Greetings from Southern New Jersey [Archive]

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NJMike

11-10-2025, 02:09 PM

Hello All,
After stalking this Forum and the FF site for the better part of 18 years, I'm happy to say that I've finally placed an order for a MKIV Roadster. I ordered the complete package with just about every option, thanks to the 50% off sale. I have a completion date of December 20th, so hopefully I'll have it by the end of the year.

I've recently retired and with colleges, weddings and mortgages all behind me I figure it's my turn and it's "now or never". I just hope that I'm not too old for such a complex project, that's where you all come in :). Over the years I've read many, many times where builders reach out for help or advice and it always amazes me how the members of this forum jump in to help. It's been many years since I've seriously wrenched on a car, but I wanted a project where I could spend some quality time with my adult son.

I'm located in New Jersey and as you can imagine NJ is a very restrictive state. I would be very interested in learning about some of the inspection issues that I have to be aware of, particularly emissions and safety devices. Also recommendations of vendors for powder coating, ceramic coating, paint and body work.

I look forward to learning from such a great group of people.

Stangrob

11-10-2025, 02:27 PM

Hey Mike,

First off, congrats! I'm in a very similar situation, and as a matter of fact my 289 FIA kit is being delivered next week :)

Where in south Jersey are you? I'm in West Long Branch (exit 105 off the GSP).

I'd be happy to share what I've learned about the titling process in Jersey. And yes, it's non-trivial but definitely doable.

Rob

NJMike

11-10-2025, 02:36 PM

Hi Rob,
Congrats on your 289 FIA kit. I'm in Voorhees, most have not heard of it so I usually tell people that I am right next to Cherry Hill, it's a good hour from Long Branch. Long Branch used to be my stomping grounds back in the day...lol. Let me know how the delivery goes.

jts359

11-10-2025, 07:14 PM

Rob , if you a need a hand unloading or moving parts in the later parts of next week I'm available , Ed MKII

Stangrob

11-10-2025, 09:46 PM

Mike,

There is an information packet that the NJ MVC provides on how to go about titling a car such as the FFR roadster, and it goes into the details of what we must meet from an inspection perspective. I managed to find the right department in Trenton, where someone emailed me the forms. Unfortunately, this forum won't allow me to upload the document (too large) and I can't find it online (naturally). If you'd like I can email you a copy if you're interested else you can call the Special/Foreign Title Division in Trenton at (609) 292-6500 x5064 and ask for the Reconstruction Packet (R8/15). Feel free to PM me if you'd like me to email you the package.

A few highlights that will be important to know...
- When titling your car you'll receive two dates on the title. One is the year of manufacture, and the other is the year used to drive emissions testing. If your roadster is completed in 2026 then that'll be your manufacturer date. The second date is based on the engine - more specifically, the date of the block. For example, if you use a Blueprint engine then the emissions date will be when that engine was built, and you'll need to meet the corresponding emissions standards. The same goes if you used a Coyote or similar late-model engine. If you use an early SBF, such as a 289 or 302 from a 60's/70's Ford then that will be the date that will drive your emissions. In my case, I'm using a 289 block from a '68 Mustang and building an engine around it.
- If you are using a vintage block or used engine then you must be the titled owner of the car that the engine came from. Jersey says they do this to prevent stolen engines from being used for these cars. I bought a basket case '68 Mustang and will be registering it to meet this requirement. If you buy a new engine from Blueprint or someone like Mike Forte then they'll provide documentation.
- NJ requires wipers and heater/defroster.
- You're not allowed to have anything hanging lower than the frame on our cars. I believe that also applies to the exhaust as well (which might be interesting with my 289 FIA car).
- If you have side pipes then you're required to have covers/shields on them to prevent burns.

I'm fortunate that one of the three specialty inspection stations is five minutes from my house, and I've talked to their lead inspector about my project. If you have any specific questions feel free to reach out to me.

Rob

NJMike

11-11-2025, 06:30 AM

Rob,

Thanks so much for this information! I had planned on using a Blueprint engine but not sure what can of worms that will open as far as emissions. I've seen a youtube video where a NJ builder was adding catalytic converters to his exhaust system, he probably had a newer engine. I'll have to see if I can find that video and reach out to him. I wonder what else is required for emissions? EGR, PCV, a computer with an access port? My wife would freak if i brought home an old jalopy just to register it and pull the engine...lol.
- I assumed the wipers and heater/defroster was required.
- I had planned on doing an under car exhaust, but those that i've seen have hung slightly below the frame. I have 2 soon to be 3 young grandchildren, 2 daughters and a wife, the odds that someone will get burned on the sidepipes seem pretty high. I wouldn't consider sidepipes without shields.
I'll send a PM with my email address, if you wouldn't mind sending the package.

BTW, if you would like a hand with the unload let me know the date and if i'm available I'll be there. However I do mean "a hand" as I've just had surgery on my wrist and elbow and can't pick up anything with my left arm. It benefit me as well to see the delivery so I would know what to expect.

Mike

Stangrob

11-11-2025, 08:32 AM

Mike,

I know the videos you're referring - he has a British accent. I saw how he had his J-pipes modified to take catalytic converters - looks slick. He's using a Blueprint 302 so he's taking the same general route you're planning. It would probably be great if you could get a hold of him and ask a few questions. I'm behind on his videos but I did catch where he's trying to deal with emissions. I suspect at the end of the day you'd need to meet the tail pipe emissions numbers - however you do that.

Another option that you could look into is having an engine built for you using a vintage block. I spoke with Mike Forte about having one built using a 289 block - that would only require use of a PVC valve. The only question I didn't resolve (because I opted to build my own engine) is what documentation would DMV need for the engine. If the engine builder is providing the block, is there a need for the original title? Since Mike is in MA and out of state, would using him to build an engine get around some of the documentation issues? If you're interested in that route it might be worth calling the number I gave earlier and asking the question. The last time I spoke with Mike he had a 289 block in stock.

Thanks!!!

Rob

NJMike

11-11-2025, 04:51 PM

Rob,

I found the video that I was looking for, the YouTube channel is "Kevin's Garage". I only had enough time today to look at the episode with the catalytic converters, I'll try to get to view some others tomorrow and maybe figure out how to contact him. I'm planning on calling the Special/Foreign Title Division tomorrow to try to determine a direction for the engine. The better solution for me is going to be if I can buy a pre-emission engine from Mike Forte or another engine re-manufacturer. I'll let you know what they say.

Mike

mrmustang

11-11-2025, 06:35 PM

Mike,

There is a group of Cobra owners/builders who meet once a month in central NJ.
Bridgewater Diner
1244 US-22
Bridgewater, New Jersey
(908) 725-8118

You can contact Jon Kay (good guy, lots of Cobra related contacts in state) at:
jonk5152 "AT" yahoo.com

for more information

Bill

NJMike

11-11-2025, 07:55 PM

Thanks Bill,

The group meeting sounds great, I'll definitely reach out once I get further along. In the mean time I'll reach out to Jon with my NJ specific questions.

Appreciate the info.

Mike

Stangrob

11-11-2025, 08:37 PM

NJMike

11-12-2025, 05:59 PM