Project BLUEprint, 1965 Falcon

[Bryce]

After lots of research and some luck at the Big 3 swap meet, I found my new steering box. I could have used my original since it only has 50K miles on it, but it was 19:1 and I have a 65 mustang box that is 16:1 ratio and in good condition, but I would have had to spline the shaft and really did not want to disassemble the box. So I found a rebuilt 67 mustang box 16:1 ratio and it has a 3/4-36 spline. This is the same as my steering quickener and will make this install a lot easier. I will put a u-joint right on the input to the box.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_2JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668082)

The box is exactly the same case as my 65 falcon box. Since I had header to box contact I decided to take the opportunity to modify the box for extra clearance. I rounded the area where it hit the headers.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_3JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668087)

I then painted it with my favorite, hammer tone gold! All of my suspension is painted this color so why not.

Its hard to get a picture of the box installed.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_4JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668094)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_7JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668095)
I will be changing out the fasteners to something more visually appealing.

[Bryce]

Here you can see the stock hole in the firewall.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_9JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668096)

This plate will cover the hole and mount the intermediate shaft support.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_29JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668086)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_31JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668089)

The steering shaft support has a spherical bearing with 25* of misalignment. I bent the plate slightly to accomodate the contours in the firewall. I will get some final pictures later.

[Bryce]

Here are the pictures of my bracket for the quickener. It will mount the quickener and two pillow blocks for the steering column. This should end up have very little flex.

It started out as 4x4x1/4 square tube. I love the IMS scrap pile.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_26JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668083)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_27JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668084)

Its amazing what you can do with a wood cutting bandsaw and an aluminum blade.

Here are some installed pictures. I only have one of the pillow blocks installed. And the quickener is not installed either. I still need to cut and spline the original steering shaft.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_33JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668091)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_35JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668093)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_falcon_steering_34JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668092)

[LM7_67]

I love the IMS scrap pile.

True story. Most of my car came from there. :D

[Bryce]

True story. Most of my car came from there. :D

They have tons of cool stuff. How was RTTC, I was too busy wrenching to get up there and spectate.

[dusterbd13]

is it just the camera angle, or does that bracket hang as low as it looks?
if it does, you may want to rethink that as your toe will hang up on it during autocross runs. or panic stops.

michael

[LM7_67]

They have tons of cool stuff. How was RTTC, I was too busy wrenching to get up there and spectate.

I was wondering where you were...

It was a blast though and quite an adventure. Will hopefully be posting updates in my thread tonight.

[Bryce]

is it just the camera angle, or does that bracket hang as low as it looks?
if it does, you may want to rethink that as your toe will hang up on it during autocross runs. or panic stops.

michael

Michael,

Thanks for the concern. It looks closer than it really is. It should not be in the way. Actually to fit me better I would like to drop the brake peddle down a little. So I might cut the MC pushrod off a little and make an adjustable return stop for the brake pedal so that is sits even with the gas pedal.

[Bryce]

I was wondering where you were...

It was a blast though and quite an adventure. Will hopefully be posting updates in my thread tonight.


I cant wait to beat on my car again.

[Bryce]

Still waiting for parts......

Does anyone know who can spline a shaft in San Diego? My contact that I lined up has not called back this week. Ugghh. I will call borgeson tomorrow and see waht they can do.

[ATOMonkey]

Any machine shop with a hob should be able to cut your splines as long as you give them the pitch and diameter. Since this is just a steering shaft spline, it only needs to be close enough to assemble.

[Sales-TCI-Eng]

I cant wait to beat on my car again.

Are you going to make the Adams event on the 29th?

-J

[Bjkadron]

Nice! Now I'm seriously thinking about swapping out the power steering and going with the manual and quickener... it would be easier while I have everything out anyway...

[Bryce]

Nice! Now I'm seriously thinking about swapping out the power steering and going with the manual and quickener... it would be easier while I have everything out anyway...

I will let you know if I can turn the car with manual steering.

[Bryce]

Are you going to make the Adams event on the 29th?

-J

It depends if I get my steering shaft splined and my work schedule.

[Bryce]

Any machine shop with a hob should be able to cut your splines as long as you give them the pitch and diameter. Since this is just a steering shaft spline, it only needs to be close enough to assemble.


I am looking for a machine shop now.

[SDS MACHINING]

It depends if I get my steering shaft splined and my work schedule.

Just clamp some Vicegrips to the shaft and make the event... I think its referred to as the "South of the Border" wheel adapter kit

[Bryce]

Just clamp some Vicegrips to the shaft and make the event... I think its referred to as the "South of the Border" wheel adapter kit

HAHA, The problem is attaching the stock steering shaft to the quickener. I finally hooked up with someone that can do it! http://www.manta.com/c/mm701tv/moore-performance Rob Moore of moore performance nitro driveline is helping me out. He rented a cutter for the hobbing machine and I should have something middle of next week. He builds input/output shafts for top fuel cars. All of my parts are here except the shaft so I took the morning off work to get the quickener mounted and u-joints installed. I will post updates tonight!

[TurboLark]

HAHA, The problem is attaching the stock steering shaft to the quickener. I finally hooked up with someone that can do it! http://www.manta.com/c/mm701tv/moore-performance Rob Moore of moore performance nitro driveline is helping me out. He rented a cutter for the hobbing machine and I should have something middle of next week. He builds input/output shafts for top fuel cars. All of my parts are here except the shaft so I took the morning off work to get the quickener mounted and u-joints installed. I will post updates tonight!

Could you use a smooth bore to 3/4-36 ujoint to couple them?

[Bryce]

Could you use a smooth bore to 3/4-36 ujoint to couple them?

I am using a solid coupler on the shaft to the quickener and that needs to be removable to accomodate quick quickener changes. I did not want to weld onto the shaft.... I could have done a double D on the shaft but the cost for the coupler was over double a splined coupler. Now ALL of my connections will be 3/4-36 for a super modular system for any future changes.

[Doodler]

Bryce, Where did you get those pedals? They are exactly what I've been trying to find.

[Badbird1963]

That turned out fantastic. Very simple setup but does what it needs to do. The column is about as cool as mashed potatoes. I would have never thought to make my own. Easy project, but I can't do aluminum, I would have to go with steel. I bet that box is identical to the one I have in my 63. Problem is I have all 6cyl crap for steering, but I plan on upgrading all to more adjustable suspension similar to what you are running. I don't think I need to increase the speed of my steering at this point, but I would really like to get the tilt wheel in there. That adapter for the grant wheel is simply genius, where did you get those little inserts that the steering wheel hub screws to? Keep it up, eventually we will all get up off this computer and start wrenching too.

[Bryce]

Bryce, Where did you get those pedals? They are exactly what I've been trying to find.

I did the pedals about 10 years ago. My buddy who was into imports at the time bought them for me. I will look at them tonight and see if there is a manufacture name on there.

[Bryce]

That turned out fantastic. Very simple setup but does what it needs to do. The column is about as cool as mashed potatoes. I would have never thought to make my own. Easy project, but I can't do aluminum, I would have to go with steel. I bet that box is identical to the one I have in my 63. Problem is I have all 6cyl crap for steering, but I plan on upgrading all to more adjustable suspension similar to what you are running. I don't think I need to increase the speed of my steering at this point, but I would really like to get the tilt wheel in there. That adapter for the grant wheel is simply genius, where did you get those little inserts that the steering wheel hub screws to? Keep it up, eventually we will all get up off this computer and start wrenching too.

Thank you, I like aluminum better and its easier to work with. I have a welder that loves my small jobs and gives me a really good price.

The box is the same as a 63, it actually has C3 cast into it.

Those insert are aircraft nutplates. I bought them from a hardware surplus store. Check these http://www.aircraftspruce.com/search/search.php

[Bjkadron]

I will let you know if I can turn the car with manual steering.

Mine would only be 12:1 so it should be a little easier...

[Bryce]

Some more pictures. Getting closer.

Here is the quickener installed to my bracket.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_03162012265jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668996)

Here is the new steering column ready to installed into the car.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_03162012262jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/668995)

[rustomatic]

With 12:1 manual steering, I hope you've got really good shoulder muscles! I can almost see my funny bones popping out of the sockets with a need for quick steering inputs. That said, I love the column you've put together; my own looks like like some kind of messed-up giant flute...

I would have thought you'd be doing an integral power box with the quickener. The stock 16:1 manual box is nice enough for autocross, with the big stock wheel--I tried that setup a long time ago, with 6 cylinder linkage and a Flaming River box. It was very nice, but the off-center feel was still not as good as my seemingly higher (numerical) ratio Unisteer. The manual Unisteer makes an autocross a never-happen (too many wheel turns needed), but it's decent (given vintage motorsport steering requirements) on the twisty roads. I do wish for a lower ratio, but the installed simplicity (less crap than stock) is preferred...

Sorry about the rambling--keep up the awesome work!

[Bryce]

With 12:1 manual steering, I hope you've got really good shoulder muscles! I can almost see my funny bones popping out of the sockets with a need for quick steering inputs. That said, I love the column you've put together; my own looks like like some kind of messed-up giant flute...

I would have thought you'd be doing an integral power box with the quickener. The stock 16:1 manual box is nice enough for autocross, with the big stock wheel--I tried that setup a long time ago, with 6 cylinder linkage and a Flaming River box. It was very nice, but the off-center feel was still not as good as my seemingly higher (numerical) ratio Unisteer. The manual Unisteer makes an autocross a never-happen (too many wheel turns needed), but it's decent (given vintage motorsport steering requirements) on the twisty roads. I do wish for a lower ratio, but the installed simplicity (less crap than stock) is preferred...

Sorry about the rambling--keep up the awesome work!

Actually I am going with 8:1. I have been working out, HAHA. It might be like having a steering wheel club without locking one on.

Thanks I will have some assembled pictures of the column and quickener bracket tomorrow. Finalizing/painting everything today.

I was considering a borgeson integral box but did not want to spend the extra 1000 dollars for the pump and box. I have a 16:1 box now, no miles on it yet, but I want to make sure I never have to cross my hands during an autocross. I was at 5 turns lock to lock now I will be around 1.75 turns.

The unisteer still has less travel than stock and not as good of bumpsteer characteristics as stock centerlink.

I still have to build new tie rods and I might entertain the idea of building a new centerlink.

[fordsbyjay]

I like people with "out there" ideas. Keep up the updates.

[Bryce]

I like people with "out there" ideas. Keep up the updates.


You calling me crazy?

[fordsbyjay]

Hahahahahahaha good one Bryce. Hey I talked to John at Griggs today and he told me just to tweak the mounting flange at the pinion for my T/A seems how I only need 2*.

[Badbird1963]

I was going to ask about the steering. Your early pics don't show anything for steering links, (tie rod, or center link) Mine is well worn in 10 years worth of oil leaks and just plain beating on it, off roading and such. First thing I've got on my list is a steering box to get rid of the spear or death stock box. I want to upgrade my steering linkage and tie rods ends. What do you plan on using for end links?

[Bryce]

Hahahahahahaha good one Bryce. Hey I talked to John at Griggs today and he told me just to tweak the mounting flange at the pinion for my T/A seems how I only need 2*.


well, I am a little crazy. HAHAAHHAHAH. But paradigm breaking concepts is what I get to do for a living, so I bring it home.

That is good news about Griggs. Now get to work on your car.

[Bryce]

I was going to ask about the steering. Your early pics don't show anything for steering links, (tie rod, or center link) Mine is well worn in 10 years worth of oil leaks and just plain beating on it, off roading and such. First thing I've got on my list is a steering box to get rid of the spear or death stock box. I want to upgrade my steering linkage and tie rods ends. What do you plan on using for end links?


I still have stock center link and toe rods. Both will stay like that for a little while. I will be rebuilding the idler arm with roller bearings. The tie rods will be replaced with aluminum rod ends and swedged tube. I might build a new centerlink if I get ambitious.

[Tig]

Wow, everything looks great Bryce, youre doing a great job.

[Bryce]

Wow, everything looks great Bryce, youre doing a great job.

Thanks bud, I do what I do! HAHA.

[Bryce]

I am in thrash mode now! Trying to get the steering back together to make the GG del mar.

I am picking up my custom made splined shaft this afternoon. Then, hopefully, all I have to do is assemble everything.

My dad has helped out a bunch this last week, he used a counter bore in a drill press to machine down the quickener mounting pads to align everything, drilled and tapped the holes for my secondary bracket and painted the quickener and column mount. I will post some pictures later.

[Bryce]

updated pictures from the steering install:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3932JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669870)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3934JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669871)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3935JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669872)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3936JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669873)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3937JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669874)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3939JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669876)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3940JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669877)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3941JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669878)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3942JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669879)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3943JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669880)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_full_IMG_3944JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/669881)

[feeble]

Very nice! Any idea what it weighs compared to the stock column?

[LM7_67]

I am in thrash mode now! Trying to get the steering back together to make the GG del mar.

that's what I like to hear!

[Badbird1963]

So have you started printing the instruction booklets for your suspension mods. I've been looking around, and got the instructions to the Fatman Fab strut conversion. This kit has a lot of fab work and you still need parts from the salvage yard and you have to modify them also. The TCI kit is probably what I'd get for the are, but I think I could do the front end and just leave out a lot of adjustments, since I don't plan on racing any I don't think its necessary, just the stock stuff is so sloppy it feels unsafe. Are you using chrysler screw in ball joints?

[Bryce]

Very nice! Any idea what it weighs compared to the stock column?

It weighs 12.2 pounds without steering wheel. I have not had a stock column for 9 years. Anyone else have any idea about this?

[Bryce]

that's what I like to hear!

I have been driving the car all week. See you at GG on friday.

[Bryce]

So have you started printing the instruction booklets for your suspension mods. I've been looking around, and got the instructions to the Fatman Fab strut conversion. This kit has a lot of fab work and you still need parts from the salvage yard and you have to modify them also. The TCI kit is probably what I'd get for the are, but I think I could do the front end and just leave out a lot of adjustments, since I don't plan on racing any I don't think its necessary, just the stock stuff is so sloppy it feels unsafe. Are you using chrysler screw in ball joints?

Yep, chrysler screw in ball joints.

No instruction manual yet. Maybe in the future.

[LM7_67]

I have been driving the car all week. See you at GG on friday.

sadly I had to cancel my Cali trip. Found some stuff with the car that I just couldn't work around in time.

[Bryce]

sadly I had to cancel my Cali trip. Found some stuff with the car that I just couldn't work around in time.

Bummer what happened?

[Bryce]

The falcon is loaded with tools and ready for GG, see you all tomorrow.

[SVTforme]

The falcon is loaded with tools and ready for GG, see you all tomorrow.

I was at that show 2 years ago (time sure flies). What a great event.. especially considering there is often snow here this time of year :).

Good luck - you going to attempt the autocross event?

[Bryce]

I was at that show 2 years ago (time sure flies). What a great event.. especially considering there is often snow here this time of year :).

Good luck - you going to attempt the autocross event?

Yep, I will be doing the autocross.

[wiedemab]

Good Luck! Take video if possible..........Stretch those arms out before your "steering workout"!!

[Bryce]

Good Luck! Take video if possible..........Stretch those arms out before your "steering workout"!!

HAHAHAHA! I have been driving it all week to build up the steering muscles. The first day my forearms were sore. I will have my camera on the door handle again.

My goal is to be the fastest falcon!

[GrabberGT]

HAHAHAHA! I have been driving it all week to build up the steering muscles. The first day my forearms were sore. I will have my camera on the door handle again.

My goal is to be the fastest falcon!

If Falcons are as popular as Mavericks, you should have no problem. I've taken the Maverick Class for the second Lonestar GG in a row. Looking to extend my lead to 4 by the end of the year. lol

[Bryce]

The falcon did alright today. My fastest time was a 34.8xx. I decided to not go back saturday as I dont have enough time to remove 1 second off of my time. The car was setup pretty good for a larger SCCA autocross and these tighter turns really caused the car to push. I also had more body lean than I wanted. So I will be adding a much larger front sway bar and a few other changes before the next event.

The 8:1 steering was nice and quick if I had power steering I think I might be a little more precise.

The motor ran great and the rear suspension hooked good. I will have pictures and video up later tonight.

[Bryce]

http://youtu.be/kHb2jxP0Lj4



Video of my best lap.

[Bryce]

some pics that my dad took.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/tn_small_IMG_3982JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/album/30828)

[fordsbyjay]

Looks like fun. I can't wait..

[dumbluck]

nice job

[LowFast]

Won't a larger front bar only make the understeer worse?

[Bryce]

Won't a larger front bar only make the understeer worse?

In theory, I was contemplating taking off my front sway bar yesterday until I saw the pictures. I was really surprised how much body lean I had, since I was super flat at the larger SCCA course, no changes made to the car. I need to fix the body lean then I can start dialing the car. I can still raise the RC on my watts link to help the car rotate on tight turns. I was also thinking the rear end may be pushing on these tight tracks due to the locker. I need to do some more experimentation. First time out and I am not disappointed.

Time to build up my race notebook with track style and car setup. I was able to dial in my brake bias, I added a lot of rear brake.

[GrabberGT]

In theory, I was contemplating taking off my front sway bar yesterday until I saw the pictures. I was really surprised how much body lean I had, since I was super flat at the larger SCCA course, no changes made to the car. I need to fix the body lean then I can start dialing the car. I can still raise the RC on my watts link to help the car rotate on tight turns. I was also thinking the rear end may be pushing on these tight tracks due to the locker. I need to do some more experimentation. First time out and I am not disappointed.

Time to build up my race notebook with track style and car setup. I was able to dial in my brake bias, I added a lot of rear brake.

Im sure most of this is pretty common knowledge for you but by just watching the scrub pattern and adjusting tire pressure to match, I was able to drop my times by 3.5 seconds. (Being a new driver, Im sure a lot of it was just learning the course as well.) Here's a source of info I have found useful.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=58

[Protour_Pinto]

Did you think of putting the steering doubler farther up the shaft? Right behind the wheel would make it easier to swap.

[johnny68]

dude i may know the body lean part you need to stick you tounge out the corner of your mouth while cornering good job dude good seeing you and your dad
john
nova goes off to muffler shop in the morn.

[Bryce]

Did you think of putting the steering doubler farther up the shaft? Right behind the wheel would make it easier to swap.

It is still easy to change and has a better structural attachment to the car. It also is more hidden.

[Bryce]

Im sure most of this is pretty common knowledge for you but by just watching the scrub pattern and adjusting tire pressure to match, I was able to drop my times by 3.5 seconds. (Being a new driver, Im sure a lot of it was just learning the course as well.) Here's a source of info I have found useful.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=58

Thanks for the link. All of that is true once the car has a good initial setup. In these tighter courses I need to remove the excessive body lean first then adjust from there. I am running a relatively light front spring, only 300 pounds. I may step up to a 450 or 500 while adding a bigger front bar. But the car was pretty balanced on the larger course and a larger radius turns.

[Bryce]

dude i may know the body lean part you need to stick you tounge out the corner of your mouth while cornering good job dude good seeing you and your dad
john
nova goes off to muffler shop in the morn.

Haha, thanks Johnny. Did you see my face in the rear view mirror? There are a couple times you see me struggling to turn the car.

[Bjkadron]

Thanks for the link. All of that is true once the car has a good initial setup. In these tighter courses I need to remove the excessive body lean first then adjust from there. I am running a relatively light front spring, only 300 pounds. I may step up to a 450 or 500 while adding a bigger front bar. But the car was pretty balanced on the larger course and a larger radius turns.

Wow... What does your wheel rate come out to?

[Bryce]

Wow... What does your wheel rate come out to?

I have a 86% motion ratio in the front. It equals a 480lbs/in spring on a stock suspension mustang or a wheel rate of 258lbs/in.

[Bad Bird]

This thread is a great read! I love the out-of-the-box thinking, and the lack of just buying bolt-ons. It's obvious that you've got a strong engineering background...

[LM7_67]

Bummer what happened?

the axles shifted inside of the housing so that the rear rotors met the pad abutment brackets... gouged up the rotors

[TurboLark]

I have a 86% motion ratio in the front. It equals a 480lbs/in spring on a stock suspension mustang or a wheel rate of 258lbs/in.

It seems to me that many mustangs out there use a 600-650 front spring in the stock location as a good compromise between ride and handling. Maybe try increasing the rate of your coilovers to be in that range and increase the rear bar to regain balance(or increase the rear coils too).
I have always thought of the swaybars as 50% body control and 50% tuning aid, and stiffening up the springs for a bit more body control.

[shortrack]

just checked your whole thread, very cool!.....couple things, your daughter is the cutest thing ever and 2733.....man thats light....I officially hate you. lol

[Bryce]

This thread is a great read! I love the out-of-the-box thinking, and the lack of just buying bolt-ons. It's obvious that you've got a strong engineering background...

Thanks Matt. I try, HAHA.


the axles shifted inside of the housing so that the rear rotors met the pad abutment brackets... gouged up the rotors

Bummer, you going to a floater? Maybe I will jsut stick with my rear drums. I was locking them up at del mar, dialed a little bias out.


It seems to me that many mustangs out there use a 600-650 front spring in the stock location as a good compromise between ride and handling. Maybe try increasing the rate of your coilovers to be in that range and increase the rear bar to regain balance(or increase the rear coils too).
I have always thought of the swaybars as 50% body control and 50% tuning aid, and stiffening up the springs for a bit more body control.

I am probably a lot lighter in the front than the average mustang, and this was my spring choice from three years ago. I have some big changes taking place in my head. Splined sway bar is one of them. Maybe a CF bar... hmmmm!


just checked your whole thread, very cool!.....couple things, your daughter is the cutest thing ever and 2733.....man thats light....I officially hate you. lol

HAHA, thanks for the love! I want to get another 100 pounds out of the car. Maybe fiberglass doors after I do a cage with door bars. AFCO has new light weight springs that will save another 5 pounds a corner. I will also be removing the rear bumper and building a rear belly pan and diffuser to help with aero.

I got lucky with my daughter. My friend's wife calls her the pretty version of me since she looks like me! haha.

[LM7_67]

Bummer, you going to a floater? Maybe I will jsut stick with my rear drums. I was locking them up at del mar, dialed a little bias out.

Not sure yet. Have all summer to figure it out now.

[TurboLark]

Splined swaybar would be very nice for tuning.
Is a rear difuser useful without doing a full bellypan?

[Bryce]

Splined swaybar would be very nice for tuning.
Is a rear difuser useful without doing a full bellypan?

I really want to design a carbon fiber sway bar.

Yes a diffuser is more efficient with a belly pan, but getting rid of the air and streamlining will help at speed. I will design it to be functional but removing the weight of the bumper is the main reason.

[Bjkadron]

I really want to design a carbon fiber sway bar.


Yeah, that would be really cool. I have done some small scale testing with carbon tubes and the results got me really excited... the biggest problem it the bearing stress they have from the supports...

I found these people... but there are a bunch of other suppliers too... And I don't have a clue how to calculate the torsional rigidity of a composite tube...

http://www.rockwestcomposites.com/browse?gclid=CM_918Hao68CFaYBQAodXn4SZA

[Bryce]

Yeah, that would be really cool. I have done some small scale testing with carbon tubes and the results got me really excited... the biggest problem it the bearing stress they have from the supports...

I found these people... but there are a bunch of other suppliers too... And I don't have a clue how to calculate the torsional rigidity of a composite tube...

http://www.rockwestcomposites.com/browse?gclid=CM_918Hao68CFaYBQAodXn4SZA

I might save that idea for my next build, but I would have a variable thickness tube for mounting locations. Bonded in splined aluminum ends....

[Bryce]

NO updates yet, but I have been spending money. Parts should be showing up soon.

[TurboLark]

NO updates yet, but I have been spending money. Parts should be showing up soon.

Spending money on.....????

[rustomatic]

Bryce,

It's good to see that you've survived the autocross with your new steering. What I'm dying to know is how your 8:1 ratio feels driving through town; is it survivable, or do you have more changes in line as a result of the driving experience thus far? Have you tried it out on a twisty/coast road or anything? I'm kind of thinking that a 1.5:1 quickener (which I'm thinking might result in about 15:1) might be the hot (or maybe mild) ticket for my manual Unisteer some time down the road... Thanks!

[Bryce]

Spending money on.....????

Some parts are in I will try to get some pictures this weekend. I have been working a lot and no time for car stuff.


Bryce,

It's good to see that you've survived the autocross with your new steering. What I'm dying to know is how your 8:1 ratio feels driving through town; is it survivable, or do you have more changes in line as a result of the driving experience thus far? Have you tried it out on a twisty/coast road or anything? I'm kind of thinking that a 1.5:1 quickener (which I'm thinking might result in about 15:1) might be the hot (or maybe mild) ticket for my manual Unisteer some time down the road... Thanks!

I like the 8:1 and its not twitchy. But if I ran more toe out for autocross then it would get twitchy.

[Bryce]

So I bought a roller bearing conversion kit for my idler arm. I was then surprised to find out the old idler arm off my dads mustang already has a roller conversion. My dad owned the car since 1964, so there is only two options for the conversion. Ford did this on k-model mustangs or this was done very early on in the msutangs life by my grandpa's alignment buddy.

I guess I do not have to do that conversion.

[Bryce]

I have not been on in a while. busy working and buying parts.

After a long delay I finally recieved my KRC power steering pump.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05232012324jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680050)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05252012329jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680044)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05252012328jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680043)

I also am switching over to a electric water pump.

BEFORE:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05192012313jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680045)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05192012314jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680046)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05192012317jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680047)

During:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05192012319jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680049)

After:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05192012318jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680048)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05252012327jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680052)
I blocked off the bypass by cutting off the hose barb and tapping it to 1/8 npt.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/tn_full_05252012326jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/680051)

I am now working on the wiring. Im putting a new fuse block and relay in the glove box.

The altenator will be switching sides. My canton crank pulley is on order. Its a double v-groove pulley.

[Motorcitydak]

How reliable are those electric water pumps? I would like to run one but it would be unacceptable if it all of a sudden fails

[Bryce]

They have a limited life just like anything else. My dad has been running one for the last 3 years with no issues. Being able to cool the engine with the motor off is an awesome advantage. Plus this was the cleanest and easiest way to drive the power steering pump.

[Bryce]

Now my crank pulley won't ship until june 11th. Uggh. more waiting.

[Bryce]

My car is on the hotchkis del mar good guys video. See the 20 second mark.

6Dw61009Ux0

[Motorcitydak]

How many turns lock to lock for your steering now with that setup?

[johnny68]

cool bud hows your dad and the girls
john

[Bryce]

How many turns lock to lock for your steering now with that setup?

1 3/4 lock to lock.

[Bryce]

cool bud hows your dad and the girls
john

Everybody is good. What about on your end?

We are making progress on my dad's Ranchero and the race motor for the mustang.

[Bryce]

Finally figured out the locations for the new alternator and the power steering pump. It is not the usuall but looks really good. I should have some brackets designed next week and my new smaller alternator next week too.

[TurboLark]

Not sure if you know yet, but you got a picture in Popular Hotrodding from the Goodguys show. Congrats!

[Bryce]

Not sure if you know yet, but you got a picture in Popular Hotrodding from the Goodguys show. Congrats!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/pg80phr-1.jpg[/QUOTE]

Some PHR love

[LeighP]

nice action pic!

[fordsbyjay]

It's always cool to get a little ink. Congrats on a cool picture of your car Bryce.

[Bryce]

thanks guys!

[Jetfixr320]

Bryce,
The power steering pump lloks great! Has your bar been manual all along?

Which altenator are yu switching to?

And is there any chance of getting a copy of your drawing for your gauge cluster? Looks awesome!

Steve

[Bryce]

Bryce,
The power steering pump lloks great! Has your bar been manual all along?

Which altenator are yu switching to?

And is there any chance of getting a copy of your drawing for your gauge cluster? Looks awesome!

Steve

East coast electric, mini alt. 74 amps.

I never made a drawing for the dash. I made that when I was 17. You can always stop by and take some measurements. AHAHA.

I wanted to stay manual so that I didnt have to add more weight or deal with extra stuff in the engine compartment. I like the simple look. But the altenator will be really low and hidden under teh power steering pump, so it should still look clean. But it will add another 20 pounds probably.

[Jetfixr320]

Will fly in next week meet me at the FedEx hub, time can you pick me up? LOL

[67cougnut]

Nice I got on here to say congrats on the little blurb in PHR but you already posted it!LOL

[Bryce]

Will fly in next week meet me at the FedEx hub, time can you pick me up? LOL

HAHA, you got it, anytime bud.

[Bryce]

Nice I got on here to say congrats on the little blurb in PHR but you already posted it!LOL

Thanks dude, I have been told its in another magazine as well. Maybe DRIVE?

[Bryce]

a few quick shots with the cell phone. The altenator and power steering bracket, not complete yet, but the locations are set.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/tn_full_06242012362jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/686999)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/tn_full_06242012363jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/687001)

[EVIL WS6]

PM sent..

[Bryce]

PM sent..


PM replied

[85coupe50]

Looks like it is coming along well. Beat on it, upgrade and beat on it some more. Best of everything. project that is always evolving and being driven while that is happening. I will get there some day with my fairlane.

[Bryce]

The falcon got some more love....

http://www.streetlegaltv.com/news/a-65-ford-falcon-built-for-the-bends/

[Motorcitydak]

Did you make that PS bracket? Was it very complicated to make? I'm curious as I have been looking at my block for ways to mount the dry sump pump

[Bryce]

Did you make that PS bracket? Was it very complicated to make? I'm curious as I have been looking at my block for ways to mount the dry sump pump

Its alomost done, not very complicated but a lot of thought went into it. One bracket will mount the PS pump and the alt on the drivers side. I am still running 2 V belts. I should have time to finish it up on thursday, I will post pictures then.

[Bryce]

Looks like it is coming along well. Beat on it, upgrade and beat on it some more. Best of everything. project that is always evolving and being driven while that is happening. I will get there some day with my fairlane.

I have more fun building than driving, I think....

I like to find the weak link and fix it. But I cannot wait to start getting more seat time dodging cones.

[Bryce]

pictures of the last mockup before final assembly.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/tn_full_IMG_6341JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/687909)

My dad finished up these brackets for me since he has more time than I do, LOL!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/tn_full_IMG_6351JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/687910)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/tn_full_IMG_6352JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/687911)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/tn_full_IMG_6353JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/687912)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/tn_full_IMG_6354JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/687913)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/tn_full_IMG_6356JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/687914)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/tn_full_IMG_6357JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/687915)

The studs are temporary, I will be replacing them with B-7 threaded rod and spacers instead of the nuts. I still have 19 items on my to do list and that doesnt even get me power steering. Basically the last few months of work has allowed me to mount a power steering pump. In order to do that I need an eletric water pump and a new smaller higher amp alternator.

[feeble]

Very nice!

Cut with a jigsaw and a drill as with your watts link?

[Bryce]

Very nice!

Cut with a jigsaw and a drill as with your watts link?

Same as my watts link, but with a wood bandsaw converted to cut aluminum, a 12" disc sander, a file and a drill. My dad made those slots with a drill, 3 5/16 holes, and filed the slot. It was a long tedious job.

[454bug]

Nice looking brackets Bryce!!

Great fabbing skills as always. :twothumbs

I am looking forward to hearing how you like the KRC pump. That's what I am running on my car.

[GrabberGT]

Same as my watts link, but with a wood bandsaw converted to cut aluminum, a 12" disc sander, a file and a drill. My dad made those slots with a drill, 3 5/16 holes, and filed the slot. It was a long tedious job.

Now thats Craftsmanship. Nice work.

[soloracerSD]

Hello Bryce.
When I meet you at Q Stadium you told me to post a SCCA add at Pro-touring .com.. I'm here. Cool Site..And great work on your car. Hope to see it out soon..I left many answers to your Question on SCCA SOLO2 Autocross.
I have the SCCA SOLO2 Build rule book.You can borrow it to read up things.Some of the rules are left to you imagination

[soloracerSD]

Answers at Youtube-65 falcon first P-T autocross

[Bryce]

Nice looking brackets Bryce!!

Great fabbing skills as always. :twothumbs

I am looking forward to hearing how you like the KRC pump. That's what I am running on my car.

Thanks Ray! How is your project going? I have not been on here recently. I love the quality of the KRC. I still dont have that plumbed in yet.


Now thats Craftsmanship. Nice work.

Thanks bud.


Hello Bryce.
When I meet you at Q Stadium you told me to post a SCCA add at Pro-touring .com.. I'm here. Cool Site..And great work on your car. Hope to see it out soon..I left many answers to your Question on SCCA SOLO2 Autocross.
I have the SCCA SOLO2 Build rule book.You can borrow it to read up things.Some of the rules are left to you imagination

i saw your posts on youtube! thanks again for the clarifications.


Answers at Youtube-65 falcon first P-T autocross

How did the event go last weekend? Did yo get some PT cars? I sent a few guys down there as I spent all weekend working on my car.

[Bryce]

Took the car for a drive today, first time a 3 months. I spent most of that time waiting for back ordered parts. But the electric water pump works great! The car stayed at 175 to 180*F during the drive tonight. FYI, I do not run a thermostat.

Now its time to do the power steering swap with my dad. My pump is in but I need his power assist ram and centerlink. Then I will probably re-design the control valve to get the feel I want.

[soloracerSD]

Good to find you back here again bryce..

The event went well.I finsided 2nd in CSP half second back.My tire have lost all their grip.The ass end almost passed the front a few times. It was a slower more technical track then the last few.The one a few weeks ago.I was in 3rd gear three times per lap.and mostly in 3rd.Some mod cars like the TURBO Rotary Spite was passing cones at 80 mph.Not you GoodGuys kind of autocross.Everyone knows thats to fast for X Cross. An SCCA Offical is come out from Kansas to watch us run our events.So we have to be at our best behavior and have slower courses..50mph ish

will you make the next event august 12 ?

[soloracerSD]

I saw a new factory 525 hp camaro and a supercharged mustang run.. Like 7 mustangs came to watch.. I saw one SM car that was trick. a EVO mistibi. with a new 400hp motor.. It blow the transfer case to piece in the first 20 ft of his run.10 guys pick up pieces skattered 20yards plus

[soloracerSD]

Bryce I've added more info to your Autocross Youtube Video.. On "NOVICE "Trophy" You can Do IT!

[Bryce]

Good to find you back here again bryce..

The event went well.I finsided 2nd in CSP half second back.My tire have lost all their grip.The ass end almost passed the front a few times. It was a slower more technical track then the last few.The one a few weeks ago.I was in 3rd gear three times per lap.and mostly in 3rd.Some mod cars like the TURBO Rotary Spite was passing cones at 80 mph.Not you GoodGuys kind of autocross.Everyone knows thats to fast for X Cross. An SCCA Offical is come out from Kansas to watch us run our events.So we have to be at our best behavior and have slower courses..50mph ish

will you make the next event august 12 ?


I saw a new factory 525 hp camaro and a supercharged mustang run.. Like 7 mustangs came to watch.. I saw one SM car that was trick. a EVO mistibi. with a new 400hp motor.. It bloo the transfer case to piece in the first 20 ft of his run.10 guys pick uppieses skattered 20yards plus


Bryce I've added more info to your Autocross Youtube Video.. On "NOVICE "Trophy" You can Do IT!

Sounds like a fun event. I wish the car was back together so I could have made it out. But I was busy trying to finish everything to make a work car show on thursday.

[Bryce]

well, I made my work car show and actually won the first in show trophy. It was voted on by my coworkers. I guess engineers like cars with some engineering done to them. There were a lot of nice finished cars there and about 100 cars total. I was surprised!

Now for the bad news..... I was driving the car in my neighbor hood on friday and shifted into third with a loud bang. I now have no forward gears or reverse. Uggh. Park works though and I got to test my tow hook, worked great as my towed me home with the tow strap hooked to the durango. Now to go do some investigating.

This will probably end up being an expensive breakage, so I may be down for awhile.

[67cougnut]

just means its time for a stick!

[TurboLark]

C4's like to snap input shafts. Had a box of 15 or so of em before we upgraded to a stronger one with more splines..26 vs 24 splines i think if i remember correctly, from a C5 i think.

[soloracerSD]

Time for a 5 speed. A friend of mine use to run a Automatic in a 65 mustang in CP SCCA.After two broken trannies he switched to 5 speed.

[dusterbd13]

or go with a beefy, paddle shifted auto....

if my knee doesnt get better after surgury, thats what ill do.

if it does, tremec 3550.

your choice, really. i used to autocross a 700r4 in the drivabeater till i killed it. it was actually easier than autocrossing a stick, with similar times.

[zombiekiller]

Hey Bryce, I may have missed it, but what did you ever end up doing to quicken your steering?

I'm in the midst of final prep before reassembling my galaxie and I noticed that I borked my steering box rebuild because its leaking ( and not from cutting the wheels back and forth with the car off) . Doh! must have nicked a seal or something. I'm thinking of either swapping in a 12.7 monte carlo box, or calling up lee to get away from my stock 16:1 ratio down to a 12.7. My car is a saginaw 800 car, so at most i'm in for an adapter plate. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts and what you came up with.

[Bryce]

just means its time for a stick!


C4's like to snap input shafts. Had a box of 15 or so of em before we upgraded to a stronger one with more splines..26 vs 24 splines i think if i remember correctly, from a C5 i think.


Time for a 5 speed. A friend of mine use to run a Automatic in a 65 mustang in CP SCCA.After two broken trannies he switched to 5 speed.


or go with a beefy, paddle shifted auto....

if my knee doesnt get better after surgury, thats what ill do.

if it does, tremec 3550.

your choice, really. i used to autocross a 700r4 in the drivabeater till i killed it. it was actually easier than autocrossing a stick, with similar times.


I am keeping the C4, primarily for turn around time and cost.

I already had red alto steel, kolene clutches, reverse manual valve body, 6 gear forward planetary (basically everything performance automatic made for the C4 back in 2003) and giant cooler. So now its time for a hardened input shaft, trans-brake valve body (so I can lock up in first gear), deeper aluminum pan, and a 3000 to 3300 stall converter.

I pulled the motor and trans this weekend and will take the trans apart this week and try to figure something out.

Anyone recommend a transmission shop in san diego.

[Bryce]

Hey Bryce, I may have missed it, but what did you ever end up doing to quicken your steering?

I'm in the midst of final prep before reassembling my galaxie and I noticed that I borked my steering box rebuild because its leaking ( and not from cutting the wheels back and forth with the car off) . Doh! must have nicked a seal or something. I'm thinking of either swapping in a 12.7 monte carlo box, or calling up lee to get away from my stock 16:1 ratio down to a 12.7. My car is a saginaw 800 car, so at most i'm in for an adapter plate. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts and what you came up with.

Dave,

I built a steering column that stealthy mounted my inline 2:1 steering quickener. I also put in a 16:1 box so now I am at 8:1 overall ratio. I ran the goodguys autocross with manual 8:1 steering. I am now adding power assist with a KRC pump.

[Bryce]

I have one problem, I twisted the splines on the input shaft. Time for a hardened one.

[zombiekiller]

Hey Bryce, I may have missed it, but what did you ever end up doing to quicken your steering?

I'm in the midst of final prep before reassembling my galaxie and I noticed that I borked my steering box rebuild because its leaking ( and not from cutting the wheels back and forth with the car off) . Doh! must have nicked a seal or something. I'm thinking of either swapping in a 12.7 monte carlo box, or calling up lee to get away from my stock 16:1 ratio down to a 12.7. My car is a saginaw 800 car, so at most i'm in for an adapter plate. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts and what you came up with.

Dave,

I built a steering column that stealthy mounted my inline 2:1 steering quickener. I also put in a 16:1 box so now I am at 8:1 overall ratio. I ran the goodguys autocross with manual 8:1 steering. I am now adding power assist with a KRC pump.
Wow 8:1! That's pretty quick!
I did more research and found out that my 66 box was one of the ford designs that does not have needle bearings on one end of the sector shaft, which cause all boxes to leak, no matter how good of a job you do rebuilding them. I talked to Tom at lee mfg and it's a no brainer to have him rebuild and improve it.

You'll like the Krc pump. I'm running one of their cast iron pumps. I originally had the remote tank, but I switched it to the bolt on. I'll most likely run a ps cooler to get a little more fluid volume in the system though. The bolt on tank is much lower capacity than their remote tanks. With the way my engine sits, it was extremely difficult to get the feed line to the box with a remote reservoir up higher than the pump inlet. I was able to get it marginally higher, but the more I stared at it, the more nervous I got about fluid starvation.

[TurboLark]

McDowell Performance in El Cajon does a great job on transmissions for off road cars..i know they do manuals, not sure about autos. Worth a look into though.

[rustomatic]

T5 is soooo much better than C4. Just sayin'... I of course speak from repeated breakage experience (aside from the dead weight, parasitic horsepower loss, and lack of an overdrive)...

Somehow, the stick also makes dealing with slow people on my street much easier...

Light weight...

[V8240Z]

Bryce,
I have read your build with interest, and even went to the Goodguys show hoping to see your car. I used to work in the transmission industry and one of the best builders in the country is the owner of Poway transmission. His name is Eldon, and he is a Ford guy. I hope this helps.

Charles

[soloracerSD]

Bryce! You missed the last SCCA San Diego Aug 25.Your friend in the Blue Road Runner Hotchkis was running.Another event Aug 26

[Bryce]

Wow 8:1! That's pretty quick!
I did more research and found out that my 66 box was one of the ford designs that does not have needle bearings on one end of the sector shaft, which cause all boxes to leak, no matter how good of a job you do rebuilding them. I talked to Tom at lee mfg and it's a no brainer to have him rebuild and improve it.

You'll like the Krc pump. I'm running one of their cast iron pumps. I originally had the remote tank, but I switched it to the bolt on. I'll most likely run a ps cooler to get a little more fluid volume in the system though. The bolt on tank is much lower capacity than their remote tanks. With the way my engine sits, it was extremely difficult to get the feed line to the box with a remote reservoir up higher than the pump inlet. I was able to get it marginally higher, but the more I stared at it, the more nervous I got about fluid starvation.

Yep,

8:1 is quick and that is the reason I am going to power steering. I am looking forward to liking the KRC pump. I have only heard one negative and that is the return side may have too much pressure for the ford control valve and one solution was to use a vented cap. I will be making a call to KRC when I get to that point.

[Bryce]

McDowell Performance in El Cajon does a great job on transmissions for off road cars..i know they do manuals, not sure about autos. Worth a look into though.

Thanks for the recomendation.


T5 is soooo much better than C4. Just sayin'... I of course speak from repeated breakage experience (aside from the dead weight, parasitic horsepower loss, and lack of an overdrive)...

Somehow, the stick also makes dealing with slow people on my street much easier...

Light weight...

My dad has a T5 in his 65 ranchero and I have some experience driving it. I still think this go around the C4 is the top choice for me, especially since mine was a manual valve body.


An overdrive would be nice, tho.



Bryce,
I have read your build with interest, and even went to the Goodguys show hoping to see your car. I used to work in the transmission industry and one of the best builders in the country is the owner of Poway transmission. His name is Eldon, and he is a Ford guy. I hope this helps.

Charles

I was out there on friday at the del mar show back in april.

I know eldon and we have talked about doing a rebuild on my C4. Thanks for adding to my confidence level with him.

[Bryce]

Bryce! You missed the last SCCA San Diego Aug 25.Your friend in the Blue Road Runner Hotchkis was running.Another event Aug 26

I know...Ugh. I was workong yesterday and trying to get caught up on house projects and family time today. I have been working a lot of OT the last month or so. Hard to get everything done.

[Bryce]

Ordering some new stuff today.

After lots of research, I determined I only broke the torque converter. I am still going to buy a 1000hp PA C4 with a lifetime warranty. I am also going to send them my valvebody so that they can modify it to a tranny brake this will give me a first gear lockup on decel. Since my old trans is good I will order a new input shaft and keep it as a spare or maybe sell it. The internals are all PA parts.

Hughes is going to build me a 9" torque converter that they spec as a road race converter. It will produce less heat and less parasitic drag and faster reving.

I will also be adding an auxillary fan to my trans cooler, maybe even a secondary cooler.

[soloracerSD]

Well the next SCCA autocross at Qualcomm Stadium is 4 weeks away.I hope alot of you Pro-Touring guys make it.. The next GOODGUYS autocross is in 2 months or 3....Do our saturday and sunday events to get your practice.

SDR-SCCA.com/solo2 is the San Diego SCCA website

[Bryce]

Well the next SCCA autocross at Qualcomm Stadium is 4 weeks away.I hope alot of you Pro-Touring guys make it.. The next GOODGUYS autocross is in 2 months or 3....Do our saturday and sunday events to get your practice.

SDR-SCCA.com/solo2 is the San Diego SCCA website

I will try to be there. Depends on when parts show up. I really want to have my power steering done before goodguys. Depends on what other speed bumps happen on the way.

[soloracerSD]

That would be great if you can make it..And bring some other PRO-TOURING guys to.. Like the ROADRUNNER.

The SCCA San Diego autocrosser have started up a FACEBOOK.I think it's called SCCA San Diego Autocross.You can post pictures of your car at the autocross ans post comments how you want to keep doing it.WE need more muscle car response.If you know someone that has raced with us.Then have them post a pic and comment

[soloracerSD]

Bryce I've tried write you a private message.Nothing showsup in my sent message box. Did you get any letter

[soloracerSD]

I Posted a thread "San Diego Autocross Sept 30,Oct 20,Nov 18"

Have you seen it

[Bryce]

That would be great if you can make it..And bring some other PRO-TOURING guys to.. Like the ROADRUNNER.

The SCCA San Diego autocrosser have started up a FACEBOOK.I think it's called SCCA San Diego Autocross.You can post pictures of your car at the autocross ans post comments how you want to keep doing it.WE need more muscle car response.If you know someone that has raced with us.Then have them post a pic and comment

I just added you guys!


Bryce I've tried write you a private message.Nothing showsup in my sent message box. Did you get any letter

I just got your PM. I will give you a call sometime today.


I Posted a thread "San Diego Autocross Sept 30,Oct 20,Nov 18"

Have you seen it

I havent been on in a while, just saw it today. Great info!

[Bryce]

New transmission pan:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/tn_full_trans_panJPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/699495)

[Z06killinSBF]

How have I missed this build? Bad ass ride!

[csx4766]

Bryce,

The car continues to get better at ever turn. I know how hard it is to juggle family and automotive passion.

[Flash68]

That's a pretty slick trans pan.... been looking at some Stef's parts lately too.... very nice stuff!

[soloracerSD]

Bryce I just updated my San Diego Autocross Thread here on PT.We Will Have a Pro-Touring Class Sept 30 At Qualcomm stadium San Diego. we will call it "PTX" for SCCA San Diego Region.This is a one time deal.If we get a good turn out we will keep doing it.


OKAY PT folks you want a Pro--touring class to run 16 weekends a year on a Half Mile plus track in San Diego Heres your chance
George P

[Bryce]

How have I missed this build? Bad ass ride!

Thanks!

[Bryce]

Bryce,

The car continues to get better at ever turn. I know how hard it is to juggle family and automotive passion.

Thanks Morgan, its been hard to find time for the car especially mixing 60 hour work weeks in with the family time. Its even hard to make phone calls when the east coast guys are closed at 2pm. HAHA.

Did you sell your mustang? If so does it live in san diego now?

[Bryce]

That's a pretty slick trans pan.... been looking at some Stef's parts lately too.... very nice stuff!

Yep, cheaper and lighter than the cast pans too! Holds an extra quart without the large fins, that would really reduce my ground clearance.

[Bryce]

Bryce I just updated my San Diego Autocross Thread here on PT.We Will Have a Pro-Touring Class Sept 30 At Qualcomm stadium San Diego. we will call it "PTX" for SCCA San Diego Region.This is a one time deal.If we get a good turn out we will keep doing it.


OKAY PT folks you want a Pro--touring class to run 16 weekends a year on a Half Mile plus track in San Diego Heres your chance
George P

That is friggen awesome! I ordered my torque converter today shoud have that next week. Trying to get in touch with PA for a new input shaft and an upgrade to my vavle body. If my car is not ready to run I will be there to support the PTX class!

[Bryce]

Hughes is building me a custom torque converter for autocrossing also going with a 9". I would have liked to have gone 8", just could not justify the 50% price jump.

[soloracerSD]

Im glade that your for the PTX class.If we get a good response we could write it in our Local San Diego rule book next year..or leave it up to someone like me or you and Tom.You pick how many events of the San Diego Region SCCA you and the PTX guys want to run.You organize a San Diego PTX autocross club and let us SDR-SCCA know your coming. This is if we don't have a established class PTX next year.

I wrote more into what I think a PTX car should be in the beginning tread update( San Diego Autocross)

Leave another comment if you like the idea at San Diego Autocross posting tread. .I'm sure some SCCA guys are checking to see how it's working out.

[csx4766]

Thanks Morgan, its been hard to find time for the car especially mixing 60 hour work weeks in with the family time. Its even hard to make phone calls when the east coast guys are closed at 2pm. HAHA.

Did you sell your mustang? If so does it live in san diego now?

Bryce,
Yes the Mustang sold the week it was listed to a friend tha was following the build. Its being stored in Costa Mesa at a friends shop till the guy that bought it moves into a new house. The car then will move to his new garage in San Diego.

putting te finishing touches on the motor then plan to list it for sale in the next week.

[csx4766]

Bryce, The Mustang sold the week I listed it. The Mustang is currently stored in a friends shop till Scott can make roomat his new house in San Diego to move the project into the garage.




Thanks Morgan, its been hard to find time for the car especially mixing 60 hour work weeks in with the family time. Its even hard to make phone calls when the east coast guys are closed at 2pm. HAHA.

Did you sell your mustang? If so does it live in san diego now?

[Bryce]

Just order the hardened input shaft and I sent my valvebody back to performance automatic for some upgrades. Things are progressing.

[soloracerSD]

I hope you make sept 30 event..So Bryce do you know of cars coming? Scott Lewis will have a trophy made for PT-X if we have 5 cars or more.I added more SCCA Membership info at San Diego Autocross thread/post

[johnny68]

hmmmm the only time i get to drive mamas nova is when it needs gas but maybei can make it
john

[soloracerSD]

Johnny68 come to the San Diego Autocross thread/post..Thats if your saying you mightbe interested in our sept 30 event..I want people to show interest there.
It looks like the Nova is a father son build .Thats great! So now you can both run in on our track together.I'm still waiting for the days race schedule flyer to be posted at sdr-scca.com.Then I'll set a time of day for PT-X cars to show up.You can show up at 7;30 am if you want and make it a all day thing to.Remember 200 Treadwear tires wide ones is good too.

[Bryce]

hmmmm the only time i get to drive mamas nova is when it needs gas but maybei can make it
john

John,

Let me know if you are going to take the nova. I will come out and support. Also call me this weekend or shoot me a text, I lost your number.

[Bryce]

I hope you make sept 30 event..So Bryce do you know of cars coming? Scott Lewis will have a trophy made for PT-X if we have 5 cars or more.I added more SCCA Membership info at San Diego Autocross thread/post


Johnny68 come to the San Diego Autocross thread/post..Thats if your saying you mightbe interested in our sept 30 event..I want people to show interest there.
It looks like the Nova is a father son build .Thats great! So now you can both run in on our track together.I'm still waiting for the days race schedule flyer to be posted at sdr-scca.com.Then I'll set a time of day for PT-X cars to show up.You can show up at 7;30 am if you want and make it a all day thing to.Remember 200 Treadwear tires wide ones is good too.Heres my # 1619 275 4845 George if you have questions.This # wont be posted long.So if any one is interested out there give me a call.


There is no chance at this point for my car to be back together. The next two weekends are booked and no time to work on the car. I will try to make it out there and show my support.

[onestopcustoms]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/pg80phr-1.jpg

Some PHR love[/QUOTE]

funy thing i bought this issue just bc of your car being featured... lol

[bepperson70]

I would like to start with an old school S&E two thumbs up, your car and skills are top notch I've read this thread twice and have found very little on your front suspension build. I bought my Falcon in Aug. 2012 after years of wanting one an older guy Ive known for years had it and wanted my little hot rod chevy pu so we made a deal!I want it mainly streetable but would like to autocross some. The rear is a no brainer three link but Im not a MII front suspension fan mainly cause every one does it, I noticed you used some roundy-round parts how well do the work and how did you mount the coil-overs and did you change the track width any? My Falcon has a 351W so I'm looking to loose the shock towers or at least lessen them, I know speaking of lessening something I should start with this post just would like some of your input.

Thanks,
Brad

[xdrft]

Hey Bryce,

Came across your build thread when I googled 3 link suspension, Im on page 55 now, the good woman is now well cranky and Im most likely spending the night on the couch.

Signed on to congratulate you on the build, love your approach and attention to detail.

The reason we are looking is we have a 79 XD Falcon drift car, we have been running a 3 link for a few years now, we are almost ready to drop it all out in favor of a 4 link, so researching our options and looking for a lighter alternative, we are at 3000 pounds with the cleveland and TKO.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/RRS3Link001-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/RRS3Link002-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/RRS3Link003-1.jpg

Our approaches are vastly different in the 3rd link itself, our third link reaches right up under the car and is double jointed just behind the extension housing. I like how you have your shocks standing upright and tucked right out near the wheels, another thing we are looking to change.

Was interesting to read the comments about the single adjustable QA1's, we found the same thing, we need strong rebound control so the rear stays tight rather than throwing the rear off the transition. Took forever to tune the suspension but looking back it was a good learning journey.

What pinion angle variation do you have through the full travell of the suspension?

Best of luck bro.

Cheers Danny

Build thread http://www.xfalcon.com/forums/index.php?/topic/12963-xdrft2-the-build/

[Bryce]

I would like to start with an old school S&E two thumbs up, your car and skills are top notch I've read this thread twice and have found very little on your front suspension build. I bought my Falcon in Aug. 2012 after years of wanting one an older guy Ive known for years had it and wanted my little hot rod chevy pu so we made a deal!I want it mainly streetable but would like to autocross some. The rear is a no brainer three link but Im not a MII front suspension fan mainly cause every one does it, I noticed you used some roundy-round parts how well do the work and how did you mount the coil-overs and did you change the track width any? My Falcon has a 351W so I'm looking to loose the shock towers or at least lessen them, I know speaking of lessening something I should start with this post just would like some of your input.

Thanks,
Brad

Thanks for the compliments Brad.

I built my front suspension before I got on this forum, so i really just posted pictures. Not alot of details. I do not recommend the MII suspensions. I think the shock towers are a good design structurally. If you remove them then you need to add a lot of structure back into the chassis.

I used circle track parts. They work great and are good building blocks. I mounted the coilovers with clevises on both ends. One mounted to the LCA and one mounted to the stock upper spring mount.

The wheel mounting surface to WMS is about 1" wider. This helped with the scrub radius. I run a 245 tire on a 8" wide wheel with 5" backspace.

[Bryce]

Hey Bryce,

Came across your build thread when I googled 3 link suspension, Im on page 55 now, the good woman is now well cranky and Im most likely spending the night on the couch.

Signed on to congratulate you on the build, love your approach and attention to detail.

The reason we are looking is we have a 79 XD Falcon drift car, we have been running a 3 link for a few years now, we are almost ready to drop it all out in favor of a 4 link, so researching our options and looking for a lighter alternative, we are at 3000 pounds with the cleveland and TKO.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/RRS3Link001-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/RRS3Link002-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/09/RRS3Link003-1.jpg

Our approaches are vastly different in the 3rd link itself, our third link reaches right up under the car and is double jointed just behind the extension housing. I like how you have your shocks standing upright and tucked right out near the wheels, another thing we are looking to change.

Was interesting to read the comments about the single adjustable QA1's, we found the same thing, we need strong rebound control so the rear stays tight rather than throwing the rear off the transition. Took forever to tune the suspension but looking back it was a good learning journey.

What pinion angle variation do you have through the full travell of the suspension?

Best of luck bro.

Cheers Danny

Build thread http://www.xfalcon.com/forums/index.php?/topic/12963-xdrft2-the-build/

Cool build Danny,

Thanks for the compliments.

My rear coilovers are double adjustables from TCI and they are not QA1s. I need a lot more seat time and dial in the car.

Your 3-link is what we call a torque arm, that might help in your search for info. Lots of good tech on this forum.

I dont have a lot of pinion angle change, from memory I have less than 2 degrees over 4" of total travel.

Good luck onyour build too!

[Bryce]

Well, I have been MIA for a while.

I took the C4 apart and the PA 6 gear planetary had worn out shims along with some other stuff that needed to be replaced. I sent the planetary gear set back to PA since its covered by a lifetime warranty, they still have my valvebody as well. Hopefully things show up next week and things can go back together.

[soloracerSD]

BACK TOGETHER! We are waiting your arrival at the SDR-SCCA SOLO2 Nov 18.

[Bryce]

BACK TOGETHER! We are waiting your arrival at the SDR-SCCA SOLO2 Nov 18.

I doubt it. Im playing witht he steering today and still waiting on parts for the trans. Next week I will be at SEMA. Too much of a crunch to get everything dialed back in by the 18th. I will probably miss goodguys too. UGGHHH.

[rustomatic]

Don't sweat the non-op status too much--I crashed my Falcon last week. It was a lovely combination of newly wet road and a crapload of pine needles, which sent me into a non-planned disco move (180 degrees), then airborne a bit, and luckily smacked into the side of a ditch (as opposed to falling down a long hill). I remember looking down at the road, over my hood; this was a very wrong angle...

Things learned: Get the quickest steering ratio you can stand (so as to countersteer now, as opposed to next week); Panhard is way stronger than leaf shackles; Unisteer center link bends; 50 year-old cars are pretty darn tough, especially with 100 pounds of extra steel tubing welded in...

Question for you: Did you ever cut out your inner fenders in the rear quarters? I finally got to it, after I (crashed and bent rims) decided to go up to 8-inch rims all the way around. There's sooooo much more room in there now...

[LUV2XLR8]

Don't sweat the non-op status too much--I crashed my Falcon last week. It was a lovely combination of newly wet road and a crapload of pine needles, which sent me into a non-planned disco move (180 degrees), then airborne a bit, and luckily smacked into the side of a ditch (as opposed to falling down a long hill). I remember looking down at the road, over my hood; this was a very wrong angle...

Things learned: Get the quickest steering ratio you can stand (so as to countersteer now, as opposed to next week); Panhard is way stronger than leaf shackles; Unisteer center link bends; 50 year-old cars are pretty darn tough, especially with 100 pounds of extra steel tubing welded in...

Question for you: Did you ever cut out your inner fenders in the rear quarters? I finally got to it, after I (crashed and bent rims) decided to go up to 8-inch rims all the way around. There's sooooo much more room in there now...



sounds like u had a hand full....

[soloracerSD]

The Falcon won't be ready..Then put your Falcon tires and wheels on you 95 Mustang.Tom ,Richard and you and others can run in SM.Wiggle your way at of that....:) Nov 18 Or I could get a list of 5 or more 74 and older PTs.And you, Rich and Alcino can be in SM.. That would be 2 first place trophies from Pro-Touring .com drivers.

Flyer is out! We(SM,PT,CP) race 4th group,work 6th this time after lunch break ..FStock and ESP run 5th work 4th

[Bryce]

The Falcon won't be ready..Then put your Falcon tires and wheels on you 95 Mustang.Tom ,Richard and you and others can run in SM.Wiggle your way at of that....:) Nov 18 Or I could get a list of 5 or more 74 and older PTs.And you, Rich and Alcino can be in SM.. That would be 2 first place trophies from Pro-Touring .com drivers.

Flyer is out! We(SM,PT,CP) race 4th group,work 6th this time after lunch break ..FStock and ESP run 5th work 4th

Im still waiting on parts, but I will be out there with my daughter.

[Bryce]

Don't sweat the non-op status too much--I crashed my Falcon last week. It was a lovely combination of newly wet road and a crapload of pine needles, which sent me into a non-planned disco move (180 degrees), then airborne a bit, and luckily smacked into the side of a ditch (as opposed to falling down a long hill). I remember looking down at the road, over my hood; this was a very wrong angle...

Things learned: Get the quickest steering ratio you can stand (so as to countersteer now, as opposed to next week); Panhard is way stronger than leaf shackles; Unisteer center link bends; 50 year-old cars are pretty darn tough, especially with 100 pounds of extra steel tubing welded in...

Question for you: Did you ever cut out your inner fenders in the rear quarters? I finally got to it, after I (crashed and bent rims) decided to go up to 8-inch rims all the way around. There's sooooo much more room in there now...

Bummer dude. I did not cut my fenders just a little massaging.

[Bryce]

I dont think I ever posted this picture, back from the begining of the year.

http://lateapexphoto.com/p475701446/h183a5b2b#h183a5b2b

[fordtc87]

Bryce, I've got to say that your aluminum parts are just plain awesome. I ordered some aluminum pulleys and I love them. They are light and very nice to look at. I've checked out your build numerous times (all 85 pages) and your engineering degree is well utilized. Some day I might have to pick your brain on that 3 link. Keep up the great work!

Nate

[Bryce]

Bryce, I've got to say that your aluminum parts are just plain awesome. I ordered some aluminum pulleys and I love them. They are light and very nice to look at. I've checked out your build numerous times (all 85 pages) and your engineering degree is well utilized. Some day I might have to pick your brain on that 3 link. Keep up the great work!

Nate

Nate,

Thanks for the compliments. I have a bolt in 3-link kit whenever you are ready. HAHA.

[Motorcitydak]

Nice pics in that link but please tell me that that silver miata was joking with the double wing's it had going on....

[Bryce]

Nice pics in that link but please tell me that that silver miata was joking with the double wing's it had going on....

Steve,

It might help a little, but at the scrafice of drag. If you are not horsepower limited or can keep your speed up it would help. Alot of guys a starting to look at aero more seriously.

[Bryce]

My transmission parts shipped last week. I may have a running can before the end of the year.

[blade]

Great build, I realy enjoyed seeing all of the parts that you built for your car.

[Bryce]

Great build, I realy enjoyed seeing all of the parts that you built for your car.

thanks Blade

[Bryce]

Transmission is back together, finally. I had to modify the STEFS pan to fit the valve body. UGGH. They welded the inside an the outside of the pan. The welds on teh inside contacted the valve body. SO I filed off the welds on the inside at the points of contact. Also the fabrication on the pan wasnt all that great. The holes are 3/8" diameter for 5/16 bolts and they still didnt fit all that great. I decided to take off the stef stickers and put a brushed finish like the rest of my car.

I also am working on making the engine quicker to pull out. So I will be changing fasteners and added more plugs on the wireing and added rivetnuts where possible. All in all a good black friday. Race gas, 110 octane, was only $7.35 a gallon.

[soloracerSD]

Sounds like you might make SCCA dec 9th..

I heard Dan W Got 2nd at GG Del Mar.He wishes he could bring the Challenger to the SCCA event.But the Challenger it isn't 93 DB friendly,and it's the company car.

Next event 30.00 for 4 laps or 50.00 for 8 laps.. check the Flyer and thread

[therobski]

Bryce I'm an Olds guy, that said we are orphans on most forums. Really a great job. I'm watching getting ideas.

[Bryce]

Time for some updates.

PA finally got my vavlebody sent back and the trans went back together. While I had the trans out of the car I decided to go through the entire thing make sure nothing else was wrong. I thought I had a little too much clutch wear and was seeing too much debris in the oil. I was right, the trans shop that put this together 10 years ago but 6 clutches in the front drum. That would have been okay if there were thinner steels, but they didnt think that far ahead. So the clutches were always slightly engaged and excess wear and thrust load were the results.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_11292012161jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707733)

I also bought a STEFS fabricated pan to help with cooling, it holds one extra quart. But the pan didnt fit over the valvebody, UGGH. So I filed down all the inside welds and woohoo success. They had welded boths sides so I didnt break any seals.

I had also decided to change everything I could to make pulling the engine and trans easier. I installed rivenuts and studs everywhere I could. Just to make life easier.

The pan is one example.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_11292012160jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707732)

The bellhousing will get studs as well.

I am still waiting for some info from some guys I talked with at SEMA. If their parts will work on my car I will be installing before the engine goes back in. I wont say anything else until I have made the purchase. Except that this is my current hold up.

I reassembled the motor

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_Dawson_1yrold_075JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707722)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_Dawson_1yrold_076JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707723)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_Dawson_1yrold_077JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707724)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_Dawson_1yrold_078JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707725)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_Dawson_1yrold_079JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707726)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_Dawson_1yrold_080JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707727)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_Dawson_1yrold_081JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707728)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_11252012153jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707729)

I also added a bulkhead fitting to the engine oil pan to monitor engine oil temps. Currently it has a plug until I decide the the gauge I want.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_11292012157jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707730)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_11292012158jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/707731)

[johnny68]

hmm ford stuff no no no im keeping mustang stock(ish)
hahaha
no really
john

[fordsbyjay]

I like how short that setup is. I'm looking forward to a completed picture.

[Bryce]

hmm ford stuff no no no im keeping mustang stock(ish)
hahaha
no really
john

John, You free this friday? Christmas party my house. I will call you tomorrow with details.

Hows your mustang. I bet I can help you spend some money on it! HAHA.

[Bryce]

I like how short that setup is. I'm looking forward to a completed picture.

Thanks, I am putting it back together this weekend. Decided I wasnt going to wait for dimensions on those parts.

[Bryce]

I am making some progress. WOOHOO.

Motor and trans are bolted together and will be going in tomorrow.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_12132012177jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/708420)

My dad made me a vented access panel for the torque converter. Trying to do anything to keep this auto cool and happy.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_12132012176jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/708419)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_12132012175jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/708418)

[Tomswheels]

Looks great Bryce, hope to see it on track in Feb!

[Bryce]

motor is back in:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_12172012181jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/708915)

Santa must like falcons:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_12252012194jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/708916)

Rocker girdles installed:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/12/tn_full_12272012199jpg_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/708917)

[Bryce]

Looks great Bryce, hope to see it on track in Feb!

Thanks Tom, thats my plan. I want to have the car together and dialed for the Feb 2/3 SCCA at the Q.

[chunger]

Bryce,

That's kind of a funky looking water neck, what is it?

[Bryce]

Bryce,

That's kind of a funky looking water neck, what is it?

Made it. It uses a screw in CSR fitting.

[V8240Z]

Bryce, what did you do to resolve the decibel limit issue at the Q when you ran there? I'm more than a bit worried about mine.

[Rod]

Thanks Tom, thats my plan. I want to have the car together and dialed for the Feb 2/3 SCCA at the Q.

Hope you do well there Bryce! I dig SCCA tracks big and quick, lots of fun

[Bryce]

Bryce, what did you do to resolve the decibel limit issue at the Q when you ran there? I'm more than a bit worried about mine.

I never did anything. I know I am too loud. I have turndowns after the mufflers and no tail pipes with the 3-link and watts. I plan to turn the turn downs away from the dB meter and drop the reading a few points.


Hope you do well there Bryce! I dig SCCA tracks big and quick, lots of fun

Thanks Rod. I would like to make it to one of the Norcal SCCA events in the next few years.

[Bryce]

I plan to start the motor today, I will post video this afternoon.

[Bryce]

I started it and didnt get a chance to record it, the wife came out and told me I woke up my daughter. Oh well, I will record it tomorrow.

Happy new years everyone. At least I started my car one last time in 2012

[Bryce]

I posted some video of the car running with open headers. Its on my youtube page. I will add it here tonight.

It was too loud for the mic on my flip camera and it clipped the sound.

I also updated the steering a little, rod ends for the outer tierods and roller bearings for the idler arm. I will post pics tonight.

[Bryce]

0luys767u7s
new video of the falcon

[windsor]

Looks good man. Love the stance on that ride.

[soloracerSD]

I hope it isn't to loud too..Could be worth investing in supertrap tail pipes,Gregg's 69Camaro has big power and had no problem with DB.So he would be a good guy to ask or Rick Perry with the 66 Vet.His # is on the last flyer. Marks Chevelle has a built up motor too.So he's good to ask too.Dan W. and the Roadrunner was fine to.


Bryce if interested ..I've seen DB meters for sell fairly cheap from 39.99 to 300+.Some cheap tuneable dual supertrapps ,maybe 160.00

Rick has Supertrapps now.I Think

[Bryce]

Looks good man. Love the stance on that ride.

Thanks!


I hope it isn't to loud too..Could be worth investing in supertrap tail pipes,Gregg's 69Camaro has big power and had no problem with DB.So he would be a good guy to ask or Rick Perry with the 66 Vet.His # is on the last flyer. Marks Chevelle has a built up motor too.So he's good to ask too.Dan W. and the Roadrunner was fine to.


Bryce if interested ..I've seen DB meters for sell fairly cheap from 39.99 to 300+.Some cheap tuneable dual supertrapps ,maybe 160.00

Rick has Supertrapps now.I Think

That was with open headers and I will point the exhasut away from the dB meter if needed.

[Bryce]

the other car

ub33-JnCEL4

[Evoix]

The Falcon Sounds healthy!

[Bryce]

The Falcon Sounds healthy!

Thanks Mike.

[Bryce]

dialed in the car today, trying to get ready for a SCCA event on Feb2.

It weighed in at 2715 without me and had a 50.4% crossweight with me in it.

[fordsbyjay]

Nice!

[Bryce]

I have been out sick the last week, stupid flu. I still have not driven the car after all the new stuff. I am planning a shake down run whenever the rain lets up. Everything is basically bolted back together.

SCCA event next saturday. I signed up and will be in the second morning session. I hope I get some seat time next week to get used to the car again.

[Bryce]

The camera mount will mount instead of the dome light.

I nut and bolted the car last night and off to autocross today.

[Bryce]

I had a blast yesterday, I think I am more hooked than before.

The car did pretty good. I got 7 laps.

Lap 1 68.990
Lap 2 66.987
Lap 3 66.017
Lap 4 65.820
Lap 5 65.472
Lap 6 65.745
Lap 7 65.499

The transmission was getting a little to hot so I had to skip a few laps and let it cool down. But it was not slipping so no damage! The steering was great and on a bigger course there was no need for power steering. The falcon loves the slaloms and was pushing on the long left hand sweepers. On the last run I stiffened up the front shocks compression and rebound 4 clicks and the rear two clicks on comp and rebound. The car was completly different. Stiffing up the suspension helped control body roll and remove the tendancy to push in the long sweepers. If I had a few more runs I could have really dialed in the car. I am uploading the videos now. I will post them later today.

[Bryce]

here are some pics that my wife took.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9328JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711458)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9333JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711462)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9335JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711464)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9359JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711476)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9363JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711479)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9364JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711480)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9368JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711484)
Didnt hit those cones!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9369JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711485)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9370JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711486)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9373JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711489)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9385JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711495)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9388JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711497)

[Bryce]

g7NgykoYngc

here is run 6

[Bryce]

here is run 7, you can here the tires are complaining less in the sweepers.

7xR_WIga5PY

[blade]

Great video! The car sounds awesome!

[V8240Z]

Bryce, the car looks and sounds great. Did you have any problems with the db meter?

[Bryce]

Great video! The car sounds awesome!

thanks eddie


Bryce, the car looks and sounds great. Did you have any problems with the db meter?

No issue with dB meter this time. Last year I was a little loud. i thik they were being nice with there dB meter placement.

[Bryce]

I got some more car parts for my bday.

71006

The fan should help me keep the trans cooler.

71004

The camera mount my dad made, it mounts to the dome light.

71005

[dontlifttoshift]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2013/02/tn_full_IMG_9368JPG_Thumbnail1-1.jpg (http://www.motortopia.com/photos/711484)
Didnt hit those cones!


That's the way! Cool shot.

[Bryce]

That's the way! Cool shot.

This one will probably end up on the garage wall.

[Tomswheels]

Bryce, I think the So-Cal Challenge would be a great next venue to show the Falcons track prowess! That track at Adams Motorsports Park in Riverside should be tailor-made for this car!

[Bryce]

Bryce, I think the So-Cal Challenge would be a great next venue to show the Falcons track prowess! That track at Adams Motorsports Park in Riverside should be tailor-made for this car!

Sounds awesome, I plan on doing it at some point this year. But I have some mods to get done before my next outing. Its hard to make a commitment like that. I might stay in town and do the March 2/3 SCCA event at the Q.

BTW, what tires are you running on the mustang?

[Tomswheels]

295/305 Michelin Pilot SuperSports, 300TW

[Bryce]

295/305 Michelin Pilot SuperSports, 300TW

Lucky, I wish my car could swallow that much rubber. HAAH!

[Tomswheels]

The nice thing is you have 900-1000 pounds less mass. I can't stress enough how much I think you would enjoy that Adams track. The format is nice because you run three straight laps, it lets you get in a rhythm and let's the tires heat up. Then you get a nice long break for everything to cool down, then go another 3 laps. Turn the volume up, first video me running down Rich in my ghetto 86 Saleen,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ale7ZipwJTE&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Also one from the 2013...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOBhwFXO0mA&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[Bryce]

The nice thing is you have 900-1000 pounds less mass. I can't stress enough how much I think you would enjoy that Adams track. The format is nice because you run three straight laps, it lets you get in a rhythm and let's the tires heat up. Then you get a nice long break for everything to cool down, then go another 3 laps. Turn the volume up, first video me running down Rich in my ghetto 86 Saleen,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ale7ZipwJTE&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Also one from the 2013...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOBhwFXO0mA&feature=youtube_gdata_player

That looks like a lot of fun!

[Evoix]

I've ran open track in my kart so many times at Adam's in Riverside that I lost count. They were always inviting me to run my Evo there on the import night and I just never had the time before I got out of Cali. It seems like a REALLY nice place to work out bugs inexpensively.

[Bryce]

I've ran open track in my kart so many times at Adam's in Riverside that I lost count. They were always inviting me to run my Evo there on the import night and I just never had the time before I got out of Cali. It seems like a REALLY nice place to work out bugs inexpensively.

Thanks for the nudge mike! HAHA. Its on my plan for this year.

[Bryce]

So here is my list of stuff to complete before the next event.

The trans cooler needs a fan: installed and wired. Moves some air!
Remove local trans temp gauge and move to the dash: ordered and ready to install
Install 400 lbs/in springs: ordered and all the coilovers are removed.
Install gauge into the engine oil pan to monitor temp.
Notch and reweld the outer shock tower supports. This is needed due to some tire rub. Falcons dont like being lowered or have anything wider that a 215 tire in the front.
Install a breather catch can: ordered waiting for delivery.
Dial in the steering and remove as much bumpsteer as possible. I order high misalignment rod ends. The mustang with a similar set up is down to .015" toe change over 6" of droop.

[jtjohn03]

im sorry if this question has already been answered but what front spindles are you using? i know you said you designed the front suspension but did you use the stock spindles with upgraded brakes? i like the car a lot by the way. Gotta love a Ford

[GrabberGT]

I removed my outer shock tower supports. There was no way I could run as low or wide as I do with them in place. I dont seem to be missing Them either. I talked with Total Control about it and they said its not uncommon to do so. If I find the need to have a bump stop, I'll add one to the shock shaft.

Yours look nice. Mount them on the wall if you decide not to use them.

[Bryce]

im sorry if this question has already been answered but what front spindles are you using? i know you said you designed the front suspension but did you use the stock spindles with upgraded brakes? i like the car a lot by the way. Gotta love a Ford

I used the stock V8 spindles. My initial goal was to be build a less expensive suspension setup that would outperform any other suspension on the market. Since I already had the brakes I decided to keep the brakes and spindles in the first iteration.


I removed my outer shock tower supports. There was no way I could run as low or wide as I do with them in place. I dont seem to be missing Them either. I talked with Total Control about it and they said its not uncommon to do so. If I find the need to have a bump stop, I'll add one to the shock shaft.

Yours look nice. Mount them on the wall if you decide not to use them.

Thanks Chris, If I section out about 1" wide by 3" high, I should get enough clearance. I run a bump stop on my coilovers and a droop limiter off the outer shock tower support. I also think there is a structual element to the outer shock tower. It helps triangulate everything. I will be keeping them, for now. Cobra automotive and ridetech both sell new outer shock tower supports designed for tire clearance. So someone thinks they are useful, even global west sells a tubular version that proabaly adds 10 pounds per side.

[GrabberGT]

Thanks Chris, If I section out about 1" wide by 3" high, I should get enough clearance. I run a bump stop on my coilovers and a droop limiter off the outer shock tower support. I also think there is a structual element to the outer shock tower. It helps triangulate everything. I will be keeping them, for now. Cobra automotive and ridetech both sell new outer shock tower supports designed for tire clearance. So someone thinks they are useful, even global west sells a tubular version that proabaly adds 10 pounds per side.

Thats a good idea. I'll contact Ridetech to see if they will bring a set to GG next month for me to try out to see if they'll fit.

[Bryce]

Thats a good idea. I'll contact Ridetech to see if they will bring a set to GG next month for me to try out to see if they'll fit.

that would be cool if they did that. Only 100 bucks each or something. I have too much work in mine already to just scrap them.

[jtjohn03]

[QUOTE=Bryce;969819]I used the stock V8 spindles. My initial goal was to be build a less expensive suspension setup that would outperform any other suspension on the market. Since I already had the brakes I decided to keep the brakes and spindles in the first iteration. [QUOTE=Bryce;969819]

thats pretty cool. im in wyotech and want to do some similiar stuff to my 71 torino up in chassis fab and i was thinking maybe i could use my stock spindles and stuff to cut down cost while im in school and i could always upgrade it later. i wasnt sure if it was possible but now i see it is! thanks

[Bryce]

thats pretty cool. im in wyotech and want to do some similiar stuff to my 71 torino up in chassis fab and i was thinking maybe i could use my stock spindles and stuff to cut down cost while im in school and i could always upgrade it later. i wasnt sure if it was possible but now i see it is! thanks

John,

Good luck at Wyotech. The 71 spindles I thikn are mre desireable than the 65 spindles, they have a larger snout and may has the disc brake attach points already. The only downside to using the stock spindle is the long steering arm that may limit your steering options. Start a build thread on here and share the Torino love. FEtorino has a pretty cool build going right now. He put a full frame under it!

[jtjohn03]

John,

Good luck at Wyotech. The 71 spindles I thikn are mre desireable than the 65 spindles, they have a larger snout and may has the disc brake attach points already. The only downside to using the stock spindle is the long steering arm that may limit your steering options. Start a build thread on here and share the Torino love. FEtorino has a pretty cool build going right now. He put a full frame under it!

i will be sure to start a build thread on here once i get going. mine is already disk and everything so i think it work out pretty nice. if FEtorino has the Red 68-69 fastback then ive seen it over on lateral-g before. that car is awesome! i would love to do a build like that on my other 70 fastback.
thanks, Jay

[Bryce]

A few parts showed up...

Dont worry the grade 8 bolts are for mock up only. I will be replacing those with alloy steel shoulder bolts later.

The high misalignment rodends are for the outer tierods so that I can eliminate bumpsteer.

I also marked the outer shock tower supports for clearance.

[Bryce]

I dialed out almost all of the bumpsteer today. I have zero toe change in droop and .090 toe in during compression. This may help during cornering and ackermann. I run .060 toe out right now at ride height which reduces my ackermann. So during a hard turn the outside would compress and toe in slightly, increasing my ackermann. I will try this setting out on March 2nd at the SCCA event. If I dont like it I will remove one shim and move the outer tie rod up, this will reduce the toe in during bump. I made the spacers tonight and will pick up alloy steel shoulder bolt on monday and bolt eveything together and snap some pictures. I spaced the rodend down so that the center is about 2inches below the bottom of the spindle.

[Bryce]

updates to the TDL:

The trans cooler needs a fan: DONE
Remove local trans temp gauge and move to the dash: DONE
Install 400 lbs/in springs: SPRINGS RECEIVED
Install gauge into the engine oil pan to monitor temp: DONE
Notch and reweld the outer shock tower supports. NOTCHING COMPLETE
Install a breather catch can: 50% COMPLETE
Dial in the steering and remove as much bumpsteer as possible. I ordered high misalignment rod ends. The mustang with a similar set up is down to .015" toe change over 6" of droop. 90% COMPLETE

[fordsbyjay]

Is that a formula written on your shock tower brace??? lol