View Full Version : 'Ellie'/Project Panda - My FD
Well, it's been hiding in the shadows for a while, but freshly washed, polished, and photographed (Wallers :notworthy) I thought it was time for some picture whoring...
I've put up a project thread (http://www.mazdarotaryclub.com/forums/showthread.php?goto=newpost&t=48914), but thought i'd cut to the chase and post some nice piccies of my toy. Got it from Jurgen in February of this year, and i'm utterly stoked with it :mmmm
Anyways, less talk, more piccies:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3121/2465030160_dfac8e1c9a_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/2464198505_0e0bd8e3fe_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2398/2464197119_444397f471_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2285/2464198879_6bb4583f14_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3181/2465026660_2e09468b03_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2124/2464196415_ce5eb90523_o.jpg
And some of my far crappier ones:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/CleanAndShiny/Arches.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/CleanAndShiny/ArchesPortrait.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/CleanAndShiny/Roush.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/CleanAndShiny/Roush2.jpg
Hope you like :)
I fcuking love it. Goes like sh!t off a shovel, turn is is immense, and looks lovely.
Tacky vented headlight cover will be going soon, and when i manage to find the FEED bonnet i want, that one will be going in favour of something far more subtle :)
Oh, and i need some dish, and I fear the offset police :o
voodoo_melon
04-05-2008, 21:17
Tacky vented headlight cover will be going soonWhile you're at it, adjust the other one a bit so it's straight :D
Looks excellent :notworthy White wheels really go well with it :nod:
I like the roof bulges :cool:
Edit: And everything else :D
http://www.driftworks.com/forum/images/smilies/Alschaser.gif
Stunning dude :thumbs: and cracking pics as ever Mr Wallers :notworthy
Oh, and i need some dish, and I fear the offset police :o
Nee naw nee naw :D (Needs more low too while we're being picky :p )
But seriously, looks facking awesome :thumbs: Love them white and un-spoilerated, such a nice shape of car.
Edit: needs moar Rotas :wack:
Stunning, such a pretty car.
Only thinh id change is the bonnet, and maybe add a subtle spoiler, just the lift the profile of the back end a bit.
Whats it like on fuel? or should i just not ask:wack:
Lower + spacers= :cool: Other than that its a lovely FD
Great shots, what camera did you use?
top motor :nod: i feel it needs a spoiler though :nod:
and definatly some dish :thumbs:
Lower + spacers= :cool: Other than that its a lovely FD
Great shots, what camera did you use?
as wallers took them, id say a cannon 20d :)
Thats a nice car, I dont know why you thought it was acceptable to hide it for so long :whip:
Happy ownership :D
Si, please post the video of me doing a drive by! :D he he
It can't get much lower without being silly impractical! The rear diffuser has already caught on the entrance to one of my local Shell's :indiff:
As for fuel - it's a weekend car, so it doesn't really matter, but including a track day, £75 of V-power got me just over 200 miles :wack:
Sambo: I'll get ordering the GTR's :D
No-one seems to be very adventurous with wheel fitment on FD's so i'm planning on nudging the envelope a tad regarding fitment. :D
TBH i've had enough of looking after polished dish split rims :(
Although if some Advan Sienna's, BBS LM's or, VS-XX's came up at the right price they'd be mine.
I'm currently thinking that XD9's (although getting a tad common) Or, if i can get hold of some, Bronze Weds SA90's, or, Even better, white Regamaster Evo's would look super super hot. I would have had Bronze CR Kai's until recently :indiff:
Not convinced on the rear lights - I'll get some genuine 96 spec (therse are modded zenki's) when i can afford them.
It really is blisteringly quick though, i can't wait to get some proper tyres on it (got some RE070's to go on) to see how it hooks up :D
And for Wallers: look, it's so pretty on the move, oooh, a Ferrari :D
http://s140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/CleanAndShiny/?action=view¤t=MOV01519.flv
Yup, that's me giggling like a child and jumping up and down at the end, as it's the first time i've heard it being driven :D it sounds sooooo good :smitten:
:smitten: looks gorgeous. Can't believe you kept it hidden so long :whip: Let me know when you get rid of the bonnet ;)
StormBleeder
05-05-2008, 00:41
:smitten: Looks fantastic mate, I expect you're very pleased with her. :thumbs:
The car is beautiful and the pictures are fantastic. Awesome stuff boys!
Lovely :thumbs:
Best Fiat I've ever seen :nod:
kev@tkl ltd
05-05-2008, 02:35
looks really good fella lovely car:thumbs:
Looks awesome and sounds great.
i think I'd have done the girlie giggle too if that was mine :thumbs:
mattkeeber
05-05-2008, 12:33
Arrgghh I wish mine wasn't in pieces! lol I so miss driving them
Stunning mate.. I love yours more than mine I think :wack:
That's sweet fella :notworthy
Absolutely stunning. Agree with the vent and bonnet idea, and you should deffinatly fit some GTR wheels :p
Are they the roads round your area? I absolutely loved those road's :smitten:
Cheers all -Trickk!k%k~2k - indeed they are, i think they're the ones you went back via :D lovely roads, but at the moment it's mental scary with JDM rubber in the wet :eek:
White Rega Evos + Slammidge = SEX
Proper nice FD. Love the wingless
Mini Update :D Long weekend, nothing to do...
Out with the old...
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/IMG_5847.jpg
In with the new...
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/IMG_5848.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/IMG_5844.jpg
:wack:
There are 2 i can't get to without removing the injectors, and i don't want to do that unless i have to - managed the rest without breaking any solenoids or valves though :cool:
Is that the rats nest?
Indeed it is good sir, and that's with some of the gubbins (emissions related) removed :wack:
5m of vacuum hose :D
:o Thats stunning :smitten:
Def needs a nice carbon wing on the back though! :D
You get no sympathy from me :smash: You wanted an over complicated rotary, you deal with the consiquence :whip:
I just wish my jealously would end :cry:
Eurgh, reminds me of going over my mates FC's rats nest. Got rid of 90% of it, load of cock!
Car looks looovely though :thumbs:
:o Thats stunning :smitten:
Def needs a nice carbon wing on the back though! :D
It really doesn't! If it needs a wing it'd be a nice 99 spec Mazda one, though I doubt it will ever get one.
oh and
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2365/2465028792_37e29fb53c_o.jpg
Martin T
12-05-2008, 22:29
Nice looking car :thumbs:
Wallers: I missed that one before! :smitten: Need to get some hi res ones from you ;)
Removing the nest would be nice, but i want to stay with the stock twins as i love the way it drives (although they probably won't work after the above :wack: not back together yet :( ) I'm not going non sequential :no: most people seem to do that just because they hit a boost problem and can't be arsed to sort it :(
Cheers all for the kind words. Now to get with the polishing to try and get it ready for JapFest :)
FullMetalGasket
13-05-2008, 08:11
I suddenly have a hankering for a ****el :smitten:
I need a 13b in my life.....:D
New200guy
13-05-2008, 09:02
Lovely :thumbs:
Best Fiat I've ever seen :nod:
Thats what i was going to say dude!!:D
Good looking car though. Just send that down to me. you really dont need anything that nice there. :D
Fantastic looking car :cool: Would be improved with some kind of spoiler on the back though, looks a little bare without :nod:
Very nice :)
So glad you're changing the bonnet, it was the only thing i did'nt like on the car. Replace that with something more tasteful and stay away from nasty rear wings and you'll have one of the best looking cars on the road :thumbs:
Whats everyone on about it being kept hidden for so long - its been in his sig for ages :D
Where's the scrabbly nonsense? :confused:
All I can see is some sort of Mazda thing :confused:
:wack:
Fooking lush :smitten:
Smoothound
13-05-2008, 10:27
Wow, that's lush!
Don't change a thing! Well, maybe needs a wing, otherwise it's perfect :thumbs:
Could you keep us all posted on how you get along with this car. I.e. reliability etc please.
I posted the same thing on a tvr tuscan post on here recently as there is so much talk (mostly by people who have never owned them and are going by hearsay) about engine rebuilds that many folk are put off buying them.
I for one would be very interested in hearing how you get along as i've always wanted an rx7 :)
But of course, you try shutting me up about it :D
Not sure it's a fair compariosn for some though as it's only insured for 3k a year and will be a weekend toy :)
So far it's only had one issue - a flat battery after being left for 3 weeks!
Most of the mods i've done are reliability based, Rad, V mounts, IC, breathing, PFC) however some have a nice side effect of giving healthy power :D
I've replaced a large amount of the services items (fluids, fuel filter, sparks, etc) and a lot of the other things i've got on my list are reliability based too. However, some of the rear pillowballs are knackered,so i'll be replacing all of those too to keep things tip top in the handling dept :)
Good man :thumbs:
How would you say it compares handling wise to your s14a?
Also, any idea what power it is currently running?
Smoothound
13-05-2008, 12:33
BGW FTW :thumbs:
mattkeeber
13-05-2008, 12:40
How would you say it compares handling wise to your s14a?
Night and Day.
Wouldn't be fair to compare, the S14's a tourer, the RX7 is a sports car.
Out of the box, the RX7 would win hands down - one of the best chassis to come out of Japan IMO. If you ever get the chance to drive one fast-road or on a track, do it.
But i don't think his sx was standard and neither is this (nor are most on this forum). I know the rx is alot better as standard :)
So what i suppose i'm really asking is: is there a big difference between an uprated rx7 and uprated sx?
It's hard to say about the handling - I had a bushed, Tein'ed stiffened (not with cage though) 14a, and one drive of an FD made me sell the SX :D
Mine has a few bits on it though, so i can't really make a fair comparison - It's running a Mazdaspeed (I think, not sure) front ARB, RSR springs, Bilstein Shocks (although i think they are the Type R2 Standard ones) and MS front Strut Brace. The turn in is the best thing - it's absolutely amazing - Mid corner it feels a tad more twitch, but it's hard to compare as it's currently running crap tyres. When i get my RE70's on it, i'll give you a full run down. :D
As said though, totally different car - you can 'feel' that it's designed as a sports car, rather than a tourer.
Power wise, It's not shy :smitten: . With just breathing mods, PFC and remap...
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/dyno.jpg
However, that was on the mapping run. I've tweaked it down a fair bit to be on the safe side :) It's running a bit over 300 i suspect, still feels plenty quick though - the delivery is sooooo smooth!
As for the Wing - As said, the onyl one i'd think about putting on it is the '99 spec - and they are silly money. Especially with the carbon blade :D I don't think a BGW would suit it really. I've also got to decide what to do about skirts - whether to get the factory skirts and get them body coloured, or whether to paint the front lip satin black and get FEED carbon sidesteps.
Id love an FD. One of the few cars Id consider swapping my S14a for! That or an NSX :D
Stay wingless! Not many wingless FDs about. It really suits it!
Nice power figures too!
I think it looks good without the wing too :nod:
Good power for not many mods also - very impressive :)
I've read they are very good in the handling stakes, and i'm guessing its even better now. Was just trying to get an idea really of how they compare with a similar sx as sx's are sooo bad standard that just fitting an uprated arb and better shocks transforms the car imo :nod:
But like you say, probably not worth comparing.
Very different cars and yours is a beaut :thumbs:
Well, thought it was probably about time for an update or twenty - I suppose it's sort of a project on the panda.
This is a long one, so if you're bored easily, just wait for the pics to load and scroll down :D
Every time I looked at Ellie (as she had now been named officially!) I thought something wasn't right - I could never put my finger on it though. Then, one day while geeking up on a load of other stuff, i came across some photos of a completely bone stock white 1999 Spirit R RX7 - I realised that was what I wanted - to me, that was the perfect evolution of the car I'd wanted since i was about 14. I wanted to go to a stock body, but was worried about the heat in the bay, especially with the V-mount.
So i set about a bit of testing (see thread: http://www.sxoc.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=359562 ) - hardly conclusive, but the
net result seemed to indicate that the vented bonent was hardly making any difference to my crucial temps. This gave me the excuse to go ahead.
So the RE-Amemiya bonent was sold, as was the vented headlight cover (which was actually blanked off behind - so served no purpose whatsoever - thank you C-West, my least favourite kind of cosmetic mod!)
And I picked up standard versions, which some of you may have seen at Prescott:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a20/juz13/SXOC/JUZ_4533copy.jpg
(Cheers Juz for the photo :)
So, time to get it sprayed. I got a few quotes, but having seen the work they had done on Ross (S14Boss)'s 14, combined with the price I was quoted, the car was in Hinckley Car Bodies' Workshop a few weeks later. A few weeks after that the car was ready to collect, so I eagerly bounded up the M69 (Cheers Ross G for the lift :)).
A nervous low speed trundle back down the M69 with the knowledge that there wasn't a full compleement of bolts holding my car together and she was back on my drive. I just wanted to get out and drive, but as it was a fresh import, it seemed daft not to look at properly protecting the chassis, so it was out with the POR15.
I wire brushed back the one tiny bit of surface rust I found, and everything else was painted with 2 coats of POR15, then two coats of chassis black as a topcoat - the arches were POR15'd as well, chassis blacked, and then were given two coats of the tarry gloopy underseal.
Noice.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/frontunderseal/FrontBefore.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/frontunderseal/SideBefore.jpg
Not bad for a 14 year old car:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/frontunderseal/turretafter.jpg
All credit to Marine Clean degreaser here - that stuff is the shiz. Mix up, spray on, leave, come back with hose, job done :cool:
2 coats of underseal on the arches, and chassis black on the rails etc afterwards.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/frontunderseal/DSC02739.jpg
Finally, I could get her back together. Unfortuantely this didn't go as smoothly as I'd hoped. In reassembling the front end, yet another bodge was found on the car (I won't go into my previous issues with the wiring...) - the previous owner had managed to cross thread the top nut on one of the factory Bilsteins :( as a result one of the shocks was making a horrendous clattering (I guess that refitting the shocks moved it sufficiently to fully disloge the thread), and rendered junk :(
A few posts later and Pete Barber had sorted me out with a set of GAB adjustables for a decent price - Plonked these one, and she was finally driveable on the road again, it was a good feeling. Chuffed? More than a little :) I think she looks so much better than before. The shocks still don't feel quite right though.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostBodywork/DSC00402.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostBodywork/DSC00396.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostBodywork/DSC00404.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostBodywork/DSC00405.jpg
A few weeks later i picked up a bargain CoolingMist kit from local metalwork genius, and all round good egg ex-ctr, and promptly fitted it.
It's quite a basic setup, with a single stage boost activated switch, but i never plan on mapping for it - I'm using it as a safety net more than anything, rather than getting it tuned for it. So I installed the nozzle into the TB elbow, and using all of the skills that my 'E' in A level physics gave me, knocked up this little beaut:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/DSC02756.jpg
:wack:
It's a simple on/off for the system, but with a manual override push to make button so i can give it a squirt at will - just to bring temps down when at a standstill, and occasionally blast the chambers to clear out some of the carbon.
All seemed fine in testing :)
Chop out a few weeks and cut to a Curborough track day - she performed very well, but it became obvious that there were a few issues:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/DSCF0034.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/DSCF0061.jpg
It was the first test for the WI - I hadn't really wired it up, so it was bodged in on the day - and it showed :wack: For some reason(I'm guessing dodgy ground) it would only fire in very short bursts, BUT it was proving hugely effective in dropping the temps - an elevated idle for a few seconds and a quick burst would see inlet temps plummet. Great, great stuff.
However, I'm pretty sure my wiring needed some work! (AdrianStokes' scathing comments were testament to that...
More pressing though,. was the handling - the car was all over the place. I was still running the JDM tyte y0 'Maxgrade II' 255's it came with, as despite my best efforts, they just wouldn't die! And these were holding the car back so much. Grip in the corners was non existant, turn in was just a swathe of understeer, and there's no point in having reasonable power if you just can't put it down.
Combine this with the racket from the rear end due to the knackered bushes and pillowballs, plus dubious alignment, and you end up with a car that went, stopped, and cornered pretty much worse than any other car there.
I reckon my braking point for the first corner was twice that of what it was in my other half's Eunos. Let's just say i was disappointed. :(
The car has also developed a misfire when the second turbo comes online - I'm pretty sure this is down to igniton, and the prime suspect is the leads, but i haven't had a chance to change them yet :(
So i decided to take the plunge for a complete overhaul.
After a bit of saving, I then started to strip her down - The whole of the underside was dropped - Rear subframe, propshaft, brakes, fuel tank, rear diffuser, heatshields, brake lines moved... - everything. It also gave me a chance to have a look at the bracing that is stock underneath the car - there's some pretty cool stuff here. If you're not a geek, skip these bits...
First, there are these braces that run across the transmission tunnel - cast alloy affairs (this is them after i cleaned them up with a wire brush)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02722.jpg
Then, these fore-aft braces across the subframe.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02732.jpg
Then, most significantly, what Mazda call the 'Powerplant Frame' - Basically it's an enormous girder that runs from the gearbox to the diff, to brace the whoel drivetrain, reducing wheel hop and shocks on the drivetrain.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02736.jpg
So, the underside was cleaned with marine clean, any surface rust wire brushed off, and then metal ready was applied - all smooth surfaces were keyed with 400 grit.
Then, a couple of coats of POR15, and a couple of coats of underseal later:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02647.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02650.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02645.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02642.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02640.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02640.jpg
And then started to refit the lines and heatshields - I've taken the opportunity here to replace all the non load bearing bolts i come across with stainless cap heads, just to make stuff a bit easier in the future. (Althoguht the corrosion situation was nothing like that seen on my old 14a - imports really do have some distinct advantages!) You can see this on a few of the photos.
I've now filled all the box sections with a few cans of Dynax S-50 as well, to keep the nasty tin worm at bay :)
As for the suspension - I delivered the suspension arms to the guys at Atomic Rex Racing a few weeks ago, where they are being blasted to a nice shiny finish, and having all bushes and pillowballs replaced - the bushes are having Powerflex bushes
(I've gone for the fast road rather than full on motorsport options) and all the pillowballs are being replaced with brand new OEM ones.
So that's all of the front and rear arms, and in addition to that, poly bushes are being supplied for the steering rack and diff mounts. We're currently waiting on Mazda to supply the pillowballs, and Powerflex to send the bushes!
So that's the main part at a bit of a standstill right now, so I've set about sorting some other stuff out.
The Water injection has now been re-done - the wiring has been replaced and routed behind the trim, and the pump is now hidden behind the rear boot trim.
The bottle has been ditched in favour of an OEM Mazda one (the rear washer has a seperate tank, but my model doesn't have a rear washer so there was just empty space), which means i can hide it behind the rear boot trim.
Unfortuantely it's a little small - I'll see how i get on with it, and then try to source a UK spec one, which is about 5 times bigger, but as there were only ever 120-something uk RX7's, they're a little tricky to get hold of! Still, winter's coming, the roads are greasing up... :wack:
True to form I've also rebuilt the brakes - the Sumitomo calipers bear a remarkable resemblance to the ones on an S14...
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02767.jpg
Larger discs though,
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02730.jpg
And noticeably different spacing on the mounts. Pistons and seal kits are VERY similar - I forgot to measure them though. All the pistons were in good nick with only a few deposits, and polished up A1, so they've gone back in with new seals.
The rears wound in and out very easily, so i decided not to strip them, and just painted the whole lot up.
I can't abide brightly coloured calipers, so black won over - I know i should have gone white, but i just couldn't face the maintenance - black is easiest to look after!
While i had the brush out, I've also painted the diff, subframe, power plant frame, end of the driveshafts (not the splines :p ) and a few other bits to neaten them up:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02728.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02726.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02734.jpg
I've also swapped my exhaust for something a fair bit more subtle, as i felt too self conscious with the NUR, so I swapped it for a rather beautifully made and understated Racing Beat twin exit affair - love the look.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02760.jpg
I've now turned my attention to the interior - taking pride of place are these:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/DSC02068.jpg
Bride Gias Sport's - lovely, lovely seats. I've had them a while, but it's taken 4 months for the company I was dealing with to supply the subframes from Japan - I'm more than a little miffed to be honest, and won't be using them again, despite the discounts they are offering me by way of apology. :rolleyes:
To add to this they didn't even come with all the mounting hardware, so the seatbelt angle is a little awkward, and I had to buy a ton of bolts to fit them - ah well. They're mounted on the rails but the sliders on the driver's side do seem a tad sticky - is suspect this is due to the alignment of the rails - i had to 'tweak' the rails to get some of the holes to line up :( tbh, not what i expect with stuff that costs this much.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/DSC00466.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/DSC00471.jpg
Test fit at night to check they all fit in, then taken out and filed away to keep them clean while I'm working on the car.
I've complemented this with a second hand MazdaSpeed steering wheel and 10mm spacer to replace the stupidly undersized and slightly ugly Momo one that came on the car - this is only temporary and I plan on replacing it with a Nardi 'Deep Cone/Corn' (whatever they are calling it this month) with red stitching. I'm also going to get new shift and handbrake boots with the same scheme.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/DSC02751.jpg
I never liked the lighting in the cabin either, so I have removed the gauge cluster and am 'redoing' the lighting - all the tint has been stripped off from the clocks with Nail varnish remover, and I'm currently trying to source suitable wide angle LEDs to finish it off with - I'm going for a white backlit effect to match the gauges i plan on buying at some point.
At the same time, I've got a replacement instrument binnacle as mine was cracked, and am planning on sorting out the tacky carbon fibre 'effect' dome that covers the gauges.
On the outside, I happened across a set of these:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/ImGonnaSchoolYouGood/DSC00468.jpg
For a bargain price.
Mazdaspeed MS01s's by Rays - the centres need a refurb, but the lacquer on the wheels is ok. The fitment isn't that great (easy FD fitment - also known as 'sunken' :D),but they're 8's and 10's, and I have fitted a suitably aggressive size tyre to enable me to use a hefty spacer on the back :D
225's all round:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/ImGonnaSchoolYouGood/DSC02765.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/ImGonnaSchoolYouGood/DSC02763.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/ImGonnaSchoolYouGood/DSC00473.jpg
And these are in the post right now:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/ImGonnaSchoolYouGood/CIMG1917.jpg
:D
Wheel fitment on FD's is one of my prime beefs, with not that many going for hardcore fitments, so i plan on being a bit adventurous. It probably means getting some new barrels for the front though, but as they are Rays wheels that shouldn't be too hard.
So that's where I am right now :) so:
My scuffed front undertray and rear diffuser are away with a friend who is very kindly repairing the damage caused by Leamington Shell station's entrance.
I've got a red top on the way and a cut off switch to stop it draining while the car is parked up (it's not a daily drive) as I wasn't happy with a lead acid battery in the boot of a hatch, no matter how well fixed down it was.
I'm sourcing a new fuel system for the new year to max out the stock twins.
I've stripped the diff and cleaned out the inside, and need to order some new oil seals for the driveshafts.
And I'm basically just awaiting parts before i can put it back together! It seems to be taking forever :( I miss driving her :(
Sorry for the long post :(
Si
Whoa! I didnt realise the overhaul was so extensive! (Bet your neighbours love you :p)
Car looks great
was the handling - the car was all over the place
Perhaps you could try evicting the family that have clearly set up home in your front arches :D
Seriously though, this is awesome mate - its got to be one of the best in the country when its done :nod:
The Gias are gorgeous (dibs if you ever sell them) but Im niot sure it might look better on white wheels than the Mazdaspeeds ........... :)
lol :D The shots of the front arches were taken with the back decked on gravel and the front on a raised bit - that's my excuse :D
It scrapes at that height getting onto my drive, and the local Shell :( So far it's started to lay waste to my $800 discontinued rear diffuser and similarly rare and overpriced front undertray :( :(
Cheers for the complements, but i think the piccies make it look better than it is - My painting really isn't that hot! Function > than form though, should be protected and i plan on keeping her a good while :)
Neighbours seem pretty understanding actually!
It's one of those projects that kept getting punctuated with thoughts of 'well,while I'm here'...
Oh, and the engine bay is a shambles :wack:
The MS's were too cheap to refuse and i love them muchly - I'm going to run them until i get the pennies for LM's or VSXX's, but they'll do right now :D
Wow, looks awesome with the bodywork returned to standard (as it should be on an FD).
Beautiful car Si.
:thumbs:
Fake Ben Taylor
28-11-2008, 17:00
the pictures arent loading on my shittty mobile dongle :cry:cry:
still enjoyed the read though :nod::D sounds like youre doing a shed load of work :nod:
Awesome work Si. She is a beautiful motor :smitten:
About time we had an update:rolleyes::D
:smitten::smitten::smitten::smitten:
:smitten::smitten::smitten::smitten:
:cool::cool:
:clap: :notworthy:
My next car is going to be just like this:nod:
BreadBin
28-11-2008, 19:25
1st time I've seen this thread - loving your work :nod: :thumbs:
Damn Si, this puts what me and Rich have done to shame! All we did was bolt on a load of new shiny bits, you have put some serious thought and effort into that, very very good decision on the wheels too, the FD was built to wear MS-01's. :) :)
Well done and I hope I get to see it in the flesh some day. :)
Dave270R
28-11-2008, 19:37
Didn't know you had a project thread - coming along very nicely :nod::thumbs:
Cheers guys.
Dan - suspension is a peice of pi$$ - engines are where I draw the line - Suspension is just nuts and bolts - no skill involved, cracking the block involves skill, and knowledge.
It was a steep learning curve in places (BUCKET!!!! There's more fuel in here than I anticipated... :D) and i still don't know if any of it will work when it's back together :D
Also, the photos make it look far better than it actually is :wack: My brush painting skillz are weak :D
Basically, what I'm aiming for is my ultimate fast road but still usable coupe - no stripped outness, no over the top noise - It's all trying to balance the best performing bits whilst retaining some comfort and refinement :)
Evilchap
28-11-2008, 20:10
I call shotgun for at least a couple of trips up the hill next year, for scientific comparison reasons only of course :D
lol :D Hopefully she'll feel a little different to the last time, a lot less of 'understeeeeeeeerr...balance...power over!!!'(and armco death close call).
In all seriousness, if all this stuff isn't worth it, I'm going to be mighty disappointed :D
A bit more power in the new year should help put the finishing touches on it :)
Good read that Si :)
Its coming along nicely-top work :thumbs:
Don't believe a word of it Si, what you've done there looks top notch. But if you really aren't brave enough to crack open that wan(k)el then send it to me on a pallet and I'll sort it right out for you. :)
I'll pop it in a crate with the porting templates :D
It's only done 48k, so I'm not worried about the mileage, but it's 14 year old engine, so i guess the water seals are inevitable :(
PS Photos from careful angles hide a multitude of sins :D
Fake Ben Taylor
29-11-2008, 01:09
it was erm entertaining on the hill lol!
mattkeeber
29-11-2008, 15:21
Awesome stuff. It almost makes me want to sort mine out and get it back on the road :wack:
engines are where I draw the line - Suspension is just nuts and bolts - no skill involved, cracking the block involves skill, and knowledge.
Pffft.. I tell you what, i'd rather rebuild another ****le than do all what you've done. :nod: It's quite funny how the thought of rebuilding my 13b again doesn't fill me with the same fear rebuilding calipers do!
Clouder_sx
29-11-2008, 15:30
Very nice Si :cool: i saw this in the flesh very briefly at Japfest, i hope to see a lot more of it next year :nod:
Im liking what your doing Si. :thumbs::thumbs:
Cheers for the kind words :)
Time for another 'ZOMG, why's he telling us all this crap' style update:
Had to neaten up a bit of the wiring, so a few photos of the WI install.
Behind the trim:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02772.jpg
(see what i mean about the size of the reservoir? It's not exactly enormous!)
Note the shiny cap heads :D
Trim back in, all nicely hidden away:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02775.jpg
And some audio crazyness: The OEM Bose 'Acoustic Wave' stereo that was standard on some models:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02776.jpg
Fear the giant wavy snake/aqualung type fandango!
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02780.jpg
Diff degreased and cleaned out, ready for new seals and clips:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02825.jpg
New(Some SH) parts time!
New Diff oil seals and driveshaft retaining clips:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02782.jpg
SH red top, and some terminals and a cut off switch, to prevent it draining when the car is left for long periods.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02786.jpg
The red top isn't perfect for my needs, but I needed a gel battery since the battery was inside the cabin and i didn't want an acid filled projectile mounted behind me, and it came up at the right price.
Can I have my badge back please?
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02815.jpg
25mm Hubcentrics for the rear. Should make it a 17x10 et20 with a 225 :cool:
Shiny pimpness for the interior:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02795.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02803.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02804.jpg
Nardi 'Deep Corn', I've been after one for ages :smitten: You can't see it in the photos but it's perforated black leather with a red stitching, should compliment the seats nicely I'm going to sort out some matching gaitors for the gear and handbrake to co-ordinate the interior.
Chav bulbs!
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02810.jpg
Red LEDs to replace the dash lights! I couldn't find any that fitted the tiny little sockets i needed, so it's a DIY job!
Existing ones (Filament, orange covers on the bulbs):
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02807.jpg
Dissected new ones:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02812.jpg
Bastardised replacements :D
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02813.jpg
Photos to come when it gets dark :D
I'm off to get a battery tray made up by a local genius today:cool:
And the good news I've had is that almost all of my suspension arms are done. They were supposed to be here friday. On friday evening, they hadn't been sent :indiff: Not a happy bunny. Ah well, spilt milk.
The company producing the bushes also hasn't finished sorting the ones for the rear toe links, or, the steering rack, so they won't be with the first shipment, and may be another fortnight :indiff:
Fake Ben Taylor
07-12-2008, 12:28
i envy you on that nardi . . . . I tried to buy one when i was in japan but my credit card wouldnt work :(
I want a Nardi Deep Corn :(
Nice work dude.
Your attention to detail and extreme anal-ness is the reason I bought your Volvo off you :nod:
And I'll have your undertray and diffuser ready and delivered by Xmas :thumbs:
Dave270R
07-12-2008, 12:54
About time you spaced those wheels out :whip:
Nice steering wheel :cool:
Hehehe, yeeah, the wheel kinda rocks :smitten:
Bit more this afternoon - dash lights are in but need some work, ah well.
More importantly, local fab dude and all round top bloke ex-ctr gave up a few hours of his sunday and made me a battery tray. :)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC00484.jpg
Whoop!
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC02840.jpg
Badass, lick of paint and I can bolt her down:
The plan is a hole at each corner, then bolt that into the boot floor.
Then, the battery tie down bar will be a bit of box section and some threaded bar going through the boot floor. :)
However, bit of a problem here. Some of the places the tray needs to bolt in are 'blind' - they go into box section :( Anyone got any bright ideas oh how i can fix the tray down? needs to be quite sturdy to stop it moving should the worst happen. Oh, and I don't have access to a welder :(
Or much skill.
i have some ''cage'' rivets that would do what you need :nod: 3/16ths they spider leg out at the back and have a large head with a rubber seal, aluminium alloy but as strong as feck, [free from work;)]
R.Sendout
07-12-2008, 19:46
Anyone got any bright ideas oh how i can fix the tray down?
Rivnuts:thumbs:
They are the nuts:D
I should be in advertising:thumbs::wack::D
And I'll have your undertray and diffuser ready and delivered by Xmas :thumbs:
Very nice Mr Si, very nice. Love your style :nod:
Ed, you're a gent :notworthy No rush at all dude :no: Really appreciate it - properly taking the pi$$ with favours from people on this car :o :o
Rivnuts look perfect! Cheers guys! I guess I'd better do some investigating - Do they just need a 'normal' rivet gun? I reckon that's something i should probably buy for my collection :D
Are they deffo going to be tough enough to hold the tray in place?
I want a Nardi Deep Corn :(
You need to hang around forums with rich people, rich people who don't know how much what they're selling is worth! :smash:
Fake Ben Taylor
07-12-2008, 23:41
forums such as........
and jord im planning another tokyo trip next year ;) they had a wall dedicated to nardi wheels at super autobacs :cool:
spencer_foxwell
08-12-2008, 01:07
Core that looks a bit naughty I've always wanted an FD but can't afford the problems!
Loving it Si, it looks amazing
forums such as........
and jord im planning another tokyo trip next year ;) they had a wall dedicated to nardi wheels at super autobacs :cool:
Si got his from the GTR board.
FullMetalGasket
08-12-2008, 12:43
Do they just need a 'normal' rivet gun? I reckon that's something i should probably buy for my collection :D
One of these?
http://www.mainemaritimemuseum.org/uploads/rich_text_editor/22rivet.JPG
:wack:
Panda's looking good though Si :thumbs:
Shhh... :wack:
It's alright, I only told Ben ;)
Christmas
08-12-2008, 12:56
looking good si! thought you were only gonna replace the bushes!!:D
where did you get your WI from?i need it for my RX!:thumbs:
Have you put the new wheels on yet?
Wow! I need rivets that big :D
looking good si! thought you were only gonna replace the bushes!!:D
I was :wack:
where did you get your WI from?i need it for my RX!:thumbs:
It's a CoolingMist kit from the USA, secondhand from a local :)
Have you put the new wheels on yet?
Ummm, no, there's kind of a problem there:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02748.jpg
:wack:
How much are those Nardi wheels worth roughly then?
I ask because I had one on my first RX that I broke for parts, I never particularly liked it to be honest and don't remember selling it for any special amount which probably means I let it go for about £25...
FullMetalGasket
08-12-2008, 13:37
Wow! I need rivets that big :D
Dude! those ones are quite small :nod: :wack:
Fake Ben Taylor
08-12-2008, 13:56
tbf si i think thats stronger than when you had the positive camber wheels on it :wack::p:p
Ummm, no, there's kind of a problem there:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02748.jpg
:wack:
Pfffff, call yourself a wheel whore :whip: Before doing any more real work you're supposed to fashion a system to sit them on the car stuffed right into the arches, even in the absence of subframes/hubs/etc. That's how you get your badge back :nod:
Christmas
08-12-2008, 14:12
Wow! I need rivets that big :D
I was :wack:
It's a CoolingMist kit from the USA, secondhand from a local :)
Ummm, no, there's kind of a problem there:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02748.jpg
:wack:
mmm....minor problem i see!!:wack:
That Bose system is awesome!
How much are those Nardi wheels worth roughly then?
I ask because I had one on my first RX that I broke for parts, I never particularly liked it to be honest and don't remember selling it for any special amount which probably means I let it go for about £25...
As a guide, the RRP in the uk of the horn push is £45 ish :wack:
Ch'bo: I'll get out there with wood and jacks dude :nod: leave it with me :D
Suspension arms were supposedly collected from the garage today :rolleyes: So may have them tomorrow. I don'ty hold out much hope :indiff:
Not really looking forward to putting it all back together in this weather :(
Cold + Crap circulation in hands = Suckass.
Woop woop! Care package! :D
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02852.jpg
Finally, my refurbed arms have turned up :cool:
Stripped, blasted, and fitted with Poweflex bushes, and brand new OEM pillowballs all round :cool:
Also managed to sneak a barely used KGParts fuel rail, a braided line, and some cheeky 1680cc buckets into the order :cool:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/RearStripDown/DSC02856.jpg
Bring on 4.46l of fuel per minute :wack:
Friday booked off work, time for the reassembly :)
Hmm, I don't think the purple suits your car, couldn't they have come in a different colour ;)
Can you even see them, or is there 800m of vacuum hose covering them up? :D
800m of vacuum hose? don't be ludicrous.
With a twin setup it's at least 3km of hose. :D
been meaning to do this for a couple of days...
"Roads? Where we're going, we don't NEED roads"
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/dandantrash/rx7.jpg
hehehe :)
Christmas
10-12-2008, 13:28
LOL@ dandan...thats brightened up my day!
mattkeeber
10-12-2008, 13:58
Jealous at those parts. Want! :(
lmfao @ dandan's pic :D :thumbs:
Christmas
10-12-2008, 14:00
where did you get your arms refurbed si??
Error404
10-12-2008, 14:30
Good work mate - roll on Friday :)
Good work mate - roll on Friday :)
Dude, we're gonna rock it :nod: On the deck by sunset, yar? :nod: :cool:
Wondered where this thread was.
Si, looks like your doing an amazing job with this mate. Hope i'll get to see this in person at some point.
Not really looking forward to putting it all back together in this weather
Cold + Crap circulation in hands = Suckass.
I know what you mean, I've just had two weeks of it. But just to cheer you up, at least you don't have to do everything on a muddy gravel drive.
You know it's weird, it's not like I don't have other things I should be doing, but for some reason I made this:
When this baby hits 88 miles per hour, you're going to see some serious sh!t....
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a399/dandantrash/si-and-his-refurb.jpg
:)
ROFL! :D Awesome Photoshop skillz, Dandan! :notworthy
And top effort with the refurb Si - you have one very understanding g/f there ;)
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d100/smabo/Siandfriends.jpg
They're breeding....chop chop :whip:
Front suspension arms are on :D
Time to call UNICEF.
where exactly is the battery being mounted Si? In places the boot floor is literally paper thin and rivnuts will be pretty useless in the event of an accident.
If it's going just behind the rear 'seats', go all the way through the box section. Get under the car and you can see the box section running across the car behind the diff. As long as you avoid the fuel pipes on the left you can run bolts all the way through to the boot. The bigger the better imho :)
That's exactly what I'm doing :) The rivnuts are basically holding the tray and the battery laterally :) The battery will actually be fastened by two bits of m8 threaded bar running through the box sections with some jumbo penny washers and nuts holding it in :)
Rivnute gun turned up today, w00t!
As did Alex (Error404) :notworthy
The rear end is now on, double w00t! :D
Fake Ben Taylor
12-12-2008, 13:49
ttiwwop
TTI, err, too long as it is :wack:
That's exactly what I'm doing :) The rivnuts are basically holding the tray and the battery laterally :) The battery will actually be fastened by two bits of m8 threaded bar running through the box sections with some jumbo penny washers and nuts holding it in :)
Ahh that makes more sense! I had horrible visions of the whole shebang being held down with rivnuts :wack:
Fake Ben Taylor
12-12-2008, 14:07
TTI, err, too long as it is :wack:
:indiff::indiff::indiff:
So it'll be all set ready to go next weekend then dude??
I might have a pair of 255/45's going spare if you want to try out wider rears for clearance.
I hope so, if the bits turn up :)
Cheer for the offer, but i kinda like these :D and they're supposed to be pretty impressive on track, so i want to give them a bash :)
Transmission and stuff is all back together, the to do list stands at:
Mount battery
Refit all 4 hubs (problems here though - can't get one of the old track rod ends out, and another of the ball joints has had the thread mashed where the ball joint splitter pulled it off :(
Fit brakes
Bleed
Check everything over!
Would have got more done if i a) could be arsed to go back out in the cold, and b) hadn't punched myself in the face and split my lip. Whoop, i've been in a fiht for the first time in my life! :D
The mittyvac is yours when you need it, especially as it's too cold and I'm too lazy to do my car :)
if you don't want to drill holes on your floor pan to fit the battery tray and you can see underneath [in case of fire :eek: i have an extinguisher] tie the battery up and bring the car around here for a touch of welding, brazing to be precise:)
:notworthy :)
Cheers for the offer - I fear what that may do to the paint though!
Today's task is to try to rescue the ball joints - I've mashed the thread :(
Oh, and try to remove the tie rod end that will NOT shift :(
:notworthy :)
Cheers for the offer - I fear what that may do to the paint though!
Today's task is to try to rescue the ball joints - I've mashed the thread :(
Oh, and try to remove the tie rod end that will NOT shift :(
can you not replace them as they will go soon or are they expensive, preventative medicine means you don't need to crawl under the car a year down the line to replace them
I've repalced the track rod ends (but can't get one out) but the ball joitns aren't available seperately - you have to bu a whole new lower arm for about £300!
It's just the top bit of the thread above the hold for the cotter pin, so I'm just going to slice it and fit a nylock or double-Nut it and lock them together :)
Mini update before another day's work.
Last friday Alex (Error404) came round to give me a hand getting the rear end back on. :notworthy
Fully assembled subframe (Hubs went on afterwards due to ease of fitting like this).
Mmmm, double alloy wishbones...
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/SuspensionRefit/DSC02861.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/SuspensionRefit/DSC02862.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/SuspensionRefit/DSC02863.jpg
Since then I've been doing bits and bobs here and there in the dark with my trusty Machine Mart floodlamp :D
So in the last week:
Hubs, driveshafts, and suspension arms are all fitted and torqued (Yup, I used a torque wrench - wooo!)
Brakes are on and have been bled twice (Wallers and his MityVac: :notworthy ) But i think they need another bleed as the system was totally drained and the pedal still feels a bit squishy.
Power Plant Frame is on
Prop is connected up
And it's currently looking like this:
Rear end:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/SuspensionRefit/DSC02870.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/SuspensionRefit/DSC02873.jpg
Front End:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/SuspensionRefit/DSC02876.jpg
Underside:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/SuspensionRefit/DSC02888.jpg
Don't worry, the arms are going to be fully degreased again before the wheels go back on :D [/Anal retentive]
If all goes to plan I should be picking up some SH coilovers for her today as well :D
The aim is to get her back on the road today, but I'm not sure that's going to happen :(
Left to do:
External:
Refit underbody bracing
Mount battery and fit ends to cables (not too bad although I need to paint the battery tray)
Fit shocks
Refill diff - can't shift the filler bolt though :(
Refit exhaust
Fit Wheels!
Which to be fair should be a morning's work, but I'm sh!t with cars, so it'll probably take a few days.
Then the interior:
Fit seats
Fit steering wheel
Interior plastics
Dash
Should all be easy, except when i plugged the dash in last week I found some electrical gremlins :( I can have lights on, or the trip counter, but not both :( turning the lights on makes the trip counter go out. I think i've got a grounding issue somewhere.
I also can't get my LED bulbs for the cluster to light :( I suspect this is as I'm only seeing 5v at the bulb connections :( I think there may be a problem with the dash dimmer switch, so i'll try to bypass that to see what i can do :)
Right, better get off my ass :(
Lovely car, good luck getting it back on the road !
Fake Ben Taylor
21-12-2008, 09:36
good work matey :thumbs:
Good work dude :thumbs:
I'm about til wed if you need a hand with anything :)
So did you get it all sorted Si? Be good to see some photos.
Weakness :( Only managed to get a few bits done, but to cut a long story short I am beig terminally fcuked around by the dude who I'm supposed to be buying some coilovers from :indiff:
Just got back from the night at my Sis' in manchester, then got to head down to sussex tomorrow - I'd hoped to be driving Ellie to wear in the bushes, but a family dinner and mid morening departure tomorrow make that look very unlikely :(
Not much left to do, heyho.
Nevermind fella, chin up. Maybe get some done over Christmas if you have some time off.
Get some pictures up when it's done. :thumbs:
Well, Off for a few days.
Suspension has been torqued, fuel has been primed to check for l;eaks, brakes have been pressurised - all looks good undernea6th. Not going to be able to work on her til the weekend, but...
She currently looks like this.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/ImGonnaSchoolYouGood/DSC02974.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/ImGonnaSchoolYouGood/DSC02976.jpg
:smitten:
Needs moar lower, but I'm pretty goddamn chuffed - she's showing the beginnings of a proper stance on the rear :cool:
I have a feeling I'm about to be ostracised from every RX7 forum ever made :D
Did you just poop a virgin? 'Cause that shits tight! :cool:
Fake Ben Taylor
23-12-2008, 12:13
awesome!!:D:D
Cn'a have me badge back now please guv'nors? :D
Fronts look so weak though :wack:
Fake Ben Taylor
23-12-2008, 12:53
id say not till you get it lowered :p:p:p
Just read that from start to finish and really enjoyed it. A lovely car you have there and a nice, well thought out build.:thumbs:
:smitten: I miss my fd :cry:
Any more pics of the car at it stands? (ie. not just showing the offsets off :smash:)
archenemy.co.uk
23-12-2008, 14:53
nice :)
Cheers all - just got to try to sort out the electrical gremlins now :(
Phil, I think I'm gonna need your help though - a test compression shows I may have 'issues' with the lip, and I'm not going ghetto baseball with this :no:
Rob: I literally only just managed to get those sneaky shots in then had to scarper. Once the insides are all sorted I'll get her all brushed up and take her out for some photos - Wallers can teach me how to use my new chrimbo pressy :D
JulesS14200
24-12-2008, 08:36
Just read the whole thread, I had no idea how much you'd done to it!
Good work Si :thumbs:
a test compression shows I may have 'issues' with the lip, and I'm not going ghetto baseball with this :no:
http://www.zen44871.zen.co.uk/Pictures/Arches/400x300_arches.gif
Is Bill Bailey working for RE:Am? :wack: ^^^^^
I NEED to make it fit with a roll and no flare -I reckon flares ruin the lines of the rear quarters on the FD.
Fake Ben Taylor
24-12-2008, 11:39
cant you stretch the wing with a blow torch and roller? and so get them wider to suit without flaring? :)
would prob need the area re-spraying though :(
Is Bill Bailey working for RE:Am? :wack: ^^^^^.
bahaha! that's (the legendary) Tim White of RX motors and his idea of subtle arch mods :wack:
Yeah, i may go a tad more discreet than that. :D
I reckon it'll fit with just a roll :nod: If not i'll get some slightly smaller spacers, as thee are 25's, making an effective 10j et20.
Well, that or run a 205 rather than 225...
archenemy.co.uk
24-12-2008, 16:17
He only needs a roll, lets hold back on the blow torch and grinder for now :wack:
Rah! I've sorted the electrics!
The dimme switch is shafted, basically :) Just bypassed it by running the loom straight to ground, and poof! we have dash lights!
I'll have to wait until tonight to see how they look, but they seem purty :D
Oil pressure and water temp appear to need tweaking though :rolleyes:
Looks like I can look at getting this puppy back on the road :cool:
Sweeeet, about time too!
Loving the pic of Tim the mad scientist, he never does things by halves! :)
Fro, I believe you gave him your car to give it a 'driveable' large street port and he gave it back to you with what was basically a bridge port, his theory being that it was more powerful, so how could you NOT want it? :wack:
Si, I expect to see actual footage of the car moving any day now then...
Car may move tomorrow, as the clocks are back in :cool:
Woop! Welcome to the future - no more orange!
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC03015.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/DSC03012.jpg
Apologies for blurryness, but that's about a 4 second exposure, and my knees are a rubbish tripod!
I'm really liking them - they are a pure bright white, doesn't come across too well in the piccies though :(
Bit of a problem with the brightness of the useless oil and water gauges though, so going to have to look at getting a better spread of light for those with some more LED's I reckon :nod:
Oh, and the bright spots on the heater controls (red) are where i've scratched off some of the coating on the letters trying to remove the colour :( got to source a replacement for those.
Just got to fit the steering wheel, hoover it, then I'll have a nice clean environment to put my Gias's in :smitten:
Dave270R
27-12-2008, 18:17
Once you've lowered it, the rear willl look mean :cool: Keep up the good work :thumbs:
Tokyo_black
27-12-2008, 18:33
Those clocks look great, I forgot how much I miss the FD dash :(
This is shaping up to be really special, I can't wait to see some on the road progress shots :)
edit: while i'm thinking about rx7's here is my old one.
<img src="http://www.180sx.co.uk/wp-content/gallery/contributer-gallery/lastshot.jpg" width="640">
<img src="http://www.180sx.co.uk/wp-content/gallery/contributer-gallery/garage-rex.jpg" width="640">
Nice work dude, I'll be making progress on your undertray today, so you should be all set by the weekend :)
weiner_patrol
30-12-2008, 10:41
looking awesome there si :)
Ed - you're a legend.
A few setbacks right now - Firstly, i managed to do something VERY stupid while working when very tired the other night. Let's just say i hope the 120A fuse I am holding in my hand fixes it, or there could be some expensive bills on the horizon :(
Three things left to do now - battery wiring for the new battery (trying to hide the cut off switch atm), steering rack bushes, and put the seats back in.
However,. The company doing my suspension arms have send me an email saying my final 2 bushes are in. great. Less great, is the fact they are trying to charge me extra for them.
mattkeeber
30-12-2008, 13:24
I've blown the 120amp main fuse twice, once when I accidentally sparked a battery cable against something I shouldn't have touched :wack: and the second when I was fault finding the loom problem.
Gonna look badass :D
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v606/Quail/fdlow.jpg
Q - that looks ace! :D
Need to get me some coilovers :o
The fuse issue related more to a 'which terminal is which' type error :o :o :o
But I've connected everything up and we have dash lights, exterior lights, electrics, and the PFC sensor check looks all good :cool: fingers crossed it's ok :)
Soooo....
Seats in, wheel on, and it's time for a test drive...
Q - that looks ace! :D
Need to get me some coilovers :o
The fuse issue related more to a 'which terminal is which' type error :o :o :o
But I've connected everything up and we have dash lights, exterior lights, electrics, and the PFC sensor check looks all good :cool: fingers crossed it's ok :)
Soooo....
Seats in, wheel on, and it's time for a test drive...
Did you suddenly become colour and plus/minus blind at the same time!? :whip:
Getting there now Si, you may of just inspired me to get out there and do some bits on mine :whip:
Did you suddenly become colour and plus/minus blind at the same time!? :whip:
I may have done :o
Seats in, battery connected, Wheel on, everything cleaned - fcuking A - test run tomorrow :D
edit: while i'm thinking about rx7's here is my old one.
<img src="http://www.180sx.co.uk/wp-content/gallery/contributer-gallery/garage-rex.jpg" width="640">
I know that MOT station... :)
Dave's a cool guy to know when you have a MOT-less RX7. :thumbs:
Good work Si, for gods sake don't crash it on the test drive. :wack:
Is that Thames Valley MOT's then? If so, do you know what he's got now?!
I hope i don't crash and die - new tyres,no alignment, used to a 120bhp open diffed Toyota... :wack:
May have to wait until thursday though as I'm trying to make a neighbour buy a 14a tomorrow :D Going to have to get cockpit photos up though - it looks sooooooo fcuking pimp :D [/smug]
Have discussed an issue with the LED bulbs though - they dim when the indicators go on :o or the hazards, or the heated screen...
As far as I knew, Dave still had his 450rwhp red FD with my old numberplate on it (H8T RX), why, has he gone and bought something silly with 3 rotors or something?
Let's see the dash then...
He's gone and bought a 2006 Gallardo mate :eek: in bright yellow. He let me sit in it and I nearly made a mess :(
and your car looks great Si you're shaming me with how much work you've done.
Gallardo? No wonder his MOT's are £275.50+vat these days... :wack:
Blimey, that's a change from the norm, I don't have an MOT due 'till september, I hope he still has it by then...
On the road as of yesterday!
OMG,I utterly, utterly love this car.
I can honestly say that every second of the freezing cold I have encountered, every penny spent, and every drop of blood shed (more on that later) was worth it many, many times over.
It's just brilliant. Sorry if that sounds totally smug, but I'm so, so stoked with her.
Will post a proper update and a few photos tomorrow - in the man time a huge :notworthy to everyone who has helped me with this so far:
Sam and Jon at Atomic Rex - whose workmanship on the Arms was cracking.
Alex (Error404) for giving up a load of his time to help me out.
Ex-CTR for all his work ditching the crap I've tried to fab and replacing it with properly made stuff! :notworthy
My neighbour Ross (Ross480) for all his help and his garage.
And my better half, Nat, who has not whinged or complained about the static driveway ornament that has been unmoved for the past few months.
As well as the likes of Wallers, MattyGee, and many others who have lent me tools and time. They will all be returned :)
Piccies and final write up bits tomorrow, when I work out how to get photos off my new camera! :)
Then, it's on to gathering power bits :cool:
I FCUKING LOVE THIS CAR!!!!
I take it your quite pleased then :)
I take it your quite pleased then :)
:o I plan on draining the tank again tomorrow :D But with the drain plug intact. Now I've stopped the huuuge knock i was getting it's a lot less nervous driving it!
Chrisnismo
02-01-2009, 00:46
:notworthy beautiful car :notworthy
Piccies and final write up bits tomorrow, when I work out how to get photos off my new camera! :)
Come on then!
Looking forward to the pictures. :thumbs:
I've seen it, and its immense :D
Its made me want a shiney pretty car I can polish and nurture.
Piccies and final write up bits tomorrow, when I work out how to get photos off my new camera!
Do you still have Windows ME? Good luck with that!
Do you still have Windows ME? Good luck with that!
XP Now :wack: If you're around this weekend and I sort the teething issues I'll drop your stuff over :thumbs:
Photos are delayed, I'm busy trying to fix the hideous vibration that has appeared :( current suspect is handbrake cables on driveshafts, but sounds too violent for that.
alanjuggler
03-01-2009, 08:51
not any specific experience with RX7s but possibly prop shaft?
iirc for S13s if you have vibration problems, nissan's advice in the service manual is take it off, rotate 180deg, refit & try again.
XP Now :wack: If you're around this weekend and I sort the teething issues I'll drop your stuff over :thumbs:
Photos are delayed, I'm busy trying to fix the hideous vibration that has appeared :( current suspect is handbrake cables on driveshafts, but sounds too violent for that.
i did wonder where all that threaded bar went:eek:;)
Lol, it's in the chassis rail :wack:
Cheers Alan :) - yeah, it's an odd one - Basically all seems fine for a while then there's this hideous grinding/vibration that seems related to road speed. Dabbing the brakes stops it, then it suddenly returns. However, lightly tugging the handbrake also stops it.
It does it in and out of gear, clutch up and down.
The prop is deffo back where it started as I marked it all up.
When i put it all back together I did notice that the splitter for the handbrake did seem pretty close to the prop, but i wiggled it a fair bit and i thought i could get away with it, I'm thinking now perhaps i couldn't!
I'm thinking it's almost certainly something rubbing on driveshaft or prop, just not sure what, most probably the handbrake. Which is a bummer as I think it means I'm going to have to drop the exhaust and prop to check it out. Made even harder as yesterday while trying to drace it I managed to trap my thumb between rotating wheel and brake caliper, rendering it useless. And purple :o
Win.
Well, I was wrong. After week of flatly ignoring what people were telling me, and a couple of hours most nights spent jacking up the car to look for shit that was rubbing.
It was the fcuking spring clip on the rear pads :(
Well, at least i hopew that's what it is! Found it in the loft where i hadn't fitted it, and have just been out for a 10 mile troundle - blissfull peace :smitten:
And, on the plus side, Some new toys turned up today - some new hoops, and Aeromotive FPR, and a Walbro. Roll on the next stage - power! :D
I'd also like to say ..
Fcuk is this car bonkers right now - And i suspect a lot of you are the same! Cold weather + lots of grit on the roads = stupid fast car with very littel grip :D Combine that with frick all lag and a quite savage clutch and it's a good laugh!
Piccies on the morrow methinks :D
MattyGee
09-01-2009, 22:38
At least it was something simple dude :)
Now get some more pics up damn you ! :D
Evilchap
09-01-2009, 22:41
Ask Gander about silly in this weather... last night on the way to the meet 509hp was applied liberally, to the wheels, but not often to the road if you know what I mean :)
Great to see the progress, I am really looking forward to seeing this in the flesh after having seen it half way through last year.
I suspect the difference 12 months has made will be more than a bit noticable!
kirby_sx
09-01-2009, 22:42
im straight up in love your car
Piccies on the morrow methinks :D
Huzzah, glad it's done. If you need a hand or the borrow of a lens let me know, I'll be around :)
Very generous good sir, If you're around tomorrow I may the well pop by - I owe you a trundle :D
And I owe you all your its back :o
Cheers guys :) I'll stop posting about it soon as my excessive smugness is even pi$$ing me off.
I for one am looking forward to some new pics :)
Well, she was washed yesterday, had to work this morning (12 mile round trip) and by the end of that, she was properly filthy, I've taken some photos anyways though!
It appears that I am number 1 example of 'all the gear, no idea', as even with Wallers expert guidance I still suck at photos with a nice camera. :(
Ah well, the thought was there...
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewCamera/_MG_0978.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewCamera/_MG_1021.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewCamera/_MG_1055.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewCamera/_MG_1034.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewCamera/_MG_1070.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewCamera/_MG_1074.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewCamera/_MG_0950.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewCamera/_MG_0938.jpg
I like her. Lots :)
baker_001
11-01-2009, 19:52
Cars looking great Si :thumbs:
I'm by no means great with my DSLR, but I have learnt the more pics you take the more likely you are to get a decent one! (Many monkeys approach :D) Locations were good, shame the first one was out of focus as the colours would have worked well :(
Cheers dude :)
Yeah, i took loads, and those are still the best :wack: That's the sort of skill level we're talking!
I reckon i just need to take more and more - this is only really the first time I've had a play with it properly.
The first location was Wallers suggestion - I reckon it would have worked really well if there was less sucking involved :wack:
In the light you get this time of year you need a tripod to get a decent exposure I would imagine, i'm guessing your pics were hand-held?
That said it still looks bloomin gorgeous, have you got the spacers on the back, they still look a little in-board, i guess lowering it will sort that out a lot. :)
Video next please. :)
archenemy.co.uk
11-01-2009, 23:36
I think he's calling your wheels a bit weak Si :D
he took the spacers of due to chaffage if I'm correct :(
You probably don't need me changing the focal point then forgetting you don't know what that is.
There was plenty of light today, it's also a very flat light is it was so overcast :nod:
I've adjusted one of them as it looks like the camera chose settings poorly :nod:
http://www.sxoc.com/vbb/attachment.php?attachmentid=59004&d=1231719898
Cheers Paul :D Yeah, I do know what it is, I just didn't know you'd changed it :wack:
And yeah, I'm getting scrubbage on the rear so have had to pull the spacers right now - I've removed them while running in the new bushes as I wanted to eliminate them as sources of issues (as in the grinding noise I was experiencing) - I'm going to run in the bushes, then get it aligned, then look at wheel fitment - if the alignment is all to cock there's no point in getting the arches rolles to fit the wheels, as camber adjusments may change the clearance.
So in a nutshell, they're weak.
I'ts not permanent, but it's sh!te right now - a neccessary evil! :D
Woop! new bits! The final piece of the suspension puzzle! Toe arms:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/_MG_1113.jpg
Now fitted, but not driven yet.
And some bargain Magnecors (OEM spec)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/NewBitsDecember/_MG_1116.jpg
Suspension wise - all done!
To do list now stands at:
Get injectors cleaned and flow tested.
Fit FPR, fuel pump, New rail, injectors.
Rewire pump for direct live feed.
And start to tidy up my ghetto spec bay :wack:
I'm almost tempted to pull the block just so i can do it properly :o
Oh, and my box is proper f*cked :(
Holy crapmonkeys, it's a mini update!
I've been pretty busy of late, largely due to my sister having a baby, and the small matter of this:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03071.jpg
Which is probably going to have quite a large impact on my finances in the immediate future i suspect, but I'll turn a blind eye to that and carry on until I face up to it! :D
In the mean time, I've had a bit of time with the other lady in my life :D
I did about 300 run in miles on the new bushes, and all seemed good. So Wallers and I booked our respective charges in to go see the legend that is Tony Bones at Wheels In Motion.
We ventured out down the M40 on what i believe was the day after he heaviest snowfall that had been seen in a long while, but the road was surprisingly devoid of death-making.
As for WIM - All I can say is, :notworthy. With an inhuman amount of patience, he went through exactly what I wanted from the car, suggested what settings I should go for, and Tony and his team duly set about setting her up. In between, he let me sneak a few photos of the underside of the car. Unfortunately 300 miles of snow, ice and road salt had already started to have an effect on my freshly blasted arms, but she still looks reasonably fresh underneath - she's since been hosed down ;) :D
A few piccies.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1244.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1250.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1254.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1256.jpg
Before and after (bit of a difference!)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03194.jpg
Thanks again to Tony and his team for being so accomodating :thumbs: I'd recommend them to anyone - believe the hype :) Good prices too!
So I trundled back home, in the snow and ice - not really having a chance to try out my newfound balance :( 1 quick trip to the limiter on a dry bit of road to clear out the carbon also resulted in a rather unnerving boost spike to 0.95 bar and subsequent boost cut (this was on the 0.6 bar 'safe' setting!) so i decided it really was time to get her sorted. :nod:
As a result, as soon as i got home, she was designated 'off the road' again. And then the fuelling work started.
*******Interlude!! A few quick pictures of the new interior (still need new gaitors, dashboard 'dome', and a few other bits)*******
WIP, but I quite like the shot.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC02996.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1208.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1218.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1215.jpg
One for MattyGee ;)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1216.jpg
*******Back to the main act******
So, pulled the inlet mani, TB, etc off, to reveal the horrible mess of wires, hoses, and connectors - all hail nest of Rat's! (Starting to become a disturbingly frequent sight...)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1271.jpg
Unfortunately, by now, it was looking a bit like this outside:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1297.jpg
So I deferred to doing things i could do inside!
First thing was to neaten up the inlet a bit. The Apexi filter kit I've got caters for all the ridiculous stock emissions gubbins, and a DV. I have an aftermarket DV and have ditched quite a bit of the emissions stuff, so needed to block off 3 of the connections. It's previously been a bit ghetto... (a shiny penny to those who can spot the electrical tape, mug tree, zip ties, and inner tube in this photo :D)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1219.jpg
So, bring on the hacksaw, file, pipe fittings, and expoxy resin!
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03159.jpg
Much happier with that, I'll paint/powder coat it at some point :)
The Stock inlet plenum also has a secondary 'double throttle' in it - When cold, the throttle plates shut off stopping full throttle and the associated wear - when warm the plates spring open. As with most things on the FD, this is all controlled by solenoids and vacuum! However, the solenoid was broken on mine, and the plates can slightly impede flow at higher power levels (plus i don't rag it when cold anyways!), so I removed them (they were on the top two runners here) by taking the plates out and filling any holes that were left with a bolt and some of my new best friend, epoxy resin! You can just about make out the epoxy'd up hole on the top right, and where it goes through the centre entrance)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03162.jpg
Still cold out, so time for a bit of work on the rat's nest - out of the bazillion solenoids on the rack, there were a few I could prune.
The double throttle solenoid: Controls the seocndary throttle in the plenum - there was now nothing to control, so out this came :D
The solenoid that controls the flow to the daft air pump emissions gubbins: This was long gone, so out with that.
And finally, for some reason I still can't figure out, there's also a solenoid for the stock FPR. I guess it's to make it run base pressure at certain levels, or to stop it seeing vacuum or something? Either way, I'm going for an aftermarket regulator, so out the window with that :D
As a result I could also ditch a bunch of the hard lines, resulting in going from this:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/IMG_1382.jpg
To this:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03167.jpg
Should make it slightly easier to work on.
In the mean time, I'd had a few parts deliveries! :D
New shiny Aeromotive FPR:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03184.jpg
Some fittings to mate this up to the stock rail and the aftermarket secondary:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03175.jpg
Some resistors to make up for the impedance difference between old and new injectors (How chuffed was I when they arrived and looked this cool :D I want to find somewhere on show to put them now!)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03177.jpg
And something to help with my fitment a little - 15mm H&R's - I've got 4 of these, and 2 25mm bolt ons. I need the 15mm's for the fronts (longer studs on their way) and I'll use the 25's on the rear. Should also help with the fitment of...
...some new hoops!
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03191.jpg
:D :D :D
Some of my favourite's - Panasport G7's - the nice shaped versions :D 8.5's and 9.5's, but I have plans ;)
I also sent my Bosch 1680's off to Scholar Engines for a clean and flow test - Sent them late wednesday, and they turned up on the friday - awesome stuff :cool: Cleaned, new pintle caps, new O-rings - unfortunately their flow tester didn't go hgh enough to test the flow :Wack:
So, on to the installation. Old rails were removed, and new insulators/o-rings installed.
[b]Carrick_rangers[/b[ on here had very kindly made me up some alloy collers to allow me to fit my new injectors perfectly without bodgery - amazing generosity from the man, you're a legend dude :thumbs:
So, new injectors and rails were installed, and a bit of the plumbing done:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03154.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03157.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/Early%20Feb%2009/DSC03152.jpg
(Note judicious use of stainless fasteners everywhere :D)
In the mean time, my MOT ran out thursday :( So basically now I have to get this back together so i can get it mapped and MOT'd ASAP.
And that's where I am now - Error404 and I spent the day ripping his new engine out of a car, so no time for Ellie, but I'm back on it tomorrow :cool:
Cheers for reading, and tell me when you want me to pack it in! :D
Top work as always Si, the devil is in the details and you certainly know how to get them right!
Rich's engine sat in his garage for over a year and we never trimmed the useless solenoids out of the rats nest (with single turbo that's pretty much all of them :)), even if you don't admit it, you really do know what you are doing.
Congrats on the ring too, do you take it off to work on the car? :wack:
EDIT: oh you really should get a greddy inlet elbow, did you know that stock plastic one can collapse at high temps? If you are going on track that would seriously worry me...
Dude, WTF are you doing? I hope you only buy your car tax one month at a time :smash: :rolleyes:
No doubt it will be uber impressive, as per the last "little update" :wack: Good work on the rats nest too, that shit would have scared the crap out of me :nod:
Looking awesome as ever though :thumbs:
Looking fantastic. I always think that RX&'s look best with standard bodywork - and yours looks mint.
Congratulations on the engagement too. :thumbs:
TarmacTerrorist
19-03-2009, 22:03
Those panasports are lush! You getting them refurbed?
Got a question for you, i noticed you used POR15 when you was overhauling the car, did you paint straight over the top of it? Or did you use a primer because iv read the tin and it seems like you have to use a primer, i was planning on just painting hammerite over the top of it, not sure if it will set on the POR15 :confused:
The grand plan is to DIY the pana's- well, 2 of them. Teh grander plan involves ditching some parts of the other two :D
POR15 is really good with other paints, BUT...
You need to overcoat it within a set time of the top coat of it going on. If you don't then you need to rough up the top coat with wet and dry - and it takes ages because it's so frickin' hard!
If you can knock it out in one day/weekend it saves all that hassle - I used hammerite in places on my old subframe over the top and it was fine and dandy AFAIK.
HTH :)
Proper update tomorrow hopefully, as she's rockin' hard right now :D
zeppelin101
19-03-2009, 23:03
The grand plan is to DIY the pana's- well, 2 of them. Teh grander plan involves ditching some parts of the other two :D
Where are you buying dish from then? :P
Image :)
But unfortunately I have other financial priorities right now, so it'll have to wait a while. In the mean time, I'm going to have to make do with spacers.
On the plus side, I've got some tyres ready to go on them :)
Those G7s really are sexy!
mattkeeber
20-03-2009, 08:39
:notworthy
Fantastic work Si... utterly jealous too! :D Love those G7's too!
Wish I had the money to put mine back on the road. Just needs a MOT now but with impending redundancy It'll be sat looking forlorn on my drive for a while longer! :wack:
TarmacTerrorist
20-03-2009, 11:12
Cheers Si that cleared things up :nod:
Image :)
But unfortunately I have other financial priorities right now, so it'll have to wait a while. In the mean time, I'm going to have to make do with spacers.
On the plus side, I've got some tyres ready to go on them :)
Sweet, can Image do that then? I thought it was only for their own wheels, gonna look hawt!
Those G7s really are sexy!
:nod:
They are like split rim R32GTRs:cool:
Stop playing with old nissans and give us an update on this:D:wack:
lol :D
I'll try and do both at the weekend :)
I'm trying to find a colour scanner to scan my power graphs and MOT sheets :)
Actual update shocker!
Well, I've forgotten what I've written and what I haven't, so apologies if I repeat/miss bits out. Same old deal - don't like it, just look at the piccies, or skip the thread :D
After all the above went on, it was jsut a case of getting her back together. Slightly unnerving, as the MOT was now expired, so it was basically a case of starting her up on my drive to get her to operating temp, and checking for leaks. Did my neighbours love me? Fcuk yeah.
A few small fuel leaks around the connections at the end of the rail - duly sealed with some epoxy - they were tiny, tiny leaks, but enough to matter.
I also didn't know you were suppose dot use o-rings on the AN fittings where they bolt to the FPR :wack: After some 'you're an idiot' advice from Jezz_S13, I duly fitted some, and strangely the leaks went. Cheers my welsh compadre. :notworthy
Sooooo, slow speed, unmapped, un run-in trundle up to WGT in Cheshire, for two of the most unnerving things someone who looks after their own car can go through - a RR mapping session and MOT :wack:
Mapping was first, and what can I say, Pip has done a fcuking cracking job :notworthy They guy is a proper legend. Even though the upgraded secondaries only come in above certain revs, there seems to be more mid to low range punch, and it's just brilliantly driveable :smitten:
The main problem is that, as often happens on the twin tub set up, I was getting boost creep at high revs :( because of this Pip ramped the gain down a bit, and the target boost, so I had margin for error for the bit of creep I was getting. It means i get slightly slower spool, but it's still hardly crap :) Only solution is to pull the tubby pack and port the wastegate, and that's a lot of hassle I don't want :(
But, on the plus side, stapping the big hamster wheels to the hubs made it do this:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostMapping/IMG_1610.jpg
Which extrapolated to this atf, after tranny losses:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostMapping/IMG_1608.jpg
To say I was chuffed was an understatement :D
Loving the smoothness of the power curve :cool:
Dip in the torque is due to the twin switchover, and the reduction of the gain to stop spiking.
You can see the creep quite clearly here:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostMapping/IMG_1615.jpg
(top visible line is 0.9 bar)
Th annoying thing is that if it weren't for having to give headroom for the creep, Pip said they may be up to another 10-20bhp in it. But tbh, I'm not sure i'd notice it anyways :wack:
Wrong pic dude.
And you do know that most epoxy will be eaten by petrol dont you??
MOT went surprisingly smoothly too :cool: I borrowed some of Jon_H's spare wheels as my tyres were getting a little low to the ground, and my new ones hadn't turned up yet (I didn't want to do the 160 mile round trip to fail on something daft like tyres) so went up there sporting some stock S14 rimzzzzzz,
I was hoping for a clean sweep, but unfortunately got pulled up on an advisory :( But as advisories go, it could ahve been worse...
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostMapping/IMG_1606.jpg
:D And yup, that's a proper advisory sheet, it's on the VOSA computer... :wack:
(BTW, apologies for the crap photos of the paperwork, I haven't got access to a colour scanner!)
So that's where she is now - I'm pretty damn chuffed - I never really drover her after the polybushing and alignment, except back to min in the snow, then up the M6 on an unmapped car on the way to an MOT.
TBH, she's now a totally different car, and so close to my ideal evolution :smitten: A few small tweaks, and to be honest, I think she's gooing to be done!
I had plans of a cage and coilvers, but to be honest she rides and handles so well on the current setup I'm loathed to lose some of the comfort!
But I'lls ee what happens, and how funds go!
So that's it for quite a mile I reckon, just cosmetics now!
Plans are:
Side skirts
Roll rear arches
Fit new wheels and make them silly
96 spec rear lights
Defi Link Meter and sensors to replace the HORRIBLE obstructive pillar pod
And that's sort of it!
So, in the mean time a few more pics - that's right, I'm still sh!t with the camera, but hey ho :)
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostMapping/IMG_1404.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostMapping/IMG_1397.jpg
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/PostMapping/IMG_1391.jpg
Wrong pic dude.
c0ck :wack:
And you do know that most epoxy will be eaten by petrol dont you??
See, that's what I thought :confused:, but loads of people have used it, I guess I'll see how I get on. It's got PTFE on all the threads, so it literally is covering the smallest of tiny pinhole gaps, very liberally.
I'm going to see how it'll hold out, I'm trying to find a better thread sealant atm :(
Any ideas?
Well as I've got fuel tanks to fit at work next week, I'll see what we use :thumbs: Usually just the correct size hoses, but I'll ask around for an alternative
Such a pretty car. Just about the perfect shape for a sports coupe.
Great power figures too.
:thumbs:
Clean your lense!!!
Great power figures. Bet its a laugh to drive :D
I tidied one up for you:
http://www.jt-culture.com/images/sifd.jpg
Cheers all :)
:o I didn't even notice that in my haste :wack:
Cheers dude :notworthy
It's got a clear filter on, so I'll give it a quick swish when I've bought a brush :wack:
I am actual proper useless with it though :o
She feels utterly awesome to drive - the power is there all the time, with barely an discernible lag - I know a lot of people go big singles on these, but I just don't want to lose that near instant pick up and huge powerband. She'll happily spin up the wheels at any remotely legal speeds, yet still remains tractable and civilised. Love it.
alanjuggler
27-03-2009, 07:55
:cool:
really smooth power curve for a turbo car. v. impressed. i'm so tempted to chop the s13 in so I can try to bankrupt myself running an FD :D
Do it! then drive it 1500 miles per year, job done, that's what I did :D
I'm so please with the way the power comes in, but tbh, so much of that is the mapping. I really can't rate Pip/WGT enough. I've been in a fair few cars with a similar setup and the changeover on the twins was so moticeable. I've also been in cars with bing singles and similar fuelling setups, and the injector transition was really noticeable as well.
Pip has managed to map both of these out into one smooth wave of power. He really is a freakin' legend.
Is my nose brown enough yet? :wack:
Well, sort of tiny mini update.
Last week my 2500's turned up for the front - cue a quick swap out, and then out for the break in period. Needless to say, my retina's are now suitably loose and wobbly. The cold bite seems better than it did on the ones i had on my 14a though - weird. Anywasy, Broken in and ready to hit JapFest.
Last week Phil @archenemy popped by to roll the arches on both cars. Ellie got the treatment - Phil and I spoke about what we wanted, and he's done a cracking job - what I wanted all along was no change in the exterior shape, I desperately wanted ot keep the same lines, but just max clearance.
So he sorted me out with a nice lip roll, affording me about 15mm extra clearance :cool: All that, with no paint cracking. Just a tiny bit of crazing on the lacuer on the inner lip. So I've sprayed over that with lacquer, and have some POR15 seam sealer on order.
Refitted the rear diffuser and undertray for some photos as well.
Also, finally got some tyres mounted on my Panasports. I was dead excited about this, but to be honest, I'm a little disappointed :(
They've polished up well, but the offsets do indeed seem as bad as I'd calcualted them to be, and they look tiny :( Plus I'm not too keen on the black.
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/Okishima/IMG_2010.jpg
Heyho. :(
archenemy.co.uk
04-05-2009, 12:25
thanks Si, Panasports look good just need more dishu :D
got to say I was a bit worried, I know how much you love this car, and being white as well doesn't help :( but it came out fine :thumbs:
You were worried?Think how bad I was :D
I'm utterly impressed by your skills dude, seriously. :thumbs: :notworthy - No paint damage, and no change to the outer profile - just what I'd hoped for, but feared wouldn't happen :)
I think more dish but brushed silver centres may work, and may make them look a bit bigger, but I'm not sure :( I've done the whole black/silver thing before and think i want something a little different.
Plus the cost of dishes is looking a bit crazy - I had a good look at Jules' and Quail's Works yesterday and looks like they use the same lips as Meister S1 3p's = BIG money :(
si you need to sell me this thing. like really.
I think the whole car looks fantastic and for me, the offsets would be about right.
But then you're hardcore offset police. I can imagine your shame. :D
baker_001
04-05-2009, 17:21
Also, finally got some tyres mounted on my Panasports. I was dead excited about this, but to be honest, I'm a little disappointed :(
They've polished up well, but the offsets do indeed seem as bad as I'd calcualted them to be, and they look tiny :( Plus I'm not too keen on the black.
Heyho. :(
I have to say I think you're being a little hard on yourself, yeh ok the offsets could be better but it still looks a darn sight better than some. I think you're right about changing the colour of the centre's - get some decent side-on shots so someone can photoshop some for you :thumbs:
Also, awesome job by Phil :notworthy As you say it definitely still retains the factory lines :nod:
Tommy2T's
04-05-2009, 17:41
Looking awesome. My favourite RX7, the clean lines and simplicity of it make it stand out much better than having a crazy bodykit.
Prefer the old wheels though. Might change if I see a side on shot though?
If you ever sell this make sure you let me know! Love it.:thumbs:
si you need to sell me this thing. like really.
After going out in it I've definitely been converted to the way of the 13B! Wana swap powerplants Si? :D
After going out in it I've definitely been converted to the way of the 13B! Wana swap powerplants Si? :D
following it back watching flames lick up the back bumper was awesome.
hadnt realised you have done so much work to it, wicked :thumbs::thumbs:
Lol, cheers guys :)
Didn't realise it flamed so much - must admit I was goading it on a bit on the m45 :o
Quail - no :wack: Although I'm a little concerned about the lumpy idle after the restart - so if that gets worse, then maybe!
I'm just gutted about the wheels - was so looking forward to the fitment and I'm just not feeling them unfortunately. I cna't find the piccy of the S13 wearing them that inspired me at the mo either :(
I'll try making the fitment a little silly, then see how they stand.
Should have some big ass 35mm bolts ons arriving soon :)
EDIT: Found one of them, the FC, not the hardcore 13 I was looking for though. The fitment is weak, but the dish is strong and the rimmage is lush:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/img_918333_13312169_0.jpg
This one perchance?
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d100/smabo/DSCN5495.jpg
Or this
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d100/smabo/SexyKnights180sx.jpg
This one perchance?
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d100/smabo/DSCN5495.jpg
Nope, but demi-hawt.
Or this
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d100/smabo/SexyKnights180sx.jpg
Right car, not the piccy I was thinking of, but the 'bo gots the skillz :thumbs:
This is the piccy I was after:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/xdxdxx.jpg
I'm just not sure it's going to work now :(
Cocks.
Well, as usual, nothing is ever simple.
Mazda CB is 67.1
My 15mm slip on H&R's are 66.1.
My 20mm bolt ons are 73.something, and the OE studs stick out, and my Pana's don't have cut outs on the back.
My Pana's are, err, around 70 somewhere.
So basically, nothing fits.
Utter crapbags. Ah well, they'll mostly fit my SX.
Damn, gutting. An excuse to get flush on the S14a atleast. Any luck finding wider dishes for them?
boo to mazdas weak ass offsets, I love rx7 s in white though, and yours is cleeeeeaann:thumbs:
Cheers dude :) I'm not even sure what these wheels were off, I think theyr'e from an MR2, which are potentially even weaker than FD's. Yup, it happens. eek: :indiff:
Well, today some potential Win arrived in time for JapFest:
http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r30/Simon_r_hill/FDProject/IMG_2189.jpg
weiner_patrol
13-05-2009, 16:37
Si where did you get them from and how much did you pay for them?
A guy over on FDUK has made them, works for an engineering firm :)
They look well made and are a good fit. Only thing I'm not 100% about is that the studs are threaded into the alloy spacer and don't have a flange at the end to stop them coming out. The threads are apparently rolled, rather than cut, which makes them stronger, but I'm trying to find out if it's a 100% super strong track bitch punishment taking way of doing it.
weiner_patrol
13-05-2009, 16:45
Can he make them for sx's and how much do they cost for a whole 4 wheel set?
Theres quite a lot of us looking for them like...
archenemy.co.uk
13-05-2009, 19:35
rolled threads are better btw
Are they thread locked in to the spacer??
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