Factory Five Forums - Blogs - Rat Eater Build by vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/blog.php?4022-Rat-Eater-Build Builder community site for Factory Five Racing. en Sat, 02 May 2026 16:16:16 GMT vBulletin 10 https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/images/misc/rss.jpg Factory Five Forums - Blogs - Rat Eater Build by vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/blog.php?4022-Rat-Eater-Build She is alive :) https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?777-She-is-alive-) Sun, 19 Aug 2012 14:10:02 GMT Finally I was able to start my engine. It sounds really good, much better than on the camera...I love it. I have little coolant leak by the... Finally I was able to start my engine. It sounds really good, much better than on the camera...I love it.
I have little coolant leak by the thermostat housing, which I will fix today...other than that everything looks good:D

[video=youtube_share;YXWDdI-K9yg]http://youtu.be/YXWDdI-K9yg[/video] ]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?777-She-is-alive-) transmission tunnel cover https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?757-transmission-tunnel-cover Thu, 19 Jul 2012 02:44:32 GMT While I'm waiting for my buddy to finish the radiator, I was working on interior of the car. This weekend I was able to wrap transmission tunnel cover. I found the material online called carbon fiber fabric, which is only 0.4mm and very durable. I glued closed cell foam to the aluminum and then wrapped this fabric. I really like the result.
Installed seat heaters and heater switches, cup holders. Today I was able to finish shifter boot, which has same stitching as my steering wheel.
Here are couple pictures:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]10767[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]10768[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]10769[/ATTACH]

Next couple days I will work on seats, seat belts and roll bar.
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?757-transmission-tunnel-cover engine update, insulation and carpet https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?743-engine-update-insulation-and-carpet Tue, 03 Jul 2012 13:22:00 GMT Since my last post I got the engine where it's almost ready to start. All I'm missing is the radiator, which is at my friend's shop, so I should get it soon and will attempt to turn the key:)

Here are couple pictures:
Oil filter relocator:
[ATTACH]10527[/ATTACH]

Power steering cooler:
[ATTACH]10528[/ATTACH]

Cold air intake:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]10534[/ATTACH]


Also installed new SS headers, but didn't take any pictures:)

EZ-Cool insulation installed inside the car and the trunk:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]10530[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]10531[/ATTACH]

Carpet took some time, but I like the result:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]10532[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]10533[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?743-engine-update-insulation-and-carpet Drivetrain is in https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?480-Drivetrain-is-in Thu, 24 May 2012 15:19:24 GMT Since my last post I was able to drop the engine in, install lakewood steel bellhousing, flywheel, clutch and trasmission Here are couple pictures:... Since my last post I was able to drop the engine in, install lakewood steel bellhousing, flywheel, clutch and trasmission
Here are couple pictures:
engine is going in
[ATTACH=CONFIG]9899[/ATTACH]

I wanted to install all parts in the car, so I will know in the future how easy/hard is to get to the clutch if I need to

[ATTACH=CONFIG]9900[/ATTACH]

starter installed
[ATTACH=CONFIG]9901[/ATTACH]

Now I'm working on engine wiring. Getting close to the point when I will try to turn that key:)
Here is the latest picture.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]9902[/ATTACH]

I wanted to install the ignition coil as close as possible to the distributor, so had to make custom bracket for it, to install on cylinder head. Also, made battery cage to mount it in the front for the car. My buddy did a great job powder coating it
[ATTACH=CONFIG]9903[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?480-Drivetrain-is-in heater valves and enclosure installation and engine status update https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?440-heater-valves-and-enclosure-installation-and-engine-status-update Sun, 06 May 2012 02:45:34 GMT I'm getting closer to the point when I will have to drop engine in. But before that I wanted to finish my heater/fresh air enclosure.
First of all, I had to install coolant supply and return valves.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]9537[/ATTACH]
Then drilled holes and install rubber grommets and air supply duct connection.
[ATTACH]9540[/ATTACH][ATTACH]9541[/ATTACH]
Then it was time to run the wires and install the box
[ATTACH]9542[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]9543[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]9544[/ATTACH]

Last week I was working on the engine as well. Here is an update:
fuel rail with 60lbs injectors installed(upgraded fuel pump to in-tank 255l/h)
[ATTACH=CONFIG]9545[/ATTACH]
Installed all temperature and pressure sending units for gauges, upper intake manifold, throttle body, thermostat and thermostat housing and some coolant hoses.


Last week I was able to pick up transmission from a local guy and a nice guy from FFR forum sent me stock Mustang drive shaft which I took to the drive shaft shop to cut, weld and balance it. These guys installed 3000hp rated u-joints.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]9548[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]9549[/ATTACH]
David, if you reading this post, thank you very much for the drive shaft:)

Today put the wheels on the car... yes I called it a CAR, with wheels on it looks more like a car:) Now I'm trying to get alignment as close as possible before I take to the shop
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?440-heater-valves-and-enclosure-installation-and-engine-status-update Engine build update https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?430-Engine-build-update Mon, 23 Apr 2012 01:28:14 GMT My engine almost done, still missing some parts or have the parts but it doesn't fir and I need to exchange it.
I really enjoying this engine build experience and my buddy suggested that get a used T5 transmission and rebuild it. Which sounds like great idea to me, in that case, every single bolt in the car will be tuned by me:) and I'm sure I will learn a lot about manual transmissions.
So while I'm shopping for the transmission, here are some pictures of the engine that comes together nicely.

Ford racing F cam, timing gear and cylinder heads, with new Trick Flow springs set installed.
[ATTACH]8947[/ATTACH]

Timing cover, high flow water pump and brackets installed. Alternator bracket will be replaced, due to set up issue with power steering pump bracket.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8948[/ATTACH]

Restored oil pan in place
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8949[/ATTACH]

Lower intake manifold and exhaust manifold bolted in
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8950[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8951[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?430-Engine-build-update Engine build day#2 https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?409-Engine-build-day-2 Sat, 07 Apr 2012 03:11:15 GMT Today, again I was working on the engine. Short block almost done, just missing a cam, should get it next week. Pictures from today: pistons... Today, again I was working on the engine.
Short block almost done, just missing a cam, should get it next week.
Pictures from today:
pistons rings gaps checked
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8699[/ATTACH]

All piston rings installed
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8700[/ATTACH]

All pistons installed, i was really happy to see that there re no clearance issues between connecting rods and the block
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8701[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8702[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?409-Engine-build-day-2 Engine build started and steering wheel pictures https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?403-Engine-build-started-and-steering-wheel-pictures Fri, 06 Apr 2012 03:40:08 GMT Since my last post I finished the horn on my steering wheel, so now I can say that my dash is complete done and I'm happy that I will have the horn on the steering wheel, not on the dash. To do that I had to buy NRG spacer, to have more room for the horn wires.
Here are pictures:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8682[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8683[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8684[/ATTACH]

Now, to the more interesting parts:)
Yesterday I picked up my 302 engine block and balanced 331 rotation assembly from machine shop. It took some time, but the guys at "Engine Rebuilders and Supply Inc." did a great job.
Here are pictures of the block after they cleaned it, bored, honed cylinder and line honed it. Also new cam bearings and freeze plugs installed
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8685[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8686[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8687[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8688[/ATTACH]

To protect from rust I painted right away
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8689[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8690[/ATTACH]

New main bearings installed, bearings clearance checked and crankshaft in place
[ATTACH]8692[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?403-Engine-build-started-and-steering-wheel-pictures Dash is done! https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?366-Dash-is-done! Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:36:30 GMT It's been awhile since the last update, but not because I was lazy, it was because dash wasn't cooperating with me:) It took me 3 tries to lay nicely carbon fiber sheet that I got from Protech Composites. I had some problems with adhesive...but I knew that eventually I will get the result that I'm looking for.
Here are some pictures from the successful process:
3M adhesive applied to carbon fiber sheet and dash glued to the carbon fiber
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8262[/ATTACH]

Gauges and switches holes cut and bottom lip painted
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8263[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8264[/ATTACH]

While installing gauges had little issue with speedometer, bezel was turned to the side and by turning it back I broke something inside from the little push button. Fortunately for me, AutoMeter company is located not too far from where I live. I dropped off my speedometer one night and next day I got a call from the service that my speedo was fixed. When I got there to pick it up I was told that it will be free of charge. When I asked the lady if she knows that this item is out of warranty, she said "yes". What a great company, they really stand behind their prodcut!!! I will never even consider different gauges brand.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8265[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8266[/ATTACH]

Once the dash was assembled, I installed it in the car and checked if everything works....surprisingly everything worked:D
It's really busy behind the dash, but I think I did a good job labeling every wire, in case I will have to go back there in the future.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8267[/ATTACH]

Here are couple pictures of the dash in the car with lights OFF and ON
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8268[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]8269[/ATTACH]

I really wanted to have my horn button on the steering wheel, not the switch on the dash. I was able to run and hide signal wire. Now I'm waiting for the steering wheel spacer that I order and that part of the car will be complete.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]8270[/ATTACH]

Now I'm ready for my engine build. Last week I got a call from the machine shop that my block is bored and ready for pick up. Also I dropped off rotation assembly at the machine shop to be balanced. Hopefully my next post will have some pictures of my new 331 engine :)
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?366-Dash-is-done! behind the dash https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?347-behind-the-dash Tue, 07 Feb 2012 03:22:51 GMT It's been a while since my last post. A lot to do, not much to show, that's how it goes with the wiring. Since my last post I was able install the shelf underneath the dash, run all the wires for my switches, install front speakers and heater vents, 12v power outlet as well as 3.5mm jack for my portable mp3 player.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]7777[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7778[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7779[/ATTACH]

I need to get label maker, even couple days later when I look at the wiring it takes me 20min to figure out what is what, don't want to do that couple years later:)

[ATTACH=CONFIG]7780[/ATTACH]

Also I build battery box to mount in the front of the vehicle, ran all battery cables to battery kill switch and now waiting while the battery box being powder coated. Once that is done I will install battery and check my wiring, hopefully everything works as I anticipated.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]7783[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7784[/ATTACH]

I want to finish my dash wiring before I get my 302 engine block from machine shop, so I could install 331 rotation assembly. That will be one fun project:)
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?347-behind-the-dash Trunk panels installed https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?331-Trunk-panels-installed Fri, 30 Dec 2011 04:16:51 GMT It was nice to take a break from wiring and do something that doesn't require thinking or planning 10 steps ahead:)
Here it is, trunk is done, now it's waiting for dynomat and carpet
[ATTACH=CONFIG]7106[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7107[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7108[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?331-Trunk-panels-installed Chassis Wiring https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?330-Chassis-Wiring Thu, 29 Dec 2011 03:39:56 GMT it's been a while since my last post, but, as I found out, wiring takes a lot of time. Well, not actually running the wires, but debating where to run it, to make it less visible.
Here are some pictures from what I have so far....
My neighbor came over the other night and welded ground studs:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]7049[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7050[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7051[/ATTACH]

Fuse panel is above the pedals
[ATTACH=CONFIG]7052[/ATTACH]

Most of the wiring comes through driver footbox side wall. I used rubber grommets to prevent any wire damage in the future.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]7053[/ATTACH]

Heater control wires, seat heaters, stereo cables, fuel pump harness and rear lights harness placed inside transmission box and then ran to all accessories
[ATTACH=CONFIG]7054[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7055[/ATTACH]

Seat heaters wires waiting for seats:)
[ATTACH=CONFIG]7056[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]7057[/ATTACH]

Front lights, horn and cooling fan harness hidden behind frame, so with body is on I won't be able to see it:)
[ATTACH=CONFIG]7058[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?330-Chassis-Wiring Fuel tank, fuel lines and brakes https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?316-Fuel-tank-fuel-lines-and-brakes Mon, 05 Dec 2011 01:46:46 GMT Last week received fuel fittings and was able to finish fuel related items all the way from fuel tank to engine bay. Here is fuel tank with 200+... Last week received fuel fittings and was able to finish fuel related items all the way from fuel tank to engine bay.
Here is fuel tank with 200+ lph in tank fuel pump, 50+ gph fuel filter with 5/16" supply and 1/4" return lines.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6513[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]6514[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]6515[/ATTACH]

These two guys waiting to serve 331 stroker :)
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6516[/ATTACH]

Also, last week my buddy finished powder coating cobra calipers and rotors (powder coated brackets received about a month ago).
It looked awesome when I pulled it out of the box. Kevin did great job! I didn't expect anything less from him. On front calipers he did two step powder coating. First he powder coated letters black, then applied red powder and baked it again.
Here is a picture how it came out
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6517[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6518[/ATTACH]

It looks great and finish really strong. You can drop it on the concrete floor from 4ft high workbench and it wouldn't leave a mark...don't ask me how I know that:)
Calipers- by far is the best looking part that I installed on this car so far. Here are some pictures(it looks even better in person than picture).
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6519[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]6520[/ATTACH]

And after couple trips to auto parts store I was able to finish all brake lines. Next step to bleed the system
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6521[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]6522[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?316-Fuel-tank-fuel-lines-and-brakes Rear speakers installed and rear suspension completed https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?310-Rear-speakers-installed-and-rear-suspension-completed Thu, 24 Nov 2011 02:23:03 GMT Today I was trying to retrofit speakers on the rear aluminum panel. It took a little bit longer than I thought it will, but at the end of the day I... Today I was trying to retrofit speakers on the rear aluminum panel. It took a little bit longer than I thought it will, but at the end of the day I was happy with the result. I was able to fit 6x8 Pioneer speakers in the back and planning to use 5" infinity speakers underneath the dash in the front.
here how it looks from the trunk
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6323[/ATTACH]

Biggest challenge was to keep it as far as possible from the back of the seat. It looks like the seats won't be blocking the sound.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6324[/ATTACH]

Yesterday I received Carrera coil over shocks from Vintage Performance Motorcars and was pleasantly surprised by the quality and looks.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6325[/ATTACH]

So finally I was able to finish my rear suspension
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6326[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?310-Rear-speakers-installed-and-rear-suspension-completed Cockpit aluminum panels https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?306-Cockpit-aluminum-panels Wed, 23 Nov 2011 01:16:20 GMT I just spent two days working on aluminum panels. Every piece came out really nice and the best part is- I didn't cut my fingers even once. I believe that my 2 years HVAC experience helped here:)
Here is passenger footbox and floor
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6304[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]6306[/ATTACH]

Driver side didn't close complete, just because I will need access pedal area to install fuse box and run a lot of wires.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6307[/ATTACH]

Rear panel left with clekos and not riveted in yet. I'm trying to figure out where I could mount couple of speakers. For speakers placement I had to pull a seat from the attic.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]6308[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]6309[/ATTACH]
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]]> vlydeka https://v1.thefactoryfiveforum.com/entry.php?306-Cockpit-aluminum-panels