Speedometer Cable One of the items that must be purchased locally is the speedometer cable. It isn’t detailed anywhere that depending on the transmission you use, you may also need a speedometer reverser. The speedometer registers counter-clockwise but the output from most transmissions is clockwise. I also learned of a tip to install the speedo cable thru the cowl support tubes, to keep it hidden. I purchased a Mustang cable from a local parts store, it adapted to my TKO600 without a hitch, but was too long. A query to one of the forums I use and I learned the cable could easily be shortened.Read More →

Finished indexing bellhousing to  block. Finished modified motormounts. Mounted transmission and installed motor. Kool!!  Installed slave cylinder & clutch As you do your research on the internet, you’ll see kits being built with all kinds of bellhousings. Stock cast iron, aluminum, aftermarket scattershields. If you’ve ever seen a clutch blow, you’ll understand why the scattershield is the only logical answer. I used a Lakewood 15210. It comes with the blockplate and mounting hardware. Be aware, you will need a couple socket head capscrews to mount it properly. The holes are too close to the bend in the housing and standard bolts won’t fit. I wentRead More →

The basic IRS comes with Ford brake calipers from a 93-97 Thunderbird. One of Ford’s better ideas is the way the emergency brake is actuated. Normally, on a bowden cable, the inner flexible cable is pulled to create the movement. The outer cable serves as an anchor. In this application, the inner cable is fixed to the caliper and relies on the movement of the outer cable when the inner cable is shortened by by the movement of the  brake lever. Sounds good on paper but in reality, it sux. If there is any extra movement, it decreases the efficiency of the setup. In this case,Read More →

I chose to include the IRS option with my car. Three items entered into the decision 1) I was trying to be period correct –  the original car also carried an independent rear suspension 2) I did not plan to race the car, but was interested in the best ride and handling possible 3) Re-sale value with an IRS is higher As stated earlier, I also chose to have the car provided in an “Un-assembled” condition. This adds a few complexities to the IRS. 1) Handling – it isn’t the lightest piece in the build. I found my floor jack would serve as a make-shiftRead More →

The stock latch leaves a little to be desired. The angle and bolt are functional but not much more can be said for them. I added a bracket to the rear of the frame to accommodate the second leg of a square u-bolt. When the final assembly is done, the rear cross member and this bracket will be drilled to accept the u-bolt. I had cause to put the body onto the frame to check another modification. Gave me a chance to photograph the  bracket and body clearance. My bracket is 2½” front to rear. This provides 1/8″ clearance inside of the body.Read More →

Finish and paint IRS – Fitting IRS to frame. DEGREE YOUR CAM! Return camshaft to CraneCams. Ground incorrectlyRead More →