Lugnut Mark’s type 65 build!

[Lugnut Mark]

Well Ladies and Gentlemen the time has come for me to officially start my build thread. First the good news I had the opportunity to take advantage of FF 4th of July anniversary sale and received $3000 off my order which was awesome, it afforded me to make some upgrades on my buildout which otherwise I would not have been able to do. The other great news is that my coupe kit was completed right on time, so it was ready for pickup on 9/20/25 unfortunately Stewart transport which BTW is now Cunningham transport did not have any trucks headed my way, so I was in limbo until today. Today I got the call from Todd, and he told me that they are going to pick up my coupe on 10/7/25 and that I should receive it around oct 10-11! Super stoked about it, seeing how I've been waiting since July. Anyone who knows me knows that patience isn't my strong suit. Anyway, here's my build specs...

COMPLETE COUPE KIT
COYOTE GEN 4X ENGINE
T-56 6SPD TRANS
HYD CLUTCH KIT MASTER CYLINDER KIT
COYOTE HEADER SET AND FASTENERS
COUPE SS SIDE EXHAUST
COUPE COMPLETE IRS
F&R IRS SHOCK SET
IRS CENTERS +SPINDLES
31 SPLINE IRS 9.75 DRIVESHAFT
COYOTE PWR STR KIT w/complete kit
COUPE GPS GAUGE SET
BLACK VINYL SEATS (will switch to aftermarket later)
PWDR FRAME SATIN BLACK
12.88 FRT WILLWOOD BRK RED CAL
12.88 IRS WILLWOOD REAR BRAKES AND RED CAL
14" LEATHER STEERING WHEEL (may swap to sparco later)
COUPE NOSE AND BODY CUTOUTS
GEN 3 -4 COYOTE INSTALL KIT
COUPE WIPER KIT
COUPE COYOTE A/C KIT
COUPE BLACK CARPET KIT
COUPE SIDE WINDOW KIT
IRS FRONT AND REAR SWAYBAR PARTS
SEAT TRACK KIT
GT 400 XTRA POLISHED SIDE MIRROR
BRAKE RESERVOIR PARTS


So did I mention that I'm super stoked to get started on my Daytona.... BTW I build cars for a living currently employed at the HOT ROD SHOP OF NASSAU COUNTY in Hilliard Florida so this won't be my first rodeo....With that being said this forum has already been a wealth of information and knowledge that I'm excited to be a part of and will regularly be reaching out for help! Thanks for checking out my build thread Wish me luck .... God bless all!!!!

[Lugnut Mark]

Whoops I almost forgot here are some pics of what I do have so far plus my 1600sq ft home shop that I will be building the coupe in 219620219621219622

[Papa]

Congrats and welcome to the party!

Dave

[PNWTim]

Exciting times Mark. Congratulations on your order.

[burchfieldb]

Congrats, super exited to follow your build!

[JimStone]

Yeah, not sure you'll have enough room in your shop to build the Coupe. May need to think about an extension or something. :p

Happy to see you start your build thread and I look forward to following along

Btw, I'm still rooting for twin turbos. Make it happen!

[Power Surge]

Hey Mark, that's awesome! I'd be curious to see what number your car winds up being, with your order being close to mine. Looks like you got a hot build setup! Excited to see it come together!

[Lugnut Mark]

There she is …. This one’s mine …..Dan was kind enough to send a picture of her still in the nursery 219625

[Power Surge]

Oh... one thing you can do while you're waiting for the car..

Since Factory Five doesn't Supply a printed build manual anymore (which is BS in my opinion), I would suggest downloading the build manual and then bringing the file somewhere and have it print it out and put in a binder. It will cost about five or six hundred dollars unless you have access to a laser printer and can do it yourself.

[8secDuster]

There she is …. This one’s mine …..Dan was kind enough to send a picture of her still in the nursery 219625

Congrats Mark!
Love the wheels. What color are you thinking?

[460.465USMC]

Congrats, Mark, and welcome aboard (officially)! Glad you decided to open a build thread. It will be fun to watch a pro-builder's take on the Coupe. Very cool. Our build options are very similar, drivetrain, IRS, side windows, etc.

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Dave .. I will be reviewing your build frequently for inspiration!

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Tim

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Bret … I be getting with you soon to place an order!

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Jim …. You never know what this old fabricator might come up with for those turbos…lol

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey Sal …. Thanks… as soon as I know my number I’ll give you a shout so we can compare

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey 8 sec’s ……..so I’m leaning towards a black and candy gold theme (stripes and rear end ) but you never know with me …. It could wind up candy green and silver only time will tell

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Chris … looking forward to getting started …. I’ve probably have checked out your build 20x’s while I wait …. Keep the updates coming thanks

[Power Surge]

Hey Sal …. Thanks… as soon as I know my number I’ll give you a shout so we can compare

You're still welcome to come and take a look at mine if you want.

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Sal … I’ve been super busy at work here lately and haven’t been able to get out …but the good news is my coupe should be here this sat 10/11/25 so that will be the first time I ever seen a coupe and it will be mine . Thanks again for the offer though!

[Lugnut Mark]

So I think I have 2 build threads simultaneously going on here … from now on I’m just going to post on this one … after supper I went out to the shop and prepped some parts for the IRS install I plan to do over the weekend … as per Paul and Dave’s recommendation I put a flat on all of my wheel studs before I pulled them into the hubs i simply used some large washers greased up and my trusty impact to pull and seat them …. It was pretty drama free then I assembled my upper rear control arms and toe link bars and before I knew it ..it was 9:30pm … you know what they say about time when your having fun. Other than that not to much to report 220207220204220205220206

[460.465USMC]

The suspension buildup is fun. Lots of visual progress pretty quickly. Good times.

[Lugnut Mark]

Well that was fun …. Just used a little of my redneck engineering and got it in in no time!220291220292220293220294

[PNWTim]

That third member is a biotch by any stretch. All engineering disciplines are encouraged. Looks good.

[Lugnut Mark]

Big oooff she sexy ….couldn't wait til tomorrow to do the IRS so I knocked it out tonight … I must say makes the car a whole lot more appealing glad I went with the IRS. Tomorrow I’ll take a look at the sway bar and probably assemble upper front control arms and do what I can till FF gets me the rest of my suspension parts ie (brakes and lower control arms) 220349220350220351

[Lugnut Mark]

Not much to report today …I had a work function I had to attend pretty much all day … but when I did get home I was able to install rear sway bar and assemble the front upper control arms.. Maybe tomorrow I will start to layout the fuel system… 220374220375220376

[460.465USMC]

No dust collecting on your build, Mark. Almost like you have expertise in building cars. :p Keep up the great progress.

[Lugnut Mark]

Well today my honey do list was a mile long so I only got to assemble fuel tank ,fuel pressure regulator cut the filler neck all the prep work to install fuel system but I think I’m going to wait …. May want to order drop truck kit from snakebite motor works …. Papa Dave said the quality is 2nd to none and fit and finish made install a breeze …going to check out his site tonight may want to order some parts from him … Other than that nothing to report 220401220402220403

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks for the encouragement Chris ….. I must say working on this coupe is a passion project …. I don’t know what it is about this thing but I really love working on it … and that’s saying a lot seeing on how I work on cars for a living .. most guys are like the last thing they want to do after working on cars all day is work on their own car …LOL

[bishes]

May want to order drop truck kit from snakebite motor works …. Papa Dave said the quality is 2nd to none and fit and finish made install a breeze …going to check out his site tonight may want to order some parts from him

I've bought a bunch of stuff from Brent and it's all extremely high quality. I've had a shipment from him sitting at home for a few days and I'm itching to get to it but I'm still out of town for a couple days. You won't be disappointed.

[Papa]

I've bought a bunch of stuff from Brent and it's all extremely high quality. I've had a shipment from him sitting at home for a few days and I'm itching to get to it but I'm still out of town for a couple days. You won't be disappointed.

Everything I've bought from Brent is fantastic. I have his drop trunk, engine bay rail covers, horn brackets, glove box, tripple reservoir bracket, polished tripple reservoir bezel, front trans tunnel cover, lower trans tunnel covers, blank trans tunnel top, hood rollers, and pontoon covers. Can you tell what I think of his stuff? :p

[8secDuster]

Thanks for the encouragement Chris ….. I must say working on this coupe is a passion project …. I don’t know what it is about this thing but I really love working on it … and that’s saying a lot seeing on how I work on cars for a living .. most guys are like the last thing they want to do after working on cars all day is work on their own car …LOL

I feel the same way about it Mark.

After doing almost everything on the 68 Barracuda I rotisserie restored a few years back, I swore I would Never do that again. I would buy the next one done.

220421

But here we are... enjoying the hell out of it.

[Lugnut Mark]

And we're back …..today after supper me and the wifey pulled the body off, then pulled all the aluminum panels out ,then assembled the pedals and installed with the gen4 Coyote clutch position switch and accelerator pedal ….. I did redrill and lower my accelerator pedal to gain clearance for the steering shaft and to be able to plug in the drive by wire pigtail 220562220563220564220565

[Lugnut Mark]

So tonight I decide to start drilling and installing some clecos …According to the instructions we are suppose to start with the passenger side footbox so that’s where I’m at. I placed the aluminum panels back in the car and have been drilling in place …. So far,so good ….other than that nothing to report.220619

[460.465USMC]

And so starts the never ending piles of metal shavings (AKA "swarf" as I learned a few months back :p). Looking good, Mark.

P.S. If you're going to have HVAC, you may want to consider making the upper panel on the outside of the footbox removable (e.g. nut serts) for maintenance access.

[Lugnut Mark]

Welp …. Drill fest 2025 continues ….. I managed to get both front foot boxes done today and moved into the drivers cabin needless to say these coupes require a lot of drilling …. I did also have a couple of whoopsies when I accidentally drilled on the wrong side of a line I marked … but it’s an easy fix so no crying over spilled milk … 220697220698220699

[PNWTim]

Mark - kind of an unrelated question but can you share the purpose of the ratchet strap on your lift? Are you using it as a secondary safety device? Just curious.

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey Tim … the ratchet strap is a secondary safety device … with all the IRS components installed the weight in the rear is substantial and I have seen and heard all the horror stories of cars falling off of lifts … it’s better to be safe than sorry I always say.

[Lugnut Mark]

So today was a productive day for me in the shop . I managed to get almost all of the aluminum panels fitted and drilled today. There are still some panels in a box but I believe they are for under the hood and quarter splash guards. I purchased over 300 cleco’s and still did not have enough for every hole had to space them out like every other hole . Still all and all was very satisfied with the progress I made today. I was wondering if anyone knows what the cost is to powder coat all of these panels …. Would like to match the flat black for all 50 panels plus the door parts etc etc …I’m just looking for a ballpark figure if anyone knows and feels like sharing what they paided. 220741220742220743

[Lugnut Mark]

220745220746220747different angles

[PNWTim]

I think powder coating rates are all over the board, not just locally but nationally as well. I am dropping off my last few pieces today and will be somewhere around $1200, give or take a bit. That includes all aluminum, door frames, battery mount, and a handful of bits and pieces.

[8secDuster]

$1000 for me for everything.

[Lugnut Mark]

Wow thanks guys for the feedback …. 12-15 hundred is very reasonable in my book ….. I had to work late tonight so I wasn’t able to get much done this evening. I was able to install some nut serts 220830so that was satisfying

[Power Surge]

I'm enjoying watching your progress Mark. It's a nice way to see what lies ahead for me and my build. I won't be tackling panels just yet though. First order of business on my build is getting the suspension offsets where I want for the pin drive wheels.

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey Sal …. Thanks I’m really enjoying my build process … so forgive my ignorance but what are pin drive wheels? Is it true to era vintage style wheels?

[Power Surge]

Hey Sal …. Thanks I’m really enjoying my build process … so forgive my ignorance but what are pin drive wheels? Is it true to era vintage style wheels?

Pin drive is just another term for knock offs. On original cars, the hubs had pins that stuck out, and the wheel slipped over them, then the knock off tightened the wheel on the threaded spindle of the hub.

For our cars, they make adapters that bolt to the studs on the hubs, then the wheel slips on, and held on with the knock off.

Gen 3 coupe suspension is wider than previous years and not set up for FFR's pin drive suspension, so I have to make mine work.

[Lugnut Mark]

Gotcha … hopefully you can make what is available work for you …. I was just googling pin drive wheels when you replied … it looks like some of those pin drive wheels kits are pretty pricey but they sure do look cool

[Lugnut Mark]

So today I got a delivery from your friend and mine Brent the snakebite motors rockstar! I ordered quite a bit from him but today I received my drop trunk kit ,lower transmission covers ,upper transmission cover ,horn relocation brackets ,glove box ,hood rollers and front engine bay covers .. Man his stuff is nice saved me so much time by not having to fab all that stuff up myself … already mocked up the drop trunk kit and cut the rear floor pan for the door … still have a little fine tuning to do but she’s almost home. Thanks BRENT your products are awesome ! 220842220843220844

[Lugnut Mark]

220845220846220847
Drop trunk mockup!220850220849
Sorry about the upside down pics … this darn iPad is goofy sometimes

[burchfieldb]

So today I got a delivery from your friend and mine Brent the snakebite motors rockstar! I ordered quite a bit from him but today I received my drop trunk kit ,lower transmission covers ,upper transmission cover ,horn relocation brackets ,glove box ,hood rollers and front engine bay covers .. Man his stuff is nice saved me so much time by not having to fab all that stuff up myself … already mocked up the drop trunk kit and cut the rear floor pan for the door … still have a little fine tuning to do but she’s almost home. Thanks BRENT your products are awesome ! 220842220843220844

Thanks, I appreciate it! Looks like you made short work of that install. Glad to see that the boxes made it in one piece. The packages I recieve usually look like an elephant sat on them.

[Lugnut Mark]

This afternoon after work I was able to get a few things done on the coupe . First I completed the fine tuning on my drop truck door fitment second I installed nut serts on the passenger side foot box top for a/c access and third managed to install the lower transmission covers and front trans cover from snakebite220888220889220890

I also received an email from FF that I should be receiving a shipment from them in a few days …hopefully the Willwood brakes and the rest of my front suspension are in there!

[Lugnut Mark]

Today I started working on the firewall inner extensions and inner splash guards but had to quit early had to go tick or treating with my grandson! HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE1 220945220946220947

[Lugnut Mark]

Sweet Sunday kinda got some things accomplished today. Got the front radiator panels fitted and drilled . Also got the engine bay covers fitted and drilled. Managed to get my drop trunk all siliconed up on the seams and coated in raptor bed liner coating then permanently installed btw the rivets that snakebite motor works provide for this kit are amazingly good. Also installed the gas tank the strap,situation was a breeze ….just lowered the car to the tank stretched the straps and in she went. 220995220996220997

[Lugnut Mark]

220998220999221000
Different angles of the drop trunk installed221001221002

[Lugnut Mark]

Well FF sent me a delivery today … I received my willwood front disc brake kit … the only problem is I don’t have any front lower control arms yet so I still cannot assemble the front suspension ��*♂️ hopefully soon more parts will arrive so I can continue assembly. 221021221022

[Lugnut Mark]

Well I made lemonade out of lemons … I used the front rotors on the rear of my car the wilwood brake kits that I ordered from FF are the 12.88 for the front and rear so I just figured the rotors are the same … if not I’ll switch them back when I get the rear brake kit ..My other concern is how much room is there in the cockpit? Today when I was playing around with my wheels I laid in the front seat and actually sat in the car for the very first time and needless to say it seemed really tight for me . Now granted I’m a pretty big guy @ 6’2” and 215lbs but I thought I would have more room. With the seat as far back as I can get it I’m,still pretty cramped up. The only thing I figure I can do is adjust the pedal throws to be as far down as humanly possible for more leg room …. Has anyone else experienced this and if so how did you overcome it ? Any suggestions are welcomed thanks in advance …. Other than that check out those rear wheels …. HELL YEAH is all I can say! 221065221066221067

[Lugnut Mark]

221068221069221070
This is my seat position

[JimStone]

Hey Mark, those wheels look great!



I'm similar dimensions to you, also 6'2". A few thoughts on the leg room concern:


First thing is you probably need to lower your expectations on the leg room, ha. It's definitely tight, but I found the longer I sat in my mocked up seats the more I got comfortable with it.

Seats and mounting position obviously make a difference. Every 1/2" you can create is noticeable. I think the standard seats (which are very nice, btw) aren't too bulky, but there are thinner seats out there.

Also, I needed 2 inch spacers under my seats to get an optimal seating position. That made it feel better, like I wasn't sitting on the floor.

Definitely adjust the pedals back. Again, even a 1/2 inch makes a difference.

Consider a dead pedal on the frame rails. Feels nice to stretch out that leg.

Here's what I made

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=204311&d=1726629760

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey Jim
Thanks for the advice ….. today after work I spent a lot of time sitting in the car trying to get as comfortable as possible. I did use some 2x2 boards under the seat to simulate seat tracks and that did help … it took some of the bend out of my knees … I also mocked up the steering wheel just to really get a feel for the cockpit … and lastly I pulled the pedal box out and adjusted the pedal throws as low as I could get them…… that made a huge difference also adjusted the pedal pads as far to the left as possible ( I didn’t think that my feet were that wide but I guess they are ) it’s true what you say I’m just going to have to make it work … looking into some different seats perhaps a little slimmer padding will help as well 221112221113 what seats did you go with if you don’t mind me asking

[Papa]

Mark,

You'll want to make sure you have enough pedal throw on the clutch to get the clutch to disengage when the pedal is pushed. I've never set up a hydraulic clutch, so I can't offer specifics on what is needed yet. My pedals are sitting about 8.5" from the foot box wall to the front center of the pedal pads.

[JimStone]

Hey Jim
Thanks for the advice ….. today after work I spent a lot of time sitting in the car trying to get as comfortable as possible. I did use some 2x2 boards under the seat to simulate seat tracks and that did help … it took some of the bend out of my knees … I also mocked up the steering wheel just to really get a feel for the cockpit … and lastly I pulled the pedal box out and adjusted the pedal throws as low as I could get them…… that made a huge difference also adjusted the pedal pads as far to the left as possible ( I didn’t think that my feet were that wide but I guess they are ) it’s true what you say I’m just going to have to make it work … looking into some different seats perhaps a little slimmer padding will help as well 221112221113 what seats did you go with if you don’t mind me asking


Mark, I used Braum Racing Orue series seats.

https://braumracing.com/products/orue?variant=40739688415368

I love them. Look fantastic, seem really well made, comfortable, and very reasonably priced.

Downside is they're pretty wide and I had to hack off a decent portion of the reclining mechanism to get them to fit. And I didn't think there was room for sliders, so I they'll be fixed to the floor. I'm sure there are other seats that would give probably an extra inch than these, if that's the motivation for changing out the seats

[Lugnut Mark]

Today had some time to mess with the coupe .. I mocked up the e- brake handle still need to pull it back apart for powder coating and installed fuel pressure regulator and fuel lines . Also started to clean up some of the aluminum panels gave them a quick sand with 320 on a D/A sander … hang on let me backup first I cleaned them with grease and wax remover ,then sanded ,then got out the trusty deburring bits and cleaned up the drill holes . I’m not sure what I want to do there may try cerakote or powder coating or paint them ….if anyone could provide me with input on the whole cerakote experience that would be greatly appreciated…. That’s all so far not to much to report …oh I also installed my power steering pump provided by FFR it’s the KRC version

[Lugnut Mark]

221310221311221312
Fuel system and power steering pump install221316

[Lugnut Mark]

221313221314221315
E-brake handle and panel prep for paint,powder or cerakote ?221317221318

[Lugnut Mark]

Well the title says it all … can’t start wiring ,chassis harness on backorder ,can’t finish suspension,front lower control arms on backorder .cant drop engine in for mock up ,motor mounts on backorder ..can’t run break lines brake reservoirs on backorder and rear brakes …. I will try to stay busy doing what I can

[Jeff Kleiner]

Well the title says it all … can’t start wiring ,chassis harness on backorder ,can’t finish suspension,front lower control arms on backorder .cant drop engine in for mock up ,motor mounts on backorder ..can’t run break lines brake reservoirs on backorder and rear brakes …. I will try to stay busy doing what I can

Throw the body on and start fitting the nose and doors. That’ll keep you busy for a while!

Jeff

[JimStone]

Or start mocking up your dash and controls


Going back a few posts, you asked about powder coat vs cerakote. The vast majority powder coat panels. It gives some bulk to the thin aluminum panels, which makes it feel and sound more solid. Powder coat has good abrasion and chip resistance, can come in almost any color you want, and is less expensive than Cerakote

Cerakote is great for super low tolerance components because it has near zero thickness. There are also super high temp series of Cerakote for exhaust/near exhaust items where powder coat would burn up.

Cerakote is more expensive if you're re not doing it yourself

Powder requires an oven. There are some Cerakote series that are air cure.




I've done a lot of powder coating and love it. I haven't done Cerakote, although I have all the supplies and equipment to do Cerakote V-series on my exhaust. I can't really think of anything else I'd Cerakote instead of powder coat

[Lugnut Mark]

Good point Jeff … might as well get it mounted as per the instructions and start removing the mold lines etc etc … thanks for the advice

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks for the feedback Jim … I think powder coat is definitely the way to go then …. I really like the powder coating oven you built … I might give that a go myself here soon .. I really like the idea of being able to do it myself without having to worry about a 3rd party misplacing or damaging something

[PNWTim]

Thanks for the feedback Jim … I think powder coat is definitely the way to go then …. I really like the powder coating oven you built … I might give that a go myself here soon .. I really like the idea of being able to do it myself without having to worry about a 3rd party misplacing or damaging something

Mark - for what it's worth, I have spent almost $1300 on powder coating and chose to paint several of the smaller items. So it you think you can build a cabinet for less than that and have a DA for the panels I say have at it!

[Lugnut Mark]

So no more crying in my beer … today I took Jeff’s advice seeing how I’m a body guy l went ahead and mounted the body also removed all the rough joints seams ….. everything was pretty drama free I had a 1/4 inch gap at the door jamb 10-1/4 at the rear and 15-3/4 side to side I just had to pull the wheels to drill the rear holes all and all pretty productive day ….tomorrow I will start to look at those doors ! I also radius some of the sharp edges in the jambs that have a tendency to scratch the roll cage upon installation 221602221603221604

[Lugnut Mark]

!221605221606221607
Different angles

[Lugnut Mark]

Today was a pretty productive day …..I was able to get both doors rough fitted until I get the rest of my parts from FF (ie) side windows to finalize fitment and gaps …. The drivers side fit really well the passenger side not so much … it required a little trimming.. I did have some really good news today as I was elbows deep into my doors I received a shipment from FF …It is my Ron Francis wire harness my wilwood rear brake kit and all my a/c fitting that go in the foot box …..Yippee now I can do some work to this thing… still no front lower control arms but I’ll take it .. I still think I’m going to finish up installing major body parts (ie) front clip next …. Want to get all the fiberglass grinding out of the way my shop looks like a hurricane came through from all the dust. Now I’m getting ready to play black ops7 with my grandson y’all have a great evening!221637221638221639

[Lugnut Mark]

221640221641221642

I almost forgot I also trimmed and fit up my spoiler … in these pics it shows passenger door fitment before trimming as well as after 221645221646221643221644

[Power Surge]

I'm really enjoying watching your build, Mark. Nice to get a real time view of what I have to do in the near future on mine.

I'm a bit jealous that you are a body guy. I can build a car from the ground up, but have never done my own paint and body work. Will you be painting your car also?

[Lugnut Mark]

Absolutely…. That’s what I pretty much do for a living ….build hot rods I’m in the middle of doing all the bodywork and paint on a 55 Chevy at work 221647see attached photo … on this car I replaced both inner and outer rocker panels passenger side quarter panel and in the middle of fine tuning all the other bodywork here’s a picture of a 72 Chevy we just finished 221648221649I sprayed that car in June and we just now got it completely finished the client keep,changing his mind about the grille …. First he wanted it chrome .. then black and finally about 3 weeks ago I painted the grille the body color and now he’s happy! That paint is a 3 stage paint job … first it’s sprayed with a white sealer then a copper basecoat then a transparent red then 5 coats of clear

[Power Surge]

Absolutely…. That’s what I pretty much do for a living ….build hot rods I’m in the middle of doing all the bodywork and paint on a 55 Chevy at work 221647see attached photo … on this car I replaced both inner and outer rocker panels passenger side quarter panel and in the middle of fine tuning all the other bodywork here’s a picture of a 72 Chevy we just finished 221648221649I sprayed that car in June and we just now got it completely finished the client keep,changing his mind about the grille …. First he wanted it chrome .. then black and finally about 3 weeks ago I painted the grille the body color and now he’s happy! That paint is a 3 stage paint job … first it’s sprayed with a white sealer then a copper basecoat then a transparent red then 5 coats of clear

Damn that's awesome Mark. I will definitely be following your body prep and paint progress. And you're not far from me.... maybe an option to paint mine when the time comes? ;)

[Lugnut Mark]

Sal ….I’ll be happy to help you out lmk when your ready

[Lugnut Mark]

Haven’t had much time to work on the coupe lately …. Wife has a pretty long honey do list with the holidays quickly approaching …. However the wifey was gracious enough to get me an early birthday present of an Eastwood powder coating kit …so today I powder coated some parts for the first time at home! It’s a pretty good little system I did run out of powder I only purchased a 1lb bag of their flat black which matches really well. I also managed to get the rear brakes setup (btw) their is a difference between the front and rear rotors so I had to switch those out cuz I had the front rotors on the rear for mockup. Also got the doors fitting really well with the strikers installed. That’s all to report for now.222040222041222042

[Lugnut Mark]

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Finished parts powder coated and door latch cutout222047I did sandblast all of the parts and out-gassed them by heating part and letting it cool

[Papa]

Looking good, Mark. A great color match for powder is Prismatic Powders Silk Satin Black.

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks papa Dave … I will be ordering some prismatic powder in the future….. not much to report started mocking up control pack wire harness seems to want to fit pretty well where I have decide to mount the pcm 222158

[Power Surge]

Man you're just moving along, I love it!

Here's a link to most of the individual parts instruction sheets... the wiper one in down in the coupe section.

https://www.factoryfiveparts.com/instructions/

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Sal and happy thanksgiving I must have missed it earlier …. I thought I looked here but sure enough now I see it … thanks again!

[Power Surge]

Happy to help brother! Happy Thanksgiving :cool:

[Lugnut Mark]

So I did play with the coupe a little over the long weekend .. managed to mount fuse box a/c heater box and start to route some wiring ….also made some cutouts for the brake lines on the front splash guards ….im really don’t like the way I mounted the fuse box … think I will pull it out and use nut serts instead of 3/16 rivets to secure it I may want to open up the loom and shorten or lengthen some stuff as necessary…. That’s all to report for now 222306222305222304222307222308

[Lugnut Mark]

222310222309222311.

I also decided to route my front wire harness out the left corner of driver foot box … pics show firewall cutout for control pack harness

[Papa]

Mark,

If you rotate the fuse block mount 180 degrees, the harness will orient better for you.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=219844&d=1759715954

Dave

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Papa Dave …. I’ll rotate it tomorrow had to work late tonight so I’m beat up …I was in the middle of painting some parts for a 55 Chevy that I’m doing at work and the weather changed on me so I had to wait 45-50 min between clearcoat coats … with the humidity so high I took forever … seeing how we put 5 coats of clear on everything was there pretty late . But they came out pretty nice!222341222342222340

[Lugnut Mark]

Thank GOD for this forum and community… the other day Papa Dave steered me in the right direction about mounting my fuse box in the coupe … it turns out I had it 180 degrees out … I was ready to cut the whole harness apart and reroute all the wires but luckily he noticed it and suggested rotating it the 180 degrees … now everything is oriented a whole lot better … rookie mistake I guess…but wiring has never been my strong point … if theirs 2 things that I’m not really good at when it comes to cars is wiring and transmissions everything else I can pretty much figure out … Huge thank you again to Papa Dave ! 222385

[Lugnut Mark]

Not much to report ……lately it’s been pretty cold out at night and I really don’t feel like being in the shop I did manage to get these bulkheads drilled. That’s all for now 222744

[Lugnut Mark]

Hello ladies and gentlebeans …… great news ……factory five finally shipped out my front lower control arms … so today after work I was finally able to assemble the front suspension and get her on the ground for the first time …feels pretty great to have a roller …. I’ve got to admit I was losing motivation while I was waiting on parts but today’s milestone has me reinvigorated…. I had a really great time assembling the front suspension today and to see the car on all four tires got me pumped …. That’s all to report for today HAPPY HOLIDAYS ! 223101223102223103223104

[Lugnut Mark]

223105. Front angle

[460.465USMC]

Right on, Mark! Great milestone reached.

[Lugnut Mark]

All right people we are back at it … so Friday I was off from work and decided to tackle brake lines … As per the build manual instructions aka(Paul and papa Dave’s build ) I ran the front first then the rear …. I do have one question the instructions say to use Ptfe tape on the fittings that go into the calipers and I believe some guys use pipe fitting paste so my question is which is better? Almost done with the rears brake lines just need to bend and cut to length the lines coming out of the tee … I am able to use my in car double flaring tool to make quick work of this task … that’s all to report for now 223286223287223288223289

[Lugnut Mark]

223290223291223292223293

[Papa]

Mark,

I use Loctite 545 for the NPT threads on the brakes system:

https://a.co/d/fRTB4Ii

Dave

[edwardb]

I do have one question the instructions say to use Ptfe tape on the fittings that go into the calipers and I believe some guys use pipe fitting paste so my question is which is better?

Most here on the forum recommend against using PTFE tape anywhere on these builds. Especially brake related. Lots of good options for paste and IMO easier to use anyway. Save the tape for your home plumbing projects.

[460.465USMC]

Nice progress on your brake lines, Mark.

A little late now, but a word of caution in routing the front line along the lower chassis tube. If you're going to use the F5 provided battery tray, that line routing will interfere. I have the same routing, but didn't realize this until afterward. So, ended up going with a smaller AGM battery and battery tray ($$$$!). I suppose the F5 tray could be lifted above that brake line with spacers, or by other means, but I had concerns.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=223294&d=1766850973


So, I ended up going with this setup (same as Edwardb). Another factor is there's limited clearance between the chassis and the steering rack, so the larger group size battery won't fit below it. Just food for thought.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=223253&d=1766679997

[Skuzzy]

DO NOT use teflon tape on brake line fittings! This is not just an opinion. Long term exposure to glycol based chemicals will cause degradation of the material.

Use sealers approved for use with brake fluid, such as what Namrups suggested.

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks for all the info on my brake lines fittings …. I kinda had a feeling that was incorrect in the instructions and remember guys saying that they used different sealers like what Papa Dave suggested… so today I buttoned up the brakes lines without any teflon tape or pipe sealant on any of my fittings. But I did mock up all the panels around the lines and added rubber bushings and cushion clamped to make sure that there are no ruptures as a result of any vibrations. I also started fitting up the nose . I had to trim quite trim quite a bit off by the cowl area so that my pontoon area was flush with the nose . Pretty much have zero gap right now I need to install the hydraulic hinges which will push the nose forward to finalize rear gap … also trimmed up all the rough seam edges which in my opinion 223309223310223311223312223313are an OSHA violation (LOL) that’s all to report for now

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey Chris …. Thanks for the heads up … I appreciate it … I already knew about the battery issue and decided to use the same setup you have in your car …. But thanks for looking out for me! I just had the FF5 battery tray in their to remind me where it goes

[Lugnut Mark]

Coupe in the wild … had to roll out the coupe to do an oil change on the wife’s car … sure am glad this thing is a roller now so I can have access to my lift !

[Lugnut Mark]

223340223341223342

[Papa]

223340223341223342

Looking good, Mark. Any clearance issues with the wheel/tire combo? I'm digging that stance.

Dave

[Lugnut Mark]

None so far Papa Dave … we will see after the engine goes in … I have the rear shocks adjusted to where I want them but have not touched the front shocks …. Waiting till after the Coyote goes in to make final stance adjustments

[jemorgan3]

Fantastic build! im currently doing an LS3 Coupe and planning on a T56 myself! Did you go with the standard T56 or Magnum?

[Lugnut Mark]

I’ll be doing the t56 six speed…. Well let me rephrase that I haven’t purchased the transmission yet so probably the magnum which is also a 6 speed …you should checkout Jim stones build he’s doing a coupe with a Ls and 6speed as well … his attention to detail is amazing and you will definitely be inspired by his creative abilities… lookup project Deimos I think that’s how you spell it

[Lugnut Mark]

So,late this afternoon after all my chores around the house I decide to install the front sway bar …. Funny thing is I couldn’t find any instructions on it … soooo after looking at the haerdware pack for about 10 min I think I figured it out … please have a look and let me know if I did something wrong …. That’s all to report for now …. Any and all input is welcome … thanks 223362223363223364

[Power Surge]

So,late this afternoon after all my chores around the house I decide to install the front sway bar …. Funny thing is I couldn’t find any instructions on it … soooo after looking at the haerdware pack for about 10 min I think I figured it out … please have a look and let me know if I did something wrong …. That’s all to report for now …. Any and all input is welcome … thanks 223362223363223364

The coupe manual says nothing about the front sway bar. I used the directions for the sway bar from the parts site page. But even that, is for Roadster which is not quite the same.

Below is how I did mine. Really just a matter of how you decide to space it all on the long bolt. One thing to mention.... with any kind of Heim end, you always want an outside washer that's larger than the ball socket of the end. This way if the socket fails, the Heim end can't completely fall off what it's attached to.

https://i.ibb.co/Lz9F7Zgv/20251228-195544.jpg (https://ibb.co/5Ws0HRj2)

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Sal for the info and that’s great advice about putting a flat washer so in case of a failure I will still have some sort of backup … I’ll put some flat washers on the sway bar bolts tomorrow . So the other day I was thinking about how uncomfortable I am sitting in my coupe with the seats that I purchased … after doing a little research it seems that my only option to get the most legroom was,to go with the Kirkey fixed racing seat. So I bite the bullet and ordered one from summit with the Kirkey seat mounts . Well $685 dollars later the seat arrived today and man what a difference I can actually be super comfortable in the car now! I guess with the seat frame being flat aluminum and thinner padding it makes all the difference… plus I measured the seat layback in my truck that’s my daily and it’s at 22.5 degrees and the Kirkey has adjusts from 18-23 degrees …. It sucks that one seat costs so much but to me it’s worth it … if I can’t be comfortable in a car that I built for myself then Houston we have a problem! That’s all to report for now ….thanks again Sal 223425223426223427

[JimStone]

Yeah, that seat looks to sit back a good inch or 2 more than my Braum seats. And probably are an inch thinner, so you gain quite a bit of legroom.

I admit to buying the coolest looking seats I could find that technically fit. Probably should have thought more about comfort

[JTG]

Thanks Sal for the info and that’s great advice about putting a flat washer so in case of a failure I will still have some sort of backup … I’ll put some flat washers on the sway bar bolts tomorrow . So the other day I was thinking about how uncomfortable I am sitting in my coupe with the seats that I purchased … after doing a little research it seems that my only option to get the most legroom was,to go with the Kirkey fixed racing seat. So I bite the bullet and ordered one from summit with the Kirkey seat mounts . Well $685 dollars later the seat arrived today and man what a difference I can actually be super comfortable in the car now! I guess with the seat frame being flat aluminum and thinner padding it makes all the difference… plus I measured the seat layback in my truck that’s my daily and it’s at 22.5 degrees and the Kirkey has adjusts from 18-23 degrees …. It sucks that one seat costs so much but to me it’s worth it … if I can’t be comfortable in a car that I built for myself then Houston we have a problem! That’s all to report for now ….thanks again Sal 223425223426223427

I've spent way too much time looking at seats, and found myself revisiting the Kirkey options a few days again possibly with custom covers. What size did you get? One of my concerns is being able to take passengers who might carry a few more pounds around the middle than I do. I'd hate to have to ask peoples waist size before offering a ride.

[Lugnut Mark]

So mine are the 18 inch wide ones …. They are the Kirkey road race hence the shoulder bolsters … now when it comes to waistline I’m a 38 inch waist and I fit very comfortably in jeans and work shoes in these seats . I suppose if I had to wear a 20 layer fire suit for racing then it might be a bit snug but for cruising and spirited driving I’m good …. So today when I got finished with supper I went outside and decided to install my 3 reservoirs for front,rear brake and clutch …. Now I gotta tell you guys if you have not got with Brent from snakebite motor works y’all are nuts…. His parts are so nice and the instructions he provides are bar none the best . I decide to mount my reservoirs on the inboard frame rail,so that it matches my linear pontoon covers also purchased from Brent. All in all it took me about twenty minutes to do the install and that includes me fabbing up my own reservoir mounting bracket …. I also have the glovebox kit from Brent that’s probably next on my to do list which I’m looking forward to … well that’s all for now HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL …. LUGNUT OUT! 223450223451223452223453

[Lugnut Mark]

The part #’s for my Kirkey seats and mounting brackets are in this photo 223454

[burchfieldb]

So mine are the 18 inch wide ones …. They are the Kirkey road race hence the shoulder bolsters … now when it comes to waistline I’m a 38 inch waist and I fit very comfortably in jeans and work shoes in these seats . I suppose if I had to wear a 20 layer fire suit for racing then it might be a bit snug but for cruising and spirited driving I’m good …. So today when I got finished with supper I went outside and decided to install my 3 reservoirs for front,rear brake and clutch …. Now I gotta tell you guys if you have not got with Brent from snakebite motor works y’all are nuts…. His parts are so nice and the instructions he provides are bar none the best . I decide to mount my reservoirs on the inboard frame rail,so that it matches my linear pontoon covers also purchased from Brent. All in all it took me about twenty minutes to do the install and that includes me fabbing up my own reservoir mounting bracket …. I also have the glovebox kit from Brent that’s probably next on my to do list which I’m looking forward to … well that’s all for now HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL …. LUGNUT OUT! 223450223451223452223453

Thanks for the glowing review of the parts Mark. I was just getting ready to post an update on this for my build. I finished fabbing a custom overflow tank and power steering reservoir this week, so that all of the caps match under the hood, and I have enough capacity for the coolant overflow. I also purchased an extra reservoir for wiper fluid. It won't be a lot of fluid, but this also is not my daily driver.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=223466&d=1767276136

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=223467&d=1767276136

[Namrups]

I've spent way too much time looking at seats, and found myself revisiting the Kirkey options a few days again possibly with custom covers. What size did you get? One of my concerns is being able to take passengers who might carry a few more pounds around the middle than I do. I'd hate to have to ask peoples waist size before offering a ride.

You would be suprised who will contort themselves to get a ride and be happy doing it! I've had folks well over 200 lbs and over 6 feet in height strap in for a ride. Granted we are talking about rides of less than 30 mins in length. Anything over 30 mins I consider a road trip! I did have a friend that was over 6 ft and 200 lbs take the 6 hr round trip drive to FF with me but he owns a roadster so he know what it was like riding in one of these cars. Point being, build the car the way you want. If they want a ride bad enough they will find a way in and out!

Scott

[Lugnut Mark]

So before I send these footbox panels off for powder coating is there any other holes that need to drilled other than for electrical, brakes lines and reservoirs and AC/heater box ? I have holes in the upper cowl for control pack … will windshield wipers require any pass through?223592

[PNWTim]

Mark - I drilled a hole for the wiring for the windshield wiper motor in the firewall down low. Also, I am not sure where you put your heater control valve but if up top you will need a hole under the bracket for the wiring into the footbox/AC unit. I also needed one additional hole for my gauge water and oil sending units as they are stand alone and not part of any of the harnesses.

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Tim that’s great information… just what I needed to know … I’m in the process of final footbox fitting before powdercoat and don’t want to have to be drilling on freshly coated panels… I’m pretty excited FF5 finally sent me my motor mounts and a couple of other pieces that I’ve been waiting on for engine install so it’s full steam ahead now !223600223601

[Power Surge]

This is just my personal feeling... so definitely take it with a grain of salt, but...

I am not planning to powdercoat ANY panels until after the car is in fully assembled go cart stage. I know from past builds, that there's always something you miss, or want to add later on, or need to access... I don't like the idea of having to pull off any panels once they are siliconed and riveted in place. Also eliminates the chances of scratching any panels up during the process.

[Lugnut Mark]

Well today I decided to mount my Kirkey seat in a fixed position where I know I will be comfortable. I fabbed up some quick support brackets that go under the Kirkey seat brackets this way the seat has plenty of support and bolts to chassis and metal floor pan . I also sealed up all of my brake npt fittings with teflon tape LOL JUST KIDDING …. I used the loctite 545 that so many of you guys recommended.. that’s all to report for now 223640223641223642

[Lugnut Mark]

223643223644]

Different angles.

[MSumners]

So today was a productive day for me in the shop . I managed to get almost all of the aluminum panels fitted and drilled today. There are still some panels in a box but I believe they are for under the hood and quarter splash guards. I purchased over 300 cleco’s and still did not have enough for every hole had to space them out like every other hole . Still all and all was very satisfied with the progress I made today. I was wondering if anyone knows what the cost is to powder coat all of these panels …. Would like to match the flat black for all 50 panels plus the door parts etc etc …I’m just looking for a ballpark figure if anyone knows and feels like sharing what they paided. 220741220742220743

Minus the door frames I was ballpark 700 for the powder coating most panels. If I chose a powder they were already running likely would have been a bit less.

[Lugnut Mark]

Well today I decided to repair the seatbelt tab that I cut out before I chose to go with the Kirkey seats …. Now granted it’s definitely not my prettiest weld but it gets the job done …and viola with a little flat black we are good as new ! Also installed new steering wheel I’m still waiting on my quick release to show up but wanted to mock up the wheel to see if I like it … to be honest I’m kinda digging the yellow . That’s all to report for now 223677223678223679223680

[Papa]

Mark,

What is your opinion of the quality of the NRG steering wheel? I'm seeing some less than favorable reviews on some of their wheels. I guess if I order it from Amazon, I can always return it if it doesn't look like I expect it to look. I've been eying one that is carbon fiber with black leather grip areas and red stitching.

Dave

[Power Surge]

Mark,

What is your opinion of the quality of the NRG steering wheel? I'm seeing some less than favorable reviews on some of their wheels. I guess if I order it from Amazon, I can always return it if it doesn't look like I expect it to look. I've been eying one that is carbon fiber with black leather grip areas and red stitching.

Dave

Dave, I'll give you my experience... bought one of their carbon wheels for my GTM. The quality is on par with the price. Not the best, but pretty decent. My big gripe, was that the wheel was not manufactured symmetrically. Drove me nuts just looking at it. NRG wouldn't do anything about, I was pretty much stuck with it. Their quick release set up was really nice though.

Not sure if you can tell in this pic, but the leather on the left side goes up about a half in more towards the top than the leather on the right side. Looking at others online, EVERY one of this model of wheel was like this. Also, where the leather meets the carbon, wasn't fitted the best, with some gapping.

https://i.ibb.co/fncd59G/20240504-150431.jpg (https://ibb.co/3MJmqvY)

[Lugnut Mark]

To be honest Dave the quality seems pretty good compared to what I paided for it . The wheel I selected costs came in just under $150 …. All in all the stitching could be a little tighter but the alcantara looks and feels great … plus they have a wide array of colors and options to chose from!

[David Williamson]

With my kirkey high back seats I found they were too flexible with only the lower mounts. I added a 3rd seat mount on the seat back to the car frame cross member at the front of the trunk.
David W

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks for the heads up ! David W

[Jeff Kleiner]

With my kirkey high back seats I found they were too flexible with only the lower mounts. I added a 3rd seat mount on the seat back to the car frame cross member at the front of the trunk.
David W

Yes, Kirkey specifies that the upper mount be used.

https://kirkeyracing.com/products/kirkey-racing-3-16-aluminum-rear-seat-mount-38-41-55-55v-65-series

Jeff

[Lugnut Mark]

Hello gentlemen… Sorry I haven’t posted anything in a while …. Now if you didn’t already know I made the decision to paint my panels that are exposed under the hood on my coupe . When I say paint them I mean paint them body color , I know this is a lot of extra work being that the panels are aluminum and all but I think the look will be well worth it .. that being said kinda right in the middle of prepping all the panels for etch primer , then sealer ,then Basecoat and finally clearcoat …. The slow progress is that it has been pretty cold here in southern Georgia and the place where I get my kerosene for my heater their pump has been down . However yesterday I was able to get some so I’ll be back at it this evening . That’s all to report for now 224502224503224504. Also I have landed on a color for my coupe I decided to do it in SHELTER GREEN METALLIC it’s a ford color from a 2026 RAPTOR R 224505 btw that is just etch primer on those panels it is NOT the body color !224506

[Papa]

Nice work on the panels, Mark. That's a lot of work, but probably worth it in the end. My PC bill was $1700!!! I like the color choice, too. I can visualize that color on the curves of the Coupe with the bronze wheels, and I think it will look pretty sharp.

[JTG]

Mark,

We're considering something similar for our panels as I have access to a spray booth and all the equipment. I'll be following along to see how you make out, and learn what I can from your adventures.

Also, I love the color choice! It's not a color we would choose, but it's outside of the usual blue, grey, and red and I respect that.

Good luck!
Jon

[460.465USMC]

In general, I'm a big fan of green. Nice choice. Like JTG, I applaud that you're coloring outside the lines. Looking forward to seeing those panels in the Raptor R color.

[Lugnut Mark]

Alright alright alright ….. so today I managed to get most of my foot box panels based and cleared body color …. Overall they came out ok …. I’m not happy with how much orange peel I have in my finish ….. so I will let them sit a week and then cut and buff before final install . Pretty sure it was a result of doing them at home as opposed to my booth at work ….lighting and all in my home shop just isn’t the same and I forgot my Luma III gun light at work. So in the pictures the color appears black but it is green with brown and gold metallics in the sunlight and flops to black in the shade or dim lighting. That’s all to report for now 224715224716224717224718

Btw I did reprime my panels with a grey 2k primer on top of the etch primer before I applied base and clear …

[8secDuster]

Cool color Mark.
Cant wait to see the Bronze wheels against it.

[Lugnut Mark]

So I got a little bored last night and after dinner I decided to go out to the shop , well one thing lead to another and WHAM engine got installed ….. that was after I installed and sealed my footbox panels. She pretty much fell right in … I will say this ….. there is about and eighth of an inch clearance between engine and steering shaft when going in so for all you guys whom haven’t installed your engine yet just bear that in mind … that’s all to report for now 224864224863224865

[Lugnut Mark]

Yeah boy !224866224867

[JimStone]

Well that was a productive evening! Congrats. Engine looks good in there

[Papa]

Nice! Any pics of that steering shaft clearance?

[burchfieldb]

Wow, that is looking sweet!

[Lugnut Mark]

Sorry Dave I didn’t think to take any photos of the clearance issue as I was installing the engine … but with the alternator installed their is only about an eight of an inch clearance between the alternator and the steering shaft however once past the steering shaft plenty of clearance …. The alternator sits lower than the steering shaft is what I’m trying to say 224901
If you blow up this photo you can kinda see what I mean look at the steering knuckle in relation to the alternator

[Papa]

Thanks Mark. That answered what I was getting at. I've read other posts that suggest removing the alternator before installing the engine, so I will likely go that route when the time comes.

Dave

[Lugnut Mark]

Here you go Dave ….. some pics of clearance it’s tight but she fits nicely 224904224905224906

[Papa]

Here you go Dave ….. some pics of clearance it’s tight but she fits nicely 224904224905224906

Thanks again, Mark. I may still pull the alternator before I try to install the engine, which I don't even have yet ... just trying to plan ahead as much as possible.

Dave

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey all I’ve started the laborious task of sound proofing the cockpit I have 2 layers of the typical aluminum sided material then one layer of the gold heat reflecting barrier on the outside lower door panel …. That’s right where the side exhaust will run …. That’s all to report for now 225598225599

[Lugnut Mark]

225621225622225623

Added a couple of more photos of the in progress sound proofing process … say that 5x fast lol225625225624
Also I have the fuse box master fuse and computer permanently mounted … this is where everything will live going forward

[Papa]

Nice progress, Mark. Where did you source the ECU housing? That looks much cleaner than the bare ECU.

Dave

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey Dave I sourced the ECU housing from a company called fat fender garage see attached photo 225659

[Papa]

Hey Dave I sourced the ECU housing from a company called fat fender garage see attached photo 225659

I don't see a Gen 4 version on their site. Did you have any fitment issues mounting a Gen 4 ECU?

[bishes]

I don't see a Gen 4 version on their site. Did you have any fitment issues mounting a Gen 4 ECU?

Isn't the gen 4 ECU the same part as the gen 3?

[Papa]

Isn't the gen 4 ECU the same part as the gen 3?

Good question -- I'm not 100% sure.

[460.465USMC]

My understanding is the same as bishes above, the Coyote Gen 4 PCM has the same form factor. Having handled both the Gen 3 and Gen 4 PCMs, I would be hard pressed to discern a physical difference. In fact, the Gen 4 Ford Performance PCM harnesses shipped to me are labeled as Gen 3 harnesses (Gen 3 started in 2018). I'm sure this could be confirmed on the InterWebs, but I haven't looked.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=225673&d=1771175153


https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=225674&d=1771175153


However, I found a few differences in the control pack branches. I removed the ones boxed in red, as they didn't apply to my build, e.g. C8 PATS module.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=223256&d=1766680158

Sorry, Mark. Back to your build....

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey guys sorry for the slow response…. Been busy with work stuff and family stuff ….. yeah no fitment issues with the ecu box for gen 3pcm as well as gen 4 same size…… Chris and bishes are correct !

[Lugnut Mark]

So there has been some progress on my coupe lately… mostly just sound deadening and small stuff like short a/c lines done and working on wiring ….. wiring I must say is not my strong suit so it’s taking me a little bit longer than most …… that’s all to report for now 225882225883225884

[Lugnut Mark]

Good day all …. So I have made the decision to try and get this coupe ready for first start …. With that being said installed radiator , side exhaust ,battery and a couple of other things … also decided to buy the breeze fan shroud so that is going to slow me down until that shows up …. Has anyone installed the overflow tank that FF provides with cooling system ? If so where have you mounted it …. In addition to the shroud I still have to wire up under dash stuff …. (Ignition , headlight switch etc etc ) but we are getting close to having fire in the pipes 226298226299226300226301
That’s all to report for now !

[Sharris2]

Looks good, I did notice in your pictures you might have to re route your heater hoses from the front of the passenger side foot box. The top AC fitting is a 90 degree that runs the large AC line through that area.

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey all … it’s been about a month since I’ve touched the coupe with spring and all and being in a new home the wife has had all sorts of spring projects taking up all of my spare time .. with that being said I have managed to get everything wired up and ready for first start but have a question? Will the engine crank and potentially start if I don’t have my t 56 installed as of yet …. The reason I asked is because I was messing with the power steering pump and tried to bump the car over to get the belt off ….. when I did fuel pressure came up to 55 pounds I heard the throttle body blade close but when I bumped the key I had a no crank …. I removed starter and bench tested it at my local oreilys and it passed with flying colors… btw I was stepping on the clutch pedal to engage the clutch safety switch I’m just not sure if the control pack will allow engine to crank without the transmission pigtail hooked up … anyone have any insight ? I also already checked the inertia switch and it is pressed in ! I’m thinking I have to have trans installed to run engine please help

[edwardb]

Hey all … it’s been about a month since I’ve touched the coupe with spring and all and being in a new home the wife has had all sorts of spring projects taking up all of my spare time .. with that being said I have managed to get everything wired up and ready for first start but have a question? Will the engine crank and potentially start if I don’t have my t 56 installed as of yet …. The reason I asked is because I was messing with the power steering pump and tried to bump the car over to get the belt off ….. when I did fuel pressure came up to 55 pounds I heard the throttle body blade close but when I bumped the key I had a no crank …. I removed starter and bench tested it at my local oreilys and it passed with flying colors… btw I was stepping on the clutch pedal to engage the clutch safety switch I’m just not sure if the control pack will allow engine to crank without the transmission pigtail hooked up … anyone have any insight ? I also already checked the inertia switch and it is pressed in ! I’m thinking I have to have trans installed to run engine please help

The crate Coyote with the Ford Performance control pack and manual transmission (T56 in this case) doesn't have any electronic communication with the transmission. The PCM doesn't know (or care...) if your T56 is installed or not. I assume you have the Coyote control pack starter lead on the small post on the start as opposed to the blue RF starter lead? Also assuming your clutch safety switch is closing when you pus the clutch down (easy check with any type of continuity tester) the next place to look would be the Light Blue Starter Motor Request (SMR) wire in the Coyote pigtail. Is it getting +12V from the ignition switch when you go to the start position? The fact that you have fuel pressure and the throttle body is active suggests you have power in the PDB and Light Green Ignition Relay Trigger also in the Coyote pigtail is getting +12V with the ignition on. The Coyote really is pretty straightforward to connect and start. Not many places to look.

You have the engine balanced/braced somehow? Without the transmission and rear transmission mount, the engine is very unbalanced. I know this from a mockup I did. Also I expect you don't have sidepipes? That would make the out of balance even worse. Open header start? Did it one. Won't do it again.

[Lugnut Mark]

Hey Paul … thank you for responding …to answer your question I do not have any bracing setup to support engine …. With that being said I’m probably just going to wait on first fire until I get tranny installed … also I will test the neutral safety switch and check to see if I’m getting 12 volts from to the smr wire tonight when I get home from work as far as the starter solenoid is concerned please see attached photo and let me know if anything is wired up incorrectly… thanks for your help
Best Regards
Mark

Ps for some reason I can’t upload photos at the moment

[Lugnut Mark]

Can anyone please post pics of a Gen4x starter solenoid wiring setup that is currently running …. I believe I have mine correct but just want to doublecheck ….for some reason I can’t manage to post pics at the moment

[PNWTim]

Can anyone please post pics of a Gen4x starter solenoid wiring setup that is currently running …. I believe I have mine correct but just want to doublecheck ….for some reason I can’t manage to post pics at the moment

Here is mine Mark:

228185

Technically, mine is not running but I am 99.9% certain this is correct.

[Lugnut Mark]

Ok so the blue wire is out of your control pack and the red wire on the positive post is from your battery correct with the Ron Francis red wires from the chassis harness .on mine the wire out of the control pack was black in color did you lengthen yours ?

[PNWTim]

Ok so the blue wire is out of your control pack and the red wire on the positive post is from your battery correct with the Ron Francis red wires from the chassis harness .on mine the wire out of the control pack was black in color did you lengthen yours ?

That is correct. The light blue wire is the starter motor request wire and I don't think I needed to lengthen it. The starter cable comes from the battery post on my cutoff switch so essentially from the battery. I think the only black wire in my control pack was a ground so that's a little odd. Even my Ford Racing instructions call out the blue wire as the starter motor request wire:

228189

[Papa]

Mark,

What control pack version do you have? I'm looking at the Gen4x M-6017-M50HM instructions and see the following:

Connector C160B pin #3 - Light Blue - Starter Motor Request (SMR)

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228194&d=1776214290

I plan to use the Ron Francis EFI Crank (light blue) wire that is connected to the start post on the ignition switch to provide the +12v to this when the key is in the start position. I'll use the orange EFI/Coil wire in the Ron Francis harness to tie into the Ignition Relay Trigger (pin 5 in connector C160B). The Fuel Pump Relay Out (pin 1) will get tied to the fuel pump relay input in the Ron Francis fuse block.

It looks like this connector gets mated with C160A that goes to the PCM. Then, the harness leg (H) goes to the starter.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228192&d=1776214290

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228193&d=1776214290

[Papa]

I forgot to mention I'll be using "Setup B" for my car. That's the one that uses a standard ignition switch, not separate ignition and start switches.

[Papa]

That is correct. The light blue wire is the starter motor request wire and I don't think I needed to lengthen it. The starter cable comes from the battery post on my cutoff switch so essentially from the battery. I think the only black wire in my control pack was a ground so that's a little odd. Even my Ford Racing instructions call out the blue wire as the starter motor request wire:

228189

Tim,

The SMR should not go to the starter. The SMR needs to have +12v when you press the start button or turn the key to the start position. That signals the PCM to send power to the starter leg (H) from the PCM.

Dave

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Dave and Tim for your help …. The way I have mine wired up is the H lead circled in red in the picture going to my starter on the small post and then my RF harness wires and my battery cable going to the positive post on my starter …. Thanks again …. I wish I could post pics but for some reason this iPad won’t let me currently…. Btw I have the same control pack part# M-6017-M50HM

[PNWTim]

Tim,

The SMR should not go to the starter. The SMR needs to have +12v when you press the start button or turn the key to the start position. That signals the PCM to send power to the starter leg (H) from the PCM.

Dave

I suppose I misspoke - I refer to the blue wire as the SMR as it's essentially just a continuation of the wire that goes to my starter push button. Thanks for the correction.

[Lugnut Mark]

Trying to post pics this is just a test

[Skuzzy]

Trying to post pics this is just a test

Failed?

[Lugnut Mark]

lol …. for sure skuzzy Do you know if their was an update to the website recently because I cannot upload pics anymore

[Papa]

I think the picture issue is a file size thing. I always scale my high-res phone pics by 50% before uploading to the gallery and I haven't had any issues.

[Skuzzy]

lol …. for sure skuzzy Do you know if their was an update to the website recently because I cannot upload pics anymore

I believe I saw a post, from the admin, about there being a picture size issue and he was working on it. The issue was introduced when the server got moved.

[Lugnut Mark]

So don’t let anyone tell you that a $7.49 cent fuse is the problem when trying to crank your coupe over for the very first time …. lol �� would y’all believe that was all it was …..when trying to crank over … now to get this tranny installed and get ready for go-kart action ! So the good news is that she cranks over with no problem however I didn’t start it as per Paul aka (Edward b ) recommendations because my trans is not installed yet …. Don’t want to have an unstable condition that could potentially lead to header or side pipe damage …. I’m just waiting on my standup tranny jack to arrive from summit today so I can get this thing fired up …… Exciting times ahead

P.S. so when my tranny jack shows up I will install transmission so that I will have a balanced condition to fire up and drive the coupe …. In case I wasn’t clear earlier…

P.S.S. Burnouts incoming ��

[bishes]

Maybe I missed it but it sounds like you're installing the engine and transmission separately? Please let me know how that works out for you as I would prefer to do it the same way rather than try to finagle the whole assembly in at one time.

[Lugnut Mark]

Yeah so that didn’t work out …. I had to pull the motor today attached trans and reinstall everything… I’m in the middle of the process now ……should have it all back together by 3 o’clock today … so moral of the story it’s easiest to follow FF instruction and install as one unit ….. don’t do what I did …it’s double the work !

[PNWTim]

Yeah so that didn’t work out …. I had to pull the motor today attached trans and reinstall everything… I’m in the middle of the process now ……should have it all back together by 3 o’clock today … so moral of the story it’s easiest to follow FF instruction and install as one unit ….. don’t do what I did …it’s double the work !

I prefer to think of it as twice the fun. That way I don't throw my torque wrench through the small windows on my garage door.

[Skuzzy]

I prefer to think of it as twice the fun. That way I don't throw my torque wrench through the small windows on my garage door.

I solved that problem by getting rid of the windows. :)

[Lugnut Mark]

Twice the fun is right Tim …. I’ve got to say it was pretty easy and I enjoyed going back through and cleaning up some of the wiring routing. Almost completely back together… had to cut it short have to watch my grandson play hockey at 4 pm today . I’ve just got to install headers ,starter and alternator and that should do it . Oh and I have to fill the trans with fluid and bleed the hydraulic throw out bearing …. Driveshafts in and all torqued to spec… shouldn’t be long before first start and go kart !

[Papa]

You're making quick work of the build. You'll be on the road before the end of this year's driving season.

[Lugnut Mark]

Well …….we have a runner …. Got my coupe back together today filled the trans with fluid did a final nut and bolt check cranked it about 3-4 times and she fired right up …. Letting it cool down now as we speak …. Going to try and bleed the Tilton hydraulic throw out bearing later and need to fix one little fuel leak right where the line meets the rail ….. maybe next weekend I’ll do my first drive if all goes well ….. YEE HAWW should have a go kart real soon !

[Papa]

Well …….we have a runner …. Got my coupe back together today filled the trans with fluid did a final nut and bolt check cranked it about 3-4 times and she fired right up …. Letting it cool down now as we speak …. Going to try and bleed the Tilton hydraulic throw out bearing later and need to fix one little fuel leak right where the line meets the rail ….. maybe next weekend I’ll do my first drive if all goes well ….. YEE HAWW should have a go kart real soon !

Congratulations!

[Skuzzy]

Congratulations!

[PNWTim]

That's pretty exciting and quick! Well done.

[8secDuster]

Thats Awesome Mark!

Congrats!

[JimStone]

Awesome!

[Lugnut Mark]

So my question is what is everyone using for a clutch pedal stop …. Is there a stop that’s pretty common or is everyone just fabbing up their own?

[Railroad]

You can buy an elevator bolt, or get a leveling bolt from a used washing machine or refrig.

[460.465USMC]

Congrats on First Start, Mark! Good to read about successful first starts on the Gen4x. I hope to get there...eventually.

Regarding a clutch pedal stop, I did what Railroad suggests above. Went the DIY route on my last build--aluminum bar stock fastened to the FB. It's adjustable as needed for clutch wear. I don't know if I'll need one yet with my McCleod hydraulic throw out bearing setup. But if I do, I'll likely make something similar. If I recall, I ordered a threaded hood stop bumper for a 70s (80s?) Camaro.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=169481&d=1658019379

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks for replying Chris … I do like that setup and will probably do some thing similar… thanks for the picture that’s exactly what I needed to see !

[460.465USMC]

I actually found the old order in my Amazon account: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XH7KJR1?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_ti tle_3. No longer available, but I'm sure there's alternatives if you're interested.

[Lugnut Mark]

Thanks Chris !

[exegesis]

Whoops I almost forgot here are some pics of what I do have so far plus my 1600sq ft home shop that I will be building the coupe in 219620219621219622
Hey Mark, those wheels look great... really nice choice.
I was looking at the website for the Forgestar F14s, but when I check their listed specs I didn’t see options that line up with the typical wheel fitment that's needed for these cars (18x9 +24 front / 18x11 +12 rear, 5x114.3). Did you order those as a custom spec, or is there a specific configuration I might be missing?
Also curious what tire sizes you are running with them. I really like how your setup is turning out, and I'm enjoying watching your build.

[Lugnut Mark]

They are custom spec … I got them from the wheel repository here on the forums … they are the same as snowman’s specs for both the wheels and tires … do a search for the wheel repository and close to the bottom you will find snowman’s specs ! My wheels are 19x10 in the front and 19x12 in the rear! And I love them!

[Lugnut Mark]

Well people we had our first drive today in the coupe …. It was pretty short just down to the culver sac and back but it still counts as my first go kart ride …. What a feeling … no burnouts today because the tires on the coupe are super tacky and I have a milling’s driveway (rocks) and just idling down I was getting pelted with rocks. Can’t wait to have some clear roadway to let her rip though …. Going to have to put extra chip guard on this one once I paint it lol..

[460.465USMC]

Congrats, Mark!

[Power Surge]

Damn Mark, you're moving along! (pun intended). Awesome day for you my friend!

[JimStone]

Wow awesome! Sounds exciting.

I think I'm getting close to my first drive too (I say that, but I'll probably get side tracked with something unrelated again)

[Papa]

Congratulations, Mark!