Kirkham FIA hybrid vs. leaf spring vs. 427

mtml427 · #1 (**permalink**) 05-26-2008, 05:06 PM

I would like some input on the Kirkham Hybrid vs. the Kirkham FIA with the original leaf spring suspension. I have also considered the Kirkham 427 street version. My plan is to use a small block engine and hopefully an alternative fuel (natural gas if possible). Having spoken with Joe at Kirkham we are still trying to come up with the best configuration. I love the look of the 427 car but realize the small block may be the most user friendly, given the intended useage. Are there any local Kirkham FIA's in the East Bay Area to take a look at?

kris-kincaid · #2 (**permalink**) 05-26-2008, 05:43 PM

Wow, I was just thinking about this. The leafspring chassis is excellent and you will enjoy driving it.

Now, about the CNG. The 289 has a perfect little space above the differential where the original fuel tank goes. You could hide a CNG cylinder there and nobody would ever know. Since CNG has a relatively high octane, you should be able to build a 289 with 12.5:1 compression and never have it rattle. It should even sound racy.

Interesting idea.

kurtmart · #3 (**permalink**) 05-26-2008, 06:11 PM

Mtml 427,

There's a guy in Dublin/Danville area with an early Kirkham 289 (not FIA) he's really knows the leafspring cars. I got a ride in it last year and the car is sweet. His name is Burt and I think you can find his contacts in the (moribund?) Kirkham registry site.
Personally I wouldn't go 427 body as I think you'd be mixing to many metaphors with small block LPG etc.
Oh hell, let's get this thread going, small blocks s**k.

mtml427 · #4 (**permalink**) 05-28-2008, 09:34 PM

I came across a 1980's book comparing the various displacement Cobras. There is something about the wide hip cars that is just stunning. Would going with a CNG big block be too much of an oxymoron? I wonder if an aluminum big block could be used that is able to achieve 25+ mpg when the driver's foot is not too heavy.

bbrown · #5 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 06:56 PM

Hi MTML427

I'm the guy in Danville referred to above. You're more than welcome to ride in my car. I have a very early FIA Kirkham (007) and I am usually at breakfast in Livermore. See the BACC events for directions. There is usually one of everything at our breakfast so you will never be bored with the cars.

There are a few things to watch with the leaf spring cars, and there are also some decisions to make about the options the Brothers K offer in Provo.

Happy to discuss them anytime............

Bert Brown
Danville, CA

1985 CCX · #6 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 07:12 PM

My vote:
Leaf spring early comp look:

However the FIA gives you a kinda 427 look and the Sb will be accurate.

Lew Ledyard · #7 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 07:29 PM

You could go with the 427 body, small block, street trim and undercarriage exhaust and say that it is an authentic COX/AC 289 Mk 3 replica.

saltytri · #8 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 08:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lew Ledyard

You could go with the 427 body, small block, street trim and undercarriage exhaust and say that it is an authentic COX/AC 289 Mk 3 replica.

What a crappy idea.

RodKnock · #9 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 08:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by saltytri

What a crappy idea.

Man don't hold back. Why is it a bad idea? It's his, not yours.

If you visit Hall Fabrication in Benicia, CA, at the moment, you will see Cobras in many different configurations. There are at least two real 289's there in the shop.

saltytri · #10 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 08:54 PM

I forgot the "

" after that. Check my gallery. It's even registered as a "1965 AC Roadster." Lew hit my nail on its head.

Lew Ledyard · #11 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 09:02 PM

Saltytri:

Your "crappy" car rocks!!

saltytri · #12 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 09:07 PM

Thanks, Lew. "I'm no expert," either but it suits me and it's loads of fun to drive. So I'm happy.

RodKnock · #13 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 10:15 PM

Salty, I forgot. Sorry. Your car, fresh from being polished, was on the truck that delivered my Kirkham.

saltytri · #14 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 12:15 AM

No problema, amigo. I hope you're having a blast with your new ride!

Rickd · #15 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 07:45 AM

I think that Kirkham 289 FIA is about the prettiest manmade thing I've ever seen. I also happen to love the small block ford motors. Talk to Keith Craft about building one for you, he has delivered quite a few to the Kirkhams and they have had very positive things to say about them. Enjoy the decision making process, visit the Kirkhams shop, and have a blast with whatever combo you go with. Rick

1985 CCX · #16 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 08:45 AM

The KMS Comp 289 is a real raw beauty!
Slabside design
Extended rear fenders
Unique dash layout!
Shweet

RodKnock · #17 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 10:09 AM

The Kirkhams have a 289 car coming in soon, which Joe mentioned in another thread. It will have a 289 fia front and hood and a 289 competition rear with the comp flares. See an original here:

http://www.clubcobra.com/photopost/s...hp?photo=48161

You could grab this one coming in. I thought about it.

1985 CCX · #18 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 10:43 AM

I am thinking hard as well.........CSX2324

RodKnock · #19 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 10:51 AM

I say go for it Jeff!

I'm still trying to finish KMPS539, but it is intriguing. Take it off the market. Please.

gsharapa · #20 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 11:41 AM

Love these FIA cobras and kicking myself in the pants for selling my Kirkham FIA (leaf spring car) a few years back. Pics in my gallery. I've been thinking about doing another one and would want the leaf spring car if I could find one out there. CSX 7000s are also pretty nice but not many around........