Factory Five MK 3.1 Cobra Roadster with 4.6L DOHC SVT Aluminum V8 - Unfinished

  • Location: Acton, California, United States
  • Make: Shelby
  • Model: Cobra
  • Year: 1965
  • Mileage: 20
  • Vehicle Title: Clear

1965 Shelby Cobra Description

I started this MK 3.1 Roadster project in 2008 and made good progress for a few years but lately I've had no time to invest. Work, kids, and grandkids have taken center stage. No regrets though. While the car is not finished the technical part of building a car I accomplished so for that I'm grateful. After much consideration it's time to part ways and let someone else make it their own.
So on with the car. This was ordered as a complete kit from Factory Five. Included in the kit were:4.6L aluminum panel kitLeather seatsIndependent rear suspension.Power coated frameWind wingsChrome roll bar17" Replica Halibrand wheels
Additional items addedSummitomo tiresAudio amplifier and speakersPowder coated aluminum panels (a few around the radiator have not been done.)Backup lightHydraulic clutchPower steeringAluminum recovery tankPower steering coolerCeramic coated exhaust
No donor was used to build this car. The wiring harness is a combination of the supplied Ron Francis wiring harness kit and a Telorvek FI harness that interfaces the engine to the FI computer. I have many diagrams and notes for the wiring. I'm happy to provide those before or with the sale.
The engine is a real find. It's a brand new, unused, 4.6L DOHC all aluminum V8 that I purchased off Craig's list. This is a hand-built motor that was only used in the Cobra SVT version of the Mustang. The gent who originally bought the motor for a project ended up changing his mind. So I was able to buy the complete engine and transmission intact on the original pallet that it was shipped on. Originally the engine was sold by Ford Racing. This package was intended for the 2000 model year Mustang Cobra. Ford didn't build the Cobra for that model year so engines were sold complete by Ford Racing. The engine is new with effectively zero miles. In the end, it looks terrific under the hood. Rated at 320HP and 317ft lbs. of torque. Before installation the oil pan was changed to a low-profile unit. Capacity is 9 Qts.
So what's left to be done? I would say get it on the street and wring it out. Being more specific this is what's on the list:The brake pads need to be broken in and a final brake bleed performedThe ride height setFront alignmentRear alignment (although I think I have it close)Engine tune (For performance and to remove EGR, and fuel tank evap.Body and paintCarpet (I have the kit from Factory Five but I'm not sure of its condition since it's been in a box for several years)
I have all original paperwork from the purchase of the kit and the motor. I have wiring diagrams of how I combined the Ron Francis harness with the Telorvek FI harness and any added accessories including heated seats, backup light, and audio amplifier. This was all done by using terminal blocks behind the dash. I can share these as well as provide a link to more pictures. The car is not registered, and the buyer would be responsible for knowing their local registration laws.
Local pickup is preferred but I will assist a transport company to load the vehicle as well as provide all remaining parts from the kit. Bottom line I would love to see someone finish this off and get it on the road.
Thanks for looking.