Supercharger Install Update

[Zack]

I got started on the project today. The first line of business was installing the twin cobra pump assembly. Although dropping the tank was suggested, I successfully installed it without doing so. 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. The only thing difficult was accessing the connector for the fuel pump located above the tank. Then I drove over to the dealership. The master tech and I installed the drainback plug for the S/C into the oil pan. This is a scary process but we pulled it off. We sealed the plug with diesel engine silicone (displaces oil). Im happy to report no leaks. I expected the cobra pumps to be loud but to my surprise, they are just as quiet as the stock pump. Im glad they are not loud. Well, thats all for today, I will dive deeper tomorrow. I will start installing the aftercooler pump and plumbing, as I see this to be the hardest part of the project. Ill keep everyone posted.
Zack

[TAF]

Thanks for the update, Zack. We're all interested in this project...now go have a :beer:

[Bigdogjim]

How about someone doing a live web thing on an install?

[martyo]

Zack, we are rooting for ya!!! Oh, and that grinding noise you hear in the background is just Menace gnashing his teeth, so pay him no mind!!!

[SergntMac]

Well, BigDog, I like your idea, but Zack's no desktop racer, no sir.

He's already into it all. He's got the oil pan plumbed, and the dual Cobra fuel pumps are in place as well.

I was hoping to take the day off from work to lend him a hand, but before I could ask the boss, the things he may have needed a hand with were history. The way Zack gets things done, I would imagine he'll be leaving some tire at US 41 before any of us could hope to ring his doorbell.

No holding this man back from his mission eh?

[Marauder57]

Well I must say I kind of agree with Zack or his enthusiasm....if I had the Reinhart SC...i would have all the tools laid out in position for speed and accuracy ready to go when UPS dropped it off.... :D

I am really anxious to hear about this thing once he gets it on the road....then again it could be a couple weeks before he stops driving to post again..... :D

[Zack]

Well, I worked on the car for about 12 hours today and I can say Im over half done. First off, thanks Mac for the valuable help you provided and the 'donor car' we frequently looked at for proper mounting locations. Before Mac arrived, though, I took everything off the car: air box, MAF, battery, battery box, grill, fan shroud, serpentine belt, water pump pulley, alternator, drained radiator, radiator hoses etc... I was goint to work on installing the aftercooler pump and plumbing, but realized it was more logical to install the S/C and air pipes. So we got started by installing the pulley on the S/C, tightening the fittings, bolting the bracket to the S/C, swapping studs and bolts on the engine, and had to swap two pullies. Then we test fit everything about 5 times, no fun, but fun at the same time. We got it right and tightened everything down. Next we installed the alternator and the serpentine belt which was an act of god to get on. The tensioner is not accessible after the S/C bracket is on! So the hard part was over and Mac left, thanks again. I then installed the crossover pipe and custom cut aluminum spacers for the pipe and alternator. Finally, I installed the MAF relocation bracket. I had to take the inner fender well (pass. side) liner out. Then I drilled two holes in the frame and bolted it in along with the MAF and air filter. I also test fitted all the air pipes and aftercooler. And thats it for today. I hope to have everything in and 'loose fitted' by the end of Sunday. I should be able to fire it up on Monday. Im taking my time on this project to make sure everything is done right the first time. Again, I intend to be an installer of this kit for members who are interested. Ill keep everone posted as new developments take place.
Zack

[JET]

Who's kit are you installing?

[Zack]

Im installing Reinharts kit. Today I only worked on the car for 4 hours. In that time, I installed the heat exchanger and aftercooler reservoir. I also installed some aftercooler hoses. I was amazed that all the brackets Dennis made for the car bolt right in to existing holes. I will go gung ho with the rest tomorrow and hopefully I'll finish. Oh yeah, I also installed the new coolant reservoir.

[SergntMac]

12 hours, plus 4 hours on this install. This clock is ticking too.

Judging from what I saw this afternoon, and what's left to accomplish, I'd say that Zack is less that 12 install hours from leaving some tracks somewhere. Looks like Zack will win the gas tank fill up award.

Don't think for a minute that I'm happy about this. Everything is cheaper in the Detroit area now...Just my luck, eh?

[Zack]

I think I understand what you are saying and I think Im laughing too? Yea, Im laughing.

[gonzo50]

Sounds like mucho fun, thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to report to us on your progress, you have better patience than I do. Good luck on the rest of the install. :up:

[sailsmen]

Good luck with the install.

For those considering an S/C I recc an oil analysis to try to detect any eng probs while the engine warr is intact.

[Dave Compson]

I am anxiously awaiting the next update. I am happy for you, thanks for the posts. I really like the reinhart package. Keep it up!

[Zack]

Well, I didnt finish today. I put about 8 hours into it. Now those of you adding up hours are probably saying its taking too long. Well I'd have to agree with that but I started the project with a mentality Ive never had before, take my time, check, double and triple check my work and make sure its right the first time. Today, the Aftercooler reservoir and brackets were bolted in their resting place for good. I must of had that assembly in and out 10 times. I also relocated a brass fitting away from the fog light which required drilling and tapping (on the reservoir) All of the hoses to the aftercooler, heat exchanger and pump are in and tight. You cant see any hoses from under the hood or outside the car, it really is a good setup. Then I put in the Denso plugs, followed by the new fuel injectors. Changing them requires taking off the throttle body, egr valve and upper intake assembly. I didnt have the tool to take off the fuel line from the fuel rail (it is a different size from the tool required to remove the fuel line at the tank, which I have.) So I invented a tool which was made out of cardboard to get the fuel line off, and it worked perfectly! So those are in and everything up top is buttoned back up. I also installed a 90 degree fitting in the oil filter housing to connect to the oil supply line for the Supercharger. That is in and tight. So as of right now, I am almost done. I am awaiting revised brackets for mounting the new fan shroud from Dennis. I could mock something up, but everything Dennis has provided so far has exceeded my expectations, I'll just wait to get them. So tomorrow I will run the new wiring harness to the MAF in the fender well and cable tie all the new hoses neatly into place. I will also wire up the aftercooler pump, and maybe the LED too. Again, everyones enthusiasm is appreciated, Ill keep everyone posted.
Zack

[TAF]

Zack,

A question...

You're obviously a man of talent with a wrench. And, I respect Dennis immensely. But, I was wondering if you've found anything that your talent has improved on during the install?

What I mean is...sometimes a set of "fresh-eyes" on a project can be helpful. And, Dennis has worked long and hard immersed in putting this kit together...anything that you've fed back to him that could be considered design tweaks or improvements for future kits?

Or...is this process pretty much a straight bolt-on?

[Zack]

That is a good question Todd. The only 'tweaks' that can be made to this kit lie in the design of the aftercooler components (brackets, reservoir etc.) The S/C only goes on one way, and in my mind whoever designed that part was a genius. The answer to the question is yes, I have made a few tweaks and suggestions so far. Funny thing is though, the three times Ive called Dennis so far to suggest a 'different way', I found out he either revised the same part already, or is in the process of doing so. The fit and finish of the kit is superb. No one can really appreciate it fully unless they install one themselves. Hope this helps.

[TAF]

Thanks for the reply, Zack. I'm sure Dennis appreciates your feed-back and what sounds like confirmation of changes he already had in mind/process.

Looking forward to seeing it in Ennis!!!

Please continue to keep us updated.

[Zack]

I put a few hours into it today and realized Im almost done. I rewired the MAF harness (included) and routed the harness out of sight over to the Pass. wheel well where the MAF is. I routed and connected a 5/8" hose from the drivers side valve cover over to the pipe coming off the MAF. So basically, all the new hoses are in, routed and cable tied in place. All of the wiring is done (what little there was). I will be done on Thursday, FOR SURE!!! I am awaiting longer collars for 2 air pipes, brackets for the new fan shroud and fittings for the aftercooler, which will arrive Thursday morning (again, improved pieces, not missing). Just a word to all... This is the most near to perfect kit Ive ever put on a car. Now Im not trying to sound like a spokes person for Dennis, but Im bringing a bottle of Vodka to Ennis for him. On another note, everyone who is thinking of orhave bought a kit from Dennis, be glad you werent the first person to buy it like me. I signed up for this with the intent to 'refine' issues or hardships a typical do-it-your-selfer might face. Well I, not going to lie, nor would Dennis want me to, there were issues that needed to be addressed. And to put it plain and simple, after what, 4 days of work now, ALL of the issues have been resolved. So anyone who orders one or has ordered one, your install will be very pleasant and gratifying.

[martyo]

Way to go Zack!!

[Dave Compson]

Thanks for being the ginuea pig! Cant wait for the results.

[Mike M]

How much was the kit from Dennis???

[Warpath]

Zack - Just make sure you resist the urge to start it up and jump on it. Let it run and get to normal tempature and check for leaks. Its a good idea to let it get to normal temperature before you drive it every time. Just keep an constant eye on the fluid levels for a while. Once things seem OK, run a WOT run or two then check everything again. I thought I had everything set. But, at WOT only, the supercharger oil feed line leaked. The fitting installed on the S/C when I recieved it was loose. Good luck. I think it took about 80 hours to install mine including buying tools I didn't have. I'm very picky about where my wires run too. I like a stock look.

[Zack]

Thanks for the heads up. My first WOT will be on the dyno to verify a good A/F ratio. And Im sure all of my fittings are tight as of now. There was a big sticker on the S/C stating NONE of the fittings left the factory tight. I tightened all of them...twice!

[WolfeBros]

Zack congrats on the install and thank you for taking the time to keep us updated here as well. We look forward to hearing your results from the dyno run. :up:

[SergntMac]

I have the honor of watching this man "Zack" turn wrenches with my naked eye. I've enjoyed all of this, he is building one magnificant automobile.

He is doing it all by himself, on the words of one serious designer. My hat's off to both of them.

Dennis Reinhart is a "machine-ist" without comparasion. Zack McGrath is surely a "gasoline alley wrench" without debate.

So, this MM project will deliver one serious MM to deal with on the street, and on the track...Bet y'all by golly.

I am pleased that I have had the opportunity to watch it all come together. It amazes me, how the Internet and cellular phone use, has brought this project together.

This MM will be up and running on schedule, no doubt. What is not mentioned, is how the designer is available for consultation, 24/7, and without any "ego driven" fits..."outbursts" if you will, of why he is NOT available.

Some here want to last through tomorrow.




The rest of us want to last forever...

[Zack]

Thanks Mac! Well spoken by the way. All this stemming from a phone call one evening and you threatening me with a ticket for no front license plate....... Who would've thought?

[Bigdogjim]

Zack: Can't waite to see this car at the Red Roof in Memphis on the 17th

Great work thanks for the update.

[Zack]

Here is the second to last update............ As you might have read from prior posts, I am awaiting fan shroud brackets, intercooler fittings and longer collars for the air pipes. Those parts will be on my doorstep tomorrow morning. Everything else is DONE! This is what Ill be doing tomorrow: hanging the fan shroud, mounting the PS reservoir, hooking the hoses up to the intercooler, installing the upper and lower radiator hoses, installing the flex pipe from the MAF to the supercharger and of course the air pipes. This is about an hours worth of work. I cant wait.

[Zack]

I AM DONE!!!
I dont even know how to start this post. I havent even driven the car yet, but it started right up and runs perfectly. Everything looks just awesome, no clearance issues anywhere and that whine is like a good lullaby. I took extra care in my hose routing. Everything looks factory and is wire tied in place. There are some highlights about this project Id like to mention....
First of all, there was not one leak or drip when the car started, or a half hour later. Im also pleased to announce I didnt put one scratch in the car during the project. Im so used to working on primered cars (and not worrying about scratches), I actually used fender covers on the car. Im glad I did. The aftercooler system works perfectly, you cant even hear the pump running. The way Dennis designed the aftercooler system will blow everyone away. But the singlemost memorable part of this project is the collaboration from both friend and vendor (also a friend).
Mac, thank you, I couldnt have done it without your help and your car to compare to. You said it yourself, this car brings back everything guys lived for in the late 60's. At 24 years old, Im fortunate to have the ongoing thrill of automobiling like 'the days of old' at my fingertips.
Dennis, you are the definition of High Performance Enthusiast. The passion you have for the Marauder and your career shines through everytime you answer your phone. (Especially when you answer your phone at home out of a dead sleep!) I dont care what anyone has or will say about you in the future, you are all right by me. Thank you for hot rod you helped me build, the advice and who can forget, all the wonderful BS along the way.
So that sums it up, the car is done (for now.) Yep, Im gonna go find me a job now that Ive ran out of parts to put on. You know, Ive been unemployed since May, my savings are running out, and the only thing keeping my sanity intact is this car, go figure.

[Bigdogjim]

Zack: Congrats.Well done young man! I can't wait to see the MM in Memphis! :bows:

[WolfeBros]

Congrats Zack. :up:
There are those that think they know.....and there are those that can tell the real story. You my friend can be proud of what you have accomplished. That is one bad ride. Thanks for taking us along on your journey.
:rock:

[Dennis Reinhart]

Well, the journey may be over, now the adventure has begun. This is an awesome ride, with our new program for this car, its unbelievable, the standing acceleration, those that think a Vortech does not spool up fast are absolutely wrong, the car devastates the 18" tires, I am taking Keith's car to Gainesville for new track times. Thanks Zack for your support and patients.

[Marauder57]

Zack, YOU DA MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nice job dude...glad you enjoyed the whole installation...I must say that is a pretty impressive job.....as I have said before and you have confirmed it....that Reinhart SC is a work of art.....it is just beautiful to look at under the hood....and I am sure you will love it on the track as well....I think I have Zack's weekend figured out....

Friday: Dyno, Track, home sit in lawn chair stare at SC, 6 pack.

Saturday: Track, Terrorize Ricers, Break a Cobra Owners heart, Back to garage marvel at my own install of Reinhart SC, 6 pack.

Sunday: Do it all again. 12 pack, call crank call local mustang owners, race local cops, Call Mac for Bail Money.

Monday: Nurse hangover in jail, show off SC in exchange for early release. Sit in lawn chair marvel at SC install. Iced Tea. 2 asprin.

ENJOY ZACK!
:D

[cstringe42]

Zack,

I'm in the south holland area, I would love to see your work. You can email if that's ok.

Calvin

[WhoMe]

I want track times, I want track times!!! Will Dennis have low ET at Ennis? Zack, although we've never met or spoken, congrats on a job well done!!! The Marauder is one of the coolest cars I've had the pleasure to drive, and Dennis's kit is simply perfect. There is one small problem with the kit ..... it should be a T-Trim :) Dennis, are you listening?


Who? Me?

[jgc61sr2002]

WhoMe - Welcome to the site. The best on the net. Thanks to Logan and LML.:up:

[Dennis Reinhart]

I am doing a SQ T Trim within the next 30 days, the car should run 10's with 15 PSI on a fully built motor.

[Dennis Reinhart]

Originally posted by WhoMe
I want track times, I want track times!!! Will Dennis have low ET at Ennis? Zack, although we've never met or spoken, congrats on a job well done!!! The Marauder is one of the coolest cars I've had the pleasure to drive, and Dennis's kit is simply perfect. There is one small problem with the kit ..... it should be a T-Trim :) Dennis, are you listening?


Who? Me?

here they are on 17" wheels I will post some this week on the 18"

http://www.marauder57.com/Reinhart/RSCTimeSlipScan.jpg