It’s a good time of year to finish new projects, and that’s exactly what’s happening with the Catfish.
Windshield–the big news is that the windshield is entering the mold-making phase of construction. This is a full-width windscreen that will become an option to having no screen or the Brooklands-style personal chin-screens that we have now. It is low, sleek, slung back and requires changes to the hood and the frame. All new Cars from now on will include a hood and a “cowl”, which sits above the dash. The cowl will also hold the windscreen (if ordered) and the wiper components. The entire assembly is fairly involved, but is scheduled to be available this year. Pricing TBA. Following behind the full windscreen will be a bikini top to help cover the car from wind and weather.
Roll Hoop Covers–While the initial roll hoop covers were made in aluminum, the standard material for the Catfish will be high performance fiberglass. Carbon Fiber is also available. Okay, or aluminum too. In fact, the first hoops ordered are to be made in aluminum and will include custom dimple die work. These parts have been on the “to do” list for a long time, and they’re finally getting done.
Custom Wiring Harness Kit–As we get deeper into the Catfish build, the parts become less and less universal. Mark & David have made a custom wiring harness for the Catfish that will not only allow for a wiring install time that can be done before lunch, but the connections are either OEM or waterproof. In fact, it’s possible to disconnect the wiring from the entire engine with a single plug. Need more? A Smart Wire System can also be incorporated to further simplify the wiring while at the same time adding features.
What’s Next? We’ve got some exciting news coming up, but we don’t want to steal thunder from our current projects. Check back soon for announcements about new power plants and new bodywork.
Fantastic work Cord! Cannot wait to see what else you guys come up with. I am so excited about the up coming build!
is there any way a 5×114.3 hub could possibly be introduced as well?
the purchasing options regarding diameter, width, and offset are much greater.
There’s a company called Keisler Automation that is making some really exciting hub products for these cars, and I think that 5 x 114.3 may be available. I highly recommend them.
Just need windshield wipers, a roof and opening doors (and a heater) and I may finally be able to convince my wife that we should get one to be a daily driver 🙂
Windshield, check. Wipers, check. Seat heaters, check. We’ll have a bikini top before you know it. 🙂
Lovin’ it. Details, boys, details.
I’d like to see the windshield frame cast aluminum.
Or did I miss that in the text?
My ’99 is waiting.
Not very patiently I might add.
While cast aluminum may seem like a good idea, it brings its own costs and problems. Our windshield is exceptionally strong and is built on a base that’s tied directly to the frame. And best of all, the whole frame weighs 5lbs.