Building the World's First Diesel Ferrari for Rally: Suspension, Wiring, and Fabrication

Diesel Ferrari Project Kickoff

• 🛠️ The team begins work on the world's first diesel Ferrari, tackling the complex wiring harness with help from SMS Auto and Marine.
• ⚙️ Fabrication work includes setting up a clutch and flywheel system, requiring precise machining to true up the chuck jaws.
• 💡 The project involves installing new rally car suspension and radiators, with a focus on custom fabrication.

Fabrication and Design Challenges

• 🔩 A drag racing flywheel is modified to fit the engine's bolt pattern, involving precise measurements and drilling.
• 🔌 The wiring process is described as time-consuming and challenging, especially for an uncommon diesel engine.
• 📐 Design work for an adapter plate is underway, utilizing CAD software and 3D printing for prototyping.

3D Printing and Component Installation

• 🖨️ The adapter plate design is broken into four pieces for 3D printing due to printer size limitations, with a focus on verifying hole alignment.
• 💨 Aftermarket aluminum radiators for a Ferrari F355 are unboxed and test-fitted, appearing to be a good fit.
• 💡 3D printed threads are successfully incorporated into the adapter plate design, demonstrating the utility of prototyping.

Suspension Upgrades and Vehicle Dynamics

• 🚀 New Flatout rally suspension is installed, significantly increasing the travel and altering the vehicle's stance.
• 🚗 The front suspension's upper ball joint is identified as a limiting factor for down travel, presenting a future design challenge.
• 📈 The lifted Ferrari now boasts nearly 8 inches of ground clearance, transforming its appearance and capability.

Engine and Drivetrain Progress

• 🔧 Modifications to the engine mount are necessary to accommodate the starter, highlighting the importance of order of operations in complex builds.
• 🔌 ECUs are sent out for tuning to delete immobilizers and prepare the engine for running.
• ⚙️ The team is close to bolting the transmission to the engine, a significant milestone for the project.

Final Touches and Future Plans

• ✨ The tilted windshield is fitted with new plexiglass, improving the vehicle's aesthetics and aerodynamics.
• 💡 The team discusses relocating the turbos to a more accessible and visually appealing position, potentially designing custom manifolds.
• 🚀 The project is nearing completion, with the transmission soon to be bolted up and the ECUs ready for tuning, marking a major step towards a running diesel Ferrari.