John B. from Nebraska ordered his complete MKIV kit in the summer of 2021, and it was delivered to his door on January 11, 2022 (Carol Shelby’s birthday)!
Over the next year, John and his daughter spent hours in the garage, turning piles of boxes into their own masterpiece!
John’s daughter was very involved in the entirety of the build, but enjoyed using the air riveter the most. Their first start and drive was on September 25, 2022, and bodywork commenced on December 7, 2023.
The two tackled everything from assembly to paint, completing the car just in time to move into the family’s new custom home!
The result is a stunning Destroyer Grey and Grabber Blue MKIV Roadster, powered by a 1989 5.0 block from his Lincoln MKVII, upgraded with a Trick Flow Twisted Wedge 11R 170 kit, Track Max camshaft, roller rocker arms, and an Edelbrock Pro-Flo 4 EFI system. In addition, a TKO500 transmission, billet flywheel, McLeod clutch, and Mustang IRS 13” rear brakes ensure smooth performance. The list of build specs is detailed below:
Power & Performance
- Engine: 1989 5.0 block from a Lincoln MKVII, honed with all-new internals
- Top-End Kit: Trick Flow Twisted Wedge 11R 170 Aluminum heads, Track Max camshaft, 1.6 ratio roller rockers
- EFI: Edelbrock Pro-Flo 4 system
- Transmission: TKO500 with a lightweight billet flywheel & McLeod Street Extreme dual-friction clutch
- Rear End: IRS differential with Mustang IRS 13” rear brake upgrade
Details & Finishing Touches
- 18” Halibrand wheels with powder-coated spinners
- Manual steering with front and rear sway bars
- Diamond-stitched leather seats & door panels
- Spray-on bed liner with sound deadener
- Black seam sealer instead of silicone
The build has already made an impression, winning Team Shelby Northern Plains National Car Show and USSTRATCOM Summerfest People’s Choice Award! John’s Roadster is more than a car—it’s a vessel of dedication, craftsmanship, and cherished memories made with his daughter. Congratulations to John and his family on an incredible build!
