1966 Coupe - time to upgrade!

[PaxtonShelby]

Hi all. A few months ago I decided to pull the trigger and upgrade my '66 coupe a little.

I bought the car in 1992, and after riding in a friend's '65 R-model clone with a roller 302 and a T-5, I spent the next 7 years resto-modding it to look like a Shelby T/A coupe, with a Shelby hood and side scoops, R-model front valance, and 16x8 Vintage 45 wheels with 225/50/16 BFGoodrich tires. In 1999 it was on the road, with a roller motor and T-5 from a 1985 GT, upgraded cam, TFS heads, 650 double pumper, long tubes, 9 inch Versailles rear with a 3:50 traction-lok, Granada front disks and Lincoln rear disks, and Global West suspension. The only original thing left besides the shell was the Ivy Green paint color. Life was good and I was grabbing gears and grinning ear to ear, all while out-handling just about anything on the road.

I was content for a few years, and ran 13.6 at 101mph on street tires with 60-foot times in the 1.8-1.9 range. At the time, that wasn't too bad, and was faster than most stock sports cars. It caught quite a few Mustangs, Camaros, Trans Ams and Corvettes by surprise. Then, one month in Mustang Monthly, I saw an ad for a Paxton Novi 1200 supercharger for a carbed 289/302. Uh ohhhhh.

So in 2002 or so I buy the Paxton. My buddy did the install and it ran 12.1 at 114 at Quaker City on Mickey Thompsons with a gentle 2900 rpm launch and granny shifting. 114 mph in a 40-year-old car feels faster than 140 in a new 5.0...by a long shot. Yep...that's all the power I'll ever need. Yup... Right...Sure...

Ok - so I'm a liar. No - it didn't really "need" more upgrading, but since I'm old enough to be counting backwards I figured what the hell.

To be continued...

[John4cam]

in for pics!

[Flyin Monkey]

:picsorbs:

[Terminated]

Such a nice ride, looking forward to updates!

[THE BIG KOALA]

Can't wait to see some pics.

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Fellas - here are some photos. Many of you have seen it before, but here goes...

[THE BIG KOALA]

Sweet!!!

[PaxtonShelby]

I had planned on building a 408 stroker and modding the Paxton brackets to fit. I know the 351 blocks fit in the first-gen Mustangs, but it is a tight fit. With the 302, I only have about 1/2 inch of hood clearance for the Paxton bonnet, and a 351 would probably need that plus a little more. Since I want to keep the Paxton, I sold the 351 block and picked up a sweet 331 stroker from Viper Ed. Thanks Ed! With zero miles on it - break-in time only - it is basically still in the wrapper. Zero balanced, forged everything, 8.5:1 with Canfield heads by FoxLake, and assembled by Ron Robart ( owner of FoxLake ). The block is a 1972? casting. Currently it has a hydraulic flat-tappet cam in it ( don't have the specs ), but I got a set of link-bar hydraulic roller lifters with the motor and I plan to switch to a hydraulic roller cam before the motor goes in.

Speaking of which - here is the new beast. Hopefully this week I will get it scuffed and sprayed black.

[John4cam]

This is getting better...

[TooFast98Cobra]

In for updates.

[PaxtonShelby]

Over the last few weeks I've been really busy, but managed to find a little time here and there to start the disassembly. Things came apart pretty easily, which was nice. Exhaust, driveshaft, radiator, Paxton, alternator...Today I finally had a few hours and dropped the T-5 and pulled the motor. The engine bay needs a good cleaning, but isn't too bad.

[PaxtonShelby]

My God - stuff is everywhere! And all of it needs detailed or painted. At least the underside of the car just needs a quick wipe-down. I had a feeling things were going to snowball a bit, and it looks like I was right. Lots of work to be done.

[Mark Aubele]

Please, for the sake of all that is holy, swap to a roller while you can. I will never deal with one of those cursed flat tappets as long as I live. :)

[PaxtonShelby]

I hear ya Mark. A roller is in the plans before the motor goes in - I just have to fit it in the budget. I also really need to get my hands on an Astro A-5 tranny and a blow proof bellhousing, but that will probably have to wait until next year unless I find a money tree in my backyard.

[cLockWise]

Beautiful car!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Clock! I couldn't sleep, so tonight I started polishing the Paxton bonnet. It still needs some work, but at least it is coming along... Here is a before and after 20 minutes with Mothers Mag and Aluminum Polish and a Mothers Power Cone on my drill. This combo really works well. At some point I need to use it on my wheels, as they are a little dull at the moment.

[95V6]

Gonna have it up and going for the PVGP?

[PaxtonShelby]

I hope to Barry - but I don't know if I will have enough time. I took the '14 to the PVGP last year, so this year I hope it is the '66s turn!

[Mark Aubele]

A friend of mine may have an Astro setup for sale. He bought it for a race car build and the motor ended up getting out of hand rpm wise so he ended up going with a Jerico. Want me to ask if he will sell? Never even installed in a car.

[PaxtonShelby]

Hey thanks Mark! If you could PM me his contact info I'd definitely give him a call. Thanks for the info!

[scott5]

No coyote no care

[gpfarrell]

Coyotes are cool, but I drove Ron's car with the old set-up and it was "cartoon character fast" then. Like Roadrunner. Beep-beep! Gone.

So that ACME new stuff is really neat, and I think that's how Wyle E. Coyote will look in Ron's rearview mirror.

So cool to see an old car run so strong. I'd love to get my '66 Cyclone to mis-behave like this, but I don't have Paxton's patience!

[PaxtonShelby]

Little more progress this week - and tons more to do!!

[Donstang86]

Looks like the old 302 is ready for me!!!

[PaxtonShelby]

Pretty much Don! Going to be a busy week, but I should have time next weekend. Let me know if that works for you and we can set something up.

[Donstang86]

Next week is definitely better for me!!!!

[PaxtonShelby]

Finally had some time over the last 2 days to work on the car. I cleaned and painted the timing cover, water pump pulley, and the exhaust. Cleaned up the headers a bit ( the ceramic coating has seen better days but isn't to the point where I want to re-coat or replace the headers ), polished the outer wheel lips ( I still need to polish the backsides of the rims ), and my 8-year-old daughter helped me sand the orange off the 331 block so I could hit it with a few coats of hi-temp gloss black. All in all, a pretty good day!

Next I need to wipe down the entire undercarriage with simple green, clean up the engine bay a bit, and contact AMF about coating my valve covers ( bare cast aluminum is such a b*tch to keep clean under the hood !).

Next week it is time to order some awesome parts to go behind the 331! My T5 will be for sale very soon!! :-)

[95V6]

Nice progress Ron!

[03 OW SVT]

Looking good Ron. How will it run against your new 5.0? Will you have it ready for the FLD's at Pitt Race Complex?

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Kev. I'm hoping to have it ready for the PVGP events this year. It was always a little quicker than the '14...but now it should be a lot quicker! With limited room for tires in back, traction will be hard to come by.

[John4cam]

I love this car, Looks good Ron!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks John! Today I spent a few hours cleaning the undercarriage using 50/50 Simple Green & water and lots of shop towels. It wasn't too dirty but definitely looks better now. The rear axle could use a quick sand and spray job. By the end of this week I want to have all the little pieces and fasteners cleaned up, and the bottom half of the Paxton bonnet polished. I should also have my mind made up regarding a tranny and clutch setup.

[03 OW SVT]

You may need to put better brakes and vented rotors on that bad boy Ron, with the added power.

[PaxtonShelby]

With the car only weighing 2800 pounds the Granada fronts and Lincoln rear discs do a pretty good job. The rough part about upgrading to bigger brakes is that I would need to go from 16" wheels to 17" wheels. But at some point it could happen! :-). It would also be nice to fit more than 8" of tire under the rear, but that would mean a mini-tub. That would be really cool...someday.

[07v6vistablue]

Looks Great! Also on a side note the Tickets and Seats were the best! :-)

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Sam - glad to hear you enjoyed the concert!

[gpfarrell]

Ron, if you ever want to do a side-by-side comparison I'd be thrilled to drive the other one!

[PaxtonShelby]

Twist my arm buddy!!

[03 OW SVT]

I want a piece of the 66 if it's ready at the FLD's Ron in my Cobra. :-)

[PaxtonShelby]

Oh snap!!! I'm getting called out already! What's up with that OW Cobra of yours? Stock?? :rolleyes:

[03 OW SVT]

Sure, we'll go with that. Lol

[PaxtonShelby]

I'm serious man! You sold the Cobra before I met you, so I don't know anything about it. My guess is it is at least pullied, if not whippled. But heck yeah buddy let's do it! To race I have to be running...so that'd be awesome!

[03 OW SVT]

Stock C6 Z06's I have raced I beat by a little over a car length if that gives you any indication. It put down 502RWHP on the dyno when I had it the first time. No Whipple or Kenny on it. It does weigh in at over 3600lbs thou.

[PaxtonShelby]

Sounds like a beast Kev. Can't wait to see it sometime soon.

[somethingclever]

Ron,

Does it really weigh 2800 with the blower and fully dressed?

[PaxtonShelby]

I'm just going by curb weights I've seen online. I haven't actually put it on a scale, but I bet it is more than 2800 with my fat ass in it!

[somethingclever]

I am guessing 3100 with driver.

[PaxtonShelby]

Once the car is together again I need to have it weighed at the local landfill scale ( wife used to work there ).

Yesterday I flushed the brake system - wow the old fluid was nasty! Thanks to the wifey for helping with the pedal pushing!

Today I cleaned up the garage and washed the 12 months of dust off the '66. Some BIG thanks to my 8-year-old daughter Lilly for lots of help not only cleaning the garage, but steering and hitting the brakes while I pushed the car around to line it up to the trailer! Now it is loaded up and ready for the install/tune trip in a few weeks.

This week the cam, clutch, bell, and tranny decisions all need to be finalized. Giddy up!!

Even with no motor or tranny, the car still sits lower than most cars. I'm considering adding some spacers up front to help a little with header clearance.

[somethingclever]

looks great Ron...diggin the painted rear bumper. i don't think chrome would look right.

Where you having the engine and tune done?

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks John - I got the 331 from Mr Viper, and I'm taking everything to Tim Rodheaver for the install. He's good with the old-school stuff and has always been willing to take the time to discuss mods with me and other guys I know. I could do most of the work myself, but the car will still need tuned and Tim knows how to tune the FI carbed cars.

Neighbors came by and Lilly kept saying that she can't wait to hear this baby running again!! :-)

[95V6]

Looks great Ron! New rig, trailer, new Stang and a 66? Your living the dream!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Barry - now if I can just get it on the road and actually put some miles on it! And maybe some time at PittRace...now THAT would result in some serious perma-grin!!!

[mr4teth]

freakin nice car!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Mr4!

The UPS man stopped by to say hi today...SHWINNNGG!!!

[Dan B.]

You gotta stop laying down when you take pics.

[PaxtonShelby]

You gotta stop laying down when you take pics.

This iPhone is a pita when if comes to posting pics.

[juice_man_86]

Fn Bill Gates and this iPhone...

Steve Jobs???

Sent from my Moto G

[somethingclever]

in for results........

how much expected boost Ron?

hp expectations?

what cam you go with?

[PaxtonShelby]

Looking for 6-8 pounds of boost - guessing 525-575 horses?

I'm hoping to get the cam ordered today. I also need to settle on an intake manifold. Hood clearance is a concern.

[Terminated]

Steve Jobs???

Sent from my Moto G

Quoted for Truth!

[PaxtonShelby]

More goodies arrived yesterday...

[PaxtonShelby]

New tranny is here - thanks to Mark A for the help and to his buddy Dan for the great deal. Dan is a hillclimber like Mark - and his car makes mine look bone stock. Amazing!!

Cam is on order. The intake is the last thing I need. Looks like an RPM Air Gap will barely fit, so need to order it tonight.

[PaxtonShelby]

Sold the old T5 tranny tonight and cleaned up all the fasteners that will need to go back onto the car. Tomorrow night the alternator gets cleaned up, a few aluminum bits will be polished, and she'll just about be ready for Saturday's trip to the shop.

I sold the Hurst Competition Plus shifter with the tranny, so now I'm forced to order a sweet new MGW. :highfive:

[PaxtonShelby]

Intake porn!!!!

The old...and the new!!! :drool5:

[PaxtonShelby]

The Air Gap is about .75" taller than the Performer 289, but without the .5" spacer I was running, the net difference is only about .25". So I'm optimistic that everything will fit under the hood.

I'm really liking the black powdercoat on the Air Gap, considering how dingy the natural finish is on the Performer.

Ordered the MGW today - it should arrive on Tuesday. I heard lots of good things about the Steeda Tri-Ax and the Pro 5.0, but just about everyone who has tried them prefers the MGW. I love the MGW in my '14, so I went the same way on this one.

[Martin0660]

I definitely prefer my MGW over the Tri Ax and Pro 5.0 that I used before. Prior to trying the MGW I was certain Pro 5.0 was the best out there. I banged on that thing so hard it wore out the nylon ball in the bottom, yes I wore out a Pro 5.0 ... I was looking at the recent ads for the MGW and AM NOT sold on their new handle design. That's the knock against MGW, you either like their handle or you are screwed ... My gold handle is perfect for me, but some don't like them.

[PaxtonShelby]

I'm not a fan of the gold handle in an early car, but their current handles on the T5 shifter are chrome. One nice thing is the adjustability of the handles. They give you 3 choices of handles ( race, standard, and comfort ), and each can be rotated to put the shifter arm right where you want it. In early cars like mine that's a huge plus, as the other shifters out there don't put the arm where you need it.

http://mgwltd.com/mustang_shifter.shtml

[PaxtonShelby]

The new hydraulic roller cam and lifters are installed. :woot1:

The heads had to come off for the lifter install, and when pulled there was a little rust in one of the cylinders, most likely from that valve being open for a while. So that was all cleaned up and is ready to go.

Hopefully I will have more progress to report very soon.

Oh - the mailman dropped off some 1" coil spring insulators/spacers yesterday. I'm hoping that will raise the car enough to prevent the headers from scraping over bumps, and eliminate the minor front tire rub I used to have. I hate to have to raise the car any, as the wicked stance really was one of my favorite things about the car. But hopefully the stance is still pretty nasty with the spacers.

[travj31]

cant wait to see and hear the finished product!

[PaxtonShelby]

cant wait to see and hear the finished product!

That makes 2 of us buddy!!

[scott5]

Ready to sell it?

[03 OW SVT]

Ready to sell it?

So you can put an LS motor in it?!?! No, Ron don't do it. It will get ruined.:-)

[scott5]

No. Put my coyote/t 56 in it

[PaxtonShelby]

Sorry - she's a keeper. And a coyote motor would slow her down...:)

[scott5]

I got too many fast cars.. need to slow down ha.. I couldn't even buy a regular jet ski yesterday. Had to get a supercharged 1500 lol..

[PaxtonShelby]

Your garage sounds like a fun place to be. Lots of serious toys!

[PaxtonShelby]

A little progress. Should be back together before too long.

[jaa55]

Looking good!

[Dan B.]

Awesome!! Get that baby done just in time.....for.......winter! :balls1:

[07v6vistablue]

Nice!

[John4cam]

Looking good Ron!

[PaxtonShelby]

Motor and tranny are in the car...this is starting to get real...:hyper::hyper::hyper:

[PaxtonShelby]

She is up and running! Tune soon to follow. Nerples are hard with anticipation!!!

[03 OW SVT]

Looks badass Ron. Grats!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Kev! Can't wait to get her home.

Some more good news - the Edelbrock AirGap intake I bought allows my hood to close over the Paxton carb enclosure. Woooooo Hoooooooo!!! I was a little worried about that as space was very tight under the hood, even with the Performer 289 intake I had on my old motor

[somethingclever]

tuned tomorrow? today?

when dangit?!?

[PaxtonShelby]

Not sure exactly when she gets tuned...but hopefully in the next day or so.

I can't wait to hear the new cam and the extra cubes!

[03 OW SVT]

We want a vid of it running after it's tuned.:-)

[John4cam]

We want a vid of it running after it's tuned.:-)



+1!!

[PaxtonShelby]

We want a vid of it running after it's tuned.:-)

Hopefully you guys can hear it in person...cuz once she's home and all back together I'm putting as many miles as I can on her!

[gpfarrell]

Video, screw that... I'll buy a ticket for a ride in that!

[PaxtonShelby]

Haha - DEAL!

[PaxtonShelby]

Uh ohhhhh!!

[Pure Stock]

Looks good on the rollers... I'm sure some faggot will say "don't get caught up in the numbers" or "you can't race a dyno." Just to rain on your parade. Looks damn good Ron!

[TooFast98Cobra]

Congrats !!!

[Martin0660]

Nice numbers.

I race dyno's ...

[gpfarrell]

That's a very wicked pony!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks guys - I don't get caught up in the numbers either. She is just on the dyno for tuning purposes - not just to make a big number. I just want it to run well and haul ass!...and that's just what I told Tim.

Final numbers coming soon. Giggity giggity giggity!!!

[CollinsPC]

I want a front row look when you get her home. I love the old style stangs, and yours is my favorite coupe, love the stance and color!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Randy - I really appreciate the compliment! Once she's home I have a bunch of little non-mechanical stuff to do on her, and then I hope to wear out the remaining tire tread before the cold weather gets here.

I will post up the final numbers once I get a dyno graph. :D

On the stance...I bought some 1" spacers for the front coils. The car is REALLY low in front. I absolutely LOVE the stance, but I might sacrifice a little of the wicked look for a smidge more ground clearance.

[gpfarrell]

It would suck to be driving a C7 Corvette Stingray and have your '66 rumble up next to it.

[PaxtonShelby]

It would suck to be driving a C7 Corvette Stingray and have your '66 rumble up next to it.

Why would you say such a thing? :EvilGrin:

[1320goat]

Love the car. Pretty cool that you've had the car for 20+ years

Sent from my HTC One_M8

[somethingclever]

Good deal Ron.......looking forward to seeing it at PRP this fall - just in time for the cold weather. ;)

[Dan B.]

Garage Queen............

[PaxtonShelby]

I'm going to need ( borrow? ) some better rubber or all I will be doing is a 1320 foot burnout. Not a bad problem to have!!

Thanks goat! Time flies - 22 years have buzzed by quickly!

Dan - "HEEEEERREEE RANGER RANGER RANGER!!" :biglaugh:

[yeahloh95]

numbers ??????

[somethingclever]

buy slicks

[95V6]

Beautiful car Ron. Would love to see it out
someday!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Barry - she's no show queen - but she's still my baby! And she will be out as much as possible!

[Dan B.]

I have 26x10.50s and 26x11.50's ET Streets...........

[PaxtonShelby]

I have 26x10.50s and 26x11.50's ET Streets...........

Im not sure if those would fit Dan - these early cars are tiny in the rear wheel wells. 16x8 is pretty tight in back...and really tight in front.

[Dan B.]

I'm running the 26x10.50's on a 15x7" wheel on the TB.

[somethingclever]

Picking it up tomorrow?

[PaxtonShelby]

Picking it up tomorrow?

Hopefully Thursday or Friday. :goodidea:

[gpfarrell]

I just reread this from the very beginning... what a great write-up!

Regarding tires... I've been tempted to buy some wider steel wheels with drag radials or cheater slicks for my '66 Cyclone. They'd be 75% for looks and 25% for taking it to the track if I ever get the stones to drive that car 100mph.

If what I'd get would fit what you got, maybe I'll get 'em sooner and you can break them in for me?

[PaxtonShelby]

Haha thanks Greg! Hey - I certainly would test some tires for ya...you know...just to be sure they are safe!

Tomorrow I pick up the beast. Can't wait!

[stanggt94]

Car looked great going down 79 on the trailer today

[gpfarrell]

Aw shucks Ron, you didn't need to trailer it. I could have canceled a few meetings and driven it for you!

[PaxtonShelby]

Car looked great going down 79 on the trailer today

Hey thanks Jason! Where did you see me? One person pulled up next to me in a silver Sunfire?? and gave me a big thumbs up - was that you? I am glad to report that the trailer ride home was uneventful.

[PaxtonShelby]

Aw shucks Ron, you didn't need to trailer it. I could have canceled a few meetings and driven it for you!

Dang - You should have told me!! I did have one passenger though... Lilly helped me clean and prep and polish a bunch of the parts, so this morning I sent her to school, only to have her pulled out of class at 9:30 because we had an "appointment." We were walking out of the school and I asked her what was behind the truck...and when she saw the empty trailer she knew right away what was going on. I should have taken a video - she was so excited! It was her first cut class - special memories for sure!!

[03 OW SVT]

So whats the #'s? Don't be holding out on us man. LOL

[PaxtonShelby]

Haha - sorry for the delay folks. Had to put the trailer away!

Before I put the car on the trailer for the ride home Lilly and I went for a little test drive. I thought the car pulled hard before, but now she just takes off. The cam sounds amazing, but the clutch and idle are so streetable you don't even know you are strapped to a rocket until you whack the gas. I only rolled into the gas since I had Lilly strapped in the passenger seat, but the power still feels impressive. It is pretty easy to break the tires loose - it is really responsive without being touchy. I can't wait to really whoop on it, but my tires are really old and seem to have hardened up a bit. Time to wear them out!

The list of things I need to work on is huge, but the car is running great and most of the to-do list will wait until winter!

As for the numbers, we ended up at 486 horses at the wheels at around 5600 rpm and 472 ft/lb. at just over 5000 rpm. I guess that's about 550+ at the flywheel. Plenty for me!! Tim has a Mustang dyno - I've heard they can be stingy with the numbers. The torque shoots up quickly and stays there, higher than the hp until 5200 rpm. The car sounded good with the old 302, but this 331 sounds a lot meaner. If this idle doesn't make your nipples hard, you probably don't have nipples!

A BIG thanks to Tim Rodeheaver and his crew. Tim was great to work with. The heavy lifting portion of this re-restomod is over, but stay tuned for the finishing touches. Hopefully I will see a lot of you guys out and about. Keep it on two wheels!

[travj31]

Awesome... Sweet ride for sure.

[gpfarrell]

Lilly will remember that ride forever. Well played!

[PaxtonShelby]

Lilly will remember that ride forever. Well played!

And so will I! Every time I glanced over at her in the passenger seat she had the biggest smile on her face! :D

[PaxtonShelby]

Awesome... Sweet ride for sure.

Thanks Trav - it is nice to have her home!

[Martin0660]

Tim has a Mustang dyno - I've heard they can be stingy with the numbers.

In the interest of dyno racers everywhere, I don't buy that. I had my car on Tim's Mustang dyno on a Tuesday, then on FJ's Dyno Jet the following Saturday and the numbers was within any measurement error. The ONLY difference I could report is that my car looked fat under the curve on the dyno jet, and solid AFR on the Mustang dyno (and that matches my track logs). Peak numbers was not affected.

[yeahloh95]

nice numbers that thing should be a animal

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Troy. I took the car for a ride today. My wife came home for lunch and wanted to go for a ride. The words "don't go too fast" were spoken a few times... After the ride I dropped her off at work ( about a mile from home ) and figured another shake down run was in order. After a few easy pulls an exhaust leak started. So I limped her home and found the driver's side of the H-pipe had slipped off the collector. So I loosened both sides of the H-pipe and was able to slide the whole H-pipe forward about 2 inches. I tightened everything up and now all is well again. On my next trip around the block I got a thumbs up from a passenger in a black Camaro SS, so that was pretty cool.

[somethingclever]

Big power for a small car....glad to hear you got it back and running strong. Enjoy it for the rest of the yr before the salt flies.

[stanggt94]

I was in a gold Saturn ... beeped and yelled looks good . I work at the meadows and just got off ..

[PaxtonShelby]

Ok I saw ya! Thanks for the beep!

[somethingclever]

well Ron,...have you been driving the wheels off it like you wanted?

The weather has been perfect the last couple weeks.

Going to head to the track this fall I hope?

[Maxpowers]

….The torque shoots up quickly and stays there, higher than the hp until 5200 rpm….

Just an FYI:
Horsepower = (rpm/5252)*torque. Your power numbers should ALWAYS cross at 5252, since horsepower is a made up number based off your torque at a given rpm.
Great article that explains that: http://www.evans-tuning.com/tech-articles/why-horsepower-does-not-matter

Always thought your car was cool. It has now entered the "bas ass" range. lol

[CollinsPC]

I'm not far from you, my lunch is from 12 to 1. Glad it is running strong, hope I can get to see her one of these days.

[PaxtonShelby]

well Ron,...have you been driving the wheels off it like you wanted?

The weather has been perfect the last couple weeks.

Going to head to the track this fall I hope?

Well - I have driven it a few times, and it is FUN!!!...but before hitting the track I need to run a bigger fuel line (currently 3/8"), and more importantly, relocate it out of the transmission tunnel. It didn't go lean on the dyno, but Tim thought a 1/2" line would be a good idea given the power level. I need to research how to run the braided hose & adapt the fittings. I don't want to go to the track and melt the motor or break a driveshaft and turn into a fireball.

[PaxtonShelby]

Just an FYI:
Horsepower = (rpm/5252)*torque. Your power numbers should ALWAYS cross at 5252, since horsepower is a made up number based off your torque at a given rpm.
Great article that explains that: http://www.evans-tuning.com/tech-articles/why-horsepower-does-not-matter

Always thought your car was cool. It has now entered the "bas ass" range. lol

Thanks for the kind words Max - I really appreciate it! And that is some good info you provided. I guess what I meant to say was that there is a lot of area under the torque curve. And that area is going to make short work of my BFG Comp T/A's!

Mini-tubs would really make things interesting...

[PaxtonShelby]

I'm not far from you, my lunch is from 12 to 1. Glad it is running strong, hope I can get to see her one of these days.

One of these days Randy! She's not "show ready" yet. This winter I will be busting my butt getting lots of loose ends fixed up.

[PaxtonShelby]

double post

[PaxtonShelby]

Well winter came and went and not a whole lot got done on the car. It is tough to get work done when the car isn't stored at the house. Today these showed up at my door. It is a tie-down kit from Street Or Track. The L-shaped brackets bolt to the front lower control arms and the other ones mount under the rear spring plates. This will make it a lot easier, quicker, and safer to strap the car into the trailer.

[Dan B.]

That's some rill cereal racecar gadgets there buddy!!

[RUTHLESS]

This might be the first time I have seen your car build in detail. Very nice!

I just wanted to share what I have learned from one of my buddies that transported cars for a living.
When strapping a car down properly on a trailer you don't want to allow the suspension to move so the best spots to attach to is the frame/body in some way. The suspension on most show and drag cars see the most punishment being hauled since the force of the road is amplified to the weight of the car inside the trailer. However it seems that not even U-Haul has their trailers setup for this since they use front tire straps so I just tighten down my shocks and air up my tires. I forgot one time and you could feel the car dancing around on the trailer.

You should see what the rails type drag cars do to strap the cars down. Frame to the floor so they don't tweak the chassis.

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Ruthless. I've heard arguments from both camps when it comes to strapping a car down on a trailer. Some agree with you, while others say you should allow the suspension of the trailered vehicle to absorb the bumps in the road. This setup is in the middle, as the rear springs get compressed a bit but the front suspension can still travel freely. Shaun at Street Or Track is a really savvy guy when it comes to these cars ( he's building an amazing '65-6 track car ) so I figured if this setup is good enough for him it'll work for me.

[Dan B.]

I always go to the frame and compress the suspension. I'm not a paid pro but net I've trailer way more cars than your average bear.

[PaxtonShelby]

My front springs are very stiff, so I'm thinking this setup will work really well.

[somethingclever]

Ron,

I don't think either front or rear will compress the suspension if you mount the plates as you had said.

I also would not strap down a vehicle above the suspension points....a good topic for another thread anyway.

Is that fuel line re routed yet or what? :)

[Dan B.]

Ron,
Is that fuel line re routed yet or what? :)

I'm going to guess that will be a no.

Told him to drag it up and let's get that thing done!

[PaxtonShelby]

John - Definitely a no on the fuel line re-do. My Dad's place, while dry, is cold and poorly lit. Hopefully I get the car home in the next week so I can get started on it.

Dan - I wish you lived closer buddy! I should be able to handle the fuel line in my little garage - as long as I find a little time. Hell - I haven't even installed the winch on the trailer yet...and I bought it the day we had lunch! Maybe I will call ya when I'm ready for a little mini-tub action...

[RUTHLESS]

Hell - I haven't even installed the winch on the trailer yet...and I bought it the day we had lunch!

Don't install it! I installed mine before I went to a track rental last year and had to use it to get the car on after I blew the head gasket. I am thinking its the winches fault. lol

[jaa55]

I don't know how I missed this thread, looking like you're making great progress

[PaxtonShelby]

Today I brought the car home and put the '14 back at my Dad's place. Wow the '66 is a dusty mess! Battery was dead but after a quick charge she started right up and after 30 seconds she idled like a champ even though she doesn't have a choke. The rain was getting ready to fall and my gas gauge was below "E" so I headed straight home. The tires really seem that they are well past their prime - even small amounts of throttle result in wheel spin. I think the tires - 15 years old now - need replaced with something sticky. Anyone have suggestions? I need 225/50/16's on it. The stickier the better - preferably a tire that will work well on a road course. I don't want a drag tire full-time. This car is built for the twisteys. Mark??

[RUTHLESS]

Toyo R888s would be the way to go but I am not sure what sizes they come in.

[Stangman701]

A Toyo R888 might work well for you. I have them on my car. They have decent traction for straight line and twisty action on the street. Are supposed to be decent if you get caught in rain as well. They need a little more heat in them than your average street or drag radial tire before they work well though. Might be worth picking up a second set of rears to mount some Mickey Thompsons on to really have a chance of hooking all that power.

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks fellas - I will look into the R888's.

A second set of rears would be nice...but home improvements are eating up the budget right now.

[RUTHLESS]

Thanks fellas - I will look into the R888's.

A second set of rears would be nice...but home improvements are eating up the budget right now.

One good thing about the R888 is that they last a while compared to DRs plus they are used as a wet condition racing tire.

I know the feeling. Ever since my wife and I bought our first house two years ago its been none stop and I don't see any signs to our want list ending. Thank goodness the windows will be paid off come July. Then its on to the next project.

[PaxtonShelby]

Anyone have experience with the Toyo Proxes RA1?

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Toyo&tireModel=Proxes+RA1&frontTire=25ZR6RA1&rearTire=54ZR7RA1&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes

[transbuilder83]

cool ride

[PaxtonShelby]

Holy crap an actual update...

This week I am ordering new brakes all around and some other goodies. Pics and more info to follow in 2-3 weeks. Giddy up.

[gpfarrell]

No shit?

[PaxtonShelby]

No shit?

Haha - no shit! Actual progress will be made!

[sutyak]

Time for....

29748

[PaxtonShelby]

Time for....

29748

I have plenty of those!

[PaxtonShelby]

Parts are ordered and should be here in 2-3 weeks. Wood is being sported. Brought her home today from storage. Enjoyed two nice 100+ foot burnouts. My wife even took it around the block. I took a little time to remove the brakes, front shocks and coil springs. Already found a buyer for the Granada front spindles / rotors / calipers / outer tie rods. If anyone can use Lincoln Versailles rear rotors/mounting brackets/calipers/pads/flex lines let me know. They are in great shape.

[03 OW SVT]

Car looks great Ron. I would have loved to seen those burnouts.

i actually got my car out too today. Meeting some friends at Jerrys Curb service.

[TooFast98Cobra]

Pics of burn outs or weak sauce

[PaxtonShelby]

Pics of burn outs or weak sauce

One burnout was on my street - started at my driveway and ended 2 houses up. Wifey and neighbor gearhead buddy were witnesses. They didn't know it was coming. My wife jumped higher than I knew possible. :rofl:

[PaxtonShelby]

Question...are my 18+ year old BFG Comp T/A's unsafe!

Answer...Hell yes! I have less traction than Eric Heiden pedaling a Big Wheel uphill on cold concrete!

[gpfarrell]

I'm getting excited!

[Dickbag 5.h0]

Car looks good Ron! Really digging the gold/bronze wheels on the green paint.

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Jason -but the wheels have a gray cast center - the bright sun made them look like they have a bronze tint.

20 years ago when I bought them bronze colored wheels were not popular like they are now.:icon_cool:

[travj31]

Looks great Ron

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks Trav. Now my jackstands are back to work. Lots to do before the parts get here in a few weeks! Hopefully she'll be back together by the end of March.

[jaa55]

Need some more engine bay shots!

[PaxtonShelby]

I will get some pics of the engine bay once I clean it up. Had a rad overflow tube mishap and it made a mess everywhere.

This afternoon Lilly and I removed the rest of the front suspension except for the UCA's which are staying. When we get a warmer day we will scrub everything clean and wait for the new parts to get here.

[PaxtonShelby]

Ok - due to public demand here is a pic of the engine bay. It is a mess but here ya go!

[sutyak]

Doesn't look like the ideal place for the air filter. Can you move it somewhere cooler?

[Dan B.]

I need that on my 387W.

[PaxtonShelby]

Doesn't look like the ideal place for the air filter. Can you move it somewhere cooler?

You are right on that one. It is REALLY tight in that area - in every direction. At first I couldn't get a filter to fit at all. Very bad. So the car could be run but not driven. (Insert mandatory "car is always on jack stands" comment here ). Then I was working on my Dad's '63 Avanti that happens to have a factory Paxton and saw it had a curved rubber hose connecting the head unit to the air filter. So I ordered one of those (freaking $65 for a hose), cut it to the right length, and I was in business.

Luckily with my ceramic coated headers and open R-model style front apron the engine never runs hot.

[TooFast98Cobra]

Thst fuel line looks scary mr ron

[PaxtonShelby]

I need that on my 387W.

Dan! Where ya been bro?

My parts that I ordered 2 weeks ago still haven't shipped. I'm getting a little antsy... Vendor said they would ship this week. Fingers crossed.

[PaxtonShelby]

Thst fuel line looks scary mr ron

Fuel line needs some work - from tank to carb. But it is low pressure - not like EFI. Pump is indexed to add one pound of pressure for each PSI of boost over 6 PSI. To this point it has never leaked.

I'd like to go braided line the whole way - but pickup in tank is stock - not sure if a bigger line from tank to carb would help if the pickup is the bottleneck. I don't really want to drop $1k+ on a fuel cell but that might be what I have to do. When the rear gets minitubbed the stock tank might need to go anyway. Suggestions are welcome.

[somethingclever]

New stock tank aeromotive sumped with AN fittings.


If you keep the air filter in that location I would recommend a thermocouple in the pipe between blower and carb box....and then keep an eye on it for hotness. (pic of me would suffice as calibration standard)



well....that just got weird.

[somethingclever]

New stock tank aeromotive sumped with AN fittings.


If you keep the air filter in that location I would recommend a thermocouple in the pipe between blower and carb box....and then keep an eye on it for hotness. (pic of me would suffice as calibration standard)



well....that just got weird.


But fo rill.....i would be nervous to flog on that deal with no intercooler and hot air coming in.

[2000GT]

Ok - due to public demand here is a pic of the engine bay. It is a mess but here ya go!
Where's the AC Compressor?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk

[wick]

Fuel line needs some work - from tank to carb. But it is low pressure - not like EFI. Pump is indexed to add one pound of pressure for each PSI of boost over 6 PSI. To this point it has never leaked.

I'd like to go braided line the whole way - but pickup in tank is stock - not sure if a bigger line from tank to carb would help if the pickup is the bottleneck. I don't really want to drop $1k+ on a fuel cell but that might be what I have to do. When the rear gets minitubbed the stock tank might need to go anyway. Suggestions are welcome.

If you do happen to go with braided line, I must ask. Is the car parked in a garage? As I'm sure we all know the answer to this.
Anyways, you must absolutely use PTFE hose. Zero exception. It is more money but trust me, your car can stay in the garage doing so. The regular braided hose can not hold back the ethanol properties in the new garbage fuel. The vapors permeate and smell real bad. Basically like raw gas.

[PaxtonShelby]

UPS made a stop at my house today. Lots of purdy and stout parts! A BIG thanks to Shaun at StreetOrTrack for his help so far. Here are the beefy spindles, outer tie rods, integral rear parking brake mechanism, and loaded rear calipers.

[PaxtonShelby]

Rear rotors

[PaxtonShelby]

Front calipers

[PaxtonShelby]

Front rotors

[PaxtonShelby]

Caliper mounting bracket, master cylinder, adj pushrod, and misc bits...

[PaxtonShelby]

Roller bearing spring perches, and killer LCA's and strut rods.

[PaxtonShelby]

Time for winter to GTFO so I can get busy in the garage. Hopefully this weekend it will get warm enough to get started.

[Dan B.]

Those shiny bits will look killer hanging from a car on jackstands!!

[TooFast98Cobra]

Nice buy!

[CobraII]

Looks good Ron!

Can you sump your tank? I used this on the Cutlass:
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/cee-4041/overview/

8AN line out of there to the Quick Fuel bypass style pump, return line out of bypass to top corner passenger side of tank. I agree with Rob, I regret not going PFTE line.

[PaxtonShelby]

Chuck - I need to educate myself on fuel systems. I know nothing about using braided lines, sumping tanks or switching pickups. As soon as this suspension stuff is wrapped up I will move onto the fuel system. So keep the suggestions coming. If it helps, I am currently running a 3/8" hard line with an indexed mechanical pump at the block that pulls 6 pounds of fuel pressure plus 1 pound per pound of boost...up to I think a max of 15 pounds of fuel pressure. Engine made 8-9 psi of boost on the dyno. I don't know what my options for fuel pumps are being carbed and boosted. Do I need a return line? I have no idea.

I did get a little work done today. Tubular LCA's, spindles, outer tie rods and roller bearing spring perches are installed. The strut rods would have been done but the vendor forgot to pack the hardware to mount them to the LCA's. So far the stuff looks great. Hoping to get the front brakes done this week and decide if I want to keep my stock Lincoln axles or upgrade to some stronger pieces.

Sold the Granada discs and spindles today, along with the stock strut rods, LCA's, and spring perches. That will pay for most of the new tires to replace the 18 year old BFG's on the car now. The guy who bought that stuff is upgrading a really clean 6-cyl Falcon to a 302.

[Viper_ed]

Looks like you are going to need an engineering degree to figure out which lug holes to use on those rear calipers!

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

[PaxtonShelby]

Nah - I'm running 15 lug rear axles.

[PaxtonShelby]

Making some progress. Strut rods are installed. Coil springs are back in. The new front rotors and calipers are bolted up and the everything is torqued to spec. These calipers are damn sexy. It is amazing how little they weigh. I will have to shorten and re-flare the hard lines to the calipers. Also - one of the front Koni adjustable shocks seems to have crapped out, so I will have to send it back for a rebuild.

Next on the list is new axle bearings, and then onto the rear brakes.

[PaxtonShelby]

Work and everything else has interfered with garage time the last 2 months. I moved El Toro to my Dad's place to give me more room to work on the '66. I'm definitely tired of this little 2-car garage.

Koni has proven to be useless - no call returned regarding my broken front shock. I wanted to rebuild it but F Koni - I just ordered sport valved Bilsteins from Street Or Track. They should be here next week.

I have to move some brake lines so hopefully my buddy has a tubing bender I can borrow.

I know - lame update but that's what's up.

[PaxtonShelby]

Progress is still slow...but some things are getting done. Front brake lines have been relocated. And there is plenty of clearance between the calipers and the front wheels. After some research, I found the stock 28 spline Lincoln axles and Traction-Lok carrier probably wouldn't survive drag and twisty track time on sticky tires. The good news is my housing and pumpkin are more than strong enough. So the beastly 9" housing is out and with my buddy Gary for an upgrade - 31 spline aftermarket axles and a new carrier. What carrier has yet to be determined, but it won't be a Ford Traction-Lok as Gary says it won't survive. So he's going to research what would be best for an all purpose car and let me know the $ damage. Hopefully in 2 weeks I'll have it back, give it some fresh paint, and be ready to bolt it in and install the rear brakes...and get the car back off the jack stands.

[Ares]

Look into a Detroit True Trac. Worm gear style using 3 pinions per side. No clutches to wear out. I abused one for few years until putting a spool in.

[PaxtonShelby]

Look into a Detroit True Trac. Worm gear style using 3 pinions per side. No clutches to wear out. I abused one for few years until putting a spool in.

Thanks for that info. So...With no clutches...I assume it is metal to metal inside? How would that hold up on a road course? Could it wear out....and if so...is it rebuildable? I'm curious if it can handle 550 horses and sticky tires.

[Ares]

Thanks for that info. So...With no clutches...I assume it is metal to metal inside? How would that hold up on a road course? Could it wear out....and if so...is it rebuildable? I'm curious if it can handle 550 horses and sticky tires.

Each side there is a gear that the axles go into. Then the diff body is machined for the three worm gears per side. I was only 320rwhp but leaving at 6500+ rpm on slicks for years with it. Only issue I ever had was right side plate that carrier bearing goes on. The bolts that retain it loosened slightly. Which let that side plate move slightly. I think that has been changed to use dowel pins to keep side plate from moving. On mine I cleaned out bolt holes and tightened them back in with red Loctite. Never and issue again. No issue on ring gear side ever.

Found pics of inside of my 8.8 unit.

[PaxtonShelby]

Ares was right on the money with his recommendation. I asked around and ended up making some big changes. Eaton Detroit Tru Trac carrier. Currie nodular case. 31 spline axles. Daytona pinion support. Nice set of Ford 3.50 gears. All set up now and ready to go. All I have to do is paint the case with some red oxide-ish paint and I'm in business. Housing is all cleaned and painted. Hopefully the rear end and rear brakes will be installed this week.

[wick]

That pinion is a little on the deep side for my liking. Should be closer to the center of the ring gear tooth.

[PaxtonShelby]

Painted and ready to install tomorrow...

And look Dan!! My jackstands aren't under a car for a change!

[wick]

Did you re shim that pinion?

[PaxtonShelby]

I definitely appreciate your input. My gear guy liked the pattern. He has set up hundreds of rears over the years so I have confidence in him. It is super quiet when turned. Maybe my pic wasn't great.

[Dan B.]

And look Dan!! My jackstands aren't under a car for a change!

What are those silver and blue things in the upper left pic with the rear housing? How do those work?? :biglaugh:

[Ares]

Wow that looks so much smaller than the 8.8 version. Has to be much lighter too. The one I had for my 8.8 weighed as much as my spool/ring gear together.

[PaxtonShelby]

I don't know - it is pretty damn heavy. The Versailles housings were narrowed truck housings - with heavier midsections to which the tubes were welded. Pretty stout stuff. I bet the whole assembly weighs over 200 pounds even with 28 spline axles. The new 31 spline axles are quite a bit heavier. Hopefully I will have it under the car tonight.

[PaxtonShelby]

This project has been a slow and painful one. For some reason I have had problems getting the rear calipers to fit over the rotors due to misalignment. Currently I have the spacers at a machine shop to be milled to a thickness that should allow everything to bolt up.

Today I mocked up the new master cylinder and bent some brake lines. Once the rear caliper spacers are done I can finish the rear axle install, rear brake install, and bleed master cylinder and the system.

Tonight I need to order some new 3” stainless band clamps for the exhaust system, new tires, Bilsteons for the rear, and a longer shifter handle for the MGW as the reach is a bit too long.

Fingers crosses that I can find time to get her together before July so I can get her aligned and ready for this year’s PVGP. Work trips and vacation is going to make this tough. My wife is on board for me to get this done, so that’s a big help.

[PaxtonShelby]

Bridgestone RE71R’s should be here this week. Giddy up!

These tires get amazing reviews...and this one in particular made me smile...

[wick]

You’re in 14 now aren’t you? Where all are they sending you?
Kim is over in 2 now. I think we already talked about that a while ago though. We can text later if you want. You know how they operate. They just created another position for her to move up. Big jump too.

[PaxtonShelby]

Yep still in Bldg 14 Rob. At least a few more years here from what we have been told. Hoping it ends up being longer than that as I’d like to retire without changing companies - and I’m not willing to move to St. Louis. Glad that work is going well for your lady!

[gpfarrell]

You have too many cars to move that far. And I’ll hide your trailer if you try.

oh, regarding tire review... “cartoon character faster!”

[PaxtonShelby]

UPS and FedEx brought presents today. New shoes and some nice 3” stainless band clamps ( both ordered Sunday night ). Got the H-pipe/mufflers/dumps installed. Looking to re-route the front to rear brake line as I don’t like it in the stock trans tunnel location. Also started looking into fuel cells. That’s going to be a pricey item but for safety it needs done. Lots of work to do...baby steps.

[PaxtonShelby]

Not a lot of progress, but found time to remove the old rear shocks and install the new Bilsteins.

Ghis week I hope to order a fuel cell and all related goodies.

[Dan B.]

Racecar

[PaxtonShelby]

Someday...just don’t hold your breath...

[PaxtonShelby]

Been making steady progress the last few weeks. With the rear caliper spacers milled I was able to bolt up the rear calipers and bend some new rear brake lines. Master cylinder is installed and everything is bled. Front end alignment needs done but I have it close enough for a few test drives.

I decided to remove the headliner ( was sagging anyway ), the carpet and underlayment- because racecar! Hope to drag it to the shop for alignment and new tire install and a few other things very soon. New goal is to have it ready for the Moon Cruise on 8/26. Yes...this year.

[gpfarrell]

I know a guy that wants to park next to you!

[07v6vista]

On Jackstands???? :witless:

[PaxtonShelby]

On Jackstands???? :witless:

Only on 2 at the moment. :-)

[PaxtonShelby]

Update #1... clutch linkage is adjusted

Update #2... car is sitting on all 4 wheels ( jackstands are currently unemployed - but can always be called back )

Update #3... I played with the front wheel alignment to get rid of a little too much caster and toe out.

Update #4...after 3 years of being too lazy to chase down the problem, having the front seats out made it a lot easier to crawl under the dash and troubleshoot my brake light problem (uh....my brake lights didn’t work at all ). Turns out the brake light switch on the pedal arm was a little jacked up. So I removed it, rerouted some wires, found the correct cotter pin, and after a few bad words ( it is crazy tight under the dash even though the car is 52 years old ), and holy cow...working brake lights!

Hopefully I can go for a short shake down ride in the next few days. Trailer needs inspected - hoping I can have that done early next week.

My F150 is running like crap - John jinxed me - probably timing gear / cam phaser related. Hoping a buddy wants a side job so he can take a look at it. If I can’t get it fixed soon I’ll have to borrow a truck to trailer the ‘66 to the alignment shop.

Progress is progress I guess... :-)

[somethingclever]

It gets worse Ron...5.4 3v blows head gaskets too.

Junk. Just junk.

[TooFast98Cobra]

Who inspects trailers anymore . I never have.

[gpfarrell]

There’s an F250 at my house looking for something to do.

Trailers don’t need inspected. That’s just a law.

[PaxtonShelby]

There’s an F250 at my house looking for something to do.

Trailers don’t need inspected. That’s just a law.

Local place that inspects trailers is about 1 mile from my house...so if I don’t have it inspected that makes me pretty lazy. It has been 2-3 years. :-)

Greg...I will let you know buddy. Thanks for the offer! Does your truck take the round trailer plug?

[gpfarrell]

The truck has a round plug and a trailer brake controller. As long as you don’t have air brakes it’s good to go.

My trailer hadn’t been inspected since 2015 or something so I just got it a new sticker this Spring. Good for another 5 years.

If the stars align a little bit, I could bring you my trailer and we can move it Sunday.

I can’t wait for the Monster to roar!

[Dickbag 5.h0]

I decided to remove the headliner ( was sagging anyway )

Disposing of the evidence? There were footprints in the headliner of the black cobra, size 8 women's approximately.

[TooFast98Cobra]

Disposing of the evidence? There were footprints in the headliner of the black cobra, size 8 women's approximately.

I dont remember wearing heels ???

[Dan B.]

I dont remember wearing heels ???

Can I like this post more than once?

[TooFast98Cobra]

Lmao. Knew you'd like

[Dan B.]

Can we put Ron's car in this meme?

http://i2.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/969/006/0e5.jpg

[Dan B.]

Lmao. Knew you'd like
.https://media.makeameme.org/created/i-love-this-dqti4u.jpg

[PaxtonShelby]

Successful maiden voyage on public roads. Brakes feel good, nothing rubs, and no smoke or leaks! I call that a win!

[gpfarrell]

Gig-gigity! Cartoon character fast, here we come!

[somethingclever]

COngrats Ron....I really like that painted rear bumper.

[Dan B.]

Excellent!!

[PaxtonShelby]

Off to the shop today for new sticky Bridgestone RE71Rs and an alignment. In a few days she’ll be home ready for some twisties. Fuel cell, new gauges, cage, and a few other things still need done, but we are getting closer!

[Tom]

Is that some sort of mobile jackstand?

Car is looking good!

[PaxtonShelby]

Thanks to a handsome Uber driver I scored a ride to pick up the car today after work. Thanks Greg!! The ride home was uneventful, which is nice considering it was 85 degrees and the car had maybe 20 miles on it the last 2 years. Brakes are steadily improving as I bed the pads. Steering is pretty tight and the car is really nimble in the turns. These RE71Rs have a LOT of grip! The A5 tranny is really beefy and quite noisy. I’m sure having the carpet out contributes to the cockpit noise, but the exhaust note makes up for it!

Now it it is time to shop for gauges and fix a bunch of little things. Paint also needs buffed. The cage guy at the shop recommended AutoPower roll bars, so I’m going to read up on them.

Fuel cell is also on the short list.

Not sure if I can wait for Santa for all of this.

At least she’s roadworthy - time for some shakedown miles!

[2000GT]

Looking great Ron!


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