Network and community: My thanks to the silent heroes

You can’t do it without help!

A project like building a Ford GT40 MKIV replica is an immense challenge. You quickly realize that success depends not only on technical knowledge and hard work, but also on the people who support you. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of my network.

First and foremost: My wife Britta
The biggest thanks go to my wife Britta. Without her understanding, patience and support, this project would not be possible. She has not only tolerated countless hours spent in the workshop or at the computer, but has also always motivated me to keep going – even in difficult moments.

The GT40 community: inspiration and knowledge
The GT40s.com forum has been an integral part of my life for almost two decades. It’s far more than just a platform for sharing – it’s a worldwide family of enthusiasts who share a passion for these cars. The helpfulness and the wealth of technical and historical information is almost unbelievable.

Special thanks go to members such as Gregg Sidoti, Bob Putnam, Morten A. Larsen, Ian Anderson, Don Nye, Jac Mac and many others. They have all contributed significantly to my project with their knowledge and support. Whether it was about historical facts, technical details or even rare components – the community always had solutions at hand.

Local support: friends on site
I have also been lucky enough to be able to count on the help of friends and experts on site:

• MotoParkAndy Kohler, technical director, and Klaus Mayershofer, design engineer, were and are indispensable, always ready to help, no matter what stupid question or idea I had – Andy’s favorite phrase was “You’ll go to the hospital with it”.
• MTMMichi Weber from the development department and Dennis Duba in the electronics department have overcome many technical hurdles with their know-how.
• Drive DynamicsUwe Bleck, fantastic kinematics expert and biggest critic of my “old man’s suspension”, and Anton Pfeifer, shock absorber specialist and native Bavarian, put the finishing touches to my suspension.
• Danube laserChristoph Bauer, Managing Director, who was always ready to cut even the smallest sheet for me when necessary, I hope I haven’t annoyed you too much.
• Erwin Ettinger: A true artist in the use of hammer, flex and welding equipment. Even if he thinks I’m crazy most of the time 🙂
• “Flo” Dunst: What would I do without your lathe and milling machine? So many small parts….
• Erhard Dörr: One of my best friends, who always motivates me when things get difficult. Here’s a big “Zefix!” just for you 🙂

I’ve probably forgotten a few more – sorry! As soon as I remember, I’ll post them here. I promise! Until then, sorry.

A network that connects
It’s fascinating to see how many people from a wide variety of fields were and still are willing to share their time and knowledge. I never really understood the term “network” before, but now I know better. The fact that so many people around the world are so enthusiastic about this project that they are willing to help me is one of the nicest aspects of the whole thing.

Thanks to all contributors
I would like to use this chapter to say thank you to each and every one of you. Be it through expertise, active support or simply motivating words – your contribution was priceless.

If there is one thing I have learned, it is that you are never alone, even in such a personal project. Behind every success, there are always the people who have worked in the background.

THANK YOU!