MK4 Build Plans

[cumminshunter]

Hello All,

Long time reader/browser, but new poster. I've built several extremely capable jeeps but am new to the sports car world. So I apologize in advance for any obvious questions.

That said, I'm planning on building a MK4. This will be my daily driver (15 mile each way commute on mostly Highway) and weekend cruiser. Honestly it probably won't see much, if any, track time. But it will be driven - regularly.

For motor: I'm leaning toward something along the lines of this 427: 427 - 535HP (http://www.summitracing.com/parts/fms-m6007z427frt/overview/make/ford) or if the funds for that aren't quite there, this:351W - 385HP (http://www.summitracing.com/parts/hpe-hp11c/overview/make/ford)

I have gone back and forth between a 351 based block (427) and the new Coyote motor. Don't get me wrong, I think the Coyote looks great and is a very reliable powerful engine right out of the box. However it sounds like upgrades could be difficult should one want more power down the road. And there seems to be a lot of wiring associated with them. Plus, lets be honest, when popping the hood on one of these, one halfway expects to see a 427...

Another struggling area for me is Carb v. EFI. The car probably won't see snow or super cold days (I'll use the truck on those days). I like the idea of EFI, but the simplicity of the Carbs is also quite appealing. I want it to be reliable and powerful. It is likely that I'll take this up in the mountains so elevation changes from 5280 to 9600 are likely. But, I am not opposed to adjusting carbs a little at scenic overlooks. :D

For Trans: I'm very green in this area. I'm looking at the TKO 600, but am open to suggestions. Again, reliability and good road manners being the biggest concern.

For rear axle: I'm debating between all three options here. I like the reliability of the 3 link, but the comfort of the IRS is also quite appealing seeing as this will be a daily driver. I believe it's possible to upgrade later, but am not sure. The standard 4 link will likely get the car up and running quicker, but maybe not. Help! :D

I've got lots of the other details figured out in my head... Of course, like paint, we all know that is likely to change 15+ times between now and the end of the build.

Any help, or other information would be greatly appreciated. I know this site is full of helpful people.

Thanks in advance.

[CraigS]

Engine. i'd do a 351 based whatever. That way intake and exhaust can carry over to any upgrade later. As usual it all depends on $ but a Massflo or similiar efi might be your best solution considering every day use and elevation changes. But it costs 4 times what a 650 Quickfuel does.The ATK looks reasonable but I would consider an upgrade to a 393 or 408. The stroker kits are a great bang for the buck and these two can be done w/ a stock block. I'd go w/ the cubes but keep the mild cam. The 427 would be a screamer but see if they have a lower HP version w/ a milder cam.You just don't need something that is tempermental below 2000. Also I would call Mike Forte and discuss engines w/ him. BTW, the Coyote is not anywhere near as plug and play as the 351. And working on that thing later..uuughh! Read the Coyote forum to see.
Trans. TKO 500 is fine w/ the <450 hp level but TKO 600 might be better w/ the big engine. I have read that the 600 is a notchy shifter but don't know personally.
Rear axle. No question,if the $ are available go IRS. Not even a discussion. Otherwise 3 link. IRS is a 'possible' although extremely difficult upgrade so better to have it in the car at the beginning. Forget 4 link,just forget it.

[MPTech]

Daily Driver? you might want to reconsider that 427 / 535hp. YES, they are cool!

Believe me, I completely understand your enthusiasm.
I've just started driving my mk4 and THOROUGHLY ENJOY IT, but I can see where this would not be a car I want to drive everyday.
I plan to drive mine A LOT, but not daily. My heart still beats faster, every time I climb in and buckle up!


If you're interested, here's my build plan (I've adhered pretty closely to it, but stretching the build out over 2 years allowed me to upgrade a couple things along the way and research my components to my satisfaction).

MPTtech build plan (http://www.ffcars.com/forums/17-factory-five-roadsters/264052-mptech-build-plan-revision-9-counting.html)

And most importantly, have fun!

[MPTech]

sorry, double post.