View Full Version : Zee's Widow Maker (10489) - Coolant expansion tank
This is not a 'how to' thread. But still follow along, there will be some unique, fun mods along the way.
About Me: I am not mechanically or electrically inclined. I barely know what a vast majority of these parts in my garage are.
Most people are nervous about one or two things. Even drilling gives me anxiety. Thinking about electrical and running lines and building brakes etc makes me lose sleep out of stress.
I am the epiphany of "if Zee can do it, anyone can do it". Let's see if I can actually do it because I might as well be researching the cure for baldness (since I have near-zero competency in both areas).
Aspiration: As reasonably authentic-and-period-correct as the FFR MKIV 427 can be. For interior I am taking inspiration from earlier Superformance Cobras. See the 'plan'.
Goal: More of a daily driver than a show-car. But I plan to customize every aspect of it to my taste. Even for the seats, I only bought the aluminum shell and will get it leather-upholstered myself.
#2 - Basic mods (too many to list) (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-427-(MKIV)&p=507582&viewfull=1#post507582)
#3 - The plan (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-427-(MKIV)&p=507583&viewfull=1#post507583)
#4 - Some tips and planning (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-powder-coating-done&p=510816&viewfull=1#post510816)
4.1 - Aluminum fitting & tips (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)&p=510822&viewfull=1#post510822)
4.2 - Powder coating and options (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)&p=510817&viewfull=1#post510817)
4.3 - Thicker trunk aluminum (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)&p=510820&viewfull=1#post510820)
4.4 - Toggle switch & internal debate (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)&p=510822&viewfull=1#post510822)
#5 - Frame mod (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)&p=511558&viewfull=1#post511558)
5.1 - Matching aluminum mods (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-powder-coating-done&p=513133&viewfull=1#post513133)
5.2 - passenger seat-belt mount (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-powder-coating-done&p=516024&viewfull=1#post516024)
#6 - powder coated! (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-powder-coating-done&p=516802&viewfull=1#post516802)
#7 - so many missing parts (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-powder-coating-done&p=523597&viewfull=1#post523597)
#8 - Front brakes and rear end (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-the-rear-end-is-in&p=528155&viewfull=1#post528155)
#9 - Heater (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-the-rear-end-is-in&p=533606&viewfull=1#post533606)
#10 - Original Cobras (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-Heater&p=534395&viewfull=1#post534395)
#11 - Under trunk battery mount (custom) (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-Fuel-tank-and-lines&p=534575&viewfull=1#post534575)
#12 - Fuel tank and lines (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-Fuel-tank-and-lines&p=537617&viewfull=1#post537617)
#13 - Dash design (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-Dash-design-finalized!&p=538383&viewfull=1#post538383)
#14 - Tire sticker fail (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-Dash-design-finalized!&p=539389&viewfull=1#post539389)
Dash wiring and THE ENGINE IS IN (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/album.php?albumid=2220&attachmentid=191105" [URL="https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?44411-Zee-s-Widow-Maker-(10489)-Dash-design-finalized!&p=539391&viewfull=1#post539391)
Basic mods (too many to list, but here are some)
Boyd tank
Smiths gauges (with mechanical speedo)
Willwood brakes
Heater / defroster (not FFR)
Wipers and winshield washer (not FFR)
Lokar e-brake
Russ Thompson:
- turn signals & bezel
- gas pedal kit
Replica Parts
- quick jack plates
- under-dash filler
- Radiator aluminum panel
- weather striping kit
Dave Bertalli
- Bemini Top
eBay
- Leather hyde
- period-correct rotary knobs
Holden
- Lucas-style (but better quality) switches
- raydot mirrors
Period-correct
- Wipers
- Triple reservoirs
- dash lights
**********
- air vents
- Raydot mirror side posts
- Headlight stone guard
- Sunvisor / wild wings / emblems / louvers/ AC pads
- Shifter handle
Others
- Push fans with blades and motors
Whitby:
- Tonneau cover
Breeze:
- dead pedal
- radiator mounting kit, shroud, cover
Forte
- mechanical throttle rod
- Brass coolant reservoir tank
Herbs
- Door panel
Custom:
- Exposed roll-bar
- Faux battery behind the passenger seat
- leather upholstered vintage heated seats on slides
Etc. etc.
My interior inspiration is from Superformance as well as vintage rally cars:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174349&d=1667237624
Here's what the left side will look like (except with more authentic dash lights and no glove box):
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174340&d=1667236625
Close up:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174341&d=1667236639
The exterior inspiration is a variation of this car:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174342&d=1667236681
Finally, I plan to have an exposed rollbar (similar to the originals) with a faux battery:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174339&d=1667236608
Higgybulin
10-31-2022, 12:39 PM
Sounds like you have a plan!! Good luck!
Higgy
Jeff Kleiner
10-31-2022, 01:11 PM
Finally, I plan to have …a faux battery:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174339&d=1667236608
To pull that off any passengers are gonna’ need to have very short legs :D
Jeff
Jim1855
10-31-2022, 02:10 PM
The rear bulkhead on the SPF cars is much further back than the FFR cars. There's a ledge that is about 3" deep (fore/aft) from the wall behind the seats to the bulkhead, the rear cowl shows this depth as well. This is what allows storage and the exposed rollbars behind the seats. The roll bars mount to a crossbar under the ledge.
Anything is possible, practical is a whole different story.
The SPF dash works well. I always liked the layout and am patterning my new dash after it. I don't intend to use foam under the leather covering if that's what I use, currently exploring options.
Jim
To pull that off any passengers are gonna’ need to have very short legs :D
Jeff
Passengers are over-rated. #Fact!
Jokes aside, this is the plan (not my picture. You just need a quarter of an inch space to create the illusion of the battery):
https://www.ffcars.com/attachments/imageuploadedbyautoguide1451930654-289510-jpg.229561
460.465USMC
10-31-2022, 03:16 PM
Welcome aboard, Zee. What an impressive list of options/upgrades! Do you have a shipping date yet?
Welcome aboard, Zee. What an impressive list of options/upgrades! Do you have a shipping date yet?
It's ready! Driving down on Nov 11th to pick it up. Need to clear the garage first.
red.barchetta
10-31-2022, 05:05 PM
Cant wait to see your progress Zee! Hopefully its faster than mine.....
Braden
Ahead of picking the base kit, I needed a way to organize the parts I have. I didn't want to have them in boxes because it'd be a pain to find them. I also did not want to purchase shelves that I won't need as the build is done.
So here's my make-shift shelf built with boxes. I'll tape the boxes together and will make sure they can't trip (will attach them to the wall), but it's working well. I have empty boxes for more parts coming in.
174606
Higgybulin
11-07-2022, 10:57 AM
Ahead of picking the base kit, I needed a way to organize the parts I have. I didn't want to have them in boxes because it'd be a pain to find them. I also did not want to purchase shelves that I won't need as the build is done.
So here's my make-shift shelf built with boxes. I'll tape the boxes together and will make sure they can't trip (will attach them to the wall), but it's working well. I have empty boxes for more parts coming in.
174606
Where did you get your gas tank fill tube?
Where did you get your gas tank fill tube?
I am impressed you saw that :).
FactoryFive doesn't include the "OEM fuel kit" in the Canadian kit. I got that separately but then I decided to go with Boyd so now I gotta sell all that :).
Zee
Higgybulin
11-07-2022, 02:23 PM
I am impressed you saw that :).
FactoryFive doesn't include the "OEM fuel kit" in the Canadian kit. I got that separately but then I decided to go with Boyd so now I gotta sell all that :).
Zee
Pm sent lol
Finally!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=174811&d=1668228736
Higgybulin
11-12-2022, 05:53 AM
Congrats!! Always a fun road trip heading to Wareham!!
Jeff Kleiner
11-12-2022, 10:24 AM
Congrats Zee! Let the fun begin :)
Jeff
Scott L
11-30-2022, 06:35 PM
Congratulations! I used that same trailer to haul mine home.
John Ibele
12-01-2022, 08:56 PM
Congrats, Zee! It’s great you’re able to finally get started.
Sorry slow with updates, I need to find time to do proper updates. That does mean that my actual build progress and the build thread updates will be out of sync :).
I've been busy drilling and putting aluminum pieces as I try to make up my mind about a few things (including some frame mods I am debating).
Some tips (many are obvious, but I am a super novice so...)
Tip: the magnetic bowl is a lifesaver:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176476&d=1670450062
I have a larger one as well.
It's really convenient to stick it wherever you want and have all the screws and clecos stay there.
Tip: invest in good quality cobalt bits.
I couldn't find it so I found a company that had them in their fulfillment warehouse. They allowed me to go get some from there :-).
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176473&d=1670450062
Tips - make sure all pieces fit well before drilling. If you trust FFR’s temporary screws then you might end up with extra holes (ask me how I know)
I sadly have some extra drill holes on one of my F-panels that I have to fill. There are other pieces where the FFR temporary screw did not hold the piece at the right spot:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176478&d=1670450062
It also allows you to figure out how the piece fits and where you're properly able to drill (some parts are deep in the corner where it's hard to drill).
Tip: you might be able to get to the piece from the inside if you can't get to it from the outside!
Another tip: Shine light to see where it "leaks" from. This helped me find a good 1mm gap.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176479&d=1670450062
The after video: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/XUCEMDzFq98
I was able to find some areas where I needed to adjust the panel a bit:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176456&d=1670449882
Final fit:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176457&d=1670449882
Powder coating...
I've narrowed my options down.
Grey aluminum for the frame:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176470&d=1670450062
Cream for the footbox panels:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176471&d=1670450062
And silver vein for the rest of the panels:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176455&d=1670449882
Another tip, found an old iPad someone was giving away for free. Used a 3D printed stand and now I have a build manual I can keep in the garage and take notes on (since FFR never sent me a paper manual).
(Yes that's an Alexa in the garage for the music)
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176480&d=1670450062
My plan is to leave the aluminum in the trunk uncovered (haven't decided on the treatment yet, but no carpet). I am using the Boyd tank:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176483&d=1670451385
Since the access points had to be different, I used this opportunity to get a much thicker piece made. It's solid:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176484&d=1670451642
I have these switches from Holden. They are solid with 15amp rating and use the Lucas lever. The clunk is very satisfying!
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/bFxDOx-z4Do
However, the front looks different from Lucas ever so slightly. Lucas:
https://www.holden.co.uk/img/35927.jpg/prod_lightbox
But despite the matching bezel, the holden one looks different:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176485&d=1670452152
Thinking about selling them and going with Lucas.
CaptB
12-08-2022, 08:01 AM
Like the term "Widow Maker".
My wife nicknamed my car "Dangerous and Unnecessary" The unnecessary part going to the 427 motor!
I've been debating doing the exposed roll bar mod for a while. After going back and forth, I finally decided to go with it.
For that, we cut the part of the frame that was ahead of the roll bar:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176802&d=1671112908
Angle grinder for the win:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176803&d=1671112992
Moved it further back and welded it:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176800&d=1671112896
This is what it looks like with the Breeze rollbar:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=176801&d=1671112908
Now it's time to learn how to do sheet metal work and then do it. Been YouTubing like crazy to get ideas :-).
Jeff Kleiner
12-15-2022, 01:22 PM
You realize that by removing the square tube that the shoulder belts went over when you tighten the belts they will compress your spine, right? Got a plan to address that?
Jeff
You realize that by removing the square tube that the shoulder belts went over when you tighten the belts they will compress your spine, right? Got a plan to address that?
Jeff
Yup, stay tuned :-).
A friend of mine was involved in restoring an original CSX and does fabrications for race cars. He has a few ideas on how to handle it.
Lots of missing items that aren't even on the POL, so it's hard to know exactly what I am missing.
FFR has a different "Canadian base package". You buy the "Canadian completion pack" separately. After I purchased both, FFR moved a list of things from the "Canadian base package" to the "Canadian completion pack". However, by then I had already gotten the old completion pack (with items missing of course) but they gave me the new base package. As a result, I am missing a ton of stuff (steering boss, shafts, a lot of fasteners, nuts, spacers and bolts, springs, etc). Some things are easy to figure out (hey, where is my Wildwood pedal), others not so much (like when you're missing a spacer or a bolt). Since these items aren't on the list of things FFR is "supposed" to send, it's hard to know what's missing. They haven't compiled a list just yet. I was super annoyed about it but I am over it now and am back to having fun :).
Metal work
I am using this opportunity to quickly learn and do metal work, along with some aluminum design. I am a software guy, I am new to building things with my hands.
I went ahead and picked a small lithium-ion powersport battery I am going to use (it has high CCA). Here's my battery box design that'll fit under the trunk even with IRS:
177027
I am also redoing my trunk aluminum because I don't want carpet and therefore, I don't want the holes that FFR premakes. Because I've moved the real bulk back and because I plan to show the extreme end of the roll-bar, I have to fabricate something to cover that opening. The plan is to curve an aluminum piece (I'll use the frame to curve it). Ultimately it'll be covered by vinyl.
This has been a ton of fun. I am fortunate enough to have a friend who designs race cars and was part of the team that restored a $2M original 427. He comes by to take a look and do the welding when necessary, but mostly he gives me tips so I can do things myself. It's been fun and I forgot the annoyance I had because I was still waiting for parts I paid for 11 months ago (I did that to make sure I'd have everything when my kit arrived, but alas). It's not all supply-chain because others who paid much later got these items already. Hopefully FFR's new inventory system will fix this.
The goal is to have everything powder coated as soon as things reopen in the new year and start actually putting things together.
Here's my vision for the passenger seat belt mount:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=177031&d=1671552341
This requires something that's part of the frame high up where the bolts can be mounted. I hope two options I am brainstorming, I'll likely go with the combination of the two, which is this (I plan to sleep on it for a week or so first). The "roll bar" in this isn't a real roll bar in the sense that it's strictly under the body, but it'll have the same strength. Heck, I am not using the FFR roll bar and I might just use that for this, but I'll sleep on it for a few days.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=177032&d=1671552341
It seems like it should work.
Jeff Kleiner
12-20-2022, 11:00 AM
Attachments are invalid.
Jeff
Attachments are invalid.
Jeff
Thanks Jeff, not sure what was wrong. I re-did them, they seem to be working now.
The progress has been slow due to the holidays and all. I was also trying to make up my mind about how I wanted to design some pieces. Now that that's done, I started drilling:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=177588&d=1672697752
and cutting:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=177589&d=1672697752
All to expose the roll bar :
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=177590&d=1672697980
(The back piece is temporary. The real one will be in L shape and without the seat belt holes. I also need to fabricate the sides.
Sadly my welder friend is away, so I need to wait until next week to have the passenger seat-belt mounts welded into the frame before I can send the body to the powder coater. All good because I am missing a lot of parts, including IRS fasteners and the Willwood pedal box. Hopefully they'll arrive by then.
Since I changed the rear bulkhead and wanted to leave the roll bar exposed, I had to create a mold that I could take it to a metal fabricator:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=177930&d=1673388511
Alright, so since I made changes to the bulkhead of the cockpit, the original passenger seat belt location was not going to work. That means that I had to device a new secure seat-belt mounting point.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=179033&d=1675191830
This is where I'll put grade-8 eye bolts. Something like this:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=179034&d=1675192107
The final product should be similar to this:
179035
With this, I am done with frame mods and dropped it off for powder coating.
The powder coating is done! The frame looks spectacular. I am so glad I tried something other than black.
I had picked a shiny high-gloss silver, but the coater changed it to duller silver because he said the gloss wouldn't have worked as well. I am so glad he did. Looks much better in person.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=179564&d=1675878308
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=179563&d=1675878261
That looks great! It's a shame so little will be visible once you are done....
That looks great! It's a shame so little will be visible once you are done....
But I will know :-).
That said, I'll likely 'look' at it every day for like a year before the body goes on...so there's that.
Blitzboy54
02-08-2023, 02:51 PM
Looks fantastic. It really pops
CaptB
02-08-2023, 03:06 PM
I did a high glass silver, turned out great. What's funny now that I've got the car running and the body on, you hardly see any of it! Of course I would still have it done, but in the end you don't really see it as awesome as when it is a frame all by itself.
I did a high glass silver, turned out great. What's funny now that I've got the car running and the body on, you hardly see any of it! Of course I would still have it done, but in the end you don't really see it as awesome as when it is a frame all by itself.
There's so much I am doing (or planning on doing) that's purely for me and no one else. Including things like these that even I won't see.
But
I will know :-).
My build has been super slow. I was missing so many fasteners that I decided to stop the build until I get everything because I was no longer having fun.
Eventually "everything" was sent so I restarted, but since then every single time I sit down to do something, I find stuff missing. It's really annoying but hey, it is what it is. I am hoping most of my unknown missing fasteners / spacers / nuts are related to the front suspensions so once I am through this step, the process will go fast.
So eventually I thought I had everything. Sat down to do the front control arms:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183106&d=1681756108
Uh, no bolt. Got that from a Canadian builder who ordered it separately.
Let's go. Put it together and couldn't get it to the suggested setup. Doh, I forgot to cut it!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183107&d=1681756108
So I cut it. One of them went in fine but turned out that I messed up the thread of the other one. Damn, time to tap it.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183104&d=1681755975
Got this tapped and cleaned up:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183103&d=1681755975
And pretty close to the spec
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183101&d=1681755975
And.....can't move further because more nuts and bolts are missing.
So I paused everything, went psycho and collected every fastener and spacer I had. I measured everything and organized it all:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183102&d=1681755975
Surely that should help? Nope!
So I hit the hardware store and start buying stuff to unblock myself. Time to put the hub in. One goes in fine:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183108&d=1681756108
But the other one doesn't. Alright, undo it all and measure both hubs and the inside part of one hub is 5mm smaller in diameter than the other one. That's a pretty substantial difference. In fact, it's 2mm smaller than the spindle, so no way it's going to go in. The boxes are identical so I am guessing it's either defective or mispackaged. I had a hell of a time removing it (with a lot of trouble, I got it 1/4 of the way in) :
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183100&d=1681755975
So now I am waiting on FFR yet again, waiting to resolve this and missing spacers and bolts.
I am really hoping this improves because everytime I sit down to build, I end up with a lot of frustration.
I was, however, able to visit this continuation cobra to get some ideas:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=183105&d=1681756108
Higgybulin
04-18-2023, 03:36 AM
Ooohh the plight of the Canadian builder! Been there Pal!! Thats the biggest hurdle, fasteners. You can track down a bunch of parts from the classifieds but almost all the sellers are still gonna use the bolts and spacers. The spindle, well thats on another level. Hang in there man!! Its worth it in the end!
Higgy
Took a long break because I decided I wasn't going to touch anything until i got all the parts. I got super frustrated by having to stop because I was missing parts.
I was able to enjoy the Tail of the Dragon (and a bunch of other amazing roads in the Tennessee, West Virginia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, New York and Virginia.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185484&d=1686184906
But I now have almost everything (frustratingly, one set of spacers took 4 attempts to get, but hey).
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185487&d=1686184906
Finally got the front done.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185488&d=1686184906
I struggled a bit to get this thing in, but with raising the passenger side trick, it worked :
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185489&d=1686184940
Sadly, missing the upper shaft so onto the backend:
This wasn't that bad, just took a lot of patience:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185493&d=1686184940
I was unnecessarily nervous about taking these out, this was trivial:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185494&d=1686184956
But I cheated here and had the tire shop put these in, they did it for free in 10 minutes:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185495&d=1686184956
Also, it turned out that my rear end had some fluid. I prefer to put my own anyway, so we're fine:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185485&d=1686184906
This was much more of a pain than I thought it would be:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185497&d=1686184956
But it's finally in, thanks to free child labour:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185498&d=1686184976
And got this:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=185499&d=1686184976
So while doing the rear suspensions, I realized that two jam nuts FFR sent me were two different sizes. Unfortunately that was months ago and I couldn't find them locally, so had to buy them from FFR again (technically they sent them for free but I had to pay for shipping, but their FedEx shipping to Canada is $$ so same thing). Generally I source whatever I am missing locally.
It was relatively straightforward once I got all the parts, so no images.
The challenging part was the heater. I got the Vintage Gen II heater which is different from what FFR provides. The heater is designed to be mounted vertically under the dash, so some modifications had to be done.
I used FFR's method of installing the heater in the firewall after debating a few options. It turned out well.
The first step was to take all the pieces apart to take it as close to FFR's as possible. I used a little bit of paint to determine the mounting points :-).
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188239&d=1691070468
Worked great!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188240&d=1691070468
The heater does have a little L shaped part sticking out. There was no way to cut it, so I had to make an opening in the firewall for it.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188242&d=1691070525
There's no template for it, so created one from cardboard.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188243&d=1691070525
Unfortunately, I put it too close to the crossbar. I had to shave the crossbar a little, you can see it in the picture:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188238&d=1691070468
If you look at the heater, it has a servo. You can switch from defrost (which is the top outlets) to footwell (there's a door that opens up). I need to make something to take the air from there to the footwells (this heater is designed to go vertically).
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188248&d=1691070648
The heater looks good!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188237&d=1691070468
Took a break and went to Detroit. Obviously, had to hit the Ford museum!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188640&d=1691760207
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188641&d=1691760207
But then I went to the Legendary Motorcar showroom, which is coincidentally just 10 minutes from my place. And they have half a dozen originals.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188642&d=1691760207
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188638&d=1691760181
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188637&d=1691760181
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188636&d=1691760181
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188635&d=1691760181
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188634&d=1691760181
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188645&d=1691760507
IRS + rear battery box. I am really happy with how it came out.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188734&d=1691918511
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188732&d=1691918511
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188733&d=1691918511
Not done with the trunk sheet metal yet.
Jim1855
08-13-2023, 09:15 AM
Zee,
I like it, nice work. What battery are you planning on?
I'm looking at something similar for the Challenge Car.
Jim
Noco NLP 20. It's a powersport battery but with high cranking power. It "should" work (famous last words). I guess I'll find out.
188756
The suitcase bump and exposed roll bar originality mod. I really wanted it! So happy with how it's turning out! This plus the fact that the battery fits under the trunk with IRS really opens up the space.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=188837&d=1692060686
Really wanted an under-trunk battery with my IRS rear-end. That means I had to go with a smaller battery
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=189288&d=1692911393
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=189290&d=1692911393
I like the end result :-
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=189289&d=1692911393
I love this tank. I skipped the straps and just bolted it:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=190196&d=1695009899
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=190197&d=1695009899
I added enough slack on the PTFE hoses to allow my future self to drop the tank without disconnecting anything
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=190198&d=1695009899
The hard lines are nothing fancy to look at. They'll be functional.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=190199&d=1695010075
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=190200&d=1695010075
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=190194&d=1695009899
Windsor
09-18-2023, 07:06 PM
Neat.
What tank is that?
Neat.
What tank is that?
It's the Boyd tank. Built like a real tank with a higher capacity.
Went with the Superformance design for the dash. Things don't line up because I didn't really tighten them for this picture. I stressed over it unnecessarily until I decided I was just going to order another dash from FFR if I am not 100% happy with it (or have someone local bend and laser cut it). That made everything easy.
I'll decide if I am happy with it or not once the wiring is done.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=190556&d=1695842207
The switches are for: hazard flashers, cruise on/off and RES/SET. For RES/SET, the switch is momentary-on/off/momentary-on.
I'll also have pull knobs on the corner for vent but I want the body on before I know where to put them.
Went with authentic Smiths gauges (including mechanical reverse speedo) for period correctness (as well as indicator lights that look just like the original). I don't plan to use FFR's vinyl. Instead, I'll use one with more texture that looks like the original.
I wired the dash as cleanly as I could, decided there were too many wires and took it apart to do it again with a wire diet. No one will ever look behind the dash but I want it to be perfect back there (because that's how you tell if someone paid attention to their build or cut corners).
egchewy79
09-27-2023, 02:48 PM
looks great. I love seeing pics of car parts in someone's house. I'm sure you have an understanding partner to allow for the kitchen table to be used for part of the build. There was a pic of a former builder who stored his body in his living room. I'm sure that's floating around somewhere. I have a pic of me baking on caliper paint in my kitchen oven (with wife out of town that weekend, of course)
looks great. I love seeing pics of car parts in someone's house. I'm sure you have an understanding partner to allow for the kitchen table to be used for part of the build. There was a pic of a former builder who stored his body in his living room. I'm sure that's floating around somewhere. I have a pic of me baking on caliper paint in my kitchen oven (with wife out of town that weekend, of course)
It'd make things a lot easier if she let me leave it there. I have to move it to the garage every time I am done :-).
A builder near me has his body inside the house.
Lots of updates.
Tried to paint the tires. That was a fail. The paint came right out when I removed the stickers. I guess I need better technique.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191095&d=1697158383
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191096&d=1697158383
I saw this at a car show. This builder used stickers. They look better than I imagined stickers to look. He did buff out his tires before putting the stickers though.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191098&d=1697158519
Some other pictures of cars at the car show:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191099&d=1697158625
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191100&d=1697158625
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191101&d=1697158625
Finally, did the wiring, did some harness dieting and put in the engine!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191102&d=1697158768
Gotta figure out how to attach this:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191103&d=1697158768
Also made everything quick release:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191104&d=1697158768
And the engine is in!!!!!
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191105&d=1697158768
egchewy79
10-13-2023, 06:03 AM
nice work on the wiring. looks real clean. congrats on the motor as well. that is a big milestone and frees up so much more room in the garage.
nice work on the wiring. looks real clean. congrats on the motor as well. that is a big milestone and frees up so much more room in the garage.
Thanks. My wife is certainly happy.
I might remove the wire loom behind the dash (for the gauge wiring) because the wire behind them are very tidy. The loom hides that beauty :-D. But I put the loom in to add a layer of protection (and no one will see the stuff behind the dash anyway).
Jeff Kleiner
10-13-2023, 09:46 AM
Zee,
Regarding tire stickers for the lettering. I used them on a customer build a couple of years ago. Before applying the rubber stickers with the provided special adhesive I ground off all of the sidewall lettering and smoothed them using a combination of a sanding drum in a die grinder and a couple of different grits on a DA. About an hour per tire.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191110&d=1648894480
Engine looks good in there!
Jeff
191110
Mike.Bray
10-13-2023, 11:04 AM
You might check out this company. https://tredwear.com/
rx7922
10-14-2023, 12:20 AM
love the fuel tank, what size or stats is the fuel tank
love the fuel tank, what size or stats is the fuel tank
Boyd tank. It's solid. 22 gallons I believe.
Blitzboy54
10-16-2023, 10:15 AM
I used https://www.tirestickers.com/product-category/tire-lettering/ They send you an example of what it looks like before they ship. This allows you to make changes before paying. I really liked the product. I did not smooth down the side walls but think that is a terrific idea and will next time.
I have some more wire cleanup ideas that are completely unnecessary, but many things I've done in this build were done only because I wanted to.
While I wait for the ordered parts and figure out better how to tackle those things, I decided to experiment with the coolant expansion tank:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191226&d=1697476352
Sadly, my alternator is on the passenger side and it sits too high. One option is to move the alternator down or further out with a different bracket.
I discussed it with some other Canadian builders and they gave me an idea I hadn't thought of.
I could potentially cut the bracket and the pipe, and make both larger by 2". That'd work, but now I don't know if I'll have enough clearance under the hood.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=191227&d=1697476352
So now that project is sidelined until I fit the body.
Alternatively, I could use a different bracket to move the alternator down, but then I'd have to worry about the belt fitting.
Decisions, decisions.