$5000 budget Mustang

[Ron S]

You fab up the brake ducts?

No, they came from LG Motorsports, seem pretty nice.

[Ron S]

Nice build.

Edit: So you just slapped the body onto a frame? Where did you get the frame btw?

Built it

[dusterbd13]

we use header wrap safety wired to the tie rod ends on all our C5 track cars. its abslutetly normal to bake the boots off within a couple of events. especially with aggressive pads.

what is the rest of the setup? those look like radial mount calipers, not standard C5 stuff.

michael

[Ron S]

we use header wrap safety wired to the tie rod ends on all our C5 track cars. its abslutetly normal to bake the boots off within a couple of events. especially with aggressive pads.

what is the rest of the setup? those look like radial mount calipers, not standard C5 stuff.

michael

I'm running the 15" Baer set up, with the Alcon built 6 piston calipers, 14's on the rear, and a 7/8 manual master cylinder. I almost balled it up on its first road course adventure, Payton King helped me kind of get the brakes dialed in. Works great now.

[bonecrrusher]

LG pieces - nice....

Ron - you doing any VIR events this year? Factory cars allowed w/ no cages?

[Ron S]

I'm going to try and wear that car out this year, I really want to do VIR again, and I want to try Summit this year. I can't wait to do Jersey, hell I want to go everywhere!!

[Project69]

Gotcha, how did you mount the body to the frame? I must have missed that.

[Ron S]

It is attached along the rocker pinch welds,A pillar and B pillar, and other assorted places, you can see the pics here. Ron
http://57hemicuda.smugmug.com/Cars/Mustang/6357389_pKQdb

[Project69]

Thank you, you have a download file of all the pictures? Im doing this and would like to use your pictures for frame and body help.

Thank you

Rob

[Twentyover]

Ron-

Any concern that cooling only 1 side of the rotor might lead to warping? Or are you aiming the air into the hub side of the rotor vents?

[Ron S]

It blows the air into the hub area and then its forced out through the vent holes. I wonder how much brake dust will be blowing all over the wheels.

[ill steez]

Ron-

Any concern that cooling only 1 side of the rotor might lead to warping? Or are you aiming the air into the hub side of the rotor vents?

Since the rotor isn't really being cooled unless the car is moving forward (and the rotor turning), I don't think there would be any problem with one part of the rotor cooling significantly faster than another.

I'd be interested to see how much of a difference those ducts make. Pretty cool piece - I had them on my C5 as well.

[RS_Customs]

Since the rotor isn't really being cooled unless the car is moving forward (and the rotor turning), I don't think there would be any problem with one part of the rotor cooling significantly faster than another.

I'd be interested to see how much of a difference those ducts make. Pretty cool piece - I had them on my C5 as well.

A lot of times the cooling duct mount forces the air into the center area of the rotor so that the natural suction from the rotor vanes just gets a good plentiful amount of cool air. So warping shouldn't be a problem.

Robert

[Twentyover]

The rotor spinning or stationary wasn't the basis of the question. Ron correctly understood myquestion, he's blowing air into the hub area of the rotor, so the vanes pull air through the center of the rotor. The litttle green race car I have has solid rotors (prod car rules dictate it), so to add cooling I have to spit a soup can and slide it over the rotor to cool both sides to keep from warping.

[Ron S]

Made a couple of heat sheilds on the brake duct to protect the tie rod and lower ball joint, and a support brace to keep the duct from cracking. Had to oval the tubing for tire clearance,and I still havent made the front ducts yet. I can't beleive LG doesn't make the ducts with the sheilds as part of the backing plate.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1184715878_3M5VUL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1184715992_VBrMzTh-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1184715933_XGuExL-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

Great work Ron!

Robert

[Ron S]

Got the trans out, and once again the hydraulic throw out bearing came apart. I've had enough of that set up, everytime the trans comes out, I have to buy a new throw out bearing. I stepped to a Quicktime blowproof bellhousing, and a bell mounted throwout. Looks like I'm going to have to run some offset dowels after indicating it. The trans doesn't touch the throwout on its way in or out.

On a side note, while up on the lift I found the front tires so flat spotted that they are totally junk. Thank's to Bill Howell and the contingency program, BFG is buying me a new set.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1189794575_oJJBdL-1.jpg



https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1189794368_iniyPL-1.jpg https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1189794610_rndR9L-1.jpg

[HectorM52]

Dang, that's a lot of tread. Wish my tires looked that good!!! Any chance you've got a 295/35/18 or a 245/40/18?

[Ron S]

They are 275's, you really can't see it in the pics, but they are really bald in one spot, and alot of tread everwhere else. I'm going to try an squeeze 295's on the front. I'll probably use these for mock up on the AMX. No, I don't have any 295's or 245's

[bonecrrusher]

Nice updates - sucks about the flat spotted tires though...

[Ron S]

I whined alot about the Baer stop challenge flat spotting the tires, but I got a contingency check from both Baer and BFG, to buy new tires and brakes, so it all worked out in the end. I guess abs would be a great upgrade, save the tires, or maybe I just need to learn how to drive better.

[bonecrrusher]

Nice... I had the some a##hole pull out in front of me stop challenge on the way home from work in the G8.... Thank god for ABS... it still stopped like a pig though. Is it bad I want to upgrade to the 09+ CTS-V/ZL1 14.5" rotors and 6 piston Brembo's up front on my DD?

[Ron S]

I could not get the proper shim with the LS7 clutch with this setup, I was forced to fabricate a bellhouing shim to fit between the bell and the block. The nice part about this setup is, the trans can go in and out without touching the throwout bearing.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1192446802_a5xEfM-1.jpg (http://57hemicuda.smugmug.com/Cars/Mustang/6357389_pKQdb/3/1192446802_a5xEf/Large)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1192446827_iUdB6O-1.jpg https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/1192446839_BTdnQO-1.jpg (javascript:openLB('1192446839_BTdnQ','Original',' ','','');)

[Ron S]

Nice... I had the some a##hole pull out in front of me stop challenge on the way home from work in the G8.... Thank god for ABS... it still stopped like a pig though. Is it bad I want to upgrade to the 09+ CTS-V/ZL1 14.5" rotors and 6 piston Brembo's up front on my DD?

I am a participant in the Ahole stop challenge everyday here in Baltimore.LOL I never in my wildest dreams would have thought I'd be wanting a Caddilac so bad, those things are just cool, kind of a pleasure ZR1.

[1red68]

i do believe we have all been a part of that challenge..... here where i live it mostly happens with deer. i would love bigger brakes and farther reaching lights on my DD.

[claytonisbob]

Tire pattern baldness can be fixed. Call Bosley.

[Ron S]

Finally getting this car back together. Got the clutchless 4 speed in, cut the headers up, shortened them to give the car a little more ground clearance, and got most of the the air dam, fabbed up for the brake ducts. Used turbo V band clamps to attach the exhaust to the header. Installed stainless flex tubes, and used 409 stainless for the exhaust, Hoping it cuts down on the rattling that the exhaust used to do.

Special shout out to my buddy Frank for use of his lift,and help tigging up the exhaust.

Driving impressions: Thought the the trans would be hard to shift, its funny, when you hammer the throttle, lift for a second, the trans pulls itself into the next gear. I absolutely love it. Its a little noisey, but its a hoot to drive. Shifts as faster then any automatic I've ever driven. Exhaust seems to be rattle free, at least so far. Ron

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1206808206_TaunbL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1206808175_c47XSL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1206808243_ozhc2L-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1206808135_F4XMoL-1.jpg

[Dan S.]

Lookin good.

Is it ready for Jersey?

[Ron S]

As ready as it will ever be I guess. I few little loose ends to finish, I wish the weather would clear up, so I could put a few miles on it though.

You ready to start on that 37 Ford. LOL

[Dan S.]

I'm ready.

Rat Rods hide a multitude of welding sins. :)

[454bug]

Hey Ron,

The exhaust looks really nice. Was the rattling you heard before from a pipe touching the frame/body? Did the "flex" joint help this?

Also, the brake duct inlet looks interesting... What was the reason for the different design from the left and right side? Or are you just not finished with the piece?

[Ron S]

The brake duct/lower grill isn't finished yet, finished trimming, and welding tonight.

The exhaust had this resination at about 3000 rpm, I assume it was from the way I mounted the mufflers. Everything was in such tight quarters(as I'm sure your real familiar with) that when I mounted the mufflers, I welded three little mounting tabs to the frame, and 3 to mufflers. I used the little exhaust hangers that look almost like a shock bushing. I guess it was kinda rigid, because the front bushing kind fell apart, and started this ratting, that drove me up the wall. I'm hoping the flex in there will correct this issue. Only time will tell.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/426073274_mYNyuL-1.jpg

[2blownstangs]

Very awesome car bro. We have alot of the same tastes/ideas. Keep up the great work

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

that exhaust looks sweet Ron!

[andrewb70]

Hey Ron,

It's great that you like the trans. The LS7 clutch is very heavy. The lighter you make the flywheel/clutch assembly, the faster and smoother your shifts will be. When I had the Liberty T56 in my RX7 I was using a Quarter Master flywheel and a single disk 8.5" clutch. The flywheel and clutch assembly were under 20 pounds, combined. That combo really made a difference in shift speed and quality.

Since this is the $5000 build thread, you can dream about a 3 disk carbon/carbon clutch setup with a reverse mount bellhousing. You did say $5000 per major component, right? :-)

Andrew

[Ron S]

Getting that LS7 clutch shimmed right, and the pedal stop adjusted was a PITA, but now that its done, it shifts great. This engine revs so quickly anyway, I don't know if I would really want the thing to wing any faster. And your right, those 2 and 3 disc setups cost way too much.

Did you get your trans. back in yet Andrew? I know it broke, but how do you ike it? Was that the same trans you had behind the big block?

[andrewb70]

I hear what you are saying about revving fast. The LS6 in my RX7 revved so fast that the stock belt tentioner couldn't control the belt well. I would throw a belt on occasion. PM sent.

Andrew

[Damn True]

I hear what you are saying about revving fast. The LS6 in my RX7 revved so fast that the stock belt tentioner couldn't control the belt well. I would throw a belt on occasion. PM sent.

Andrew

That was a neat car.

[Ron S]

Finally finished the lower grill, brake ducts. Put the race mesh in the center to match the grill, the turned out OK, but I wish I could produce these parts out of carbon fiber, would be alot lighter.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1211292877_8ApKxL-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1211292842_8mq2EL-1.jpg



https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1211292828_eN4kfL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1211292819_E99oWL-1.jpg

[RicerwannaB]

Lots of great info and ideas on this thread! Love the car!

[Six_Shooter]

I like those ducts.

[bonecrrusher]

Get some CF, resin, and a vaccum bag??

[Bryce]

Ron,

CF is not that hard to make, unless you need ultimate strength and/or a perfect finish.

[Payton King]

Dude, that is going to be killer in there.

Tell me you did not cut that board just for place to take a picture. LOL

[Damn True]

Looks great Ron. Has the gears turning for a couple things on my car. How did you affix the mesh?

[Crestronwizard]

I am in the Baltimore area at least once a month for work.....do you offer tours? :-)

[Ron S]

Dude, that is going to be killer in there.

Tell me you did not cut that board just for place to take a picture. LOL

No Payton, that is the stuff my contractor has set up in the basement. I'm sure he wouldn't mind me using it.

[Ron S]

Looks great Ron. Has the gears turning for a couple things on my car. How did you affix the mesh?

Its pinched in between a 1" aluminum flat bar, and the framing, and held together with rivets. The hard part True, is building a wooden buck to hammer the mesh over. These weren't that bad to make, the side vents on the car were a PITA though.

[Ron S]

I am in the Baltimore area at least once a month for work.....do you offer tours? :-)

I work in Bmore, but live at the MD./PA. line.

[Ron S]

Watching that show last night motivated me to finish this lower grill/brake ducts. I kind of liked the thing without the splitter, but its growing on me with it. If the weather holds out, I plan on hitting the drag strip next Sat., interested to see what kind of quarter mile times this thing runs.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1214024965_UGeGZL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1214024928_Lr7ViL-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1214024867_vrAMYL-1.jpg

[lt1chevelle]

looking good! is that a little nova under the cover?

[Ron S]

Thats my buddy Franks twin turbo LS1 powered 63,somewhere around 900 hp's. It kind of did a dance with a telephone pole, and he is in the middle of rebodying it as we speak, it should be a super nice car.

[1red68]

Ouch! Poor guy. those telephone poles make poor dance partners.......

[srh3trinity]

The bumper looks great. Are you still planning on tidying up the interior some?

[Ron S]

The bumper looks great. Are you still planning on tidying up the interior some?

I'd like to, but dought I'll have the time.

[Norm Peterson]

The brake duct/lower grill isn't finished yet, finished trimming, and welding tonight.

The exhaust had this resination at about 3000 rpm, I assume it was from the way I mounted the mufflers. Everything was in such tight quarters(as I'm sure your real familiar with) that when I mounted the mufflers, I welded three little mounting tabs to the frame, and 3 to mufflers. I used the little exhaust hangers that look almost like a shock bushing. I guess it was kinda rigid, because the front bushing kind fell apart, and started this ratting, that drove me up the wall. I'm hoping the flex in there will correct this issue. Only time will tell.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/426073274_mYNyuL-1.jpg
I think as long as the flex sections have more than enough "flex" to accommodate engine/transmission rocking and chassis flex, you'll be OK. There doesn't look like there's a huge amount of clearance between the muffler inlet pipe and the hole cut in that frame tube, so I can see where looseness at the front of the muffler would make for a rattle.

You'll also relieve fore/aft loads and lateral pipe displacement caused by exhaust pipe expansion - I'll bet it wants to grow quite a bit during a track session, and if it can't grow rearward it'll "pop out" of its cold shape either laterally or vertically. If it's mostly quiet just cruising around on a cold day and noisy out on the track or when driven hard, this is the likely reason.


You may or may not fix the resonance. That's a function of the lengths between changes in exhaust system cross section. Sometimes a drone where the two pipes get to resonating in phase with each other can be reduced or eliminated by making the right side and left side exhaust lines slightly different length ahead of the mufflers. The flex sections will at least shift the frequency that the pipes as a whole will want to buzz at.


Norm

[emazingli]

Nice build up mate Ron S! From a rust into a new one! Fit to budget. :D

[Ron S]

Had a very good day at the drag strip. Me and a buddy drove our cars to the track, its still pretty cold here so it wasn't real crowded. We both made about twenty passes, I was a little worried about the clutchless 4 speed, beacause this was kind of its maiden voyage. It took a few passes to master, man is it a hoot to drive.

The track was cold, so the Bfg's spun through 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears. At one point, because of the violent nature of the trans, I broke loose pulling 4th gear and got a little close to the wall. Still managed to run a 10.94 @ 132 mph. If I had a set of drag radials, I think the car had a 10.4 in it. Nobody broke, everybody ran good, a really fun outing.

A buddy took a bunch of video, as soon as he gets it up, I'll post it. Ron

[David Sloan]

Very cool, glad to here it went well. That's some good times for the tires an cold temps! Man i cant believe the weather today its 81% here. I sure wish mine was done, but i am working on it today.
Got the old floor pans out an cleaned up the welds for the new pans to go back in.

[andrewb70]

....It took a few passes to master, man is it a hoot to drive.

...

Told ya! Great times for being so traction limited.

Andrew

[Ron S]

Yeah Andrew, I was practicing the upshifts, and downshifts, it seems to downshift better without the clutch. I figured this car had a 10 second pass in it, it was the 132 mph that suprised me. I still have a few more things to do before Jersey, but it was fun. Ron

[Ron S]

My buddy Mark took these pics and the video


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-oChZkQGsA

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1221416695_6Ub5TL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1221416968_sbDiaL-1.jpg

[sr73bu]

Looks and Sounds Amazing Ron! Can't wait to see it at RTTS!

[Six_Shooter]

Nice.

[73Stang]

Right up the street from me. Im in Havre de Grace. I would have loved to see your car in person. Are you planning on running at Cecil again?

[avewhtboy]

dam 130 in the quarter is getting it for that set up. Glad to see you are having fun with it

[Bow Tie 67]

Very nice, the blown engine lead to much better things. Thumbs up.

[Ron S]

Right up the street from me. Im in Havre de Grace. I would have loved to see your car in person. Are you planning on running at Cecil again?

They asked that I didn't come back until I get some side glass or window nets.
Another video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SC8K_aCkTGc

[Dan S.]

In the 10's huh...?

Pretty cool.

That's better than you predicted from your projected 1/8 times.

[Crestronwizard]

Great video! Glad you are able to get out there with it and play. I am a looooong ways off. How did you attach the body to the frame? I am getting an Art Morrison G Max and was thinking of welding the frame directly to the rockers.......

[1red68]

Thanks for sharing the photo's and vid's. that is a very nice fun toy you built. It's awesome to see you enjoying it. keep it up!!! :)

[dropit69]

lol thats awesome Ron...love how they asked you to not come back till ya got safer..lol..

[Ron S]

Great video! Glad you are able to get out there with it and play. I am a looooong ways off. How did you attach the body to the frame? I am getting an Art Morrison G Max and was thinking of welding the frame directly to the rockers.......

Yeah my rockers are attached directly to the frame. Ron

[Ron S]

I've aligned the front end on this car several times. The adjuster cams keep moving, I guess from leaning on it so hard. The last two events last year were run with the front end way out of wack. I've made up these plates to take the place of the cams, after I line it up again, I'll punch the holes in them, should cure the problem.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1230537004_b7K4QL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/1230536752_2u5tBL-1.jpg

[bonecrrusher]

Nice.... are you using a C5 of C6 front subframe? I can't recall...

Have you thought about the Pfadt Racing bushing set that they sell?

[Ron S]

Pfadt stuff is pretty expensive, I think I'll have 10 bucks in these.
I'm using a c5 subframe.

[Bow Tie 67]

Pfadt stuff is pretty expensive, I think I'll have 10 bucks in these.
I'm using a c5 subframe.

Does that include the Safety Yellow spray bomb? ;)

[Ron S]

Thats powder coat man, I was to lazy to clean out the gun for a better color.

[troyboy468]

now if the alignment guy would get with it.....lol

[srh3trinity]

That car moved down the quarter pretty quick. Wonder what it would do with some setup time and some slicks?

[454bug]

Excellent times Ron! :6gears:

Just losing 1/2 second to running street tires and a non-optimun setup (shocks, sway bars, etc) for the drags is VERY impressive! It's amazing they list the KDW-2's as a 300 rating and still get the traction they do...

Just like the Beach Boys... I heard you, "layin' rubber in all 4 gears"!!

[Ron S]

Love the fact that these cars can, do a street cruise, run a roadcourse, an autoX, and go run 10's on the dragstrip without changing a thing. Pro Touring, the Swiss Army Knife of cars, how can any car guy not like the P/T style?

[64LS1Nova]

Your talking me into it deeper and deeper every day! I'm watching you have more fun with this car than any car I remember you ever having!

[1red68]

and thats what it's all about, having fun with our cars and enjoying the people you meet along the way.

[tommycomfort]

Love the fact that these cars can, do a street cruise, run a roadcourse, an autoX, and go run 10's on the dragstrip without changing a thing. Pro Touring, the Swiss Army Knife of cars, how can any car guy not like the P/T style?

Pro-Touring: The Swiss Army knife of cars
How can we not put that on stickers and shirts?
Tom

[David Sloan]

Pro-Touring: The Swiss Army knife of cars
How can we not put that on stickers and shirts?
Tom

We got to get Bill Or Larry working on this! Thats just Cool! LOL!!

[tommycomfort]

We got to get Bill Or Larry working on this! Thats just Cool! LOL!!

As soon as I get a minute I'm going to put that in my signature block. If it's ok with Ron of course...

[Ron S]

Have at it Tommy, You've got a nice little knife there yourself.(I am talking about your car)LOL

[monteboy84]

Silly Ron, don't you know that 6-speeds can't go fast in the 1/4? ;) Looks great, always nice to see a corner carver whooping up on dedicated strip cars. There really is no substitute for these cars, watching those cars from the strip trying to keep up with you through the corners would be a scary sight to see.

-matt

[Ron S]

Actually its a 4 speed in the car, I was looking at Keislers clutchless 6 speed, but it was alittle out of my price range. Its all relative, all my drag race buddies can't understand why I would build a car that is so slow, there are alot of 8 second door bangers tagged here in Maryland.

[ProTour69Bird]

omg! i saw your car on the widebody thread, looked up your build...... went through the entire thing tonight. wow. you slayed your build! as much as you said you were working, **** was still getting done. im impressed. i kept seeing the "$5000 budget...." pop up in updates so offen, i now feel like a jackwagon for blowing it off. you've got some talent sir. damn it, its 11:00 and i wish i was cutting and grinding my car to pieces. my bird better be ready for this weekends toe-2-toe throwdown.

nice design on the newer bumper, the little chin strap looks dope

[Ron S]

Thanks, i love the birds too. It is on my list of cars I want to build before I croke.

I just loaded my car to head to jersey, there is about 2" of snow on the ground here. This car is a handful when its dry, I must be nuts. Hope the weather over by the shore is just wet, and not snow covered. Oh well, I said I was coming. Ron

[David Sloan]

Have Fun ! Be safe!!

[Nessumsar]

Hope you make it there ok Ron. We're all expecting a race report!

[Ron S]

This is turning into the War and Peace of threads, the thread that never ends.

It was a crazy weekend, I'm still kind of in a funk. While on the road course at RTTS, the engine in the Mustang let go. While trying to lay down a decent time, in one of the faster parts of the course the engine locked up, knocking the side out of the block, laying 3 gallons of oil on to the track, and putting me into the wall.

While on the cruise Friday, the breather puked a bunch of oil out, only did it once, but it should have given me a heads up. Saturday while beating on it, it seemed a little down on power, but ran OK. When time trialing on the road course at about 6500rpm / 110 mph, in a long sweeping turn the thing let go.

Pulled the engine this morning, it appears #5 piston broke right at the ring land, throwing the rod thru the side of the cylinder. Looks like the heads made it though. I remember the guy I bought the engine from, saying he squeezed several times, maybe that weak'nd it,maybe not. I still want to have some fun this summer, so I guess I'll have to figure some things out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1238202985_V3LKkL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1238721032_Z3jbtL-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

Saw your post in the RTTS thread, that sucks bad! Hope you can find a short block easily and get her back running quickly.

How did the body fair when you went into the wall?

Robert

[64LS1Nova]

Real sorry to hear this Ron. I know exactly how you feel. The girls got upset when I told them the news. I may have to bring them by for a visit.
.
hmm, I'm not doing anything with my powerplant at the moment:idea:

[JBCO]

Ouch - sorry to hear Ron - how's the rest of the car? And yourself?

[Dan S.]

This is turning into the War and Peace of threads, the thread that never ends.

It was a crazy weekend, I'm still kind of in a funk. While on the road course at RTTS, the engine in the Mustang let go. While trying to lay down a decent time, in one of the faster parts of the course the engine locked up, knocking the side out of the block, laying 3 gallons of oil on to the track, and putting me into the wall.

While on the cruise Friday, the breather puked a bunch of oil out, only did it once, but it should have given me a heads up. Saturday while beating on it, it seemed a little down on power, but ran OK. When time trialing on the road course at about 6500rpm / 110 mph, in a long sweeping turn the thing let go.

Pulled the engine this morning, it appears #5 piston broke right at the ring land, throwing the rod thru the side of the cylinder. Looks like the heads made it though. I remember the guy I bought the engine from, saying he squeezed several times, maybe that weak'nd it,maybe not. I still want to have some fun this summer, so I guess I'll have to figure some things out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1238202985_V3LKkL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1238721032_Z3jbtL-1.jpg

Looking at the picture, it seems like the sheet metal damage is all in the rear.

Is it bad?

[Ron S]

Looking at the picture, it seems like the sheet metal damage is all in the rear.

Is it bad?

The turn before it let go, I heard a vibration,I checked the guages, oil pressure was up, taching around 6500 in third gear. I was leaning forward listening for the vibration when the engine locked up. It locked the rear wheels, because I was partially through the turn, the car went into a spin. Once the rear wheels hit the 3 gallons of oil,and antifreeze, I was just along for the ride. I hit the wall backwards, its funny all was thinking was, I hope the block lived. Of course it didn't.

Looking at the car today,the chassis was so ridgid, the quarter hit so hard it has the perfect shape of the guardrail, but the crossmembers kept it off the frame. Probably a weeks work on the sheetmetal, its the engine that breaks my heart.

[andrewb70]

Terrible news Ron. I am really sorry. Was this a dry sump setup? If not, I see that in your future.

Andrew

[Jim Nilsen]

Sorry to hear the news about the engine,
I seem to recall a moment like that before mine totally let go and then the broken heart.

That engine was running so good too!

Ouch on the rear end, Hope you get it all fixed soon before the Motorstate.

[Ron S]

It was a dry sump Andrew, it actually broke a piston, sending the rod through the block (split right at the ring land). I bought the engine from a guy who was racing it on nos, that may have lead to its demise, I've only driven the car in angry mode, who knows?

[ArtosDracon]

The picture of this car sideways makes me very sad, but I'm glad you made it out ok, and the car seems to have stayed together pretty well too!

[454bug]

REALLY bad news Ron! I'm so happy you're okay and the car wasn't hurt worse. The oil, antifreeze, and mud is a lot to deal with... it could have been a lot worse.

When I was in college (1982), we were holding our bi-annual road course event at Texas World Speedway. I was head Cornerworker and positioned in a tower overlooking one of the big sweeper turns in the middle of the track. One of my good friends had just completed a total buildup of his awesome Convertible W30 442. It had stormed the night before and the ground was saturated and muddy just like your picture. On his first timed run, he ran off the edge of the track on the big sweeping turn where I was located. He started sliding, over-corrected, and slid across the track. When he got to the other side of the track, he hit the mud full broadside of his passenger side. The tires slid for a distance as the car dug deeper into the mud during the slide. In a split second, it did a barrel roll with the convertible top slapping back and forth from it's stored position. I thought for sure that top had to have hit my buddy in the head and broke his neck! I jumped out of the observation tower and ran to the car. I could NOT believe it when he stepped out of the car without a scratch!! He said when he felt it bite into the mud he reached over and grabbed the bottom of the passenger seat and hung on for dear life!! His car was totaled.

Hate to hear about the engine but it could have been a lot worse! Glad to hear you're okay and able to compete another day!

[NOT A TA]

Good to hear you're not hurt, as much as it sucks, cars can be fixed.

[ProTour69Bird]

LAME!!!!!!!!!! sorry bro. i was stoked to see how this ls7 would do.

[1red68]

OUCH!!! that really hurts!
I hope you get her back up and running again soon....... it looks like blast to drive, just got to bullet Prof it.

[twosaturns]

This is turning into the War and Peace of threads, the thread that never ends.
Pulled the engine this morning, it appears #5 piston broke right at the ring land, throwing the rod thru the side of the cylinder....so I guess I'll have to figure some things out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1238202985_V3LKkL-1.jpg


sorry for your loss, this has always been one of my favorite threads here. but at the same time, it almost seems fitting; you've rebuilt this car a number of times, and yet never seem discouraged. you keep soldiering on and that's commendable.
if you were on www.bobistheoilguy.com, you'd have dozens of guys all jumping in blaming your Fram oil filter. over there, they call them the 'orange cans of death'.

[Norm Peterson]

Really sucks, Ron. I was over at the autocross pad and saw the trucks roll. Had a bad feeling about it when I didn't see your car come around again, relief when I saw you walking around.

New pistons next time "whether it needs them or not"?


Norm

[Runningriot]

Really sorry to hear what happened to your car Ron, glad you alright. You're build is a great inspiration and you'll have it back up and running soon.

I know its early, but do you have any plans for a new power plant? Make your dream Boss 9 engine using Kaase Boss heads?

[GrabberGT]

Really sorry to hear what happened to your car Ron, glad you alright. You're build is a great inspiration and you'll have it back up and running soon.

I know its early, but do you have any plans for a new power plant? Make your dream Boss 9 engine using Kaase Boss heads?


OUCH! Hate to hear that.

Hmmmm. Coyote time???? Dont they come with a warranty?

[The Stickman]

Ron so sorry to hear about the engine and resulting crash. It really sucks as that is such a beautiful machine. But anyone dedicated enough to make a car like that can surely make it look and run great once again. And probably even better.

[Ron S]

Thanks guys, I am really thinking about putting a Ford motor in it, car keeps rejecting the Chevy ones. I know so little about Fords, and really have no conections in that department.

My daughter gets married this week, and my wife really gave me a hard time about going to the event. Talked for days about not doing anything stupid, and endidng up hurt before the wedding. Pi$$es (Pi@@es) me off that I was driving so conservative because of the cold tempatures, and still balled it up. The wedding will keep me from writing any big checks for a while, I'll have to scrape up something to put in there. Ron

[bonecrrusher]

Damn.... that sucks... good luck with whatever motor you decide to put back in there.

[Six_Shooter]

The events that happened sucks, but there is one thing I like about it, or that it proves...

This car gets DRIVEN, it's not a trailer queen, or a show car (though it does look good), it's a performer, and the owner isn't afraid to drive it the way it should be.

*thumbs up*

That being said, it sucks when any damage occurs, I hope you get it back together soon to enjoy it more.

[Bullockracing]

Thanks guys, I am really thinking about putting a Ford motor in it, car keeps rejecting the Chevy ones. I know so little about Fords, and really have no conections in that department.

Yeah, I'd look at Ford motors - I suppose a dry sump supercharged 5.4 out of a GT is a little pricey - of course the Terminator 4.6 would be my next choice. Although you can probably use the internet as well as the next guy, I'd go with the 4.6 3V, an aluminum Navigator 5.4, or a Mach I motor. A used Coyote would be awesome too, but no, you can't have mine :)

[Ron S]

Jake, and Herb just sent me a pile of pics
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1240338220_u9WbAL-1.jpg

[454bug]

Can you show us a picture of the carnage??

I can't tell much from the above picture other than the shape of the guardrail in the driver's rear corner...

[Dan S.]

Did you run over a pizza delivery guy? (looks like a Domino's Pizza box on your driver's side front fender). :)

[JerseyNova]

Some of the pictures I took of Ron's mustang. I was talking about your car to my dad all week I even showed him the ceceil runs because we go down there ocasionally and before I could make it up the bridge to watch you crashed. Your car and fabrications skills are inspiring. It was nice seeing the car. Best of luck with the engine.

Chris

[YancyJohns]

Ron, This is horrible! Your Mustang is Amazing and I hope you can get it back together for Nashville. Maybe not paint the block blue this time? I really wish I could of made this event!!!

[Ron S]

Thanks Yancy, The sheet metal shouldn't be bad. I was afraid that one day this would happen, so I made the tail panel, and inner wheel well a bolt on, will have to reshape a new quarter panel, but other then that its all nut and bolt. As soon as I get back from North Carolina I'll get to the sheet metal. I'm still pretty up in the air on the engine though. Why do we do this to ourselves?lol

[Vinz68]

Sorry about your car...... Had a great time hanging with you!!! Hope to see you in Nashville

[Ron S]

Thanks Vinn, its always good seeing you and Tina. The new Camaro is awesome. I'm pretty sure the piston broke Friday night when it belched out all that oil.The car didn't feel right Saturday, I should of stopped beating on it, but you know, I couldn't.

[srh3trinity]

So, the first iteration had an LS1 and you windowed that block. You made the next logical step and went to an LS7 and now you have windowed that block. Where do you go from here? C5R block or a C6R block? I hate seeing this, but I am glad to hear that you are ok. As everybody else has stated, you have to be saluted for driving your car particularly after all of the wrench time that you have put into it.

[monteboy84]

Man, that's a bummer :( But remember, a bad day on the track beats the best day standing next to a trailer queen at a car show :smoke:

Can't wait to see what you come up with this time!

-matt

[Payton King]

Spent the better part of yesterday looking for you an new block and crank. I did not come up with any deals, but i will keep an eye out. Good thing when you built the car you made it like a tank. I would have thought there would have been more damage to the rear. Deck lid looks good except where the gas monkey dropped the nozzel on it. LOL

I also feel bad about the Crash Test Dummy comment...Evil Knievle or Joey Chitwood would have been more fitting.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

daaammn Ron!.. glad your okay, but whoa that is a terrible feeling..

but hell.. you did all the work to it.. you can put it back together.

[65coupe408w]

Any thoughts on putting the new 5.0 Coyote in it?

[Bow Tie 67]

Slap a cheap ls1 into it, I know Darrin has one, I sold it to him!!

[Ron S]

Yeah Matt, I'm pretty sure thats what its going to get. After paying for this wedding, funds are pretty slim. I've got a bunch of feelers out, hopefully I come up with something.

And yes, I'd love to put a Coyote engine in there, I always wanted this car to be Ford powered. I just can't swing it right now.

[jknight16]

It just seems that with all of the accessories, mounts, headers, etc. you already have in place to run an LS engine, it might be a waste to ditch all that and go Ford; even if you could sell some of the parts used.

I'm starting to wonder if all of us in the PT world that put our cars on the track (even if it's just occasionally) need to start thinking harder about oiling systems. With the destruction of your LS7, Bill's Hemi, Chris' BBC and a few others all meeting their maker at road course events, I wonder if we're all overlooking something we shouldn't.

[Ron S]

The death of my engine, and Bills engine were not oil related, i don't know about Chris. Bills car just ate a valve, part failure, not oil related. Mine broke a piston, shot the rod through the block, also not oil related,and my car already had dry sump oiling. The piston I'm almost positive broke Friday night on the cruise, puking oil out the breather like crazy. The car was slightly down on power Saturday, I should have recognized the symptoms, but didn't until it was too late. Lesson learned, expensive lesson. Ron

[jknight16]

Gotcha Ron. I had forgotten that you retained the dry sump system. All the more reason to stick with an LS?

Very sorry to hear about your expensive misfortune on that Ron. Did anyone else have an engine failure at RTTS?

I know this is an area of my car that has been largely overlooked so now I'm thinking about what needs to be done to make it live over the longrun.

[monteboy84]

Does the LS7 come with Forged pistons standard or were those hypereutetics like other LS motors?

-matt

[ccm399]

Yeah Matt, I'm pretty sure thats what its going to get. After paying for this wedding, funds are pretty slim. I've got a bunch of feelers out, hopefully I come up with something.

And yes, I'd love to put a Coyote engine in there, I always wanted this car to be Ford powered. I just can't swing it right now.

Glad you are OK Ron. Can't wait to see what you come up with.

Chris

[Zachalanche]

Man, that's a bummer :( But remember, a bad day on the track beats the best day standing next to a trailer queen at a car show :smoke:

Can't wait to see what you come up with this time!

-matt

Absolutely. This has got to be the coolest car on this site, and the thing that sets it apart is that Ron is willing to frequently push its limits. The wreck is a bummer, but I'd be ok with a little body damage if it meant I was getting that much seat time.

Ron,
can't wait to see your car back in action.

[Crestronwizard]

Well this sucks.........sure you will have it back going in no time. Headed down to NC eh? My buddy is getting married this weekend, guess a lot of that going around. Good luck!

[mario5972]

Oh my God! Sorry about your car. First time I have posted here, been a member for a while. I couldn't keep quiet. I met you at V I R last year and watched you spank that Nissan GTR's ass. As a mustang owner, first mustang to get a pass with Chevy drivetrain. Enjoyed meeting you. Hope you get your car fix soon. Thanks for thinking outside the mustang box.

[PhillipM]

Does the LS7 come with Forged pistons standard or were those hypereutetics like other LS motors?

-matt

They come with hypereutetics.. That is why Katech does so many forged piston conversions. I remember when we originally got our LS7 the guys basically said if you plan on beating on it with repeated high rpms a piston swap was a necesity.. Like Ron said, it is hard to know what the previous owner of the engine did to it, but this is really unfortunate.

I would say the best route to go would be to rebuild the LS7. New block/crank/pistons/rods and return this beast to it's prior glory! Even if it takes extra time. I just hate throwing money at an engine that will just be a temporary solution. Seems like a waste.

[ace_xp2]

Those heads ls7 heads may bolt on to an ls3:
http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/generation-iv-internal-engine/1050456-will-ls7-heads-intake-bolt-ls3.html
Though the exhaust valve proximity may hurt flow too much (Do ls7 heads have low exhaust flow like l92s?). Anyways, a little valve clearance work on an LS3 shortblock could get you running again with a fair bit of power. Might be a little difficult to find compared to a ls1/2/5.3 though.

[Ron S]

Just got back into town after my daughters wedding, it was nice not thinking about cars for a few days. First I just wanted to thank everyone who called or emailed, you'd have thought a person died instead of an engine. Thanks guys

Will probably start on the sheetmetal ASAP, still looking for some engine stuff, have seriously been looking at Ford stuff, still cost too much.

[SVTforme]

Awful news Ron - glad to see that you are OK. I am sure you will have another engine built, installed and running again before most of us can swap out a set of wheels and tires :). It always amazes me how fast you get things back together again and running in no time flat.

[Ron S]

Picking up some sheet metal today, have a few leads on a couple of power plants.

[RS_Customs]

Picking up some sheet metal today, have a few leads on a couple of power plants.

LS power plants?

Robert

[dusterbd13]

stroked pushrod small block fords with turbos?

[Ron S]

I'm pretty sure it will be LS powered, once again to get to the power level that I had, I'd have to spend way too much to go Ford.

I did start ripping off some old sheetmetal, used the hillbilly frame machine(a Jeep with a winch) to pull the metal around. Can't get over how ridgid the chassis was and how straight it kept the car. I'm convinced that a stock bodied Mustang would have blown the back window out, and been shaped like a taco. I guess its english wheel time.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1248643078_hY49EL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1248643113_pGR6XL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1248643159_4w37NL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1248643432_XGmPHL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1248643562_Eng9LL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1248643833_QMwsGL-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

haha wow buddy that looks like some fun! I've used 1 poor mans puller, but not 2 lol.

Glad your sticking with the LS idea, it's one of many cool things about your car!

Robert

[srh3trinity]

New rear valence? Shelby tail lights? I am glad for your sake that your fab skills not only made a cool car, but a safe one.

[PhillipM]

Nice to see you fixing it so quickly Ron!

[monteboy84]

As far as track wrecks go, that looks pretty minimal. Glad to see it's not more severe than that. When you're touching up the paint you'll be happy you didn't go with a metallic or some kind of 3-stage ;)

-matt

[Chad-1stGen]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1248643159_4w37NL-1.jpg



That is pure win Ron. For the majority of us on PT.com if we posted this pic, we'd get laughed right off the board. With your skills we just become more impressed!

Two whinches, a floor jack and a metal stabalizer bar thing. Too funny

[Gitter Dun]

Wow, that sucks. Sorry to see this. The only thing I could think of saying to better the sitch is it could have been worse. Hope you have an easy time putting it back together.

[Ron S]

That is pure win Ron. For the majority of us on PT.com if we posted this pic, we'd get laughed right off the board. With your skills we just become more impressed!

Two whinches, a floor jack and a metal stabalizer bar thing. Too funny


The crazy part is, I have full access to a state of the art frame machine anytime I want, but after measuring the car there was truely no need. The damage was all just sheetmetal, thank God. The hillbilly frame machine kind of goes with the budget theme don't you think?, and it made me laugh. Ron

[SicMonte]

Where have I been???? I had no idea the $5000 mustang thread was Ron's!! It's time for me to get out from under this rock.

Ron it was great to meet you at RTTS and it really sucks to see what happened to your car. At least you are ok though!

[vanzuuk1]

Awesome!

[Ron S]

I thought I posted these already, apparently I didn't.
http://57hemicuda.smugmug.com/Cars/Crash/16544481_hHmds#1245716649_fgW7V

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1248643159_4w37NL-1.jpg

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

[Rotary]

I just wanted to say i really love the bare bones approach to your mustang. I have a 66 i built around ten years ago for strip duty and i've grown tired of the poor handling even with aftermarket components. I like the idea of putting a frame under it, ive wrenched for a shop for years but i think its time to learn to weld. Did i notice you ran your exhaust through the frame? Did you have to reinforce that area or is it of minimal concern?

[Ron S]

I took 4" 1/4 wall tubing and ovalled it in the press, and welded it in the 2x4 box tubing. The way the truck arm suspension runs, the frame ends up doubled at that section, made it a little hard to fit mufflers though.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/401617126_MrUW2L-1.jpg

[Ron S]

Got most of the metal formed and fitted, I'm so used to looking at this car, I forgot how far from stock it really is. Had to stretch and roll the quarters, and add several inches of material. Hopefully I get the welding finished this week, and start smearing mud.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/1257449466_K6f5SKZL-1.jpg

[tommycomfort]

Great forward progress! You're an inspiration for the rest of us regular guys. :cheers:
Tom

[HectorM52]

You make it look so easy. Amazing.

[tazzz25906112]

Dam a little blue paint and off to the local show buddy ;-)... Great progress drop me a line and let me know if our friend touched base with you by chance???

[PARKERRS]

Damn!! Sorry to hear about the bad luck Ron. I was scheduled to be at RTTS but couldn't make it in the end, looks like I missed the show. I was there when the first engine blew and helped push it off the course. Glad your ok for sure the car can always be fixed.

[SicMonte]

wow....you got that all done FAST!!!!!!!! I would really like to come see it...I don't think I am far from you.

[454bug]

Looks great Ron! Did you start with a new fender panel or did you fashion all that from scratch?

It's amazing how fast it has came back together.

You are a real inspiration! Great job. :twothumbs

[Ron S]

Looks great Ron! Did you start with a new fender panel or did you fashion all that from scratch?

It's amazing how fast it has came back together.

You are a real inspiration! Great job. :twothumbs


Yeah Ray, it does start with an original quarter. That is what slipped my mind, it got split down the middle, the wheel flares got cut off and reshaped, 3" added to the length, and 3" to the height. A real pita, I need to build a forged engine, and stay far, far away from the wall. Ron

[RS_Customs]

Forged engine! Sweet!

How about keeping with the progression of power and do a forged ls9 setup? hehe

Robert

[The Stickman]

Great work on the quarter panel.

[Ron S]

There must be something wrong with me, but I always thought this car looked like it had a flabby butt. Always wanted to clean the lines up on the rear of the car. So while I'm fixing the quarter, I reshaped it to kind of give it a more athletic as$, the only problem is that it required cutting the bottom off the good quarter to give it the same shape. Plus, I will have to make a new more streamline splash panel. The sad part is 99% of people won't even see the difference.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/dsc02130L-1.jpg

[2blownstangs]

I wish I had 1/4 of your skills bro. Rock on!

[bonecrrusher]

Ron - car is looking good - you going to RTTH's again this year?

[Ron S]

That is my favorite event of the year, I'll be there.

[srh3trinity]

We wouldn't expect anything less Ron. If it matters to you, it matters to us.

[Ron S]

We wouldn't expect anything less Ron. If it matters to you, it matters to us.

Just figured something good had to come out of all that badness.LOL

[John Wright]

99% of people won't even see the difference.

Yup...but that should be taken as a compliment to your workmanship and styling abilities....maybe you could apply for a job at Ford in the design department making concept cars for them....LOL, I might even be swayed to the Ford side of the street if they came out with a similar version of your beast.

[Zachalanche]

There must be something wrong with me, but I always thought this car looked like it had a flabby butt. Always wanted to clean the lines up on the rear of the car. So while I'm fixing the quarter, I reshaped it to kind of give it a more athletic as$, the only problem is that it required cutting the bottom off the good quarter to give it the same shape. Plus, I will have to make a new more streamline splash panel. The sad part is 99% of people won't even see the difference.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/dsc02130L-1.jpg

Put me in the 1% group. I always thought that the back of the car needed a little more upward angle on the lower edge of the quarter. That should really complement the widebody makeing it look more natural and less forced on th rear of the car. can't wait to see how it turns out.

[Bullockracing]

The sad part is 99% of people won't even see the difference.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the difference between gearheads and pedestrians. Great choice on shaving the rear a tad - I never thought there was anything wrong with it, but once you mentioned it, I can totally see what you are talking about. I bet everyone on here can appreciate it as well.

[Bullockracing]

...I might even be swayed to the Ford side of the street if they came out with a similar version of your beast.

Mine's pretty close - looks-wise anyway. I don't have all the cool fab work tho...

[Z06killinSBF]

Looks good! You should black out the rear panel aswell. Then we can have "partial" twins, well a street version and it's VERY evil twin.

[Ron S]

It should be a little different, I am actually putting a fiberglass back bumper on it, reengineering the tow tabs, and putting shiny paint on it. What is this world coming to?

[Ron S]

Put me in the 1% group. I always thought that the back of the car needed a little more upward angle on the lower edge of the quarter. That should really complement the widebody makeing it look more natural and less forced on th rear of the car. can't wait to see how it turns out.

The rear of the car has a belly pan on it, I wanted the quarters to flow right into that bellypan. Which left the quarter higher in the front then in the back, I will have to fab a new pan to work with shape of the new quarters. You can see the difference in the pics.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/675263408_9fsbbL-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/dsc02129L-1.jpg

[srh3trinity]

I see what you mean. I like the idea of running a bumper, it will look more complete. I am still pulling for a bigger tail light setup given the width of the car. Any lines on a new engine yet?

[twosaturns]

the 2nd shot seems to show the gas tank dropping down pretty far; do you think you'll have to move it up as well?

[Six_Shooter]

That's the angle of before picture I was looking for last night. lol

Definitely an improvement.

[64LS1Nova]

the 2nd shot seems to show the gas tank dropping down pretty far; do you think you'll have to move it up as well?

The 2nd shot does not have the rear valance on.

[Bjkadron]

The back looks 100% better! I thought it looked a little awkward before, but it was already done when I started following your build so I didn't figure you were going to change it.

[Ron S]

I see what you mean. I like the idea of running a bumper, it will look more complete. I am still pulling for a bigger tail light setup given the width of the car. Any lines on a new engine yet?

Yeah, I got a block, and am getting the LS back together. I'm too cheap to spend the cash on the fancy tail panel and lights.

[Evoix]

Hey Ron I like your Corvette... err mustang haha look forward to seeing/reading about your new bottom end!

[Dan S.]

That's gonna be a much more fluid look.

Nice line.

[TomT]

Wow Ron - awesome car! I hope to see it in person someday.

[shortrack]

Do you still have the Kirkey seats??....how are you liking them after a day of driving??.....they would be so easy to mount in mine but Ive heard they can be.....uncomfortable.

[Ron S]

Yeah, I'm running the Pro Street/Drag seat, the inter. road race seat wasn't comfortable when I shifted. Kind of bound up my arm on the wings on the side of the seat. I think they are very comfortable, I think I'm going to try a set of 20 degree seats to give me more headroom.

[Mustang67Lenor]

I have spent the last 2 days reading through your thread. And I have to tell you, I joined this forum so i might be able to gain some insight on modifying my 67 mustang coupe. Your car is at the least awesome, but I admire the work you have done and the skill you have with a hammer and welder.

that front splitter is kind of in the direction of what i want, but my car isn't that low to the ground. Any tips on how to start fabing, this is still my first car, literally.

Lastly, wish you kept it all ford. think about a fuel injected 358 stroker if you get the money.

[THIELMETALFABRICATION]

this car is hot , i wanna see lots more updates , love all the innovations uve come up with !! awesome stuff!

[Ron S]

I have spent the last 2 days reading through your thread. And I have to tell you, I joined this forum so i might be able to gain some insight on modifying my 67 mustang coupe. Your car is at the least awesome, but I admire the work you have done and the skill you have with a hammer and welder.

that front splitter is kind of in the direction of what i want, but my car isn't that low to the ground. Any tips on how to start fabing, this is still my first car, literally.

Lastly, wish you kept it all ford. think about a fuel injected 358 stroker if you get the money.

The only advise I can give is to start collecting tools, welder, cutting, hammering tools, and start practicing. My best fab tools are oddly shaped pieces of metal (short sections of railroad ties, round cannon ball shaped pieces welded on to stands) old school is the best school.

[David Sloan]

Hey Ron any update on your motor yet!! chomping at the bit here!! LOL!!

[Ron S]

Thought I'd have it built Sat. and installed Sunday, but Manley shorted me the oil control rail support in my ring set, so although all the assemblies are built, the rings are file fit and ready to install, I'm in limbo until Manley sends me the rails. I was flushing the dry sump tank, and of course it was full of metal. This requires me to pull the front clip to get the tank out and clean it out, so the front clip got pulled yesterday. One step forward two back.

[tommycomfort]

Ron, I hate to even bring it up, but what's you estimated back on the road date? RTMC, Motorstate, or???

[Ron S]

I planned on going to the Ocean City show this Thursday, but I'm not sure thats going to happen now. Motorstate for sure, RTMC?? The body is roughed in, and in primer, still needs some touching up and a few blockings, but it looks like a Mustang again(minus a front clip)LOL

[Mr. Anderson]

Damn, hadn't checked this thread in a while. Making lemonade out of lemons for sure, the new quarters look great! When stuff breaks, I like to think that it's just telling you it's time for an upgrade.

[Mustang67Lenor]

Thanks for the tips Ron. When is the next RTTH, if its around the same time last year? ill just be getting out of Ranger School to join if it is. Hope I can see that beast up close.

[Ron S]

Busy season at work, working 12 hour days, haven't had 5 minutes to touch this poor car. Finally got the engine together and set in this weekend, no more Ford blue paint (just bad mojo). Looks like I will probably be at Motorstate in primer.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/DSC02218L-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/DSC02221L-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/DSC02217L-1.jpg

[RS_Customs]

Great job Ron! Good to see your back up and ready for the events.

Robert

[HectorM52]

That back end looks sexy, even in gray!!

[tommycomfort]

As always, your work is impressive! Looking forward to seeing you and the car at Motorstate.
Tom

[xxxturbo6]

Ron,

It was sad to see what happened to you and the car and i'm glad to see it's getting back together quick for some more track time. I can't wait to see it at the RTTH event.

Scot W.

[srh3trinity]

Is that another LS7?

[John Wright]

Ron, is that new front brake duct work I see.....or was that there all along?

BTW, bodywork looks fantastic, even in primer.

[Ron S]

The brake ducts went in with the air intake/lower grill.

The engine is a LS7 block, assorted inards that I got off LS1 Tech board and other places. Used my existing heads, with replacements for all the valves that were no longer straight. Kind of cheeses me off that I've spent all this money, and the car will be no faster, possibly slower!

[64LS1Nova]

Looks good Ron. You got a good bit done yesterday!

[Payton King]

Appears that you did get all the oil and dirt out of it. Leaving the motor silver looks better anyway...lol Blue is bad MO for sure. Good call two have been blue and two blew. You do not need a third.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

damn you got a lot done Ron!

hear hear!

[Hondo78]

Ron, are you touring the Mustang on the West coast this year? Portland Historics (Oregon) are just a month away.... Last year there was a 914-6 all steel car flared out in the parking area, owner had $125K in it..

[Ron S]

If I don't get moving, this thing won't be touring the east coast!! About a week ago you could have found a sign on this car, (free to good home). Man, this thing is fighting me the whole way, if it wasn't for Motorstate I would walk away for a while. The car will be there in primer, a little rough around the edges, but I guess that is the nature of this car anyway. I need to stop whining and get back to work.

[SicMonte]

Car looks amazing considering what happend back in April. The turn around time has been fast!! Keep up the good work...it will all be worth it!

[John Wright]

two have been blue and two blew. You do not need a third.

maybe swap the chip for a slightly lower one too.....LOL

[ArtosDracon]

Primer is sexy, just keep it that way. :)

[Ron S]

Redid alot of the dry sump stuff, which required adding a remote filter, and changing all of my oil lines. Alot of the fitting and ends were special order which has drug this whole process out alot longer then I was hoping. Finally fired the new engine last night only to find two quarts of oil on the shop floor. Appears one of the factory crimped ends on one of the lines is leaking like crazy, and will have to be replaced.

Everyone said to just use the push lock hose, that stuff just gives me the willies on oil or fuel. I used teflon lined, full bore braded, with factory crimped type ends because I was affraid of blowing an oil line. Which now kind of screwed me, because this car needs to be on the trailer Thurs, heading to Motorstate. I can't put the rest of the car together beause of the location of this line, and I still have to order a new line. Can't really fire the engine to break it in, so I'll be in Michigan with an untested, primered POS, that probably has 2 break in miles on it right before it goes on the trailer.

I just have to laugh, $5000 budget my as$. The new ARE oil pan requires way more lines then my old set up, this thing has gotten way too exotic, from under the car it looks like a braided line snake pit. It turned out to be a very sanitary installation, but with all those lines I was bound to have one of the fittings leak. Sorry, I just needed to vent, and my wife just doesn't get it.

[tommycomfort]

Man I feel for you Ron! You can kick me in the shin when we get to Motorstate if you want. (Sometimes it helps me when I take it out on someone else...)

[tazzz25906112]

Hey buddy, it's the "gottcha" syndrome.... We all have one of those dam lines, fittings, or special parts that come up and bite you square on the A$$ pal.... Have no fear if **** goes sideways I'll have a couple of cars over there and you're welcome to use one of mine for the weekend bud......

[andrewb70]

Redid alot of the dry sump stuff, which required adding a remote filter, and changing all of my oil lines. Alot of the fitting and ends were special order which has drug this whole process out alot longer then I was hoping. Finally fired the new engine last night only to find two quarts of oil on the shop floor. Appears one of the factory crimped ends on one of the lines is leaking like crazy, and will have to be replaced.

Everyone said to just use the push lock hose, that stuff just gives me the willies on oil or fuel. I used teflon lined, full bore braded, with factory crimped type ends because I was affraid of blowing an oil line. Which now kind of screwed me, because this car needs to be on the trailer Thurs, heading to Motorstate. I can't put the rest of the car together beause of the location of this line, and I still have to order a new line. Can't really fire the engine to break it in, so I'll be in Michigan with an untested, primered POS, that probably has 2 break in miles on it right before it goes on the trailer.

I just have to laugh, $5000 budget my as$. The new ARE oil pan requires way more lines then my old set up, this thing has gotten way too exotic, from under the car it looks like a braided line snake pit. It turned out to be a very sanitary installation, but with all those lines I was bound to have one of the fittings leak. Sorry, I just needed to vent, and my wife just doesn't get it.

Hey Ron,

Sorry to hear about your troubles. Is there a local industrial hydraulic hose store? They offer all kinds of hose, including the full bore teflon lines. They may not look as sexy, but they will work well and get you down the road.

Andrew

[1red68]

Hey Ron,

Sorry to hear about your troubles. Is there a local industrial hydraulic hose store? They offer all kinds of hose, including the full bore teflon lines. They may not look as sexy, but they will work well and get you down the road.

Andrew

this is a good thought. those industrial lines are not pretty but they are tough and available......

[Ron S]

These hoses came from a local hydraulic shop, and they had to order the ends. I ended up driving all over Baltimore to pick up the final ends that I needed on Friday. I know for certain there aren't any avalible locally, because I already snatched up every end in Baltimore. I'm going to try York Pa. on Monday, maybe I can get my Father to pick them up for me, because I'm still slammed at work, and don't have the time to get away.

[srh3trinity]

I guess all hobbies that men like have this same phenomenon. You can have a horrible outing at the golf course, but you hit one shot that brings you back the next time. You can have a bad day on the water wakeboarding, but you stick one trick and that brings you back. Apply this to hunting or anything else and it fits. Looks like it fits for the car hobby too. Just think though, when you are back in the driver's seat, that is the feeling that you have worked so hard to get back to.

[Jim Nilsen]

Hi Ron, it's good to see that you are still planning to make it to the motorstate.

You make my problems seem small. I have the bleeder hose to the hydraulic TOB leaking at the fitting I thought and this morning when I loked at it i saw it was wet by the braid and think I to have the same factory crimped hose failure. Never thought it would have happen and the early set up was stainless tubing and I got rid of it because I thought it might crack someday and braided was better,lol.

Along with it my IAC is maybe messed up with my map sensor because of a bad backfire, We will see? The car still runs and I'll make it but I am with on having to work hard to get there.

I look forward to seeing you there and we will just have to run what we brung and have fun !!!!

[GNon18s]

'Penn air and hydraulics' is here in york. I dont know exactly what you need but thay are capable of making all sorts of stuff. They built me a fuel line while I waited the last time I was there.

[Ron S]

I found a place down in Sparrows Point that carries Aeroquip(Eaton), I'll call them, if they don't have it, I'll be heading to York. Thanks, Ron

[Ron S]

Got the oil line today, and finally got to put a few miles on it. Seems to run pretty good, and be leak free, at least for now. The more I look at the roughed in body work, the rougher it looks, but I'll take care of that when I get back from Michigan. Its funny, I've got the new belly pan made for under the fuel tank, but I don't want to install it until I have the new splash panel fabricated. I love when I open the trunk, and look at the ground its very Flintstones.

[tazzz25906112]

LOL Flintstones meets corner carver LOL... see you in a few days bud. When you coming in Thursday?? Friday???

[Ron S]

I'm coming in Thursday. Can't wait, see you then Albert

[Flash68]

Great stuff.. good luck Ron.

[Bow Tie 67]

I'll see ya Friday, and there is nothing POS about primer :)

[Ron S]

See ya there Matt, there is something alittle POS about primer. I guess thats why I like the POS look so much. Ron

[Hondo78]

Ron-

"susp. and truck arms Ebay $600,frame $400.Wheels "

Will you tell me a little about this frame for $400! I have the bug after reading your $5000 build thread, and I have an AMC Javelin body ready for the project
I just need a place to start.. Did you build it or buy it for $400? I have never built one myself, but it seems a logical place to start.

[Ron S]

The chassis was built from scratch, had about $400 in steel. Its funny I just started building a chassis for a 69 AMX I have. This Mustang has been bucking all the abuse I've been putting it through, so I've been spending all my time fixing this car. As soon as I get some time I'll post some pics of the AMX chassis, and body, and maybe start a build thread on that car. Ron

[Dragonsnake]

You are doing what 99% of the PT crowd misses..driving the snout out of it!!

[72D100]

i just read all 87 pages(slow day) of they thread and all i have to say is WOW. I'm impressed with your work. gives me motivation to start working on my truck again. keep up the good work.

[454bug]

Hey Ron,

It looks like your new motor performed well for you at the Motorstate event. Were you happy with your performance (and results) since you didn't have much break-in time for the motor prior to the event?

[Ron S]

Hey Ron,

It looks like your new motor performed well for you at the Motorstate event. Were you happy with your performance (and results) since you didn't have much break-in time for the motor prior to the event?

I really didn't post anything about it because it was kind of embarasing, but on my first qualifying run the car overheated (for sum reason the fans didn't come on) so I had to come in early. I jumped out the fan relays, the fans came on OK. So I propped the hood up a couple inches to let the heat out, and ran the car around the pits about 3 mph. a gust of wind came up and took the hood up and the windsheild out. I only got one qualifying run, everyone else got four. The car felt strong, it would have been much faster after the four runs, if I wasn't such a bonehead.

SCCA weren't going to let me autox Sunday until I threatened to kick the windsheild the rest of the way out and go roadster. The SCCA guy didn't know what to say, he finally agree to let me go if I kept the face sheild down.

A smart as$ buddy made these for me when I got home, Herb and Carol got a few good pics of the car before the unfortunate hood pin incedent .


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/DSC00046L-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/herb2L-1.jpg

[Dragonsnake]

Dig dig dig!!

[tazzz25906112]

It was great seeing you bud,,,, you coming to Columbus????

[Ron S]

I am truely going to try, I will be at VIR for sure though.

[bonecrrusher]

Details on VIR??

[454bug]

I really didn't post anything about it because it was kind of embarasing, but on my first qualifying run the car overheated (for sum reason the fans didn't come on) so I had to come in early. I jumped out the fan relays, the fans came on OK. So I propped the hood up a couple inches to let the heat out, and ran the car around the pits about 3 mph. a gust of wind came up and took the hood up and the windsheild out. I only got one qualifying run, everyone else got four. The car felt strong, it would have been much faster after the four runs, if I wasn't such a bonehead.

SCCA weren't going to let me autox Sunday until I threatened to kick the windsheild the rest of the way out and go roadster. The SCCA guy didn't know what to say, he finally agree to let me go if I kept the face sheild down.

A smart as$ buddy made these for me when I got home, Herb and Carol got a few good pics of the car before the unfortunate hood pin incedent

I guess that's one time you wish you still had the reverse open hood, huh?? :naughty:

With all the troubles, that's not too bad coming in 12th on the road course and 8th on the autocross... I'm sure your times would have improved with more than one lap...

You'll be ready at the next event. I guess that's the kind of things that happen when your schedule is rushed... :)

[Ron S]

Details on VIR??

Doing the HPDE class on July 23/24 with Bill Howell and Steve Chrysos.

[Ron S]

I guess that's the kind of things that happen when your schedule is rushed... :)

You have no idea!!!!!

[johngross]

I've lost hoods twice in the last 40 years. Once, me and once loaning my buddy my car. Embarrassing as hell. Fix it and get back at. I luv reading about your car. It's one of my favorites, besides Mary's Camaro, but then you don't post pictures of your backside. Hopefully you didn't damage the sheetmetal to bad.