View Full Version : Mott Build School
TommyK215
02-21-2022, 09:41 AM
A quick shout out to Todd and Scott! Thank you so very much! I attended this past weekend (2/18-20). Had a great time. Learned a whole lot. Most importantly was gaining the confidence that I will be successful in my build. That, gents, is priceless. So, thanks again!
And to all my classmates....ITS YOUR CAR!
Cheers!
Tom
OSU Cowboy
02-21-2022, 11:19 AM
I attended that build school in August 2008, just weeks prior to the Roadster delivery from Factory Five via Stewart Transportation. I know going into this thing that I was no master mechanic. The Mott Build School with Todd and Scott gave me the confidence that I could in fact do this. There is probably nothing on my car that was not put together and taken back apart at least 3 times. I think I probably spent as much time looking for that tool I just had in my hand as I did actually building. And that was A LOT of time looking for that tool as it took me eleven years from delivery to tagged and on the road. Periodically I would refer back to notes and photos from build school to make sure I was getting in right - and very importantly - doing it in the correct sequence.
And of course, individuals on this forum and the other one were absolutely invaluable. I'm not sure there is a new question that hasn't already been asked and answered - incredible source of information and how-to.
To think that Mott build school is still going strong. No telling how many people have cycled through there over the years.
David
Todd Baumann
02-21-2022, 11:30 AM
Thanks Tom, we had an awesome weekend and time also.
Were here for you anytime you need us in the future also.
David you know you have to bring the car in when it is completed right. That is a class requirement. :)
And at this point we have had about 2500 guys and gals go thru the class. So awesome.
I so love doing this class.
Todd
Alan_C
02-21-2022, 03:18 PM
Todd:
Good to see you are still one of the instructors for the class. I went through in Spring of 2011, had a good time although the class size was large. The class reinforced my thinking that, even a electrical engineer, could build one. I bought my donor a couple months after the class and the kit was delivered in December of that year. Even while working full time and more, I was able to build my car in a bit over 3 years.
Building the MK4 was a great experience and the car was a lot of fun. Factory Five, and in part, the build school, got me into the automotive hobby. I thank you all for that as building the MK4 as a great diversion from the stresses from work and now has provided me a great hobby in retirement. I believe build school and building my MK4 changed my life and emptied my wallet.
Todd Baumann
02-21-2022, 05:02 PM
Hi Alan,
That is awesome, and sorry but the class and we do have an effect on your wallet:)
Todd
robmccon
02-21-2022, 08:41 PM
I’m signed up for the May 20th Roadster class. Heard nothing but good things!
Real Time
02-22-2022, 03:33 PM
Todd/Tommy/Scott,
Great meeting you ALL. The experience was priceless!
Thank you for always taking the time to thoroughly discuss my many concerns!
You guys are AWSOME!!
George
Todd Baumann
02-22-2022, 06:59 PM
Rob, we will see you in May. We will have a good time guaranteed.
George, You are extremely welcome and although that is what we are there for,
like I said before if we can help anytime let us know. it was a great weekend wasn't it?
Todd
bobm488
02-23-2022, 11:24 AM
I was in your class in May of 2019, very knowledgeable, you did a great job. Very worthwhile and gave me the push I needed to take the plunge.
2nd2none
08-12-2025, 10:55 AM
Just watched the YouTube video of the school completing its first MK5 build (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiQp2q-hjzw&t=12s) and was curious, do they just completely disassemble the car when done to use for the next class? So expect in future classes to already have some steps done such as sheet metal holes already drilled out and ready to bolt/rivet in? I can't imagine they're getting new parts for each class
Wizbangdoodle
08-12-2025, 11:54 AM
Just watched the YouTube video of the school completing its first MK5 build (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiQp2q-hjzw&t=12s) and was curious, do they just completely disassemble the car when done to use for the next class? So expect in future classes to already have some steps done such as sheet metal holes already drilled out and ready to bolt/rivet in? I can't imagine they're getting new parts for each class
When I went to build school that is exactly what happened. The car had been assembled before, so there are many things already complete. They will cover what it takes to do those steps, but they are already done. I'll assume this will be the same for the MKV builds.
jrcuz
08-12-2025, 01:18 PM
When I attended the build school July of 2016 they were reusing the frames a few times then Factory 5 would send a new frame and aluminum panels because they would wear after drilling out the rivets and installing new rivets.
JR
TrackDay17
08-12-2025, 03:52 PM
Just watched the YouTube video of the school completing its first MK5 build (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiQp2q-hjzw&t=12s) and was curious, do they just completely disassemble the car when done to use for the next class? So expect in future classes to already have some steps done such as sheet metal holes already drilled out and ready to bolt/rivet in? I can't imagine they're getting new parts for each class
I'll find out the end of next week as I'll be attending.
I'm sure it's the same process as before on the MK4, they disassemble everything after the build I understand.
I'm guessing the rivet holes are drilled but I'm guessing most everything else is disassembled completely.
Yes, you're assembling, not fitting...all that has already been done. That's the only way they can do it in 3 days, because no measuring, drilling, bending, fabricating, etc, is needed.
2nd2none
08-12-2025, 05:33 PM
I'll find out the end of next week as I'll be attending.
I'm sure it's the same process as before on the MK4, they disassemble everything after the build I understand.
I'm guessing the rivet holes are drilled but I'm guessing most everything else is disassembled completely.
Nice! Was hoping to attend the 9/26 class but its showing only 1 opening and I'd be attending with a friend so possibly going to the 12/12 one.
Todd Baumann
08-12-2025, 07:58 PM
You guys are wrong, we do drill and transfer holes to the frame also. We start with only the sheet metal screws just like you do and then progress each class.
6 or 7 classes in most of the panels have at least a fair amount of rivers in them.
Once we get to the point of completed panels then we usually order new sheet metal and start all over.
Although we do not assemble every component during the class, we do have all the items and options,
and go over assembling each and the critical points to look out for when doing so.
Come on out and we will have an awesome time and show you a few things too.
TrackDay17
08-12-2025, 08:23 PM
You guys are wrong, we do drill and transfer holes to the frame also. We start with only the sheet metal screws just like you do and then progress each class.
6 or 7 classes in most of the panels have at least a fair amount of rivers in them.
Once we get to the point of completed panels then we usually order new sheet metal and start all over.
Although we do not assemble every component during the class, we do have all the items and options,
and go over assembling each and the critical points to look out for when doing so.
Come on out and we will have an awesome time and show you a few things too.
I'll see you next week, flying in from KC.
2nd2none
08-12-2025, 09:21 PM
You guys are wrong, we do drill and transfer holes to the frame also. We start with only the sheet metal screws just like you do and then progress each class.
6 or 7 classes in most of the panels have at least a fair amount of rivers in them.
Once we get to the point of completed panels then we usually order new sheet metal and start all over.
Although we do not assemble every component during the class, we do have all the items and options,
and go over assembling each and the critical points to look out for when doing so.
Come on out and we will have an awesome time and show you a few things too.
Messaged you
Stangrob
08-12-2025, 10:33 PM
I'm looking forward to meeting these guys in-person when I take my Roadster class in October. It's a long drive from Jersey but well worth it!
Rob
rickster991
08-13-2025, 09:18 AM
I went in May and it was a great experience. My advice is to get in there and do everything. I stepped back thinking “ah this is basic I can do it”.. But when you start assembly, you find out there are tricks to everything. Take good notes, pictures and follow their advice. I’ve had to reach out a bunch of times and they respond quickly. Have fun!
Tooth
08-13-2025, 10:35 AM
Did the class in 2022. Great experience for sure.
Jeff Kleiner
08-13-2025, 11:32 AM
...My advice is to get in there and do everything...
But be courteous of your classmates. I was invited to attend as a guest 2-3 years ago to observe and comment so wasn't "hands on". Right from the beginning one of the attendees was pretty much bulldozing over all of the others to dominate every operation and not giving them a chance to get involved. It was apparent looking at the other students that they were becoming pretty annoyed with him :mad: Don't be THAT guy!
Jeff
Wizbangdoodle
08-13-2025, 12:20 PM
But be courteous of your classmates. I was invited to attend as a guest 2-3 years ago to observe and comment so wasn't "hands on". Right from the beginning one of the attendees was pretty much bulldozing over all of the others to dominate every operation and not giving them a chance to get involved. It was apparent looking at the other students that they were becoming pretty annoyed with him :mad: Don't be THAT guy!
Jeff
This.
When I attended, there were those that wanted to be involved on every aspect. There were others that were happy just observing. If you find yourself doing all the assembly, look around and make sure to ask if someone else wants to do that job. Also, take pictures, and I mean a lot of pictures. Hundreds of them. Different angles and views. Take a picture of every step no matter how minute it might be. Take notes on all the pictures you take, lots of notes. Write down vendor info. If you don't walk away with 10+ pages of notes, you'll regret it. Take video if that works for you. My point is, you cannot have too much information you take away from this class. And if you find a few new friends in class, exchange info so you can support each other as you go through your builds.
TrackDay17
08-13-2025, 04:22 PM
But be courteous of your classmates. I was invited to attend as a guest 2-3 years ago to observe and comment so wasn't "hands on". Right from the beginning one of the attendees was pretty much bulldozing over all of the others to dominate every operation and not giving them a chance to get involved. It was apparent looking at the other students that they were becoming pretty annoyed with him :mad: Don't be THAT guy!
Jeff
I heard this exact advice from a friend who attended the class and am taking your advice going into class next week.
Wiring and things of that nature will be something I will be taking close interest in and taking lots of pictures and notes.
Thanks for the advice Jeff.