View Full Version : Little things you might consider upgrading?
So here's a question that I've seen answered in the context of specific topics, but haven't seen consolidated:
Recognizing that everything comes with compromises and trade-offs... what small (i.e. lower cost) parts, fasteners, etc. that come with the complete kit do you recommend replacing or substituting with something that works better, looks better, is easier to install, or just makes for an overall higher quality build?
Examples I've seen people reference are tie rod ends, ball joints, certain fasteners, butt connectors, etc. I'm not talking about major components like brake calipers, exhaust, radiator, etc.
JohnK
03-23-2023, 10:34 AM
That sound you just heard is Pandora's box opening...
In all seriousness, this is an almost impossible question to answer, let along consolidate into one thread. IMO, you are best off spending some time reading through as many build threads as you can, taking notes, and referencing back to them as you get to each step of your build. There are TONS of good ideas/mods out there. So much so, that it can easily become overwhelming.
That sound you just heard is Pandora's box opening...
In all seriousness, this is an almost impossible question to answer, let along consolidate into one thread. IMO, you are best off spending some time reading through as many build threads as you can, taking notes, and referencing back to them as you get to each step of your build. There are TONS of good ideas/mods out there. So much so, that it can easily become overwhelming.
LOL, yes I heard it as I was typing the original post. I've definitely scoured a ton build threads and made notes as such, but I thought this would be an interesting discussion (not just for my benefit). Or not. Maybe to your point, just Pandora's box.
Namrups
03-23-2023, 10:43 AM
There is nothing wrong with the kit supplied parts. But having said that it's like everything else in life, do you want to go with good enough or do you want better? That is all up to each and every individual who builds one of these. Are you building a race car, a DD or a showpiece?
For example, the kit supplied switches all work fine. Some have "upgraded" to a better quality switch. Others have gone to a "custom" switch that may be lighted or so that all the switches match.
As for fasteners, do you want the look of an aluminum rivet head, a bolt head or a SS button head screw? They all work.
This is all personal preference. Are you looking for a more robust part? Are you looking for a more custom look? A list of more robust parts would look different that a list of custom parts.
The best thing to do is to read through a number of build threads of the car you want to build. Make notes on what other builders are doing or not doing and decide if you want to do the same thing or not. Seeing what others have done may give you an idea that is even different.
You build it the way you want it!
narly1
03-23-2023, 10:47 AM
Once one gets past their personal quality assessment of a part, to me the next logical question for one to ask themselves that factors into the upgrade question is "how easy is it to get at said part if it does break?"
If something is easy to get at and replace maybe it makes sense to just run with it to start.
Earl
JohnK
03-23-2023, 10:53 AM
To expand on Earl's point a little, in addition to the "ease of replacement" question I'd add the "consequences of failure" question, i.e., if this parts that seems OK (but just OK) fails what are the consequences? One of my personal pet peeves is the generic fuel filler neck gasket at the gas tank. It's not terribly uncommon for this to tear after a while. Save the heartache and spend the money on the genuine Ford gasket from the start. (P/N F4ZZ-9072-DA)
Once one gets past their personal quality assessment of a part, to me the next logical question for one to ask themselves that factors into the upgrade question is "how easy is it to get at said part if it does break?"
If something is easy to get at and replace maybe it makes sense to just run with it to start.
Earl
Right, similar to decisions about the major components you really should decide on before or during your build (e.g. power brakes) vs those you can easily change-out in the future (e.g. calipers).
This is all good input that can help new builders... maybe it's less about the specific items, but more about the thought process around upgrades or substitutions as you plan for and/or start a segment of the build. People will make different decisions based on their priorities etc.
narly1
03-23-2023, 12:00 PM
Speaking to John's point about "consequences of failure", a good example would be electric fuel pumps.
I've heard many stories of them dying on the side of the road. So while there are plenty of "performance" branded ones out there, I elected to go with a generic Walbro unit that's available almost anywhere right off the shelf.
Earl