Backdraft production changes

flybynav1965 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-13-2006, 09:57 AM

Greetings,
I am considering a Backdraft, and spoke to the owners briefly on the phone. I have also spoken with a few owners of earlier model backdrafts.

Are the backdrafts constantly being "upgraded" at the factory when there are minor "issues" with the cars? I heard that the painter was changed awhile ago. Can the owners comment on what changes and upgrades were done on the current production line and when they were done? ie chassis number. Do these changes occur after feedback from owners expressing their concerns?

I am just trying to get all the info that I can, for we know this is not an inexpensive purchase.

Cheers
Joe
Tucson, AZ

SkipB · #2 (**permalink**) 07-13-2006, 04:41 PM

Joe,

Like most manufacturers, Backdraft is constantly changing and upgrading their product. I have asked them to list any running changes as I think the owners possibly would buy some of the upgrades to keep their car current. So far, no response. But, judging by the number of cars they have made, they may be a little too busy building new ones to worry about listing changes! I just hope someday they take the time to do so. It will make for a stronger, more valuable car in the future.

Good luck with your purchase. If you go with Backdraft, I think you will be satisfied. Much of the satisfaction comes from the person/company that does your engine and transmission installation. There are many small details involved and in my opinion, it is best to go with a shop/dealer experienced with Backdrafts.

ROUSHAC · #3 (**permalink**) 07-13-2006, 04:55 PM

Ditto to what Skip said. It's apparently been a real busy year for them from what I can see.

Cheers!
Dave

jeffko · #4 (**permalink**) 07-14-2006, 10:54 AM

Skip,

It looks like they are addressing the upgrade issue with a registry.

SACoupe · #5 (**permalink**) 09-01-2006, 10:38 PM

Flyby,
After a recent visit to Tony and the guys at the factory in Durban, I can tell you that there are constant changes going on all the time, This is due to Tony finding better ways to do things and make sure the customer is getting the most bang for his buck.

It was clear that Tony was looking at making a better car by using better parts and neater ways of mounting and fitting things, I do know that some of the suspension/drivetrain parts are upgraded and much stronger than before.
The Painter only changed due to Paul going off to set up a Cobra shop in another city, However the Piantwork remains of the same standard, so no worries there.
And yes the changes are partly due to customer feedback. as well as local race track development with the local backdraft boys racing teams giving feedback and Tony's assistance at the circuits leading to constant product improvements.
I also saw a Brand new Master Mould.
So i would definitely say............Go with a BDR........ no worries.
Remember a hand built car is always going to have a few niggles to sort out........ This is a RACE CAR..........not a new 750 Beemer..
Ian

thunder1 · #6 (**permalink**) 09-02-2006, 02:56 AM

SAcope
You said "I do know that some of the suspension/drivetrain parts are upgraded and much stronger than before" which parts are these and can we get a look at what we can do to make are cars better.
ED

Cashburn · #7 (**permalink**) 09-02-2006, 05:23 AM

The registry will become an important tool for this. Backdraft will be documenting the production changes and will also be offering upgrade parts where feasible for earlier car customers to bring their cars up to the latest production specifications. The customer commitment not only goes forward but backward.

SkipB · #8 (**permalink**) 09-03-2006, 03:06 PM

Jay,

That all sounds great! When do you expect the registry to become available, or at least a partial list?

Skip B

Cashburn · #9 (**permalink**) 09-03-2006, 05:53 PM

From what I understand there are a number of exciting things expected to launch very soon.

Has everyone seen the new "lightweight" model? Setup for racing with a 3" taller roll bar...

SACoupe · #10 (**permalink**) 09-04-2006, 08:46 AM

Ed, Sorry for the late reply,
I speak under correction about what exact parts where beefed up, but if i recall it was the driveshafts and Universal housings/upright carriers on the rear and then some other stuff.
I think Cashburn may have better info on that as he is in Direct contact with Tony, however I am going down to the factory tomorrow to find a T5 Yoke for my Mustang, will ask Tony for exact details. and if possible will post here tomorrow evening again.
Cashburn..........OOPS hope I havent gone and spoilt a surprise for someone.
hope that helps
Ian

SACoupe · #11 (**permalink**) 09-06-2006, 08:05 AM

Ok Guys, I visited Tony down at the factory yesterday and heres what i saw.
The new lightweight track day chassis is looking awesome.....
The changes he showed me were the following, Uprated/stronger Front suspension parts, Same for the rear, most are manufactured in house now.
these include thicker driveshafts with stronger CV/Joints for IRS.
The new Body mould for the wider rear arches is looking awesome too.
For those that are concerned about the new painter. Saw some of his work.....awesome stuff to me it looks way batter than previous stuff.......
Hope that keeps the curiosity satisfied for a while.
Cheers
Ian

ROUSHAC · #12 (**permalink**) 09-06-2006, 08:48 AM

Thanks, Ian!

Good info.

Always nice to have a "spy"

working for us.

Cheers!
Dave

Dennis Kelley · #13 (**permalink**) 09-06-2006, 10:19 AM

Reg mentioned the "lightweight" to me and said it would possibly be at sebring.The BDR is light I just wonder how much lighter it could be.

later

dennis

SACoupe · #14 (**permalink**) 09-06-2006, 10:03 PM

how about 950 compared to 1150??
Those were the numbers mentioned by Tony, as well as a lightweight trackday body with Coremat sandwich construction.
That should whet some more appetites......................................

Cashburn · #15 (**permalink**) 09-07-2006, 10:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dennis Kelley

Reg mentioned the "lightweight" to me and said it would possibly be at sebring.The BDR is light I just wonder how much lighter it could be.

later

dennis

The Reptile Roundup should see the introduction of the Slimfast model

It lost over 350lbs.

I also hear the old Run and Gun motor found a new home in something even more exciting.

jeffko · #16 (**permalink**) 09-07-2006, 07:57 PM

WOW..loosing 350 lbs is remarkable.

My car was delivered at 1770 lbs in Oct of 2004. 1420 lbs make my mouth water.

SACoupe · #17 (**permalink**) 09-10-2006, 10:19 AM

OOps looks like i got my figures all screwd up......yes it is about 300lbs which the car will be losing.