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Old 01-21-2011, 12:25 PM
Three Peaks Three Peaks is offline
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Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: Hillsboro, OR
Cobra Make, Engine: Scratch built CSX style frame, Carbon fiber body, 393 Stroker, T-bird IRS, T5
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1. On some kits, you will be supplying many of the parts for the build or buying from the kit manufacturer.
This creates some issues you may need to consider if you aren't intimately familiar with chassis building and set up. ( I certainly am not an expert).
Many kits use Mustang II spindles or similar up front on their cars for convenience as they are available anywhere. Unless the chassis is designed around the parts used, the chassis geometry can end up being mismatched resulting in a car that doesn't handle well or is a serious compromise that may not work well on the track, street, or both.

For this reason I would look for kits/manufacturers that have spent the time to work out their geometry and use proper control arms, uprights, rack and pinions, shocks and other parts that work well together. Not all kits are set up this way.

2. Mostly a matter of budget these days. Some of the new injected systems are terrific but nothing wrong with a good carbed set up either as long as you understand the system and know how to get the most out of it. Carb systems tend to be cheaper, but require more maintenance- not a problem as long as you or your mechanic know how to deal with carb adjustments.

3. Independent rear suspensions aren't all that tough to install anymore and many (but not all) of the kit manufacturers offer an Independent rear option on their chassis. I like the Ford 8.8 IRS because of its simplicity and ease of getting parts/repair. The Jag based IRS can also be made to be excellent options, but are more expensive to repair, more difficult to install/remove, and the inboard brake versions can be a real PIA to work on if you don't have a lift.
The Jag based IRS units are usually also heavier if they use the Jag based mounting chassis. The Shelby/Kirkham original style mounting of the Jag IRS is incorporated into the chassis and doesn't require the Jag differential mounting frame.

Bob
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