Likewise, always begin with the chassis mods first, then hot-rod the engine. Everyone does it backward because we're all goofy for a hot engine, but it's a bit dangerous to drive and makes you chase your project-building tail. The 5.0 Mustang's strongest card is its engine, so work on the weakest part first to gain the biggest bang for the buck--the chassis. Stiffen the chassis first, then build the suspension (be that just bushings, or slapper bars, or a torque arm, or back halving, or a full-on K-member-through-rollcage job). Add the larger brakes, then beef the driveline if necessary. Finally, add the horsepower and top it off with Ford Racing Performance Parts valve stem caps and other shiny bits. Remember what we said about determining your priorities and sticking to them? Beginning with the chassis means you'll build the foundation first, then the roof, and not the other way around.
Drive It
You have the money, you've found a suitable vehicle, and you actually know what you want to do with it. What's left? Nothing--so get cranking on it! Just remember one thing. Even though you're chomping at the bit to spend 18-hour days in the garage to finish your project in three months (and there's a fair amount of bragging rights to that), you may just emerge after those three months to find yourself suddenly single with a two-foot-high lawn and dead house pets. In other words, don't neglect your family and daily responsibilities.
Think of it as after-school playtime. Remember that? You had to have all your homework done and your household chores completed before you could go play with your friends. It should be the same with your project. Once you've fixed the leaky faucet, taken your kids to the movies, and spent time with your wife, going out to the garage to work on your car will be a nice break, and it won't be resented by the rest of the family. There's nothing worse than finishing a car only to end up putting it in the paper with a heading of "Divorce Forces Sale"--and you know you've seen those ads.
You'd be wise to create a schedule for your project. Try to involve family members in scheduling time spent on your project and with other activities. Let the kids help you with minor things, such as handing you tools and small parts--it will make the project more memorable. And, whatever you do, don't try to finish the vehicle for a certain event or show. It's not fun, and more bugs are likely to creep up. The entire staff of this magazine can speak from experience on this one.
Once your project is complete and sitting there in your driveway all ready to go, don't forget a few last details.
* Save all receipts
* Take plenty of detail photos (for insurance purposes)
* Record the VIN and all serial numbers from major components
* Be certain the car's insurance is adequate (special carriers can be found for race car and/or show car insurance coverage)
* If required, have the vehicle inspected for safety and/or emissions
* Send in all warranty/registration forms for parts installed
* If participating in an event series, sign up and get your car number and rule book
Now stop dreaming about owning that sweet drag (or show) Mustang you've always wanted. Keep rereading this article for inspiration and ideas, then get out the pen and paper, or word processor, and start realizing your dream by put-ting things into perspective. Work on a budget, a time frame, and a direction. Before you know it, you'll have something to be proud of. We're sure of it. 5.0