Removing FIA roll bar on an ERA

[66gtk]

The outboard rear brakes are much easier to service and I can't really comment on which one is "better" since I don't track the car. The jag style rear end is very nice for a street car. I wouldn't expect a dramatic difference in "feel" for street driving between the two. They both work great.

You could line up 10 seemingly similar 427 FE builds and 10 seemingly similar SBF builds and you would have 20 different performing engines, each with their own mannerisms. Each engine is set up uniquely to the skill and preferences of their mechanics and owners. They all perform differently and they all age differently based on driving style and owner care/maintenance.

These are my opinions that I've shared since you asked. Enjoy your car. If you have a 351 in your FIA, you likely have a winning combo right there, and since you like the way it "revs and drives", don't look back (:

[fastd]

good advice. thank you.

[patrickt]

I have the outboard braked rear. From a performance/ride standpoint on the street, there's not much of a difference. But, from a maintenance point of view, repairs and maintenance are much easier. That's not just the brake pads either, if you have to change out a stub axle on the differential you can do it in a half hour -- without having to drop the rear or pull the hub. Popping the half shafts out is quick and straight forward, as is rotor replacement. Let's say you wanted to replace the pads, rotors, and repack the inner & outer wheel bearings. On the ERA outboard braked rear that's an afternoon's job, moving at a leisurely pace and, again, you don't have to drop the rear to do it (although you do have to pull the hub). On an XKE with the inboard brakes, it's a nightmare. On an ERA with the Jag rear, it's less of a bad day, but still a significant PITA. Changing out U-Joints is another example. Go with the outboard braked rear, you'll be glad you did.

[otto]

HI, did you powder coat the roll bar in satin or gloss black , it looks much better black then chrome
thanks Bob

[xb-60]

Originally Posted by fastd

66gtk,

You've owned both an ERA 427 and FIA now...care to share observations?

Of course, it's a given that an FIA is the better looking (and particularly with a black roll-over bar )

[otto]

could you tell me how long it took you to remove the roll bar setup
going to do the change as soon as mine is here
thank you

[66gtk]

Originally Posted by otto

could you tell me how long it took you to remove the roll bar setup
going to do the change as soon as mine is here
thank you

Plan on fighting with some tight clearances. These aren't legos. Mine was seemingly initially fit with some BFH swings which actually damaged the chrome. Your mileage may vary.