Questions about new build

[nelsond003]

I have three questions that I’m sure you guys can answer. As I am just beginning my kit, delivered yesterday, I have three questions. Can I go ahead and put the engine in first, or will it be in the way of something critical later? I bought the 13” 94 cobra rotors and calipers, do they bolt up to the supplies FFR hardware or do I need an adapter? Last is about the breeze offset rack mounting kit, what benefit does it provide and are they recommended?

[Jeff Kleiner]

I do not install the engine until after all of the brake and fuel line plumbing and wiring is in place and all of the engine compartment aluminum is permanently installed. You'll need to plan ahead and map out where things will wind up when doing so but access is much easier without the engine and trans in the way...especially a Coyote.

I'm not sure exactly what you're asking in regards to the calipers and rotors. The complete kit includes (generic) PBR 2 piston calipers which are physically the same as '94 Cobra calipers except without the "Cobra" lettering so they should bolt up to the FFR spindles. Double check the size and thread of the banjo bolts though; they may be different than what is supplied for the kit calipers.

The Breeze bushings allow the rack to be lowered or moved left to right (1/4" I think????) to assist with centering and/or bump steer geometry. I have not ever used them but all of Mark's stuff always works as he says.

Jeff

[Avalanche325]

As Jeff says, wait on the engine install. Especially with a Coyote.

[initiator]

I had followed EdwardB's (Paul) example for power wiring on my Coyote, installed brake and fuel lines, then dropped the engine in. Quickly realized that Paul didn't use j-pipes in his car like I did, so I had a wiring interference near the front-mount battery. Awkwardly fixed it, then ended up having to pull the engine again anyway to work on an unrelated clutch issue. Replacing that power wire was then super easy.

Unless you're following someone else's lead exactly, it can help to drop the engine in and take it out later, even more than once. I have my brother and friend come over, and it takes maybe 45 minutes because we're very slow and careful. Having the engine in place really helps show where wiring can and can't be, where your brake lines shouldn't stick too far out, and plan your engine sensor connections.

Just don't plop the engine in first and assume you can do all the engine bay work around it easily. If you're using a Coyote like me, you probably won't be able to install the engine bay aluminum panels with the engine in place. Just not enough room.

Every new builder has times when it feels they're moving backwards (engine coming OUT of the car), but you learn something each time and the end product keeps getting better.

[CraigS]

I am not sure about a Coyote but a 302 or 351 will sit there just fine w/o a trans attached. This makes it real easy to drop it in and take it out to check clearances.