AK

[John]

Re references to AK under Dax topics, does anyone know if there's an AK owner's group?

John

[JP]

I spoke to AK about this towards the end of last year when I did my tour of manufacturers. I know that there has been talk of this among AK owners but from what Ken and Daniel were saying it would probably be to time consuming for them (AK)to set up and its not what there business is about.

Who knows they might sell some atractive (not) yellow sweat shirts with the AK logo on it.

Thats all i know and have heard


JP

I have just bought an AK bodied Cobra Jag/Rover and would like an original build manual.Can u help

Regards

Steve Grundy

e-mail:gruns20@hotmail.com

[John]

AK do not have a build manual as such but they do issue a build video with the kit. They are currently filming a new one for the new model, but it's not ready yet.

If you have any specific queries, I strongly suggest that you phone Ken Freeman of AK on 01780 470588 who is EXTREMELY obliging and will be happy to help. I'm off to visit the factory on Friday.......


John

[JP]

My understanding is that there is no new model due, however there may be the possibility of a new body mould being developed to allow for gel coat finishes.

I know some people are driving round with the current body in a gel coat finnish, but being the perfectionists they are they want a better finish for customers who elect for a gel coat finnish. The current body is really meant to be sprayed to achieve a good finish.

Yes they are in the process of producing a new build video and they will have a web site enabled in the next couple of weeks if all goes to plan.

JP

[mal]

HI I`M ALSO BUILDING AN AK, AND WOULD HAPPILY GET TOGETHER WITH FELLOW AK`ers
IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED IN HELPING ORGANIZE SUCH!
ALSO I AM IN THE PROCESSES OF COMPILING A BUILD MANUAL FOR KEN & DAN,WITH DRAWINGS OF CHASSIS AND STEP BY STEP GUIDE THRU BUILD UP AND REFURBISHING
DONOR PART`S,ANY INPUT TO MY E.MAIL ADDRESS WELCOME,

Could I ask what made you go for the AK Cobra kit? I am considering either the Pilgrim or Dax (quite likely the Pilgrim due to price) but since I joined this site I have now been highlighted to the benefits of the AK kits and the Euro427. Whats anyones views on the one to go for? I am intending to use the car (as opposed to looking at it 51 weeks of the year) so something practical under the body would be great (Ford V6 or Jag units etc.) Help I need advice!!!

mick.cossey@ntlworld.com

[font size="1" color="#FF0000"]LAST EDITED ON 26-Mar-01 AT 11:44*AM (GMT)[/font][p]I am building a Sierra based Sumo with Rover V8.
Ford bits are cheaper and lighter than Jag bits, but maybe Jag ride is better?
Rover is a nice light engine - the Ford V6 weighs more, and has less power, athough torque is not that different in standard form. However EFI on both might help fuel economy, which maybe important if you plan on using it a lot.

Pilgrim kits are cheaper because, IMHO, there is more work involved. e.g. Body does not have doors fitted, or inner wings fitted, which would be the case for more expensive kits. Builder has to do these things. Having said all that there is a wealth of Sumo knowledge around, here and eslewhere on the web and the build manual is excellent. Also Pilgrim parts (brightwork, wheels etc) are excellent value.

As a general point, you always need to check what is included in the starter kit - some manufacturers include steering rack/bushes/cast uprights etc, so you cant just compare prices directly. See Tony Breski's build diary for a true costing for a Sumo build.

[John]

I have ordered an AK kit for delivery at the end of April. The best way of explaing why is to visit the factory, [they moved today! new number 01733 267633] and speak to Ken, Dan and Jon.

They are one-off guys and will really impress you with their open approach, and their cars are spot on, real cobras, a quality product. Value for money, there's nothing comes close in my opinion. The doors and bonnet come pre-hung, and the body is temporarily fitted to the chassis. Sure, not all parts are single donor, buts that's part of the fun.

You are directed for all other bits to individual suppliers thus cutting down on cost ( and many other kit manufacturer's parts will fit, e.g. Pilgrim!). My build budget including a rebuilt 302 ford V8 is circa £16.5K and I reckon I won't be far off. That's pretty good for a top spec car.

I think it would be a crying shame not to go for a V8 in your car, even for every day use. A bog standard Rover will be relatively economical to run and is likely to be more maintenance-free so very practical.

Starter kit is excellent with AK , too numerous to mention here, just send for the brochure.


Best of luck with your selection.


Regards


John

[John]

Check out AK's temporary website on www.cobrakits.co.uk

Also I have found www.gearboxman.co.uk - an interesting site for gearboxes.


Regards


John