I stumbled across a picture of an air cleaner that Ford designed and installed on a MEL engine in 1958.This is way ahead of its time.When I saw it I immediately knew I had to have one.As it turns out these things must be one of the rarest parts out there.So I set about trying to figure out how I could make one.The original is made from cast aluminum and I know that I can't afford to have a pattern made and them pay to have one cast.Maybe a 1000 but not one,then I thought that Ford might not like me copying their design and selling them so I had one of our CAD guru's at work look at it.Turns out he can program in the design and have it laser cut in pcs.I'll just have to weld it up and polish.I was just curious to see if any of you have ever seen one of these in person.When I get it done I'll post some pictures and the template for the dimensions.In case someone else wants one.I am putting a 3X2 set up on the Maverick and just wanted something different than the typical Ford/Shelby type air cleaner.Like I said this thing is way ahead for 1958.What do you guys think?
I think it looks pretty sharp. It would probably be easy to cut it out for a standard 4 bbl as well as a 3 duce set up. What kind of price range are you thinking?
So that's what the engine from the rare Maverick Marauder looks like. Seriously, I agree with you, that's an awesome air cleaner. It looks similar to some of the ones you see custom made nowadays.
If I had the pattern made,a local foundry would cast one for a $1000.00 (estimate)with the price going down for each as the number cast goes up.I did get the feeling that the guy was just tossing out numbers with out actually taking me serious.I think I could fabricate one for a lot less.With material and having it laser cut maybe around $250.00.I'm just guessing right now.Here is another picture of it.
Just kidding!! That is realy cool. Never saw one before. I am working on one but it will be out of sheetmetal or fiberglass.
You had me there for a minute FoMoDave.Keep me posted on how yours comes along.I think I'll try and make mine out of 10 gauge aluminum.I don't know how I'll get the fins on top though.Have to think about that.
Since your dealing with lazers, cant they cut the fins? Or make the top thick enough and they could be machined into it. It would also be cool to have the Maverick or Comet logo cut across the front.
Thats a great idea.If I make the top out of,say 1/4" then the fins could probably be cut in with the laser.They can do just about anything with the laser.I like the idea too for the logo.Maybe just the steerhead across the front?I'm getting pumped now.I just wish I could see one of these in person and take some real measurements instead of guessing.Anyone out there have a 1958 Lincoln with one of these?I plan on using the elongated air filter element,since they are readily available.Thanks for your input Mavaholic.
