View Full Version : London, OH Event
CraigReeves
06-13-2023, 04:45 PM
Hello,
My first post, so I apologize in advance if this is in the wrong thread. I just joined the forum and I am planning on attending the London, OH event next week. I am doing the pre-planning for an MKIV build and wanted to know about the show format.
1. Should I schedule a meeting with the Factory Five folks or is it pretty casual? I want to speak with them about build times and delivery.
2. I am undecided about the power plant and drive train still. Will multiple vendors be present and are they pretty accessible?
3. I would like to speak with some folks that recently went through the build process and understand the physical demands. I have cancer in my bones and currently have a broken back but I can move pretty good, just can lift anything over 20lbs. I don't mind getting pulleys and lifts for the garage so I am hoping most of the heavy lifting is mechanical. For that reason I wanted to talk about shop size; I am planning on leasing some space for this.
I grew up rebuilding and reselling cars with my father so I am fairly knowledgeable mechanically. I would really like to gather as much information as possible next week at the show so if anyone has recommendations as to who I should meet / speak with I would greatly appreciate it.
Very grateful,
jts359
06-13-2023, 05:37 PM
Hi We went last year and had a great time , Every thing is pretty casual . You will get more info in the host hotel parking lot , Most vendors were selling cars and not many parts vendors , I think a two car garage would be best but I"ve heard of guys doing it in a single car , Have fun , Ed
I will be there in a Wimbledon white roadster with no strips and a soft top. My name is Dave and would be more than happy to talk.
Dave
steno
06-13-2023, 06:57 PM
It's VERY casual at London! The Hotel parking lot is the Mecca of information and great ideas to steal for your own build.
Factory Five will be there along with some of the pro and semi-pro builders to give you insight!
Looking forward to meeting you at the lot!!
Sten
Your thinking is spot on. I had a similar approach when I was doing my research. There will be a contingent from FFR there on Saturday, and if you're patient, you should get a chance to have a meaningful conversation with one or more FFR guys. Dave Smith is usually there, but he gets swamped, so patience is the key. As Sten and others said, there will be plenty of expertise wandering around the hotel parking lot. Honestly, it borders on overload - 150 cars or more! (I can't wait!)
CraigReeves
06-13-2023, 08:54 PM
Thank you all for the valuable insights. I look forward to seeing you and your cars as well as learning.
egchewy79
06-13-2023, 09:21 PM
super chill event
lots to learn. many willing to teach.
friday night at the hotel is invaluable.
Dave Smith gets swamped at the show on Sat but super willing to talk to everyone.
cars exhibited at the FFR tent are some of the best examples of what can be done w/ this kit.
this forum has been invaluable. post where you're from and there'll likely be several builders in your area who would be willing to help when you get stuck.
awesome community.
BluePrintEngines
06-14-2023, 07:05 AM
Hello Criag,
I would love to speak with you about the potential drive train for your Factory Five build. I will have a booth at the London Cobra show, in which I would be more than happy to speak with you. You can locate our BluePrint Engines booth right next to Factory Five. I look forward to assisting you with any questions or concerns you may have.
Thank You, Jose
Jeff Kleiner
06-14-2023, 07:49 AM
What they all said! It's a great opportunity for folks who are on the fence or still in the build process to see a bunch of cars, ask questions and get ideas...not to mention meet lots of good people! I've been every year since 2002, which is hard to believe :eek:
Factory Five isn't bringing the big rig or showroom cars this year but Dave has asked Henry and me to round up a bunch of customer cars to display, which we've done for the past several years anyway, as well as helping out in the booth. We did suggest that he bring the half car because it's such a great educational tool but I don't think he has made a final decision on that yet. If your schedule allows it plan on Friday afternoon/evening at the hotel for the "Block Party" then head into London early on Saturday morning and pick a spot on Main Street to watch 150-200 cars roll into town. You'll spend the rest of the day checking them out and talking to owners & vendors. You'll leave with lots of answers and memories of a good time!
See you there!
Jeff
steno
06-14-2023, 08:22 AM
What Jeff said!!
edwardb
06-14-2023, 09:56 AM
What everybody said. Hang around the hotel parking lot and the show on Saturday. Lots to see and most willing to share and answer questions. I enjoy that part a lot. I went to the show twice without a car way back when I was just getting started building. Was a great help plus an inspiration.
We'll be there with our Gen 3 Coupe.
john42
06-14-2023, 10:54 AM
What they all said! It's a great opportunity for folks who are on the fence or still in the build process to see a bunch of cars, ask questions and get ideas...not to mention meet lots of good people! I've been every year since 2002, which is hard to believe :eek:
Factory Five isn't bringing the big rig or showroom cars this year but Dave has asked Henry and me to round up a bunch of customer cars to display, which we've done for the past several years anyway, as well as helping out in the booth. We did suggest that he bring the half car because it's such a great educational tool but I don't think he has made a final decision on that yet. If your schedule allows it plan on Friday afternoon/evening at the hotel for the "Block Party" then head into London early on Saturday morning and pick a spot on Main Street to watch 150-200 cars roll into town. You'll spend the rest of the day checking them out and talking to owners & vendors. You'll leave with lots of answers and memories of a good time!
See you there!
Jeff
If you want/need a Challenge car in that let me know. I'm driving mine there. She aint pretty, but has a nice race history :-)
CraigReeves
06-14-2023, 12:46 PM
Jose,
You are definitely on my list. Will you be there Friday morning? I am planning on doing a Reds game Friday evening. I will also be back Saturday morning.
CraigReeves
06-14-2023, 12:48 PM
I am from Birmingham, AL so if anyone showing cars is from the area (AL, GA, MS, TN) let me know.
Thanks again,
Jeff Kleiner
06-14-2023, 01:52 PM
Plans are always fluid and as of today it looks like the big rig might be coming out after all. No matter, either with the big trailer or smaller one Factory Five will be there in force and won't be hard to find! Craig, come on by Saturday; I'll be there a big part of the day along with several other builders and or owners who will be happy to help answer your questions :)
Jeff
You should look up WareagleScott. He lives somewhere in or around Birmingham. He's an excellent builder and I bet he'd be a great resource for you!
BluePrintEngines
06-15-2023, 06:41 AM
Criag,
I can certainly be there Friday morning. Can you send me private message? I would like to set up a appointment.
Thank You, Jose
cc2Arider
06-15-2023, 10:49 AM
I'd like to visit Friday evening or Saturday Morning, otherwise I've got to finish my other chores :(
Can someone reply with the Hotel address, please? Did someone say it was a Marriott?
Thanks,
Craig C
Marriott
5605 Blazer Parkway
Dublin
I am planning on arriving early Friday afternoon. Looking forward to meeting some of you!