Hurricane Motorsports
Public Area => Build Pictures => Topic started by: Bruce N on April 04, 2021, 04:41:27 PM
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Its a little early but figured I'd start to document the process and learn how to post and what not. I followed a few of the others with the body buck but went a step further. Have a bunch of rigid metal conduit out in the barn so welded up a frame with that. I had an electric wench I used when building the FFR 35 hot rod truck. I used it to remove and install that body several times and was able to do by myself without to much trouble. I'll build a cradle or some sort of sling once I get the car. Ive been looking at a few million colors and think Ive decided on a BMW (Marina Bay Blue) and a little blue pearl, with black stripes and some highlight color pin stripes on the main stripes. I ordered some paint to do test panels and try out different colors for the pin stripes to see what I like best. The picture below doesn't do it justice but the color looks awesome in the sun. If you google that color you'll see a bunch of examples.
I'll start picking up drive train parts and pieces and start putting that together.
Now all I need is a Cobra!
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Paint looks awesome just from the pic.
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That's a nice blue!
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Got my long block delivered today so was able to tinker a bit and put the top end together. have a bunch of parts coming this week so will be able to keep busy this weekend messing with it.
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Worked on the engine a little today. I always build my own wire looms cause I just cant fine ones that organize the way I like. I sure hate the distributor being in front! I knew there was a reason Ive always been a Chevy guy. Someting new to learn :) And found another purpose for the body buck. Works well to hang small parts from for paint! Took me all day to do one side. Will finish the other tomorrow. Something to keep me busy on cold wet weekend :)
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This is some of the neatest plug routing I've seen. Nice looms, you make them? Engine looks fantastic!
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This is some of the neatest plug routing I've seen. Nice looms, you make them? Engine looks fantastic!
Thanks! Yes I did. Some 1/2 round tube and 3/4" flat bar. I have a cheap TIG from Eastwood that makes it real easy to put this kind of stuff together.
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Got all the rest of my engine parts in. Now.......just need a car >:(
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Played around with #1 TDC position to see if I could get the wires to organize better. Think I found the perfect spot. With #1 at the 11 o'clock position, all the wires drop in place pretty nice. Cool thing about using the Hyper-spark distributor with the Sniper is you can set the initial timing within a fraction of a degree without it running. So you know where your distributor will be and can wire up pretty tight.
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Real nice! Thanks for the wire loom tip too. Hope your kit is not too far out.
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Real nice! Thanks for the wire loom tip too. Hope your kit is not too far out.
At this point they cant even give me a schedule. That's a little troubling to say the least. Cant tell me 1 month? 2 months? 3 months? At least Alec is being honest about it >:( But starting to have second thoughts about going this route.
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Bruce
Hang in there, this Covid thing from the past year is really starting to tell on deliveries. Shortages everywhere. And with the demand, employers can't find anyone to work. Everyone wants to stay home and draw unemployment spiffs.
I know Alec is pulling a lot of strings to get things on track
Paul Proefrock
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Bruce
Hang in there, this Covid thing from the past year is really starting to tell on deliveries. Shortages everywhere. And with the demand, employers can't find anyone to work. Everyone wants to stay home and draw unemployment spiffs.
I know Alec is pulling a lot of strings to get things on track
Paul Proefrock
All good. Alec emailed yesterday with commitment of 28 June for majority of kit. I just was not comfortable with dropping 10K on something without some kind of commitment for the product being purchased. Don't think that's unreasonable regardless of the situation. I know he's doing his best and I'm totally fine with the time frame. Of course I wish was sooner but is what it is.
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It is really getting crazy out there with materials. My brother in law went yesterday to get a 4x8 piece of plywood and it was $95!
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Was another rainy day in Texas so swept out the wood shop and built the chassis dolly today. Looks like Greg's dolly worked out good so followed the dimensions he posted. made a bit of a change by making the center stringer out of 2 2X6's 12 " apart in hopes the oil pan will sit down between them. I built the front in a way that I can notch it out in the middle if need be. I think like Greg says, I'll probably have it as a roller before I install the engine and trans anyway. Well, I'm about out of preparation projects so now just the waiting game.
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Nice job, the reason I kept my spine low and not much up top is that I thought it might interfere with some work from below. There is some room to move side to side though.
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Nice job, the reason I kept my spine low and not much up top is that I thought it might interfere with some work from below. There is some room to move side to side though.
Yea its hard to envision just exactly whats best. I did not glue the top plywood braces in case I need to remove and shape differently or make other mods. I'll just have to see once I get the chassis on it. Easy to modify if need be. Thanks for the measurements :)
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Think I found the stripe highlight color I like. Hard to tell under the LED shop lights what it truly looks like. And I may cut it down to 1/8" as opposed to this 1/4". For just a very subtle highlight on the stripes. If the sun ever comes out I'll take some better pictures :( Think I'm going to change up the stripe layout a little from the norm and do more like a Chevelle SS stripe where they stop on the front cowl and short of the windshield. Also on back I'll probably stop just below trunk lid. Just to change it up a bit. I have never really been a fan of the constant stripe from one end to another. I just like to be a little different :)
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Think I found the stripe highlight color I like. Hard to tell under the LED shop lights what it truly looks like. And I may cut it down to 1/8" as opposed to this 1/4". For just a very subtle highlight on the stripes. If the sun ever comes out I'll take some better pictures :( Think I'm going to change up the stripe layout a little from the norm and do more like a Chevelle SS stripe where they stop on the front cowl and short of the windshield. Also on back I'll probably stop just below trunk lid. Just to change it up a bit. I have never really been a fan of the constant stripe from one end to another. I just like to be a little different :)
Kind of a combination of the standard stripes and the below is what I'm thinking..
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I took six years to build my Hurricane, been driving it for two years (almost 8000 miles) and I still haven't picked a color! ;D
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I took six years to build my Hurricane, been driving it for two years (almost 8000 miles) and I still haven't picked a color! ;D
LOL. Body & Paint kind of my thing. My first job in high school was at a customizing shop specializing in Corvette after market parts and customizing. Spent first two years laying up fiberglass parts before graduating to the body and paint side. Worked for another 5 years in a couple different restoration shops until I had had enough and joined the Military. Body and paint is not easy work but I really enjoy it now as a hobby. Especially customizing. Still learning all the new paints but can get a pretty decent final product, even with painting in a garage with a couple fans. Cant wait to get my hands on this thing :) Guess that customizing background is why I'm always trying to make it different than the rest :)
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I took six years to build my Hurricane, been driving it for two years (almost 8000 miles) and I still haven't picked a color! ;D
LOL. Body & Paint kind of my thing. My first job in high school was at a customizing shop specializing in Corvette after market parts and customizing. Spent first two years laying up fiberglass parts before graduating to the body and paint side. Worked for another 5 years in a couple different restoration shops until I had had enough and joined the Military. Body and paint is not easy work but I really enjoy it now as a hobby. Especially customizing. Still learning all the new paints but can get a pretty decent final product, even with painting in a garage with a couple fans. Cant wait to get my hands on this thing :) Guess that customizing background is why I'm always trying to make it different than the rest :)
Ooooooooh... good to know! I may be calling on you when my gelcoat gets so tore up I'll have to paint it ;)
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I took six years to build my Hurricane, been driving it for two years (almost 8000 miles) and I still haven't picked a color! ;D
LOL. Body & Paint kind of my thing. My first job in high school was at a customizing shop specializing in Corvette after market parts and customizing. Spent first two years laying up fiberglass parts before graduating to the body and paint side. Worked for another 5 years in a couple different restoration shops until I had had enough and joined the Military. Body and paint is not easy work but I really enjoy it now as a hobby. Especially customizing. Still learning all the new paints but can get a pretty decent final product, even with painting in a garage with a couple fans. Cant wait to get my hands on this thing :) Guess that customizing background is why I'm always trying to make it different than the rest :)
Ooooooooh... good to know! I may be calling on you when my gelcoat gets so tore up I'll have to paint it ;)
man for what I see people paying for paint jobs I'd be driving in gelcoat to if I couldn't do myself! You can check mine out when done and see if its worth a few weekends of beer and BBQ :)
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I know how you guys feel about the paint jobs. After hearing some of the stories and length of time it takes to get one painted I decided to do the work myself. I have had past experience with the process of bodywork and painting cars from a hobby stand point. After going through the processes I totally understand why custom shops charge what they do. Most of the work and labor is in the bodywork process to get everything to fit together before the paint goes on. When all said and done no-one will know you spent an entire weekend to get the door to align up with the rest of the body after it is painted. However they will know if you only spent 20 minutes fixing a mold seam. The paint will only enhance the defects not hid them.
Michael
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I know how you guys feel about the paint jobs. After hearing some of the stories and length of time it takes to get one painted I decided to do the work myself. I have had past experience with the process of bodywork and painting cars from a hobby stand point. After going through the processes I totally understand why custom shops charge what they do. Most of the work and labor is in the bodywork process to get everything to fit together before the paint goes on. When all said and done no-one will know you spent an entire weekend to get the door to align up with the rest of the body after it is painted. However they will know if you only spent 20 minutes fixing a mold seam. The paint will only enhance the defects not hid them.
Michael
Looks beautiful! I thought about a color similar to that but have always liked blue and never done a blue car for myself for some unknown reason. figured the Cobra was the perfect choice to go for it :)
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Looks excellent, michael. I'm probably end up doing the same thing myself.
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Looks like you are off to a great start! I ordered last September and was delivered February still waiting for Wilwood brakes and some etc. Hope yours goes smooth!
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Your engine and planning are looking great. I hope that your June delivery estimate is close since mine should be ready as well. You appear to have a lot of valuable experience and I look forward to following and learning from your build. Feel free to contact me if you need an extra hand with the build sometime.
Jim
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Your engine and planning are looking great. I hope that your June delivery estimate is close since mine should be ready as well. You appear to have a lot of valuable experience and I look forward to following and learning from your build. Feel free to contact me if you need an extra hand with the build sometime.
Jim
Thanks Jim. I see your up in McKinney. Bunch of builds in the area looks like. I'm just south and east of Kaufman a bit. I saw another new build going to Granbury, and of course Bob over in Midlothian. We will have to keep in touch when we start building Cant wait!
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Thanks Jim. I see your up in McKinney. Bunch of builds in the area looks like. I'm just south and east of Kaufman a bit. I saw another new build going to Granbury, and of course Bob over in Midlothian. We will have to keep in touch when we start building Cant wait!
Yep, anyone in the north Texas area needs any help, just let me know ~ I've about seen it all, and already made all the mistakes! We need to have Texas Hurricanes gathering ;)
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Thanks Jim. I see your up in McKinney. Bunch of builds in the area looks like. I'm just south and east of Kaufman a bit. I saw another new build going to Granbury, and of course Bob over in Midlothian. We will have to keep in touch when we start building Cant wait!
Yep, anyone in the north Texas area needs any help, just let me know ~ I've about seen it all, and already made all the mistakes! We need to have Texas Hurricanes gathering ;)
I'm just a short, enjoyable, Sunday (no traffic) drive from ya :)
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Thanks Jim. I see your up in McKinney. Bunch of builds in the area looks like. I'm just south and east of Kaufman a bit. I saw another new build going to Granbury, and of course Bob over in Midlothian. We will have to keep in touch when we start building Cant wait!
Yep, anyone in the north Texas area needs any help, just let me know ~ I've about seen it all, and already made all the mistakes! We need to have Texas Hurricanes gathering ;)
I'm just a short, enjoyable, Sunday (no traffic) drive from ya :)
I know! We love cruising all over Ellis county, to Waxahachie (Pops burgers, Big Al's, College St. pub) to Maypearl (Busy Bee cafe), Venus (Sunrise cafe), to Italy/Frost (my dad's ranch), Garrett (Galaxy Drive-In Theatre), Bristol (Sugar Ridge Winery). I know exactly where you are ;)
Hope you are staying high and dry with this trinity river basin flooding ....
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sense I cant work on the real thing :'( I picked up a 1/16 scale model to try my paint scheme out on. I tried out the stripes as I described earlier but didn't like them. Went to the standard layout with some pin stripes. The pin stripes wont be that big but that's as small as I could get them on this model. You cant see in picture but the blue pearl looks incredible in the sun. Also wanted to see how it looked with the chrome blacked out. Think I like it. I'll add the pipes, roll bar, mirrors et and see.........
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Nice color. Mine is going blue also but no stripes. I like what you have going on. Good plan.
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Lookin like end of July now :( Its friggin killin me!!!
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Lookin like end of July now :( Its friggin killin me!!!
Boo....
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My initial 8 weeks turned into 8 months...
Lookin like end of July now :( Its friggin killin me!!!
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Lookin like end of July now :( Its friggin killin me!!!
Bummer— Just in time for the hottest part of summer! I feel your pain.
Jim
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Lookin like end of July now :( Its friggin killin me!!!
I just heard that MINE will not be ready until the end of July! >:(
Alec says you will be picking yours up? I would be interested in hearing how you will be doing this. I tried to email you from this forum, but I am not sure it worked.
Jim
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Lookin like end of July now :( Its friggin killin me!!!
I just heard that MINE will not be ready until the end of July! >:(
Alec says you will be picking yours up? I would be interested in hearing how you will be doing this. I tried to email you from this forum, but I am not sure it worked.
Just saw this Jim. Planing on making a trip up with 22ft trailer. Was thinking about Stewart but I don't want to wait on them. Plus I'm just really ready for a road trip and get out of the house for a few days. My daughter and I planing on trip and maybe a bit of fishing on the way home :) You can reach me at bnelson7093@yahoo.com
Jim
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Lookin like end of July now :( Its friggin killin me!!!
I just heard that MINE will not be ready until the end of July! >:(
Alec says you will be picking yours up? I would be interested in hearing how you will be doing this. I tried to email you from this forum, but I am not sure it worked.
Jim
Give me a call. Bruce 972 342 8936
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Clutch and bell housing came in so got to work on that a bit. Now just need as car :'(
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Lookin like end of July now :( Its friggin killin me!!!
I just heard that MINE will not be ready until the end of July! >:(
Alec says you will be picking yours up? I would be interested in hearing how you will be doing this. I tried to email you from this forum, but I am not sure it worked.
Jim
Give me a call. Bruce 972 342 8936
Just an FYI. I talked to Stewart and he says he's trying to get a truck up there the 28th. I told him if he could pick mine up and get it to me by the 1st or 2nd I'd use him. Otherwise I'm throwing my trailer behind my truck and headed north about 12 hours. Last time I used Stewart their truck broke down on the east coast and I had to wait an additional 6 weeks. That wont happen again!
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Bruce,
Thank you for responding. I have the same concerns about Stewart. I will give you a call.
Jim
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Just an FYI. I talked to Stewart and he says he's trying to get a truck up there the 28th. I told him if he could pick mine up and get it to me by the 1st or 2nd I'd use him. Otherwise I'm throwing my trailer behind my truck and headed north about 12 hours. Last time I used Stewart their truck broke down on the east coast and I had to wait an additional 6 weeks. That wont happen again!
Bruce, My son and I drove from DFW to Lake City, IA and BACK in one trip to pick up ours .... in 26 hours. Pulled a 16' tandem axle trailer with my 2002 Toyota Tacoma.
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Just an FYI. I talked to Stewart and he says he's trying to get a truck up there the 28th. I told him if he could pick mine up and get it to me by the 1st or 2nd I'd use him. Otherwise I'm throwing my trailer behind my truck and headed north about 12 hours. Last time I used Stewart their truck broke down on the east coast and I had to wait an additional 6 weeks. That wont happen again!
Bruce, My son and I drove from DFW to Lake City, IA and BACK in one trip to pick up ours .... in 26 hours. Pulled a 16' tandem axle trailer with my 2002 Toyota Tacoma.
Yea I'm thinking my daughter and I gonna make the trip. We were looking forward to a road trip and change of scenery! Stewart said he would do it for $700 which is pretty good deal but I'm thinking more and more I just wanna get outta Dodge! I've traveled for work (Military and Civilian) most of my adult life and am going absolutely bonkers being locked down this last year :( Maybe come back down through Missouri and Arkansas and do some trout fishing :)
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Think I'm going to try out the Stainless break lines. They look incredible when all polished up. Made this bender from some screen door rollers and some scrap metal laying around. Bends the 3/16 like butter. Waiting on some 37% AN fittings to try out the flare. I'll make a 3/8 and see how it works on the fuel lines.
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SS brake lines will be something new. Will be interested to see them.
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SS brake lines will be something new. Will be interested to see them.
Heres a couple pictures from the FFR guy. Really nice.
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I've seen that one before and when it was completed. While you're at it, might as well get you some polished stainless steering u-joints and steering shafts...how many more ways can I help spend your money...haha ;)
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Man those are some clean brake lines. Looks nice polished. Very detailed install. Love seeing stuff like this thanks for the pics.
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finally getting started! Spent most of Sunday trying to organize a little bit. Spent tonight trying to get the chassis ready for powder coat. I wanted to clean up the brake line routing a bit so tig welded some thick wall tubing through frame at strategic places to route the brake lines. Tapping them 1/8-27 NPT for 1/8 to 3AN fittings. Also did not really like the rear line on the axle, so re routing that through each side of frame and across the rear support tucked up in the middle. Got most done but still need to complete tapping everything. Tomorrow is another day :) Have powder coating scheduled for Friday so a bit of time to finish things up.
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I need to come out for a visit!
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I need to come out for a visit!
LOL. I'll give you a shout when I get my parts back from coating and start assembling. Gonna be a non productive weekend ( except getting caught up on mowing that I skipped last weekend ) Hopefully have everything back mid week.
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Hey Bruce,
After doing some assembly on HM2032 (powder coated frame), I would suggest you go review the masking plan with your powder coater. I know it is a trade between masking labor and clean-up labor. I am having to do a lot of paint clean-up from critical mounting surfaces. I would have never been able to sell my customers product that they had to drill or grind before assembly.
Where are you having the powder coating done? I have headers and side pipes that will need high temperature coating. What is the plan for yours?
Also, did you see Bob's announcement for Saturday's Cobra Club meet-up?
Jim
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Hey Bruce,
After doing some assembly on HM2032 (powder coated frame), I would suggest you go review the masking plan with your powder coater. I know it is a trade between masking labor and clean-up labor. I am having to do a lot of paint clean-up from critical mounting surfaces. I would have never been able to sell my customers product that they had to drill or grind before assembly.
Where are you having the powder coating done? I have headers and side pipes that will need high temperature coating. What is the plan for yours?
Also, did you see Bob's announcement for Saturday's Cobra Club meet-up?
Jim
Hey Jim. Yea, unfortunately that's a chore that needs to be done weather you paint or coat. I just plan on running drill bits through all mounting holes. Just a nature of the beast :( Much easier to clean them out than trying to mask inside bolt holes. I put dummy bolts in the threaded holes before I take them to them. I'm having my chassis and a few of the other loose parts done at a local guys shop. Precision Powder Coating. Just a little one man shop down the street in Crandall. I've used him a lot and is always fair and dose a good job. I'm trying to find someone to ceramic coat my headers but I'm waiting till I get them in and test fit first. I did not see Bobs post on the Saturday gig, but unfortunately, I'll be spending my day in the hot sun trying to get caught up on the pastures. Being gone last weekend and skipping a week is not a good idea when its wet like its been. My yards like 10 acres of rain forest :(
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My powder coating got delayed due to waiting on a bracket that Hurricane forgot to weld on. So after doing chores I figure Id go ahead and get the brake lines bent up to save time later. Got the front finished up and hopefully have time for the rear tomorrow. I'll polish them up during down time waiting on coating. The stainless worked out well. The flaring tool from Eastwood makes it a breeze. But if you make a mistake in the bend (as I did plenty) you have to start from scratch with a new piece. It will try your patience :)
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Got the rear done tonight. Now take all apart and wait for bracket from HMS :(
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Way to make the most of the delay! I like what you did with your brake lines so far. That is a clean in/out transition with that bulkhead.
Hope your coater keeps your place in line!
Jim
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Got everything back from powder coating and have all next week off :) Let the fun begin!
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That was fast turnaround on the powder coating. Nice!! Your making great progress!!
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Great turn-around on the coating! With a week off, you will be moving right along, for sure. Come on in, the water is fine!
We stuck engine and tranny in this week, so I am drooling over your wire routing and looms. I may have to follow your lead a bit on the dress-out…I will probably have to lose the huge air filter…
Did you order the aluminum wrap for forward of the foot box? If not, what is your plan for finishing out those gel coat surfaces?
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Great turn-around on the coating! With a week off, you will be moving right along, for sure. Come on in, the water is fine!
We stuck engine and tranny in this week, so I am drooling over your wire routing and looms. I may have to follow your lead a bit on the dress-out…I will probably have to lose the huge air filter…
Did you order the aluminum wrap for forward of the foot box? If not, what is your plan for finishing out those gel coat surfaces?
I did order the aluminum wrap. Think I'll paint them semi gloss black. What motor mounts did you use for the SBF?
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Made some good progress today. I had the brake lines all done so installed those. I had assembled the Wilwood front brake kit so installed the front suspension. Working on the rear end. Hope to complete that tomorrow.
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Beautiful brake lines and routing. Will you be using the pressure sensor? If so, where have you decided that should go? I am waiting on placement after I review my wiring plan.
I went with OEM style mounts from Oreilly’s. Power Torque B2257 and A2388.
Jim
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Beautiful brake lines and routing. Will you be using the pressure sensor? If so, where have you decided that should go? I am waiting on placement after I review my wiring plan.
I went with OEM style mounts from Oreilly’s. Power Torque B2257 and A2388.
Jim
I haven't decided on the switch yet. Like you I was going to see what made sense with the wiring. I may go with a pedal activated switch instead of using the pressure activated switch.
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Kind of a frustrating day today. First I had an axle that would not go all the way into the housing when trying to tighten the retainer ring. Would come to dead stop just before the O-ring on the large seal. Ended up having to pull the other side and the pumpkin to figure it out. Come to find out on the drivers side axle slides through two sets of gears that are butted up against each other. They were a little out of alignment so the axle was hitting on the second gear instead of sliding all the way in. Was able to get aligned and everything put together.
Next I ran into part problems. ran out of 1/2 nylock nuts. They send to many 1/2" heim joints and not enough 5/8. Missing ton of spacers so I had to just make out of tubing I have laying around. But got most of it together and will run up to Ace Hardware in the AM for heim joints.
But making progress :D
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we recommend some good urethane mounts to limit engine movement and keep things stabilized. less movement on the side pipes. Prothane is very good.
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Prothane Part #6-503-BL
we recommend some good urethane mounts to limit engine movement and keep things stabilized. less movement on the side pipes. Prothane is very good.
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Prothane Part #6-503-BL
we recommend some good urethane mounts to limit engine movement and keep things stabilized. less movement on the side pipes. Prothane is very good.
Thanks :)
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Not a lot of progress today but did finish up the rear suspension after a couple trips to the hardware store >:( Got the E-Brake installed and started planing fuel lines. Took the afternoon off and made a trip to summit and picked up in-tank fuel pump, filters, SS 3/8 line et. I'll start on that tomorrow.
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This is a great build thread Bruce. The thing looks awesome so far. I'll be following closely as I've got HM-2037, done later this year hopefully.
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Looking great Bruce, I need to come by for a visit!
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This is a great build thread Bruce. The thing looks awesome so far. I'll be following closely as I've got HM-2037, done later this year hopefully.
Thanks :) These things are a great help for advice and ideas! I know your probably waiting as patiently as i was :)
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Well not a whole lot to report >:( Had a wicked storm roll through Tuesday night and made a mess of things. Power was out most the night and my internet down till about an hour ago. I decided to wait till I see how some other things go together before running my fuel lines and battery cables. I did mount the reservoirs on the back of a chair so I could bleed the brakes and test all my lines and such. Only had one flare I had to pull off and lap a little and was fine, so was happy about that! I'm moving on to getting the tub set and install the aluminum panels. Will play with putting the body on and get familiar with how all that goes together. Missing my trans is really screwing up my schedule >:(
Oh and almost forgot. I got my in-tank pump installed and finished up. If anyone else is considering this look at it closely before you decide. I'm not sure everything I went through was worth it. There are some welded in ballasts inside the tank that make it impossible to fit the fuel basket flat on the forward (deep) part of the tank. I ended up having to modify the basket so it angled up on the slope of the tank floor. The intake hole in the basket is at the far end so that puts it at a higher level than it should be. I drilled another hole down further on the flat but I'm sure this will affect how it operates at extremely low fuel levels. Will just have to see. May have to pull it and build a whole new basket that will fit in the space available on the flat section. Also will need to cut out the trunk floor and build a short cover due to the fittings sticking up to far.
So not sure it was worth the trouble. But....It's done now...
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started finalizing the tub cutouts and deciding on what I would do on the firewall going forward. Greg had posted some pictures of one with half of the aluminum panels installed that I liked but after looking at the panels I have, they are different and have decided to just finish the fiberglass to a decent level of finish. I really hated the gap on the inside of trans tunnel, and the aluminum angle they have to fill that in so glassed in a lip that will fill that void and look a little more finished. I'll pull the tub tomorrow and spend the weekend finishing the firewall and painting. Think I have the fuel lines figured out so will make another trip to Summit and pick all that up for next week.
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Thanks for sharing your challenges and cool solutions. Do you mind if I copy your filler technique? I was a machinist for 10+ years, but never worked with fiberglass. Below is a pic of the multi-purpose corner brace. I really like the design except for the bolt interference at bottom left of picture (and need for pedal shaft bushing(s)). Hole in tub for steering shaft might work at 2", but worked better at 2 1/8".
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Thanks for sharing your challenges and cool solutions. Do you mind if I copy your filler technique? I was a machinist for 10+ years, but never worked with fiberglass. Below is a pic of the multi-purpose corner brace. I really like the design except for the bolt interference at bottom left of picture (and need for pedal shaft bushing(s)). Hole in tub for steering shaft might work at 2", but worked better at 2 1/8".
Thanks Jim. that's the whole idea of this site. Share problems and solutions. Your moving along at record pace and looking great :)
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As always my fix took more work than expected. After sanding the front firewall and inner tunnel found a lot more flaws than originally noticed. Ended up skim coating the whole thing and blocking. May not get paint on tomorrow as need to do a bunch of yard work like Jim :( Hopefully get it blocked and re primed so can finish during the week. And need to do some serious shop clean up >:(
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Got nothing done >:( Ended up doing chores all day but did get the shop cleaned up. Put the tub back on the chassis just to be sure the mods fit correctly before paint. Think they turned out pretty clean. Time well spent IMO. Now just have to decide on gloss black or satin black. Hummmmmmm?
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Those glass tabs you made look great. Super nice job. Really adds a nice finished look to that area.
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Little progress. Got the firewall painted. Put a couple layers of heat shield between footbox front and aluminum panels. painted aluminum panels with fireproof paint and cured in oven at 300 & 400 degrees according to directions. Will see how that works out but the heat did not damage. As Jim identified, the two holes in corner of steering bearing/throttle linkage plate conflict so I welded up the hole on the side and ground smooth. Still deciding on using the top aluminum panel or leaving as is. I think I like the simple clean look as is.
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Looks good Bruce. Just a couple of things I noticed.
Bearing should be mounted inside the foot box.
I'm sure the way you have it mounted, the bearing does not pivot?
Hole in fiberglass needs to be larger than the hole in corner bracket to accommodate the bearing flange. Hole needed is 2".
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Looks good Bruce. Just a couple of things I noticed.
Bearing should be mounted inside the foot box.
I'm sure the way you have it mounted, the bearing does not pivot?
Hole in fiberglass needs to be larger than the hole in corner bracket to accommodate the bearing flange. Hole needed is 2".
It pivots the same as if it were inside. It is sandwiched in the two housings ether way. Of course the manual shows a car without the steel bracket with bearing on outside. so I got on the forum and looked at what others have done. Has been done both ways so I just chose what I liked best. I enlarged the hole in the bracket and in the fiberglass.
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Cool, enlarging the hole is key, just couldn't tell from the pics.
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Little progress. I installed all the steering shafts temporarily to get familiar and make sure no problems. All worked out pretty good. Again was a puzzle sense the manual is completely different from what I have. That craps getting a bit frustrating. Went to start on throttle pedal assembly but cant find most of the parts. Not sure what I'm supposed to have though sense the manual shows a cable and ours are mechanical. Going by pics on the forum I seem to be missing the majority of parts. I'll give Alec a call Monday.
Can anyone verify that the long part of the front housing goes toward the driver? See third pic.
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You have the bushing block oriented correctly. I did the same fit-up and also test fit the turn signal and steering wheel. I got a bit confused about the preset collar on the splined shaft, but I think that is only there to provide a stop for the steering wheel boss. Hope you found your steering wheel.
Take good notes when you call Alec on the throttle linkages. I have all the heim joints, but no shafts or “yoke” to tie pedal shaft’s rotation to the linkage. Pic shows what I have.
Good luck
Jim
HM2032
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You have the bushing block oriented correctly. I did the same fit-up and also test fit the turn signal and steering wheel. I got a bit confused about the preset collar on the splined shaft, but I think that is only there to provide a stop for the steering wheel boss. Hope you found your steering wheel.
Take good notes when you call Alec on the throttle linkages. I have all the heim joints, but no shafts or “yoke” to tie pedal shaft’s rotation to the linkage. Pic shows what I have.
Good luck
Jim
HM2032
Thats exactly what I have
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Got the body on today and started fitting all the doors, trunk. hood. Was able to do with just myself and friend with the frame I built. Pretty happy with how all the panels fit with exception of them trimming to much off the bottom of the doors. When aligning the top of the doors with the fenders, the bottom has a gap of almost 1/2". Will need to fill the jam a bit to make look decent. Now just a lot of time trimming and fitting all he panels.
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My door fitment is all wonky. Truck and hood fit decent. I need to drive out and have you take a look at mine.
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My door fitment is all wonky. Truck and hood fit decent. I need to drive out and have you take a look at mine.
Bob that would be great. I'd love to look at yours and get some questions answered from someone already gone through the process. Sent you a couple messages but looking at my sent folder doesn't look like they made it to you for some reason. Of course weekend would be best. I have your number so will text you my google location. just give a shout when you have time to swing by.
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started finalizing the tub cutouts and deciding on what I would do on the firewall going forward. Greg had posted some pictures of one with half of the aluminum panels installed that I liked but after looking at the panels I have, they are different and have decided to just finish the fiberglass to a decent level of finish. I really hated the gap on the inside of trans tunnel, and the aluminum angle they have to fill that in so glassed in a lip that will fill that void and look a little more finished. I'll pull the tub tomorrow and spend the weekend finishing the firewall and painting. Think I have the fuel lines figured out so will make another trip to Summit and pick all that up for next week.
Forgot to post this. Just an FYI. As others have said, the placement of the tub is critical to body alignment. Tub needs to be all the way back against the vertical frame rails in the back. When I drilled my holes and bolted down, it kept wanting to go forward 1/4- 1/2 inch which will keep your body from going back far enough. I just drilled and tapped a couple holes through the back of the tub into vertical rails to hold in place. If you needed to adjust one side or the other shims would work. But everything on mine fell in place with both side's pulled back as far as they would go.
Somehow quoted from wrong post. Sorry
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Bob that would be great. I'd love to look at yours and get some questions answered from someone already gone through the process. Sent you a couple messages but looking at my sent folder doesn't look like they made it to you for some reason. Of course weekend would be best. I have your number so will text you my google location. just give a shout when you have time to swing by.
This Saturday Sept 4th is first Saturday of the month so the DFW group will probably meet somewhere for breakfast, almost always on the other side of DFW from us where the "rich folk" hang out ... i'll make a post here. I can probably swing by after, or come out on Sunday. The weekend looks like high of 97° -- yeeoow!
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Bob that would be great. I'd love to look at yours and get some questions answered from someone already gone through the process. Sent you a couple messages but looking at my sent folder doesn't look like they made it to you for some reason. Of course weekend would be best. I have your number so will text you my google location. just give a shout when you have time to swing by.
This Saturday Sept 4th is first Saturday of the month so the DFW group will probably meet somewhere for breakfast, almost always on the other side of DFW from us where the "rich folk" hang out ... i'll make a post here. I can probably swing by after, or come out on Sunday. The weekend looks like high of 97° -- yeeoow!
Yea. I'm seriously ready for Fall! Just sent you text.
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OK. Some of you might want to look away for this one :) Think Ive decided to go totally black with ? stripes? I saw this black with red and did a little photo shop on it deleting the dump tank filler and knew that's what I wanted to do. Looks supper clean, simple, and a little different than the rest. Still thinking about stripes >:( So while I'm waiting on trans and windshield I went ahead and started body work. I'm a little afraid to start gaping doors and such until I look at Bob's car this weekend to be sure I have everything locked down in the right places. Just imagine that last picture without that big ol gas filler in the middle of the fender :) Clean, simple, and just a little different....You wont hardly notice that flush mount once its painted :)
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Now that's a cool gas cap! Never saw one like that.
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Bruce, I enjoy watching what you might come up with next. That gas filler change will look very sleek, for sure, and the black is a great choice. Do you plan on any metal flake?
I hope you and Bobby were able to work out your body fit. I would appreciate a visit from you guys soon when I test fit my body. We’ll be sure to feed you well.
Jim
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Bruce, I enjoy watching what you might come up with next. That gas filler change will look very sleek, for sure, and the black is a great choice. Do you plan on any metal flake?
I hope you and Bobby were able to work out your body fit. I would appreciate a visit from you guys soon when I test fit my body. We’ll be sure to feed you well.
Jim
Hey Jim.
Yea, Bobby came out and was a great help. He confirmed a lot of my suspensions on the body fit issues. Also got some ideas on areas to improve that he has done on his car. There are a few things that I was concerned with, and wanted to be sure they were not due to something I was overlooking. I'll go over them with you when we talk again. So now I am on to locking everything down, installing quick jacks and starting on some unfortunate gap corrections due to them trimming too much off in a few places. Think I'll fab a few extra body supports for added support to the bulb seals on the front frame.
Let me know when your ready to install and will make a trip to the other side of the tracks :)
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OK....So not much progress to show but really did get make good progress. I got the body set in its final position and got the windshield set in place. Drilled all the mounting holes ( man was that fun!). Got all the panels aligned as much as possible. Ready to start all the final alignment. I still have a bunch of stuff on back order so will spend the next couple weeks trying to perfect all the panel fitment. Will save the final work until after I put the body on for the last time. Things seam to change every time you install them! But until then I can get all the gaps closed and get some of the seams leveled.
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OK....So not much progress to show but really did get make good progress. I got the body set in its final position and got the windshield set in place. Drilled all the mounting holes ( man was that fun!). Got all the panels aligned as much as possible. Ready to start all the final alignment. I still have a bunch of stuff on back order so will spend the next couple weeks trying to perfect all the panel fitment. Will save the final work until after I put the body on for the last time. Things seam to change every time you install them! But until then I can get all the gaps closed and get some of the seams leveled.
PS...I know the quick jacks are back asswards. Holes are the same for fitment.
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Hey Jim.
Yea, Bobby came out and was a great help. He confirmed a lot of my suspensions on the body fit issues. Also got some ideas on areas to improve that he has done on his car. There are a few things that I was concerned with, and wanted to be sure they were not due to something I was overlooking. I'll go over them with you when we talk again. So now I am on to locking everything down, installing quick jacks and starting on some unfortunate gap corrections due to them trimming too much off in a few places. Think I'll fab a few extra body supports for added support to the bulb seals on the front frame.
Let me know when your ready to install and will make a trip to the other side of the tracks :)
Was great to meet you, Bruce. Let me know any time I can come help, be glad to.
And Jim, I'd love to come help you get the body on also.
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Been spending the last few days getting all the panels set and started putting on latches. Wanted to have all that complete and in place before I started final grinding excess and glassing in large gaps. The door latches were another puzzle that the manual is worthless on helping you solve. Had to fab some huge spacers to go between the latch and the steel upright posts they bolt to. Did not find anything in the kit that looked like they would be for that purpose. But only way I see they work is if you stand off the latches about an inch from the uprights. Anyone has any suggestions/insight on these please educate me!
I had a spare electric power steering unit from my FFR 35 truck build. I really liked it on the truck, so fabricated a bracket and installed under dash. It puts the steering wheel at more of an angle at the dash but wont mater for me sense I'm putting in an Ididit tilt column with keyed ignition in the column. Need to trim a bit off the bottom of the bracket but it is tucked up under pretty far. When I mock up the dash and sit in the seat you cant see it and it is well out of the way. If one wanted to use the supplied steering wheel/shaft you could build the bracket a bit different and get the shaft in the same position as with the supplied bearing housing to keep angle the same. Would just need to move the unit further back so the housing would lift up a bit more. I put mine in this location so it is at correct distance from dash for the Ididit 12" shorty. Saves me a bit of money from having to have them build a custom length.
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Take a look and see if you have these pieces ?
These are for the latches.
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Take a look and see if you have these pieces ?
These are for the latches.
Yes. Those are what I am having to stand off on the upright frame pieces in order for door to close fully. If I bolt direct to the frame without stand offs, the doors would be open about 3/4" one side and 1" on the other. I get that they will be over carpet and aluminum panel when doing final install but that wont be near enough . Is what it is. Will just have to adjust shim depth again once i put in panels and carpet.
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Bruce, as I mentioned last weekend at your shop, my uprights were welded wrong to the frame, on the side of the frame instead of on top, so they were too short to reach the required striker height. I had to modify the holes on the adapter plate on each side to purchase a grasp of the upright. And you can see on the passenger side I also made an aluminum spacer plate about 1/4 or 3/8" i think, to pull the passenger door in far enough. It really depends on where you body sits in it final position.
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Bruce, as I mentioned last weekend at your shop, my uprights were welded wrong to the frame, on the side of the frame instead of on top, so they were too short to reach the required striker height. I had to modify the holes on the adapter plate on each side to purchase a grasp of the upright. And you can see on the passenger side I also made an aluminum spacer plate about 1/4 or 3/8" i think, to pull the passenger door in far enough. It really depends on where you body sits in it final position.
[/quote
Thanks Bob]
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OK....so I got all the door latches closing and latching perfectly. All aligned really nice. Missing the striker for the trunk so cant do that. Missing the tabs that go on the square rod on the hood latches so cant do that. bolted the seats in so I could check the steering wheel distance for final fab and noticed the mount is off center about 1-1/4" from seat center. Checked with Bobby and he confirmed his was same. Think I will do something to correct that. Pretty easy fix with me doing the tilt wheel and adding steering knuckle. About ready to start grinding and glassing panel edges. Thankfully the weather has cooled down and humidity down and I can take out of the shop to work on. Tired of cleaning all that glass dust out of the shop!
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Work got postponed for a bit but was able to tinker a bit today. I wanted do some flush hood latches to keep in line with what I did on the filler. Found these at Summit and they work really nice. Was easy to adapt the plates and are very adjustable with the mounts I made. Thinking about a cable operated trunk latch after looking at how the supplied operates. Will eliminate the handle on outside and kind of match the rest of what I'm doing. Have the gaps on the hood roughed in but will leave final until the last time I put the body on. Finishing door gaps today and this weekend. Trans is supposed to be here Monday so will be pulling everything apart again :(
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Got my trunk latch put together and aligned. I ended up using a cable latch and put a release inside the gas cap. Picked up an $80.00 scope from Harbor Freight to see inside to align the latch. Ran the cable through the gas filler. Worked out really well and saved some time. After that I took body off and back to bare chassis to get the trans installed and finish up all the chassis work. Need to trim all the edges on the body.
Anyone have some good pictures of what weatherstrip goes where? Will need to figure that out to trim the body correctly.
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This should make a few eyes roll :) Wanted to do something different with the roll bar. Cut the hoop in half and welded section to make it a full roll bar. Going to make supports from the top 2X2 to the bar under the body to hide the supports. Got all the fuel lines and battery cables finished so I can start putting everything back together. Will start the radiator and inner fenders tomorrow. Still needing to get the body out of the shop to trim all the openings but keep putting it off :( Grinding glass in not my favorite thing!
Can anyone enlighten me as to how we are supposed to mount the fan to the radiator? As always the manual is useless :(
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Can anyone enlighten me as to how we are supposed to mount the fan to the radiator? As always the manual is useless :(
With brackets you probably do not have, check with Alec.
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Can anyone enlighten me as to how we are supposed to mount the fan to the radiator? As always the manual is useless :(
With brackets you probably do not have, check with Alec.
Can anyone post a picture of them installed? Or point me to a post that shows them? I've looked all over the site and cant seem to find one. Maybe I'll just make them.
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I like the rollbar. Are you hiding the supports below the body?
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I like the rollbar. Are you hiding the supports below the body?
I am going to put them below body to that upper 2x2 frame.
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Not much visible progress but made some headway. Got the radiator and inner fenders installed. Started running wiring :( not my favorite thing! But did get the unnecessary crap cut out and got things laid out. A considerably different application when running EFI and having some of the sensors eliminated. Need to make some calls to clarify a few things. Really sucks this wiring harness does not come with a diagram! Would sure make things a lot easier. I'll give Haywire a call tomorrow and see if I can get one. As you can see by picture...long ways to go!
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I see you'll be using a Dakota Digital system for gages & instruments.
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I see you'll be using a Dakota Digital system for gages & instruments.
Yes! I was a little disappointed in these gauges using a flat ribbon connector (old style). The last ones I used had a simple CAT5/RJ45 connection. But still a one connector interface so makes removing dash for maintenance/troubleshooting simple. Not to mention eliminates all the dash wiring :)
I have two gauges 4.75" diameter that has all six necessary displays. Will probably mount in center of dash and build round extensions angling toward the driver. Also thinking about building illuminated plate with rocker style switches for required switches. But I will have hi/low, wiper, flasher all in the column.
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Little more progress on the wiring. Got the inside all wired up, routed, and organized. Still a bit of clean up to do. Powered everything up to check and all seems to be working. I have a lot of additions requiring direct battery connections so that made a challenge getting everything back to trunk.
Completed my steering upgrade. Had to add a second joint under dash to keep the shafts in position over the headers. That in turn makes it necessary to add a carrier bearing or bushing to hold shaft in position. I used the pipe and bushings meant for the steering wheel shaft and made bracket on outside of foot-box. Works perfect.
Fired up the electric steering to check and man what a improvement! I don't have my column yet so just tried turning with a joint and could turn but with a lot of effort and both hands. Turned on the steering and you can turn with one hand and literally no effort! Smooth as silk! Think that was a worthwhile addition. Cant wait to see how it works with tires on the ground.
Will try to get the front and back all wired up during the week and hopefully get this beast fired up this weekend!
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Little progress this week. Got all the tub wiring complete. The guy from Haywire was supper helpful in getting my flaming river column wired up. I will definitely use them on future builds. Had to cut the dash frame and do some customizing for the Flaming River column, fits nice. Bought cheap steering wheel just to use during build. Wheels came in a month early! Was nice surprise. Sure will be nice to get this thing off the dolly and on wheels so I can roll outside and do some serious cleanup! With any luck I'll be firing this thing up Sunday!
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Looking great, Bruce! I may have to come out Sunday for the initial start up!
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Looking great, Bruce! I may have to come out Sunday for the initial start up!
Sorry Bob. Just saw this. I actually got her fired up Friday night. Made a few laps around the pasture Saturday. But your welcome to come by any time. Just give a call :)
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So made some progress this weekend. Got it fired up Friday night and made some test laps around the pasture Saturday. Other than a few small leaks all worked out well! Seems to drive and steer pretty good for tape-measure alignment and drive shaft angle set. I'll try and post some video tomorrow.
Had to do a bit of redneck engineering to get the drivers side header off the foot box. Anchored rear of car down with one truck and connected some straps and 2.5 ton chain hoist to another on the front. Was able to get it about 3/8 in off the foot box. That's about where the passenger side is so hopefully it will work out when I get the body back on.
Came up with some brackets for electric brake switch. Really did not want to use a hydraulic on brake or clutch safety switch.
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Sometimes redneck works...Hey y'all watch this! :o
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Well I could not put it off any longer. Was a nice cool day today for grinding glass :( Got all the wheel openings and such trimmed and cleaned up. Quite a few air pockets that will need fixing :( First time Ive had the body on with wheels. I could have fit another inch in front and two inches in rear! Maybe down the road I'll change them out. I'll tackle the hood, trunk, doors tomorrow. Hopefully I can get them all lined up as I had them!
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Made some good progress over the last few days. Got all the panels back on and aligned. Still some final gap work to do. And as expected. Things did not go back on exactly the same as the last time. And I made the mistake when putting the body on the first time of not putting in all the rubber seals. So of course when you put those in it changes things up a little. I wanted to get all the exterior parts drilled and installed before starting bodywork, so been working on all the lights, mirrors and such. Hopefully have all done today and can remove those items and start bodywork over Thanksgiving. Think I will mold the scoop to hood as opposed to riveting it on. May start on that this afternoon.
Starting to look like a Cobra :)
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Spent the night figuring out these struts. Bought a $15.00 set with another $12.00 for brackets and worked out great! Will need to add some support under the fender lip but other than that a pretty straight forward install. They literally lift the hood by themselves after you pull the hood up about 10". Mounted to the hood with rev-nuts and just bolted to fender with 10-32 screws.
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Worked on support brackets for the struts today. There was quite a bit of flex on the fenders when closing. Ended up placing 1" flat bar 3/16 thick and 16" long directly under lip. Used 10-32 screws in front and back and of course the strut screws in the middle. Welded a small 1" piece of bar at 90 degree with a tube on it to place 5/16 bolt threw the inner fender aluminum. Put that right behind where the struts mount. Thing is solid as a rock.
If one was to put these on while in the build process they could probably just use a piece of angle iron and bolt to the 1x1 square tube that fits under the fender.
Now. On to figure a way to modify those wonderful door latches :) I'm thinking I might need to get a new drivers door :( If you look at how far forward the jam part of the door is, It is over an inch in front of the lip on the rear of door opening. When trying to use the supplied latches, you have to extend the bracket into the actual door opening to get it to latch. That is with door moved all the way to the rear on the front hinge adjustment. Not something I can live with :(
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What's the exterior gap like with the door bring moved as far rearward as you can?
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What's the exterior gap like with the door bring moved as far rearward as you can?
I trimmed with it all the way back so gap is good. They had trimmed to much off the bottom and I had to build the jam up to close the lower gap.
So really only way to fix would be to shim the hinge back an inch or so and then add edge to the front to close that gap. Lot of work and I'm not liking the idea of shimming the door back that far.
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My solution to the jam issue. I'll need to wait on the latches to come in and see what I have to do to convert to the Bear Claw before I put them back together. The passenger side was not as bad as the drivers side but was still an excessive gap. When all said and done they should be pretty much perfect.
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I think this is a first, never seen this done before. Will be interesting to see when done.
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Wow, Bruce - you're sure not afraid of cutting stuff apart! I'll be interested in seeing the results of this.
I think all the Hurricane driver doors are off. My striker plate had to be offset way inboard into the opening, compared to the passenger side.
(https://bobworley.com/images/hm2008/body/IMG_3642.JPG)
(https://bobworley.com/images/hm2008/body/IMG_3656.JPG)
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Wow, Bruce - you're sure not afraid of cutting stuff apart! I'll be interested in seeing the results of this.
I think all the Hurricane driver doors are off. My striker plate had to be offset way inboard into the opening, compared to the passenger side.
LOL. Fiberglass is easy to put back together! I looked all through the forum in different areas and I think your right. Most look the same as ours. Drivers side gap way bigger than passenger side. Having said that, Jims up in McKinney, looks a little better. My body is actually a couple years old. One they had some gelcoat issues with. So maybe they have done something to make it better. Regaurdless, I just couldn't live with that clunky bracket sticking out into my door jam :( I have them trimmed and mocked up now and have the jam right up against that lip. Could probably just go with that and use the supplied latches now but figured I would move it into 2021 and make operate a little smoother with some modern latches. Should be able to post some completed pictures this weekend. waiting on latches :(
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Hers a couple pictures with doors in place with the jams mocked (duct tapped) in position. Like I said. I think the original would fit much better but am still going to go with some modern functionality.
But you get the idea of how much better the fit is. Looking at bottom gap but not sure that will be much of an issue with weatherstrip in place. I'll try that tomorrow.
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Bruce, is it only the inner skin of the door that needed extended? The outer skin was ok and you didn't cut and move it?
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Bruce, is it only the inner skin of the door that needed extended? The outer skin was ok and you didn't cut and move it?
Yes. Just the inner panel.
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Got my latches in late today and couldn't wait to get started. Kind of hampered by a torn tendon in finger so not moving very fast :( Got the latch panels bent and trimmed to fit the jams and epoxied the inner panels and door skin back together. I'll get all the gaps fiber glassed tomorrow and start fitting the strikers.
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Well it seems a bum index finger slows you down more than you'd think! Finally got the inner panels glassed back together and got the body work on the inner and top of doors roughed in. Just some finish work and blocking left but will do all that same time as the outer body work. Had to do quite a bit of glass work on the edges and in the jams :( Got the doors hung back so can do some brackets for the door strikers. Will build some brackets off the uprights and then do some fiberglass mods to the door openings so they look like they were supposed to be there. Think its going to be slow going for a while though :( Dr says 6-8 weeks to totally heal! killing me!
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You sure are getting it done anyway! That is going to look like it should.
Hope you heal fast, but let it heal!!
Jim
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Well it seems a bum index finger slows you down more than you'd think! Finally got the inner panels glassed back together and got the body work on the inner and top of doors roughed in. Just some finish work and blocking left but will do all that same time as the outer body work. Had to do quite a bit of glass work on the edges and in the jams :( Got the doors hung back so can do some brackets for the door strikers. Will build some brackets off the uprights and then do some fiberglass mods to the door openings so they look like they were supposed to be there. Think its going to be slow going for a while though :( Dr says 6-8 weeks to totally heal! killing me!
PS: Forgot to mention. Cant really tell by pictures but I filled in the area around the original latch pad to make all flush. built up with kitty hair and finished with filler. This will enable me to build a one piece door panel with just a notch for the striker and not a whole cutout for that pad area.
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I'm guessing you had to notch the fiberglass and steel backing of the latch pad area, the door is a little shallow there and thinking the striker bolt may end up between the wing and door opening lip?
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I'm guessing you had to notch the fiberglass and steel backing of the latch pad area, the door is a little shallow there and thinking the striker bolt may end up between the wing and door opening lip?
I notched the lip area of the fiberglass on the inner door skin so the metal plate fits flush with the door jamb and cut out about 1" into the pad area to make room for the latch. No metal backing on mine? I put rev nuts into the pad area and used 1/4-20 to screw the new plate to the pad area. See pic.
The striker will land almost right in middle of that lip on the door opening so will extend that area out a little so it looks like it belongs there when all said and done.
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I notched the lip area of the fiberglass on the inner door skin so the metal plate fits flush with the door jamb and cut out about 1" into the pad area to make room for the latch. No metal backing on mine? I put rev nuts into the pad area and used 1/4-20 to screw the new plate to the pad area. See pic.
So what do the latch backplates screw into or are they only threaded inserts behind the glass or in the glass? I thought there was a plate below the glass.
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I notched the lip area of the fiberglass on the inner door skin so the metal plate fits flush with the door jamb and cut out about 1" into the pad area to make room for the latch. No metal backing on mine? I put rev nuts into the pad area and used 1/4-20 to screw the new plate to the pad area. See pic.
So what do the latch backplates screw into or are they only threaded inserts behind the glass or in the glass? I thought there was a plate below the glass.
Just threaded inserts or rev-nuts epoxied into the glass. I had one nut in each door that came lose and was not usable. Think Jim ran into same thing. Below is pic of one of the pieces I cut out.
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Got one side of the door strikers done before my finger told me to take a break:( Just need to do some glass work on the jam to make it look OEM. Cant even begin to explain how much smoother this thing works!
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Looks good and is definitely work most would not take on. What you are doing is also confirming some ideas I have for retro-fitting existing doors with no glass work, maybe a little sanding using a mini claw latch and using the original looking latch.
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Bruce, how do you release the latch? (open the door...)
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Bruce, this is some top notch work. Really enjoy seeing everything you have done so far.
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Bruce, how do you release the latch? (open the door...)
Right now I just stick a small screwdriver in that small hole you see in the panel at the corner of the plate. I have these to install in the door panel when I put in interior.
https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Clayton-Machine-LR-703-Bear-Claw-Door-Latch-Release-Grooved-Knob-Bezel,111953.html
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Bruce, this is some top notch work. Really enjoy seeing everything you have done so far.
Thanks! I really enjoy just tinkering, thinking up things to improve functionality, and making a little more my own :)
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Looks good and is definitely work most would not take on. What you are doing is also confirming some ideas I have for retro-fitting existing doors with no glass work, maybe a little sanding using a mini claw latch and using the original looking latch.
Cool! Like to see what you come up with.
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Is the pin that the "claw" latches around stick into the door opening? I'm thinking it does, but it's somewhat hard to picture everything.
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Is the pin that the "claw" latches around stick into the door opening? I'm thinking it does, but it's somewhat hard to picture everything.
Yes. The pin (striker) is inside the door jam as in a regular OEM door. A bit challanging due to how shallow the jams are on this thing so will need to get creative. I'll post some pictures when I get to that point.
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Moving like an ol lady but got the passenger side done. Have all the panels lined up and latching properly, so I'll start doing final gaps on everything this weekend. Will be exciting to get to the body work stage!
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Bruce,
What thickness material did you use for the striker bolt?
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Bruce,
What thickness material did you use for the striker bolt?
3/16. Its solid. The way its positioned there is not much ability to flex. All the force applied to it goes to the flat bar bolted to that upright bar the Hurricane latch goes to if that makes sense. And stress to the weld joint is only as much pressure as it takes to close and latch the door. Not much.
PS: Actually I just checked with caliper and is actually 1/4" Could probably get by with 3/16 though.
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Spent the day molding my door jams. Pretty happy with how they came out. Look a little rough but just need to do some final shaping and then clean them up and finish with some filler. Supper happy with how they operate. Trying to decide how I want to finish out those front and rear door opening corners. Ive looked and seen a number of different methods and final shapes. Hmmmm? I did add a 90 degree lip to the top section of the jam so it is same as below the latch (recommended by my interior guy) that will make finishing those areas easier. Started gaping the hood and hope to start glassing the scoop tomorrow.
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Looks good and is definitely work most would not take on. What you are doing is also confirming some ideas I have for retro-fitting existing doors with no glass work, maybe a little sanding using a mini claw latch and using the original looking latch.
Cool! Like to see what you come up with.
Here is another option too that would work well.
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Kind of shifted gears today. Wanted to get the dash half way finalized so I could start on a console and get the wiring all put away. Bought a set of 1965 Mustang switch, light bezel, wiper bezel so all would match on the dash. Wanted to keep it simple and clean with no clutter. I have a switch panel with power ports and three switches for the fans and interior light that I will put in the console face panel right under center of dash. Everything else is on the column. I'll save putting vinyl on till very last.Think I'll start on that just for change of pace.
And almost forgot. Now it has a Ford ignition key! ;D
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OK. Now on to plan B on the dash. You probably noticed in the pic from last night that the gauges were off center. Bugged the heck out of me. The glove box was the issue in trying to center. Thought it would be OK but seems I cant live with it, sooooo. Took the dash off and glassed in the glove box opening and will make it smaller. And of course had to fill in some of the cut outs already done but.... After looking at it I thought it might look better with a panel behind the gauges to break up the padded dash. Maybe do panel painted same as the body color? (Kindigit Black & Blue) Finally selected color and bought the paint! Also thinking about a small quarter round panel about 1.5" high over the steering wheel that will have additional left/right arrows for blinkers and a high beam indicator just to break up the area in front of wheel. The multi function gauges have indicators in them but are pretty hard to see. If you look at the picture from yesterday that area just seems plain. But... I still did not want to just splatter gauges all over the place. Think this will still keep it simple but not be plain....maybe....
That's the fun of it! trying different things :D
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I got the main panel built and the dash trimmed a bit. Just wanted to see how I liked it. Cut out the main panel and mounted and think I like it. Will be hard to tell though until I have the dash covered and all the panels painted and mounted. Still think it needs something over the steering wheel. All the indicator lights come in Saturday so will mock that up after I get them and see how that looks.
Sorry. Pictures sideways >:(
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I almost went with this setup from Dakota with a similar look.
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You are certainly making it your own, Bruce.
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I almost went with this setup from Dakota with a similar look.
LOL. I looked at those also :)
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You are certainly making it your own, Bruce.
For better.....or worse.....It will absolutely be one of a kind ;D
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Well not a whole bunch of progress today but did get the panel for the blinker and high beam indicators done and got a plan together. I think I like the concept...
I got some 1/16" foam to put down under the vinyl on the dash and came up with plan. Going to put the foam on, then put the panel on and trim around the panels so can remove the foam from behind the panels. In theory, the panels will then be pretty much flush with the dash vinyl when all said and done. Will see if that works out.....
Now trying to figure out how to do the glove box door the same so it all looks the same.
Will paint all the panels the car color, which is pretty much black with hint of blue on the contours, so should blend in with the black vinyl real nice.
Kind of hard to see what my vision is by the pictures but I can see it clearly in my mind! Just hope my mind is sane?
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Got a bit more done on the dash. Built a lip around inside of glove box to finish that out a little better. Got all the 10-24 nut inserts installed for the panels. Wanted to cut out the glove box door but ordered some concealed hinges and a latch so need to get them and figure out what I need to do to get them to fit. Think I like how its coming out but still hard to tell till I get it covered and the panels painted :(
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Looking good. Will be interesting to see the final product.
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The weather is so mild for the next few days I switched gears and started on the hod scoop. Maybe get a bit of bodywork done as well :D
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Well did not get a lot done due to all the Holiday stuff going on >:( But did get the inside of the hood body worked and primed. Just need to block a couple times and fill a few pin holes. The gaps where the panels were laminated on this thing are a real pain. I'll get after the outside tomorrow. Always takes more work than you think!
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Took a break for a few days but couldn't help myself from going out and getting a little more done on the hood. Glass came out pretty good and just needed a little filler to get it right. I wont bother blocking it till I get it back on the car and do whatever work needs done to get the hood flat to the other panels.
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Got a few little things done today. I really did not want to put visible screws threw the front of dash to hold it on so glassed some tabs on the bottom. Drilled and tapped the frame and screwed it to that. Worked out good. I got the dash panels primed and ready to paint but want to get the glove box door figured out tomorrow and paint them all at same time. I'm really anxious to try out the paint and see how it looks! After seeing how well the struts worked on the hood, I just could not leave that (book case) latch on the trunk. So ordered some 22.5lb struts last week which came in. They work great and look and work a whole lot better IMO. Link to what I used below if anyone interested.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CRL7P6X?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details
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Making good progress. I like the innovations you are incorporating in your build. New ground being broken!
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Interesting idea with the dash. Anxious to see additional pictures of how it mounts in the car. A somewhat simple removable dash is something I'm hoping to accomplish.
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Interesting idea with the dash. Anxious to see additional pictures of how it mounts in the car. A somewhat simple removable dash is something I'm hoping to accomplish.
I just put some 1/8 foam pad under the lip of the body on top. Put dash in place and drilled through each tab into that flat bar on the bottom frame. Tapped 1/4-20 and bolted to that. When bolting in it pushes top into that 1/8 foam on top and keeps it from being able to move at all. I'll take some pictures after I get it put together. Was so cold out there yesterday I got nothing done >:(
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Well warmed up enough for my heater to keep up so got out there and finished up the glove box and got all the panels ready to paint. Covered the dash and test fit everything. I ended up going with just some thin foam under the vinyl. I tried the softer, thicker but did not like the puffy look. think I like this better. Hopefully get some base coat paint on the panels tomorrow night.
I got some SS hex drive counter sunk screws to mount all the dash panels. Need to spend some time polishing them. Wanted to have just a little bling that would match gauge trim and switches. Thought it needed just a little chrome to brighten it up a bit.
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Was able to get some color on the dash panels today. I love the color. The pictures do absolutely no justice but you get an idea. In the shadows it looks completely black but when sun hits it has this beautiful deep blue/magenta metallic pearl that stands out. Cant wait to get some on the car!
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Was able to get panels painted and polished. I like how it came out. Panels look dead black in pictures but really light up when the sun hits them. Just a little chrome but pretty simple. Not sure about the glove box cover but I'll leave it be. Easy to change latter on. Finished out the glove box inside with vinyl panels. Now......On to the Console. Think I'll put a hinged door on front, right under dash, that matches dash panels and mount all the relays right behind it. Put my switch plate on it as well. I'm thinking about doing some lighted chrome toggle now to better match the upper switches. The panel I have is black rocker switches. Have to play around a little and see what looks best.
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It's coming together, and like ya said you can change it up in time if you want.
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Been working on the center console. Got the major portion done. Need to cut out the metal panels to paint and install the nut inserts but you get a good idea of how it will look. I'm pretty happy with it. Just trying to figure out how to get the vinyl on in one piece :( May have to make a trip to my upholstery guy >:( $$$$
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Couple more pictures. Couldn't fit all of them on previous post.
PS: the gaps between dash and console and in the back of console are to leave room for pad and carpet :(
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Little more progress. But not much.... Got the main panel cut out, trimmed, and cup holders drilled out. Still trying to find a simple nav system to put in the front part of console under dash.
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Not much progress but.... Been in the shop watching the play off games and looking at Cobra and contemplating.... The body style on these are awesome but one thing that has always bugged me. The rear wheel openings are humongous and out of proportion with the front. The tires I have on it now are the same height front and rear, so I ordered some taller ones for the rear to see if that will compensate enough to satisfy me. But I think the issue is the larger circumference of the opening, along with the front part of the opening gradually flowing larger towards the front. I think the rear flowing larger ( like the front ) is OK. But the front flowing larger really enhances the awkwardness of the opening. So.... stay tuned. I will probably be hacking up the rear openings and customizing to match the front. I figure with all the rest of the changes I've made...why not? I may change the front also to make the gap consistent from top all the way around to the bottom front. But will get everything aligned first to make sure all is in its final resting place :)
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What size tires do you have now and what is the frame height/ride height at rear in front of rear axle? Any adjustment left on rear coil overs?
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What size tires do you have now and what is the frame height/ride height at rear in front of rear axle? Any adjustment left on rear coil overs?
Have 315/35/17 in rear that are 25.7". I can definatly go to something closer to 27+". Plenty of adjustment on the shocks. They are about in middle right now. I think the thing that bugs me most is the oblong shape of the opening. Which is true to the original. Look at Backdraft and Superformance below and you can see the modifications they made. I read somewhere the FFR was going to do the same.
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I think you'll find it difficult to get over 27" with a 17" wheel, unless you look at drag radials. I think with your tire size you may want to look at 5" rear and 6.5" in the front just behind step in frame for ride heights. Chassis ends up having a little rake in it at about 1-1.5 degrees. Or just hack away and do what please you...haha!
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I think you'll find it difficult to get over 27" with a 17" wheel, unless you look at drag radials. I think with your tire size you may want to look at 5" rear and 6.5" in the front just behind step in frame for ride heights. Chassis ends up having a little rake in it at about 1-1.5 degrees. Or just hack away and do what please you...haha!
Yea Was thinking of going to 15" wheels. I'll get a couple tires and mock them up and play with height to see how I like it. But looking at especially the Superformance opening I think I might have myself talked into it :(
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Problem solved....haha kinda looking like a bagger.
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Yea Was thinking of going to 15" wheels. I'll get a couple tires and mock them up and play with height to see how I like it. But looking at especially the Superformance opening I think I might have myself talked into it :(
15" wheel will gain you about an inch overall to 26.5-26.6 diameter with a 295 tire or G/Y billboard. What you really gain there is sidewall dimension of 1.5" more vs what you have in the 17", and dropping ride height which makes it appear to fill up the space too visually I think.
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Yea Was thinking of going to 15" wheels. I'll get a couple tires and mock them up and play with height to see how I like it. But looking at especially the Superformance opening I think I might have myself talked into it :(
15" wheel will gain you about an inch overall to 26.5-26.6 diameter with a 295 tire or G/Y billboard. What you really gain there is sidewall dimension of 1.5" more vs what you have in the 17", and dropping ride height which makes it appear to fill up the space too visually I think.
Was looking at both of those. Its strange though. The spec on the 315/35/17 say height of 25.7 but when I measure with laser they are exactly 25.0. I had some NITTO 325/50/15's that say they are 27.8 but they were actually just over 27.0 Specs are a bit deceiving :( I think your wheel width plays a small part in moving the overall height a bit.
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So been working on the not so fun things. Needed to get the trunk tub finalized and sealed. I followed Greg's lead on the gas tank and put some spacers in to lower just a bit for clearance. But after looking at everything close, I really needed to raise the tub to get it to seal against the body on top. So after spacing the tank 1/4" and then using some sway bar bushings between frame and tub, clearance was not an issue and everything sealed up pretty good. Had to make some aluminum pieces to seal the trunk tub to body along the bottom of tub. Had close to 1-1/2" gap. Used some edge molding with 1/2" bulb on the panels to seal. Worked out pretty good. Will probably still seal with RTV and some hush mat to make it a seriously weatherproof seal. Made aluminum covers for the sending unit and the in tank fuel pump. Will have upholstery guy make the bottom carpet removable for access for maintenance.
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I may need to look at that too, I remember having a significant gap up top between the trunk tub and body too. I assume those were 3/4" bushings at the 4 bolts we see? 2 into a 2x2 and the 2 into the 2x3? The trunk tub front lip extends under the cockpit tub, what did you do there for the cockpit to sit down if you raised the trunk?
So been working on the not so fun things. Needed to get the trunk tub finalized and sealed. I followed Greg's lead on the gas tank and put some spacers in to lower just a bit for clearance. But after looking at everything close, I really needed to raise the tub to get it to seal against the body on top. So after spacing the tank 1/4" and then using some sway bar bushings between frame and tub, clearance was not an issue and everything sealed up pretty good.
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I may need to look at that too, I remember having a significant gap up top between the trunk tub and body too. I think some have also used filler pieces there too to seal it up. I assume those were 3/4" tall bushings at the 4 bolts we see, 2 into a 2x2 and the 2 into the 2x3? The trunk tub front lip extends under the cockpit tub, what did you do there for the cockpit to sit down if you raised the trunk?
So been working on the not so fun things. Needed to get the trunk tub finalized and sealed. I followed Greg's lead on the gas tank and put some spacers in to lower just a bit for clearance. But after looking at everything close, I really needed to raise the tub to get it to seal against the body on top. So after spacing the tank 1/4" and then using some sway bar bushings between frame and tub, clearance was not an issue and everything sealed up pretty good.
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I may need to look at that too, I remember having a significant gap up top between the trunk tub and body too. I assume those were 3/4" bushings at the 4 bolts we see? 2 into a 2x2 and the 2 into the 2x3? The trunk tub front lip extends under the cockpit tub, what did you do there for the cockpit to sit down if you raised the trunk?
So been working on the not so fun things. Needed to get the trunk tub finalized and sealed. I followed Greg's lead on the gas tank and put some spacers in to lower just a bit for clearance. But after looking at everything close, I really needed to raise the tub to get it to seal against the body on top. So after spacing the tank 1/4" and then using some sway bar bushings between frame and tub, clearance was not an issue and everything sealed up pretty good.
Hey Greg. Correct. The four bolts you see. I gust drilled and tapped the frame 3/8-16. On the front lip, mine was flexible enough to not have to do anything. And it was a bit below the tub to begin with.
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I may need to look at that too, I remember having a significant gap up top between the trunk tub and body too. I assume those were 3/4" bushings at the 4 bolts we see? 2 into a 2x2 and the 2 into the 2x3? The trunk tub front lip extends under the cockpit tub, what did you do there for the cockpit to sit down if you raised the trunk?
So been working on the not so fun things. Needed to get the trunk tub finalized and sealed. I followed Greg's lead on the gas tank and put some spacers in to lower just a bit for clearance. But after looking at everything close, I really needed to raise the tub to get it to seal against the body on top. So after spacing the tank 1/4" and then using some sway bar bushings between frame and tub, clearance was not an issue and everything sealed up pretty good.
Forgot to answer the size question :( Yes they were about 3/4. The red Energy Suspension stabilizer bar grommets. OReilly's has them hanging on the wall in the section with customizing/chrome/high performance parts.
Hey Greg. Correct. The four bolts you see. I gust drilled and tapped the frame 3/8-16. On the front lip, mine was flexible enough to not have to do anything. And it was a bit below the tub to begin with.
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So now I'm on to the rear wheel opening dilemma. I picked up a 325/50R15 from Summit at lunch to see how I liked it. It fills up the well nicely. Its a little to tall for me to say its perfect, but given options I think its going to be the best option for me. I'll go with the same brand (NITTO) for the front with a 275/50R15. I still did not like the opening in front of rear tire soooooo. On to more modifications. This one really will not be that labor intensive, and I think it will really improve the overall appearance. I'll start glassing both sides tomorrow and figure out how I want to do the bottom after I get the main portion roughed in. A lot of different ways you could go so will take some time to look at options and mock up different things.
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Not a lot of progress tonight. So cold glass is taking forever to cure. Did get both sides roughed in and temp supports removed. Will be able to figure out the bottom tomorrow. I ordered a 295/50R15 Cooper Cobra Radial to see if I like that better than this 325. But after getting the well shaped a little I'm not sure I don't like the 325. Will have to look at both of them.
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Now you're gonna have to get new wheels... ;)
It's been colder than normal here in my backyard and wet, so not spending much time on mine because of it.
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So after posting this on the wrong thread! Got caught up in the play off games and didn't post anything. Little progress on the rear fenders while I was watching games. Think I will pick up a 295/50R15 and see if I like that better. This one fits but every time I look at it it looks a little more awkward being so tall. Kinda like an ol school hot rod.
I like how the fenders are coming out. To me looks like a big improvement. Still a little finish work to do on the lips and bottom edge plus build up some thickness on the inside. But pretty much there.
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Good work, Bruce. Will you keep the same wheel style?
P.S. I responded to your post on my thread :)
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Well not a whole lot of progress but a little. Figured I'd post something for everyone to read! Seems like all the builds are on hold :( I finally found a steering wheel that I liked and got it installed and the horn figured out. I'm really happy with how the dash turned out. Simple and functional. Still have a couple switches to add. Have the center console ready for upholstery but will have to wait for the Icy roads to melt to take to him. I'm still wrestling with the drivers side header and need to get that figured out. Received my new mufflers and started cutting and welding those up. Hope they are a little quieter!. Other than that I am ready for body and paint! I'm excited to get this thing on the road! Bob W. sent me some texts with him out and about last weekend. I sure am jealous. Looks like he was having a blast :)
PS: I wanted to post his pics but were in a format that stumped me :(
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Looking good. Lots of innovations.
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..... I'm excited to get this thing on the road! Bob W. sent me some texts with him out and about last weekend. I sure am jealous. Looks like he was having a blast :)
Checked out a new place in Waxahachie: Southern Roots Brewing Company. Looks like a nice place to meet up !!
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Not a lot of viable progress, but I finally forced myself to get under the dash. drill holes, and screw the tub down around the foot box. not a fun chore. Will start bending and glassing in some brackets for interior panels over the next few days.
My interior guy got my console covered! Looks great. I ended up insetting the Hurricane logo on the cover. Looks pretty cool :) Need to do a lot of polishing though. He's waiting on some felt for the inside to finish so hopefully I can pick it up and get the panels painted, Nav system cut out and installed, and see how it looks in the car this weekend.
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Picked up console today and tried it out in car. Fits like a glove :) I'll get the panels painted and the Nav unit installed in the top panel over the weekend. Started bending brackets and the interior trim panels. Unfortunately I only have a small 12" brake for bending so will have to do in sections and weld back together :( Or maybe take the aluminum and use for templet to bend ABS plastic. Will have to play around a little and see what I like best. Regardless, it is a slow painstaking process bending support brackets to mount the panels to! I have more Hushmat coming tomorrow so will be able to finalize all the interior sealing and insulation.
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Picked up console today and tried it out in car. Fits like a glove :) I'll get the panels painted and the Nav unit installed in the top panel over the weekend. Started bending brackets and the interior trim panels. Unfortunately I only have a small 12" brake for bending so will have to do in sections and weld back together :( Or maybe take the aluminum and use for templet to bend ABS plastic. Will have to play around a little and see what I like best. Regardless, it is a slow painstaking process bending support brackets to mount the panels to! I have more Hushmat coming tomorrow so will be able to finalize all the interior sealing and insulation.
Bruce, I have a 30" brake from Harbor Freight you can borrow if you need it.
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Picked up console today and tried it out in car. Fits like a glove :) I'll get the panels painted and the Nav unit installed in the top panel over the weekend. Started bending brackets and the interior trim panels. Unfortunately I only have a small 12" brake for bending so will have to do in sections and weld back together :( Or maybe take the aluminum and use for templet to bend ABS plastic. Will have to play around a little and see what I like best. Regardless, it is a slow painstaking process bending support brackets to mount the panels to! I have more Hushmat coming tomorrow so will be able to finalize all the interior sealing and insulation.
Bruce, I have a 30" brake from Harbor Freight you can borrow if you need it.
Thanks for the offer Bob! But I have already cut the pieces to fit :( Not alot of welding though, just a couple short seams.
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OK, really did not like how the trim panels came out so on to plan B....not sure what that is just yet but......I got all the heat and sound material on and sealed all the tub to frame gaps. Painted all the panels on the console and really like the final product. I did not like the Nav system so returned that. I'll just leave the panel blank for now and worry about that later. Hesitate to spend money on sound system until I see if you can even hear it driving this thing!
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Well I kind of gave up on the interior panels around the doors. Talked to my interior guy and he said he could mold one piece ABS plastic to fit. Think I'll leave it to the professional. I really want the interior to look nice. Think my shills limit me in the interior department:( So really the only things I have left before final body and paint is to clean up some of the gaps I am not happy with. Plus side pipe and louver openings. Need to extend some edges a little to close them up. Figured I'd spend the newt month or so cleaning them up while I wait for some warmer weather to get her outside for the major filler, priming, blocking, priming, blocking ET, ET. Started on the trunk but BBQ and Superbowl is taking precedence this afternoon :)
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It's coming along, so what are you doing now for tires and wheels?
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It's coming along, so what are you doing now for tires and wheels?
I bought 18x12 rears with 335/30R18 which are 1" wider than I have now to fill the well better and fronts I went with 275/40R17 front. So the rears are kind of in the middle of what I have and that 325/50R15 I tried. And the fronts are same height but I bought 1" wider with same backspace to fill up the well better. On the rears I wrestled between 305/35R18s which are about .4 taller but thought I'd like the width better. Hopefully I'll be happy with them!
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Got the glass work finished on the trunk gaps. Came out pretty good. They are a little wider than I'd like but due to the thickness of the panels you cant close them down to tight or they catch the lip when opening. I ground down as much as I could without going through the inner panel. But they look good. Couldn't help myself and started body work to get the trunk and body level. The trunk is the worst fit of all the panels on mine. Be nice to get it behind me. Still have a ways to go.
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Got the glass work finished on the trunk gaps. Came out pretty good. They are a little wider than I'd like but due to the thickness of the panels you cant close them down to tight or they catch the lip when opening. I ground down as much as I could without going through the inner panel. But they look good. Couldn't help myself and started body work to get the trunk and body level. The trunk is the worst fit of all the panels on mine. Be nice to get it behind me. Still have a ways to go.
Looking great, Bruce. When I'm ready to prep mine for paint (if ever) i'm coming to your house !
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Got the glass work finished on the trunk gaps. Came out pretty good. They are a little wider than I'd like but due to the thickness of the panels you cant close them down to tight or they catch the lip when opening. I ground down as much as I could without going through the inner panel. But they look good. Couldn't help myself and started body work to get the trunk and body level. The trunk is the worst fit of all the panels on mine. Be nice to get it behind me. Still have a ways to go.
Looking great, Bruce. When I'm ready to prep mine for paint (if ever) i'm coming to your house !
LOL. bring it on Bob! Just give me a chance to sweep out the shop :( I really enjoy the body & paint portion of building but hate the mess! But when all said and done....A great sense of accomplishment that you feel every time you look at it :)
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I got the deck lid done! Man that thing was a LOT of work. No matter how you adjusted it there were high and low spots requiring build up with glass and grinding high spots :( But it came out sweet! Was worried the most with how it flowed from deck lid to the rear deck under the roll bar. That is an area that if not flat will not look good. But it came out real good. Bunch of blocking and should be perfect. Wanted to get some high build primer on it but got late and cold. I'll pull the quick jacks off at lunch time tomorrow and finish that area and get primer on while its warm. Progress!
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Looks great Bruce. You’re making really good progress.
Did you have the trunk seal in place during this work or are you holding up the trunk lid some other way?
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Looks great Bruce. You’re making really good progress.
Did you have the trunk seal in place during this work or are you holding up the trunk lid some other way?
Yes. Had seal in place, body bolted down, everything is in its final position.
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Coming along Bruce, lot of work but like you said it'll be worth it in the end.
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Well got busy at work and did not make it out at lunch but it stayed warm enough for me to turn on the heat, open a couple windows and get the ass end primed. Figure I'll just start hitting one panel at a time till I get around the whole car :) Plan on blocking all panels on the car down to 220 grit to make sure everything is flat relative to its adjoining panels. After that I'll take all the panels off and block down to 600. Doors next :) Have some west systems epoxy resin and 404 high density fiber ordered to fill all the gaps between the inner and outer panels. (and there are a bunch!). Will do all that once I remove panels. Getting excited!!!!
PS: New tires should be here tomorrow so will be able to make any necessary adjustments to rear wheel openings and get them finished :)
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Looking great from here, Bruce. You inspire me to get off the couch and get going again! I’m ready for final body placement now, so I am watching your progress on the bodywork closely. Just waiting on more of that nice warm weather!
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Looking great from here, Bruce. You inspire me to get off the couch and get going again! I’m ready for final body placement now, so I am watching your progress on the bodywork closely. Just waiting on more of that nice warm weather!
Good deal! Yea. Saturday looking OK with better day Sunday. But unfortunately I got roped into welding on my buddy's C10 project Sunday :( But I will hopefully get the doors done tonight and tomorrow. My hood is in pretty good shape so should only need to finalize the fenders last and then just prime and block.....and prime and block..... And paint! Got 6 weeks. Possible to get it ready for trip to San Marcos :)
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Good deal! Yea. Saturday looking OK with better day Sunday. But unfortunately I got roped into welding on my buddy's C10 project Sunday :( But I will hopefully get the doors done tonight and tomorrow. My hood is in pretty good shape so should only need to finalize the fenders last and then just prime and block.....and prime and block..... And paint! Got 6 weeks. Possible to get it ready for trip to San Marcos :)
WOW - seeing you in San Marcos would be awesome! its gonna be an EPIC week ...
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Good deal! Yea. Saturday looking OK with better day Sunday. But unfortunately I got roped into welding on my buddy's C10 project Sunday :( But I will hopefully get the doors done tonight and tomorrow. My hood is in pretty good shape so should only need to finalize the fenders last and then just prime and block.....and prime and block..... And paint! Got 6 weeks. Possible to get it ready for trip to San Marcos :)
WOW - seeing you in San Marcos would be awesome! its gonna be an EPIC week ...
It would be! I'm gonna try! At best I'd just drive down Fri or Sat for the day and spend night at buddy's house and drive back the next day.
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WOW - seeing you in San Marcos would be awesome! its gonna be an EPIC week ...
It would be! I'm gonna try! At best I'd just drive down Fri or Sat for the day and spend night at buddy's house and drive back the next day.
The Friday night parking lot party and cookout is a blast. Saturday night is the banquet and club "meeting" .... i have to blow out Saturday night right after the banquet to git on home ...
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Progress! Not as much as hoped but got the pasenger side done. Plus took all the lights and such back off. Was such a nice day I could not justify not getting a bit of yard work done. I'll try and get the drivers side done this week and then finish the hood and front end over next weekend. But its moving along! Have to even out the gaps when I do initial blocking but they are close.
PS Included a picture of the new tires. 315/35R18. Still waiting on the new wheels but I think these will look much better.
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We got shut down a little here due to weather but I couldn't stand it! Rounded up the heaters and went out and got the drivers side done :) Have only the hood left for major fitment. Hopefully finish that tomorrow, and then just final gaps and prime and block car as a whole a bunch of times. Praying for warmer weather in the coming weeks so I can get the shop cleaned out!
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Got the shop heated up and finished up the bodywork on hood and fenders. So...That's all the major work. Still have some of the mold seams to finish out but those don't take but a minute. Now just need some warmer weather so I can get this thing outside and finish sanding and priming and blocking. Supposed to be in the 70's next week. may take a day or two off and have at it.
Put these tires and wheels up on Craig's list and have a guy picking them up Saturday. Hope my new ones come in on time! Or this thing will be stuck in the shop on jacks :(
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You sure make body work look quick and easy Bruce haha.
Can't wait to see it primed.
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You sure make body work look quick and easy Bruce haha.
Can't wait to see it primed.
LOL. My ol 65 year old body will say different! Glad the major work is done!
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Well sense the Cobra is up on stands figured I'd work on some of the interior that I did not want to pay for. Glued in some hardwood strips in the forward footbox to put panels in there. drilled and installed 10-24 threaded inserts for screws. Got the panels cut out of ABS. Will cover with felt later after carpet install and final trimming. Looking at the Wheel wells. Has anyone used the below ? I really like the total cover and how clean they look as opposed to some of the other methods. Think I'll try them out. Whats another $300.0 :(
http://vraptorspeedworks.com/mk-4-wheel-well-liner-kit/
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Short update. Making progress on blocking but not going as fast as I had hoped. One thing for certain. I am NOT 25 YEARS OLD ANYMORE! I'll just take my time...little at a time. Should still get it down to 400 grit by Sunday hopefully. Unless I drop dead first :(
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Little more progress. Got all the body work initially blocked. Need to do a bit more filling on the front fenders it seems. Will get that done tomorrow and then start getting the body entirely sanded and find all the air pockets that need fixing. Little by little :)
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No visual progress but I did get the whole back end from doors back sanded. Air holes filled, edges trimmed and smoothed out. I'll do the front tomorrow and will be ready to prime as a whole. supposed to be nice weather for the next 5-6 days so think I'll take Monday and Tuesday off and should have ready to paint! I'm getting excited! New wheels shipped today so should have by Monday.
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No progress update but did have something to share that might assist others.
I have been fighting my drivers side header fitment forever. First it was to close to footbox and I did some redneck engineering and got them bent forward enough to have some clearance. But then when trying on the side-pipes, the pipe on drivers side was basically touching the body. The passengers side has about an inch clearance. Body is against the chassis on both sides.
Alec was good enough to build a new set of pipes but.......After getting them same issue as the first.
So I think the best way to solve the issue now is to move my engine forward 1/2". And also shift from right to left 1/2" to even out side-pipe clearance on the body. Found these adjustable mounts that will enable me to do both those things. Just may need to modify the mount tube length on chassis or use longer bolts on the mount. Will see whats best after I get them
Whats Another $300.00 :'(
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Did not get as far as I wanted during the week :( Had to take a break! Tonight I finished out the rear end with body work on the mold seams, filled remaining air pockets, fixed some low spots on the front fenders where they meet the doors. Got all the body work finished in 80 grit and all the rest in 120. Will finish up the front tomorrow and prime and then block whole car in 120. Starting to take shape!
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New wheels came in this morning! Couldn't wait to get them mounted and check fit. I like them 100% better :) Will need to do some ride height adjustment. Now to jack it back up and get back to body work :)
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Nice wheels! Looks great.
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Got the front mold seams smoothed out. Finished all the front bodywork. Still have some pin holes and air pockets to address around all the openings. But all the major work complete and I'm sooooooooo happy I am past the grinding and bodywork stage. I'll block the whole thing with 120 and if any rough spots spray on Sleek Sand (basically spray on filler). And block with 120 again. After that its just priming and blocking progressively down to 600 grit. Might take the day off tomorow and just BBQ some ribs and sit and look at it ;D
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That wheel and tire combo fills the wheel wells really good.
How deep is the dish on those wheels?
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That wheel and tire combo fills the wheel wells really good.
How deep is the dish on those wheels?
Rears are 18X12 with 4.75" back space. Fronts are 17X9 with 4.25" backspace.
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Well I couldn't stand it! Sitting looking at this thing (while ribs were cooking) I had to get the blocks out. Got everything blocked with120 and real happy with how bodywork came out. Just a few spots to work on before next prime. Hopefully get that done tomorrow night and get next coat of primer on it.
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Bruce you better go into business haha. The time I hear most take to go through body work and paint, you'd be booked in no time.
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Bruce you better go into business haha. The time I hear most take to go through body work and paint, you'd be booked in no time.
LOL. There is a reason I quit doing body and paint and joined the Military back in the 70's! Its just plain hard, dirty work. But I get a lot of satisfaction doing it as hobby now :) Enjoy my projects and helping friends out :)
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Got all the problem areas tended to. Picked up a primer gun from TCP Global to spray the polyester primer. This thing was best $70.00 I ever spent! you could spray concrete through this thing :) Came with 1.8mm tip for 2K primer and 2.5mm tip for the polyester. I sprayed on a couple coats on the problem areas and on the flat panels on side from doors to front fenders. That needs to be flat. Also sprayed a little on all the panel joints to help make those flat and flow nice from one to the other. Hopefully get those blocked out and 2K primer on it again tomorrow night. Little cold though. Will see how it goes.
PS: have I mentioned I'm getting excited!!!!
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The slick sand worked out great. With exception of that it takes some serious elbow grease to block that stuff!! But after about 6 hrs and 4 beers, body seems to be razor straight now :) Got the rest of the car sanded and laid down a few coats of black 2K primer. Should be a whole lot easier now. Just blocking down to progressively finer grits.
Think I'll be taking the day off tomorrow :(
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Late night or early morning :o ...body looks good from here.
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Looking great, Bruce. I need to come out for another visit soon.
How do you keep from getting overspray all over everything in your garage?
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Looking great, Bruce. I need to come out for another visit soon.
How do you keep from getting overspray all over everything in your garage?
Hey Bob. The weathers getting nice for a drive :) I just use some old sheets and stuff for drop cloths around the car for primer. Anything that gets farther away than that is just basically dust that you can sweep/blow out. The basecoat/clearcoat is another thing. Everything in my shop is on wheels with exception of the workbench and shelves in the back. I'll roll everything out and give a good cleaning, cover the floors and benches with plastic. Going to be at that point pretty darn quick!
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Looks great, Bruce!
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Not a lot of progress the last couple days. But did get my side pipes welded up and brackets fabricated and installed. I had ordered some of the Classic Chambered mufflers to try and quiet this thing down a little. Got her fired up and seems to be a considerable difference. I definitely like the sound of them better. But hard to tell exactly how loud they are with it being in the shop on stands. Trying to find some affordable heat shields :( And another $300.00 and another and another........
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Another late night. Seems the blocking and re priming process is about 9 hours no matter what. (for me anyway) So got it all blocked down to180 grit. Only broke through in a few areas so think the next (220 grit) will get it down to blocking without any break through. That will be good. Next stage taking off all the panels and doing all the inside jams and such. Think I'll be doing this every other day though or I'll be exhausted! But little by little, its getting straighter and straighter :) Don't think I'll make the San Marcos meet, but plan to be painting it by that weekend :)
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Well I was pleasantly surprised that the blocking is going much faster after the initial bodywork:) Got everything blocked down to 320 and re primed and its only 10PM! I'll stop posting pictures because they all look the same: I'll take off all the panels Friday and start all the underside and jams,. Getting close!
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Well was not going to post any more pictures till I had some more progress, but after putting on the last coat of primer before taking all the panels off. I put the wheels on so tomorrow I can roll it out and clean up a little before taking off the doors, trunk, hood. Could not help taking a few pictures now that all one color and can get an idea of how she looks. The stance on these things with the right wheels and tires is simply beautiful! Of course that's my opinion. I know there are some purists out there that like the original look as opposed to a more modern look. But how can you look at this and not smile!
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Slowed down a bit. Got a little burnt and took a breather and then we had a bunch of severe weather and had to stuff all the vehicles in the shops last night!
But all is well and got out to do a bit this evening. Got the trunk pretty much into final primer. Started on underside of hood which has turned out to be quite a bit of work. Got the edges ground down to acceptable thickness. Filled all the air pockets and pin holes and blasted a bunch of slick sand on it. Will see how that all sands out tomorrow.
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Quick update. Got the hood and trunk underside ready. Just need to wet sand with 600. I'll start on door jams and doors tomorrow. Saving the worst for last :( Coming out nice though :)
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Last couple days (nights) I have spent trying to clean up the underside of trunk and hood. Quite a bit of work. But I got that all finished up and have them both ready for paint after knocking down last coat of primer with 600 grit. They came out supper straight and not a ripple in the reflection when I laid the last wet coat of primer on :) Cant wait to see them with clear coat! I'll set them aside and start on doors tomorrow. Quite a bit of work to do on them :(
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Well after two days I finally got the door jams completed! Man those were not fun. And did not help matters that I had cut them open to move the inner panels back and put those bear claw latches in them. But now that they are done and a bunch of slick sand blasted on them, I can take a breather. I'll block them out and get them into 2K primer in next couple days. Think I'll go throw some chicken on the BBQ :)
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Got the insides of the doors blocked out. Came out real good. Don't think I'll need to do anything more except sanding down to 600.
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Won't be long now and you'll be in color.
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Won't be long now and you'll be in color.
Hoping this weekend! If the weather holds out and the winds calm down a little :( Sure would be nice to have a spray booth!
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Getting close. Removed side pipes and painted with Eastwood Satin High Heat header paint. Finished out the door jambs and primed. Hoping to have everything ready by Saturday!. Took off Friday and Monday to get it all done. Cant wait to start putting this thing back together!
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Had a bunch of defects that needed to correct in the door jams. Got those sorted out and got all the jams primed and ready for final sanding. So now just need to go over everything with 600 and ready to paint. I'll get the shop emptied out tomorrow and clean everything up. Hope to get the inner panels done tomorrow and then the main body on Saturday. Really wanted to go down to San Marcos for the Cobra meet but cant pull myself away from painting this thing!
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As usual....things take longer than expected. Every time I thought I was ready to paint, I'd find another pinhole, another blemish, another primer edge :( But finally after a couple 12 hour days I got some paint on the inside of doors, trunk, hood! I'll flip them over and bring the car in tomorrow to start on that. Everything came out pretty clean. Has the usual fuze here and there but once I nib it down with 800 and clear coat you'd need a magnifying glass to find them. You really cant see in pictures but the blue pearl/metallic looks awesome on the highlights. Pretty happy with the color choice.
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Got color on everything. Need to wet sand with 800 tomorrow, put another two coats on and clear coat. Little by little :)
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Wow. It's been fun to see all the mods. Body looks great.
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Its painted! Hard to see the blue highlights inside Looks more like violet highlights inside but in the sun its totally blue. pretty cool. Now.....If I can get it back together without screwing it up!
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Yes it is...good job.
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Excellent colors choice and technique! Can’t wait to see it all together and in various positions relative to the sun. You keep raising that bar! Thanks!
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OK so some will not agree with this. But tell me.....Does this not look much more clean than having that huge dump tank filler in the middle of the fender? Like they say...each to their own :) Its a street car :)
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Looks really sharp Bruce, can't wait to see it in the sun with the finishing touches put on it.
You might be able to get top dollar for that "one of a kind blue pearl window fan" haha
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Haven't seen that color before, but it looks fantastic. Can't wait for sun shot. You sure are moving fast on your build. No grass growing under your feet!
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Had to go out of town for a couple days so not a lot of progress. Got back this afternoon and cut and polished the bottom of car so I could get the pipes put back on. Killing me not able to put on wheels and get out in the sun! I got my VRaptor wheel well liners in so want to get those on and polish all remaining lower parts of the car before putting the wheels back on and rolling outside. Hopefully by Sunday!
side pipe heat shields supposed to be here tomorrow. The polished SS should spice it up a bit :)
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Let us know how those wheel well liners work and fit. And are they the FFR style? Those look nice and really finish off the look. Beautiful job you are doing!!! Looking good.
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Change of plans. I quickly determined that I'm going to have a ton of hours sanding an polishing this thing. Going to polish around the areas for the headlights, taillights and such so I can get it together. Needed to get the car outside so I can clear the underside of hood, trunk, and doors. Looks tremendous out in the sun! Whole different appearance. Pictures don't really do it justice. It absolutely glows on the highlights. Really happy with the color choice. I was pretty worried about it :(
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Couple more. Was to large to post all at once.
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Looks really amazing so far Bruce. Great job
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Looks fantastic!!
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got a little bit done tonight between power outages and hail storms :( Got the rear deck and front cowl sanded and polished so I could get the roll bar on and the windshield and wipers. Starting to look like a car again :) Wont take me much time to get the lights back on as I wired everything with weather-pack connectors early on. Thinking I should be able to take her on her maiden road voyage this weekend!. Cant wait!
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spent the last couple nights polishing the rear so I could put the lights and such back on. Got that done and polished out the whole rear end tonight. Coming out real nice. Cant wait to get it in the sun tomorrow. Goal is to get the doors done and back on tomorrow and then finish up the front end Sunday. Pretty ambitious goal so we will see if I can get it done! Have a couple blemishes that I am scared to try and sand out in fear of going through the clear-coat, but you really have to look for them. Had a boss once that used to give me crap for being so picky and said if they look that hard for defects they deserve to find what they are looking for". LOL, Not sure I agree with that philosophy but I'm happy with having a couple little blemishes as opposed to sanding through the clear-coat and having to repaint panels. That's the difference between a $15,000 custom job and a $2500 DIY barn job :(
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Really, really nice...
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Haha you can sign me up for one of those barn jobs if they come out that good.
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Well my worst fear came to pass. Dropped the door and took a chunk out of the corner :( I was contemplating bolting them on due to the odd shape and hard lo keep on a stand with the inside down due to that front wing. I figured I'd do the bottom flat part of the door on stand so I didn't have to do it bending down and then bolt on and finish the top. Bad choice :( Had to walk away and take a break for a day or so.
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Well that sucks...
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Beautiful polishing going on there….like a mirror 8)
So sorry you dropped that door! Maybe you SHOULD have come over today after all? I have been struggling with my door on the work stand also. I will be more careful now..
Enjoy your Easter
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Ouch. Very sorry to see that. Hope it's not too bad to fix. Overall very impressive paint work though!!
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Well haven't posted in a couple days but have made some headway. I'm on to the last 1/4 of the car polishing. ( besides fixing my door and re doing ). But all coming out pretty nice. Hopefully get to road test this weekend :)
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Looks amazing Bruce. I need to make another visit, soon as I get my stupid brake lights fixed (again!)
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Looks amazing Bruce. I need to make another visit, soon as I get my stupid brake lights fixed (again!)
Thanks :) I'm glad I deleted that inline fluid switch :) But was challenging due to the bottom mount pedal assembly :( Someone needs to come up with a clean solution for that! Come on out whenever!
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Got the Car polished! Of course still have the normal touch up and detail that you have to do by hand. But am able to now start putting all the rest together! Want to leave the doors off to work on the interior a little due to access issues. Much easier to get to things with the doors off. I'll see how much I want to do before taking to interior shop. I'll take down to get aligned and do the assembled vehicle inspection towards end of month. And I'll be road testing this weekend!!!!!
Ill push it outside and take some pictures tomorrow. Totally different look.
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That thing looks like a sheet of glass.
Can you elaborate on the inline brake light switch issues? I wasn't a fan of it. I bought pedal mount one but wasn't impressed with any good way to mount it. Might need to revisit this if the issues are big enough with the inline switch.
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That thing looks like a sheet of glass.
Can you elaborate on the inline brake light switch issues? I wasn't a fan of it. I bought pedal mount one but wasn't impressed with any good way to mount it. Might need to revisit this if the issues are big enough with the inline switch.
I did not want to use the inline fluid switch for the reason that Bob has been experiencing. And if needing to replace the need to bleed brake lines. I ended up fabricating a bracket and using on old generic Chevy switch. I cant believe that Wilwood or somebody else has not come up with a mechanical switch for the floor mount pedal assembles, but I could not find one. Attached is what I built. It works fine.
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worked on getting all the lights working again and mounting the dash. Also got the damage fixed on the door so I can re paint tomorrow. getting pressed for time to get it together for test drive Saturday as it looks like rain again on Sunday :(
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Road test today! Did about 100 miles on the back roads today trying to get the Sniper to learn enough to quit fouling plugs :) Cooling system, fans and all worked great. And no leaks! Little wandering on the front end that I hope the alignment will take care of. This thing is wicked fast! And I never pushed past 4500 RPM :) Got the doors mounted and re aligned. Still have to polish the tops of the doors and a bunch of detailing. And of coarse interior. But sure was fun to put some miles on her:)
PS: I had replaced the supplied mufflers with ones from Classic Chambered Exhaust. Huge difference. Very comfortable when cruising, but if your on it you can hear it :) Much different tone also.
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Congratulations. It looks great.
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Congrats, Bruce! can't wait to see it in person ...
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That's quite a milestone Bruce, congrats. I got the mustang out for the first time of the year yesterday and it felt good. I was wishing it was the Cobra though.
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That's quite a milestone Bruce, congrats. I got the mustang out for the first time of the year yesterday and it felt good. I was wishing it was the Cobra though.
You'll be there in no time! Just keep at it :)
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I was figuring on having my interior guy do all the interior, but after getting an estimate and looking at how far I was over budget already, gonna tackle it myself. Got everything laid out and a few pieces cut. Shop dog seems to be happy with it :)
Have an appointment for suspension and assembled vehicle inspection Monday. Just hope it dose not keep raining and push it out!
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Bruce, how is the sniper working out? I went back and watched some of Pete's Snake Bite videos and was reminded of some of the issues he had. Is it learning pretty well?
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Bruce, how is the sniper working out? I went back and watched some of Pete's Snake Bite videos and was reminded of some of the issues he had. Is it learning pretty well?
So far so good. but I don't have enough miles on it yet to know for sure with this one
But The last build I did was a FFR 35 hot rod truck that I put a 540HP 427 Blueprint engine with Sniper in. I learned with that one that the worst mistake one can make with the Sniper is running it without driving. It will not learn till up to 160 degree and is moving. Initial setting are WAY RICH! Will foul plugs really quick. Once I got it on the road and put some miles on truck it cleaned up nice. And I was amazed at the fuel efficiency with it. I made road trip down to Borne down south. About a 600 mile round trip. I was getting about 18 MPG with a 540HP :) Never had any issues once I got t going on the road and was very happy with it. The guy that bought it has never had any issues and was a huge fan of it. Till his garage caught fire and burned the truck to the ground :( This one I also put in the Hyper-spark distributor and set the Sniper to manage timing. It's supper easy and love it.
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Been working on interior. I really did not want to do this myself, but.....
Got all the Jute padding down and that helped determine method of cutting, gluing, and layout method. Once I got the pad down I was really hesitant on cutting and gluing the carpet. But... What ya gonna do?
It came out exceptable, but really not to my standards. Maybe sometime down the road I'll have it professionally done. But I did really like how the console came out! I was concerned with building it guessing at the fitment with the carpet, but it came out perfect. I'll finish up tomorrow night and spend the weekend doing final detailing...I hope the weather holds out!
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Didn't notice before, nice use of the logo badge on the console. I have as well but will be on the steering wheel.
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Didn't notice before, nice use of the logo badge on the console. I have as well but will be on the steering wheel.
Now there's an idea. That will be cool :) I'm trying to get another one to put on a front grill I'm making. Got some gloss black powder coated mesh from customcargrills.com But that will be a rainy day project.
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Carpet looks pretty darn good to me.
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Got all the carpet done that I could. I still need to make some panels for under the doors and around the jams. Plus make some door panes. Think that will be some winter work. I'm having a hell of a time trying to get the passenger seat bolted down. You cant get to any of the rear bolts to get them shoved through the floor to put nuts on them :( I just had to quit out of frustration. I got the console all in and wired up. Love how the lighting came out. Looks clean and simple with a little modern look. I'll get back to the seat tomorrow :(
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Really looks good. I think this is one of the fastest builds I've seen. Great work as well. Congratulations!
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Well did not want to work on anything and wanted to put a few miles on her to get the sniper a little better tuned. Put another couple hundred miles on her driving the farm roads out here. Hilarious all the looks, yell's, thumbs up, fist pumps, you get passing duds on their John Deer's :) And every stop you make everyone is taking pictures. The sniper tuned up pretty good. Took a few plugs out and checked when I got home and burning really nice now. Plus starting much better.
Am having some cooling issues. The thermostat is opening and fan coming on at 185 like I set it to and run's right at 188 or so while driving. But as soon as I make a stop for a minute it climbs up to over 200. Got back to the barn and let it run a bit and then shut it down. Looks to be overflowing through the top of the radiator somewhere just above the top hose outlet. Will need to take that cover off to investigate further. Sure don't want to replace that radiator! But all in all, pretty happy with everything and what a blast to drive! Took my daughter out for a short cruise and nothing but grin from ear to ear the whole trip :) She cant wait to drive it :'(
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Finally! Dodged rain storms to get down to the alignment shop :) Man what a deference! Handles beautifully. Didn't get past 90MPH but was stable and solid. This thing is really tight with no squeaks, rattles, ET. Except the doors that don't have any rubber seals in them yet. Hopefully get all the inspections done Monday with weather holding out and be totally legal :) Plan on trip through the hill country to Borne as soon as I get a few more miles and change all the oil after break in. Got my heating issue solved by bleeding the cooling system. Must have had some air pockets in there.
I'm saving the rest of the cockpit interior for some rainy days but think I will finish the trunk. Want to make some brackets to hold a small low profile floor jack and a small but pretty complete tool box.....just in case :(
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Bruce,
What settings did you end up with on the front end and where was the rear at before? Did you get a before and after printout?
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Bruce,
What settings did you end up with on the front end and where was the rear at before? Did you get a before and after printout?
No printout. Everything was way off with exception of front and rear alignment to each other. Went with 1 degree neg camber, 3/32" toe in, 6 degree caster (power steering) On the rear are you asking ride height? I'd have to measure. I just set up front and rear height where I liked the look and had no rubbing issues with tires when turning or hitting bumps. The rear link bars I adjusted almost all the way forward to center wheel as much as possible, and to get the correct drive shaft angle. Measurement from front wheel to rear wheel they said was dead on. The rear shocks are right at 2" threads showing below lock ring and fronts are down to about 1" of thread below the lock ring. I set the rebound right in middle. Its a bit stiff so may play with that a bit.
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Bruce, in your previous post were you referring to Boerne? My wife and I want to visit Boerne, maybe next year as we search possible retirement spots. What’s your thoughts of the area?
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No printout. Everything was way off with exception of front and rear alignment to each other. Went with 1 degree neg camber, 3/32" toe in, 6 degree caster (power steering) On the rear are you asking ride height? I'd have to measure. I just set up front and rear height where I liked.
What I was getting at is how squared up the rear end was to the frame, guessing alignment did not have to touch rear axle and it was ok and was curious about frame rake angle. Being able to run more caster with power is good. I forgot you put that in when we suggested some settings.
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Pretty awesome that you're putting miles on it.
Got any thoughts on the heater? Was it worth it or too early to tell?
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Bruce, in your previous post were you referring to Boerne? My wife and I want to visit Boerne, maybe next year as we search possible retirement spots. What’s your thoughts of the area?
Boerne is awesome. I was stationed in San Antone back in the 80's but have a military buddy of mine that has stayed there throughout his career. He is now retired and working as a GS and raking it in :) Anyway, I go down there every couple months or so and spend a couple days there. He is actually north of Boerne and south of Kendalia. Beautiful country. Gotta watch out for deer in the morning and evening! Anyway, beautiful country and close to all kinds of outdoor music, dining, and recreation. Go for it. Think I'm going down there in a couple years.
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Pretty awesome that you're putting miles on it.
Got any thoughts on the heater? Was it worth it or too early to tell?
I ended up not going with the heater. I think the next one I do I will do with heater. Will surely add a few more months of driveability to it in this neck of the woods.
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No printout. Everything was way off with exception of front and rear alignment to each other. Went with 1 degree neg camber, 3/32" toe in, 6 degree caster (power steering) On the rear are you asking ride height? I'd have to measure. I just set up front and rear height where I liked.
What I was getting at is how squared up the rear end was to the frame, guessing alignment did not have to touch rear axle and it was ok and was curious about frame rake angle. Being able to run more caster with power is good. I forgot you put that in when we suggested some settings.
Yea, the rear I was able to get pretty situated with tape measure and laser. That was all pretty good. The worst was the caster. I built a FFR 35 truck that I was able to get real close. But this I was way off. But no worries. They had no problem bringing it within specs :) But man it was junk till I got it aligned!
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Pretty awesome that you're putting miles on it.
Got any thoughts on the heater? Was it worth it or too early to tell?
I ended up not going with the heater. I think the next one I do I will do with heater. Will surely add a few more months of driveability to it in this neck of the woods.
Bruce, I don't have a heater in Texas and do not wish I had one in the least. I've driven in temps down into the 30s and with the proper layering of clothing I was very comfortable. A heater in a cobra is worthless, if your footboxes are sealing in insulated properly.
The only point I could see in having one would be to defrost the windscreen if you were in very cold, wet situation, which I have never encountered.
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Bruce, in your previous post were you referring to Boerne? My wife and I want to visit Boerne, maybe next year as we search possible retirement spots. What’s your thoughts of the area?
Boerne is awesome. I was stationed in San Antone back in the 80's but have a military buddy of mine that has stayed there throughout his career. He is now retired and working as a GS and raking it in :) Anyway, I go down there every couple months or so and spend a couple days there. He is actually north of Boerne and south of Kendalia. Beautiful country. Gotta watch out for deer in the morning and evening! Anyway, beautiful country and close to all kinds of outdoor music, dining, and recreation. Go for it. Think I'm going down there in a couple years.
Texas Cobra Club Fall Meet
Kerrville,Tx
OCT 14 AT 8 AM – OCT 16 AT 3 PM
Join the fun at the Texas Cobra Club Fall Meet which will be held in
Kerrville, Tx. Scenic Cruises with breathtaking views.
Agenda for
Friday & Saturday
Hill Country Cruises and Evening Dinner
More details to come
https://www.facebook.com/events/341158454748504
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I got confused with the "heating" thing. I thought you meant your heater wasn't working due to air. I forgot your temp was jumping up sometimes.
I never got my heater, now you guys got me wondering if I should just have Alec cancel it.
When I got the heater working in my mustang it was great to be able to put a little heat on in the morning driving to work, I thought the Cobra might be similar.
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I got confused with the "heating" thing. I thought you meant your heater wasn't working due to air. I forgot your temp was jumping up sometimes.
I never got my heater, now you guys got me wondering if I should just have Alec cancel it.
When I got the heater working in my mustang it was great to be able to put a little heat on in the morning driving to work, I thought the Cobra might be similar.
I disagree with Bob on this issue. Ive had three C-2 Corvettes. All roadsters. And the heat was a definite plus on a chilly morning or coming home in the afternoon when the temps were dropping a little. But each to his own. My daughter always wanted to get ride to school with the top down. Heat definitely made a deference in if she got that wish or not :) Use your own judgment. Heater does not take a lot of room or mods to install.
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Got the louvers put on. Got to be a better way :( I was thinking about glassing some studs in the body so I could bolt on but forgot before I did all the body and paint. Oh well. Working on sealing all the trunk area. I had made some filler panels for around the body with some extruded rubber molding but am following Greg's lead and using some insulation tape to cover all the joints. Maybe get carpet in there tomorrow. Was going to work on the wheel well liners but looks like will be a time consuming project. Think I'll wait till winter to give me something to tinker with.
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Another reason I decided against a heater was: one year at the spring meet in San Marcos, it was a really hot day. In the 90s. A line of cobras was stopped at a railroad crossing, and a Superformance cobra (factory built, mind you) was sitting there idling, when the heater hose to the core on the passenger side busted, dumping boiling hot water and steam on the passenger's bare feet, she was wearing only sandals. She had to be air lifted to San Antonio with 3rd degree burns, spent weeks in the burn unit recuperating after many surgeries.
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Well after spending the day looking at 6 figure builds, I got motivated to do a little more polishing on my barn yard paint job. Got most of the major panels completed but still need to do all the detailing around the grill openings and such. But looks good. Going to put a couple hundred more miles on it tomorrow out in the Piney Woods in East Texas. Some really nice winding roads out that way. Then will be able to change out all the break in oil and make a serious run down to Boerne over Memorial day. Wish me luck! I always am a bit anxious going out on the first distance drive out of strap distance! I'll take some pictures out in the sunlight out in the woods tomorrow :) Looks like my co pilot is ready to go :)
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It just looks amazing, Bruce. I'd take a barnyard paint job like that any day.
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It just looks amazing, Bruce. I'd take a barnyard paint job like that any day.
Thanks Bob :)
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Well finally was able to make the trip to Tyler this morning and get the VIN inspection and also the assembled vehicle inspection. I'm legal! Check out my tag :)
Got my regular guy to redo the alignment and made a 100% difference. It seems my heat up problem has resolved itself. Only thing I can figure is I still had some air in the system. Driving home today at 90 something degrees and stopping at signals never got above 202. So should be good.
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Spent a little time working on the front grill. Got the main opening and the brake duct openings done. Think I'll do the same for that lower opening and also the hood scoop opening. Also got the side wind deflectors installed. Not a whole bunch of difference with them on. I might take off just to keep it clean and simple.
Ive got a little over 700 miles on her. Feeling a bit more confident. I was real worried about squeaks and rattles with the minimal body mount locations on this thing. But after just a few adjustments and tightening this thing is rock solid. No rattles. No squeaks. Very nice ride :)
I'm still having issues with no snap back to center which bothers me. Its pretty stable but absolutely no snap to center at any speed. Think I'll pull the fuse on the electric steering and see what happens. I have the castor at 8 degrees which should be more than enough for electric power steering.
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Your car looks amazing. I appreciate you driving that beauty to McKinney and helping me with the spray technique and letting me go for a ride. Very motivating and perfect weather for both. I like what you did on the grill. Did you do your cardboard template trick for that also? :)
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Broke down and put the Ultrashield seats on order. Be ready in 6 weeks.(and another $400.00) >:( But doing some measuring looks like will be mush easier getting in and out and they look to be much better built. All the covers on my seats are coming off and look like crap. Going to spend the holiday weekend doing door panels and finish the trunk. I'm going to attempt the panels around and under door again when I swap the seats out. If I don't like it, I'll just take my templet down to the upholstery shop and have them make them.
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Bruce...seat or seats? more like $800 isn't it. Anyhow, how do you plan to mount these?
The seat is only flat where I marked a red line. I can get that dimension if you like.
If you try to mount to sliders, you'll have bolts and nuts coming up thru the seat. You may be able to make short u-shaped cradles out of 2" wide flat bar that is 3/16"-1/4" thick to fasten to the sliders and mount to the sides of the seat.
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Bruce, i'll be anxious to see yours when you get them. My drivers seat is coming all apart also.
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Bruce...seat or seats? more like $800 isn't it. Anyhow, how do you plan to mount these?
The seat is only flat where I marked a red line. I can get that dimension if you like.
If you try to mount to sliders, you'll have bolts and nuts coming up thru the seat. You may be able to make short u-shaped cradles out of 2" wide flat bar that is 3/16"-1/4" thick to fasten to the sliders and mount to the sides of the seat.
Yea. $829.90 for two. I'm figured to build mounts. Have to see how once I receive them. Aluminum bottom so can weld some kind of brackets to it. I'll give you a shout once I get them and you can come by and check them out. I'm going to go out there next week and look at how they are made. Just a little over an hour from me. Nice little drive on the back roads. If I don't like them I'll cancel and go another route.
I was also looking at below. I like the fact that they are covered all over and not a snap on cover on the aluminum seat. Can order through Summit. Arlington has one in stock I'm gonna go look at before I go to Tyler.
https://www.rebelcar.fr/omp-silverstone-vintage-vh-classic-black-bucket-seat.htm
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The OMP has mounting points of 13-5/8 inches side-to-side and 10-5/8 inches front-to rear. I think this is different than the Cobra brand mounting points which I think are 11.4 side to side and 13 front to rear.
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Out of curiosity I was looking up different seat options for when my fail which hopefully won’t be for a while as I just got it completed and ready for the road. So I went looking at the OPM site which led me to this seat as well as the one you mentioned above. Maybe something worth checking into. https://winecountrymotorsports.com/product_info.php/products_id/334?osCsid=45ad75cf5470f93f17ea1c66203823df And there is also a seating chart for dimensions as well. https://winecountrymotorsports.com/size_charts/cobra_seatchart.pdf
Michael
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Got one of the doors completed. At first I built one with a cutout and using the pocket material that was supplied. Didn't like the look and that pocket wasn't going to be much use anyway. So on to plan B. Just made simple, plain panel and covered with vinyl. I still put in a 1.5" cutout across the top so can use as door pull to shut door and still use as map pocket (if anyone uses a map anymore). Took a bit of time figuring out the best way to glue the 1/8" ABS panels together and then heating and forming the very slight curve at top to contour to the door. On to the passenger side......
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Got the door panels finished up. Pretty plain looking but at least gives it a finished look. The latches work perfect after fine tuning the levers and installing the knobs. On to the kick panels and trunk.
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interior stuff is taking FOREVER! I finished up the kick panels so all the cab is done with exception of around door openings. Been working on trunk. I really could not work with the stiff carpet with all the angles. corners, and such in the trunk. I bought some trunk felt from my upholstery guy and much easier to work and make joints look acceptable. But still taking forever. Got about a quarter done tonight. Hopefully can stay motivated and finish up before the weekend.
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Getting close on the trunk. Just need to do the very back ledge which is a bit challenging with harness and battery cables coming up through that area. Hopefully finish that up tomorrow and get all the access covers screwed back down and battery box in.
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New seats came in today. I chickened out and went with conventional cobra seats from Shell Valley. Much better made and a lot smaller. They look to be about the same size as the Ultrashield. I put them in to temp fit and are sooooooo much easier to get in and out with. And much better made. Have to wait on some ABS plastic I ordered for the final interior panels around the door openings before putting them in. Went with some nice 1" Corbeau universal sliding brackets for both sides. Also had to remove my pips to take them down to get coated. Tried the high temp paint thing to save money but that didn't work out :(
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Bruce, those seat back look a lot lower than the hurricane (sube sports) seats. Is that right?
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Bruce, those seat back look a lot lower than the hurricane (sube sports) seats. Is that right?
Yes. Couple inches shorter in height (21" from base to top measured in a straight vertical line without brackets) and almost 4" shorter in seat length which really helps getting in and out. Before I could not "step in" as people have talked about because the front of seat cushion was basically 1-2" behind the dash. You just couldn't get your leg in there. Can get in and out like a regular car now. Or step in and slide down. Also I did not like the high sides on some of the other seats. If you got a buddy with a big A.... they would not fit between the sides. Below is picture with it sitting on 1" seat slider. I guess the back might be an issue for someone really tall but they fit me great. And I like the fact that they are not jammed up on the sides and back.
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PS: And I lucked out with the seat brackets. They have holes that line up exactly with the ones already in the car! (13" front to back and 11 3/8" side to side) Just had to manipulate some hardware to use those holes as the seat mounts. Also made so you can take the seat off the bracket without removing the bracket from the floor. Definite plus :)
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Well finally got my ABS sheets for around the door openings in yesterday. Had to devise a way to form the bottom while heating with heat gun to kick out over the body mount bolts. Came out pretty good. I used 1/8" ABS, think 1/16" would have been sufficient and much easier to bend. But when covered with the vinyl they look great :)
PS: Note how much more room with the new seat when compared to the bottom pic of the old seat. Ton more room between seat and forward door opening, dashboard, and steering wheel.
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That is a significant difference in room with the seat. How does the comfort seem? Do you notice having less leg support?
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Not at all. but I'm only 5'7" 170lbs. Not sure how it would affect somebody with long inseam. But for me its perfect :)
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Not at all. but I'm only 5'7" 170lbs. Not sure how it would affect somebody with long inseam. But for me its perfect :)
Bruce we are the exact same size. I need to "butt test" your seats next time I see you.
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Not at all. but I'm only 5'7" 170lbs. Not sure how it would affect somebody with long inseam. But for me its perfect :)
Bruce we are the exact same size. I need to "butt test" your seats next time I see you.
Soon as it cools down a little I'll make a drive out your way. Have the pips off getting coated right now. Hopefully have her back together this weekend.
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Well I think the journey has finally come to an end. Finished up all the interior panels, trunk, and other little odds and ends that were hanging. Had one persistent rattle when the elect fan came on that I had to track down. I think that shaving off the filler on fender and the T handles on trunk and hood achieved the look I wanted. Not quite a restomod, but a little more clean and simple than 1965. And a little different than the other thousands that are out there. So now all there is to do is drive it! Been pondering my next project and think I'm gonna go for the gold with a Roadster Shop Chassis powered by LS3 and 63 split window Corvette body from Custom Image Corvettes. That one should keep me off the streets for 2-3 years :)
https://customimagecorvettes.com/product/1967-corvette-replica-coupe/
https://roadstershop.com/product/1963-67-corvette-fast-track/#engine-mount-options
Been a blast! I want to say thanks to all for all the help and guidance along the way! Sure is a big help having forum like this when going through a build. To bad they couldn't make it work. Hopefully someone else will take it over and keep it going.
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Nice Bruce!
I updated your registry page too. Bruce's HM2034 (https://sites.google.com/view/thehurricaneroadsterregistry/the-roadsters/second-generation/hm-2034)
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Nice job!! Lots of innovations. Enjoy!
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Get ready for the first 3rd Saturday southside DFW cruise next month!
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Nice work. I can't wait to get my car and get started. Another Texas Hurricane on the way.