Help pick Kirkham options...

[HotRodJoe]

Hello,

I'd like advice/help in picking the options for my future Kirkham, Lord willing. I'm looking for a budget minded, fun car to drive (as opposed to a dream car wish list). I'd appreciate input from anyone, but help from current or past Kirkham owners would be particularly helpful. Here are the options offered at the Kirkham website:

http://kms.nfshost.com/pricing/options.shtml

Here are some questions I ask myself to keep on track:

1) Is it an option that increases the value of the car?
2) Is it an option that I will be able to appreciate when driving, or does it just look good on paper?
3) Is the option an upgrade that increases safety or durability over the base?
4) Is it somehting I could do myself and save money (like polishing)?
5) Kirkham owners - is it something that you thought you had to have, but after ownership, never used or noticed?
6) " " - is it something that you always wished you had gotten, but didn't.
7) " " - is it something that isn't listed, but is available - like the big/tall man modifications (I'm 6'3")?

Thanks in advance,

Joe

Btw, my current powertrain pick of the day (or hour) is a Southern Automotive 428 and TKO-600 tranny.

[Lew Ledyard]

1. big guy option - Dropped pedal box, seat bolted directly to floor, dented left rear fender so seat can slide back further.

2. Fresh air cans for both driver's and passenger's side.

3. Fuel pumps mounted outside of trunk.

4. Fire suppression system.

These are some simple changes that will greatly increase driving comfort and safety and do not cost much. The other stuff like stainless frame, double adjustable shocks and aluminum differential are nice(I ordered them), but they probably won't profoundly increase your driving experience.

[HotRodJoe]

Thanks for the advice, Lew. Concerning #3, I didn't realize that they/it would be in the trunk - thanks. I suppose I could take care of that since I'm doing the install myself. #2 - I thought about, too, but wondered how much difference they'd make in a top down car? Anyone who has them have experience in this area?

Joe

[Cobra Pack]

I am 6'5" w/ size 14 shoes. I just bought a Kirkham 289fia which has the same sized footboxes as the 427. I have sat in a couple of original cobras and Kirkham 427's, and I have no space problems (even with padded street seats). A 15" or 14" steering wheel certainly helps. I recommend sitting in a car before making a decision on the dropped footboxes - you may be surprised how much room there is in the standard configuration.

Mike

[HotRodJoe]

Hi Mike,

I had pretty much decided that I need the Big Man Mods, but maybe not? I haven't sat in one yet. The closest Kirkham I know of is in Detroit at an engine shop. I really should get up there and try one on for size. Thanks for the advice.

Joe

[The Dreamer]

The Kirkhams don't like to do it, but I like my tonneau studs and defroster vents for adding a heater. You could do it yourself, but I like the idea of them lining up everything. I'm adding the heater and insulating the cockpit (footboxes in and out). You will probably need to get a custom top made though to really take advantage of the heater, but there are some really pretty fall days here, just cold normally when its clear.

[Jamo]

The guys have pretty well covered it.

[HotRodJoe]

Dreamer,

Thanks for the ideas on the heater and defroster. I hadn't really thought about the Kirkham cars not having them. This feedback has really been beneficial, guys. One almost needs a list of "things you think the cars might have but don't".

Joe

[xlr8or]

Joe if your not sure on a particular option then don't order it and wait to make up your mind later. Many of them can be added later if desired. It's just easier to install them during the build. A little extra labor later is still better the mowing the lawn.