While I knew pulling the driveline would be a challenge, it has taken much longer than anticipated to get to this point; where the engine and transmission are ready to pull. My first plan, Plan A, was brilliant, but there proved to be some unforeseen, pesky obstacles. Now, however, as I'm executing Plan D, I think I'm finally ready to go. But, blast it, my shop crane just can't get in far enough from the front or side to pick up the engine. It is so far back in the chassis that I need at least 9 more inches of extension on the boom. OK then sez me, I'll just regroup and move on to Plan E. I believe now that I have Plan E figured out, but some dissassembly of the RHS front suspension and a the upper and lower FI manifolds will be required and it's definitely not a sure thing. Stay tuned.
I have had many, time-consuming, run-ins with Cosmic Law #1, which is, “That bolt which is furthest away, most motion-restricted and rustiest, is always the one that requires completely inhuman amounts of torque to break free.” However, when Cosmic Law #1 is encountered, I use my tried and true home mechanic's ritual of: 1) awareness (previously called swearing) ; 2) exhibiting great humility (crying); and 3) praying for Divine Guidance (that's the thinking up Plans F, G, H, I part). I do make progress every day. I think I'll have it soon. The simplicity of the Locost is getting more appealing each day. Imaging a car where you can get to just about everything on it and fix yourself. What a concept.
Although, I have to say, Plan F may be to drive the 45 minutes south on Interstate 5 to Tijuana and enlist the services of a good chop shop. Those guys can strip a car in an hour with 2 rusty crescent wrenches and a pair of vice grips. I'll just have to convince them that doing my donor is as much fun as stealing. Maybe I'll just show them a picture of my donor's trunk (attached) and say, “Psssssst, hey Chuy, wanna buy some Mustang parts cheap?” Do you think it might have a sort of a peer-bonding kind of effect? I hope so.
Cheers,
You do not have the required permissions to view the files attached to this post.
_________________ Damn! That front slip angle is way too large and the Ackerman is just a muddle.Build Log: viewtopic.php?f=35&t=5886
|