
Nice work! Like the look of the tranny tunnel covered like that and where you mounted your seat heater switches. I somewhat feared the carpet task, but ended up enjoying it. Never planned on getting a top for mine, but now I’m kinda of intrigued...

Chris

Pat427
10-23-2018, 07:11 PM
Looks great! Really like your tunnel cover. I'm learning a lot by following your build. Keep it up!

Papa
10-23-2018, 09:23 PM
Looks great! Really like your tunnel cover. I'm learning a lot by following your build. Keep it up!

Thank you!

TheBabyBadger
10-23-2018, 11:47 PM
Looking Good!

Papa
10-24-2018, 09:51 AM
Looking Good!

Thanks!

Yama-Bro
10-25-2018, 10:00 AM
That looks perfect! You nailed it.

Papa
10-25-2018, 11:06 AM
Thanks, Frank. BTW, the new EFI is responding way better than the original. I think there is still some work to be done to get it 100%, but I'm getting closer.

Dave

Papa
10-27-2018, 02:25 PM
I rolled on the Herculiner bedliner today. This stuff is very easy to apply, but puts off a very strong smell, so keep your work area well ventilated. Prep was minimal and was basically a quick scuff and wipe down with lacquer thinner, and then taping all the openings in the body to prevent getting the bedliner on the outside surface.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=96436&d=1540667756

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=96437&d=1540667766

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=96438&d=1540667778

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=96439&d=1540667807

Mr. Kleiner asked me to stay a couple of inches from the edges of the wheel wells, so I'll touch those areas up after the paint is done.

BadAsp427
10-27-2018, 06:46 PM
Very cool... so you went with Herculiner bedliner. I figured Jeff kleiner would have suggested the Duplicolor. Either way it sure looks.......... black... LOL Great Job!

Papa
10-27-2018, 09:19 PM
Very cool... so you went with Herculiner bedliner. I figured Kkeiner would have suggested the Duplicolor. Either way it sure looks.......... black... LOL Great Job!

Thanks, Carl. Black was what I was going for! ;) It's still drying, but I'll add another coat tomorrow and maybe a couple more in the wheel wells after that. I don't want any stars in the paint from the tires slinging rocks.

Dave

Jeff Kleiner
10-28-2018, 06:02 AM
Mr. Kleiner asked me to stay a couple of inches from the edges of the wheel wells, so I'll touch those areas up after the paint is done.

You won't need to, I will. Looks good! :)


Very cool... so you went with Herculiner bedliner. I figured Kkeiner would have suggested the Duplicolor...

I've said before that I can't tell any difference between the two in the end result but prefer Duplicolor if I'm doing it...if Dave or someone wants to deal with the harder cleanup and smell of Herculiner and put it on themselves they won't get any argument from me ;)

Cheers,
Jeff

cv2065
10-28-2018, 06:43 AM
Looks great Dave. Man you are close. You inspire me to keep moving forward!!

Papa
10-28-2018, 11:56 AM
You won't need to, I will. Looks good! :)


Thanks, Jeff. I wasn't expecting that! I can't wait to see what the car is going to look like after you finish it. I contacted the transporter you recommended and they sound like a good option. The only concern would be the weather. They don't move in the snow. Thankfully, our snow is typically gone as fast as it comes.

Dave

Papa
10-28-2018, 11:57 AM
Looks great Dave. Man you are close. You inspire me to keep moving forward!!

Thanks! Did you get that dash harness plug figured out?

Dave

Papa
10-28-2018, 12:05 PM
I did a second coat on the bedliner today and that should be good. I have almost a half gallon left if I decide later to add some material to the risky areas inside the wheel wells. Hopefully, this will be the last and only time I see the body upside down!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=96475&d=1540746250

Mick40
10-28-2018, 02:20 PM
Love the interior. How did you fasten the transmission cover? I noticed it was covered prior to installation?

Nice job!

Mick

Papa
10-28-2018, 02:26 PM
Love the interior. How did you fasten the transmission cover? I noticed it was covered prior to installation?

Nice job!

Mick

Thanks, Mick. I used 3M Dual Lock Reclosable Fastener TB3550 250/250. I picked it from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007OXK1AK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The stuff creates a very strong hold once engaged. I ran a strip along both tubes of the trans tunnel and corresponding strips the full length of the cover. It only takes a couple of heavy presses from the top of the cover to firmly attach it in place.

Dave

Mick40
10-28-2018, 06:55 PM
Hi Dave,

Now that's too funny because I used that to attach my dash. Didn't think about using it for the cover. I'm so glad I asked. Your's looks amazing, nice job!!!

Mick

cv2065
10-29-2018, 07:46 PM
Thanks! Did you get that dash harness plug figured out?

Dave

I did. Thanks again for the piece. Funny story...the one you sent me apparently was too close to the side of the counter in the kitchen. Dog ate it. Had to order another...LOL. BUT, got it all figured out. Those weatherpacks are really easy to use and will definitely use them as you have on your lighting system.

Papa
10-29-2018, 08:03 PM
I did. Thanks again for the piece. Funny story...the one you sent me apparently was too close to the side of the counter in the kitchen. Dog ate it. Had to order another...LOL. BUT, got it all figured out. Those weatherpacks are really easy to use and will definitely use them as you have on your lighting system.

That's hilarious! Glad you got it worked out in the end.

Papa
11-03-2018, 12:41 PM
It's a cool and rainy day here today, so I'm working on things that don't require running the car or moving it in and out of the shop. First order of business was to go back and check that I didn't damage my passenger side seat heater wiring after drilling for the screws on the brake handle boot. I totally spaced that I'd run the wiring along the corner of the floor and trans tunnel. Thankfully, after pulling the carpet back to expose the wiring, nothing was damaged.

Next I drilled and installed nutserts for the front splash panels. I'm using five stainless button head 10-24 screws on each panel. Is there any reason to go with more than that?

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=96820&d=1541266268

I'll get the panels cleaned up, scuffed and will just treat them with sharkhide since these will bear the brunt of abuse from sand and rocks coming off the tires. I need to see how the rear splash guards mount and work on those, too. After that, I think I'll start installing the weather strip/bulb seals next and then get the body back on the car for "my" last time.

Papa
11-10-2018, 10:17 PM
I spent most of today working with a fellow builder, so not much to show. I did apply the Herculiner to the tire-side of my splash guards. This should help keep the ping-ping-ping sound down due to small rocks hitting the panels.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=97175&d=1541905926

I also added some COBRA swag to the shop.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=97176&d=1541905938

wallace18
11-11-2018, 05:56 AM
Those splash panels are best to be put on after body is on. With the seals in place your screw locations may be off somewhat. You can always trim panel afterward though.

Jeff Kleiner
11-11-2018, 08:24 AM
Next I drilled and installed nutserts for the front splash panels. I'm using five stainless button head 10-24 screws on each panel. Is there any reason to go with more than that?

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=96820&d=1541266268



Uh....the splash panels are ordinarily attached to the outer (wheel side) of the "F", not the back (engine side) as shown in your photo. It'll work, just going to be a little fiddly to install with the body on.

Jeff

Papa
11-11-2018, 09:55 AM
Uh....the splash panels are ordinarily attached to the outer (wheel side) of the "F", not the back (engine side) as shown in your photo. It'll work, just going to be a little fiddly to install with the body on.

Jeff

Jeff,

If it's going to cause problems I will order a new set of panels and start over.

Dave

Jeff Kleiner
11-11-2018, 12:24 PM
Jeff,

If it's going to cause problems I will order a new set of panels and start over.

Dave

Not enough of an issue to be necessary Dave. I mostly commented just to make things easier for those who are following your well documented build thread.

Cheers,
Jeff

Papa
11-11-2018, 01:38 PM
Not enough of an issue to be necessary Dave. I mostly commented just to make things easier for those who are following your well documented build thread.

Cheers,
Jeff

Thanks, Jeff. If you change your mind after you get the car, just let me know and I'll have new ones sent to you. That goes for anything you need.

Dave

WIS89
11-11-2018, 04:08 PM
Dave-

I have enjoyed following along with your build! You have done a really wonderful job, and I have admired your craftsmanship and attention to detail!

I know Jeff will do an amazing job on your body and paint. Did I miss where you shared hour color choice? I can't imagine having to spend the winter with so little to do on the car after the progress you have made.

Thanks for posting your progress, and letting us share in the details! I look forward to seeing her after paint! All the best...

Regards,

Steve

Papa
11-11-2018, 04:16 PM
Dave-

I have enjoyed following along with your build! You have done a really wonderful job, and I have admired your craftsmanship and attention to detail!

I know Jeff will do an amazing job on your body and paint. Did I miss where you shared hour color choice? I can't imagine having to spend the winter with so little to do on the car after the progress you have made.

Thanks for posting your progress, and letting us share in the details! I look forward to seeing her after paint! All the best...

Regards,

Steve

Thanks, Steve. I'll be spending the winter doing all those home improvement projects that I've been putting off for the last year and a half. For colors, unless the spray outs change my mind, I'll be going with BMW Azurite Black with Lamborghini Titanium Silver stripes.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=84684&d=1524443359

Dave

cv2065
11-11-2018, 05:30 PM
Thanks, Steve. I'll be spending the winter doing all those home improvement projects that I've been putting off for the last year and a half. For colors, unless the spray outs change my mind, I'll be going with BMW Azurite Black with Lamborghini Titanium Silver stripes.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=84684&d=1524443359

Dave

Wow Dave, that color is stunning. I'm assuming that the Azurite comes out when the sun hits it and looks black otherwise? The Ruby Red does the same thing...It's a bit subdued in the shadows but looks vibrant when the sun hits it.

Papa
11-11-2018, 05:53 PM
Wow Dave, that color is stunning. I'm assuming that the Azurite comes out when the sun hits it and looks black otherwise? The Ruby Red does the same thing...It's a bit subdued in the shadows but looks vibrant when the sun hits it.

Yep - It looks black until light hits it and then you get the Azurite color. It should look amazing on the curvy MK4 body.

WIS89
11-12-2018, 09:16 AM
Dave-

That color, and the stripe color sounds amazing! I look forward to seeing it, although I bet you are pretty stoked to see it.

It's been fun following along with your progress, and it will be great to see her all buttoned up.

Regards,

Steve

Papa
11-17-2018, 07:16 PM
Not much to show today, but I did install the bulb seals and foam strip in preparation for getting the body back on the car for what I hope will be my last time. Once the body is back on, I'll get all the parts on that will go with the car for paint. That will include lights, windshield, roll bars, door latches, etc. I also need to drill the holes and mount the wipers. Other than that, I'll just be waiting for a firm date to get the car out to Jeff.

For those with the Sniper EFI, what have you done about the control screen? I'm thinking I'll just fab up a place to hold it up under the dash that will let me get at it when I need it, but will keep it out of sight otherwise.

cgundermann
11-18-2018, 09:44 AM
Not much to show today, but I did install the bulb seals and foam strip in preparation for getting the body back on the car for what I hope will be my last time. Once the body is back on, I'll get all the parts on that will go with the car for paint. That will include lights, windshield, roll bars, door latches, etc. I also need to drill the holes and mount the wipers. Other than that, I'll just be waiting for a firm date to get the car out to Jeff.

For those with the Sniper EFI, what have you done about the control screen? I'm thinking I'll just fab up a place to hold it up under the dash that will let me get at it when I need it, but will keep it out of sight otherwise.

That’s what another Forum member did (my partner in crime) and if needed, he can reach and access from under the dash to read/tune. His is located under the dash on the driver’s side - close to the door.

BTW - very, very cool color choices; can’t wait to see!

Chris

Tex2131
11-18-2018, 10:29 PM
Not much to show today, but I did install the bulb seals and foam strip in preparation for getting the body back on the car for what I hope will be my last time. Once the body is back on, I'll get all the parts on that will go with the car for paint. That will include lights, windshield, roll bars, door latches, etc. I also need to drill the holes and mount the wipers. Other than that, I'll just be waiting for a firm date to get the car out to Jeff.

For those with the Sniper EFI, what have you done about the control screen? I'm thinking I'll just fab up a place to hold it up under the dash that will let me get at it when I need it, but will keep it out of sight otherwise.

Hey Dave, I put my control screen in the glove compartment with enough slack to use it when I need it. I'm waiting for a firm date with Jeff too.

Papa
11-19-2018, 08:35 AM
That’s what another Forum member did (my partner in crime) and if needed, he can reach and access from under the dash to read/tune. His is located under the dash on the driver’s side - close to the door.

BTW - very, very cool color choices; can’t wait to see!

Chris


Hey Dave, I put my control screen in the glove compartment with enough slack to use it when I need it. I'm waiting for a firm date with Jeff too.

Thanks for the replies on screen location. I'm going to play with this a bit to see what works best. I'll post some pictures of my solution when I get it done.

Dave

Papa
11-23-2018, 06:57 PM
Today I applied some header wrap to the two pipes that were close to the driver's foot box.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=97988&d=1543017144

Next I started experimenting with my powder coat gun and oven. After a couple of practice pieces of scrap aluminum, I tried it on my louvres. It isn't perfect, but it will pass.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=97989&d=1543017151

The one on the left is done and the one on the right is getting prepped. The finish looks quite a bit better than the picture shows, and the chrome PC is pretty reflective, just not as smooth as it probably could be. I think the louvres will look just fine installed on the body.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=97990&d=1543017160

Thanks to Joel for the flow out and curing temps and times. They worked great.

BadAsp427
11-23-2018, 07:18 PM
Today I applied some header wrap to the two pipes that were close to the driver's foot box.


Next I started experimenting with my powder coat gun and oven. After a couple of practice pieces of scrap aluminum, I tried it on my louvres. It isn't perfect, but it will pass.



Thanks to Joel for the flow out and curing temps and times. They worked great.

You do know of course now that you are becoming an expert with that I’m going to have to send you some parts to do for me. LOL, looks great

SSNK4US
11-23-2018, 09:26 PM
It looks great Dave!! You did a really good job!

I just got some powder color chips today I ordered via UPS.
Thinking of going with the arrow for the engine bay.

Kurt

98009

Papa
11-23-2018, 09:44 PM
It looks great Dave!! You did a really good job!

I just got some powder color chips today I ordered via UPS.
Thinking of going with the arrow for the engine bay.

Kurt

98009

Those hammered finishes are great. Good choice.

Papa
11-25-2018, 01:14 PM
Here's a picture of the louver installed back on the body.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=98174&d=1543169602

Jeff Kleiner
11-26-2018, 06:29 AM
Nice finish on the louvers! Doesn't look like you changed the body cutout size or shape, right?

Jeff

Papa
11-26-2018, 07:17 AM
Nice finish on the louvers! Doesn't look like you changed the body cutout size or shape, right?

Jeff

Jeff,

I did trim them to get close to the shape of the louvres, but they are still a bit undersized to allow some final adjustments.

Dave

japollon
11-26-2018, 12:24 PM
Dave, the louvers look GREAT! I like the look of the finish. If you want them smoother, increase the temp a little at flow out. Once flat to your liking, back the heat off and let them cure. Good thing about powder is you can always do it over if you don't like them. Joel

Papa
12-09-2018, 04:40 PM
It's been a very hectic couple of weeks for me, so not much work done on the car. I did get a little time today and powder coated my side pipe hangers.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=98830&d=1544391428

I have one more week to get through this year and will then have some down time that I hope will let me spend some time in the garage.

PeteMeindl
12-09-2018, 04:55 PM
As always, everything little thing you put out looks 100% first class! Happy holidays.

Papa
12-10-2018, 10:16 PM
As always, everything little thing you put out looks 100% first class! Happy holidays.

Thanks -- It's going to take some practice to get it to be perfect, but it's been fun to play around with it.

Vegasjack
12-11-2018, 11:21 PM
Hey Papa,

Great idea ditching the chrome differential cover and going with the cast piece.
While things like that may look nice at a car show, oil pans included, we all know that they store heat much like a nice shiny silver teapot.
None of us need any extra heat if we intend to really drive our cars so Bravo on ditching that particular piece of chrome.

Steve

PS: I have a Moser Rear as well (TSD-500) because neither F-5 nor Moser were offering the 8.8 units at the time of my order.

Didn't you know, every piece of chrome adds 5 HP. LOL

Papa
12-15-2018, 07:17 PM
First day off and made a bit of progress today. I did some more powder coating, but nothing exciting to look at. I also tackled the leather dye task for my door straps and seatbelt pads.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=99059&d=1544919021

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=99058&d=1544919012

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=99057&d=1544919003

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=99056&d=1544918992

I used the products that Paul recommended;

Fiebing's Pro Dye, Black
Fiebing’s Edge Kote
Fiebing's Black Acrylic Resolene
Tandy Leather Wool Daubers

I'm really happy with the way it came out, and it was very easy to do.

I also finished spraying the front splash guards on the non-tire side with the same bed liner spray I did all the other aluminum panels with. Next will be getting some help setting the body back on and then my final reassembly. Jeff contacted me earlier this week and will be sending me some paint color samples. I'm looking forward to seeing those!

Papa
12-16-2018, 08:13 PM
Today I got the body back on and all the seals look good to go. Tomorrow I'll be getting all the lights reinstalled and checked.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=99112&d=1545009079

I also spent a bit of time working on the idle on the car. I initially set up way too low an idle for an EFI car. I'm now up at about 900 RPM and the car seems to like it there.

BadAsp427
12-16-2018, 08:17 PM
Looking great Dave... Looks like mine has a twin in Colorado...

Papa
12-17-2018, 08:00 PM
Well, today was one of those days where you encounter one setback after another and it's best to just stop and come back another day. I reinstalled my tail lights and front turn signals and had all sorts of bad connections in my previously-working weatherpack connectors. Trying to fix those resulted in my breaking my weatherpack de-pinning tool. I also blew a fuse and then snapped a pin off my turn signal switch. Earlier in the day, I had placed an order with FF for another part I needed to replace due to my damaging it, so after breakining the switch I called them back to see if I could get a replacement switch added to my order. To my surprise, I had beat the order processing and was able to add the switch without any additional shipping charges. After that small victory, I decided to call it a day and will get back at it tomorrow.

BadAsp427
12-17-2018, 09:15 PM
Well, today was one of those days where you encounter one setback after another and it's best to just stop and come back another day. I reinstalled my tail lights and front turn signals and had all sorts of bad connections in my previously-working weatherpack connectors. Trying to fix those resulted in my breaking my weatherpack de-pinning tool. I also blew a fuse and then snapped a pin off my turn signal switch. Earlier in the day, I had placed an order with FF for another part I needed to replace due to my damaging it, so after breakining the switch I called them back to see if I could get a replacement switch added to my order. To my surprise, I had beat the order processing and was able to add the switch without any additional shipping charges. After that small victory, I decided to call it a day and will get back at it tomorrow.

Funny, I actually had some problems the other day when I put my body on and connected the lights up. I had a couple of the male pins that would not center up into the female side. I actually smashed one of them inside the weatherpack... All is ok now after I removed and repaired that one. And then, one of my brake lights would not come on. I guess it's all a part of the fun we have...

Papa
12-18-2018, 10:15 PM
Today I got my lights sorted out and working again. After sorting that little issue out, I decided to follow Paul's lead and started to create some templates to make some aluminum panels to cover the gap in the rear wheel wells along the edge of the cockpit. I will still want to use the expanding foam in there, but covering it with a metal panel just seems like a really good idea. I'll post pictures as I make more progress. I also got to meet another builder (GTBradley) and show him my car.

Paul2STL
12-18-2018, 10:35 PM
Dave looking good are you running the FFR pipes? I ask because your hangers look like the ones that come with Gas n Pipes?

Papa
12-18-2018, 10:42 PM
Dave looking good are you running the FFR pipes? I ask because your hangers look like the ones that come with Gas n Pipes?

I have the FFR pipes on until the car is painted, then I'll install my Gas-N pipes. The hangers are in fact for the Gas-N; good eye!

Dave