Sequential Gearbox, Wide Track, Wide Arch Nova Rally Car

[novarally]

Hello to all.

I thought it was high time I posted up a thread on the Nova rally car I'm building (and it might encourage me to get on and finish it).

I've owned it twice before, sold it, and then ended up buying it back.

Every time a few things have changed on it, but it hasn't been used for over 4 years now (I've been distracted by my Escort Cosworth race car). Now the Nova is going to get sorted out and used in anger.

Currently it has no engine or gearbox fitted, but most of the other bits are ready to go.

I have a 6 speed sequential gearbox (Quaife 032G) waiting to go into it. This has a 4.8 CWP and a ZF plate LSD.

The important bits of the specification are;

Wide Tracked suspension - 100mm wider than standard
Fibreglass Wide Arches
Fibreglass Roof
Fibreglass doors
Carbon fibre bonnet and tailgate
Spaceframe rear end, using independent trailing arms (no beam)
Floor mounted pedal box
Extended steering column, to move the weight of the driver further back and more toward the centre of the car
Electric power steering, variable assistance, using Corsa C column
Fabricated floor pan and centre exhaust tunnel
Rear inner arches tubbed for wheel clearance
Fuel tank under the bonnet
6 speed Quaife sequential gearbox with LSD
Carbon fibre rear spoiler
Polycarbonate windows
Full welded in roll cage
STACK digital dash display system
Bilstein coilover suspension all round
490kg (without engine and gearbox!)
and lots more.............

Here's a few photos;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/015.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/006-3.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0042.jpg

[novarally]

Sequential gearbox, sat on the workshop floor and patiently awaiting fitment..........

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/007-1.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/015-1.jpg

but it will have to wait until I've found a suitable engine.

At the moment I'm deciding whether to go 1400cc (16v), 1600cc (16v) or C20XE Redtop. Whichever one it is will be fitted with a throttle body set-up.

[dhdev (Oli)]

FWD box, but fabricated floorpan and gearbox tunnel, with fuel tank under the bonnet? Is this going to be mid engined? or is it intended for sprints (as I assume the tank is very small if its still FWD)

[draper]

no replies to this thread

e-mail only please :p



looks like it should be a right weapon, have you decided on the engine yet ?

[novarally]

[quote=draper]no replies to this thread

e-mail only please :p

People are welcome to respond on this thread! It's only with 'Items For Sale' that enquiries need to be e-mailed to me, otherwise I would never keep track of everything.

The Nova is front engine, front wheel drive. I will be using it for tarmac stage rallies. The fuel tank isn't huge, but will be adequate for single venue rallies. The previous owner chose to site it there, if it had been my choice I would have mounted it in the back of the car for better weight distribution.

I will get some more photos done soon, it has a fabricated exhaust tunnel running down the middle of the car.

[vaughanmc]

Looks tidy mate

Will be an awsome bit of kit :)

[tom_beverley]

Good to see the progress thread Colin, look forward to seeing her finished :)

[NovaGuy1400SRi]

looks good, should be a bit of a weapon once finished by the looks of things :D

[belly257]

looks awsome mate:thumb:

[hybridturbo]

Not much of a looker with skinny wheels and that spoiler Colin but am sure it will be alot of fun to drive.

I would keep the weight down and go for the small block :D

[novarally]

Not much of a looker with skinny wheels and that spoiler Colin but am sure it will be alot of fun to drive

The wheels are just some I had lying around, they won't be the ones I use, that will depend to a large extent on what front brakes I end up using.

I like the spoiler (it's from a VW Golf ex-works rally car), but it's a personal thing, of course.

[Adam]

Lol @ Draper, funny guy lol


Car looks cool, nice expensive bits too :cool:

[Mazz]

Looks like it'll be a giggle when its done, and 470kg's! Thats light!

[novarally]

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/042.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/037.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/038.jpg

[novarally]

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/043.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/044.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/039.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/040.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/045.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/041.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/046.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/047.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/048.jpg

[Adam]

Fook me, some very impressive bits on there.
Liking the IRS setup :cool:

[Mazz]

Yea, IRS on a Nova is different, not sure about the fuel cell location though..

[Ben]

Colin

is this the white one you used to have when you were in bournemouth? I think you were deciding on putting the XE with 48's out the white astra in it?

Nice to see you are getting into the nova's again, do you remember how to put one back together???

Ben

[novarally]

Yea, IRS on a Nova is different, not sure about the fuel cell location though..

Agreed, I am not happy with the fuel tank location either. However, I am going to try it with it where it is and see how it handles, and how the corner weights stack up.

Ultimately I am expecting to move the tank, and probably the radiator as well into the boot area, in an effort to get the weight distributed more evenly.

[Jonlem]

Very impressive Colin, nice to see something totally different.

I bet the gearbox was cheap lol

I'm also not a fan of the fuel cell location but would it need to be firewalled if it was in the car if you were competing ?

[novarally]

Colin

is this the white one you used to have when you were in bournemouth? I think you were deciding on putting the XE with 48's out the white astra in it?

Nice to see you are getting into the nova's again, do you remember how to put one back together???

Ben

Hi Ben.

Yes, it's the same car. I sold it shortly after I moved up to Lincolnshire, and a year or more later I bought it back. In the intervening time it had been painted red, and gained various other modifications, like the EPS, the floor mounted pedal box and the fuel tank under the bonnet.

I've had at least four different C20XE's on throttle bodies which I have intended to fit, and then they've been sold on as I've needed the cash!

Now I can't decide between small and big block for it, it's a question of being competitive for tarmac rallies.

It will be a certain class winner with a proper 1400cc 16v in it, but I think I'll soon get bored of the limited power.

My preferred option is the Redtop, but it's going to be very nose heavy, and it means I'll be up against the ultra quick and serious Mk.2 Escorts.............

Can I remember how to put a Nova back together? Hopefully, but failing that, I do know a man who can!

[Ben]

Well its the similar debate you had with B11 OVA when you had the 1.4 16v engine fitted and screwed every possible bhp out of that then suffered with the reliability.

The XE is going to be more powerful and more reliable but like you said you are entering the big class difference.

Tough choice but suppose wait and see what comes along.

[novarally]

Very impressive Colin, nice to see something totally different.

I bet the gearbox was cheap lol

I'm also not a fan of the fuel cell location but would it need to be firewalled if it was in the car if you were competing ?

Thanks for the encouraging words.

The gearbox certainly wasn't cheap, but I managed to get it secondhand at what I consider was a very sensible price. If you buy one of these from Quaife with the driveshafts, VAT etc., they will bill you for over £12k!!

If I move the fuel tank into the back, it will need to be enclosed in an alloy box to comply with the safety regulations.

[Jonlem]

Personally I'd stick with the 1.6 16v, if your going to end up against the Escorts if you use a C20XE I think you'll have a job keeping with them.
Atleast with a small block it will feel more lively and your be better matched against the other entries.

I expected the box was 10k plus new, sadly its whats needed to finish a car of that standard.

Best of luck with it, I'll definately be keeping an eye on this thread

[novarally]

Personally I'd stick with the 1.6 16v, if your going to end up against the Escorts if you use a C20XE I think you'll have a job keeping with them.
Atleast with a small block it will feel more lively and your be better matched against the other entries.

I have been offered a very serious spec. 1600cc 16v motor, which is tempting. That class is dominated by 106 Cup and Saxo kit cars, which are very quick indeed, so it would make for some good battles.

[novashed]

do remember you having this up for sale before,

you just cant get away from novas once your hooked!! even a more mature gent like yourself colin!

[novarally]

even a more mature gent like yourself colin!

None taken.........

There's still something about a Nova, even though I've got a 500bhp Escort Cosworth race car to play with.

[novashed]

None taken.........

There's still something about a Nova, even though I've got a 500bhp Escort Cosworth race car to play with.

:thumb:

[hagger]

hey colin, nice to see you have a project thread up! will be keeping my eye on this one. It looked a beast when i had a looka round it when i popped down for the alloys!! i reckon a 16XE would be best in her!!

Sam

[peester]

crickey, i did wonder if u actually liked novas with so much breaking and selling of theyre parts .. lol.
Im kidding, - the shell looks spot on for the spec list you want to build there..

[CP]

That 'box is sex....... *sigh* one day

How about the new 1.6T - IIRC about 180ftlb torque as std? Or does that put you outside of the N/A class and in up against all the 2.0l T's?


It would be helluva weapon- I would imagine the tuning potential is enormous - reliable mid 250+hp and torque to match?

The sequential box would give you every chance of staying on boost?

You could fine tune power output for different venues or even for different parts of the venue.

Sorry just thinking out loud- probably not too practical for your applicationlol

[CP]

Meant to ask about the spoiler - any evidence gathered that it worked?

[novarally]

That 'box is sex....... *sigh* one day

How about the new 1.6T - IIRC about 180ftlb torque as std? Or does that put you outside of the N/A class and in up against all the 2.0l T's?


It would be helluva weapon- I would imagine the tuning potential is enormous - reliable mid 250+hp and torque to match?

The sequential box would give you every chance of staying on boost?

You could fine tune power output for different venues or even for different parts of the venue.

Sorry just thinking out loud- probably not too practical for your applicationlol

Turbo engines are out of the question if I want to rally it. It would push the car into the top class, against EVO's, 6R4's, Impreza WRC's. No chance there!

[novarally]

Meant to ask about the spoiler - any evidence gathered that it worked?

I bolted it onto the Nova years ago when I first owned it, and it's never had an engine since, so it's never been tested.

However, it was developed in the wind tunnel on the Golf by Volkswagen Motorsport, so in theory it should work on the Nova as well. But aerodynamics is a truly complex discipline, so I could be wrong.

[The Simps]

Good to see this started Colin.

Done anymore headscratching on how the box mounts would work?

[novarally]

Good to see this started Colin.

Done anymore headscratching on how the box mounts would work?

I haven't got much further with that, but this photo shows how the previous owner of the gearbox had mounted it into his Corsa.

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/P10101751.jpg

You can see the support bracket on the bulkhead, just above the steering rack.

That will be easy enough to fabricate in the Nova, the main issue (as we discussed) is likely to be clearance of the bodyshell as the gearbox casing is a lot bulkier than an F20. I have a feeling there will be a fair bit of cutting required to make room for it.

[The Simps]

I have a feeling there will be a fair bit of cutting required to make room for it.


All weight saving ;) lol

[AlexW]

This looks like it will be a great toy when its done. I would chose a small block too, all of the above plus its cheaper lol

[novarally]

This looks like it will be a great toy when its done. I would chose a small block too, all of the above plus its cheaper lol

A small block certainly won't be any cheaper than a Redtop with the serious spec. it will need to be competitive!

If I go for a small block, this one is a possibility;

http://www.eurorallye.co.uk/product_info.php?cPath=8_9&products_id=1162

[hendrix]

nice to see some pics of it up finally Colin. Looks even better in the flesh though ;)

[BRoadGhost]

My my, some interesting nova's are finally beginning to apear.

TBH i wouldn't mess about based on what i've seen so far; 300bhp n/a 2L with 8 injectors and 10,000rpm to finish up with

[novarally]

TBH i wouldn't mess about based on what i've seen so far; 300bhp n/a 2L with 8 injectors and 10,000rpm to finish up with

A couple of years ago I bought one of the ex-John Cleland BTCC Cavaliers, running a 300bhp Swindon Racing Engines motor, with intentions of putting the engine and gearbox (a Hewland sequential) into this Nova.

But someone made me an offer I couldn't refuse for the Cavalier, so it went on its way...........(and it hasn't raced since, sadly).

At the moment I am favouring the 2 litre option.

[7ova]

nice to see the nova has moved from the corner of your garage!

i picked up some parts a couple of months ago and you showed me it,
make sure you dont put it away again and get it back on the road.
good luck mate :thumb:

[Graeme]

Love the car Colin, I imagine it going to be somethin special once its done considering what all the parts are worth!!!

I'd sell my soul to the devil in exchange for them wing mirrors!!!

[7ova]

Love the car Colin, I imagine it going to be somethin special once its done considering what all the parts are worth!!!

I'd sell my soul to the devil in exchange for them wing mirrors!!!

there a bloke on here that makes them!
i will try and find the thread :thumb:

[novarally]

there a bloke on here that makes them!
i will try and find the thread :thumb:

At least 3 different people on PNG told me they could make a set for me, and in the end none of them delivered.

Craig Green very kindly sold me his set, as I had been after some for ages.

[7ova]

"nuds sr" mate see this threads he make the mirrors for £55 posted :thumb:

[novarally]

"nuds sr" mate see this threads he make the mirrors for £55 posted :thumb:

I'm aware of the thread, but I don't think anybody has actually had a set of them yet?

[Graeme]

Yeah I've PM'ed him but to no avail, Just one of those thing you really want but have to wait for, I'll get a set eventually, I asked Dave (fearless) about some, who did them originally IIRC but he said just to keep my eyes peeled on here
Patients is a virtue

[7ova]

I havent had any of him,
i had just remembered seeing a thread a while
back for them :)

anyway good luck with the rally car

[Count Vaux Alot]

Very very nice, keep it up and get it back into use asap!

[dan16v]

Good to see you back with the nova Colin! i remember years ago, coming down to your place at bournmouth, and you showing us around the car! must have been in 2000 or 2001lol
I to now have an escort cosworth, but cannot leave my nova alone!

[The Simps]

I to now have an escort cosworth, but cannot leave small boys alone!


:eek: :wtf: :roll: ;) :p

[dan16v]

cant see the problem simps?lol

[Jeff16v]

I went down to Colin years ago and saw this, shame the custom carbon dash is gone:( . Most of us off here have caused the death of many, Nice to see you put one back together lol

[lee303]

wow! looks great colin, i bought a set of carbon doors off you ages and ages ago having met you at a nova gorup national day, and still have them on my nova today
gearbox looks stunning, and i am very jealous! especially as i am currently i need of decent box for mine
on that note, where would an N/A 1800 put you class wise, as for the money of building a 1600, you can make a hell of a lot more torque with the 18 small block now:thumb:

[novarally]

I went down to Colin years ago and saw this, shame the custom carbon dash is gone:( . Most of us off here have caused the death of many, Nice to see you put one back together lol

This is a different Nova to the one you saw then!

The one with the carbon dash got sold in 2002, and was broken up into bits by Iain Shirlaw at Eurorallye.

[Jeff16v]

This is a different Nova to the one you saw then!

The one with the carbon dash got sold in 2002, and was broken up into bits by Iain Shirlaw at Eurorallye.

Oh ok, the other one was really nice. you must have spent thousands building and braking rally novas. i turned up in a renault 25 and we chucked a gte lump in the bootlol

[novarally]

Oh ok, the other one was really nice. you must have spent thousands building and braking rally novas

Yes, the one with the carbon dashboard was nice, and it should have been.

In the years I spent building and racing that one it ate up well over £30k. If I had any sense I would have just gone and bought the 6R4 that I actually want!

[Jeff16v]

Yes, the one with the carbon dashboard was nice, and it should have been.

In the years I spent building and racing that one it ate up well over £30k. If I had any sense I would have just gone and bought the 6R4 that I actually want!

30K! yikes:tard: I used to watch the rallycross at Brands, great series, shame they banned it.

[novarally]

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/010-1.jpg

STACK dashboard display awaiting proper installation. I am going to mount it in a carbon fibre 'pod'.

[barkeybooster]

that looks so cool. keep them pic's commin'

[novarally]

If anyone is feeling (very) flush, I am reluctantly putting my Quaife sequential gearbox up for sale.

Bear in mind that this gearbox costs £12k from Quaife, and I will be selling it with 2 pairs of driveshafts, mountings and various other bits. It isn't going to be given away, I will be looking to achieve somewhere around £5k for the gearbox with all the fitting bits I have for it.

Anyone who is GENUINELY interested can e-mail me at;

colinesmith@aol.com

If you don't know what it is, or what it can do, then this is not for you, this is the ultimate front wheel drive gearbox.

[Jonlem]

Colin, It may be worth having a word with Broster who works at Jamsport as he has built a 16xe thats going to apparently rev to 11k ! The first thing I thought was that he needs your gearbox lol

That or Lee303 as I know he has had gearbox issues.

Seems VERY fairly priced tbh.

[novarally]

Thanks Jonlem.

I have got a listing for the gearbox going on EBAY tonight, just to get some Worldwide exposure.

I suspect it is the sort of thing which will be more in demand abroad, from my experience with these serious bits of race engineering.

[novarally]

My sequential gearbox has now been (sadly) sold, in order to fund some building work at my house.

I have now acquired an F20 gearbox with Tran-X plate LSD, and a 4.5 final drive, which I plan to use until I can afford another sequential set-up.

I've been searching for ages for a decent spec. throttle-bodied C20XE to use, but with no luck so far.

But in the short term I might fit this and see how well it goes in the Nova...............

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0012.jpg

it's a 1400cc 16v on Jenvey throttle bodies and MBE management, that came fitted into a Corsa I purchased. It's supposed to be around 130bhp, and goes pretty well for a 1.4.

I have also acquired a few more bits for the build;

Alloy header tank;
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0043.jpg

Roller bearing eccentric top mounts;
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0062-1.jpg

Rather nice alloy radiator;
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0053.jpg

I just need to get some 4 pot brakes now, and I have all the parts for the 'Evolution 1' build.

[dhdev (Oli)]

That radiator is lovely, I like the functional welded on strut brace mounts too. Keep it smallblock! If you're desperate for 2.0 straight line speed, you may as well jack the nova in and get an escort, cos I doubt the nova would be much competition on the stages :(

[craig green]

I should imagine that 1400 would go very well. CP's used to fly though I don't know the full spec of his, it did sound pretty awesome though.

[Ben]

Does it go as well as your old 1.4 though Colin? I would imagine you will always think, this isnt as quick as my old one!

[novarally]

Does it go as well as your old 1.4 though Colin? I would imagine you will always think, this isnt as quick as my old one!

No, it certainly doesn't go as well as my old 1400 motor, but then that one cost a fortune and made 138bhp at the wheels..........

[peester]

aaahh! the engine i want to run in mine next year, tb'ed x14xe..

cant sniff at nearly 100bhp per litre can ya..?

[novarally]

I will post some updated photos tomorrow.

The 1400cc 16v throttle bodied engine has now been fitted, and mostly plumbed and wired in.

The gear linkage, hydraulic clutch and throttle cable need to be sorted out next.

[t45_ste]

Looking forward to the pics :) does the gearbox already have an hydraulic slave or are you modifying the box?

[novarally]

does the gearbox already have an hydraulic slave or are you modifying the box?

Hi Steve,

We're going to have to modify the box. The plan is to pinch the hydraulic bits from a Vectra and use those on my F20. Apparently it's been done before, but the conversion's all new to me and my mechanic friend.

If you have any more information, please share! Colin

[t45_ste]

I should imagine it will be fairly straight forward on an f20.

Basically remove the tube where the input shaft comes into the box

When putting into the f13 i had to open up the 3 holes on the slave cylinder in order for it to bolt into the box, i also had to use longer bolts.

Check the seal in the hydraulic slave is the same size as the standard. (It was bigger than the standard f13 due to the input shaf being bigger on the big block boxes)

Once bolted in check that when the clutch is depressed it doesnt foul anywhere in the bell housing.

There the main pointers i would say but its fairly obvious once you have it in front of you.


Have you already bought the cylinder and pipe?

[novarally]

Have you already bought the cylinder and pipe?

No, I've got to source those bits yet.

Thanks for the tips, we'll have a look at that tomorrow.

[t45_ste]

If my box doesnt sell in the next week the hydraulic slave and pipe will be up for sale.

[novarally]

If my box doesnt sell in the next week the hydraulic slave and pipe will be up for sale.

Give me first refusal if that happens please Steve. Thanks.

[Cle]

looks good :thumb: cant wait until the photo's tomorrow :)

[novarally]

Just a couple of photos of the engine now in place;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0114.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/012.jpg

Drivers side engine mount is on since these photos, and the radiator and coolant hoses have all been installed (Samco silicone stuff).

Fuel system is work in progress now, and then we've got to sort out the hydraulics to the clutch.

[Ben]

Are you keeping the fuel cell where it is Colin?

[novarally]

Are you keeping the fuel cell where it is Colin?

It's staying where it is for the moment.

Once I've got the car properly running and out on the test track, I can decide where to go with the next developments.

[t45_ste]

Just a thought colin. Was it not worth putting the throttle bodies off the 1400 on the c20xe you have for sale? Then put the carbs on the 1400 and sell that?

Just a thought :thumb:

[novarally]

Was it not worth putting the throttle bodies off the 1400 on the c20xe you have for sale?

No, it wouldn't be worth it. The map would be all wrong for the throttle bodies on the 2 litre engine, and the carbs would be way too big for the 1400 motor.

It's getting close to ready to run with the 1400 engine in it, so I will decide then if it's going to be quick enough to be a competitive proposition.

If it's not, I will find a full spec. C20XE engine and fit that instead.

Mostly it's just the hydraulic clutch conversion and the gear linkage to sort out now (going with a Cavalier internal shifter as I've got no cash for a Quaife linkage!).

I've just picked up a set of 280mm Wilwood 4 pots as a temporary solution for the front brakes.

As soon as some proper stuff (AP Racing or Alcon) comes along, I will fit those instead.

[novarally]

Looks like there's going to be a change of plan (another one!)......

At the weekend I bought an Astra GTE, which has an £8k SBD-built C20XE engine fitted (steel rods, Jenvey throttle bodies, Kent cams and lots more).

So it looks like the 1400cc 16v engine that is currently in the car will be making way for a rather more powerful 2 litre!

If anyone is seriously interested in buying a throttle bodied small block 1400cc 16v, they can e-mail me at the normal address; colinesmith@aol.com

I will post some photos of the C20XE engine as it is in the Astra soon.

[novarally]

The Astra engine bay;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/034.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/037-1.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0152-1.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0162.jpg

The professionally airbrushed rocker cover and cambelt cover are not to my taste, and will not be staying. If anyone fancies them, drop me an e-mail to discuss a price.

[t45_ste]

looks great colin. Was the car for sale on mig? The engine i was hoping to buy has been sold so back to the 1600 for me!

[novarally]

Was the car for sale on mig? The engine i was hoping to buy has been sold so back to the 1600 for me!

Hi Stephen.

Yes, the Astra was advertised on MIGWEB, and also on the Mk.2 Astra Owners Club site.

It made sense to buy the whole car, especially as it has a set of equal length driveshafts, and a full Quaife gear linkage as well.

I've taken the Astra out for a test drive, and it is indecently rapid. It will be hysterical in my Nova at a shade over 600kg...............

[novashed]

should be mental with that lump and reliable hopefully.

let me know colin if your getting rid of the breather tank,

[RSTChris]

Quality stuff, id love that engine :(

[Iain]

That cambelt cover is cool. lol

[Will F]

oooh, yeah I saw that had gone. Bargain IMHO - no doubt you paid a bit less too! ;)

Any ideas of teh actual spec of the valve train etc? Thats where the power will be! :)

[novarally]

oooh, yeah I saw that had gone. Bargain IMHO - no doubt you paid a bit less too! ;)

Any ideas of teh actual spec of the valve train etc? Thats where the power will be! :)

Hi Will, long time no speak.

Yes, I think it was a bargain, I got it for a little bit less, and with a spare C20XE engine thrown in.

I need to speak to Steve at SBD to confirm some more details of the full spec., but I'm delighted with the performance. It's in an Astra with a digital dash, so it's impossible to see accurately what revs it's pulling. I might wire my STACK dash up to it so I've got a better idea.

The Camshafts are (I'm told);
CM16V2-H284IN2.0L 16V Inlet cam 11.4mm lift hydraulic profile 284 degrees duration
CM16V2-H278EXS2.0L 16V Short Exhaust cam 11.03mm lift hydraulic profile 278 degrees duration

Apparently the engine was deliberately built with these milder cams to suit a car being used on the road, but the rest of it has been specced so that more power could be found with a cam swap/remap at a later date. Solid lifters will also be needed.

When I take the engine out I will dig further into the internals.

[Ben]

Could be a great spec for the nova, the astra didnt look took bad in the pics ive seen.

Fit some lairy cams and release some more power.

Just wonder if it will make it in there lol

[novarally]

Could be a great spec for the nova, the astra didnt look took bad in the pics ive seen

In fact the Astra shell is in incredible condition, the previous owner apparently had a £3k respray done on it. I shall just need to find someone who wants to build a stunning Mk.2, there must be stacks of rusty/crashed ones around but with good mechanicals, just itching to donate their bits to this shell.

[craig green]

Get it listed on www.astra-mk2.com (http://www.astra-mk2.com)

How much is the rest of the car shell approx?

[Ben]

Hmm id be intrested in a rough price too.

[novarally]

Get it listed on www.astra-mk2.com (http://www.astra-mk2.com)

How much is the rest of the car shell approx?

It's already listed for sale on there; http://www.astra-mk2.com/forum/showthread.php?t=21607

I haven't listed a price, as it will depend totally on what parts someone does or doesn't want to be left on it (e.g. suspension, digital dashboard, electric power steering conversion etc.).

Obviously the cheapest way to buy it will be as a non-rolling shell, with just the outer panels fitted.

I'm happy to discuss individual requirements with people, just e-mail me at;

colinesmith@aol.com

[Will F]

ah, so with those cams, he would have bought the SBD '225' kit...

So not too shabby!

Ok, so it wont quite be pulling 225, but in a nova, anythting over 200 is ballistic! ;)

[novarally]

Ok, so it wont quite be pulling 225, but in a nova, anythting over 200 is ballistic! ;)

It certainly will be ballistic with the lack of weight in this Nova. I've got carbon fibre doors to go on it so it will be even lighter soon.

Photo of the Quaife gear linkage that's going in;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0102.jpg

I will be starting to dismantle the Astra at the weekend, so fitting the engine into the Nova will take place next week, all being well.

I've got a black cam cover and 'Opel' spark plug cover waiting to go on, as well as an ultra light flywheel and AP Racing twin paddle clutch.

I'm still trying to find some wheels that will properly fill the arches. I need a lower offset than standard Vauxhall stuff, and at least 7" wide, so if anybody has anything that might suit, please get in touch.

And I sold my Wilwood brakes today, so the search continues afresh to find some AP or Alcon 4 pots to go on.

[RSTChris]

Quality stuff!!!!

[novarally]

Engine now removed from the Astra, and ready to be slotted into the Nova, very soon...............

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/008.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/009.jpg

The airbrushed rocker and cambelt covers are now on EBAY, and so is the 1400cc 16v engine on SBD throttle bodies, that had been fitted to this Nova (see early on in the thread for photos).

I will post some more photos when the engine is in its new home.

[Adam]

Good stuff, mega lightweight, and 200bhp will certainly go well.

[novarally]

Proper update coming soon!

But a brief catch up as to where things are now; The 1400 throttle bodied engine is now out of the car (and sold).

My F20 gearbox has been converted to hydraulic clutch release, and the C20XE engine with the gearbox is now being fitted into the car.

Photo update next week......

[wiseboy]

should be weapon with that astra engine in mate, Lee

[novarally]

Photos of the C20XE now (roughly) installed;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/001-2.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/002-1.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/003-1.jpg

I'm waiting for the rocker cover to come back from being glass bead blasted, then that can be painted and re-fitted.

Driveshafts and new wheel bearings are being fitted tomorrow.

And also being fitted are Leda 24-point adjustable coilovers with eccentric alloy top mounts.

[Ben]

Looks good, id chuck a belt on that looks quite worn!

[BRoadGhost]

Belts can look stripey after just a few thousand miles ~ just looks a bit dusty to me.

I like the exhaust manifold and the way it doesn't run into 4 under the sump as a square ;) ~ yes that engine in a nova will be bliss.

Those reservoir lines seem perilously close to belt if not running a cover… that cover airbrushing was a ƒail too; might have been cool if the pulleys were anywhere like the right size.

Fine choice for the struts what poundage / length are you thinking about and how low?

[novarally]

Belts can look stripey after just a few thousand miles ~ just looks a bit dusty to me.

I like the exhaust manifold and the way it doesn't run into 4 under the sump as a square ;) ~ yes that engine in a nova will be bliss.

Those reservoir lines seem perilously close to belt if not running a cover… that cover airbrushing was a ƒail too; might have been cool if the pulleys were anywhere like the right size.

Fine choice for the struts what poundage / length are you thinking about and how low?

The cambelt was new very recently, but has got dusty in my mate's workshop, where we've been fitting engines.

You're right, the hoses run close to the belt, and are an area in need of attention, although the engine still needs a bit of jiggling around. I'm never keen on running without a cambelt cover, so I may well re-fit one.

The Leda struts have come off another Nova, I haven't checked spring lengths or rates yet, but they will probably be changed to cope with the extra weight of the 2 litre.

[novarally]

A couple of photos of the car now sitting VERY low on the new Leda coilovers;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0014.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0033.jpg

Not much progress in the engine bay yet;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0023.jpg

[Ben]

I love those wheels!

[BRoadGhost]

Magnesium wheels?

…would you not want to cover the engine top from dust etc?

[hagger]

been a while since i last caught up on this thread. The new lump looks great colin and think it suits the car perfectly. should be plenty of fun once its ready to run.

Sam.

[novarally]

Magnesium wheels?

…would you not want to cover the engine top from dust etc?

Yes, they are Dymag magnesium wheels (17"). Unfortunately I've only got 2 of them, I've been hunting for another pair, or a set, for ages as I love the style.

Don't worry, the engine is covered up normally, the covers just came off for the photos.

The rocker cover is being painted as we speak, so will be fitted up very shortly.

[novarally]

I also have this set of 15" OZ Racing magnesium alloys to use;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/0043-1.jpg

[novarally]

After a lot of agonising over the past couple of weeks, I have taken the difficult decision to stop the build of this Nova.

I've poured way too much money into it, and I really need to devote my time to other things at the moment.

So it is with great reluctance that I will be breaking this Nova up for spares.

There are loads of trick parts that have gone into building it up to the present specification, not least of which is the SBD-built C20XE engine.

Over the coming days and weeks I will be listing all parts for sale via EBAY, so please keep your eye on my User ID, which you can find at this link;

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/merchant/hillclimbescort

Please don't post replies along the lines of 'don't do it', 'get it finished' etc.

The decision is made, it all needs to be sold, although of course someone else can pick up the reins of the project when the rolling shell goes up for sale.

[Mike]

Shame that mate, but it should make some real good money on eBay TBH.

Ill take that alloy slam panel off your hands though :thumb:

[novarally]

Ill take that alloy slam panel off your hands though :thumb:

Hi Mike. You can buy the alloy slam panel, although it will come attached to the car it originally came with!!!;

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=280279674853&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=018

[Mike]

Hi Mike. You can buy the alloy slam panel, although it will come attached to the car it originally came with!!!;

lol worth a try lol I'd love the shell mate, but i just simply dont have the room anymore :( saying that, I still gotta finish the turbo lol

[t45_ste]

Hi Colin

Is a shame but its a lot of cash to have sat around thats not going to get used as much as it maybe should. Good luck selling the parts, im sure you wont have any problems. I will keep an eye out for some bits for myself. As mentioned before as SOON as you have a price for you know what let me know.

Ste

[The Simps]

wife nagging you to get the building work done Colin! lol

if only i had some spare cash, there's some trick parts on there! I take it you'll sell the shell too woth all the rear IRS in tact?

[novarally]

wife nagging you to get the building work done Colin! lol

if only i had some spare cash, there's some trick parts on there! I take it you'll sell the shell too woth all the rear IRS in tact?

There is a lot of building work to be done at the house, but the main reason for selling is that owning 2 very expensive race cars is rather an extravagance........one will have to be enough now!

The shell will be sold fully rolling, complete with EPS, IRS, floor mounted pedal box etc.

If all goes to plan I will be advertising it in the next 2 weeks.

[novarally]

The first batch of parts from this car are now listed on EBAY, notably;

1. STACK dash display

2. Floor mounted pedal box (when I sell the shell there will be another pedal box fitted)

3. Fibreglass doors

4. Varley Red Top 15 lightweight battery

5. Rad Samco silicone hose kit

6. Alloy radiator and Pacet fan

7. ARP flywhell bolts

8. Recaro kevlar race seat

9. Bailey alloy header tank


I will be selling loads of other parts from this car soon, including the SBD engine, Quaife gearboxes (one with Tran-X plate LSD, and one Quaife dog 'box), Quaife internal gear linkages, magnesium alloy wheels and so on.

Please keep an eye on my EBAY listings at;

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/merchant/hillclimbescort

[novarally]

Despite my saying I was going to sell this Nova, I couldn't bring myself to do it..........

Work towards completing it has now re-commenced, including the acquisition of another engine (this time an almost stock C20XE to keep the cost down!), plus a set of 4 pot 300mm Alcon brakes, and some Compomotive TH3 wheels.

Up to date photos will follow soon.

[novarally]

Looking a bit sorry for itself in my workshop;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/005-1.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/006.jpg

300mm discs and Alcon 4 pots about to go on, along with some new uprights to fit Astra big outer CV's;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/010-3.jpg

[Cle]

IMO it still looks amazingly cool :thumb:

[novarally]

This Astra GTE will probably be donating its engine and gearbox to the Nova;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/008-2.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/009-2.jpg

[Spudly]

Woo glad youre continuing with the build colin, will be good to see you complete it after breaking so many lol

Keep us posted as and when mate:thumb:

[greg1.4]

colin, the nova looks bad-ass!!!

loving the look of it! would be frightened to clip a tyre or bale with it though..could do some damage..

[let_nova]

the windscreen looks tinted? is it? or am i being a :tard:

[peester]

glad uve had a change of heart col, its the bo schizzle -look forward to progress

[novarally]

I had a bit of time to spare today, so fitted the new front brakes and suspension;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/002.jpg

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/003-2.jpg

[Mike]

Same Leda's as mine.

How have you got the calipers to fit Colin?

[t45_ste]

Brakes look good :thumb:

Is this the kit that was on ebay with the wheels?

[novarally]

How have you got the calipers to fit Colin?

The brakes came as a kit, already converted to fit the Nova. As Ste has noticed, they were on EBAY, together with a set of Compomotive TH3 wheels.

I will post up some pictures of the caliper mounting bracket so you can see how it all goes together.

The calipers are ex-Subaru Impreza (hence the 'Prodrive' logo on them). The discs are 300mm, and are off a Mercedes of some sort (!).

[novarally]

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/005-3.jpg

[AlexW]

Now they look coool :cool:

I should imagine not cheap too.

[novarally]

I should imagine not cheap too.

Not too bad really, the brakes came in a job lot of stuff which comprised;

Pair of wide arch steel front wings
4 x Compomotive TH3 6" x 15" alloys with new Yokohama A539's
Pair of GPA hubs (for Astra CV's)
And the full kit of brakes with Alcon calipers, 300mm discs, Aeroquip pipes, alloy brackets, plus spare pads, spare seals etc.

Everything for £500.

[Ben]

Not too bad really, the brakes came in a job lot of stuff which comprised;

Pair of wide arch steel front wings
4 x Compomotive TH3 6" x 15" alloys with new Yokohama A539's
Pair of GPA hubs (for Astra CV's)
And the full kit of brakes with Alcon calipers, 300mm discs, Aeroquip pipes, alloy brackets, plus spare pads, spare seals etc.

Everything for £500.

Sell everything else off and you have a very cheap set of decent brakes, sounds like an excellent buy.

[L33 LEG]

what an amzing looking and well spec'd nova! very cool build, and it seems weird you building one rather than stripping it lol

[novarally]

Sell everything else off and you have a very cheap set of decent brakes, sounds like an excellent buy.

As predicted by Ben, I am selling off the Compomotive TH3 alloys (they were gold and didn't suit the Nova well in my opinion).

These are the wheels I now have;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/035-1.jpg

[Jay]

Are they et35 by and chance Colin?

[novarally]

I've also been playing with ideas for instrumentation;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/034-1.jpg

[novarally]

Are they et35 by and chance Colin?

Hi Jay. Yes, they are 35mm offset. Came off a Honda Civic race car. I need a 35mm offset on a 15" wheel otherwise they won't clear the brakes.

I've got a Coscast C20XE lined up ready to go in now, just to get it up and running until I decide what I want to do with it longer term.

[Jay]

So the alcons wont fit under et49 6j comps?

[novarally]

So the alcons wont fit under et49 6j comps?

No, not even close I'm afraid.

[Jay]

No, not even close I'm afraid.

Thats my next question out of the window then.

[novarally]

A bit of an update........

It had been my intention to install this Coscast C20XE in the car;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/006-7.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/007-1.jpg

But yesterday I bought this Corsa GSi, which just happens to have a C20XE on Jenvey throttle bodies and DTA management;

http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/002-2.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/004.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/003-3.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/005-4.jpg

So now I might have to fit this engine into the Nova instead.

[Ben]

I really like that corsa!

[novarally]

I really like that corsa!

Yes, it's in really nice condition. I'll be looking at replacing the throttle-bodied engine with a standard C20XE, and selling the car on again, it's too good to split up really.

[Mazz]

I saw that Corsa for sale on here iirc, very good price imo!

[Ben]

Keep me posted Colin

[novarally]

I saw that Corsa for sale on here iirc, very good price imo!

It was on MIGWEB and Corsasport, I didn't notice it advertised here. It used to be registered as C3 RSA, and was owned by Dan in Wakefield. He has a very interesting Corsa C20LET under construction in his garage!

[Mazz]

Maybe it was MIG i saw it then...really nice car either way! As you said, be a shame to break it..

[peester]

glad the corsa is getting a new lease of life.. cracking find. Thats why you do what you do!

good result for the nova project.

[AlexW]

Nova looking good, Should be full of nice goodies.

Agreeed that its a shame to break the corsa, Il be email'ing you later too.

[novarally]

No build progress to report on, but a few people have expressed an interest in nosing around this car, so I will be taking it along to the National Day this weekend (on the trailer I'm afraid).

[kevster]

loveing that corsa !!

[novaload1992]

:cool: lovely yolk

[novarally]

loveing that corsa !!

It'll be up for sale soon.............

[kevster]

It'll be up for sale soon.............

colin i would love to , but i just started doing my nova lol
and its taken 3 years for me to get this far lol
coz i keep getting new toys :thumb:


but i do really like her

[Mike]

It'll be up for sale soon.............

What kinda price on it Colin?

[novarally]

What kinda price on it Colin?

No idea yet, it depends what engine ends up being fitted into it.

[novarally]

Fired with enthusiasm after the PNG National Weekend, and mostly after having seen Dan's wide arch track car, I felt it was time to make some progress with mine.

I've never been happy with the location of the fuel tank under the bonnet, so this has now been removed;
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/036-1.jpg

This gives me several benefits, better weight distribution, more room for a throttle bodied engine, and added safety.

I am now playing about with another fuel tank I have;
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/034-2.jpg
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/035-2.jpg

I would prefer to get the tank mounted beneath the floorpan, but that presents some packaging difficulties, mostly because of the exhaust and rear suspension locations. A custom made tank may be the ultimate answer.

If I keep the tank inside the car I've got to create a fireproof bulkhead/cover to surround it, and keep it separated from the passenger compartment.

[Cle]

Looks great :thumb:

Keep progress coming :)

[novarally]

The next thing I need to decide (once and for all), is what engine to fit.

Sat in my workshop is a Nova GSi with a throttle bodied 2.0 8v engine (170bhp);
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/007-2.jpg

A Corsa GSi with throttle bodied C20XE (200bhp+);
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/003-3.jpg

And a stock Coscast C20XE;
http://i285.photobucket.com/albums/ll66/hillclimbescort/007-1.jpg

Must make a decision soon....

[Cle]

I'd go for the XE with throttle bodies, What about the GSI turbo engine you've got ??? that could be good.

[novarally]

What about the GSI turbo engine you've got ??? that could be good.

I don't particularly want a turbo engine in this car, I'd prefer naturally aspirated.

[Ben]

Yeah surely if you went the forced induction it would be a whole different class of competing?

I would go for the TB engine, if you fit the standard xe you will be bored quickly and soon replace it with a higher spec.

[novarally]

I'm once again at the stage where I am thinking of letting this car go to a new owner...........if I do it will be a very sad day, but it's an expensive and time comsuming distraction from my 'proper' competition car.

I have an Escort Cosworth race car that needs some expensive bits in order to remain competitive, and one way to fund it would be via the sale of this Nova.

I have not made the final decision to sell just yet, and if I do then the price will be negotiable depending on the exact specification e.g. with or without engine, gearbox, brakes etc.

If anyone is SERIOUSLY interested, they can e-mail me at;

colinesmith@aol.com

[Mazz]

After talking about it at the national weekend, it'll only boomerang it's way back to you in a few years anyway :)

[novarally]

After talking about it at the national weekend, it'll only boomerang it's way back to you in a few years anyway :)

Quite probably.

[Reeday]

Not sure the MSA regs for special stage rally allow the use of fibreglass roof skins. Ok for rallycross though.

[novarally]

Decision made, sadly this has got to go due to the purchase of a Westfield race car (see my other project thread).

The complete Nova rolling shell, with wheels, suspension, brakes etc. will be on EBAY from 9.30pm tonight.

I will post up the link later.

[novarally]

For sale via this link;

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=150351310736

[Kev Turbo]

Good choice imo,

You will be hard pressed to emulate the perfromance all round of the westfield and the westfield is already built so get out and enjoy it

Good luck!

[teej]

Are you selling it with a petrol tank included? I couldn't see one listed in the ad, so I'd assume not.

Do you still have the under-bonnet one, and would the car be road legal with it located there?

[novarally]

Are you selling it with a petrol tank included? I couldn't see one listed in the ad, so I'd assume not.

Do you still have the under-bonnet one, and would the car be road legal with it located there?

There is no tank with it. The one that was under the bonnet has been sold.

It is perfectly legal to have a tank under the bonnet.

If anyone has any further questions, please address them to me via the EBAY listing, I don't want to be answering on this thread. Thanks.

[novarally]

SOLD...........it's gone to a good home, to someone who knows what they're doing, and plans to use it as it should be used.

[peester]

good news col. Enjoy the new beast.

[novarally]

Please refer to the link below, where I will keep progress updated on the Nova that is due to replace this one...

http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=127872

[novarally]

SOLD...........it's gone to a good home, to someone who knows what they're doing, and plans to use it as it should be used.

Just curious as to whether anyone has seen my old Nova recently?

I sold it to a lad in Derbyshire, and he was selling the carbon fibre bonnet off it on here a few weeks back (Username Team Reg).

I've e-mailed him for a progress report, but not had a reply.

[let_nova]

i have his phone number., you want it?