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Along with the 302 crank, the 289 rods are swapped out for the shorter 302 rods once they are reconditioned with ARP rod Bolts.
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Next the block gets resurfaced.
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For this project I decided to try a custom ground cam, so a call was made to Crane Cams.
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The Global West sub-frame connectors are now welded in place. Trying to decide to leave them black or paint them red oxide to blend into the car’s under carriage. Also the new stainless rear brake and fuel lines are installed.
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The engine compartment is now painted and the forward brake lines and powder coated hood hinges and springs are installed.
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Meanwhile back at the machine shop, the engine gets balanced. I have a short video of the crank with flywheel attached being spun and balanced, but can’t figure out how to get it to post.
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And the short block gets assembled.
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The Crane camshaft gets degreed in with a Ford Racing double roller timing set.
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Bottom end gets buttoned up with a Melling oil pump and Canton windage tray.
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Oil pan bolted on with the 1965 Cyclone top end installed.
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The rear suspension and differential installation is now complete, along with the stainless fuel and brake lines.
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Here’s a good view of the sub-frame connectors and the Shelby under-ride traction bars installed. I had to order a new yoke from Summit for the rear at the last minute upon discovering the original one had a seal wear groove from miles of service.
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Front suspension and brakes complete. I managed to turn up the larger front stabilizer bar from a GT.
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I collected up all the parts to convert it over to power steering which is now installed.
The upper control arms employ another Ford/Shelby trick, which relocates their mounting points 1″ down and 1/8″ rearward to reduce body roll 8-10%.
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Front sheet metal is going on and being worked. The car had been hit years ago on the driver’s side front corner and the fender had been replaced with a Taiwan piece, that didn’t follow the curving properly around the windshield and door. I picked up a rust free 1966 fender at a swap meet that had been creased. Here you can see where Steve has meticulously worked the crease out to regain the proper contour.
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