It looked so simple at first!

[GySgtFrank]

This is a mostly after the fact build thread for those that are interested. I didn't want to clutter up the forum with something until I knew I could actually complete it. This is the first thread like this I've ever tried to post, so please bear with me. My pics aren't as complete as others since I didn't take them in progress and the car is FINALLY together. I'm just trying to show what I've been up to as a couple of people have asked for.

This is rather lengthy, since it took most of a year to get to this point (I'm not the fastest worker nor the brightest flower in the pot), and it's all coming in one big lump. I'll have to break it up into separate posts as the Forum can only accept 5 pics at a time. And no, it's nowhere near as pretty as a lot of the projects I'm seeing on here.

So here goes..

I was looking for a small second car to get around in that would hopefully get better mileage than my pickup. I was looking on line when I found this 79SA for sale in Oklahoma by Apex Auto Parts. I remembered how much fun my 75 REPU was that I had during the late 70s- early 80s. I decided then and there I had to get another rotary.

They had bought it from a local kid, who drove it until it died. It didn't look like he'd caused too much damage, so I investigated. Supposedly it had been garaged for ten years before they bought it. They were planning to use it as a shop project. When money got tight they decided to sell it instead. This seems to happen to all of us at some time. The car was completely stock. The only modifications were a lame equalizer and hacked radio wires. The front and rear valance panels had been modified ala off-road driving (bent all to h***). The rear rotor had no compression, but it did run, sort of. The good part was that the interior was complete and in really nice shape. The body had only some surface rust, normal usage dings, and a little hail damage (this was from Oklahoma after all). I can live with fixing dents, but rust is a bugger to fix, (expensive too).

Sooo... after a quick trip down to Oklahoma City, and more money than I should have spent of course, it was mine. Here's the pics of when I bought it.
11723 11724 11725 11726 11727

[GySgtFrank]

here are some more pics.
11728 11729 11730 11731 11732

[GySgtFrank]

I looked on the forums to see what options I had for fixing the engine and exactly what I had let myself in for.

I've rebuilt quite a few different vehicles over the years, but never messed with a rotary. My old REPU was dead reliable, so I never had to tear into it. I pulled the 12A and tore it down. The rear housing was scored and needed replacement. After searching for a while I found that it is becoming quite hard to find decent 12A housings and parts (at least anything I'd want to use). The 13B FC parts are still relatively plentiful so I looked into going that route. After all, how hard can it be to replace a 12A with a 13B right? Shows how much I know!

Well I located a rusty rear-ended 87 GXL from Dukes770, on the other forum, in Olathe, Ks. He needed some of the body and interior parts for his TII. He didn't need the NA drivetrain. This sounded good to me and a good running NA 13B would have about half again as much power as the stock 12A did. So, more money and a trip to KC, and I now had a running, stripped out FC sitting in the yard. Sorry no Pics, you wouldn't want to have seen it anyway, as it was pretty ugly.

I started stripping down the 87 and decided to keep the EFI for the better economy. I needed to get my feet wet with computer controls anyway. I've mostly only messed with carbureted setups. I've been pretty impressed with what some of you guys have been doing with the programmable engine computers. Well one thing led to another...

I swapped the complete FC wiring harness, engine, transmission, fuel tank, and radiator. Yeah, I'm a glutton for punishment. I decided to keep the stock computer for now. I had it, and a standalone is out of my price range at this time.

Time I have, money's a little harder to come by. Later I'll get a good computer and commence playing.

I also decided to do a custom dual exhaust, since I don't really care for the look of the big single exhaust out the back. From reading up on performance mods here, most people say that a free flowing exhaust is one of the most important mods you can make on a rotary. So I ended spending a lot of time and money on this part of the build. I figured it was a good starting place. If I go forced induction later I'm going to need all the exhaust capacity I can get.

Well..., I bought an FB 13B cover and pan from Fong, on the other site, and fitted the engine and transmission to the SA. Everything went in without too much hassle. The 79 driveshaft even fit. I kept the shifter in the FC position as I'm short and the SA position was too far forward for me. Needless to say I had to modify the trans tunnel. Cut it out of the 87 and weld into the 79. I'm not the world's greatest welder. It all stuck good and I tried to always weld both sides just in case. I have a variable feed MIG welder. It varies the feed speed to whatever it feels like, which makes pretty welds rather difficult. I used more wire on my MIG than really necessary but I didn't want parts falling off going down the road, that's always embarassing.

Finished shifter position:

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6046/7021807631_24537fc206_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021807631/)
Build13 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021807631/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

Could someone please tell me how to post these pictures to make them appear in the larger size, like the other build threads. Like I said, I'm new to this and have very little clue how to work the Forum. It's doesn't seem to be addressed anywhere I could find it. I resized the photos to be within the stated parameters within the manage attachments portion, as suggested by Duffman692002. But they're still showing up small on the preview. I don't want to inconvenience anyone by having to constantly click on the pictures just to be able to see them.

[djmtsu]

Copy the image location, then paste it here like this:

your picture link

If the image is hosted at rx7club, it won't work. You need to use something like photobucket, or I use Google Picasa.

[Nismo]

FC Gauges? Looks good!

[GySgtFrank]

Thanks, I have a lot better pictures if I can ever figure out how to get them to link here.

Well, I took your advice djmtsu and loaded my pictures to photobucket. I tried to attach the IMG link here and all I get is an invalid image message. Thumbnails work from there just fine, but not the IMG links. Any ideas?, am I doing something wrong?

[GySgtFrank]

Cont'd with the build thread.

I'm glad I'm not as inept with tools as I am with posting.

Next problem was the radiator and oil cooler. I wanted to keep the stock clutch fan and fan shroud. I wanted it to look almost stock but it wasn't gonna work in the space I had. So, cut the front radiator support from the 87, fit and weld into the 79. I remounted the oil cooler where most people put an intercooler. It should have good airflow down there. I had to build a custom airdam for it of course, but mine was trashed anyway (even if it would have fit). I also had to lower the front lip on the belly pan. Cut, Fit, weld, hack, slash, blood flying, oops getting carried away.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7237/7021806531_d65cf38ebb_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021806531/)
Build01 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021806531/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7250/6875704612_8d4f4e4139_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875704612/)
Build05 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875704612/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6111/6875705746_16ef733f95_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875705746/)
Build06 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875705746/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

Intake was the next problem. No matter how I looked at it, the stock filter was not going to fit. The 79 headlight door motors are right in the way, and I didn't want to open up that can of worms trying to reengineer that.

So, break out the welder, plasma cutter, and cut-off wheel. I opened the lower well beside the passenger side headlight motor, modified the airbox, and mounted the stock filter underneath, in all that nice open space in the front nose section. Yes the stock airbox went under there, but it took a lot of modifications to do it. It's protected from road crud by the passenger side lower sheetmetal. We now have a cold air intake. The filter is going to be a bit more of a pain to change than before though. I have to remove the lower panel and the fabricated (now removable) piece of the fenderwell to get at it. I just couldn't waste that new K&N air filter though. (What we won't do in the name of beauty.)

I then fabricated a box from sheet steel to connect the filter airbox to the MAF and used the stock plumbing to connect the two.

Trying to make it look like Mazda might have done it if the EFI had been available in 79. I think I came pretty close. Engine bay is rather cluttered right now, but will clean it up a little when I get around to paint.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7212/6875698852_c73f1d3c10_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875698852/)
Build03 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875698852/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

I'm breaking this down into manageable bits. Sorry Mods if this isn't the way it should be done.

I then remounted all the peripherals to the 79 chassis.

A/C was next, and noo I'm not driving around in a Kansas summer without A/C. I used the 87 condensor in front of the radiator in the same position as it was on the 87. Moved the accumulator over by the battery so I could actually see the sight window and had new lines made, (mine were shot).

Then I routed them on the drivers side to the 79 compressor. No P/S, so I kept the 79 A/C mount. Hooked it all up and it fits, I don't know if it works yet, as I need to get a new compressor, found out my compressor is seized :cuss: and then I need to recharge the system.

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6230/6875704314_7800efdd48_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875704314/)
Build04 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875704314/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

Now for wiring the harness.

Lots of time here, I was dreaming SA and FC wiring diagrams in my sleep for a while there. I had to figure out where to run everything in very limited space and make room for the extra relays and stuff needed. I also found that I was missing a lot of the little parts and the dash harness. I bought most everything I needed from BrettLinton7. He was a lifesaver. He had plenty of patience to answer lots of stupid questions.

I had to modify some of the wiring as the 79 ignition switch works differently than the 87 switch. (IGN2 is interrupted on start in the 87 and isn't on the 79). Also some of the accessories were positive actuated on the 79 and negative actuated on the 87. A few relays and it works.

I kept the 79 headlight and turn signal switches as well as the heater A/C controls, and console switches (Will use the antenna switch for a hatch release when I get around to that). Much better than the electronic stuff. I did keep the idiot light panel and the gauge cluster though. This was easier than rewiring the gauges, it also had 2 more gauges and the higher speedometer. As if I'm going to make it to 140 mph, Hah!

I had to modify the instrument bezel and make new dash mounts to mate the two, but it looks pretty much stock if you don't know what it's supposed to look like. I liked the white gauge numbers on the 79 better, but you can't have everything. Lots more time fiddling to get everything hooked up and working. Installed a clutch safety bypass switch (where the choke was at). Now I can turn the stupid thing on and off. The wiring is done. The center console still needs to be finished, but I did clean it up a little bit until I get around to doing it. I extended the wires and remounted the FC cruise control switch ro the center ashtray area for the 79. I don't smoke anyway. Eventually I plan to put in switches and hook up power windows and mirrors in the FC panel.

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6233/7021806937_67fb8159a9_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021806937/)
Build14 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021806937/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6875702936_a0fa23c99a_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875702936/)
Build15 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875702936/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7244/7021804281_605528e844_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021804281/)
Build16 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021804281/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

Next major hurdle was fuel.

I needed the EFI pump w/sump in the 87 tank. After lots of head scratching I decided to swap in the entire 87 tank and lines. I wanted the pump and setup that matched the engine and induction I was using, in order to head off those particular headaches. This also allowed me to free up the room on the driver's side for a muffler.

Of course, Mazda had to go and change the fuel filler from the driver's side to the passenger's side between the two generations. Being a masochist, I therefore had to center mount a new fuel fill opening behind the license plate. I used a leftover hinged plate holder I had from a 68 AMC AMX project.

After getting new pipe bent to connect to the passenger side, figuring out which rubber connectors would work, and some cutting/fitting, Voila'.

The 87 fuel tank is taller, so the spare tire well had to come out. Here we go again, cut out the well, cut the rear floor from the 87, trim to fit, put in bolts, weld down the nuts, and install seals. We have a new floor with a fuel pump access hole. Not the prettiest thing in the world but it's hidden under the carpet and more importantly, it works, and I have a larger tank to boot.

I had to figure out a way to bolt down my spare in the back hatch area as I no longer had room for it. Cut the center bolt down section from the original well and bolt onto the rear hatch floor, and fabricate a holder so I can run a center bolt through the wheel. The spare needed to be bolted down so I don't end up wearing it around my neck during a panic stop. Besides, it kind of reminds me of the old Ferraris with it mounted visible under the glass this way.:biggthumpup:

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6119/6875703372_d0310a3e4b_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875703372/)
Build12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875703372/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6234/7021807977_8c8c8562be_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021807977/)
Build10 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021807977/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6054/6875708326_17327337fa_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875708326/)
Build11 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875708326/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

Back to exhaust.

Now that I had room for a second muffler (not much, but enough). I started looking at mufflers and routing. I then realized what they meant about putting 10 lbs. into the proverbial 5 lb. bag.

I went with the Spin Tech XL plus mufflers in the back (no packing), they went in with lots of fussing for clearance and the rear mounts got interesting for a while. I probably should have used the smaller 8" wide mufflers instead of the 10" wide ones. But I'm one sick puppy, remember? I used the Stainless Works smooth tubes (stainless packing) in the middle in a 32" length and had them put header flanges on both ends, so I can actually get my transmission out again.

The driver's side didn't really have enough clearance in the center of the floor tub so.., more cutting, more welding, and generous application of the BFH. I now had room.

Next problem was that blankedy, blank Watts link right in the way! From reading up in the posts I found it didn't work all that well anyway. So, contact G-Force Engineering for a panhard bar, more welding, no cutting this time thank God, and I had just enough room for a snake to squeeze through there.

I puchased the Racing Beat FC six port road race header, which went right on with no hassles at all. Now that was nice for a change.

I then had the exhaust shop connect the sections together, I do believe they thought I had lost a few marbles. They didn't have room for an H-pipe with the road road race header flange having the two exit pipes side by side within inches of each other. They ran the two pipes back and connected them to the center mufflers. I didn't want to run without a collector of some sort, there wasn't enough room from the header to the center mufflers for a traditional collector, so I cut the center portions from the two pipes at closest approach and joined them into a homemade collector. Again, not especially pretty, but it works.

The collector changed the exhaust tone to a deeper, smoother sound, a plus in my book, and hopefully helps performance. Although the exhaust came out a little louder than I was really trying for.

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6037/7021808565_bde1db709e_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021808565/)
Build09 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021808565/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7235/7021804829_2770191468_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021804829/)
Build07 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021804829/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/7021808263_a29c33cfe5_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021808263/)
Build08 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021808263/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

I replaced the brake master cylinder with the 87 unit, which necessitated making some new lines as the outlets are a little different and the 79 uses coarse thread instead of everyone else's fine thread. My master cylinder was shot, and I plan to put the 87 front subframe and braking system under it eventually anyway, so it seemed like a good idea at the time.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7085/7021834351_867fb8e431_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021834351/)
Build02 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021834351/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Got everything hooked up (why won't it start? Oh, fuel lines are backward, Duh!) and finally took it for a drive.

Everything looks to be working good. Except that I needed to re-bleed the brakes again. The shift up light comes on at the strangest times though. When is it supposed to come on in the FC?

My horn relay doesn't seem to be working and the flash to pass function (probably my strange idea of wiring caused this) is a bit disconcerting when it bounces my headlight doors up every time I accidently bump the turn signal stalk. But, I've got to have something to do I guess.

Overall I'm pretty happy with how it turned out so far. Quite a bit of power, it'll break the 13s loose into second pretty easily (Really guys, I'm trying to take it easy for the first couple hundred miles to break it back in.) . It's not a monster show machine like some I've seen on here, but that wasn't what I was trying for.

Here's some pics as it sits now.

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6222/7021809521_aa3e88e412_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021809521/)
Build17 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021809521/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7258/7021801139_2980a8d332_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021801139/)
Build18 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021801139/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6049/6875707598_da05e21aef_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875707598/)
Build19 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/6875707598/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7129/7021805511_a3f70a92a1_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021805511/)
Build20 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021805511/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

As usual more problems keep cropping up.

My radiator is leaking around the plastic tanks. It looks like the next project will be to pull the radiator back out and replace it with a Koyo aluminum unit.

I'm currently working on the FC front subframe. So far, all I've got done is to depower the power steering rack according to TitaniumTT's post and start cleaning.

I'm going to see if I can swap in the LSD from the 87 differential and try to swap over to the big axles or possibly try to locate a complete SE rear axle and get new shafts with the 5X4.5 bolt pattern. I'm not sure exactly what's involved in this yet. I'll then fabricate and weld on some mounts to accept the 87 rear discs. More cutting, grinding, welding, Oh well..

I'll post more as I get to it, hopefully I didn't bore anyone to tears. It's been a low budget effort (except for the exhaust, which cost way too much in my estimation, about half of the build cost, stainless steel mufflers are EXPENSIVE).

I've got just under 4000 dollars into the total project so far (including purchasing the car). It's more than the car's really worth, but you can spend a lot more trying to keep yourself amused. I'm learning a lot in the process and just having fun. It'll be even more fun when I can get to some of the events and meet some of you in person. Thanks for all the help guys.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7021810283_b2526e4aaf_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021810283/)
Build21 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7021810283/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr][/IMG]

[Duffman692002]

She looks great! I like what you've done with the exhaust and she looks very unassuming from the outside, great job man.

[GySgtFrank]

Thanks. I'm trying to keep it simple. :smilielol5: At least the outside and interior appearance anyhow.

[infernosg]

Wow, incredible work! I'd swap my FC setup over to an SA/FB in a heartbeat if I had the opportunity.

How was depowering the steering rack? I need to do this myself but with most of the pictures missing from TTT's thread I'm a little nervous to tackle it. Did you TIG up the "quill" like he did as well?

[GySgtFrank]

Thank you. I followed along TTTs post and it was pretty straightforward. The biggest problem I had was with the caps being corroded on TIGHT, and getting the stake to come loose on the pinion plug. I think Godzilla went to Hiroshima and was working on RX7s the day they staked that plug in. I used my MIG to weld the quill up like TTT did. I did cut off the inlets and weld up the holes in the body, but I used bolts/pinch nuts and flat nylon washers to seal the holes in the aluminum housing.

[GySgtFrank]

I've got the FC front subframe pulled apart. Dirty and nasty, starting cleanup. The front rack is done, nothing else. I did put the extra front and rear rotors in the pic that I got from BrettLinton7. I need to take a lot of the parts down to be sandblasted (surface rust).

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7218/7024432375_e83d46d187_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7024432375/)
Build22 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7024432375/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[beefhole]

This is a really, really great build. :) Looks to be well worth all the effort in the end. hell it looks it now. I really like all the electronics swapping you've done, too.

[GySgtFrank]

Thanks beefhole. It's one of those projects that kind of got away from me. I was going to only put in the 13B and run a carburetor, but I had all the EFI stuff and figured Why Not?

I needed some experience with stuff outside of the stone age anyway. It got a lot more involved than I thought at first. I tried to get a complete stock FC setup in there so everything matches. This gives me a good baseline for future improvements (I hope).

Also, using as many stock parts as possible, also makes finding parts a lot easier when (not if) something breaks. I plan to drive this a lot and make some long road trips. I only used custom parts when I absolutely had to.

The known baseline is necessary, as I've found that trying to make too many changes at once will really screw the pooch on figuring out what you did wrong.

[BrettLinton7]

Wow, I didn't realize how much modification you were doing when we spoke. The car looks great, I love how you have the radiator/shroud and everything from the FC swapped over. Looks like the car came that way :) Those gauges look pretty good, too. Congrats on finishing it!

[GySgtFrank]

Thank you for the kind words.

Finished? Well, it's more like a starting point, but at least it's running again. I want to start upgrading all of the supporting hardware, i.e. drivetrain, suspension, chassis, etc., as money allows.

When everything else is done I'd like to upgrade to a MoTec ECU, just to make TTT happy and start playing with mapping.

At that point I can start playing with the engine. I want to avoid any more long downtimes on this project if I can, the car's just too much fun to drive to let it sit again.

:banghead: Dang. Just found out the FC Brake master cylinder is going too. I also need to put in a couple more exhaust supports at the mufflers as they're moving a little too much. Always have a few bugs to work out after mods it seems.

[GySgtFrank]

Been trying to figure out my headlight motor problem. They go up and down on their own now and then. Sometimes the passenger side, sometimes the drivers, sometimes both. Even more annoying is when both the up and down circuits are powered and they keep cycling up and down continuously going down the road. Just call me Winky.:icon_no2: I think the problem is in my combination switch. It fell apart on me when I was trying to trace wires. I thought I had it back together right, but it has been giving me problems with a few different bugs.

I did get the extra muffler mounts welded in. The muffler shop said I didn't need them, but too much vibration in that tight of a space. The mufflers need to be supported on both ends.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7200/7043693757_8b6f2842f7_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7043693757/)
Build23. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7043693757/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Still working on the front subframe. Finally got the rusted together struts apart. I had to run a heavy bead with the MIG on the old strut shaft to get something to hold them while I fought the top bolt off (they just kept spinning). I think it needed new struts anyway.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7193/7043696285_995f623b30_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7043696285/)
Build24 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/7043696285/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

The good is that I have a new brake master cylinder on the way from MazdaTrix, inside door latch cups from Atkins, and a used combination switch from Frodogray on Ebay. We'll see if these help.

It looks like the guys in KC, will?, be having a get together on the 15th and I want to make it over there for that. It should be a good shakedown cruise.

[djmtsu]

Looking good man. Big project, but the results are excellent.

Oh, and PS- I have a '79 A/C compressor, perfect working order with 134A fittings already on it.

Just putting that out there...

[GySgtFrank]

Thanks. It wasn't meant to be a big project. Like the title says.. I may be giving you a call about that compressor in a month or two. I was going to stay with the R-12 but R-134a might work. I haven't really researched it yet, too much other stuff to do first. It'll probably become a much higher priority here pretty soon though.

[GySgtFrank]

I found the brake problem. The rear wheel cylinders were shot, that'll happen when the car sits 10-20 years. Tried to make a run to Kansas City to deliver some parts and make a meet the KC guys were having. Burned up a relay about 100 miles out, bypassed it and it was fine. Again, my overly complicated wiring scheme bites me in the a@@. Then about 150 miles out the car starts to sputter and died on the side of the interstate. Do a bunch of checks, no fuel to the filter. I assume the fuel pump went as the fuel gauge was above empty and called some local friends to come help. Put gas in it and it fired right up. :blush5: I evidently bumped the needle putting in the panel and didn't notice it. Needless to say I didn't make KC in time for the meet. Oh well, this is why I was making the run in the first place. Need to make sure all the problems are worked out before I get too far away.

[MazdaLand]

:biggthumpup: Wow! I gotta say...GREAT build up and good job!

[GySgtFrank]

Quick update. About 1500 miles on it it and no more problems yet other than oil lines leaking at the cooler. I didn't put new crush washers in when I took them loose. I found out why it's a good idea. Running a little rough, need to pull the injectors, send them off and have them cleaned. Going to make the Ozarks run with 417Rotary club on 7 July if I have to tow it there this time.

[GySgtFrank]

OK, been a while on updates as there wasn't a whole lot to report. Made the Ozarks run, only problem was a blown front tire. Have a little over 4000 miles on it with no significant problems. About done working the extra job for the year, bought axles, rear end and assorted parts to do the five lug/LSD swap with the the big bearing rear end and rear suspension revisions, as well as desperately needed bigger brakes. More updates and pics soon I hope.

[GySgtFrank]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8069/8211686517_8a38220268_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8211686517/)
SE diff (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8211686517/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Picked up an 85 GSL SE rear diff. Had a little problem with the first diff I picked up. It was out of an 85 gsl. It would have worked fine, but found that someone had swapped an 83 gsl rear into it at sometime so the rear did not have the big bearings. Took it back to Kyle at Rotary Doctor in Neosho, Mo. and he gave me the GSL SE rear in it's place. Good guy, this one had us both scratching our heads for a while, shit happens. Trial fitting bigger rear discs while I'm waiting on parts to arrive. Want to swap brakes over from the 95 SVT Cobra suspension I have. Rear 11.5" discs won't be too bad, although they look to be only marginally better then the FC rears (Cobra on left, FC on right), but the front 13" discs will take a little thinking on. We'll see. :squint:

[GySgtFrank]

Modifying Spring mounts to accept the Mustang springs. I know, I'm insane. ;)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8224/8253033367_22ef4cdf46_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8253033367/)
axle1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8253033367/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8075/8254111608_24cef1a973_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8254111608/)
axle2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8254111608/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8363/8253042239_2c7109495e_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8253042239/)
axle&spring (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8253042239/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

The beauty of the Mustang springs is that they come in the spring rates I was shooting for anyway. Oh! and I already have them, broke MoFos unite! :001_302:

[GySgtFrank]

For those still interested and in keeping with my penchant for doing things the hard way. (Don't try this at home kids, I'm a Prof-*er*-masochist). Getting the spring buckets and adjusters in car. Had to raise the spring mounting point ala FC & FD. Final placement on the spring perch is about 4 inches higher than original. Need to be able to lower it without going to ridiculously stiff springs. Used adjusters so I can alter ride height and weight jack for suspension tuning. Guess what? 5" diameter springs don't quite fit between the frame rail and wheel opening, such a surprise :uhh:. Now know why Mazda used those oddball diameter springs. Had to notch the frame rails as I didn't want to take up any valuable tire space in the wheel wells.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8223/8278990798_4b930382e7_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278990798/)
Spring opening (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278990798/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8208/8277935289_dbabf6bb89_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8277935289/)
spring opening 4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8277935289/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8501/8278996452_3d6b8c90e7_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278996452/)
spring opening 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278996452/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8062/8278988836_40686ba03e_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278988836/)
spring perch w_adjuster (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278988836/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8277940953_3ddaf2b55b_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8277940953/)
spring on perch - new (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8277940953/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Just have to get it closed up and the final welds done, then onto the other side. :07: Back to work...

[TitaniumTT]

I've got just under 4000 dollars into the total project so far (including purchasing the car). It's more than the car's really worth, but you can spend a lot more trying to keep yourself amused. I'm learning a lot in the process and just having fun. It'll be even more fun when I can get to some of the events and meet some of you in person. Thanks for all the help guys.

:party:

Thanks beefhole. It's one of those projects that kind of got away from me. I was going to only put in the 13B and run a carburetor, but I had all the EFI stuff and figured Why Not?

A project that got otu of hand? Say it isn't so!!!!! That NEVER happens....

At that point I can start playing with the engine. I want to avoid any more long downtimes on this project if I can, the car's just too much fun to drive to let it sit again.

Don't you guys have winters? That's when I try to keep all my playing to..... wintertime when I can't/don't want to drive the cars anyway.... Gotta finish my Jeeps and get the 8 off the rd in the next week or so

I found the brake problem. The rear wheel cylinders were shot, that'll happen when the car sits 10-20 years. Tried to make a run to Kansas City to deliver some parts and make a meet the KC guys were having. Burned up a relay about 100 miles out, bypassed it and it was fine. Again, my overly complicated wiring scheme bites me in the a@@. Then about 150 miles out the car starts to sputter and died on the side of the interstate. Do a bunch of checks, no fuel to the filter. I assume the fuel pump went as the fuel gauge was above empty and called some local friends to come help. Put gas in it and it fired right up. :blush5: I evidently bumped the needle putting in the panel and didn't notice it. Needless to say I didn't make KC in time for the meet. Oh well, this is why I was making the run in the first place. Need to make sure all the problems are worked out before I get too far away.

Shakedowns! Gotta love 'em.... the wierdest shit pops up on them...

but the front 13" discs will take a little thinking on. We'll see. :squint:

Yeah.... it's know as 17" rims :lol:

For those still interested and in keeping with my penchant for doing things the hard way. (Don't try this at home kids, I'm a Prof-*er*-masochist). Getting the spring buckets and adjusters in car. Had to raise the spring mounting point ala FC & FD. Final placement on the spring perch is about 4 inches higher than original. Need to be able to lower it without going to ridiculously stiff springs. Used adjusters so I can alter ride height and weight jack for suspension tuning. Guess what? 5" diameter springs don't quite fit between the frame rail and wheel opening, such a surprise :uhh:. Now know why Mazda used those oddball diameter springs. Had to notch the frame rails as I didn't want to take up any valuable tire space in the wheel wells.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8223/8278990798_4b930382e7_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278990798/)
Spring opening (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278990798/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8208/8277935289_dbabf6bb89_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8277935289/)
spring opening 4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8277935289/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8501/8278996452_3d6b8c90e7_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278996452/)
spring opening 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278996452/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8062/8278988836_40686ba03e_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278988836/)
spring perch w_adjuster (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8278988836/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8277940953_3ddaf2b55b_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8277940953/)
spring on perch - new (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8277940953/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Just have to get it closed up and the final welds done, then onto the other side. :07: Back to work...

That's really fucking cool and impressive at the same time.... I approve of that way of doing things

[GySgtFrank]

A project that got otu of hand? Say it isn't so!!!!! That NEVER happens....

Always it seems. :blush5:

Don't you guys have winters? That's when I try to keep all my playing to..... wintertime when I can't/don't want to drive the cars anyway.... Gotta finish my Jeeps and get the 8 off the rd in the next week or so

We have winters here, but the snow seldom sticks around for very long. Get more time on the road with the 7 than I would up north. It is cold as SH** out in the shop trying to get work done though.

Yeah.... it's know as 17" rims :lol:

Yeah, I know, but it's hard to find a short enough tire in 17" to allow suspension articulation up front that is still wide enough to do any good. I'll find a work around though. :suspect:

I'll probably end up with 215/40's, have to see when I get the suspension fitted.

That's really fucking cool and impressive at the same time.... I approve of that way of doing things

Thanks Brian. Quite a bit more to go on rear suspension, different lowers, 3 link, fit and plumb brakes etc. Will be ready for DGRR if I have to weld the axle to the frame though. :biggrinjester:

addendum: Hopefully I'll have a chance of keeping your FC from hell within sight on the dragon, since my lack of power is not as much of a handicap there.

[GySgtFrank]

After looking at Phil's thread this is almost shameful, but it's what I've got.

Well life's been throwing me a few curves lately, but still making progress. I got my set of wheels I plan on using and did a trial fit.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8495/8344689230_df38871140_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8344689230/)
SSRwheels (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8344689230/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Rears are 275/40R17, yes I'm going with 17s. Not enough room in the wheel wells (width) and my measurement was a little off for lowering. Again, such a surprise. Have to extend the rear buckets upward another 2-3 inches and un-spotweld my wheel wells moving them in about 1.5 - 2 inches. Such fun. Luckily I waited on final welding until the trial fit, so not as big of a problem as it could have been. Rear brake adapter plates made and fitted, good clearance all around with the SSRs. Also changing over to a 3 link setup in the rear to eliminate those pesky upper control arms, snap oversteer is such a drag, and free up the room for MOAR TIRE. Will update when I get the rear suspension buttoned up. :suspect:

[WE3RX7]

275s on 17s with an NA 13B?

So we're going to have 2gslse's FB at DGRR fail to get out of the parking lot due to the inability of 205s to control his monster causing blinding tire smoke and then you... you sir are going to stall as the level of friction from those meats far exceed the torque produced on that NA 13B :)


Ok, all jokiing aside, looks good. Should be a pretty sweet year to be an SA/FB fan at DGRR if all these cars make it. Only 3 months left, get cracking!

[GySgtFrank]

275s on 17s with an NA 13B?

So we're going to have 2gslse's FB at DGRR fail to get out of the parking lot due to the inability of 205s to control his monster causing blinding tire smoke and then you... you sir are going to stall as the level of friction from those meats far exceed the torque produced on that NA 13B :)


Ok, all jokiing aside, looks good. Should be a pretty sweet year to be an SA/FB fan at DGRR if all these cars make it. Only 3 months left, get cracking!

:rofl: Well it looks like the only way to keep up with Brian is to outbrake him, so we need more tire and brake. The chassis was only designed for 100hp so it has a few shortcomings to be addressed before I pull a 2gslse. :)

[GySgtFrank]

A little more work done. As usual things are getting more complicated than I at first envisioned. :lol: Fitted the tires and wasn't happy with the inside clearance. Tried spacers, but I wanted the tires tucked in more, sooo, mini-tub time.

I got the third link in so I could do away with the upper control arms.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8371878386_ed0c841865_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371878386/)
third link1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371878386/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8046/8371877276_72fcb9076b_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371877276/)
third link2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371877276/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Had to cut my fancy dancy spring buckets (they needed to be higher anyway, measurements never come out right). Removed the wheel well.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8352/8370801293_b5c64022b9_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8370801293/)
open wheelwell (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8370801293/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Got the inner rear wheel well plate fabbed and fitted, should give me plenty of clearance for off camber articulation.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8194/8371866578_aa5b9cf215_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371866578/)
Inside clearance (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371866578/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

The limiting factor now is going to be the spring, but for now I have plenty of space there. Also going to have to move the shock mounting point. No big deal, now where have I heard that before? :o Wheels look good on there though.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8333/8371879462_40c0bfa1a2_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371879462/)
outside clearance1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371879462/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8220/8371874942_b8e887b862_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371874942/)
wheel2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8371874942/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

The things I won't get myself into. :)

[2gslse]

Damn that looks good I wish I knew how and had the place to do that. I will just have to deal with wheelspin city for now.

[GySgtFrank]

Damn that looks good I wish I knew how and had the place to do that. I will just have to deal with wheelspin city for now.

I don't think I'll have to worry about wheelspin with my NA 13B. Wish I had the power that monster of yours puts out. :) someday...

[85turbo12a]

that is a nice project you have there....i so needed to mini-tub mine before i went as far as i did....that is going to look amazing when done with those fats stuffed under it like that....well done(doing) sir

[GySgtFrank]

Thanks 85turbo12a. It's nowhere near the quality of yours or 2gslse's build, but it's been fun. The rear suspension was supposed to be the easy part, but whadda I know? What else am I going to do anyway?

I could have probably gotten away with either a slightly narrower tire or used the spacers, but I'm not sane and wanted FD size tires on the SA, but they have to fit under the sheetmetal. The rear suspension needed revising anyway.

It's the same rear setup as the Fox body Mustang I'd run before, except that Mazda was nice enough to put in the Watts link which Ford neglected totally. The Mustangs had a very nasty tendency to snap oversteer which gets WAY too exciting at speed (angled upper control arms). I had read that the rear behaved about the same on the first gens too. Studied up on suspension design a little and sooo...

DGRR '13: Invasion of the silver 1stGens. :)

[85turbo12a]

yeah im not real keen on pushing the limits with mine...if you keep it at entertaining speeds its pretty stable, but i have no idea what it would do if pushed hard and i really dont want to hurt it...and now with the substantial addition of torque ill have to be nice to it :D

yes having that big meats on there is going to be neat, gonna look sick from the back, also kudos for keeping it under the skin, sometimes the extra work is worth the result.

my car is using the "modified" watts link with the 8.8, basically all stock, with energy bushings and a .75" rear swaybar that i suspect might be a bit much...but we shall see, at some point i foresee a total re-design of the rear workings....i would like to get the car low(er) to the ground again.

it seems like us DIY guys can never have the perfect car...we have to give up one major mod to do another...always leaving a weak link due to funds, abilities or time...

[2gslse]

Thanks 85turbo12a. It's nowhere near the quality of yours or 2gslse's build, but it's been fun. The rear suspension was supposed to be the easy part, but whadda I know? What else am I going to do anyway?

DGRR '13: Invasion of the silver 1stGens. :)

I think your car is a very high quality build and very original, eventually I will need to do some major work to the rear to allow it to hook up and handle well. Just think I will have an egg under my foot on the dragon and you will be able to flat foot it all the way with the traction available. How many silver FB's you think will be there?

[GySgtFrank]

:lol: If we ever got them perfect, we'd probably be so bored we'd have to get a different project anyway. I like riding the edge of traction in corners so ironing out the suspension was a priority for me. Donuts are fun, but not when you run into stuff.

I thought about using my 8.8, but the added unsprung weight was prohibitive. I plan on staying with the rotary so the GSL-SE rear should handle most power levels I'm likely to achieve. I can see where it's an absolute necessity with the power and torque yours will be putting down though. From what I've read the SE rears are fine up to about 350 - 400hp.

The uneven Watts link was less than ideal, but the super short angled upper arms are the big culprit in suspension bind and driveline angle change. Which is why a lot of guys don't run a rear swaybar, the bind already provides enough swaybar effect. After cycling the stock suspension a few times without springs I saw that it had a LOT of bind. :)

[GySgtFrank]

I think your car is a very high quality build and very original, eventually I will need to do some major work to the rear to allow it to hook up and handle well. Just think I will have an egg under my foot on the dragon and you will be able to flat foot it all the way with the traction available.

Thanks, but it's pretty rough. Egg under foot. :smilielol5: Yeah, I can see that. It could be worse, you could still be on the 185/70 13s.

How many silver FB's you think will be there?

:dunno: I know of at least three though, if I can get mine wrapped up in time.

[BrettLinton7]

I really like the work you're putting into the rear end, the chopping and fabbing up on everything is awesome. I like the new wheels too!

[GySgtFrank]

I really like the work you're putting into the rear end, the chopping and fabbing up on everything is awesome. I like the new wheels too!

Thanks Brett, trying to provide your parts with a good home. :)

[GySgtFrank]

FINALLY! Got one side fabricated and welded in. Needs a lot of cleanup before I prime the rest of it and apply seam sealer. Some of my welds got mighty ugly, but they'll do the job. :)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8183/8408585901_94e6aa9338_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8408585901/)
wheel well front (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8408585901/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8331/8408582847_8a879c81a3_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8408582847/)
wheel well rear (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8408582847/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8332/8409678564_215939f13f_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8409678564/)
wheel well inside (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8409678564/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[speedjunkie]

Ugly welds or not, that's awesome Gunny.

[GySgtFrank]

Ugly welds or not, that's awesome Gunny.

Thanks for the vote of confidence. Not up to the par of your FD, but I'm trying. I really have to learn when not to get carried away. ;)

[drift_ratfc]

great build!

[fc nut]

great work. i'd never have the patience or the nerve to go that far with a build. props man.

[speedjunkie]

Thanks for the vote of confidence. Not up to the par of your FD, but I'm trying. I really have to learn when not to get carried away. ;)

I wasn't saying you had ugly welds, I was basically saying I couldn't tell from the pics whether they were ugly or not LOL, but it didn't matter because it's awesome regardless. And either way, they'd be better than anything I welded lol. Didn't realize you knew my car either lol.

[GySgtFrank]

Thanks guys. I've seen pictures of your car speedjunkie and it's very nice. Now if I could just remember where I saw them, I suffer from CRS (Can't Remember Shit)? :lol:

[GySgtFrank]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8469/8446758394_4518ed2956_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8446758394/)
Wheel Well (other side) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8446758394/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Driver's side wheel housing fabricated, welded, and etching primer applied. Ready to bolt back in and weld tomorrow. Did my best to mirror the passenger side.

[GySgtFrank]

OK. I've spent way too much time on this part, but it's done, except for seam seal and undercoating. All fitted, welded, cleaned up, and primed. Have to build the enclosure for the third link in the middle and I'm done inside the car.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8510/8467854852_50b15ab102_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8467854852/)
wheelwell LF (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8467854852/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8524/8466758699_c4a382893e_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8466758699/)
wheelwell LR (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8466758699/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8467852886_7f2237d3db_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8467852886/)
wheelwell RF (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8467852886/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8089/8466756709_f9b95f7c11_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8466756709/)
wheelwell RR (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8466756709/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8094/8466760521_21e053aa59_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8466760521/)
wheelwell inside Left (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8466760521/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr
with spring perch installed.

It's amazing how much longer things take than what you had planned for. :facepalm:

[infernosg]

That's pretty damn awesome. This is giving me bad ideas of a SA/FB with the IRS out of a FC. The thought of my engine/drivetrain in a ligher chassis makes me drool. One project at a time...

[GySgtFrank]

Thought about using the FC IRS, since I have most of one from the parts car behind the shop. I decided against for now. If I ever get to large enough power numbers where the SE rear reaches it's limits, I may have to reconsider. Those power levels would require swapping in a large differential and the straight axles for those would be far too heavy for handling.

[mazpower]

Awesome work!

[GySgtFrank]

Awesome work!

Thanks Glenn, getting there, slow but sure. Looks like the Mustang shocks are going to work out like I thought and should be relatively straightforward. Not always the case. :)

[estevan62274]

Looks great, very well done !!

[JL1RX7]

I has no idea a Marine could make something that good!

Just giving you shit Gunny. Looking good.:icon_tup:

[GySgtFrank]

Looks great, very well done !!

Thanks, hopefully it comes out the way I envisioned it.

I has no idea a Marine could make something that good!

Just giving you shit Gunny. Looking good.:icon_tup:

Youse a dick. I'll get you for that at DGRR. :lol:

[estevan62274]

Ill take a set for my FB :o16:

[GySgtFrank]

Ill take a set for my FB :o16:

Don't let TTT see that comment. He'll simply state that FBs don't have a set. :)

Todays progess. Got my springs back in, a shock mount fabbed/tacked in, and a shock mounted. Then put on a wheel and started checking suspension cycling. No go. Have an interference problem with off camber movement. Going to have to modify the wheel wells some more to move the shocks further inboard, I didn't move them enough. Figures. I'll post a pic or two of it when I get it figured out and fabbed up. :blush:

[speedjunkie]

Still awesome, Gunny. Any idea on completion time?

Thanks guys. I've seen pictures of your car speedjunkie and it's very nice. Now if I could just remember where I saw them, I suffer from CRS (Can't Remember Shit)? :lol:

There have been pics floating around since October when I had some taken while I was home on leave. Hard telling. And thanks!

Oh, I also suffer from CRS lol.

That's pretty damn awesome. This is giving me bad ideas of a SA/FB with the IRS out of a FC. The thought of my engine/drivetrain in a ligher chassis makes me drool. One project at a time...

This is where it starts. Seeing what someone else does on their build...very slippery slope after that.

[GySgtFrank]

Still awesome, Gunny. Any idea on completion time?

Trying really hard to at least have it back up for DGRR. Everything is taking longer than I had planned though. I should have the rear done in a few more weeks I hope. The front suspension is a big question mark at this time, cross my fingers and hope I can make it.

There have been pics floating around since October when I had some taken while I was home on leave. Hard telling. And thanks!

Oh, I also suffer from CRS lol.

I think it was in the Mountain section either here or on 7Club. I keep checking the Montana thread since I moved here from Bozeman a few years ago. Trying to see if anybody is posting from there and checked out the Colorado threads since it's relatively close.

This is where it starts. Seeing what someone else does on their build...very slippery slope after that.

It's all downhill from here. :lol:

[GySgtFrank]

A few more pics from weekend progress, it's a real shocker (sic). Had to notch the wheel well housings and rotate the bottom mounts slightly to angle the shocks inboard.

inside of wheel well
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8482739313_038ac8d35c_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8482739313/)
Spring &Shock (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8482739313/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

interior mount.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8246/8482741015_1d64ddf83d_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8482741015/)
shock mount (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8482741015/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

on ground at full drop, tires hit sheetmetal slightly.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8095/8482746643_0d51d678bb_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8482746643/)
on ground 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8482746643/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

At desired ride height.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8249/8483835638_108a953b1a_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8483835638/)
on ground 4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8483835638/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Found that the rear axle was not centered from the factory, offset slightly to the driver's side. Planning on replacing the lower arms with Maximum Motorsports arms that use a captured Heim style joint. Adjustment shouldn't be a big deal with my panhard rod once I get rid of the bind.

Don't look at the puddle of oil under the car. Left the driveshaft out and it emptied from my transmission when I lowered the car back down to the ground. :banghead:

[GySgtFrank]

Had a couple of requests for shots from the rear to see what a 275/40 17 looked like when tucked in.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8250/8484208668_e36dc289a3.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8484208668/)
rear (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8484208668/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8483116587_fb8457404e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8483116587/)
rear view (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8483116587/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Not the best shots, but it's starting to get dark.

[WE3RX7]

Love it man... really...

It's got the dragster stance in the rear now but in a good way :)

[GySgtFrank]

Love it man... really...

It's got the dragster stance in the rear now but in a good way :)

I like the rear sitting level or slightly up. I wasn't really digging the rear lower than the front on the original worn out springs. Right now the rear is actually a little lower than the front. I'll have to see where it sits when the front suspension is done. Good part is I can crank it up if it's low and can bring it down some if need be. If I need it real low, I'll have to find a shorter tire though.

[GySgtFrank]

A couple more requested pics.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8486485256_715931d261_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8486485256/)
orig. to new wheel compare (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8486485256/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8517/8486486966_fd82c5fed3_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8486486966/)
orig. to new wheel compare 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8486486966/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

just a leeetle bigger. :)

[estevan62274]

Awesome work!

She looks bad A$$!!

[GySgtFrank]

Thanks. Getting the Maximum Motorsports lower control arms fitted and welded in now. At least I will be if I quit trying to burn the car down, Stupid sound deadener burns real good when you get it too hot.

[GySgtFrank]

Here's the latest little bit. Firstly I finally got the panhard bar axle mount located, modified, and welded in. I had to narrow the G Force mount a little to accomodate my new shock locations and integrate it with my new inside lower control arm mounting tab. Trying to locate (and hold) the mount in the proper plane for 3 different axes was a pain, got it done though.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8252/8518929807_da11e53047_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8518929807/)
panhard bar axle mount (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8518929807/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Next came the new lower control arms for the axle. I only have the driver's side done for now, starting on the passenger side in AM. Used the Maximum Motorsports extreme duty arms for the Fox body Mustang. They have a captured Heim style joint and should eliminate the bind from the stock rubber bushed arms without being a noise monster like normal Heim joints.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8229/8518928597_8447da95ff_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8518928597/)
lower control arm - front mount (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8518928597/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8234/8518931005_117fed84eb_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8518931005/)
lower control arm - rear mount (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8518931005/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

They don't look like much, but they were a pain in the butt to get them in there at the correct angle. Used the stock outside control arm mounting tab on the body and axle so I didn't get them out of alignment. It also makes it easier to get an identical copy on the other side. The arms are quite a bit wider so I had to fabricate the inside mounting tabs on both ends.

Once I get the other side done, it's on to figuring out how to get the Maximum Motorsport swaybar mounted. I love a challenge. :rofl:

[GySgtFrank]

Had a request for more pics of the body side panhard bar mount.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8526/8528182671_a715bfcc89_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8528182671/)
panhard body mount - inside (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8528182671/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8225/8528184367_3086496a8d_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8528184367/)
panhard body mount - outside (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8528184367/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

It's one of the last of the G-Force Engineering panhard kits that I purchased when he was clearing his stock so he could retire. I installed it when I was doing my engine swap to free up the room for the over the axle dual exhaust. The Mustang bar I have is considerably longer. It could have been made to work, but I already had the G-Force bar. So I modified the G-Force provided axle mount to clear all the craziness at that end and left the body side mount alone. Good thing I picked up a driveline dial protractor, it has come in very handy.

You can see the temporary bar tack welded between the axle and frame in the inside view if you look close. Welded it solid once I had it in the correct stock position. Did this until I get all of my arms and swaybar finalized so that it does not move and mess me up. Then I'll grind out the tack welds, remove the temporary supports, and it should be in the proper position, well cross my fingers and hope anyway.

[RedR1]

What sized front tires are you running? are you going to modify the metal and run wider up front as well, or have sizeably larger rears than the front?

Beasty build. i didn't know it was this in-depth.

[GySgtFrank]

What sized front tires are you running? are you going to modify the metal and run wider up front as well, or have sizeably larger rears than the front?

Beasty build. i didn't know it was this in-depth.

Now you know why I practically live in the shop as much as I can stand it.

The wheels I got came with almost new 235/45 17s on 8 1/2" wheels. I'll be trying to figure out how to use the tires, but I'll most likely have to step down in size to a 235/40 or shorter so I can keep the front low. Have to see when I get to that part.

There will be a lot of modification in the front to go as wide as I can. The K member will be an aftermarket tubular Mustang setup with the SN95 Cobra brakes and rack. Planning on going with an SLA setup to eliminate the struts and free up some room. Sooo... a little more modification will just add to the fun.

When I get to bodywork I need to look at reshaping the front wheel wells so the 17s look right on the first gen. Most 17s look too big in the wheel wells up front (personal opinion). Haven't got much choice if I want to run the 13" front brakes though. Again, will need to look at it when I get to that point.

I'm trying to avoid the wide body modification if I can and still get a decent size tire under there. Gotta do it the hard way. :lol:

[GySgtFrank]

Might as well post this while I'm waiting for the primer to dry.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8105/8543481542_1962f70545_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8543481542/)
third link enclosure (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8543481542/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Have to put reinforcement plates above the lower control arm mounts, then I'm done with fabricating inside the car. I think.

[GySgtFrank]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8380/8555104809_78c1a8d8b9_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8555104809/)
dragster2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8555104809/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8232/8556213846_a31cc28b6a_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8556213846/)
dragster3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8556213846/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Looks really dumb with the stock wheels up front and the 17s in the rear. :lol: It's sitting a little high in the rear, but not as much as the difference in tire sizes makes it look. Control arms are all in and the floor pan is sealed back up. Waiting oh so patiently for swaybar parts to get here. :toetap:

[JL1RX7]

I would talk smack Gunny, but shit man that looks good. I know you still have the front to do I know it has to feel good to get it rolling!

[GySgtFrank]

I would talk smack Gunny, but shit man that looks good. I know you still have the front to do I know it has to feel good to get it rolling!

Thankee kind sir. Have quite a bit left to do to finish the rear, but the suspension part of it is in. Had to get it moved as the crap was piling up under there pretty bad. I need to get the shop cleaned up before it gets to the point where I can't see the floor anymore.

Not sure whether I want to take it to DGRR like this though, it looks pretty lame with the stock wheels up front. Not too sure how well it would handle either.

[GySgtFrank]

The rear axle is complete and ready to drop back in. Brake lines on axle fabricated, sway bar mounted, reinforcements installed, final welding done, primered and painted. The weather finally warmed up enough to get the undercoating on today, so should be able to reinstall tomorrow when it's dry.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8252/8592595047_1798e6d6a4_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8592595047/)
axle_complete1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8592595047/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8086/8592593593_1c0e1ee1b8_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8592593593/)
axle_complete2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8592593593/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

[GySgtFrank]

It's on it's own wheels and moving under it's own power again. :hurray: Test drove it for a couple of miles getting it up to 55. Tracks straight, no rubbing, and nothing broke, so far. Must keep the demon Murphy away.

I have to take it down to have new exhaust pipes run over the axle tomorrow. They were a problem when I lowered it enough to compensate for the tire height. I had to remove all the tabs and bracing I was no longer using and reroute my fuel lines to make enough room to tuck the pipes up higher.

The pictures are of the modified interior, I'll take pictures of the completed suspension once they get it up on the lift tomorrow.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8619724285_71b65eed02_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8619724285/)
modified interior 1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8619724285/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8105/8619723189_143cd73353_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8619723189/)
modified interior 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8619723189/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8619721951_b99a74ea40_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8619721951/)
modified interior 3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8619721951/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Plan on stitching up some black carpeting to go over the wheel wells and trimming up the plastic a little more, eventually.

[chibikougan]

Whooot!

[RedR1]

Look at this pimp wagon!!! Dude it's come a long way, and looks amazing. I can't wait to see it complete. we'll deffo have to do a proper photo shoot with your car when it's done, even if i have to fly out to KS

[GySgtFrank]

Whooot!

Eventually I'll be bringing it up your direction cheebs. Might have to make a run to Great Falls when I do, so get on the deuce.

Look at this pimp wagon!!! Dude it's come a long way, and looks amazing. I can't wait to see it complete. we'll deffo have to do a proper photo shoot with your car when it's done, even if i have to fly out to KS

The adventure definitely continues. The exhaust shop says they can't run the pipes the way they have to go, mostly I don't think they want to take the time that would be necessary. I'm having them run it part of the way and I'll have to complete the complicated part myself. I knew I should have bought that pipe bender. :(

[GySgtFrank]

Rear suspension .. done, Brakes .. done, Exhaust .. done. Have to get in some road testing and it should be ready to roll. I'll get on the front suspension sometime after DGRR.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8253/8630411850_5a7b4ea308_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8630411850/)
completed rear suspension 1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8630411850/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8629302735_6f50367ae4_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8629302735/)
completed rear suspension 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8629302735/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8542/8629301063_e35cb95d44_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8629301063/)
completed rear suspension 3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8629301063/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8536/8629297639_534114bf7e_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8629297639/)
completed rear suspension 4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8629297639/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8123/8630407132_c71b7c5375_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8630407132/)
completed rear suspension 5 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8630407132/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

:)

[GySgtFrank]

Oops! Forgot to post up the photos of the '93 Ford Cobra brake master cylinder install. It's a 1 inch bore (25.4mm) master cylinder.

It worked out extremely well. I only needed to elongate the mounting holes (and lose the top and bottom bolts on the SA booster) to make it fit. I had to use the SA booster as both the FC and Ford boosters would have hit on the clutch master cylinder. I got rid of the stock spacer and the center dropped right into the booster. Adjusted the length of the operating rod a little bit and I was in business.:)

I used the Ford proportioning valve and rear line pressure adjuster that came with the Mustang conversion kit. Replaced all the brake lines with new. The stock SA (drum brakes) emergency brake lines dropped right on the Ford calipers, as if they were made for them. E brake is mucho better than stock.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8242/8632696639_89cae36cb6_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8632696639/)
Cobra brake master cylinder 1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8632696639/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8542/8633802248_f17c6c3b19_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8633802248/)
Cobra brake master cylinder 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8633802248/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8261/8632694303_9768c5a1b3_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8632694303/)
Cobra brake master cylinder 3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8632694303/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Even though I only have the large discs out back, with the stock SA discs up front, the braking is a VAST improvement. Can't imagine what it's going to be like when I get the 13 inch discs up front.

P.S. Took my previous nemesis corner today, full throttle through first and second. No more going sideways when the tires give up. :hurray:
The things some people won't do for a little entertainment. :suspect:

[infernosg]

How did you adjust the booster push rod to match the MC? Did you just go by feel or "eyeball" it? I'm curious because I'm doing a 929 booster/MC swap into my FC and this is something I'll likely have to do. There's a whole spiel in the FSM about setting the proper push rod length but it requires a number of SST's that no one has access to.

[GySgtFrank]

How did you adjust the booster push rod to match the MC? Did you just go by feel or "eyeball" it? I'm curious because I'm doing a 929 booster/MC swap into my FC and this is something I'll likely have to do. There's a whole spiel in the FSM about setting the proper push rod length but it requires a number of SST's that no one has access to.

Trial and error mostly. I just set the master cylinder plunger cup against the booster rod and kept adjusting the length until the master cylinder sat flush against the booster without any pressure against the plunger and no slop from being too loose. It seems to work fine, I have good brake feel and no drag.

It's a good thing they used a rod that can be screwed in or out for adjustment, someone was thinking when they designed it.

[infernosg]

Trial and error mostly. I just set the master cylinder plunger cup against the booster rod and kept adjusting the length until the master cylinder sat flush against the booster without any pressure against the plunger and no slop from being too loose. It seems to work fine, I have good brake feel and no drag.

It's a good thing they used a rod that can be screwed in or out for adjustment, someone was thinking when they designed it.
That's what I figured. I've convinced myself the booster push rod position changes slightly when vacuum is applied so there would have to be some kind of initial clearance. That's the only way I can justify why the FSM says to check everything while under vacuum. I guess I'll measured the clearance on my stock booster and MC and start with that.

[GySgtFrank]

That's what I figured. I've convinced myself the booster push rod position changes slightly when vacuum is applied so there would have to be some kind of initial clearance. That's the only way I can justify why the FSM says to check everything while under vacuum. I guess I'll measured the clearance on my stock booster and MC and start with that.

I worried about that at first as well. I suppose you could always use a vacuum pump to put the booster under vacuum before fitting, if you really wanted to. I got lazy and just fitted it straight up with no vacuum. I figured I'd give it a try and see if it needed more adjustment after it was running. Doesn't seem to.

[GySgtFrank]

Well sheet. Didn't make DGRR as things came up at the last minute that prevented it. Bummed me out, had been planning for it all year. Good part was that it allowed me to FINALLY get the shop cleaned out and organized. Almost finished with cleaning and then onto the next step.

Still have a few bugs to work out on the rear suspension. Also been measuring and eyeballing how to shoehorn this under the front.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7282/8738390943_b8db815d09_n.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8738390943/)
front suspension_new (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8738390943/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

Well, except the tires, those are from the Mustang widebody project I'm stealing parts from. Plan to run 235/40 17s up front. Those should be enough of a challenge. The 285/30 18s would look pretty cool though, if I didn't have to actually turn. :lol:

[WE3RX7]

Excuses.. excuses... 2GSLSE didn't bring his silver FB either. Next year being the 10th anniversary, would be appropriate to have the most bad-ass cars there. We expect you'll be in attendance..

[GySgtFrank]

Not so sure about bad ass, insane..., not quite right..., needs his head examined... maybe. Planning on it. I NEED some Dragon time.

[GySgtFrank]

Results of my month long sojourn of cleaning and organizing the shop. Still not completely done, but I'm flat out of motivation to do anymore for a while. Have to organize a few more tools, go through a couple of small boxes of fluids, and get the FC front suspension out of the back of the truck and onto a shelf. (at least until I can get them to Chris [RedR1]).

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7288/8749472820_f7a48e3211.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8749472820/)
shop1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8749472820/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8255/8748349213_01cc328504.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8748349213/)
shop2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8748349213/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7285/8749472462_38c41925b0.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8749472462/)
shop3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8749472462/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8260/8749472220_9a01317d60.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8749472220/)
shop4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gysgtfrank/8749472220/) by GySgtFrank (http://www.flickr.com/people/gysgtfrank/), on Flickr

considering the disaster area I WAS working in, pretty proud of myself.

P.S. for those always saying pics or it didn't happen, I HAVE PICS!

[WE3RX7]

That's actually a nice look shop. Good floors and space... twice the space I have lol.. I'd like to build a 30x40 someday...

[GySgtFrank]

That's actually a nice look shop. Good floors and space... twice the space I have lol.. I'd like to build a 30x40 someday...

it's a 30X30 space. Building all the benches and shelving took up most of the time. Put in the wiring and lighting previously. Plenty of 110 and 220 outlets. I should get off my butt and run piping for my air compressor around the ceiling, with drops and traps, one of these days. More future projects.

[JL1RX7]

Need a roommate? God I would love for that much space. That is bigger than my apartment by far for what is probably half the cost! Looks good Gunny!

[GySgtFrank]

Need a roommate? God I would love for that much space. That is bigger than my apartment by far for what is probably half the cost! Looks good Gunny!

It's the upside of living in Kansas. Roommate would be good, bring beer. :)

[WE3RX7]

Yea - that's the downside of the northern VA area. Land is a premium. Some day we're getting out of this rat race, lol.

Not to turn this into a shop build thread, but... is your compressor in the shop or in it's own outbuilding?

Maybe we all just come to KS and raid the shop space :)

[GySgtFrank]

In the shop. I'm not that fancy.

Yeah, housing prices in Kansas are a LOT cheaper than Va, or much of anywhere else I've seen, which is why I moved here. I got sick of competing in the rat race. That and most folks here are pretty nice people.