GaryM05 wrote:
RacerX wrote:
...
Any and all info/suggestions on my build would be greatly appreciated!! After all, this is my first.
![](http://944-spec.org/944SPEC/components/com_kunena/template/default/images/emoticons/w00t.png)
Nothing too ground-breaking, but some general things I learned during my build, since you asked:
- Take your time positioning and mounting the seat; a good seating position makes a huge difference in how much fun you have driving the car (though you've already got the cage in, so you've probably already done this)
Yes, it's already done. Check!
GaryM05 wrote:
- Stripping out all the unnecessary wiring is a huge PITA with lots of potential for causing problems if you remove just one wire too many, but in the end is worth it in terms of weight savings, general clean-up, and future maintenance - when you're done, it's nice to know that every wire that's still in the car is actually needed for something you'll use, rather than a rat-'s nest of problems waiting to happen!
The wiring is all striped out and we'll custom wire it from the ground up. Check!
GaryM05 wrote:
- Go through the entire cooling system and make sure that it ALL works (including the fan relays, radiator, etc.) Lots of cars run hot early on, and there are a lot of simple parts in this system that can fail and cause big problems if you're not watching your water temps. If you can work it into your budget, it's worth replacing the radiator, hoses, thermostat and water pump (though your engine build has probably taken care of those last 2), and upgrading your fans and direct-wiring them to a switch on the dash. It's a lot to spend at once, but if it ever saves you even one race weekend, it's worth it IMO.
Sounds like a good plan. Since Nick at Bennington's rebuilt the motor it has a new water pump and thermostat. I'll check into a new rad. Check!
GaryM05 wrote:
- For the window net, consider buying one of the see-through mesh nets, rather than the thicker 'strap' nets. The mesh ones are easier to see out of, especially for looking at the side mirror.
- Random bonus tip: use manila folder cut-outs to mock up anything you need to build out of aluminum or metal (block-off plates for firewall holes, switch or gauge mounts, etc). It's a lot easier to constantly trim away at a light-weight piece of cardboard than it is a costly piece of aluminum or metal stock. Once you've got the template made, just trace it onto your aluminum, cut/drill/file/paint, and you're done.
Way ahead of you on the last 2. Check and check!
It's great that I'm on the same page as someone else who has built before! Thanks, great tips!!
I know I could have bought a car already done but what can I learn from that? To me building helps you learn the car inside and out.