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John,

So it looks like Frank has had some time to find a bunch of things he would change.

I am familiar with the clutch/heat issue and have ordered a heat shield which I will install later. If this helps you may want to do the same to avoid boiling brake fluid.

The rear ends are from BMW E36 3 series which haven't been made for several years, so I am sure they are out of wrecks or rebuilt units. Very sturdy, so I am suprised to hear about the leaks. If anyone can fix that, it is Frank!

The steering U-joint at the rack is at a rather sharp angle for no apparent reason. Lessening the angle may or may not make much of a change in steering feel. I too wonder why they are made this way?

I have the original driveshaft, but I know others have had problems with theirs like you did. It appears the replacement may not be to Frank's liking, but is it worth replacing?

It looks like Backdraft relies on the weight of the car to hold the adjustment ring for ride height. A second one on each corner as a jamb nut would be a good idea, and a cheap fix.

My car had the sagging springs that are being replaced now. I'll bet my shocks are leaking too. I bottomed out many times. Of course, I had my suspension set really low because it looks good to me. I am having Frank put in the new springs, align it, and corner weight the car as well as adjust the ride height. Why don't you wait until mine is done before doing yours. Unless the shocks are shot and leaking.

I keep telling myself that these are really glorified "kit" cars and will constantly need upgrading and fixing. But, overall, I think we are both very satisfied with our cars.