ERA 2136 Build Log

[tkb289]

Rodney,

Duly noted

[PANAVIA]

I am not happy with what I see in oil consumption in 331, and 347 piston choices -- thats why I went 326.

ZERO oil consumption after the first 500 miles. (only used about a quart) now it has 4600 miles.

5.3L in a 289-302 form factor is pretty cool.

Steve

[tkb289]

Time for an update:

Joy and Dennis were just at ERA and took this photo (Thank You!) of 2136 … looks like progress since the last photos.

The full width roll bar is in ... the car will also have the single FIA bar set up as well, so I can go with one configuration or the other … or no roll bar at all. I'll come up with some kind of plug system for the hole(s) as needed.

Trunk handle, tail lights … and lots more to come !

[Snakebit]

Don't use the 5.4 rods when stroking to 331. I used Crower 5.315 forged rods with JE 351 forged pistons with a 1.25 pin height. This keeps the pin out of the oil ring, which is the main reason I went with a 331 vs 347.

[ZOERA-SC7XX]

Originally Posted by tkb289

Time for an update:

Joy and Dennis were just at ERA and took this photo (Thank You!) of 2136 … looks like progress since the last photos.

The full width roll bar is in ... the car will also have the single FIA bar set up as well, so I can go with one configuration or the other … or no roll bar at all. I'll come up with some kind of plug system for the hole(s) as needed.

Trunk handle, tail lights … and lots more to come !

That roll bar looks better and is more sensible than the double humps that seem so popular these days.

[ERA Chas]

Originally Posted by ZOERA-SC7XX

That roll bar looks better and is more sensible than the double humps that seem so popular these days.

X2. The boys put the down brace in the same place as the hoop bar and it will look great installed.

JUST DON'T PAD THE GD THING!

[RAO-3]

Good to see that your car is coming along nicely. The roll bar looks good.

-Ray

[289fia_cobra]

Tim, so did you contact ERA to see where the hangup is????

[tkb289]

Herman,

Thanks for asking

I actually just sent Peter a Fax early this morning to see where things stand. There are a few details that I still need to work out with Peter, but I hope to hear something back fairly soon. They are most likely busy as always with a lot of cars, in the various stages of the process. However, for each one that goes out the door, mine is just that much closer!

Can't wait till 2136 makes it to the final assembly area and it starts getting transformed into a roller ... Depending on the timing, I hope to go back out to ERA when it's near completion for any little tweaks to the seats, dash or foot box to be sure I can fit. Any adjustments made will be much easier (and better) if done at ERA, rather than 3000 miles away.

What I am really looking forward to is the day a transport truck pulls up in my driveway and we roll that baby into the garage ... then it's motor and transmission time ... then on the road! I'll keep you guys posted.

[tkb289]

Here is a photo from Jeffy's recent visit (thanks Jeff!) ...






Gives a good look as to how the different roll bar setup will work. There is one extra hole and access panel. So depending on what I am after, standard or full width, the setup and be reconfigured.

[tkb289]

Well time for an update!

Last week and then again earlier today, I got a call from Peter to go over some of the build out details for 2136. Going with the 15" pin drives, optional ERA outboard brakes, 3.31 rear axle ratio with Posi (to go with the TKO 600 w/ 0.82 OD). I am working with PSE for the wheels and will quickly nail down the motor and trans, which will be installed after the car is shipped out to California.

Not sure what the time frame is, but have a feeling things will move along. Any of you guys visiting ERA in the new few weeks, take a few photos for me ... thanks!

[*13*]

Must be getting close if Peter's calling you. You go down to PSE or just dealing by phone?

[tkb289]

Hyde ... so far have corresponded with Phil via email, but will call him soon. Looking at the FIA wheels, with the 'web' likely black or very dark grey and a polished lip. I would then have the wheels shipped directly to ERA. It's tempting to take a trip down to Torrance ... I actually used to work not too far from the PSE shop.

[*13*]

It's always interesting to see how someone goes about their craft. The wheels will look good, regardless. Just go with your gut!

[tkb289]

Time for an update on 2136.

The wheels are done and on their way to ERA. Phil at PSE made a set of FIA wheels with the centers powder coated satin black, and with the wheel rim bare aluminum, always liked that look.

For the motor, I went earlier this week to meet with Tom at FE Specialties in Sacramento. For the build we will start with a '71 302 and by the time Tom is done, will have a motor that looks pretty close to a 289 Hi-Po with around 350HP and 380 Ft/Lbs torque, redline around 6500 PM. Relatively modest horsepower by today's standards, but close to, if not a bit more than was run back in the day and should make for a good motor for a street car. Tom will spec the entire build then machine, assemble and dyno the motor.

Some of the highlights:

302 cu in
Iron block & heads
Holley 650 carb
TRW forged pistons
Hydraulic roller cam
ARP Fasteners
Aviaid oil pan
FORD distributor with Pertronix setup
Cobra dual plane intake manifold
Black distributor cap and wires
Cam selection will come after the heads are done


The car is at the head of the line at ERA and final assembly into a roller should be in process. No date for delivery from Peter, but things are moving.

If any of you guys are headed to ERA in the next few months, please take a few photos and I'll add them to the build thread.

It's been helpful to follow other builds and learn more about the cars from the 60's. While 2136 won't necessarily be 'period correct', which was not the intent from the get go... the goal is something more 'period reminiscent', so to speak. Can't wait to see how it all looks and drives when it's done!

[4pipes]

You won't be disappointed with Tom....he does great work.

[decooney]

Tim,

Congrats on the ERA build and progress. Looking good. As you may be aware, Tom built my motor short block when I built my ERA. If you let him do some minor port/match work on the heads and with some good balancing, etc, you'll be happy; will have plenty of go if you let him do a little extra magic work. Tom did a 331 for a buddy of mine for his Cobra, and I drove the car. That little 331 was kick in the pants, came on like big block power in the upper revs. Looking to get my own car back together this winter after the full repaint; messing with wheels/color next in a few weeks too. Good Luck!

[*13*]

Your Horsepower seems about right. That's about where I am & it's plenty snappy. Can't wait to see the wheels!

[Got the Bug]

Sounds great Tim! Can't wait to see it.

[Dangerous Doug]

Sounds like a nice engine build for your FIA. Thrilled for you, buddy!

Incidentally, one of your photo's of my ERA made the BACC 2011 calendar. Nice work!

DD