Install Manual

[hrosenthal]

I still in the planning stage, but have read through the digital version of the manual twice so far to make sure everything makes sense. Fortunately, it all seems very clear and well written. I am planning to purchase the MK4 complete kit, so I won't have a donar car. I'll be going to the build school in September, but I'm hoping to get started on the build this summer.

I noticed that the manual discusses installing the engine/transmission into the frame, then later talks about running the engine.

But there is no mention of installing a starter or alternator. I don't recall a fuse box either.

Are these left out, are they intended to be understood without documentation, or are they documented somewhere other than the manual?

Any insight is appreciated.

Thanks.

[Jeff Kleiner]

I think it's just assumed that the builder can install the starter and alternator. The complete kit Ron Francis harness includes it's own manual which addresses the fuse box, routing, etc.

Jeff

[trichardson]

The build school was invaluable. The manual is a good jumping off point but it's not perfect. Take good notes during the build school. They cover everything. I built my engine with the starter and alternator. You won't get those parts with the complete kit so the manual considers them already installed. The Ron Francis manual covers wiring them.

[hrosenthal]

Thanks for the feedback.

[Lynnhowlyn]

The build school was invaluable. The manual is a good jumping off point but it's not perfect. Take good notes during the build school. They cover everything. I built my engine with the starter and alternator. You won't get those parts with the complete kit so the manual considers them already installed. The Ron Francis manual covers wiring them.

x2 on the value of Build School.

Along with notes, be sure to take lots of pictures (1 picture = 1000 words ..... and lots less hand cramping from taking notes!)

YMMV

Lynn

[Feen]

I will hijack the thread a little. Assuming the build to take roughly 200hours (w/o paint), about how many hours in will the first non kit parts be needed (ie, motor, trans, rear)? Wondering for cash flow purposes.

[JeepFlyer]

+1 for the build school. It's packed full of little tips and tricks you won't get in a manual. It's also invaluable to get your hands on the parts, and build the confidence if you're at all unsure


I will hijack the thread a little. Assuming the build to take roughly 200hours (w/o paint), about how many hours in will the first non kit parts be needed (ie, motor, trans, rear)? Wondering for cash flow purposes.

I've had this same concern. Mine is more based on the engine warranty though. If a two year warranty starts on the date of delivery, I'm going to wait until I can see a dead end ahead in the build process before I order it. I could probably use the down time to work on side projects, or sanding the body. Plus it might help me avoid the engine sitting in a box in my garage for three months while I'm deployed. Just judging from the build school and the manual, I would think you could go past halfway with no engine, especially if you are not final riveting anything in place.

[GT-Tom]

Sub systems not included with the kit would be on your own without directions from FFR. Engine, trans, upgraded brakes, hydraulic clutch, power brakes, power steering etc. If you are sticking with a pretty straight forward build as the complete was designed with few mods then you should be fine. All those upgrades and plenty more can be found on this forum and the other one with "how to" threads to help you spend your money. :D

Tom