Welcome to the forum!!
I'm almost as new as you, (though I haven't started a build thread) and I'm building a similar car as you.
442E chassis, 2.5L Duratec(2016 Fusion- has a flat oil pan, 49k miles, $348 picked up at LKQ), 6 speed NC transmission and NC LSD. NA front spindles(NC did not work out) and calipers, but Ford Probe/Mazda MX6 rear hubs and 93-95 RX7 Rear discs. I had to modify a bit the calipers. Not completely done with this yet. I can't torque down the spindle not to 130-150 lbs/ft with the spindle on the table.
Chassis is mostly built. I'm using the whole rear end from the NC, that I have bolted to the chassis. Tire/wheel combo is 17".
This build was my inspiration(he was in wheelchair when he build it, like 10 years ago):
https://www.locost.ozcarnut.com/index.htmlI'm at the stage to figure out the front suspension, but I need the forums help. Which arms drawings to use, location front to back of the upper control arms, etc.
If I knew what I know now, I may have done the front part of the chassis more like the Haynes one, with the front side tubes going from angle to vertical, and the second row tubes more inside placed for easier lower bracket alignment.
I have just purchased some 11-15 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R ITBS. Planning to make the intake manifold for it soon. Also, I will be using Speeduino as an ECU.
For these car parts, I have used car-part.com and i was searching for local places, to be able to pick them up locally.
truck rental is not cheap these days. To pick up that engine, it cost me ~$100 w/fuel a year ago.