Jim's Gumball2 Build Thread

[Jim Doak]

A first for me: I'm going to attempt to document my Factory Five assembly in this build log.

First, a little background. This is my second Factory Five build. I purchased a Cobra kit in 2000 (FFR 2117), drove it 46.6K miles then sold it 5 years ago. After selling the Roadster, I bought a low mileage 2003 manual transmission C5 Vette. A very nice car, but it didn't scratch the itch like the Cobra did. So, I sold it this March and ordered the Mark 4 complete kit in May. The Roadster (FFR 10990) arrived July 26th, and after completing the inventory, the actual build commenced August 4th. Options I purchased included the IRS package, chrome roll bar (only item remaining on backorder/POL), 15" Halibrand wheels, 11.65" brakes, oil cooler, power steering, leather seats, vintage GPS gauges and some other odds and ends. One other item I requested was the base version driver side front footbox aluminum panel. When I built my first car, I used a Flaming River manual rack and manual brakes with the modified pedal. A few years later I retrofit a power steering system and while I was at it, installed Hydroboost assisted brakes. I can't overstate how much I enjoyed the power steering and brake upgrades. So, this car's using a 1995 Mustang pedal box allowing the relatively easy installation of vacuum assisted brakes, and as I mentioned above, I ordered the power steering option from Factory Five.

When I built my first car, I utilized the forums extensively for ideas and guidance. And now with YouTube, etc. there's so much more information available, well, it's fantastic. (I've already used I.E. 427 (Frank), Mike Everson, Paul Borror and others' expertise in my build.)

Anyway, I'm well into my build (I'm retired, so lots of time to dedicate to the project). Photos and more updates to follow.

I've attached a couple pics of 2117, licensed in Utah as "GUMBALL", hence this Gumball 2 build.