Thanks for the pics, Rick. I always thought those Merkur XR4TI's were cool. A buddy of mine had one (actually his dad's car) when we were in college in the late '80's. Very different for the US market at the time, and the turbo motors certainly have a lot of potential. I know that the ABS on that thing saved his butt at least once, also.
I have already investigated the possibility of a dry sump setup, but it's pretty cost prohibitive for what I want to do. The dry sump setup from the main VW hot-rod guy would cost about as much as the rest of the engine combined. I think I may be able to get by with a factory oil pan, but would like to add a skid plate, or skid bars, if the rules allow for a skid plate in the production classes.
The floor jack clearance is certainly an issue. I'm picturing the need to carry a couple of very short ramps around with me in order to get it jacked up. I have also considered beefing up the front bumper and front frame to the point that bumper jacking would be possible.
I haven't been able to tell by the rulebook if a skid plate to protect the engine and trans would be allowed, or if that's too close to "streamlining" to be permitted. When I get a little deeper into the build, I'm sure that I'll make a request for an official answer at some point.
As far as help from the machinists, I solicit help on most of my "government" projects. I'm into guns, bicycles, cars, pinewood derby, boats, etc., and have the opportunity/need to make parts from time to time. I can run the Bridgeport and lathe to make simple parts, I can weld, cut, measure, and layout parts - but I don't have any skills with the CNC stuff. Some of the other guys will say - "Just give it to so-and-so, he can whip that up for you in no time". However, I prefer to ask some questions, then come in on a Saturday morning, take my time, and make my own chips.
The earliest I'd be looking to get onto the salt would be in the summer of 2013. We already have summer vacation plans for 2012, and the truck wouldn't be ready in time, anyway. I'm just hoping that none of the existing records in classes where I could run will get raised significantly before I can make it out. I guess that's just part of the LSR racing experience.
Steve.
Steve.