What did you do on your roadster today?

[dallas_]

Enjoyed this thread on another forum, so....
What did you do on your car today?

I'll start, working on final gap fitting, filling pinholes, getting ready for primer.

John

[GWL]

This is a big day for me. Last summer my wife and I decided to sell our house this coming spring/summer. I both designed and built the house starting 16 years ago. But............it's not finished. I'm sure some of you have heard a story like this before.

So the Roadster project came to a halt. I've been 'Slowly' working to finish up projects and have finished some of the larger ones. I've got to finish a deck in the spring but there is 3' of snow on it now. That's great because I'm now back to work on the Roadster for the next two months.

Today I'm going to get a bunch of engine parts together and get them to a local machine shop for the work that needs to be done on them. It's an '89 Mustang 302 that still measures within original specifications. So I'm hoping not too much work will need to be done to it. I'm going to match that engine up with a set of GT-40p heads off a '97 Explorer engine with a stage one Trick Flow cam and new set of Trick Flow valve springs. I'm following Bob Cowan's instructions and my research and balance the pistons and connecting rods myself.

This is also my first post here.

George

1st Mk4 to leave FFR, but not the first one finished

[Acheron315]

Fixing paint chips and finally getting around to carpeting the trunk.

Also dreaming about some engine upgrades.

[Hotrod]

I am finally getting everything in line to install the Vortech I have had sitting around for the last two years.

[ThreePointTwo]

I learned how to do donuts. Pretty simple really. The tough part is finding a safe place to do it.

[RyanH]

Installed the IRS and started bending brake lines.

[slaga]

This weekend I ordered Twisted Wedge Track Heat 190 heads for my car.

[Joee]

I cleaned up a set of donor pistons while my block and crank are at the machine shop

[efnfast]

Nothing - it's sitting happily on the lift.

[ChopperJustin]

Seeing as "my roadster" currently consists of an Mk4 build manual, a few aftermarket parts, and a puddle of drool on my garage floor, I do not believe I am currently allowed to participate in this thread.... :)

[Jeff Kleiner]

My roadster, nothing. It is covered on the other side of the garage. I worked on the Mk4 I'm building for "indy14". Specifically I began spreading & sanding Rage Gold! I'm not sure but I think this may be the first Mk4 body to be done by a "hobbyist" rather than going through a pro shop :confused:

Jeff

[TimC]

NOTHING! 65° outside today and I'm sick. 102° fever and feel like crap. Hopefully I'll be better by the weekend and it's supposed to be nice then too.

[cobramd]

just realigned the front end after doing an SAI mod and installing new front spindles and 6piston Willwoods. I drove the car around the block prior to aligning it and was all over the place. Gee I wonder why when I checked initial setting it had 3.5" toe in R had -4* camber and -6 on the L. It drives much better now.

[RonnieP]

Well sunday it was 64 degrees outside. Opened the garage door, warmed the roadster and took it
for a thirty mile spin.Had a great time.This time I drove like I had some sense.Kinda like my ole man.
Pulled it back in the garage,checked everything over and shut the door. Better half ask for me to take
her for a ride,too late I'm headed for the recliner I replied.

[GSW]

My wife and I built our Roadster ten years ago spent a lot of time enjoying it then decided to move. In the heaight of the realestate boom we could not find a good deal so decided to build our house ourselves. while five years later a lot of blood sweat and tears I am finaly able to work on the roadster again. Iv'e had all new supension parts in box's for about 3 years wanted a different rear gear for longer than that have never been happy with the extended shifter and rear shifter lacation.
So recently (the last few months) I have pulled the rear end transfered all the three link stuf to a new rear end with 3.73 gears, installed the new rear end with koni shocks, pulled the transmission and have made most of the S10 tailhousing swap.
Yesterday I reasembled the transmission (twice It helps if you put the shoe on while you are installing the tailpiece. it is impossible to get the little spring and ball under the shoe with the tailpiece allready installed) and torqued all the rear end bolts.
tonight nothing big just finished installing the brake lines to the rear brakes, now on the forward side of the rear axle to make better room for the shocks.

[jcurti2]

Set the body on for some initial fitting so I am going out now to look over and fit some of the front aluminum and measure for my supercharger heat exchanger so I can get it ordered.

It is nice to see it with the body back on, it makes you want to spend way too much time on it.

[RonnieP]

Sunday it was 64 degrees outside.Opened the garage door,warmed up the roadster and took it for a thirty mile spin.I drove like I had some sense this time,kinda like my ole man and had a great time.Pulled it
back in the garage ,checked everthing over and pulled down the door.Better half ask me to take her for
a ride,too late I'm headed for the recliner I replied.

[NC Jim]

I finally installed the sun visors and wind wings. I had been nervous about possibly cracking the windshield since I had heard some had this happen. They went on with no problems and look great.
Jim.

[Steven K]

Almost done putting the power brake booster in.

[ratdog]

pulled carb, got to replace intake gasket, leaking at right front

[Bobasaurus]

I installed the newly ceramic coated sidepipes. Tomorrow some yearly bolt tightness, fluid level, and electrical checks. Wednesday it will be back to daily driver Roadster to work. The weather in S. Carolina is getting too good to keep the Roadster on the lift.

[Cobradavid]

Took my son to school in it and then drove it to work. Awesome weather today!

[galla4]

Car is up on jack stands 2 ft. in the air. Have pulled off the J-pipes and side pipes for another ceramic coating application - the vendor has convinced me to pull the headers (they need it) but what a PITA, thank goodness to the FFROG member that recommended to coat header bolts with anti-seize - 5 down, 11 to go.

tim

[dallas_]

Working on modifying the body buck so we can spray on the first coats of primer.

[fitnessguy08]

Spent 3 hours cleaning after I took it out for my 1st go-kart.. Well worth it tho..

[matstng]

Finished the hard line for the clutch and got the hard part of the rear brake line run. I hope to be back on the rear diff tomorrow after the brake lines done.

[ArcticSnake]

What did I do on my roadster this weekend????

OOH...I was working under it this weekend and wife came home from an evening with her girlfriends.....nice skirt.......um....

[03SC]

Just polished the windshield post bezels. More to report tomorrow though.

[dallas_]

Modified the body buck for painting.
Hope to get the slick sand sprayed on this weekend.
407

[slaga]

My carb arrived yesterday.

[otis]

Mine went to the painter last night! Hope to get the go-cart back in 2 weeks to finish the wiring and interior. Maybe driving by Memorial Day?

Otis

[Steven K]

Said good bye to it as I headed off to work, but I told it we were going to spend some quality time together this weekend.

[Acheron315]

Have a week off, so getting to all the "honey-do's" around the house and playing with the car some, hardwired in a battery tender, and getting ready to upgrade to rear coilovers on Friday

[Jim]

Sat and had a last look. Moving from New Brunwick to Toronto. It gets to stay in the garage for a while till I get back in a couple of years.

[03SC]

Insured, titled and licensed in Florida as of an hour ago. It was as easy as everyone said it would be. Thanks to Robinn at Midwest classics for the insurance and Evelyn at the Green Cove Springs DMV for knowing how to register a replica.

[luvaz]

Drove to the office today! It's basically my Friday before a 4 day weekend as I have tomorrow off and a holiday Monday! My manual steering shaft is scheduled to arrive tomorrow so I'll have her up on the lift and all of the donor PS lines, pump & assorted crapola gutted & will be installing a FR 20:1 true manual rack. Monday it's off to the alignment shop!

Thanks,
Will

[rick8928]

1. Modified '04 Mach 1 donor fuel neck (cut off last inch of expanded flange) and mated it up with the Aston LeMans gas cap assembly.
2. Cleaned up corrosion on donor DOHC 4.6 spark plug area (moisture slipped in where the coil wires entered the cover - insufficient gasket material) and put in new spark plugs w/anti-seize compound)
3. put 3 quarts of oil in engine, to see if FFR black pan is leak free.

It was so great to work in 55-60 degree weather, rather than the 20-30 degrees it has been for what seems like forever!

[Lex]

Cleaned the trunk area to look new and moved the battery to the upper shelf between the harness mounts. It really opened up the trunk area to look like it has twice the room.

[LuckyWinner]

Got my King Cobra clutch in the mail today. Should be getting my new TKO 600RR delivered on next Friday. Hope they put it in my storage locker, dont think the wife has the upper body strength to do it herself, and if she does....note to self, be very very nice to her.

[dallas_]

Sprayed the first coats of Slick Sand.

527

[donpny]

Well, I started knocking the seams on the body on the Mark III Body. Not too bad. I also reworked the trunk to make it fit.
I ground a little off the long bolt sleeve of the both pairs of rear body bolts. I spent a few hours grounding till I got the trunk to fit just right.
I also cut the hood scoop out of the hood. It was 1" off and tilted back towards the passanger side. Laid some resin and matt to build up one side and cut the other. Now working on the stepped reveal on the inside. I am tired, but making good progress.

[Steven K]

Got the power brake booster in.

[slaga]

I disassembled my donor motor down to the short block. Tomorrow I am plan to take it down to the block so I can have it built into a 347.

[Dajomaco]

sorted my panels out after they came back from powder coating

[Fifty-Two]

Started my FE engine build.

Got the block up on the engine stand and did some deburring and prep.
Step #1 of 200 ...

[FRANKRAT]

Removed the F5 supplied gas pedal and had it welded. Installed a liner in the radiator intake cavity.

[Brandovibe]

Jacked up the rear end to put some brake lines in, car fell off the jack before i could get the stands in because my buddy fell into it, the bar acorss the bottom of the three link hit the jack and is way bent out of shape. :(

[FRANKRAT]

Changed my rockers to Pro magmum and set to 1/4 turn tight

[luvaz]

Got my front end aligned w/the newly installed 20:1 FR manual rack after gutting the donor PS rack and associated crapola. No more pump whine! Turns like a cat on carpet- After six years and 15K miles I've had all three types of steering in this car; de-powered manual, PS, and now true manual, I can tell you that I feel true manual is meant to be in the roadster.

Thanks,
Will

[Mike_R]

Pulled my carb for some more work on it, it almost landed in the trash can.

[Glory Bound]

Just had to put in two more aircraft switch covers to round out the group. Also replacing alternator tonight and re-installing passenger harness that the ball bearing had fallen out of. Simpson sent me a replacement for free. Chrome alternator went out in 3400 miles. Going with standard 2000 Mustang 130 amp one this time. Much cheaper and am more concerned about go than show getting ready for autocrossing season that starts in 3 weeks. Also finalizing prep for drivers school at Summit Point in two weeks so will also do alignment this weekend.

[patpur]

Replaced all the body mounting bolts. The guy who finished the car before I bought it had three different types of bolts, now they are one. Also removed the side pipes for ceramic coating. Original owner had them in white, I'm getting silver/chrome. In a few weeks the wheels get switched from ET Spoke wheels to Halibrand style wheels. Gotta move my battery form under the car ........... I have an MKI and that's where they put it back then. Gonna put it in the trunk with the cutoff switch, give a bit of security. Anybody know if they make a gizmo to hold up the trunk lid? I can't seem to find one on any of the Cobra parts sites.

[Fifty-Two]

Replaced all the body mounting bolts. The guy who finished the car before I bought it had three different types of bolts, now they are one. Also removed the side pipes for ceramic coating. Original owner had them in white, I'm getting silver/chrome. In a few weeks the wheels get switched from ET Spoke wheels to Halibrand style wheels. Gotta move my battery form under the car ........... I have an MKI and that's where they put it back then. Gonna put it in the trunk with the cutoff switch, give a bit of security. Anybody know if they make a gizmo to hold up the trunk lid? I can't seem to find one on any of the Cobra parts sites.

Here ya go! :D

********** sells the original-style trunk prop rod:
http://www.**********accessories.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=&products_id=170

And Breeze sells a more simplistic type of trunk rod:
http://www.breezeautomotive.com/details.php?prod_id=662

[LuckyWinner]

Got my TKO600 delivered by UPS, now it sits....all alone, waiting for its engine

[al1957]

Block sanded for hours, paint in 2-3 weeks.

[CapeCoralCobra]

Drove it down to the "Burrowing Owl Festival," big turnout. Its great how these cars turn grown men - 30's, 40's,...70's - into young boys, if only for a moment or two, when you drive by; pointing, smiling, waving, thumbs up signs... I smile and wave back, everytime thinking yeah, I used to do that, too. :D :cool: :)

[fitnessguy08]

had mine picked up on a flatbed and taken to the bodyshop :)

[ipsale]

I "married" a TKO and a Coyote. A match made in heaven!

[patpur]

Thanks for the info Fifty - Two - yesterday my pipes got dropped off at the Ceramic Coater who was nice enough to meet me in Northern Virginia. I should be back on the road in a week or two!

[Pierre B]

It's not going to happen today, but before my MKII gets back out onto the street this spring, I will have coated my Street Performer seats with Duplicolor black fabric paint. After 12,000 miles of exposure, the seats' upholstery is turning to the familiar purplish color in an objectionable (to me) way. This treatment should restore them to black permanently. I am figuring on one can of spray paint for each of the seats. We'll see.

[rponfick]

Glued the vinyl on my dash. Now, let it stick.

Ralph

[Joe]

A few days ago I converted to rear disk brakes. Yesterday I switched from 2.73 gears to 3.55. Today I'm switching to a black speedometer gear and trying to fab up some DIY anti-moan brackets.

[Gopher]

Opened the crate the rearend came in the first part of my build .

[Glory Bound]

I finally got really schooled on Ford alternators. Just because they look the same means nothing! So now I know that a true one wire alternator is one that only has two wires to itself and one from the alternator and not one that has to tie to a wiring harness. Now The Patriot is back on the street, charging at 13.5 volts, and ready for track time next week! WooHoo!!

[patpur]

I am spending the day carefully removing the "Manufactured by ****** American" plaques form my car. Wonder if the guy who owned it before me had any idea of the history of these two companies? One of the plaques is two way taped to the dash board. That is the one I'm scared of. I have Goo Be Gone soaked behind it and I'll try a piece of dental floss to separate it. There are two others, one in the trunk the other in the engine compartment. Those are gone and the areas polished.
Also removed my bright yellow seatbelts and harnesses. They will be replaced with a nice new black Simpson set. Soon as I get them and my side pipes back from the ceramic coater I'll be back on the road.

[ipsale]

I started laying out the Coyote wiring harnes and decided that the main harness was to long so I cut 18" out of it - good idea? - I think so. What the heck, I can always spend twice the time putting the 18" back in!

[bil1024]

Finished under door carpet / aligned trunk and installed trunck seal. Need to install backup light next

[Lex]

New dash put in, re-located the battery.

[03SC]

Made a template for the radiator nose aluminum yesterday. Now that I've had a cup of coffee, going out to cut the template into a piece of aluminum flashing.

Update: flashing fit perfect but it is to thin for permanent use. Anyone know of a place in Jacksonville Fl to get some .025 aluminum sheeting? Tried HD and Lowe's, no luck.

[FRANKRAT]

Checked all fluids and changed oil, weather still is not OK to drive

[dallas_]

Sprayed the first coat of primer on the doors, trunk lid and scoop.

905

[Joee]

Got my block back from shop. Washed it down yesterday in the sunshine and oiled it up. Today I checked the main bearing clearances, checked the ring gaps, and installed B cam.

[ArcticSnake]

Moved it from one garage to another so I could change the oil in my other vehicles.

Raining...not good driving weather...yet.

[LuckyWinner]

waiting for my RAM HDX clutch to get to my house via UPS. 6 more months tell Im home!!! Seems like a life time

[dallas_]

Block sanding.

And it feels like I'll be doing that for a while.

[JAB]

Bled the brake lines using a vacuum bleeder first. Then waited till my Wife got home , finishing with the old pump up and hold , open -close repeat. Got a nice firm brake pedal!!

[patpur]

Replaced my bright yellow belts and harnesses with a brand new set of Black Simpson's. Pipes are still at the Ceramic Coaters, are being sand blasted today, hoping to get them back by next week.

[Chepsk8]

Cut and bent the aluminum for the rear under-car diffusers.

[Jeff Kleiner]

I just looked at it longingly while working on the "indy14" Mk4. Warm weather, auto-x and track days will be here soon though!

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj43/jkleiner/100_2287.jpg

Jeff

[Marty Prario]

I am going to replace my intake manifold today.

[LuckyWinner]

my RAM HDX clutch from Forte arrived at my house...now it waits in storage with my trans for me to get home.

[al1957]

Painted the under hood, inside of doors and trunk with the final color, Ford Royal Blue Metallic. Just trying to save a few bucks, the paint shop will do the rest. Looks good.

[astglenn]

I installed heat shields on the side pipes. Black on black. Hung out with Mr. David Borden for a while, as I used his 4 post lift to do the install. Good day.

[ipsale]

I took Glenn's AWSOME Coyote flanges and fit them to the 4.6 headers.

[rich grsc]

About a 30 mile drive. :)

[frankeeski]

I spent a few hours today trying to get her road worthy again. Started on replacing the front coil-over springs and working towards the install of the front sway-bar. I'll be back at it at least for a few hours tomorrow as well.

[Greg_M]

Finished the ABS and tested it. Man this car will stop now!

Greg

[ipsale]

I welded Glenn's Coyote flanges to the 4.6 headers after doing the fit up yesterday.

[R. Button]

After Mass when out for a ride only to find myself in Memphis, Tn when I stopped for gas! Forgot about the papers I have to write and the exam I need to do. It was time for a ride! Full tank of gas and the open road! Now I'll pay for it as I sit up late tonight studying... but it was worth it! :D

Time to head back home to Arkansas and return to my studies!

991

[dallas_]

Sprayed on a couple more coats of Slick Sand.

Back to block sanding.

[al1957]

Marked the centers on the body for stripes using a home built frame, tape measure, level, and a plumb bob. Removed the body from the chassis, off to the paint shop Wednesday. Great day.

[ipsale]

Today I got my tires mounted and then went on to modify a 35 degree 3-1/2 inch elbow by welding on a boss for the mass airflow sensor and a boss for the factory supplied hose from the breather. The elbow will bethe only thing between the coyote and a conical air filter. I'm trying to keep it as compact and clean as possible.

[ThreePointTwo]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v370/Treaszh/3f267b5d.jpg

Pulled the engine to fix a pan leak.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v370/Treaszh/edef72f0.jpg

[cwhoofgator]

Don't be so happy with that clutch. 1500 miles and pressuer plate failure. Spring broke on PP and you don't want to fix that in chassis.. Ask Ron????

[68GT500MAN]

Working on what I thought was a spark issue, now looking for a vacume leak.
Doug

[rich grsc]

This was what we did.
http://www.ffcars.com/forums/showthread.php?t=268219

[patpur]

Got my side pipes back from the Ceramic coater and back on the car. New belts/harnesses. Man this car is a blast to drive!

[Cobradavid]

I re-installed my seats with the seat mounting plates from Breeze. Of course, I had to test drive the seats. I took my son to Sunday night Youth group and he said "Dad, your new seats feel GREAT!" I have to agree with him - the tilt that the Breeze mounting plates have add a huge amount of comfort to the low-back seats.

David

[ClemsonS197]

Cut out the drivers side footbox and added new 1.5" square and 1.5" DOM to open it up and allow room for my size 13's. Also had the 3-link bracket welded to the frame. Finally I dropped it off to have the blue paint stripped and it powdercoated black. Should be ready next weekend.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v296/FinlayZJ/FootboxMod.jpg

[frankeeski]

Member Antny from Hemet came by to help me corner weight the car today. Not perfect but very close to perfect. I recently changed the spring rates in the car all the way around and added a front anti-sway bar. Ride height and corner weights were really close out of the box. We only had to make minimal changes to get it as close to spot on as it's ever been.

[efnfast]

still nothing =)

[Jeff Kleiner]

60ish degrees and sunny so I pulled Steve's Mk4 out to the driveway to sand/apply/sand Rage, keeping the dust out of the garage. Later I took mine to the grocery store. First drive of the season (I took the long way there and back :))!

Jeff

[OttawaFFRer]

Started laying flooring in the new garage, just need to wire, insulate and drywall!

[Gumball]

Installed Breeze battery tray in engine compartment and installed master cylinder and modified offset (now adjustable) brake pushrod.

Edited to add information on making stock pushrod adjustable:

Sorry, but the stock pushrod is installed in the car, but here's a description of what I did - I'd also be happy to answer questions if anyone wants to contact me via PM. After modifying the brake pedal ('94 pedal box) to work with manual brakes and installing the master cylinder ('94 - '95 SVT version - new from FFR), I found that the pivot stud on the pedal lever put the large end of the pushrod about 3/8" lower than the master cylinder, meaning that there was a slight vertical misalignment between the pushrod and the master cylinder planes. At the time, I was using an aftermarket adjustable pushrod - the type that is a two-piece version connected via a sleeve nut. Unfortunately, that type of pushrod is only available with the large end in line with the rod, not offset like the power brake booster version that is shown in the FFR manual. I sourced an OEM part from an early '90s Mustang power booster locally, but found that I didn't like how the end of the rod fit into the master cylinder piston recess - it was way too loose. Plus it was too short for my tastes and I wanted to still have some adjustability in addition to just using the spacer plates provided in the kit. The adjustable pushrod that I had was a much better fit in the master cylinder piston recess and even included a spring in a groove at the end that helped keep the rod seated in the master cylinder piston recess. The solution was to cut the OEM pushrod in half so that I could use the offset end of that pushrod with the better fitting end of the adjustable aftermarket pushrod. To make this work, since the OEM pushrod was much thicker at the end where it mounts to the brake lever, all I had to do was use a lathe to gun-drill the rod, then tread it internally to accept the other half of the adjustable pushrod. The finished product gave me the offset I needed to bring the pushrod into alignment vertically with the master cylinder, while also giving a nice fit for the rod inside of the master cylinder pushrod recess. I topped it all off with a rubber boot from a '65 / '66 Mustang brake pushrod and have a nice, finished installation - here's a pic:

http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4030.jpg

And here's a picture of the installed Breeze battery tray. I had it powdercoated to blend in with the rest of the engine compartment, then used a pair of chrome 1/4" bushings instead of a stack of washers for the gap between the tray and the 4" round frame tube. For those who are concerned about the difficulty of installation, don't be - it was a snap. You'll need a 90 degree drill to make the lower holes in the X member and the two that go into the 4" round tube as well as a 1/4-20 tap for the holes in the 4" round tube. The instructions are very clear and easy to follow and the part fits as described.

http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4024.jpg

I thought some of you may also appreciate pictures of the block-off plate I made using some scrap aluminum sheet I had laying around. I was unhappy with the large gap around the master cylinder, particularly at the top where the hole is not concentric, so I made this plate. Below are pictures of the before, during, and after:

Before:
http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_3982.jpg

Mock-up:
http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_3979.jpg

Test fit:
http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_3983.jpg

Installed behind master cylinder with one FFR spacer:
http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4031.jpg

[Gumball]

Installed fuel filter bracket, finished master cylinder / pushrod installation, and began mocking-up brake and fuel lines using a very stiff wire to make templates.

I used the stock Mustang fuel filter bracket (powdercoated) and mounted it in the location shown in the FFR manual. I even re-used the Ford self-tapping screws (use a #10 bit to drill the holes). The filter is a stock Ford Motorcraft part #FG-800A (E7DZ-9155-A).

http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4028.jpg

Pics of the mocked-up brake and fuel lines to follow.

[David Hodgkins]

Installed Breeze battery tray in engine compartment and installed master cylinder and modified offset (now adjustable) brake pushrod.


Installed fuel filter bracket, finished master cylinder / pushrod installation, and began mocking-up brake and fuel lines using a very stiff wire to make templates.

There are a LOT of posts in here that would make good threads in themselves. Take the posts quoted, for example (no offense Chris, it's just an example). It would be cool if these was posted with pics, and a good description of the different techniques included. How did you make your pushrod adjustable? What route did you decide to use for the fuel lines? Where did you put the fuel filter? What type of filter, etc...

Just an observation. Looking for good threads / posts to start filling the Wiki...

:)

[ThreePointTwo]

Visited my baby at the paint shop.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v370/Treaszh/765d05db.jpg

[Gumball]

Updated to add pictures and descriptions of my brake pushrod mod and other projects per David's request.

[dallas_]

More block sanding.

1101

[Cobradavid]

I am going to replace my intake manifold today.

Marty,
I've got a 2001 4.6 SOHC with the original intake manifold. Yes, the ones that have the all plastic coolant passage that is prone to cracking and was the subject of a recall. I've been keeping my eye on the failure-prone area, and I'm contemplating just swapping it out. But I can't decide if I should just wait until it starts to fail or just bight the bullet and do it now.

So, I'm wondering, why did you replace your intake manifold? Did yours fail? Did you swap it out to prevent it from failing?

David

[al1957]

Picked up the body at the paint shop, looks great. Hope to be finished in 3-4 weeks.

[Gumball]

This weekend was fuel tank installation, quick-connect fuel line at pump preparation (used just the pump fittings, flex line, and the first few inches of hard line which were partially flared to accept a rubber jumper to the fuel filter and the return hard-line on the chassis), as well as fabrication of a bracket to hold the remote Girling brake reservoirs. I'll post photos of the bracket as soon as it comes back from the powdercoater.

[03SC]

Took the roadster out this morning and calibrated the Speedhut GPS Speedometer. Works like a champ. Also installed the Breeze Automotive radiator shroud and a custom VIN Plate (thanks to Ron Shofield).

http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/03SC/DSC_0374.jpg

http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/03SC/DSC_0373.jpg

[CoryB]

I added a CHMSL.

Unlit.
http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_ag2z7Z6oI-M/TZkoLLOtm4I/AAAAAAAACE0/xVYRWFNn1PI/s640/0403011821.jpg

Lit.
http://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_ag2z7Z6oI-M/TZkoLq6qD_I/AAAAAAAACE4/yN02DyYJ2oc/s640/0403011822.jpg

Closeup.
http://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_ag2z7Z6oI-M/TZkoMowxnLI/AAAAAAAACE8/6sF_rGXfddw/s640/0403011822a.jpg

I got it off of a 1998 S-10 Blazer at the junkyard for $2.21 including tax. My wiring harness already had a provision for a third brake light so it was quite simple to wire it in.

[PBXII]

Just ordered Breeze's Cubby or trunk bulkhead kit today!! The DWC trunk kit is also planned.

[The Stig]

Just ordered Breeze's Cubby or trunk bulkhead kit today!! The DWC trunk kit is also planned.

Cousin Stig!!!! How've you been? We missed you at the last family reunion. Silverstone is great this time of year!

[Jeff Kleiner]

Good news/bad news

Good :D
The weather cooperated so I was able to run my own car for the first time this season rather than co-driving someone else's!

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj43/jkleiner/5590575558_e8df458519_b-1.jpg

Bad :(
The track is monitoring sound this year and I blew >100dB. Got a free pass yesterday but I'll have to quiet it down to below 100 or get booted in the future.

Jeff

[mydream]

HMMMMM, not much we can do to quiet these down... cats?
I guess you will need to lay of the throttle....NOT!!!!!



Good news/bad news

Good :D
The weather cooperated so I was able to run my own car for the first time this season rather than co-driving someone else's!

http://i269.photobucket.com/albums/jj43/jkleiner/5590575558_e8df458519_b-1.jpg

Bad :(
The track is monitoring sound this year and I blew >100dB. Got a free pass yesterday but I'll have to quiet it down to below 100 or get booted in the future.

Jeff

[Gumball]

Installed a set of OEM style cold air dampers (footwell ducts). Still need to finish by plumbing the 3" ductwork to the nose area and hook-up the cables, but the hard work of locating and cutting the 3" holes in the footboxes is done (whew!) - photos when the install is finalized.

[MPTech]

Had my roadster delivered today! Couldn't be happier! ;)

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a78/MPTech/P4040071.jpg

[Joe]

Installed some Remflex header gaskets. I've been fighting leaks for two years. Hopefully this will take care of the problem once and for all.

[NicksPapaw]

Took mine to it's first car show on Saturday. This was for a charity, 120 cars, judging was done by the spectators. 3 trophies were awarded. I got Most Unique. Lambo took first, Ferrari took second. It was a fun day

[PBXII]

Hey Stig!! I got stuck in the Piccadilly Circus roundabout in my Konigstegstegsteg driving the opposite direction trying to get to Silverstone, sorry I missed reunion.

Also planning installing the Breeze hidden trunk hinges too, looked at the kit, drank a few beers, and had a shot of whiskey. The goal this year is having the trunk finished, I will post photos when done.

[dallas_]

Ordered this:
1365

And putting these on it:

1366

[David Hodgkins]

Hey dallas,

Where did you order it from? My brother is interested in the same motor...

:)

[289FIA_Cobra]

I almost forgot about "this" forum. ;-)

In the past "week", I've installed my re-built (new cam/heads) engine, modified my gas pedal bump-out (too tall; had to cut it down about 2"), started the engine, ran it for 30 minutes to work in everything (I know, I know, you don't break in roller but like all rebuilds, you DO need to heat cycle the rebuild), re-torqued bolts, set timing, re-adjusted rockers, put on another 10 miles, checked for leaks (nada), had a lot of school kids say "NICE CAR" on my way to the gas station, and still working out the kinks in the brakes. They work but I'm not used to so much brake boost. I guess maybe I'm too used to manual brakes.

[Cobravii]

A blonde!!! ;-)

[LewPoberezny]

Installed Rattle Trap Extreme in cockpit, Glued a few pieces of carpet and set seat belts in position.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5064/5604310613_23ca31cba1.jpg


http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5306/5604896498_9fffc1fa9a.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4109/5604897782_eb214dc17c.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5105/5604313223_bebb0056d6.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5182/5604898918_73e59c022a.jpg

[AC Bill]

Spent some time trying to figure out the most solid way to mount my (Corvette South) fake knock offs on the car, without them flying off while out cruising..:eek:
Currently they are designed to use the existing set screws, but they are so darn small I don't have much faith in them. As well, by the time they are tightened all the way, there is only about three threads left in the knock off hub.

I think I will need to drill out the existing holes, and tap them for larger longer set screws. They hub part of the knock offs appear to be made of cast aluminum, so I am a little worried about stripping the threads (even larger ones), if I crank on them a tad hard.:(

[Bill_VA]

Turned the odometer over 11,000 miles today! First real ride of the season.

[MPTech]

Took the body off and installed my IFS.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a78/MPTech/P1000015.jpg

I did have some help.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a78/MPTech/P1000011.jpg

This was actually yesterday, but I was too tired to logon and post. :cool:

[ThreePointTwo]

I got my dash painted.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v370/Treaszh/P1140466.jpg

[dallas_]

Re-mounted the body, getting the final gaps set. Got the trunk almost done, doors need a bit of touch up too.
This trunk lid is from Sankuer Composits.

1410

[CapeCoralCobra]

Installed a HalGuard Halotron fire extinguisher and the Tangent Partial Wrap Leather Steering Wheel kit.

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1429&d=1302990134

[Bill_VA]

I ditched my Sumitomos with 11k miles for some awesome Kuhmo Ecsta XSs, can't wait to feel the difference. But because the Kuhmos are wider (even though they are the same tire size and same manufacturer's spec), I have to swap to Fox-width axles as my tire/fender clearance was already minimal.

[Gumball]

Finished securing brake lines, installed a Lucas look-alike battery (group 51 from Farm & Fleet with fake cell caps), and secured the footwell fresh-air vents in place:

http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4072.jpg
http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4071.jpg
http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4075.jpg
http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4077.jpg
http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab15/CCRsAC/img_4078.jpg

[cwhoofgator]

I took this.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b224/cwhoofgator/Finalf5rebuild010.jpg
And this.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b224/cwhoofgator/306.jpg
And came up with this.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b224/cwhoofgator/Finalf5rebuild013.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b224/cwhoofgator/Finalf5rebuild012.jpg
Whew...

[289FIA_Cobra]

Over the weekend I just drove it... 800 miles!
Great time at the Huntington Beach Cruise In.

[jayguy]

ROFL cwhoofgator, I had that same sheet set (on the drivers fender) when I was a teenager. :D


Nice looking combo you have there, too!

[stroked 6t5]

Well she arrived on the 22nd of August. All I had done to date was uncrated, parts inventory, body removal and storage and disassembling of aluminum panels. So today I thought I would dive in. What I acomplished in two hours was to install the Mk8 IRS rear end, upper and lower control arms, Koni's, the half shafts, knuckles and barkes. Now I'm sitting back and enjoying a (should read few) beer and admiring...

[riptide motorsport]

Drove it! :rolleyes:

[skullandbones]

Insulated the passenger side foot box and passenger floor. Then pretended to drive it!:cool:

[MARIAH]

Yesterday, I panicked when I could not find my jack stands.
Can't believe someone just walked in and took them!
On the third trip around the garage I found them.
They were holding up the '65 Mustang who is still patiently waiting me to finish her brake job.

So I used my wooden blocks for support and did a semi-annual Nut and Bolt check on the Cobra. All were fine!
Rear ride height was a little low and I will adjust next week.

Today, the wife and I will take a well deserved drive.

[LuckyWinner]

I read the darn manual again for the gazillionth time!!! I need to start. Building bodybuck and going to Harbor Freight the day after I get back home, wife says Im crazy....arent we all crazy here?

[NICK C]

Built the body buck last week. Now just waiting for the kit. It's going to be ready for shipping Oct 1. So, I may be able to say something relevent on this thread soon. ( Big cheesey grin, which has been on my face since I ordered the car last week ).

[Gopher]

http://s1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc495/wknor/
Finished install on fuel cell and dropped trunk floor .Found out header fit .Started plumbing fuel system and oil system.Fuel cell wasn't a drop in but it will work .Headers are 2 inch dai made by Stainless Steele haes are AFR 225 outlaw with raised exhaust ports and cnc ported. I'm moving slow but I'm moving again after surgery. Hope the photos work.

[Gopher]

0Lets try again

[LuckyWinner]

http://s1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc495/wknor/
Finished install on fuel cell and dropped trunk floor .Found out header fit .Started plumbing fuel system and oil system.Fuel cell wasn't a drop in but it will work .Headers are 2 inch dai made by Stainless Steele haes are AFR 225 outlaw with raised exhaust ports and cnc ported. I'm moving slow but I'm moving again after surgery. Hope the photos work.
Way to go Bill!!! Keep on Truckin!!!

[Martin]

That sure looks pretty...



0Lets try again

[Gopher]

I need to give credit for the headers to the member who did the leg work on th fit but I can't find it so if someone knows it please post it.It was on the old sight.

[bil1024]

Finished running brake lines! ON to the trunck walls then the engine !

[skullandbones]

Still working on the insulation (Ultra Hushmat). I like it but need a lot more than I thought. Also, need a lot more flexibility!! On my next build I will install the stuff before installing the alum. I think it might be a lot easier and more efficient. But is really takes that tinny sound out of the alum.

WEK

[dallas_]

Finally got the base and clear on the body and one side of the doors and trunk lid.
Been sweating this since I've never painted a car before.
(this is before I sprayed the clear)

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5457&d=1319331269

After clear:

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5609&d=1319815710

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5611&d=1319815829

[ipsale]

I installed a Wilwood brake bias adjuster with a Tilton 90 degree fitting. I like the idea of being able to change the bias on the fly and the unit seems to work well.

[NICK C]

I fitted the clutch quadrant and temporarily mounted pedal assembly while I wait to get feedback on power brakes for the
Wilwood set.

[E-Ticket Ride]

Moved cabinets and primed the walls in the garage.
Tomorrow, finishing the paint, and assembling the shelf's for all those cool boxes headed my way
Building the chassis dolly, and body buck if I have enough time after all of that.

[JUST RICK]

Installed R&M plug wire looms and went to a Cruise-in

[PaulW]

I put the body on and went for a ride! After 6 months from starting I finally re-mounted the body. Everything went pretty smooth. I had to slightly notch the hood opening where it comes over the foorbox but that was about it. Now, over the winter, I will get all the headlights and taillights etc mounted and working. The plan is to have the car ready (in gel-coat) to attend the FFR open house next June which will be 14 months from the start of the build.

[dallas_]

Got the Forte's drive shaft safety loop installed.

Getting closer to engine installation. I hope.

[LuckyWinner]

Put my disc brakes on my rear end easier than I thought. Just need to find some washers that will fit that adjust the calipers on the disc. The ones I found were a little too big. Might just grind them down on one side about 1/32.

[E-Ticket Ride]

Made the final payment on my kit. Completion scheduled for 12Nov. On the schedule for Stewart Transport. Estimated 10-14 days cross country.
Just a LITTLE bit closer...

[JimiD]

Made final payment today. Ready for Stewart after the 11th. No determined completion date just goint to enjoy the trip...

[emac]

Wonder if ours will be on the same truck? My completion date is the 5th . Talked to a painter who has done a few of these and he said call him in a year when I am ready! I said shooting for spring. I bet he is right.

[NICK C]

Put in passenger floor and side panels. Waitng for power brake system this week so I'm cheating a little and jumping ahead with things that won't get in the way of manuals' suggested sequence. Will be one month on the 10th of Nov since delivery. Man this is fun!!!

[jlfernan]

Replaced my brake pads with Hawk Performance Pads. What a difference! Now I know I can stop when I really need to.



http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/2561/jorgec.jpg (http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/private.php?do=newpm&u=111)

[3kcarbon]

Replaced my brake pads with Hawk Performance Pads. What a difference! Now I know I can stop when I really need.

Thats one of those worth every penny things.

[dallas_]

Clearanced the block plate for the starter motor, indexed the bellhousing and reinstalled the clutch, pressure plate and bellhousing.
Hope to install the engine tomorrow.

[AJ Roadster NJ]

Headed to the garage right now for sanding and filler on the driver's door. Lots of bodywork to do. Nice 51° sunny day here in Flanders NJ, good weather for Rage Gold. I think I'm probably at the point where I should add some new pics. I think I'll probably start it up and terrorize the neighborhood again. (Actually, all my neighbors LOVE this car, except for one guy that calls the cops every single time I fire it up.)

[Steven K]

Mounted the radiator, shroud, and fan.

[dallas_]

With the help of my two boys, installed the engine.

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5834&d=1320638108

[CDXXVII]

Drilled some panel holes in the wrong place. Expanding my vocabulary with new an improved inappropriate language. %$&&&&%%#@!

[evvander11]

Installed Oil Dipstick and Trans Dipstick, and mocked up the fit for my shifter. Also took the driveshaft to get it lengthened.

[ClemsonS197]

Put the motor and trans in

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v296/FinlayZJ/Factory%20Five%20Roadster/DSC_0007.jpg

[dallas_]

That motor looks sweet!


put the motor and trans in

[dallas_]

Got most of the fuel delivery system in. Tank, pickup, fuel pump, filters, fittings and hoses.

[The Stig]

With the help of my two boys, installed the engine.

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5834&d=1320638108

Very nice looking engine! Out of curiosity, did the stacks come with the engine, or did you pick them up someplace else?

Looks great!

[VD2021]

Put the motor and trans in

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v296/FinlayZJ/Factory%20Five%20Roadster/DSC_0007.jpg

Wow! The only other word that comes to mind as I look at the pic is "Clean". Nice job.

....On a side note. Thank you to the OP. I really enjoy this thread....

[dallas_]

Very nice looking engine! Out of curiosity, did the stacks come with the engine, or did you pick them up someplace else?

Looks great!

Stig, thanks! That engine came without intake or carbs. I had the webers before I got the engine.

[JimiD]

body buck done... wheels to arrive Friday just waiting for delivery of my baby.............

[dallas_]

Wiring.
The dash is done, now working on engine bay wiring and front & rear harness.

[JimiD]

Saturday received shipment and got this done:6120

Sunday I got this far:6121

Monday starting the rear...

[LuckyWinner]

I got my pedal box put in....I know, should have a picture.

[Scott7644]

My painter picked up the car to start body work - yeah.

[3kcarbon]

I ignored mine and it ignored me....

[Gopher]

I did not do anything but my friends brought me photo's of the stripped frame on the flatbed headed to the blasters and then on to powder coaters so it will be done and back in the garage by the time I get home from the hospital.

[md58]

Finally got the engine completely installed. Ready to start all of the dreaded electrical.


6153 6155

[emac]

jimi, I would have finished my front suspension as well tonight, but I spent 30 minutes looking for the rear upper control arm bolt......then read it is in the box with the spindles! Decided to call it a night.

[AZPete]

Spent another hour reading stuff here.

[JimiD]

Powder coated pedal box parts:
6161616261636164616761656166

[AC Bill]

Spent another hour reading stuff here.

:D I hear you!
I probably spent more hours reading, and learning about the build process, as I did actually building the car.:)

[emac]

Went home at lunch and cleaned up the garage, organized tools. I love starting with an organized work area.

[E-Ticket Ride]

Currently on travel in DC area. What can I do? ORDER PARTS!!!!
Placed on order with Breeze for EFI tank, LCA bushings, offset rack bushings, and IRS tie down brackets.
Asked Richard Oben a question, and found out he is out 'til Monday, or I would be ordering brakes and a Coyote pan.

Kit due in less than a week. Oh yea, built the chassis dolly this weekend....

[3kcarbon]

I ignored mine and it ignored me... we seem to have a thing going on right now.....I haven't bought it anything new and its mad...

[Scott7644]

MD58 - you suck. A coyote with a supercharger??? I am so jealous.

[patpur]

Chris where are you in DC? and how long?

[md58]

MD58 - you suck. A coyote with a supercharger??? I am so jealous.

Sorry, I really wanted to try the new aluminator and what good would it be with out the top. It's a lot more plumbing and fitting things in but can't wait to fire it up in a couple weeks.

[JimiD]

Pedal box last night.

[emac]

Jimi,
I am one night behind you. I finished up the front suspension last night, (still waiting on rear IRS parts) and primed the pedal box. I snuck home at lunch and painted the pedal box and stuck it in the oven to help cure it faster. The wife came home and wasnt thrilled about convection baking car parts, but agreed to keep an eye on them for me.

[JimiD]

you don't need the oval spacers... Waiting on my rear also :D ... gas pedal and hopefully steering tonight.

[emac]

Thanks for the advice, I will keep that in mind as I figure out what to do with the oval spacers! I wont tell how long it took me to figure out how to get the spring hat on the shock. I had to crack up laughing at myself. Good thing my 7 year old was the only one around watching.

One of my brake discs had a bad spot on it. Looked like a bad casting (porosity). FFR is looking into replacing it. I noted the box said "made in China". Go figure.

[JimiD]

Finished pedal box with cables yesterday.
6214
Rear should show up today.

[NICK C]

Well I've stopped at the pedal assembly for now as I wait for the power brake set up from Whitbys. I should get my cam kit tomorrow according to FedX so I can get short blocked., and I ordered the Mass Flo injection yesterday so should be a week or two for that. I'm doing some clean up in the cockpit and some general tidying up.

[emac]

Steering rack and fuel tank tonight. More boxes to the trash!

[JimiD]

Put IRS rear in and attached, lower arms and assembled the fuel tank.

[dallas_]

Put in Fast Freddie's electric power steering kit.

[Dans65]

Great thread!

Well,
I am out of country right now, but before I left, I was doing some upgrades and mods to my car. I have been driving mine for 4+ years and been finding things I should have paid alittle more in detail and things I should have done better, or completed. Last New's Years Day I parked my car at my sister's house in another state due to a brother was/is in need of a place to live. He lost it all, family home, security and no job, when his wife decided to fool around and divorce. So where I decided to move my car out of a place I was renting for parking to my sister's. So with that out of the way, I've been busy with:
1. added heat seat elements
2. dome lights (Pass & Drvr side)
3. some re-wiring under the dash & replaced all heat ducting
4. powder coated the door & hood hinges
5. chopped the hood scoop to add the new hood scoop (I have no idea how to do this)
6. powder coated the front brake calipers (Cobra-type black & yellow), rear will come later
7. Front swaybar POR-15, rear will come later too
8. replacement of lower adiator hose
9.pondering to replace the intake system... I'm 80% sure thqt will be done!
10. replace the power steering hoses with steel braided

The rear area things like brake calipers, swaybar will be done as well, just taking care of the front-end stuff first

What's in stored:

1. Trunk drop box
2. dome light for trunk
3. power outlet
4. battery terminals
5. rear cover replacement
6. rebuild the suspension sytem with racing hardware (This one is the biggie!)
7. re-design the re-designed tranny cross member with a heavier gage steel
8. ceramic the sidepipes
9. Primer the car and alittle body work (yes, it's still in gelcoat!)

Dan

[emac]

Rivets, rivets, and more rivets. I can't imagine doing the panels without clecos.

[JimiD]

put steering in.

[AJ Roadster NJ]

Jimi man, you gotta slow down. You're making me look bad. :cool:

[JimiD]

I was delayed too! Steering shaft was BO'd got it yesterday and put it in. They sent me one wrong sized rod end on my upper control arm for my IRS, that should get to me today and i can finish up the rear. Put the rear calipers together and mount and i could potentially roll my chassis!:)

[emac]

I have done basically nothing for a week and a half. Engine and rear diff should come monday. Then I get to go out of town for a long weekend! After that it is game on. Planning on a go cart run by the end of the year.

[JimiD]

what year?:eek:

[emac]

I'll let you know dec 31 st! Haha....

[dallas_]

Got the fan, shroud and radiator attached.

[E-Ticket Ride]

I got to inventory:
Breeze EzPak shipment of tank, fuel system, and front LCA bushings;
Forte's shipment of my 3.55 Al Center section, torsen, and rear Cobra hubs;
and my NRC (Richard Oben) shipment of front and rear brakes and rotors

Thanks guys for the cool new toys!

[dallas_]

Added a mechanical throttle linkage:

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6806&d=1324008436

[JimiD]

Trimmed steering rods, finished front brake lines, installed firewall, finished power brake mod and drilled 1000 holes... Driver foot box and trunk ready for Powder coat.

[bil1024]

Wiring! Oh what fun, hope to finish up alot by the wknd. Looking for first start in Jan

[LuckyWinner]

Cut tie rods, but no castle nuts, so I need to go out and get two. Going out now to put together gas tank and try to install.

[captain172]

Took a cold winter ride. First GoPro camera use. Need to work on camera placement and sound.

Still, I can look at this through the icy winter. Temp is now below 30 and the roads are salted. Car is nor sleeping through the winter.

http://www.facebook.com/v/325809044115670

[LuckyWinner]

Riviting.....drilling.....Takes longer than you think it is.

[MPTech]

LuckyWinner, what are you riveting already? So far, mine is still all held together with cleco's (I'm going to need more). I've even found that I needed to remove the F-Panels a couple times already to work on the brakes and install the big washer in the IFS LCA. I also removed some panels to test-fit the engine. I'm glad I didn't rivit anything yet.
Hope you build is going well, post some updates, we'd love to see the progress and pictures!

And Thank You again for your service! :D

[AC Bill]

Just fiddling around with some small detail stuff. I was working on making an aluminum cover for the hole in the underside of the trunk lid.
Wondered what people that had them were using to fasten them? Rivets would be simple enough, but I wondered if I may need to access that area at some point in the future, and should use self tapping screws instead..

I was also planning mount my fire extinguisher in the trunk, but the mount that it came with is plastic..I worry that under stress from hard cornering, or acceleration it may snap. I would prefer a metal bracket.. Anyone aware if they sell metal extinguisher mount brackets by themselves, or do I have to buy a whole new extinguisher?

[emac]

It only takes a second to drill out a rivet....I have done it a number times during the build.

[Cobradavid]

Today, I finally finished and installed my home-made turkey pan.

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?4887-Turkey-pan-or-Cookie-Sheet&p=48462#post48462

David

[NICK C]

Finished fuel lines, filter, and regulator yesturday. Tracking small leal at Wilwood resevoirs. Fitting trunk aluminum but waiting for submerged battery box and possible other trunk mods.

[JimiD]

Engine and Keyless start in on Saturday.

[OCCPete]

OK, here's my latest "I'm bored, I've got to find something to do on the roadster quick project." GoPro camera roll-bar mount - total outlay $15. Can't wait to try it out on the road...

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y48/pballent/2d4d4d7e.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y48/pballent/5479fdfb.jpg

Forward view:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y48/pballent/GOPR0013.jpg

Pete

[MPTech]

JimiD, what did you coat your panels with? Those look really nice. (can we see some more PICs?)

[JimiD]

It's a powder coat called "Silver Vein". I'll try to dig some more pic's up.

[289FIA_Cobra]

This past weekend: changed oil and filter, removed RD radiator to repair leak - going the J-B Weld route, hopefully this week.

[acgramps]

Just finished installing a power brake booster. Previous owner choose not to use one. Had great difficulty slowing these wheels down - could never do a panic stop!!! Roadster was using all Cobra brake system - just no booster. Took a couple of days to build an adapter to mate the booster to the firewall etc - critical clearances. Used a 7" dual diaphragm booster that I had from my old hot rod days. Took it for a road test today. Now I can lock up the wheels if need be. Happier than a pig in poop... :)

[skullandbones]

I'm working on the upper manifold, EGR, throttle body, and all the little accessories. Mocking it up right now to measure and fit everything in place, especially the MAF sensor. It's a little bit of a tight fit but I think I have it figured out (the right frame tubes get in the way). Hope to have the engine ready for a first start before my birthday, Feb 14. I'll send pics when I get a little further along. WEK.

Does anyone have a pic of their throttle positioning sensor throttle cable setup? The manual shows how to custom cut the throttle cable but does not show me how to put the whole assembly together (at least, I can't find it if they did). It has been so long, I have forgotten how that area hooks up. Thanks!

[Jeff Kleiner]

The temperature got into the upper 50's with bright sunshine so I rinsed 2 months worth of dust off of it and headed out to the grocery store to pick up a few things for dinner. The store is 3 miles from home but by the time I returned the odometer showed 61 more miles than when I left!

Jeff

[ianhunter]

Fitted a ********** Trunk Support so now my trunk lid doesn't sit on my head every time I load the trunk or just turn the battery master switch on or off!

Had to have road test to make sure all was OK as I like to run the car at leat once a month and hadn't a decent day to do so since Christmas. Bright sunny day, dry roads but only 0 degrees C. Chr*st it was cold!!

But the trunk support survived its first outing!

Ian

[skullandbones]

I've been checking off the pic list to get ready for the first start up. Yesterday, I started filling the cooling system just to find out I had a serious leak at the intake and waterneck. Come to find out, the ear on the steel neck was bent so the two bolts would never have tightened enough to seal. So I dug up another one, polised it, drilled and tapped for the ECT sensor (it was cast for it but not drilled/tapped). Well, I was back to where I started but this time it held water. Installed the header to sidepipe gaskets and checked all the header bolts. Finished hooking up some ground wires and double checking all the EEC module wiring. I have run out of things on the list.

Now I am checking the pre oiler that I made from a used distributor. I haven't been able to verify that oil is up to the heads using an inspection camera (but it feels like it is pumping oil). I may have to remove the valve cover, drill the hole out a little larger to insert the inspection camera tube. After that, I will be ready to test the electrical circuits and do a test run (check to see if starter engages, fuel pump cycles and holds pressure, etc). Then it's show time. WEK.

[Ray]

Changed the oil.

Ray

[NICK C]

Sent Engine to builder last week so have been playing with body knocking down mold seams. Since last post finished trunk drop boxes and battery box in upper trunk level and placed glove box between seats. Nick

[dallas_]

Well, it wasn't today, but in the last two weeks got 1st start and 1st go cart. :)

[dallas_]

Working on the cockpit aluminum. Lots of drilling and riveting.

[skullandbones]

Added a ground to the temporary gas filler tube (almost forgot - boom!!!). I installed three firewall supports out of alum to the 3/4 in dash hoop. Really stablizes everything especially the two Wilwood resourvors I installed with an extension bracket to clear the body a little. Also installed and torgued the drive shaft. With some last minute checking of brake lines and bleeding the brakes, I should be able to do a limited slow check out of the rolling chassis. WEK.

[Pierre B]

Finally, after 13,000+ miles on the odo, I decided to block off the stone and grit paths from the rear wheel arches to the cockpit in my MKII. I am referring to the recessed door latch mechanism that, left alone (as I had done to this point), deposits a lot of road crap under the cockpit carpeting right behind the door jambs. I had waited a while before doing this, because I was not excited about having to shape metal into two shallow, irregular little boxes to cover these openings. Instead, I used mudflap material (Ford of course) I bought at AutoZone (Metro Supersoft Door Weatherstrip), then cut it to shape so it could be riveted to the latch projections and come close to the wheel arch faces all around. FYI: that weatherstrip has the bulb in the side, while the one FFR provides with our kits for use along the top of the firewall etc. has the bulb on the end. Two pieces of that press-on weather bulb strip (also obtained at AutoZone years ago) along with strings of 3M Strip-Calk to seal any remaining top opening (NAPA) got the job done in less than 1-hour. Project complete with minimal intrusion (3/16" or so) into the wheelwells. This will also keep out a good amount of water if I ever get caught in a shower...

[crjohn]

I finished up plumbing in the radiator and am working on getting the air burped out of the system... Everything seems to be holding. It's nice to be able to run the engine for more than a few seconds!

[frankeeski]

I'm feeling really guilty. I have not touch the car in months. I ordered a bunch of parts and most are ready to install on the car but I've just been too busy at work to carve out any time to spend in the garage. Maybe after Huntington Beach. At this point I don't want to tear into the car and not be able to make it to any of the upcoming events.

[dallas_]

Installing the cockpit insulation.

[NICK C]

Put in clutch safety switch and connected e-brake cables. Starting to layout install for footbox vents from Cobra Earl. Waiting for engine to return and waiting for clutch, pressure plate and flywheel. I hate waiting but it's still a bunch of fun.

[dallas_]

Started installing the carpet.
Ordered some additional carpet from FFR to do the extended passenger footbox and the trunk.

[dallas_]

Test fit the body and took it for a short spin. :)


http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=8890&d=1334771774

[skullandbones]

Made a list of things to do to get ready for the road and registration.

I cut the hole in the truck alum so I can install the truck floor over the sunken battery box. Started covering wires running through the trans tunnel and permanently drilling and clamping to the 3/4 tubes. Jacking up the back to finish the wire coverings and clamps. Installing the Forte "clutch effort redudcer". Tomorrow it's more of the same along with a preliminary front end alignment or at least an attempt at it. I need to dirve about 5 miles to the alignment shop. And the list goes on. WEK.

[frankeeski]

Test fit the body and took it for a short spin. :)


http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=8890&d=1334771774

The Car looks magnificent D. The roll bar look nice against that burgundy paint. Hows the fit?