Re: Possible Build -
 

Well now I've been told this vehicle needs floor pans.... Suggestions?
I haven't been able to actually go look at it, but I might be able to pick up the whole car for 400 or 500 bucks...

thoughts?

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Thoughts?
What are YOU comfortable with? What are you capable/comfortable fixing?
When I did the 1K car, I decided to do it because it was/is so bad (floor rust/frame rust) that it wouldn't pass state inspection. But, it was cheap. I showed it to my DTD and he was OK with it so I built it. OBTW, I'm at a point in my Racing life where I won't cut up nice cars anymore.
You've said that you have experience with the 2.3 combo, if not that then what would you build? DON'T get in over your head with a combo. Get into something that you can finish. Even if you have to race it while it's "under construction".

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"What are YOU comfortable with? What are you capable/comfortable fixing?"

Billy's first sentence is a good starting point here. However, I would want more information before commenting further.

Where do you live?

Where do you want to race? (NHRA or just local associations?)

How far under do you want to go? (2 tenths and avoid heads up runs or be able to qualify at Indy?)

What's your time frame look like for completion? ( Ready to rock, or a part, part time, save your lunch money, 5 year project to keep you out of the house at night?)
This makes a difference..I used to recommend the 302, 2v, hands down, but that started 5 years ago. Meanwhile one friend of mine is out there having all the fun and actually racing one and getting hp added and having to switch body styles.
Another example is the 350 4V C10. Nothing that good lasts forever.

I'll wait to hear back before commenting further.

Oh, on the floor pans : I don't know if available, but if you were to fabricate some with OEM gauge sheet metal , welded in place, with some spray paint underneath, nobody's going to complain in this day and age..Trust me.

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We watched him run at Seattle. Cool car.

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Billy and Mark are spot on. I made the mistake of not thinking things through, or going for the 'easy' build, instead of just focusing on what I knew, and getting it done. 8 years later, I am starting, again. Don't make my mistake(s).

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Live in the Orlando Florida area, Im comfortable doing anything. Grew up a gearhead with my dad who is 75 and still around and still fabricates everything by hand because he enjoys it.

I realize Stock eliminator is a challenge and may have to get the engine machine work done by someone who knows stocker engines..

Time frame Probably 6 months to a year. Ive been travelling quite a bit for work.. that paying job gets in the way of fun things. Plus need a realistic budget number between competitive car, trailer and tow vehicle...

Id like to make it a father/son and my son project possible..

Like to race NHRA and local S/SS associations..

How far under do I need to go and be competitive if I have to race heads up?

Not sure if the pans are available either, but would save time if they were.

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Joe, I'll get back to you later..
Gotta run now..out to the Speedi-Dri Nationals

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Your Dad being around and being a fabricator is going to be a great experience and invaluable.

If you know how to assemble/dis-assemble/assemble/repeat until finished engines, any competent machine shop can get you in the game.

You can build this Pinto with a "reasonable" budget. An extra added bonus of the Pinto is you won't need a big truck and trailer to move it.

A Father/Son/Grandson project gets a double thumbs-up!

You've got a very good S/SS assn. in Florida.

You've got to go at least as fast as the guy in the other lane. Luckily, there aren't very many W cars in Florida.