Casey Family Build Thread (coupe)

[NukeMMC]

I sent Mike a couple pictures that I've asked him to post. I have a question. What is the difference between those two timing covers?
Almost nothing, really. The one on the right looks a little better reinforced/stiffened, but they are both SBF timing covers. Flip them over, though, is there much difference then? Neither looks like they have a fuel pump boss, so are for late-model Windsor engines, the one on the right would be interesting to see if the fuel pump eccentric hits those little tits cast into it.
Closer look shows the one on the right looks to be cast as a reverse rotation water pump, like a late-model Explorer? Like this from the front?
http://www.bcbroncos.com/EXP%20timing%20cover%20600.jpg

[QSL]

They use totally different water pumps. 47163

[frankeeski]

One of them uses the standard 5.0/302 water pump whether clockwise or counter clockwise rotation pump. The other uses the short style pump used on the 94/95 Mustang and the 5.0 Thunderbirds from the 90's.

[Big Blocker]

Been a while but I finally got caught up . . .

Quote: "One of them uses the standard 5.0/302 water pump whether clockwise or counter clockwise rotation pump. <-- the one on the left.
Other quote: "The other uses the short style pump used on the 94/95 Mustang and the 5.0 Thunderbirds from the 90's. <-- the one on the right.

Doc

[MRSQSL]

I have no idea which rotation will work for me, but I did find the gasket the other night. Woo hoo! Now I just need some gasket goop to glop all over the place. I'm sure Mike knows what's what, but I have no clue so I'll defer to him on what to buy (assuming we don't already have it). Hoping to do that soon so I can put all the fun blingy stuff on.

[Big Blocker]

Julie,

The rotation of the pump will be decided by your belt path around all your front end accessories. If the belt wraps around every pulley on the outside, then your pump is rotating in the same direction as your crankshaft (counter-clockwise).

If the belt snakes thru and around your pulleys and basically looks like a backwards "S" as it wraps around the crankshaft and water pump, then it is a reverse rotation pump (it spins clockwise).

FWIW, all references to rotation (clockwise, counter-clockwise) or orientation (left, right) are from the drivers seat . . .

Doc

[MRSQSL]

I realize this is supposed to be helpful and to the average human it is (I especially appreciate the part with the "backwards s"). You are speaking my language. You lost me at drivers seat. I was mentally standing at the front of the car looking at the engine and then you switched on me so now I'm dizzy. It's like I'm laying under the car trying to figure out what righty tighty lefty lucy is now. Hee, hee. Okay, so maybe after reading it a couple more times, I get it. It'll probably help to actually get the gasket and pump and other assorted blingy doohickeys on. Thanks!!!!! Okay, I've read it a couple more times. Do you know what makes no sense to me? Reverse rotation is clockwise. Reverse is clockwise. Who thought of that?! Is time going backwards because a clock spins clockwise? Oh my aching brain. I haven't had coffee yet (or a donut which sounds really good, but I don't have any).

[xlr8or]

Easy version for serpentine belts (flat belt with 5 or 7 grooves not old school V shaped belt). If the water pump pulley has grooves the grooved side of the belt will drive it in normal rotation. If the pulley is smooth the back of the belt drives it and it is reverse rotation. Pick the pump, get the correct pulley and route the belt accordingly.

[Big Blocker]

OK, I'll give you that . . . now lets really confuse it.
Standing at the front of the engine and facing toward the rear of the car, the passenger side of the car (on your left) is actually the right side of the car.
Due to the firing order of your engine (1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8), looking down at it from the front of the car, it spins clockwise . . . but since all rotational references are from the drivers seat (at the back of the engine) your engine spins counter-clockwise. My OLD single brain cell is starting to swell from exhaustion here.

IF you are using the timing chain cover pictured on the left in post 1252, you can get pumps that spin either way but the belt path must be correct for the pump you get . . . an outside belt loop for a counter-clockwise (normal rotation) pump, that "backwards "S" belt path for a reverse rotation pump.
Not knowing what accessories you are running up front, it's hard to steer you in any direction at this point in time . . . sure wish I lived close by.

That lefty-loosy, righty-tighty thing is a good reference - It works no matter where you are on the car. :)

Did you get the video??

Doc

[Winchester67]

Every project stalls a little at some point...but it has been a while. What's new? Just wanted to remind you that you have a lot of fans out here!

[MRSQSL]

Oops. Yeah. Um. No good excuses here. I don't know how to put the gasket sealer stuff on and I haven't bugged Mike to show me how. I can give you two excuses. 1) We spend a LOT of time at the cabin. 2) The time change makes it dark when we get up in the morning and dark by the time work is over. It's hard to get motivated to go in the garage when it's dark. The days are too short. I know. I need to just go out and grab the gasket stuff and start waving it around like a maniac which will scare Mike and he'll have to help me aim it in the correct direction. I'm not even sure which one to threaten him with, so maybe I'll grab all the tubes and containers of possible gasket adhesion substances and make a rainbow of potential destruction. We were discussing the coupe project with Dan this weekend and even Mike sounded motivated. Hopefully there will be an update by the end of the week, but I'm not going to make any promises.

[QSL]

One problem is my commute. Its about 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way depending on what store I go to. When I get home at 6:30 or 7:30 and eat dinner, I am shot. During the summer I will be tricked into thinking its much earlier. LOL.

[MRSQSL]

I did stuff in the garage last night. Not much, but something. It felt really good to make the teensiest of progress. Mike said he'd help me tonight. Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There will be an update Monday. Woo hoo!!!! Thanks Winchester67 for reminding me to get my butt out there.

[MRSQSL]

I guess there's no point waiting until Monday. Progress is slowly being made. Monday night I convinced Mike I was going to cause some serious problems if he didn't help me with the icky gasket stuff. He told me it wasn't that easy. Of course it's that easy. You rub the stuff all over, stick the gasket on and you're done. He "claims" I have to torque it down with bolts as soon as the gasket is applied and therefore I need to draw a little picture of the timing cover and water pump and figure out what size bolts are needed for each hole. Growl. This was not in the contract. My picture was horrible and my measurements probably atrocious. I made him double check a few. We had many of the bolts because of our fabulous bolt department (bulk purchase sometime in the past). A few were unavailable so he told me he'd go to McFadden Dale and get me some the next day. Awwww. So sweet. It felt good to actually make some progress. Dinner. Bed.

Work. I had errands to run at the end of the day so I accomplished those and threw myself in the shower. Imagine my surprise when I came down and discovered Mike was lost. Steve informed me Dad was in the garage so off I trotted. What a sweet man. Not only did he bring me carrot cake the other night to cheer me up, but he was out in the garage gasketing my engine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I watched and then disappeared briefly. I returned to find he had bolted almost everything on. He told me to go ahead and put the oil pan bolts in. I was shocked when he pointed out there were four. I know I took them off and all, but where would four fit? I only see places for two. He probably rolled his eyes has he pointed under the lip of the pan, but I was busy watching his fingers, so I'm not certain. I imagine it doesn't surprise anyone that I was only able to get one bolt in. He did two others. The final one was back in my court and I tried repeatedly to stab the bolt up in the bottom hole on the passenger side. I could feel the opening with my finger, but the bolt simply refused to go in. I whined to Mike and he tried. Nope. Vengeance. Wait, I don't think that's the right word. Affirmation. I'm not a total idiot. He didn't get it instantly either. I suggested maybe raising the car on the lift so we could actually see something. Mike raised and I mushed under. It was an awkward height. If it had been lower, I couldn't have gotten under at all. If it had been higher, I would've been able to stand, but then we'd also have either a crushed car or a new floor hole in the upstairs room. I had to spread my legs super wide and hunch back like an expert limbo-er. What I discovered was that the stupid gasket edge was barely hanging into the hole and thwarting the bolt. Mike had given me a pointy dental scraping tool which caused me to cringe. I tried to cram it in there and rip out the offending mass, but I had about 6% strength and the metal on metal scraping when I'd hit the edge was causing my teeth to shudder. I ran back into the house and Mike came out to rescue me. He got the bolt in. Yay!!!!! Dinner. Bed.

Work. I once again had errands to run (don't get me started on the evil librarian). Uh oh. I'm being called back to the garage. I'll update more tomorrow.

[MRSQSL]

I got home last night and discovered Mike was in the garage again. He was using every ounce of his strength to get the balancer back on. I thanked him and mentioned I was worried about trying to do it. Didn't think I could. He asked why not? I paused as I pondered my options. I could simply tell him I didn't think I was strong enough or I could make a sarcastic comment or perhaps find something humorous to say. When he was done moaning and huffing and puffing, I pointed out that was why. He admitted he wasn't even sure he'd be able to get it on. Hee, hee. (he did)

I hadn't actually planned on working on the car so I was a little surprised when he suggested I help. Oh, yeah. Um. Okay. I grabbed the directions which he immediately snagged to show me something I'd "enjoy". Never a good sign. He opened it up to a page with a perfect drawing of the timing cover and water pump. To add insult to injury, he also showed me where each bolt hole was labeled with the size of the needed bolt. I thought a few choice words, but probably said something more along the lines of gosh golly gee whiz.

In my attempt to find the studs (step one), I came across a bag of hardware. Imagine my surprise when Mike identified the bolts for the timing cover/water pump in that bag. Do you know how much time and effort would've been saved had I looked at the instructions on Monday?! Growl. That's okay. Think of it as mocking up. I was simply mocking up the timing cover and water pump. No big deal. ARGH!!!!!!!! I began the process of installing the studs and removing the old bolts to replace with the pretty blingy ones. The manual lies. Liar, liar pants on fire!!!!! Bolt "F" is NOT 1-1/2" long. I saved that one for last and then raced to Mike to inform him of my disagreement with the stupid thing. He took one look and told me I was right. There was no possible way it could be that short. I ended up leaving in the gold colored bolt Mike had purchased previously. I believe it was 3 or 4 inches. Jerks. Giving me bad info.

It took me quite awhile to find the brackets and spacers and such for the next step, but I eventually did. The new stuff is coming together nicely. I'm hoping to make some more progress tonight. I had a little issue last night while Mike was on the phone with a friend (so I couldn't drag him away to help me until it was late enough I didn't want to work anymore). The timing pokey thing confused the poo out of me (not literally). Which two bolt holes would work and which direction do you turn this thing. The little pointer should go somewhere near the balancer, but in which direction? Turn. Flip. Turn. Flip. Turn. Flip. Walk away. Once off the phone, Mike took about two seconds to decipher the horrid little part's correct trajectory and then took the time to show me how he figured it out (whatever, shut up - in a loving way). I managed to discern which spacers should be used and even found them in the hardware bag (yeah, so they were labeled and the directions were pretty clear). I'll need to find the bolts tonight (assuming I can get out there). If I can accomplish that task, the next will be super fun. I get to put the big, beautiful, blingy bracket on. It's going to look sooooooo pretty!!!!!!!

[68GT500MAN]

Julie,
It is great to have you and Mike back working on the coupe. I have been off of the forum this week (I got married on Saturday) but now I am back reading your great posts. Remember, HB is only 12 weeks away!
Doug

[MRSQSL]

You got married!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That's awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I demand (kindly) pictures!!!!!!! I love wedding pictures.

About that. Yeah. Um. Well. See. Um. I'm not going to HB this year (whimpering). There is a stupid business thing that has caused problems for Mike every year because they insist on doing it the exact seem weekend as HB. In the past, Mike has been able to fly out the same evening. Not so this year. On top of that, lil ole me has to go on the business trip as well. I talked to FF and BEGGED them to change the date of HB, but alas all my bribing and cajoling was for naught. Fingers crossed HB will work the next year, but actually it's less likely because the business thing switches coasts each year. Next year will be back east which makes it more difficult. I'm going to miss everyone and I'm really sad. Enough about me. Wedding pictures!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[68GT500MAN]

I will share them with you as soon as I get them from the photographer. Very sad to hear that you, Mike and the family will not be at the beach this year. Keep the entertaining build dialog going, it is always a good read.

Doug

[MRSQSL]

We finally broke down and sold the motorhome. It was a very sad day for me and I cried way more than I thought I would. I know it was for the best, but it was hard. In order to take my mind off of it, Mike offered to help me with the alternator in Coupey. Yay! That didn't last long. I couldn't find the right bolts and then I think I did, but something still isn't quite right. Mike was trying to help, but I was moody and sad and impatient. We were going to try again the next day, but that's where things went terribly wrong.

That's it for the story of Coupey for now. If that's all you're interested in, you can stop reading here. This is where I digress.

I've probably mentioned we inherited an '84 Buick Grand National a couple years back that was supposed to have been put on non-op, but the previous owner apparently did not. Mike fought DMV and got the fees reduced. I then put it on non-op status. It cannot be registered until we get it smogged. We can't smog it until we get it running again. Mike and Steve replaced the turbo, but never fully hooked things back up. It also has a very flat tire. It has been in the driveway for months and months and maybe years and months. Two weeks prior to this we hired someone to re-landscape the front yard. Out with the grass and in with drought tolerant plants (not rock and cactus - I promise). In order for them to remove the grass, they needed a bobcat. In order to replace the grass with mulch and a decomposed granite walkway, they needed a bobcat and piles of material in the driveway. This meant moving the Buick onto the street. Okay, here is where I don't want safety police or regular police or anyone else yelling at me. I am fully aware that a vehicle on non-op status cannot be parked on the street. I am not special. I am not entitled. I was rolling the dice and hoping we would not get in trouble over the short period of time it would be out there, but was fully cognizant of the fact that this is breaking the law (see my cabin update for an example of how well I handle disobeying authority). I wasn't happy about having it out there, but it was that or move Coupey or Scoopy outside. Not happening.

A week passed and the landscaping was 99% done. Within a day or two after that, it was completed. So pretty. Life was good. While at the cabin that weekend, I got a message from our neighbor's son. He informed me CHP was looking at the Buick. Crap. I thanked him and rushed home that evening to find nothing. Absolutely nothing. There wasn't a note or a ticket or anything. Hmmmm...odd. Oh well. Mike immediately ordered parts he needed and he and Steve spent each evening after work trying to get the thing operational. They did manage to start it up (oh so exhaust-y), but it took jumper cables and starter fluid and who knows what else and then coolant shot all over the engine and basically bad things happened. With the tire having zero air and the car weighing billions of pounds (parked on an uphill slant), there was no way to move it. I took a picture of the tire size and sent that to Mike so he could order tires. It would be a matter of days before the car was back in the driveway. In the meantime, it was covered since it was parked under a pepper tree that drops all these cute little yellowish flower things.

So there I was in the middle of one of the worst work mornings I'd had in awhile, when I saw movement. CHP pulled up behind the Buick. Crap. I had Alyssa call Mike (I was on work call at the time). He told me to go out there and nicely talk to the man. Okay. I had no shoes on and I had jammy bottoms on, but I waddled out in a very submissive pose and stood by his car while I waited for him to emerge and speak with me. He hitched up his belt as he approached and said "Ma'am, is this your Buick". Oh crap. I could already tell this wasn't going to go well. I told him it was and said I know he didn't want excuses, but...launched into my explanation of moving it because of the landscaping and it's got a flat tire and it is heavy and uphill and my husband is getting tires and we will move it tonight. Inhale/exhale, heart pounding. He tells me it looks like it has been there awhile. Yes, sir. It has been two weeks. He tells me again it looks like it has been there awhile. Um, yeah. Two weeks. We moved it for the landscaping and that was two weeks ago. I'm not lying, but I can't find a way to convince him. He says I have 15 minutes to move it or he will tow it. I explain it's just me and my daughter and it is too heavy and has a flat tire and it doesn't run. My husband got it started the other night, but I can't drive it. He said if he got it started, I could move it. No, you don't understand. He started it but he had to use jumper cables and squirty stuff and I can't do that (I pointed at my pitiful self, emphasizing no shoes and jammy bottoms). He again tells me I have 15 minutes to move it or he is towing it and he'll sit there and wait. Um, okay.

I ran as fast as I could, biting back tears of frustration, right to the front door and into the house where I nearly knocked Alyssa over. I told her to call her boyfriend. She said he was already on his way, but she called again and confirmed he'd be there in 10 minutes. I told her to call the neighbor who had just graduated from high school because I saw his car out there. She did. No answer. Crap. Okay. I'm going to put pants and shoes on and knock on the neighbor's door. As I raced across the street all wild eyed and bushy tailed, I saw a man and his wife walking by. I flagged him down and asked if he could help me push the car. CHP was right behind it still and I explained they were going to tow it if I couldn't move it in 15 minutes. He told me no. No? No. It's too heavy. Oh, yes. I know. I have other people coming to help, but the more the merrier. Please? No. You'll never get it moved, he said. It's way too heavy. He walked off. Biting back tears again, I ran to the neighbor's front door. No answer. I knocked. I talked to his dogs. I yelled my name so he didn't think I was a crazy person (probably not the best plan). Nothing. This is not the time to cry.

I raced back across the street and stood by the CHP car. He didn't roll down a window or get out. Fine. I ran in the house. I told Alyssa what had happened. She called Mike. He was furious. He had been driving to work. He'd been on the road for 1.5 hours and was less than 20 miles from home (gotta love CA traffic). He said he was turning around. Poor guy. I told Alyssa I'd go move the truck. I grabbed my keys and out I went. She approached and told me she couldn't get the garage door open. I know. The locks are really tough. Don't worry. We'll get it. I moved the truck and her boyfriend pulled up. Yay! I hugged him. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He was upset with CHP as well, but realized there was no point in fighting it. He went with Alyssa and got the garage door open. They hooked up the air compressor and he put a little bit of air in the tire. I stalled for a bit hoping Mike would show up. The clock was ticking and I didn't want to tow truck to get there. We decided to just do the best we could, knowing it was essentially impossible for Alyssa and her boyfriend to push me in a billion pound car up a hill with a mostly flat tire. Just as we were about to try, I heard a noise. The neighbor was coming out. He had overslept and was late to work, but he came and helped. They shoved and I quickly realized no power steering. Crap. CHP drove his car up to block one side of the road while the three of them struggled to move the behemoth of a car. We got it turned, but now it was threatening to hit a parked car, so Alyssa and her boyfriend raced to the front to stop it while the neighbor helped me turn the wheel even more sharply. They counted to three and everyone shoved. It barely made it into the driveway. The nose was nestled at the end of the street. Alyssa ran to get the wheel chock, falling and scraping herself all up. She managed to recover quickly and shove it under the wheel. CHP rolled up, gave a thumbs up, and off he went. The neighbor rushed off to work after I thanked him profusely and smothered him in a giant hug. Mike pulled up moments later and was ready to give CHP a piece of his mind. Too late. All gone. He helped push the car a little more and then set about working from home for about an hour before heading back out to traffic.

So here's my beef. I get that what I did was wrong. The car should not have been out there. BUT 1) There should've been a 72 hour warning. I can see, however, that it was on non-op status so perhaps a warning wasn't needed. I can live with that. 2) He saw how small and pitiful I am. Why couldn't he just tell me to have it moved by morning and he'd be back to check (or offer to help move it with those pushy things on his car or his big strong muscles)? By the way, I did see him the next day as I was leaving the community and he was coming in (presumably to make sure I hadn't put it back on the street). I think it is unreasonable to show up around 9am when all the men in the neighborhood are at work and tell me to move it in 15 minutes or lose it. I respect law enforcement, but I thought this was kind of a jerk move.

So that's the Coupey/Buick update. We are going to HB this next year (unless they suddenly change the date). Our other commitment that always interferes is going to be at the beginning of the month instead of the end. Super excited. The goal is to have the car mostly done by April.

[MRSQSL]

I realized I haven't taken a picture for a long time so I ran out to the garage. I can't size pictures anymore, so sorry.

5455054551

[Garry Bopp]

Someday soon, Coupey will be the most beautiful car in CA! It will happen and I want a ride in it!

Garry

[xlr8or]

The next time you need to put it on the street borrow a trailer. If it's on a licensed trailer they can neither ticket nor tow it.

[ticopow]

So when's your next build party?!

[MRSQSL]

Build party? That would be great, but since it is about 100 degrees right now and it's only 9am, I'm thinking it's going to have to wait until the weather cools a smidge. We want to have the car mostly done by April, so yeah...

[MRSQSL]

Oh and I'd like to mention I got a ticket in the mail last week for the Buick. Growl.

[MRSQSL]

I attempted to work on the car last night. I tightened a bolt which attaches the alternator. Yay. The top bolt didn't want to go in all the way, so I ignored it. That's the best way to solve problems, right?

The next step in the instructions was to put the compressor cover on. Ummmmm...what is a compressor and do I have one? I looked at the picture and had no clue what anything was. Fortunately, my phone rang right then and it was Mike. Hey Pookie. So, um...do I have a compressor? The word "clutch" was in there someplace too. I don't have a clutch so maybe I don't have this thing. I was crammed in my engine compartment and Mike couldn't hear me very well, so I practically had to scream "compressor". He confirmed I had one. Where? He didn't know. Fine. Whatever. We talked briefly before saying goodbye. I unfolded myself from the cavity of the coupe and moved his welder so I could get to the area I suspected the missing component might be hiding. Thankfully the box was marked. Score! Wow. Wow! WOW!!!! That thing is stinking heavy. I lugged it back to the engine area and plopped it gingerly on the ground. I reread the directions. Yup. This looks like that thing. Which way does it go? Could the picture be any less helpful?! I compared all the bumps and lumps and indents, but still had no clear idea as to the orientation. I'm a strong, independent woman. I can figure this out. Fast forward ten minutes to the point when I flipped ahead in the instructions and realized they weren't kidding when they suggested I put a cover on the compressor. Back out of the engine compartment and out around the back of the welder again. I dug through boxes until I found something that looked approximately the same size and perhaps the same shape. I jiggled back to the car and plopped down once more. Three button head screws. I know what a button head is. This will be easy. There are three button heads in the metric bag and 1 x 16 mm seems metric-y. I tried to put them in, but they didn't behave. I took the cover off and attempted to install them that way. The tip would go in, but it would stop a few threads down. Hmmmm...maybe it's a shallow screw holder thing? No. I took the only other two button heads I could find and tried them. They glided in like butter. Hmmmmm...but there are only two. Whatever. It looks like I can access the cover later, so I'll worry about it once Mike gets home. He'll know what to do.

I hefted the extremely heavy and blingy contraption up to the area I assumed it belonged. I twisted. I turned. I saw no way to attach it. This is stupid. This should be simple. How am I not seeing this. Okay, here's the plan. I will find the bolts for it and then maybe that will help me figure out which holes go where. M8 1.25x25 mm and 35mm. Sound metric. Metric doesn't fit. Digging through bag. Standard doesn't seem to fit. Okay, mm are measurements. I'll go get the calipers and measure. Three calipers later and still not a working battery. Whatever. I can just look at the markings. I don't need a digital display. I'm a strong, independent woman. 25mm is not the size of any bolt anywhere. 35mm was equally as mysterious.

At this point, I felt like either crying or stabbing someone with a bolt. I texted Mike and told him I was frustrated and needed help. He said he'd be home soon. I don't know why he insisted on working late again. Jerk. I worked late too, but only like 10 minutes. Whatever. I went in the house and pouted and slammed things (gently) around. Mike arrived home and told me I had three seconds to show him the problem. I raced into the garage and started to show him the issue with the cover. He was busy looking at the alternator instead of me and noticed the lack of screw-in-ed-ness of the top bolt. Yeah, yeah. Listen to me. He played with the alternator bolt. He eventually declared it was because it was chromed or something-ed (can't remember the word) and that I'd have to chase the threads. I probably don't need to explain what kind of visual was racing through my brain. I will anyway. I could see myself running with a sharp knife while a bolt with large threads and a scream-y face ran in circles.

He fiddled with the bolts for the cover and agreed the standard were better and not to stress. We'd just go buy one. No big deal. He walked away. What?! I wasn't done. That was the most minor of all my issues. He turned back with a slightly hidden eye roll. I explained the compressor is heavy and I don't know which way it goes and I can't find the bolt for it. I'll spare you the details. In the end, it took me two hours and a lot of anger and frustration to discover that I'm useless and shouldn't be allowed near Coupey. Mike disagrees and tried to cheer me up, but I could only find one bolt that fit out of the three or four I needed. I tried every bolt in the bags. I tried every bolt in the cabinets. I tried every bolt in every drawer in ever nook and cranny. Mike keeps saying we'll find the right bolt, but I don't see how it's possible. I gave up and went inside. It was 8 or 9 at night and I knew I wasn't going to solve my issues.

Mike got up this morning and went out to the garage. He came back and told me he thinks he gave me bad info. The correct bolts are there and they are the metric ones I had initially started with. He says the threads need to be chased and that's why it felt like it wouldn't fit. He is going to get me the cover bolt though. I'm still extremely frustrated, but maybe he can help me tonight and we can get the thing fully bolted up. I am a strong, independent woman!!!!!! Oddly, chanting this isn't making the car go together smoothly.

[CraigS]

Mrs QSL, you ARE a strong, independent woman. The only problem is that you are not a strong, independent woman...who has been working on cars most of your life. I know you both work, and have kids to help with, etc, etc. Maybe it would work out if you could schedule say, Sat 8AM to noon, for you AND Mike to work together on the coupe. Best wishes to you and I hope to see more posts as I always enjoy reading them..

[MRSQSL]

If Mike would bring the lift and the car up to the cabin, I'd totally be down for that Saturday work session. Unfortunately, he keeps whining the lift is too big and heavy to move. Whatever. In all seriousness, it's the cabin getting in the way. We love it too much up there. I'm going to put more effort into working on the car after work. It was nice being in the garage last night except that nothing went well. I really love Coupey and miss making progress. Besides, I really want to drive it!!!

[MRSQSL]

Went back out in the garage last night. Mike was such a sweetie. He went to the store and bought me the bolt I needed for the compressor cover. I got that installed, although I'm still confuzzled as to why blue loctite is in a red container and red is in a blue container. It's like they WANT to mess you up.

I now know what "chasing" the threads is. I couldn't believe how much powdery crud came out. No wonder that poor little bolt didn't fit. The alternator is now one bolt closer to fully installed and the compressor is three bolts closer to being fully installed. The next step was supposed to be a power steering pump, but I'm using Fast Freddy's, so no need for that. Moving on, it'll be some pulley or belt or something. I don't know. I tried to understand the directions, but couldn't figure out how it got from one picture to the next with so little written wordage. I essentially told Mike I'm turning the reins over to him. I want to be a tool monkey. I'm not good at this figuring stuff out so I'd rather he took control of the build and I'll just do what he tells me. I'm okay with saying I didn't build it by myself. I just want it built and I want to be a part of it.

Next week I am going to pull off the intake and Mike will take it to have a portion polished. He (easily) convinced me that would look better with so much other polished stuff. Extra bling? Sold! I just hope it doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

[Dragonfire]

Mrs. QSL I am soooooooo glad you are back working on coupey. I really missed your adventures. It will be awesome when completed. CraigS is right. Just think of all the men that have quit their projects because they were furstrated. Keeping hanging in there like a rusty fishhook. Endeavor to persevere. You will win!

[MRSQSL]

Rusty fishhook. Ha, ha. That made me laugh. Thanks!!

[HCP 65 COUPE]

Don't worry even the best of us struggle with car stuff sometimes you are not alone. It took me 4 or 5 hours to install the same kit on my engine(outside the car) and you are right the instructions are bad and the hardware is wrong in areas and of poor quality, I was kinda disappointed as I was putting it all together seeing the front drive kit cost like 1900 but after it is together it looks fantastic. Struggle on. :)

[MRSQSL]

Thank you. I feel better knowing I'm not alone in my struggles. I didn't work on the car last night because I wasn't feeling great. I feel much better today so hopefully I can steal a few minutes between chores tonight. I appreciate the support. I hate that frustrated feeling!!!!!

[MRSQSL]

Went in the garage last night before Mike got home. Figured I could put a pulley on. I'm a strong, independent woman. I found the pulley and attempted to mount it. Unfortunately, I could not find a bolt that worked. The instructions said 3/8 -16 x1. I know what that is. It slipped right in with no resistance. Well, I'll try a 7/16. Too fat. Is there anything in between? Could this be metric? Crap.

Mike came home and I dragged him in the garage. I want to mention it was hot. Really, really hot. I know it was 103 around 4:00. He opened the garage door (I can't because it is no longer on an opener and I can't even get it unlocked much less lift it high enough). I was hoping for a nice cool breeze. Nope. Hot air. Anyway, I handed him a 3/8 and then a 7/16. He looked briefly and told me I just needed a longer 3/8. What? But the instructions say...it slides right in...what? He explained I have an adapter on my balancer that isn't in the picture. I got him a longer 3/8 and it threaded right in. Looks like 1-3/4 is the best size.

Next step is installing alternator fan and pulley. The instructions say (and I quote because I have them here on my desk): Install Alternator Fan, Lock Washer and Alternator Pulley. I fetched aforementioned pieces and parts. Pretty fan. Check. Lock washer? Mike, is this round thing with a little slit a lock washer? Yes. Check. Pulley. Bling, bling. Check. Hmmmm...there is cardboard on the alternator sticky out-y part. Miiiiiiiike. He told me to take it off. Yeah, if I knew how to I would. He walked over and undid the nut. Oh. Well nobody told me I had to take that off. Smushed stuff back on, but how do you get the pulley to go all the way over the alternator sticky out-y thing? And while we are at it, is it one lock washer or two? The nut had a lock washer, but the instructions tell you to use one which appears to go between the fan and the pulley. There was one in the bag. I'm so confused. Mike fiddled and couldn't get the pulley on either. He told me to call tech support in the morning. I did. Tech support seemed as confused as me. They ended up telling me to send an email with pictures. I did. No response yet. I hope they have some advice. Looking online, it appears anything you do will cause the alternator to die prematurely. No thanks. Long live the alternator!!!!

Installing the belt is next. I don't feel like that is safe or sane. I'll maybe attempt it tonight (if I hear back from March). Eep.

[MRSQSL]

You're probably tired of hearing this, but I'm married to the most amazing man. We were in Europe for two weeks at the end of September. We returned late on a Saturday after an 11.5 hour flight and lots of delays. I was exhausted and had a cold and discovered we had a very sick dog. Jet lag was miserable over the next few days and Tuesday I ended up taking the dog to the vet where they told me there was no hope and I had to make the horrible decision to put her down. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done. Through all this, Mike has been right there supporting me and taking care of my sick, jet lagged, grieving self. I'm picking up her ashes today. She was with us 15 years (almost longer than our son). Anyway, I had to run some errands last night and I returned to find Mike had fixed the pulley issue. He ground out the inside bling and now it all fits. He is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm busy the rest of the week, but I'm hoping to work on the car early next week. Stay tuned.

[John Dol]

Sorry to hear about your dog, we lost our cat untimely while in CA. They grow on you like a fungus.
Hope you can find some distraction in Coupy.

John

[MRSQSL]

Like a fungus. Ha, ha. So true.

I had to run some errands last night which included picking up her ashes from the vet. It was rough and I returned home to find Mike had spent more time in the garage. He removed the intake so he can take it to have it polished and he finished putting the pulley/bearing thing all together. It looks beautiful and his thoughtfulness actually made me tear up (he thinks it's because of the dog). I may not be making any progress, but Mike is and I really appreciate it.

[WIS89]

Jules-

So sorry to hear about your dog! I am sure its hard on each of you; the kids ok?

Glad to see you back, and I hope the rest of your posts are about happier things!

Regards,

Steve

[MRSQSL]

The kids are okay. Steve hadn't been with us in Europe, so he had seen her decline enough to realize the end was near. He had a little longer to prepare than the rest of us. Alyssa was very sad, but she's off at college so she isn't affected on a daily basis. I think it is hard for her when she is home, though. I hope the rest of my posts are happier too. Thanks for the sympathy.

[Big Blocker]

Mike-n-Julie,

A very good friend gave me this once, hope it eases your sorrow.

Quote "God turns clouds inside out to make fluffy beds for the dogs in Dog Heaven, and when they are tired from running and barking and eating ham-sandwich biscuits, the dogs find a cloud bed for sleeping. God watches over each one of them. And there are no bad dreams."

Doc

[MRSQSL]

Thank you. I miss her so much.

[CraigS]

Are you looking for a new dog yet? After we lost our last two dogs, 2 years ago and 8 years ago, we both said maybe not another. As you know they are way more work than cats. But each time my wife and I caught each other on the web looking at rescue groups within 2 weeks. We have always had the same general type of dog but we make real sure to not duplicate coloring. We have never forgotten any of our dogs or cats. It is still extremely tough when we lose one. But I promise you, a new one really helps.

[MRSQSL]

No new dogs. We have Taco (Chihuahua) and he's not good with other dogs. He confuses them. He acts dominant and then submissive and it drives other dogs crazy. I don't know what will happen after Taco. Losing him is going to be devastating and I don't know if I'll be able to get past that to adopt another. I guess only time will tell.

[Winchester67]

Sorry for your loss...I have been off the Forum for a while and was looking for an update? I mean, I have a Backdraft Cobra but car guys always look for the next grail...love the Coupe. So how is it going?

[CraigS]

Back on the coupe soon I hope. We are all missing your very enjoyable posts.

[MRSQSL]

I need to find someone to polish the intake and it just seems impossible. These places do not return phone calls!!!!! Once that gets done, more progress can be made on the coupe. Poor little car. We still plan to go to HB in April. Thanks for asking and for your condolences.

[frankeeski]

I need to find someone to polish the intake and it just seems impossible. These places do not return phone calls!!!!! Once that gets done, more progress can be made on the coupe. Poor little car. We still plan to go to HB in April. Thanks for asking and for your condolences.
I told Mike months ago that we have an excellent metal polisher here in Upland. Have Mike drop off the intake and I can take it over there for an estimate and get this moving forward for you.

Frank

[CraigS]

Or have it bead blasted w/ fresh beads and then clear coat it.

[MRSQSL]

Why doesn't Mike tell me these things? I'll nag him. Thanks, Frank.

Mike told me before clear coat is easier to maintain, but won't have the same bling as polish. I'd like the intake to match the pulleys and other pretty things in the engine compartment. I'm not totally ruling out clear coat, but I'm leaning towards the bling, bling.

[David Hodgkins]

Why doesn't Mike tell me these things? I'll nag him. Thanks, Frank.

Mike told me before clear coat is easier to maintain, but won't have the same bling as polish. I'd like the intake to match the pulleys and other pretty things in the engine compartment. I'm not totally ruling out clear coat, but I'm leaning towards the bling, bling.

I HATE Bling:
http://ffroadster.com/images/15thAnniBuild/FinishedPhotos/IMG_9729.JPG

http://ffroadster.com/images/15thAnniBuild/FinishedPhotos/IMG_9743.JPG

If you want anything engine turned, let me know. I know a guy...

:)

[MRSQSL]

Looks great!! I'll definitely let you know if I find anything in need of an engine turned surface. I like your guy. He could be your twin. Ha, ha.

[i.e.427]

Why doesn't Mike tell me these things? I'll nag him. Thanks, Frank.

Mike told me before clear coat is easier to maintain, but won't have the same bling as polish. I'd like the intake to match the pulleys and other pretty things in the engine compartment. I'm not totally ruling out clear coat, but I'm leaning towards the bling, bling.

It can be polished and then clear coated. It can even be powder coated clear after polishing. Ask Ziol about the clear powder coating.

[Winchester67]

Have to admit, I have not checked in for a while since I ended up with a roadster Cobra, but the Coupe still haunts me. Since I have one to drive now, a build that might take a while does not scare me, and a couple weeks back at Shelbyfest I was looking over some Factory Five Coupes and were very impressed. Any updates? This was always one of my favorite threads!

[MRSQSL]

Buy a coupe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I don't have any updates. We moved last month and the car is on the lift and the lift is in the garage, but I'm sure you know how it is once you move. Unpacking and little household fixes take priority. Even Mike is itching to work on the thing. He had some major back issues for a couple weeks which slowed the whole process and he will be having surgery in October. Otherwise, we are spending less time at the cabin in hopes of getting things situated at the new house so that we can finally get back to work on the coupe. I'm hoping sometime soon I will be giving actual updates.

[WIS89]

Hey Julie, welcome back!! We have missed y'all and your awesome build updates! Congratulations on the new house and the lift.

So sorry to hear about Mike's back! I hope he's getting around OK and isn't suffering all the way to October. I hope surgery goes great, and the recovery even better!

I look forward to reading your updates soon. All the best to the whole crew!

Regards,

Steve

[MRSQSL]

Thanks for the warm wishes. Oddly Mike's recent back problems actually have nothing to do with his back surgery in October. This was lower back and his surgery is for herniated discs in his upper back. He is always suffering, but not to the extent he was the last couple of weeks. It's such a relief to see him back to just his standard operating pain level.

Looking forward to getting back to work on the car. Hopefully the heat will die down some. I think it's 100 here today. Bleck. So. Hot. Ugh.

[xlr8or]

Happy to see you update Julie. You know if it's just Mikes backside getting in the way of progress that help is just a pizza and beer away. ;)

[MRSQSL]

I appreciate that. It isn't JUST his backside causing issues. The garage hasn't really been in any condition to use. Up until the other day, it was stuffed with boxes to the point where you could barely walk. Finding a needed tool would've been next to impossible. He got some cabinets installed and a countertop so that helped. He still needs to do the floors and maybe paint the walls and install a couple of pantry-like cabinets before we can really get down to work. I've kept him busy on odd inside jobs (like putting handles on my closet doors so I could open them without breaking my fingernails) and installing a chandelier in my closet (mainly because I'm a princess and I wanted it). I've also had to buy some furniture which he has had to cart around. I can't be trusted to hang pictures or any sort of wall decoration, so that falls on him as well. Now that I think about it, I'm not really surprised his back hurt. Maybe I've been a little rough on him. In my defense, I hired movers for the bed set. I didn't make him lug the 300 lb dresser upstairs. I deserve a trophy for that.

[Dragonfire]

Julie,

The best thing Mike can do for his back is to take the trapeze out of the bedroom. Remember, he is not as young as he once was. :rolleyes: Hope all goes well in setting up you new home.

[MRSQSL]

I actually wondered if he should try one of those inversion table things. I should do some research on that. Anyway, setup is going well. We should be done before too much longer.

[John Dol]

Julie,

Welcome back. I have one that you can come pick up for free in Maine.
I have back issues as well but it didn't seem to help me.
Hope Mike's better soon and able to crank on the coupe.

John

[MRSQSL]

Maine? I thought you were in Tehachapi or Bakersfield-ish. It'll take me a few hours to get there. Hmmmm...maybe weeks.

Thanks for the warm wishes. I'll whine enough he'll go out there just to shut me up. It takes time. I'm not quite as annoying as he claims.

[John Dol]

I was but that's a long story.....

[MRSQSL]

I like long stories.

[Rodster]

Sooo How are things and Coupy, Mike and Julie? I am finally getting back to my build. Starting chassis wiring.69798

[MRSQSL]

I feel like we are in a competition to see who can do the slowest build. I think I'm winning. You are much further along.

Coupey hasn't gotten any attention since the move. Mike and Steve put epoxy on one portion of the garage yesterday. Mike and I worked a half day today so Steve and I built a garage shelf once Mike got home. That part of the garage is coming together. Now we only have three more bays to go.

Took Scoopy out for a little drive over the weekend. I think it has been a year since I've ridden in that car. I really enjoyed the ride (since Mike took it easy). It made me super want to drive Coupey though.

Happy 4th of July!!!!!

[Carlos C]

Julie:

I have a spinal condition and the VA, along with my insurance company have given me plenty of "toys" for my back. I do have an inversion table, but those only work depending on the type of back condition. I also have a TENS machine (sends electrical pulses via sticky patches to different muscles and/or ligaments) and that definitely works. It may be worth asking your insurance company if it's covered. Hope Mike feels better.

Carlos

[dallas_]

It's been a while since you all posted an update. How are things coming?

[MRSQSL]

Mike had surgery three weeks ago and he's still recovering. This is his first day back at work without one of us driving and staying with him. He won't get clearance to lift or move his head much until at least the 26th. We put a new rack in the garage yesterday (Steve and Jacob - Alyssa's boyfriend). Mike wasn't allowed to do anything but supervise. It'll be for parts while working on the car. Super heavy racking. I mean incredibly heavy. I felt bad for the truck (and me since I had to drive). Mike said he thought it was strong enough to put an engine block on (wouldn't fit, but I agree regarding strength). So Coupey got to roll a foot or so during the install process. Probably really exciting for the poor car. I talk to Coupey whenever I go in the garage, but I don't think it's the same as getting worked on. Soon. As soon as Mike is healed enough to help, anyway.

[xlr8or]

Glad to hear Mikey is doing well. Hopefully when he's up to it some garage therapy will do him good.

[MRSQSL]

I know, I know. I'm a horrible human for not working on my poor car. Just thought I would stop in and say hi. Coupey is currently off the lift so Steve can work on his Buick. It was fun being pushed around in the coupe during the repositioning though. I will continue to harass Mike about working on my brake lines, but he seems to have too many other projects going. Sadness. One day. He can't use his back as an excuse anymore because the surgery did wonders for him. He finally admits he should've done it years ago. Yes, Julie is always right. Errrrr...mostly always right. Okay, sometimes right. I was right about this.

[David Hodgkins]

Two words: Build party!

I'd love to bend some tubing!

:)

[WIS89]

Jules-
So good to see a post of yours! Really thrilled about Mike's back!! What a relief!

Despite the lack of progress on the coupe, I hope you and the family are all doing well! It's much more fun when you all are here! C'mon back and tell us how you all are doing. All the best.

Regards,,

Steve

[MRSQSL]

Thanks! I'm just finishing up work for the day. I'm going to go for a quick jog before the sun totally sets and then I think I'm going to head out to the garage and stare at the coupe. Maybe if I pull out the manual and stare at it, magic will happen and the car will work on itself. Probably not, but at least if Mike seems me with the manual, it might inspire him to work on the brake lines. Worst case, maybe I can find some little odd or end that can be done. I'll report back tomorrow if anything amazing happens.

[David Hodgkins]

Glad you're back Julie!

:)

[John Dol]

Great for Mike!
It’s funny how life gets in the way of these projects.
Just put up a post on going into year 10.

Looking forward to your progress
Just keep staring:D

John

[i.e.427]

Probably not, but at least if Mike see's me with the manual, it might inspire him to work on the brake lines.

Saw Mike today in Anaheim and teased him a little about Coupey. Asked him when you were going to move the car over to the shop to let us finish it up. Don't worry Jules, you'll get it. We need to get you all out to some Factory 5 Family events and get you inspired again.

Frank

[Bob-STL]

........... Maybe if I pull out the manual and stare at it, magic will happen and the car will work on itself................

One word!.......Mark D.

[MRSQSL]

So I did do something last night. I mean it wasn't much, but every little bit counts, right?

I found the manual. Turns out Mike knew exactly where it was because he's the one that hid it from me. I flipped through it only to realize THIS is why I'm a mess and can't be left alone with the car. I found the last thing that had been accomplished, excitedly flipped the page and then crumbled in disappointment. No, I can't do the fuel lines or the wiring harness. Grumble, grumble. Some of those angry noises must've leaked outside of my brain because Mike turned to look at me. Oh, sorry. I asked him if he knew what I could do. He said we needed to get it on the lift and get the body off. Great, but Steve is using the lift. I mean he was literally under the Buick during this conversation. He's taller and stronger, so I don't see myself winning the lift battle. No, I whined. Is there something I can do tonight? Mike looked around a bit and decreed I could install the power steering pump. Yay! Okay. That sounds fun and easy. That's like what, a bolt or two? Piece of cake.

I hopped up and raced to the front of the car, spun and looked at the racks with all the parts and then had to ask Mike which one was the power steering pump. I don't know if he snorted out of laughter or disgust, but he made a vague gesture while saying it's over there. I thought I caught the angle of his glance, so I grabbed the largest thing in that general area and carried it over to him. This? Now that was definitely a snort of laughter. I don't know what I was holding but it was pretty and cylindrical. I put it back. Okay, is it in a box? No. Is it in some sort of packaging? No. This would be kind of a fun game if it was like an early Christmas present instead of a mystery car part. Am I getting hotter? Wait, don't answer that. He said it was near some box. I narrowed it down to one of twelve things and got lucky when I selected correctly.

It's heavy. Why is a pump so heavy? It's not big. It's like the size of my foot only way fatter. Whatever. I lugged it to the front of the car and then realized I didn't know what it was supposed to attach to exactly. I mean I know where the power steering rack is, but does it go on it or under it or near it? Fortunately Mike had anticipated my lack of knowledge and was already taking it from me to hold it in the proper place. He said I needed to drill holes to mount it. Oh no. This isn't fun. I thought the holes would already be there and I'd just smush it up and bolt it in. I mean that still would've taken me at least 20 minutes, but drilling????? No.

He suggested a step drill and that I use a sharpie to mark one hole first to make sure everything looked correct. I found a pretty purple marker which I just had to show him. Look! So pretty! So what if he was trying to drill holes for rivets for some little project he's working on. It's purple and it needs to be properly ogled. I pranced back to the front of the car (let me point out this isn't easy because of the odds and ends currently being stored in the garage for projects). I plopped down and realized I wasn't going to be able to hold the pump and mark it. The thing is astoundingly dense. I hadn't changed out of my running clothes, so I was a little hesitant to shove my foot or my leg under it, but then I realized it's new and probably not too dirty. Maybe dirty shoes would make me look more accomplished to other runners. Hmmmmm...so my foot found its way under the pump while one hand tried to keep it from flipping wildly out of control and then the other hand shakily drew a pretty purple dot...or so I thought. I unbalanced the pump and managed to get it onto the ground without damage and leaned forward to admire my beautiful marking. Nothing. Where did it go? I literally starting looking around the front of the car to find it. How stupid is that? A dot can't walk. I so clearly felt it though. It touched metal!!!! Mike wandered over about that time to see how it was going. I looked dejectedly at him and explained my dot didn't dot. He tried to stifle a giggle as he picked up the pump and reapplied it to the spot for marking. As he moved it into position, I saw a horrific purple scribble glinting on the black bracket. Oh. Oops.

Mike held the pump while I marked and I was thrilled when I saw the dot this time. Pretty dot. I managed to get the step drill chucked up and commenced hole making. Oh no. This is slow. This is very very very very slow. I drilled and drilled and barely made a dent. I admit I'm weak and this was an odd angle, but it seemed pitiful even for me. I eventually (like 10 minutes later) asked Mike if it was possible the drill wasn't sharp enough. He muttered something and continued with his project. Ok. 10 more minutes and nary a dent. He wobbled by and noticed my frustration (not hard since I was sitting in a clump staring at the lack of a hole). He looked at the drill and looked at me. He told me I was using the wrong one. I should go smaller and pointer and work my up to the bigger fatter one. I changed out the bits and reapplied the drill. No progress. 10 more minutes. Now it isn't a constant pressure for 10 minutes. It's 15 seconds and then rest for a minute and then 10 seconds and rest for two minutes, etc. I'm not Superman. I whined to Steve that it wasn't working and he whined to me that the push to connect was not connecting. Yeah, I can't ever get those in either. Mike finally went to help Steve and it was about that time I realized I had the drill in reverse. D'oh. I hadn't the entire time, just for the last few seconds. I put it back in "go" and discovered it really made no difference. When Mike was done with Steve, he came to check on me. I was back in clump position. He took the drill from me, pressed to the point where he was almost shaking and in less than 15 seconds there was a big gaping hole. Wow. Impressive. I want muscles like that. I mean, not visible muscles. That would be creepy. Maybe I could have stealth man muscles.

I won't bore you with the details about finding a bolt. Let's just say I knew it was 3/8 because I had purple marked the step drill (shhhhhh...Mike doesn't know) and it was the spot where it said 3/8. I didn't know about the length of the bolt and guessed 3/4. Nope. Too short. Then I guessed 1". Nope, too short. I eventually got something that seemed to work, but dinner was also ready and Mike was telling us to close up shop. It's really nice he has been cooking lately. Anyway, I have the pump up (don't ask how I managed to hold the bolt and the pump and actually get it all in the right spot with the bolt in the hole). I guess the plan is to try to get it somewhat level and then mark another hole, remove the pump, drill and then actually install. It's not much, but it's exciting. Only took about 1.5 hours. I'm sure that's a record. Maybe not the kind anyone but me would be proud of.

[Dragonfire]

Julie,

So glad your back. We missed you.

[Automan]

Hi, just wanted to say that i have spent the last week going over your posts. Totally amazing and fantastic work. I am in to a one year build of a #50 Gen 3 Coupe!!! Ive started my thread but i havnt posted any pics yet lolol. more time building. But fantastic thread!!

Automan (Nelson)
Ontario Canada

[MRSQSL]

Thank you! Sounds like you should post some pictures so the rest of us can enjoy.

I think Mike is trying to sabotage me. I finally get to work on the car and then he puts a giant indy car on sawhorses dangling precariously over the front of my car (exactly where I was working). I think this is his not so subtle way of telling me I need to help Steve reinstall the fuel tank on the Buick and get the car running.

[xlr8or]

Hope you are able to get back to the project soon Julie. Miss seeing your funny updates.

[MRSQSL]

Thanks. Steve got the fuel tank back in last night (before all this rain started - not complaining about the rain). Hopefully that means he will be able to get it running and off the lift. Maybe then we can move my car back over so I can get to that other bolt. Then again, Mike might decide he wants to throw something else up on the lift. He's sneaky like that.

[MRSQSL]

Mike is a sneaky husband. He had taken off my intake, but thrown a car cover over Coupey so I had no idea. He sent it off for polishing as a Christmas gift for me. It came back yesterday and is stunning. STUNNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He's going to have to post pictures (which I already told him). Please forgive how I look in those. I had just exercised, but hadn't showered yet. Anyway, I'm not going to be the thing you are looking at anyway. I can't wait to get it all fully installed. Mike says we could be close to a first start so I should consider having a little first start party. Sounds good to me.

[Big Blocker]

Been off the Coupe part of the forum for a while now but now have a friends new (to him) Gen 2 Coupe to keep my interest going.

First off, Sooo glad to hear Mikes back is coming along and he is back to [almost] pain free. Having 2 back surgeries in my life, I know EXACTLY what he is enduring.

Good to hear that you are close to a first start, if you have a weekend afternoon party, I'll try to make the drive from Vegas to be there . . . would love to a part of your 1st start party.

Doc

[MRSQSL]

It would definitely be a weekend and I can make sure it's in the afternoon if you are willing to drive that far!!! Would love for you to be here for the first start. I think it's our turn to buy you a drink.

[QSL]

Man, its been forever since i have been back on here! Way too long! Anyway here some pics of mis spoiled pants Julies intake system. All polished up, ready to get dirty!

101165
101166
101167
101168

[John Dol]

Love the bling! When is first start?;)

John

[QSL]

I am thinking we can get the intake manifold bolted on and we need to order a driveshaft. Then I can mount the computer and then we can have a party. Probably take a few hours of help with everyone the finish up some stuff just to get a test fire. Closer to spring when weather is good? Free food and beer!

[CDXXVII]

Nice Bling!!!

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=101170&d=1548303852

[68GT500MAN]

That looks great. It has been so long since I have been here and the first post is from you and Julie.
Doug

[Matt Ries]

Just perusing old build threads and came across this one from yrs ago. I really enjoyed Mike's and Julie's builds, the Coupe build had a lot of cool custom fabrication. I hope they are doing well. Maybe they might check in and see this... Does anyone knows if they are still around, if the coupe ever got finished?

[JohnnyB]

Just perusing old build threads and came across this one from yrs ago. I really enjoyed Mike's and Julie's builds, the Coupe build had a lot of cool custom fabrication. I hope they are doing well. Maybe they might check in and see this... Does anyone knows if they are still around, if the coupe ever got finished?

I enjoyed their build threads as well and was surprised when they stopped posting updates. I noticed Mike updated their cabin thread a few months ago. Sounds like they've been busy with other priorities.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?17717-Casey-Cabin/page5

[frankeeski]

I don't want to speak for the Mr. & Mrs QSL. What I can tell you is that their business has been expanding regularly and they were nice enough to have us do the electrical work on their latest business expansion in the city of Ontario, CA. We were there about 12 days and they opened that store on October 1st. In talking with the two of them about their Coupe. They both said they do want to finish it, but with all of the things they have pulling them in different directions, they just haven't had the time.

Frank

[MRSQSL]

Just perusing old build threads and came across this one from yrs ago. I really enjoyed Mike's and Julie's builds, the Coupe build had a lot of cool custom fabrication. I hope they are doing well. Maybe they might check in and see this... Does anyone knows if they are still around, if the coupe ever got finished?

We still exist! Frank is correct with all that he said. We still love Coupie and want to finish one day. Have we done any work recently? No. Do we still look at the car every single day? Yes. I feel terrible that we haven't done any work. I truly do.

Love that you are checking in on us. Thank you!

[Matt Ries]

I'm glad to hear that business is doing well for you guy's and that the coup isn't forgotten about! For myself I've had to set aside a hobby for a time, and when I was able to pick it back up, it was if I been reunited with a old friend. It can wait while life happens in another direction, cheers to you and Mike and maybe the time to pick it back up will be short. :) In the meantime good luck with your other adventures! Thanks for checking in.