[juane]

Hello everybody!

I'm a newbie here and this is my first post (I have replied to some, but this is MY first topic). I am very impressed with how helpful people are here, something not common on forums like this one.

I have always been dreaming of buying a old mustang, taring it apart, rebuilding it and maybe pump up the HP. Since I have very little experience, I started doing research and happened to run into the FFR website... haven't been able to sleep since

I was going to ask the question.... can somebody with little experience with cars build this thing?, but I have since read similar posts that suggest that I CAN!!! Yippeee!!! (Building it is half the fun, imo)

Right now I cannot afford the FFR (it will be 2 years till I can), but I can afford to buy the donor car and play with it. I ordered the FFR assembly manual, as I understand it contains detailed instructions on disassembly of the donor. Any other helpful resources that may help me get better aquainted with the donor Mustang?? Any ideas on projects that could keep me busy with the donor while I can buy the FFR kit (restoring/rebuilding it, etc...)

Thanks.

 

[Ozona]

Depends on what, "No experience with cars" means.

The manual (and the kit itself) assumes you have a pretty reasonable knowledge of automotive systems or a willingness to learn.

Attending a FFR build school might be a great idea. Then you'll know for SURE if it's something you are A) Interested in doing and B) Can do/within your abilities.

Of course, you can always just jump right in.

Ozona

Oh, and if you use POR-15's "Marine Clean" - Wear gloves.

[ August 04, 2002, 04:12 PM: Message edited by: Ozona ]

 

[Bill]

Welcome!

 

[paul burchett]

If you do get a donor, and you intend to use the donor wiring harness, get the Electrical and Vacuum Troubleshooting Manual from Helm Inc. It has a short paragragh for each circuit stating how it works. Each circuit has it's own page, or two pages for the more complex circuits. Much easier to use than the Wiring Diagrams available from Helm. I used the EVTM to strip all the unneeded wires from my harness. 2100 miles later and no electircal problems yet. Even modified the courtesy lamp circuit to work with my GM headlight switch. With the EVTM it was no problem. The part number is FPS-12121-89 for a 1989 harness, -90 for a 1990 harness, etc.

 

[juane]

Let me clarify what "No experience" means. I've changed the oil, spark plugs in my car. I can open the hood and pretty much know what everything is. Can probably change the brake pads, but just haven't taken a shot at it. Plus, I know, from a textbook point of view, the internal working of the engine, etc...

I am a very technicallly inclinded person that is willing to learn everything there is to know to finish the job and maintain the vehicle. I have always been interested in learning, and now is when I finally have the time to do so.

I figure that I have 2 years to pick up the skills I need, so that's the reason for my post... hoping to get some guidance on what would be worthwhile things to do or read to get me started on my new hobby.

I am absolutely considering taking the building course, but I'd rather wait till I'm closer to actually building the car.

Thanks,
Juan

 

[grumpy]

never2fast,
sounds like you have enough ability, it will just take patience, that more than being a real "greasemonkey" with experience, and the stick-ability to hang in there when the problem occurs. a few tool s will help as posted on tools needed previously.
grumpy

[ August 05, 2002, 09:10 AM: Message edited by: grumpy ]

 

[juane]

grumpy,

patience and time I got!!! and as a bopnus, my wife is REALLY into the project, so I have her blessing too.

as far as tools, I have a feeling I will go overboard. I've have been waiting for a project to justify all the tools I want

Thanks.

 

[Mike Brasfield]

Actually I think there is a lot to do if you already have the donor. You can update the engine with any changes you think you want to make. Check the brakes and replace any suspension components you might need. Drive the car for awhile and as soon as you order your kit, begin the tear down and clean up.

Regarding the skill to build. I think most everyone here will be glad to lend a hand with tips or answering your questions. I believe having automotive skills will make the build go much faster, but not necessarily required.

You may not have all the automotive skills you need now. But when your finished all your neighbors and friends will start bring their car problems to you driveway for help.

Good luck.

San Rafael Mike

 

[BIL1024]

We are here to help!! Go for it

 

[Gary Martin]

Juan
Only you can know if you have the skills, but the passion for the car is the most important. I quit working my own cars 20 years ago, but building is different. If you study this stuff for 2 years and still want it, you are hooked. All you need is a place to do it. It will change your life. Get the donor, buy a Chilton Manual, photo everything before you take it apart, you will learn. And your wife likes it! You got to go for it.

Good luck,
Gary