Next Generation MDA MKI

[Chris Martino]

With ever increasing demands made by clients for more flexibility in their build options, MDA has taken very exciting steps forward to satisfy those looking for an accurate reproduction of the GT40 MKI and fulfill these requests.

MDA has made extraordinary efforts to modify its' chassis to accommodate as standard, the ZF 5DS-25-2 and Porsche G50 Series transaxles. With these new transaxle options, it was clear that this was an excellent opportunity for MDA to improve on it's already superb MKI chassis and suspension with the additions of Pro-Tech adjustable shocks, nickel- cadmium plated a-arms, original MKI hubs and more...

Chris

 

[Chris Martino]

More...

 

[Chris Martino]

A-arms in nickel cadmium...

 

[Chris Martino]

right side...

 

[Chris Martino]

rear suspension with hubs cast from original MKI..

 

[Chris Martino]

right rear...

 

[Chris Martino]

Front...

 

[Chris Martino]

rear...

More later if anyone is interested - let me know.

Thanks

Chris

 

[Gary Gibbs]

Looks nice. Good improvements.

 

[Chris Martino]

Thanks Gary - the R&D process to fabricate the rear engine cradle (horseshoe) was very interesting. MDA have really tried hard to get the rear of the chassis, suspension as close to the original as possible. Even the rear body hanger is now correct and the stance of the car is now almost perfect.

Chris

 

[Chris Martino]

another...

 

[Hershal Byrd]

Chris,
That's one beefy setup. I like it.

Hersh /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[Ian K]

Chris,

Please forward my congrats to Mark and crew - the new chassis
looks much stronger. The horseshoe has added that nice crossbrace
that spurred many a discussion. Does the standard Renault
based chassis have a similar crossbrace?

Congrats again,

Ian

 

[Ron Earp]

That looks good and strong. The "X" over the cabin - is this tied to steel A pillars and windsheild frame? If so, I like it, nice idea.

 

[Chris Martino]

Hi Ian,

Many thanks for your support. Mark and the guys have worked very hard and I will pass on the positive feedback. Mark is always keen on improving his product and giving his clients the best he can produce so any addition that can do those things, I am sure he'll come through with. I personally don't know for sure but having said the above it's possible. These next generation chassis are what will be fabricated from this point forward and I don't think can be retro-fitted for the previous.

Thanks again

Chris

 

[Chris Martino]

Hey Ron - yes, they are tig welded in place to the pilar and frame for better roof crush protection and strengthen the whole cage. I don't think they were part of the roll-over cage before but there's no such thing as too much safety.

This setup is also standard on every chassis now.

Chris

 

[Mike Dozier]

Very nice....you gotta appreciate continuous improvement.

MikeD

 

[Chris Martino]

Hi all-

As a footnote - the New Option 1 MDA MKI roller will come with all exterior paneling, roll-over bar installed and powder-coated satin Black. All interior and stainless steel floor are installed as standard as well as all suspension, brakes, cooling, fuel system and 6-pin knock-on hubs. This should eliminate a few cuts and bruises and speed-up the build substantially. I should have a paneled/powder coated roller so show next if interested.

Thanks again for all the well wishes-

Chris

 

[Ian Clark]

Hi Chris,

Sounds like you're getting a lot closer. I'm looking forward to seeing your car in the flesh at cruise nights etc. Exciting times ahead my friend.

Cheers

 

[Chris Martino]

Hi Ian - I'm looking forward to the arrival - a bit of a delay but now I should have it in the garage by the first week of October. The 66 289 block goes for mag-partical inspection next month then for the build if it checks out. G50 looks perfect so I hope with a little luck to be joining you in 2006 - but by all means, come over for a look and a cold one sometime after it arrives - hell anyone who lives close by and is interested, give me a ring.

Chris