Half-Breed

[Zachalanche]

I've been lurking around this forum for a while now, commenting on some of your projects. What fun is that if I haven't posted anything for you to criticize in return. So, Here is my project:

The car starts out as a 1970 Mach 1 with a 351W, T5, and mustang II front suspension.
0-60: 5.4 sec - tested with G-tech so probably give or take a half a second
quater mile: 14.12 sec
weight: measured at 3450lb with iron heads auto trans and back seat. estimated at 3250 lb as tested.
cornering: felt surprisingly good considering the car, but not good enough. no real data here.
top speed: roughly 160 mph - measured in my younger days when I thought I could get away with everything so, don't ask where I was doing that. I also had to calculate the speed based off rpms to come up with that number.


49278
Overall in fairly decent shape.....at least until I blew the ring lands off one of the pistons. No Big deal, I was planning on building a bigger engine anyway. One thing lead to another and this project seems to have gotten completely out of hand and here I am no longer building an engine, but an entire car.

The plan as of now is to build a street legal track car that time and money permitting I plan to some day use for autox, track, open road racing, and hopefully even hill climbs. thanks to the not so userfriendly microsoft paint, here is what the car might look like when i am done, color may vary:
49279
Goals for this car are as follows:
3200 lbs without driver
1+G cornering capability
180+ top speed.....who knows if I will ever have a chance to verify this.
0-60 in less than 4 seconds
an acceptable level of reliability.
And I'm aiming for these numbers at an elevation of 4200 ft in 60 degree ambient.

More to come. ...So wish me luck

[ponchopwr70]

Car looks sick in the photoshop, I like it.

[Zachalanche]

Car level and supported by suspension ready for subframe connectors
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00753JPG-1.jpg

[Zachalanche]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00767JPG-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00809JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00812JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00827JPG-1.jpg

[1970 TT Rustang]

Looks Good Nice Year!! Iam a little bias

[Zachalanche]

going to be playing catch up with the pics for a bit so here are some more. this is the start of the rear suspension.
Axle housing is out of a mid 70's lincoln.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00846JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00848JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00860JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00861JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00863JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00914JPG-1.jpg

[LeighP]

I assume you're going to be running bigger diameter wheels than those ones in the pics? Just that The lower brackets on the axle tubes extend below the scrub line with the wheels on the car.....
Great looking car, by the way. I really like that model 'Stang.

[Bryce]

Nice mustang. Good luck on your project.

[Zachalanche]

I assume you're going to be running bigger diameter wheels than those ones in the pics? Just that The lower brackets on the axle tubes extend below the scrub line with the wheels on the car.....
Great looking car, by the way. I really like that model 'Stang.

I plan to run 18X11's with 305-35-18s those are only 16's in the pictures. Even with the larger wheels those brackets do hang quite low and the tire diameter that I will have isn't very much larger than the tire in the pics. I would assume Grggs has this thought out, so, I hope it doesn't become a drivability issue.
https://picasaweb.google.com/115322827192084299493/1966GR350StreetByGriggsRacing#5322399563706840226

[Zachalanche]

Rear suspension mocked up and tacked together. a few more measurements and it will be ready for final weld.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00985JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00981JPG-1.jpg

[Zachalanche]

Rear end housing completed.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01003JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01004JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01013JPG-1.jpg

[sr73bu]

Nice work!!! Love these Mustangs! Love the color combo too..

-Sean

[Speedy911]

Great looking mustang and nice work!

[Daves69Coupe]

great looking stang, time for some paint for that rear

[Hotwhilz]

Good model choice! Interesting rear! Keep up the welding is nice too!

[Zachalanche]

great looking stang, time for some paint for that rear

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01017JPG-1.jpg

[Longchamp]

Absolutely beautiful car, my favourite year, I'd hate to have a flat rear tyre though.

Rear suspension mocked up and tacked together. a few more measurements and it will be ready for final weld.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00985JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00981JPG-1.jpg

[Zachalanche]

Absolutely beautiful car, my favourite year, I'd hate to have a flat rear tyre though.

The wheels pictured will no longer be on the car. This will be remedied with larger wheels. although it will be close an 18" wheel should keep the axle brackets off the ground.

[Zachalanche]

Here is the starting pic for the engine compartment. don't let its looks fool you. The engine burns more oil than fuel, and the mustang II suspension definitely has some driveability issues.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00748JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01015JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01016JPG-1.jpg
out with the old.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01053JPG-1.jpg
in with the new.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01051JPG-1.jpg

[badbu68]

Very cool!

[Motorcitydak]

This is a really cool build. I like that you have a popular platform and yet are building everything yourself. Did you make that new front end as well?

[MattWash08]

love it, this is going to be a badass car!

[Zachalanche]

This is a really cool build. I like that you have a popular platform and yet are building everything yourself. Did you make that new front end as well?

Unfortunately no. its from Griggs. If I had to start over I would probably design and build all my own suspension or I would try something similar to what Ron S. has done. I'm a a little better educated now than I was when I purchased the suspension. With as much work as I am putting into making this suspension fit my car (even though it is designed for this car it seems to take a lot of effort to make sure everything is straight and lined up where it should be.) I probably could have been well on my way to building something I could call my own. Either way I think I'll still be happy with the end result. and the Griggs stuff is supposed to be fantastic on the track.

[Zachalanche]

mocking up front suspension now.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01084JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01056JPG-1.jpg
The coilover tower was meant to fit the original shock tower. with those removed I had to make a rear support.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01077JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01079JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01080JPG-1.jpg
Definitely a bit wider than the mustang II front end.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01083JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01109JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01111JPG-1.jpg
7* of caster. I've spent plenty of time aligning the front end to make sure everything will be in the correct place when I do the final welds. The lower ball joints are squared up with the rear suspension mounts then the rest of the front suspension references the lower ball joints.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01115JPG-1.jpg

[Hotwhilz]

Looks good , aligning is a pain but rewarding once rolling, any flares on the work?

[Zachalanche]

Looks good , aligning is a pain but rewarding once rolling, any flares on the work?
Definitely planning on flaring. nothing too drastic, i'm trying to keep the car looking fairly close to its original design. check out the photoshop at the beginning of the thread and you will see what I am going for.

[Zachalanche]

After much measuring and refitting and remeasuring, I finally decided to go for it and do the final weld.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01121JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01125JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01169JPG-1.jpg

[rustomatic]

By complicating things, we complicate things...

You do nice work, Zach. Judging by your welds, I'd say that you could have built better parts than you bought (designs and concepts are frequently free for second and third parties, as are improvements). Nevertheless, it's good to see an MII unit on its way out. Those things were a disimprovement of the real Mustang's gear (or Falcon's, as it were). Keep up the good work!

[Bryce]

Nice work!

[Zachalanche]

By complicating things, we complicate things...

You do nice work, Zach. Judging by your welds, I'd say that you could have built better parts than you bought (designs and concepts are frequently free for second and third parties, as are improvements). Nevertheless, it's good to see an MII unit on its way out. Those things were a disimprovement of the real Mustang's gear (or Falcon's, as it were). Keep up the good work!

with the lack of formal training that I have had, I consider that a huge compliment. Everything I have done so far should work well as a starting point. Since no project is ever complete, I'm sure I will modify things as I see fit.

[Zachalanche]

Figured I use the old cracked shock towers to fill in the holes.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01171JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01157JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01155JPG-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01177JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01176JPG-1.jpg

[Hotwhilz]

Good job on the closeouts, Man!! you work fast!

[Zachalanche]

Good job on the closeouts, Man!! you work fast!

LOL, Yeah I've been cheating. as soon as I get this thread caught up with where I am really at you should notice a pretty severe slowdown in my progress.

[Zachalanche]

Front end is mostly complete so I'm moving on to some bodywork. at least the rust replacement part. Previous pictures may have led you to believ this car had a good body. For the most part it its but the lower rear quarters were mostly fiberglass and bodyfiller. so, here is where the car starts to get ugly.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01192JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01190JPG-1.jpg
Unfortunately I didn't get any good before pictures after I took the paint off but here are some of the parts I had to make.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01194JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01195JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01197JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01198JPG-1.jpg
I plan to cut the flange off from inside the trunk . Ill clean everything up and make sure it is sealed later on to make sure I don't end up with rust issues where the patch starts. here is the almost finished patch:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01200JPG-1.jpg
A few more patches:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01236JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01240JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01241JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01242JPG-1.jpg

[craigs73]

wow this is shaping up to be a real nice car... im doing same as you by trying to do all my own fabrication (keyword TRY) LOL.....

[linkstar69]

I'm looking forward to hearing what you think of the rear suspension design. I've been planning a similar set up to put under my dart.

[Zachalanche]

wow this is shaping up to be a real nice car... im doing same as you by trying to do all my own fabrication (keyword TRY) LOL.....

A lot of things I'm doing are first try's for me. If I can offer any advice, make sure you alternate sides. I keep starting on the passenger side. Then my work on the drivers side always turns out better. At least the side that I am going to see the most will look good.


I'm looking forward to hearing what you think of the rear suspension design. I've been planning a similar set up to put under my dart.

It may be a while before I can tell you how it performs. From what I hear it should be fantastic. However, I already don't like the lack of ground clearance, but since its close to the wheels it might turn out to be a non issue. One design I think is really cool is the wishbone link that agent47 uses on their harbinger. It looks like an extremely simple design.

[linkstar69]

Got any pics of your preferred design, I'm collecting pics atm

[Zachalanche]

Still had a little rust on the rear fenders that needed to be patcfhed. this seemed like a good oportunity for flares. There isn't much I dislike about the way the 70 mustangs look, so I'm trying not to go too drastic.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01202JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01201JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01203JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01204JPG-1.jpg
I went through quite a bit of poster board trying to get this right, but now that i have it the way I wan't it I can use my emplate to make both sides.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01246JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01247JPG-1.jpg
1/4 inch rod for the lip.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01244JPG-1.jpg
test fit. I tacked the flare in place to mark where I need to cut.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01248JPG-1.jpg
everything in place ready to be finished
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01251JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01222JPG-1.jpg
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https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01259JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01263JPG-1.jpg

[Zachalanche]

Got any pics of your preferred design, I'm collecting pics atm

Couldn't tell you which would perform better, mine or the suspension in the picture below. But If I do another one of these cars, I might consider trying to build something similar.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

http://agentfortyseven.com/harbinger/Harbinger_image20lrg.html

[craigs73]

hey zach if i could go back and forth i would lol.. but im installing dse tubs,outer wheel wells and lower quarter. so i dont want to cut all that on other side and weaken it anymore than what it is now with all that missing on passanger side... so maybe the driverside look pretty good on my side as well lol..... everything im doing is my first time as well.. by the way the flares look great not to much over the top,well done. what are you going to do for underneath the flate in the now open area?

[Zachalanche]

hey zach if i could go back and forth i would lol.. but im installing dse tubs,outer wheel wells and lower quarter. so i dont want to cut all that on other side and weaken it anymore than what it is now with all that missing on passanger side... so maybe the driverside look pretty good on my side as well lol..... everything im doing is my first time as well.. by the way the flares look great not to much over the top,well done. what are you going to do for underneath the flate in the now open area?

Still trying to figure out what to do with the inners. I plan to put the car on a rotisserie when I get the rest of the chassis complete. I think Ill deal with it then. I have already made an attempt to make a piece for the inner fender and iwas a PITA to wok upside down. as fo now I plan to make a peice that I can butt weld to the wheel house and glue to the inside of the flare with industrial adhesive. The flares came out nice enough that I want to avoid doing any more welding on them for fear that I might warp them.

[Bryce]

Sweet flares!

[linkstar69]

That set up in the link looks real stout but still straight forward from a design perspective. Unfortunately the pic you posted wouldn't show.

[bhcustomdesigns]

Looking good very nice work!!! :twothumbs

[Motorcitydak]

Let me know the next time you find yourself in Mi, you have some work to do round here

[Zachalanche]

That set up in the link looks real stout but still straight forward from a design perspective. Unfortunately the pic you posted wouldn't show.

the link was the same thing as the pic. I would assume that would have very similar handling characteristics to the 3 link that I have.

[Zachalanche]

Let me know the next time you find yourself in Mi, you have some work to do round here
I'll have to bring my fairlane so you can convert it to AWD for me while I'm there.

[Zachalanche]

The new rear spring mount required me to cut up some of the trunk floor.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC00922JPG-1.jpg
Here is the patch
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01229JPG-1.jpg

[Zachalanche]

Got some used tires so I can start making space for them. these are toyo R888's - 305-35-18
I tink they are going to look pretty sweet.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01266JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01265JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01269JPG-1.jpg

[Hotwhilz]

Yummy! looks good man!

[linkstar69]

Great road racer look

[rustomatic]

You'd think that for the price, they'd weld some of that Agent 47 chassis stuff on... On a side note, that "wishbone" thing looks a lot like something drag racers use for their goofy 4-links (without Watts links, of course). I wouldn't be so jealous...

Nice flares, by the way!

[Motorcitydak]

I'll have to bring my fairlane so you can convert it to AWD for me while I'm there.

With 335's in front it seems like a waste of available traction for you to not make them provide forward traction as well! At least you should not be able to lock up the front brakes or ever, ever understeer

[Zachalanche]

need a little more room for tire so I'm making the inner wheel house fush with the frame.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01282JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01281JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01283JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01284JPG-1.jpg
The inner wheel house originally had a notch for the spare tire so I decided to delete that.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01288JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01290JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01291JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01293JPG-1.jpg

[Rols574]

The inner wheel house originally had a notch for the spare tire so I decided to delete that.
LOL, I always wondered if it was that or my tub was dented

[Zachalanche]

A hint of what's to come.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01325JPG-1.jpg

[Zachalanche]

Back to the mini-tubs:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01364JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01365JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01368JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01369JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01376JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01380JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/DSC01383JPG-1.jpg

[craigs73]

nice work zach you work fast... how long you get to work on this thing a day.. im lucky to get 3-4 hrs a weeks :(

[Zachalanche]

nice work zach you work fast... how long you get to work on this thing a day.. im lucky to get 3-4 hrs a weeks :(

Still playing catchup with the pictures. This thread will slow down pretty soon here. on a good week I can get in 20 hrs if I'm motivated, have all the parts I need and my job doesn't violate all my time, but on average Im about 3-4 hours a week.

[craigs73]

oh i see lol.... was thinking damn he works fast. i forgot you said earlier that you needed to catch the thread up hahaha lol !!

[1970 TT Rustang]

IF thats the right price on the motor thats a real deal

[craigs73]

IF thats the right price on the motor thats a real deal

im gonna gues that was shipping?

[Zachalanche]

if you couldn't tell what it was before here's a better picture.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01401JPG-1.jpg
and the other part that goes behind it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01410JPG-1.jpg

[cgc]

if you couldn't tell what it was before here's a better picture.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01401JPG-1.jpg
and the other part that goes behind it.

Well, that explains the "Half-Breed" name...
What made you decide to go with that option over say, a modular motor?

Not knocking what you're doing - I'm subbed to this thread cause you're goals are the same as I'll have for my project....just very curious.

By the way, nice work thus far.

[craigs73]

BUILT FORD TOUGH WITH CHEVY STUFF HAHAHAHAH had to say it... ron s did the same thing with his and hes very pleased with it

[Daves69Coupe]

why not go with the new Coyote 5.0 Crate engine? Was there a price difference or.....

[Zachalanche]

The LS was the clear winner in the size, weight, and price category. The new 5.0 would have been awesome and the new boss302... even more awesomer (that should be a word). But that engine takes up a huge amount of space. I also considered the supercharged 5.4, but price and weight were too high. The LS is going to help balance the car, and should leave room for some pretty good sized hood vents. I've always thought I was a die hard ford fan, but the LS made a lot of sense in this case.

[cgc]

I know you said you liked the size of the LS (and I know the decision has already been made, obviously :) ) but did you consider the 99/01 DOHC for weight, then add a SC?

Again, just curious. No question the LS is a power maker and by no means a bad option.

[Zachalanche]

I know you said you liked the size of the LS (and I know the decision has already been made, obviously :) ) but did you consider the 99/01 DOHC for weight, then add a SC?

Again, just curious. No question the LS is a power maker and by no means a bad option.

not specifically, but the lightest one would be the aluminum 4.6 which is close but would definitely need the supercharger to match the power of the LS I have. Superchargers aren't the lightest.

I also kicked around the idea of an aluminum 351 block based stroker, but ultimately I wanted new technology. there's a lot of ways to skin this cat and luckilly I have the motor mounts for a modualr ford in case I ever decide the LS was a mistake.

[cgc]

not specifically, but the lightest one would be the aluminum 4.6 which is close but would definitely need the supercharger to match the power of the LS I have. Superchargers aren't the lightest.

Yeah, the 99/01 4.6 DOHC are the alum ones if I remember correctly. I just couldn't remember the weight and wasn't sure how close it would be even with the SC.


I also kicked around the idea of an aluminum 351 block based stroker, but ultimately I wanted new technology. there's a lot of ways to skin this cat and luckilly I have the motor mounts for a modualr ford in case I ever decide the LS was a mistake.

Absolutely more than one way to skin a cat and nothing wrong with going down different avenues to achieve the goals.
Like I said, I was just curious what moved you in the direction of the LS...nothing more, nothing less.

I've been watching this build like a hawk and am really interested to see the finished product.

Take care.

[firemsam]

awesome work you been doing man! like what you are doing... up until the powerplant haha but i definately understand your choice as well as Ron's yall both make good points for it! Ford power is expensive and tends to be heavy! if i could stomach the ribbing i might do it with my 66 since i have a couple good chevy motors laying around but i would rather stuff a 427 windsor into a camero and see what kinda flack i get haha! love the work keep it up and if i come across a cheap dart block I'll pass it on!

[Daves69Coupe]

The LS was the clear winner in the size, weight, and price category. The new 5.0 would have been awesome and the new boss302... even more awesomer (that should be a word). But that engine takes up a huge amount of space. I also considered the supercharged 5.4, but price and weight were too high. The LS is going to help balance the car, and should leave room for some pretty good sized hood vents. I've always thought I was a die hard ford fan, but the LS made a lot of sense in this case.

How much wider was the 5.0 to the LSx? I know theres a guy on my 69stang forums whose throwing the 5.0 in his car already.

Either way I understand your decision, afterall your car your choice. Just stings having a chevy in a ford. Escpecially a nice 69 like yours.

[Zachalanche]

It leaves me an out. whenever I get beat or run a slow lap, I can just blame it on the gm parts of the car.

[Zachalanche]

the Griggs provided motor mounts put the engine pretty far forward and didn't center the engine in the car or in the motor mount bushings for that matter. overall I'm pretty disapointed in thier support on this one so looks like I'm on my own for motor mounts. Since this won't be 100% track car I think Ill ditch the aluminum bushings too.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01397JPG-1.jpg
Looks Like I can go back about 3 inches further.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01443JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01438JPG-1.jpg

[MattWash08]

It leaves me an out. whenever I get beat or run a slow lap, I can just blame it on the gm parts of the car.

haha nice!

[Zachalanche]

How much wider was the 5.0 to the LSx? I know theres a guy on my 69stang forums whose throwing the 5.0 in his car already.

Either way I understand your decision, afterall your car your choice. Just stings having a chevy in a ford. Escpecially a nice 69 like yours.

not sure on the differences in width. I do know the LS is closer to a SBF in dimensions and the coyote 5.0 is way wider than the old sbf's
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/Pictures012-1.jpg
(Thanks to wesley J for the picture)
I could make it fit but I see that as more work with not much benefit.

When it comes right down to it most of us will end up with so much aftermarket stuff on our engines it's hard to say its really the brand it started out as. I'm just taking the next step not allowing myself to be bound by vehicle brand. If ford made what I needed at the right price i would buy it in a second. but for now I'll see how this works. Besides, before I tore this car apart people were already asking me if it was a 67 camaro so I better keep it chevy lol.

[Zachalanche]

Thought I'd throw up my cage idea while I was posting pics. the real thing may vary, but this is the general idea.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/roll252520cage-1.jpg

[CruizinKev]

good work :twothumbs

[Daves69Coupe]

not sure on the differences in width. I do know the LS is closer to a SBF in dimensions and the coyote 5.0 is way wider than the old sbf's
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/06/Pictures012-1.jpg
(Thanks to wesley J for the picture)
I could make it fit but I see that as more work with not much benefit.

When it comes right down to it most of us will end up with so much aftermarket stuff on our engines it's hard to say its really the brand it started out as. I'm just taking the next step not allowing myself to be bound by vehicle brand. If ford made what I needed at the right price i would buy it in a second. but for now I'll see how this works. Besides, before I tore this car apart people were already asking me if it was a 67 camaro so I better keep it chevy lol.

I hear ya now. Heres a pic of Vaughn Gittens 69 Stang with a 5.0, the whole front of this car was customized to fit this engine and huge tires.49698

[cgc]

I hear ya now. Heres a pic of Vaughn Gittens 69 Stang with a 5.0, the whole front of this car was customized to fit this engine and huge tires.

Hmmm, I'm going to have to look and see how much (if any) bigger the 5.0 is over the 4.6. The 4.6 DOHC should fit in a 69/70 with the strut towers removed from what I understand.

[Zachalanche]

I hear ya now. Heres a pic of Vaughn Gittens 69 Stang with a 5.0, the whole front of this car was customized to fit this engine and huge tires

That thing is rad. Just goes to show, no matter what you're doing, someone is doing it better.

[Zachalanche]

Hmmm, I'm going to have to look and see how much (if any) bigger the 5.0 is over the 4.6. The 4.6 DOHC should fit in a 69/70 with the strut towers removed from what I understand.
I suspect the 5.0 would fit too its supposed to be just a little wider than the 4.6. sorry I dont' have an exact dimension, thats just what I have heard.

[Rols574]

Vaughn Gitten's car is a thing of beauty. Love that car

[Daves69Coupe]

That thing is rad. Just goes to show, no matter what you're doing, someone is doing it better.49714

Heres a pic of his completed car. I talked to vaughn about it at a Formula D event here in Jersey, it was beautiful and super low.

[MattWash08]

so would the ls motor fit between the stock shock towers if they were still in place?

[corty1980]

Hey Zach very nice build, love the classis stangs. Only one thing remove the cancer (LS1) before it spreads to the rest of the car :(

[Zachalanche]

Back to measuring, leveling, etc. ugghhhh.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01445JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01446JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01447JPG-1.jpg
...and here are the new motor mounts.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01455JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01456JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01459JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01460JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01465JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01467JPG-1.jpg

[linkstar69]

Looking good zach

[Zachalanche]

so would the ls motor fit between the stock shock towers if they were still in place? the ls is roughly 25 inches wide same (not exactly the same but near 25) as the 351 w. so yes the LS would most definitely fit between stock vintage mustang shock towers. The ls is rear sump which I imagine would interfere with the factory steering and crossmember, but there may be some options here as far as oil pans go.

one of the most appealing thing about the LS, I think, is that there are so many different displacements available and it is all packaged pretty tightly. most of the late model ford engines seem to be a a total disregard for available space.

[Zachalanche]

Hey Zach very nice build, love the classis stangs. Only one thing remove the cancer (LS1) before it spreads to the rest of the car :(

Man, I can't imagine what some of you guys would be saying if I started putting mopar parts in this car....or worse yet, import parts.

[John Boschma]

great work on the fabricating and great choice on the car, but i will say that i'm a die hard ford man and i am completely disappointed with the powerplant.

[MattWash08]

the ls is roughly 25 inches wide same (not exactly the same but near 25) as the 351 w. so yes the LS would most definitely fit between stock vintage mustang shock towers. The ls is rear sump which I imagine would interfere with the factory steering and crossmember, but there may be some options here as far as oil pans go.

one of the most appealing thing about the LS, I think, is that there are so many different displacements available and it is all packaged pretty tightly. most of the late model ford engines seem to be a a total disregard for available space.

Im definately going to have to look into this. Im a fan of the ls motors

[Jeff70]

Cool project. I own a 69 FB and have a LS2/T56 in the garage that I've debated dropping in the 69 & you are showing me it is possible.

Here is a pic of a 70 running Griggs the owner does a lot of track days at my local track and the thing hauls.



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

[MattWash08]

jeff70, That mustang is awesome!

[rustomatic]

Dude, I fully approve! When a 400+ hp Chevy motor costs the same as a 300 horse Ford, things are wrong in Detroit. Should my 5.0/T5 manage to simultaneously implode, I may consider similar options... The rear sump thing would be a no-go, however.

[Zachalanche]

This pretty much catches up this thread with my backlog of pictures. here is the completed transmission mount.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01480JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01483JPG-1.jpg
Next up: i'll be putting the trans tunnel back together, and then starting on the roll cage.

[Hotwhilz]

Nice Xmember, too bad it is not a Coyote engine in there!

[Zachalanche]

made a little progress on the trans tunnel. I need to do some finish work around the shifter and add some small patches in the front, but other than that its just waiting for the final weld after I pull the engine and trans back out.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01497JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01498JPG-1.jpg

[Motorcitydak]

Man, I can't imagine what some of you guys would be saying if I started putting mopar parts in this car....or worse yet, import parts.

Don't bother with the mopar stuff, its all just really expensive for no good reason. Except the Viper T56, that is just expensive

[Zachalanche]

Don't bother with the mopar stuff, its all just really expensive for no good reason. Except the Viper T56, that is just expensive

Funny you say that, years ago, before the existence of the magnum t56, the viper t56 was on the wish list.

[Zachalanche]

Started on the roll cage. the main hoop is tacked into place and one of the forward bars is ready. just need to figure out what im going to do with the kick pannel vent door. if I put it in then weld the cage in, it can never be removed. the other option would be to deete it and put a plate over the hole.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01500JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01501JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01502JPG-1.jpg
fits pretty close to the a pillar
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01503JPG-1.jpg
the a pillar bar is intentionally a different angle to provide better visibility. from the drivers point of view it is almost completely in linie with the a pillar, so not much view is lost.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/10/DSC01504JPG-1.jpg

[Rols574]

sun roof?

[Zachalanche]

sun roof?

yeah, tasteful mod by a previous owner. I'll be replacing the roof skin because of this, so welding the top of the cage should be easy.

[aussiebj]

Sweet build Ill be finished with my 69 soon... its only been three years..Love the color.....

[Zachalanche]

Sweet build Ill be finished with my 69 soon... its only been three years..Love the color.....
thanks. for only 3 years you've got a lot finished. I'm already about 2 1/2 years into mine.

[solarguy09]

Very Sweet Mustang......Love what you are doing......Keep it up...

[cgc]

Bump for any updates?

[aussiebj]

same here updates needed...

[SRD art]

Sweet ride, keep it coming!

[Zachalanche]

Wish I could give some updates , but I have been at a complete stand still for some time now. I have some vintage air stuff on the way so that I can mock up the AC box. The original heater box sits right where I want to run the tube on the passenger side and I suspect the vintage air stuff will give me a little more room. I also ordered some other stuff, but I won't say what it is until I can show some pictures. Same story on that. ordered it 2 months ago and am still waiting. This really makes me wonder how the 48hr camaro could possibly be built so quickly. they obviously didn't start the clock until after the parts showed up.

In a desparate attempt to make at least some sort of progress, I started cutting some tube for the exhuast. I think I figured out a way to snake some 3 in tube around the watts link so that i can have rear exit exhaust. But then my grinder died. So, I locked up the garage and went snowboarding and have basically been doing that since.

hopefully I see some parts soon I would really like to get this roll cage on its way.

stay tuned.

thanks.

[RicerwannaB]

Love the project. Just remember the old adage, haters gonna hate. The LS is the reason I got out of the ford game to begin with.

[Zachalanche]

made a little progress over the weekend.

I was able to borrow some vintage air stuff from another car I'm working on to help me figure out where to route the right side of my cage.

here's the original box:
52519
with the dash in place there isn't enough room to run the roll cage tube in the same place as I did on the driver side.

here is the vintage air box:
52518
52520

I still need to do a little more fitting on the passenger side before I can tack it in place, but I'm pretty happy with the fit.
52517

[Zachalanche]

Ordered these a couple months ago, but they showed up just in time for the mustang to get a christmas present.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/DSC01532JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/DSC01529JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/12/DSC01533JPG-1.jpg

[Wesley J]

Love what you're doing with the car! Dont let these guys give you such a hard time on the motor choice. I was very close to going that direction as well, prior to deciding on the coyote. My decision was based alot on price as it was significantly cheaper per HP than the brand new with warranty LS offerings I could find here in Canada. Its a 420 lb motor so im guessing that the weight is very similar to the LS.

As far as width goes, its a hair over 29" wide at the valve covers, the 4.6 is a hair under 29". No comparison in the motor though. My setup dyno'd at 510 hp at around 7400 rpm. The 4.6's need forced induction to get to those numbers and reliability and simplicity goes out the window then.

Anyway, enought about that, I'm looking forward to seeing this thing come to life.

Oh ya, changing a cam is drastically simpler and cheaper (~1/4 the price) for you. Its all about which trade offs you feel best about.

Cheers,

Wes

[Zachalanche]

Love what you're doing with the car! Dont let these guys give you such a hard time on the motor choice. I was very close to going that direction as well, prior to deciding on the coyote. My decision was based alot on price as it was significantly cheaper per HP than the brand new with warranty LS offerings I could find here in Canada. Its a 420 lb motor so im guessing that the weight is very similar to the LS.

As far as width goes, its a hair over 29" wide at the valve covers, the 4.6 is a hair under 29". No comparison in the motor though. My setup dyno'd at 510 hp at around 7400 rpm. The 4.6's need forced induction to get to those numbers and reliability and simplicity goes out the window then.

Anyway, enought about that, I'm looking forward to seeing this thing come to life.

Oh ya, changing a cam is drastically simpler and cheaper (~1/4 the price) for you. Its all about which trade offs you feel best about.

Cheers,

Wes


Thanks for the support. If the price would have been right for any of the ford stuff when I bought the LS I would have definitely gone that direction, but The price, size, power and weight of what I got (LS3 stroked to 418 w/ forged internals) was impossible to beat.

I had to fabricate my own mounts for the LS, but I have mounts for the late model ford engines that came with my K-member, so if I ever find myself unhappy with the LS It shouldn't be hard to put a ford in there.....other than comming up with the money for one.

[chunger]

I must say, as a Ford guy, I'm pretty envious of the LS engines. They're everything the current Ford engines should be. Available in a variety of iron or aluminum, with varying displacements, yet all the same (or at least similar) external dimensions, deepskirted block, some crossbolted... In short - seems like everything that Ford has spec'd out for the modular line of engines. The original idea behind the mod motors was good; varying displacements, same engine for FWD or RWD, and can slice two cylinders off to become a V-6.

But, man in real life, what a screwed up engine family. What are they up to now, 9 different blocks, 1/2 a dozen cylinder heads? And how did they end up with 2 different 4.6's with completely different valve cover bolt patterns (Romeo & Windsor)? Huh? And then there's the issue of their massive size. They are wider than the 427SOHC's. Nearly impossible to retrofit into older chassis w/o major work. Ford gets an F for this family.....

So, yea, I get why you went with a LS ...

[Zachalanche]

I must say, as a Ford guy, I'm pretty envious of the LS engines. They're everything the current Ford engines should be. Available in a variety of iron or aluminum, with varying displacements, yet all the same (or at least similar) external dimensions, deepskirted block, some crossbolted... In short - seems like everything that Ford has spec'd out for the modular line of engines. The original idea behind the mod motors was good; varying displacements, same engine for FWD or RWD, and can slice two cylinders off to become a V-6.

But, man in real life, what a screwed up engine family. What are they up to now, 9 different blocks, 1/2 a dozen cylinder heads? And how did they end up with 2 different 4.6's with completely different valve cover bolt patterns (Romeo & Windsor)? Huh? And then there's the issue of their massive size. They are wider than the 427SOHC's. Nearly impossible to retrofit into older chassis w/o major work. Ford gets an F for this family.....

So, yea, I get why you went with a LS ...

not to mention the lack of availability of large displacement from ford necessitating forced induction in many applications.

[Zachalanche]

not much progress to report, just some cool pictures.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/DSC01547JPG-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/DSC01546JPG-1.jpg
it's discouraging to think that I will be disassembling all of this to finish the chassis.

[MattWash08]

Im loving those wheels!

[Hotwhilz]

Sweet, Best wishes for 2012! The wheels aren't so common, the swap isn't also! The cage looks nice, keep going!! And quit snowboarding you are going to hurt your self LOL

[cgc]

it's discouraging to think that I will be disassembling all of this to finish the chassis.

Hey, at least you have your project car that you're making headway on, some of us are still looking for that...lol.

Kidding, I totally understand what you're saying....nice work thus far.

[MattWash08]

Hows it coming? My tired old 302 has developed a knock so I may start surfing around for an ls/t56 as well lol.

[Zachalanche]

I put the car back on the ground just so I could clean the garage. this is the first time it has been off jack stands in about 3 years.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC01579JPG-1.jpg
Other than that i haven't really made much progress. I started desert racing my dirt bike and thats been taking up most of my time lately. I also put the dash together so i can make measurements for the front part of the cage. no pictures on this yet, but the way the cage tucks behind the dash at the a pillars looks pretty good. I guess from here Ill keep adding parts to the car until it is almost complete and I am sure everything fits. then I'll disassemble everything and put the car on the rotisserie to finish up welding and paint.

[Chris02rex]

This thing is sweet. I've always loved this style of stang.

[Zachalanche]

Not much to report, just some door bars.
61507

[Motorcitydak]

door bars look pretty easy to get in and out of, nice

[Zachalanche]

a little more on the door bars. they are tacked in place now, ready for final weld.
61818

[cencalc6]

Your doing an excellent job....keep up the great work

[Zachalanche]

Got some work done on my pedals. took a few tries to get it right, but they feel like they are in the right place now.

651306513165132

[Hotwhilz]

Nice set up! good to see you are still on track!

[85coupe50]

Do you have an instruction manual for the Griggs GR350 stuff? I have this setup and no instructions. I am going to be installing into a 64 fairlane 2 door post. Looking to have some more definitive answers on how the front suspension is setup.

[85coupe50]

Good looking car by the way... You're doing a great job on it.

[Zachalanche]

Do you have an instruction manual for the Griggs GR350 stuff? I have this setup and no instructions. I am going to be installing into a 64 fairlane 2 door post. Looking to have some more definitive answers on how the front suspension is setup.

There is no instruction manual, considering the price, it seems like there should be. most of the pieces are designed to only fit in thier specific locatino. but if you are like me and didn't start with shock towers, it is a little more difficult.

My strategy was to start with the subframes. I then used the rear suspension arm mount (part of the subframe connectors) as a reference for everything else. I spent a lot of time measuring with the front suspension clamped in place to make sure everything was square.

thats the jist of it, I'll offer up whatever I know about the griggs suspension, but you'll have to ask some more specific questions. Good luck with the installaltion.

[85coupe50]

Thanks Zach. I appreciate the insight into the Griggs stuff. Strange that for the price they give you no white papers on installation.

[Zachalanche]

Getting carried away with the grinder again. Id probably still be driving my car if it wasn't for that tool.
6610766108661126611066111

[rustomatic]

That's a dedicated approach to getting your tubes fully welded!

[Zachalanche]

yeah, almost as much dedication as the previous owner had when he put in the sun roof.

[66larkgs]

looking good.. keep it up

[Todd in Vancouver]

SWEET ride and I LOVE the LS engine swap. Fact is when you step on the pedal HP is HP and while the haters are watching your tail lights pull away they can just continue crying unfair. I keep going back and forth on if I'm going to add a cage or not and looking at yours has given me some new ideas and possible direction so thanks. Definitely will be following along on your build.

[kmdracer]

Awesome job so far. Subscribing to track progress.

[car_guy]

Killer fab work...love the ls too! I think the 70 is by far the best looking year out of them all.

[migg400]

Great work man!! I'm working on a 67 Fastback and cant wait til I finish the sheet metal work. Thanks again for the inspiration!!!

[migg400]

Subscribed!!

[k9kevin81]

Awesome build, I just read the entire thread. I wasnt sure if I was into it at the beginning, I am now!

[1970 TT Rustang]

a little more on the door bars. they are tacked in place now, ready for final weld.
61818

Looks good iam doing evo seats also. did you cut out the seat humps? Also are you using aftermarket seat brackets?

[Zachalanche]

Looks good iam doing evo seats also. did you cut out the seat humps? Also are you using aftermarket seat brackets?

I used the evo sliders, and just welded tabs on to line up with the mounting holes on the seat pans. I also welded the bolts on so the evo seat basically installs like the stock mustang seat did.

[Motown 454]

Zach awesome project! I like what your doing with it.

[1970 TT Rustang]

I used the evo sliders, and just welded tabs on to line up with the mounting holes on the seat pans. I also welded the bolts on so the evo seat basically installs like the stock mustang seat did.

Thanks

[Zachalanche]

Progress is slow as ever, but here's where things are at.
Finished welding on the top of the cage and prepped everything for the new roof.
68095
68094

New roof installed welding is about 1/3 done.
68096

Also mounted the computer
68097

[Z06killinSBF]

Very cool build!

[migg400]

Coming along well!!

[FRENCHBLUE72]

Nice work so far and congrats on the ls..

[Zachalanche]

Thigs are really going slow now as I start to work through the details. I added hydraulic lines to the pedals. all 3 pedals are all one assembly now. this should speed up the final assembly of the car after paint. the lines on the engine compartment side connect where the old brake and clutch pushrods used to pass through the firewall.
75752
75753

[Griggsp51]

What size wheels did you go with?

[Zachalanche]

What size wheels did you go with?

18X11 all the way around.

[Zachalanche]

18X11 all the way around.

correction, 18X11.5 all the way around.

[Griggsp51]

Wow that's impressive to fit in the front

[Zachalanche]

Wow that's impressive to fit in the front


Yeah. the new steering geometry bought me a lot of room since it doesn't swing the wheel as far as the original suspension did. I will have to limit the rack and pinoin travel a little, because the rim does contact the lower a arm, even at that, I should still have a slightly better turning radius than a corvette (which isn't fantasic). if I need more turning radius I have some ideas for some modificatins I could make to the a arm to allow a little more steering.

I also still need to flare the front fenders a little (similar to the rear). hopefully it all works when I'm done.

[Zachalanche]

A few more updates:
started working on the bracing that goes between the cage and the body. here are the A-pillars.
7706577066

been trying to clean the garage a little, so the hood ended up back on the car. not really productive progress, but seeing the car with all its body parts was motivating.
77071
Starting to think about the venting on the front of the car. I'm trying to make the side vents line up the way the up curve on a boss stripe would, so I can disguise it a little, while still having a large opening to remove air from under the fenders.
77068

......and here's the car as it currently sits. Still in mockup phase, so like I have said a few times already, it all has to be disassembled.
77069

[migg400]

Looking Good!!!

[Zachalanche]

Tools are expensive. especially dimple dies. I only needed to stamp a handfull of 1" holes, So i decided to make my own. I t may not be as good of a dimple as the real tool would make, but it's good enough for me.

I had a peice of a broken shifter lying around that has actually been one of the more useful tools in my garage. I've used it to remove dents in dirt bike headers, and now it seems to be the right shape an size fo my home made dimple die. The back side of the die is just left over DOM tube from my roll cage with a couple of washers welded to it to keep the shifter piece stright while I am pressing everything together.
80266
80267

[AusMarty]

Aww, nifty.
Mind if I copy that?

[driveit]

Awesome build. This guy has got skillz!

[Zachalanche]

Heres the finished product using my homemade tool.
80271
80272
80273

[Z06killinSBF]

Daaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyuuummmmm makes me want to order some tubes now.

[Motorcitydak]

Very cool, the dimples turned out awesome! That tool seemed to work very well

[Zachalanche]

Aww, nifty.
Mind if I copy that?
couldn't stop you if i tried at this point. Just a heads up this tool worked great up to 16 ga, but that was just using a vice. I suspect with a press I could relly test its limits, but I doubt it would do vey many 1/8 thick dimples before it ruined the tool.


Awesome build. This guy has got skillz!

Daaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyuuummmmm makes me want to order some tubes now.

Very cool, the dimples turned out awesome! That tool seemed to work very well

Thanks for the compliments.

[Bossed]

It so repulsive to see such a beautiful 1970 Mustang, with the other teams engine transplanted into it. I know that car would spit that thing out if it could. Just ruined it, when everything else about the car is so nice.

[DocSean]

It so repulsive to see such a beautiful 1970 Mustang, with the other teams engine transplanted into it. I know that car would spit that thing out if it could. Just ruined it, when everything else about the car is so nice.

Pfffttt....

Awesome work, keep it up!

[AusMarty]

I think Bossed is a little peeved.
lol

[Supra510]

Great work. Glad you're doing it your way, after all, it's your car. And you're the one driving it and putting a **** ton of work into it. Ignore the negative...

[Zachalanche]

Nice! looks like its 3 against 1, so Ill have to keep the LS. besides 95% of the work is in the platform. If I decide I don't like the engine, It's not hard to try something else (aside from finding the money for it). At this point there's so much non-ford stuff on this car the engine isn't the only thing to hate. Honestly I'm a little disappointed that this thread hasn't attracted af few more anti-chev comments. lol.

[rustomatic]

I dig that new signature... Dang you and your dang dirty Chevy!

[Todd in Vancouver]

It so repulsive to see such a beautiful 1970 Mustang, with the other teams engine transplanted into it. I know that car would spit that thing out if it could. Just ruined it, when everything else about the car is so nice.

Yes it is aweful to have more power, great looks, good fuel economy all at way less cost. NOT!

It's an awesome build and I love how you are building it at home, yourself right down to making your own tools. You got some talent and it it's nice that we can all follow along. There will always be haters but there are way more of us who like it.

PS
love the new signature, you may need to write that on the car as well. LOL

[Supra510]

Lol...love the new sig.

[vette427-sbc]

An LS with a carb style intake looks more like a ford motor anyway...
Love everything about this build!

[Zachalanche]

It's a bit counter productive to re-do completed parts of the car, but I couldn't find a good way to route the exhuast past the torque arm mount without some major refabrication. I should get some better pictures of this, but here is what I have at the moment. the new torque arm mount includes a drive shaft loop, clearance for the exhaust and mounts for the exhuast.
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[linkstar69]

Looking good, as mentioned above your sig is great.

I imagine it's mentioned earlier but what torque are are you using? I like the simplicity of the mount.

[Zachalanche]

Looking good, as mentioned above your sig is great.

I imagine it's mentioned earlier but what torque are are you using? I like the simplicity of the mount.

The torque arm was supplied by griggs racing. I also like the simplicity, but it does hang below the diff a good distance. I hope I don't have ground clearance issues with it.

[cactuss4]

Well done.. really liking it!

[linkstar69]

The torque arm was supplied by griggs racing. I also like the simplicity, but it does hang below the diff a good distance. I hope I don't have ground clearance issues with it.

Given the diameter of wheels you'll be running I don't envisage you having any scrub line issues.

[Zachalanche]

A few updates. Built the steering shaft, and the shock tower brace. I also had to replace the tail panel, as the original had some fairly bad body work done to it. More to come with rotisserie pics.

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[Bossed]

Poor Poor Mustang

[craigs73]

Poor Poor Mustang

lol it will probably run better than it ever has.......:machine:

[LUV2XLR8]

who makes the serp setup your running?

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

lol it will probably run better than it ever has.......:machine:




yup!

until Ford brings out something EQUAL to the LS this is better til further notice.. lol!

and please dont say Coyote cause last I checked even the Coyote couldnt catch the roadrunner.. oh shwt theres a cliff here?!?


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*splat.

[Zachalanche]

who makes the serp setup your running?

http://www.wegnerautomotive.com/

[craigs73]

yup!

until Ford brings out something EQUAL to the LS this is better til further notice.. lol!

and please dont say Coyote cause last I checked even the Coyote couldnt catch the roadrunner.. oh shwt theres a cliff here?!?


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*splat.

lmao....hahahahaha

[Motorcitydak]

Happy to see more progress!

[aussietony]

Keep up the good work.. Stuff the knockers... It's your car after all.

[MSTSFabbed]

Looking Awesome man! Good job building a shock tower brace that doesn't have pinned joints at every corner as is the current fad! Keep at it and keep us posted!

[70vertstang]

Looking good! Check out my build if you get a chance.. I will prob ask for some pointers!

[Zachalanche]

Just a bit of day dreaming here. what do you think of the colors.
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[Zachalanche]

Looking good! Check out my build if you get a chance.. I will prob ask for some pointers!

so far so good on yours, looks like you are moving ahead a lot faster than me. best of luck.

[Tag]

What wheels are these?

[Zachalanche]

What wheels are these?

Jongbloed

[lucky13firebird]

loving it, and as said earlier, FORD doesn't exactly have a modern pushrod motor that puts down that kind of power in that kind of way and fits in a vintage mustang. If you'd have put in a 4.6 ford or the new 5.0 fords I'D be the one saying "poor poor mustang", I just don't see the need for a 4.6L motor to be THAT MASSIVE externally... chevy on the other hand as stated before made a compact pushrod motor with AMAZING head flow figures and low weight, a choice of iron or aluminum blocks and is universal in the sense that they can be used in both FWD and RWD applications... and now its been out since 1998 at least in practically every chevy vehicle... firebirds, camaros, trucks, FWD impala SS cars and so on... that simply means that not only can we cherry pick whatever engine our pockets allow 4.8L 5.3L and so on, but also that the aftermarket was basically building HP mods for ONE ENGINE... instead of needing to branch out and spend money on R&D for the 4x4 guys and the camaro guys and corvette guys and then passing the bill on to US, the people buying the parts...

I say, well done indeed. I MAY, depending on budget do the exact same thing to my 67 fastback project... ;-)

[lucky13firebird]

besides, one thing to remember, some people exist to troll... and many naysayers don't have a project they're willing to share with us to enlighten us on doing it the "right way" ;-) ... they're just wishful thinkers with a handful of mean words and a laptop ;-)

btw, I love you cage to piller gussets, awsome.

[Zachalanche]

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

[Zachalanche]

Been a while since I posted any progress. Car has been on the rotisserie for quite a while now. just had the body blasted so I can finish up some of the remaining seam welding. epoxy primer is next.
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[WallaceMFG]

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

This sums everything up well! hahaha

Great work on your car! I always love to see Mustangs getting the PT treatment, they had the best looking bodies of any of the muscle cars from the 60's

[Spork82]

Love the car keep up with the good work!

I have a odd question to ask, can you measure the mounting holes on the door mirrors. I want to use them on my project, but no one I know has a 69/70 Mustang.

[Zachalanche]

Love the car keep up with the good work!

I have a odd question to ask, can you measure the mounting holes on the door mirrors. I want to use them on my project, but no one I know has a 69/70 Mustang.

I'll try to get a measurement next time I am working on the car.

[67goatman455]

i have a 2-part question.

1.Are you going to be street driving this. if yes....
2.What are you doing for a turn signal switch

It's a personal dilemma i have had for months haha

[Zachalanche]

i have a 2-part question.

1.Are you going to be street driving this. if yes....
2.What are you doing for a turn signal switch

It's a personal dilemma i have had for months haha

Yes. I planned on mounting a switch on the console, and I also have an idea that uses magnetic switches and relays to make the signals self cancelling. Honestly, I never really liked the ergonomics of having the turn signal lever on the steering column. I feel like my right hand is free more often than my left.

or I could just eliminate the turn signal all together. I already feel like I am the only person in Utah who uses it.

[MonzaRacer]

Uhmmmm, but of information while GM paid for the design of the LS, its more Ford design than most actually understand.
The heads CAN be fitted to sbf. Know a guy with aftermarket block/rotating assembly with LS heads, makes well over 900 HP, with pair of eBay turbos.
Minor mods, near drop on.

[Zachalanche]

Love the car keep up with the good work!

I have a odd question to ask, can you measure the mounting holes on the door mirrors. I want to use them on my project, but no one I know has a 69/70 Mustang.

screw holes are 7" apart

[madpony]

:cool: awesome build dude. keep up the good work!!
I would like to pick your brain a little if I may??

I am, as you were, doing my homework and preparing for a build. I have a 68 fastback with a super tired 302. Ive always loved the fastbacks but no nothing in detail of ford drivetrain other than their nastalgia. I also have been wanting to do an ls swap, problably turbo, in something so ive been planning on the fback. Ive picked up an ly6 6.0 with the 6l90 trans and a 9 inch for the rear.

I was figuring on doing a must II front until I read your build and saw that you removed one!:hand:. so my question(s) is why the negativity on MustII, and what setup did you go with, and why? second was your rear end suspension choice? Did a marvellous job btw, but why the long centered lift bar? why not triangulated 4link, or an independant swap? Not knocking or picking whatsoever, just trying to figure out the correct path I should take for mine??

Oh and love the chevy ford comments...... wasnt hotrodding based on taking the best parts available putting them into what you could and going as fast as possible? wether it was in a straight line? up a windy mountain side? or even in open water?!?

I have had many more chevys than any other make so I guess that makes me a chevy guy right?! I love the 64 fairlane and had one, love the fbacks, chevelles, roadrunners, chargers, novas, and belevederes! so what is my "classification"? I am catching so much slack as well here for one having a mustang and then for putting an ls in it. Long live the haters LOL:git:

[Zachalanche]

:cool: awesome build dude. keep up the good work!!
I would like to pick your brain a little if I may??

I am, as you were, doing my homework and preparing for a build. I have a 68 fastback with a super tired 302. Ive always loved the fastbacks but no nothing in detail of ford drivetrain other than their nastalgia. I also have been wanting to do an ls swap, problably turbo, in something so ive been planning on the fback. Ive picked up an ly6 6.0 with the 6l90 trans and a 9 inch for the rear.

I was figuring on doing a must II front until I read your build and saw that you removed one!:hand:. so my question(s) is why the negativity on MustII, and what setup did you go with, and why? second was your rear end suspension choice? Did a marvellous job btw, but why the long centered lift bar? why not triangulated 4link, or an independant swap? Not knocking or picking whatsoever, just trying to figure out the correct path I should take for mine??

Oh and love the chevy ford comments...... wasnt hotrodding based on taking the best parts available putting them into what you could and going as fast as possible? wether it was in a straight line? up a windy mountain side? or even in open water?!?

I have had many more chevys than any other make so I guess that makes me a chevy guy right?! I love the 64 fairlane and had one, love the fbacks, chevelles, roadrunners, chargers, novas, and belevederes! so what is my "classification"? I am catching so much slack as well here for one having a mustang and then for putting an ls in it. Long live the haters LOL:git:

After both shock towers cracked and the upper a-arm mounts displaced beyond repair, I subscribed to the school of thought that mustang shock towers should be removed, and purchased the mustang II suspension. The result of the installation was an extremely limited suspension travel, narrower wheelbase, smaller brakes and relocation of the engine 2" forward and .5" to the right. I later learned that the mustang II suspension has weak spindles and not the best suspension geometry which didn't matter much since it seemed like it was riding on the bump stops 90% of the time. To add insult to injury the kit came with poor quality steering U-joints that were constantly working their way loose. If I had had more money at the time I could have remedied some of these issues, but once I finally did have the money to take care of this I just wanted the whole thing out of there. Honestly if I would have just replaced the shock towers and reinforced them, I could have done a lot more with he stock suspension and I would be enjoying driving the car right now instead of posting pictures of a bare chassis on the internet. But one thing led to another and poor suspension and a bad set of piston rings turned my car into a never ending project.

I purchased the front and rear suspension together from Griggs racing after seeing a similarly equipped 70 mustang at miller motorsports park. This was the first time I had seen any car running 315's as front tires and I had to have it. hind sight is always 20/20, and I think I would build something of my own design if I were to start the project today, but the Griggs suspension is well built and I think should provide good results. Unfortunately Griggs also thinks this is the case and their prices are set accordingly.

I definitely wanted to keep the solid axle in the rear. most of this decision is out of stubbornness, and me wanting to prove to the BMW owners that a solid axle car can corner. The design is simple and a 9in rear can handle a lot of power for the price. Also, although my car isn't exactly a trans -am racecar replica, I wanted it to have that feel to it.

If you want my opinion about front ends (and all it is, is an opinion) I would stay away from the mustang II suspensions, and I would also stay away from global west (I have found they are good at making attractive powder coated parts that don't work well together.) don't underestimate what you can do with the original front end on your car. it may not be the best, but it's not the worst, and it's definitely the cheapest.

[madpony]

thanks for your input dude,I really appreciate it. I'm all turned around now lol. Ive driven the car a little with a rebuilt front suspension and dont like the " feel" of it, bumpsteer mostly I suppose. Perhaps just a rack and pinion and modified shock towers will do for me?? My chevelle with a semi-bad steering box feels better than this so I sort of assumed that it was a bad design, I know the early novas have a very similar design that is usually removed asap. Good luck on your build I definatly will be watching from the sidelines!! thanks again

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

zach aint lying..

hell the Guldstrand mod essentially is a drastic improvement in geometry in early camaros which most people just go and buy tubular arms.. just to do pretty much the same thing.. I guess they would like to knitting circle their new parts.. lol.

[madpony]

Thanks Vengeance, so basically do the shelby upper control arm relocate? What about bump steer? switch over to a rack setup? It has a horrible leaky "rebuilt" power steering unit now. My dad had the cars front end rebuilt before I got it and its not what I would call right. from what ive read the parts for the steering box and slave cyl dont do alot? All im looking to do is make the front end right ( by todays standards i guess) or comfortable to drive, and clean up the shock tower area for some clearance. Not at all trying to skimp on work, I still have a rotisserie so was planning on full resto, motor swap, mini tub rear upgrade, wiring ,etc. Just not familiar with whats right and/or available, and none of my chevy buddies have a clue either LOL! Thats Still funny, Mustang II converion is still looked upon as "THE WAY to go" on upgraded suspennsion. closest outside advice was my dad telling me to watch a couple of Chip Foose buildss and see what he used LOL...might not be a bad Idea. Thanks again guys. I ll start a thread once I get some traction!!

[bergers59]

definitely for the black stripe over the white, matches the wheels better

[no go nova]

Sweet Pony the 315s are the focus point on this build. And guys who want to keep the stock front clip use the GTO pan like us 1st and 2nd gen NOVA guys been doing. There is a Mustang on here like that. Keep up the updates.

[Zachalanche]

Thanks Vengeance, so basically do the shelby upper control arm relocate? What about bump steer? switch over to a rack setup? It has a horrible leaky "rebuilt" power steering unit now. My dad had the cars front end rebuilt before I got it and its not what I would call right. from what ive read the parts for the steering box and slave cyl dont do alot? All im looking to do is make the front end right ( by todays standards i guess) or comfortable to drive, and clean up the shock tower area for some clearance. Not at all trying to skimp on work, I still have a rotisserie so was planning on full resto, motor swap, mini tub rear upgrade, wiring ,etc. Just not familiar with whats right and/or available, and none of my chevy buddies have a clue either LOL! Thats Still funny, Mustang II converion is still looked upon as "THE WAY to go" on upgraded suspennsion. closest outside advice was my dad telling me to watch a couple of Chip Foose buildss and see what he used LOL...might not be a bad Idea. Thanks again guys. I ll start a thread once I get some traction!!

Borgeson makes a power steering box that eliminates the need for that leaky cylinder. Most of the rack and pinion setups available to work with the original mustang front end seem to be somewhat of a forced fit. they reduce turning radius, don't reduce bump steer, and may even cause header fitment issues. If you are really wanting to have rack and pinion steering, you probably should replace the whole front end. you can still get good reliable results out of a steering box, and you can get bump steer correcting kits from summit for a reasonable price that replace the outer tie rod ends.

[Zachalanche]

Things have been moving at record low speeds lately. After the sand blasting was complete I did a thorough walk around and made a list of all the loose ends that needed to be wrapped up be fore I started to paint. Turned out to be a bit more work left than I expected.

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Luckily I live in a dry climate because this car has been bare for way too long.

I also decided to lower the seat pans about 3/4" to give me some more head room.
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here's a quick example of the types of random repairs I've been dealing with. this area had been previously damaged and brazed back together. I tried to give it a more factory look.

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[Zachalanche]

Car has been completely bare for near 9 months now. luckily no rust. here it is with a coat of epoxy primer.
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[migg400]

Lookin Good!!

[Zachalanche]

Spent a couple hours with the seam sealer. still got a bit left to do. I wanted to make sure all my welds on the wheel tubs were well protected just in case there were any pinholes. I almost forgot how much I modified them till I put the sealer on.
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[Zachalanche]

Lizard skin, engine compartment, undercarriage, and interior done.
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I could start assembly soon, but am debating whether or not to paint the door jambs first. Final paint will be last.

[Jetfixr320]

Looking good. Jamb it now, it will be easier.

[Zachalanche]

Looking good. Jamb it now, it will be easier.

Well, easier if I could decide on a color.

[andrewb70]

I'd leave the thing in epoxy primer and have it wrapped. Paint the jams black as that will go with almost any wrap color.

Andrew

[Zachalanche]

Like this?
http://automotivejustice.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/IMG_1833.jpg

[Zachalanche]

alright, I applied the jam this weekend....wait I mean I painted the jambs this weekend. looks a little purple in some of the pictures, but the color looks really good in person. The color is Ford deep impact blue. Now if I can find all the parts that go to this thing, I can start the reassembly.

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[Zachalanche]

most of the front suspension is back on now. feels good to finally be putting parts on the car.
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[rustomatic]

It's good to see this car coming together. Had you made a choice on engine management when you made the decision to go LS?

[Zachalanche]

It's good to see this car coming together. Had you made a choice on engine management when you made the decision to go LS?

Just a factory ecu for now.

[Zachalanche]

Not much new here, just a shot with the wheel on. alignment is also complete. I forgot how big the front wheels looked on the car.
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[Zachalanche]

I finished assembly of the rear axle, and finally got this thing off the rotisserie. back end still needs some alignment work, but it's nice to see the car back on its wheels again.
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[Godbolt]

Definitely progress! Nice work.

[Zachalanche]

Definitely progress! Nice work.

Thanks. Although it pales in comparison to your '67

[Zachalanche]

Dusted off the engine and installed the clutch and flywheel last night. The clutch came packaged with only 5 bolts for the pressure plate. they are 12 point arp (or equivalent) bolts. Any idea where I can obtain just one more of these, or am I going to have to buy a whole set?

I wish I would have checked this when I received it over 4 years ago. I think this all came from American powertrain, although I purchased it through prodigy customs. I think I was one of the last people who actually received anything from frank.
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[Motorcitydak]

Wish I could help on finding your one missing bolt, maybe call ARP? No idea where else to source one from.

What did you use to paint the interior roll cage? Looks great and I want mine looking the same

[Z06killinSBF]

Looks amazing, I love this build

[Zachalanche]

Wish I could help on finding your one missing bolt, maybe call ARP? No idea where else to source one from.

What did you use to paint the interior roll cage? Looks great and I want mine looking the same

Audi Aviator Gray
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I really like it. has just a little bit of pearl in it I think.

[Zachalanche]

Fuel cell installed.

[Zachalanche]

Got the engine and trans back in yesterday. really starting to free up some space in the garage now.
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[Zachalanche]

Not much new, just slowly piecing everything back together. Engine wiring is in place, and air conditioning is mounted.
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[Dave B]

Looks Awesome!

[andrewb70]

I love how now we all build race cars with A/C...LOL

Andrew

[latoracing]

Just got done reviewing your entire thread, NICE. I am also neck deep in a '70 Mustang build with a lot of similarities...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s1336.photobucket.com/user/latoracing/media/KIMG0157_zpsew9dfgsg.jpg.html)

I love the 11's all the way around, that is killer. That thing is going to be a blast to take up though the canyons, or crusin' down I-15. Keep up the excellent work.

[Zachalanche]

I love how now we all build race cars with A/C...LOL

Andrew

Hard to look good in your car with sweat pouring down your face lol.

[Zachalanche]

Just got done reviewing your entire thread, NICE. I am also neck deep in a '70 Mustang build with a lot of similarities...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://s1336.photobucket.com/user/latoracing/media/KIMG0157_zpsew9dfgsg.jpg.html)

I love the 11's all the way around, that is killer. That thing is going to be a blast to take up though the canyons, or crusin' down I-15. Keep up the excellent work.

Thanks.

I've been keeping an eye on your car. Seems like every time I finish something, you follow by doing it a little better than i did. Makes me want to go back and change a few things, but at this Point I need to keep pushing forward if I ever want to see this thing run.

[Zachalanche]

Deleted. Double post

[Zachalanche]

No real progress, but something new showed up in the mail this week.
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[BlackMachOne]

Awesome looking build! Not sure how I missed this one.

[1970 Boss]

Just went through your thread - Awesome build. You make it look easy. I'm sitting on an LQ9 and a '70 Fastback (originally a 302/C4 - whoop de doo). It's only a matter of time until I start on what you've already done. For the size and power output you can't go wrong with the LS as compared to a 351W/C or a bulky Coyote. Haters will hate - it's your car, build it like you want. I like how you designed the cage so that you don't see the A pillar bar from your seat and how you angled the crossbar in the door for easier in/out.

[813Demon340]

Read your whole thread, awesome work! Nice to see it coming together. Your build is making me want to go with an LS in my Demon. Keep up the great work and I hope you get your Stang back out on the road.