View Full Version : Trying to decide
Spaceman
08-08-2019, 07:07 PM
I am trying to decide if I have the ability to build a roadster. Looking for a builder/owner of roadster in the Colorado Springs, Colorado area that I can discuss the build process and the FF product quality with. I would greatly appreciate any help/advice/counsel so that I can make an informed decision.
Regards,
Spaceman
I'm in Parker and had no build experience prior to doing mine. Check out my build thread linked in my signature. My car is getting painted right now, so I can't show you the real thing for a while, but when I get it back you are more than welcome to come check it out.
Dave
Bob Cowan
08-08-2019, 10:49 PM
I'm in the Springs, just south of the Academy. I assume you work at Peterson? :) I built and raced a Factory five for many years. Now I drive a Backdraft. We could get together sometime and discuss it. PM me if you like.
Spaceman
08-09-2019, 11:30 PM
I appreciate your quick response to my request. I live just south of AFA also. I am now retired from the AF as well as any other regular job. If it is convenient, I'll buy coffee/breakfast at Panera in University Village shopping Mall. I am available all next week except Friday morning. If possible you can bring your Backdraft Roadster, that is the other option I am considering. Your call as to time and date and if you desire a different meet location.
Regards,
Spaceman (Vito Pagano)
SSNK4US
08-10-2019, 01:04 AM
Something to think about as far as Backdraft vs Factory Five. Do you want to buy it or build it? For me there was no question... “built not bought”. And yes check out Papa’s build, he said no experience at the start of his build and Dave built a beautiful car! Can’t wait to see it in color!
Just my 2¢
Kurt
Bob Cowan
08-10-2019, 11:05 PM
I appreciate your quick response to my request. I live just south of AFA also. I am now retired from the AF as well as any other regular job. If it is convenient, I'll buy coffee/breakfast at Panera in University Village shopping Mall. I am available all next week except Friday morning. If possible you can bring your Backdraft Roadster, that is the other option I am considering. Your call as to time and date and if you desire a different meet location.
Regards,
Spaceman (Vito Pagano)
How about Wednesday morning? Pick a time.
-----
.boB
Spaceman
08-11-2019, 07:53 PM
Sorry. Can't do Wednesday morning. I have to be at home for a dishwasher install (got rescheduled, beyond my control). I could do Tuesday or Thursday mornings or Wednesday after 1:00 PM.
Bob Cowan
08-12-2019, 07:44 AM
How about Wednesday at 1330?
GoDadGo
08-12-2019, 08:38 AM
Spaceman,
The MK-4 is by far the easiest Factory-5 to build.
With that said, watch the assembly videos, buy the manual and read it a few times...If still don't feel comfortable then go to the build school...If you still don't feel up to the task call Jeff Kleiner because he can build one for you from stem to stern and can paint it too...Just understand that Sir Jeffski WON'T stuff a Chevy in it, but will build a car to your specs as long as it is powered by a Ford engine that is supported by Factory-5.
Good Luck From The Dark Dart Side!
Steve
NOTE:..Jeff does have a waiting list because he is that well known and trusted.
Jim1855
08-12-2019, 10:50 AM
My guess is that technical/mechanical ability isn't the big question or problem. More likely lack of ambition, patience, determination, stamina and excess frustration will become the hinderance. Then there will be budgets, it will cost more than you expect and most likely take longer.
Jim
Working on my 3rd "Cobra" and 1st build.
Bob-STL
08-12-2019, 02:28 PM
Spaceman,
Take Bob Cowan up on his offer.
This is the best deal I've ever seen offered on this forum.
Bob
initiator
08-12-2019, 02:49 PM
My guess is that technical/mechanical ability isn't the big question or problem. More likely lack of ambition, patience, determination, stamina and excess frustration will become the hinderance. Then there will be budgets, it will cost more than you expect and most likely take longer.
I second this thought. If you have time and patience, all the skills you need to complete the car (except maybe body & paint, that depends on the person) can be learned on-the-fly or by reading the forums.
GTBradley
08-12-2019, 05:06 PM
I am trying to decide if I have the ability to build a roadster. Looking for a builder/owner of roadster in the Colorado Springs, Colorado area that I can discuss the build process and the FF product quality with. I would greatly appreciate any help/advice/counsel so that I can make an informed decision.
Regards,
Spaceman
Spaceman, welcome to the forum, there is more information than you need to successfully complete a FFR roadster here. I live north of you in Centennial and just completed my first build. I got it at Christmas and sent it to paint two months ago, I can say with confidence that the build isn’t that big a deal, especially with help from all these guys. Let me know if you are interested in the K9 version of Cobra (Coyote engine), I can help with that.
And Bob, while you’re handing out the free advice I need some on racing, or at least autocross, from what I’ve heard you’re an expert at these things. I joined the Mile High Cobra Club so I’ll catch up with you hopefully yet this year.
Spaceman
08-12-2019, 08:31 PM
1330 is good!
Is Panera at University Village ok?
Bob Cowan
08-13-2019, 05:54 PM
That works for me. I'll see you there. :)
Bob Cowan
08-14-2019, 12:16 PM
And Bob, while you’re handing out the free advice I need some on racing, or at least autocross, from what I’ve heard you’re an expert at these things. I joined the Mile High Cobra Club so I’ll catch up with you hopefully yet this year.
I'm not sure I'm an expert. But I'll happily share whatever I have to offer. :)
BluePrintEngines
08-14-2019, 02:44 PM
There's also the build school up in MI. Most with limited experience find it to be a very worthwhile experience. I stop up there when I can to talk drivetrain with the attendees. Instructors do a great job!
Johnny M
BluePrint Engines
https://factoryfiveengines.com/
GoDadGo
08-14-2019, 03:34 PM
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?27437-Mark-4-Roadster-for-sale&highlight=slidell
This car is for sale with minimal miles on it.
I've seen and ridden in this car which is located in my home town of Slidell, Louisiana.
It was professionally built by Mike Everson who is a well known builder.
The fellow wants to ditch it because he now wants a new C-8 Corvette.
I sent you his contact information via private message.