Build Time

[Slideways]

The time is drawing near and two MK5 kits will be arriving. A close friend and I will be embarking on these builds, a first for either of us. I have lots of tools and much more mechanical experience than my buddy but most of my wrenching has been on bicycles and motorcycles. My question is how possible is it for a couple of rookies to complete these build by this December? Looking for the realistic time we should set aside each week. Also if any of you have build two cars at once best practices to make certain we stay friends. Thanks in advance for any sage words of wisdom.

[TXeverydayDad]

I believe F5 generally say 300hrs to build according to the manual. Most of us go over that…

Can you finish by Dec. Yes, there are builders that have done it in 3 months. It all depends on how much time you can spend and how much time you can spend at a time. There’s always start-up and close-out time every time you go to the garage. Are you including body work, or just mechanical? Making modifications? Building to complete or to have fun? Everything plays into how long it takes.

So, the short answer is…it depends.

[Tango]

My biggest word of advice would be to SLOW DOWN. I blasted through it according to the manual, received the kit in Apr and drove to my stop sign and back in Sept….only to later realize that there is a difference between “having it built” and “having it built right”. Wiring P-Clip attachments can be riveted, but attaching them with tapped holes / bolts makes your life 1000X easier. Drilling/tapping those holes before the motor goes in is the way to go. Standardize on a single hole/thread size for all of your frame attachments. Hope that helps.

[edwardb]

The 300 hours estimate is on the low side IMO especially for a first time and less experienced builder. But there are other variables. (1) Backordered parts. It's a reality of these builds. How many you have and where they fit into the build sequence is something you won't know until delivery. (2) Lead time for parts, like the engine, etc. My experience lately is lead times have extended. We live in a culture where we expect to click today and on our porch tomorrow. Doesn't always happen. (3) Modifications will also affect your build time. Bone stock is one thing. Changing things almost always slows things down. (4) Finally, what about paint? DIY? Or having it done? It's not a short process if you're planning on doing it yourself. If farmed out, many shops are booked or will take weeks to months.

Don't want to discourage you, because it's possible to get done as quickly as you're describing. Not for me but certainly others have. But some realism is warranted.

[Indy Shu]

Are you building them in the same shop? I think collaborating could be enjoyable if you were both in the shop mostly at the same times and kept on the same schedule. That's probably not how it will happen. Maybe once a month take time to bring both builds to the same point. The build school could probably be of value to both of you to see how these go together. Are you guys retired? I'd say 20 hrs per week to make quick progress.
Good luck!

[Jeff Kleiner]

Are you still working the "day job" and do you have family obligations? It's like TXeverydayDad said "it depends". Time is time so asking if you can be done by December is totally dependent on how much time per day, week or month you can dedicate to it. If you're able to structure at like a full time job and work on it 40 hours a week then yes, you could get it done but if it's more like a weekend hobby project with several hours on Saturday or Sunday then probably not. Examples---When I built my first I was working full 8-10 hour days and making a 2.5 hour round trip commute 5 days a week. I was able to spend an hour or two probably 3 or 4 nights per week and then spend most of the day on Saturdays and Sundays on it. I built the engine, trans and rear end. Had to make a few breaks of 1-3 weeks at a time due to travel or other obligations but completed it in 15 months including self performed body & paint. When I built #2 for a customer I was on the same full time work schedule but used a crate engine and new transmission although I did rebuild the rear end. That one took 10 months including me doing the body and paint. Every one that I have done since then has been after I started doing these cars full time. I always have more than one going at a time either for build or body & paint but if I were to work full time on only one exclusively it would run 5-6 months including body & paint.

Jeff

[PNWTim]

Some perspective from a retired guy. I built my first project while working full time. It took me about 2 1/2 years. I am now retired. My Daytona was delivered 12/24 and I am just dropping the engine in next week. I probably won't go kart until March. That will be 15 months from delivery. Even while not working, I found my progress slowed down drastically during the summer due to travel, time with kids and friends, etc. I think you can build your car in 10 months but that's all you'll be doing.

[flight_83]

no need to rush, enjoy the process. I'm going far off the build manual reservation so it's taken me a long time but if you go simple it can be done in a year or less depending on how much time you can dedicate to it. One things for sure, life will get in the way periodically. mine has sat for months at a time here and there just because of kids sports and life.

[rickster991]

I did it in ~3 months and it took 400 hrs to get it to be paint ready. I am retired with a lift and first time builder. Everything takes longer than you think. Read others threads and come here for lots of advice and answers to questions.

[drewr]

I built a coupe, so cannot comment on the roadster. It took me a little less than 18 months to build and title a complete, running car in gel coat. It took another 2 years to disassemble, do bodywork, paint, and reassemble. Almost done and coming in at 4 years since delivery. Pretty much weekends and weather dependent.

Most kits require some custom work or modifications. Most will want to add additional parts/features not included in the kit. Most end up making some mistakes that require time and parts to untangle. Study the forums and learn from those who have gone before. There are many ways to build these, but there is a particular order that seems to generate the least headaches. Spend a lot of time thinking before you do each project. There will be many times you stop and think, "Wow, I should have done that differently!"

[PMD24]

I'm tracking my hours and I'm over 500 hours, and a few days away from first start, 14 months in. I've found that it's really inefficient when your other commitments allow you to work on it an hour here, two there, etc. I get much more accomplished when I get big chunks of time on it. Researching things on the forum, buying aftermarket materials and parts takes time as well. Another big factor is how anal you are about things. If you are super picky, it takes longer, and you will tear some things out when you don't like how they went in.

Final thought... I think you'll enjoy the build process ALOT more without that December deadline.

Pat

[Slideways]

We both have been to the build school. Thanks Scott and Jim for all the knowledge you laid on us, hope we can recall when needed.
Cars will be build together in an oversized three car garage. We have other areas adjacent to the garage for storing big things until they are needed.
We had a meeting today and discussed what each of our expectations are and ironed out some things before the work starts. Tools are not an issue at all so that much is taken care of.
Just got a 36” TV hung in the shop and hooked up to the internet so we can watch build videos. Have the coffee maker and fridge in place. First funny sign is already hung; “Deadline for complaints was yesterday.”
Hope we’re headed in a good direction.

[Slideways]

‘Good advice edwardb, take a deep breath and decompress before throwing tools.
Looking at all the builds you’ve done I am impressed and flattered you have offered your advice. I’m also thinking you might need a twelve step program…. Kidding.

[gbranham]

I built my first FFR, a MkIII, in 4 months. I was in my early 30s, had a full time job, and two young kids at home. I was building like a possessed person on the weekends and evenings. Wife wasn't entirely happy about that. Basic donor build. That didn't include bodywork and paint. On my 2nd, I intentionally slow-rolled it, to enjoy the build. It took 20 months. Enjoy the build. Savor it. It's as much fun as driving...maybe even more.

Greg

[gbranham]

BTW...what's the December deadline?

[Cobraman]

It's cool you want build one, but my advice slow down enjoy the experience. Get to really know you're build. Slow and consistency wins. Mine was delivered October 2024 first start September 2025 worked on all the little issues and improvements now getting body on and fit. Also It's good to take a break sometimes for a week or so to clear the head. I have over 500 logged hours in actual building it. And many more than 500hrs on this fourm getting information ordering parts and the learning curve on those things that were not in my wheel house. Just my take on it. Good luck.

[Slideways]

BTW...what's the December deadline?

In California to register a kit car requires an exemption called an SB100. There are 500 of this issued each year and they go fast. I’d like to be able to apply for one of these one Jan 1 2027.

[Slideways]

I built my first FFR, a MkIII, in 4 months. I was in my early 30s, had a full time job, and two young kids at home. I was building like a possessed person on the weekends and evenings. Wife wasn't entirely happy about that. Basic donor build. That didn't include bodywork and paint. On my 2nd, I intentionally slow-rolled it, to enjoy the build. It took 20 months. Enjoy the build. Savor it. It's as much fun as driving...maybe even more.

Greg

Retired, no kids, no other consuming hobbies and a supportive wife. I think I can schedule time to work on this project without it badly messing with the rest of my life (I’m a rookie I could be wrong)

[progmgr1]

From what I hear, the sequence numbers are not in such high demand these days. One commenter even said that a DMV clerk told him that they hadn't issued all the available numbers in any of the last 10 years.

Another commenter wrote: "As of 8/2025: There is no SB100. The California State Bill 100 became SPCNS for Specially Constructed Vehicles after it became law. Here is the direct link to the SPCNS page on CA DMV webpage.
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety/educational-materials/fast-facts/specially-constructed-spcns-vehicles-ffvr-23/"

There are many threads on the Forum about registering a FFR in CA - some as recent as last year. Time to complete the process varies depending on your location and the experience of the DMV personnel you encounter, but be prepared for a lengthy process. Several have posted checklists that help you prepare for each step.

BTW: where in CA are you? Other builders near you may be able to offer specific advice for the area.

Keith HR #894 in Simi Valley, (SO-CAL)

[tundra2050]

I'm noobie to the build process and just started my 289 project in December. The build process, at some times, moves pretty smoothly until you run into an issue. Then it's a search of the Forum or a call/email to FFR. You'll find that both are excellent resources and experienced builders are friendly and more than happy to provide guidance. I spent 6 years as a fly on the wall watching their threads as they built some amazing machines. But it can be a bit overwhelming with all the mod/options possibilities they created or added.

I'm building in phases, trying to keep it a simple as possible and period correct. I also don't overwhelm my wife with the costs lol and I only have one side of a 2 car garage so space is limited. I'll order my rear axle when it's ready to go in. Then wheels, because I'm on a wait list for the 289 style pin drives.Then I'll finish up the aluminum and order the engine and trans and wait for that while I do body fitment. Other things that can slow the build IMO are the options and mods I didn't take into account at first. Luckily, I've been able to purchase some parts from Forum members, thanks gents!

Another issue I've run into are parts supply problems at FFR. I'm still waiting on a power steering rack I purchased back in December (should have ordered with the kit to begin with). Also, their rear brake kit is still showing out of stock. At least I already received everything I originally ordered with the kit. Another issue I recently ran into was my pre-cut dash must have been cut for someone building a 289 with Smith style gauges because the Tach and Speedo cutouts were too big and the smaller gauge cutouts were too small. And my PS trunk side panel was missing the filler neck cutout. It was on the DS panel. I emailed FFR and I'm just waiting to hear back.

In a nutshell, it can go as fast as you want when you have all the parts. But I'm enjoying the slower pace that gives me time to think over a lot of things and double check to make sure I'm doing it right. That's what I was hoping to get from the build and I believe it helps keep my brain engaged. Something I wish my father would have done. Dementia and Alzheimers is are terrible diseases.

[CW_MI]

Here is an exceptional example of the build time. The car will be in the Detroit Autorama at the end of this month.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?50295-8secDuster-s-Type-65-Coupe&p=601141&viewfull=1#post601141

I've been helping him the past year, hoping to gain some expertise to do my current Mk5 build, and I know I'm going to come nowhere near this. I'm not in a Three weeks in, and I'm finding it hard to get into a groove. I've made some mistakes that I've had to back track and fix. I'm enjoying the build, but am finding that I overthink things, which definitely slows productivity down. The thing to remember is, don't get frustrated, and if you do...walk away and return the next day.

My goal is to have it ready for the body shop by fall of this year, in reality, I'm thinking it will be more like spring.

[Blitzboy54]

I built 2 as someone working a full time job. Both took about a year without body and paint work. If I was retired and had all the parts 3 months would be about right. It really depends on what you want to put into it, how much custom work your going to do, parts lead time etc.

[2nd2none]

From what I hear, the sequence numbers are not in such high demand these days. One commenter even said that a DMV clerk told him that they hadn't issued all the available numbers in any of the last 10 years.

Another commenter wrote: "As of 8/2025: There is no SB100. The California State Bill 100 became SPCNS for Specially Constructed Vehicles after it became law. Here is the direct link to the SPCNS page on CA DMV webpage.
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety/educational-materials/fast-facts/specially-constructed-spcns-vehicles-ffvr-23/"

There are many threads on the Forum about registering a FFR in CA - some as recent as last year. Time to complete the process varies depending on your location and the experience of the DMV personnel you encounter, but be prepared for a lengthy process. Several have posted checklists that help you prepare for each step.

BTW: where in CA are you? Other builders near you may be able to offer specific advice for the area.

Keith HR #894 in Simi Valley, (SO-CAL)

I'm in San Diego and also try to closely follow any updates with the registration process as I build my own Mk5. I think its just a terminology thing as far as there no longer being SB100. According to the DMV page you have linked, its just being referred to as the SPCNS Certificate of Sequence and it still only allows 500 a year. I've also heard there is no longer the rush to get there at the beginning of the year to ensure you're one of the 500.

[defilade]

From what I hear, the sequence numbers are not in such high demand these days. One commenter even said that a DMV clerk told him that they hadn't issued all the available numbers in any of the last 10 years.


This is what I heard from the DMV referee a few years ago as well.

[drewr]

I registered mine in CA a couple of years ago. They don't even come close to running out of sequence numbers. The real issue is the ridiculous number of steps required. It took me close to 6 months just waiting for my turn, getting the various appointments, and dealing with the fact that the local DMV had no idea how the process worked.

[Slideways]

From what I hear, the sequence numbers are not in such high demand these days. One commenter even said that a DMV clerk told him that they hadn't issued all the available numbers in any of the last 10 years.

Another commenter wrote: "As of 8/2025: There is no SB100. The California State Bill 100 became SPCNS for Specially Constructed Vehicles after it became law. Here is the direct link to the SPCNS page on CA DMV webpage.
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety/educational-materials/fast-facts/specially-constructed-spcns-vehicles-ffvr-23/"

There are many threads on the Forum about registering a FFR in CA - some as recent as last year. Time to complete the process varies depending on your location and the experience of the DMV personnel you encounter, but be prepared for a lengthy process. Several have posted checklists that help you prepare for each step.

BTW: where in CA are you? Other builders near you may be able to offer specific advice for the area.

Keith HR #894 in Simi Valley, (SO-CAL)

I am almost next door to you in Camarillo.

[drewr]

I am almost next door to you in Camarillo.

I’m in Santa Barbara but I had the BAR appointments in Oxnard.

[progmgr1]

A roadster builder in Oak Park (TO / Westlake Village area) said (in 2024): "I used West Hollywood on the recommendation of another forum member. I would not say the man who helped me was all that familiar, but he kept going back and forth to a manager type at a desk behind him and it all worked out. As a bonus it's pretty quiet there on a weekday morning vs. Thousand Oaks DMV."

I also know another guy who built three roadsters in Moorpark. IIRC, he worked with the TO DMV office for all three.

My conclusion is that these days it doesn't matter too much which office you use, as long as you are prepared and have all the required documentation and forms.

Have fun with your build(s)!

Keith HR #894