Q: What order does the Kingpins go together?
Q: What is the length of Spirit’s front axle?
A: 48 inches eye to eye
Q: What year is Spirit’s rear-end housing?
A: The 10 Bolt housing is out of ’90-up S-10 pickup. The wider 10-bolt is out of a ’94 and up S-10 Blazer, 8.8 is out of a ’98 Ford Explorer
Q: How wide is Spirit’s rear-ends?
A: Spirit’s 23T rear-ends are 48” backing plate to backing plate, our 27T is 52 ½” backing plate to back plate and the 8.8 is 54” backing plate to backing plate.
Q: What is length of Spirit’s shocks.
A: Chrome QA1 shock is 15” fully extended and the plain coil-overs are 14”.
Q: Where does Spirit get drive shafts from?
A: Spirit buys them from a Powertrain Industries. Their phone number is 417-863-1830.
Powertrain Industries
1842 East Commerical
Springfield MO 65807
Q: What backspacing does Spirit recommend?
A: Depending on rim size, and company you are looking it will determine the backspacing.
Q: What size is Spirit’s windshield frames?
A: 39 5/8”
Q: What length steering columns does Spirit use?
A: 35” Flaming River Tilt Column
Q: What causes my front end to shimmy?
A: Frontend shimmy is caused by a number of things.
The combination of worn out components and or frontend alignment will cause serious problems.
First and foremost, the components that make up the steering assembly must be in good condition. These components are:
Tie-rod ends
Heim Joints
King Pins and bushings
Steering links
Drag link
Radius rods
Pittman arm
Steering box bushings
Hub bearings
Shackle bushings
All of these components must be in good condition. Replace any part which shows wear, or movement beyond design specifications. If in doubt, replace it.
Assuming all of your components are OK, the next step is to align the frontend. If your T Bucket has bias ply tires then you should have a maximum of 1/8" toe in. Radials should be "0" to 1/8" toe out maximum.
The final step, (and VERY important) is to balance the complete rotating assembly! Attempt to balance your tires mounted on the hubs if possible. If this option is not available to you, then balance the components separately. Your drums or rotors and tires must be accurately balanced!
Tire inflation has been a subject of controversy for a very long time. But there is a basic starting point. For spoked wheels, (motorcycle type) start at MAXIMUM inflation. Generally 45/50 lbs. For all other tires, start at 28/32 lbs. Test your T on several road surfaces especially rough roads. Inflate or deflate your tires to minimize bouncing. You will always get some bouncing, but less is better. Make sure that both front tires have EXACTLY the same air pressure.
There is a big difference between shimmy and bounce! You need to avoid shimmy at all costs! This is a self induced harmonic which will destroy your whole frontend and possibly cause a serious accident. Shimmy starts when the rotating mass (tires, wheels, hubs, and rotors or drums) harmonics go into oscillation with the steering components (links, bushings, rods, and tie rods). They "push" against each other causing a violent back & fourth motion (Shimmy). Because this motion is self induced, it progresses until something breaks, or over come by an external force (IE: hit the brakes and slow down). It is imperative that your frontend be in absolutely perfect working order.
Have you ever rolled a tire around your garage, or down a street before? If you have, then you may recall how the surface governed the direction the tire rolled. This same condition exists on your T Bucket. To overcome this, a frontend alignment is setup to create an equal force on both front wheels. This effect is called "toe in" or "toe out". This equal force tends to overcome most road surfaces, making the frontend responsive to the drivers command. However, too much of either can create a new set of problems. Tire scuffing will be the first on the list. Then there is the problem of shimmy. Toe in tends to cause shimmy more than toe out. Zero toe in/toe out will virtually eliminate shimmy however your frontend will feel "loose". In other words, your car will walk back and forth while cruising. This effect is usually manageable, but annoying. Regardless which "toe" effect you need, limit the adjustment to a maximum of 1/8" The next adjustment available to you is "CASTER". This is the tilting of your king pin bosses. This caster effect tends to make your front wheels follow the centerline of the front axle. Caster is good for helping your T track straight. You always want the caster effect to "follow" your axle. You adjust your caster by adjusting the length of the UPPER clevises on your radius rods. Typically, about 5 degrees of caster is plenty, and in some cases 2 or 3 degrees is all that’s required. Have you ever pushed a shopping cart around a grocery store, and noticed sometimes the front wheels shimmy? That’s way too much caster! So go easy on your caster adjustment. Finally, there is camber... you can't change it easily because it's built into the king pin bosses. However, as your king pin bushings wear out, you induce more camber. So check your king pins & bushings occasionally for wear. You may also try a steering dampner.
Q: What direction does Spirit put the shackles?
A: We put our shackles facing the front of the car and tighten them down and cut off the remaining thread.
Q: What motor mounts does Spirit use?
A: Spirit uses motor mounts from NAPA….Chevy mount is 602-1106 and Ford is 602-1151.
Q: What transmission mount does Spirit use?
A: Spirit uses NAPA transmission mount.
Q: What speedo cable does Spirit use?
A: Spirit uses a 615-1605 from NAPA.
Q: What year is the calipers and rotors Spirit uses?
A: Ford Rotors
They are actually a mopar rotor and they range in years and models.
(’73-’76) Challenger, Charger, Coronet, Dart, Scamp, Duster.
Chevy Rotors
The GM rotors are going to range in year and model.
(’73-’77) Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Malibu, Buick Regal, Buick Century, Grand Prix, Le Mans, Tempest.
(’70-’78) Camaro, Trans-am and Firebird.
The caliper are out of ’82-87 Camaro, Trans–am and Firebird. They fit both Ford and Chevy Rotors. ’78-’85 Chevelle, Malibu, and F-85.
Q:Titling a t-bucket?
A: Different states are different. Sema is working with different states to get a streetrod bill into law so you can title them as a streetrod. Arkansas, Virginia, Washington, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Missouri, Montana, Rhode Island, Tennessee have passed the law. The best thing is to call your local DMV office or Check with SEMA and see if your state has passed the law.
Q: What does Spirit use between the body and the frame?
A: Spirit uses truck mud flaps. Cut them down in small thin strips.
Q: What does Spirit use between the body and gas tank?
A: Spirit uses truck mud flaps.
Q: How to mount the headlight stantions?
A: You can mount them using allen bolts or counter sink them. Just drill through the stantions and the tap your frame and run a bolt through.
Q: What degree should the front axle be?
A: Camber already set. The caster is a 1/8th inch tow end.
Q: Do I need residual valves?
A: No you don’t need them. You can put them on for extra safety.
Q: What year is Spirit’s master cylinder?
A: Spirit uses a 75-77 mustang 2 master cylinder for manual brakes.
Q: Will Spirit’s insert fit into a different body?
A: Spirits insert is made for our body. It might work or might not. You might have to build it up or cut it down.
Measurements:
front to back 52 1/2"(length)
back width is 42 3/4"
middle width: is 41 1/2"
front width: is 37"
front height: 14 1/2"
middle height: 20 1/2"
back of the insert: 20 ½”(high)
note: there is a one inch lip all the way around the insert.
Q: Will a different body fit on Spirit’s frame?
A: Spirit’s 27T frame is 128 ½” long, 26 ½” OD and tapers back to 30 ½” in the back. Spirit’s 23T frame is 106 ½” long, 26 ½” Outside Diameter to Outside Diameter and it is a straight frame. Spirit’s c-cab frame is 125” long and is 26 ½” OD. Spirit’s Track T frame is 114 ½” long and 26” OD.
Q: Will Spirits bodies fit on a different frame?
A: Our bodies will fit a max of 27” OD frame and minimum of 26 ½” OD.
Q: What radiator do I need where I live?
A: 2-row and 4-row are the best radiators for anywhere in the US.
Q: What size is Spirit’s radiator?
A: 23 ½” x 19” W, 3” D
Q: What is the measurement on Spirit’s 23T body?
A: 53” long, 44 ½” wide, 39 ½” depth. From the firewall to the back of the seat is 52”. Width where you sit is 40”.
Q: What is the measurement on Spirit’s 27T body?
A: 91” long, 47” wide. From the back of the seat to firewall is 52 inches, and the width where you sit is 43 ½”.
Q: What are the sizes of the 23T grill shell?
A: Spirit’s 23T grill shell is High 26 ½”, width is 20”, and depth is 5 ½”
Q: What are the sizes of the 34 grill shell?
A: Height is 36 ¾”, Width is 21”, Depth is 14”(widest point). The inside width at top is 17 ¼”, inside width in the middle is 17 ½”, and inside width at very bottom is 6 inches. Inside Height is 27 ½”.
Q: What are the sizes of the 32 grill shell?
A: Height is 29”, width is 19 ½”, Depth is 14” at widest point. Inside width is 15 ½” and inside height is 17 ½”.
Q: What is the dimension of Spirit’s 23T frame?
A: Spirit’s 23T frame is 106 ½” long, 26 ½” Outside Diameter to Outside Diameter and it is a straight frame.
Q: What is the dimension of Spirit’s 27T frame?
A: Spirit’s 27T frame is 128 ½” long, 26 ½” OD and tapers back to 30 ½” in the back.
Q: What is the dimension of Spirit’s 23 C-Cab frame?
A: Spirit’s C-cab frame is 125” long, and 26 ½” OD.
Q: Does Spirit sell all the parts to finish a T-bucket?
A: Spirit offers every part to finish your t bucket. Spirit sells Super Kits that come with everything you need except the drive train, glass, and gas tank.
Q: How long has Spirit been in business?
A: Spirit Industries started up in 1994.
Q: What is Spirit’s return policy?
Q: What is Spirit’s warranty?
Q: What form of payment does Spirit take?
A: Spirit takes VISA, Master-card, Discover, Money Order, Cashier Check, personal check.
Q: What does Spirit ask to get a kit started?
A: Spirit asks for half down to get started on a kit.
Q: How long does it take to get my kit shipped?
A: Spirit is about 2-4 weeks out. It can be sooner just depends on how many orders we have.
Q: Does Spirit sell wheels and tires for a t-bucket?
A: Spirit does not sell wheels and tires…we buy them from local tire shop, Summit Racing, Jegs, or local tire shop.
Q: What spindles does Spirit use?
A: ‘37-‘41 Ford Spindles.
Q: Does Spirit charge a crating charge?
A: Yes Spirit does…it is $100. Model A bodies Spirit charges $150. Spirit charges anywhere from $50 to $150 depending on the item.
Q: How much is shipping?
A: Shipping is going to vary…if you get it shipped to a business to business with a dock or forklift you will save. We can ship to your Front door, business, or you can pick it up at the truck terminal…You are welcome to come pickup your kit here at the shop.
Q: Are Spirit’s parts brand new?
A: All parts are brand new except the rear-end housing.
Q: What thickness is Spirit’s frames?
A: Spirit uses 2”x3” and 3/16” thickness
Q: Does Spirit offer a payment plan? Layaway?
A: We can setup a layway plan. You send us a monthly payment until it is paid in full and then we ship your car out.
Q: Can I get a Ford bolt pattern?
A: Spirit offers a Ford bolt pattern (5x4 ½) all the way around the car.
Q: Can I get a Chevy bolt pattern?
A: Spirit offers a Chevy Bolt pattern (5x4 3/4) all the way around the car.
Q: What is Spirit setup for on your frames?
A: Spirit is setup for Small Block Ford, Small Block Chevy, and Big Block Chevy.
Q: Does the frame come fully welded?
A: Yes spirit’s frame comes fully welded.
Q: Do I have to do any welding on Spirit’s frame?
A: Spirit’s frames require no welding.
Q: How do I order?
A: You can call us and place an order over the phone. You can place an order on the internet, or mail in your order.
Q: What size are the radius rods Spirit uses?
A: 27 inches
Q: Who does Spirit use for shipping?
A: Spirit uses UPS for small items. For the big items Spirit uses Freight-quote and they use different carriers. Kits will go truck freight.
Q: Does Spirit offer Tech help?
A: Yes spirit offers tech help.
Q: Does Spirit have plans to build my own frame?
A: We do not offer plans to build your own frame.
Q: Does spirit sell blem or seconds?
A: We do not sell damaged, blem, or second bodies. We sell quality bodies.
Q: Do you build your own frames and fiberglass parts?
A: Spirit build there own frames which are jig built. Spirit also builds there own fiberglass parts. Spirit uses a chopper gun.
Q: Does Spirit have a showroom?
A: Spirit does have a showroom and welcomes visitors.
Q: Does Spirit offer turnkeys?
A: Yes spirit offers turnkey cars. Spirit builds to suit.
Q: What colors can I get for interior?
A: Spirit offers about any color. Just send us a sample and Spirit will see if we can get that color.
Q: How much does a basic 23T kit costs?
A: Spirit’s 23T Stage III Kit is $4000.
Q: Does Spirit offer a dealer program?
A: Yes we offer a dealer program with pricing.
Q: Does Spirit have an instruction manual?
A: Yes we have a instructions manual…we are always updating and trying to make a bigger and better catalog.
Q: Can I subtract an item from Spirit Kits?
A: Yes you can subtract anything off the Kit lists.
Q: Can I come pickup my kit from Spirit?
A: Spirit welcomes anyone wishing to pickup there kit.
Q: What size is Spirit’s spring?
A: Spirit’s spring is 26” eye to eye.
Q: What are Spirit’s shop hours?
A: Spirit is open Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm (central standard time)
Q: Is Spirit setup for Corvair steering boxes?
A: Spirit uses a Vega Steering box.
Q: Will Spirit’s frame handle horsepower?
A: Yes it can. Spirit’s frame is one of the strongest frames in the industry. Spirit uses 2”x3” (3/16” thickness) steel for the frames.
Q: Can I put a Big Block in a Spirit T-bucket?
A: Yes you can. Spirit offers Big Block Chevy mounts on the frame.
Q: Does Spirit offer a top?
A: Spirit offers a cloth top, and hardtop for Spirits 23T and 27T.
Q: Does Spirit offer chrome?
A: Spirit offers chrome.
Q: Does Spirit offer a catalog?
A: Spirit offers a catalog.
Q: Where is Spirit Located?
A: Spirit is located in Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653
Q: Does Spirit offer cross steering?
A: We are not setup for cross steering.
Q: Does Spirit build custom frames?
A: We can build a custom frame. Please call or fax what you are wanting.
Q: Does Spirit sell gas tanks?
A: What size gas tanks does Spirit use? Spirits 27T gas tank is 24” wide x 10” High, 14” Depth. The 23T gas tank is 33” wide, 12” depth, and 7” high. The 27T gas tank will hold 15.3 gallons, and the 23T will hold 12.3 gallons.
We use Ron Pope for gas tanks. His number is 865-932-7541.
Q: How do I select a windsheld for my car?
A:When selecting a new windshield for your T-BUCKET is important that you select the correct width frame for your car. Before ordering you should know the EXACT width of the frame you need. If your car does not presently have a frame or posts then we suggest that you purchase from us ONLY the posts and install them onto your body and than measure the distance from the inside of each post. If you own a SPIRIT INDUSTRIES body the distance will be 39 5/8 inches. Speedway bodies use a 39 5/8 inches and other manufactured bodies use a 40 1/2 inch.
Q: How do I identify my spindles?
A: See chart. Also, TP and Early Chevy spindles look similar, but TP has "TOTAL" cast in, also you can see rubber "O" ring at top and bottom of king pin. Chevy has recessed "C" clip. Econoline spindles utilize only one bolt to hold on spindle arm. Early Ford spindles have lower arms cast onto spindle.
Q: How do I measure for a drive shaft?
A:
One of the most misunderstood things I've
run into in all my years of drive train is
understanding DRIVESHAFT angle and what
it's effects are on a vehicle.
I will try to make this as simple as possible
As a DRIVESHAFT turns at given angle the joint
moves in an forward to back motion the first spot
is the trans.angle and the second is the shaft
this movement kind of makes a x on paper if you were
to map it out.
Quite simply if the x or angle measurement on
the top isn't the same on the bottom you will end
up with a bicycle crank type of movement. In other words one movement will not counteract the other
movement.
look at the chart below
The picture above shows a simple driveline and how its angles are laid out.this is a text book lay out and if you can achieve angles like this please do. But remember its not a perfect world and there are different factors to deal with when building a car,With all the vehicle's I have been under it
never ceases to amaze me me what should work
doesn't and what should not work does. The point
i'm trying to make is get the angles as close as
possible and if there is a problem after it can
be taken care of at that time.If you have a vehicle that has a problem and don't know what to do contact us and we will help you as much as we can.
