[58VW]

I just went through my boxes. WOW! I hope I can count on all your help with this baby.. In talking to two FFR builders, one said to align the body panels and set on the panel gaps before pulling off the body and the other said to pull the body off first and mechanically put it together before touching the body. After going through the boxes, I am ready the mechanically dig in. How did you start and what do you recommend?

 

[David Santi]

Start with a box by box written inventory so you know what you have and where it is. Then catalog, separate and store everything you won't need for a while. Organization goes a long way.

Dave

 

[Mike Brasfield]

Take to body off, put it away and forget about it for a couple of months. Next, one of the most talked about issues of late has been "where does this panel go?" Mark each panel or take a picture of it before you dismantle. Take note of what goes over or under each joint. Then take them all off and organize all of your parts. Did you opt for the FFR heater? If so you should cut the panel (firewall) before you install. Make sure you take note of the vertical 3/4" dash hoop. It may conflict with the plumbing for the heater. Then pretty much follow the build manual. Try to finish one section before moving on. Do all the front before moving to the rear. The manual isn't too helpful for some issues but the forum is great for help. Many of the builders have their own build sites and you can look up their progress and get ideas there. One question on the forum today is "where should I put my starter relay"? Well, it's your car and you can put it any where you want. Most (including me) will say in the engine compartment near the drivers foot box. Good luck and just ask when you need help. There are about 2000 FFR guys out there and someone will have an answer to each of your questions.

San Rafael Mike

 

[Richard Oben]

IF you have the newer kit the panel fit must be done later. The older kit panels could be fit with the body in its shipped state the new ones can not. Hope this helps. Everyone. Cheers Richard.

 

[grumpy]

Richard, Since, I along with countless others put you high on the FFR pedestal, whats the reason a MKII isn't shipped sitting on the frame? I haven't seen a new one in person yet.
Just curious. Thanks

 

[David G]

My MK II was shipped with all the aluminum installed, body on and doors attached well enough to close and latch.

 

[Richard Oben]

I am talking about the final fit of panels to get the gap right and not rub off the paint. It comes shipped just like the old ones but the gaps are too tight when you get the car and therefore need to be final fit after most of the assembly is done. Hope this clarifies. Cheers Richard.