[Dangerous Doug]

Lippy: I built my ERA 289 FIA and spread the cost out over time. I bought the "basic kit" from ERA with a few key options, and then as I finished one phase of the project I'd call ERA and buy the next phase parts.

My one compromise on my build is that I bought a used engine from a fellow ClubCobra member. I wanted a Keith Craft 347, but it was going to take too long to save up the dough, and I decided I wanted my Cobra running. The used engine has been fantastic, and I only paid $1500 for it (It's a 302 pumping about 340-360 fwhp).

After running the "used engine" for 3 years I decided it was time to either "freshen it up" or get the engine I intended to put into my Cobra. I presently have a Keith Craft 331 short block sitting in my garage and I'm going to build it up over the next six months and install it next winter---pretty much like I built my Cobra. Doing it this way, I spread the cost out over time and enjoy the process of building.

Life threw me a couple of curve balls during all of this process, as life will, and working on my Cobra has been a great escape.

So, my advice is, if you are building the Cobra yourself, as you put it together buy what you need when you need it and spread the cost out. You'll get your awesome Cobra, which is almost as fun to build as it is to drive.

Cheers,
Dangerous Doug