First of many question!

[RockChalk]

Hello everyone! First post here! Still learning how to navigate the forum. It will be a few years before I start my build. Just wanted to start planning my build and get an idea of what made or set your builds back. Really looking for recommendations. There is a lot to try and plan. Really want to start getting the mental image of how my build is going to come to life! Thank you ahead of time! So excited to be here!

[SJDave]

Welcome to a great community, lots of knowledge in this group and we are experts at spending other people's money!

I had one major delay, receiving my engine, waited 9 months and when it got here the vendor had preinstalled his racing clutch, which would not release. Of course found this out after it was in the car. In the process of talking to the Vendor and sitting in the car wondering what to do next, he suggested pushing the clutch pedal harder. Well i did and the previous generation Wilwood Cast Aluminum arm bent and cracked. It was then he said he must have shipped me a BAD one. Pulled it out, waited 2 months for a replacement, reinstalled, ahhh..it releases. Drove 200 miles and the flywheel is rubbing the backing plate on the engine, the #3 Main which is also the thrust bearing was toast. Most likely damaged when pushing the clutch in so hard. Pull it out again, sent it back, wait 4 months to get it....pull the Pan to inspect what was done....only the bottom half of the #3 Main bearing was replace, the top half was bad. Vendor denied he only replaced the bottom half.

I will PM the Vendor name to you, forum rules don't appreciate pointing out bad vendor performance.

Graduated in '72 from KU.

Cheers!
Dave

[scrubs]

I think people may not be answering bcs there are countless answers. People have issues from inventory thru final prep. You said you are years away, so lurking the threads may provide the most insight. Correlating what your reading here with the build manual would.be even better to see where deviations/errors/options are, but may not make total sense out-of context (ie you dont know the parts and/or haven't struggled with the issue).

Good thing is that people on the forum are super helpful and put up with newbs (like me) who ask questions that have been answered nth times.

Don't worry.

[CraigS]

I think your Q is way to open ended. I would first start by searching for threads on engines. There are many choices but they have all pretty much been covered several times. Same w/ trans although that can be tied to engine choice to some extent. Same w/ rear suspension. Lots and lots of threads on which is best for what. Finallt find build threads. They will be invaluable in getting a feel for the overall project. I would keep a tablet handy and when you come across a comment that applies to something you have thought about make a note. Or set up a whole bunch of favorites files so you can save tidbits for each category. Welcome to the forum and best wishes in your search.

[gbranham]

Welcome to the club! Jayhawk grad '97 here. If you're here in town (I'm just north of Lawrence), maybe you could come check out my build and we can chat.

Greg