Seths 33- 1133. Famous guy donut post.

[sethmark]

Hey it’s a shop and at a race track. What’s not to love! I suggest LED lights. A huge difference in brightness.

yep. Wonderful addition. I hung 18 of them at the shop in ga last summer.

[sethmark]

New home.......

[AJT '33]

You'll have to update and change your location now!!! :)

[BC Huselton]

Welcome to VIR. I am 1 Hour away in Cary NC. At VIR often. Just completed an 818 and final tuning for sale. And, in the process of a Deluxe 33. What section are you in and the address. Check in with you when you get settled.

Great Track and amazing facilities!

Again Welcome! BC

119141

[sethmark]

Welcome to VIR. I am 1 Hour away in Cary NC. At VIR often. Just completed an 818 and final tuning for sale. And, in the process of a Deluxe 33. What section are you in and the address. Check in with you when you get settled.

Great Track and amazing facilities!

Again Welcome! BC

119141

I’m at the speed suites in front of sasco on ace drive. My hope is to open my shop to privateers on race weekends for DIY repairs. Dm me your contact stuff!

[sethmark]

Merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah and a happy new year to all. Being 400 miles from my toy is currently pissing me off, but that’s the way life goes. Hopefully we will close on the house in Georgia on January 2 and I’ll be in Virginia permanently after that.


Enjoy your holidays!

[sethmark]

Visited the car today. Drove it til I wore off the flat spots. I’m going to start the registration process next week I hope. Then bodywork.

[sethmark]

With 1 million things still going on I’m still not sure what I’m doing about bodywork or when. However I have decided to go ahead and get the car plated and on the road. First step was an alignment. No issue whatsoever.

[sethmark]

Paperwork is completed and I’ll get it notarized next week. I’m currently trying to tie up all the loose ends that will be required for inspection in Virginia. The first of those being the horns. I hate the damn horn’s. They don’t fit anywhere neat. At least they didn’t.

Aluminum 1 inch tube clamp drilled and tapped. Not a big mod, but it had to be done.

[cob427sc]

How about using the 2 smaller holes on the front plate of the frame behind the radiator shroud. They will be basically unseen, no lower than the the radiator shell. Only difference is you need to mount each horn seperately.

[sethmark]

I’m kind of a nut about not mounting anything below the frame. With that said your ideas excellent and one that I considered. Putting it on a tube clamp gave me a lot of flexibility and doesn’t permanently modify the frame, which I like.

[sethmark]

Calcarcovers for a 32 Boydster.

[wrp]

Cover King makes a beautiful product but their designer insists that a Roadster without the top is the same as the Coupe with the top. Also he cannot conceive why we would not mount mirrors in front of the door. Therefore inspite of the flixibility in colors, the fitment sucks. I only keep the cover because I will run the car as a roadster off and on. Car covers makes an excellent indoor cover that does actually fit well. You just get a choice of black or silver. Here is a shot of each.

Cover King
121071

Car Cover
121073

[sethmark]

Paperwork submitted!

[JOP33]

Cover King makes a beautiful product but their designer insists that a Roadster without the top is the same as the Coupe with the top. Also he cannot conceive why we would not mount mirrors in front of the door. Therefore inspite of the flixibility in colors, the fitment sucks. I only keep the cover because I will run the car as a roadster off and on. Car covers makes an excellent indoor cover that does actually fit well. You just get a choice of black or silver. Here is a shot of each.

Cover King
121071

Car Cover
121073

Purchased the exact same one Bill, thanks for your help!

[sethmark]

So Christine and I took the the 33 on a drive today. Not super long since it's stil not registered, but through the country. Up to speed and through the gears on backcountry high speed twisties.


I love the power. I love the brakes. The seat is too high and I hate the bench. Buckets on order.


The driveshaft is vibrating. Otherwise. It'sGOOD.

[sethmark]

Got rid of the bench. I prefer sitting LOW.

[rapidray]

Looking good! Funny we both have driveshaft issues. Nice car! Ray

[sethmark]

Looking good! Funny we both have driveshaft issues. Nice car! Ray

I'm hoping mine is just angle...

[rapidray]

If you have not already, download the Tremec tool for your phone. Its pretty easy to use and free. I actually used it and a cheap angle finder I bought at ACE hardware. Dan at FFR checked my readings and it was all good. He is a real knowledgeable guy and easy to talk to. Keep in mind that I had to lengthen the upper rod on my 3 link suspension to get the angle correct. Good luck Ray

[sethmark]

I am pretty comfortable with the process, but super lazy about pulling the trans tunnel. I’m covered up with work currently.

[peterh226]

FFR is sending me a new longer upper arm. I’ll add pics to my build once I get it installed.

[sethmark]

Thanks for letting me know. I just did Pinion angle today. I’m probably a little light on thread engagement. I’ll call them tomorrow.

[sethmark]

Worked on the driveline again. Started by lowering the trans 1/2". That gave me a 4* driveshaft slope. Adjusted the pinion to 1* under. Now to drive when it stops raining.

In other news, I finally got the new bender up and running and have started working through the learning process. Accuracy and repeatability are king. Today I bent a square square, in plane.

[progmgr1]

Now that's impressive (at least to this novice builder)! I struggled to bend U shaped pipes - the 90° bend wasn't so bad, it was the "in plane" part that gave me fits. You must be a fast learner:rolleyes: Keep up the great work! Keith HR #894

[sethmark]

Now that's impressive (at least to this novice builder)! I struggled to bend U shaped pipes - the 90° bend wasn't so bad, it was the "in plane" part that gave me fits. You must be a fast learner:rolleyes: Keep up the great work! Keith HR #894

Thanks, but I’m kind of a ringer... I do it for a ‘living’. I’ve built 30+ of these mini late model chassis. Different style bender, different shop....

[sethmark]

Found my driveshaft vibration....


https://youtu.be/MCfkCXc36jg

[FF33rod]

That'll do it, any idea how it got warped?

[tony]

that looks like the entire axle is off center.

[sethmark]

That'll do it, any idea how it got warped?
It was a salvage core. I didn’t upgrade the axle shafts to Mosers at the time, even though I did a new carrier, new gear set, and bearings. So, today I got to buy those mosers for it.

I’m not really surprised based on how mustang guys drive.

[sethmark]

Well I Successfully made my rear axle as expensive as it could’ve been had I just order direct from Moser... new gears, diff, brakes, shafts..... The nice thing is the car is smooth as a babies butt now.


On another note I got around to spaghetti cutting the exhaust pipes.

[sethmark]

Snuck the car up to a cars and coffee this am. Got a nice shot in the parking garage after....

[peterh226]

Can you measure how long your lower control arm are? My top arm bracket sticks through th vertical panel and I needed a longer upper arm to get enough adjustment. Also my shocks are not as vertical. 122616 122617 thanks!
Lower control arm center to center is 17.75.
Upper arm for 3link about 17. I’ll need to adjust a bit.

[sethmark]

Sure! Lower links are 17.75”. Upper is 16.875. Pinion angle is 0. I’m in the lower hole for the lower links.

[sethmark]

Well it’s official. The state of Virginia has issued title. One more hoop to jump through and they will hand me the title and I can go get plates. The last hoop is Vin verification. Should be a rubberstamp. I hope to pick my kid up from school in this car next week.

[rapidray]

Congrats! I hope to do the same next week.

[FF33rod]

Excellent, congrats Seth!

[sethmark]

Some trim details.....

First, the stubs for the roll hoop need to be cut at an angle to fit under the waterfall. They were not cut at Factory Five. Waterfall will not fit snug without cutting it.


Second, the bustle that sits on top of the body had to be shortened to fit flat as well. That required loosening up the vinyl cutting a half an inch off the bottom of the flange and re-gluing.

The vertical portion of the bustle is loose in this picture. I haven’t glued it back yet. I need to make trim rings for the roll bar.

123500

[McGuyver]

That is going to be one excited girl when she sees you in the school pick up line!

[JimLev]

You should let her drive the '33 around the school parking lot.

[sethmark]

She can’t reach the pedals..... can’t start it without pushing in the clutch. So tough! Lol.

[FF33rod]

Interesting that the roll bar stubs need to be cut back, that is not a problem on my Gen 1. The waterfall actually fits not too bad, much better than I thought it was going to. Limiting factor is actually the chassis, it's sitting right up against the back cockpit metal and chassis cross bar.

Steve

[sethmark]

I get the sense that they figured it out right quick. Since I won’t drive the car without the rollbar it’s not the end of the world. But it’s another thing.

[sethmark]

And that’s basically a wrap. I’ve done just about everything I can do prior to body and paint. I’m strongly considering farming it out. The mess isn’t my cupajoe. I may finish it myself. But not planning on it right now.

[FF33rod]

Looks great Seth! Did you hold off on some aluminum panels? I was thinking of doing similar to yourself, finish off except the finer parts of body and certainly the paint. But then to get that done the body has to come off so things like the striker mount and such need to come off again. It's a pain if they're behind a riveted panel...

[sethmark]

Yes. I left off four of the aluminum panels figuring doors will need to be adjusted during the bodywork process.

[sethmark]

Vin verification is complete. Now I have to wait for the computer to update and I can plate it. Just in time for high 60s next week.

[rapidray]

Congratulations !!! Bet you are going to have a bunch of fun soon!!!!

[sethmark]

Tuesday I’m hoping. With the family move I’ve wasted the whole winter.

At least I found a spot for that FFR badge.

[sethmark]

Day 1 plated —- picked the kid up at school, drove 60 miles and had a blast.


https://youtu.be/zmBv_ZEMjiM

[tony]

Man, I bet that feels awesome!

[Mrallsport32]

Hey I really like the nice set up with the braided line from the master cylinders. It looks like -3 or -4. What parts did you use to convert the master cylinders from the rubber hose attachments to be able to screw on the braided lines. Thanks.

[sethmark]

Give me a couple hours to dig out all the part numbers and I’ll get them for you.
Hey I really like the nice set up with the braided line from the master cylinders. It looks like -3 or -4. What parts did you use to convert the master cylinders from the rubber hose attachments to be able to screw on the braided lines. Thanks.

[Mrallsport32]

No hurry, thank you

[sethmark]

EAR-961603ERL (https://www.summitracing.com/parts/ear-961603erl)
-3 TO 1/8 NPT STEEL ADAPTER


RAM-78326 (https://www.summitracing.com/parts/ram-78326)
TEFLON LINE 18

WIL-220-13130 (https://www.summitracing.com/parts/wil-220-13130)
INLET KIT

[sethmark]

Spent the entire day today quarantined to the 33. Ran it about 85 miles. Science museum, train station, Home Depot, Virginia international raceway, coffee, Virginia state inspection...

124354124355124356124357124358

[HVACMAN]

I start vacation tomorrow. I am going to self quarantine to the garage. lol

[sethmark]

The plate....

[sethmark]

Checking in at 400 miles. Car is pretty well behaved. No issues other than it settled and needs another alignment.

oh and the dumb computer for the engine is set to a speed limiter of 95! Wtf! Found that out the hard way.

[cob427sc]

Speed limiter? That's what you get with all that new fangled hardware. I'm going with 3 -2's on my old Buick nailhead. Top speed only limited by my big toe and b@$%s.

[sethmark]

Speed limiter? That's what you get with all that new fangled hardware. I'm going with 3 -2's on my old Buick nailhead. Top speed only limited by my big toe and b@$%s.

I’m not much for car shows. :p

[sethmark]

Still practicing that social distancing stuff. Today my daughter and I did a hot rod 100. Nothing like two hours of chatting with your 13-year-old. Can’t replace that.

On the car front, it got 26 miles per gallon over the hundred miles today. Flipped over 500.

[rapidray]

You are having way too much fun! I will get you the door attachment pictures soon! Sorry for the delay. Take care! Ray

[sethmark]

I am. The car as a conduit for activities. First build it, then go do stuff in it. Honestly, the last 5% just isn’t that important to me today. Come winter I’ll feel differently I’m sure.

[rapidray]

After weeks of fitting the panels I think the mechanical part is easy compared to the body work. There is just no rigidity with the hood, side panels and trunk. Everything moves around. I have built numerous brackets trying to make it solid. The hood hinges are only attached to the grille frame so its really wobbly. I am going to build a few more brackets to stiffen them up. Honestly even after that a person will have to be careful opening and closing the hood and trunk after paint. The doors seem to be pretty solid however. I don't know if you intend to run the hood and side panels but trust me if I build another one I won't. The lower panels they supply are for the 33 grille so you have to cut them down and even then the fit is lousy at best. They should really make the right panels it would make it much easier. Enjoy Ray

[sethmark]

You’re so right.....the doors have taken literally days each to get just ok. So much time in the body...

[sethmark]

https://youtu.be/dt04ViWsQlg

[sethmark]

700 miles under the belt. Ran the car up the lift to do a nut and bolt. Exhaust manifolds were LOOSE on the heads. Suspension was snug and looked great. No leaks, pulls or problems to report. Chassis is FILTHY. That's gonna be a joy to clean. Often.


125894

[FF33rod]

Get the toothbrush and q-tips out LOL Good catch on the manifolds

[sethmark]

There will be a day that that car is as perfect as it’s ever going to be. Then there will be all the other days.


I still can’t believe it’s got 700 miles on it.

[sethmark]

Cold and wet has ruined the fun of late, so I started working on the door tops. I know zilch about filllers and bodywork but I at the shop everyday, so no sense in not trying. I started by flattening the odd seam on top of the door and filling with Evercoat short strand. Worked great after a few test runs and at least there arent any more funny voids and cracks. Not sure if I want to prime it or leave it. The short strand is waterproof.

[cob427sc]

I'd take a rattle can of primer and just dress it up. You can always sand it of when you get ready to prime the whole car.

[sethmark]

Had some free time at the shop. Bent up a console....

[AJT '33]

Had some free time at the shop. Bent up a console....

Like it, I still need to figure out a way to add a cup holder that can fold away out of site when not used.

[progmgr1]

Kind of pricey, but I like these swing out cupholders from Watson's Street Works: https://www.ebay.com/i/232046613769?chn=ps Keith HR #894

[sethmark]

The g wagon nets are GREAT For fold up.

[sethmark]

One more.

[sethmark]

Another milestone.

[FF33rod]

LOL, Love it. Clearly you are both brave! ;)

[sethmark]

Odometer is sitting ust south of 1000 miles, wife and I did 131 today in 93 * heat. A top and air will be mandatory for summer road trips, but its certainly a well mannered, drivable car. We did a rolling thunder salute to the staff at my wifes hospital last night with a couple of hundred motorcycles....

128457

[sethmark]

This car goes 35mph better than anything. 3rd gear, 2000rpm and just cruise. Right exhaust note, right in the cams happy spot and just chill around town. And immediate zip if you want to eat a Porsche. No work whatsoever on the car. Just miles. It’s such a competent little car. I really should finish it. But it’s so much fun to drive. Maybe in the winter.

[sethmark]

Milestone.

[sethmark]

And just like that, the party is over. At least temporarily. The throwout bearing I got from speedway in my hydraulic clutch kit died. Replacement was $390. First one was all of 75. That’s what I get for inviting cheap parts to the party. It’s also exactly why I didn’t go straight to paint. Hopefully I can just sneak the transmission out the back. If not, I’ll have to pull the engine and trans as an assembly.

[RoadRacer]

Ugh. Good luck.

[JimLev]

I pulled the tranny from inside. Seats and tranny tunnel removed, it wasn't that bad a job.

[FF33rod]

That sucks Seth, good luck!

Steve

[sethmark]

I pulled the tranny from inside. Seats and tranny tunnel removed, it wasn't that bad a job.


good to hear.... the manual is smaller than a auto.

[sethmark]

I can’t get out of my own way lately. Poor car is missing spring. I need to pull the trans.

[sethmark]

That was seriously easy. 10 bolts and out it popped. Now to diagnose......

[FF33rod]

Geez, you didn't even remove the seats!

[sethmark]

Geez, you didn't even remove the seats!

Truly it couldn’t have been easier or more controlled. I had intended on pulling the seats, but it just wasn’t necessary. I did 100% of that work alone.

[JimLev]

I pulled the seats bc my arms and legs were the hoist.
If I ever need to do it again I’ll get a hoist.
Thanks for the pics.

[sethmark]

Pulling a door off seemed excessive, but it worked. Definitely not a job I would want to do with a painted car.

[TxMike64]

Pulling a door off seemed excessive, but it worked...

The fun will be getting it aligned right again!


...Definitely not a job I would want to do with a painted car.

Yet another reason for building it a driving it to get all these things worked out before making it shiny. Paint and highly detailed body are on my priority list way after there's absolutely nothing else to do to the car.

[Roger Pugh]

Fedexaclaus brought my gauges today.

.116610116611

Sethmark,

I feel the same way with Fedexaclaus! Seeing that truck pull up makes a heart beat a bit faster!

Roger

[sethmark]

Damn.

[JimLev]

^_the car is so light did you need such an aggressive clutch?

[sethmark]

Apparently not. I spoke to McLeod and they’re happy with that wear. They indicated that the noise is normal. But it’s too aggressive. I don’t want to listen to that in this car. So I’ll go to a dual organic style. When I bought it, it was a complete kit with the transmission clutch etc. As it turns out, the money I saved in buying the kit I’m about to lose in replacing the clutch.

[sethmark]

The car decided to fight today. Pilot bearing needed a special tool, since the actual pilot bearing tool kept chipping chunks. I welded up a socket and went hydraulic.

Fly wheel and clutch really are awkward to heave into place alone. I’ll do it tomorrow..

[sethmark]

I don’t know how many clutch sets I’ve done in my life, but this one was no harder or easier. However it was one little detail that have made this job miserable. The new hydraulic throwout bearing has a stud that keeps it from rotating on the nosecone of the transmission. Normal stuff. Just like the bearing it replaced.

However, this bearing had a stud that was longer than I was required for my setup. Well I forgot to trim it. And it got stuck on the clutch fingers and broke off. Transmission back out.


I would like to drive this car in anger again.

[tony]

everything I do as well seems to take twice as long and redone two or three times. Nature of the beast!

[JimLev]

Don’t feel bad, I had my tranny out twice too.

[FF33rod]

Right now I'd be happy to trade you jobs Seth. You take care of these dreadful power windows and I'll do your clutch.... :)

[sethmark]

Went to the shop this morning to finish and lo and behold I forgot my key. I believe I own too many cars. At least I got to watch the formula fords on track for a while. My little 944 in the background looked longingly at the track like a old guy remembering when.....


https://youtu.be/Xa8rbaG4yq0

[sethmark]

Fixed.

[RoadRacer]

Fixed.

Smokey burnout video or it didn't happen! We need more driving videos from finished cars :D

[sethmark]

Smokey burnout video or it didn't happen! We need more driving videos from finished cars :D
Oh I got you covered there.... NASCAR tires and wheels this week.

[sethmark]

Oh my..........


Gotta buy some wheels. I have the tires.

[JOP33]

Do you know if those will fit under the standard FFR bicycle fenders and rear fenders? :D:D:D

[sethmark]

Honestly, I hope they fit on my Yukon, my Porsche, my Wife’s Mercedes...........

[RoadRacer]

Oh my..........


Gotta buy some wheels. I have the tires.

LOL you had me fooled for a few seconds until I realized there was another front tire peeking out.. and no wheel nuts.

But seriously, love it.

[sethmark]

Don’t be fooled. I have a set of RCR scrubs in the shop. I’m running them.
LOL you had me fooled for a few seconds until I realized there was another front tire peeking out.. and no wheel nuts.

But seriously, love it.

[sethmark]

I got everything running again and took the car for a 50mile rip.

Somehow I had forgotten
a. What a good noise that car makes


b. How freaking fast it is


c.How I have no self-control with it.

[sethmark]

Poor video, good sound though. Sorry for the short pull, but I didn’t see the traffic when I laid into it.



https://youtu.be/HuXVtLjK13Y

[sethmark]

Hmmm

[HVACMAN]

A trip to the local drag strip?? Go for it.132733

[sethmark]

Oh good lord.....

[RoadRacer]

Oh good lord.....

That's what I'm talking about. Hell yeah.

[RoadRacer]

BTW, to someone who is driving, how much does the rear move vertically? :p (assuming you're a 3 link too?)

[sethmark]

I have to raise the rear up at least an inch or so. I was test fitting for backspace. I have tons of room laterally, but they are substantially bigger than the tires they replaced. Plus, I have the car set up a little tail dragger.

[rapidray]

Now that's awesome!!!

[Plimpton]

This car goes 35mph better than anything. 3rd gear, 2000rpm and just cruise. Right exhaust note, right in the cams happy spot and just chill around town. And immediate zip if you want to eat a Porsche. No work whatsoever on the car. Just miles. It’s such a competent little car. I really should finish it. But it’s so much fun to drive. Maybe in the winter.

Seth, I drop in every once in a while to admire your thread progress. I'm a (non-gearhead) gen 2 builder and just did my go-cart. All went OK with a couple issues. One is my clutch. I'm running a Blueprint SBF w/TKO600 manual w/MDL external slave. The clutch works (I can shift gears) but with both master and slave adjusted to max stroke, clutch bites (engages) really close to the floor board (pedal fully depressed). After a suggestion from Modern Drive Line (slave cyl mfr) I replaced my F5 furnished Wilwood 3/4" m/c with a 13/16" with very little pedal improvement. Could you kindly tell me what bore size your clutch master cyl is, just so I can compare? Although I don't relish the thought of doing this again (the bleeding is a PITA), I'm thinking I may still be too small. I would welcome input from other forum members too.

[sethmark]

Thread the pedal out further. I’m running the 3/4 bore. I don’t have a ton of pedal travel. I prefer it. They’re set up almost dead straight across....

[shmelty]

Oh good lord.....

Hot Damn!!

[sethmark]

https://youtu.be/JBuCNUVh9NY

[McGuyver]

That is awesome!!!

[sethmark]

The backstory here is the tires were free. They were Goodyear NASCAR tires from Sonoma road course. I have a buddy of mine that has a couple of former NASCAR cars for track day at VIR and he gave them to me. I figured for the cost of a set of cheap steel wheels it would be too cool looking.


The only modification I made was increasing the ride height in the rear. I need to go up another inch or so, but I have no clearance issues with a 4 inch backspace wheel.


As for driving them on the road, we all recognize that they are not technically street legal. Forget technically. They are not street legal. Moving along, the biggest issues were as follows:
The tram lining is a factor. They grab every groove and pull. They stick fine when hot. They’re less fun cold. When hot they throw Sand and pebbles at low speeds..... A lot.....

However, they take a not subtle car and make it hot wheels. People FREAKED.

I love them. They’re certainly not forever, but for right now they’re funny and fun...until they’re not.

[Michael101]

Very cool!

[TxMike64]

I absolutely love that you're just driving the hell out of this car and having fun with it - not taking it so seriously! My plan is just like yours - build it, have fun with it, tinker with it, drive it and enjoy it - not worried about the body fitting perfect of some amazing paint job. In my mind its a hot rod toy - mess around with it and have fun!

Kudos Man!

[sethmark]

I absolutely love that you're just driving the hell out of this car and having fun with it - not taking it so seriously! My plan is just like yours - build it, have fun with it, tinker with it, drive it and enjoy it - not worried about the body fitting perfect of some amazing paint job. In my mind its a hot rod toy - mess around with it and have fun!

Kudos Man!

thanks brother. I’d like to get it painted next year, but probably won’t treat any differently. I understand both sides of the coin, but my goal is to enjoy the heck out of it my way. I built it to be tough and reliable. Aside from the clutch hiccup, it hasnt disappointed.

For somebody else they may enjoy polishing it to perfection and showing it.

[McGuyver]

The backstory here is the tires were free. They were Goodyear NASCAR tires from Sonoma road course. I have a buddy of mine that has a couple of former NASCAR cars for track day at VIR and he gave them to me. I figured for the cost of a set of cheap steel wheels it would be too cool looking.


The only modification I made was increasing the ride height in the rear. I need to go up another inch or so, but I have no clearance issues with a 4 inch backspace wheel.



I love them. They’re certainly not forever, but for right now they’re funny and fun...until they’re not.

Seth, This is why I enjoy reading your build thread so much. You have a way with words, descriptive to the T!! Be careful :)

[sethmark]

Seth, This is why I enjoy reading your build thread so much. You have a way with words, descriptive to the T!! Be careful :)

thanks! It’s all fun, even the frustrating stuff. I’m pretty sure I wasn’t supposed to do a burn out pulling the car out of the shop after the clutch, but it made me happy. It’s all good.

[NAZ]

Rock on brother, I think big tires look cool.

132913

[sethmark]

Somehow, I had a sneaking suspicion you would appreciate a bad idea like this!

[e36m3]

NAZ (awesome pic, please send more) and Seth, you guys have got me completely rethinking my tire and wheels. Good thing I haven't ordered anything yet...

[sethmark]

NAZ (awesome pic, please send more) and Seth, you guys have got me completely rethinking my tire and wheels. Good thing I haven't ordered anything yet...

fair warning, running big fat front tires makes the car tramline a lot. Running slicks throws gravel like rice at a wedding at slow speeds. Oh and did I mention that they’re slippery as hell until they warm up?

[NAZ]

I've ridden in several fender-less vehicles and owned a few and they do tend to kick up gravel. I live in the country off cindered roads and when I first put some sticky track tires on, I couldn't believe how bad it was. Loved the handling on the street but driving up my 1/2-mile cinder road was not tenable. But if I lived in the city I'd run those sticky tires -- upped the fun factor turning corners like on rails.

[sethmark]

Once they’re warm they’re a riot. But cold they’re wet ice on wet ice.

i love them.

[1932]

I have dirt drive and so much for clean car and rims.

[cob427sc]

My driveway is crushed clam shells - not unusual here on Cape Cod, but even with street tires they stick into the treads and fly off like a bunch of throwing knives! Can't imagine what sticky track tires would be like.

[sethmark]

Had a great opportunity to do instruction laps on track at VIR between imsa races. Not near full speed as they were supposed to be ‘parade’ laps, but we were moving.

[FF33rod]

Cool, was watching the last hour of the race today, that's a great course.

[sethmark]

I’ve had incredible access to the races this weekend thanks to my wife and friends. All access everywhere. More than I deserve.


https://youtu.be/9d5pg1bFPWo

[GoDadGo]

Jeoulous?
You Bet I Am!
Very, Very Cool!

[FF33rod]

it looked fast on TV but your video really put it in perspective! Very cool

[sethmark]

Flat out through the esses is insane. Uphill, slightly off camber with a blind turn at the top.....

I was going fast enough to melt Street tires.

[RoadRacer]

Love track days. But surely the slicks should have been worn? :D

[sethmark]

Love track days. But surely the slicks should have been worn? :D
If I had any clue I was going to get to go on track, they would’ve been on. Unfortunately, it was wet and greasy all weekend so I had thrown the street tires on to be able to use the car on Sunday.

[j33ptj]

Was your 33 in that video clip?

[sethmark]

Dyno pull.
https://youtu.be/hkNfl1hST2c

[FF33rod]

Results? did you do any tuning?

Steve

[sethmark]

It put 330 to the ground. 385 calculated at the crank. Exactly what a bone stock lq9 6.0l should do. I was thrilled.

[sethmark]

So 1133 has been plated for about 6 months now. Ive done about 2k miles and have no regrets about the build. I have a power steering setup from FFR on my bench waiting for lift time, of which theres been little lately. If I could find someone to put the car in primer, I would pull the trigger immediately, but no one wants any work.

In other news, I've apparently become a cheap Porsche hoarder. I have a prom queen 83 944 with 47k miles, a Spec 944 track car, a 986 getting cage work and a cayman keeps peeking in. My formerly spacious shop is covered up with 4 finished chassis, 9 bumpers, an office for my 13 year old to do 8th grade and way too many tires and wheels.
Poor me. ;-)

[NAZ]

Can't have too many toys, just too little tine to play.

[sethmark]

Can't have too many toys, just too little tine to play.


I don't do well with TOO many cars. I start to feel guilty about neglecting them. Right now I'm at 7 running and driving, non projects. Mostly they just sit and wait their turn. I have a super original, totally unmolested CJ7 that hasn't been outside 4x this summer. That's sad.

The hotrod has the distinct pleasure of being the fastest by a substantial amount, so it gets driven quite a bit.

[JimLev]

Where’s the numbers?

[sethmark]

Where’s the numbers?
Sir?

[FF33rod]

Where’s the numbers?

You mean post #402?

[JimLev]

Sir?

Sorry, when I was reading your dyno post there was nothing below it. Slow internet updating???
330 is good.

[sethmark]

Sorry, when I was reading your dyno post there was nothing below it. Slow internet updating???
330 is good.

Gotcha. I was awfully satisfied. That motor hasn’t lost a step, which is all I can ask from it. LS motors are the best. I figure if I get a bug up my butt a cam and springs will net an easy 75hp.

[sethmark]

Wow. Been a while. Hot rod has been mr reliable. I drive it like it’s owes me money and it loves it. The power steering unit is in as of yesterday and I’ll get it wired this morning. Otherwise, gas and oil. Probably going to need some back tires shortly.

And body work. Sigh.

I have considered pulling out the ac evaporator under dash. I don’t see it getting a top or air any time soon.... but it’s paid for.

[rapidray]

Going through your dyna posts and I have to agree that the numbers are good. I am running basically the same setup as you with the exception of the transmission. Got a kick out of your mr. reliable comment. I left the engine stock as I desired a dependable street car and at 2k total weight its plenty fast enough. I think we are all car crazy when it comes to projects as I think I have four going right now. I finally painted mine and am now in the process of reassembling (what a pain in the rear)! I am curious about your power steering upgrade so please keep us posted. It also appears that where the steering joint connects to your rack that you have a bolt and nut, I have had problems with my set screw on that joint coming loose, did you modify the rack and joint? Ray

[sethmark]

Ray,
My wife’s Mercedes is plenty fast enough. The hot rod with that flat truck cam pulls like a freight train. The TREMEC trans is a slow shifter for sure, but second or third gear has been able to keep up with most everything I’ve pulled next to. Certainly it’s more visceral than some of the faster track cars guys bring. I will say this, I’ve use that car Midsummer in southern heat and it just does not care. Starts just like my suburban.





Going through your dyna posts and I have to agree that the numbers are good. I am running basically the same setup as you with the exception of the transmission. Got a kick out of your mr. reliable comment. I left the engine stock as I desired a dependable street car and at 2k total weight its plenty fast enough. I think we are all car crazy when it comes to projects as I think I have four going right now. I finally painted mine and am now in the process of reassembling (what a pain in the rear)! I am curious about your power steering upgrade so please keep us posted. It also appears that where the steering joint connects to your rack that you have a bolt and nut, I have had problems with my set screw on that joint coming loose, did you modify the rack and joint? Ray

[sethmark]

So the power steering is genius. So good..... should have done it 2000 miles ago.

[tony]

What unit power steering did you use? I kicked the tires with it but just wrapped my car up this summer with manual only

[rapidray]

Seth, so I am assuming you think the power steering is a worthwhile investment? Mine is so easy to drive. Its calm and wild at the same time! How about the bolt I asked about on the steering rack? Ray

[sethmark]

Hey Ray,
Yeah, it was worth every penny. I never minded driving the car without it, but my wife hated it and to be honest with you it was a little too heavy for hard, spirited driving,

As for the bolt on the rack, it’s actually a setscrew with a Nylok. I don’t think it makes any difference to be honest with you. I’ve used the flaming river style universal million times and they always seem to loosen up. I will say that I always use red Loctite on it.

[rapidray]

Seth, great to hear that your wife also enjoys the car! Was wondering where you got the power steering setup? I sent you a P.M. about the rear ride setup on my car. Would appreciate any inputs you might have. Thanks Ray

[sethmark]

So yesterday I did a couple of track sessions with the hot rod. I probably shouldn’t have, but I did anyway. The track was damp early from an overnight rain and the temps were in the mid to high 40s.

What I learned was I don’t like being in that car with just the lapbelt at 125 miles an hour. I also learned that it is really cold in the car at 125 miles an hour. Finally, I learned that it will hang with a Corvette or mustang on track without issue. It is obviously a little more of a handful in the twisties without traction control, but I have no problem keeping the car under control and when it broke loose, which I did regularly, it was easy to pull back. The power steering is great. The power delivery is fantastic. And the car handles very well. Once the track was dry, I just needed to have my wits about me and not drive it like a maniac.

With summer temps or r compound tires, it would be a monster. It definitely needs more cage for me to do it again.

[sethmark]

Saturday pics. Not driving that hard without the helmet and full belts. I honestly didn’t expect full throttle laps...

[progmgr1]

Damn that looks like fun!
Keith HR #894

[sethmark]

Damn that looks like fun!
Keith HR #894

Unfortunately, I’m too stupid to charge the camera. So no video. But yeah. It’s a lot of fun.

The best part is the look on the faces of Corvette drivers who can’t believe that you’re right next to them.

[FF33rod]

I'd treasure that look from the Corvette guys, looking good on the track!

[peterh226]

I used to drive an 88 corvette at a bunch of track events all over the place. It was fun getting better lap times than a lot of high dollar cars that were too fast for the driver. The 33 can be a track monster but without a cage, kinda scary to really push it. Toys are a lot of fun.

[sethmark]

Yeah. I need more safety to do it again.


I used to drive an 88 corvette at a bunch of track events all over the place. It was fun getting better lap times than a lot of high dollar cars that were too fast for the driver. The 33 can be a track monster but without a cage, kinda scary to really push it. Toys are a lot of fun.

[sethmark]

Haven’t messed with the car much since it got cold.... race cars have taken over this winter. But I put a lift in. Hope all are well! Still hunting a body guy who doesn’t need 10k for a hot rod.

[fostia]

Haven’t messed with the car much since it got cold.... race cars have taken over this winter. But I put a lift in. Hope all are well! Still hunting a body guy who doesn’t need 10k for a hot rod.

After just doing the body work I can see why these guys want so much. I have no idea the hours I have put in but took me about a year. And im leaving it just in primer for now! I never want to do bodywork again. Miserable

[sethmark]

I’m resigned to not doing it myself. I am NOT tolerating that mess in my shop...

[GoDadGo]

I’m resigned to not doing it myself. I am NOT tolerating that mess in my shop...

My pal Sammy did my MK-4 and is now tackling my friend Dave's 33-HR.
That car has front bike fenders, bobbed rears, hood with the full engine cowl, but no top.
Though the 33 is really coming along well, the amount of work compared to my Cobra is substantial.
So far the Sam-Man is having fun but he said the 33 is really a lot more complicated than my car simply because of the number of pieces.

[FF33rod]

Seth, a lift, man I'm jealous. That would make most things so much easier.

Steve (GDG), the roadster has its quirks but in terms of updates and continued attention, the roadster was the favoured one, the hot rod is the step child :)
The gen2 is a bit better but still has lots of room for improvement.

Steve

[sethmark]

I built my car on a lift. Not sure why guys don’t spend that money. Cheap, easy and safe. I’ve certainly increased my shop capabilities in the last 2 years.

[JimLev]

If I had the head room I’d have a lift. My garage ceiling is only 8 feet high. The rest of the house has 10-12 foot ceilings.
That scissor jack looks OK but I’d want to be able to stand up under the car.

[sethmark]

The scissor lift was amazing. I built 6 cars on it and they lived there for months. I just sat on a shop throne. Worked great.

[FF33rod]

I have the same problem as Jim with ceiling height. Maybe I'll rectify that when I do the garage extension for my next build - oops, better not say that too loud or the Admiral will hear me.
What model is the scissor lift Seth?

Steve

[j33ptj]

man, I am so jealous of your garages.... mine is abt 3.5x8m (12ft by 25ft?) and 2.5m high, and that is considered a large garage here...

and its not heated....

[Mrallsport32]

The scissor lift was amazing. I built 6 cars on it and they lived there for months. I just sat on a shop throne. Worked great.

I like that, which scissor lift is that your using? Thanks.

[sethmark]

Aside from having another car in the shop, 1133 has done nothing but be beat on senselessly. I love that little car. It’s fast as **** and does unbelievable burnouts and donuts. It’s got a couple thousand miles on it and has been absolutely 100% totally reliable. The LS motor is genius. I don’t think I would make any changes if I were to build it again.... I do want new tires and wheels though.

[FF33rod]

Good to hear and good to hear from you Seth!

Details on the other build? edit: never mind, I see the post ;)

Steve

[sethmark]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?39596-20-comes-to-visit

[sethmark]

The hood off 20 giving me some inspiration.

[RoadRacer]

The hood off 20 giving me some inspiration.

I'm tempted too.

[sethmark]

If I do it it’ll be on pins.

[RoadRacer]

If I do it it’ll be on pins.

Yep, I used Aeroloc 51-14 Fasteners from Pegasus (https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productdetails.asp?RecID=28577) for my trunk (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?24163-Roadracer-s-997-build&p=438543&viewfull=1#post438543), plan on doing the same if I do a hood.

[sethmark]

Well…. I had to see it. 150635

[Michael101]

Definitely do that…:cool:

[sethmark]

Wow. Screw Whitby. Been talking to jeff about painting the car for a year. He said repeatedly just bring it down any time to discuss. Drove the car an hour and a half to him and he couldn’t even be bothered to say hello. Not spending $10k with that attitude.

oh. And for anyone with a car there… at 11am on a Tuesday there’s not a soul in the shop actuslly
working.

pissed.

[FF33rod]

Bummer, that sucks! I doubt 10K would cover it anyway, everyone up in this neck of the woods that has worked on the roadster vs the hot rod says the hot rod is easily 3 times the effort...

[cob427sc]

I don't agree with the amount of work to complete the body and paint. Having built 4 roadsters and most recently a 33, I can tell you that the 33 is a cake walk compared to the roadster. I did all the bodywork and paint on these (along with a daytona coupe and a GTM) and the 33 is the easies and quickest to finish the bodywork on. Probably has less than half the area of a roadster.

[progmgr1]

It depends a great deal on how much bodywork you are running. A few years ago I got a quote from Jeff Miller (da Bat) for my full fenders / running boards / hood / side-covers / roof '33 and the price was more than 2x what he was charging for roadsters. I have had similar responses from other skilled painters. It's my understanding that prices have gone up since then. If you have the pro do all the body work and painting, I would not be surprised to see a price tag in the $15K-$20K range. If your painter agrees and you do a good job of the body work yourself, you may be able to cut a chunk off the price. HTH Keith HR #894

[sethmark]

2 doors. A trunk lid. And a body. No hardtop. No fenders, hood, nose cone, side panels.

I will happily pay a reasonable sum for reasonable work. Labor is expensive and time consuming. Same in my business. But so far I can’t find ANYONE that wants to work. The name brand painters have all been super flaky. I have begged them and they won’t take my money.

[Michael101]

Seth, get you one of those Harbor Freight paint booths set in your shop and go at it yourself. Yes, it’s a mess, I know that the dust/mess in my garage stressed me out but now that it’s done and I’ve cleaned up it’s all good. If I had it to do over again I’d do far more wet sanding, it’s a slower process but less dust flying around. I did almost all of the wet sanding outside too. Even if you rattle can it the car will look cool, yours does and it has no paint.

[sethmark]

I simply cannot have body filler and fiberglass dust in my shop. There’s no wiggle room.

[peterh226]

Maybe a local Community college or painting training center would be interested.

[sethmark]

Nothing to report. Thousands of reckless, abusive miles of burnouts and hooning. Nut and bolt today.

[sethmark]

One of the distinct advantages of owning a small business at one of the greatest race tracks in the country is that occasionally famous people come to visit. It’s a lot like sitting next to the bathrooms near a VIP suite. Through no fault of your own, people visit you.


Today was one of those days. In the automotive enthusiast world, he’s probably one of the best known race car drivers. Needless to say, he needed some help with his Camaro, and I needed somebody to take some tire off. So I present to you, donut by Randy Pobst.



https://youtu.be/vYUCrCdC8n8

[peterh226]

Randy is one of the really good guys. Saw him at various TrackTime events at Sebring and I think some other tracks.

[sethmark]

Randy is superbly nice and an excellent coach. We had a fun afternoon working on his car and abusing mine.