MJS Mk4 Build Thread

[MSumners]

Saturday I made final decision on destination for body and paint work. I have a couple interior things to finalize but nothing to hold up bodywork and decided to pull the trigger. Booked transport Saturday afternoon with Reliable Transport. Car was picked up tonight and next stop Yuba City California on Friday for a short residency with Ken Pike.


https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=149211&d=1623120939

[460.465USMC]

Congrats, Mike! That's got to be a good feeling. What did you decide for color choices? (Sorry if you've already stated and I missed it.)

[MSumners]

Yeah almost can’t believe it’s nearing the “end”, but I know the saying. I’m excited to see it in color but in no big rush to get it back, plenty of things to keep busy with in the meantime. Exact color codes to be determined but I know in my head exactly what I want it to look like. Something near midnight blue with vintage white stripes. I tried a few times throughout the build to convince myself I would do something different but ultimately always came back to this combo. All my favorite cars have been blue.


Congrats, Mike! That's got to be a good feeling. What did you decide for color choices? (Sorry if you've already stated and I missed it.)

[MSumners]

Car is at paint and I’m not one for idle time. Picked up a tinker project in the meantime.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=150189&d=1625194553

[MSumners]

Body underway.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=150534&d=1625764949

[MSumners]

Interim project success. Rolling the country roads.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153402&d=1631670256

[MSumners]

Anyone know the standard sizes of the circle front hood badge and the rectangular side badges off hand?

[egchewy79]

the ones offered by ********** are
side badges: 4-3/16" by 1-5/16"
hood badge: 2"

[460.465USMC]

Hi Mike. Just checking in to see how the bodywork and paint are coming along?

[MSumners]

A bit behind schedule but sounds like all is coming along well. Last I heard car was in primer and supposed to be finished approximately 3 weeks from now. Thanks for checking in. Once I get an update I’ll post. Can’t wait to see the colors!

[MSumners]

And we have color! Should be right on schedule for final assembly, registration and as many summer miles as possible. About two weeks to completion and then the long trek back to Michigan. At least the shipping quote is less than it was when I checked a couple months ago. Next major posts should be completion as after it’s back it will primarily be Re-attaching everything and working on setup.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=161853&d=1644088487

[egchewy79]

Looks great. What color blue is that?

[Straversi]

Looking good!
-Steve

[MSumners]

The blue is Lexus indigo ink. Stripe is actually lambo titanium and almost looks white in that picture.



Looks great. What color blue is that?

[egchewy79]

The blue is Lexus indigo ink. Stripe is actually lambo titanium and almost looks white in that picture.

Great combo. Going with a similar blue

[460.465USMC]

Right on, Mike! Looks really nice. Congrats!

[NYMike]

Love the color combination. Congrats!

[Chainsaw]

And we have color! Should be right on schedule for final assembly, registration and as many summer miles as possible. About two weeks to completion and then the long trek back to Michigan. At least the shipping quote is less than it was when I checked a couple months ago. Next major posts should be completion as after it’s back it will primarily be Re-attaching everything and working on setup.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=161853&d=1644088487

Love that combo. I think that's the blue I've been looking for to use as the 289 nose stripe with the lambo titanium as the primary although the Missus thinks I should use the blue as the primary.

[Blitzboy54]

Can't wait to see it in the sun! I love that color combo, I thought it was white at first too. Now I'm intrigued with the titanium.

Ken's work is exceptional.

[MSumners]

Updated assembly pics. Getting closer to the Reliable truck pickup. My head may explode when I see this in person.


https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=163867&d=1647135478

[460.465USMC]

Oh, boy! You must be getting close now. How exciting!

[edwardb]

Looking really good. Finally. :rolleyes:

[MSumners]

Agreed very excited to have it back and start working on the detail oriented final assembly pieces. The body/paint took longer than anticipated but being honest probably worked out for the best as during that timeframe we moved and are really just getting well settled. Definitely back in the nesting stage with the new garage space. Working on finding everything I need to finish up when it gets back and get the registration process going.

I’ve recently considered a garage floor tile covering like race deck or something similar, anyone have opinions that has had one installed for more than a couple seasons? Here in Michigan I was worried it would just be a huge dirt trap of sorts but like the look.

[edwardb]

I’ve recently considered a garage floor tile covering like race deck or something similar, anyone have opinions that has had one installed for more than a couple seasons? Here in Michigan I was worried it would just be a huge dirt trap of sorts but like the look.

I've had Race Deck in my garage for a number of years and multiple builds. I like it a lot. When the truck build is done, I need to stop and give it a good cleaning. But it's holding up well. I've used shop cranes, engine stands, jack stands, floor jacks, you name it, with no issues. I've had a couple tiles that got dented when I dropped something really heavy. Easy to pop out the tile and replace. I have extras. Only thing it doesn't like is welding. But I don't weld. So not an issue. Not only does it look good, it's better to work on than bare concrete. Highly recommended.

[MSumners]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164594&d=1648341561

[egchewy79]

stunning color combo. love the silver on dark blue look

[MSumners]

Transcontinental en route. No real comparison however I have nothing but good things to say about reliable transport.

Tried inserting a video but had to bail on it again.
Realize this is discussed ad-nauseum but a plug for a basic el-cheapo battery. Bought a basic “normal” battery for around 100$. 10 months at paint. Ken took off the leads on arrival last June, reattached nearly 10 months later and it started immediately. I suppose that’s a plug for Fortes 347 as well.

First order of business on arrival is get the lights Re-installed and schedule inspection.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164794&d=1648683040

[JeffP]

Looking great! I plan on doing the same color combination, looking forward to some more pictures when you get it home.

[Traveller]

Very exciting, Mike! Won't be long now.

Can't wait to see it in person.
Jason

[Jim1855]

We're going to have to party at Mike's. Probably closer to an "invasion".
Jim

[MSumners]

We're going to have to party at Mike's. Probably closer to an "invasion".
Jim

I’m good with this. I’ll send acceptable dates.

[MSumners]

The eagle is in the nest!
Basically my agenda for the next bit involves standing and staring. Hats off to Ken Pike it is perfect without question.
Needs a good cleaning already showed up soaking wet as the reliable truck apparently had an “impressive leak in the trailer”. But not to worry he is going to sort it out soon they say. So much for covered transport. Nonetheless the car is freaking perfect. I really can’t believe this thing is sitting in my garage. When I can pull my jaw off the floor I’ll start final assembly

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165068&d=1649118223

[Barwickad]

Congratulations, looks amazing. Love the color combo.

[JeffP]

Absolutely gorgeous. You're giving me goosebumps!

[MSumners]

Anyone happen to know off hand where the serial number is on a Tremec tko 600? I need it for registration papers and my jack is currently unavailable so if I know the rough location would make my search easier.

[edwardb]

Anyone happen to know off hand where the serial number is on a Tremec tko 600? I need it for registration papers and my jack is currently unavailable so if I know the rough location would make my search easier.

My experience is there's a metal tag under one of the case bolts that has the part number and serial number. Located where the tailshaft section is bolted to the main case.

[MSumners]

Just got to testing pre-inspection and realized I now have no turn signals, tach or Speedo. All worked previously so rather unfortunate. Otherwise the headlights, taillights, brake lights hazards and brights still work as they should. Wishing there may be a common single solution but really can’t recall if there might be. Time to go back to the wiring diagrams. Anyone has an idea of a common point to check let me know.
At least for the turn signals the fact they light with the hazards and the rear with brakes I suppose I’ll start at the RT signal connections.


Edit: glad I made the dash easily removable. The RT connection weatherpack was just loose. All lights back in check. I’ll track down the gauges but at least with all lights working I can continue with the inspection process in the meantime.

[MSumners]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165461&d=1649893451

[MSumners]

Ive been prepping everything for the Michigan inspection and registration process. I was able to get the inspection and form Tr-54 filled out and signed this morning without issue. Really convenient having a single police officer for the town that knows everyone, makes the process simple.
I was surprised when I went to the SOS afterwards with all the receipts, COO and inspection form. They said just come back with a weight slip, proof of insurance and will be good to issue title registration and plates. Different than what I was expecting because no separate VIN number was requested.. they plugged in the chassis number as the VIN and used 1965 as the date, thus calculated the registration based on weight just like they did back in ‘65. Either way, very smooth and quick. If the weather was better I would have obtained a weight slip but I’ll have to wait. They also said they were adding factory five as a auto maker to the database to make things quicker in the future. Interested to hear if this is what others experienced or how it is in the future.

[edwardb]

Ive been prepping everything for the Michigan inspection and registration process. I was able to get the inspection and form Tr-54 filled out and signed this morning without issue. Really convenient having a single police officer for the town that knows everyone, makes the process simple.
I was surprised when I went to the SOS afterwards with all the receipts, COO and inspection form. They said just come back with a weight slip, proof of insurance and will be good to issue title registration and plates. Different than what I was expecting because no separate VIN number was requested.. they plugged in the chassis number as the VIN and used 1965 as the date, thus calculated the registration based on weight just like they did back in ‘65. Either way, very smooth and quick. If the weather was better I would have obtained a weight slip but I’ll have to wait. They also said they were adding factory five as a auto maker to the database to make things quicker in the future. Interested to hear if this is what others experienced or how it is in the future.

What??? Now that's a major change for Michigan. Is it being titled as an assembled vehicle? Doesn't sound like it. Because that process was completely managed in Lansing and the local SOS office just collected all the forms and sent them. Usually was several weeks for the VIN and title.

[Kodiak]

Mine was close to that TR-54 was completed. 2 days later at sec of state they listed mine as 1965 replicar ,title issued in 8 days used ffr number as vin super smooth in and out 15 minutes.

[MSumners]

Agreed different than I expected but very easy. Keep you posted on my return trip how it turns out. They did say title would be under 1965 Replica


What??? Now that's a major change for Michigan. Is it being titled as an assembled vehicle? Doesn't sound like it. Because that process was completely managed in Lansing and the local SOS office just collected all the forms and sent them. Usually was several weeks for the VIN and title.

[MSumners]

https://youtube.com/shorts/U2Lp-0-IKDs?feature=share

[MSumners]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165993&d=1651102789

Fairly certain I’m not using it but is this supposed to go in the door sill? Feeling geometrically challenged.

Gauges tracked and fixed. Tach was a connection to the gauge that must have been loose and the Speedo I ended up using a GPS signal anyhow so all is working.
Next is finishing up the carpet and interior.

Have an appt at the SOS to get registered on Friday so hopefully the person I see Friday agrees with the plan the last time I was there.

[edwardb]

Fairly certain I’m not using it but is this supposed to go in the door sill? Feeling geometrically challenged.

Yes, that piece goes along the top of the door sill. It actually fits and works well if you glue it one section at a time. Gives the area a finished looked. Wouldn't look great being left off. But maybe you have other ideas on how to finish. Maybe the first picture below helps. I had the edges bound since in stock form they leave a raw carpet edge exposed. The long straight side goes along the top of the door sill with the bound edge in my case facing in towards the cockpit. Then in bends 90 degrees and the curved parts fits around the door opening. On the ends, one bends up and stops right before the door latch. The other end bends up and stops at the door hinge. There's a long "tab" (if you can call it that) on the one side that gets trimmed off. I'm assuming Factory Five left it in the pattern to get some strength in that area before it's glued down. Otherwise the carpet piece would be very narrow in that area. The second picture (best I could find) shows the area after installation. Hopefully that all makes sense and helps. Your car looks great in the short video. Good luck at the SOS. Very interested in hearing how that all turns out since it's so different from what I've experienced (and their instructions...).

https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/edwardb123/Factory%20Five%2020th%20Anniversary%20Mark%204%20R oadster/Update%2001082017/.highres/IMG_0933_edit_zpsph5g7rf5.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/edwardb123/a/2565629e-8f90-4539-96fc-2014e4f9c837/p/3dc2021e-3bb9-4c1e-9bd0-a9916ae514af)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/ab234/edwardb123/Factory%20Five%2020th%20Anniversary%20Mark%204%20R oadster/Final%20Assembly/.highres/IMG_1074_zpsbvdbysjd.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://app.photobucket.com/u/edwardb123/a/13dc145c-6789-4c48-b6ef-0216c5b21214/p/2f97c8cd-1cea-4182-9c48-6f5bb567ee25)

[MSumners]

Had to reschedule the SOS visit today. Ended up getting the ride height set and a professional alignment done. Drives beautifully and even better now. Just took longer than they thought with the alignment so I’ll reschedule the registration visit. Working through the carpet and it’s looking great. As with about every other part of the build involves a part being test fitted about 10 times with small adjustments before final placement.

[Jim1855]

Mike,
Looking great, can't wait to see it live.
Jim

[BadAsp427]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165993&d=1651102789

Fairly certain I’m not using it but is this supposed to go in the door sill? Feeling geometrically challenged.

Gauges tracked and fixed. Tach was a connection to the gauge that must have been loose and the Speedo I ended up using a GPS signal anyhow so all is working.
Next is finishing up the carpet and interior.

Have an appt at the SOS to get registered on Friday so hopefully the person I see Friday agrees with the plan the last time I was there.

This is an option... this is how I did mine and it looks really clean now that it is all done. CLICK HERE (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?29472-Carl-s-20th-Anniversary-8690-Graduated-12-000-miles&p=446249&viewfull=1#post446249)

[MSumners]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166373&d=1651885467

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166374&d=1651885915

Getting closer to true graduation, one thing off the list every few days.
The short list is : wheel wells, roll bar re-install after PC, final addition dash panel work, wheel spinners, sun visors, license plate mount modification, wiper boxes and hard lines.

[MSumners]

The SOS says you’re allowed to drive to the weigh station to get a weight printed before registration. Somehow I now have 74 miles on my car which basically involves the roads back and forth near the weigh station. May have been a loose interpretation but I’ll say reasonable.

[Blitzboy54]

First of all your cockpit and dash is spectacular. Congratulations on a beautiful build.

Also if the button on the steering wheel is anything but a rocket booster I’m going to be bummed.

[MSumners]

Registration attempts continued: Finally had time to get back to the SOS with the requested weight slip and proof of insurance. Unfortunately received different info this time and they said I really didn’t need insurance or the vehicle weight and that the VIN wouldn’t be as previously planned but would need to be issued. The downside here is that they believe it will be at least 8 more weeks for me to be contacted regarding the VIN placement because they are so backlogged. The clerk at the SOS actually went as far to say she would be surprised if they even called me. Interesting. Obviously totally different than I was told a month ago but more in line with what I’ve read online in terms of the process. Maybe it’ll end up being quicker than expected but for now the battery tender and car cover are on.

[MSumners]

I noticed the tiniest bit of fluid (a couple ml) under the car just to the left of center approximately straight under the left frame rail. It appeared to be either oil or coolant to be honest had a hard time telling which. Looked almost like it either sprayed from somewhere or was blown around some during driving based on the small amount of splatter pattern.
Nonetheless to my shear horror I found the hole shown below in the water pump housing! Likely a manufacturing issue or something i missed?
Seriously any help here would be greatly appreciated.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167235&d=1653444226

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167236&d=1653444263

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167237&d=1653444291

[edwardb]

Water pumps typically have a drain hole at the bearing location. But that looks like a casting void to me. Not good. Might be possible to plug it with JB Weld or whatever. Or maybe it can be welded. But I know next to nothing about that subject. If it were me, I'd replace it. And not be too happy doing it...

[Jeff Kleiner]

That isn't the water pump, it's the timing chain cover. Nonetheless there is coolant passing between the block and pump near (just below it when viewing your photos, somewhat hidden by that accessory bracket spacer) that apparent casting blowout so conceivably you could be getting coolant through it. Shoot it with some brake cleaner to remove any residual and blow it dry then run it and observe for actual leakage. If it is letting coolant through I'm sorry to say that you're looking at replacing the timing chain cover.

Jeff

[edwardb]

That isn't the water pump, it's the timing chain cover. Nonetheless there is coolant passing between the block and pump near (just below it when viewing your photos, somewhat hidden by that accessory bracket spacer) that apparent casting blowout so conceivably you could be getting coolant through it. Shoot it with some brake cleaner to remove any residual and blow it dry then run it and observe for actual leakage. If it is letting coolant through I'm sorry to say that you're looking at replacing the timing chain cover.

Jeff

Oops. Good catch. Didn’t look close enough. Of course agree with the steps described.

[MSumners]

Thanks gents I appreciate it !
I’ll check tonight but based on deposits would be willing to bet the farm it’s leaking.
Time to get this sorted before summer slips by.



That isn't the water pump, it's the timing chain cover. Nonetheless there is coolant passing between the block and pump near (just below it when viewing your photos, somewhat hidden by that accessory bracket spacer) that apparent casting blowout so conceivably you could be getting coolant through it. Shoot it with some brake cleaner to remove any residual and blow it dry then run it and observe for actual leakage. If it is letting coolant through I'm sorry to say that you're looking at replacing the timing chain cover.

Jeff

[johnnybgoode]

Just my 2 cents but it looks like the timing cover may have been damaged when the hole in that particular timing cover boss was drilled and tapped during the manufacturing process.

167242

I think the hole with the damage is the furthest to the left on the driver's side WP port (see pic). You may be in luck since that hole is not used on most current SBF water pumps and is covered by the WP gasket and backing plate so there shouldn't be any high-pressure coolant behind it just low-pressure oil being splashed around by the timing set. As others have suggested you may be able to clean it up and seal the hole with a fillet of JB Weld. It's actually in a pretty good spot for that, just fill up that little valley with JB (use a bit of JB Putty to block the hole and then fill with liquid JB so none of the epoxy leaks into the timing cover). It may be worth a try before you start pulling things apart. Unfortunately, you will have to pull the balancer and drop the pan to replace the timing cover which is a bit of a pain but not too bad if you have access to a lift. Good Luck. Scott

[MSumners]

Thanks again for the recs. If there’s no major risk with JB weld and it’ll even possibly get me through the summer I think that’s the direction I’m heading. If I need to pull things apart I would prefer to not miss the driving season if possible. Thanks again.

[MSumners]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167862&d=1654654108

Time to test the JB weld temp fix

[MSumners]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169222&d=1657377767

Short list is getting shorter.
Made it through the registration process and officially road legal!

[460.465USMC]

What an inspiring vantage point, Mike! Looking through the windshield of your licensed Roadster. Congrats! That's got to an amazing feeling.

[Jim1855]

Mike,

How cool is that. Now there's no excuse to miss the next Saturday morning coffee. I'm thinking 7/23 or 30.

You will be a welcome addition. I think we'll have 3 other roadsters and maybe a friend's coupe.

Grand Rapids, MI (Cascade) in case anyone else is interested. PM please if so.

Jim

[MSumners]

Jim , I was on call and as commonly occurs I was at the hospital. Would be happy to host next time and actually meet the crew.

[MSumners]

About to do the license plate mod to fit the plate that is commonly referenced. Before I disassemble the light assembly, what’s the best method (or even acceptable) to cut the lens. I don’t have a bandsaw but do have a dremel.

[Jeff Kleiner]

I use a fine tooth coping saw. Cut off wheel in a Dremel will melt through the plastic and leave a globbed up edge (that’s a technical term ;)).

Jeff

[MSumners]

Thanks Jeff. Perfect, seems like a reasonable enough tool to add to the collection��

[MSumners]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=171286&d=1660925917

300 mile report:
Finally got the plate attached and decided to just notch it a bit. I went with the simple descriptive approach. Every time I walked out before to work on little final touches (plate, HA), I just ended up firing it up and driving. Everything is working great and no issues.
Definitely adding a remote jump terminals. I’m using the front battery location and I quickly realized if you run down the battery and have to jump it this location it is unnecessarily exciting. Time to get some actual graduation pics taken and make it official. That’s next. Thanks again to everyone for all the assistance throughout the build.

[egchewy79]

looks great! I like the finish on the roll bars to match the stripe. I also ended up notching my plate instead of doing the light mod. looking forward to those graduation pics.

[Jim1855]

Looking good.
Jim

[MSumners]

There is going to be a “track night in America” day at Gingerman raceway and I’m thinking of joining the novice group to learn something and hopefully have some fun. I fortuitously have the Thursday off that it’s scheduled.
I looked on the page and it seems there are not a lot of restrictions as I was seeing if the cobra would be allowed or what equipment I would need. Anyone done this before with any advice?

[Jim1855]

Mike,

Been there, done that, multiple times. Gingerman is a great track to learn on, Grattan not so much.

Helmet, kinda a given. shield or safety glasses.
Cotton clothes, no polyester.

Check all fluids, bring extra
Cleaning rags or paper towel
Whatever supplies you think you'll need
Tools. A basic kit, easier to not need it than not have it.
Ground cloth - everything in the car that is loose will come out, this includes anything in the trunk.
Tire pressure gauge, the track has air & water.
Many drivers blue-tape the leading edges of the car to protect the edges and surfaces.

Here's what you'll experience
Where on the street you run in the lower RPM range on the track you'll run in the upper.
Oil will get hot, water should be good
Tires will get hot, you'll most likely need to adjust
Brake fluid will get hot, there's a reason for the 600-degree fluids, but you'll probably not get there
Brake pads, depending on your initial selection, may fade

There's more, call if you wish.
If you want a "pit crew" I'd be happy come along. I feel at "home" at the track. But the track people and organizers are great.

Jim

[MSumners]

Time to make this official. Planning to get more photos posted but for now this will have to do. Just haven’t had time lately to get the car out too much between work and other projects.
Started in March of 2019.
Off to Paint at Ken Pikes in July 2021.
Arrived back from Paint April 2022.
Ill call graduation now. Of course everyone knows the saying and yes a couple things to finish / adjust this winter.
Thanks to everyone in this community for keeping me on track and answering the myriad questions that allowed me to see this through to the finish! Turned out better than I ever could have wished.
500 miles on the odo this summer and no issues to-date. Runs and drives beautifully.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174130&d=1666639241

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174131&d=1666639261

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174133&d=1666639315

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174132&d=1666639287

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174187&d=1666751511

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174186&d=1666751485

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174188&d=1666751543

[TMartinLVNV]

Hot Damn!!! Looks great. You did a spectacular job. Time for you to enjoy putting on the miles.

[edwardb]

Looks fantastic. Congratulations. Love all the custom touches you did. Tasteful and well executed. I know the transportation and time for paint was longer than expected. But turned out really nice. Hope to see it in person some day.

[cc2Arider]

Hi Mike,

Nice final result! I like your color choices...I was thinking of something similar (dark metallic blue with Gunmetal grey metallic stripes)...

What were your color names/numbers?

Craig C

[Railroad]

Really impressed with the dash! Very nice ride. Watching for color ? reply. Mine is already painted, but yours looks great.

[Blitzboy54]

Beautiful work. Absolutely gorgeous

[John Ibele]

Beautiful car, Mike, with a lot of distinctive touches that you pulled together really well. Nice job. Enjoy the ride!

[Straversi]

Congratulations. Great looking car. Glad you got it done in time to put some miles on it before the weather turns. Well done.
-Steve

[MSumners]

Thanks for all the kind remarks!

Colors are Lexus Indigo Ink and Lambo Titanium. I’ll have to check for exact codes don’t recall off-hand.

[RJD]

Beautiful. Love it!

[JB in NOVA]

Just caught up. Great job! Absolutely beautiful.

[MSumners]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=177509&d=1672581875

Been on the fence for awhile about timing and that was all it took. What better way to kick off the new year than get the Coupe order in. Of course the rainbow flames are up for debate..
Delayed? delivery until August 1.
Plan is coyote, TKX. All the usual upgrades. The new build space is coming along well and should be easily fully operational by summer. Really excited to get into a build again and apply things I learned from the roadster build and learn new things! As always will appreciate the help of the forum. I’ll get a build thread going closer to delivery.

[MSumners]

And every spring the beasts will emerge from their hibernation
Beautiful day for a years first drive

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=182910&d=1681406425

[Jim1855]

Mike,
Looks great. Hope to see it soon. I would expect that Saturday morning coffee will start soon.
Jim

[MSumners]

Mike,
Looks great. Hope to see it soon. I would expect that Saturday morning coffee will start soon.
Jim

Sounds great! Was just thinking the same thing.

[cfriedman67]

Beautiful!

[MSumners]

700 Mile update.
Driving every chance I get. I find that typically what would be a quick 10-15 minute trip turns into a 1 hour cruise where I drive in concentric circles coming back to the house because I really don't want to stop driving.
Around 600 miles I took a couple days and went through every single bolt and connection I could find and did an oil change and lubed everything. A few things needed re-tightening / torquing. One of the rear control arm adjustment sleeve jam nuts had loosened ever so slightly from the witness mark. Looks like at the alignment I had performed no locktite was used. For now these all got blue locktite and re-torqued until alignment can be re-verified.
One of the 6 bolts holding on the steering wheel actually was loose, I bought new longer 16mm torx head bolts and re-applied blue locktite and better believe I'll be watching those closely. Other than that just needed to tighten down all of the hose clamps the slightest bit.
After reading some recent threads about the small amount of play in the steering column and possible solutions I decided to switch out for one of the clamp style U joints. Picked one up from Jegs ( I think) that is a 3/4 DD, 3/4 36 spline and was able to get it mounted.
I loosened the lower steering shaft set screws but despite this due to the angle of the U joint the only way to connect it ( so far) was with the steering wheel slightly cockeyed because the shaft bottoms out at certain angles. I'll have to look closer to get this re-aligned. I can say I was surprised how much more solid feeling the car is simply making this change. Of course I re-lubed everything so hard to say what was what but it was a noticeable change.
Looking forward to more driving days ahead.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=184273&d=1683632506

[MSumners]

Winter time to nut and bolt the roadster. Anyone have any input into a stuck RT turn signal. Will depress down (left) but otherwise sticks at neutral and can’t engage right signal ( lever up). Feel like I remember reading about similar issues in the past but can’t find any threads currently.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=193774&d=1703809131

[Railroad]

I remember reading to NOT pull on the wiring harness, due to interference in operation.
Obviously you can try pushing the harness up into the hub.
good luck,

[MSumners]

I remember reading to NOT pull on the wiring harness, due to interference in operation.
Obviously you can try pushing the harness up into the hub.
good luck,

Thanks for the thoughts I will try that again. I realized I have a new unmounted RT assembly to compare to I ordered for the coupe build about a year ago. Looks like one of the tabs that you can see is restricted , probably end up as carefully as possible disassembling and trying to remedy. I’ll post my experience, if I can’t get it to work probably just wire up a separate toggle.

[MSumners]

Pulled the wheel and got the RT signal off and found the culprit. The two wires going to the stalk were restricting the movement. I’m actually not using them so I just clipped and removed. Now moving smooth again. I probably inadvertent pulled on it when I was reconnecting the plugs behind the dash.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=193878&d=1704073063

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=193877&d=1704073063

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=193876&d=1704073063