CV2065 MKIV Roadster Build Thread #2 - Visors - Heat Shields - Saggy Pipe [Archive] - Page 2

cv2065

08-17-2025, 02:48 PM

Another Friday deal with these turn signal mounts. I expected to have to enlarge the holes but not sure why a template is not used when FFR drills them, as with the louvers, they were way off. One of the holes is not even centered in the perch and the threaded hole was not the same distance as the other, so needed to do some work.

But first! I had to decide which way I was going to go for the turn signals. Jessie scored up an idea from topherchrisb that I explored. I was able to get the base 3D printed from Chris' source and then added a pigtail. I increased the size of the base by 3/16" so that the threaded rod would have more meat with the epoxy. They look like this:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7466db4e-35db-4526-bf07-6d17b5dce3db.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7466db4e-35db-4526-bf07-6d17b5dce3db.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

But then, I started looking at the stock turn signal lights and thought what would they look like all blacked out. So bought a can of this stuff:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b1087f36-da01-4d22-8b5a-97c7e1b85308.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b1087f36-da01-4d22-8b5a-97c7e1b85308.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

And sprayed my lenses. Add the powder coated gloss black bezels and now I'm into batman territory and think I will go with these. I'll add some bright LED bulbs and we have a winner. If anyone is interested in these other lights I put together, just let me know as they are ready to plug and play.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c5758961-4639-4c29-afe7-ad93faa8c5e9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c5758961-4639-4c29-afe7-ad93faa8c5e9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

So, I re-drilled my own holes at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions which are roughly 1.75" apart. Then had to enlarge the center hole quite a bit so that the turn signal housing sat flush on to the perch. When measuring, one also has to account for the fact that the studs coming out of the turn signal housing are not created equal and every one of them seems to be a little different in terms of hole placement.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4ab3b4ab-466e-476c-a1d6-1bdbd6d387aa.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4ab3b4ab-466e-476c-a1d6-1bdbd6d387aa.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/06f6f8ec-d38f-4b12-a031-0930bc1760a9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/06f6f8ec-d38f-4b12-a031-0930bc1760a9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The rears were easy and just about right on the money. I did take the bezels off of the square lights to have them powder coated.

Again, one of those deals where you have to be careful as these areas are delicate and things break easily. The 2 threaded bolts that secure the light have to be removed and are screwed and glued into the plastic of the lens. I carefully unscrewed them with a socket and then upon reassembly, added silicone and gently screwed them back into the housing. The metal bezel is crimped around the light in 6 places, so I used a pair of needle nosed pliers to pull them away and then used the same pliers when bending back down into position. I did break one off but shouldn't be an issue as there are 6 and it happened to be the side where the threaded bolt holds it down anyway. All in all, turned out great.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3747d803-3798-467c-a080-60538f794e13.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3747d803-3798-467c-a080-60538f794e13.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

08-17-2025, 02:58 PM

As a side note, I did have to fix a weeping leak in my passenger side, rear brake line. It was on the flex line going to the wheel, so much easier to address. Again, I used these SECO 7 flare seals and they work wonders. Come in all sizes and in this instance a 3AN size fit the bill. I think I'm just going to start to use these as SOP. Replaced and dry as a bone. You can get them here:

https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productselection.asp?Product=3202

I also have a drip here and there oil leak out of my drain plug. I think I may have to change over to the nylon washer as the copper crush washers need to be really honked down on in order to seal on this pan. Maybe it's an issue with the plug hole itself but I'll find a washer that seals a little better next oil change.

cv2065

08-17-2025, 03:03 PM

One other mod I made while I'm giving everything a once over is changing the throttle rod up to the higher position on the assembly. It has made the responsiveness feather lite at the pedal with less effort on the linkage despite the slightly elevated rod. I will have to adjust the pedal a bit but this is the ticket!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c93c17ec-be66-4e95-9aed-4d3f44b1fd34.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c93c17ec-be66-4e95-9aed-4d3f44b1fd34.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Mike.Bray

08-17-2025, 03:11 PM

I got too aggressive with the DA sander and took my front turn signals off completely :D

Does kind of smooth it up some I think.

217691

cv2065

08-17-2025, 03:13 PM

I got too aggressive with the DA sander and took my front turn signals off completely :D

Does kind of smooth it up some I think.

217691

LOL. Actually that looks great Mike. I was tempted at taking the quick jacks off based on Hacksaw's car, but decided not to. I like the look.

cv2065

08-17-2025, 09:13 PM

More of the same for the headlight cutout. Again, I have no issue with enlarging an undersized hole, but when the holes are off to a point where a new hole joins the old, or the entire thing is out of round, then it becomes somewhat of an issue unless you start filling things. I'd almost wish that they didn't drill any holes as it just adds to the labor time. There's definitely a case to not pay for this service. Here's an example.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/cf8d168d-01bb-4644-9c6f-217198e0945d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/cf8d168d-01bb-4644-9c6f-217198e0945d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Rant over. :p I used the template and enlarged the headlight hole about 1/8" at the top of the semi-circle to bring it round. I used the top hole as the pilot and re-drilled the mounting hole to the left. Both sides had the same issue.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/391e8029-a1b4-47d7-97ef-fb6f5f877648.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/391e8029-a1b4-47d7-97ef-fb6f5f877648.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Buckets ended up symmetrical and fitting nicely. Maybe I'll come back and fill in any FFR made holes.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/333871fb-ccc2-4224-80a9-af775cbcaa33.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/333871fb-ccc2-4224-80a9-af775cbcaa33.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5a36891e-bc33-43a8-bc16-c7a651d8fa37.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5a36891e-bc33-43a8-bc16-c7a651d8fa37.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now it's time for the undercoating. I put the brace in and with some help, turtled the body. When the brace is in while it's upside down, the 2x4 seems to put a lot of pressure in a small area at the dash, so I removed it and will reinstall before I flip it back over. I also used two jacks to lightly support the trunk area so it's not just hanging. Not sure if that is necessary.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7537ac15-5838-424e-867b-7d28f0d9abe7.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7537ac15-5838-424e-867b-7d28f0d9abe7.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Wiped all of the sanding dust out with a rag and acetone. I then hit the entire body with 80 grit which took off any strings or raised strands of fiberglass. Wiped it all down again with acetone and am ready to paint. Lots done today so hanging up the build until tomorrow. I should have it coated and back on the buck by Wednesday for final louver fitting. Then the body will be done and ready to be installed for the final time.

Higgybulin

08-18-2025, 04:17 AM

Gotta love doing that in the heat!
Higgy

Blitzboy54

08-18-2025, 07:07 AM

The turn signals look cool. Can you add a pic with them lit?

My headlight cutouts were not close. My beef was the key holes were way off. By like a cm. Just don't bother then. Would have been better off doing it myself. I had to do some wonky stuff to make it fit right. It's all hidden but I had a lot of issues with holes being in the wrong location. Filled a few and re cut.

Mike.Bray

08-18-2025, 07:51 AM

LOL. Actually that looks great Mike. I was tempted at taking the quick jacks off based on Hacksaw's car, but decided not to. I like the look.

If I was doing it again I would absolutely eliminate the quick jacks. But then I wouldn't have anything to hit my shin on in the garage.

Jeff Kleiner

08-18-2025, 08:09 AM

If I was doing it again I would absolutely eliminate the quick jacks. But then I wouldn't have anything to hit my shin on in the garage.

I like the clean look and had no QJs or bumpers on my Mk3 and have eliminated them and made hidden mounts with the Mk5. But yeah,not banging the shins or forehead is a big plus!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=214072&d=1747684883

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=214073&d=1747684932

Jeff

danmas

08-19-2025, 12:19 AM

danmas

08-19-2025, 12:21 AM

I like the clean look and had no QJs or bumpers on my Mk3 and have eliminated them and made hidden mounts with the Mk5. But yeah,not banging the shins or forehead is a big plus!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=214072&d=1747684883

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=214073&d=1747684932

Jeff

Spectacular. I’m eliminating quick jacks as well. Also maybe doing the Mike Brey delete of the turn signals. I like clean also…

cv2065

08-19-2025, 08:04 PM

Time to add some Herculiner undercoating. Not really a fan of the process but necessary. After the support beam was in place, the family picked up the body and flipped it over on to a couple of drop cloths I had down in the garage. I did remove the brace after it was flipped but will put it back in before it goes back to the buck.

Supplies Needed:
1. Herculiner Kit (Comes with rollers but the brush sucks)
2. Chemical resistant gloves
3. New role of 1.5" painters tape
4. Dropcloths or Tarp
5. Acetone
6. Two 2" brushes (One for each coat)
7. Rags for cleanup
8. 80 grit sandpaper
9. 1-Gallon drill mixer (Walmart)
10. Paint Tray with 2 liners

First step was to wipe down the inside body with acetone. Once all of the dust and dirt removed, I went back over and scuffed with 80 grit sandpaper. Then used acetone again to wipe all of that clean for a nicely prepared surface.

Second step is optional, which is to tape off open areas. You don't have to do this, but it does allow you to work faster and it keeps this tarry mess off of the outside body. Literally takes a full roll to get all of it and another 45 minutes of prep time.

Lastly, open the gallon of Herculiner, hook up the mixer to the drill and start churning. The particulates in this paint are heavy and need to be moved around every 15 minutes or so. Keep the gloves on unless you like to acetone wash your hands to get it off.

Took me about 40 minutes for first coat and 30 minutes for the second. Takes 1-4 hours to dry in-between coats and it works off of moisture in the air. With the Florida humidity these days I think it dried in about 10 seconds. :p

Finished the second coat and added some extra in the wheel wells and used the entire gallon. I removed the tape and I'll be giving it about 48 hours to dry completely before I put it back on the buck. Turned out really nice, so bring on that road debris!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4a8dc815-e44c-4917-9c98-0d448d7d7c7d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4a8dc815-e44c-4917-9c98-0d448d7d7c7d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/571f0760-addd-4c66-bb91-f1799e241232.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/571f0760-addd-4c66-bb91-f1799e241232.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d3b8e8c7-73e4-4ce8-b9f4-7a9505ee004d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d3b8e8c7-73e4-4ce8-b9f4-7a9505ee004d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

08-19-2025, 08:14 PM

I put in the trunk struts tonight. Uneventful but I did follow Kleiner's lead and had to offset them just a bit as they align with the seat belt bezels if installed straight ahead. Shouldn't affect operation. Struts that I used were the Suspa C16-02622. My struts say 60lbs, but they are actually 28. Maybe a misprint.

I had the hood struts in the back trunk area and didn't realize when I took the car out for a spin over the weekend. I have one strut that must have gotten tossed during the joyride and is now MIA. :rolleyes:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3e3d5ac9-faf0-4a25-a0d5-b1f7a0b2c185.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3e3d5ac9-faf0-4a25-a0d5-b1f7a0b2c185.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6ef5cf55-9306-4239-8ba8-fd26df7b92e3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6ef5cf55-9306-4239-8ba8-fd26df7b92e3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

08-23-2025, 02:37 PM

Jessie asked that I post a video of these blacked out front turn signals in operation. I have to say that I'm surprised at how bright these are despite the black coating. I'm wondering if it enhances the brightness somehow. I think I could hail aliens from Uranus. If you can't see me turning, then you must be blind.

https://youtube.com/shorts/M8tQYRABsyo

These are the bulbs that I used.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RNCD3L1?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

tnt_motorsports

08-23-2025, 06:02 PM

I have a pair of those in my riding mower and they work great.

Blitzboy54

08-24-2025, 08:14 AM

cv2065

08-31-2025, 11:40 PM

Got my louvers installed today and used the 3M HSRF with studs. A little bit of practice to get the HSRF correct. 3" glob of material followed by a 3" stripe of hardener. Says on the label that the fumes can cause hearing damage among other things. Not sure how that's possible, but I don't want to find out so wore a respirator while mixing and applying. Also, no cardboard as a non-porous surface is needed.

Picture is right before mixing, but the greenish color is what I was going for and of course, made too much. This stuff gives you maybe a 5-minute working time in the Florida heat, so I made sure to have my pattern drawn on the backside of the cutout so I knew exactly where it was going and ensuring it was level. Scuffed with 80 grit sandpaper, cleaned up with Acetone and ready to roll. The great thing about Jeff's cutouts is that they use every bit of the real estate to accommodate pretty much the entire louver, so they look very prominent. Thanks again Jeff!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4682bc93-077e-4481-82c3-ac3100264163.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4682bc93-077e-4481-82c3-ac3100264163.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a7ff6107-1262-451e-aa16-1cc5ef13504d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a7ff6107-1262-451e-aa16-1cc5ef13504d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ac841048-8972-4752-a5c1-0cf32074d96a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ac841048-8972-4752-a5c1-0cf32074d96a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I need to take just a little more off of the forward bottom angle to even it out but looks great overall. I'll take them off tomorrow and sand down any extra HSRF to clean it up.

And by the way, these look 100 times better with Jeff's pattern than what I did last time. No one ever notices these kinds of things if they are a little off, except of course the builder. Mine looked like this on the last build. Not terrible, but much better now. Areas like this is where the detail counts.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/47d59fd9-7ac8-421b-856e-81ae5f4e6dde.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/47d59fd9-7ac8-421b-856e-81ae5f4e6dde.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

08-31-2025, 11:42 PM

As many have done, I used the Fiebings leather dye and Resolene for my door straps. Deep black with a nice finish over the top. I'll put these in a zip lock and wait for my door fitment in a couple of weeks.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/63a980f2-d16a-4b0e-94e9-bd0dad022a9e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/63a980f2-d16a-4b0e-94e9-bd0dad022a9e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

08-31-2025, 11:45 PM

Had to go with the Cipher cam-lock red seat belts again. I had the 3" last time and thought I had ordered the 2" this time, but guess not. They are a little heavy but when staged in the car, they look fantastic, so it's a tradeoff. The cam-lock is SO much better than the latching, especially if you have a passenger as they typically can push a button but have a hard time getting out of the latched belts. Also gives a modern flair if you are looking for it.

In the Florida sun you need a UV protector on bright and dark colors, so I'm using the Scothbrite UV protector on all of the cloth areas. Seemed to hold up well but as with anything, they need to have a maintenance coat from time to time. I'd say every 6-8 months or so, depending on exposure. Laid these out, soaked em up and should be dry for tomorrow as I plan to install them.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/48585d5f-deff-4cd8-a646-cf68da649cde.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/48585d5f-deff-4cd8-a646-cf68da649cde.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

These belts come with nice eyelet bolts instead of having to use typical ones. Obviously you can't see them but when clipping the belt on it makes it super easy to secure and remove if needed, without having to take the seats out.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6d66ada7-50d7-4ffd-8e63-373213d71412.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6d66ada7-50d7-4ffd-8e63-373213d71412.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

08-31-2025, 11:56 PM

Well, still waiting on my tunnel cover material to be sent back to me from Intatrim. They've been great with the communication and should be sending to me next week. Then it will be a few days at the upholsterer before I can make a final install.

I'm also using Redline Goods to manufacture a leather custom shifter and e-brake boot. I used them last time and they make great stuff with lots of options. The leather is soft and plush. They are very detailed in terms of gathering the measurements for a perfectly fitted boot. I'm going for a diamond stitch similar to my seats. These aren't pictures of my shifter or ebrake but it is the material design I'm getting. Takes about 3 weeks to make and they are here in the US.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/11f1874a-da65-405f-821d-e995fe96fab3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/11f1874a-da65-405f-821d-e995fe96fab3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/406d564d-f270-4eef-8e64-9f29ec5982fb.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/406d564d-f270-4eef-8e64-9f29ec5982fb.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e2065f78-c904-4829-9cf4-eb795d828e81.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e2065f78-c904-4829-9cf4-eb795d828e81.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

09-01-2025, 12:16 AM

Turn Signals and Tail Lights are all Weatherpacked, wire shrinked and ready to go. I also cut the tail light holes larger to accommodate the weatherpack housing. Really like these square lights versus the 4 individual ones. The individuals didn't need the trailer deal, but these look a lot cleaner to me. Although they are more delicate so you have to be gentle when handling, not only the casing but the wiring as the connector is really only held in place by some kind of resin. You'd think they would be a little more robust, but I also said that about the turn signal trim ring.

I didn't cut any lengths off of the wiring. The turn signal wiring looks like it might be a little long, but that's easy to manage. The tail light wiring harness almost looks too short, so we'll see.

Really digging the darker look on those turn signals!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/636c965c-ad9b-45bf-8993-fd9ead6e10d7.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/636c965c-ad9b-45bf-8993-fd9ead6e10d7.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

A couple of other minor things and I should have the body back on for the final time, sometime next week. I'm taking a week off from work so it will help me get a jump on the initial fittings of the doors, hood and trunk. Getting close!

gbranham

09-01-2025, 12:57 PM

Looking good! I also eliminated the QJs on my MkIII. I like the clean look.

Greg

218297

cv2065

09-01-2025, 01:27 PM

Looking good! I also eliminated the QJs on my MkIII. I like the clean look.

Greg

218297

Thanks Greg! I'll be including the quick jacks. I've always liked the look. Although I am going with the 1/2" tubes, front and back, and cut them down a bit. The fronts are 4.75" and the rears are 2.75" on the outer tube. That will pull them in a bit and avoid the shin beatings to an extent.

Jeff Kleiner

09-01-2025, 02:38 PM

...I am going with the 1/2" tubes...

FYI, if you plan to install the molded grommets in the front you should use 3/4" O.D tubes, not 1/2"

Jeff

cv2065

09-01-2025, 05:21 PM

FYI, if you plan to install the molded grommets in the front you should use 3/4" O.D tubes, not 1/2"

Jeff

Ah, I meant the 3/4" tubes. That's what I've got. Thanks for looking out Jeff.

cv2065

09-08-2025, 11:06 PM

Once I sprayed the belts with UV protector, I installed them. Cipher belts in the house! They sure do pop and make the red diamond stitching on the seats stand out. The round hooks make this so easy for install and love the cam locks. Still don't have my console cover from Intatrim, but hopefully on its way soon so I can button all of this up.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ce9d737a-8116-4762-be13-1256dd44da9a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ce9d737a-8116-4762-be13-1256dd44da9a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3f6fd365-1c10-4157-a34b-aceaee945ad5.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3f6fd365-1c10-4157-a34b-aceaee945ad5.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Cipher gives quite a bit of additional strap slack. I didn't want to cut it as it has nice finished edges so just rolled up the slack and secured at the top of the trunk area.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/18667ea6-b7b6-47ff-af95-2b068c6b9d33.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/18667ea6-b7b6-47ff-af95-2b068c6b9d33.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/669e9226-6c96-4db3-a625-ad68ce61bcb9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/669e9226-6c96-4db3-a625-ad68ce61bcb9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

09-08-2025, 11:14 PM

Even though this was only a couple of splines off, it would drive me nutty if it wasn't totally centered. I loosened the two set screws of the steering shaft at the power steering coupler as well as the bearing at the front footbox and the set screws at the pillow block.

I really only needed to loosen the two set screws at the steering shaft coupler and it moved easily. Compliments of having the bearing on the inside of the footbox versus outside. I had it on the outside in the last build and there really is no adjustment room at the coupler if you need it and everything needs to be loosened in order to get it. In fact, I'm glad I took it apart as I think when I was fiddling with the correct shaft height for the turn signal module, one of the set screws might have pulled up into the splines a bit, or I did that on initial fitment. Either way, was able to adjust to the correct setting, apply blue Loctite again and reassemble. I was also able to get a slightly better gap at the turn signal hub and of course, the wheel is now perfectly centered.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6840e3a1-9293-40e7-afdd-0ad99e6308f2.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6840e3a1-9293-40e7-afdd-0ad99e6308f2.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

09-08-2025, 11:22 PM

I had already put rivnuts into the F-panel at the first part of the build. I did not have the panel married up to the rivnuts on the first pass, so needed to do it here. Easy process. I simply aligned where I wanted the panel and fed the 10-32 screws in from the backside of the rivnut with a dab of anti-seize on the end of each screw. Screw it in until it touches your panel and you have your location. Mark with a center punch and drill. Perfect holes every time. I also notched the top of each panel to make room for the wiring harness.

Upon the initial fitment, my panels were touching the wheel. I'm running 265 sized tires but it was right on top of them. The F-panel flange was not bent correctly and I had to bend it out a bit for the proper fitment. I've read that others have had the same issue but that wasn't the case on the my first build. Both sides were the same way. Either way, all set and good to go. I'm sure I'll have to trim and/or massage these in for final fitment but this will make it easier. Adding the rivnuts will also give me panel access in the future without having to drill out rivets and replace.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/abd20e64-a79f-41f4-be89-380186cadd9e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/abd20e64-a79f-41f4-be89-380186cadd9e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e1a05a8d-ca56-4cf2-bc9f-21829902db01.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e1a05a8d-ca56-4cf2-bc9f-21829902db01.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

09-08-2025, 11:25 PM

My powder coater gave me a freebie with some of my other stuff last week. He powder coated the skid plate at no charge. Another one of those, no one will see it but me, but it sure looks nice under there. That aluminum oxidizes over time, so will serve as protection too. The sheen should make it easy to clean as well. The upside down jack stand is a little freaky....

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/24880a09-03e5-439e-ac18-67acc07a505b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/24880a09-03e5-439e-ac18-67acc07a505b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

This is the week I put the body back on for the final time. Just buttoning up more small things over the next day or two and on to the final chapter of the build as the paint window is in November. I'm off all week so should be able to get a nice start. The doors, hood and trunk lid will come out of the guest room bathroom, so win for the wife as well. ;)

danmas

09-08-2025, 11:31 PM

That is insanely cool looking. Well done! Well done indeed!

JMD

09-10-2025, 10:39 AM

It's so nice I would have a hard time driving it, knowing all those pretty pieces and finishes are going to get all chipped and scuffed up! Very nice work.

Blitzboy54

09-10-2025, 12:01 PM

Red and black interior look nasty. I am also looking forward to you getting your tunnel cover.

cv2065

09-10-2025, 12:17 PM

red and black interior look nasty. I am also looking forward to you getting your tunnel cover.

lol

cv2065

09-27-2025, 05:00 PM

Coming back around for a little update action. So, a couple of weeks ago I was fitting my front splash shields, anticipating putting the body on for the last time, looked over and my nicely ceramic coated headers were flaking. I'm like WTH! This exact same thing happened on the last build. So, the final body install waited and I sent back to the ceramic coaters. Said he switched powders as he had other complaints and shouldn't be an issue this time around. Took 4 days to order the powder, a few days of screwing around and 1.5 weeks later I get them back. They look good but time will tell during the heat cycle.

So, in the mean time, I was working and waiting on some other things. First off I needed to install my body spaces at the front. I ordered 4" x 4" rubber block that is 5/8" thick off of Amazon. Cut it down to 2.5" strips with a fine blade hacksaw and installed on the 3/4" tube. I tapped the 3/4" tube with 8-32 screws and used a little silicone underneath. It's not going anywhere. I used the FFR provided foam stripping for the remainder of the tube. Got the block from here:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09663B56V?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f465feec-ea08-4c96-8f6f-7c8faf6032c4.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f465feec-ea08-4c96-8f6f-7c8faf6032c4.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/fbc62326-635a-4991-b3e1-fd0cdbc679ca.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/fbc62326-635a-4991-b3e1-fd0cdbc679ca.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I also tweaked my brake balance bar as it was perfectly centered at rest. I wanted a little more bias to the front so adjusted pretty much like they have in the manual and called it good. I also tweaked my accelerator pedal as it was a bit too far forward and my foot was catching it when transitioning to the brake. Hitting your brake and revving the engine at the same time is not cool! Problem averted and we're good to go.

cv2065

09-27-2025, 05:22 PM

The first strip of matching tunnel cover fabric I got from Intatrim was not matching up with the cover dimensions. Reached out and they sent me a replacement. Took some time. Roughly 3 weeks to get it cut, then another 2 weeks across the pond. BUT, it was worth the wait. This beauty is coming out EXACTLY as I had envisioned.

Once I got the fabric, I had already put in rivnuts and holes into the cover so immediately took it down to the upholsterer. If anybody cares, it was Tony's in Orlando. This guy did an AWESOME job and he had it done in less than 6 hours. Cost me a mere $120. I made sure to focus his attention on the duck bill in the back as it was a bit of a problem when I had it done before at Kellys, but turned out perfect.

If you are in Orlando, don't go to Bible's or Kellys. Either they do substandard work or it will cost you your first born for simple stuff. Got it back and started to punch screw holes in for my trim rings. Another one of those, don't F it up moments. I fed a tiny drill bit into the reverse side of the rivnut, made my pilot hole and bored it out from there with a hole punch from Harbor Freight. I referenced them earlier in the build thread. Heated up the end and it made a perfect circular hole. Used needle nose pilers to pick out the excess foam from the cover to expose the rivnut threads.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/51832bd0-c5df-4c48-bfca-eadd770823b3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/51832bd0-c5df-4c48-bfca-eadd770823b3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/61f3562b-4e22-4380-981e-b4983bcd2db9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/61f3562b-4e22-4380-981e-b4983bcd2db9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I have a center console stereo BT remote from Wet Sounds, so needed to wire that up next. Not hard, but had to pull the custom harness through from the engine bay then weatherpack it and the harness coming out of the BT module. I glued plastic wire fasteners to the bottom of the panel with JB Weld plastic epoxy and zip tied the wires to the back to keep stress off the master control harness.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/528d7967-c617-44fd-bd16-e4ed2f602949.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/528d7967-c617-44fd-bd16-e4ed2f602949.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Once done there, I fitted the entire thing into the car. Installed the unit and hooked up my wiring harness. Lots going on, especially when you put the e-brake on top, so took a little time and patience to get it all of the wiring snug and secured. Had the 'hood' propped up!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/1faf8aaa-d355-44b6-ba14-b4f4f57aba9f.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/1faf8aaa-d355-44b6-ba14-b4f4f57aba9f.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

09-27-2025, 05:27 PM

Once all wired up, I decided to use a couple of 10-32 screws and tapped the 3/4” tube to secure the top. I'll use the same black aluminum finishing washers I used on the dash. They are somewhat invisible and run with the theme of the car. With screws it’s super solid, easy to remove and I thought this would be better than velcro with heat, etc. The trim rings are just sitting in there for now until my black SS socket heads arrive. My custom shifter and e-brake boots are on their way from Redline Goods. They are black soft leather with diamond stitching. Something about tariff delays have added a couple of weeks to their arrival.

I did offset the shifter ring a little inboard to appear somewhat centered once the boot is in place. Cleaned it all up with a little 303 protectant and Ooooh Mama....this is what I'm talking about! :cool:

I do need to hook up the bottom end of the e-brake, but will need to do that from underneath so I’m waiting until the boot arrives.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e8736b7a-75cc-44a9-b965-6ea1e5689a78.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e8736b7a-75cc-44a9-b965-6ea1e5689a78.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a590e8bc-dde9-4521-bc8d-949a676544e3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a590e8bc-dde9-4521-bc8d-949a676544e3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/cadf9da7-e74f-4e5d-bdd1-6a754fcd950c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/cadf9da7-e74f-4e5d-bdd1-6a754fcd950c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d297b414-1f8d-41c8-a249-b902346e260c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d297b414-1f8d-41c8-a249-b902346e260c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Got the seats back in and installed my fire extinguisher for the final time as well.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/0ea7cb0e-d4bf-478c-80a6-7e3ff3129b36.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/0ea7cb0e-d4bf-478c-80a6-7e3ff3129b36.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

09-27-2025, 05:34 PM

If you are looking for some MKIII or MKIV floor mats as that 'other place' no longer has the Cobra ones, I decided to try Car Cover Planet as they make them specifically for the FFR Roadsters. They fit perfectly and the quality is very similar to OEM that you would get in a production car. Very heavy, come in 8 or so colors and have the rubber spikes (with grommets) on the back to grip the carpet. They are also UV protected. All for about $120 a set with free shipping. Not bad. You have to select 1965 to get the right ‘Cobra’ drop down to come up but for ease of reference, below is the link:

https://www.carcoverplanet.com/1965-cobra-factory-five-replica-mk-iv_premium-plush-floor-mat.html

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2b40471c-32fb-40fe-8af4-c6f8acefd237.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2b40471c-32fb-40fe-8af4-c6f8acefd237.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d88180e9-3b0c-46af-adf8-626a1cfd5565.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d88180e9-3b0c-46af-adf8-626a1cfd5565.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

danmas

09-27-2025, 06:49 PM

That looks so damn good. Holy smokes! Well done!I hope my finish is half as nice as yours! You should feel really good about that.

Edit: Just ordered my mats.

jengum

09-27-2025, 06:53 PM

Wow...it's beautiful!

Blitzboy54

09-27-2025, 08:25 PM

Absolutely smoked the interior.

I used the same mats. They are very heavy. Well worth the price.

Higgybulin

09-28-2025, 05:51 AM

Looks awesome! Going to be another stunner bud!!
Higgy

JMD

09-28-2025, 12:25 PM

That looks amazing. I love the consistency of the red & black theme in the interior and interior accessories. Lovely build.

mrglaeser

09-29-2025, 10:12 AM

Love what you are doing with the interior. So many similar themes as what I'm trying to do. But you made it look modern where I'm going for an older look. Nicely done.

Justin

09-29-2025, 09:27 PM

Looking very well thought out. I dig it!

cv2065

10-21-2025, 10:38 PM

My shifter and e brake boots finally arrived from Redline Goods and have to say that the quality is top notch again. The leather is supple, and the stitching is really nice. You'd think it went with the tunnel cover print, but different pattern. They are really detailed when gathering the measurements and can be time consuming but worth it. Here's a shot of the shifter boot and new ball with trim ring all snugged down. Looks great. I'm still working on the e-brake boot. I was adjusting the brake itself and the little metal piece inside shot out of the handle when I removed the pin and has been lost in what is now the garage abyss. I'll have to score another one at some point.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6a8d7420-e607-4757-8afe-d5db5b8eb529.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6a8d7420-e607-4757-8afe-d5db5b8eb529.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

10-21-2025, 10:59 PM

Finally got to that milestone point where the body goes on for the final time. I started to rush it one weekend as I wanted my son to help with the fitment but pulled back at the last moment just to give it all a once over and delayed a week. Glad I did as there is always something to check. I was getting some puffs of smoke out of the driver's side pipe and decided to investigate before the body went on. Turned out that a couple of my plugs had fouled with all of the idling during initial timing and what not. Much easier of course to change the plugs while the body is off, so I did and everything is running like a champ. No more puffs of smoke and idles more smoothly.

Headers also came back from the ceramic coaters and unfortunately I lost my satin sheen and back to matte. I'd rather have that than peeling headers but it is what it is. Collector remained satin as it doesn't get as hot. Might try to get the pipes back to satin as well. We'll see. Was able to get those back on. Again, the studs are a life saver.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/859ee133-8124-4cd8-89fd-479504bf3b7d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/859ee133-8124-4cd8-89fd-479504bf3b7d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/bc011c91-57b4-4c05-9977-aac3cefff487.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/bc011c91-57b4-4c05-9977-aac3cefff487.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Checked pedal travel again, brake balance bar, nuts, bolts, fittings, MCs.....All set and the outside driver panel was installed with carpeting. Almost too pretty to cover up! :cool:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b4422a96-12c0-4e06-bccf-b230ad922c17.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b4422a96-12c0-4e06-bccf-b230ad922c17.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/aa7aa03c-1a7c-4287-adb0-fced8846918d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/aa7aa03c-1a7c-4287-adb0-fced8846918d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

10-21-2025, 11:22 PM

Finally made it to the final fitting of the body. All bulb seal went on with some being replaced from previous fittings. After it was installed, everything sat just like it did the first couple of times. That wasn't the case on my last build, especially around the dash. Never really figured it out and some things just have a way of moving all by themselves. :rolleyes:

The ride height needed to be adjusted again as the rear was riding really low and the front rubs at 1/4 turn. Might need to call the alignment guy out again.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b895bd74-12ed-403f-99bd-1ea9eaef7a7b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b895bd74-12ed-403f-99bd-1ea9eaef7a7b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a7be14bd-740f-4fb7-b8d4-212fceb3a0ce.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a7be14bd-740f-4fb7-b8d4-212fceb3a0ce.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Looked great right off. Measured from the shock towers and was getting the same measurements all the way around...UNTIL I started putting the quick jack tubes in the front. I had drilled out for the larger grommets and tubes and they rubber was getting all wonky because it wasn't straight from the body holes to the frame brackets, horns, outriggers, or whatever you want to call them. With the 5/8" spacer at the top on both sides, the bolts should just slide right through but they didn't and was too much tension. I needed to bring them inboard, so out came the ratchet strap and inward they went about 1/2" or so. I did loosen the radiator mount before I started pulling to avoid any stress on the radiator.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4b3d3baf-5855-46a3-bf9c-734cf899a3a0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4b3d3baf-5855-46a3-bf9c-734cf899a3a0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Once I got those done, everything aligned perfectly. Front QJ bolts go in and out with very little effort on all 4 corners. As mentioned, I used the larger tubes and grommets from that other place. I used bronze bearings that reduced the ID to 5/8" to take up any slack, one on each side. You can get them at McMaster Carr.

https://www.mcmaster.com/products/6391k192/

And they look like this:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d6ef9330-589e-4acc-9f81-ef77d8ad74ff.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d6ef9330-589e-4acc-9f81-ef77d8ad74ff.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The rear QJ holes were another story. I'm not sure why but I had a heck of a time aligning with the 4 Kleiner modded couplers that I had put in early on. I had one instance where the SS threaded rod galled into one of my bottom couplers and would not come out. I had to cut it off, order another coupler, and it 'just' squeezed in where I could get it without dropping the tank. Whew! Another reminder to ALWAYS use anti-seize when dealing with SS.

I enlarged the holes just a bit on all four corners and the threaded rod finally installed with ease. Maybe it was the new bulb seal that made the offset or 'that FFR guy' that drilled all of my stuff off center, but not sure. The threaded rod I cut down to 4-3/4". Much shorter than my last build and saves my shins, but I still have managed to whack my head twice while screwing around with the wiring. Another tip is with the undercoating. I wasn't paying attention when applying and clogged up my QJ holes. Don't do that.

Anyway, they look great now, especially with Mike Everson's finishing plates. I'll be adding black chrome acorn nuts after paint to finish it all off.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3d857e7f-697a-402e-a628-4e7a17a49548.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3d857e7f-697a-402e-a628-4e7a17a49548.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a16be948-ff4e-4e30-8a4e-0456f548581e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a16be948-ff4e-4e30-8a4e-0456f548581e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

10-21-2025, 11:34 PM

I started installing my lighting and got to install my Batman turn signals. Man do these look great. I did use the eyebrow bracket since I had them plus they give me something to help secure the headlight/turn signal harness to underneath to clean things up.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/44624c68-7d6b-4d10-8fba-f7b096fbf745.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/44624c68-7d6b-4d10-8fba-f7b096fbf745.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/975fa3b2-6156-4427-910d-4212bd784822.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/975fa3b2-6156-4427-910d-4212bd784822.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Went to start on my headlights and the harness weatherpacks but realized that I didn't have any 12 gauge weatherpack pins so ordered from Amazon. Of course, Amazon's systems go nutty and it added 3 days on my wait. I've got a car to build Bezos!!

Moved on to the pipes. I really just wanted to install these as is and let the painter deal with the cutout, but the pipes wouldn't even install the cutouts were so small and the corner radius was wild. So mask and dremel to the rescue and I started cutting. Dremel took a dirt nap half way through so needed a replacement. After a few times on and off and cutting a little at a time, I realized that I needed the 1/4" spacers that Mark has from Breeze. Ordered and he sent them in record time! So got one side done but the other will have to wait until the weekend. Still needs a tiny bit of evening out on the top but nothing that 30 seconds with 80 grit sandpaper can resolve. Looks good overall. I added a little headroom at the top to give the engine some room to move. Gas n Pipes brackets will be next here.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/40d9c1ea-f81b-43b6-8f39-7896b409c911.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/40d9c1ea-f81b-43b6-8f39-7896b409c911.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5549b5a2-41c6-420c-8099-307d44be5f8b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5549b5a2-41c6-420c-8099-307d44be5f8b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Higgybulin

10-22-2025, 04:34 AM

Nice work brother!! Keep it up! I am going to make the drive over there the next time I am down for more than a 3 day trip!
Higgy

Blitzboy54

10-22-2025, 07:04 AM

Looks super sharp Chad. I now need to build a 3rd one just to catch up to the quality of your 2nd

cv2065

10-22-2025, 08:22 AM

Nice work brother!! Keep it up! I am going to make the drive over there the next time I am down for more than a 3 day trip!
Higgy

Anytime Higgy!

cv2065

10-22-2025, 10:13 AM

Looks super sharp Chad. I now need to build a 3rd one just to catch up to the quality of your 2nd

Thanks Jessie, but your build is outstanding and doesn’t need any help. ��

danmas

10-22-2025, 10:32 AM

Chad. Just wow.

cv2065

10-22-2025, 05:40 PM

Fitted the Breeze rollbar. Man, you gotta love this thing. The height, rake and thickness is perfecto! And NO frankenstine bolt.

Time to cut the holes. I had to enlarge about 1/4" on each hole for the Breeze bars. My hole cutting friend at FFR struck again and each hole was about 1/4" off moving outboard. I've got to buy this guy some lunch just on consistency alone!!

Draped the plastic tarp over the car to keep it clean and cut the plastic out around the holes and taped it down. My wife came in while I was going to work with the Dremel and said I looked like a surgeon with my respirator on. Yes!!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2dfb7f19-f18e-44ea-bd78-29dba8e00404.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2dfb7f19-f18e-44ea-bd78-29dba8e00404.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Once done, I misjudged the rear leg a bit as I forgot Jeff Kleiner's advice about notching the back leg so that the hole doesn't have to be so big. When done, the trim ring just barely covers the hole but one of my screw holes has nothing to screw into. So I headed down to the local metal shop and they fabricated 3 trim rings that are 3/16" bigger than these that I got from Replica Parts. Charged me $40. Put em on and we are back in the game!

Test fitted the rollbar and had to use some emery cloth on the 3rd leg adaptor as it wasn't sliding in and out like it should. Had a little rust develop on the leg even though I kept it inside. This is key as you can't get the third leg in without the adaptor slid all the way up and you need to be able to get it out once through the hole. I had already drilled my bolt holes and I'll send out for powder coating next week, so I think we can put this one in the win column.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/26567b0a-346a-4c54-9a24-5440371150a3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/26567b0a-346a-4c54-9a24-5440371150a3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/8351dd0f-a31f-47e6-b2c7-5a6294057ec5.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/8351dd0f-a31f-47e6-b2c7-5a6294057ec5.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

10-22-2025, 05:58 PM

Well, something finally went right in the fitment department. The hood! I wanted to get the hood done early before the windshield and doors as it's a good barometer as to how centered the body is to the frame. I assembled and installed my brackets.

I did not assemble them right the first time as the hood was about 2" too far towards the back of the car once installed and I had no adjustment. So, I flipped the brackets that the arms screw into around to where the part of the bracket that is pointing farthest forward was at the front. This gave me the adjustment that I needed. I don't think that the instructions make this completely clear and the wife says I did the same thing the last time but I don't remember. :p Leave it up to the 'foreman' to remember those things for me.

Also, if you don't hold the wavy washer and the regular washer over the shoulder bolt as you tighten the lock nut down, it won't tighten flush and you'll have too much play in the arms. Takes a little patience to get it right the first, second, third time.....;)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/532466c3-09e6-4010-bb22-ea568805bbaa.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/532466c3-09e6-4010-bb22-ea568805bbaa.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4e793fec-4821-4475-8716-f69a4aa21063.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4e793fec-4821-4475-8716-f69a4aa21063.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Once arms were fitted right, I riveted the brackets on to the hood. I only put 2 rivets in each one as it will be easier for the painter to remove. Same with the gas strut pivot balls. Which by the way the holes were not symmetrical when drilled from side to side on the hood but didn't seem to make a difference upon installation.

I had my wife help setup up the hood and installed. Why she keeps showing up with oven mitts I don't know, but at least she's ready. I installed all 4 shoulder bolts first, then the gas struts, then tightened the nuts down but just enough to where I could still move the assembly any which way. I then laid the hood all the way down to where it fit the opening. Then slowly pulled it up from the middle at the top of the hood to where the struts caught and I could just barely get my wrench on the two bracket bolts on each side and snugged down. If the hood assembly moves, then you have to start over. I wasn't 'completely sure if I was going to get some interference from the remote PS reservoir, as the last one I had was integrated, but it didn't and was just about a perfect fit!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2956ae99-ef22-4428-95da-f3962460ec2d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2956ae99-ef22-4428-95da-f3962460ec2d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/1dbe8ecb-6c15-4c54-8e45-461017dbe931.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/1dbe8ecb-6c15-4c54-8e45-461017dbe931.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/afe67064-5c86-46b0-86f5-debf8cd3d2ff.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/afe67064-5c86-46b0-86f5-debf8cd3d2ff.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Over the next couple of days I'll get my pipes completely fitted, support brackets installed and start on the windshield.

Jeff Kleiner

10-22-2025, 06:10 PM

Also, if you don't hold the wavy washer and the regular washer over the shoulder bolt as you tighten the lock nut down, it won't tighten flush and you'll have too much play in the arms. Takes a little patience to get it right the first, second, third time.....;)

Pro Tip:
To get the wavy washers right the first time put them directly into the nearest trash can.

You're welcome,
Jeff

cv2065

10-22-2025, 06:18 PM

Pro Tip:
To get the wavy washers right the first time put them directly into the nearest trash can.

You're welcome,
Jeff

Thanks Jeff! Now that I think about it, I think you told me that the last time.

danmas

10-22-2025, 07:28 PM

cv2065

10-22-2025, 07:47 PM

I searched the forum but no luck. Can you say more about this or maybe Jeff can weigh in? I have to start this soon and I want to get it right.

Thanks@!

Dan

When you fit the back leg, you'll see what I'm talking about. The rear lip of the third leg won't clear unless you expand the hole a bit more rearward. Jeff suggested cutting a 'V' shaped notch in the bottom part of the leg to clear the body a little better so the hole doesn't have to be so large. Once you get the trim rings on you can't tell one from the other but if you go just slightly too large, the stock trim rings might not cover the gap completely.

Jeff Kleiner

10-22-2025, 08:11 PM

cv2065

10-22-2025, 09:20 PM

Put these little guys together tonight. Wow, the door latches have come a long way. Very cool!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e12ad396-fbda-401a-9019-53c0b05aee72.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e12ad396-fbda-401a-9019-53c0b05aee72.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Jeff Kleiner

10-23-2025, 11:23 AM

OK, returning to the rear leg when using Breeze bars and the change I make which Chad alluded to. Once the rear leg is welded to the main hoop when installing the bar assembly it all drops straight down vertically. I make a plumb cut on the end of the rear leg so that the cutout doesn't have to be any larger than necessary for clearance on the bottom side. This photo isn't of a Breeze bar, just a 1 1/2" section that I use for mock up but it will do for illustration. I marked in black to show how I make the cut. As you can see without that portion cut off it would need more removed from the body to allow it to go straight down.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=220590&d=1761236540

Why not just cut the whole works shorter you ask? Because we need as much of the down leg as possible to remain for the inner sleeve to slide through and to be able to get a through bolt in below the body surface.

Hope that helps explain it!

Jeff

danmas

10-23-2025, 11:39 AM

Thanks Jeff!

cv2065

11-01-2025, 09:22 PM

I finished up the roll bar drilling and the holes were so off from FFR that I had a new set of trim rings made up locally that are about 3/16" larger than the ones from Replica parts so that I had the ability to get all of my screws into something as there was the third side dangling in the air. They look good but irritated that I needed to do that. I'll get these powdercoated in the coming week.

I also gave the outboard ring a slight bend over the bench grinder housing and it fits the curve of the body perfectly.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/08e2f09f-c928-49fa-ac82-35623c40ca92.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/08e2f09f-c928-49fa-ac82-35623c40ca92.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Next up was the gas cap. I had it powder coated many months ago and never really looked at it. Upon inspection it had some orange peel where not enough powder was applied to the lip of the top. I normally would have let it go but it was in your face so took it back and had him redo it. My one legged powder coater was NOT happy as he said it was really difficult to prep the piece and reapply the powder as he does lay it on thick. I guess next time he'll inspect a little better.

Last time I clocked the cap to the 1 o'clock position. This time I went 90 degrees. There's no right or wrong. I'm right handed to when I put the gas in it's a natural motion this way. Whatever you like.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c2b45c3e-b0ec-4f5f-a394-4f2970085d8f.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c2b45c3e-b0ec-4f5f-a394-4f2970085d8f.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Game out great and installed with black 8-32 SS screws from ebay. You can get them here:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/396833631293

Here's a view from underneath. I used some silicone grease to lube up the inside of the rubber tube so everything slipped in and out easily. The cap came with a grounding strap but it was too short so I made my own with some Permaseal connectors. I still need to secure the wire and add some spray paint to the ground area. One thing I did was to be sure that the screw where the grounding wire attached was not painted but bare metal so that it grounded properly. I also cleaned out the cap screw hole with a drill bit to bare metal and painted the top of the screw.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7aad5ec1-af4f-4222-a841-2a593dd698b2.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7aad5ec1-af4f-4222-a841-2a593dd698b2.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

11-01-2025, 09:44 PM

Pulled the hood and started the drilling. Frank from ie427 has a really great video on how to measure for center. The FFR directions have you measure from the bottom of the hood, but Frank measured from the top. My mid-point was at 19.25". Ironically same as Frank's in the video and a testimony to the small error tolerances when cutting out these pieces at FFR. I then measured 13" (not 12") from the center, marked my spots then straight up 2-1/8" which put it dead square in the center of the ribbing on the bottom.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c8c1edc9-df00-4ff7-b162-4a79f49bafad.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c8c1edc9-df00-4ff7-b162-4a79f49bafad.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I went to install my arms and realized that my powder coater forgot to tape off the keyhole and now its frozen so I can't turn them. Thought if I baked them at 400 degrees (same temp as baking in powder coat) that they would unseize but didn't happen. Now I have to get another set and have them redone. FFR had them in stock but it's been almost a week and they still haven't sent them. Not sure why it takes them so long to ship items but guess I need to give them another call. As soon as I receive, I'll finish up there.

You can find Frank's video here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7qTZvmNQ4M&t=1034s

cv2065

11-01-2025, 09:48 PM

Got these supports drilled out and installed. Relatively uneventful. The ones I have came from GasnPipe and I like these better than what FFR sends. They are a little more stout, fit the pipe bracket better and have some additional rubber damping material at the end. They also seem to clear the body a little better.

The directions tell you to drill straight through the 2" tube all the way to the interior of the cabin. I decided not to do that. I drilled into the 2" tube but tapped it for the screw. Plenty of metal in that tube to hold securely.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9fa4f8b4-c608-468c-91c5-46395681ec1c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9fa4f8b4-c608-468c-91c5-46395681ec1c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9fa4f8b4-c608-468c-91c5-46395681ec1c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9fa4f8b4-c608-468c-91c5-46395681ec1c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

gbranham

11-01-2025, 09:55 PM

I really like those hangers. More adjustment than the stockers. My brackets hit the body, and I'd like more vertical adjustment. Might have to buy some of these.

Greg

cv2065

11-01-2025, 09:57 PM

I installed the passenger door but not the driver's side until I get the windshield installed. During the last build I did my best to shave off material and align the doors, trunk, etc.. This build I came to the realization that I'm not a pro with fiberglass and I'm sure that the painter would rather take what FFR sent and mold it like he would like versus dealing with anything that I've jacked up. So fit it into the opening, tightened up the hinges and moved on. Same with the latch. For what it is, the door fit into the opening pretty nicely, but lots to do.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/571920a4-e5aa-4bab-bbe2-0f366e1c9e59.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/571920a4-e5aa-4bab-bbe2-0f366e1c9e59.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I did the same with the trunk lid. It will definitely need some material taken off the bottom and sides cleaned up. With my hydraulic struts disconnected, thought I'd try out a new wooden trunk strut. I will add that the bulb seal that FFR includes for the trunk does not fit well. Mine was squashed and once I did open it enough to fit the lip it wouldn't hold. As has been recommended on the forum, I ordered replacement from McMaster Carr which fit really nicely.

https://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/131/3998/1120A411

I also ordered some spare for the hood and door for paint.

https://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/131/3997/93085K14

I'll be drilling for the license plate and light tomorrow.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6b0ccd24-00b5-452f-85dd-283d66cb23d8.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6b0ccd24-00b5-452f-85dd-283d66cb23d8.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Bought a trunk electrical cover plate from Frank at i.e. 427 as well. Yeah, I could have made it myself but nice to support the forum vendors as I've certainly watched enough videos there for direction. It will go to the powder coaters as well.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/dba9b3ea-204b-4687-a1e2-d7e01520b251.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/dba9b3ea-204b-4687-a1e2-d7e01520b251.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

11-01-2025, 10:07 PM

This is the last major thing that needs to be installed. I measured out the arms to cut a couple of inches off the bottom as its recommended to be 13" from the bottom hole, but then I was lucky enough to run across Da Bat's post about recent version of the arms already cut to that length. I checked and sure enough, they were:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4193c5d0-66a6-4eeb-bac8-d6d69c52bc71.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4193c5d0-66a6-4eeb-bac8-d6d69c52bc71.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I'll still check fitment of course, but though that was nice. On the first install to the windshield, the passenger side arm was almost perfect at the top, but the driver's side was way off. Spent about an hour trial and error to get it right, going back and forth from the vice and even had to shave a little off the top with my angle grinder to fit it into the groove. If yours looks like this, you've got some work to do.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e43269d0-bf1f-4748-a0be-5ea667cbd7da.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e43269d0-bf1f-4748-a0be-5ea667cbd7da.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I did install the Whitby's steel inserts and threw out the brass ones. As much as I've had the arms on and off I'm glad that I did. Although I did have to cut each piece on each side in half, as the holes were not sufficiently aligned with the arms. Just remember that the screws that come with the arms from FFR are a different thread size than what Whitby's sends but they look the same.

I have the Replica parts post trim pieces which are larger than the FFR ones and look nice. I traced the rubber gasket over the hole so I know how much I have to work with when fitting. The first fitment was a no go as the legs were bent too far outboard. I put them in a vice and bent a few degrees the other way as well as opening up the body holes. I will spend most of tomorrow morning getting the rest of it buttoned up.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/84108e1b-1a0b-48b8-ac51-955571fd9c49.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/84108e1b-1a0b-48b8-ac51-955571fd9c49.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Jeff Kleiner

11-02-2025, 07:00 AM

cv2065

11-02-2025, 07:59 AM

Chad,
Be forewarned that those windshield arm escutcheons will not allow the windshield assembly to drop down as far as the FFR pieces which can lead to the bottom rubber gasket not contacting the cowl all the way across. That's why the FFR pieces are "C" shaped.

Jeff

Wow…Thanks for the warning Jeff! I still have the FFR ones. I can’t recall if I used these from the last build.

cv2065

11-11-2025, 11:48 PM

I started on my hood latch fitment and channeled the holes for the latches using low profile 10-32 weld nuts (Mcmaster Carr 98001A125) with HSRF to bond it all together. I've never been a fan of screwing things through the fiberglass and this held up well on the last build.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f3dbc57f-be39-47b4-8cc8-0eb71dfc737d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f3dbc57f-be39-47b4-8cc8-0eb71dfc737d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I first measured the holes for the hood latch and drilled all 3 of them. I then used an air saw to connect the larger hole with the two smaller ones, as its necessary in order to get the weld nuts into position. When connecting the holes I tried to come in just a little less wide than the smaller hole itself so that the 10-32 screw that I have through the weld nut just kind of pops into place and makes it easier to locate. I drilled a hole into each side of the weld nut to get a better hold with the HSRF, then slathered it on to both sides and put into position. One thing to note is when waiting for the HSRF to dry, you don't want to pull up on the screw/weld nut too hard, as it can squeeze too much of the material out from under the weld nut and the hold can be compromised.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/489b07af-bf6f-40e8-bf45-a4a168c57e4d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/489b07af-bf6f-40e8-bf45-a4a168c57e4d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/da5e3422-37eb-4ed0-99e3-f47d997083a2.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/da5e3422-37eb-4ed0-99e3-f47d997083a2.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Once cured, tightened down the latch for a clean install. I came back around and added a little more HSRF from the back side for additional hold. I broke up a popsicle stick into slender pieces to apply as it's challenging to get up inside the hole evenly. All done and I think they are very secure.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d8481820-fa10-4e30-9082-399069d55b37.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d8481820-fa10-4e30-9082-399069d55b37.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now I just have to go get these latches powder coated. Yeah, I had this done before and found out one thing. These latches can be powder coated without any kind of disassembly, but there is one catch. You need to have them unlocked before doing so. If you don't, the lock will freeze up and you won't be able to unlock with the key. The key fits in just fine, but the tumbler will not turn, so I'm not sure if something in the locking mechanism is impacted by the heat, but the assembly rotates just fine afterwards if initially unlocked. Needless to say, had to get another set and start over.

cv2065

12-12-2025, 10:51 PM

Finally finished up all of the interior bits. The e-brake boot was the last to complete. I mentioned before that there was a lot of back and forth with Redline, but for good reason. The boot fit very nicely. The e-brake works 'ok', but takes a little effort to engage. Maybe I need to adjust the cables and loosen them up a bit, but good for now. The trim ring is raised and matches pretty close to the shifter trim ring from Backdraft.

The Wet Sounds remote works great in the console. Very happy with the overall look and integration.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3e6c545b-ef63-4ff3-ad56-246e07ef517d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3e6c545b-ef63-4ff3-ad56-246e07ef517d.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

12-12-2025, 11:01 PM

Everything is speeding up now that I'm coming to the end. Headlights were next. I used the same ones that I used on the last build as well as the same ones I used on my wife's Jeep! These things look so sexy and are black with black smoked covers.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c4147257-9264-4342-8859-6c9513359856.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c4147257-9264-4342-8859-6c9513359856.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The great thing about these lights is that there is no modification. I did get a couple of bad ones right off the bat but easily replaced and good to go. The mounting ring that comes from FFR fits right on these and no other modifications are needed. I had that powder coated black. I did not put the finishing ring on as I'm just going to take them back out for paint, so I'll wait. Quickjack nuts will be replaced with black chrome acorns when it comes back from paint.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/aeba5e23-5609-4b59-b890-c0bdf48e802f.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/aeba5e23-5609-4b59-b890-c0bdf48e802f.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/65f9c07e-1443-4e24-8ae2-54e36916cf71.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/65f9c07e-1443-4e24-8ae2-54e36916cf71.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/71952495-f86a-4fe3-8b40-1c1582476307.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/71952495-f86a-4fe3-8b40-1c1582476307.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

You can get them here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B376YOE?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_ti tle_5&th=1

cv2065

12-12-2025, 11:12 PM

So I had to re-powder coat my hood latches. This time I had him tape off the keyed area and made sure they were unlocked. Got em back and they work great, so just keep that in mind if you go down the same road. They have to be unlocked before you send them in.

I installed the paddles in again and the catches in the hood opening. For the latches I used a rubber gasket to finish it off which is red to match the color of the hood and then drilled the latch for a cotter pin just for added safety. I will most likely have to file down the catch just a little as my paddle is a little too far down on the stalk and blocks the pin. Five minutes with a grinder when I get the chance.

Again, I didn't use machine screws to drill into the fiberglass for the catches and hood bumpers. I used 8/32-1" screws and nuts. I like the hood to just catch and not have a ton of force keeping the hood down.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/0a532ee0-be8d-47c0-acaf-17fa68b6c728.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/0a532ee0-be8d-47c0-acaf-17fa68b6c728.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d6e0340a-77c1-4828-be2a-29d98724d949.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d6e0340a-77c1-4828-be2a-29d98724d949.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6064f952-85c5-4636-971a-f5f0c7a14400.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6064f952-85c5-4636-971a-f5f0c7a14400.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The Roush air cleaner DOES NOT fit under the hood. My painter said he could get there when the scoop is cut out but wanted to see it. I also couldn't fit the traditional Cobra oval air cleaner under there either due to the length. The Victor Jr. is giving me more height than the lower profile intake I had with the BP engine. Guess we'll see how it works out!

cv2065

12-12-2025, 11:20 PM

Rollbar and new trim rings came back from powder coating and I installed them. Can't be more pleased with the Breeze version. Low profile, reclined, thick and no Frankenstein bolt.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/23017298-0715-437e-b35a-16cc37fc9c20.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/23017298-0715-437e-b35a-16cc37fc9c20.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3664d53e-ad87-4b8c-bedd-9edd9839dd95.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3664d53e-ad87-4b8c-bedd-9edd9839dd95.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I also bent the outboard trim ring and rear QJ trim pieces over my shop grinder housing so that it conformed to the body. Worked great!

As a PSA, when I went to install the rollbar again, it easily installed over the inboard receiver but kept getting hung up on the outboard receiver. Installed it a few times and still the same thing. There was a lot of sand in the tube from the powder coating blasting, so thought that might be it but wasn't either. I then rotated the coupling sleeves a little and it fit correctly. I guess my sleeves are oblong just enough to where fitment is only easily achieved when it's rotated to the correct side of the sleeve. This caused me to have to drill another hole to secure the bar. Not a big deal but something to think about when one is fitting the bar with coupling sleeves.

cv2065

12-12-2025, 11:41 PM

Purchased my Lexan windshield from Greg at 520 Speedworks. Great guy, easy to get a hold of and sells some interesting upgrades. The Lexan wasn't plug and play though. After my frame was powdercoated, I installed the Lexan with a little soap and water. Went in easy enough but I could not get the corners to go in far enough to get the frame together flush at the corners. I had about a 1/16" gap. Tried a few times and gave up and reinstalled the glass, which ironically, went in perfectly.

First thing was to mark, cut and drill the arms. After watching one of Frank's videos at i.e.427, it was brought to my attention that FFR is now sending out precut windshield arms, so you no longer have to trim off a few inches as before. I measured it and sure enough, 13" from the bottom hole, right on the money. Lucky I didn't cut it!!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4193c5d0-66a6-4eeb-bac8-d6d69c52bc71.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4193c5d0-66a6-4eeb-bac8-d6d69c52bc71.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I prepped the arms by drawing a line down the center of each one with a black marker. so that I could easily center it up on the frame brackets when marking for the holes. Dropped the fuse panel and then dropped the windshield into place. I then marked the arms through the frame holes with a marker, then drilled and tapped with 1/2-13 tap. Due to the softness of the metal, I could literally tap it while holding on to it, but I did place in the vice anyway.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ceee9902-b1d5-4715-8805-86cdc4d6fc88.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ceee9902-b1d5-4715-8805-86cdc4d6fc88.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I pulled the windshield flush against the driver's side bracket so that I was only shimming the passenger side due to ease of access. I used thick washers from Ace Hardware. It took one at the top and 3 at the bottom, which I taped together so they wouldn't move. A telescopic magnet is your friend!

As I was working the correct angle to bolt up, I noticed a few chips on my frame that I must have hit with a ring or somewhere else. DOH!!! They were larger and noticeable. Not sure how that happened but knew it would bother me and possibly turn into a larger issue, so I disassembled my windshield and took it back to the powder coaters. He was NOT happy to see me and yes, I'm a certified nut job.

It was kind of a blessing in disguise as I got it back a week later and gave the Lexan one more shot. This time I shaved about 1/8" off the top of the Lexan to the sides and rounded them a bit more. Installed it again and boom, fit right up, flush at the corners. I was really happy as I don't have to worry about the glass cracking down the road and I also won't have the expense of adding PFE to the glass which I did last time as the glass was getting really pitted from road debris.

Once it was all bolted up to the car, I was really happy with the fitment. On the last build with glass I had a little spot on the passenger side where you could see daylight under the rubber seal. This time around, it fits true and flat and is about 27-1/4" from the bottom screw to the inside of the rear door jam. The Lexan is very solid in the frame and when bolted up. STOKED!!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6d35bdd0-9731-4e2d-9695-ad4e3551be9a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6d35bdd0-9731-4e2d-9695-ad4e3551be9a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/872013ad-ebc8-46d2-b237-4a1d5a823c7c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/872013ad-ebc8-46d2-b237-4a1d5a823c7c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6295813f-4168-404c-9330-c4f328dc6ad4.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6295813f-4168-404c-9330-c4f328dc6ad4.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I'll keep the protective film on until after paint. I did have to pull a little of it back to be able to see when driving. :p I did buy some cleaner for the Lexan though. Rain X also has a special version for plastic as well. Clean and dry!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2dfd9479-5ffa-445f-b19b-4b54398e5329.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2dfd9479-5ffa-445f-b19b-4b54398e5329.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

12-12-2025, 11:49 PM

Still chasing down a radiator cap leak. I've used a couple of different caps and burped the system one last time. Didn't see any air come out except maybe something small when the t-stat opened up. Fluid is good, overflow level is correct (unpressurized) and temps are always good, so unfortunately, I'm going to guess that the filler neck on the Boig's cool tube upper is not manufactured correctly and causing a sealing issue. Since Boig doesn't sell them anymore, I'll be removing it at some point and reinstalling with regular hoses. Bummer, BUT, I did find this snazzy filler neck at Summit from Fluidyne. Man this thing is high quality. Almost hate to powder coat it.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/FLD-ACCRFNCHR150

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6d78ab1e-002a-40e8-955a-53d8bc7810be.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/6d78ab1e-002a-40e8-955a-53d8bc7810be.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now that I'm thinking about it, I think I saw a thread where someone had the same issue and they installed a high temp, o-ring washer in the filler neck and it sealed up when secured. Maybe I'll try that as well.

cv2065

12-12-2025, 11:59 PM

Doors and Trunk were fitted very loosely. Painter said he would rather deal with them raw than after I've screwed them up, as my fiberglass skills are so GOOD! :cool:

Loosened all of the bolts up and 'pressed' the door into the opening and bolted it up. The passenger side door bolted right up with little issue. The driver's side was a mess and although Mike didn't want me to touch it, I needed to take a little off the front just so it would somewhat close. Left off the door latches so that they could be properly aligned with door fitment was completed.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7711153d-fe30-4323-8238-3b74b01d2681.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7711153d-fe30-4323-8238-3b74b01d2681.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b49d5722-f2ba-4902-ae5f-7704504d901e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b49d5722-f2ba-4902-ae5f-7704504d901e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Same method with the trunk. It fit right up into the opening when it would close evenly, so was satisfied with that. I left the struts off at this point. Reinstalled the license plate bracket but as with the doors, left off the handle and locking mechanism to be fitted once the trunk is correct.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/cac96ab6-356d-478c-97eb-4bdd3644cd15.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/cac96ab6-356d-478c-97eb-4bdd3644cd15.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

12-13-2025, 12:14 AM

Sadly but exciting enough, most of the build is complete and we are off to paint. Mike at Spotlight Customs was able to fit me in so I did not want to miss the window. The car has about 42 miles of run time, which is about what I had before paint on the last build. Aside from the radiator cap leak, it's all running great. In fact, seems as if the engine sounds better each time I run it as it gets into its own groove.

Mike will be fitting the nose aluminum as well as the aforementioned items. I forgot to load up the splash panels so I guess I'll be doing those again when the car gets back, along with the other finishing touches.

One thing I will note is that the ball on the headers seems to move the pipes a little every time I run the car, no matter how tight I get them. Not sure if anyone else has this issue, but I either don't have the adjustor sleeve in the right spot or maybe once fitted for the final time, I need to have a small tack weld to keep the ball in place. We'll see.

I contemplated having it picked up by a bidding type of carrier but decided to run it up to Dahlonega GA myself. It's about a 7.5-hour drive from my house in Orlando. I don't have a pickup, or a trailer so rented a pickup from U-Haul that can tow about 6500lbs and then found a 20' enclosed car trailer on a website called 'Neighbor's Trailer'. The cost was $150 a day, which was cheaper than I could get the open auto hauler at U-Haul. Lots of rain on the report for that day, so glad I had the enclosed deal. It included all of the tie down brackets and straps in the trailer. It also came with race ramps for really low cars but the rear flipped down low enough where I didn't need them.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/cfb799b0-7d60-40f8-b2a7-36dce35cd049.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/cfb799b0-7d60-40f8-b2a7-36dce35cd049.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Got a long time buddy of mine to take the trip with me and off we went.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/94eae5d5-5f28-4a0d-8118-23f7feca99e7.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/94eae5d5-5f28-4a0d-8118-23f7feca99e7.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/eab5a3bf-36b4-4c36-bf23-b95de7c709b3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/eab5a3bf-36b4-4c36-bf23-b95de7c709b3.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Did the entire trip, there and back in one day. I don't recommend that....:p

Not sure what the time line is at this point, but I'm thinking maybe by Feb or March I'll be seeing her again. I've narrowed it down to these combos and leaning towards the Race Red. The grey metallic stripe in the Race Red picture is Ford's Magnetic Grey. The only issue is that it gets really light in the daylight. I'd like the darker color in the picture to be the actual color. Any suggestions?

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/0b2de0c5-6461-4c1a-9fed-2bf582c49e00.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/0b2de0c5-6461-4c1a-9fed-2bf582c49e00.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/72a67605-93c8-4cdb-a22b-46ff2b5b80bd.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/72a67605-93c8-4cdb-a22b-46ff2b5b80bd.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Time for some garage cleanup!

danmas

12-13-2025, 02:15 AM

Race red is insane! love it...

Higgybulin

12-13-2025, 04:35 AM

Man! Either color choice is going to be stunning! I am sure Jeff will jump in with a suggestion, if there is an option for that grey.
Higgy

Blitzboy54

12-13-2025, 08:46 AM

Going to look amazing. Congrats

Jeff Kleiner

12-13-2025, 09:22 AM

...I am sure Jeff will jump in with a suggestion, if there is an option for that grey.
Higgy

Well, as a matter of fact...

Chad, be careful with the Magnetic Gray. I've used it and like the color but it's like many silvers and grays in that there are different tones hiding in there so you have to be really careful what you combine it with. Many times those tones don't come out until you get it next to something else that they clash with. In the case of Magnetic it has a lot of green and some brown to it and if you put it next to Race Red which has a lot of orange and pink they may not play well together. Might be wise to have Mike do an actual spray out before you commit because as you know photos don't always tell the real story. I have spray outs of almost everything that I've ever used and just pulled these for you:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222812&d=1765635672

That's Race Red with "Punaluu Stone" from PPG's Charley Hutton custom color collection (#936863). It's very nearly the same as the Lambo Grigio Lynx that Craven used but has a bit more pearl and different flake. It's a nice color and to my eye combines well with the Race Red.

Cheers!

Jeff

222812

cv2065

12-13-2025, 09:54 AM

Well, as a matter of fact...

Chad, be careful with the Magnetic Gray. I've used it and like the color but it's like many silvers and grays in that there are different tones hiding in there so you have to be really careful what you combine it with. Many times those tones don't come out until you get it next to something else that they clash with. In the case of Magnetic it has a lot of green and some brown to it and if you put it next to Race Red which has a lot of orange and pink they may not play well together. Might be wise to have Mike do an actual spray out before you commit because as you know photos don't always tell the real story. I have spray outs of almost everything that I've ever used and just pulled these for you:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222812&d=1765635672

That's Race Red with "Punaluu Stone" from PPG's Charley Hutton custom color collection (#936863). It's very nearly the same as the Lambo Grigio Lynx that Craven used but has a bit more pearl and different flake. It's a nice color and to my eye combines well with the Race Red.

Cheers!

Jeff

222812

Excellent Jeff! That’s exactly the feedback I was hoping to get. I’m looking at a black pinstripe against the grey metallic. Will there be a decent amount of contrast between the two?

Edit: Found a cool video with that grey. Says that the Punaluu Stone is one of the most unusual colors they've used on the show. They named the Caddy, "Heavy Metal". Very cool.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-zHOpGqILA

Jeff Kleiner

12-13-2025, 04:56 PM

...I’m looking at a black pinstripe against the grey metallic. Will there be a decent amount of contrast between the two?

There should be contrast but not a lot. I think you'd need to be right on the car to see it...probably disappear from 8 feet away. Just kind of depends on how apparent you want it to be. You could go the other direction and use my favorite bright silver, Mercedes Benz Crystal Laurit number 977 for the pin or border stripe. It's basically liquid aluminum...the formula has only 2 components; medium aluminum flake and a clear binder.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222857&d=1765662640

It's more intense than photos show. I recently used it on Bill Elliot's car and I think he posted some pics in a graduation post.

Jeff

Mike.Bray

12-14-2025, 11:45 AM

Race Red!

danmas

12-14-2025, 08:47 PM

Race Red!

Mike said it so you gotta do it.

cv2065

12-14-2025, 09:27 PM

Mike said it so you gotta do it.

Love Race Red, but Torch Red may be calling my name...:cool:

Mike.Bray

12-15-2025, 09:09 AM

Mike said it so you gotta do it.

Well, red is my favorite color and the majority of the cars & trucks I've owned have been red. My wife's favorite color is blue so we ended up with a blue Cobra. One thing I've learned is you have to be very careful with red as they run the range from maroon to orange. When I was doing street rods lots of people were painting their cars with Porsche Guards Red. I had a red with a purple tint to it and if I parked next to a Guards Red car it would literally make it look orange. It was really kind of crazy.

Personally, my favorite red currently is the Randy Candy Red from Painthouse.

222887

222888

cv2065

12-15-2025, 09:49 AM

Well, red is my favorite color and the majority of the cars & trucks I've owned have been red. My wife's favorite color is blue so we ended up with a blue Cobra. One thing I've learned is you have to be very careful with red as they run the range from maroon to orange. When I was doing street rods lots of people were painting their cars with Porsche Guards Red. I had a red with a purple tint to it and if I parked next to a Guards Red car it would literally make it look orange. It was really kind of crazy.

Personally, my favorite red currently is the Randy Candy Red from Painthouse.

222887

222888

Agree Mike. My last car was a Porsche color, Carmine Red. It was more of a deep red on the bluish side as I didn't want a red that looked orange at night under street lights. It was a great color and got a lot of compliments on it.

Recognizing that I spend very little time driving under street lights at night...:p I wanted something a little brighter this time. The Race Red seems to be more on the Orange side where the Torch Red, more on the red side. At least to my eyes. Both are great colors, so still on the fence.

Carmine Red
https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/87bf8137-c297-4449-ac47-57a9087f427b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/87bf8137-c297-4449-ac47-57a9087f427b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b9ae1610-ac72-4eef-935f-61ef189040f0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b9ae1610-ac72-4eef-935f-61ef189040f0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Mike.Bray

12-15-2025, 11:28 AM

Agree Mike. My last car was a Porsche color, Carmine Red. It was more of a deep red on the bluish side as I didn't want a red that looked orange at night under street lights. It was a great color and got a lot of compliments on it.

Recognizing that I spend very little time driving under street lights at night...:p I wanted something a little brighter this time. The Race Red seems to be more on the Orange side where the Torch Red, more on the red side. At least to my eyes. Both are great colors, so still on the fence.

Carmine Red
https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/87bf8137-c297-4449-ac47-57a9087f427b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/87bf8137-c297-4449-ac47-57a9087f427b.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b9ae1610-ac72-4eef-935f-61ef189040f0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b9ae1610-ac72-4eef-935f-61ef189040f0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The Carmine Red is a little dark don't you think? Mazda has a gorgeous red if you haven't seen it, has a purple tint to it.

I've always felt Cobras were cartoon cars, I mean when you think about it they're kind of ridiculous. With this thought I always felt like they should have an in your face cartoon color. When my wife wanted to do blue I wasn't very excited, the old cobra standard Guardsman Blue is, well, bla. We looked at some modern blues like Subaru Rally Blue and the Jaguar Casium Blue. I was worried if we painted it a Jaguar blue it would leak oil so that was out:) Ended up with a HoK candy blue over silver that you can hear before you see. Literally everyone we meet says something about the color.

Good luck, I'll be following along.

222893222894

Jeff Kleiner

12-15-2025, 11:36 AM

Blitzboy54

12-15-2025, 11:45 AM

I used Ferrari Rosso Red on this and will again on the truck.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=171292&d=1660933118

cv2065

12-15-2025, 12:15 PM

The Carmine Red is a little dark don't you think? Mazda has a gorgeous red if you haven't seen it, has a purple tint to it.

I've always felt Cobras were cartoon cars, I mean when you think about it they're kind of ridiculous. With this thought I always felt like they should have an in your face cartoon color. When my wife wanted to do blue I wasn't very excited, the old cobra standard Guardsman Blue is, well, bla. We looked at some modern blues like Subaru Rally Blue and the Jaguar Casium Blue. I was worried if we painted it a Jaguar blue it would leak oil so that was out:) Ended up with a HoK candy blue over silver that you can hear before you see. Literally everyone we meet says something about the color.

Good luck, I'll be following along.

222893222894

Agree on the cartoon car comment. I had someone tell me the exact same thing at a car show once. He said these cars are so over the top that anything goes really in terms of color, engine, etc. The one pic for the Carmine Red was taken at dusk, so looks a little dark. That's a funny color as it gets brighter in the day, then a blood red at night. I did have a quick thought about blue with the red pin striping like Jeff is showing in his picture. Your color combo looks great and Jag comment hilarious. ;) Always nice to get to the really 'fun' part of the build with color selection.

cv2065

12-15-2025, 12:20 PM

For a red that doesn't go orange, or pink, or blue or purple but just stays red take a look at Mazda True Red, code A4A

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222895&d=1765816264

By the way Chad, I just used Carmine for the outside border stripe on one last month :)

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222896&d=1765816500

Jeff

222895222896

Jeff

Thanks Jeff! As I mentioned to Mike, I saw that same blue/red/black color combo in your picture on a Cobra on the Vanguard Auto Sales website. Had me thinking that way for a moment. I think I'm going for 'over the top' this time around so the brightness will come with some drawbacks. Race Red, Torch Red and Rosso Corsa are on the docket. Was at a Jaguars football game yesterday and had a chance to see a Mustang with Race Red and a Chevy Silverado with the Torch Red close to each other in the parking lot. Torch Red looked a little less orange but I guess you'd have to see the formula to be sure.

The more I see examples of the Punaluu Stone, very impressive contrast.

Jeff Kleiner

12-15-2025, 01:18 PM

Thanks Jeff! As I mentioned to Mike, I saw that same blue/red/black color combo in your picture on a Cobra on the Vanguard Auto Sales website. Had me thinking that way for a moment. I think I'm going for 'over the top' this time around so the brightness will come with some drawbacks. Race Red, Torch Red and Rosso Corsa are on the docket. Was at a Jaguars football game yesterday and had a chance to see a Mustang with Race Red and a Chevy Silverado with the Torch Red close to each other in the parking lot. Torch Red looked a little less orange but I guess you'd have to see the formula to be sure.

The more I see examples of the Punaluu Stone, very impressive contrast.

Here's that one as it went home to Virginia a few days ago:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222901&d=1765822583

I think you're looking to make a more "over the top" statement though!

I've done Rosso Corsa and it's also a pure red:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222902&d=1765822620

Decisions, decisions :p

Jeff

222901222902

cv2065

12-15-2025, 02:06 PM

Here's that one as it went home to Virginia a few days ago:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222901&d=1765822583

I think you're looking to make a more "over the top" statement though!

I've done Rosso Corsa and it's also a pure red:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222902&d=1765822620

Decisions, decisions :p

Jeff

222901222902

OK OK OK...You may have just sold me on the Rosso Corsa. Holy Moly!!! Now how would that roll with the Punaluu Stone?

danmas

12-15-2025, 02:36 PM

OK OK OK...You may have just sold me on the Rosso Corsa. Holy Moly!!! Now how would that roll with the Punaluu Stone?

This is too hard. You probably need a second one so you can sit them next to each other….

Mike.Bray

12-15-2025, 03:41 PM

That Rosso Corsa is a pretty red!

Jeff Kleiner

12-16-2025, 09:30 AM

OK OK OK...You may have just sold me on the Rosso Corsa. Holy Moly!!! Now how would that roll with the Punaluu Stone?

Rosso Corsa #30012 on the left, Punaluu Stone center, Race Red on the right.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222940&d=1765895285

Photo kind of shows how orange RR is but in real life it's even more apparent---which is why you should always make color decisions using a spray out done with the actual paint that will be used.

Cheers,
Jeff

222940

cv2065

12-16-2025, 11:56 AM

Rosso Corsa #30012 on the left, Punaluu Stone center, Race Red on the right.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=222940&d=1765895285

Photo kind of shows how orange RR is but in real life it's even more apparent---which is why you should always make color decisions using a spray out done with the actual paint that will be used.

Cheers,
Jeff

222940

Thanks Jeff. Really appreciate you pulling those for comparison. The Corsa looks like a better choice for me.

RogerRoger88

12-22-2025, 10:10 PM

Ah, one of my favorite parts, the carbon fiber dash. Another one mistake and shell out the $$$ activity! The drill press really earned its purchase price with the one. I was able to get every bit of the dash underneath when cutting with the 6 different sizes of hole saws. As others have said, the fine CF dust can get everywhere, including your lungs, so I did use a respirator and also cleaned up with my shop vac after each cut. Bought my drill press off Facebook marketplace for $150 new. What a deal!

I bought custom gauges from Speedhut. I worked directly with one of their designers. The service is free and they are very patient to give you exactly what you want. After about 4 proofs, we were good to go. I'm going for a red/black Roush theme for the car, and Speedhut did not disappoint. I also went with oversized gauges instead of the standard FFR. That would be 4.5" gauges for the Speedo and Tach, as well as 2 5/8" gauges for the others. Shout out to Michael Craven (aka Hacksaw) for that idea.

In order to get my holes right, I ordered some metal discs off of Etsy in the exact sizes of the gauges faces and had a 1/8" hole put into the middle of each disk. Covered the dash in blue tape, aligned the discs the way that I wanted them and dotted the mid-point. Used that as my starting point with the hole saws and came out great. I buffered out 3/4" from the top of the dash to give me plenty of room after the initial fitting to the hoop. The larger gauges need some planning.

Not a lot of info out there yet for the CF dash, so winging it a little based on what I could find. When level, the dash is a little uneven to the hoop, especially on the far sides. I started by aligning the middle of the dash with the middle top of the hoop. The right side aligned about 3/16" under the tube, but the driver side was higher when the dash was level. I drew a line on the back of the dash where it exceeded the top of the hoop and measured 3/4" from that line which is where my gauges on that side started. Then I trimmed a little off the top right to level it out a bit. Came out nicely. Bottom of the dash was ~38.5" from the floor, side to side and the glove box butts up against the support, so can't go any further to the driver's side. That makes it really close to a vertical alignment with the trans tunnel. I think with every carbon fiber dash, there is a spot mid drivers side that doesn't align with the hoop like the rest of the dash. Seems to be the same for most everyone.

Measuring:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/(edited)_IMG_9261.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/(edited)_IMG_9261.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Drilling:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9281.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9281.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Hoop Fitting:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9296.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9296.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9293.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9293.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9295.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9295.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I also notched out a small area on the passenger side as it conflicted with the door hinge:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9343.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/IMG_9343.JPG?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Test fit the gauges and am loving the look! Still need to powder coat the key bezels and add the turn signal mod, which I decided to get from Frank at i.e.427. I will have to say that the ignition key bezel that I received from FFR was a bit disappointing. I upgraded with one from Ron Francis. Once the bezel is powder coated black, RF includes a colored trim ring, which in this case will be red. All in the details!

URL=https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/(edited)_IMG_9346.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds]https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/c310/cv2065/(edited)_IMG_9346.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds[/URL]

I'm at the point of designing and drilling my carbon fiber dash. Any tips on getting the steering column hole drilled as perfectly as you did? I'm also using I.E. 427's turn signal. Thanks!

danmas

12-22-2025, 11:05 PM

Not Jesse, but have the same setup. You don’t really need it perfect as the turn signal base is much bigger than the hole you need to drill.

cv2065

12-22-2025, 11:08 PM

I'm at the point of designing and drilling my carbon fiber dash. Any tips on getting the steering column hole drilled as perfectly as you did? I'm also using I.E. 427's turn signal. Thanks!

Best way I've found is to slide your steering shaft back a bit, get your dash positioned where you want it, the bring the steering shaft up until it just touches the back of the dash. Take a marker and circle where the shaft meets the back. Then pull the dash and make your cut.

Good part about Frank's turn signal is that there is a nice margin for error because of the hub, so you don't have to be perfect. Good luck with your build!

RogerRoger88

12-24-2025, 10:41 AM

Best way I've found is to slide your steering shaft back a bit, get your dash positioned where you want it, the bring the steering shaft up until it just touches the back of the dash. Take a marker and circle where the shaft meets the back. Then pull the dash and make your cut.

Good part about Frank's turn signal is that there is a nice margin for error because of the hub, so you don't have to be perfect. Good luck with your build!

Thanks! If my build is half as good as yours, I'll be happy. I've enjoyed following your build. It has helped me many times.

cv2065

12-24-2025, 11:12 AM

Thanks! If my build is half as good as yours, I'll be happy. I've enjoyed following your build. It has helped me many times.

Glad you found it helpful. Good luck on your build and feel free to reach out if you get stuck.

Stiglitz

01-06-2026, 11:44 AM

cv2065

01-06-2026, 06:44 PM

Both look great!
My preferences/build (in my head currrently), are either:
Carmine Red exterior/black interior, no stripes
or
Chalk Exterior/red interior/carmine red calipers

i hope to see it once it is done, as I'm in Winter Park!!!

Very cool. I'm in Winter Garden. We'll have to hook up at some point.

Higgybulin

01-07-2026, 05:29 AM

cv2065

01-07-2026, 06:29 PM

Look at you guys!! Winter Park, Winter Garden...you dont even know what Winter is!!!! LOL
Higgy

Hey Higgy...It was 34 degrees last Tuesday night. Had to wrap the palm trees and everything! We know what's up! :p

tnt_motorsports

01-07-2026, 07:30 PM

Hey Higgy...It was 34 degrees last Tuesday night. Had to wrap the palm trees and everything! We know what's up! :p

No doubt! I'm told by my FIL that we had ice that same day on yard waste in Port Charlotte. It was chilly and that is from a Canadian, transplanted to Iowa. LOL!

Stiglitz

01-09-2026, 02:43 AM

3hr drive in 40 degree weather in my boxster last Thursday, today a balmy 77 degrees!!

cv2065

01-22-2026, 11:35 PM

Received a few pics from Mike around the body work. Engine and interior was all bagged up and ready to roll. I think at this point, the doors, hood and trunk have been fitted with a 3/16" gap all the way around. I think the paint and clear will close that up just a bit. Said the deck lid was a bit of a challenge but got it all sorted.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f12b1c9e-e73d-45a6-ab8f-646ab0783caa.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f12b1c9e-e73d-45a6-ab8f-646ab0783caa.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/041d494c-3f58-442d-991a-84041183d712.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/041d494c-3f58-442d-991a-84041183d712.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b8c02ff5-ea6e-463e-8277-97c74e5f4848.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b8c02ff5-ea6e-463e-8277-97c74e5f4848.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ac00b71d-4113-4cc3-97c8-cfca2f68231c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ac00b71d-4113-4cc3-97c8-cfca2f68231c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The body has been separated from the chassis and chassis bagged and put up on the lift for safe keeping. Hood scoop is ready to be cut. I noticed that Mike has another roadster or two waiting in the wings to get started. Not sure who else on the forum might be the lucky ones and on deck!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/35fe95bb-4fb7-4e31-ac82-9ad039c79705.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/35fe95bb-4fb7-4e31-ac82-9ad039c79705.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

01-22-2026, 11:40 PM

Fooled around with AI a little bit for a Corso Rossa Red body with Punaluu Stone stripes with black outline.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ad8d03cb-7201-4eea-8950-3126554fe965.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ad8d03cb-7201-4eea-8950-3126554fe965.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Looks pretty ominous and the Carmine Red is making a come back in a retro way, but I think I'm going to stay with the original combo:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/0b2de0c5-6461-4c1a-9fed-2bf582c49e00.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/0b2de0c5-6461-4c1a-9fed-2bf582c49e00.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Jeff Kleiner

01-23-2026, 08:42 AM

Making it look almost like your first car!

Jeff

cv2065

01-23-2026, 09:43 AM

Making it look almost like your first car!

Jeff

I know right Jeff? I’m a sucker for Red.

Blitzboy54

01-23-2026, 09:57 AM

It's going to look spectacular. Best part of any build thread is the the finish product. Gotta be getting excited.

cv2065

02-06-2026, 09:02 PM

Got another update today. I'm sure that the cold has NOT helped to speed up the process. Even in Florida we got down to 28 degrees earlier in the week. I think it snowed in Gainesville and most of the plants around the house are beyond life support!

That said, hopefully we see some warmer weather coming our way. Let the blocking begin!!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ba87deca-c80f-48a3-b2d7-ca723b2bd39c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ba87deca-c80f-48a3-b2d7-ca723b2bd39c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9ff1855f-5077-4ea1-9807-3bfab2339eca.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9ff1855f-5077-4ea1-9807-3bfab2339eca.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

rickster991

02-07-2026, 03:06 AM

I dropped mine off to Mike on Thursday. I saw yours in the booth. And the wait begins!

cv2065

02-07-2026, 09:02 AM

I dropped mine off to Mike on Thursday. I saw yours in the booth. And the wait begins!

That’s awesome! I think that’s yours in the background.

cv2065

02-08-2026, 02:46 AM

Carmine Red making an appearance again with black stripes like my old car. Chat GBT actually got most of it right and made this picture look awesome except the hood stripes are too far apart. AI has problems with correcting little details like that. Makes me second guess my side stripes this time around.

I asked ChatGBT where'd it get the cool front spoiler and it couldn't tell me. :p

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c5bf8585-ea82-4a9b-995a-5cd828b2ed95.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c5bf8585-ea82-4a9b-995a-5cd828b2ed95.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

02-08-2026, 03:00 AM

I asked it to change the wheels and I got a new hood scoop and front spoiler. LOL. Scoop looks kinda cool!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/54b1175f-5ee8-4e08-97d7-0dbb7872cf77.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/54b1175f-5ee8-4e08-97d7-0dbb7872cf77.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

02-08-2026, 10:11 PM

I think I'm dialing this in. I really loved the Carmine Red from the last build and really like the Punaluu Stone metallic that Jeff recommended. I asked ChatGBT to show me what it would look like adding a black outline, as I wasn't sure if there would be enough contrast. ChatGBT said not only do all three colors compliment each other, but it's the right kind of contrast for a black outline to work cleanly. Outlined it like this:

Carmine Red = Color
Punaluu Stone = Texture
Black = Boundary and Hard Edge

It goes on to say that "Each color has a different job, which keeps it from getting noisy. Because the Carmine Red is deep, the Jet Black outline needs to be 'intentional', and not hairline thin. At 1/4" thick, that calls out subtle, classy, OEM. At 3/8" - 1/2", that calls out aggressive race vibe. Anything thinner than ~3mm risks getting lost in shadow on red. Bottom line, there is enough contrast between the Punaluu Stone and the black, which will read clean and intentional. This is proven, 'race car' design language and track weapon that escaped onto the street aggressive." -

The Punaluu Stone has to be on the dark side, mixed/dialed to the dark volcanic end of the formula, reading charcoal/basalt and 15-20% lighter than a gloss black. Fine flake only with no course sparkle.

Does all that make sense Jeff??

LOL, that's pretty awesome. Here's the color combo with the carmine red, black stripe in the middle and Punaluu stone on a Porsche. Winner Winner chicken dinner!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e02e6bb1-d034-4206-9fba-71dda8899c88.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e02e6bb1-d034-4206-9fba-71dda8899c88.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Jeff Kleiner

02-09-2026, 09:47 AM

That will work Chad! For color accuracy they both need to be over a G7 undercoat.

I'm going to be doing a Randyapple3 Red with Punaluu stone stripes next week ;)

Jeff

cv2065

02-09-2026, 01:48 PM

That will work Chad! For color accuracy they both need to be over a G7 undercoat.

I'm going to be doing a Randyapple3 Red with Punaluu stone stripes next week ;)

Jeff

Nice! Can't wait to see it!

cv2065

02-23-2026, 06:33 PM

Whelp, it's game time for color and have to submit the winning names. AI has been completely exhausting and you can go down so many rabbit holes. And it's only as good as the day. Funny how AI has different answers and pictures to the same question day over day.

So I had it render up a Carmine Red with Punaluu stone a few times. This seems to be the best rendition. Again, would love to know how it came up with the front spoiler, but looks great. I'd never seen AI do a wet track background at dusk with my previous requests, but I'm digging it and even did a collage, although not sure what's up with the dash picture and roll bar/tail lights are jacked up but the effort is cool. :p

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/147e9cc2-4005-4602-a18f-540852fab2f1.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/147e9cc2-4005-4602-a18f-540852fab2f1.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d6cd5d07-732b-4ed5-be97-b550a3e844a9.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d6cd5d07-732b-4ed5-be97-b550a3e844a9.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Stripes look a little wider than 'normal' and had to ask it to darken up the Punaluu stone a few times but seemed to go where I wanted it. I'm not sure this is Carmine Red, but maybe closer to Ferrari Rosso Corsa, which is OK too. So as long as I can get the Punaluu Stone to the darkness that Jeff shows on his sample, then I'm game for the picture but the sample looks so much lighter. Maybe it's ink versus paint? Not sure.

Punaluu Stone Swatch:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/90f95c9a-3f50-4b5b-aa7e-a2d813649cff.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/90f95c9a-3f50-4b5b-aa7e-a2d813649cff.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Sprayout with Corsa Rosso on the left and Punaluu Stone in the Center. Thanks again Jeff!
https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9d9fd112-ef99-4be9-a93a-a1ad23705245.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9d9fd112-ef99-4be9-a93a-a1ad23705245.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Then there is the matter of the side stripes....? Not sure if I'm going to go that way again, but we'll see.

cc2Arider

02-24-2026, 06:41 AM

Hi Chad and Jeff,

I've been meaning to ask: What's the color difference (in layman's terms) between the Corsa Rosso and Carmine Red? I have a Moto Guzzi red that I'd like to throw in the "mix" for comparison purposes :)

Craig C

Jeff Kleiner

02-24-2026, 08:42 AM

Carl,
What you're seeing is the difference that can occur in photos due to different lighting, cameras, etc. The sample on the PPG board is pretty accurate but the only way to really see it will be to get your painter to do a spray out using the actual paint. Same with any color.

Craig,
Layman's terms; Porsche Carmine has more blue to it than Ferrari Corsa Rosso. BTW, the photo in post #378 doesn't show Carmine; it has Corsa Rosso on the left and Ford Race Red on the right. I wouldn't trust AI for any color!

Jeff

cc2Arider

02-24-2026, 11:12 AM

Thanks Jeff :)

cv2065

02-24-2026, 12:47 PM

Thanks Jeff!

Jeff Kleiner

02-25-2026, 08:26 AM

cv2065

02-25-2026, 06:31 PM

Chad,
Coincidentally this photo popped up as a 6 years ago FB memory when I opened the computer this morning. Those stripes are Punaluu Stone.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=226099&d=1772025893

And...I just sprayed PS for the stripes on another one yesterday. I think the Universe is listening in on this conversation!

Jeff

226099

LOL…It appears that is the case! Thanks for the pics and advice Jeff. Much appreciated. That color is so light dependent as I’ve seen it look blue, brown and grey.

Jeff Kleiner

02-26-2026, 05:19 PM

Chad,
Put the Punaluu Stone (and RAR3) under clear this morning. Here's how it looks under bright LED shop light. I'll get it outside in a day or two if we get sunshine.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=226169&d=1772144248

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=226168&d=1772144194

Jeff

226168
226169

cv2065

02-26-2026, 06:44 PM

Wow that red is stunning Jeff! That Punaluu Stone goes perfectly. When I was at the paint store I should have known this, and am I sure you do Jeff, as seems like many colors in the PPG deck come with a few variants from the original of lighter and darker, depending on which plant it was made. I started looking at the Ford Magnetic Metallic again and really liked its darker variant and took to it. It's a little warmer than the Punaluu Stone I think. The red is a true red and not tomato in the sunlight.

So I made the call and Mike started spraying. Final color selection is Ferrari Rosso Corsa for the body, Ford Magnetic Metallic for the stripes and black pinstripe. Here's where we are without clear as of this afternoon. I think it looks amazing!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/21c87dcb-4305-44b0-8461-07bcc7472e00.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/21c87dcb-4305-44b0-8461-07bcc7472e00.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/403e5d9e-3e61-42f1-86fd-e8354466ce54.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/403e5d9e-3e61-42f1-86fd-e8354466ce54.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5a24302e-e819-423d-95f1-d811874f9e07.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5a24302e-e819-423d-95f1-d811874f9e07.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7a60b4e1-fb1b-49cc-b2a4-bfd4896447df.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/7a60b4e1-fb1b-49cc-b2a4-bfd4896447df.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I had Mike widen the side stripes by 1/2" versus the previous build. The pictures make the side stripes look a little funky with all of the curves of the car. Once the clear goes on it will richen the red and make the Magnetic Metallic pop.

Hopefully I'll be scheduling a pickup time the second week of March. Almost there!

Jeff Kleiner

02-26-2026, 06:54 PM

cv2065

02-26-2026, 07:22 PM

Looks great Chad! Yes, the variants are indeed true for OEM production colors (and sometimes drive the collision repair center painters crazy) but custom colors like the Vibrance collection only have one formula. I've done a couple of cars with Magnetic and really like it...just have to be careful what you put it up next to because it has some hidden tones. It's all gonna' look fantastic under clear!

Jeff

Thanks again for the help throwing some colors around with samples Jeff. Really helped come to the final decision. Although I did go down some unexpected AI rabbit holes the last day. Candy Apple Red option.....Stripe width.....Metallic flake size.....ARRRGHHHH.....LOL. AI does help, but man it can make things much more complicated. As you mentioned before, one really needs to make a visit to the paint store. Decide NOTHING with online colors!

Higgybulin

02-27-2026, 04:34 AM

Damn son!!!
Higgy

BadAsp427

02-27-2026, 09:07 AM

Looking BadAsp Chad.... I wish I was still in the transport business and was going to get to see this at pickup. Looks Fantastic....

cv2065

02-27-2026, 02:00 PM

And now we have the clear. Videos below. Oh mama....does this thing POP! Can't wait to drive it!!

Inside
https://youtube.com/shorts/0_QsV1gEJLM?feature=share

Outside
https://youtube.com/shorts/RH3ZjRwC5yE?feature=share

gbranham

02-27-2026, 02:08 PM

That's fantastic! That's going to look amazing all put together. Congrats!

Greg

Mike.Bray

02-27-2026, 02:30 PM

That looks amazing!

Congratulations

Blitzboy54

02-27-2026, 04:20 PM

F*** yeah Chad! She looks sick.

danmas

02-27-2026, 10:27 PM

That is a thing of beauty. Really nice looking!

J R Jones

02-27-2026, 11:42 PM

Chad,
Paint and body look great. The black makes the stripes stand off the surface.
Where was the paint and video done? The topography and architecture do not look like Orlando.
jim

cv2065

02-28-2026, 12:20 AM

Chad,
Paint and body look great. The black makes the stripes stand off the surface.
Where was the paint and video done? The topography and architecture do not look like Orlando.
jim

Thanks Jim! That is actually in Dahlonega GA where Spotlight Customs is. Mike the painter lives in a place that looks over the Appalachian mountains. Pretty nice setup.

Jeff Kleiner

02-28-2026, 12:30 AM

Very nice Chad!

Those head on shots made me think of this one (no, it's not your buddy Carl's)

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=226222&d=1767730376

You'll be on the road soon!

Jeff

226222

cv2065

02-28-2026, 12:37 AM

Jeff Kleiner

02-28-2026, 12:46 AM

Thanks Jeff! What color red is that? Is that Carmine?

Mini Cooper Chili Red. Somewhere in between Carmine and your Russo Corsa... less blue than Carmine and less orange than Russo. Stripes are Audi Florette Silver.

Jeff

cv2065

03-03-2026, 11:27 PM

And now for a little polish. Gets better with every video. I have now rented my truck and enclosed trailer and will be on my way on Friday March 20th to pick it up. YES!!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/fd34dd08-0bdd-4d4e-a2a8-e2f2b651d829.mov

The only thing I have to figure out is if Mike can get the 3" Roush air cleaner to fit under the hood by massaging the cutout. I have the Victor Jr. intake which is giving it a little challenge on the height side. I didn't have to deal with that on the last build as the traditional long Cobra filter fit with the hood down as I had a low profile intake. Had I thought about it earlier I probably would have tried another option and went with a larger hood scoop from Shell Valley Cobra to accommodate for the air cleaner. If this doesn't work then I suppose I can get a drop base air cleaner plate for the Roush air cleaner and/or drop from a 3" filter to a 2.5" or 2.25" depending on what they make for the 15" oval. Or grind down the one that I have. March Performance also has some low options but they are very pricey. I have no desire to change out the engine mounts and the round air cleaners just aren't very sexy.

Either way, we'll get it handled.

PMD24

03-04-2026, 09:38 AM

Watching those videos made me smile. I can image your grin won't leave your face. Congrats!

cv2065

03-04-2026, 06:38 PM

Well, the body is back on! Mike and team have been busy getting the hood and trunk lid completed. I even had him do the inside of the hood this time around for that little 'extra'. ;) Rollbar, pipes, quick jacks and windshield are also reinstalled. Pipes will need to be ceramic coated asap upon return! Only the doors and hood left. Although I still have to contend with the coolant leak and air cleaner clearance, we're on our way. Couldn't be happier!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b87234cc-e776-46d8-862a-049a9ff43973.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b87234cc-e776-46d8-862a-049a9ff43973.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/52e6154e-bea5-42b8-b74a-0bf70a993347.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/52e6154e-bea5-42b8-b74a-0bf70a993347.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/fe6ea75a-4fa8-45c1-b3fd-285bef456a80.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/fe6ea75a-4fa8-45c1-b3fd-285bef456a80.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/29c54aae-9a2c-49a4-8806-d5d9c04bdd0a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/29c54aae-9a2c-49a4-8806-d5d9c04bdd0a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/06e11723-d36e-418f-9791-602425afc4aa.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/06e11723-d36e-418f-9791-602425afc4aa.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

9 more days until pickup!

Jeff Kleiner

03-04-2026, 07:09 PM

...Had I thought about it earlier I probably would have tried another option and went with a larger hood scoop from Shell Valley Cobra to accommodate for the air cleaner...

Chad, FYI and for others playing at home, the SV scoop wouldn't have gained you anything. Although it is about 2" taller and has a wider flange it has the same width at it's inside base as the FFR scoop. That's why I use them when I do the shaker style scoops.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=214071&d=1747684843

The car is coming together nicely!

Jeff

cv2065

03-04-2026, 07:54 PM

Chad, FYI and for others playing at home, the SV scoop wouldn't have gained you anything. Although it is about 2" taller and has a wider flange it has the same width at it's inside base as the FFR scoop. That's why I use them when I do the shaker style scoops.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=214071&d=1747684843

The car is coming together nicely!

Jeff

Thanks Jeff! That shaker style is pretty cool. Good to know on the scoop. I’ll look at a few different options to remedy the clearance. Mike measured it out and said I need about 1.5” so maybe I can do something with the air cleaner base as well as a shorter element. Or I could just hit the easy button with the 14” rounder. I’ve just never been a fan on this car.

RogerRoger88

03-05-2026, 08:20 AM

I really love the colors you chose and the side stripes (not sure what the correct term is for them). I plan on doing the same scheme but with a shade of blue instead of red. Finding that perfect shade is very difficult as you have documented.

Blitzboy54

03-05-2026, 12:52 PM

That is one sexy ride. I like how you didn't over think it. Just went with the most bad *** options you could think of.

cv2065

03-06-2026, 10:12 PM

A few more pictures of the progress. Hood is finally done and is sporting the black chrome button heads. Trunk lid is on and as well as the doors and latches. Need to get a side shot in there! We're almost at the end of the painting adventure!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/986479ea-0ff5-4729-9136-0341563466c9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/986479ea-0ff5-4729-9136-0341563466c9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/eba08fa4-f7c9-4908-9592-c5bdf0322b3c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/eba08fa4-f7c9-4908-9592-c5bdf0322b3c.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5f28e902-f85c-4c05-8266-b3490d8ce656.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5f28e902-f85c-4c05-8266-b3490d8ce656.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

This is not my air cleaner but from another car. It's a 12" x 8" cleaner with a 3" total height element. Just touches the top of the hood, so I'll get something similar and trim the base down just a bit to completely clear the hood when latched down. I'll still get my Roush air cleaner powder coated as planned and maybe use it during shows when I happen to have the hood up.

Look at those clouds! ;) That's what I call a mirror finish!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c1c6fc4d-0353-4b7f-9b02-8f50c01ec961.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c1c6fc4d-0353-4b7f-9b02-8f50c01ec961.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Dondero14

03-08-2026, 10:24 PM

Very sharp looking colors you have put together there. Nice job.

BadAsp427

03-10-2026, 07:54 PM

I knew my color scheme would wear off on you..

But of course you have the more sinister blackout going on...

So only a few more days until you get it back???

226633

cv2065

03-10-2026, 07:55 PM

I knew my color scheme would wear off on you..

But of course you have the more sinister blackout going on...

So only a few more days until you get it back???

226633

Sorry Carl. This one is a little brighter and darker in metallic. But I will always have a soft spot for Carmine Red! Heading up this weekend to bring it all home!

Higgybulin

03-11-2026, 05:05 AM

Yo bro!! What did you use for the button heads on the hood? Nice touch and I see they don't go all the way through, I likey!!
Higgy

Aleinsteingenius

03-11-2026, 07:26 AM

It looks awesome. I can see the reflection of the clouds in the stripes!

cv2065

03-11-2026, 08:10 AM

Yo bro!! What did you use for the button heads on the hood? Nice touch and I see they don't go all the way through, I likey!!
Higgy

Hey Higgy. The button heads are 10-32 x 3/4" black chrome. A little on the pricey side but look cool. Painter cut them to size as needed, drilled and screwed them into the hood. I thought that they went all the way through on the last build. He said they didn't and I don't have any pics to show otherwise, but cosmetically, definitely better this way I think.

Jeff Kleiner

03-11-2026, 09:55 AM

cv2065

03-13-2026, 01:32 PM

Final walk around and it gets picked up tomorrow. YES!!!

https://photobucket.com/share/ce2713ee-4267-45cd-88c8-4d9107b42221

cv2065

03-15-2026, 08:24 PM

Road trip is done! I rented a Chevy Silverado 2500 from Enterprise and a 20' enclosed trailer from Neighbors Trailer. Great website to rent any kind of trailer from either a business or an individual. I think they are nationwide. Much better and cost effective when compared to U-Haul. Highly recommended.

Drove about 600 miles each way to pick up the car from Mike at Spotlight Customs. Mike was kind enough to put me and a friend up in his guest house overnight so I didn't have to make the trip in one day like last time, which was a bit insane and extremely exhausting. Mike had 4 other FFRs in his shop, 2 MKIVs and 2 MKVs. First time I had a chance to peek in a completed MKV.

Couple of car pics in Mike's shop.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a3e02623-4a01-4013-be22-b74b96c2d459.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a3e02623-4a01-4013-be22-b74b96c2d459.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d4f5f367-8a64-4207-b5ff-105f0958febc.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/d4f5f367-8a64-4207-b5ff-105f0958febc.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/53ae3952-2695-439f-afe7-7265a2d69815.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/53ae3952-2695-439f-afe7-7265a2d69815.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The car came out better than I expected. The pictures do not do the metallic stripes laid up against the black justice. Simply incredible. I asked for the dark variant of the Ford Magnetic Metallic and it came out perfectly. The Ferrari red just keeps keep more red out in the sunlight. There is no orange!

So, now kind of the fun stuff.

Lights - I've got to get the front and rear lights installed. For some reason, although my turn signal lights are working, they are getting a faint glow when the car is on but turn signals not actuated. I'll look again once I get them hooked up as I think I may be getting a ground short somewhere.
Splash Guards - Fitted and Installed
Rear Quick Jacks and trim plates
Rear View Mirror, Wing Wings and Visors
Side Pipes Ceramic Coated Black
Black Chrome lock nuts for the Hood Scoop (forgot to get those)
Install Louvers (Waiting until pipes are back on)
Trim Air Cleaner Base - Even with a 2" element, the air cleaner just kisses the hood when it's closed. I think if I take off 1/4' off the base, then it might fit perfectly. Just have to check the clearance to the choke.

And of course, clean, clean and more cleaning. Lots of dust from the shop on virtually everything but will enjoy going over every inch again. I'll wait 45 days and I'll have the car wrapped in PPF. Well, I may do just the front half like last time as the place I go to leaves very few seams, but we'll see depending on price.

I did locate the source of my coolant leak, and it was a simple thing. The silicone hoses loosened up quite a bit when the temp went below 40 degrees. It was 34 when I dropped the car off. Tightened them back up and no issues so far. I may look to go back to rubber sometime down the road. Although they look good, not really worth the hassle.

Hoping to be ready by April so that I can get some mileage in before the summer heat hits.

Higgybulin

03-16-2026, 04:10 AM

Damn son!!! Looks great, bet your happy to have it back home! Now get to work!
Higgy

Aleinsteingenius

03-16-2026, 05:57 AM

It looks great! Congratulations! I am a long way behind you.

PMD24

03-16-2026, 06:17 AM

Congrats. Looks amazing!

BadAsp427

03-17-2026, 06:33 PM

Looks Great Chad....

RobHartley

03-18-2026, 01:13 PM

Wow! Love the colors together they look great. I am a long way off, was going to do deep blue with ghost stripes, now you've got me thinking...

rickster991

03-18-2026, 01:22 PM

Very nice! Did you happen to see if he started mine?!?!? :)

cv2065

03-18-2026, 01:57 PM

Very nice! Did you happen to see if he started mine?!?!? :)

He had an MKIV that he was doing the body work on when I left. I think yours was parked around the lift area but hadn't got to it yet. I think you might be next? He works on a couple at a time I think.

cv2065

03-22-2026, 10:21 PM

I re-installed the headlights, tail lights and turn signals. All went as planned as you never know. Sometimes you take this stuff apart and put it all back together and something goes awry. Mike did put my quick jack bolts in backwards, so need to spin those around before the light install as its easier to access. Product of that was scratched quick jacks that I'll need to get powder coated again.

The only caveat is that the headlight trim rings are a little looser than I remember on the last build. Not that they will fall off or anything, as there is a set screw, but I might get some interference in there later down the road like a piece of thick tape, etc. Probably just those little clips that everyone likes so much. Looks great though. Love these smoked LEDs.

Surprised my iphone scored such depth of field in these photos.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2fd45d80-b8d1-4af5-8412-85b9af79644e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2fd45d80-b8d1-4af5-8412-85b9af79644e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/393236fb-e362-41f5-8a72-6014d0a25a90.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/393236fb-e362-41f5-8a72-6014d0a25a90.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

03-22-2026, 10:31 PM

Next was the air cleaner clearance. I removed the scoop and set aside until the paint is completely cured out. I'm going to wax and polish once cured and wanted to get to the full area.

I was hell bent on getting this Roush air cleaner working. I took out the 3" element and replaced with a 2". I also wanted a drop base air cleaner bottom but couldn't really find one in the 15" oval. What I didn't realize was that the Roush air cleaner is already a drop base by a good 1/4" when compared to the other cleaner assembly I had. Combining both, I ended up with 5/16" of clearance between the hood and top of the air cleaner. I think we are good! Edit: As Jeff Kleiner pointed out, when the engine moves, the 5/16" 'may' not be enough so suggested getting some tape under the hood to see if it does mar the surface. I'll get that done asap as the underside of the hood is painted and we don't want to mess up the artwork!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b88eb15f-6e3c-429c-9763-ae44c26b1386.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b88eb15f-6e3c-429c-9763-ae44c26b1386.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now that's worked out, I'll be getting the air cleaner powder coated red to match the car with black lettering. The same will go for the valve covers.

cv2065

03-22-2026, 10:36 PM

The side trim pieces were next. I had already had them powdercoated a while back and these are a pretty simple install. For some reason I can't find the C Channel molding that came with the kit so I need to order some. In case anyone else needs some, Kleiner gave me the McMaster Carr number of 24175K18. 10 feet ought to easily cover it.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f66084ad-822f-4354-a849-b8070f2c4d88.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f66084ad-822f-4354-a849-b8070f2c4d88.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

03-22-2026, 10:46 PM

Really not a fan of fitting these. I had failed to bring them with me when I dropped the car off for paint, as the painter would have installed them, but that's life. So I started on these and although I know I've read a few times that you don't need to trim them, I needed to trim them.

I primed all of my panels with the Rustoleum Ultimate Prime, Turbo nozzle rattle can. Man this stuff sticks to anything and had a 10" fan spray tip. Took no time at all. I then top coated with the Rustoleum Pro Rubberized Undercoat. This stuff went on amazing, dried in 30 minutes, came out silky smooth and should cut down on the noise from road debris.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f90ad43f-120b-43ab-8eb7-9959891aba52.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/f90ad43f-120b-43ab-8eb7-9959891aba52.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The little table is a Black and Decker Work Mate. This is my second one and although they are kind of small, they are really handy in doing just about anything when you need to secure an object for drilling, cutting or painting. Very portable.

Starting with the rears, the passenger side went in perfectly after the 3/4" bulb seal. I tapped four 1/4-20 holes into the 2" and 3/4" tubes and secured. You don't need to remove any rivets that you might have in the tube for the rear trunk wall panels as the panel just conforms around them when you tighten the bolts. I saw someone ask about that before. I had already tapped for a ground to my Lemans cap and didn't want to change it so popped a hole and grommet into the panel and passed the wiring through. Came out nice.

Next up was the driver's side rear and this one I had to trim. It barely fit without bulb seal, so not sure exactly what was going on. Maybe the extra few passes of the undercoater in the wheel wells made a difference. I took off about 1/4" all the way around on the outboard side and it fit perfectly.

One thing to note is the direction of the bulb seal can impact whether the panel fits or doesn't, as it tends to flip flop to one side or the other.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/251b1004-6d13-4e92-baad-a2b014e6a884.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/251b1004-6d13-4e92-baad-a2b014e6a884.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e7b785c3-fc7a-486f-b0ed-564729143942.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e7b785c3-fc7a-486f-b0ed-564729143942.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

03-22-2026, 10:52 PM

Regarding the fronts, no matter how much I fiddled with them, I could not get them to fit flush all the way around. They kept hanging up on the bottom. I saw on Paul's 20th Anniversary build thread (the gift that keeps on giving), he had the same issue and cut a piece off the bottom. I did the same as well as adding in 1" bulb seal instead of 3/4", which filled the gaps up on both sides nicely. The number on that is McMaster Carr #1120A191.

I have a small L bracket to attach the splash guard to but haven't installed them yet. I don't think I ever did on the last build and never had issues as the bulb seal seems to keep everything from moving, but we'll see as I'm not going to drill into the body unnecessarily. These are all secured by eight 10-32 screws to the F-panel, so it's not going anywhere.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4a44b2af-2fc1-4ed9-9a0a-25bd196632e9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/4a44b2af-2fc1-4ed9-9a0a-25bd196632e9.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/515c8a6d-d811-4bb9-b8c3-8741107860a0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/515c8a6d-d811-4bb9-b8c3-8741107860a0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

03-22-2026, 11:02 PM

On to the license plate wiring. I drilled a 5/8” hole to the right of the hinge. This goes through the metal rib and gives a good anchoring spot for the grommet and ease of passthrough for the wiring. It is also a good location for clean wiring where I zip tied the wiring to the 3/4” tube and ran it up the hinge through the grommet with 1/4” tubing.

After fishing the wire through, I finished off with Permaseal connectors. I always stagger my butt connectors so they easily fit in the corrugated tubing without bulge.

I ordered a cover plate from Frank at ie427, bent to shape over my knee, powder coated and installed with #10 black screws.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a0fc9946-7a02-4729-b663-000d09581657.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a0fc9946-7a02-4729-b663-000d09581657.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5e20b861-3926-4d75-a791-cde0e494f1b9.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5e20b861-3926-4d75-a791-cde0e494f1b9.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9afa9fa7-f65e-4a35-aad6-8b142f7b36f7.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/9afa9fa7-f65e-4a35-aad6-8b142f7b36f7.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

03-22-2026, 11:03 PM

It will be nice when someone creates a sellable cover for this hinge. I'm a buyer!! I'm going to replace those fugly nyloc nuts with some black chrome acorns when I get a chance.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/268adfa9-4712-4bc3-9510-0bde726cbcc4.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/268adfa9-4712-4bc3-9510-0bde726cbcc4.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

03-22-2026, 11:20 PM

This is probably one of the best upgrades one can get for this car is the one piece nose aluminum. I bought this some time ago and had it powdercoated. Fitted it and installed. I don't think Michael Everson sells these anymore due to size but if you were lucky enough to get one, they are worth the price of admission for a clean build! They are still on the replicaparts website, so maybe he has some left?

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b8ad9b3a-6cd8-4f1d-bf83-e252e5523357.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b8ad9b3a-6cd8-4f1d-bf83-e252e5523357.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

My short list of odds and ends that need completed.

Finish License Plate Wiring
Wind Wings
Visors
Install Side Pipes when back from Cerakote
Radiator Cowl Cover
Rear and Front Quick Jacks
Louvers
Door Panels
Fender Badging

And then we can graduate!

Higgybulin

03-23-2026, 04:40 AM

It's coming along man! Another beauty!
Higgy

Jeff Kleiner

03-23-2026, 07:57 AM

... I ended up with 5/16" of clearance between the hood and top of the air cleaner. I think we are good!

...

I'd be concerned that might not be enough when the engine moves when you're twisting it's tail...especially on the left side. To be safe until you can be sure I suggest that you lay a couple of layers of painters tape on the underside of the hood in the low clearance areas so that it can serve as a witness to show if it contacts and also so that it doesn't mar the paint if it does.

It looks really, really good Chad :cool:

Jeff

cv2065

03-23-2026, 08:02 AM

I'd be concerned that might not be enough when the engine moves when you're twisting it's tail...especially on the left side. To be safe until you can be sure I suggest that you lay a couple of layers of painters tape on the underside of the hood in the low clearance areas so that it can serve as a witness to show if it contacts and also so that it doesn't mar the paint if it does.

It looks really, really good Chad :cool:

Jeff

Thanks for that Jeff. I had thought of the engine moving but wasn't sure exactly how much I needed. I'll get that done before getting the air cleaner coated. Thanks!

cv2065

03-28-2026, 08:53 PM

As one dwindles down the final list of the build. You always run into the forgotten stuff and the list gets longer. One of which is the rear wheel well gap panels that go up against the rear of the cockpit. There is a sizable gap there that could collect quite a bit of debris and/or water and throw it into the cockpit and carpeted area behind the seat. FFR doesn’t provide these panels for the MKIV and need to be fabricated. Hopefully the gap has been addressed in the MKV.

I had an extra splash panel that was already powder coated. I created a cardboard template, fitted, cut the panel to size and riveted in with 3/4” bulb seal. Turned out nice. Looks like I might need to add a little more bedliner to the wheel wells in certain spots to cover some of the red overspray, or is that sanding dust? :p

Template and Completed Panels
https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2f59941e-4292-44ea-a63d-24d2ae07ee54.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/2f59941e-4292-44ea-a63d-24d2ae07ee54.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Installed
https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/75f3fba4-a9b2-495b-b02f-56c05ba8cd2f.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/75f3fba4-a9b2-495b-b02f-56c05ba8cd2f.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b041dbea-b771-4dd6-9382-31bd53d54698.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b041dbea-b771-4dd6-9382-31bd53d54698.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

MSumners

03-29-2026, 08:24 AM

Nice work! Build looks awesome.

cv2065

03-29-2026, 03:10 PM

Final install of the front quick jacks. I cut my tubes down to 4.75" and used a 6" bolt (uncut). Tubes have filler cylinders on the insides to soak up some of the space. Some of my tubes were not completely exact when I cut them so I used washers as needed on the inside of the body mount to level them out. Finished off with black chrome acorn nuts and washers. Looking good!

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/295d3977-3ad6-4090-889b-78244729e3c5.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/295d3977-3ad6-4090-889b-78244729e3c5.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/bc93229c-9b75-43d3-8a20-6a93dceb8443.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/bc93229c-9b75-43d3-8a20-6a93dceb8443.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

03-29-2026, 03:20 PM

Breeze makes a nice radiator cowl cover. I bought one of these for my last build but never installed as I had forgot to tap the screws along the top 3/4" tube during the build and seemed like too much of a hassle afterwards.

I remembered this time and tapped 10-32 screws across the top a while back and had it powder coated to match the rest of the engine bay. I then attached the 3/4" bulb seal and installed. With the hood on, you have to push it up through the nose to install. Not sure how much impact this has on cooling, but seems like it should channel air through the radiator as designed. I thought my radiator protective mesh that stands off the radiator by 1/4" might interfere, but it did not.

Top View with Screws:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3ad5cbf5-43ff-4ec5-b10f-9b250b296a63.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/3ad5cbf5-43ff-4ec5-b10f-9b250b296a63.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Inside the Nose View:

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c9f71d1f-e4e2-4de4-8578-0d98e6c884ae.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/c9f71d1f-e4e2-4de4-8578-0d98e6c884ae.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

03-31-2026, 05:46 PM

Installed the brake and oil cooler screens that I bought from Martin over at Magic Marto. He and John (40 Watt Garage) make a nice stainless steel product. FFR doesn't make a matching oil cooler screen so nice to have all 3 in one package and finishes off the front end nicely. The size of the screen holes are just right and they are fitted to each opening. Of course, had them powdercoated black to match everything else. A couple of things for my install:

Due to using the 'eyebrows' for the turn signals, the space was a little tight around the opening on one side. I had to trim the passenger side screen a little to accommodate and use pliers to widen out the driver's side a bit so that it fit flush.
I used silicone to affix the screens as recommended. I applied the silicone first around the opening, then pushed the screen on, then applied more silicone as needed then secured with zip ties and paint sticks until fully cured. You can also use 3M HSRF and studs, but the silicone worked fine and I think you'd see the bolt holding the screen in place, which is not ideal.
I installed with the wheels on and race ramps. The oil cooler area will need a smaller squeeze tube of silicone as you can't get the gun parallel with the bottom of the opening.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/20b107d6-0764-4fcd-b6d1-ad751b464ad0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/20b107d6-0764-4fcd-b6d1-ad751b464ad0.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/1884a505-81cd-42ab-a2e2-f9e94e8d4179.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/1884a505-81cd-42ab-a2e2-f9e94e8d4179.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

They are a supporting vendor and you can get them at the below link. I also have the tow bar kit and skid plate. All high quality stuff!

https://www.roadstertowbar.com/products/brake-duct-and-oil-cooler-screen-kit

cv2065

04-02-2026, 10:08 PM

Pipes came back from Cerakoting. I selected a Black Velvet Satin color that is almost a cross between black and dark grey. Goes very well with the colors on the car and is good to 1100 degrees. The sheen is perfect and I like it much better than the Matte. Installed and will be ready for a drive this weekend. I have some heat shields in the same color that I'll add later.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/07018221-e67b-4508-bff1-da7cef041980.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/07018221-e67b-4508-bff1-da7cef041980.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/eb549eb6-6648-4cb2-b375-de87a2510580.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/eb549eb6-6648-4cb2-b375-de87a2510580.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5d97df2a-3bb9-447b-a542-c0e8358dfcb5.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/5d97df2a-3bb9-447b-a542-c0e8358dfcb5.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I verified my driver’s side pipe clearance at the hole and have roughly 3/4”, so good to go there.

BUDFIVE

04-04-2026, 07:46 AM

Very nice color and sheen. They work really well with the side stripes. Nice!

Blitzboy54

04-04-2026, 04:26 PM

Sexy

MSumners

04-04-2026, 05:28 PM

Looking great!

PMD24

04-04-2026, 07:40 PM

Yeah, pipes look really good!

PMD24

04-04-2026, 07:41 PM

Wish I had done that Breeze roll bar. What a difference! Looks great.

cv2065

04-04-2026, 11:36 PM

Wish I had done that Breeze roll bar. What a difference! Looks great.

Thanks! A couple of years ago, I was with Micheal Craven (aka Hacksaw) at a car show. He had the older, thick 2" rollbars in his MKIV and I had the standard 1.5" MKIV bar in my first build. We were parked side by side. He looks over and says, "Oh, you've got the paperclip." I said what's that? He said that's what the skinny, taller rollbars reminded him of. He said "Once you see it, you can't unsee it."

And he was right. I always said that if I did another build I'd get thicker bars. The Breeze rollbar is perfect at 1.75" and they have a slight rake.

Mike.Bray

04-05-2026, 10:34 AM

Thanks! A couple of years ago, I was with Micheal Craven (aka Hacksaw) at a car show. He had the older 2" rollbars in his MKIV and I had the standard MKIV bar in my first build. We were parked side by side. He looks over and says, "Oh, you've got the paperclip." I said what's that? He said that's what the skinny, taller rollbars reminded him of. He said "Once you see it, you can't unsee it."

And he was right. I always said that if I did another build I'd get thicker bars. The Breeze are perfect and they have a slight rake.

I'm 100% with you on this one, the stock FFR bars do look like paperclips. I went with the Breeze bar also and love the way it looks.

227798

PMD24

04-05-2026, 02:59 PM

You guys are killing me here!!! Just as I'm getting to the point where my spending is tapering off... now I gotta look into that rollbar. Only doing one so maybe I can talk myself into it that way.

cv2065

04-05-2026, 03:07 PM

You guys are killing me here!!! Just as I'm getting to the point where my spending is tapering off... now I gotta look into that rollbar. Only doing one so maybe I can talk myself into it that way.

Best to do it now. :p

cv2065

04-05-2026, 08:42 PM

Well, I've been chasing down this coolant leak from around the radiator cap for a while. I thought that once I got the silicone hoses tightened up that I was good to go, but nope, went to take it out yesterday and 'drip drip drip' from the cap at around 140 degrees during warm up. Really annoying and you just have to walk back into the house for a moment. After trying 3 different caps, it's the Boig upper radiator pipe filler neck that has a flaw and won't seal.

I think I hem and hawed this thing to death about ripping out the Boig tube that I bought a year or so ago, telling myself that it was just a hose needing tightened or new cap. One, because that sucker is expensive, and two, it just looks cool. Well, I'd rather have functional than cool and I'm not shelling out another $350 for that piece plus another $50 in powder coating, soooooo, I had some other Fluidyne pieces that I bought a few months ago and assembled them. I've got the Fluidyne Billet filler neck (FLD-ACCRFNCHR150) and the Gates #21211 hose plus a 90 degree. It needs some trimming but works great. Got rid of the silicone and went back to rubber. It actually looks pretty good, so no complaints there. The only thing I don't like about the FFR setup is that it just kind of floats around in space. It's not going anywhere, but maybe I'll do a redesign down the road. Plenty of examples, but here's where we are. Might try to find some kind of black dressing that is suitable for high temp rubber to get these hoses looking better.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a1d02a2f-9ac0-423b-a7a4-78be87e34150.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a1d02a2f-9ac0-423b-a7a4-78be87e34150.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/25d64276-5c2b-463f-a8ba-06bffa389c29.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/25d64276-5c2b-463f-a8ba-06bffa389c29.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Draining the radiator took forever, so I took the bottom petcock out and cleaned it up. AFCO put so much teflon tape on the threads that it covered up the drain hole on the petcock. No wonder it was so slow. Took all of that off and reinstalled with Permatex High Temp sealant. I'll let that fully cure over the next couple of days then refill with coolant.

A week from tomorrow will be about 45 days from when the car was painted. At that point, I think I'll be good to go as far as the paint fully curing. There are some very minor scratches in the clear coat in certain places around the car from what might have been the sewn edge of a microfiber cloth or contamination of some kind during final cleaning, so I'm going to have it professionally corrected then ceramic coated. I've got a DA polisher, but figured I'd let the Pros do it first time around. PPF is in the near future before the paint gets jacked up with rock chips.

PMD24

04-07-2026, 06:16 AM

cv2065

04-07-2026, 01:17 PM

That filler neck looks great.

On the Boig tube, each out to Tubular, who now owns Boig and explain all that you've done and that you suspect distortion of the neck during welding. Who knows, they might replace it. If they do you could sell it here.

Pat

Thanks Pat. I’ll give them a shout. It’s been a while and I powder coated it, so probably an unlikely replacement but they can only say No.

cv2065

04-12-2026, 01:43 PM

Finishing up some odds and ends. I was able to burp my coolant system with the Lisle funnel, which worked great. Got to operating temp, t-stat opened, topped it off, buttoned it up then went for a drive. Temps stayed in the 185-190 range with no leaks at the cap, so hopefully we are beyond that at this point. I'll be finally getting out of the neighborhood and out onto a few faster streets shortly, then we'll see.

I installed the rear quick jacks with the quick jack plates from Michael Everson. I'm not sure if he offers these anymore but they provide a really nice finishing touch to the rear of the car. They also spread out the stress of tightening down the quick jack brackets instead of having just one washer per hole. I didn't tighten mine down much during the last build and still got a small stress crack in the paint around one of the washers, even though it had a rubber backing.

I cut rubber washers for the plates and installed, topping off with a black chrome washer and acorn nut.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/1d220709-4b1a-411e-8714-571a30fade5a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/1d220709-4b1a-411e-8714-571a30fade5a.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b3a33fe0-b469-4e0c-bc4a-5e96e32c7fd4.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b3a33fe0-b469-4e0c-bc4a-5e96e32c7fd4.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

04-12-2026, 06:43 PM

Took a 10 mile drive today for my first outing on the main roads. It was 75 degrees and sunny. Driving down the road the engine was lucky to see 180 degrees. I think that the air dam is working really well and no leaks! Idling it was in the 185-195 neighborhood. When hot, oil pressure was at 60psi when driving and 30-40 at idle.

Only issue I had is that I think I'm hearing some of what sounds like little acorns bouncing around in my driver's side pipe when decelerating. Sounds good on acceleration. Still investigating but I hope a baffling or something isn't loose. I thought I had heard it early on before it went to paint. Might be time to call Gas N, but we'll see.

BadAsp427

04-13-2026, 08:50 AM

Sounds like you need to feed the squirrels a bit less.

Jeff Kleiner

04-13-2026, 09:06 AM

...Only issue I had is that I think I'm hearing some of what sounds like little acorns bouncing around in my driver's side pipe when decelerating. Sounds good on acceleration. Still investigating but I hope a baffling or something isn't loose. I thought I had heard it early on before it went to paint. Might be time to call Gas N, but we'll see...

I would assume that the pipes were blasted before being coated. Could be that they didn't get all of the media cleaned out of them.

Jeff

cv2065

04-13-2026, 09:33 AM

I would assume that the pipes were blasted before being coated. Could be that they didn't get all of the media cleaned out of them.

Jeff

That’s a good point Jeff. They were blasted. I’m assuming this will work out of the pipe over time?

Jeff Kleiner

04-13-2026, 09:42 AM

That’s a good point Jeff. They were blasted. I’m assuming this will work out of the pipe over time?

Maybe? Probably? I've had a few cars brought to me with freshly coated pipes that were still wrapped up and sometimes when they were turned up and around for installation sand spilled out! I suppose you can try to blow it out with 427 inches (or more accurately, 213.5 per side) :D

Jeff

cv2065

04-13-2026, 11:11 AM

I suppose you can try to blow it out with 427 inches (or more accurately, 213.5 per side) :D

Jeff

Sounds like the best remedy this weekend. :cool:

TrackDay17

04-16-2026, 09:04 AM

I really like your detail on the quick jacks, beautiful car.
As far as switching from silicone hoses I always avoided them when I was racing and doing track days on my motorcycles.
They look cool but the guys I knew that ran them always seemed to be have an issue with a leak at one point or another.

Mike.Bray

04-16-2026, 09:07 AM

Silicone hoses leach coolant.

JMD

04-16-2026, 11:22 AM

That’s a good point Jeff. They were blasted. I’m assuming this will work out of the pipe over time?

If you didn't cut out the middle part of the gasket that sits between the header and sidepipes the thin unprotected gasket material around the center gasket section tend to disintegrate, the middle part falls off and parts of hard gasket material blow into the mufflers. Mine did that over this past summer and I can hear it bouncing around in my driver side side pipe every now and then. I wish I had known to cut out the middle part and just use the outer part of the gasket. The four hole gasket is meant to connect the extended long separate tube, non collector style header, not the headers we use with the open ball flange. It could eventually blow out or find a place to permanently lodge in the muffler. That would be better than it bouncing around...

tnt_motorsports

04-16-2026, 11:26 AM

Silicone hoses leach coolant.

Might be a dumb question Mike, but I am looking for coolant hoses currently. Amazon seems to offer primarily silicone hoses. I don't have part numbers and generic searches have yielded little results. Do you have a source for a 1.5" 90 degree radiator hose and then a straight section?

Thanks in advance!
Todd

Mike.Bray

04-16-2026, 01:09 PM

cv2065

04-19-2026, 12:44 AM

Tackling the rest of the windshield odds and ends, which included the windshield trim brackets, rear view mirror, wind wings and visors.

Regarding the windshield trim pieces, I'm not sure how you would use 3rd party pieces with this, as you have to be able to slide them down with the windshield in place. Manual says to squirt some silicone in the gap before putting the trim piece on. I didn't really want to do that as you have to be able to get under there and put some tape or something flat to keep it from dripping down while it sets. So I used some pliable black silicone putty that you can mold to the size needed and push into the gap. It's a high temp, UV resistant, all-weather product, so should hold up fine and seal it from water intrusion.

My brackets didn't come with gaskets, so I made my own out of a 1/16" rubber sheet. This is the only place on the car where I've used sheet metal screws to secure anything into the fiberglass.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/27377c66-0f76-406e-b546-aaefccd9c351.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/27377c66-0f76-406e-b546-aaefccd9c351.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/51555157-1557-4484-8e80-ce9910f9183f.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/51555157-1557-4484-8e80-ce9910f9183f.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

04-19-2026, 12:49 AM

On the last build, I secured the mirror to the dash using sheet metal screws. I didn't want to drill this time so used a bracket that I got from, well, I it's been so long I can't remember where I got it. Many of these brackets you can find on etsy are 3D printed plastic, which I did not want. Found one that was aluminum and had it powder coated black. Combined with black hardware/acorn nuts, cut to size and 10-32 square nuts that were also cut down/grinded to size to fit the channel and it came out great.

If you are using the square nut method for the visors, don't forget to slide them into the channel before securing the rear-view mirror. I'll be putting some rubber backer rod into the channel gap once I get the visors in for a finished look.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ebcbb50a-eb38-4c54-9ea0-4d52c0af1c29.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/ebcbb50a-eb38-4c54-9ea0-4d52c0af1c29.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

04-19-2026, 01:00 AM

I took the car out for a longer run today and boy was it hot, even after 7pm. Summer seems like it's going to be a beast. From a cooling perspective, car never got above 195. Fan kicked on as expected at stop lights or longer idles and ran 180-185 at speed. Tightened up my clamps and I think we can 100% put the cooling thing behind us.

Coming back around the last time I got a couple of surges off the light and then while driving. Got home and checked the fuel regulator which was down to 3.5psi. Most likely I was emptying the bowls which was causing the surges. Readjusted to 5.5 - 6psi while at operating temp and tightened the nut down. I put a witness mark on it and will keep an eye out. Another morning drive on Sunday and we’ll see where we are.

Outside of that, car has no issues thus far. I'll continue to creep out a little further on back roads but with all of the trucks from new construction going on the highways these days, I'll wait until I add PPF for any highway runs, which should be mid-May time frame.

PMD24

04-19-2026, 07:56 AM

Might be a dumb question Mike, but I am looking for coolant hoses currently. Amazon seems to offer primarily silicone hoses. I don't have part numbers and generic searches have yielded little results. Do you have a source for a 1.5" 90 degree radiator hose and then a straight section?

Thanks in advance!
Todd

Download the Gates catalog and thumb through till you find a photo of what you need, or what you can cut from a hose that might be different than exactly what you need. Once you find one use google to search for the hose.

Also, if there's an O'Reillys near you, they stock thousands of hoses and are very helpful. Some will let you go down the aisles and look.

Pat

Mike.Bray

04-19-2026, 10:17 AM

Coming back around the last time I got a couple of surges off the light and then while driving. Got home and checked the fuel regulator which was down to 3.5psi. Most likely I was emptying the bowls which was causing the surges. Readjusted to 5.5 - 6psi while at operating temp and tightened the nut down. I put a witness mark on it and will keep an eye out. Another morning drive on Sunday and we’ll see where we are

Just leave it like that and you can tell everyone you're running alcohol:cool:

cv2065

04-25-2026, 10:41 PM

I continue to finish up small things on the final punch. Visors were on the list next. I'm not sure exactly how functional these are, but I like how they look and finish off the windshield at the top. All hardware was powdercoated black and I ordered some black stainless steel 6-32 screws.

I cut each screw to size and used 6-32 square nuts in the windshield channel instead of screwing right into the windshield frame. Courtesy of Mr. Kleiner. I also have some 10-32 black acorn nuts that I used with the fastening hardware. A little blue Loctite and they aren't going anywhere. Just don't get that on the acrylic.

Visors are custom and I got them off ebay from a seller who just does these. I wanted the visors to match the wind wings in a dark smoke color. I guess the clear wind wings have visibility in mind, but the finer details complete the build. I got them at the link below. He's got a few custom pieces as well.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/225005572763?itmmeta=01KQ3XYJ0Y3DFMZTKW3VQF8KCV&hash=item346360929b:g:VNEAAeSws-5oBE4y

Visors came out great

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e3386106-c709-4ac6-bc29-cbd2b413c973.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/e3386106-c709-4ac6-bc29-cbd2b413c973.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b7d8ab4f-710d-4b6f-a0cf-7ff4ff10d46e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/b7d8ab4f-710d-4b6f-a0cf-7ff4ff10d46e.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

cv2065

04-25-2026, 10:53 PM

I bought these heat shields a while back from Backdraft. I had them ceramic coated the same color as the pipes. Easy enough to install just as long as you have a set of vice grips to squeeze the bracket in tight enough to take a bolt. Assembling the bracket on to the shield prior to install also helps. I'm pleased with the look overall and of course the 'snake bit' protection.

My last set were smoother on the top, but these assemble a little differently with the acorn nuts on top. I like the industrial look and the round perforated holes vs. square.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/875800be-c350-4725-8a50-060b53c68fdc.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/875800be-c350-4725-8a50-060b53c68fdc.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/96918298-f818-4e4b-80c2-00488da3b7b7.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/96918298-f818-4e4b-80c2-00488da3b7b7.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I did notice that my passenger side pipe continues to droop. I'm getting less and less a fan of the collector adjustable ball joint as I'd rather just deal with shims. You can tighten this thing until the cows come home and I think you'll get the same result over time.

So, I have a couple of options. One is to have the joint tack welded, but I'm going to hold off there. The other was to go with another Kleiner 'mod' and create some support at the collector. So that's what I did and after a quick trip to ACE Hardware and $20 in parts, I re-created Kleiner's solution and will be trying it out. Having the louver out made this a simple install.

I also saw in another build where someone strapped a stainless zip tie around the rubber support, which is probably something that I'll do as well, as these tend to stretch a little too much. Wish there was a harder version of the rubber.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a15aaf63-324d-4f58-8b50-97b54fef48c8.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds (https://hosting.photobucket.com/239a0216-6f9e-4cc9-a0be-2ec53fb3e15d/a15aaf63-324d-4f58-8b50-97b54fef48c8.jpg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Update: Went for another 'spirited' ride and the passenger pipe stayed put! Guess we'll see long term. I was going to buy a stainless zip tie to go around the rubber hanger but found these rubber hangers that already have a steel insert to maintain shape. I'll see how these work.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07X94PQ12?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

cv2065

04-25-2026, 11:00 PM

As an update to my fuel issue, I made some float and accelerator pump arm adjustments. We'll test it out tomorrow. Roush recommends Ported vacuum over Manifold, which is how the carb is setup now. I'm thinking of changing over to Manifold but we'll see.

Update: Ride went good this morning, although it was cool and hard to get to 180. Will take it back out when it warms up. I did move my linkage rod to the bottom linkage hole so that it would activate sooner, but not liking that. Challenge is that I want full throw of the linkage without my pedal being too high.

Highplainsdakota

04-26-2026, 10:15 AM

I'm enjoying the updates to your cobra and following along.

I am just installing the same hanger modification to the side pipes even though I have not go karted yet. I purchased that same amazon hanger with the steel wrap incorporated into the rubber, but it was very large. Just take that into account before you purchase it. The smaller one you have pictured looks to be about 3" long. I have opened and closed the eyelets on the turnbuckles for direct connections in order to reduce the over all length of the linkage. I'm not quite done yet but I'll try get pictures next time I'm at the shop.

cv2065

04-26-2026, 10:21 AM

cv2065

04-28-2026, 03:50 PM

Another carb update. I'm currently running at the following:

Initial Timing: 16 BTDC
Mechanical Advance: 13 degrees
Vacuum Advance: 12 degrees
Idle: 900

I'm all in at 29 BTDC @3,000 with vacuum plugged. This is a little light on a target of 32-34 and I think my idle is a hair high. Having a little stumble off idle unless I load up the accelerator a bit and still some random stumble at low idle cruise.

I read up on transfer slots and their impact on off idle starts and cruise, so I'm going to up my initial timing to 18 BTDC, then lower my idle speed to 800-850, which will take me to 31 all in. This is still conservative but will allow me to adjust my transfer slots more favorably, giving me more fuel/air mixture control, and take away the off idle stumble and low rpm cruise. The additional timing should help as well. I'll stick with the timed vacuum instead of going to manifold at this point.

At least this my current theory without physically removing the carb, which if I'm still not satisfied, will be my next step. I found these two videos on transfer slots helpful:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpU7pV4Li3A

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HS9MHbKLNR0