First-Time Builder – Mk5 Roadster Order Review & Advice (A/C, Coyote Kit, Overall)

[exegesis]

Hi everyone,

This is my first post here. I’ve been reading through the forum for a while and finally pulled the trigger on a Mk5 Roadster. I really appreciate all the knowledge shared here—it’s been incredibly helpful so far.

I’m currently in the Kit Review phase with Factory Five Racing, so this is my last chance to make changes before things get locked in. I’d really appreciate any feedback from those who have already gone through this process.

Build Overview/Vision

I’m building more of a "restomod street car", not a track car.

Goals:


Comfort and drivability
Reliability
Clean, intentional design
Occasional longer drives (not just short trips)

I’m not chasing maximum horsepower—more focused on a well-balanced, well-behaved, usable car.

Current Kit Configuration (FFR)


Mk5 Roadster kit
Powder coated chassis
IRS (2015 Mustang-based)
IRS front and rear sway bars
Dual roll bars (driver and passenger, satin black)
Wilwood brakes (12.88” front and rear)
Hydraulic clutch setup
Power steering (planning to delete FFR option, see below)
Wheels and tires not included (planning aftermarket)
Gauges: leaning toward deleting for credit
Exhaust: standard (planning to ceramic coat later)

Engine / Drivetrain Plan

Planning to go with Forte's Coyote package:

Gen 4 Coyote
TKX 5-speed (2.87 / 0.68)
3.55 rear gears

I’ve spoken with Mike Forte and plan to work with him for the drivetrain package, but I’m still a few months out from purchasing that.

Fuel System (following Paul Borror's lead on this)

Planning a return-style system:

Holley 340 LPH in-tank pump
Aeromotive bypass regulator
Trick Flow canister fuel filter
-06AN supply and return lines

Power Steering Plan (again, Paul's setup)

Leaning toward an aftermarket hydraulic setup:

PSC rack
KRC pump with reservoir

So I am planning to delete the FFR power steering kit.

Gauges / Dash Direction

I’m still working through the gauge and dash setup and haven’t fully committed yet.

Right now I’m deciding between:

A digital dash setup
Or going with custom analog gauges (currently leaning this direction)

At the moment, I’m leaning toward using Speedhut GPS-based gauges, mainly because:

I like the classic analog look
Ability to fully customize layout, colors, and font
GPS speedometer simplifies wiring
Keeps the interior aligned with a restomod feel

Because of that, I’m leaning toward not using the gauges offered through FFR and instead ordering directly from Speedhut once I finalize the design.

I’d appreciate feedback from anyone who:


went with Speedhut (especially GPS setups)
compared analog vs digital and chose one over the other
has any regrets either way

A/C Question (big one)

I’ve already decided that I will be adding A/C during the build phase. This is not something I plan to retrofit later after the car is complete.

The question is:

Should I go with the FFR A/C system now
Or skip it and install something like a Vintage Air system during the build

So the timing is the same either way (installed during build), but I’m trying to decide which route is better in terms of:

Overall quality and performance
Ease of installation and fitment
Integration with a custom or digital dash
Value for the cost

I’d appreciate input from anyone who:

used the FFR A/C system
chose an aftermarket solution during the build instead

Coyote Installation Kit Question

FFR offers the Gen 3/4 Coyote installation kit (around $725), which to my knowledge, includes:

Accelerator pedal
Intake elbow
MAF housing
Wiring adapters
Mounting spacers
Miscellaneous integration components

Since I’m planning to go with Forte for the engine package:

Is this kit still worth it?
Or will I end up duplicating parts?

I’d appreciate hearing from anyone who:

used it with a Forte setup
skipped it and sourced parts individually

General Feedback

I’d really appreciate any input on:

Anything I may be overlooking
Things you wish you had done differently
Must-have options vs things to skip
Any “gotchas” at this stage

Thanks in advance. This was a long post. I’m excited to get started on this build and appreciate any guidance you can offer.

Alfonso

[edwardb]

Congratulations on your order and jumping into the fun! I like your configuration. Similar to what I have experience with and it's a great driver. Several comments:

I assume you know the Vintage gauges from FF are from Speedhut and are GPS based. Same as you describe ordering direct. Of course ordering direct means you can customize the faces, mix and match outside the standard configuration, etc. I suspect that's what you have in mind.

I also assume you also know the FF Coyote power steering package uses the exact KRC package you can buy separately. Only difference is they provide a PS rack and hoses. The PSC rack is supposed to be better. I'll have a more fact based opinion when my Mk5 is done since that's what I installed. FF also includes hoses but I ended up replacing them since they're kind of a universal fit and I wanted something that fit better plus I added a cooler.

You won't find a Vintage Air system that fits the chassis. Or any others that I could find. I know. I tried with my Coupe which has a similar chassis. FF uses a very compact Siroco evaporator that fits inside the top of the passenger footbox. I don't know of anyone who's installed A/C other than the one from Factory Five in a Roadster or Coupe. I did install a Vintage Air system in a truck build and it worked great. But it was one of their smaller units and wouldn't remotely fit into a Roadster or Coupe. Forma Cars had their version of A/C in a Coupe. I saw it at London a couple years ago. Much more of an OE setup with more components in the engine compartment. I'm not sure they're offering it for sale though. Their products are nice but from what I've seen tend to be complicated with electronic controls, the one I saw was built into a custom dash, and they're stuff is not cheap.

Kind of a mixed bag with the Coyote installation kit IMO. If you're doing a "standard installation" the intake pieces they provide are fine. The required motor mount spacers can't be purchased elsewhere. The pieces to fit the clutch safety switch are nice. You may or may not use the PDB and PCM mounts they provide. Depends on where you mount those components. A lot of the smaller bits and pieces again depend on your specific installation. I included it with my Mk5 build. But admittedly had quite a few parts left over. But there are reasons which may/may not apply to your configuration. It does not include the accelerator pedal, aka drive by wire module. That's in the Ford control pack which I assume you'll be buying with your Coyote.

Aftermarket wheels are fine. Lots of great options. Just do your homework on fitment and backspacing. Lots of bandwidth on the forum with guys trying to sort this out.

I have no complaints with using Forte. I wasn't the original buyer, but the Aluminator package I've got in my Mk5 build came from him. My only comment is make sure to be very specific about what add-ons you want so things don't get duplicated. He has his own PS setup that mounts where the factory A/C compressor goes. Since you're doing A/C, that's a no-go plus you already specified KRC. He could install it but you could too. I think he uses Aeromotive regulators. But the one I received was set up for rubber hoses vs. AN style. So I had to switch fittings. He's a big advocate of external hydraulic clutch, so that's what you would get by default. I'm a fan of the Tilton internal HRB. But that's a whole other discussion. Related, I assume you know Factory Five also sells a similar engine package. No personal experience, but many use it.

OK, that's enough. Good luck and enjoy the process.

[TrackDay17]

I decided to get Speedhut custom gauges for my build.
I chose red background and black bezels, I think it looks good in my CF dash.

I considered other wheels but I ended up powder coating the FF 18 inch wheels and adding a pinstripe.
US Vintage Wheels in the vendor section has quite a few selections if you still want the Halibrand look.
The wheels I originally wanted is the FF 25th Anniversary wheels which are now available, you might look at those.

I decided to go with a SBF 347 from Blueprint so I can't comment on that.
I copied Paul's fuel system build by placing the regulator in the back using an Aeromotive pump and fuel filter.

There are so many excellent builds and builders here you can find ideas in lots of build threads and great advice.

I'm not sure what your building skill level is but I found attending the build school helped give me a good overview of the project ahead.
I have some wrenching experience but I've never built a whole car until now.

Good luck with your build and welcome to the club !

[CW_MI]

Look into exactly what ordering the gauges through Speedhut vs FFR is. I went through FFR, and wanted to make some changes, so I just this morning sent them off to Speedhut, the total for what I want done is $260.
Depending on how many changes you want done, it might be better off just getting the from FFR and then send them out later.

[exegesis]

Hi everyone,

Thanks for the feedback. I really appreciate you all taking the time to respond.

@Paul — thank you again for the detailed breakdown. That helped clarify a few things for me, especially around the A/C and power steering setup.

Based on your input, I’ve decided to go ahead and include the FFR A/C system and delete the power steering kit so I can go with a PSC rack and KRC setup. Your point about the Forte power steering setup conflicting with the A/C compressor location was especially helpful. That’s exactly the kind of thing I’m trying to avoid early on, so thank you for that!

Also appreciate the heads up on being very specific with Forte to avoid duplication. That’s something I’ll definitely keep in mind when I get closer to ordering the drivetrain. Same goes for the fuel system, as I am planning a full AN setup, so your comment about the regulator being configured for rubber hose is very helpful. I’ll make sure that’s clearly communicated up front.

The clutch setup is something I’m still researching. I see the pros and cons of both the external hydraulic setup and the internal HRB (like the Tilton you mentioned). I haven’t made a final decision there yet, but it’s definitely on my list of things to dig into further before I get to that stage, although I am leaning more towards the internal.

I am aware of the Factory Five engine package as well, but for now I’m planning to go with Forte when the time comes, mainly for the flexibility and ability to tailor the setup.

@TrackDay17 — your build sounds great. I like the idea of customizing the FFR wheels, but I think I’m still leaning toward going aftermarket for now. I haven’t fully locked in the wheel style yet, so I’ll definitely check out US Vintage Wheels and the 25th Anniversary wheels as well, which look very nice. Also good to hear you went with Speedhut - that seems to be a common and well-liked route.

I’ve also been looking at fuel system layouts and noticed a few builds (including Paul’s) placing the regulator toward the rear. That’s likely the direction I’ll go as well.

@cw_mi — that’s an interesting point about ordering through FFR and then sending them to Speedhut for customization. I hadn’t considered that approach. At the moment I’m leaning toward ordering directly from Speedhut so I can fully customize everything from the start, but I’ll take a closer look at the cost differences before making a final decision.

At this point, I’ve submitted my Kit Review updates to FFR with the following changes:

Deleted power steering kit
Deleted gauges (planning custom Speedhut setup)
Added passenger-side roll bar
Added A/C system
Kept the Coyote installation kit and IRS sway bars

Next steps on my end are getting the garage ready, lining up transport, and starting to spec out the power steering system.

Thanks again for all the input. I’m sure I’ll have plenty more questions as I get further into this exciting project.

-Alfonso

[Tango]

Your equipment list looks very similar to mine. (Forte sourced Gen4x + TKX + KRC + AC (remember the compressor does not come with the FFR AC setup…that will come with your engine). I will say that you should understand what options exist beyond the kit provided AC lines. The kit setup is fine, but there are better options available (reduced barrier hoses for example). From my experience (and I verified with FFR tech support) AC vent/duct work is a choose your own adventure with the MK5. There is no prescribed location or direction for placement. It is not impossible, just requires some homework. Excited to see what you come up with.

[edwardb]

Your equipment list looks very similar to mine. (Forte sourced Gen4x + TKX + KRC + AC (remember the compressor does not come with the FFR AC setup…that will come with your engine). I will say that you should understand what options exist beyond the kit provided AC lines. The kit setup is fine, but there are better options available (reduced barrier hoses for example). From my experience (and I verified with FFR tech support) AC vent/duct work is a choose your own adventure with the MK5. There is no prescribed location or direction for placement. It is not impossible, just requires some homework. Excited to see what you come up with.

Positive about the compressor not included? When I bought the exact 60378 - A/C - Heater-Defroster for 5.0L Coyote for my Gen 3 Coupe it did include a compressor. Was a Ford part number CR33-19497-BA. Listed for 05-14 Mustang 5.0 V8. I believe the non-Coyote version of the A/C - Heater doesn't include a compressor which explains the lower cost? But things change. They did have detailed instructions for the Coupe at the time when I did mine. But the instructions about duct work was vague at best. The basic info (wiring, AC lines, etc.) should be the same for the Roadster but agreed you're kind of on your own with the ducting. I used the AC lines they provided with a Master Cool crimper. Worked fine.

[Tango]

My compressor came from Forte, the AC kit came from FFR and did not include it (first batch of MK5’s that went out). One other note to file away, the AC install instructions (Coupe based) have you put the heater control valve on the top of the passenger foot box……in that location, it is higher in elevation than your cooling system fill point and will possibly/probably create a new high point in your entire cooling circuit. My understanding is that Coyotes do not like air pockets in their cooling systems. Make sure that is where you want it to be and have a fill/purge strategy in mind or you will risk trapping air in the system. (All just my opinion, but a something to consider before installing)

[BEAR-AvHistory]

Custom gauges from SpeedHut. They have a very big number of individual items you can mix & match.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=193593&d=1703303543

[CW_MI]

Custom gauges from SpeedHut. They have a very big number of individual items you can mix & match.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=193593&d=1703303543

And they are very easy to work with.

Those gauges look great.

[Papa]

Your equipment list looks very similar to mine. (Forte sourced Gen4x + TKX + KRC + AC (remember the compressor does not come with the FFR AC setup…that will come with your engine). I will say that you should understand what options exist beyond the kit provided AC lines. The kit setup is fine, but there are better options available (reduced barrier hoses for example). From my experience (and I verified with FFR tech support) AC vent/duct work is a choose your own adventure with the MK5. There is no prescribed location or direction for placement. It is not impossible, just requires some homework. Excited to see what you come up with.

I received the A/C compressor with my Coupe order with the FFR A/C option.

[Tango]

I believe there is a difference between the coupe and MK5. I had a follow up call with FFR questioning why the compressor did not come with the MK5 AC set up….(it did not come with it and I thought that it should have), so just be certain to confirm if it is in or out. For me it was not part of what was delivered from FFR but Forte took great care of me.

[edwardb]

I believe there is a difference between the coupe and MK5. I had a follow up call with FFR questioning why the compressor did not come with the MK5 AC set up….(it did not come with it and I thought that it should have), so just be certain to confirm if it is in or out. For me it was not part of what was delivered from FFR but Forte took great care of me.

The Coyote version of the A/C- Heat is the same part number (60378) listed on each order form for the Mk5 and Coupe. Matches the part number I ordered and received with my Coupe. If that's the part you ordered, I can't explain why you didn't receive a compressor or the answer you received from FFR. Other than the compressor, I don't believe there are any differences between the Coyote and non-Coyote systems. Other than the price. Nothing about the rest of the components supplied are related to whatever engine is used. Doesn't make sense. But glad you got it worked out.

[Papa]

It may be an engine-specific thing. Looking at my inventory sheets, the A/C parts are listed in box #34. Within the list is a section titled "60675 Coyote Compressor Assem". There are a few misc. parts in this section, including part 16080 A/C Compressor, which was in a separate box #101. It could be that when selecting the Coyote install kit AND A/C, the compressor is included.

Update:

I think I found the definitive answer:

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=228072&d=1775997515

Notice the three different A/C options on the order form. I selected the Coyote A/C option.

[exegesis]

Hi everyone,

Thanks again to all of you for the feedback. I really appreciate everyone taking the time to share your experiences and insights. This has been extremely helpful, especially catching some of the details that aren’t always obvious when going through the order process.

I wanted to close the loop on the A/C compressor question since there were a few mixed experiences mentioned. I reached out to FFR directly, and they confirmed that the Coyote A/C kit (part #60378) does include the compressor with the kit.

Sounds like there may have been some differences in earlier Mk5 deliveries or depending on configuration, so I’m glad this question has been answered.

Also appreciate the heads up on things like heater valve placement and being very specific with Forte to avoid duplication... definitely taking notes on all of that for later in the build.

Thanks again. I’m sure I’ll be back with more questions as things progress.

Alfonso