Looking for info

I am brand new to this forum. I currently drive a Factory Five Cobra replica I build from the frame up. I am thinking about selling and starting another project. I have always loved the look of the spyders but don't know a lot about how they are built. Can someone point me in the right direction to do some research. I don't know if there are companies that sell kits or are they mostly turn key? Sorry if I ask dumb questions but you have to start somewhere.

Mitch

Mitch
Some spyders are sold as kits, most are sold turn-key. Most are body on tube frame but there is one that uses a VW pan and is rear engined.

Most engines are aircooled T1 or T4 with a VW transaxle (flipped R&P). Some 914 transaxles out there. Also are subaru engines, porsche 6 cylinder, pancake Alfa, at least one Northstar V8 mounted transverse(yee haw!) and assorted onesie twosie water cooled smaller motors, usually 4s, occasionally a six.

They are easier to insure than the Cobras which could be a nice plus for you. Alot of insurance companies seem to be backing away from the Cobras. Currently I pay $350 or so a year for my unlimited mileage insurance. Good deal.

Terrific people on this site. Knowledgeable, good hearted enthusiats. Welcome. angela

Mitch,

I can't tell from your profile where you live, but I strongly recommend attending one of the two big spring kit car shows. Knott's Berry Farm (http://www.kitcar.com/club-aha/home.html) is in April, and Carlisle, PA (http://www.carsatcarlisle.com/schedule/import/index.asp) is in May. I believe that Carlisle is the bigger of the two, but I'm not sure. Regardless, most, if not all, of the manufacturers will be in attendance, and there should be a lot of owners there as well who are willing you talk your ears off about their cars. There are usually a lot more Speedsters than Spyders, but a fair representation of them as well will be available at both shows.

Besides, it's a heck of a lot of fun.

Lane Anderson

I am from Southern Indiana. Carlisle is 690 miles and Knotts...well I can't add that high.
I have talked to the wife about the possibility of going to Carlisle.

Mitch

The only manufacturer close to you is Special Editions. They are in Indiana but i don't know where in relation to you. I'm sure they would be more than happy to answer any questions. They do both speedsters and spyders.

Special Edition is in Bremen, which is in the northern part of the state. I will second the comment that they will be very helpfull. Both Kevin and Carey Hines are great to deal with. I'm getting a Beck Speedster that's being built at the Carlisle show. Yeehah!

Mitch,

I have a customer in Bedford, IN that might not mind showing off is spyder. Contact me if you are interested, and I can give him a call. He built it himself, from our deluxe body package.

We are located 20 miles south of South Bend. Essentially 100 miles dead north of Indy, right off of 31.

Carey

Carey,

I spoke someone at Special Editions last week. I didn't write the name down so I don't know if it was you or Kevin. Anyway, they told me of the guy in Bedford. I asked if you could get permission from him to see his car. I also asked for an info packet so I assume one is on the way. I am looking at the new water cooled motor you are in the process of fitting with the DeDion rear susp.

Mitch Groves
PO Box 246
Elberfeld, IN 47613

iamgroves@yahoo.com

Mitch,
i just got one of the water-cooled with the DeDion rear. if you have any questions don't hesitate to give me a holler. I am up in wisconsin but would be happy to talk to you.
Dusty