Fluge's Build Thread

[Fluge]

Inspired by a few other fun build threads, I thought I would try to start my own. I also decided to post it on this forum. FFR is where the car originated and so it seems right to post here and help build the archive.

I took delivery in 2009 and have been picking away at it since...despite almost selling it at one point.

Edit: I REALLY NEED TO GIVE CREDIT TO ALL THE COUPE BUILDERS. 90% of the things I did were first done by other builders. I likely never would have thought to do most of those things. Thank you.

I would like to see others start similar build threads...it can be helpful not only to other builders but also to them...

My plan is to post a timewarp of pictures showing some of the more meaningful shots leading to it's current state of re-assembly. My way of reliving the journey to date.

I'll try to post a few pictures every few days and we'll see how it goes. if the past gets too old, I'll speed it up...

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/IMG_4260.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009041018.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009041077.jpg

[Gbeck]

I think I'll enjoy the time warp. Keep 'em coming!
Q: was it delivered with the aluminum panels installed as in the last pic, or it that your handiwork?

[QSL]

Good stuff!

[Fluge]

Gbeck

No that's the way it was delivered and what it looked like at the end of Day 1.
The larger aluminum panels come screwed to the frame with a few self tapping screws. There are a few things you should do before you remove them...like label them and note how the panels overlap. The manual suggests outlining the frame on the panels so that you can drill the rivet holes. That worked for me but you may want to consider waiting until all the aluminum pieces have been positioned. The position of the panels on delivery may need to be tweaked a bit in order to get optimal positioning of all the panels.

I'll try to keep all the pictures in chronological order.


Marc

[Rodster]

Marc -
Very good idea, it will be good to see the "before" and "afters" . ..

-wayne

[Fluge]

One of the first things I did was figure out where I wanted to rear wheels to sit in the wheel well. Because I am using pin drive, I had to get the rear solid axle housing cut. While I was at it, I had 9 inch housing ends welded onto the housing and custom axles made by Bears Performance.

The other Mod I wanted to make was for the power brakes. This turned out to be a much bigger deal than I thought it would be. I needed to change the frame around the booster, lower the steering flange and later I found out I needed to modify the steering column cushion bearing on the dash 2x2 in order to lower to the steering column. In the end I also added a booster spacer to help clear the steering column.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20090408.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/200905099.jpg

[Fluge]

I had a tough time installing the banana bracket. I had to grind the finish of the housing and smooth things out a bit. Once I got it on I welded the bracket to the housing and also installed the vintage performance brace...maybe overkill...

While in the overkill mode (and because I have a welder) I added the Breeze upper control arm brace. It is intended as a bolt on but I welded it on and used the bolt holes for rosette welds.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009071825.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009071823.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009072515.jpg

[vnmsss]

Marc.....Great thread! Thanks so much for posting!! That crate sure brings back memories, and it wasn't all that long ago that this was the way all of the kits were shipped. Just the photos of the mods you made for the brake booster, the 3-link supports, and the info on the pin drive are already very helpful. I am also grateful that we're building an archive of information on this forum as well. Thank you!!

I very much appreciate your kind words on my build as well, and am reminded every day of just how lucky I am to be part of this amazingly talented and kind community. :)

Keep the photos and info coming!! Lovin' it!

Karen

[Fluge]

Thanks Karen

I was just looking through your Blog...makes me want to do another one and I haven't even finished this one...

Marc

[Fluge]

I know this may seem like a step back but I liked how the original FFR had shoulder belt anchors...so I modified the rear frame to allow anchors to be bolted below the trunk floor. The angle is such that with the low back seats the belts would fit the way they were intended...within 10 degrees below the shoulders.

I also wanted head rests so I made brackets and welded them to the crossbar. The head rests are adjustable up and down.

I added a dead pedal and a lip to the driver's side 4" tube for the aluminum dropped floor to sit on.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009091243.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009073110.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009071240.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/200908083.jpg

[Fluge]

To add support to the back of the body I added an arched brace across the back that is tucked in under the back upper lip of the body...otherwise my body was resting just on the two back upper corners.

I did the usual firewall A/C mod.

Another challenge with the black body was the driver's side door. The skins hadn't been glued together properly and the only way to get a proper fit without a 3 or 4 inch striker was to cut the back of the door and reglass it. An easier solution would have been to just use a red door but they only came out after I was done.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009111219.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009101525.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/200912212.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2009122124.jpg

[Fluge]

Warp speed ahead ....

I then fitted the hood but it was too high along the sides so I had to slice the lower edge off,
Trim the side wall and splice the lower piece back on.

Once the hood was fitted I installed the rad shroud and reinforced the bottom of it with aluminum.

I relocated the e-brake handle to the top of the tunnel. I had to rework the brackets and use some of the many ideas members have posted here and elsewhere.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201001178.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2010032228.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2010050210.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2011101511.jpg

[Fluge]

I added access doors to the trunk. The gas tank is a Spectra tank.

The rear glass was released just in time...easy to fit and only minor body work needed on an unfinished body to make it look great.

I used Forte's drive shaft loop. I decided I wanted it to be removable but welded to the 4" tubes...so I came up with this. The ends were later welded in place completely.

I bought quite a few pieces from Russ Thompson...door sills, front rad cover, gas pedal, A pillar slats, turn signal and these pontoon covers. Thanks Russ!

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2011101562.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2011110833.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201111111.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2011121242.jpg

[Fluge]

I bought this modular dash from a forum vendor and made dash side pieces with left over material.

I decided to make the cowel vents functional and connected both sides to the footboxes with blast gates.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012010322.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012011514.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201201173.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012010821.jpg

[Fluge]

I made heat shields for the footboxes using 16 gauge polished SS panels. In addition to the 1/4 inch airgap, there will be a layer of insulation material in between.

I used the Breeze roadster fan shroud and adapted it to the coupe by cutting and riveting it back together.

Knowing I would have the body at the body shop for a while, I made a body buck.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201202092.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201202094.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012030446.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201209176-1.jpg

[Rodster]

Fluge -
Thanks for posting your build pictures and notes - I like the dash mods and the structure / body support add-ons you did. The engine-side dash mod - the vertical sheet at the passenger side - should be perfect for my A/C install. (I started to sketch out a more complicated modification, your solution will look better than my original plan.)

Keep it up, I am looking forward to more!

-wayne

[Jacob McCrea]

I also appreciate seeing these build photos; please keep 'em coming!

[Fluge]

When things go missing, this is the number one cause.

Body work has been slow but I am pleased with the workmanship.

I decided to add hood louvers like the Superformance coupe. I made these mesh inserts.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201209174-1.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20120926.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201210128.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201212199.jpg

[Fluge]

Yes I borrowed another idea...this time from Russ Thompson...I made brackets to support the A/C condensor...this one almost cost me a finger but 95% healed now.

I made access panels for the rear trunk sides and the driver footbox.

The side pieces of the firewall didn't fit well so I made new ones. I made good use of the body on...body off...body on...body off.... routine...

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012111193.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012111817.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012111813.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201211243.jpg

[Fluge]

I wanted the option of installing a spare wheel in the trunk so I added a plate to the frame and came up with this way of holding the wheel down. I may still add leather straps but just for show.

You can see the shoulder belt anchors and the tie down anchors (x5) I added in the trunk.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012111825.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012120938.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012121913.jpg

[snakebit31]

I think I'll enjoy the time warp. Keep 'em coming!
Q: was it delivered with the aluminum panels installed as in the last pic, or it that your handiwork?

Just to clarify Marc's answer. The panels are shipped from F5 attached, however, they are just positioned and held with a few sheet metal screws. You still need to fit, trim and rivet into place for final assembly.

Rob

[Fluge]

When I had the car loaded onto a flatbed for the first time (on the way to the bodyshop) I realized that I could use a tow hook high enough to spare damage to the body....so I came up with this...a detachable tow hook bolts to this bracket and the hole in the aluminum is covered with a plate when not needed.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012120922.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20130753.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013011402.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012120930.jpg

[Fluge]

Nothing original on the body work so far...

The vent holes in the quarter windows have been rounded out a bit more since this picture was taken.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013011218.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201211095.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20130104.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201301127.jpg

[CaptainCalf]

Nice work!

[Fluge]

While the frame was going back and forth to the bodyshop for body fitting, I kept busy by cleaning the aluminum pieces in preparation for sandblasting and powdercoating....

Not having decided on the exact plans for the transmission tunnel, I made a few pieces...one of them still blank.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013012019.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201301222.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013012617.jpg


http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201301269.jpg

[Fluge]

Always something to do....

I used POR-15 to clean up the rear end.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201302095.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013020926.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013022122.jpg

[Fluge]

Progress on the body. Slicksand went on and then we refitted the body on the frame for a final test fit. Put on a few of the peripherals also. The A pillar slats were test fitted with the window frames installed to make sure there was no interference.

Sent the bare frame and all aluminum pieces for sandblasting and powdercoating.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20130125.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201301283.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201302061.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201302151.jpg

[Fluge]

Started bolting things back on...will need to make time to download the latest pictures. I have the front and rear suspension back on at this point :)

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013021615.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013021614.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/IMG_2440.jpg

[Rodster]

This is going to be great to watch. The chassis finish came out really nice.

[Fluge]

Engine has been ready for a few months...can't wait to get it in the car!

This is my engine builder. A GREAT guy.

"In front of 90,000 fans at the Pomona, California Raceway in February, 1970, sport history was made as he became the first Canadian ever to win a major racing championship in a national United States drag racing meet. "

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012110616.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2012110617.jpg

[John Dol]

Marc,

Exciting times in your garage!!

John

[Gbeck]

Engine has been ready for a few months...can't wait to get it in the car!

http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/IMG_2056.mp4.html


Off topic, but couldn't help but notice the nicely modded Limer in the garage, too. Nice!

[CJBergquist]

Looking good Marc. I wish I had pre-assembled my car but my wife would have shot me when I started to disassemble the car.....:eek:

[Fluge]

The Limer belongs to my engine builder...that was in his garage. Great looking car.

As for the re-assembly...I know what you mean. I have car parts all over the house but the exercise room took the biggest hit. Good incentive to put it back together though. I thought putting it back together would go faster but there is still a process to follow and lots if details to work out that weren't part on the mock up...such as the insulation.

Marc

[Fluge]

I used bedliner on the fuel tank shield and POR-15 on the tank.

The straps are powdercoated silver

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013011237.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20130746.jpg

[Fluge]

My suspension is almost done now. I have the rear 3-link with the Vintage banana brace upgrade. I also welded the banana bracket to the housing. The axle housing was shortened to accommodate the pin drive set up. I also converted the axle housing ends to 9" ends which does away with the center C clip. I noticed that the rear LCA grease fittings were only held in by a single thread so I re-drilled and tapped for a larger thread fitting on each side. The rear lower shock mount bolts were replaced with longer ones that allowed me to add the limiting straps. I know these may not be needed but they hold the rear up about 1/2 inch higher than at full drop...so it should limit anything. The new upper and lower shock bolts have a shank that is just the right length for the application. I just finished making up some brackets to help direct the e-brake cable around the 3-link suspension. I hope to get those painted and installed this weekend.

The front suspension has the SAI mod. I changed the LCA bolts to longer bolts to insure that thread was showing after full Torque. I replaced the original LCA sleeves with the slightly longer ones offered by Breeze. The original UCA sleeves were replaced with slightly longer steel sleeves to insure that I would have enough thread inside to the sleeves.

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201302211.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013031843.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013031850.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013031855.jpg

[Fluge]

For the manual steering rack I used the breeze Offset rack kit. I'm still looking for nice brake line clips at a reasonable cost...any ideas?

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013022431.jpg

[Fluge]

I installed the rear rotors, calipers and pin drive adaptors.

In order to stabilize the e-brake cable around the suspension, I made brackets with grommets. I still have to mount the one on the banana bracket that you can see just hanging there.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032175.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20130321101.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20130321105.jpg

[Fluge]

I welded brackets to the front and back of the main 4" tubes for tie-down purposes. I put these rings on although I could just strap directly in the bracket holes. I know some prefer to tie-down the suspension rather than the frame....I have some ideas for that also.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032116.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032199.jpg

[Fluge]

Updated Post #30. I really need to get better pictures of the engine but it is out of town at the moment.

Marc

[Fluge]

Gas tank is in along with the fuel sender and fuel pickup. I also used Breeze's large bore vent kit.

In addition to the plastic caps on the frame posts I added pieces of a black rubber hose wedged between the tank and the posts.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032441.jpg

[Fluge]

Managed to get the e-brake reinstalled. I think this will work well. Thanks to all those who contributed to this. I wanted to move the e-brake handle to the transmission tunnel.

This was also the turning point in my build.

I tore my ACL skiing in 2010 and I was discouraged about the build. The car sat untouched in the garage for 1 year. I put an add up to sell it and on a Friday I got a call with an offer to buy it...my stomach sank as reality set in. I had done so much work already in that first year. I asked if I could call back on the Monday. That weekend I solved my e-Brake riddle and just kept going from there. I made the e-brake bracket removable in case I ever needed to work on the cables...figured it would be easier off the car than under the car.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032447.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201303242.jpg

[Fluge]

I started putting the rad ducting back together...

The bottom pieces have been modified to add strength. I made a new piece that goes over the Wing piece you see in the first picture. It will be fastened to the Wing piece at the bottom and to the vertical part of the large center piece. (as I recall I cut off the lowest horizontal part of the center piece). I also added a right angle seen in the other picture.

The fan Shroud is actually a Breeze Roadster fan shroud that I modified to fit the coupe. It didn't turn out quite as nice as I had planned but couldn't justify the cost of another. The nice welded seems on the corners makes up for the overlapping which will be at the bottom and out of sight. :)

My tow hook plate sits perfectly behind the aluminum center piece.

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032455.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032463.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032449.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013032462.jpg

[Fluge]

I had this drain plug welded to the bottom of the rad for easier drainage.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201303317.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013033127.jpg

[Fluge]

Here is a good shot of the rad aluminum ducting.
I have since had to trim the driver side piece to allow more room for the lower rad hose. I plan to use the Breeze lower hose.

I added a view from underneath. I wanted to add strength to that area so I modified the aluminum slightly.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20130331.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201304063.jpg

[Fluge]

This power brake mod was a real struggle...partly because of the booster I selected...and I don't even remember what those reasons were. I obviously had to make the frame mod, but I also ended up dropping the flange bearing for the steering column and also dropping the dash cushion bearing in order to keep the steering wheel low (droping the footbox flange resulted in a rise at the dash cushion bearing). To do that I needed to cut out a small wedge in the dash 2x2 and weld a portion of a cylinder wall. I then lowered the cushion frame bracket.

In my mock up I had the flange bearing on the inside of the footbox. Along with using a booster spacer, this gave me the clearance I needed between the booster and the steering column nuckle. It worked but I didn't like it...the flange should be on the outside...so yesterday I decided to shim the pedal box up with washers and raised the booster up to make up for the needed clearance I needed by placing the flange on the outside.

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013033118.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013033110.jpg

[Fluge]

I can't believe you guys are all speechless...I can't figure out if that is good or bad...don't be shy...:)

[QSL]

what is there to say, its AWESOME!

[Fluge]

Thanks...

I'm trying to sort out my lower rad hose...I trimmed a bit of the rad aluminum but I think I need to trim more. Anyone have pictures of their lower rad hose near the rad take-off..and how it gets around the steering rack?

Marc

[tcoon]

Marc this is simply an amazing build! I can't believe you assembled the whole car, then took it all apart for paint and powder coating, and now are assembling it yet again. What dedication! It is truly a work of art! Kudos!

[CJBergquist]

There a bunch of photos here >>> http://www.flickr.com/photos/51103049@N00/sets/72157626729446006/with/5724519504/

This is one of them....

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3180/5723957391_6b27b04c48_z.jpg

[Fluge]

Thanks Tcoon. Not having done this before doing it this way allows me to go back a few steps if needed.

Chris, thanks for the pictures. I have been trying to route the hose on the other side of the steering column. You must have had to cut out a fair amount of the rad aluminum in order to aim it that way over the rack.

I'll work with that.

Marc

[CJBergquist]

I did have to trim more but not that much.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8473/8400100001_b11b1070c5_c.jpg

[Fluge]

Thanks Chris

This what I have so far...I trimmed it back enough I think...I'll fine tune it once the engine is in.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013040632.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013040626.jpg

[Fluge]

I installed the condenser today. I borrowed the bracket design from Russ Thompson...thanks Russ!

My wife came out to look at my progress and when she saw Russ' front rad cover (seen in the 3rd picture) she commented "I like That piece"...so there you go Russ, my wife likes it!

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013040611.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013040615.jpg

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013040620.jpg

[John Dol]

Isn't that always the way Marc. You build all this stuff and then who gets the credit.......

Looks great so far, keep at it and you'll be driving soon!

John

[Rodster]

Fluge -
Just another Coupe builder watching your progress - awesome work, every part is a work of art - thanks for sharing what you did, it really helps us visualize our next steps.

-wayne

[Fluge]

Thanks Wayne...I learned everything from watching previous builders do their stuff. Happy to help and give back.

The other reason I post is in the hopes that if I make a mistake, someone will pick it up and tell me. I am always open to suggestions! I'm sure some parts could be improved or modified...better now than when all done.

John...what strikes me is how much longer than you think everything takes to do.... And how you can spend 5-10 hours on a little thing, and it takes less than 10 seconds to point it out to a friend...Glad I bought ready made parts when I could. There are many more that need to be made.

Marc

[Fluge]

Not much to show here except a little progress. I started bonding and riveting the aluminum panels. I'll have more pictures this weekend... I now have all of the passenger footbox, A/C box, rear seat area, and floor installed and partly riveted.

The first Shows the floor of the A/C box. I siliconed the firewall piece below then added a rubber strip and a weather strip along the frame. That should seal the area nicely. Just to make sure I don't get ahead of myself I assemble with clecos first then take it apart for final assembly. I did bond one piece earlier than I should have...it was an easy fix but I learned my lesson. There is a definite sequence to follow on these things. I spend a lot of time thinking!

I am now working on the passenger footbox heat-shield...added a few more 10-24 nutserts.

In some areas I have decided to install pieces using 6-32 SS Allen button head bolts. They are similar in size to the rivets and allow me to remove panels more easily (like Russ' front rad panel). I'll either use a bolt and Nut or install nutserts there too.

I'm going to hate covering up the inside of those nice panels with insulation...looks pretty good the way it is!

My goal is to get everything done in the engine-bay Area so that we can install the drivetrain. My engine guy is coming this weekend to have a look at things.... :)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013040647.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013040647.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013040643.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013040643.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013040644.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013040644.jpg.html)

[Fluge]

It was a great weekend. My engine guy, Barrie, came over to have a look at the car. I made a list of things to do before I take the car to his place to drop the drivetrain in. I got the passenger side heat shield insulated and mounted. I added more nutserts for a total of 14 on that side. I got a lot of little things done and out of the way.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201304138.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/201304138.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013041310.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013041310.jpg.html)

[CJBergquist]

Hey Marc, I know you made an access cover on the passenger side of the drivers foot box but not sure if you made one on the other side too....I really wish I had done both sides or even better made the whole top removable...it's not to late for you.

[Fluge]

Thanks Chris

Yes I did make one. Initially I just had the driver's side access but then added the other one. That should be good enough.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013041335.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013041335.jpg.html)


http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013041315.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013041315.jpg.html)

[Gbeck]

Been watching this thread since it started. I gotta say, "Just beautiful!"

[Fluge]

Thanks Gbeck

It has been a long 4 years to get to this point and I have a lot of work left to do. I'm trying not to cut corners in my haste to get it done and also trying to enjoy the process. It certainly makes me appreciate the work that has gone into all of the coupes that we see on the forum.

Marc

[Rodster]

Marc -

I love watching your progress.

I see that roller skate thing on your car - I believe those are guides for the front section - are those available from someone/someplace? I thought I saw some old posts about that device, but cannot recall where or how to find it.

Thanks,
wayne

[Fluge]

Hi Wayne,

Yes they are...I'll have to look up who that was from but it was one of the forum venders (other forum for sure and maybe this forum also)...they work very well in guiding the hood down...particularly when you are doing it alone.

Marc

[Gbeck]

Thanks Gbeck

It has been a long 4 years to get to this point and I have a lot of work left to do. I'm trying not to cut corners in my haste to get it done and also trying to enjoy the process. It certainly makes me appreciate the work that has gone into all of the coupes that we see on the forum.

Marc

That's exactly what I hope to accomplish and experience as well. Just gotta do a lot of planning and knock down a car payment.

Keep the posts coming. :)

-Glenn

[CJBergquist]

Hood rollers from Whitby Motorcars....$100

http://www.whitbymotorsports.com/UInvDetail.asp?inventoryid=1620

[Fluge]

I finished the driver side front heat shield installation. It's kind of hard to see the shape with the reflections but I am pretty happy with how it turned out. I still need to make another panel for the driver footbox between the engine and footbox. I think I am going to use powdercoated aluminum instead of the SS panel.

I also started on the dash insulation installation. I'm not liking this part much. I have a few products to work with and ordered EX Cool today. Trying to clean up a few loose ends when I have a few minutes here and there. Making a list of things to do really helps.

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201304225.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/201304225.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201304222.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/201304222.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013042219.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013042219.jpg.html)

[turbodon]

Marc

Looking great. Your almost there..

Whitby builds the Hood Rollers for me and sells them. They are not roller skate wheels. They are smaller.

[Rodster]

Hood rollers from Whitby Motorcars....$100

http://www.whitbymotorsports.com/UInvDetail.asp?inventoryid=1620


Thanks Chris! I need those....

-wayne

[Rodster]

Fluge -
Thanks for un-veiling those heat shields! They are beautiful, and should increase visibility of the engine.

How much spacing is there between the shield and the wall? 1/4- or 1/2-inch?

[Fluge]

Thanks Wayne

The ones you see above gave 1/2" air gap. I just installed another on the engine side of the driver footbox that just has 1/8-3/16 air gap. Much less room around that area. I'll post pictures when I get a chance.

Marc

[Rodster]

Thanks Wayne

The ones you see above gave 1/2" air gap. I just installed another on the engine side of the driver footbox that just has 1/8-3/16 air gap. Much less room around that area. I'll post pictures when I get a chance.

Marc


Thanks Marc. I have 1/4-inch on all of my shields. I hope everything will fit, and will work to keep some heat out of the foot boxes. I used riv-nuts, and the threaded portion is about 1/4-inch, so it is perfect - I just used them "backwards" and no need for spacers.

-wayne

[Fluge]

Sounds nice and clean Wayne...I thought of doing it that way but i wanted a little more airgap and didn't want too large of a brakeline spacer. In the end I put the nutserts the other way and used brake line tubing as spacers. It creates a little more obstacles on the inside of the footboxes but that should get lost in the insulation and carpet. Plan to use Hushmat on the inside of the footboxes AND a layer of EZCool.

[Rodster]

Sounds nice and clean Wayne...I thought of doing it that way but i wanted a little more airgap and didn't want too large of a brakeline spacer. In the end I put the nutserts the other way and used brake line tubing as spacers. It creates a little more obstacles on the inside of the footboxes but that should get lost in the insulation and carpet. Plan to use Hushmat on the inside of the footboxes AND a layer of EZCool.

Marc -
Roger. Brakeline tubing as spacers - brilliant! And yes, the insulation and carpet will cover all the fasteners up - thanks again!
-wayne

[Fluge]

I found a box of old printer paper in the basement...you know the ones that have the perforated strips on the sides...using that to make templates which i will then transfer onto bristle-board templates...for the insulation sheets and later for the carpet...a little tedious...but it will be done.

I had to get a few pieces touched up with Powdercoat and waiting for my EZCool to arrive.

Marc

[Fluge]

Progressing but everything seems to take longer than I think it will.

I made templates for all the panels using paper and then transferred them onto bristle board. I'll use them to make the insulation pieces and later for the carpet pieces.

I added a heat shield on the driver footbox and completed the insulation on both footboxes and the dash. I'm using HushMat, Fatmat and EZCool. The dash and footboxes will get a layer of Fatmat and EZCool.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201305065.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/201305065.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013050612.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013050612.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013050615.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013050615.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013050635.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013050635.jpg.html)

[Rodster]

Marc -
Nice progress. I had to do some "day job work" so no progess this week.

Question: You mention 3 insulation products - tell us - how do you determine what kind of nsulation goes where? I am using ThermoTec Cool-It for everything.

Thanks - lookin' good!

-wayne

[Fluge]

Hi Wayne

I meant Hushmat...not fatmat for the firewall.

No real rhyme or reason...I think Hushmat is rated to 500 degrees so I thought the footbox was best for that product. I added another layer of the lightweight EZCool for added insulation. The Hushmat makes the aluminum panels sound much more solid. I have Fatmat Rattle trap for everything else. It adds weight for sure but I think It will make everything seem more solid. I'm trying very hard to seal everything up very well.

Marc

[Rodster]

Thanks Marc. How are you insulating the doors? They are hollow and I wonder what is done to make them feel more solid and also deaden the sound? Same with the rear spoiler - it is hollow and squishy - I was thinking it should be a solid or thicker piece - But since it is not - maybe fill with balsa wood or something hard but lightweight and durable?

[CobraKai]

Marc, your build is so inspiring. Thanks for sharing all of your work.

Hey Wayne, could you fill the spoiler and maybe even the doors with a sprayable foam?

Jeff

[loeffler1]

Rodster

My doors will have the insulation from Second Skin Accoustics. I have used it in most everything else and it works great. The spoiler was double skinned with fiberglass at the bodyshop and is pretty rugged now.

[Fluge]

Thanks guys...

For the doors my plan is to use strips of Hushmat and then line with EZCool. I don't want to add alot of weight to the door but I like a solid sounding door. We'll see if it works.

Still picking away at a few things....insulation, turn signal with bezel, switch panel... but I'm ready for the drive train...hope to get it in sometime in the next few weeks. Started construction on another garage bay so progress on the coupe may slow somewhat.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013052058.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013052058.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013052059.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013052059.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013052040.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013052040.jpg.html)

[mentatbashar]

Fluge, what size tires and brand are you using?

[Fluge]

The ones in the pictures are Firehawks Indy 500, front 8.5" rim, 255 60R15
rear 10.25" rim, 295 50R15.

I don't know if that's what I will stick with but I'll start with them.

[CobraKai]

That dash looks wicked good....

[Made_In_America]

Wow! This is the cleanest build I've seen yet with all the powder coating and attention to detail. I plan on doing a handful of frame mods on mine as well. How much did it cost to get it all powder coated?

[Fluge]

Thanks. There are actually quite a few other builds that are even cleaner...that's the benefit of a mock build first...at least it was for me. We'll see how it all comes together.

I have no idea what the going cost is for sandblasting and powdercoating. I had over a hundred pieces of all sizes in addition to the frame both sandblasted and coated. Total cost was just over 2k and that was a special order powder and that seemed reasonable.

I think it was worth it. Certainly seems durable.

Marc

[exwestracer]

Fluge, pardon the newbie question, but is that where the battery is "supposed" to go in a 65 Coupe? I'm working on one that has the battery in an impossible location, and yours looks pretty sanitary. Thanks.

[Fluge]

The battery has been placed in a number of places. I think most install it in the engine bay just behind the X frame and in front of the round tube. Others have placed the battery on the passenger footbox. In terms of weight distribution you are better off with the battery in the front. I put mine in the back because I prefer a cleaner looking engine bay and I'm not worried about the weight distribution.

Marc

[exwestracer]

Marc, I just noticed the picture of your pontoon braces over on the "what did you do today" thread. Yours is the first I've seen with them (go easy, I'm new to these things...). I was thinking of doing the same thing with small diameter 4130 tubing, but making a triangle and tying in down to the main frame rail as well. Is that flat brace pretty common, and is there any reason NOT to triangulate it?

Thanks

[Fluge]

LOL...go easy on you? I didn't think I had ever given the impression of being anything other than easy...

Yes the pontoon braces were included in the kit. Not everyone uses them. I don't think you need anything more than what I have (unless you are doing it for looks) and many just use the lower wheel well aluminum. I used both to try and get the pontoons to line up nice and smooth to the hood.

Hope that helps...

Marc

[exwestracer]

LOL...go easy on you? I didn't think I had ever given the impression of being anything other than easy...

Yes the pontoon braces were included in the kit. Not everyone uses them. I don't think you need anything more than what I have (unless you are doing it for looks) and many just use the lower wheel well aluminum. I used both to try and get the pontoons to line up nice and smooth to the hood.

Hope that helps...

Marc

Just meant it might be another dumb question....

The left side lower fender on this one is already broken at the exhaust pass-thru. It's only held on by the wheel well close-out panel. I told the customer he should have it fixed with a seam and a couple of Dzus tabs, as I seriously doubt the left side header will come out with the pontoon intact (?). I tried it, and finally gave up and separated the pontoon at the break; the header came right out... I was going to use a more substantial brace that could be unbolted to replace the strength lost by splitting it.

[Fluge]

I think I have asked most of the dumb questions and the ones I haven't asked are still to come.

You could consider doing something like this to strengthen the pontoon. These pieces were bought from Russ Thompson but no reason why you can't make a couple up yourself...

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2011121242.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2011121242.jpg.html)

[exwestracer]

NICE! I'd be a little afraid of someone trying to sit on them, though...

[Fluge]

Well...things have slowed down a bit...I'm ready for the drive train but things are getting in the way (time-wise). My engine guy should be back from holiday any day now so he will add whatever motivation I may be lacking. The body is close to being ready for paint.

My attention has shifted to my new project...making more space for myself....should have done this 5 years ago...oh well, I'll appreciate it more now I guess.

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013062136.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013062136.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013062142.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013062142.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013062147.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013062147.jpg.html)

[aks801]

This is an extremely useful thread, thanks for all you are including. It definitely inspires me to do a "clean" build, if for no reason other than sanity-preservation.

[Fluge]

I have the blues...the good kind... The underside of the hood was painted yesterday. Still needs sanding and more clear coat. The wheel well areas were sprayed with black bedliner first then masked off for the blue.

Slowly but surely.... :)

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201307269.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/201307269.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201307268.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/201307268.jpg.html)

[QSL]

Please post the process you used to smooth your hood! Looks great!

[Fluge]

LOL...Thanks. I can ask for the specifics of what he did...Not sure on the materials or the order but I do know it took quite a bit of elbow grease. I'll ask him next week.

[CHOTIS BILL]

I don’t know what Marc did but in the past I had to resurface a mold and I used Bondo thinned with polyester resin to make it brushable, if that is a real word. Some cans of Bondo are thicker than others but most were thinned about 1/3. The thinning also made it a lot more sandable.

Just a thought,

Bill Lomenick

[Fluge]

Engine, tranny are in. Clutch cable and throttle cable done. Brakes are bled and working. Rad hoses all hooked up. 90% of wiring is done. A/C install not complete.... Engine builder found a kit to help relocate the compressor to the passenger side but will need to also be convert mech fuel pump set up to electric fuel pump. I'll try to get pictures by the end of the week.

Should be painting the rest of the car this week.

Ordered headliner samples.

[MikeJones]

Electric fuel pump will pick up horsepower so not all bad. Looking forward to seeing the whole body painted, your nose looks great. You are getting very close/

Regards, Mike

[CJBergquist]

Great progress Mark. Need more photos. ;)

[Fluge]

Thanks guys. I have been side tracked by the garage addition...the floor was epoxied yesterday so I'll be able to move my stuff in place this weekend. Lots to do but moving along..I wasn't aiming to finish the car this season anyway but It should be good and ready for the next one. Looking forward to marrying the roller with the body and getting the finishing touches done.

Marc

[Fluge]

Sneak peek...

3 coats of clear and a final coat to go... :)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/image-1.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/image-1.jpg.html)

Marc

[QSL]

Very nice!!

[68GT500MAN]

I like blue coups - heck, I like them all!
Doug

[Fluge]

I'll have to get this out in the sun....I can't believe I'll actually be driving around in a car with numbers on it...never would have thought...

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/image-2.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/image-2.jpg.html)

[Rodster]

Marc -
Thanks again for sharing your progress - I love the under hood treatment - it is incredible. The blue is an excellent color - looking forward to seeing what's next.

AND - your new garage space is great - reserved for Coupe(s) only, I suppose, eh?

I need to get back to my Coupe - other distractions and family issues are getting in the way!

wayne

[Fluge]

Thanks Wayne...I won't make this driving season but I look forward to the next one. Just moved into my new work space :)

Just about ready to put the body on...hope I don't forget anything! I can see why these are rarely ever "completely done". Seems you can always do a little bit more.

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013090169.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013090169.jpg.html)

[QSL]

very nice build. love seeing the progress.

[rj35pj]

Wow!! I have followed this build from work where the pictures don't download....then I looked at the end of this thread at home tonight and saw some of the pictures for the first time. I have backed up to the beginning and looked at all the pictures tonight and all I can say is wow!! I thought I gave attention to detail but your build is over the top! Congratulations and keep the pictures coming. I will be checking this thread at home more often.
Thanks for taking all the time to load all this in for the rest of us.
Bob

[Fluge]

Slow on the updates...been pretty busy with all sorts of things.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013090170.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013090170.jpg.html)

[John Dol]

Marc,

When are you firing her up for the first time?

John

ps Those doors ought to keep you motivated!

[Fluge]

I cheated. It was all ready to go and I was showing it to my wife...so she says..."Well? Is it just for show or does it run? So I fired it up :) ... No video.

The headers are just temporarily bolted on until the body goes on.

Getting an alignment done next week...then maybe a shakedown before the body goes on.

Marc

[John Dol]

Awesome, so is it safe to assume your going to be motoring by next spring?

John

[Rodster]

Go Fluge! Excellent documentation on your progress.... and the garage, too! Nice to have all that space to build and play!

[Fluge]

First go-cart on Wednesday. WOW! Believe it or not I was too excited to even think of video...but I'll get one.

I had the front alignment done that morning and took it for a spin. Handling is unbelieveable. A few issues to work out though.

Brakes were a little spongy.
Gas pedal a little too close to the brake pedal.
Gas pedal too soft so will add a spring to the cable.

Overall I am extremely pleased. Getting many compliments already and they haven't seen this yet. Can't wait to get back at it.

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013091842.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013091842.jpg.html)

[xlr8or]

Looks great Marc. Can't wait to see it all come together.

[John Dol]

Car looks great Marc. I still like the blue and white paint scheme a lot. When I see these cars painted it has me re thinking my paint scheme.

John

[Fluge]

Thanks guys...I am pretty excited at this point. Working around other obligations to get this done so progress is a little slow.

The car looks great in many colour schemes. I took the easy way out by picking Guardsman Blue. Sometimes I think I should have tried something different.

[loeffler1]

Fluge

You done right by her in Gaurdsman Blue. I had the same problem agonizing over what color to choose and went with Gaurdsman Blue. Now everytime I'm out in the shop putting the coupe back together I look at the color and am so glad I went with it especially when I roll -er- drive the coupe out in the sunlight and that color just glows..

[CJBergquist]

Hey Marc...you are really rolling along...great progress and it looks great...another vote for Guardsman Blue...

[Fluge]

Thanks Chris and Bill

No regrets...Body looks great. Doing the headliner today and the body goes on for the last time on the weekend. :)

I'll put up some pictures then.

Marc

[exwestracer]

Slow on the updates...been pretty busy with all sorts of things.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013090170.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013090170.jpg.html)

Haven't checked in awhile. Car is looking great, Marc! I saw this picture and at first I'm going "WHAT did he do with those headers???" LOL that is some SHINY aluminum (or stainless?)!

[Fluge]

Baby Steps on this coupe...Body and doors went on this weekend. Hood to follow. Really happy with the body and doors. Glass hatch needs another set of hands. I may try a different rubber seal. Anyone have any ideas?

Still so many little things to sort out and do...one step at a time I guess.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013100652.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013100652.jpg.html)

[jkrueger]

car looks great!

[John Dol]

Marc,

That looks like a color picture out of Carrols garage! looks awesome.

John

[QSL]

excellent! bet you cant stop staring at it!

[loeffler1]

Fluge

I used Steele Rubber Products Part #83-0139-73 for the glass hatch weather strip. I used the longer rubber side to the inside. This seal is taller than the FFR supplied seal. The peel n stick is on the side rather than on the bottom. Worked great on mine. With glass hatch closed the seal left a slight rubber edge all around the glass. I tested the seal with a piece of card stock slid in under the glass all around the perimeter and it wouldn't slip all the way through so the seal should be tight. They sell it in 10' lengths at $36.10 each plus shipping at $10.75. You'll need 2 lengths. Might be able to use the rest someplace else. I've sealed the doors with FFR seal but can't figure what to use at the front seam. Stuck there for the moment.

[Fluge]

Thanks Bill. It looks like it would work well.

Marc

[Fluge]

Still picking away at things...got the hood on last week...just need some fine tuning and adjustment. Going down my list...

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013101815.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013101815.jpg.html)

[Fluge]

Hello

Still working on the car...Looking more and more like a complete Coupe. :) There are still many things left to do. I have to give some thought to how to do the interior carpet...but at least I have something nice to look at when I just stand around.

Marc

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013120139.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013120139.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201312015.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/201312015.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013120124.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013120124.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2013113070.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2013113070.jpg.html)

[jkrueger]

It looks great!

[xlr8or]

Great looking car.

[MRSQSL]

Wow! That is a beautiful car!!

[Garry Bopp]

Marc,

You are building a great coupe ... and almost done. Looks wonderful ... I am jealous!

Garry

[Fluge]

Thanks for the kind words guys (and Julie). This has been quite the journey so far. I am very pleased with what I have been able to do.

[xlr8or]

You should be proud. You've done a beautiful job building it.

[Fluge]

After some back and forth decisions between the bullet and BRE mirrors I finally decided to go with BRE. I seem to be short on time to work on the car...anyone else have that problem? If I am not driving it by the summer (of this year!) I will be disappointed. Looks great in the garage though.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2014011249.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2014011249.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/201401125.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/201401125.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/2014011217.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/2014011217.jpg.html)

[CJBergquist]

Really looking good. Looks to me like you could drive it now...who needs windows????

[John Dol]

Marc,

Your list is getting shorter!! There's many things on this car you can't see in the pictures.

John

[loeffler1]

Marc

Absolutely gorgeous!!! It also looks like you have a shop to die for!!! Tell me about how you fastened the rear upper splash panels to the nose. I'm at that stage right now. Matter of fact made the first pattern of the left side upper rear. I'm making the pattern in three pieces and taping the pieces together and tracing them on aluminum. The FFR pieces were too small in height. I thought of some "L" shaped brackets glued or fiberglassed to the nose with a slight loop to clear the push on seal.

Thanks

[Fluge]

Hi Bill

Thanks for the comments.

The upper splash guard or wheel well was installed exactly how you describe it. I epoxied aluminum tabs bent at 90 degrees (using 2 bends to offset it enough to make room for the rubber bulb seal). I drilled holes in the base of the tab so that the epoxy would be pushed through to add strength. Because my under hood is also finished for paint we covered to base of the tab with HSRF to smooth it out. I used three tabs on each side (driver and passenger).

I did have to trim the aluminum a little but otherwise I got them to fit well.

I recently saw another thread discussing this issue. There were some pictures showing the tabs glassed in. The two pieces took a lot of fiddling and an extra set of hands would have been great.

Hope this helps.

As for my garage...thanks, it has come a long way from what I started with.

Marc

[Fluge]

I'm still working on a few things but a spring graduation is definitely in the air.

I dropped off my wheels for powdercoating today. There is still a fair amount to do but it will be driveable by the time the road salt get's washed away. I hate the thought of covering up the interior aluminum. I like the look as it sits but I could use a layer of sound deadening.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20140316128.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/20140316128.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20140316126.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/20140316126.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/20140316124.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/20140316124.jpg.html)

Marc

[Rodster]

Fluge -
Tell me about your lift - I am considering one of those for my small 2-car garage - thanks.

Your Coupe is looking awesome - thanks for posting pictures and captions - it helps us who are still in the build stages......

-wayne-

[Fluge]

Hi Wayne

The lift you see there is a rotary lift. I bought it 10 years ago. Great lift with no issues. I use the 110v motor is and takes about 1 minute to go all the way up. Going up and down requires your full attention and the slower 110v gives you more reaction time if something isn't right. It has a ladder frame brake system which I really like. I think the lift is one of the best things I ever did. I made reinforced steel trays on which I can put bottle jacks to get the car up on floor jacks. Takes me less than 10 minutes to do that. You can get lifts with very different dimensions so it's really what you can fit into your garage. I recommend bolting down the posts once you are sure where you want it. Try it unbolted for a few weeks and make final adjustments before bolting it down. I also bolted the ramps down on the runways so that they wouldn't tilt when the lift is up. This allows me to drive the SUV under the lift. This lift has seen a lot of up and down action. I have another lift which is lighter duty and is used for car storage only.

Not sure what else you want to know...happy to address specifics.

Marc

[QSL]

car is looking amazing!!! congrats!

[Mikey6speed]

I just finished reading this thread for the first time. What happened to the pictures and what happened to the finish? It just abruptly ends in March.

[Fluge]

Oooops! I reorganized my photobucket albums and it erased all the links.

Car was on the road in April-May. Almost 2000 miles so far.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/Daytona%20Coupe/2014060844.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/Daytona%20Coupe/2014060844.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/Daytona%20Coupe/2014063041.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/Daytona%20Coupe/2014063041.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/Daytona%20Coupe/2014090710.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/Daytona%20Coupe/2014090710.jpg.html)

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss56/DDOVERDT/Daytona%20Coupe/2014052583.jpg (http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/media/Daytona%20Coupe/2014052583.jpg.html)

[loeffler1]

Hey Marc, You're a slacker!!! LOL. Only 2,000 miles?? Put mine on the road 6/27/2014 and have accumulated 6,300 miles. Last road drive was 12/05/2014 until snow hit us. Actually could have driven it this Friday the 19th due to temps in the high 30's (heater works good), but I was sick. There have been a couple of rains so no salt on the road. I think it probably is in the garage for the duration now.
By the way I love that rookie stripe on front, wish I had thought of it. I also noticed the alternator and AC compressor positions are swapped from what mine are. What brackets did you use?

[Fluge]

Hi Bill

I decided to use the March pulley kit. I did have to switch to an electric fuel pump but it does clean up the engine bay.

I have been tempted to take it out of hibernation a few times myself. I still have a few things to finish up on it but been too busy...maybe once the Christmas rush is over.

Marc

[John Dol]

Marc,

On the hood I see you put the little bumpers back in. When I visited you only had the weather stripping in place because the bumpers did not support the hood properly.
Where you not happy with the result of only the weather stripping?

Thanks,

John

[Fluge]

Hi John

It comes down to tweaking the fit. The bulb seal isn't thick enough in some areas so I built it up with the bumpers. I may try replacing what I have with a thicker seal.

Marc

[Mikey6speed]

thanks for the final pix. You've built a beautiful car and must be real proud. Any chance of getting the earlier pix back on here?

[mjazzka]

thanks for the final pix. You've built a beautiful car and must be real proud. Any chance of getting the earlier pix back on here?

I thought about this too, so I checked out his photobucket and found http://s561.photobucket.com/user/DDOVERDT/library/Daytona%20Build%20Photos?sort=2&page=1

Of course you don't know which pictures go with which posts, but it is still great stuff!