Speedster build #23

Hmmmph. I thought a pond under the car was just evidence that the motor had been running. Maybe I should reconsider my quality control...

Right, Bill! I'm happy with just a few drips from one of the right bank pushrod tubes. And the other day I timed her to 60 mph: 23 seconds, 46 peak RWHP. ( http://bridgetmgtd.wordpress.com/2011/05/09/test-run/ ) And I'm like, "damn! All systems GO!"

Nice website Ed.

Just caught the "About" page and the "Safety Faste" - CLASSIC!

Today: Put a Stay Fast top on the speedy and made Lexan side curtains. Tomorrow night: oil cooler and master cylinder.
This build may just get done by Sunday night.

Alllright! That's what we like to hear!

That's "Safely Faster," Lane! BCW's slogo. (Which I made up). Thanks for looking.

The 'r' finger let me down there Ed. See you in 8 days.

Oil cooler and fan are in and fired up the motor... got all four gears and reverse on the lift.
Replaced the master cylinder again (oversized for disc's) I have good brake fluid squirt out all bleeders and still do not have any brake pedal, all fittings are tight, frustration doesn't quite cover it but will try to find the problem tomorrow...hard to believe that I could have two back to back bad master cylinders. That's the only thing that needs resolved, followed with a final buffing and it will be at Carlisle ~

And the Magician does it again, ladies and gentlemen.

Ta - daaaa. (and cymbal crash).

Almost there, a minor master cylinder issue ( taking it to a friend to pressure bleed it) set up the carbs and a good detail.

Very nice! Impressive throttle linkage set up, BTW.

Holey mother... that car is beautiful!! I think that color must be Eye-bleed Red.

Is that a keyed engine lid? slick
Damn, I want a Merklinmobile.

You're killing us with your speed my friend.

you did this whole car in the time it took me seal my engine bay. LOL

Beautiful car!

Alan--you truly are amazing. You build an entire car in the time it takes me do adjust my valves and change the oil! The car is gorgeous and the red color breathtaking.

Can't wait to see it next week.

C'mon Jack, you know he'll have it sold by then.

OMG!! Is that thing RED!!! or what? And the subtle little things like recessed lic. plate, keyed engine lid, accent paint here and there in the engine. A masterful job, another 1-of-a-kind Merklinmobile. Awseome!! Now if we can just get it to stop after the clutch is engaged, we'll have something special here.

Where is the For Sale sign? And how much?? I think you should keep it -- like that would ever happen . . .

Becky said "HOW MUCH"

It'd be tough to do better than one of Alan's creations, Richard. Tell Becky she has a good eye.

Congratulations, Alan! I've looked at the pics three times now and each time I pick out another subtle cutom feature you've built in.

She wants an IM6............but

Lookin' good!

Lane--that's certain---plus two more started!!

Alan, you do clean, sharp work & have taste. You taking apprentices?

Hey Alan,
Are those side windows available to buy somewhere? my curtains are crap...

Richard---you could do a lot worse than a Merkin creation---for starters his cars are "pre sorted" ---I know---what a concept.

Alan may be the builder with the 4th highest number of cars built!

And maybe #1 or 2 on fewest complaints.

Jack where you been? Going to the Smokies? Carlisle? Yes we are starting to look for our next last Speedster. I guess Alan is going to keep this one won't quote a price. Really are going to consider waiting a while for an IM but you know how pipe dreams can be. Right deal shows up and I'll grab it instead.
Alan Car is beautiful from what I can tell.

Bill , see me at Carlisle and I'll explain how to make them it takes about 2.5 hrs. and $75.00.

No price, it's not ready and I wouldn't feel comfortable selling it before sorting the car out.

Jack wrote: "And maybe #1 or 2 on fewest complaints"
..........I try to sell overseas this way I don't "hear about it "

Allan,
I can't make it to Carlisle but I am also interested in your side curtains. Are they similar to the factory CMC side curtains ?

No these are one off's that I make ....I make a card board template of the entire opening " both sides as they will be slightly different" (a bit of trial and error) then deduct approx. 1" for the rubber trim. Use only Lexan or Margard brands (no plexiglass as it will snap). I slip the rubber trim on the template to confirm a good fit before using a jig saw to cut the plastic. Use either the old CMC posts or make some up from square U bolts.

Alan, I just noticed you had the alternator body painted.
Any special prep needed for that? 'Cuz I'm totally stealing that idea whenever I get the Hoopty done.

Alan, looking sweet as usual..

Are there different MC pushrods? Maybe you have the wrong one?

Hey Richard---Yep---leaving the house in about 15 minutes for Carlisle--also planning Asheville---hope to see you and Becky soon.

Good point. That was my problem with the hydraulic clutch. The new MC Carey sent me for the 4-wheel disks had a different pushrod, so it seems logical that you might need one.

Well done!

Talked with Carey today and he has lead me down the right path, Carey is over nighting me a MC for 4 wheel discs ...there's still hope :~)

Off loading the speedster at Hotel Carlisle, I managed to have the trailer ramps hop up against the lower valance that left two nice deep scratches.
10:30 AM today I took the car over to my friend Randy's shop to have them fixed ...just 3.5 hours later he calls to tell me it's done and bring cold beer ! (Can't beat that kind of service....)

Alan---that car was gorgeous and even nicer in de flesh than in the pictures. Another Merklin masterpiece!

Thanks Jack, good to see you last weekend !