$5000 budget Mustang

[LSXZ28]

No problem Ron! I'm glad I got to try that using my truck as the work bench for loading a tune - always wondered how that would work - it's really easy (once you pull the radio fuse LOL!). And since I have the extra PCM, I can actually do swap outs like we did - that works pretty good for the cases where a person needs a base tune to start the car before bringing it to me!

[Ron S]

Just picked up the front end and my kids Jeep bumper, from the coater. Hope I'm not sorry I did the bars in body color, but I'm sick of the black. Hope to finally fire up tonight. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/858071124_fUKotL-1.jpg

[srh3trinity]

We'll keep our fingers crossed for you. I like the blue on the front section.

[LSXZ28]

Looks good Ron... I like the blue.

Call me when she's runnin - I'm curious how nasty that cam is (hopefully it will idle with that tune)...

[Ron S]

Will call you as soon as get it running,can't get over all the little crap that is slowing me down. Work is going crazy, but hoping to motivate Friday night Ron

[Jim Nilsen]

Will call you as soon as get it running,can't get over all the little crap that is slowing me down. Work is going crazy, but hoping to motivate Friday night Ron

The LITTLE CRAP took me another 3 days than it could have. You are doing some major changes and that takes a lot of work and you do it faster than anyone I know.

The new heads were just a bit different enough my headers lost the 1/4 in. clearance to the bellhousing. Could just be the thinner new gaskets? had to trim a bit and then the angle plug change etc.

You will know how much you like the new stuff when you take it back out to fix something. I have learned it takes a lot to make it easy.

Hope to hear it fire up this week.

[Dakota-M]

I just love this car got my 30X40 Print of it, and my son did this R/C Body of your car, he also wants me to make a real body like your car for his R/C car ,and now he is also pressing me to get working on his 1966 Mustang Coupe.

http://app0.hostedsitebuilder.com/Sites/7e4eaec2-6887-404d-85df-0115d758d529/MyImages/The%20Ron%20Sang.jpg

[John Wright]

can't get over all the little crap that is slowing me down. Dude, you are a fabricating fool....love your drive and git-R-dun attitude. Wish some of that would rub off on me....LOL I know what you mean about stuff slowing you down. I've been fabricating marching band equipment for my son's marching band. They have 30 year old equipment and all of the stands and rolling carts were made of wood and falling apart, plus they looked really huge and bulky...so I volunteered to build all new frames out of 2x2x11GA square tubing and put larger castors on them so it will be easier to roll out onto the 50 yard line.....keep up the good work Ron, the new front clip looks good in blue.

[Ron S]

Wow, really dig the rc car, love the black centers in the wheels. Ron


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[Dakota-M]

My son said thanks, and also said that he just loves your Mustang and all the work you have done and keep doing, and that you have inspired him to work harder for what he wants out of his Project and I also feel it has helped him to see how hard you work to make this car work out for you and what you want ~ so now its not just dad telling him to work hard and never give up on your dreams, he can see it in your work and love of what you do.

So I thank you for that.

This build of yours is like a good book that you just can't put down plus it has pictures also. LOL


Marty

[Ron S]

Mothers day has me a little backed up, but got the front end on, and ready to fire, color is pretty close. My fuel rails are leaking like a sieve, so I've now got to figure that out before I can start it. Work is swamped so I'm not getting home from work till 8pm most nights, and can't get much wrench time in. Sooner or later I'll drive it again. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/861348334_JYB94L-1.jpg

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[bonecrrusher]

Looking good man...

You like the KDW2's? I just ripped up the smokies and part of the blue ridge parkway and they handled very nicely!

[srh3trinity]

I like the coil pack placement. Nice forward thinking to make a bracket for them.

[LSx_88_Ciera]

You need a decal, license plate frame or something that says "Built Ford Tuff With Chevy Stuff" Definitely one of the nicest Muttstangs I have ever seen.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

Thanks Ron.. i now have a Boner... on Mothers day, Ron... a boner.

thanks.

[Ron S]

Thanks Ron.. i now have a Boner... on Mothers day, Ron... a boner.

thanks.

Its always funny until someone puts an eye out. Keep that thing to yourself. Ron

[LSXZ28]

Looks great Ron! Those fuel rails can be a PITA, mine leaked like crazy too - had to tighten the crap out of them...

[John Wright]

That does look good blue.....looks awsome.

[csx4766]

Like everyone on the forum I am just blown away by your workmanship and drive. Just looks awesome. Are you a fabricator by trade? If not you certainly have a backup plan.:)

[syborg tt]

man i just love this thread !!!!!!

[Payton King]

snappy dancer...if his regular gig goes south I think he is going to pursue his dream on Broadway, so I guess fabricator could be his back up to his back up.

[Ron S]

Now thats just silly, everybody knows my first love is the ballet. Any job that allows you to wear a tu tu, is the gig for me. Sometimes my wife catches me welding in my tights, its a little uncomfortable (for her). Ron

[PhillipM]

Thats a lot of blue under there now!

[Ron S]

As mild as the old set up sounded, this sounds just nasty. The 4bbl throttle body acts just like a carb with its progressive linkage, i think it will be easy to bring out soft at the drag strip. Still looks like a trophy truck though. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/867858923_LhnbUL-1.jpg

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[Bryce]

that looks awesome!

What color is that again?

[LSXZ28]

Glad to hear its running Ron! Did it seem to idle ok with that base tune?

[RS_Customs]

Need some video with sound! Share the noise! LOL

Congrats on getting it running.

Robert

[Chad-1stGen]

Yeah you can't post an update like that without video!

[Ron S]

that looks awesome!

What color is that again?


Its 2010 Mustang Grabber Blue.

[1970cuda]

incredible car and build but can you tell me about the special radiator cap you are using...lol

[Bjkadron]

Hey Ron, I think you have a leak somewhere..

Otherwise... IT LOOKS AWESOME!!!

[Ron S]

Glad to hear its running Ron! Did it seem to idle ok with that base tune?


Yeah Brett idles pretty good, and sounds pretty snappy. Odd, it acts like the cam sensor is not hooked up when it starts.Will try to start 180 out then you turn the key off and try again and it fires right up. I don't know if that is the crank learn you were talking about or not.Have to get the brakes up before I can take it out and flog it. Ron

[Bryce]

Its 2010 Mustang Grabber Blue.

Thanks Ron. Thats a great color.

[makoshark]

WOW! I`ll pay you $6000 to build my 67 Camaro for $5000 like you did your mustang:rolleyes: Not a Ford fan, but great looking car you got there!!

[LSXZ28]

Yeah Brett idles pretty good, and sounds pretty snappy. Odd, it acts like the cam sensor is not hooked up when it starts.Will try to start 180 out then you turn the key off and try again and it fires right up. I don't know if that is the crank learn you were talking about or not.Have to get the brakes up before I can take it out and flog it. Ron

Good news! Go easy on it till we have a wideband on it and see what the fueling looks like. We can try a crank relearn - I'm sure it needs it with the various parts that you have put together...

[454bug]

EVERYTHING looks GREAT Ron! :1st:

I know you're ready to get it back on the road... :drive:

[LSXZ28]

You ready?? I'm lookin forward to tomorrow!

[Ron S]

I'll be there, but this thing is killing. Took it for its maiden voyage the rear caliper mounting allen bolt heads snapped off,caliper came off and got into the wheel, go figure, worked fine last year when I parked it.

Fixed that and can't get the oil tank to stop leaking, have pulled the front clip off two times to fix it, seemed to be fine until I put the front end back on, and it ran a bit. Its a minor leak, but man its pissing me off.

The air cleaner is hitting the hood. So, the front clip is half assed bolted on, because I will have to pull it back off when I get back home.

When it fights you that bad, some times you need to walk away. I
need to get this tune done, so I'll definitely be there. See you tomorrow. Ron

[RS_Customs]

Fixed that and can't get the oil tank to stop leaking, have pulled the front clip off two times to fix it, seemed to be fine until I put the front end back on, and it ran a bit. Its a minor leak, but man its pissing me off.



AN fittings? They are easy to over tighten. Any chance you have a cracked one?

Robert

[Jim Nilsen]

I'll be there, but this thing is killing. Took it for its maiden voyage the rear caliper mounting allen bolt heads snapped off,caliper came off and got into the wheel, go figure, worked fine last year when I parked it.

Fixed that and can't get the oil tank to stop leaking, have pulled the front clip off two times to fix it, seemed to be fine until I put the front end back on, and it ran a bit. Its a minor leak, but man its pissing me off.

The air cleaner is hitting the hood. So, the front clip is half assed bolted on, because I will have to pull it back off when I get back home.

When it fights you that bad, some times you need to walk away. I
need to get this tune done, so I'll definitely be there. See you tomorrow. Ron

I keep wondering how those GREMLINS can seem to find places to show up like that caliper bolt and the leak. I understand what it's like to keep taking the car apart. I keep thinking that we both have taken our cars apart more than anyone here other than Steve Rupp,LOL

The good thing about it all is we are getting faster at taking them apart and they seem to be getting easier each time but that doesn't mean we need more practice , somtimes it feels like this :bsjerk: and not very good, LOL.

[Ron S]

No, its a 3/8" NPT fitting in the bottom of the tank used to drain the tank. I put an elbow on it to make it easier to drain, I've tried two different fittings. After I tune it, I will pull the tank back out, throw the fitting across the shop and just put a regular pipe plug in it. Its all the little things that kick your butt. Ron

[LSXZ28]

No, its a 3/8" NPT fitting in the bottom of the tank used to drain the tank. I put an elbow on it to make it easier to drain, I've tried two different fittings. After I tune it, I will pull the tank back out, throw the fitting across the shop and just put a regular pipe plug in it. Its all the little things that kick your butt. Ron

Weld the fitting to the tank...

[Payton King]

why I did not hear from you....now I know. I would not want to speak with anybody either if my stuff was kicking my ass.

Hopefully you will get it tuned today and all the other problems will seem minor.

[ledoux67]

Man just read all 53 pages and i am impressed. Far from 5000.00 but very nice.

[LSXZ28]

That is one bada$$ little car! That was a fun ride this afternoon - maybe someday I could get a ride along on a track...

Thanks for letting me be a part of another one of your projects Ron! I love what I do when I get to work with great people on awesome cars...
Bret

[hivewax]

Lucky the caliper didn't fall off while on the track. Thread-lock is good insurance. That kind of stuff scares the hell out of me... reminds me to inspect all bolts regularly.

[Ron S]

First of all, I want to say thanks for all your help Brett. I know I haven't given you an easy one to tune yet, and you have never let me down.

The car laid down 573.7 Hp @ 6150, and 520 ft lbs @ 5450. needless to say I'm very pleased. Brett and I think the dyno was a bit generous, but the seat of the pants impressions are pretty impressive.

With my old $300 LS1, the car at full tilt could never get to the ragged edge, wasn't at all scary. That sure has changed, the car is always on the ragged edge now, a bit stupid truthfully. Like always in about two weeks time, I'll get used to it, and want to go faster.

Kind of funny, spent 9k to build the car, the upgrades since then have probably totaled 13K. 22K is a far cry from the inital 5K budget.

Still have a pile of things to fix and finish, but that is one big hurdle behind me, thanks again Brett. Ron

[troyboy468]

Congrats Ron, nice power upgrade there. Sure beats my old dirt filled shortblock...lol

[avewhtboy]

glad to hear she's back on the road and meaner than before!

have you weighed it yet in new form? sounds like you have
a nice power/weight ratio going I cant wait to see how it performs

[Rybar]

Nice numbers Ron, are those RW #'s??

[Ron S]

Yeah 573 rear wheel horse power, I just like saying that.LOL

[Rybar]

Yeah 573 rear wheel horse power, I just like saying that.LOL

Very impressive, what are the specs on the motor? It's an LS7 with a carb style EFI intake right? Did you do any cam or headwork? I can't recall.

[Ron S]

Stock LS7, switched to 24 count reluctor, 4bbl type intake, 1375 Fast throttle body, and Schwartz performance cam, and springs. The LS7 heads are cnc ported from the factory. It really is hard to beleive you can make that kind of HP with a production naturally aspirated 427, on 93 octane gas.

[Ron S]

glad to hear she's back on the road and meaner than before!

have you weighed it yet in new form? sounds like you have
a nice power/weight ratio going I cant wait to see how it performs

I plan on weighing the the thing as soon as get some access to some scales. The car ended up much heavier then I thought, and really isn't alot of places to loose any weight. I figure 3200lbs is pretty much where this car will live.

[Bjkadron]

Kind of funny, spent 9k to build the car, the upgrades since then have probably totaled 13K. 22K is a far cry from the inital 5K budget. Ron

But put it into perspective? What other car can you get like this for 22k?

[Payton King]

The E Ticket ride at motor State.

[Ron S]

Hood is rubbing the hell out of that giant air cleaner. Pulled the hood off tonight, and cut slots in it. Will reshape to fit over the air cleaner, then fiberglass it all back together. Like I've always said, make the body fit the car, not the car fit the body.

The oil tank just won't stop leaking, I guess I'll tig the bung closed , and weld in a second one. What a pain.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/877968431_ikC6wL-1.jpg

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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/877968396_zDrmRL-1.jpg

[Jim Nilsen]

Hey Ron, do you ever get an even break on a mod? I sometimes wonder if we both keep having these problems becuse we have the fiberglass front Vette springs in our cars, after all it is the only like part we both have and it seems we just have to keep changing things to fit the things we change , LOL.

It looks like it is going to be 5 times the car you started out building and at 5 times the cost. Just $3,000 more to go, where are you going to spend it?

[68byrd]

Ron, you are the definition of a problem solver. Looking good. Thanks for posting so much and putting up so many pictures.

[Ron S]

Sadly, this cell phone pic is the only dyno pic I got. Did I mention it made 573 RWHP. LOL

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/878826043_ZVqHnL-1.jpg

[LSXZ28]

Hey, who's the goof in your car?? Oh, wait... :idea:


Did a 346 ci Vette today with built engine and a procharger pushin 8#s of boost - 615rwhp/550rwtq... just to give you a reference on that dyno. Coulda got alot more out of it, but the owner didn't want to mess with the meth system, so I told him not to push it any more than that on pump gas.

[71RS/SS396]

I'm not suprised by the dyno numbers. The LS-7's really respond to getting the stock emissions based cam out. I just finished one too, put in forged pistons, cam and springs everything else is stock and made 638 hp at the crank and still idles at 700 rpm and enough vaccum to use a/c. Amazing engines!

[Ron S]

What really amazes me I think, is when figure driveline loss. If you figure 20% loss, thats 717HP. If you figure 15% loss thats 675HP. Pretty amazing, way back when it took a mountain motor and nitrous to pull those kind of numbers.

[71RS/SS396]

Yeah and you couldn't seriously consider street driving it!

[bonecrrusher]

Can I ask what the vent tube on the car intake is for?

I've seen those on ebay.

[preston]

Just a guess but the race teams probably use that to record or measure what kind of air pressure they are seeing in the intake.

Ron do you know the specs on that cam ?
Do you know what you're idle rpm/vacuum is ?
What brand of dyno was that ?
What is your exhaust system comprised of again ?

[Ron S]

Just a guess but the race teams probably use that to record or measure what kind of air pressure they are seeing in the intake.

Ron do you know the specs on that cam ?
Do you know what you're idle rpm/vacuum is ?
What brand of dyno was that ?
What is your exhaust system comprised of again ?

I promised Jeff Schwartz, I'd keep the cam specs secret. its around 630 lift,240's duration

Its idling around 950, I haven't checked vacuum

The dyno, I have never heard of, Dynacom? My tuner and I think it was pretty generous

Exhaust is 1 3/4 Pacesetter long tubes, about 12" of 3" pipes and homemade mufflers which exit out the quarter panels.

[Ron S]

Can I ask what the vent tube on the car intake is for?

I've seen those on ebay.

The air cleaner came from a Nascar team, I got it off Ebay. I beleive they use it to spray something in there in case they stall and can't get it started, but I'm not sure. I've got it plugged, it would be a pain to remove. Ron

[John Wright]

The air cleaner came from a Nascar team, I got it off Ebay. I beleive they use it to spray something in there in case they stall and can't get it started, but I'm not sure. probably a squirt of ether or something like that when the driver stalls it on pit road.

[Ron S]

FINALLY!, got all the oil leak stopped. The oil tank which I got off Ebay,had a hairline crack in it which I could not find, only leaked when it got hot. Was hoping to have the new grill and front bumper made before Motorstate, but it looks like thats not going to happen. This is turning into the one step forward and two steps back project. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/883694943_sx93hL-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

FINALLY!, got all the oil leak stopped. The oil tank which I got off Ebay,had a hairline crack in it which I could not find, only leaked when it got hot. Was hoping to have the new grill and front bumper made before Motorstate, but it looks like thats not going to happen. This is turning into the one step forward and two steps back project. Ron


Glad you got the leak fixed! Did you find it before welding up your cheater drain?

Robert

[Ron S]

Welded a new fitting in the bottom, and it still leaked. Then I found the tiny crack on the back side of the tank.While I had it out, I moved the return fitting to get it a little farther away from the headers. Ron

[David Sloan]

Man i know the frustration it's always the little thing's that ware you out.
But when there done the fun begins!

Wish you were going to be able to bring it back to Ga. this year would love to see it again.

[Ron S]

Now that the mechanics seem to be working, I can look at cleaning up some of the appearance stuff. I started fiberglassing the hood back together tonight, hoping to add a little length to the back, and of course some height to the middle. Hope to have it in color by the weekend. Debating on whether to start cutting on the front nose/bumper after the hood, or wait till after Motorstate.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/886839700_ZihxdL-1.jpg

[bonecrrusher]

You got 3 weeks till the Challenge?

I'd wait until after, are you going on the Power Tour?

[Ron S]

I would love to do the Power Tour, but its my companies busy season, and just can't get away. I haven't been getting home from work until late everyday, which isn't leaving much wrenching time. I'll be at Motorstate for sure, but I was hoping to have the car spruced up a bit more. It serves me right for not doing this crap over the winter, who cares, its no beauty queen anyway. Ron

[68byrd]

I hope someone has a video camera at Motorstate and posts some footage. I'll bet the LS7 sounds amazing through the custom mufflers.

[Ron S]

Made some aluminum panels to keep the road crud off the shiney new engine. Next thing you know this thing will have cup holders. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/890368970_a2nULL-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

Made some aluminum panels to keep the road crud off the shiney new engine. Next thing you know this thing will have cup holders. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/890368970_a2nULL-1.jpg

lol, good looking part!

By the post time, your up way too early for a Saturday.

Robert

[David Sloan]

Ha Ha your one to talk about early! LOL!! ( Mr lunch time!) You know i just busten your Balls!!


lol, good looking part!

By the post time, your up way too early for a Saturday.

Robert

Ron thoses panels look good, Thank's for the advice on the seats i order ours yesterday.
What do you mean you dont have a cup holder!LOL!! You think this is a race car or something.

[Jim Nilsen]

I just use the same cup holder that the woman who spilled the coffee at McDonald's used and got burned,lol. At least that place is where I hold mine.:lol:

I almost did my inner fenders like yours but decided to make sure I didn't get dents from the bottom side from rocks, it sure looks good that way.

Only 2 weeks left before Gingerman :yum:

[Ron S]

Only 2 weeks left before Gingerman :yum:

Don't I know it Jim, kind of wishing I would have just stuck another junkyard LS1 in there. It seems like I'm building the car all over again. Ron

[LSXZ28]

kind of wishing I would have just stuck another junkyard LS1 in there. It seems like I'm building the car all over again. Ron

Then you need to go out there and take it for a ride... that'll remind you that you are glad you didn't just stick another junkyard LS1 in there :smoke:

[Jim Nilsen]

Don't I know it Jim, kind of wishing I would have just stuck another junkyard LS1 in there. It seems like I'm building the car all over again. Ron

I thought for 2 days about going with an LS engine and then went with the new gen1 long block because of the exact reason of having to rebuild the whole car again basically for the LS engine. So much more than just the engine has to change that it becomes almost impossible to make a schedule around the new parts and labor involved.

I know I am glad for my new engine and I think you will be very pleased when you are behind or ahead of the leaders by a very small amount because of the new engines power. I think my setup pulls as hard as Bad Penny did last year but now that has changed and Steve has even more power and better gears, it was my gearing that gave me an edge and now that is gone.

Good thing I am only in this for the fun, thinking I can compete is futile to my budget. Now if they made a class that said the owner had to do most all of the work , 90% or more,I would get my ass handed to me by you still but I might actually be in the top five instead of the top 35,lol. There also might only be you,me and Matt,Randy,Herb and a couple of others. I personally would like to see that kind of class made to bring the reality of our skills count rather than the $$$$ spent. It could even be divided by the amount of $$$ invested. The under $50,000 cars would be a good dividing line that seperates us? More cars will allow more classes as we grow !


LET'S JUST GO HAVE FUN !!!!!!

[Bjkadron]

I thought for 2 days about going with an LS engine and then went with the new gen1 long block because of the exact reason of having to rebuild the whole car again basically for the LS engine. So much more than just the engine has to change that it becomes almost impossible to make a schedule around the new parts and labor involved.

I know I am glad for my new engine and I think you will be very pleased when you are behind or ahead of the leaders by a very small amount because of the new engines power. I think my setup pulls as hard as Bad Penny did last year but now that has changed and Steve has even more power and better gears, it was my gearing that gave me an edge and now that is gone.

Good thing I am only in this for the fun, thinking I can compete is futile to my budget. Now if they made a class that said the owner had to do most all of the work , 90% or more,I would get my ass handed to me by you still but I might actually be in the top five instead of the top 35,lol. There also might only be you,me and Matt,Randy,Herb and a couple of others. I personally would like to see that kind of class made to bring the reality of our skills count rather than the $$$$ spent. It could even be divided by the amount of $$$ invested. The under $50,000 cars would be a good dividing line that seperates us? More cars will allow more classes as we grow !


LET'S JUST GO HAVE FUN !!!!!!


Classes for what?

[Ron S]

Got to take the car out for the first time and really wring it out on some country roads, what a handfull, it is absolutely a different car then I started with. Still doesn't have a hood on it yet, and I'm contemplating a gear swap, but man does it pull with the 4:10's.

[Ron S]

Classes for what?


I think Jim is talking about the race events that we run, there are a few guys that are always at the top of the heap.Us peons are always hoping to compete, but the competition is stiff, and we rarely do.

[John Wright]

I'm contemplating a gear swap, but man does it pull with the 4:10's.
LOL...superman gears....I love em...however, if you're getting alot of wheelspin, maybe a lower numerical gear would help?

[Jim Nilsen]

I think Jim is talking about the race events that we run, there are a few guys that are always at the top of the heap.Us peons are always hoping to compete, but the competition is stiff, and we rarely do.

Yep ,that's what I am talking about.

When Rocky said: "I could have been a contender" sums it up if you can fit yourself to be top in your class.

You feel like you are bringing a knife to a gun fight at times.

[Ron S]

Pulled the car in tonight to start the gear swap. My old Dodge Power Wagon had mismatched rears in it,4:10's in the front and 3:54's in the rear, so I pulled the rear gears out to stick in the Mustang. I'll put the 4:10's back in the old Dodge after Motorstate (everything is a project!)

Found the bearing and retainer ring on the Moser axles had moved about 1/16",I guess from the side loads, I think I'll replace them and tack the ring to the axle with the tig.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/894804848_9AYQvL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/894804749_TNpb6L-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

Pulled the car in tonight to start the gear swap. My old Dodge Power Wagon had mismatched rears in it,4:10's in the front and 3:54's in the rear, so I pulled the rear gears out to stick in the Mustang. I'll put the 4:10's back in the old Dodge after Motorstate (everything is a project!)

Found the bearing and retainer ring on the Moser axles had moved about 1/16",I guess from the side loads, I think I'll replace them and tack the ring to the axle with the tig.



From side load? No way that car gets side load......... aren't muscle cars just for drag racing, :lmao:.

Robert

[troyboy468]

hey....when did you get a lift? oh wait....anybody need a ls7 or other simulated mustang parts?...lol

[MSTSFabbed]

I forgot you had the truck arm setup in there. Looks good from the bottom too! :)

[Ron S]

hey....when did you get a lift? oh wait....anybody need a ls7 or other simulated mustang parts?...lol

Yeah, thanks for letting me use the lift Troy.

[LSXZ28]

Glad to see your gonna make it to Motorstate! Can't wait to see how you like that new power on the track!

[John Wright]

4.10's Yum, yum.

I love that gear....

[Ron S]

Got to cruise the car a bit with the 3:54 gears, really feels alot different. As expected, not near as snappy out of the hole, but way nicer on the big end. Should be better for AutoX and the road courses, don't know if it will help or hurt at the drags.

Really need to start smearing some mud on the hood,haven't touched it since I started fiberglassing it back together. Once again, I'll be still bolting parts on as it goes on the trailer for Motorstate

[John Wright]

I mis-understood your previous post about the gearing....so...you had already had a taste of the 4.10's...LOL

[Jim Nilsen]

Got to cruise the car a bit with the 3:54 gears, really feels alot different. As expected, not near as snappy out of the hole, but way nicer on the big end. Should be better for AutoX and the road courses, don't know if it will help or hurt at the drags.



Taller rear gears are always better for everything except the dragway. I love having the longer pull in each gear and the overlap that comes with it. Your trans is a lot different in gearing than mine so the 3:54 gears might be in comparison taller than my 3:07 rear but it still makes for a better car in my opinion.

1 WEEK to go and I too am going to be trying to finish things up as I leave.

[Rhino]

I'm really not sure, I will probably put ford valve covers on it, but I want to get it set in the chassis to see how everything fits first. Don't really know why I'm considering the Ford parts on it, its alot more work, and its not like I'm fooling anybody. Just being an Ahole I guess. Ron

What do you have to do to make the 351 valve covers fit an LS motor? A friend is also dropping one into a '69 mustang and would like to dress it as a ford.

[LSXZ28]

You go to GA yet Ron? BTW - sold the Camaro, so I am carless now :crying: But at least we have some more cash to put into the house and get ready for our baby girl!

[Ron S]

Actually Motorstate is in Michigan, I leave tonight. Driving straight though tonight 10 hrs, caffine is my freind.

The car isn't done, but its done enough to run the hell out of it. Kinda feel sorry for the thing, I see nothing but abuse in its future. Ron

[HectorM52]

LOL - good luck and get lots of video for us!!

[LSXZ28]

Have a safe trip! Good luck and have a great time!

[John Wright]

OK Ron...spill it...how did it do out there at MSC?

[Ron S]

You will have to ask Bill for the totals. Out of 80 cars, I made it to the sweet 16 shoot out on the road course, and finished 8th. On the AutoX, I thought I heard I was 6th, but I'm not sure. I'm pretty happy because of my lack of seat time in the car, and the fact that there were some crazy fast stuff there.I did beat Jackass in the AutoX which made me happy,VERY VERY competitive feild.

My inexperience really held me back. Finch and I were racing at one point, and I quickly found out that driving experience trumps horsepower. I had more Hp then he did, but he carried so much more speed out of the turns that he would just sling shot past me coming out of the turn, I would chase him down on the straights, but he just got further and further away.(Finch can drive). I really don't know what I'm doing, but man was it fun. Ron

[John Wright]

I really don't know what I'm doing, but man was it fun. Ron
That is what it's all about....glad you had a good time(...and didn't report back with a story about a list of broken parts)...LOL, that makes it even more fun. Bet you're tired after hauling all the way out there...getting worn out having fun and then haulin the mail back.

[srh3trinity]

I would chase him down on the straights, but he just got further and further away.(Finch can drive).

When I read this, I wondered why the phrase "Finch can drive" sounded so familiar and then I remembered the part in Talladega Knights where John C. Reilly says "Frenchie can drive." Congrats on a successful outing. Should be fun to see you progress as a driver as you get the car sorted out more and more. Have fun with it!

[LSXZ28]

Thanks again for the call Ron! Glad to hear you had a great time and the car performed well for you! I'm sure with some more seat time, you will be whoopin up on them guys even more! Let us know if anyone posts up pics or videos...

[Ron S]

Buddy P sent me this,trying to figure how to post his video
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/06/910530433_ax5ZKL-1.jpg

[brans72]

That is a sick picture love the CAR!!!

[Flash68]

yeah ^^ love that pic!

[RS_Customs]

Buddy P sent me this,trying to figure how to post his video

Awesome! Can't wait to get another ride...........if you'll let me, lol. Glad you got it running around the tracks again.

I think you have to host video's on a site like Photobucket and link them.

Robert

[Krazed]

OR make a youtube account, and upload it there and then host it. Alternatively, you could email me the photo to my gmail and I can edit and post it for you. PM Me for details, I have lots of ways I can help.

[Krazed]

Here's that video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20I8vNuL7Cs

[Ron S]

Thanks, shows how I was breaking way too early, sounds cool though. Thanks again, Ron

[rixtrix1]

Sure looks and sounds good on the track, Ron!

[Ron S]

Car is once again sidelined for some braking issues, so I desided to finish the lower grill screen, and build one for the upper. Turned out pretty nice, but I'm not sure if I like it. Still have to paint the hood,and hook up the fuel pressure gauge before next weekend. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/935045714_q2my2L-1.jpg


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/935045751_oERQzL-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

Car is once again sidelined for some braking issues, so I desided to finish the lower grill screen, and build one for the upper. Turned out pretty nice, but I'm not sure if I like it. Still have to paint the hood,and hook up the fuel pressure guage before next weekend. Ron


Great fab as alway!

Not sure, but maybe black out the mesh will make it stand out/look better?? Something doesn't hit me with the flat stock on the surround of the lower one, but probably looks a lot different in person. Might be it's one of the few things with a flat area on the body of the car?

Oh hope you going to leave the hood black, lol.

Robert

[Z06killinSBF]

I had a chrome mesh much like that in mine and it looked too gaudy IMO so I took it out and painted everything black. I think yours would look better it you coated it in a satin black.

[Z06killinSBF]

Before:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

After: (I have since painted the dryer and radiator black and removed the grills on the brake ducting)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Ron S]

I really hate this fiberglass nose,bumper. Fitment is terrible, and it just doesn't look right. I'm thinking of constructing a new one, alittle boxier with an integral splitter. I've got something pictured in my head that I think would improve the front of the car , I'm just way too busy right now to start on it.

Once I get this car outside and gander at it for a while I'll probably paint the grill black. It kind of hard to tell how I will like it until I get it outside. Ron

[HectorM52]

A big "no" on the silver. Go with the black. At least until you can do what you really want to do.

[GM Muscle]

im going to agree with black..

[Z06killinSBF]

I think if you fab'd a chin spoiler from the new Mustangs on it , that would look cool.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[LSXZ28]

Hey Ron - how about something like this? I'm not too great with the photo software, but you get the idea... And you should leave the hood satin black and powder coat the grill inserts satin black too... my 2 cents :)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Ron S]

Its funny, I had a solid top with a a chin spoiler or splitter pictured, so your both mind readers.lol Like the flares I can't wait to have the time to construct it, and can't wait to here the Ford guys send me ugly e-mails about how I further ruined a good car. Ron

[txoutlaw]

Hey Ron, I love your car. Believe it or not I just saw this thread a few days ago. I know, I know where the H3LL have I been! Truth is I have not really had a lot of time to do any thing but take care of my 10yo son who has Cystic Fibrosis. He and I just picked up a 67 Cougar ($200) that would be perfect for a project similar to yours. The only draw back is the lack of sheet metal for these cars. However the scarcity of these cars on the street make us really want to build it. I was just wondering if you or anyone else who reads this could or would be interested in helping us find parts for our build. I don't get much time to play on the computer searching for stuff. I think I've got truck arms found so far. But thats about it. I will be building the frame out of 2x3 or 2x4 and wanted to flatter you by near imitation.;-). Your build was just so frackin inspiring that I cant resist the temptation. We already have a Motor for it (557 ford stroker, 800hp on pump gas) only problem with the motor is it seems to gravitate to gas stations. LOL Bottom line is that I'm stay at home dad since I retired from Law Enforcement to take care of him. However I have good fab skills and have since built a Motorsport/Fabrication shop to try and help supplement our income.

As far as your new nose I have always liked the splitters. if nothing else they make great lawn mowers when you screw up!

Any way keep up the unbelievable job and drive it like it's sponsored!!!!

[txoutlaw]

One more quick question, what happened to the original wheels that you started with?

[Z06killinSBF]

What about clear (or colored) plexi screwed over it covering the opening with some hella big driving lights behind it?

Kinda like this but in the center. (it goes with your Vette engine for crying out loud!!)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/opz6sg-1.jpg

[Ron S]

Hey Ron, I love your car. Believe it or not I just saw this thread a few days ago. I know, I know where the H3LL have I been! Truth is I have not really had a lot of time to do any thing but take care of my 10yo son who has Cystic Fibrosis. He and I just picked up a 67 Cougar ($200) that would be perfect for a project similar to yours. The only draw back is the lack of sheet metal for these cars. However the scarcity of these cars on the street make us really want to build it. I was just wondering if you or anyone else who reads this could or would be interested in helping us find parts for our build. I don't get much time to play on the computer searching for stuff. I think I've got truck arms found so far. But thats about it. I will be building the frame out of 2x3 or 2x4 and wanted to flatter you by near imitation.;-). Your build was just so frackin inspiring that I cant resist the temptation. We already have a Motor for it (557 ford stroker, 800hp on pump gas) only problem with the motor is it seems to gravitate to gas stations. LOL Bottom line is that I'm stay at home dad since I retired from Law Enforcement to take care of him. However I have good fab skills and have since built a Motorsport/Fabrication shop to try and help supplement our income.

As far as your new nose I have always liked the splitters. if nothing else they make great lawn mowers when you screw up!

Any way keep up the unbelievable job and drive it like it's sponsored!!!!

Wish I could help, but I barely have the time to get the peices for this car, and almost never have the time to put them on. The deals are out there you just need to watch the different sources. Ebay, Racing Junk, Craigslist, etc. etc.

The Cougars are attractive cars, I think I've seen 1 or 2 renderings done on this board somewhere. My brother inlaw has a 67, cool car.

[Ron S]

Got back from VIR about midnight last night, that was a long HOT weekend. Good seeing Mike Holleman, Mark Steilow, and Jake Parrott, and watching there cars scream around that huge track. It was also great seeing Payton, and meeting his two sons Dillon and Hunter and letting them shift my car running back between the room and the paddock(huge facility)

Did 3- 30 minutes sessions Saturday and 3 on Sunday. The Mustang performed flawlessly, man is that a fast track. According to the rpm-speed calculator I was doing somewhere between 145-150 mph along the back straight. The thing was pretty stable at speed, got alittle floaty, but I'm real happy with the car. Can't wait till to get back out there. I bought some pics from one of those photography services, I'll post some as soon as I get the disc. Ron

[LSXZ28]

That's awesome Ron! Flat out flying at 145-150 MPH! Look forward to seeing the pics! Your fuel pressure hold up okay on that long run?

[NOT A TA]

Ron, You're killin me with this thread! Stop it! LOL Every time it pops up in the recent posts the past couple years I get caught up in it, going back looking at the incredible fab work you did with the body mods and other things. I've spent hours not getting anything done while I closely look at the pics and follow links to a header coating company, you tube, or other sites. The car has come out awesome!

Why do I get so distracted by it? Well in 82 I bought a 66 stang and drove it daily into the late 80's when I decided I was going to tear it apart and rebuild it my way. I made the mistake of jumping projects mid-way and turned my attention to a 70 Firebird I bought (The 14 Car). The stang has gotten pushed in corners, stuck in storage, stolen while moving south and recovered (Most of it), visited several more storage sites and finally came to rest where it sits now. I have too many other projects to finish before I can get back to it and every time I see your thread it kills me! LOL It's been almost 20 years since I stopped working on it!

I think the eastern/south track guys should pick an event in 2011 we can all plan on going to at one of the full size tracks. Maybe a NASA HPDE somewhere between Virginia and Georgia?

Here's my old stang as it sits today, I'll get to it eventually!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/66Mustang002-1.jpg

[Ron S]

Ron, You're killin me with this thread! Stop it! LOL Every time it pops up in the recent posts the past couple years I get caught up in it, going back looking at the incredible fab work you did with the body mods and other things. I've spent hours not getting anything done while I closely look at the pics and follow links to a header coating company, you tube, or other sites. The car has come out awesome!

Why do I get so distracted by it? Well in 82 I bought a 66 stang and drove it daily into the late 80's when I decided I was going to tear it apart and rebuild it my way. I made the mistake of jumping projects mid-way and turned my attention to a 70 Firebird I bought (The 14 Car). The stang has gotten pushed in corners, stuck in storage, stolen while moving south and recovered (Most of it), visited several more storage sites and finally came to rest where it sits now. I have too many other projects to finish before I can get back to it and every time I see your thread it kills me! LOL It's been almost 20 years since I stopped working on it!

I think the eastern/south track guys should pick an event in 2011 we can all plan on going to at one of the full size tracks. Maybe a NASA HPDE somewhere between Virginia and Georgia?

Here's my old stang as it sits today, I'll get to it eventually!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/66Mustang002-1.jpg

Look its even got a Chevy motor setting next to it, ready to go in.LOL I've got several of those (well moved) projects setting around here also, you'll get to it eventually(maybe). Ron

[Ron S]

That's awesome Ron! Flat out flying at 145-150 MPH! Look forward to seeing the pics! Your fuel pressure hold up okay on that long run?

The car has alot more in it, the instructor was backing me off. I'm almost sure I could have gotten 170 out of that straight, that is if I had the balls to hold it to the wood that deep into the turn. My ass was puckered up several times when I started pushing the car deeeper and deeper on Sunday. I have a new respect for some of the really fast drivers.

To answer your question,fuel pressure was fine. Cracks me up how everyone runs these high dollar fuel systems. I'm running stock GM pump,Corvette filter,returnless 3/8 steel brake line, and it all worked perfectly.

[Bjkadron]

Got back from VIR about midnight last night, that was a long HOT weekend. Good seeing Mike Holleman, Mark Steilow, and Jake Parrott, and watching there cars scream around that huge track.

Did 3- 30 minutes sessions Saturday and 3 on Sunday. The Mustang performed flawlessly, man is that a fast track. According to the rpm-speed calculator I was doing somewhere between 145-150 mph along the back straight. The thing was pretty stable at speed, got alittle floaty, but I'm real happy with the car. Can't wait till to get back out there. I bought some pics from one of those photography services, I'll post some as soon as I get the disc. Ron


So how do you find out about these track days? I really want to go! that sounds awesome! Can't wait to see pics!

[Ron S]

Just watch the Pro Touring racing events forum, and look at your local road course, they probably do several open track days a year. Some car clubs rent the tracks on curtain days try to get hooked up with one of these. IT really is a good time. Ron

[bonecrrusher]

Looking forward to the VIR pics.

They do HPDE sessions at VIR, Road Atlanta, and CMS....

I plan on doing on of these this fall.

[Bjkadron]

Just watch the Pro Touring racing events forum, and look at your local road course, they probably do several open track days a year. Some car clubs rent the tracks on curtain days try to get hooked up with one of these. IT really is a good time. Ron

Yeah I don't have a "local" roadcourse. It is about a coin toss whether VIR, Nashville superspeedway, or Road Atlanta would be closer. Thanks for the tips though!Looking forward to the pics too!


Looking forward to the VIR pics.

They do HPDE sessions at VIR, Road Atlanta, and CMS....

I plan on doing on of these this fall.

Where is CMS?

[HectorM52]

Carolina Motorsports Park. Not sure exactly where, but I'm sure it's easily found via Google!

[bonecrrusher]

http://www.carolinamotorsportspark.com/ - CMP - its in Lancaster, SC - about 45 mins south of Charlotte.

[Payton King]

Nice place. Trying to get Ron to come down and do a track day. I know DSE does some testing out there as well. A budy of mine went there a couple of months ago. $225 for 5 20 minute sessions with an instructor.

Ron's car looked right at home sitting in the paddock at VIR. Everytime I looked up someone else had their camera out.

[bonecrrusher]

Payton - your right... I need to get my a$$ down there as welll... lol.

[LSXZ28]

To answer your question,fuel pressure was fine. Cracks me up how everyone runs these high dollar fuel systems. I'm running stock GM pump,Corvette filter,returnless 3/8 steel brake line, and it all worked perfectly.

Good! Well, you know me... always sweatin the tune...

[Ron S]

Flawless Brett, between 5200-7000 rpm it planted me in the seat so hard, I was even kind of suprized. I tried to keep the car in its sweet spot between 4500-7000 rpm, which made it to where I only used 3rd & 4th gears. Temps in the car were staying around 195, even in that unGodly heat. Man was that fun. Ron

[bonecrrusher]

This going to be at RTTH?

[Ron S]

Yeah I'll be there. Bill makes that one one the most fun events of the year.

[bonecrrusher]

Nice - this will be my first year going... looking fwd to seeing your ride!

[Bjkadron]

Mine too... If school doesn't mess stuff up this year.

[Ron S]

I still haven't gotten my VIR pics cd, but the company has posted Sat. session. Really good shot of Mike Holleman's car and mine going through one of the turns together.

http://www.photogiftsgalore.com/galleries2010/nasa724hpde1/index.html

[HectorM52]

Some good pics there. I like the one on the LAST page. Pretty cool.

[Ron S]

Got a chance to scale this car again today. Was wondering how bad the car had gotten with the new dry sump, and all that aluminum work I did in the front. I did replace all the mild steel bars with chromoly,and ditched the front flip hood, which saved 52 lbs. Car weighed in at 3201 lbs. - 3388 lbs. with me in it.

Amazing 50/50 distribution, with me in it.Thinking about moving the battery off the right rear, more to the center of the car, and it would be perfect.
LF-864 lbs. RF-790 lbs.
LR-864 lbs. RR-870 lbs.

[454bug]

Got a chance to scale this car again today. Was wondering how bad the car had gotten with the new dry sump, and all that aluminum work I did in the front. I did replace all the mild steel bars with chromoly,and ditched the front flip hood, which saved 52 lbs. Car weighed in at 3201 lbs. - 3388 lbs. with me in it.

Amazing 50/50 distribution, with me in it.Thinking about moving the battery off the right rear, more to the center of the car, and it would be perfect.
LF-864 lbs. RF-790 lbs.
LR-864 lbs. RR-870 lbs.

Hey Ron,

I would have never thought the right front being 80 pounds lighter than the right rear. Especially with the Dry Sump Tank and all those quarts of oil... I surely thought it would have offset the weight of the battery in back. I realize the battery was closer to the rear of the car while the oil tank was really under the firewall.

With your weight on the Driver's side I would have thought there would have been a bigger difference in weight between the left rear and the right rear... How big of a battery do you have in the car?? Is there anything else heavy on the right rear compared to the left side?

[Ron S]

I have weighed this car 3 times, and it always shows the RR as being heavy. I'm running an Optima red top, and there is a beefy bracket hanging on the side of the frame. Due to my drag racing roots, I've always placed the battery as far to the rear and as low as possible.I don't think that is the ticket for road racing.

I really was in a hurry when I weighed it, so I didn't get a chance to play with the weight jacks. I probably could correct it some, but it would effect ride height. It would probably be easier to just move the battery. I do want to hit the drag strip at least once before I move it though.

Hows the Bug coming Ray?

[Jim Nilsen]

Hi Ron, it is amazing how you have shifted and removed weight around in the car. I thought the hood would have been lighter the old way, mine is way lighter with it hinged from the front, that was a lot of weight to remove.

I have had no problems with my Braille battery so far and at 21 lb. and with the smaller size it really does package a lot easier. You will also lose a bit of weight with shorter cables to it , but it doesn't seem like you need to lose weight just redistribute it. So far we are almost neck and neck in the weight department.

I keep wishing I had the engine power and the brakes you have now, the difference form one MSC to the other was incredible.

Good luck at the dragstrip and get some video so we can see how the car launches. Will you be running drag radials or your roadrace tires? I was told I would do way better with better tires but it really doesn't matter to me as much as it seems to others at the track, they keep wanting me to turn my car into a drag racer by default,LOL.

[Ron S]

Yeah its amazing how much better things work when you throw boat loads of money at it. I will run the same BFG's at the track as I did on the road course, I was amazed how well they stuck at VIR, did a little drifting, but for the most part they performed great.

[Ron S]

Pics came in today

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/956483046_SdHuXL-1.jpg

[troyboy468]

I still haven't gotten my VIR pics cd, but the company has posted Sat. session. Really good shot of Mike Holleman's car and mine going through one of the turns together.

http://www.photogiftsgalore.com/galleries2010/nasa724hpde1/index.html


My question is, is there any paint left on top of that door? lol Most laid back looking pics with your arm up there. I like the shot on the last page too.

[Ron S]

Yeah, the instructor wasn't digging the 150 mph speeds, with one hand on the wheel. The car is really stable at speed, not at all scary.

[454bug]

Hows the Bug coming Ray?

Little by little... the project is gettin' there...

It's the tale of the workin' man... travel, catch up at work and home, carve out some money for the project, work on the car, travel, catch up at work and home, carve out some money for the project, work on the car, etc, etc...

I'm learning to deal with things with a lot more patience then I thought I would ever have to! I want it done right away and it CAN'T for a number of reasons (budget, schedule, energy)... But I'm in it for the long haul so it will get there eventually!

BTW, GREAT PICS!!! It looks like you guys had a blast! :cheers:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/956483046_SdHuXL-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

Looks like a hell of a lot of fun!

I really like the picture of you and Mike on page 23 picture nasajuly-05828.JPG

Would be a good motivational picture for the joy of accomplished projects.

Robert

[Ron S]

Yeah Robert, Mike was joking that the only thing that would make it better would be if his car was in front. I might get this pic blown up.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/956969057_JND4LL-1.jpg

[John Wright]

I wonder how much weight is on those right side tires....LOL

Looks like it's biting pretty hard.

[LSXZ28]

That's an awesome pic Ron!

[rixtrix1]

Car looks great, Ron.

[Ron S]

Always hated the nose on this car, thought I would try something different. Cobbled this together with cardboard and blue painters tape, figured I would try the most simple first. It would have a splitter attached to the bottom of it. What do you think? seems a little boring to me. I'll try another style tomorrow, need to find one I like, because I will still have to make a mold,then the part out of fiberglass.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/964405160_kBh4NL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/964435972_3ntp6L-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/964416662_KmQ5vL-1.jpg .

[srh3trinity]

That looks pretty good. I think the opening in the new bumper should mimic the shape of the grille or be completely different. I realize that this is a rough mock up. The blue painters tape actually looks pretty close to the grabber blue.

The other thing you could do to get some ideas on the front bumper design would be to get a rendering done. But that might break the budget for the build.

[Jim Nilsen]

Hi Ron, since it is just painters tape you could put 2 or 3 vertical dividers in the slot and see what it looks like ? If you put them in it would allow you to make the piece a little lighter and still not have it distort at 150 mph. It would also make it so it didn't resemble the upper part as much. The splitter will really give it more of a aero look and if you do it in black it would be a good contrast from the ground up.

Lookin good !!!!

[CruizinKev]

would look great! much better than before :twothumbs

[Chevelle LT1]

Agreed, much better! Heck, just leave the painters tape and run it as-is! Repairs will be so much cheaper....

[Bjkadron]

I'm thinking that painters tape won't handle the high speeds very well.. :D

That looks like it should work.. But you might want to do something different with the lower opening.

[Ron S]

I was thinking about taking the bottom 2 inches along the length of the bumper and stepping it back about 1.5 inches, then having the splitter on the bottom of the recessed section. That will be version 1.2. I wish were better at photo shop, or had the skills of Chip Foose.

[John Wright]

Can't wait to see it with the splitter in place.....looks great


go on, DUIT!

[GrabberGT]

I was thinking about taking the bottom 2 inches along the length of the bumper and stepping it back about 1.5 inches, then having the splitter on the bottom of the recessed section. That will be version 1.2. I wish were better at photo shop, or had the skills of Chip Foose.

IMHO I think it needs this. It would look much better.

[ArtosDracon]

You'll probably want to swap out the painters tape for blue duct tape for rev.2, that stuff can take 200mph ya know. ;)

[MSTSFabbed]

My 2 cents is less is more on that front end. It kinda looks like Jay Lenos chin haha. With the bigger cowl hood and wicked flared fenders it tends to make the front look bulbous if that makes any sense?

I realize this is the same bumper you have but sheck out the tapered effect of the front splitter and how it slims the massive flares on this 66.
sportscarmag.com
I couldn't find more info or a better pic sorry.

I Freakin love this car!

[preston]

I've always disliked that opening on the early Shelby valences, looks like one big hole in the front of the car, even with a bumper splitting it up. So I think you are on the right path. I don't think you should "recess" the bottom that will just create extra drag and possibly reduce not increase downforce. I like what you have I would mimic the shape up the upper opening or make it a little more like the bottom opening on the late model (2004+ ) shelbys, you know flat on top but curved corners ont he bottom. Like someone said less is more and keep it simple. Tie that off with a splitter and it will look nice.

[ironworks]

FINALLY!, got all the oil leak stopped. The oil tank which I got off Ebay,had a hairline crack in it which I could not find, only leaked when it got hot. Was hoping to have the new grill and front bumper made before Motorstate, but it looks like thats not going to happen. This is turning into the one step forward and two steps back project. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/05/883694943_sx93hL-1.jpg

It's not that I have been completely hidden under a rock, but this shot of your build is awesome. I have seen plenty of track shots of the car but these kind shots get my motor running. :cheers:

[John Wright]

I realize this is the same bumper you have but sheck out the tapered effect of the front splitter and how it slims the massive flares on this 66.
sportscarmag.com
I couldn't find more info or a better pic sorry.

I Freakin love this car!

Here's the pic...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/cover-1.jpg

[vprace]

I have weighed this car 3 times, and it always shows the RR as being heavy. I'm running an Optima red top, and there is a beefy bracket hanging on the side of the frame. Due to my drag racing roots, I've always placed the battery as far to the rear and as low as possible.I don't think that is the ticket for road racing.

I really was in a hurry when I weighed it, so I didn't get a chance to play with the weight jacks. I probably could correct it some, but it would effect ride height. It would probably be easier to just move the battery. I do want to hit the drag strip at least once before I move it though.

Hows the Bug coming Ray?

First off your build is amazing! and just my 2cents but lil tidbit learned from the circle track days, weight mounted to far back was good for rear percentages and forward bite but the pendulum effect it created was difficult on cornering! that and batteries didn't hold up well upon impact lol.
Again your project is fantastic and seeing the resulst has really motivated me to move forward with my own car!

[jackfrost]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/964435972_3ntp6L-1.jpg

what if you put fog/driving lights on the flat parts directly under the headlights? that would break up that large, flat "boring" space.

I think once the splitter is on (carbon fiber?) it won't be nearly as boring.

[craigs73]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/964435972_3ntp6L-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/964416662_KmQ5vL-1.jpg .


what about putting the fog lights at ends of the part you have shaded black then some kind of break ducts below lights and with the spliter it would look nice

[Bryce]

if the brake ducts are that wide the duct will hit the tire when turning. The ducts should be closer to the middle of the valance.

[LSXZ28]

Here's the pic...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/cover-1.jpg


I would go more like that! Angled in at the bottom and a smaller opening than the upper grille. The racer tape version looks like a truck...

[Dan S.]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/66fatback1copy-1.jpg

[Ron S]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/66fatback1copy-1.jpg

Looks good, is that you Dan?

[Dan S.]

Yeah... that's me.

(had a few minutes to kill waiting on an Ebay auction, so I thought I'd diddle around in photoshop.)

[Ron S]

I tried a little photoshop last night, what a disaster, I'll stick to welding. You going to be up Thurs.?

[Dan S.]

Yeah, I'll be up Thursday. Work is calming down a bit. You going up?

[Ron S]

Yeah I'll be there. Bring your laptop Thurs, if it has photoshop, and I'll put you to work. LOL. See you then. Ron

[LSXZ28]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/66fatback1copy-1.jpg

That's more like it!!

[MSTSFabbed]

Thanks John Wright! That works much better haha!!

I really like the brake duct/ fog light idea!!

See what happens? You post two pictures and get 97 opinions haha! What ever you do will look good, I have no doubt!

[jdburton3]

definitely like dan s' idea. the edges and corners follow the existing lines of the car. you could drop the bottom edge of the "bumper" a little if you wanted to move the splitter closer to the ground for aero. as far as the openings it is easier to make a solid smooth bumper and then cut the openings where you want them, then trying to not put fiberglass where you don't want it. sorry that may be more like three and a half cents.

[fordsbyjay]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/66fatback1copy-1.jpg

I think that looks a billion times better.

[Ron S]

Thanks for the input guys, I think I've got the design nailed down and will weld up the peices this weekend. Alot of work for such a small change, but I do think it will look better. Was trying to find a fiberglass company to produce the mold, but they are all 6 to 8 weeks out, so once again I guess I'll be producing the part myself. I don't think there is one off the shelf peice in this car that hasn't had to be chopped , cut or reshaped in some way.
Comparison pics:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/66fatback1copy-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/659813517_ZaCeUL-1.jpg

[Jim Nilsen]

That looks great and nothing else like it anywhere !!!!

[my68vert]

Just have to say Ron, I've followed your build and while I'm in the process of my first (light pro-mod) build (vert for the wife) your car and build have been inspiring.

Btw, I'm diggin the last look with the smaller ports, the larger opening is too much of a duplicate of the upper opening. That splitter looks amazing too, maybe do that in the black like the hood? maybe not.... gotta love photoshop to test out looks.

Chris

[96t/acj]

Great build, car looks like a model car more then something u would see on the street. love the starting budget idea as well, makes it much more challenging.

[Dakota-M]

Hi again Ron off topic sorry but I am doing a 1/24 scale model of your car. could I please have the make of tires and the size please.

Love the car, Hope to start my son,s this winter.

Marty

[Z06killinSBF]

I think it would look killer if there was some way to integrate 03-04 Cobra fog lights in it.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Ron S]

Hi again Ron off topic sorry but I am doing a 1/24 scale model of your car. could I please have the make of tires and the size please.

Love the car, Hope to start my son,s this winter.

Marty

BFG KDW's 335x30-18 & 275x35-18
Good luck with the new project. Ron

[454bug]

Hey Ron,

This latest modification is really going to dress up the front end (and be functional at the same time)! I know you've probably got your design figured out by now but I thought I'd give you a few more examples from my last Nascar trip for "food for thought"...

As you had mentioned, a number of them have that design of stepping back a few inches at the bottom before the splitter (especially the Sprint Cup Cars). I've read the purpose for the "recessed" area is to enhance the high pressure (above) and low pressure (below) situations going on around the splitter. It would definitely help feed air to the radiators and coolers, "shed" the air to the sides of the car placing some sidebite across the front of the fender areas, and accentuate the low pressure effect below the splitter...

Here's a few different Mustangs:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip792a-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip786a-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip791a-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip777a-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip774a-1.jpg

Here's a couple of Nascar cars that have that really pronounced step-back before the splitter:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip016a-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip739a-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip752a-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip822a-1.jpg

And finally, the flat nose of the C6R:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/2010StAugustineTrip734-1.jpg

Just like the rest of the project, whatever you do, I know your final design is going to be awesome and inspiring!! :1st:

[Ron S]

Thanks Ray, the Nascar step backs are exactly what I have in my head. I will start on it this weekend, I think I will leave the top portion of the bumper plain at first, then try a few things, before I deside what openings to use. Thanks again, Ron

[Dan S.]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/66fatback3-1.jpg




Recessed NASCAR Splitter variants as discussed. I still think the connected bumper intake is ugly (looks like a face on "the little Choo-Choo). Stick with the split intake, and add air in the splitter recess if necessary That's my 2 cents..





https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/66fatback2-1.jpg

[ArtosDracon]

One thing I hadn't seen mentioned that was the first thing I thought of, the step back also means that you can either fit a longer splitter, or the splitter won't hang out as far from the nose. I've seen a fair number of splitters rammed into parking stops and sidewalks.

One thing of note on both the designs above, make sure that you carry the recessed area of the bumpers around the sides and transition it as far out as your eye and stomach will allow, you really don't want that air coming around the nose to ram into your tires, it'll cool the tires, increase the air inside the wheel well which creates lift and create a LOT of turbulence down the side of the car.

[Ron S]

Thanks Dan, if its not hard, can you black out the the recess and the splitter, just to see how it looks. I think your right about the vents. Thanks again, Ron

[Dan S.]

Black is pretty hard to freehand... particularly in daylight... but here's a half-assed attempt. I think I might like it better in Grabber.. but it's hard to tell with such a crappy black drawing.https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/66fatback4-1.jpg

[Ron S]

Love the shaddowing Dan. I think that is about what I had in my mind. Down in the recess I will add some stainless mesh and a small aluminum frame around it,for air intake, but I think that is about it. Should really help in the aero department (never thought I'd own something that it would make that much difference, but at 150mph
the power steering gets real easy, and the front of the car kinda wonders). Thanks again Dan. Ron

[RS_Customs]

The more I look at it the more I like the current design, it's a meaner look! Have you though about just working on the open look to make it better?

Robert

[Bjkadron]

In my opinion these last few just look like someone stuck a fat splitter on a mustang. It doesn't flow with the car.

[tazzz25906112]

I saw John's post and thought I'd try a little photoshop on it,,,, hope it works for you bud.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/Ron1-1.jpg

[HectorM52]

LOL, I had to do this for you, Ron...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/motivator830e1a02ab74d09d8d6546df0f81d3f-1.jpg

[Ron S]

Yeah Adam, you take those gaps in traffic where you can get them. They required us to get a point-by before we could pass. Mike Holeman and I were so jammed up behind so many cars, when the instructor told me to pass the tow truck, I looked at it as a chance to go fast, and did.

[tazzz25906112]

maybe a bigger lower spoiler??? I don't know as I think the first one looked better but this incorporates a little more of the current areo effects and signals....
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/Ron2-1.jpg

[454bug]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/Ron2-1.jpg

Check out this car that Albert posted... The Europeans like your car so much they set one up JUST LIKE YOURS!!! except it's right hand drive...
:lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao:

[tazzz25906112]

LMAO Ray,,,, that's funny you're the only one that noticed horizontal the flip of the pic to do the edit... I figured someone would chime in right away when I posted it LOL

[Ron S]

maybe a bigger lower spoiler??? I don't know as I think the first one looked better but this incorporates a little more of the current areo effects and signals....
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/Ron2-1.jpg


I've always loved the GT350 nose. I think if the nose would have fit better, I wouldn't be changing it now. But the design I'm working on now will incororate the struts and lots of little accents. The aero will be alot better and I'm liking the look so far, I'll post a few pics as soon as I finish grinding the welds.

[Ron S]

My mind keeps changing like this, I'm going to have to grow a vigina. Got the top of the bumper built, but I think I'm going to change the ends and put the splitter in the across the bottom, something like this.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/970871140_HuH3mL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/970871042_hw4juL-1.jpg

[ModernMuseum]

old man beer spotted.

[ArtosDracon]

My mind keeps changing like this, I'm going to have to grow a vigina. Got the top of the bumper built, but I think I'm going to change the ends and put the splitter in the across the bottom, something like this.


I really like that design, flows well with the front of the stang I think!

[David Sloan]

old man beer spotted.

LOL!!


Car is looking good, cant wait to see it at RTTHs.
I may kick robert out of the way to get a ride this year.

[RS_Customs]

LOL!!


Car is looking good, cant wait to see it at RTTHs.
I may kick robert out of the way to get a ride this year.

Good luck with that, I kick back! lol

Robert

[93Polo]

Wish I could make it, while you 2 were kicking each other I could hop in the seat :)

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

all that "kicking them out" yall talking you going to have to have a Roshambo contest.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/olympicroshamboeventroshamboolympicsdemo-1.jpg

[Ron S]

Been crazy busy at work, haven't had much time for my nose job. Got this version tacked together,can't deside what the opening shape should be.

The splitter will attach to the bottom, the brake and radiator ducts will be in that opening.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/976789563_UZkArL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/976789620_Zm6nEL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/976790140_L7m4gL-1.jpg

[HectorM52]

Saweet, dude!! Here's MY feeble attempt at something similar...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/IMG_0634sized-1.jpg

[Ron S]

Fits the front of the truck pretty good Adam. I think functionally the tongue portion would have to be bigger. Did you see the splitters that Ray posted? The Nascar splitters are stupid big, but work. I'm still a little unsure as to how large I want to go with that part on a "street car"lol

[Bjkadron]

Looking good!

[HectorM52]

Fits the front of the truck pretty good Adam. I think functionally the tongue portion would have to be bigger. Did you see the splitters that Ray posted? The Nascar splitters are stupid big, but work. I'm still a little unsure as to how large I want to go with that part on a "street car"lol

I saw all of those that were posted and have been following along with some of the theory behind it all. I've taken some pointers too - mine will probably have to be modified soon to fix some little things. And add those brake ducts too.

I also went a "bit" smaller than the NASCAR type splitters as it just didn't fit the front end - nor is this REALLY a functional item. I just like the way they look and if it helps just a LITTLE then that's cool too!

Now get back to work so it's ready for RTTH!! :)

[CruizinKev]

looks great!!!

[67SSDan]

I clearly need to attend the Ron Schwarz school of automotive fabrication.

Dan

[John Wright]

I clearly need to attend the Ron Schwarz school of automotive fabrication.

Dan
LOL...Dan, you and I had the same idea.:cheers:

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

thats going to look great, ron!

[preston]

Yeah but it also looks heavy. Time to start working with aluminum Ron.

Only because I think that you, like me, dreads working with composites.

[Ron S]

No Preston, this will be my first complete fiberglass part. I will finish sculpting this metal out of body filler,(hopefully in the next couple nights), then start making the fiberglass mold. I have repaired glass panels before, but never built one from scratch, tune in to find out what a clusterfu## it is. Ron

[claytonisbob]

No Preston, this will be my first complete fiberglass part. I will finish sculpting this metal out of body filler,(hopefully in the next couple nights), then start making the fiberglass mold. I have repaired glass panels before, but never built one from scratch, tune in to find out what a clusterfu## it is. Ron

Sweet. I love seeing people creating custom fiberglass parts the right way (creating a plug, then building a mold from it).

I've only been able to build fiberglass parts the less professional way: Wrap what your building in foil, lay on fiberglass over that, pop it off, and then spend 2 weeks trying to sand it to make it look right (and it's never going to fit right because its slightly bigger than the original part).

Build a good mold and you can always make more if it gets ripped off or damaged. Or even better sell them :)

[Dan S.]

It's almost a shame to pull that tack-welded beast of a bumper off.

It has a certain Frankenstang Monster quality to it...

[John Wright]

It's almost a shame to pull that tack-welded beast of a bumper off.

It has a certain Frankenstang Monster quality to it...LOL...yeah, the tacks look like lil teeth that are about ready to take a bite out of the bumper of the next car to get in front of him.

[jackfrost]

fiberglassing is easy... :)

now carbon fiber, to do it the right way, not so much.

[preston]

>now carbon fiber, to do it the right way, not so much.

CAn you expound ? I have heard that

1) CF is more delicate when handling and cutting
2) it tends to curl up at the edges while curing, especially in mold less construction.

Why else would it be more difficult to work with ? You don't have to vacuum bag it except to cure problem #2. I'd be interested in your experiences.

[jackfrost]

>now carbon fiber, to do it the right way, not so much.

CAn you expound ? I have heard that

1) CF is more delicate when handling and cutting
2) it tends to curl up at the edges while curing, especially in mold less construction.

Why else would it be more difficult to work with ? You don't have to vacuum bag it except to cure problem #2. I'd be interested in your experiences.

ok, well, I must admit I've never used CF. but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

here's what I've gathered:

- the dry fabric itself is very hard to deal with. you need to tape everywhere you cut so the fabric doesn't fray
- FG can use poly resin versus CF must use epoxy resin. epoxy is actually better, but harder to deal with
- IMO, to do CF right is to vacuum bag it. otherwise you've just got a fiberglass part that has a pretty black pattern. that means extra equipment and more work
- it's a lot more expensive, which makes screw-ups expensive

[claytonisbob]

Well, if you want to make something out of carbon fiber and you're going to paint it, I'd imagine aligning the weave isn't as critical. Many CF hoods and other parts are fiberglass reinforced, so essentially they use the CF as decoration. To make a CF part truly light weight requires more than just brushing on resin and adding layers like we'd do with fiberglass... It can be done, but a lot of the weight would be because of excess resin.

Aren't production CF parts made of that impregnated cloth that has the resin in it or something, reducing the amount of resin needed?

[preston]

Yes, high quality CF is made with pre-preg which has the resin already impregnated in it with the correct amount. However to cure it requires an autoclave which is an oven that also creates atmospheric pressure, so it is out of reach for most peopl especially on automotive scale parts. Even a small autoclave is probably a bit spendy. I believe parts going in the autoclave still require some bagging or absoprtion ply too, so its not as easy as just laying it down.

[Bryce]

I am a test/design engineer for a aerospace company. i have done the composite layup classes so I know how they are built. This way I know how to design something from CF that can be manufactured.

We use prepreg and dry cloth. But we vaccuum bag all parts in an autoclave. The resin cures around 300F. The aligning of weave is to ensure a uniform stiffness across a part that is larger than the width of a roll of CF.

If you want to know something specific ask me.

[Ron S]

Its all mute for us regular guys any way, to build a one off part in carbon would cost more then I'd be willing to pay. A buddy gave me a roll of glass matting, so I shouldn't have more then $150 in the thing.

Got most of the sculpting done, have to refit it to the car again, prime it a couple more times, and start spraying gelcoat, and laying fiberglass. I'll let you know how bad it is. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/981734310_6bm6LL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/981734048_R8nmAL-1.jpg

[FirstGenZq8]

that steel part looks great! how much does it weigh? how much weight can you hope to drop w/ a fiberglass version?

[Ron S]

I knew the bumper was just going to be a plug for the fiberglass mold, so I built it out of metal out of my scrap barrel. Its just tacked together, so I really can't use this as a finished part. The bumper probably weighs between 15 - 20 lbs. I would think the glass part will be half that.

[Dan S.]

Dayum! That looks awesome.

[John Wright]

Dayum! That looks awesome.+1 great job...."AGAIN!", Ron. You just keep on hitting the big home runs. Can't wait to see the finished deal w/ splitter and all attached.