Jesse builds a Cobra #10,008 [Archive] - Page 2

Blitzboy54

07-25-2021, 02:57 PM

It didn't take long to get her ready for the first ride. A number of friends stopped by to send me off which was fun. I taped my iPhone to frame of the car for a cockpit few. Unfortunately the engine vibration created a bit of a grainy video. I attached a link if you want to watch it. The ride was great, lost my hat in the middle of the road and had to go back. My buddy ran it over by accident, lol. Has a big tire mark down the middle now.

https://youtu.be/QwBmoX2VJJc

Grainy cockpit vid - https://youtu.be/VuF7el5SUe4

I also got my first snake bite. This was taken the day it happened. I will spare you the update cuz it's kinda gross. I ordered a set of shields from Iconic Parts and will send them off for ceramic coating along with the side pipes when they arrive. On that note a lot of friends have stopped over to see it and some have younger kids and it has been a constant source of stress keeping them away from the pipes.

151265

Blitzboy54

07-25-2021, 03:10 PM

My early impressions were "OMG this is so much fun" followed by the brakes were a little soft and same with the clutch. I planned on re bleeding both so I did that Sunday morning. I got a few air bubbles out of 2 calipers and the slave cylinder now the peddles are much tighter. I also tweaked my brake bias. It was a little rear heavy. I took her out again and she stops very nice now. I can also see to avoid any real aggressive stuff until its properly aligned. Steering is a little twitchy.

I took another cockpit video. This time I attached it to the Breeze cubby wall. It's still wobbly but much better.

https://youtu.be/itY8q1vfZ_U

hineas

07-25-2021, 09:26 PM

Blitzboy54

07-25-2021, 09:36 PM

I just watched all the videos.

What an amazing ride. Congratulations!

I am so jealous you have vinyl for your dash. Ours is still back ordered.

Oh, I'm also jealous of the steering wheel. We are go-karting with vice grips for a steering wheel since ours is back ordered.

Keep up the good work!

Thank you. I can’t help you with the steering wheel but I deleted the vinyl and used leather instead. I highly recommend it. It still has a new car smell.

hineas

07-25-2021, 09:53 PM

We were considering just going to an upholstery place and getting some vinyl. Maybe we should do leather instead!

CaptB

07-26-2021, 10:27 AM

What was the part number from Iconic Parts that you used for the shields? Great videos!

Blitzboy54

07-26-2021, 11:33 AM

What was the part number from Iconic Parts that you used for the shields? Great videos!

I went with these. They are 26" vs 28" offered by others but I did not want them pre coated.

https://www.iconicparts.com/stainless-heat-shields-966.html

460.465USMC

07-26-2021, 04:42 PM

Blitzboy54

07-26-2021, 05:56 PM

Hope your index fingers heals well, Jesse. It might seem like a snail's pace to you, but to me your are screamin' along on your build.

Congrats on your first start, and FIRST Go-KART! Awesome!

P.S. Great find on your shift knob. I really like that touch. Semper Fi!

Thank you, I appreciate the kind words. My wife has been beyond supportive. She is genuinely happy that I’m able to do this and has gone out of her way to free me up to work in the garage.

Semper Fi

NYMike

07-26-2021, 10:54 PM

Congrats Jesse! Awesome go kart. Looks like you had a ton of fun. I laughed the first time you jumped on it. It sounds great.

John Ibele

07-28-2021, 12:13 PM

Just got caught up after a hectic summer, and got to see the first start and go kart vids. Fantastic - very happy for you, and more than a bit jealous of the progress! It's looking fabulous.

Blitzboy54

07-30-2021, 11:46 AM

While waiting for my shields I moved on to a number of smaller items that need to be addressed. First is the trunk strut. I started a thread in the main board highlighting my problem with the stock struts and the Breeze cuby wall. The idea suggested I liked the most from RBachman. So I ordered shorter struts (went with the 30lb vs 50lb). I like how it came out and seems to function well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151408&d=1627614579

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151409&d=1627614579

After test driving the car I decided I didn't like the location the 427 shifter put my hands so I went back to the FFR offering. I powder coated it black and I am very pleased with how it turned out.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151404&d=1627608121

Since my clutch and brakes are set I took the opportunity to finish my footbox.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151405&d=1627608121

Last was the heater ducts. I mounted the driver and passenger heater vents and plumbed them. I have ordered a defroster plenum from North Racecars coming. This will eliminate the need to plumb two defroster vents. This was suggested by another builder and will be worth every penny of the $100 it cost.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151406&d=1627608121

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151407&d=1627608121

Jeff Kleiner

07-30-2021, 12:16 PM

While waiting for my shields I moved on to a number of smaller items that need to be addressed. First is the trunk strut. I started a thread in the main board highlighting my problem with the stock struts and the Breeze cuby wall. The idea suggested I liked the most from RBachman. So I ordered shorter struts (went with the 30lb vs 50lb). I like how it came out and seems to function well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151409&d=1627614579

Seems like that's kind of taking up floor space unnecessarily. I've used the struts with a cubby before and simply cut slots in the bulkhead wall for them to pass through and mounted the forward in the usual location, up high and out of the way. You couldn't do that?

...I have ordered a defroster plenum from North Racecars coming.

The cowl of the Mk4 is shaped different than the earlier cars. Unfortunately I've found that the plenum and heater don't play well together---when the FFR heater box is mounted in the suggested location there isn't enough room above it for the plenum. Just FYI.

Jeff

Blitzboy54

07-30-2021, 12:57 PM

Seems like that's kind of taking up floor space unnecessarily. I've used the struts with a cubby before and simply cut slots in the bulkhead wall for them to pass through and mounted the forward in the usual location, up high and out of the way. You couldn't do that?

The cowl of the Mk4 is shaped different than the earlier cars. Unfortunately I've found that the plenum and heater don't play well together---when the FFR heater box is mounted in the suggested location there isn't enough room above it for the plenum. Just FYI.

Jeff

I could but didn't want to cut holes in the wall. For me this was a better option

The plenum on the website at now a closer inspection does say MK 1, 2 or 3. I'll see if its modifiable when it arrives but I may have whiffed on that.

Bummer.

Blitzboy54

08-02-2021, 09:38 PM

As a followup on the plenum. I received it and mocked it up. I also called North Racecars and asked if it would fit a MK4. He was confident it would. The bow and fit seem to be right but I am not sure if I will continue to try to use it. I will lay it in during one of the body fitments and see how it goes but may just use the traditional vents.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151529&d=1627956966

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151528&d=1627956966

So on to new business! I was going through Jeff's Indy build thread and saw the charcoal filter. I kept looking around the garage for the fuel leak I was sure i had for like a week until I realized it was just the vent. so I purchased some inexpensive PVC parts and fish tank filter filler. I basically have enough to last the life of the car. Put it inline and the fuel smell has magically disappeared.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151523&d=1627956873

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151524&d=1627956873

Next I moved on to finishing the cockpit insulation and drilling out my center console from FFMetal. I noticed quite a bit of heat from my go karting coming from the center tunnel. My plan was just to put the 1/8 foam over it with leather upholstery but I think now I will use the cool mat then go with the foam. I borrowed a metal hole saw from a contractor at work and I think It came out pretty much exactly as I hoped. Next will be to upholster the tunnel cover and sides. Both will be in the same leather as the dash.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151530&d=1627958475

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151525&d=1627956873

Last for this update I got all my bulb seal installed. I want to get the body on this coming weekend for a test fit. I sent my exhaust and shields off for ceramic coating. I hope to have those back in a couple/few weeks. I have not put on the side seal yet. I think I want to buy the thicker stuff Jeff uses in his builds. I want to keep as much heat in the engine compartment as possible.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151527&d=1627956873

hineas

08-03-2021, 01:44 AM

It is coming along great!!!

CaptB

08-03-2021, 07:12 AM

Nice work.

JB in NOVA

08-03-2021, 07:14 PM

Looking great! Smart move putting insulation on the underside of the transmission cover. I also put some on the tunnel sides underneath the car, and it seemed to cut down on the radiant heat.

Blitzboy54

08-03-2021, 09:11 PM

I've been moving at a brisk pace but starting tomorrow I am going to be booked up for most of the week. I owe my wife some quality time and my daughter has a swim meet all week that I will be attending. Then we have some family stuff this weekend so time for some well earned R&R.

Since I had heat on my mind I decided it seemed like a smart move to insulate my cup holders. I assume they will be warm but figured this may mitigate things a bit. If not they will keep my coffee warm on Sunday morning drives in the fall. I made the hole for the cup holders an 1/8 bigger to accommodate the leather and heat wrap

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151614&d=1628041094

So just like the dash I used the 1/8 foam and same leather hide. Same method as before and generally same results. You have to think about how to wrap the corners ahead of time and I did make a small mistake but I was able to creatively cover it up. 3M super 90 is my adhesive of choice although looking ahead I don't think I want to spray a lot in the cockpit so I may buy some Top and Trim and brush it on when it comes to that part.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151613&d=1628041094

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151615&d=1628041094

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151616&d=1628041094

I picked up a red leather boot from Redline goods. They have a factory 5 option and you can customize all kinds of different patterns. Ultimately I went with the simple red with black stitching. I also powder coated my trim ring and upgraded to larger screws with nuts holding it down instead of the sheet metal screws that I felt like might back out later. The other thing is with the leather wrapped around the cover it lifts it about 1/8 off the tunnel. I will need to come up with some sort of shim on the tunnel frame so it rests on something solid and doesn't flex. Should not be that hard to figure something out

All in all this was my second 'built not bought" moment. I like doing the interior work almost more than any other part of the build I didn't think that would be the case coming in but it's how it's turning out. I am quite pleased with it and will move one eventually to wrap the rest of the tunnel in the same leather.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151617&d=1628041140

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151618&d=1628041140

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151619&d=1628041140

toadster

08-04-2021, 01:53 PM

Blitzboy54

08-04-2021, 03:28 PM

is there possibility of moving the mounts off the floor up onto the wall? or too much pressure ? maybe add brace between the back of the cubby and the rear seat wall to brace it?

https://i.imgur.com/hZlhrdI.png?1

You would have to brace it. The cubby wall is way too thin. I could have cut a hole but I just didn’t like the way it looks. I really like the location of these. I don’t see them is in the way but maybe after I get the body in I’ll change my mind. They function well as is.

Blitzboy54

08-10-2021, 07:52 PM

I finished the upholstery on the transmission tunnel and carpet on either side. Once all the leather and foam was attached with the heat shield underneath everything becomes thicker. This makes the tunnel cover sits higher than it was originally designed. I added strips of thermo tech to cross braces so the cover doesn't bow if leaned on. This created an issue where the shift lever sits lower when mounted and it hits the trim ring when it's in first gear. This was issue #1. Issue #2 was the cover was hard to mount and then remove with the trim ring permanently mounted the way it was.

First solution was to remove the nuts that hold the trim ring down. This was a bad idea from the start. My concern was that machine screws would back out so I used regular nuts. This made getting the tunnel on and off a challenge so I drilled the holes bigger and added rivnuts.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151949&d=1628615183

Once that was squared away I started looking at my shift lever issue. I figured it would work well if I could move it up one hole.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151950&d=1628615183

I cut a piece of steel and made a bracket. I actually cut this out of the bracket that comes on the front of the car and attaches to the turn signals that nobody uses. Worked pretty well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151977&d=1628640782

I used lock tight on the bottom bolts and a nylon lock nut on the top. I worked the shifter pattern pretty hard and put quite a bit of weight on it and nothing moved that wasn't supposed to.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151978&d=1628640782

I put everything back together and feel like I can move onto the rest of the carpeting.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151946&d=1628615154

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151979&d=1628640782

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=151980&d=1628640782

toadster

08-10-2021, 08:41 PM

lookin sharp! nice touches!!

John Ibele

08-10-2021, 08:50 PM

Wow, Jesse, that is just looking fantastic. Your tranny tunnel turned out great, and the shifter boot is a great match for the switch covers. I liked your comment about enjoying the interior fab work; I never anticipated that either, but I guess it makes sense when I think about it. It's an area where there's really craft on display, rather than bolting parts together. Plus, a little design sense at comes into play with all the decisions left to the builder. Anyway, yours has a cohesive look and its really well carried out. Nice work.

Oh, and I like the trunk struts mounted on the floor :cool:

Cheers,

-- John

Blitzboy54

08-11-2021, 09:23 AM

Fman

08-12-2021, 12:30 AM

Digging the red shifter boot! that really pops and adds a nice customized look... really coming together Jesse, great work!

What colors are you thinking for paint?

Blitzboy54

08-12-2021, 11:23 AM

Digging the red shifter boot! that really pops and adds a nice customized look... really coming together Jesse, great work!

What colors are you thinking for paint?

Interesting you should ask. I am zeroing on a scheme. I think I want something similar to yours but using a much darker grey. Like a very dark (possibly metallic) grey with black stripe and a red pinstripe on the outside. Everything that is usually chrome is or will be powder coated gloss black.

I am still open to some other ideas but right now that is the one I like the best

Blitzboy54

08-14-2021, 06:30 PM

I completed my interior carpet. There is still plenty to do as I need to install seat belt bezels and such. My original plan was to PC them red but ended up with gloss black. I now regret that decision so I think I will remove the black and shoot them in red. Other than that I am quite pleased with the outcome. The foot boxes are no joke. 2 things, it is hard to work in there and the adhesive fumes can be a lot. I ended up using a respirator when stuffing myself in. I used liberal amounts of blue tape and kit packing paper to protect the upholstery when spraying the 3m 90. I also attached my parking brake boot. All in all I am pleased with the results

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152061&d=1628894623

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152062&d=1628894623

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152063&d=1628894623

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152098&d=1628974183

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152097&d=1628974183

Blitzboy54

08-14-2021, 06:44 PM

Did my initial body fitment. I had to trim about an 1/8 from the dash. It's still a touch tight but I think I will leave it there until the professionals get a hold of it. I really makes things look like a car. I clearly need to bring my ride height down. Also I have been dead set on a darker color for the car but the red really pops. This may be the beginning of a long term crisis of confidence on color, looking forward to all of it.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152094&d=1628973916

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152096&d=1628974183

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152110&d=1628985411

We test fit the seats (shockingly fit great!) and marked the roll bar holes for opening. Got a little preview of what the Mrs and I will be up to next year! Looks and feels great!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152095&d=1628973916

I removed the body and put it back on the buck. I will work on fitting the louvers, lights and roll bar holes. I also need to coat the underside in bed liner. The bulb seal in the back took a bit of beating. I was warned to protect it and did not so likely to replace it when I'm done with the test fits.

egchewy79

08-14-2021, 07:00 PM

looks good! I cut some 6" wide strips of heavy duty trash bag and taped it to my bulb seal when fitting the body. it allows you to move the body around a bit without tearing into the seal. once happy, remove the tape from the alumimum panels and slide the trash bags out. you'll be driving in gel coat in no time.

nucjd19

08-14-2021, 09:08 PM

hineas

08-15-2021, 01:34 AM

It looks great!!!

CaptB

08-15-2021, 07:56 AM

Excellent work.

Blitzboy54

08-15-2021, 08:59 AM

Blitzboy54

08-22-2021, 06:06 PM

Hey all,

I took close to a week off from working on the car. A little bit here and there but mostly got ready for our annual camping trip. Our neighborhood goes on a camping trip every year on the same weekend. We've been doing it for I think close to 10 years. We've had as few as 10 and as many as 20 family's. It's one of the best weekends of the year. Despite all that I did manage to get a few things done.

First is I ordered replacement bulb seal from Breeze. I need to re do the back trunk area from my test fit. I also ordered rear quick jack grommets from **********. I got them right away (yay) but I don't like the fit. The metal sleeves for the quick jacks are 5/8 and the grommets are 3/4. I ordered something else from McMaster Carr and will report when I receive them.

I now have a punch list of items I want to complete before putting the body back on. I would like to leave it on until it goes to paint so I need to make sure I don't forget anything. First on that list is weather pack connections. I would like to be able to separate the lights from the wiring harness if necessary. So fitted everything with connectors and tested for function. All my light work properly so that can be checked off. I also used a weather pack for the fan. The connection that comes with the kit doesn't marry up that well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152507&d=1629658872

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152508&d=1629658924

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152509&d=1629658943

Next I moved on to the body. during my test fit I set my roll bars and marked the holes where they needed to be bigger. I used my die grinder with a stone and enlarged my holes. The bummer is both back tubes were scratched because I didn't completely think through what I was doing. I plan to pickup my exhaust and gas cap this week so I will drop those back off to be re done and have my louvers coated as well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152510&d=1629658959

I installed the seat belt bezels from **********. I really like the look I kicked around the idea of PCing in red but ultimately chickened out and used the gloss black. One word of caution the bolts that come with them, only half of them are long enough. the bottom row has to go through the frame rail so I purchased the same SS screws in 2 inch form, then trimmed the excess to avoid rubbing on the belt.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152529&d=1629673087

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152530&d=1629673490

So the plan going forward is to test fit all my lights, then fit my louvers. I also need to install the seat belts and drill my roll bar bolts. After that I will under coat the bottom with bed liner. I should be pretty close to re installing the body after that

Blitzboy54

08-28-2021, 11:20 PM

I continue to punch items off of my list for re fitting the body. I still have a ways to go but it's getting shorter all the time. I've continued to prep the body. All my light fixture openings have been widened and fit tested. The headlight openings had to be diddled with a bit as the 2 pre drilled holes for the headlight housing were a little off. But ultimately they mocked up just fine. I also massaged the front quick jacks openings and fitted the grommets I ordered from Metro Molding

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152818&d=1630208594

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152821&d=1630208594

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152819&d=1630208594

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152820&d=1630208594

On the chassis I installed both race harnesses and fitted them with the seats. I realize because I have the cuby if I need to adjust or change out the shoulder harness I would likely have to remove the body. So I setup the passenger side so if the shoulder is at full length it JUST fits me and if I cinch it down all the way it JUST fits my wife. I fitted the driver side mostly to my liking with a little wiggle room in both directions.

I replaced the damaged bulb seal along the trunk sides and fitted my roll bars. Unfortunately when I had the body on I tried to get the back tubes in and scratched them. I plan to have them stripped and redone later. I need to drill them and fit the bolts. I don't think I plan to use the "Frankenstein" bolt. 520 speedworks makes and internal bolt but won't fit them until after paint.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152822&d=1630208684

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152823&d=1630208684

Lastly I've been working on powder coating some of the smaller items like the hood/trunk latches and the windshield wipers

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152826&d=1630209759

hineas

08-29-2021, 06:28 PM

It is looking great!!!

Blitzboy54

09-02-2021, 08:25 PM

So on to the side louvers. I have to say this again is something I didn't think much about that took A LOT longer than I expected. I made what I consider a mistake on the first one I assembled. I discovered that if you fasten the brackets to the back side of the vent the fasteners are hidden because of the angle of the vents. I assembled the passenger side first and didn't love it but did enough cosmetic work that I can live with it. I will powder coat them so a lot of it will blend.

First I set them up and marked off the new angles based on both the template and actual measurements of the pre assembled louvers. The FFR template is a good start but you will need to massage the opening beyond that.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152963&d=1630630073

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152960&d=1630630073

Once I had the rough opening I sanded the edges with various grits. The vinylester turns into an almost glass finish. It really turns out nice if you finish it up with a little 800 grit. Like papa I made a template of the first one to match the 2nd.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152964&d=1630630137

I didn't re invent the wheel by any means. I used the same standoffs as many many others have done before. A leftover piece of threaded rod and a zip tie worked well to hold them in place while the adhesive dried. All in all I think they came out pretty well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152961&d=1630630073

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=152962&d=1630630073

KDubU

09-03-2021, 06:01 AM

Make sure to paint them the body colour, it looks better! Now to slink away before others chime in :D

Blitzboy54

09-03-2021, 10:03 AM

Make sure to paint them the body colour, it looks better! Now to slink away before others chime in :D

Ha! Yes I appreciate the input. I am likely to PC them black. There is a 99% chance that will be my strip color at this point

john42

09-03-2021, 11:42 AM

Very nice! By chance do you have a link to the correct size "Cobra Wheel Caps" for the SVE wheels?

Blitzboy54

09-03-2021, 12:47 PM

Very nice! By chance do you have a link to the correct size "Cobra Wheel Caps" for the SVE wheels?

60mm worked with my setup

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Alloy-Wheel-Center-Caps-Hub-Caps-Rim-Cap-4pcs-60mm-FORD-SHELBY-COBRA-Blak-Emblem-/114966763987?hash=item1ac48d99d3

CaptB

09-03-2021, 03:07 PM

Jesse is 100% correct, I had to ask him too. There are a lot out there and they amazingly pop right in. Be advised though if you are getting Willwood brakes, you'll need a different rear part than from FFR. Jesse can also advise on this.

Blitzboy54

09-05-2021, 08:22 AM

Carrying on with the louvers I powder coated them last night. I am pleased with how they came out. On the passenger side I did unfortunately find a thin spot but it looks for now like it's out of site. I wont really know until it's in the sun but it is also possible I'm being picky.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153025&d=1630847733

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153027&d=1630847733

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153028&d=1630847733

Earlier in the day I got the body off and put a couple coats of bed liner. This was fairly uneventful and I left the requisite space for body work.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153026&d=1630847733

john42

09-06-2021, 08:16 PM

60mm worked with my setup

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Alloy-Wheel-Center-Caps-Hub-Caps-Rim-Cap-4pcs-60mm-FORD-SHELBY-COBRA-Blak-Emblem-/114966763987?hash=item1ac48d99d3

Thanks!

Blitzboy54

09-13-2021, 03:25 PM

I continue to get the body and chassis prepped for installation. I confirmed with my powder coat guy I will get my side pipe, shields and gas cap back on Weds of this week. Last thing needed on the body before I put it on is to get the gas cap test fit. I prefer to do it off the chassis as to not make my car super dusty.

On the chassis I got my roll bars set and drilled them at the base. I figured this would need to be done and made more sense before paint as it would be super difficult to do this with the cubby and whatnot.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153331&d=1631562419

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153332&d=1631562419

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153330&d=1631562419

I then went to work on my plenum. I am going to use it after all. I test fit it and everything fits pretty well on my setup so I am going ahead. I first capped the right vent hole as this would have been used for the right defroster. The bonus is I get more air flow out of the other 3 now. I used a 1.5" rubber PVC cap.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153333&d=1631562500

FFR has a new louver for the right side made out of aluminum. It comes with this plastic hose adapter that you rivet on. Since I am not using it I instead attached it to the plenum. Marked and drilled it then opened the hole up with a grinding stone. I riveted it on and used black silicon to seal it. i think it came out pretty nice. I pre ran my hose and secured it to the heater. After the body is on for good I can reach under the dash and attach it. This allows me to put the defroster vent holes basically where ever vs worrying about clearing the heater.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153334&d=1631562500

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153335&d=1631562500

Blitzboy54

09-19-2021, 07:22 PM

I ordered a trunk filler piece from Dark Water Customs. Bent it to fit and powder coated gloss black. It came out smooth looking and will fit my paint scheme well. Nothing too fancy and tested with Cleco's. Now it's packed away until after paint.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153538&d=1632096153

Next is a big shout out to nucjd19. Because of thread asking the body work experts about their tips I learned that I should put a 5/8 spacer in front of the hood hinge. As luck would have it if you stack one large and one small bumper they measure exactly 5/8"

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153539&d=1632096153

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153540&d=1632096153

I was finally prepared to re install the body. Moving into the mock up stage.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153541&d=1632096186

I adjusted the rear ride height down to 5.25". I will leave it here until I finish assembly.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153543&d=1632096186

My pipes came back this week. I ceramic coated the pipes and shield black and I think they look great! I plan to spend some time this week fitting them on with the body. I would also like to take another scoot around the neighborhood at some point as well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153542&d=1632096186

JB in NOVA

09-19-2021, 08:30 PM

Just caught up on your thread. Man, you are making so much progress. That's going to look sweet with the blacked-out side pipes. Can't wait to see the finished product!

Blitzboy54

09-25-2021, 09:48 AM

Now that the body is on my mock up continues. First order of business now that I have my pipes back from coating is getting them mounted. I have been a little anxious about how they would fit as I have read all sorts of horror stories on this forum over the years. People have shimmed their engine mounts for instance. I purposely chose the Jpipes because I hoped it would give me adjust ability. I didn't realize at the time of my order the FFR headers had a ball joint (oops) but probably would have stayed with the Jpipes anyhow for budgetary reasons.

As an aside if the Jpipes or headers had 2 points of articulation I would think 99.9% of fitment issues would evaporate, but what fun would that be.

I used the template as a basic guide in opening the holes. I have to say it is so hard for me to get to this point in the build and get red dust on everything. I tried to clean as I go but ultimately just settled on making a giant mess then cleaning everything back up when done. There are some subtle differences. The drivers side sits a little more forward than the passenger therefore the exhuast hole on that side had to be opened a couple mm's toward the fender. I felt it was more important for the holes to match the piped than each other.

Initial fitment is the passenger pokes out a little too far away from the car ( and sits back in the hole) and the driver is way to tipped in (sits forward of the hole).

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153723&d=1632532845

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153721&d=1632532845

So I got online on Tuesday night and ordered some wedges from Mr. Reynolds. He is so great, I called him Weds morning and asked if I could add a couple things and he accomodated me. I then had my new wedges in hand Friday night. Just the best.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153722&d=1632532845

I went with a 1/2" wedge on the passenger and 1" on the driver. Both seemed to do the trick. If I am being picky the driver side could come straight up a touch to be even with the passenger and the passenger side is not completely level. I would like to tip the nose down a touch but haven't figured out how without throwing the other adjustments out. I am much relieved that the setup is good enough to live with as is though. I need to go to the hardware store and pickup some longer exhaust bolts. I may take her for another neighborhood scoot this afternoon. (yay)

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153725&d=1632532894

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153724&d=1632532845

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153726&d=1632532894

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153727&d=1632532894

egchewy79

09-25-2021, 03:13 PM

looks great. my body guy wanted to wait until he got the final fitment to order the wedges.

Jeff Kleiner

09-25-2021, 03:42 PM

looks great. my body guy wanted to wait until he got the final fitment to order the wedges.

Yes, because 9 times out of 10 the body position will have to change when fitting doors, etc.

Jeff

Blitzboy54

09-26-2021, 06:49 PM

looks great. my body guy wanted to wait until he got the final fitment to order the wedges.

Yes, because 9 times out of 10 the body position will have to change when fitting doors, etc.

Jeff

I hear you guys but I wanted to drive it around a bit in gel coat and not have it look **** eyed. They weren’t that expensive and if I take them out I’ll give them away on the forum.

Blitzboy54

09-29-2021, 11:38 AM

As I continue to plug along on mock up I have been giving color a lot of thought. My original plan was something dark with a modern twist to it. Hacksaw84 absolutely nailed it with his build. Here are some of the cars I found that had elements of the look I was thinking.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153922&d=1632932277

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153923&d=1632932277

I really like these cars but I never got really excited about it. It ended up being more like I just didn't have a better idea. I found an app that lets you select different cars (called 3D Tuning) and paint them all sorts of different ways. While they don't have a Cobra they have all plenty of convertibles and roadster type cars.

After really goofing around with dozens of schemes I kept coming back to these 2

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153921&d=1632932101

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153920&d=1632932101

I never thought I wanted a green or yellow car but here I am. I have spent a lot of time finding real world examples and I have found both colors. The green is Lotus British Racing Green. Personally I am really leaning toward the BMW Austin Yellow Metallic. It's not everyone's cup of tea but like I told my dads friend the other day "when you build your car you can paint it whatever you want". I am still going back and forth a bit but here is where I am in late September 2021.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153919&d=1632932101

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153918&d=1632932101

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153917&d=1632932101

Blitzboy54

10-03-2021, 01:37 PM

As I continue with mock up I have come to understand that as surprised how much I enjoyed doing the interior I feel the exact opposite with the body. God bless the Jeff's of the world. I'm sure if I had some experience learning I could get the hang of it. My early dry wall work for instance was embarrassing and now I can hold my own but body work is definitely equal parts art and science.

So on to the trunk. Just getting everything rough fitted and trying not to take off any more material that absolutely necessary. I purchased hood, door and trunk seal from Mike Everson. That is a stick on product that will not go on until after paint. So just to set some gaps and keep the trunk from rubbing on the body I put a few pieces around of the press on stuff.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154036&d=1633276273

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154037&d=1633276273

Then it was time to move onto the windshield. I have been dreading this a bit. Starting with the pre cut holes. I used the rails to figure out how wide to open them. It wasn't super awesome as once the whole assy is in there it fits differently than I thought it would. Like everything else I learned enough that if I was to do another one it would be that much smoother.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154038&d=1633276295

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154039&d=1633276295

Once in it looks great. The gloss black powder coat came out the way I hoped. I built a little jig to hold the window at the 27" angle. Also like others, I tapped the arms to thread them. This makes it so much easier to install and hold. I did drop the fuse box out of the way. Probably didn't have to but made it easier IMO.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154042&d=1633276336

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154044&d=1633276374

The final product came out looking nice. I have a few smaller things I want to do but will move on to the wipers soon.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154043&d=1633276374

John Ibele

10-04-2021, 09:32 AM

Wow, lots of progress, and it looks fantastic. And thanks for sharing tips along the way - whether or original or not, doesn't matter. It all helps.

I can tell you from living in the state next door ... Packers fans will vote for the first Audi color scheme.

Cheers,

-- John

Fman

10-04-2021, 09:40 AM

Nice work Jessie, picking the color scheme is the hardest part of the build. Good news is these cars look good in any color scheme! Have you found a painter yet?

Blitzboy54

10-04-2021, 09:13 PM

Nice work Jessie, picking the color scheme is the hardest part of the build. Good news is these cars look good in any color scheme! Have you found a painter yet?

Thanks, yes I have a plan for paint. I’ll update that soon!

JB in NOVA

10-05-2021, 10:19 PM

Wow, the blacked-out windshield looks sharp, I love it! Picking a paint color was 100% the hardest part of my build, so I sympathize with you. FWIW, this one would be stunning on a Cobra:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=153919&d=1632932101

But there's a lot of soul searching left before you make your final decision. Just remember, your car will look amazing in any color.

Blitzboy54

10-06-2021, 09:14 AM

But there's a lot of soul searching left before you make your final decision. Just remember, your car will look amazing in any color.

Thank JB!

Blitzboy54

10-12-2021, 06:52 PM

I have wrapped up the back end as far as fitment and pre drilling holes. Starting with the quick jacks. I installed the Kleiner mod because why wouldn't you but I decided to do it a little differently. I got everything powder coated, and decided I like the clean look of the bolt head vs the threads and lock nut. I did have to buy a shorter bolt (7/16 14 @ 4.5 inches) and shim it with a couple of washers to get the length right in the back. I used grommets and set the longer of the 2 rear quick jack tubes all the way through vs pinching them in the body. I also pre drilled my license plate bracket and test mounted it.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154430&d=1634079141

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154431&d=1634079141

I finished the front quick jacks as well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154428&d=1634079141

I drilled a hole for the license plate light and fitted a grommet. You can see I made a mistake. I first drilled right next to the hinge. Don't do that. I didn't realize there was a metal plate behind it. So I stopped and move it up and then filled in the hole.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154432&d=1634079188

I also marked and drilled my Le man's gas cap mounting holes.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154433&d=1634079188

Now on to the real work. I have pre fitted the wipers. I live in NY and they are a requirement for registration. I thought about the temp one that will get you through but 2 things: 1. You get small spontaneous rain storms all the time around here. I have been soaked with a "zero percent" chance of rain forecast more than once and 2. I will eventually get a soft top. Although what I really want is a hard top. I think that fast back look is so sexy. I called backdraft and was told it definitely would not fit. There is a company in Great Britain that makes them (and fit FFR) but they do not return emails apparently.

Anyhow I have the wiper arms in and will connect the motor this week and test. After that I will take it back apart. I plan to start a thread on the main board but need some help getting the arms back off. I can use a tool but I would assume I will scratch it all up. Any advise would be appreciated.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154434&d=1634079188

egchewy79

10-12-2021, 07:22 PM

Blitzboy54

10-12-2021, 08:01 PM

so your rear QJ sleeves are going all the way through the body? One of the benefits of the Kleiner mod is to be able to adjust the location of the back of the car relative to the trunk lid. This relies on the body being pinched between the outer sleeve and the threaded rod/nut combo on the inside of the body. by adjusting that nut/washer on the inside, you can help line up the trunk lid.
Once I got my threaded rod situated how I wanted it, I cut off the end and put a SS acorn nut on the end for a more finished look.

Yes, yes I did. I've seen it done both ways. I wasn't super excited about pinching anything after paint. I have some adjustability with this setup (I can get a few mm's in each direction). I can still use some oversized rubber backed washers (which I have) if I need to or want to back out.

Blitzboy54

10-17-2021, 03:50 PM

So nothing particularly interesting about finishing the wipers. I did not bother to flare the center piece as it gets pinched nicely in the wheel box housing. I can also add that there was no reason to modify the wheel box at all. I still need to grease everything up but I will break these down before paint so I will have an opportunity to do it then.

I used a 27mm socket pinched in a vise to subtly make the bends needed to get the outer housing to fit. What I found worked best was to loosen the motor from the mount to give a little adjustability. I used bicycle wire cutters to trim the end of the cable. This worked much better than I thought it would to be honest. As thick as the cable is.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154549&d=1634502519

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154550&d=1634502519

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154548&d=1634502519

I made a little test video. They are a little loud but do the job.

https://youtu.be/hcH6G3rlhl4

I test fit the seats to see how it all looks together.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154551&d=1634502519

Fman

10-17-2021, 06:02 PM

Looking good Jessie, we all hope we never have to use wipers in our car because that will be a bad day.... especially for me since I do not have any :D

jiriza84641

10-24-2021, 11:57 AM

Looking great, keep up the good work!

Blitzboy54

10-24-2021, 07:48 PM

In the process of planning for paint and talking to a number of body people including Mr. Kleiner I have been told do NOT permanently install my seats. This makes sense for a number of reasons. I don't know if that's as true for the traditional bucket seats but for the high back it certainly makes a lot of sense. This leaves me with an issue however. I do not want to do a lot of fitting, drilling and figuring out (ie mistake making) after paint. So my solution is this. I am mocking up the seats now, but with 2 caveats. First is I will be removing them before bringing it in and second is I have by design left quite a bit of wiggle room for fine tuning. Since I don't have a lift I put the car up on jack stands. This gives me enough room to work underneath. I can also take care of some other undercarriage work that I need to get done.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154740&d=1635120452

To start I set the passenger seat where I wanted it then marked the rails with chalk. This allowed me to remove them from the seat and get them set so I could mark the hole

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154739&d=1635120452

I am glad I went through this exercise because one of the things I found was due to the width of my seats the inner rail is over the 4 inch main tube and lines up over the thin aluminum panel. This is obviously not going to work. There are all sorts of different solutions but this was mine. First is I made a couple of steal brackets.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154741&d=1635120452

I then tapped a 5/16 hole on the frame and will secure it with red Locktite when it's time to make this permanent.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154744&d=1635120481

I secured the rear bolts the same way. I have tapped 5/16 threads and on the inner bracket I had to move the bolt in tighter to catch the 4 inch cross tube. It took some fiddling to figure out how best to put all this together. I found the side bolts that secure the seat to the brackets are allen heads. I will switch them to hex because its much easier to tighten them with a ratcheting box wrench than an allen wrench.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154742&d=1635120481

This is the secured seat. I can loosen the bolts and adjust in every direction.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154743&d=1635120481

I placed the hood and scoop just for fun. It looks so great even if it's just pretend for now.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154745&d=1635120716

nucjd19

10-26-2021, 09:28 PM

Hey Blitz saw where you picked up a little info from one of my threads. Really glad I could help :) Your build looks amazing!!!!! I love the black out you are going for.

JB in NOVA

10-26-2021, 10:56 PM

This is the secured seat. I can loosen the bolts and adjust in every direction.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154743&d=1635120481

Just curious, but have you checked if there is any interference between the lateral extensions of the seat back and the door? It'll probably be fine, but it looks to me like you might get some contact between the two. Here's a picture of mine for reference:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154316&d=1633826083

Blitzboy54

10-27-2021, 10:39 AM

Just curious, but have you checked if there is any interference between the lateral extensions of the seat back and the door? It'll probably be fine, but it looks to me like you might get some contact between the two. Here's a picture of mine for reference:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154316&d=1633826083

Good eye JB!

So yes there is interference which is why I am super glad I went through the exercise. The reason for that is I reversed the seat brackets to solve a different problem and avoid drilling new mounting holes. It tuned out front to back they are not symmetrical. The fix is simple, I just need to take it down and put the brackets back the way they were. I will have to drill a couple new mounting holes and that should be that. It moves that part of the seat back to just behind the door. It took me a day to realize it was off and figure out why it was different.

Also, JB your cubby cover is genius. I am going to steal it for my build. Great job!

Hey Blitz saw where you picked up a little info from one of my threads. Really glad I could help :) Your build looks amazing!!!!! I love the black out you are going for.

Yes sir, it takes a village my friend. Thanks to you and everyone else for all the great ideas.

Blitzboy54

10-28-2021, 09:40 AM

I swapped the seat mounts last night and they moved back to where they were. I can adjust them back further but I'm 99% sure at this point the rear end it going to move around a bit before all is said and done. I also got my roll bars in which look sexy as heck I might add.

Funny story (not really funny) when I did my initial body fitment I tried to put the roll bars in but the holes were of course not quite right. So I marked everything on a template so I could widen them after I took the body off. This was super smart because that way I wouldn't get body dust all over my car. Super... Smart.

Well what happened was when I put the template on the car I put them all on upside down so as anyone that has ever taken geometry can tell you this reverses everything. I cut all the holes in the opposite direction. So after fixing it correctly they are all way too big. They will have to be repaired. Not the worst mistake every but I have regrets.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=154908&d=1635431238

egchewy79

10-28-2021, 09:58 AM

Blitzboy54

10-28-2021, 10:38 AM

just get some 2" roll bars and call it a day :)

That sir, is an idea. I'll look into it. Does anyone make them for MK4?

egchewy79

10-28-2021, 03:03 PM

breeze bars are 1-3/4, but need some fabrication/welding i believe

Blitzboy54

11-03-2021, 09:27 AM

Ladies and gentlemen I would like to introduce you to the new leader in the clubhouse.

Porsche Oak Green Metallic.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155240&d=1635949496

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155682&d=1636130683

CaptB

11-04-2021, 08:39 AM

Great color. Watching closely.

John Ibele

11-04-2021, 09:07 AM

Jesse, I've had green on my leader list for a long time, with this example (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?29107-Mark-IV-For-Sale-in-AZ&p=333061&viewfull=1#post333061) as my favorite, but just didn't keep coming home to that one as the logical choice. But that color that you found ... wow, that is really, really handsome. Really pops, and I'd love to see a roadster in that color. I don't think that's one you'd ever get tired of. Thanks for sharing.

Jeff Kleiner

11-04-2021, 09:55 AM

I think a lot of people don't consider green until they see it and realize that it works. I've done 2 greens in the past couple of years, have one here now that's going green and two others on the horizon that are also slated to be green.

Then the question becomes---stripes?

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155454&d=1636037427

Or no stripes?

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155455&d=1636037543

:)

Jeff

155454155455

Blitzboy54

11-04-2021, 02:38 PM

I really like this single thick style. I plan to mimic this in black. Scott Spencer was the first car I saw do this I really like it. Considering a few other touches as well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155462&d=1636054374

Something like this

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155463&d=1636054749

Blitzboy54

11-04-2021, 05:58 PM

ydousurf

11-04-2021, 06:56 PM

You can't go wrong with green, nor having Jeff paint it! I'm going with green on mine and with the stripes too. I just haven't decided if I'm going to add the meatball(s)? Oooops. Did I just let out my (color) secret - sssshhhhh... ;)

Dj

ydousurf

11-04-2021, 09:34 PM

Blitzboy54, I just read though you entire build. The motor & colors are super sexy not to mention the blacked-out look is always a head turner. I really dig the idea of having red in the cubby and foot boxes. I just might have to borrow that? And what a treat having your Dad over to help - PRICELESS! Anyway, Incredible job on you build and I can't wait to see it with paint. Excellent work!

Blitzboy54

11-05-2021, 10:03 AM

Thank you for the kind words! I appreciate the positive feedback

Blitzboy54

11-08-2021, 09:50 AM

I continue to fab up the car. I installed the exhaust hangers while I had the car up on jacks. My feeling is again, I really don't want to do this work on a finished car. More interested in simply re assembling that drilling and making a mess (or worse yet scratching a new paint job). All in all nothing fancy but came out pretty good. I plan to take these back off with the seats before paint.

My issue through this part of the build has been the need for a 90 angle drill. I do not own one. I used an angled die grinder but that is not awesome. All spin and no torque. It turns out HF makes a drill adaptor that bends and 90 degrees. It was only $20 and works great. I highly recommend it.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155794&d=1636382572

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155781&d=1636340253

I tried my hand at leather dye. A little darker than I was originally thinking but overall I like the color. I dyed the leather on the harness the same.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155779&d=1636340222

Also back to work in the basement with the powder coating. I continue to love this "stone black" from Prismatic Powder. It goes on so easy and looks great. Will do all my fender and radiator panels in this as well. Next up is getting my hood hinge assembled.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155780&d=1636340222

Last but not least I purchased this car cover from carcovers.com. They make a FFR roadster cover for duel roll bars. It fits fantastic. It has reinforced grommets at the base so I can tie it off underneath. I will be transporting this on an open trailer so this all weather cover will be what I use to protect it.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155778&d=1636340222

Blitzboy54

11-13-2021, 01:38 PM

I have my hood hinges installed. I think this is where it will stay as I do not want to attach the hood until after paint.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=156295&d=1636828210

One of the things I noticed now that the seats are in is I really like the position of the clutch and throttle but not the brakes. I wanted to the peddle closer to me. I think the reason is because they are unboosted I need to get the peddle down toward the end of it's throw to engage the brakes fully. The pedal cannot come any closer to me because of the way the frame is designed. As you can see it is as far back as it can go.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=156294&d=1636828204

So this was my solution. I removed the screws holding the pedal to the arm. I then went to the hardware store and purchased longer ones. I used the stainless steel tube that was leftover from the wiper install and cut of small spacers. I put them behind the pedal to move it forward and it made all the difference for me. I get the leverage on the brakes I was looking for.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=156290&d=1636828013

460.465USMC

11-13-2021, 09:22 PM

Ladies and gentlemen I would like to introduce you to the new leader in the clubhouse.

Porsche Oak Green Metallic.

I also like this green, Jesse. It's within my top five favorites. I can see why you are strongly considering it.

John Ibele

11-15-2021, 11:24 AM

You've got a lot of nice finishing touches going on, Jesse. Thanks for the updates.

Blitzboy54

11-28-2021, 11:17 AM

When I originally ordered my kit the plan was to install Cats. I had several times gone through different variations on the website to calculate cost. I always ended up with the Cats. However when it came time to pull the trigger for real FFR had discontinued the 87-95 302 offering. I decided to move on with the Jpipes and see how it goes. After several runs I just couldn't live with the smell. My wife commented on it even with the car outside. I knew this was going to be a problem, particularly if she wasn't going to want to ride in it. I ordered some 2.5 inch high flow Cats and was able to get a set of extra Jpipes from Papa. My plan was/is to have a guy at work cut the pipes and weld them in. Another builder reached out and had an original set from FFR that were never used so I purchased them as well. I am going to start with the factory stuff and move on to trying the high flow later.

It's all pretty apples to apples with the Jpipes.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=157860&d=1638114451

I pulled them as a single unit off the header. So much easier to swap them out on the bench. I stacked some cardboard boxes under the side exhaust to hold it up while I disconnected the pipes

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=157862&d=1638114451

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=157863&d=1638114493

Once in they married up perfectly. The exhaust is in the same location it was when I removed it. It was simply a matter of re installing the O2 sensor.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=157864&d=1638114493

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=157865&d=1638114493

Once in I fired up the engine and crossed my fingers. There was a little oil that burned off but other than that it was drama free.

My first impressions are WOW! My instincts were right from the beginning. It smells like victory! No noxious odor of any kind. I can run it in the garage and it smells as clean as the 2022 SUV I just purchased. It definitely tamps the noise down a bit. It takes the higher tinny noise out of it. It still sounds amazing but simply not as metallic or loud. I took it around the neighborhood. I am sure I lost some HP but my rear end broke loose with ease so I think I have plenty left. I took a video, not sure if it will translate but it definitely sounds different in real life. I consider it money well spent and an easy win.

https://youtu.be/H9AfTUEha_E

KDubU

11-28-2021, 12:19 PM

Sounds good to me. Nice to read the results so far as reducing the smell and noise would definitely make my wife happier when I build another.

egchewy79

11-28-2021, 01:25 PM

Just keep in mind that any high zinc oil will reduce the life of those cats. Sounds good otherwise

ydousurf

11-28-2021, 03:19 PM

Your neighbors are gonna love you! :D

Blitzboy54

12-04-2021, 08:39 PM

I noticed a few weeks ago I started to leak coolant out of the passenger side forward bolt hole on my intake manifold. This is obviously disappointing. I talked to the builder and he would of course repair it but I have no interest in pulling the engine back out. I capped it for a short period of time with a fiber gasket and some sealant. This keeps it contained but it needs to be repaired, it also started weeping coolant at the bottom of the seal between the manifold and the head. If it leaks out it can leak the other way into the oil.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158147&d=1638403096

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158146&d=1638403096

I pulled it down all the way and did not see anything immediately obvious. I vacuumed out the depris, covered all the ports, cleaned and polished the mating surfaces.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158192&d=1638586980

I cleaned and polished the surface on both sides, I originally (accidentally) had a high flow water pump installed on the engine. During dyno it was popping out a freeze plug. I am guessing this also overwhelmed the gasket. I will find out tomorrow after the RTV cures and I re introduce the coolant.

I did make a change to some of my setup. I moved the fan switch back to where I previously had the heater return. I now have the heater return running off the thermostat housing along with my dash gauge sending unit. Where I originally had the sender it was reading cool. It should be more accurate here. Fingers crossed.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158218&d=1638667011

Jeff Kleiner

12-04-2021, 09:24 PM

Hopefully you used the steel core intake gaskets this time.

Good luck!

Jeff

Railroad

12-05-2021, 08:44 AM

The clamp on the red heater hose in your first pic, is not tight enough.

Blitzboy54

12-05-2021, 03:38 PM

Hopefully you used the steel core intake gaskets this time.

Good luck!

Jeff

I did, I used the Felpro 1250s. So far so good

The clamp on the red heater hose in your first pic, is not tight enough.

I ended up moving that line, I re checked all my connections after your feedback.

Thanks

Blitzboy54

12-05-2021, 03:48 PM

**Update**

I put coolant back in this morning. The only drama i ran into was vapor lock. I didn't have that problem the first time I filled it up but like my dad pointed out I had a leak that probably was letting the air out. I opened up a port on the intake manifold and bled out the air. I also had to crack my heater core fittings to get the air out of there and get everything circulating.

interestingly my sniper started acting up. Idled crazy weird then stalled a couple times. What I'm guessing happened is the engine was a different temp than the sensor was reading because there was no coolant touching it. Since it's one of the 2 inputs it sent the fuel/air into a tizzy. I let it sit or 20 minutes and restarted it (full this time) and it settled right out. Took it for a little scoot and it seems to be working fine.

I do need to make one more change, I hate where my water temp sending unit is. I tried using a tee off of the thermostat housing but it runs cool. I am going to wire the fan into the sniper relay (should have done that to begin with). Then dump the fan switch and put the temp sender there. I'll do it tomorrow after it's fully cooled.

Still runs, sounds and smells beautiful.

I just need to run it up 3/4 more times to make sure my coolant leak doesn't come back.

Fman

12-05-2021, 03:52 PM

Jesse glad you got it fixed up. FWIW this little device helps burp your entire cooling system especially if you have a heater, has worked pretty well for me.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B085759CPH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Blitzboy54

12-06-2021, 07:25 AM

cgundermann

12-06-2021, 10:55 AM

Blitzboy54

12-06-2021, 09:43 PM

Another easy way to "burp" it, if you have a extra port in your lower intake - is to put a petcock in to bleed air (believe I learned this from Jeff Kleiner). Photo isn't the best, you can see yellow at the valve -

158329

Chris

Yeah, that’s a great idea. After I moved my sending unit I put a plug in where it used to be. If I ever have to refill it I can loosen it so air can escape.

frankeeski

12-07-2021, 02:49 AM

When I originally ordered my kit the plan was to install Cats. Another builder reached out and had an original set from FFR that were never used so I purchased them. I am going to start with the factory stuff and move on to trying the high flow later.

I consider it money well spent and an easy win.

Glad to hear it all worked out, they got to you safely and you're happy with the result. If you need anything in the future just let me know.

Frank

Blitzboy54

12-07-2021, 11:51 AM

Glad to hear it all worked out, they got to you safely and you're happy with the result. If you need anything in the future just let me know.

Frank

Thanks and will do. Really transformed the car for me, I could not be happier with the performance.

Blitzboy54

12-12-2021, 03:57 PM

I have never been particularly satisfied with the performance of the brakes. I test drove a car with the standard PBR calipers and that drove my decision to either boost the stock brakes or upgrade to the Wilwood big brake kit. I ultimately chose the latter. I bled them initially and could tell I needed to do it again, they improved the second time but after doing some forum research it seemed like they should be stopping a lot better. I still didn't have "performance brakes". What I found with my clutch was I needed to work the pedal a little bit to work the air out. I used a pressurized power bleeder but still need to work the pedal I suspect.

I put the car back up on jacks and as it turns out you can access all 12 bleed ports with the wheels on with the car up like this. The rear brakes have a bleeder for each of the 4 pistons. I had no air in any of them. The fronts however had a lot of air release from the upper port. I took it down and retested and I am now VERY satisfied with the brake performance. I will still need to dial it in but clearly these have plenty of bite.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158516&d=1639331792

The bigger news is the car is now ready for body and paint. I am taking it to Ron Randal at Metal Morphous in CT. He has a sterling reputation and his work is excellent.

I've been in line for Jeff Kleiner's work since the beginning and we've stayed in touch. I reached out to Jeff on the phone and he could not have been more gracious or understanding. The opportunity to have the body and paint done in the dead of winter is something I had to take advantage of. Jeff would not likely be able to take my car until spring or later. Like I told him on the phone (and I want to put out to the group here) I cannot over state my appreciation for everything he does for the FFR community and all the help he's been on my build directly. He even offered to get me in touch with other NY builders that have been through the registration process. Class act from beginning to end. Being able to get my car body done means I can register a complete car this spring and hopefully have it on the road in time to go to the FFR open house in June where with any luck I would be able to meet Jeff and a lot of you!

I'm going to trailer it out next Friday (assuming the weather cooperates). I'll of course update the thread as we move along.Thanks to everyone that helped get it this far. The forum in many ways is the build manual. I never had a problem that someone here didn't have a solution for.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158517&d=1639331792

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158518&d=1639331792

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158520&d=1639331820

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158519&d=1639331820

460.465USMC

12-13-2021, 04:52 PM

Congrats, Jesse! Huge milestone reached on your build. I know it's not a race, but I think you lapped me four times. What an exciting next step to send it off for body/paint!

egchewy79

12-14-2021, 08:03 AM

It's like sending your kid off to college. They'll come back with a diploma in hand and mostly a finished product. Congrats on entering the final stage of your build. I'm waiting for Sir Jeffsky as well and am so close I can taste it!

Blitzboy54

12-14-2021, 10:28 AM

Congrats, Jesse! Huge milestone reached on your build. I know it's not a race, but I think you lapped me four times. What an exciting next step to send it off for body/paint!

Thank you so much Chris. I don't know about lapping anyone but it turns out if you basically ignore all your adult responsibilities outside of work for a year you can get a lot done :). My wife and kids have been very supportive. They know it was a 2 decade dream. I can't thank them enough.

It's like sending your kid off to college. They'll come back with a diploma in hand and mostly a finished product. Congrats on entering the final stage of your build. I'm waiting for Sir Jeffsky as well and am so close I can taste it!

That's how it feels for sure. I keep standing around in the garage (for HOURS) making sure I didn't forget anything or that all the stuff I need to bring is packed. Its just like as you describe. You can't go wrong with Jeff. I wanted a "Kleiner car" in the worst way but it just wasn't in the cards.

John Ibele

12-14-2021, 01:31 PM

Namrups

12-14-2021, 01:38 PM

Jesse, If yours is still at the painters and mine arrives you know where you can come to satisfy that build itch!!

Blitzboy54

12-14-2021, 08:12 PM

Fantastic, Jesse, great news. I know it's not done yet, but you've built a great car and shared a lot of helpful information. Now you just have to get through the next few months looking forlornly at that empty spot in the garage!

I don't know what I'm going to do with myself quite honestly

Jesse, If yours is still at the painters and mine arrives you know where you can come to satisfy that build itch!!

I hope so, I'm excited about your coupe!

Fman

12-14-2021, 08:14 PM

Congrats on heading off to paint! Spill the beans, what color did you decide on? ;)

John Ibele

12-14-2021, 09:58 PM

I don't know what I'm going to do with myself quite honestly

Well, you can quit neglecting the passenger for starters :rolleyes:

Blitzboy54

12-15-2021, 10:27 AM

Congrats on heading off to paint! Spill the beans, what color did you decide on? ;)

I'm going with the Porsche Oak Green Metallic. As of this posting I plan on black racing strips with pin stripes. I am also planning on a red highlight. I like the idea of fender stripes. 2 on each fender but not have them wrap around. I really want to mock it up, I plan to see if I can find a photo I can manipulate. Scott had a guy do a drawing for him, I should have done the same but I know what I want it to look like. I'm pretty excited about it, with all the black it should pop.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158639&d=1639581558

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=155240&d=1635949496

Fman

12-15-2021, 11:45 AM

Jesse, I really like that green color that is going to look amazing and you do not see a lot of Cobras painted in that color scheme which is also cool.

460.465USMC

12-15-2021, 03:52 PM

I truly like your color choice, Jesse. I also like your idea of a red highlight...been considering that for mine. Really looking forward to the big reveal next year!

John Ibele

12-15-2021, 10:30 PM

I'm a part of the green brigade ... I've been looking for a green for long time but it's tough, and you've found a great option. Super rich, but not so dark it gets lost. That's going to look fantastic.

Blitzboy54

12-20-2021, 12:11 PM

On Friday we started the pilgrimage down to North Haven CT. I prepped the car for travel by removing the seats and taping the doors, hood and trunk shut. At the last minute I realized I had a problem, once I removed the seats I had to get myself in a driving position. So I modified a Lowes bucket. It seemed to work just fine. Although It had me sitting further back than the seat does because the clutch wasn't engaged far enough to get it in gear. Super embarrassing while my buddy was laughing at me.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158888&d=1640014919

Once loaded it was drama free. I didn't need to raise the trailer to clear so that was nice. I also passed on the chains as there is nowhere to use them that won't scratch it up. I used to high strength straps in the rear. It held really well. You can see my Teepee in the background. The kids and I built it last winter as a covid project. I have a chimenea in there that keeps it warm. It's actually a lot of fun. We decided it would go up this year again.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158889&d=1640014919

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158890&d=1640014919

We got there no problem. One thing I noticed was even though it was a beautiful clear day I ended up with road salt all over the front of the car. I am clearly going to have to do something different on the way home. Late March will still be a mess.

Ron was fantastic, he showed us around. He had several cars in mid process and a coupe that was just about done. He also had a GT40. There was a backdraft in there that I got to poke around with. That was cool as well. It was so cool that I completely forgot to take any picture. I have been cataloging everything about this built and I get to the best part and like a dumb*** I forgot to photograph it. Doh

I do think I settled on a stripe scheme. I had been flirting with side stripes but I think I want this instead. Black with pinstripes and a red center.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158887&d=1640014919

Lastly after dropping off the trailer we went out. The barstool guys rate some of the best pizza in the country in New Haven. I figured it would have to be good (I mean it's pizza) but was blown away. The hype is real my friends. If you ever end up in that area you MUST stop for pizza. Took a drive through tour of Yale and checked into the apartment. We then went on a bar tour of New Haven. I'm still not fully recovered.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158894&d=1640020207

Jeff Kleiner

12-20-2021, 12:36 PM

I do think I settled on a stripe scheme. I had been flirting with side stripes but I think I want this instead. Black with pinstripes and a red center.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=158887&d=1640014919

Excellent :cool:

Jeff

Blitzboy54

12-20-2021, 08:30 PM

Excellent :cool:

Jeff

Awesome. If Jeff likes it, it has to be good.

hineas

12-20-2021, 10:07 PM

I can't wait to see the finished product!!!

KDubU

12-21-2021, 07:25 AM

Nice colour combo! Just a heads up on your paint with Ron. Bring a flashlight or use you iPhone when you inspect it as his place is a bit dark so it’s hard to see all the detail. When I picked mine up there, I did not see a major flaw near the front of the hood opening. Only noticed after getting it home and a 4 hour drive. Had to end up taking her back about a month later when Ron could repair it. Don’t get me wrong though, the paint job was beautiful just wish I had noticed it before taking her away.

As you noticed, towing a newly painted roadster on an open uhaul can result in some blemishes. I looked at building a temp nose to attach to the trailer or tried to rent an enclosed one but only found one in CT available and that would mean two trips to CT to get the trailer, go back get the roadster, etc.

CaptB

12-21-2021, 07:26 AM

Can't wait Marine.

egchewy79

12-21-2021, 08:08 AM

Digging the color combo. could you cover the nose of a freshly painted car with painter's tape on the way home if still using an open trailer? I'm interested in hearing what you figure out as I'll be trailering mine to Bloomington once my number is called. Also, they still allow smoking indoors in New Haven? I'd think that'd be one of the first places to ban indoor smoking.

Jeff Kleiner

12-21-2021, 08:50 AM

...towing a newly painted roadster on an open uhaul can result in some blemishes...

So can driving it down the road under it's own power! The alternative is to never leave the garage but where's the fun in that? ;)

Jeff

Blitzboy54

12-21-2021, 09:25 AM

Can't wait Marine.

Oorah

Digging the color combo. could you cover the nose of a freshly painted car with painter's tape on the way home if still using an open trailer? I'm interested in hearing what you figure out as I'll be trailering mine to Bloomington once my number is called. Also, they still allow smoking indoors in New Haven? I'd think that'd be one of the first places to ban indoor smoking.

That’s a good point. Im guessing the cigar bar had some sort of exception. Im thinking maybe packing plastic over the nose.

So can driving it down the road under it's own power! The alternative is to never leave the garage but where's the fun in that? ;)

Jeff

Totally agree, my only concern is the road salt. In a year I might be over it but brandy new like that…….

Railroad

12-21-2021, 09:32 AM

I built this shield for my open trailer. I had everything packed up for the trip, but still on hold.
Shield is removable. It is bolted on the front and uses pins for the legs. I might tape some cardboard to the windshield.

158980158980

Tired to rotate stored image to correct, but did not fix. Sorry for the upside down issue.

Blitzboy54

12-27-2021, 09:59 PM

Like I said earlier I was super bummed I didn't get a picture of my car when I dropped it off at Metal Morphous. Enter our old friend NYMike! He hadn't updated his thread in a while but as it turns out he's been cranking away. He also ironically enough also brought his car to Ron. I got a PM the other day with these pics. Mine is photo bombing his good looking build in the background. The fella there taking off the hood and looking over the motor. As Mike said in his message "our journey together continues".

Tip of the cap to Mike.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=159307&d=1640647736

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=159306&d=1640647736

Blitzboy54

02-11-2022, 06:30 PM

A few weeks ago Ron sent me a stand alone photo of my car that I forgot to take. Like dropping your kid off for the first day of kindergarten. (sniff)

You can see NYMikes ride poking it's nose in there. It really is uncanny how tied at the hip we've been. Going to have to get together at some point for a cruise!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=162279&d=1644621339

The body work has begun!

Now I have mixed feelings about this. I am equal parts excited it's started and horrified at the mess. lol

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=162280&d=1644621339

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=162281&d=1644621339

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=162282&d=1644621339

Namrups

02-11-2022, 06:59 PM

One day closer to bringing her home Jesse!! How exciting to be at this point in your build.

Fman

02-12-2022, 09:14 AM

That is awesome, you will have her back just in time for Spring driving! And just be thankful your not the one having to do all that sanding :p those body guys definitely earn there money. I cant wait to see your car that color scheme you selected is going to be amazing!

Jeff Kleiner

02-12-2022, 10:10 AM

...I am equal parts excited it's started and horrified at the mess...

Ha! It's only just begun Jesse :p It's always interesting to see how others such as Ron go about it. I pull the body off before the first piece of sandpaper ever touches it then do all of the sanding filling and bodywork of the parting lines as well as the trimming and finishing of the wheel openings with it on a buck (and outside when the weather allows so as to keep the dust out of the shop!) They then go back on the chassis for fitting and shaping with the doors, hood and trunk. As the saying goes; different strokes for different folks ;)

Exciting times for sure, keep us updated!

Jeff

Blitzboy54

02-13-2022, 01:58 PM

Thanks guys. Exciting times

Will keep you dates for sure.

UpstateCobraGuy

03-02-2022, 12:33 PM

Blitzboy54

03-02-2022, 06:22 PM

Sweet! Been looking for local builds. Sorry to miss this one!

I keep track of a few FFR guy in the greater Albany area. If you want to meet up, drop me a PM. The Lake George Run is coming in July and you look like you're on schedule. ;)

Pat

Yes sir. That is the goal, I feel like if I can get it back by April I have a real good chance to get her on the road and registered. by then. I really want to come.

I did get a small update. Ron sent me this picture. We are chipping away.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=163261&d=1646258984

He also had a coupe in the shop when I brought my car in and sent me a photo of it. It's done and due to be picked up. Gives me something to look forward too! Classic Guardsman and Wimbledon

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=163262&d=1646258984

I have picked my color and strip what I have not settled on is the shade of red I will be going with. I ordered some Oak Green Metallic touch up paint and gloss black model paint. My plan is to make some test strips to see the right combination using different shades of red. I am starting with Ferrari Rosso and will go from there. I am also considering stealing NYMikes pretty awesome idea and paint a die cast model once I've settled on it.

In that vein I wanted to get a rough idea if my strip scheme would work. I found an outlined drawing on google, printed and colored it. I am no artist and the shade of green is all wrong (came out almost lime) but I still got to see if it worked as a scheme and I believe it does.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=163263&d=1646258984

JB in NOVA

03-03-2022, 10:19 PM

Love it! That's going to be spectacular.

hineas

03-04-2022, 04:59 AM

That is going to look good. I can't wait to see it finished!

CaptB

03-04-2022, 07:37 AM

Nice work!

BadAsp427

03-06-2022, 10:56 AM

That color combination is going to be awesomely different..

Blitzboy54

03-19-2022, 07:50 PM

I got an update from Ron. The doors as most know can be an issue and there are several directions to go with it. This is his solution. We are getting near the end of body shaping. He is hoping to have the car re gel coated by Friday.

Moving right along

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164206&d=1647714873

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164205&d=1647714873

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164204&d=1647714873

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164203&d=1647714873

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164202&d=1647714873

GoDadGo

03-20-2022, 09:08 AM

I hated the bodywork phase and it was at that point that I ran out of talent.

If it wasn't for the ton of expert advice given to me by Jeff Kleiner and my pal Sam Olsen coming in to teach me how to do bodywork, I can attest that my car wouldn't have turned out well at all.

Bodywork & Door Splitting:
https://youtu.be/6UK6K2jcwTU

Bodywork Completed:
https://youtu.be/po1Bb2_XDDk

Finished Car:
https://youtu.be/9WEe6-wdNtA

We Can't Wait To See Your Car Wearing Its War Paint & Graduation Pics!

Steve

Blitzboy54

03-28-2022, 06:48 PM

The body is off and the rest of the fitting is done. Ron re gel coats the car. The pics are not super high quality but you get the gist. It was done today and will dry/out gas for the next 10 days or so. Then it's on to primer!

(Jesse, no I) :)
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164706&d=1648510594

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=164705&d=1648510594

WIS89

03-29-2022, 05:57 AM

Jesse-

So happy to see how well the bodywork is coming; you must be stoked! I love the color combination, and the stripes you picked out. The red center is really going to make a big positive difference.

Congratulations on getting so close. It must be hard to be waiting at this point, but I am sure it is going to be worth it.

Thanks for sharing your journey, and I look forward to seeing the final paint pics!

Regards and S/F,

Steve

Blitzboy54

03-29-2022, 08:18 AM

Jeff Kleiner

03-29-2022, 09:48 AM

I almost get itchy I'm so anxious. I'm trying to enjoy the process.

Itchy? You don’t know itchy :p Guys like Ron and me, we can tell you about itchy ;)

Looking good!

Jeff

Blitzboy54

04-23-2022, 11:43 AM

I've got my first look at the color and could not be happier! I should have a shot with the stripes unmasked soon. Then cut & buff followed by the clear. After the body is done I have asked Ron not to update me with anymore pics. I want to have a big reveal feel to it when I pick her up in May. Right now the plan is to get her Sat May 14th. I will take that week off of work and love on her the rest of the week (I know that sounds creepy, no I don't care :) ).

It's not the number 1 priority but the goal is to be street legal by July. There is cobra rally in Lake George and man it would be great to go.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165820&d=1650731207

zee

04-23-2022, 11:46 AM

That looks like a very neat colour. Can't wait to see the whole car.

Jeff Kleiner

04-23-2022, 12:27 PM

That ain’t green!

Jeff

Blitzboy54

04-23-2022, 01:09 PM

That ain’t green!

Jeff

It is. I promise :)

Same color before and after clear. In this case someone put a matte finish over a finished car. It's dramatic how much it changes with the clear. In my case the before and after are reversed.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165833&d=1650768696

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165834&d=1650768696

KDubU

04-24-2022, 06:19 AM

That’s all we get??? One stinkin half picture, WTH! I want to see this beauty in all it’s glory.

Here’s a green one that is a beauty.
165835

Blitzboy54

04-24-2022, 07:46 AM

That’s all we get??? One stinkin half picture, WTH! I want to see this beauty in all it’s glory.

Here’s a green one that is a beauty.
165835

I told Ron I didn’t want any pictures after he assembled the car. I think he misunderstood what I meant.

I’ll get some more this week………… I hope

GoDadGo

04-24-2022, 02:11 PM

Definitely An Elegant Color!

Blitzboy54

04-25-2022, 01:18 PM

Mask removed!!

First coat of clear went on today, I will get a pic of that tomorrow. Ron said the change was dramatic. This is still the raw paint.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165887&d=1650909681

zee

04-25-2022, 03:02 PM

Stop teasing and show us the whole package :-).
(the entire car)

Blitzboy54

04-25-2022, 08:30 PM

First wet look

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=165921&d=1650936465

GoDadGo

04-26-2022, 05:19 AM

Ray Summed Up That Great Shade The Best!

https://youtu.be/zNwWZvskjq0

Almost There Blitz Man!

Blitzboy54

05-02-2022, 02:29 PM

My last teaser photo

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166158&d=1651517980

Blitzboy54

05-02-2022, 02:33 PM

Ladies and Gentlemen I would like to introduce you to the new love of my life.

Porsche Oak Green Metallic

Jet Black

Ferrari Rosso Red

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166160&d=1651518706

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166159&d=1651518706

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166161&d=1651518706

Still needs to be sanded and polished a couple more times. I am simply beside myself. I can't believe how beautiful she looks. I won't have another update until I get her home. Right now that's the 14th of this month.

I will have lots of updates at that time.

Thanks to the board for helping get her this far.

Jeff Kleiner

05-02-2022, 02:58 PM

I like it! Always like something that breaks away from the common blues and reds :cool:

Jeff

ydousurf

05-02-2022, 03:22 PM

Looks awesome and I love the green! And I agree with Jeff, doing something different is cool! Enjoy the final phase of assembly and beginning of a whole new journey of driving and enjoying your ride.

Doug

Fman

05-02-2022, 05:55 PM

Great color combo!!! and those rims also set the car off! Really looking forward to the final reveal! You will be driving around town soon!

JB in NOVA

05-02-2022, 07:54 PM

Love it! Really awesome.

Joel Hauser

05-02-2022, 08:34 PM

It really does look great Jesse. Can't wait to see it in person. Let me know when I can come by to see it.

Jim Frahm

05-02-2022, 11:12 PM

She’s beautiful! It’s inspiring to see such awesome builds in this forum. Thanks for sharing. I’ll get there someday.

Namrups

05-03-2022, 09:07 AM

Great color! Looking forward to seeing it in person soon!

Blitzboy54

05-03-2022, 10:47 AM

It really does look great Jesse. Can't wait to see it in person. Let me know when I can come by to see it.

Great color! Looking forward to seeing it in person soon!

Thanks fella's. Stay in touch, I am taking the week of the 16th off to work on the car, I will be generally around. I'm also having a block party on the 21st. You are both welcome any time.

John Ibele

05-03-2022, 12:11 PM

Really happy for you Jesse, for two reasons. One, you got your car back and the paint job looks really well executed. Second because you picked out a unique color combo that really looks fantastic - with all the variations out there, not much room for that any more. Well done!!

hineas

05-03-2022, 02:16 PM

That is stunning!!!

BadAsp427

05-03-2022, 03:50 PM

Very Nice!!!

Namrups

05-03-2022, 03:59 PM

Thanks fella's. Stay in touch, I am taking the week of the 16th off to work on the car, I will be generally around. I'm also having a block party on the 21st. You are both welcome any time.

Marking the calendar.

KDubU

05-04-2022, 06:50 AM

Wow! Very, very nice. Brilliant colour combination.

Blitzboy54

05-15-2022, 10:24 PM

After a mercifully uneventful trip FFR 10,008 is home. One thing I hadn't considered was since there is not really a gas cap (I have a rubber cap sitting on the fill tube) most of the 1/8 of a tank evaporated. I JUST had enough to get her up the ramp of the trailer. When I got home I had about a half gallon in the garage, just enough to get her tucked away.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166831&d=1652669552

In NY there are 2 major parts to getting a home built vehicle registered. A salvage inspection to prove you legally own all the parts in your car and a compliance inspection to make sure you have all the features NY requires to put a car on the road. I submitted the inspection paperwork a couple weeks ago and my goal this week is to get enough done on the car to pass both. I would like to be able to legally drive by July. I am off this week and plan to get as much done as I get to achieve those goals.

I spent today cleaning up the interior and starting that process. I have a few of the lights in as well as the door sill aluminum. I am really quite pleased with the color scheme. The green changes shades with the sun and shadows, going from a lighter metallic to almost black in the shadows.

This is how she looks as of today.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166832&d=1652669552

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166833&d=1652669552

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166835&d=1652669594

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166834&d=1652669594

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166843&d=1652671402

Namrups

05-16-2022, 07:57 AM

Looks so different than when I saw it in gel coat. Great color choice! Take notes on the registration process.

460.465USMC

05-16-2022, 02:35 PM

That's gotta feel really good to have it back in the barn, Jesse! Congrats! You're going to be cruising your local haunts in no time!

Blitzboy54

05-16-2022, 06:42 PM

That's gotta feel really good to have it back in the barn, Jesse! Congrats! You're going to be cruising your local haunts in no time!

Thanks Chris! It does, I have my DMV inspection on the 31st so I have to keep cranking.

NYMike

05-17-2022, 12:03 PM

Congrats Jesse, that looks amazing! The paint scheme came out awesome and that green looks so good.

metalmorphous

05-17-2022, 12:11 PM

Jesse when we can read the backwards Metal-Morphous in the nose section (last photo in #405) we know the shine is getting close

John Ibele

05-17-2022, 05:20 PM

That is just a seriously bada$$ shade of green ... cockpit is all business. You carried through a consistent look and did it well. Nice job, Jesse. I'm happy for you.

JB in NOVA

05-17-2022, 05:28 PM

Beautiful! Congrats on a job well done.

Blitzboy54

05-17-2022, 06:45 PM

Congrats Jesse, that looks amazing! The paint scheme came out awesome and that green looks so good.

That is just a seriously bada$$ shade of green ... cockpit is all business. You carried through a consistent look and did it well. Nice job, Jesse. I'm happy for you.

Beautiful! Congrats on a job well done.

Thank you Gentlemen. I genuinely appreciate the positive feedback

Blitzboy54

05-17-2022, 07:05 PM

As I continue to march toward registration I started working on the car from back to front. There are a few items that can wait until "graduation" but for the state I need to have most of the functional items that makes the car legal done this week. I thought I would be stressed about it but I have made brisk progress. So much so I will be delaying posting them as to avoid "spamming" my build thread :)

First is the Lemans Cap. It will be nice to put gas in the tank the proper way. I had about an 1/8 of a tank when I dropped her off but most of it evaporated with the loose cap I had on the filler neck. I had just enough to get up the ramp (mercifully) and not a drop more. For those of you that have not done it yet that rubber hose that marries up the neck with the cap it is an absolute mother to get on. I mean no joke, I never want to do it again. I pushed it down on the filler neck then had to bring it up. I did not use lubricant and that may have been a mistake. I eventually got there but wow.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166921&d=1652829395

Funny story, I couldn't find the ground strap. It wasn't with my Lemans cap. Either I lost it or it was never sent so I made my own as you can see. Once complete I fished out the cap that fits in the lemans cap and out fell the ground strap. Just to be sure I ran a resistance check from the cap housing to the frame of the car and their isn't any so we are good. Like most things on these cars once installed it looks fantastic.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166920&d=1652829395

I put the license plate bracket on. No re invention of the wheel, I used a long zip tie to fish the wire through and finished off everything with a cover from Dark Water Customs that I powder coated.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166917&d=1652829395

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166918&d=1652829395

Finally I got my rear lights in and tested as well as putting my quick jack bumpers in. Interestingly enough I found an old license plate and installed it. The plate clears the latch by plenty. I thought there would be interference but that has apparently been addressed. Although the mount is still way off center, but that's what gives it so much "charm"

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166919&d=1652829395

Fman

05-17-2022, 10:46 PM

Job well done Jesse, ya killed it... that green really is a fantastic color choice and the red/black stripe really compliment it nicely! and your color is rare on these cars which is a nice bonus (nobody else will have your color at C&C or car shows:D).

Looking forward to seeing the final graduation pics!:cool:

Blitzboy54

05-19-2022, 04:48 PM

Blitzboy54

05-19-2022, 05:10 PM

As I continue to move to registration I took the opportunity to put the wheel wells together as well as the nose aluminum and front lights. It's so exciting to see it look like a real boy. I used the Prismatic Powders "Stone Black" on all the splash guards and nose. It's flat but comes out like butter. It is really nice stuff if your looking for a matte finish that's easy to apply.

Like a lot of others I made this piece from leftover aluminum. This fits in the gap in the body behind the door on the front side of the rear wheel well. There is nothing that's really an issue up there but it's nice to have it sealed off.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166924&d=1652829524

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166922&d=1652829524

The fronts went in without issue and required no adjustment. The only mistake I made is I made a cutout for my wire harness that follows the drivers side upper frame. Just after I knotched it I realized I cut the passenger side. So now there is a half inch opening at the top for no reason what so ever, fortunately it’s not noticeable unless your looking for it.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166923&d=1652829524

I fit the nose aluminum and used (per Dr. Kliener's recommendation) bulb seal on the lower piece to press it into place instead of using rivets like the manual says. I also don't need it to hold up my radiator as I used the Breeze lower radiator support (this is pretty much a must). All in all I really like the look

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166926&d=1652829524

Since I was working on the front end I installed the quick jacks and lights. I used the LED Jeep headlights instead of the FFR offering. They much brighter and I was also able to find a sort of black model. It fits the them and gives it a mean look.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166925&d=1652829524

Finally a funny story. I pressed my badge into the steering wheel center section. I wanted to make sure I liked it before committing to it. So I set the center section in the boss and then put the badge in without removing the backing. Once I was sure I liked it I removed everything, gave it all a good clean then pealed the backing off the badge and stuck it on. I then tried to press the center section into the steering boss. Well it wouldn't go in. I pushed and pushed and it kept popping out. WTH?

Well there is a hole drilled into the middle of the center section and it's there for a reason. It presses in with an oring once I put the badge in the air had nowhere to escape. I spent a comically long time figuring all this out. What I ended up doing was slicing some cuts into the oring to let the air out. Long story short put the center section in first then place the badge in. :)

Anyway it really matches up well with my interior.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166929&d=1652829578

Nigel Allen

05-19-2022, 07:26 PM

A perfect example of your vision. Congratulations! I bet you can't leave the garage without one last look before you turn off the lights.

Cheers,

Nigel

Jeff Kleiner

05-20-2022, 05:03 AM

Looking fantastic Jesse :cool:

Jeff

Blitzboy54

05-20-2022, 05:11 PM

A perfect example of your vision. Congratulations! I bet you can't leave the garage without one last look before you turn off the lights.

Cheers,

Nigel

Thank you, I have spent quite a few hours in the garage stairing for sure.

Looking fantastic Jesse :cool:

Jeff

Thanks Jeff!

Blitzboy54

05-23-2022, 11:40 AM

Next up was working the door on the sills. I installed the top aluminum and you can clearly see that the drivers side of the body is pulled farther away than the passenger. This is common and why you don't install it until after the body is done.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166928&d=1652829578

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=166927&d=1652829578

Like a lot of you I don't like the open carpet seem. I will be cutting my own carpet from some spare I have and will 100% be copying what Dave (Papa) did on his with the angle aluminum to trim it up. The only difference is mine will have some sort of gloss black finish. I also have door cards from Earl that I will need to finish it off. I installed the leather door limit straps. Again kept up with the red as a highlight theme.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167006&d=1652993440

The registration process in NY is maybe a bit more complicated than some states but not all that bad. There are a lot of steps though. The good news is one of the first things you do is contact the home built vehicle division and they send you a packet. It has very detailed instruction. The first part is a "salvage inspection" to prove you own all the parts in the car. Now this isn't hard but a little nerve racking. My date for this is the 31st. Once that is passed they will issue me a VIN.

The other half is a compliance check. This is mostly done through an application and pictures. They want to know that all the lights and windshield are DOT compliant. They are really familiar with FFR so it was an easy conversation. Once I have the VIN I send it to these guys and they issue me a form that allows me to go to the DMV and register the car. I will need a general safety inspection as well. This is no different than any care in NY but it has to be done first. On a regular car you have 10 days to do it after it's registered.

Items that NY requires that some states don't

Bumpers - quick jacks count, the state calls them bumperettes
Padded dash - the padding under the dash as it comes complies
Padded sun visor - I borrowed a couple vinyl covers from Joel, some guys just put a sock over them
Wipers and defroster - there are temp work arounds I did the real thing for both
Side lights - State says the lights on the cobra protrude enough to count as is.
Emissions - this is based on 2 things, where you live (Long Island and NYC folks have to go through emissions checks, upstate does not) and the application year of your engine. I have a 302 out of a 93 mustang BUT the 302 was put into production in 1968. that means I have to conform to emissions from 1968, this is a PCV valve only. I put CATs on my car so I added that because I wanted them.

One of the things I need before submitting any of this is a weight cert. So I packed up my car between rain storms and went to a local recycle center. The dude running it was pretty awesome and didn't charge me. Just wanted to talk about the car.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167008&d=1652993440

She's 2220 lbs

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167007&d=1652993440

This is my completed application that I sent off Friday.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167170&d=1653323829

egchewy79

05-23-2022, 12:03 PM

one step closer! looking good. good luck w/ the inspection process. I've heard that NY is one of the tougher legislated states for approval.

460.465USMC

05-23-2022, 02:00 PM

Wow! You must be already smelling the open road, sitting behind the wheel in your newly licensed Roadster! That's awesome! Thanks for continuing to share your tips...they are not lost on me. Much appreciated!

NYMike

05-26-2022, 07:55 PM

Man that car looks good! Good luck with the inspection.

Blitzboy54

05-30-2022, 02:39 PM

I continue to work on my door sills working toward completion. I like many of you do not like the way the carpet is separated from with an outer corner seem and needed to do something to dress it up. There are many options I chose to copy what Papa did on his build using stock angle aluminum.

First I started by cutting the inner corners. I measured from the front back to the two angles. I made templates from cardboard so I could match the angle.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167461&d=1653937990

I used a propane torch and got the angles nice and hot. This softens it and makes the bend much smoother. Take your time is key

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167460&d=1653937990

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167462&d=1653937990

Once bent and cooled I checked for fitment

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167463&d=1653937990

I couldn't get them to fit in my oven, just an odd shape so I primed, painted and cleared them instead. While that was drying I installed the carpet. I also installed the black rubber door seal.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167464&d=1653938096

Securing it with rivets, it fit in nicely and does the job well.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167465&d=1653938096

A quick update on registration. I received a letter back from the Vehicle Safety and Clean Air dept. The package I submitted (pictured last post) has been approved. I have my Field Investigations Dept inspection tomorrow. Assuming all goes well I will then receive a VIN and be one step closer to registration. I am still trying to figure out who is going to to the standard safety inspection. I have a place around the corner but I get squirrely about letting just anyone (particularly with greasy hands) get in my car and mess with it. I need to find the right place, someone that "get it"

Blitzboy54

06-03-2022, 06:28 PM

Two big miles stones have been reached today!

First is my interior is complete. This as mentioned earlier was my favorite part of the build. I don't have the body work skills (if I were to do more of these I think I would tackle it though) but I really enjoyed making the cockpit feel like home.

To make my doors latch correctly I needed one spacer on the passenger side and two on the drivers. I purchased longer screws and a generous builder sent me a spare he was not using.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167637&d=1654298007

I finished off the doors with Herbs beautiful door pockets. I can't believe how nice they look, such and incredibly well built product sold at such a great price. I appreciate all the vendors on this forum.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167632&d=1654295828

The inside is at least now ready for her cap and gown. Can't wait spend some miles in there.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167633&d=1654295828

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167634&d=1654295828

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167005&d=1652993440

The other big milestone is I've been issued a VIN and have received permission to register my Cobra. I have to get an routine inspection and then it's off to the DMV!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167635&d=1654295828

This part was a lot easier than advertised. I suspect having receipts from Factory Five helps. They have seen a lot of these and essentially take your word for it if the paperwork is filled out correctly. I started the application around April 30th and I will likely be ready to get plates next week. So not bad. I still need an alignment and I have a few more things to install but I'm pretty close.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167631&d=1654295828

Namrups

06-04-2022, 08:42 AM

Looking forward to seeing it in person!

Mike.Bray

06-04-2022, 09:35 AM

I like the underdash lighting, what did you use?

Blitzboy54

06-04-2022, 07:07 PM

I like the underdash lighting, what did you use?

Thanks!

Standard 12v LED strip lighting. Very similar to this.

Geeon 4-Pack LED Strip Lights Red... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G628C18?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

NYMike

06-04-2022, 08:18 PM

Congrats on getting the golden ticket! Can't wait to see some plates on it.

JB in NOVA

06-04-2022, 10:01 PM

Very nice! Looks great, and congrats on making it street legal.

Blitzboy54

06-08-2022, 12:31 PM

Legal

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167878&d=1654709138

Paperwork is done and she is ready to drive on the open road. I ordered new custom plates so in a couple weeks I will replace this one, but she in the eyes of God and the state of NY she is fully legal to drive. In retrospect I basically flew through this project. I should have taken more time but I just got addicted to working on it. I started the paperwork April 30th and have plates June 8th.

I am going to try to find a nice place to take some proper glamour shots to show her off in all her glory (maybe this weekend). I will also post a graduation thread when I'm ready. A hearty thank you to everyone that helped get me this far. I love this forum and plan to stick around for a while.

Jeff Kleiner

06-08-2022, 12:48 PM

Get out there and drive it Jesse! In fact let me suggest that your maiden voyage is to the Open House this weekend ;)

Have fun man, you done good :cool:

Jeff

460.465USMC

06-08-2022, 08:27 PM

Congrats, Jesse! Wahoo! Very excited for you to get out there and enjoy it! It really turned out nice.

P.S. if you're going to the F5 open house, I'll be there and it would be great to meet you. Not sure how far that is for you, but I vote for Jeff's suggestion!

Namrups

06-08-2022, 08:51 PM

Great news Jesse! How exciting!

Blitzboy54

06-09-2022, 09:37 AM

Get out there and drive it Jesse! In fact let me suggest that your maiden voyage is to the Open House this weekend ;)

Have fun man, you done good :cool:

Jeff

Thank you Jeff!

I honestly didn't think I would have plates by now so I thought the open house was not going to happen this year for me. Unfortunately I made no plans to attend so I can't make it this year. I will be there next year for sure.

The car isn't ready for a long trip yet. For instance in my ride yesterday I learned 2 things

1. $60 to fill her up (ooph)
2. My transmission tunnel cover tries to lift off and fly away at 60 mph or more. lol Its really just sitting on there it didn't occur to me that the air pressure und the car would lift it. So I need to figure out a solution.

First of many things I will likely need to debug.

Congrats, Jesse! Wahoo! Very excited for you to get out there and enjoy it! It really turned out nice.

P.S. if you're going to the F5 open house, I'll be there and it would be great to meet you. Not sure how far that is for you, but I vote for Jeff's suggestion!

Chris I'm gutted. I would love to meet you, I really should have planned better.

Blitzboy54

06-10-2022, 08:15 PM

First legal drive with the wife. She runs strong, but needs a tune up to smooth out the power band. Because our friend Terry from LV checked in to tell us all about his remote engine tuner I now have an appointment. Terry is even sending me his Sniper to USB cable to borrow for no other reason than he is awesome. I also have an appointment to get the front end aligned on the same day. I did my best to get her close but she pulls a touch to the right and the steering wheel is a little off center

https://youtu.be/TkfzYVCDvRk

I drove her to work today to because a really good friend of mine retired today.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167955&d=1654908992

He is a huge car guy and has been a big part of this journey for me. I was happy to be able to take him out for a big ride. He had that smile on his face the entire time. It was a really great afternoon.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=167956&d=1654909699

I hope everyone is having a great time at the open house. Say Hi to Dave for me!

KDubU

06-11-2022, 06:54 AM

Stunning! Great job, she is a beauty.

NYMike

06-11-2022, 08:03 AM

Congrats Jesse. You killed it. It looks amazing. Enjoy your drives!

Blitzboy54

06-24-2022, 09:31 PM

I've been both finishing up final bits and having an absolute blast learning how to drive her. I am still waiting on my custom plate so I am not quite ready to "graduate". Once I have that I will make it official. In the mean time I have been checking things off the list.

First was the engine tune. Terry in LV hired a guy to tune his sniper remotely. Thanks to him sharing his experience I had my appointment this week and could not be happier. The power curve has smoothed and it idles and starts beautifully regardless of being hot and cold. It was about 2 hours in the garage and on the phone. It was really cool watching him work and then he would ask me to rev the motor or he would lock the timing and have me check it with the light. I really enjoyed it.

I also figured out my brake setup. The issue I was having as it turns out was the instructions from Wilwood state rotate the bias toward the master cylinder you want to apply more bias to. The issue is that's not exactly right. What they mean is rotate the internal spherical bearing toward the master cylinder you want the apply more bias to. This is actually the opposite. So once I figured that out I moved my setup to all rear to the correct front/rear balance and she stops beautifully now.

I took a page out of Fmans book and purchased and indoor car/dust cover. I have a very old dusty garage and this is by far the best way to keep my car fresh and clean. I love cleaning her after a ride and putting the cover on. It's like opening a Christmas present every time I take the cover off.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168579&d=1656121444

The next big milestone was the alignment. I did my best but it wasn't very good. It pulled to the right and would hop all over the place at 70+ MPH. I had a lunch appointment today at a recommended shop and Oh NELLLY!!! what a difference. It's like driving a bullet train I **** you not. It's so nimble.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168577&d=1656121236

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168578&d=1656121236

The wife and I have been taking her out and taking pictures whenever we find a nice spot. So the rest of this post and the next are just random pictures of my almost completed car. I hope you enjoy them.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168580&d=1656121444

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168581&d=1656121499

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168590&d=1656123194

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168588&d=1656123081

Blitzboy54

06-24-2022, 09:34 PM

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168582&d=1656121499

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168593&d=1656123194

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168592&d=1656123194

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168589&d=1656123081

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168587&d=1656123081

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168586&d=1656123081

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=168594&d=1656123194

Chopper

06-24-2022, 09:41 PM

Blitzboy54

06-24-2022, 09:45 PM

Looks great! I had a similar experience where I did a final corner scale alignment on my car and it really transformed the way it drove. Congratulations!

One thing to note: I cover my car every time after I drive it and put it up on the lift. I do a lot of woodwork and also have a dusty garage. When I had my car painted, my painter told me not to cover it for about 6 months to ensure the cover didn't print the paint. It may depend on what is used, but I think it is worth asking.

-Brandon

Thanks for looking out. Yes I had the same conversation and he said the same thing, however he said a breathable indoor cover was fine but to stay away from an all weather cover until winter. The camera doesn't pic it up but this thing is almost see through.

460.465USMC

06-25-2022, 11:48 AM

Blitzboy54

06-25-2022, 03:05 PM

Jesse, your build looks incredible! Well done. I hope you and the Mrs. get lots of great time together in your completed Roadster this summer driving season.

Couple questions: (1) where did you get your side pipe heat shields (were they already coated black?), and (2) I don't recall, did you PC your roll bar trim rings yourself?

Thank you sir, the co pilot and I just got back from a long drive. Learning what works and what doesn't every day. Today we learned to never leave without sun screen. My elbows and ears are pretty well fried. lol

Answers to your questions are

1. I picked them up at Iconic parts (they look out of stock at the moment but here is the link) https://www.iconicparts.com/stainless-heat-shields-966.html . I ceramic coated them and the pipes at a local shop

2. I PC'ed all the trim rings and head light bezels myself.

nucjd19

06-29-2022, 07:34 PM

Jesse...... DANG!!!!! It is beautiful man! You really made a unique and awesome rig! Something to really be proud of :)

Fman

06-29-2022, 11:10 PM

The first and second pic are the money shots, beautiful car Jesse and such a great color choice. That has to be one of the best green colors I have seen.

Hope you get out and enjoy the heck out of it. I just got back from an evening drive myself tonight and damn these cars are fun to drive :cool: got my one hour fix, definitely needed it :p

KDubU

06-30-2022, 07:36 AM

Agree with others, she’s stunning and the colour combo rocks.

TBull

06-30-2022, 10:23 AM

Beautiful car. Hope you really enjoy it.

JohnK

06-30-2022, 10:34 AM

Absolutely stunning! Well done Jesse.

JB in NOVA

06-30-2022, 09:53 PM

Great job, Jesse!

nucjd19

06-30-2022, 11:08 PM

Hey Jesse. Where did you get the car cover? I have roll bars on the passenger and driver side like you. Been thinking about a car cover to fit that situation. Thanks!

GoDadGo

07-01-2022, 06:59 AM

That Is One Sinister Looking Snake!

We all know that our cars resemble that famous Shelby Cobra, which is one B-B-Bad Snake.
Down in the Deep South the Scariest Slithering Snake is the Water Moccasin. (aka: The Cotton Mouth)
This Car Embodies That Snake Because You Never Know Where It Is Or When It Is Going To Bight You!

Well Done, Well Executed & Super Sinister!

Blitzboy54

07-01-2022, 10:06 AM

Hey Jesse. Where did you get the car cover? I have roll bars on the passenger and driver side like you. Been thinking about a car cover to fit that situation. Thanks!

https://www.carautocovers.com/full-black-car-cover-for-ac-427-1965-roadster-2-door-black-satin.html

I searched a coupon code online and was able to knock a few more bucks off as well.

That Is One Sinister Looking Snake!

We all know that our cars resemble that famous Shelby Cobra, which is one B-B-Bad Snake.
Down in Deep South the Scariest Slithering Snake is the Water Moccasin. (aka: The Cotton Mouth)
This Car Embodies That Snake Because You Never Know Where It Is Or When It Is Going To Bight You!

Well Done, Well Executed & Super Sinister!

Man I appreciate that. I'll have a small update later this weekend. My custom plates came in and wow are we on the same page.

Straversi

07-01-2022, 12:31 PM

Congratulations Jesse. I love the choice you made for your build. It's hard to explain to people outside the community how much enjoyment comes from all the decisions you get to make when building one of these projects. I think if you look at my car and yours it's easy to see we made the opposite choice in almost every decision. You had a theme and I had mine, and in the end, I'd be happy to drive either. Well done! Enjoy the miles.
-Steve

Blitzboy54

07-20-2022, 09:35 PM

Well, I guess I'm "done". I have 1000 miles now and I can not believe how much fun it is to drive. I used Andrew at projectgattago to remotely tune the EFI and I could not be happier. I get 2 miles per gallon better when I started and the engine is just so smooth. I had some drama with the drivers side door as things settled I needed to make a few tweaks to the door. I found out that it can get away from you if your not careful. I did eventually figure it out so all is well.

My wife and I did a Cobra run in Lake George and it was incredible. You get a lot of attention when you go from town to town in one of these. When you string 25 of them together it's a whole other thing. I felt like a Beetle. All day in the car was great. It's definitely more work than a daily driver but very comfortable and fun. That she likes it as much as she does makes it that much better.

Now there are a couple of things I wish I had done differently. First is the fuel pump. I purchased the Holley Sniper and have no regrets there but I installed the external fuel pump that comes with the complete kit. I mounted it under the passenger seat pan and quite frankly I hate it. I can't get that thing out of there fast enough. It's loud and it drones. You can't hear it over 40mph but when your just cruising it's incredibly irritating. It would have not cost any more (maybe less) to put a submersible pump in the tank and be done with it. I have purchased a submersible pump and waiting on the Pro M hanger then will make the change.

Second is the clutch. I did not install a performance clutch. This was a mistake. I have a pedestrian Mustang replacement clutch and its not strong enough. It's plenty for 90% but when I apply aggressive power it slips. This is a little embarrassing but it just didn't occur to me that would be an issue and I'm sharing it because maybe someone reads it and avoids the same mistake. The good news is I have a friend with a lift and all the toys so we will drop the T5 and put in a Centerforce clutch in September.

I really like the look of tire stickers. I thought about putting Good Year on the tires but I don't have Good Years and I really didn't want to put Nitto on so I decided do this. I like the way the white pops.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169758&d=1658367987

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169756&d=1658367862

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169754&d=1658367862

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169753&d=1658367862

If I ever find the perfect picture I'll do a graduation post until then I'll continue to come to the forum every day....... Probably forever

So I guess that's it, I'm graduated.

Chopper

07-20-2022, 09:40 PM

Congratulations on the graduation! Looking very sharp. That green is especially perfect in that lighting.

On being done, it's probably never done. It's graduated :) My car was completed in 2016 and I am still doing work upgrading and changing things!

CaptB

07-21-2022, 06:58 AM

Nice job Marine.

Namrups

07-21-2022, 07:10 AM

Fantastic build Jesse!

CaptB

07-21-2022, 08:14 AM

65BYBYE

07-21-2022, 08:15 AM

Looks great Jesse.....looking foward to seeing the finished product!

Railroad

07-21-2022, 08:17 AM

That is one unique roadster. Lotsa Black. Very nice work on getting there.

Chopper

07-21-2022, 08:42 AM

Hey quick question Jesse, what color are your headers? I originally was going with the ceramkrome silver but went your direction (black). I'm concerned it will look wierd with a silver header connected to a black exhaust pipe.

The transition happens right at the body, it's pretty difficult to see on either side (under hood or outside), unless you have the car up on a lift.

Blitzboy54

07-21-2022, 09:21 AM

Hey quick question Jesse, what color are your headers? I originally was going with the ceramkrome silver but went your direction (black). I'm concerned it will look wierd with a silver header connected to a black exhaust pipe.

What Chopper said is correct. Mine are even a little more weird as I have silver ceramic coated 302 headers and raw steal catalytic converters. With the hood open you only really notice the headers and it makes no real difference. Unless it really bothers the builder or it's a show car it probably doesn't matter.

Jeff Kleiner

07-21-2022, 09:32 AM

Happy Graduation my friend! :)

Jeff

John Ibele

07-21-2022, 09:50 AM

Congratulations, Jesse. It looks simply fantastic, you did a great job. Thanks for taking us along on the build journey. Cheers, -- John

CaptB

07-21-2022, 10:33 AM

What Chopper said is correct. Mine are even a little more weird as I have silver ceramic coated 302 headers and raw steal catalytic converters. With the hood open you only really notice the headers and it makes no real difference. Unless it really bothers the builder or it's a show car it probably doesn't matter.

I think I'll ride the train for now. I can always pull headers later and have them redone. Thanks!

BadAsp427

07-23-2022, 10:41 AM

Looks great.. congratulations...

460.465USMC

07-25-2022, 11:52 PM

Really enjoyed watching your build come together, Jesse. Appreciate you sharing all the good info. along the way. Hope you stick around the forum and continue to help us guys still plugging along. Maybe we'll cross paths someday. Would be so cool to see it in person. Glad you and your wife are enjoying it together.

P.S. Cool license plate!

Blitzboy54

07-26-2022, 10:57 AM

danmas

10-01-2022, 09:56 PM

Blitzboy54

10-05-2022, 02:20 PM

Your build is pretty inspirational. I love it. Got my kit on order and expect it in May of 23. I am dropping in a 427 stage 1 from Blueprint and I hope I can come close to what you have achieved. Its quite simply gorgeous.

Thank you so much! I really appreciate the kind words. Feel free to reach out if there is anything I can do to help.

Reminds me I have a updated photos

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=171293&d=1660933157

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=171294&d=1660933181

danmas

10-07-2022, 07:31 PM

I haven't read through your entire build thread yet, so I apologize if its already listed, but, where or how did you get your exhaust black? Did you order them that way or did you aftermarket treat them?

Also, what wheels? I like them a lot...Any links you might have.

Blitzboy54

10-09-2022, 04:54 PM

I purchased the standard mild steel pipes and had them ceramic coated. Most powder coat shops can do it. I got the wheels from LMR. Link below

https://lmr.com/item/WTK-1007UBSR/mustang-fr500-wheel-tire-kit-94-04-black-nt555r-17x9-105

Blitzboy54

10-23-2022, 06:40 PM

I've been struggling to have my cake and eat it too when it comes to my heater. The original problem is this, on my intake manifold I have 2 ports that have direct access to the coolant flow. One of those spots is being used by my Holley Sniper temperature gauge. This is vital as the engine temp is one of the 2 inputs the Sniper uses to manage the engine. In the other port I originally put a brass tee in and duel purposed it to both feed my heater core and run my water temp gauge in the cockpit. This "worked' but my cockpit gauge would read 20 degrees too low. It needs to be directly in the coolant flow to read properly and I really want it to be accurate.

So to solve that problem I quite ingeniously replaced my thermostat housing with one that had a threaded port and moved my heater corp input to that spot. I figured once the thermostat was open I would have all the hot water I needed to run the heater. Except I am a dope and didn't realize the thermostat constantly opens and closes. I thought once it was open it stayed that way, it doesn't. So the heat worked great then it didn't, then it did, and then it didn't (and so on).

In order to get everything to work I decided to do something a little different. The thermostat has a bypass loop that runs engine hot at all times. It's a short 90 degree bend. I decided to remove and modify it.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174034&d=1666565859

I figured there was just enough space to make and extended loop that also serves to feed the heater core. It's tight but everything fits

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174035&d=1666565859

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174033&d=1666565859

It turns out this works exactly as I hoped. The heater runs strong and now that it's fall in the Northeast it is critical that this be the case as the co pilot is loving the warm cockpit. Also speaking of fall we got out in the fall colors just before the leaves drop.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174037&d=1666566033

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174039&d=1666566033

Fman

10-24-2022, 07:34 AM

If your looking for one more heat source for a cold day drive I picked up 12volt electric blanket for my wife, actually works pretty good to help keep your boss warm and happy... only draws 5 amps

https://www.amazon.com/Lifetivity-Machine-Washable-Electric-Controller/dp/B097P8Q1G1/ref=sr_1_6?crid=8ON361XNIO05&keywords=12volt%2Belectric%2Bblanket&qid=1666614662&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIzLjY0IiwicXNhIjoiMy41NiIsInFzcCI6IjI uOTkifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=12volt%2Bele%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-6&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.006c50ae-5d4c-4777-9bc0-4513d670b6bc&th=1

and your car sure is looking good :cool:

DW66

10-24-2022, 08:43 AM

Your car looks great. Also living in the North East I strongly recommend the soft top. The top is a game changer. Turn on the heat and go.[ATTACH=CONFIG]174104

Blitzboy54

10-24-2022, 10:38 AM

If your looking for one more heat source for a cold day drive I picked up 12volt electric blanket for my wife, actually works pretty to help keep your boss warm and happy... only draws 5 amps

https://www.amazon.com/Lifetivity-Machine-Washable-Electric-Controller/dp/B097P8Q1G1/ref=sr_1_6?crid=8ON361XNIO05&keywords=12volt%2Belectric%2Bblanket&qid=1666614662&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIzLjY0IiwicXNhIjoiMy41NiIsInFzcCI6IjI uOTkifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=12volt%2Bele%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-6&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.006c50ae-5d4c-4777-9bc0-4513d670b6bc&th=1

and your car sure is looking good :cool:

That's genius!!! Ordering now

Blitzboy54

10-24-2022, 10:40 AM

Your car looks great. Also living in the North East I strongly recommend the soft top. The top is a game changer. Turn on the heat and go.[ATTACH=CONFIG]174104

Agreed. They were not available for a while and not in the budget for right now. My oldest is starting college next fall so I will have to save up. But it's definitely in the long term plan

460.465USMC

10-26-2022, 03:55 PM

Nice resolution on the heater. I imagine it will pay big dividends with your better half.

I'm still not tired of looking at your beautiful car. Such a great paint color. And, that last shot with the trees and changing colors in the background is money! Is F5 still doing the POM? It would make a great Oct. or Nov. POM.

Blitzboy54

02-14-2023, 09:05 PM

Like any project you learn some stuff from (pardon the pun) kicking the tires. I like most people that do this have a quiet list of things I would do differently if I ever do it again. I have about 2500 miles on her now and wanted to take the opportunity make some adjustments. First I can't say enough how fun this car is to drive. It's like getting into and driving a motorcycle. That's the best way I can describe it. Only it handles better. Its simply fantastic and this thing has given me one more reason to hate winter. The good news is it gives me time to work on it.

Issue one: The oil filter relocation kit. I used the kit because I built the car with Mustang headers. The problem is I could never get it not to leak. In order to make it tight enough not to seep oil the inputs and outputs would line up in a way that made it funtionally useless. I bit the bullet and purchased the 90 adapter from Ford. Very well made piece that's easy to use/install and best of all it works! No more leaks.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180008&d=1676423319

Issue two: Drive Shaft Safety Loop. I never installed one. By the time I discovered why I needed one I was already on the road. I purchased an inexpensive universal from Summit but it required me to make some modifications. That's not a problem right up until I needed tools I don't own to make it work. At that point simply purchasing the Metco unit made more sense. So thats what I did. It took all of 15 minutes to install the only issue is my car is on jack stands. The hoop goes right over the spot that I put my jack to get the back of the car down. Not complete sure what I am going to do yet. the metal will flex back and forth but I don't want to scratch the frame. I need to find a piece of wood or rubber to slide in between that I can get out once the car is back on the ground.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180007&d=1676423319

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180009&d=1676423319

Issue three: Fuel lines. When you first purchase your kit (at least in my case) I had spent a lot of money up front. So from that point on I had to be careful about what upgrades I wanted and what ones I didn't want to spend the money on. The Sniper came with an external fuel pump and CPE flexible fuel lines. They are connected with 6AN nipple fittings with external worm drive clamps. I mounted the pump under the passenger seat and hated it. It's loud and annoying. I installed a submersible and bypassed it. It was an ugly mess under the car and I wanted to clean it up. Late fall I had a fuel leak from one of the fittings and decided I had seen enough. I decided to upgrade to SS lines.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180006&d=1676423319

If anyone wants this pump despite my "endorsement" reach out. Happy send it to you.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180010&d=1676423319

Blitzboy54

02-14-2023, 09:19 PM

I had extended the pump power to the back fuel tank for the new pump. I took the opportunity to pull it back out and route it properly through the transmission tunnel. Much cleaner now. Next was getting to work on the lines. The line comes in a coil. I couldn't find any straight pieces. So I did the best I could. Not my best work but it's functional and is a vast improvement from the previous setup and now a lot cleaner.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180020&d=1676424495

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180021&d=1676424495

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180011&d=1676423997

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180022&d=1676424495

In the engine bay I made braided fittings. As documented in another post the regulator on my Sniper failed. After speaking to Holley I decided the best long term solution was to remove it and install an external regulator. This is what I did. I have the gauge in to setup the pressure. I plan to drive it a few times to make sure it holds then I will back it out and install a plug. That's the reason I didn't bother to fight with it to get the gauge to sit upright. Just doesn't matter, it's temporary. I do like the look of the regulator though. Now everything North of the rear axle has a proper AN or compression fitting.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180013&d=1676423997

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180014&d=1676423997

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=180015&d=1676424058

Blitzboy54

04-23-2023, 08:39 AM

FULL OF HOT AIR

One issue I noticed last driving season was engine heat in the cockpit. I fully insulated the cockpit and I have found that worked as hoped. There is a little warmness but myself and passenger are largely protected. EXCEPT, in the case of warm air pushing its way through the vents. So when the engine heats up it creates a lot of hot air. When the car is in motion air enters the engine bay and pushes that hot air out through this

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183299&d=1682201523

Then pushes itself through the FFR provided vents which ends up on my lap. I turn them away but it still makes my lap and foot well hot.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183300&d=1682201523

This blow through effect has been talked about in the past. Some folks have covered the inlet to the heater. I saw one guy build a box around it with a valve that opens and closes (pretty sweet but can't find the thread). I decided to purchased closable vents. Finding these in 2" form was more of a challenge than I expected but find them I did (link below).

https://www.oldairproducts.com/product/32-40-round-louver-2-duct-hose

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183302&d=1682201523

I am pleased to report these work exactly as I had hoped. They effectively block the warm air pushing through. On a side note, in a real head slapper moment I was playing with the FFR provided vents I removed and discovered this. If you turn them 180 degrees they do the same thing. DOH!!! So you can just do that if you prefer. :)

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183301&d=1682201523

Lastly I installed in the build push button turn signals using an SDC Module. This uses a momentary button input to start and potentially stop the directional. They self cancel on a timer depending on how long you hold the button down. I got the idea from Papa's build and I really like the concept, for me though I ran into a couple issues. First is these cars have stiff suspension. When your bouncing around a bit and often double tap the button. This cancels them. Also at slightly longer lights I would have to check in to make sure I had them on long enough. At the end of the day I was spending a lot of time making sure my signals were working right and I didn't want to. I already have the dash laid out so I removed the SDC Module, put the relay back in and ordered latching buttons. Now I just push them once to turn them on and again to turn them off. It works much better for me.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183304&d=1682202257