|
After the engine was in, I installed the air intake, power steering hoses,
radiator and hoses, heater, and wiring.
|
| I put cardboard over the radiator to protect it during the build |
| Wire harnesses befor the "wire diet." |
|
I also put the wheels on to check clearances between the wheels and all
the brake lines, emergency brake cables, suspension, etc.
I installed all the Mustang wiring harnesses and determined what all
the connectors go to. With the wiring in and connectors attached to the right things, I finally could start the engine
to see if it runs.
After about 6 weeks of
tedious work, I completed the "wire diet." This process involves
removing all wires, fuses, relays, switches, and components for the Mustang systems that are not used on the car, such as
power windows, power door locks, power side mirrors, airbags, etc. It was tedious because I removed one wire at a time,
and traced each wire through all the wiring diagrams (and I updated the wiring diagrams as I went). I removed over 45
lbs. of wiring, connectors, and components. Not a bad diet - 45 lbs. in 6 weeks!
| Wires and components removed from the harnesses |
|
I also made some temporary mounts for the headlights, turn signals and
tail lights so I could hook them up and make sure they all work properly.
With the wire diet complete, it was time for a test drive.
After the painted body was installed, I installed the aluminum panels
for the radiator area and the oil cooler and its associated oil lines. Throughout the car, I used a 3M Scotchbright
disk on my drill to make a random brush pattern on the aluminum panels. For the radiator floor panel, I decided
to add "stripes" by polishing the areas that match the white stripes on the body. It's a subtle effect, but it looks
pretty cool.
I put the air filter in the passenger side front wheel well.
I made a bracket to mount it in the front part of the wheel well, directly behind the brake duct opening in the body.
I made a metal shield to protect the filter from debris and water coming off the tire.
|
