I must be one of the slowest on this site, but it will get finished someday. Let me know what you think.
Jim
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02699.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02700.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02701.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02702.jpg)
lookin good. you are doin ALOT more cleanin than i am, but then again, most people are....
what springs are you runnin in the front there?
very nice! your prop. valve install looks a lot cleaner than mine did.
BTW, im draggin' ass, too!
Gumby, they are 12"/250lb. Hopefully they work.
32vfoxbird, thanks. I need to get it running then go back and clean it all up.
do you have anymore pics of the engine bay?
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02481.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02470.jpg)
yer alot faster than I am....Heck, I haven't even started tearing mine apart yet, and it's been 6 months. BTW, looks great.
I like it, now all I need is a garage! and then some tools, and oh time! lol
Love the color choice!
How do you like those heim joints for tie rod ends? Makes it a lightyear easier to change 'em out, doesnt it! :) Looks very nice btw. I too love the color choice.
On a side note, make sure you put some heftey washers on the bottom end of those tie rod bolts. A little added security in case the heim joint fails. Are yours lined? Mine are titanium with teflon inserts, so i never have to grease them. Ive had an old one rattle like a sunovabtch, but never had one pull out.
Keep it up! youa re making great progress!
That is some great body work. I like the idea of the front frame being sealed off like that. Is that for extra support or just looks? Outstanding job.
:birdsmily:
Coming along nicely good job
Quality work takes time! I can tell you are doing some awesome work. You can come on over and work like that on my bird.
Snazzy.
Thanks everyone. I think I am going to shoot for racing it in Sept. I'm sure I could have it together, but having the money for a tune and a new rear may not happen.
Jim
that looks really, really, really nice! i love that color too.
are you doin the whole car that red or balck still with the red bay?
dang... pimpin' hard.
I have two ideas for the exterior of the car. It won't be black.
Wow, very nice. Man, I gotta stop messing with all these cars and concentrate one the '85 of mine. The last thing i did to it was weld up all the holes in the engine bay and grind them off. Hell that was 3months ago.
If you have it running in September that wouldn't be considered slow work. You'll be busy. It would be great to see you and the car at Cecil, but don't rush yourself.
Looking good Jim....slow and steady wins the race! If you had it done you'd be out looking for another project. Keep up the good work.
Let me know when you race it or if you ever need any help.
Rod
Love that engine bay Jim :D
Sheeez, I have to one of, if not the slowest, one here. I haven't worked on my bird in like 3 months, well not since I finished the subframe connectors. Haven't touch it since. :(
Keep up the good work though :D
John
Great work.I wish I could get mine to where yours is.It'll get done someday.I'm slow,but effecient.Again,great work.
Finally back on the ground.
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02705.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02704.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02706.jpg)
o man that is just shagY!!!! God i wish i had more money! You guys are making me want a turbo coupe so bad.
Wow, that's some solid work! Should look clean a hell.
Now, about that oil filter... If you gotta use a fram, at least get the tough guard. I have seen two engines (ford 2.3, mitsu 2.0T) have oil pump failures with those filters. Those particular filters have issues with drain back and high rpm restriction.
http://minimopar.knizefamily.net/oilfilterstudy.html (http://"http://minimopar.knizefamily.net/oilfilterstudy.html")
looks good!!!!!!!
Thanks. Some more parts ready to go on:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02714.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02713.jpg)
Teh hotness. I prolly wouldn't use those gaskets though.
high temp silicone FTW!
I want to have shagual relations with that engine bay! lol Looks awesome man, keep up the good work!
-Don
What a piece of !!! I'll take that bird off your hands.:D
Looks great! So, when will it be road ready?
Ether, I have some other gaskets here...that's just what came with them.
Road ready? I have no idea.
Jim
Slow? You aint slow. That my title. lol. Keep up the good work! You'll move up in the 1/4 mile standings. I'd be willing to bet on it.
Btw, are you still going to run the a trim or ? :evilgrin:
No more mods for me. Just the a-trim. This project is running low on funds.
Jim
More updates:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02717.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02722.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02724.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02727.jpg)
You're doing some great work. I'll be excited to see it when it's complete.
Oh, please change that oil filter. :D
Keeps looking better and better all the time. Very inspirational, to say the least!
Hahaha it's a Fram...I remember when I had my HO conversion thread, everyone got onto me about that.
But wow, that engine looks SWEET. Wanna drop it into my Tbird for me?
Ok, just to let everyone know...the fram is on there for startup only. I have an HP1 ready to go on. After all this I thought that would be the last thing to be noticed. What about the mismatched valve covers? Who wants to come over and do some wiring?
Jim
I would come up and lend a hand, but by the time I got there it would time to turn around and head back home. Looks great, keep it going.
After starting to reassemble everything, I realize that I wasn't very good at putting nuts/bolts and parts where I could find them. The car has been apart for so long that I have no idea where things are. I guess a good garage cleaning is due before I go any further.
Here's the way it's going to sit for the next few weeks:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02737.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02736.jpg)
Sweet :D
I somehow found some time today. Got the tb and supercharger piping in. Also extended the mass air wiring.
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC02738.jpg)
Looks better and better ever time we see it! Just makes me want it more
dude! That's looking clean! I wish mine could look like that. What all has been added from the last time you made a run? Everything looks freak'n good! I epecially like the coil over set up, the black rpm2, the long tubes, and the power pipe with the mass in the fender. This thing is going to roll. :evilgrin: :evilgrin:
84fila- you can have it...how much are you willing to pay?
t.birdsc-thanks. The last time this car made a pass, it was still the N/A explorer long block. So add in a 6pt rollbar, tubular front, my old motor. Should run pretty good. The last time this motor was run it went 11.7 in my old Tbird. There have been a few parts added since then. Maybe mid to bottom 11's? Who knows.
Jim
For what I got in my pocket... about $4.67.
Looks like it's coming along very nicely.
What color is that in your engine bay?
Brent
:cougarsmily:
Just got back from a long Disney vacation! Found some parts waiting for me: 31 spline Trac-loc, x-pipe, electric fan. Time to sell some of my other parts and get this thing moving.
Jim
Jim thats one nice looking ride ! So the same goes here if you ever need a hand and I am available, like you said "I am not to far from you" either.
I got 1/2 my Stinger FMIC today just not the half I was hoping for. So my TC sits for a while more. Guess I can connect some of the loose ends I have.
Did you say parts for sale? LOL,Lookin good.The pics look good specially to me I seen the mess and parts all over.stll shootin for a run this year?
Thanks for the compliments. I'm not sure if it will make a pass or not this year.
Kitzdnm, I am going to start going through some stuff real soon.
Well, I got the tire in the best that it's going to get. It will be a few days before I can finish it. Let me know if this looks better. I am happy with it.
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03001.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03002.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03003.jpg)
looks perfect!!!
Man car looks like it's coming along nicely. I just wish you could post up a full ass shot with both those 315's mounted. I'm about to be 3 or 4 payments away from being done with my truck and I want 315's on the back of my Sport . Your car looks good to me! Great job!
The wheels look like they fit on the car and its a very nice T-bird overall. Well i g2g 2 work but i hope its gets finished kind of soon.
After almost two weeks of no progress due to the injury of my hand, I got back to work today. I got both axles in, converted to Mustang rear brakes/calipers/rotors, bled the system and put the tires on. Also installed ChuckW rear shock mounts and Tokico adjustables. All thats left is to install the girdle. I will post up some pics tommorow. I think it looks killer with 315's underneath.
Tommorow's projects are to install the trans, driveshaft, driveshaft loop and start the trunk mount battery process.
Jim
Bring on the pics !!! Sounds killer.What size wheels are you using?
I am running 10.5" rears.
I am not having much luck getting these pics to come out, but here they are:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03020.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03036.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03038.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03039.jpg)
Holy steamroller Batman !! :eek:
looking good!
Those are some BIG tires.
Is that the Steeda bump-steer kit? Which kit is it? Is this a good kit?
Man those look cool, but I bet you aren't going to be running tailpipes, huh?
WOW !!! I only THOUGHT I had wide rear tires.Awesome.
That is cool. Why not just tub it out? Trying to retain the factory look?
PADOT called...they need you out on PA-6 to roll the new blacktop.....
Thanks for the compliments. I like the way it looks too. As far as tubbing it, I never really liked the way a tubbed car looks on the street. There are so many that are tubbed and really don't need it. I'm sure that's enough tire for what I am expecting out of the car.
Cougar5.0, yes that is a Steeda kit. I haven't driven with it yet, so can't help you much there.
Jim
Oh yea, no tailpipes. I am used to running with dumps anyway. maybe if down the road I get a fuel cell, I can get some under there....always good to dream.
Jim
Jim ,your doin a fine job I"ll be by this weekend to pick it up ,It runs right.LOL.
Wow, I can't believe it has been almost a month. Not much progress has been made due to a "new" truck purchase and trying to sell the old one. List of progress: installed trans, rear end girdle, driveshaft and x-pipe. Next will be dumps, adj clutch cable/quad and then finally finish wiring in the drivers side fender.
Man, that wheel/tire combo is nice! I tried scanning the rest of the thread with no luck, but what length axles did you use? Stock or Fox Mustang?
Looks good Jim, we will have to hook up sometime and when Both birds are running.
Would love to check yours out in person.
Wow looks like its gonna be a beast!!! Where did you get those coil overs?
Ether, after a few trips to the j/y, I ended up with 94-98 axles. 99+ would work with a 9" wide wheel, depending on the offset of course.
Chris, maybe next year mine will be roadworthy. Whenever you are up this way, feel free to stop in.
Nutwagon, I got the whole front end as a package. They were not made to go over Tokico shocks, I found that out the hard way.
Well, another month goes by with little progress. As I stared at the car, I realized I might be going in the wrong direction with the car. So, I may be selling the complete A-trim setup. Just a heads up to anyone that may be interested. I should have it listed by next weekend.
Nice project.
I've been out of the cicle in the past couple months.
Looking Great, Boy doI rember those days.
How did you get the 315's to fit? I tried to get some of them to fit
my cougar????
i would assume a BFH and removing the quad shocks was necessary.
I haven't run quad shocks for along time, but I can be positive they wouldn't fit. The 315's came with alot of trial and error on axle lengths. I will have to look back, but I think 97-98 Mustang.
Jim
wait for my turbo (75mm garret) pics come spring. will love boost. Then i'll have two turbo cars. Not sure whaat a 306 on boost will run in my bird. Prob better than 14sec 351c n/a!!!!!!!!!!
Hey Jim the car is coming along very well-keep me posted on the a-trim-maybe I'll have another reason to come out and visit you.
Ken
kendoo130 - email sent
1bdbird - sounds nice...try to keep your block in one piece!
The Vortech is officially for sale. I will try to work on an ad and get it in the classifieds. I'll leave it up here for a few days before it goes to the Corral/Ebay.
I may actually have this car on the road next year!
Why do you always temp me.
1988 5.0 LC Coupe Fresh rebuilt motor resto is 95% complete no rust any where trunk wheel wells very minor body work needed estimate at maaco was only$650.00 and most was driver side kickpanel on door and small dent and same side quarter panel 1/4 in dent by my body side molding can post my pics in the shade on a sunny day and you can see the entire car front, sides and rear and 10 dings on the entire car paint faded on hood and roof, Doors windows lift motors new and window regulator completely rebuilt by me and resealed with dupont epoxie, this car has been restored for me to cruise everywhere without any fears of a breakdown, I restored to factory specs except for alum 14's but it was an opt for that car Have clean title no salvage must sell this car to a person like my self because I injured my back and may surgery and I don't want it to just sit in my storage or never roll again because I know a lot of you guys and gals are like me and would take care of my boy, Have a lot of love and sweat in this car
and over $3,000.00 invested in it parts only New radiator, Power steering reseivor, completely rebuilt front end asking $4500.00
Hmmm..might want to ask to have that moved to the "for sale" section.
He missed the "For Sale" section by a country mile....any more progress on the car???
Well, I got everything in the car: trans, d/s, etc. I finished up all the engine wiring. I still need to put the battery in the trunk, just need a disconnect switch and some time to put it in. Now that I am this close, I will be going backwards for a little. It will all be worth it in the end.
How much you asking for the Vortech? Anything wrong with it?
Not a thing wrong with it. Actually, I just spent alot of money on powder coating and a Maxflo bypass valve. I will be getting a list of parts and prices up soon.
Yeah Jim, more py weather on its way, So spring time it is.
Sounds like your gettting close, And Your Bird Should Be up an running too it seems.
Chris
Officially up for sale. Check out the for sale section.
Chris, sounds good. This winter is already not looking very good.
Jim
Sold the supercharger. It starts coming off tonight. I'll let you in on the surprise a little later.
Turbo setup....
I have to agree. "turbo coupe" user title kind of gives it away for me.
I figured it would be easy to figure out. The "turbo coupe" was actually on my sig for awhile, just as a joke to the harcore restorers.
Here's a quick pic:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/turbo/DSC03329.jpg)
I like the look of that thing Jim :)
Got some more done. Most of it is just mocked up, nothing fully tightened or installed. The brake lines on both sides will definately need some attention.
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03385mes.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC033807mes.jpg)
nice... whats up with the fitting in the inlet?
if your talkin about the brass fittin on the front of the turbo, that is in the outlet. the fitting is a boost reference generally used for wastegate control.
whats the specs on that snail? :evilgrin:
Gumby is correct.
It is a T76, s-trim wheel and a .96 A/R. Which is way overkill for now, but I will never have to upgrade.
Jim
Hay Thundr, Could you possibly post some pictures of the wheel clearance on the drivers side (JUST like the bottom two in post #64)??
I ask because I've been looking into the offset of my rear-end. Widening my rear track brought the wheels closer to the wheel lips (obviously) and made it more appearant to the eyes that my rear-end is about 1/2"+ offset to the drivers side. Just curious if your's is, too... wanted to see where your wheel sits in a couple pics...
BTW, everything looks great!
mmmmmmm...
It's still a Turbo Coupe just with 4 more cylinders :hick:
Here you go booksix. I think they are fairly even. How off are yours?
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/turbo/DSC03388.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/turbo/DSC03389.jpg)
More turbo pics. I am having some more fitment issues that need to be worked out before everything gets finalized.
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/turbo/DSC03393.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/turbo/DSC03392.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/turbo/DSC03390.jpg)
Dang, very even! I have to check things out. I'm atleast 1/2" to the drivers side. Check the pics here (they kinda suck but you'll see):
http://foxtbirdcougarforums.com/showthread.php?t=17466
My passenger wheel is perfectly in and the drivers side looks like your drivers side. I wanted to got to wider wheels as well but with this offset I'd be WAY out on the left...
BTW, great project... I have a similar one going, but TT
I just read your post and can't offer any other ideas.
I had looked at a twin kit(TDC). No preference one over the other, this one just worked out. I'd like to see some of your progress.
That's ok... I wasn't really looking for ideas, just wondering. I was having a hard time believing my rearend was supposed to be that far off! I'm gonna have to look into bent parts, control arms I guess...?
Anyway, I'm building my kit from scratch. Incon style (under the headers, dump into H-pipe) with FMIC. PMAS blow-thru, 255 in tank, 42's (for now) and planning on running MegaSquirt 2 (tuned from my indash computer) and hopefully going REAL flexfuel shortly after. Long way to go though, I will start a thread when I make some progress!
BTW, when will you have the car together for side shots? I wanna see the whole picture
Hmm, it would have to be more than one bent control arm.
Our fuel systems are fairlly similar. I was just going to use my 255 intank with a Boost a Pump, but I decided to add an inline also. I'll be running the same meter and injectors, but a PMS for the tuning.
Complete? I thought this car would be done for Carlisle '07. So I have no idea.
Jim
hahaha, yeah, I thought my TT kit would be done by early December. Looking more like April now. It always happens though.
As for the rear-end; I tried to measure today but only came up with 1/8" difference and I don't know how to tell if anything is bent (visually looks ok). I may be upgrading to MM arms soon anyway so maybe I'll wait and check everything over at that point. Thanks for the input!
Anyway, keep the pics coming, your work is looking amazing. Can't wait to see those wheels on a complete car!
PS: what is your clearance on the inside of your rear wheels/tires?
Hey Jim,thats starting to look pretty scary.Nice!
nice! can't wait to see it done!
Thanks for the compliments.
booksix, the clearance on the inner fenderwell is tight. I'm confident that it will still be ok while driving.
I just got my PMAS back from recal, so it's time to finish up the cold side!
Nice! I wish I was that far along. I have NO piping done yet. I have to make headers, all the cold and hot sides and build my MS wiring harness. I should start making some progress in about 2 months when I have more free time and some help.
Anyway, keep the updates coming. I want to see a "firing up" video soon!!
So, what you mean is, you think those meats will still tuck up behind the fender lip without hitting?
Another question:
Is your intercooler going to clear the brace that goes from the lower core support up to the header panel (and has part of he hood latch on it)? I have an AC condenser and a bigger, dual inlet IC and I need to completely refab this brace. It looks like your IC might fit, but thought I'd ask.
Update: I have the complete hot and cold side installed! I need to adjust a few pieces and final tighten everything. I am surprised how easy the downpipe fit. I guess the tubular k-member has helped. The caster/camber plates are making the inlet pipe a tight fit. The list of things to do before starting the car is still long: battery into trunk, inline pump, boost a pump, install all gauges, etc, etc.
Booksix: I'll get some better pics of the rear tires for you. The intercooler inlet tube is actually hittting the support right now.
I still think I'm the slowest. Great work, BTW
Nice work! You're really moving! I excited FOR you, wish I was moving that fast!
I was actually talking about the thin sheet metal brace that comes up right in the dead center of the back of the header panel, not the pieces the bumper bolts to. Any issues with this?
I didn't think about that. Guess I will figure it out when I get there.
Here are some pics of everything together. Installed the drivers side alt. I will have to shorten some of the intercooler piping that runs to the intake. The elbow into the tb will also need some work due to the c/c plates. Also, the wastegate ended up in a funny spot and will need some extra time.
I am going to get away from the engine bay for awhile and move onto the underside: d/s loop, inline pump and filter and exhaust.
Pics:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03403.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03404.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC03405.jpg)
wicked car prolly one of the besst engine bays ive ever seen.
awsome! keep the pics coming!
Thanks, I just got the battery box and disconnect switch installed. Now I just need to run the cable up front.
You keep gettin it there,I'll pick it up then!!
Lookin good bubba!
I made a mistake selling my '85, not going to make that mistake again with this one.
The more I see them pics,give me 4 min.
I know how you feel :) I did the same thing with my 88 bird.
Jim, your making me want to yank my 2.3 and start over. Looks awesome. I am jealous !
Chris, your car looks pretty clean. Remember, you are only seeing my engine bay!!!
Well, a quick update. I spent the day today trying to get this thing at least started. After a stripped dipstick tube, dead battery, etc...I ended up with a bad starter. I will pick up a new mini on Monday. Still need to wire in the MSD and Boost-a-pump, but it should at least start. It's a ugly wiring mess right now, but once I hear it start, it should get me motivated.
IT'S ALIVE! I installed the new starter, primed for oil pressure, traced down a bad TFI unit and it ran for the first time since 1/07. I didn't run it too long...I still need to get some lines heat wrapped, the computer didn't like the 42lb injectors and I want my wideband hooked up. Great incentive to get this project going.
AWESOME!!!
Good work man!
nice, how about a short video when you get some time :)
I can get a video once I get the PMS installed. It doesn't want to idle right now. These Borla XR1's are loud, I can't imagine them on a non-turbo car.
Keep at it,doin good.I need it to run right to get it home!!
Bring a big fat check and you can have it!
I'll get one of those big, publishers clearinghouse sized cardboard checks...the amount just won't be very big :D
Seriously though, the project looks amazing. I can't wait to see the finished car.
Jim, I just got caught up on your project. Looking real nice.
How much clearance is there by your pass. side tire? looks real close in the pics
I am getting excited to get this completed, well at least driveable. I got the wideband installed today, just need to permanently mount the gauge.
It looks a lot closer in those pics than it really is. Once I start refitting the front end, I will cut and refit the intercooler piping.
Its not fat but it got a lot of 0's,Hey bubba show me a pic of what I paid for!!LOL.
I will come and see,Trying to get both of mine goin.
Your money is in there somewhere. Come buy this Vortech off of me and make another donation!
A month and a half and no progress.....I think I am a little burned out on this. Hopefully Carlisle gets me back in the mood.
Honestly, I think I'm the slowest, I'm still not done and all I'm doing is swapping over to HO spec. I'm getting there, but don't post anything cause it seems like noone cares, lol. :punchballs:
I know how you feel. I have a rear, control arms, springs, and 11" brake upgrade to do and I'm acting like I have nothing to do because I don't have the block back yet.
There's nothing wrong with a little break. It'll be 3 weeks this weekend that I haven't done anything. I do some work for a couple weekends, then take a few off.
Bob whats the radiator out of?
I'm not sure, you would have to ask mercoug302 he would know. I'll look at it this weekend and see if it has any markings. Its pretty thick and looks like its going to cool pretty good.
anyway back to thundr306's thread sorry for the HJ :o
Hey Jim it was nice to meet you out at Carlisle, hopefully that put you back in the mood to get that Bird going.
I look forward to seeing that car in person !
Ditto.
I work on these cars as a time to relax and forget about the daily stresses. I'm in no hurry. Then again, I've worked on daily driver's enough to get grey hairs by age 30, lol.
Any pics available of the 315's from the side or 3/4 view with the car on the ground? Perhaps yet the best black t-bird I've seen yet.
cant wait to see this thing done!!
Thanks, nice to meet you also. I am trying to get motivated, but I'm just not yet. I thought hearing it run would do it. I guess that I am now shooting for the end of the year.
YEH YEH,Hop to it.
There are some pics floating around, but none with it on the ground/outside yet. Soon, hopefully.
Any outside on the ground pics yet? I know your in the process of some amount of paintwork. Extremely curious to see the 315's! :)
Sorry, no progress at all. Been too busy playing with the motorcycles. Getting the itch to get it going again.
Hey Jim check my thread tomorrow night. It will have some motivation, I'll have 408 itches for ya!
I'm back for an update. I finally decided that the car was close enough to being completed for me to drop it off somewhere. They will be finishing up some loose end and taking it to be dyno tuned. I hate to do it, but I just don't have the time lately. I should be delivering it around the end of the month.
Jim
That sounds nice. Whatever gets it done. I cant wait to see it al together and going
Kills some of the pride, but I want to drive it. It is finally off the jackstands and ready to be pulled onto the trailer. Just waiting for a phone call.
You worked for the money so its still your effort going into the car.
My drop off time got delayed. I wanted to make sure there was enough fuel supply.
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00591-2.jpg)
!
I have learned some things while installing the fuel system:
1) make sure you get fuel rails that clear your distributor
2) tighten fuel rail fittings before installing rail
3) an fittings are expensive
4) working in a painted engine bay is killing me
5) there is not much room for fuel lines
I will try to post up some pics tonight. I am hoping my return will not be too close. I only have an air gap between it and the downpipe. The downpipe is JetHot coated and the lines are wrapped in 2000 degree foil.
That might work.... LOL
Is there any other wa to route the return line? that doesnt sould like alot of fun and I would hate to see this go up in flames
With the location of the regulator, I really have to run the lines where they are. The passenger side is tight with the downpipe and the crossover pipe.
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00609.jpg)
nn
Header wrap the down-pipe and the fuel line. Then do the foil over the line.
That should be enough to keep the heat down. :hick:
Hey Jim-your car looks like it's coming along real good. Number 3 and 4 spark plugs look like fun to change. I hope you change your mind and finish it yourself-from what I saw you were doing a very nice job.
Good time for those outside shots eh? Unless your hiding all new paint and don't want to post pics. :rollin:
Still waiting, huh? This car hasn't seen sunshine in over a year. Trust me, there is no killer paint job that I'm hiding. I am way behind in budget for paint work. If it wasn't for the wheels I could pull off the sleeper look when it's up and running.
Jim, Your kinda getting away from a DD.
I'm in the same boat. Everywhere I turn I need more money to get this thing running. I thought of getting rid of my ponies and putting the turbines back on it for the same reasons... I ate through my paint budget too :(
Funny. I actually really wanted this car when I bought it to keep as a DD. It already had the 5.0 swap, was fairly clean and a fun car to drive. But when it is apart, you always find something else you want to add. I have decided to put my cycle up for sale to help pay for everything. I'm sure Bob is in the same spot as I am.
Money is easily thrown out the window when you aren't ready, lol. Things get in the way, and projects come to a halt. I've been stuck for a few months now. Winter porject....yeah right. More like 10 winters project. Sorry, I'm just trying to make you guys feel better, lol.
Took some time today to mock up some parts. I will get some pics in a few minutes.
Going to make long trips and luggage an issue :burnout:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00611.jpg)
Camera was dying, so this is the best I could do:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00612.jpg)
I am going with a fuel cell in the trunk as well. In looking at yours, where did you get it? And especially the white reservoir you have? Here's the look I was going for, but yours seems more practical...especially for street use.
Dude luggage racks are coming back, I can hook you up with one just say the word :hick:
Looking good with the pics, keep up the good work.
I think the white tank is for methane injection
You got it!
Havi- there is nothing visibly wrong with your setup. I actually wish that I had bought a bigger tank.
Do I need to come out there and push the friggin thing outside myself and take pics?
Wheels man, gotta see the wheels..
:)
I was so close, but had to put it back up for the tank and methanol lines. It should be outside and up on the trailer by the end of Nov.
Wow, a month since my last post. I have been working on the car when time allows. All the work that I was going to have someone else do for me, has been completed. I went and met with the tuner yesterday and now have an appointment for Nov 26th. He gave me a good estimate on hp, but we will see. He said he will leave it up to me when to stop. I'll post up some pics of what progress has been made.
Jim what shop is doing the tuning?
I'm going up to PSI Motorsports.
Thats about 75 miles from me, let me know how you like them. I'm looking to get a tune when I finally get done.
How about some pics of your progress ;)
I've heard good things about them. plus there close to me.
They seemed like a decent shop. We will see. I spent about an hour there talking with them about my car...what needed to be done before, what they would be doing and weak spots in my car. I can't wait.
cool man, I'm glad you see the light at the end of the tunnel! its crazy how long this stuff takes to do. When did you start this project? Just curious because I'm about 8 months in and have lots to do still.
I don't think that I want to look back and see when I started. It may make me sick.
That's how I feel after 18 months.
It's been 9 months since I first bought the 5.0 engine being used for my 270rwhp project! Gotta love the money bottleneck haha.
Ain't that the truth! If it wasn't for money I might be done by now! :hick:
Bad day at the dyno......
Started off with the car having some blow by out of the valve cover. He asked if I wanted to continue on and I said that I wanted to get a base tune in it. We were getting really good power, cutting it out around 3400rpm. We wrapped to breather to keep the oil from dripping on the header. It wasn't getting any worse so we made a partial full pull: 474hp@5400rpm, 464tq@5150rpm. That was without any timing pulled out and no methanol injection. With the ability to tune the top end more, we could have made approx 520 to the wheels. I am guessing there is a ring/piston problem. I'm not sure what I am going to do. I may park it and tear it down or I may put the front end on it, plumb a catch can and drive it until it breaks.
ALL,! the time you spent on it, I would run it till you broke it.
You maxed an old block, so now no cat jam again this year!!
I really feel for you, I know what your trying to do.
Jim- a lot of mustang guys talk about this on the forums all the time. A lot of people run a breather on each valve cover. I do this plus a little breather on the pcv valve(Turbo coupe valve). When I had one breather on only one valve cover and the pcv blocked off my breather would drip when I stayed in the boost (about 8 lbs.) but that would be the only time it did that. PCV probems/issues are discussed a lot on different mustang forums-I'm sure you've done your homework because your car has come out really nice. I just wanted to tell you my personal experience-now with all the time you've had not driving the car I say drive it until it breaks-it probably won't!! Keep posting up pics-I enjoy seeing the progress.
Ken
Yea, I know that they will drip some. You can put your hand about 3 inches over the opening and actually feel the exhaust pulses blowing out. I'm not sure how long it would stay together at that power either. I am going to check it out a little further this weekend. There may be a sale on engine parts if I don't like what I see.
Some pics:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00700.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00704.jpg)
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00702.jpg)
send in pics to MM&FF. Get the birds some recognition.
effing sweet dood. looks gorgeous. hopefully things come together for you!
Really lookin' great!! Personal opinion, use an F150 to tow it next time. I really hate seeing a Ford being pulled by a bowtie. The other way around doesn't bother me though. lol.
More not so good news....just drained the oil and it looked like metallic paint. Seems to be aluminum.
that sucks......
I have a 302 block in my shed, and my brother is up from PA for a few weeks. If you wind up needing a new block, I'll hook you up cheap.
Hey man sorry to hear the bad news. Hope things work out for you and this project. Stay with it will turn around :burnout:
I am going to try and stick with it. I was so ready to put this on the road and drive it.
Only video I have and I stopped it early!
http://s12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/?action=view¤t=M2U00200.flv
Be sure to fullsize it. That was to 5400rpm
http://s12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/?action=view¤t=DSC00702.jpg
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That thing is packin' alright. I'll say also that it looks positively sinister, the black bullitt wheels do it IMO. We're gonna need some burnout/donut/something crazy and or stupid videos :hick:
Ill second the MM&FF comment. DO IT its worthy of that alright...
Oh sweet. Feel free to donate it to me :D .
That car is definatley magazine material man...those deep dish bullitts look perfect on there and you can tell by the vid it is not short on power either. Keep up the good work!!!
Hey Jim, Did you get a tune so you can drive it?
I seen where you were selling on corral.
Yes, but we ended up going with a different system for tuning. Also, with the motor being hurt, I could use some money!
Oh yeh, whats up with that? Theres a lb 351 on craig list $75.
I haven't tore it down yet, but here's my guess...broken ring(s), piston rubbing the side of the block. I don't really want to go with a 351. Would need a new intake, crossover pipe and possibly have to relocate the turbo. I may drop a stock block in and go for it.
I got my old "so" at my shop 89+ on it. If you need it.
I would bet his block is in pretty good shape. He gave some top end parts out of it, and they looked brand new. Looked like you where smokin the wheels on the dyno.
I just found out that the MD dyno that I was on reads about 12% lower than the Dynojet dyno. I wish I had been on one of them instead....530rwhp@5400rpm sounds so much better!!!
I have been looking around at short/long blocks. The ones I want are way too much money. Looks like I am going to be looking for a used block or I'll have to see if mine can go to .040 over!
That is a really good looking car!! Very very nicely done!! Keep it up, that car will be worth it!!
I have hear you can go .060 over! Not sure if its true but Im sure .040 wont be bad, even under boost.
100 bucks and i can get it to PA
I doubt that I will go that way....sorry.
Lucky cylinder number one has 40psi!!!!!
Hey Jim,
Sorry to see this. I guess it will be a long winter.
Wow, you still around??? Yea, it's a bummer.
yea I didnt think so. I mean I really just want the block gone, if you really need one, I could just send it down there just to get it gone. Its hogging my engine stand, oiled up in a bag.
Had the head checked and all was ok. Looks like bottom end issues. I had an idea that was the problem, but didn't want to accept it.
No sighn of anything in the cyl.
Cylinder looks ok. I'm going to try to pop the piston out with the engine still in the car.
With the subframe member you put in you might be able to pull the pan. You may need to raise the motor a bit.
I'll be going bye sat. if you need some help.
Thanks. If I can get out there tonight, I am going to give it a try. It looks like I will have to lower the steering rack. The tubular k-member has plenty of clearance to the oil pan.
wish you the best!
Before you over bore the block make sure to get it sonic checked and magnafluxed so you don't end up blowing it again.;)
Got the piston out last night. The rings are locked into the lands. No sealing at all. The piston edge and skirt are all tore up, possibly even a few hairline cracks.
This block was gone through about two years ago. If I build another block, it sure won't be this one.
Didn't look thur all 25 pages, but what are you using to tune with now?
Did I see 16.5 AF on the dyno screen??
Is the car a stick and what size turbo are you running? Looks like a
Hellion from the frt?
I also agree on the tow vechicle
Had a Anderson PMS(now for sale), but now has a custom SCT tune. They were using a standalone A/F sensor. It is a stick car for now. Turbo is a 76mm and it is a Hellion kit.
Tow vehicle ends up being whatever is cheap at the time of purchase!
Jim
Jim,
I think you will be much happier with the SCT chip over the PMS.
I'm a SCT dealer and have seen 50-75 RWHP gain by changing from
PMS to a SCT custom tune. It was on a SN95 347 S trim T5 car.
Car is looking GREAT. Let me know if you have any questions on the
tuning. I have done sevral Hellion cars.
A budyy of mine is "Quicktime Turbo" the 1 that is being bashed on
"Corral" for not delivering. But anyway I tuned alot of his cars.
Later Greg
Just giving you a hard time on the tow vechicle. LOL
Thanks. I am sure I will have a few questions once it gets back on the road.
Do you have any short or long blocks laying around the shop for sale???
Ok, had the block checked out today. I can replace a piston, rings and have the cylinder honed. I guess that I have to do it, instead of buying another block. I will still be into it for a few hundred dollars for all the parts and gaskets. I hate putting money into the stock block. Right now I would hate to put out money for a built shortblock. I am afraid that I will go through with the repairs and just bust up the bottom end.
A couple hundred do drive it a bit is not so bad.
Gives you time to do the future build.
I'm still around. Another month gone by and it just sits. I think that I have decided to wait and get an aftermarket 4-bolt block. I need to find the right one. Anyone interested in my short/longblock let me know. 306(1 new piston!), arp rod bolts, forged pistons, crane cam. Longblock includes Edelbrock aluminum heads. If I find what I want, I will post mine for sale in the right section.
Hang in there Jim, it will come together.. nothing alittle time and money can't fix ;) in the meantime we'll be waiting patiently :)
No thoughts of doing a 351w motor? Stronger block cheaper than a 4 bolt 302 :) more cubes.. blah blah... you know
Yea, unlimited money would help.
Thought about a 351. I would need some new parts obviously. If one comes up for the right price, I would consider it.
Right price could use it for the black cat.
Why don't you just bring a big check and pick it all up????
I'll let you know what happens.
How about cash, for it all.? Whats all?
I had considered parting it all out, but the chassis would have to sell first. I change my mind 100x a day.
reread post #135 in this thread :burnout: :burnout: :burnout:
Thanks, that made me laugh!
About time:
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00827.jpg)
About time?
For what?
1 shiny new piston.
I seen that.Are you goin forward with the oringable idea?
Keep a gettin it Jim,,,,,,, you gotsta, gotsta proceed !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
that is one BAD MO FO ride
I like it.
No money for an aftermarket shortblock. Looks like I will have to turn the boost way down and keep my fingers crossed.
Ride it out Jim, It will all work out, I know and seen what you were doing. It's there yet!
Don't sell it, just ride it out. I'm doing a turbo build too just starting I don't want to feel like it can't be done!! Hold it together Jim!
HOOOOOOOLD!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1NupxasQWs&feature=related
Ok, I am back on track with the car again. My truck, 03 Avalanche, and my bike, 00 Kawasaki ZR7, are both up for sale....Who needs them when I can have a 500+ RWHP car?
Noooooowww!! ( from the youtube video LOL) so anyway post #135 stands ;) Glad to hear that. Good luck with the sales, can't wait to see more from this project
Good to hear!
now that's what i am talkin about !!!!!!!!!!
Ok, sold the bike and now I am working on the truck. Weather is starting to get a little warmer here, so I should start making some progress soon. Take a look at what I scored below. I have wanted one of these forever!
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a242/thundr306/87%20turbo%20coupe/DSC00873.jpg)
sweet.
I finally got my daily driver situation straightened out. So, back to work. Today I got the connecting rod torqued back in, got the head back on, installed the pushrods/roller rockers. I am shooting for a week or two(I know I work slow!) to have this fired back up. Even after I get the top end on, I need to reinstall the oil pan, steering rack and flush the system.
Lower intake bolted up today.
Well, if my chassis can sell, I think I am calling it quits. See chassis post in for sale section.
What does "calling it quits" mean exactly?
If I sell the chassis, I will no longer have anything to build. After I sell all the parts, I don't think I could/would do it again. This is the second time.
Post #135? LOL , goodluck in your next project Jim... Make sure you post about it when you start. Alot of us including myself enjoy reading your thread and seeing the work you have done
So close.... just go all the way!
I don't think there will be another one. The one I sold many years ago is the one I was attached to. I had it for almost 12yrs and was my DD for at least half the time.
May have to come up with another plan...some interest, but no money yet.
One last price...$5200 roller.
If it helps, I am willing to remove the wheels, tires and Baer front brake kit and make it $4000. It would still come with all the following:
87 TC chassis, former FL car(87-04)
custom rollbar, ART swingouts, through the floor 2x3 subframes(prof. painted black)
smoothed and painted engine bay done prof. (copper red mica), most wiring hidden
tinted windows
Viper alarm w/remote pager and display
Tubular front suspension w/coilovers
Flaming River rack and shaft, w/steeda bump steer kit
Maximum motorsports caster/camber plates
Koni adjustables
2.5" fiberglass cowl hood
fuel cell
trunk mount alum battery box w/flaming river shutoff
Steeda 8.8 cover
rear 5 lug conversion
Motorsports aluminum radiator
new dash cap
Etc, etc
The car and parts are 100% officially for sale.
With a serious offer, I may include a 16ft, 10k car trailer.
Pls keep all selling and such in the Classified section.
Sure Chuck. I just wanted anyone that was reading this thread to see that it was for sale. You can either lock this or I will just stop posting on this thread.
I'll close it since you have the other thread up.