Getting Ready For ERA Build ... Suggestions ?

[PANAVIA]

Tim, my sugestions are more technical and ground level than top level. -- invest in marking tape, pentel sharpies, ziplock bags, and collision wrap to protect the car in assembly process.

[patrickt]

Remember that if you want the undercar exhaust then you can't get the outboard braked rear. But since you're building more of a street car, there's a better than even chance that you'll never have to change the rear pads anyway. Think about what dash you want (some like or don't like the drop down dash). The quick-release steering hub is a little pricey, but there are some real advantages to having it (easier to work under the dash, theft deterrent, easy to change the orientation of the wheel because you might not want it straight). Powder coat everything, check your state laws on defrosters (some states actually require them), and then just look at every option that ERA offers and see if you want to buy it. The problem with that though is that every one of their options is really, really cool. While you're checking your state laws, check to see if you get any benefit from having a block that is a certain age (and thus bypass the emissions issue). Every state is different, but for some, having a "new engine" with an "old block" can really make a difference.

[tkb289]

Originally Posted by patrickt

Remember that if you want the undercar exhaust then you can't get the outboard braked rear. But since you're building more of a street car, there's a better than even chance that you'll never have to change the rear pads anyway. Think about what dash you want (some like or don't like the drop down dash). The quick-release steering hub is a little pricey, but there are some real advantages to having it (easier to work under the dash, theft deterrent, easy to change the orientation of the wheel because you might not want it straight). Powder coat everything, check your state laws on defrosters (some states actually require them), and then just look at every option that ERA offers and see if you want to buy it. The problem with that though is that every one of their options is really, really cool. While you're checking your state laws, check to see if you get any benefit from having a block that is a certain age (and thus bypass the emissions issue). Every state is different, but for some, having a "new engine" with an "old block" can really make a difference.

Good point about the rear brakes ... since I am not racing, I won't need to replace them all that often, just periodic brake bleeding. Something to consider.

Exhaust, planing on the FIA exhaust, or a system a bit quieter, but that still exits in front of the rear tire (kind of like the GT350 Mustang), need to talk to the ERA guys about this.

The dash is a good question. I like all (3) that ERA offers, the flat bottom FIA dash, the street 'dropped dash' and the flat bottom 427 style dash. The biggest issue will be space for my right knee. I sat in Dangerous Doug's FIA with the FIA dash, and I am jammed right into the dash, with my right knee. Peter said they can tweak things a bit, but I have a feeling the 'dropped dash' is out, just for that reason alone.

Powder coat the frame ... yes, what else needs it?

I do plan on a heater, defroster and wipers, the whole shot.

Motor wise, an 'old block' does me no good. California has a process where 500 cars per year, are issued a special exemption (SB-100) provided all of the paperwork is done properly and on time ... the whole deal is well documented here on CC and I have a number of SB-100 veterans to call on for advice ... right guys ??? (Rodney, Doug(s), Steve ... hello ... hello ... )

Many things to consider, part of the fun!

- Tim

[tkb289]

Originally Posted by PANAVIA

Tim, my sugestions are more technical and ground level than top level. -- invest in marking tape, pentel sharpies, ziplock bags, and collision wrap to protect the car in assembly process.

Steve,

Good advice, I already have some of the stuff, but the biggest prep I will have is cleaning out my garage ... ... to make some room !

- Tim