Drive Train  / Brakes / Possibilities

The original Shelby FIA used the 289 engine during its race history. We have done some minor modifications so that you can fit any Windsor-style engine from the 260 to the 351 engine also (with some intake manifold restrictions.)  

At the right is our original prototype - a duplicate of # 142 - with Weber carburetors. These carburetors are quite expensive - about $3500 for the set- but they do look good.  They also CAN run well, but it frequently takes quite a bit of tweeking to get them right.  If you pay a pro for the work, figure on at least another $1000.

We have exhaust headers to fit most standard exhaust port patterns.  Be careful, though, when you select your heads.  Many have moved the ports around a bit.

You may use the following transmissions: Ford Top-Loader or T10, or for 5 speeds, the Richmond Gear, Mustang T-5, and Tremec TKO can be installed. Other mounts can be custom fit.  E.R.A. has developed Hurst shift linkages for all Top-Loader and Borg Warner transmissions and a Long Shifter for the Richmond Gear transmissions.

The E.R.A. linkages and reproduction shift handles are optional. Of course, the handle is placed so that it duplicates the original look on the transmission tunnel.

For the T-5 and Tremec transmissions, we can build a shift handle with the "T" lockout (non-functioning) that looks similar to the original 4 speed, although the location will be a little off.

BRAKES: For a look at some real master cylinders, etc, installed in the chassis, click here! GM-based 11" x 1" vented rotors and floating calipers (shown at the right) stop the front.  Special larger brakes are available for racing or heavy duty street use. In the rear, the standard Jaguar-base inboard 10.5" x .5" solid rotors are clamped by Girling calipers with separate emergency brake caliper.   Our optional rear suspension uses 11.75" vented rotors clamped by PBR floating calipers with integral emergency brake function.

The E.R.A. braking system is designed for maximum safety, efficiency and balance. The complete brake hydraulic system, except for the calipers, comes installed on the standard kit.   Both the illustrations at the right are taken from the assembly manual This includes:  Dual Tilton master cylinders connected by an adjustable balance bar mounted under the floor. All brake lines, steel and flex, mounted on the chassis.

The pedal system includes all pedals arms with pivoting aluminum pedal faces (see below) with "ERA" or "AC".  We support the hardened pivot shaft and the brake pedal in needle bearings.   Like the original car, the pedals are pivoted underneath the floor.  Unlike the original car, we protect the master cylinders in a box (not illustrated) that is removable for service. All stress bearing parts are mounted directly to the chassis. An adjustable balance bar connects the master cylinders with the brake pedal. Dual brake light switches with dash warning light for hydraulic malfunctions. Optional remote reservoir on the drivers footbox.

For a look at some real master cylinders, etc, installed in the chassis, click here!

Special larger brakes are available for racing or heavy duty street use.  In the front, they include12.2" inch directionally vented rotors withWilwood Superlite calipers.  The larger front brakes will not fit into American Racing Torq-Thrust wheels, but will fit with the PS Engineering pin-drives.  In the rear, the ERA outboard-braked suspension will complete the high-performance brake package.

The complete hydraulic clutch release system is included in the kit, with all but the slave cylinder and connecting line installed on the chassis. Also included is a slave cylinder bracket and the adjustable link to the throwout fork. You just bolt the pieces in.  All brake and clutch lines (including the flex hoses to the calipers) are installed. Also installed are the clutch pedal, master and slave cylinder; fuel tank, cap, filler pipe and lines.

Our custom aluminum radiator (with electric fan) is the largest in the business and fully shrouded in aluminum. The standard fan will cool most big street engines in temperate climes.  Order the optional fan  only if you have a big engine and live in an un-naturally hot envirornment, like south of  the Mason-Dixon line... (Just some Yankee humor ;>).

Our throttle linkage lets you bolt up to most 4 bbl carburetors directly.  We cast our own aluminum pedal pivot box that duplicates the original car.  Except for the engine bracket, all pieces are installed, even on our standard kit. We also can supply the engine bracket and bellcrank for Weber carburetors as shown on our car 142, shown at the top of this page.

Back to the 289FIA Home Page!