89' LX Hatch on the cheap

[LERM]

A good friend of mine had lost interest in this poor ugly mustang. It had sat for a few years after a head and intake swap. He never got it to run after the new parts were on. He mentioned in an unrelated phone conversation that he was letting the autowrecker come get the car at the end of the week.

"CANCEL THEM. I'll be there tomorrow..."

It came to me with welded subframe connectors, turbo coupe disc's, SVO aluminum heads, a Trick Flow manifold, and pretty much every other bolt on offered for a fox 302 motor.

I figured it was worth the purchase in parts alone.
147238

Luckily though, I found the spun balancer in short order. I fixed the timing, and had the car running 30min after it was home. I offered the car back to my buddy for my cash plus beer to clear my conscience. MAN was I excited to hear, "Nope, i'm still over it....keep it."

So, I fixed the other "little" issues the car had. Well... the mechanical ones anyway... It's gunna take a big hammer to knock the ugly off this one... I fixed the Leaking injector o-rings, weak fuel pump, exhaust leaks, loose steering... and started using it as a weekend fun car.

I have a list of things I should be working on besides this thing, so I was content with leaving it alone.... until I went autocrossing for the first time.


DAMN is that fun. The car was on rock hard 225/16's, the suspension was stock aside from some drop springs, at least it had discs in the back, but the brake fade was still quite noticeable... though maybe not as noticeable as my "new guy" driving...

The want list started immediately. I was "responsible" though, and went back a few times to make sure the 225's were good and done for.

In the meantime, I went craigslist'n and junkyard'n.
I collected up:
Cobra 17x8 and 17x9's
Nitto NT05s 255/40 and 275/40
95 Cobra front brakes, and 95 GT rear
Aerostar 5 lug axles
SN95 (94-95) spindles and front control arms (and of course added some urethane)
MM CC Plates and bumpsteer kit.
04' Cobra rack (or so it was labled) and a MM solid steering column
and lastly a used Griggs Torque arm, panhard, rear lower control arms, and a heavier rear sway bar

[LERM]

Along the way, I also added an MSD dizzy and 6btm box. Lincoln fan, and some 1.7 rockers. Battery got kicked out of the engine compartment for being heavy and ugly...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMAG0971-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0971.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMAG0970-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0970.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMAG0968-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0968.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMAG0969-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0969.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMAG0435-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0435.jpg.html)

As of last night, here is the current state. Its close to being back on the road. Just need to add fluids and do some alignment.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMAG0914-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0914.jpg.html)

[Josh@Ridetech]

Looks like you've got a good setup going!:cheers:

[Chev Korbin]

Nice to see another fox build, car looks pretty solid. Can't wait to see more!

[1965gp]

Hard to beat a fox body for fun- our stock 87 Saleen is a blast to drive despite being a 14 second car.

[LERM]

Thanks for the "atta' boy" comments guys. Fox mustangs are a blast. Certainly faster more attractive cars around, but the $$$ per fun ratio for these is off the charts.

Its back on the ground! And even moved under its own power so I could sweep up the floor for alignment.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0984-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0984.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0981-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0981.jpg.html)

Now to flare out the fenders a bit so I don't annihilate my new tires the first time the car leans over...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0983-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0983.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0982-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0982.jpg.html)

No Ridetech engine compartment here... but its at least tidy'd up a bit at this point... I think a "two points of contact" strut tower brace is on the horizon...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0985-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0985.jpg.html)

[Chev Korbin]

Sweet! Like the homemade alignment tool, you should give us all a rundown on that,.. i'll need to be doing that here soon. Also, really like the look of those seats, what are they (cant make out the stitching), how do they fit, are they comfy???

[LERM]

I'm glad you were at least amused by my backyard fab alignment. It is only as close as a questionably level floor, and HF measuring tools allow it to be...

I'll drive it for the first time tomorrow, so I can speak to some of its effectiveness then, but so far, it seems to work well enough.

I'm certainly open to criticism or tips on how to improve, but my process was:
1. Leveling the car at ride height by shimming between the tires and the floor with plate stock.
2.Set Caster (ie. max out caster all the way to the extent of the MM plates)
3.Set camber. -2.5 degrees. I don't have a pic, but I squared a piece of angle stock to my level plane, and used a digital angle finder on the angle stock to determine my setting.
4. Set toe. Obviously, thats the "fancy" pictured set up. Basically marked the diameter of the wheel and center on some angle stock. I fixed those pieces to the wheels low enough that I could measure underneath the car. I attatched a couple tape measures to one side, and strung them across for quick easy measuring. Adjust to your desired. I've read that street car should be 1/16" toe in, track/autocross could benefit from square, or 1/16th toe out. I left mine 1/16th toe out as its most common duty is autocross...

I still want it streetable enough to "impress" my friends at work with this joe dirt corvette, so if it sucks on the street, i'll be sure to admit it...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0983-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0983.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0990-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0990.jpg.html)

The seats in the car are Tenzo R's. I don't think i've read a single positive review online. The were already in the car when I bought it. The adjustment latch on the DS was broke when I took ownership. The drivers seat back would not stay put. The lever with the teeth had busted clean off (my buddy that previously owned the car is a big dude. I blame him) Anyway, I buzzed the arm back together and they adjust good as new now...
The wife HATES them as her head lands right in the plastic harness pass through. Those things said, i'm stoaked to have them over stockers. Even without harnesses in the car yet they hold my butt in place fairly well...and I feel they are at least as comfy as any other "low budget performance" seat i've ever sat in...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0991-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0991.jpg.html)

I started in on the front fender rub today as well... Almost there....
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0994-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0994.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0993-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0993.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG0992-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0992.jpg.html)

[Justin@EntropyRad]

Killer little track rat...since you added a 6BTM, is boost in the future??

[LERM]

The MSD box was added for the the basic spark help... Its only a "BTM" as I still had that box in my tote of mustang stuff from my last car. I had every intention of adding boost to that one. For this one, I dunno...

The big thing that killed my last mustang (a 94') was me being tired of jumping through smog hoops. (ie swapping out the X-cam'd 331 every two years for a stocker...it made sense to a younger dumber me...) This current car smogs pretty easy, and I don't know if i'm ready to deal with any changes that.

My plan for now is to leave well enough alone, and fix only what breaks to keep this thing on the road/track. I'm trying to turn my attention to my 1953' chev pickup... which needs "a few things"...

That said, a "50 state" vortec system on the mustang would not be out of the question...."someday"... but neither is moving my go fast stuff to a 63' Falcon... in which case boost via turbo would be inevitable.

[LERM]

It finally ran some errands around town today. Found a lil' rub inside the passanger side rear wheelwell that was mitigated with a BFH... and i've got a slight exhaust rattle towards the rear (no surprise with how much I had to snake the exhaust around suspension stuff... should be able to adjust it out...

Feels much more solid with the stiffer bushings though, and I can certainly feel the stiffer bar.... next track day will be fun, and if nothing else, its got a good "hot trailer park girl" look about it now for sure...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG1004-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG1004.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG1003-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG1003.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/IMAG1002-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG1002.jpg.html)

I'm thinking that glass hood needs some matte black though...

[19,69camaro]

That thing is friggin sweet. Your build had me cracking up. With regards to the alignment 2.5 deg camber sounds line a lot but I'm not txt familiar with strut front ends. Also I would check caster side to side. I put the car on two vinyl tiles with bearing grease between them to make my own turn plates. Then turn the wheel in 20 deg zero your level and turn it out 20 and that should be your caster. The added benefit of the plates is you can push down and bounce the car to union bind everything

[LERM]

Thanks sir.

I appreciate the alignment ideas. This is the first i've ever really paid this close attention to alignment. (my other toys are for the dirt, and don't care much about a 1 degree camber change... )
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/DSCN1552-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Chenowth%20Build/DSCN1552.jpg.html)

I looked for some cost effective alignment plates, and I really dig the vinyl tile ideas.

I landed on the -2.5 degree camber setting by sniffing at others suggestions online. These cars have a HORRIBLE camber curve... starting aggressively negative is my current plan to fight that. I'll most likely dial it out a bit if the car starts to see more frequent street duty... but for now its the occasional grocery store run, and autocross...

thanks again for the ideas. Much appreciated.

[Tig]

Fox body love here.
Awesome job, it looks great.

Your sand toy looks like a blast. Specs on it?

[LERM]

Thanks for the kind words. Of course, now that its driving i'm heading out of town for work for a week... I wanna DRIVE dammit... I'm hoping to go autocrossing May 31 though... hopefully it'll work out...

The buggy is a 4130 2 Seat, Coilover/bypass rear, Combo front hub, Charlynn steering, microstub 930's, Full Weddle 091, and a Honda J35A4. GREAT fun... though i'd love a turbo... on an LS.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/05/braaaaap2-1.jpg

[LERM]

I'm having a ball with this thing....

No big changes this month... but after the lincoln fan went on, the stock alternator showed some weakness... so I did the 3g swap.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMAG0066-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0066.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMAG0039-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0039.jpg.html)


The 3g alternator is MUCH better, but I think i'm going to ditch the underdrive pulleys as well... The car came with them, but personally i've never been to keen on the idea of decreasing cooling and charging on a street car... just need to find a complete set of stock pulleys.

I also got tired of the sharp contrasting white fiberglass hood, so I went "hillbilly autobody" and sprayed some rustoleum satin through a HF HVLP gun... result was all you'd expect from a $15 paint job.... but is a vast improvement over the gelcoat...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMAG0070-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0070.jpg.html)

I did get back to the track today as well, and no surprise, the car is WAY WAY better with all the suspension brake and tire upgrades. Its 100% better, and has me on pace with cars I have no business keeping up with.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMAG0079-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0079.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMAG0078-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0078.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/06/IMAG0076-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0076.jpg.html)

[Justin@EntropyRad]

cleaned up nicely..dig the hot chic in the trailer park comment

[454bug]

Great project! I really like your fender stretch!

[LERM]

Work has been in the way of any racing for a few months. So, this thing has been used primarily for hardware store runs and gathering stink eyes from my neighbors. (I suppose it's a good thing if my sh!tbox mustang is the neighborhoods biggest problem.)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMAG0054-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0054.jpg.html)

My stepmonster did hook me up with some magnets. I think I'll need to go one shade lighter on the numbers to keep those judgmental scca guys from protesting... But the idea is there...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMAG0197-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0197.jpg.html)

I finally made it down to Qualcomm last weekend. It ran towards the top of the Mustangs there... But there's still an s197 that is besting me by a full second... On street tires no less. Looks like I'll need to sign up for some instructor help after all...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/09/IMAG0056-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0056.jpg.html)

[LERM]

Back to the track with a proper brake proportioning valve, and some increased negative camber trying to chase out some serious understeer.... (well... understeer when I don't enter a corner early under panicky' braking like a new guy)

...then I saw these pics, among others...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/oct202015autocross2-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/oct%202015autocross2.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/oct202015autocross1-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/oct%202015autocross1.jpg.html)

Even with -3 degrees camber up front, its body rolling hard enough to create positive camber.

So... I suppose its time to beg the wife for some coilovers... it is almost my birthday afterall....

[DrFraZZy]

Time for some coil-overs for sure and an anti-roll kit plus strut tower sway for your chassis!

[LERM]

My buddy stuck a camera on the side of my last weekend too. He just sent me the footage... I decided to share it even if its totally self incriminating. NEW. GUY. DRIVER. The video has been very helpful to me actually.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyCzzez6tok&feature=youtu.be

As for the "strut tower support", there just might be some "new to me parts" in the works that would negate the need!:fingersx:

[LERM]

I should wait until its acutally on the floor of my shop, but I can't contain myself. My turd of a go-fast car has some parts enroute. For all that are unfamiliar, the fox mustang is based on a VERY outdated strut design that does this:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/PRESLA-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/PRESLA.jpg.html) under hard cornering.

For a VERY fair price, i've just aquired a BartsWorks SLA front end with coilovers for the front of this rustang. Fixed Camber curve, lower roll center, etc...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/SLA-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/SLA.jpg.html)

Can't Fing WAIT.

Next up, mooar TIRE....and possibly grumpy wife.

[chunger]

Tubular K members are definitely good for shedding weight and keeping the tires where you want them. However, I was under the impression the Griggs one was the only one that was actually certified for street use.

[Chev Korbin]

Nice! I would also like to install an SLA so I really look forward to your progress and seeing how it changes the handling characteristics.

[LERM]

Tubular K members are definitely good for shedding weight and keeping the tires where you want them. However, I was under the impression the Griggs one was the only one that was actually certified for street use. I had the opportunity to bounce a bunch of questions off the designer of this suspension. He was a huge help. The K member (the only part that is not of his design) he actually warned against. The SLA parts were meant for the factory geometry K member. If the AJE one does not measure up I may be skipping it. As far as the Griggs stuff being certified for street, I dunno honestly. I haven't seen any of the major manufactures toting their stuff as "certified for the street" though. I would have been ecstatic to get ahold of ANY of the available SLA front ends for my car be it Barts Works, Griggs, Agent 47 or other. This one just happened to fit my budget.

Chev'- I'm pretty excited about it. I'll be sure to keep you (and all the other fellers i'm pestering with my junk on this site) updated.

[Protour_Pinto]

Whats going to happen with all the stock stuff you take off? Im in the market for a complete setup.

[LERM]

Whats going to happen with all the stock stuff you take off? Im in the market for a complete setup.

It'll probably end up on craigslist. I'll PM you as well once its all loose from the car.

Shipping SNAFU has me still waiting for the SLA stuff to get here. Hopefully Monday. Not that I have time to install it anyway right now.

The majority of my house looks much like this:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/11/IMAG0215_1-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0215_1.jpg.html)

[linkstar69]

Cool story and great budget racer

[Z06killinSBF]

I'm loving this car, very nice work so far.

[Crestronwizard]

Cool. This is the right way to do it enjoy the car between upgrades. I have a bad habit of building stuff forever. Keep us updated.

[Chev Korbin]

Out of curiosity, what brake set up are you going to be able to or have to run with the SLA? I guess, specifically what size rotor and what calipers fit the spindles?

[LERM]

Cool story and great budget racer
Thanks sir.

I'm loving this car, very nice work so far.
Trade ya'... straight up... i'll even deliver...

Cool. This is the right way to do it enjoy the car between upgrades. I have a bad habit of building stuff forever. Keep us updated.
I've learned that lesson the hard way a couple of times. I've killed at least two cool projects with delusions of grandeur. I'm sure i'll do it again... but for now, i'm having a ball driving this one like I hate it. I'm loving the "seat of the pants" differences with the upgrades too. Those are hard to feel on dusty jackstands...

Out of curiosity, what brake set up are you going to be able to or have to run with the SLA? I guess, specifically what size rotor and what calipers fit the spindles?
Luckily, this kit uses a, sn95 hub. So, all my sn95 cobra brake parts are a direct fit.

[Protour_Pinto]

It'll probably end up on craigslist. I'll PM you as well once its all loose from the car.

Shipping SNAFU has me still waiting for the SLA stuff to get here. Hopefully Monday. Not that I have time to install it anyway right now.

The majority of my house looks much like this:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/11/IMAG0215_1-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0215_1.jpg.html)

I know that Interior decorating scheme well being a Low Voltage Installer.

[LERM]

Its back on jackstands.

To-do list:
BartsWorks SLA
AJE tube K-Member
Koni Coilovers (for now)
Fresh Urethane Motor/Trans mounts


BUT! I have every intention of making the next race on Jan 31. So with any luck it will just "fall" back together.

Only foreseeable issue for my timeline is that the driveshaft will need cut down as the motor is getting moved back an inch. (story of my life, just wishing for one more inch...) And, i'm skeptical that my steering parts will all play nice together. (04' cobra rack, on 89' Mustang with MM bumpsteer kit and custom spindles/arms and K member... SOMETHING will be off...)

As of tonight:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0589-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0589.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0591-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0591.jpg.html)

[chunger]

You left the engine/trans in place while changing out the K-member?

That would speed things up!

[Protour_Pinto]

Quick question, I picked up a 89 crossmember from pick a parts the last 50% off day and grabbed some 94 spindles too, I was going to go with the 89 LCA but was looking at the later arms and noticed they were a bit longer, did you have any trouble getting enough adjustment from the struts to make them work? On my Mullet Truck the Mustang front end is already 10 inches wider than stock but was wondering if you felt a big difference with the arm swap?

Were you able to go wider on the wheels too? Im hoping to go with the Cobra knockoff 9 inch on the front, Think its possible?

Also, where will the autocross be on the 31st?

Thanks!

[LERM]

You left the engine/trans in place while changing out the K-member?

That would speed things up!

It did make for some good adrenaline reaching under a motor swingin' from a sling...


Quick question, I picked up a 89 crossmember from pick a parts the last 50% off day and grabbed some 94 spindles too, I was going to go with the 89 LCA but was looking at the later arms and noticed they were a bit longer, did you have any trouble getting enough adjustment from the struts to make them work? On my Mullet Truck the Mustang front end is already 10 inches wider than stock but was wondering if you felt a big difference with the arm swap?

Were you able to go wider on the wheels too? Im hoping to go with the Cobra knockoff 9 inch on the front, Think its possible?
Also, where will the autocross be on the 31st?
Thanks!

Its hard to say if I felt a difference in the wider front as I changed just about everything else at the same time. I did have to use Maximum Motorsports CC plates to get the alignment in check though.

I'm running 17x8's in the front but only cause I got them for free. My rear wheels are 17x9 with 275s. I tried them up front today just for grins. They'd fit just fine if I pulled my fenders a bit more.

The autocross i'm shooting for is at Qualcomm stadium.

I got the front end all bolted up today. I found some small hangups.
*Driveshaft will need cut down a bit.
*I'll need to move the swaybar mounting brackets forward a bit.
*Exhaust will need shortened to accommodate engine setback.
*My heim joint rod ends are the wrong size for the new spindles.

Here's where I left off today:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0595-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0595.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0599-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0599.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0601-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0601.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0603-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0603.jpg.html)

[Protour_Pinto]

Thanks for the reply,

The new setup looks good!

[Protour_Pinto]

You wouldn't happen to want to sell the CC plates would you?

[LERM]

It's back on its wheels.

I tried the 20* in 20* out method of measuring caster, but I was getting suspicious results.

I was getting 1* negative when it was visibly more than that?

Luckily, there is a flat spot on the spindle upright that is damn near perfect parallel with the upper and lower ball joint at ride height. I used that to get me at least even side to side, and ballpark to the -6* I was shooting for.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0635-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0635.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0633-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0633.jpg.html)

Still waiting to hear from my drive shaft shop. Cross yours fingers for me that they come through... It'll be tough to go racing if they don't.

[LERM]

Here's a cool before and after of the engine setback. It was kinda a pain in the ass to gain one whole inch. Sure hope its at least noticeably better! Not pictured, I was able to move the front wheels forward about 3/4" as well.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/04/IMAG0971-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0971.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0645-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0645.jpg.html)

I'll need to do something about this incomplete looking strut tower issue. Maybe i'll just pepper them with stickers? You know, real classy like...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0646-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0646.jpg.html)

[Protour_Pinto]

Its pretty easy to cut them out and put some flat panels to fill them in.Took me about an hour to get the ones from a car in Pick A Parts.

[chunger]

Projects looking good!

Could you say more about the Lincoln electric fan you installed? I have a Mark VIII fan and it looks a bit different than yours, also how did you mount it to the radiator?

Thanks!

[LERM]

Its pretty easy to cut them out and put some flat panels to fill them in.Took me about an hour to get the ones from a car in Pick A Parts.
Thats one option. I'm leaning towards some aluminum dressup panels to cover up the towers and the rest of the unnecessary holes. But, it depends when I get to all this. I have a 331ci Ford with AFR's and a big cam in the corner of my shop that is BEGGING to get into this car. If the engine is out anyway, I may just cut the towers all the way off. Neither will be happening anytime soon. Time/money never seem to cooperate with each other, huh?


Projects looking good!
Could you say more about the Lincoln electric fan you installed? I have a Mark VIII fan and it looks a bit different than yours, also how did you mount it to the radiator?
Thanks!

Sorry for the delayed response. I did quite a bit of google searching when I was doing the fan swap. There is a huge amount of info to digest out there. I don't remember what year car I pulled mine from but it is a "single speed" version. I don't have AC, so having the option for low speed wasn't a concern to me. The single speed also simplified the wiring a bit as I was able to just put a big ol' relay triggered by a temp sensor.

My mount is definitely a function over form kinda piece. (and you just had to make me show it huh:rotfl:) I just used some thin barstock to form up an inner frame. The frame "hooks" onto the bottom of the radiator, and bolts to the top.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0966-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0966.jpg.html)

The fan shroud bolts to the frame top and bottom with the allen head bolts visible on top of the shroud.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/01/IMAG0645-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0645.jpg.html)

[chunger]

Oh, I see. It's an *inside* mounting frame. For some reason, I was looking for an exterior frame that utilized the stock mounting tabs. Your approach is much smarter, actually. Nice and slick!

[LERM]

JUST LEAVE IT ALONE, DUMMY...

Some more parts found their way into the shop. I was mentioning to a autocross buddy my upcoming tire delima. At the end of this year, I should be due for some new tires if I get to race as much as i'm hoping. I'd like to go bigger all the way around but SCCA CAM-T rules have some specific tire rules that make finding anything bigger than a 255 on a 17" rim basically impossible. (at least in the most desirable brands)

"I've got some 18x11's that i'll make you a deal on."

I jumped like a fat kid on a cupcake...

These are a "touch" wider than my current 17x8's...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0667-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0667.jpg.html)


Now... tigerracing fender flares, Maier, or practice my sheet metal fabrication?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0674-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0674.jpg.html)


The rear is narrower than the front due to my axleshaft choice, but i'll likely swap to some later units to regain the width since i'll be cutting the body anyway. OH! I might as well stick the 3.73's that I just acquired in trade for use of my tube bender... since the cover will be open anyway...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0672-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0672.jpg.html)


I'm thinking they'll need to be powdercoated somthing a touch less flashy though. I don't need my trailerpark girl strutting around like a tramp...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0673-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0673.jpg.html)

[LERM]

So, Autocross in the rain is EXTREMELY fun. Two things learned.

1. Have a warm dry place for your wife to hang out while you're running. She WILL be less than pleased when you kick her out of the car into the heavy rain and umbrella folding winds.

2. The car will stick FAR better than I initially thought. Even with "old tire technology."

The car is absolutely awesome in comparison to what I started with. There is no doubt in my mind that my driving is the biggest hindrance at this point.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/889rain-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/889rain.jpg.html)


Still, I love tinkering with the car. So even while I work on learning how to drive, I can't help but look for ways to better the car.

Current Goals
1. MOAR TIRE. I'll wait until I kill these Nitto's. But, then I think some 315's are near mandatory. ("mandatory" is the word i'll use when i'm pitching this to my wife, anyway.)
2. Seat position- My scrawny lanky' legs have me feeling too far from the wheel. I've ordered a cheap dished wheel with the hopes of keeping my arms from feeling as extended.
3. Gearing. I just scored some 3.73's in a barter deal. I may try to trade up to 4.10s, but I'm kinda' enjoying my car being freeway-able still....
4. Cage. I'm really wanting harnesses to keep me from fighting to keep my butt in place... but I am not a fan of harnesses mounted without a proper cage. And, i'm starting to dream of taking the car to some track days, and possibly some standing mile racing, so the cage is probably a good idea anyway.

[2ndroundko]

you've made some nice progress on that car. I always like the build as you go approach rather than the throw buckets of money at it method. Once I get my truck running again I will be building It in a similar manner.

[Josh@Ridetech]

"I've got some 18x11's that i'll make you a deal on."

I jumped like a fat kid on a cupcake...

These are a "touch" wider than my current 17x8's...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0667-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0667.jpg.html)


Now... tigerracing fender flares, Maier, or practice my sheet metal fabrication?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0674-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0674.jpg.html)


The rear is narrower than the front due to my axleshaft choice, but i'll likely swap to some later units to regain the width since i'll be cutting the body anyway. OH! I might as well stick the 3.73's that I just acquired in trade for use of my tube bender... since the cover will be open anyway...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0672-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0672.jpg.html)


I'm thinking they'll need to be powdercoated somthing a touch less flashy though. I don't need my trailerpark girl strutting around like a tramp...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/IMAG0673-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMAG0673.jpg.html)

Awesome!!! I can't wait for you to get these on!

I've got a few things going on with my fox right now that I'm anxious to post. It should see a tremendous change shortly! Which cage are you looking into?

[LERM]

''
Awesome!!! I can't wait for you to get these on!

I've got a few things going on with my fox right now that I'm anxious to post. It should see a tremendous change shortly! Which cage are you looking into?

Hey Josh! long time no talk. I can't wait either. Fender flare options kinda suck though. The tiger racing ones are the most temping... but those thieving bastids' want $750 for "rivet on" flares. I am happy to give my money for good parts... but this seems excessive...

Cage- I say "cage". What i'm really considering is the Maximum Motorsports 6 point roll bar. I put one in my 94'. It was nice quality.

I never liked the door bar situation though. So, I may buy their 4 point and add my own door bars. We'll see. Unless I stumble upon one, it is probably a year out. I really am trying to stop pecking at this thing and focus on my 53'.

As for your "temendous change"... I can only imagine. Can't wait to see it...(F!@#ing one upper...)

[LERM]

you've made some nice progress on that car. I always like the build as you go approach rather than the throw buckets of money at it method. Once I get my truck running again I will be building It in a similar manner.

Thanks man. I keep hearing the thumbs up for driving while building echoed in this thread. Its cool to hear appreciation from somewhere... Buddies at work don't get it at all... girls at stoplights don't look anywhere near this thing, and every blackn'white I roll past is just CERTAIN that there's a meth pipe hidden somewhere in it... Its hard to love a turd project car...:rotfl:

[LERM]

Got a chance to beat on this thing today on dry pavement. No idea where I ended up, but there were 16 drivers in CAM-T today. Too awesome.

I can say the car feels excellent. It will still understeer pretty significantly... though I think i'm only encouraging it to do so entering the corner a bit too hot...




https://youtu.be/onkKutkVwC4

[Josh@Ridetech]

Got a chance to beat on this thing today on dry pavement. No idea where I ended up, but there were 16 drivers in CAM-T today. Too awesome.

I can say the car feels excellent. It will still understeer pretty significantly... though I think i'm only encouraging it to do so entering the corner a bit too hot...




https://youtu.be/onkKutkVwC4

It doesn't look like the sun was much help that day!

[Z06killinSBF]

Looking good man, seems fun

[LERM]

It doesn't look like the sun was much help that day!

The video makes it look a bit worse than it was... but it was certainly an obstacle by the time I got to run. CAM ran last (again)...


Looking good man, seems fun
Thank ya' sir. The car is feeling incredible. And you're right about the fun. Its an absolute blast to push a car to the limits of the tires for a full minute... (it should take less than a minute to get around most courses... but hey, i'm learning...)

I'm collecting up some extra sheet metal to facilitate the fender flare project. Scored some 91' fenders (which have a larger wheel opening for you not so familiar with fox body guys) and a GT bumper. The thought of all the mismatched colored body parts gave me the inevitable, "what color should I paint this thing" thought...

luckily i've got some time to think about it.

Before 315's and fender flares:
Run within' .5 seconds of Phillip Costco at a timed autocross event. (yea you...sombitch.)
Kitchen backsplash
1500sqft of flooring
Bar renovation
Drivetrain/suspension refresh of a 74' trans-am
get my basket case 53' chevy on the road.

Can someone please find a way to make me finish this list? Specially' the last one.

[Tomswheels]

Danny, you may want to talk to George (Reiss Racing), he did Ian's, Richards, and my cage. Price is unbeatable...

[xsboost90]

so wait- they make a kit to make my early mustang from two control arms to a modern setup from a 94-04 mustang, and then at the same time, offer a kit to make a strut car into two control arms?

looks like a fun car. I got hooked on autox and that lead to race courses. Now that i have my 64 my cousin with a 67 is wanting to start autox-ing. Much work to do....

[2ndroundko]

One day Im gonna have to bite the bullet and buy a fox body. I love the looks of these and a LS swap will keep me from getting kicked out of the family.

[LERM]

Danny, you may want to talk to George (Reiss Racing), he did Ian's, Richards, and my cage. Price is unbeatable...

I will indeed.


so wait- they make a kit to make my early mustang from two control arms to a modern setup from a 94-04 mustang, and then at the same time, offer a kit to make a strut car into two control arms?
I suppose there is an argument for each? I planned to stick with the strut design honestly just due to availability, but when this system "found me" for less than the cost of some proper coilovers for the strut style, I couldn't say no.


One day Im gonna have to bite the bullet and buy a fox body. I love the looks of these and a LS swap will keep me from getting kicked out of the family.
I love fox mustangs too... but they sure aren't everyone's idea of cool. I don't think there is a single one of my friends (who hasn't owned a fox themselves) that thinks my car is not a complete POS. They don't get it.

As for the LS? DO IT. I already own some nice parts for a sbf ford build, and I live in California, where the fun police have a firm grip on the SMOG stations or i'd consider the same.

[LERM]

I went and raced the SCCA CAM Challenge event in Fontana. Outstanding time. The course was super fun. I got the equivilant of 4 "regular" events worth of track time in one weekend. Met great people, and enjoyed the company of those I already knew.

That said, I got my ass whooped.
I ended up WELL outside the top 10 in my class (which was my goal.)

Reasons why:
1.Driver. :drive1:(Proof was in a friend jumping in the car after he had a mild part failure, and stomping on my best of 8 runs on his SECOND TIME DRIVING THE CAR EVER by a full second)
2. Tires. NT05's (which i'm running) are head and shoulders above the junk that my car came with. That said, It seems that the "new and improved 200tw tires" from Bridgestone and BFG are much better
3. General Setup. There is a laundry list of things that are not perfect on this $3500 race car. Tall gears, brakes locking up, "grab bag" selection of springs, shocks and sway bars... etc...

Solutions:
1. Driver- I learned a LOT at the CAM Challenge... but bottom line is more seat time. Good news there is that seat time is the fun part. I'm also going to try to line my schedule up with a novice school or something similar.
2. Tires- Well... i'm working on killing my NT05s. I have collected rims that will fit the biggest tire that BFG offers in a 200tw... but i'm thinking that a "stepping stone sticky tire" size 255/40/17 is in order. I don't want to be the guy with mile wide tires getting whooped by smaller tires driven by people that have figured out solution #1. Plus, I don't have time to make the body mods required to fit big steam roller tires right now anyway....
3.General Setup. This will also be ongoing. At CAM Challenge, the stand out set up items to me were brake lock up and gearing. It just so happend that I stumbled upon a complete rear axle assembly that had the potential to fix both those. Complete 8.8 with 4.10's, fresh trac-loc, and Cobra brakes.

"89" for CAM Challenge cause' for some reason keeping the SCCA numbers made too much sense...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/cam20challenge-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/cam%20challenge.jpg.html)

Looks too much like it runs... lets take it apart again:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/IMG_20160510_084207477_HDR-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20160510_084207477_HDR.jpg.html)

Poor beat up shop and the pickup atop the frame table BEGGIN me to leave the turd race car alone...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/IMG_20160510_084433244_HDR-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20160510_084433244_HDR.jpg.html)

So, after the friction modifier stink settled, the car went from 3.08's to 4.10 and from gt brakes to Cobra spec rotors and calipers. I still haven't driven it with the 4.10s yet as my supply of crush washers was depleted. (yes... I shamefully tried the used ones only to find a serious leak... new crush washers tomorrow.)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/IMG_20160510_104600411_HDR-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20160510_104600411_HDR.jpg.html)

[Josh@Ridetech]

Good work. I just stuck 3.73's in my car a few months ago. It feels nice but I'm thinking 4.10's would've been better for the autocross. You'll love the new brakes!

[LERM]

Been a busy last few months with no racing to speak of. (Well, aside from the beer soaked RC car racing in my backyard!)

I just scored some goods though.

"obnoxious"... The guy who labled my plans to run 315's on a fox mustang as obnoxious SOLD ME a 315/335 combo. Go figure.

I also bought some second hand, unused but slightly mutilated Tiger Racing fender flares.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_20160912_201339885-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20160912_201339885.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/received_10206869700236172-1.jpeg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/received_10206869700236172.jpeg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_20160912_201519626-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20160912_201519626.jpg.html)

Who wants to take bets on whether it's the panhard bar, the clutch or the trac lock that fails first!?

[68400BIRD]

Great build. I love how all of these parts just seem to fall into your lap.LOL Keep up the great work, it has been fun reading your thread. How is the house coming??

[LERM]

Great build. I love how all of these parts just seem to fall into your lap.LOL Keep up the great work, it has been fun reading your thread. How is the house coming??

Sure it seems like the parts "fall into my lap." I write it that way for the 1/100 chance my wife peaks at the laptop while i'm on a non home improvement type website...

House progress? (you asked for it, i'll keep it as short as possible... well... almost.)

Super short version: FU@#! Slab leak!> replumb>new kitchen>"some" fun entertainment/electrical changes> redrywall/texture everything but bedrooms and baths> floors throughout + just a few extras....

Pics version:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMAG0051-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0051.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMAG0013-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0013.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMAG0016_1-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0016_1.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMAG0076-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0076.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMAG0069_1-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0069_1.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0079-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMG_0079.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMAG0327-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0327.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMAG0530-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0530.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMAG0550-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMAG0550.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_20160914_122117550_HDR-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMG_20160914_122117550_HDR.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_20160717_093113273-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMG_20160717_093113273.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_20160421_133222424-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMG_20160421_133222424.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_20160511_204514547-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMG_20160511_204514547.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_20160623_220322435-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/Starkey/IMG_20160623_220322435.jpg.html)

We're making awesome progress, but theres still plenty of green carpet in the bedrooms, the bathrooms are functional but dated, and our landscaping is best described as a dirt farm.

[LERM]

I've been given an extended paid leave from the house progress to get some progress on the go-fast toys... We'll see how long it lasts...

[NY337]

Woah! Nice house but most of all what's the deal with that 74 TA? Nice! On the lookout for a buccaneer read myself that's not an SD and priced to the moon.

[68400BIRD]

Looks like the house is coming along great. I would also like to see more pictures of the TA.

[Tomswheels]

I love Green T/As!

[bs46488]

Wow. You guys have been busy with the house! It looks great. The kitchen turned out really well. The sliding barn doors are a nice touch too.

Hope to see you guys around town.

[LERM]

Woah! Nice house but most of all what's the deal with that 74 TA? Nice! On the lookout for a buccaneer read myself that's not an SD and priced to the moon.Thank you about the house. The pics are of the near finished highlights. We are still very much work in progress.


Looks like the house is coming along great. I would also like to see more pictures of the TA.
Slowly but slowly. I'm glad to get the go-ahead for garage time. I need it.

I love Green T/As!
Do you like blue ones too?


Wow. You guys have been busy with the house! It looks great. The kitchen turned out really well. The sliding barn doors are a nice touch too. Hope to see you guys around town.
Hey Weird Brian! (your self given name, dont blame me.) We have indeed been working like crazy on the house. It looks like you have near autocross-able cars. Come play.

To answer all the Trans-Am inquiries... I typed up an answer... and decided it was a build thread:

https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/122316-The-Blue-Mistress-1974-Trans-AM?p=1203646#post1203646 (https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/122316-The-Blue-Mistress-1974-Trans-AM?p=1203646#post1203646)

[LERM]

To quote myself...


Before 315's and fender flares:
Run within' .5 seconds of Phillip Costco at a timed autocross event. (yea you...sombitch.)
Kitchen backsplash
1500sqft of flooring
Bar renovation
Drivetrain/suspension refresh of a 74' trans-am
get my basket case 53' chevy on the road.

Can someone please find a way to make me finish this list? Specially' the last one.

I achieved every one of these goals... EXCEPT THE FING LAST ONE. (well.. to be fair... i'm not 100% done with the T/A either..)

But... I scored some fender flares... and the temptation is far too great. The mock up pics were taken at El Torro while killing time waiting for our turn at the cones. These will be going into service as soon as the necessary hardware/adhesives/materials make it to my doorstep.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/FB_IMG_1474908650304-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/FB_IMG_1474908650304.jpg.html)

Some random cool shots...

turd racecar at speed... The GT bumper found its way onto the car a couple weeks back. I think the flares will make a total of 6 different colors on the car. When the flares are finished, I am looking forward to a proper single color paintjob. I'm thinking something WILD.... like white. Crazy right?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/14551066_10153953819797849_1921014648_o2-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/14551066_10153953819797849_1921014648_o%201.jpg.ht ml)

Not exciting to most, but this is what your morning looks like once every two years when you love a post-74' go fast car in CA... (Hell yea it passed. 100% legit on its own passed. Suck it C.A.R.B.)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161001_085425290-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161001_085425290.jpg.html)

[Tomswheels]

1. Kudos on passing CA smog. Had you chosen an 83 with a carb, it would feel even more like winning the lottery, which I have never won.

2. These fender flares were designed for a fox? They look like they fit obnoxious tire sizing surprisingly well.

3. When will I see this racing again (I don't like having the newest car in class, old muscle car racers look at my 1983 car like it's a Delorean in 1945).

[Josh@Ridetech]

To quote myself...


I achieved every one of these goals... EXCEPT THE FING LAST ONE. (well.. to be fair... i'm not 100% done with the T/A either..)

But... I scored some fender flares... and the temptation is far too great. The mock up pics were taken at El Torro while killing time waiting for our turn at the cones. These will be going into service as soon as the necessary hardware/adhesives/materials make it to my doorstep.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/FB_IMG_1474908650304-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/FB_IMG_1474908650304.jpg.html)

Some random cool shots...

turd racecar at speed... The GT bumper found its way onto the car a couple weeks back. I think the flares will make a total of 6 different colors on the car. When the flares are finished, I am looking forward to a proper single color paintjob. I'm thinking something WILD.... like white. Crazy right?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/14551066_10153953819797849_1921014648_o2-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/14551066_10153953819797849_1921014648_o%201.jpg.ht ml)

Not exciting to most, but this is what your morning looks like once every two years when you love a post-74' go fast car in CA... (Hell yea it passed. 100% legit on its own passed. Suck it C.A.R.B.)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161001_085425290-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161001_085425290.jpg.html)

Looks awesome! I love the new flares!

[LERM]

1. Kudos on passing CA smog. Had you chosen an 83 with a carb, it would feel even more like winning the lottery, which I have never won.

2. These fender flares were designed for a fox? They look like they fit obnoxious tire sizing surprisingly well.

3. When will I see this racing again (I don't like having the newest car in class, old muscle car racers look at my 1983 car like it's a Delorean in 1945).

1.It was liberating, and irritating at the same time. I have a 302 based stroker in the corner of my shop that made 380whp in my last mustang. It'd sure be nice to have it freshened up and plugged in place of my current motor... but its got quite the cam in it and I doubt it'd pass smog. Even with a very lenient smog rep...
2.The flares are indeed made for fox mustangs. I'm hoping to start hacking up my fenders sooner than later to start the install... but its hard to make the first cut since my car is so clean. (:seizure: LOL! couldn't even type that with a straight face!)
3.Hoping to come race and/or practice Oct 15/16. The buggy motor swap is still not done, and our first desert trip of the season is the weekend following that event...So, we'll see what my level of panic is at that point...


Looks awesome! I love the new flares!
I'm stoked on the flares. I can't wait to see the car with big boy tires on it. Slowly but slowly. I've started to pic at some of the body issues as well. I'd really like to hose the car with a proper paint job after the flares, but its so hard to prevent the snowball (you know the snowball well, I've watched you chronicle it on this forum). Still, I may just have to give the car a uniform primer or something.

[LERM]

So, I scored tiger racing flares for dirt cheap, but only because one of them had been cut up. The two dark pieces are all that was usable. I had always wondered how foil would work as a mold release. I covered one of the good fenders in foil to use as a mold. It seems to have worked well... Cross your fingers for me!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161009_125433141-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161009_125433141.jpg.html)
Started mocking up... And found that 315s on 18x11s don't want to be on the front of a fox mustang... AT ALL. It's going to take some fender pulling and swear words, but I think I can convince them...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/received_10207065406008694-1.jpeg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/received_10207065406008694.jpeg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/received_10207065405488681-1.jpeg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/received_10207065405488681.jpeg.html)

[DrFraZZy]

That end up looking a lot better than I thought it would! I am really digging it. The rear tire size really hit it off the park! I love it!

[Z06killinSBF]

Have you seen the fox that Matt from The Smoking Tire owns?

http://www.thesmokingtire.com/2015/video-project-fox-mustang-installing-fender-flares/

[LERM]

That end up looking a lot better than I thought it would! I am really digging it. The rear tire size really hit it off the park! I love it!

Thanks...but... come on, no faith in me? OF COURSE it was going to look cool. Mama' always said that everything I build is amazing... :razz:

The rear is going to get flares as well actually. As it sits, the 335's in the back are touching the inside of the well. Obviously that won't do. I have some 98' mustang axles that will give me approx 3/4" per side wider from what i've read. If I can stumble upon a Cobra IRS for cheap enough that will make the rear even wider still.


Have you seen the fox that Matt from The Smoking Tire owns?

http://www.thesmokingtire.com/2015/video-project-fox-mustang-installing-fender-flares/

I've watched that car being built on his YouTube vids. That was one of the few cars i've seen with the tiger racing/chicaine23 flares mounted. (killer car...but I dunno about his $40k claims...unless he got HAD.) I plan to blend my flares into the existing body, so I think i'm going to end up using adhesive as the final fastening to allow for less filler.

[1965gp]

I remember trying to put 245's on fox bodies in college and your fitting a 335... awesome!

[Wraith]

Love the flairs, reminds me of the old IMSA cars. And if Matt spent $40K on that, he was had!

[Factory2]

Car looks awesome! Love the flares! What are your future plans with it?

[LERM]

I remember trying to put 245's on fox bodies in college and your fitting a 335... awesome!
It took flaring and rolling the lip to fit 275s and 255's. I suppose its easy to say you "fit" a big tire when you're willing to take a cutoff wheel to the fender!


Love the flairs, reminds me of the old IMSA cars. And if Matt spent $40K on that, he was had!
I loved the BIG widebody IMSA cars, but I do like the somewhat subtle look that these will offer when they're blended and painted. (I say subtle with healthy sense of humor) More subtle than a full spaceship looking widebody anyway.


Car looks awesome! Love the flares! What are your future plans with it?
Thanks. This is primarily an Autocross toy. But i'd love to enter some Optima events, open track, and maybe even some standing mile events once I can afford the time and money for a proper powerplant.

The goal is to keep it more of a street car with race car personality it that makes sense. I want my stereo, power windows, insulation and carpet, and AC, but I want to have a seriously capable car. Obviously, I'm not overly concerned about girls being impressed at stoplights, or I would not have chosen a fox mustang... That said, I also aim to pretty it up eventually with proper paint, trim and interior that does more than make me sneeze when racing.

[LERM]

Had to take a break from the mustang to prep our desert toys, but I'm back at it.

I added the wider 98' axles with extended studs to the car this afternoon.

MAN, am I tired of pulling the torque arm and smelling gear oil.

I should have the rough version of the flares on all four corners by weeks end.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161026_212913358-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161026_212913358.jpg.html)

[LERM]

Well, it drove to work this morning on its "new" tires. All the flares are bolted on, but none of them are finished.

Still, I had to share.

This is the width with the 98' mustang width axles on.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161028_114926718-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161028_114926718.jpg.html)

Obviously this poor thing has been "enjoyed".
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161028_124753816-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161028_124753816.jpg.html)


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161028_174622307_HDR-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161028_174622307_HDR.jpg.html)

The rear fender is the one I had to piece back together. It had been sectioned up before I got ahold of them. I plan on blending all of these into the body. The DS rear will be the most work since i'll have to at least lessen the amount of filler that was used for the last "fix"...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161028_175358744-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161028_175358744.jpg.html)

Hot trailer park girl just got bolt-ons...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/IMG_20161028_175603600_HDR-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20161028_175603600_HDR.jpg.html)

[Martin71RS]

those flares make it look so much better/meaner!
cool!

[Getrdone]

Looks awesome! I know the multi-color is gonna drive you nuts.

[LERM]

those flares make it look so much better/meaner!
cool!

Big tires, and low stance is the fix for just about anything huh? Thanks for the attaboys.


Looks awesome! I know the multi-color is gonna drive you nuts.
POST NUMBER ONE!? I'm honored.

Its already driving me nuts. My goal was to get the car into "raceable" condition with the new tires, and to deal with the finish work as I could... but I'm feeling pretty tempted to at least get the thing in a single color primer or something to make it less offensive looking. OR, i'll just satin black the flares to kinda match the hood.

And of course, now that the tires are on, and i'm itching to go racing... i'm pretty sure that my "new to me" 8.8 is on its way out.

I drove it to work, and am hearing some far less than bitchin' bearing noise from the rear of the car. bummed... but maybe its time to spring for some welded tubes, 9"bearing ends, a torsen, 3.55s and 31 spline axles... now... how to fund?

[andrewb70]

...... now... how to fund?

Too bad you can't put the hot trailer park girl with bolt-ons out on the street...LOL

Andrew

[1965gp]

Hot trailer park girl got bolt ons... love it.

[LERM]

Too bad you can't put the hot trailer park girl with bolt-ons out on the street...LOL
Andrew
Did you just suggest I.... Pimp my Ride?
133768




Hot trailer park girl got bolt ons... love it.
Glad i'm amusing someone besides myself!

[Chev Korbin]

LERM,.... dude.

Haven't been on in a while, but I am glad to see the progress with the mustang. Fender flares look gooooood,. the wide rims and tires give it some serious attitude. Bad ass man, just an awesome fox.

[LERM]

LERM,.... dude.

Haven't been on in a while, but I am glad to see the progress with the mustang. Fender flares look gooooood,. the wide rims and tires give it some serious attitude. Bad ass man, just an awesome fox.

Thanks Chev'! Its coming right along. I'm getting anxious to see it clean and painted... but unfortunately thats no where near the top of the priority list. I agree with the attitude though... if its going to be ugly it might as well look mean and ugly.

So, I got to go racing! Just going off comparing times to guys i've raced before its fair to say the tires made an improvement. I ran closer to them than ever before. That said, I sure didn't get the "WHOA! SO DAMN STICKY" feedback that I was expecting.

Granted:
Tires were used when I got them, so maybe fresh ones would be way better?
I hadn't raced the car in 4 months, so my basis for comparison might have been skewed.
My driving is still VERY much in need of improvement, and I know the tires can only fix so much overzealous right foot.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/12/received_10210840975084182-1.jpeg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/received_10210840975084182.jpeg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/12/FB_IMG_1480956630837-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/FB_IMG_1480956630837.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/12/received_10101355465827656-1.jpeg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/received_10101355465827656.jpeg.html)

[Josh@Ridetech]

Glad to see you've been enjoying the car man! I need to get mine out to some events before I get the urge to get rid of it, lol.

[wyattroa]

Glad to see you've been enjoying the car man! I need to get mine out to some events before I get the urge to get rid of it, lol.

Please never get rid of it...I still regret letting my 89 lx go...If I ever do it again though, it will be a notch.

[Josh@Ridetech]

Please never get rid of it...I still regret letting my 89 lx go...If I ever do it again though, it will be a notch.

It's been crossing my mind but I would have a hard time letting it go. I've got more time and money in this one than I ever thought was possible. The only way I'd let it go is if I were to stumble across a 2nd gen Firebird for the right deal.

[Josh@Ridetech]

Anything new??

[LERM]

Nothing terribly exciting. Ive spent some time fine tuning the for of the flares. Still a ways to go to say the least.

I had some rubbing issues with the 335s in the back last race. (Weird, right?) So I did some massaging with my favorite bfh, and added a 1/4 wheel spacer. Luckily I had the foresight to add some extended studs to the axles last time it was all apart in anticipation of this... (OR! It was just a lucky ass coincidence that the last 8.8 I bought came with them... Either way...)

Going to do some autocrossing in the morning though, so I'll get to see if I'm heading in the right direction at least.

Think "go-fast thoughts" for me.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/IMG_20170211_211724151-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170211_211724151.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/IMG_20170211_211926550-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170211_211926550.jpg.html)

[LERM]

Well I didn't win. AGAIN. "As long as you're having fun..." pffffft... :screwy:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/2121720results-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/2-12-17%20results.jpg.html)

I ended up 5th out of 21, and contrary to my ramblings above, i'm pretty damn stoaked. The car feels outstanding. Room for improvement sure... but MAN, has it come a long way since I started. So good in fact, that i'm going to go ahead and make it less ugly. I got ahold of the adhesives, fiberglass strand fillers etc that will be required to blend the flares... I don't think it will be a super fast process, but we'll see if I can't get all hopped up on Mtn. Dew and surprise myself.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/IMG_20170207_094258050-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170207_094258050.jpg.html)

Here's my best (and final) Lap of the day:


https://youtu.be/ATyZzCG-Fds

[Josh@Ridetech]

^^^ That looked like a lot of fun.

You've really got me wanting to throw flares on my car now...

[Jimbo1367]

Great score. These cars are getting scarce. Most people think they're Hemi Cuda convertibles.

[LERM]

Thanks for the atta'boys gents.

Some cool action shots from the last autocross. (DAMN this thing needs some paint! :D )
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/2121720Autocross2-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/2-12-17%20Autocross2.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/2121720Autocross-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/2-12-17%20Autocross.jpg.html)

The CAM Challenge is coming up in a couple weeks. They require different numbers than the normal SCCA events. Luckily, my Stepmonster has access to some pretty cool sticker makin' machines. So, while the car will still be 50 shades of grey for the big national event, at least it'll have some cool racecar inspired steekers.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/received_10155054834572238-1.png (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/received_10155054834572238.png.html)

My "new to me" GT bumper was missing the Ford emblem up front. So instead of ebay'n one, I had my Stepmonster make up something more appropriate for this turd. This is the second "Pile of a Mustang" in my group of racing buddies. Since its a clever way to label the car #2 and liken it to poop at the same time, its been labled "Deuce". This'll be in place of the Ford emblem up front for a while.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/received_10155054931722238-1.png (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/received_10155054931722238.png.html)

[Josh@Ridetech]

That first picture is badass!

[LERM]

So, I had plenty of other things I should have been doing... but I had received the "93 Cobra" style bumper extensions from Cervinis, and couldn't stand knowing that they were in a box.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/IMG_20170222_153910491_HDR-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170222_153910491_HDR.jpg.html)

Due to the fenders being pulled and the fiberglass flares, these were not at all a direct fit. I had to take a cutoff wheel to these BRAND NEW bumper extensions, and I can honestly say I was more reluctant to make the first cut than I was when I cut the rear quarter panels. (ridiculous I know.)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/IMG_20170224_172114551-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170224_172114551.jpg.html)

Surgery required to fit the extensions.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/IMG_20170224_193902343-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170224_193902343.jpg.html)

The official point when I couldn't stand how many colors I was seeing on this poor turd. The bolts visible on the bumper extensions were necessary because of how the pieces needed to twist. They come from Cervini's with adhesive tape that was not going to cut it. I'll look at doing some more tidy options for finial mounting, but the less than tidy bolts will at least keep me moving.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/ab018c93bfaa4a0c96e5814bf24ed65b-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/ab018c93-bfaa-4a0c-96e5-814bf24ed65b.jpg.html)

When I called it quits for the night, I was down to 3 colors on the car... 4 if you count the rust!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/IMG_20170224_220434124-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170224_220434124.jpg.html)

[Dalpilot]

I just read theough the whole thread. Awesome job. It makes me want to get a fox now,

[wyattroa]

I regret selling my 89 LX all the time. I had it when I was 16, 5.0, gt-40 intake, and a vortech supercharger...loved that car. If I were to do it again I would find a notch back...

[LERM]

I just read theough the whole thread. Awesome job. It makes me want to get a fox now,
You don't have to want. I'd trade you for that beautiful mustang in your avatar pic right this second. And thanks for the attaboys!


I regret selling my 89 LX all the time. I had it when I was 16, 5.0, gt-40 intake, and a vortech supercharger...loved that car. If I were to do it again I would find a notch back...
Thats a whole lot of car for a 16yr old. My best buddy in high school had a 89 convertible 5.0 as his first car. I can think of a couple times off hand that I almost died in it.

Poser pic (really cool to me since this is exactly what I pictured when I thought, " fox mustang autocross " from the start.) from a little rainy day shake down run before CAM Challenge:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170227_113737817-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170227_113737817.jpg.html)

All "mandatory" stickered up for the 2017 CAM Challenge West. (ok ok... and a couple that I thought were bitchin.)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170304_124144026_HDR-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170304_124144026_HDR.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170304_124135568-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170304_124135568.jpg.html)


The event was awesome. Fun course was plenty fast. I think there were 28 drivers in CAM-T alone. AWESOME turnout. I was running well even. I was well into the top 10 in class most the weekend. I was feeling pretty damn proud of my little beater.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170305_135301968-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170305_135301968.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170304_124213409-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170304_124213409.jpg.html)

Naturally, this self-esteem high could not last long. I got paired up against Mary Pozzi in the second round of brackets for the "Challenge". I was excited... but apparently my car was not. I was about 1/3 of the way through my run, feeling great when the car dropped the drivers side lower A-arm up front. An adjustable clevis on the two piece arm broke. Skewered the tire, and took a bite out of my fender and flare. BUMMER.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/IMG_20170305_164053409-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170305_164053409.jpg.html)

So, i'll be revisiting the adjustment in the arm. I'm going to look into replacing the clevis with something more robust, Pics of that whole operation to follow. I'll have a look about for a junkyard fender... so it looks like we'll be adding one more color. :hammer:

[Merritt5]

Damn, that's no bueno! Looking good though :twothumbs


What wheels are those?

[Josh@Ridetech]

Dang man. I bet that was a nice surprise when it happened! If you were closer I have a fender that you could have!

[CSG]

The lowers on my Bart's Works were not adjustable. I wonder which version is the later one.

[1965gp]

That sucks- this car was really coming together

- - - Updated - - -

Hope you can find another or fix the flare as they really give the car attitude

[LERM]

Damn, that's no bueno! Looking good though :twothumbs
What wheels are those?

It was definitely a less than bitchin' way to end the weekend. The wheels are just cheepo' XXR 531's. 18x11 on all 4.


Dang man. I bet that was a nice surprise when it happened! If you were closer I have a fender that you could have!
Thanks Josh. It was a "OH @#$%!!!" moment for sure. I have a fender actually, and I think the flare will be fixable. If I lived closer do you have a set of adjustable resivior coilovers laying around too? :cheers:


The lowers on my Bart's Works were not adjustable. I wonder which version is the later one.
The SLA I have has "HP Motorsports" markings on it. I believe this version was the last offered, when Bart Spivey was working with Paul Brown. (that said i'm not 100%sure?) The adjustment is a cool feature. I like the option of manipulating the wheelbase slightly, and the easier caster adjustment. I think my current plan is to replace all the hardware and put it back together as designed, just freshened up. I'll definitely keep a close eye on the clevis with each race.


That sucks- this car was really coming together

- - - Updated - - -

Hope you can find another or fix the flare as they really give the car attitude
Thanks for the kind words. I'm actually glad it happened now. I would have been 10x more bummed if I had spent all the time blending flares for this to happen! I was already considering making molds of the finished flares to create one piece fiberglass fenders and quarter panels. Its making even more sense to do so now.

Lateapexphoto.com posted some pretty damn cool action shots. (none of the car eating itself unfortunately!)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/2017CAMCHALLENGE1-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/2017CAMCHALLENGE1.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/2017CAMCHALLENGE3-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/2017CAMCHALLENGE3.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/2017CAMCHALLENGE2-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/2017CAMCHALLENGE2.jpg.html)

[LERM]

More than a month later... have not TOUCHED the poor thing. I did get some goodies in the mail a few days ago.

Some of FK's finest heims, and the most beefy clevis joints I could find. I was hoping for 4130, but could not find them anywhere. These clevis joints are at least bigger than what I broke.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/IMG_20170422_220958837-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/IMG_20170422_220958837.jpg.html)

Hoping to be racing again June 4... cross your fingers for me.

[blade]

Bummer on the fender and broken parts. That fender looks like it would straighten out pretty easily if you took it off of the car. The car is looking great!

[Wraith]

Love this shot!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/2017CAMCHALLENGE1-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/2017CAMCHALLENGE1.jpg.html)

[Josh@Ridetech]

Thanks Josh. It was a "OH @#$%!!!" moment for sure. I have a fender actually, and I think the flare will be fixable. If I lived closer do you have a set of adjustable resivior coilovers laying around too? :cheers:
]

lol, I can't say that I do... but I know a place that does!!:headbang:

[LERM]

Love this shot!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/03/2017CAMCHALLENGE1-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/2017CAMCHALLENGE1.jpg.html)

ME TOO! Looks tough as could be.


lol, I can't say that I do... but I know a place that does!!:headbang:

Worth a try! :D

I finally got the car back together and made it out for some racing... and was rewarded with my first win! 1st place in class out of 15 cars! I think its heading in the right direction. I'll be getting back to pecking at the body/paint idea next as long as this thing stays raceable.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/FB_IMG_1496781064368-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/FB_IMG_1496781064368.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/FB_IMG_1496781334851-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/FB_IMG_1496781334851.jpg.html)

[LERM]

I went to unload the car from the trailer after racing to find a puddle. I've had a slowly worsening leak from the timing chain cover that I had been putting off. It was more of a "wetness" than a leak, and well... its not fun to wrench when its not making anything faster or cooler looking.

The puddle was enough. Don't wanna be "that guy" who's car leaks everywhere...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/06/20170607_223712-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/20170607_223712.jpg.html)

I'm going to do some more clean up while i'm in here. Install some mechanical autometers that I scored a few weeks back. Maybe i'll even paint up what I can reach and add some fancy pants stainless hardware?

[horse_play_22]

My friend shared your build thread with me today, and i was very impressed with what you've done! Had to create a login for it so i can continue to follow. Have a few more questions though about your SLA, where did you find it? and who sold them originally?

[LERM]

My friend shared your build thread with me today, and i was very impressed with what you've done! Had to create a login for it so i can continue to follow. Have a few more questions though about your SLA, where did you find it? and who sold them originally?
Thanks for the kind words. I found my SLA on a "mustang roadracers" Facebook page. (It kinda found me, I wasn't a member of the page at the time. A friend sent me the link)

This is the "as I understand It" version, so don't take it as gospel. The system was originally designed by Bart Spivey. Later on the design was sold to HP Motorsports /Paul Brown who made some changes to optimize it for their American Iron efforts. The version I have is the later version. The kits are no longer produced or supported, but I did get a chance to talk to Bart Spivey personally about set up etc. Great guy.

I got lucky price wise and paid less for this hub to hub system with tube K member and all than I would have paid for MM coilovers alone.

If I hadn't stumbled onto this, I'd no doubt have done the MM coilovers

[LERM]

Ugh... I've been holding off figuring out the picture situation... Hoping that Photobucket would send out a, "Just kidding..."

Oh well. I'm still pecking away at really fitting the flares. It certainly takes more time than it did to stick them on with teckscrews... pics coming, when I figure out which is the most efficient way..

[Chev Korbin]

Me too,.. cant wait to see those flares.

[LERM]

Long time no check in!

Desert season, new baby, sun got in my eyes, took a bad hop... etc... excuses excuses.

But I have been pecking at this thing.

Had to adjust the door gap after flaring the bejeezus out of the front fenders:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/12/Arcl8Sw-1.jpg

Stuck the flares with some good 3m brand 2part adhesive and rivets:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/12/PXZE85H-1.jpg

Then used some 3m fiberglass strand filler for the seam:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/12/DiFwRYD-1.jpg

Then sanded.. and sanded...and sanded...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/12/GsTocYy-1.jpg

Then ran out of time... hosed it with primer, and went racing... and picked up mama's Christmas Tree on the way home from racing of course:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/12/xsvrL2d-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/12/xMU1wKM-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/12/K7lcePh-1.jpg

Next round is some higher quality flexible glazing puddy to make it smooth and pretty for paint.

[Z06killinSBF]

I still love this build, just badass and raw

[Josh@Ridetech]

Looks great man! I've always wanted to flare the fenders on mine, thanks for making me want to do them more! lol

[LERM]

More carnage. This time it was the Griggs panhard that let go. (To be fair, this is an older kit, it's seen some use... and sticky 335 use at that.)
148316

Rewelded and added a gusset for good measure... and even took the time to punch a speed hole. (Added 30hp, improved aero, and reduced weight... with but one dimple die hole.)
148317

And the embarrassing shots, shiney cool parts next to garbage. How about that shock bushing!?... ah, to hell with it, going racing Sunday!
148318
148319

[andrewb70]

Looks like the original weld had poor penetration.

Andrew

[LERM]

Got to do some "testing" of the panhard fix. So far so good. I think I've sufficiently cooked my front tires though. Freshies on the horizon.

148997

[LERM]

Forgot these two from last weekend...
149215
149216

......aaaand back on the damn Jack stands. Good news is that it's just for some oil, new (to me) rubber, and to put a wrench on everything that I've ignored for the last few races!
149217

[LERM]

Got some cool press for the car! Autoxandtrack.com did a feature on my hooptie hot rod.

check it out:
https://www.autoxandtrack.com/budget-autocross-fox-body/

[Josh@Ridetech]

Congrats man! Glad to see you're still having fun with the car!

[Chad-1stGen]

Hey Danny!

I thought I remembered reading more about your car somewhere but I didn't realize it was here lol.

[frink84]

oh hey friend. patiently awaiting Pile Deux updates

[Project Bike Truck]

oh hey friend. patiently awaiting Pile Deux updates

agree hope all is well old friend.

[Tig]

Love this build, everything about it. Nicely done
You pieced this car together perfectly. And to say the least, scored a sla front end.


Got some cool press for the car! Autoxandtrack.com did a feature on my hooptie hot rod.

check it out:
https://www.autoxandtrack.com/budget-autocross-fox-body/

Congrats on the article. Great read.
Love the end "Beat one of those damn Skittles colored 1st Gen Camaros" that's great.
You had mentioned something about more power. Do you still have the 331 sitting in the corner?
How has the T5 been holding up?

Looking forward to your updates.

[LERM]

Thanks everybody!

Frink, BikeTruck, Chad, cool to see you friends in here!

Tig- Those "Skittles Guys" are friggun fast. Gotta set goals! I still have the other motor. Its still covered in dust. Im trying like hell to get my old truck on the road before i do the motor in the mustang.

I did just get some new to me coilovers on the car though. I built some really simple lower mounts similar to how MM builds theirs.

Still racing as often as I can make it out, and pecking at the body as i can.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/20180709_215831-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/20180709_215831.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/20180610_153201-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/20180610_153201.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/FB_IMG_1531251592443-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/FB_IMG_1531251592443.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/FB_IMG_1531251583164-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/FB_IMG_1531251583164.jpg.html)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2018/07/FB_IMG_1531251572970-1.jpg (http://s641.photobucket.com/user/motorbreath53/media/EightyNine/FB_IMG_1531251572970.jpg.html)

[Z06killinSBF]

Do you drive it with no seatbelt?

[Chad-1stGen]

How'd the coil overs work out?

[LERM]

Do you drive it with no seatbelt?
I have a crow harness lap belt that i've been running since I can sinch myself down into the seat with it. As soon as the car is caged i'll wear the full 4 point. Admittedly, I should wear the stock belt too... and likely will now that you called me out!

How'd the coil overs work out?
The car has never felt better. Interesting to me that i'm still pulling the front tire with a 400lb coilover spring in the back though.

I need to get rid of my 4.10's next. I was running out of gear in three different spots this last weekend.