Okay everyone, I’m within a week away from making some forward progress. I believe my car is repairable and will not be totaled. In the event it can be fixed I have several pieces of homework to do and need some help.
If I am going to have my car fixed I intend to use the funds to choose the parts I want and possible pay anything additional while the labor is being done. Here are the few things that will need to be changed for certain:
- Engine (the block cracked in a complete circle where it meets up with the transmission).
- Transmission (the output shaft is bent and the case is cracked in many many pieces)
- Flywheel (some of the teeth have been ground away against the teeth from the starter)
- Exhaust pipes in the center of the car (the mufflers should be fine)
- Driveshaft will most likely be replaced (the aftermarket one blew apart)
- Starter (this cracked off as well)
- The rear end may be fine, I just had 4.10 gears installed.
Okay, so my car rebuild project… What recommendations are out there from those with experience? My goal is going to be to turbocharge the car, and depending on costs maybe go with a twinscrew s/c. Since I am replacing the two largest components in the car I’d like to build them up to be able to handle up to 600hp (assuming this is not asking too much from the position I’m in).
Engine: I know that there are tons of companies that do this kind of stuff, so maybe some recommendations would be good. But what are my options in terms of engines? Are there other options that will still be smog legal so that I don’t have to go with a replacement stock motor? Can I get a more powerful and stronger engine in it for under $7500 (the estimated cost of a replacement engine)?
I plan to go with a turbo or s/c in the near future so I was told I should, at a minimum get forged pistons during this process. I like the idea of the remote mounted turbo. Any other suggestions? Which companies are the best in terms of providing me with this information? (I’ve seen the ads in the magazines and will be calling a few of them as well).
Transmission: I was told that I could swap in a stronger 5-speed transmission that is comparable in price to a stock unit. So this is certainly one thing I’d like to upgrade while I’m at it.
Flywheel/Clutch: I’m thinking of going with a Fidanza aluminum flywheel and most likely a clutch while I’m at it to handle higher horsepower amounts.
Exhaust Pipes: since they’re replacing them I figured I’d go with a Bassani X-pipe for example.
Driveshaft: Although I do have the stock unit I wonder if the cost of a new one will be included since the one on the car destroyed itself. If it is replaced I have a hard time considering another 1-piece. I’ve read lately of the problems with a batch of them from a recent group buy. I’m thinking using the stock one would be safest….. does anyone feel confident that a one-piece (i.e. aluminum one) could safely be used w/o any vibrations? I dunno…. I’m scared on this one….
Rearend: I have 3.73 gears sitting in my garage since I decided against them and instead installed the 4.10 gear. If I am going to turbo or s/c should I have the 3.73s put in at this point?
Anyways, this is my starting point and now that I am closer to getting to the repair process I want to begin the necessary research and be prepared as best possible. Thanks for all of the previous support (
http://www.allfordmustangs.com/forum...ket-steel.html) it has been a crazy ride these last several months!
