A quality chassis builder will either discuss options or have a list of options that you can choose from. This list will include type, location and brand of gauges, what you prefer for fuel pump, carb tray and scoop. Small things, like which brand of shifter you want, location of electrical switches, transbrake buttons and where you want the delay box mounted. Dragstar Chassis has a wide variety of suppliers so they can handle getting everything shipped in for you at great prices.

I did it a little differently as I sought support from our marketing partners and took care of getting most of the parts on my own. I thought the UPS truck was never going to quit showing up and then I had to ship everything down to Dragstar Chassis. It is way too much hassle and you would save a lot of money by just having the chassis shop get the parts and then you know you will get the right parts.

Now is when "attention to detail" will get a final workout. Small brackets, body panel fitting, shifter mounts, dash layout and dozens of small details are decided upon at this point is the construction. The fit of the windscreen, the dash, location of the gauges, location of the shifter and switches all make the car "driver-friendly" and are important. Now is when communication is important so stay in touch with your chassis builder. This is where personal service will make a shop stand out. I am 110% satisfied with Dragstar Chassis Inc. If I call or fax them a message or a concern I always hear back the same day.

The front A-arms and steering components and rear suspension components are off getting nickel plated (standard on Dragstar Chassis), as is the brake pedal and throttle pedal. The chassis is close to being shipped out for the most durable finish available, powder coating. Don't rush this decision, as the last thing you want to find out is there was one more bracket that needed to be welded on. If that happens, you are grinding through your expensive powder coating and that DOES NOT make for a happy day.

That wraps up our second article of Project 4-Link. It should help show you that you have to do a lot of planning ahead to keep costs under control and to save a lot of time when it comes to assembly. Just remember to work with your chassis builder and don't be afraid to ask questions.

In our next Project 4-Link article we will have a look at the installation of the Strange Engineering rear axle housing assembly installation, rear suspension going together and the aluminum sheeting as it is crafted into body panels.

See ya at the races!

Jok Nicholson and the Project 4-Link super crew!

Editor's note: If you want to find out more about Project 4-Link and other products from Dragstar Chassis you can contact them at:

Dragstar Chassis, Inc.
1763 South Highway 79
Old Monroe, MO 63369-2420

Phone (636) 661-5081
Fax (636) 665-5611

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