If it isn't broke, it may still need fixing
Without a plan, you'll never know where you're going.
The RCR GT40 is a very good kit, and built as it was originally designed, many users will be very happy with the results. However, there are a few design considerations which I feel can be improved on and I am always on that ‘make it period-correct’ mission. With this in mind, while I was waiting for delivery, I began to map out my plan. The list kept getting longer and longer, and was even modified after I took delivery and began building.
This is a list of modifications incorporated into my build. As information becomes available, each section will link to the data on that particular subject.
- Period-correct front frame
- Front clip pivot
- Repair and relocate inner shells, front and rear
- Add pivot clamp plates
- Defrost system added to the HVAC system
- Front nostril ducting
- Functional NACA ducts
- Fuel tank cross-over
- Rear hip flairs
- Rear clip pivot system
- Rear clip ducting, brake and cooling
- Spider bulkheads
- Relocate rollbar to engine compartment
- Door hinge improvements
- Door anti-intrusion
Timeframe
Going into the project, I knew it would take some time. Having helped on a couple other GT40 builds, I knew they were a little more complex than a Cobra build. I didn’t realize how much more so.
There are certain things that must be ‘worked around’
- The RCR kit is top-notch, however they do leave a whole lot to your imagination. They do have some instructional pages, but for the most part, they are vague and/or out-dated. It is important to refer to them for background, but if you are reliant on a Step 1, Step2, Step 3 type approach, you’re not going to find it on their pages.
- The kit is relatively complete but you will constantly run into items and details that are not included. Example, the door handle is mounted to a bracket fiberglassed to the door. But no spacers, hardware or instructional details. You’re pretty much on your own or reliant on input from other builders.
- Modifications will add exponentially to the time the build takes.
- Limited knowledge base: The cobra replica hobby group is relatively large (in comparison) and fairly well-connected and well-documented. If you encounter a snag, there’s likely someone else who has had the same issue, and it has been reported/documented on one of the various replica building sites available. With the GT40’s, that group is one-tenth the size. Instead of a dozen of different build forums, there’s only one: GT40s.com and searching for information on that site can be daunting. It’s a great site but there are many broken links and missing pictures.
- And lastly, I really under-estimated how the GT40 design is so compact and refined. You want to run fuel injection? Where are you going to mount the electronics and sensors? How will you develop a single reliable high-pressure fuel source from two independent tanks? It all adds to additional time to develop, prototype, and install/modify the existing hardware. Not saying it can’t be done, just it takes additional time (and $ $ $)
If you are contemplating a build, I strongly suggest you get in touch with someone close to you, building a GT40 and get to know them and their project, before jumping into the deep end.
