Shell Valley build coming along

[john chesnut]

I'm happy to tell you about my replica. I built a steel space frame that incorporates a stressed trans tunnel(back bone). I built in the suspension pick up points for C5 Corvette aluminum, double aframe suspension. Because the Cobra is narrower than the C5, Denny's driveshaft supplied me with 2 inch narrower axles. A custom steering rack was made to maintain the proper geometry when I narrowed the front track to fit the Cobra. The Vette uses a transaxle which will not fit in the Cobra. I designed an adapter plate and had a an input shaft machined that allowed a driveshaft to hook up to the Vette's aluminum diff. The diff bolts into the rear of the trans tunnel. I used an aluminum LS6 Vette engine. 405hp stock and bolted it to a Tremec 6 speed trans from a camaro. Forte's supplied a shifter relocation kit to position the shifter in the proper place as the engine is set way back. Tubular Automotive custom built the headers and sidepipes which I designed to go up and over my foot boxes. This keeps the footboxes cool and allows me to have maximum leg room. My frame wraps around you so I sit 3 inches lower than a stock Cobra. This was necessary as I am reasonably tall. I built an aluminum fuel tank. I didn't want it showing so I molded in the rear of the Cobra so when you look from the rear you see a nice smooth body. I am running 18 inch wheels front and rear. 275 tires up front, 295 in the rear. I painted it Corvette Atomic Orange Effect and I have Shell Valley's soft top for inclement weather. I drive the car as much as possible. It's plenty fast, gets over 30mpg, and I can have it serviced at any repair shop or GM dealer.

I know that my car is not for the purist. But, I love it. John