On the fence, want-a-be builder. No longer on the fence. Kit ordered 21 July 21

[Jim Frahm]

I've been thinking about building a MK4 ever since they announced it back in the day. I almost pulled the trigger 4 years ago but ended up with a Porsche Boxster S instead. I had my fun with that car and then sold it. Now I’m ready to pull the trigger again and just like last time I’m trying to decide if I want a roadster or a Corvette, or Mustang GT, or ???? I would love to build the car but would I love to own the car? Anyone else have the same fight with yourself?

A little about myself: I retired from the Air Force in 2008, I was an aircraft electrician and environmental system’s specialist. I remained fully retired for several years (my wife’s job forced her to travel 30+ weeks a year) but then I got bored. I’ve always wanted to learn machining, so, when a local show posted a job opening I applied, that was five years ago and I’m still there and still learning. I work primarily with a manual mill but I have access to a lathe and a CNC mill and plasma cutter. This job lends itself to building a kit car,,,, so why not? Oh, we also powder coat our own parts. :cool:

Anyway, if I do take the plunge, my order will look something like this:
Full kit
Powder coat
Body cut outs
IRS
LS1 with T56
Mustang GT brakes

If I don’t take the plunge then this post/thread will end up in the abyss with all the other unrealized car building dreams.

Stay tuned!

Thanks in advance for all of you currently documenting your builds, it’s very inspiring.

Jim

[RoadRacer]

Driving a car you built yourself is NOTHING like buying a flashy car.

But it’s a commitment.. you’re trading your time for the experience.

[narly1]

Ask yourself if you possess these key (IMO) character traits. If you do then you're on your way!

1. Pride: "I did it!"
2. Persistance: "It took me a bit to figure it out but I didn't let it beat me!"
3. Resourcefulness: "It took me a bit to figure out (or learn) how to do it but I did!"
4. Attention to detail: "Nobody does it right but me!"
5. Vision: "My car, my way!"
6. Patience: "It took me X months/years to finish it."

Earl

[GoDadGo]

Driving a car you built yourself is NOTHING like buying a flashy car.

But it’s a commitment.. you’re trading your time for the experience.

Road Racer Hit The Nail On The Head With His Comments!

Proper planning and a lot of perseverance will get you across the finish line.

https://www.factoryfive.com/whats-new/customer-steve-l-graduates-his-mk4-roadster/

It is a journey down a road that is truly less traveled.

[Jim Frahm]

Ask yourself if you possess these key (IMO) character traits. If you do then you're on your way!

1. Pride: "I did it!"
2. Persistance: "It took me a bit to figure it out but I didn't let it beat me!"
3. Resourcefulness: "It took me a bit to figure out (or learn) how to do it but I did!"
4. Attention to detail: "Nobody does it right but me!"
5. Vision: "My car, my way!"
6. Patience: "It took me X months/years to finish it."

Earl

I’m definitely a 6 for 6 on this one.

All very good points!

Jim

[Andrew Davis]

I've been inspired by Go-Dad. Decided to try the body work myself. Not my forte, but a real learning opportunity. It really is an exercise in patience and persistence. Plus some very good people available for support.

[NAZ]

150872

[rich grsc]

Now I wouldn't go that far. :rolleyes: I've built a house, I've built cars, 3 of them, and I've built guns, 3 of them too. I feel I saved money on all except the guns :confused:

[CraigS]

You obviously have the skills needed to build one. A reasonably close parallel is owning a boat. A big chunk of money sitting there w/ limited use primarily dictated by weather. The further south you live the more you will be able to use it. Are you the type of guy who;
- likes buying new tools?
- enjoys going to the hardware store to find the correct bolt or nut and then buys 5or 6 when you only need 4?
- chalks up getting rained on to a new experience
- looks at the weather forecast and figures a 50% chance of rain means there is a 50% chance it won't?
- will enjoy getting asked questions at every gas station stop?
- will keep track of every $ spent and constantly add them up to compare to buying a Vette or Mustang?
You can probably figure out how your answers work to help make your decision. Personally I hope you make the plunge.

[CaptB]

My story is similar to you, I wanted to build way back in the 90s, even took a tour of the factory back in '99. Retired from the Navy in '05. Don't have quite the professional wrenching background but built enough over the years I wasn't intimidated by building. Kid's are grown and I have the resources so I jumped in. I have everything but the kit (which is being delivered next month) so I can't tell you if it is something I would do again, but since I "jumped in" I haven't regretted anything. It was exciting to get my Blueprint engine/tranny and I had a pretty good time with refurbishing the Forte axle and installing Wilwood brakes thus far. There is a lot of really good information here and I'm looking forward to delivery day. Good luck and good hunting.

Capt. B

[KDubU]

Jim, building your own car is very different from buying one. Not to say both aren’t exciting endeavors but building is very different. The one thin though that you have to have when building is the will to build it. There will be times when you get frustrated, tired, too busy, etc. and you have to will yourself through those times as the end result is awesome! I have to admit I do like the new vette if that is what you’re thinking of as not a big fan of the stang myself.

[ggunter]

Very well put NAZ!!!

[Todd Baumann]

Come to the "Build School" and experience the build part of it and if you don't like it then buy.

[Jim1855]

It's making me crazy but I had a head start on that and my "friends" aren't noticing a difference.
Jim

[rtbellah]

I was in your position, Jim, many years ago. I decided NOT to build or buy. After many years my kids gifted me 6 laps in a cobra....the flame was rekindled. I saved for a year and finally pulled the trigger. My kit will be here tomorrow. I have always been a DIY guy - and I have had experience with rebuilding cars. It can be frustrating and many times not very cost effective BUT nothing is more rewarding than saying "I did it". It sounds like you definitely have the skillset - if you have the perseverance than take the plunge. This forum will provide all the advice, know-how, and encouragement you could ever need. I don't think I have heard anyone say they regretted the build....I'm sure there are some out there but I'll bet they are rare. Good luck on whatever you decide

[Papa]

Welcome! A lot of well stated comments above. You asked about building vs. owning. For me, building the car was a great experience and one I'd love to do again someday -- thinking of doing a Coupe. Ownership is where I'd like to add my experience and to set expectations for any perspective builder/owner.

First, and in my mind anyway, most important is that these cars are never done! If you want to build it and then drive it like a new Corvette, you may be disappointed. Since "finishing" my car, I've changed out the upper tie rod dust boots, re-did the windshield wipers, added the Russ Thompson turn signal setup, swapped out the seal on the gas tank filler, and a number of other small things to sort out the car. There is a message here ... don't underestimate the experience and recommendations of other builders as you plan your build. There are several recommended part upgrades as well as several very useful vendor mods that will make the car that much better. If you have any doubt, just make those items part of your plan from the start.

Second, these cars are not for everyone. They are loud, hot, small, violent cars that take a certain mindset to really enjoy. They are truly racecars that you can drive on the road. If you want factory refined and comfortable, look elsewhere.

Finally, particularly for the Roadster, weather is ALWAYS a factor when driving these cars. Getting caught in the rain isn't the only thing to think about. Baking in the sun is likely even more of a consideration for enjoying these cars.

For me, I wouldn't trade mine for any car!!!

Dave

[Al_C]

Here's another vote to go for it! If you choose to build one, you will NOT regret it. You will (most likely) enjoy every minute of it. GoDad will be very happy to have another Chevy guy on board, too.

[GTBradley]

"...and one I'd love to do again someday -- thinking of doing a Coupe".

I knew you'd come around, Dave.

[460.465USMC]

Ask yourself if you possess these key (IMO) character traits. If you do then you're on your way!

1. Pride: "I did it!"
2. Persistance: "It took me a bit to figure it out but I didn't let it beat me!"
3. Resourcefulness: "It took me a bit to figure out (or learn) how to do it but I did!"
4. Attention to detail: "Nobody does it right but me!"
5. Vision: "My car, my way!"
6. Patience: "It took me X months/years to finish it."

Earl

I couldn't agree more with Narly1. I'm far from done, but can relate to all six.

P.S. True confession: I'll do my best to sway your vote to start your own building adventure when you come over this Saturday to talk shop. Even bowtie fans can have a blast building one of these. :p

[Jim Frahm]

I couldn't agree more with Narly1. I'm far from done, but can relate to all six.

P.S. True confession: I'll do my best to sway your vote to start your own building adventure when you come over this Saturday to talk shop. Even bowtie fans can have a blast building one of these. :p

Thanks everyone for the minor nuggets on building and ownership. I know I will love building the car because I enjoy working with my hands and the challenges of working through problems. It sounds like these kits will provide both.

Chris,

I look forward to hanging out this Saturday and showing you what I found for a motor, trans, and rear end.

Thanks again everyone,

Jim

[Richard Oben]

And I quote from about 20 years ago.

"How do you turn a Ferrari into a Mini Van? Park it next to a cobra." People walk by a Ferrari to see a Cobra.

Nothing like building one and nothing like owning one. Jump in, if all else fails hire someone to help you along the way. There are NO stupid questions is the first rule. None of us were born mechanics, we all learned.

[narly1]

Thanks again everyone,
Jim

You realize that you just pitched your indecision to the biggest gang of enablers you'll ever meet, right? LOL.

[chmhasy]

For some inspiration.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKhwXQJ7Mtc&list=RDCMUC0ssR2R6_54NRc8hT6XeP8w&start_radio=1&rv=QKhwXQJ7Mtc&t=2

[Jim Frahm]

You realize that you just pitched your indecision to the biggest gang of enablers you'll ever meet, right? LOL.

Classic! It’s like being in a candy store and swearing off sweets.

[GoDadGo]

Here's another vote to go for it! If you choose to build one, you will NOT regret it. You will (most likely) enjoy every minute of it. GoDad will be very happy to have another Chevy guy on board, too.
You Definitely Hit That Nail On The Head!

My Blasphemy is now making my buddy Matt consider stuffing a MK-4 with a Poncho-400 in front of a Muncie 4-Speed that has been taking up space in his garage.

[NAZ]

You guys that take the different path have the true hot rodder spirit. Who's to say that if GM had taken an interest in that young chicken farmer named Carroll, that the the AC Cobra might just have had a SBC or Poncho under the hood. Chevy and Pontiac has a long history as competing divisions when it comes to performance cars, and a Pontiac smoking a Corvette would have been race car drama for sure.

[BadAsp427]

Welcome.... I'm retired AF as well, Jet Engine Mech... Building the Mk4 was a great reminder of the skills and challenges I had working on B1 bombers and Small Gas Turbine Engines.... I loved the build, but I'm loving the driving, and the looks and admiration from others when they hear that I built it. Not sure where you are located, but if I can assist in anyway, just reach out... We are all on here to help you with your build and of course to spend your hard earned $$$

[Jim Frahm]

So, I’m no longer on the fence. I ordered my IRS read end components from a 2019 Mustang GT. I got everything I needed for the rear end and then some. I’m ordering my car for a March or later delivery because I don’t want to take delivery in the winter time and I’ll be in Germany for Christmas as well.

For starters I’m ordering the full kit but I’m already planning to use OEM GT front calipers versus the kit supplied calipers. What else have you replaced from the full kit for whatever reason/s? i.e. are there items I should delete from the full kit order?

Thanks,
Jim

[Jeff Kleiner]

For starters I’m ordering the full kit but I’m already planning to use OEM GT front calipers versus the kit supplied calipers...
Jim

FYI, the complete kit calipers ARE OEM GT PBR 2 piston calipers.

Jeff

[Jim Frahm]

FYI, the complete kit calipers ARE OEM GT PBR 2 piston calipers.

Jeff

Picture a sheepish grin!

[460.465USMC]

So, I’m no longer on the fence. I ordered my IRS read end components from a 2019 Mustang GT. I got everything I needed for the rear end and then some. I’m ordering my car for a March or later delivery because I don’t want to take delivery in the winter time and I’ll be in Germany for Christmas as well.

Congrats, Jim! Very cool! It will be great to have another builder in the area! Welcome aboard!

March or later is a looooooong way away. You have the patience of a saint!

[Jim Frahm]

Congrats, Jim! Very cool! It will be great to have another builder in the area! Welcome aboard!

March or later is a looooooong way away. You have the patience of a saint!

At least I can stop by and look at your build from time to time! The turn around time doesn’t give me much choice and the additional time gives me a chance to save some dough for all those additional items you end up buying once you have a kit.

[rich grsc]

At least I can stop by and look at your build from time to time! The turn around time doesn’t give me much choice and the additional time gives me a chance to save some dough for all those additional items you end up buying once you have a kit.
Oh goody, he's saving up more money for us to spend. :cool:;)

[BrewCityCobra]

So, I’m no longer on the fence. I ordered my IRS read end components from a 2019 Mustang GT. I got everything I needed for the rear end and then some. I’m ordering my car for a March or later delivery because I don’t want to take delivery in the winter time and I’ll be in Germany for Christmas as well.

For starters I’m ordering the full kit but I’m already planning to use OEM GT front calipers versus the kit supplied calipers. What else have you replaced from the full kit for whatever reason/s? i.e. are there items I should delete from the full kit order?

Thanks,
Jim

I know there is some pretty significant changes from build to build on this point, but for a point of reference I deleted the following from my kit:

1) The FFR side pipes - I'm planning on going with Gas-N side pipes so I didn't feel the need to have an extra set. This saved a few bucks.
2) The gauges - I ended up buying a set from Speedhut anyways, but I noticed that by the time I made all the minor changes to the set it was basically a wash so I just had the gauges deleted from my kit and ordered a new set from Speedhut directly.
3) I had considered (but didn't pull the trigger) to have the roll-bars deleted from the kit and go with Breeze's roll bars. Ultimately I decided I like the extra height/safety from the FFR model.

There were plenty of other smaller items I haven't used from my kit (the steel brake lines, ball joints, various odds and ends, etc.) but I felt those were small enough and I was unsure enough how I was going to go forward at the time of purchase that I kept them all in the kit.

Welcome to the madness!

[Jim Frahm]

Welcome.... I'm retired AF as well, Jet Engine Mech... Building the Mk4 was a great reminder of the skills and challenges I had working on B1 bombers and Small Gas Turbine Engines.... I loved the build, but I'm loving the driving, and the looks and admiration from others when they hear that I built it. Not sure where you are located, but if I can assist in anyway, just reach out... We are all on here to help you with your build and of course to spend your hard earned $$$

Thanks for your service! I’ve read enough threads to know that there's no shortage of help with the build and the spending,,,,, looks like I’m in the right place.

Thanks again,
Jim

[Jim Frahm]

I’m officially part of the “waiting on my kit” club. Now there’s a reason to get my garage in order, and by order I mean clean up all the other in progress projects and make room for THE project.

[GoDadGo]

You Are Now A Permanent Member Of The Famous, I Mean Infamous Factory Five Family!

.........................................Congratul ations!

[Papa]

Congratulations, Jim! Waiting for the kit to arrive is like ...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IobpIKshr8

[rtbellah]

I’m officially part of the “waiting on my kit” club. Now there’s a reason to get my garage in order, and by order I mean clean up all the other in progress projects and make room for THE project.

Not to mention all the neat new tools...um...I mean toys you will just HAVE to get!:p
Hopefully, by the time your kit arrives they will have some of the supply issues ironed out.
Welcome aboard and congrats!

[Blitzboy54]

I’m officially part of the “waiting on my kit” club. Now there’s a reason to get my garage in order, and by order I mean clean up all the other in progress projects and make room for THE project.

That was the worst part for me. I couldn't sleep the last couple weeks. It's been better than I guessed it would be so far. My only advice is don't go too crazy on the pre purchases. I had bought all kinds of stuff ahead of time I ended up going a different route with. You have all the time in the world once it gets to you

[Jim Frahm]

That was the worst part for me. I couldn't sleep the last couple weeks. It's been better than I guessed it would be so far. My only advice is don't go too crazy on the pre purchases. I had bought all kinds of stuff ahead of time I ended up going a different route with. You have all the time in the world once it gets to you


Very good advice! There is one thing I’ll buy before the kit arrives and that’s a bigger air compressor. I’ve managed with a small pancake style for more than 10 years but now is a good time and reason to go large.

Is it here yet?

[460.465USMC]

I had absolutely nothing, and I mean nothing to do with this. :p

Congrats, Jim! Glad you are going to start a Roadster adventure. It's going to be a blast.

[Jim Frahm]

I had absolutely nothing, and I mean nothing to do with this. :p

Congrats, Jim! Glad you are going to start a Roadster adventure. It's going to be a blast.

It’s all your fault Chris! I was standing on the edge with my toes barely hanging over and then you gave me a nudge. THANKS!

[Jim Frahm]

Here’s my planned build so far:

Complete kit
LS engine with T56 trans
Powder coat frame
Body cut outs
Driver and passenger hoops
IRS rear suspension w/3.55 gears and all aluminum center section
Power steering and hydraulic clutch
Vintage FFR gauges
Front and rear swaybars
Wind wings
Sun visors
Fan shroud
Cubby box
Chassis battery box
All blacked out (no chrome) with burnt bronze wheels and TBD body color

That’s about it for now.