July 2016 – I kicked off the build with the suspension as the very large and very detailed manual told me to do, and since I didnt feel like being contrary, it worked out well.  Initially I had a couple key suspension components back ordered with Factory Five (known as FFR here on out), but they were delivered a couple weeks after I started and I had plenty to work on to get my feet wet.

First step was to paint all of the unpainted suspension components, I used Eastwood Extreme Chassis Black gloss coat and primer.  Many other builders have had all of these components powder coated which would provide a much more durable finish, but I was eager to get going and hadnt budgeted it, so although I may regret it, I got started with the improvised drying rack below:

The suspension went fairly smoothly outside of a couple minor issues that kept delaying me since I didnt have any full weekends to work on and was only progressing it in the evenings after work.

August 2016 – By August I had all the parts painted, the back ordered items had been delivered (except the rear brakes due to FoMoCo screwing up orders) and I was moving along.  We managed to get the rear center section in with the assistance of one brother, one father, 2 ratchet straps, and a pry bar due to some dimensional issues with the mounts being a bit too close together.  However, since they are all bushing mounts, they should be ok, although I am not sure I will be able to get it out, but I will cross that bridge if I come to it.

The weekend of August 20th and 21st was the first full weekend I had to work on the car and managed to get the front suspension, steering, and brakes installed and the rear suspension, CV shafts, and hubs installed so it was a big milestone with only minor injuries and a few pulled muscles due to torquing requirements.

I would like to thank the two tools that made this possible, specifically the “Adjuster” and that sweet sweet car lift that makes getting underneath this frame so much faster and easier.

Next up I need to buy some wheels and tires and get going on the brake lines and steering column.