The Counts Track Day Nova Build

[Count Vaux Alot]

Right people the time has come to get some details up of my most current venture, a track day nova project (every one has one these days lol)

This is something i have wanted to do for a long time even before the saloon but, I have never bothered to pursue it. So after some inspiration from Olly :thumb: -Track Day Nova himself earlier on this year I have thought about nothing else other than the fact that I want a track car simple as.
This want has only been fuelled by spending more and more time around track based machinery and by some light persuasion from others too - you know who you are :D

My idea is to keep this as a bit of fun (yer right lol) so please don't take things to seriously......

Anyway I set about finding a suitable base from my project. Which I found in a 3dr, Silver, 41k, A reg, 1.2 5speed, it has no sunroof and is a base spec model I believe. I wanted a MK1 as I prefer the shape and I wanted an early car as I think it will hurt the big boys out on track that little bit more when I pass them (hopefully lol)

The car isn't 100% mint so all you nova purists out there need not worry about me ruining a 'perfect' car but, it is very clean for an Areg and solid in all the right places.

Here she is (apologies for the quality of some of these):

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/Novamk13.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/Novamk1-1.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/Novamk1-2.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00317-1.jpg

And this is how i collected the car:

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00312.jpg

I have many plans for the car most of which are the complete opposite to my saloon, hopefully all of which will come to fruition:

Completely stripped interior and generally as light weight as possible ~(i will lose the dash as well i think and go for a custom heat/blower application for those many rainy days) cage, bucket seats harnesses etc.

Stitched and strengthened chassis.

Big block 2lt 16v xe on throttle bodies and sccr box.

Coil overs and a fully rose jointed front suspension set up.

F/G Bonnet and tailgate.

4 pots, braided lines, pedal box.

And more.

[Benn]

Nice and clean. Good plans too.

[Adam]

Nice.
Plans sound cool :cool:

[Simon 1867]

Nice and tidy my friend, glad to se you got a track car in the end. what are you going to do with the wheels matey? If you do decided to get rid of them can you keep me in mind for 1st refusal.

[adam c]

looks a little minter!where did you get it from?as said the plans sound good!when you roughly hoping to get it done for?have you a target date?

[Jay]

Will be keeping an eye on this thread :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

Here are some of the 'prone to rust areas on the car:

Both arches are clean but have scabs at the bottom of the arch

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00316-1.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00315-1.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00286.jpg

Battery tray

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00259.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00258.jpg

Boot floor

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00282.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00281.jpg

The bottom of the n/s wing

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00288.jpg

Under the car

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00267.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00291.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00293.jpg

[Count Vaux Alot]

And under the bonnet:

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00260.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00257.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00256.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00255.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00253.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00254.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00263.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00262.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00268.jpg

A few light scabs but nothing serious.

[vaughanmc]

I'm liking this already - Nothing like a proper early Mk1 3 door :)

Will be nice to see how you present the finished car, if the saloon is anything to go by it will be a stormer!!!

[trackdaynova]

I hold no responsibilty for the lack of funds you will have whilst owning a track car lol

Can't wait to get stuck in :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

looks a little minter!where did you get it from?as said the plans sound good!when you roughly hoping to get it done for?have you a target date?

Thanks everone for the support as usual, adam c I do sort of have a target date which is may next year as there is the chance of a ring trip but i really want it ready before then to get used to the car. So thats the target :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

I hold no responsibilty for the lack of funds you will have whilst owning a track car lol

Can't wait to get stuck in :thumb:

I'm going to blame everything on you (if it goes wrong lol)

[John]

Ah ha! Looks like a good base you have there james!

[Count Vaux Alot]

The first step to getting the car on track is to take the xe out of the saloon as it has the CNC'd head, cams, pullys, ARP's lightened flywheel etc and replace it with a standard xe but, i will be keeping the 45's on the saloon.

I have chosen to do this as i don't even use half the power that engine has so it seems a waist to keep it were it is.

This is the replacement for the saloon brought for £80 yes £80 its a 1992 dispac xe with coscast head, it came complete with erm everything result and seems to be in good condition!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00212.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00208.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00214.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00213.jpg

[Count Vaux Alot]

Ah ha! Looks like a good base you have there james!

Yes my man it is i can't wait to get stuck in :roll:

[burgo]

£80!! you bin to my local scrappy lol

shes a little beaute anyways james

[~~joycey~~]

£80! Bargin! Looking good aswell chap :)

[The Simps]

looks like a good starting point. looking forward to the updates!

[AlexW]

I want your wheels!!

Looks like a good shell, will be good to see it finished :thumb:

[craig green]

Good luck with the project. It sounds like you know exactly what you want to do with it, which is essential if you dont want to overspend or miss a completion date.

[Shaun_O'Donnell]

It is a shame that the saloon is being robbed of it's engine, but understand where you are coming from.

Good luck with this, will be keeping an eye on it.

Don't toss out that passenger side mirror blank..........

[nova ian]

Looking guuuurrrd Mr James! The shell looks spot on, I'm sure your eager to get cracking! I heard through the grapevine theres some nice parts for it aswell;)

Will keep an eye on this for certain. Best of luck mate I know it will be a tip top quality build :thumb:

[Ernie]

Looking good mate and welcome to track car hood.
At times you will love it.Other times you will hate but most of all you will have a bloody good time building and then thrashing it.
See you at a track day soon.
Well if i get mine built in time lol.

[Adam]

£80? Bastid lol lol lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

No lie.....

[corsakid]

for a minute the first pic looks so much like mine lol i thought it was lol you have a time frame in mind you getting in respryed it looks in good conditon, the rust adds a bit of character to the car plans sound very good

[Count Vaux Alot]

I want your wheels!!

Looks like a good shell, will be good to see it finished :thumb:

the wheels are for sale btw along with everything i don't need :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

Good luck with the project. It sounds like you know exactly what you want to do with it, which is essential if you dont want to overspend or miss a completion date.

I don't think i will have any trouble overspending or missing completion dates (much) lol i hope all goes how i want it too but its never the way, i can only plan and hope :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

It is a shame that the saloon is being robbed of it's engine, but understand where you are coming from.

Good luck with this, will be keeping an eye on it.

Don't toss out that passenger side mirror blank..........

i don't think the saloon will miss it that much as the coscast xe is a good replacement and the other engine will be used for what it was intended....a good thrashing ;) :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

Looking guuuurrrd Mr James! The shell looks spot on, I'm sure your eager to get cracking! I heard through the grapevine theres some nice parts for it aswell;)

Will keep an eye on this for certain. Best of luck mate I know it will be a tip top quality build :thumb:

Hi mate thanks for the confidants in me, i do have some sweeeet parts on their way woot woot!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Looking good mate and welcome to track car hood.
At times you will love it.Other times you will hate but most of all you will have a bloody good time building and then thrashing it.
See you at a track day soon.
Well if i get mine built in time lol.

Hi mate, i look forward to meeting you at some point as the stick among others is an inspirational car for me, and it would be good to have a chat. Your latest looks good too i also hope to see you on track for a blat in the near future :cool:

[Benn]

Dude, c'n'c ed head?
Shame to brake one, to build one. But sounds like youve got a good plan.

[DW-Nova]

Looks like a sound little project, i guessing first things first is to get it all stripped down yeh, what are the general plans then ? looks wise staying standard ? your a jammy fu***r getting that engine for £80 !!! surley there has to be a catch ???? anyhow best of luck and look forward to seeing how it's all coming along.

[Count Vaux Alot]

Dude, c'n'c ed head?
Shame to brake one, to build one. But sounds like youve got a good plan.
I'm not braking the saloon just doing a straight engine swap, modded one for standard one no hastle really considering the cost of parts on the modded engine.

I had a CNC race port and polish on my head when i built it i'm sorry i don't have a great pic of it though.

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/29012008945.jpg

file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/JDH/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-8.jpghttp://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/22012008885.jpg


file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/JDH/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-6.jpgfile:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/JDH/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-7.jpg

[Count Vaux Alot]

Looks like a sound little project, i guessing first things first is to get it all stripped down yeh, what are the general plans then ? looks wise staying standard ? your a jammy fu***r getting that engine for £80 !!! surley there has to be a catch ???? anyhow best of luck and look forward to seeing how it's all coming along.

Yep you are correct strip then strengthen (most of the interior is already out just the dash and carpets left), and go from there. The exterior will be kept standard and functional as you would expect. I know its jammy but oh well lol

[trackdaynova]

that head is shexual :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

you haven't seen it in real life you wont be able to keep your c0ck in your trousers lol

[Benn]

I'm not braking the saloon just doing a straight engine swap, modded one for standard one no hastle really considering the cost of parts on the modded engine.

I had a CNC race port and polish on my head when i built it i'm sorry i don't have a great pic of it though.

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/29012008945.jpg

file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/JDH/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-8.jpghttp://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/22012008885.jpg


]

Ah cool thats good then, ah so its just a high spec port and polish..lol
Sounds good and looks really nice!

[trackdaynova]

ah so its just a high spec port and polish..lol:confused: well, its a race head, probably £1300's worth

[Count Vaux Alot]

:confused: well, its a race head, probably £1300's worth

exactly, its a port and polish by a CNC machine not by hand.....

[zeifer33]

Every time I see this engine will happen to me lots of ideas, I hope you will soon get new pictures to see how advances!!!

[Adam]

So is the £80 xe going into the saloon, with the 45s on?
Or the xe out the saloon(with the 45's) going into the track car and a std xe into the saloon??

Youve probably already said, but i missed it lol

[saloonwoody]

£80 xe with 45s in the loon :)

[burgo]

soooooo jealous of that head. please may i have it??? i asked nicely

[Count Vaux Alot]

£80 xe with 45s in the loon :)

you got it! lol

[Benn]

exactly, its a port and polish by a CNC machine not by hand.....
Yeah and high spec one..lol Looks tasty as funk.

[Count Vaux Alot]

In the time i've had after work this week (it hasn't been much and its bloody freezing) I've been getting on with the prep for the engine swap. Basically stripped the standard xe gave it a checking over and fitted a new head gasket and cam belt so its ready to go back in.

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00380.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00387.jpg

And the little surprise i was very please to find

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00385.jpg

Cleaned all the surfaces then got the new H G fitted and the head back on!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00394.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00392.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00396.jpg

Now i need to fit the cam belt (i only haven't yet as the one supplied was the wrong one :cry:) then its on with the swap (hopefully) at the weekend with the help of Olly :thumb:

Sorry for the blur in some of the pics btw i think there is oil on my phone lol

[corsakid]

is it going to be at donnington? making fast progress

[Count Vaux Alot]

lol lol don't think so but a nice thought lol lol

[saloonwoody]

Looks Good :) Id Love A Track Slag But No Time/space/money Kinda Shafts It ...........hmmmmmmmmmmm Altho I Do Have A Spare Kidney !!

[trackdaynova]

been with James all weekend working on his cars, removing the uber engine from his loon, and cleaning up the replacement, and generally having a wicked time.

got plenty of pics, but just a few for now, to keep everyone happy, and also for Benns reference of a CNC'd head in comparison to standard. the replication of each port is amazing (obviously) but its just estounding to see th exact same markings in each port

the first four pics are the most amazing comparison, and the last four are also just as sexual

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/XEInletPort01.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/XEInletPort02.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/XEInletPort03.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/XEInletPort04.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/XEInletPort05.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/XEInletPort06.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/XEInletPort07.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/XEInletPort08.jpg

[corsakid]

looks amazing huge difference

[trackdaynova]

it was just fortunate that James had both standard headed XE next to his CNC'd, and having them side by side was phenominal, think the ports themselves are something like 4mm wider :eek:

[nova ian]

Very impressive lump of ally there james!! You can clearly see the MAJOR differences! Deffo a worth while mod, should work very well when paired with the bodies and cams :cool:

[Benn]

Funk me thats nice!

[trackdaynova]

ok, ok, I spoil James... two more piccies

bless her, the little nova doesn't know whats gonna happen to her :( :( :(

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA01.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA02.jpg

[nova ian]

MMMM Straight cuttiness goodness!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Thanks mate! i think those pics speak a million words let alone a thousand lol.
I can't say thanks enough for your help and company this weekend it was such a laugh as usual and the pics are top draw. We got a good deal done and i'm now well on my way to getting my teeth properly stuck in. :D

[John]

The mans never been a ginger!

[Adam]

Going full out on this build then, good stuff :cool:

[Benn]

How can you tell its stright cut?

[Count Vaux Alot]

Those port pics make me hard!

[John]

You have tbs' already james? (sorry if i've missed that!)

[Count Vaux Alot]

Going full out on this build then, good stuff :cool:

Like i wouldn't lol

[Adam]

How can you tell its stright cut?
If you look at that pic, the gear teeth are straight.
If you look at the gears in a standard box there "angled" to make them mesh together quietly, at the expense of a slight power loss.

[Count Vaux Alot]

You have tbs' already james? (sorry if i've missed that!)

Yep tapered jenvey 45's ;)

[Adam]

Where did you pick those babies up from?

[Count Vaux Alot]

How can you tell its stright cut?

Is that a whaaaaa Ben or a serious question? The teeth as adam says are straight instead of helical cut :)

[Benn]

Is that a whaaaaa Ben or a serious question? The teeth as adam says are straight instead of helical cut :)

Was serious :(

Cheers ad.

[trackdaynova]

of a slight power loss.slight understatement there Ad...

James, use these for what you want, if you know what I mean... more F20SCCRness

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA03.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA04.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA05.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA06.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA07.jpg

[trackdaynova]

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA08.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA09.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA10.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA11.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA12.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA13.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA14.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA15.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA16.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA17.jpg

[Jay]

Forgive me for being stupid, but does Sccr stand for Straight Cut Close Ratio?

[Count Vaux Alot]

yep!

[Count Vaux Alot]

The nova looks so innocent at the moment

[John]

Lol, looking at the front suspension height, i thouught you'd already removed the engine and box! (can i see the van in the background? thought you'd sold it?)

[trackdaynova]

the chappie had lowered the rear only for some reason lol

[trackdaynova]

morrrrrrrre piccies from the weekend, hope you're not bored yet! lol

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA19.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA20.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA21.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA22.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA23.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA24.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA25.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA26.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA27.jpg

[Count Vaux Alot]

Lol, looking at the front suspension height, i thouught you'd already removed the engine and box! (can i see the van in the background? thought you'd sold it?)

I have....to my dad lol

[Benn]

Oooooooooooooooooooo i love the red interior!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Its for sale Benn! along with everything else i don't need!

[trackdaynova]

including the bonnet which is uber mint and has no rust on it?

[Geordie-Chris]

Coming on well mate, take it you got the Quaife end cover when you picked the box up?? Saw he'd relisted it after the auction ended. Coming on well, should be mucho fun when it's finished!! Is it going to be road legal, or you just gonna use the truck to take it to tracks??
Will be intouch soon about the box's!!

[scott.parker]

Wow nice car,nicer plans, even nicer parts! lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

including the bonnet which is uber mint and has no rust on it?

Yes Olly the bonnet and boot that are both minty mint are for sale ;) :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

Coming on well mate, take it you got the Quaife end cover when you picked the box up?? Saw he'd relisted it after the auction ended. Coming on well, should be mucho fun when it's finished!! Is it going to be road legal, or you just gonna use the truck to take it to tracks??
Will be intouch soon about the box's!!

It will be road legal for those b road blasts :D :eek:

[Count Vaux Alot]

Wow nice car,nicer plans, even nicer parts! lol

Cheers scott :thumb:

[t45_ste]

Looking awesome. Cant believe how fast your your putting this project together. You make me feel ashamed of myself!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Get your finger out and get that nova sorted then! lol As yours will be super :eek: once your done.

[nova_niek]

more F20SCCRness
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA06.jpg

Olly, I can't believe how you can turn the image of a SCCR box into something as beautiful and arty as this. I wouldn't mind having this put up my living room wall instead of some stupid piece of paintwork from an impressionist artist. Luvverly! :thumb::thumb::thumb:

Oh and James, good luck with the trackday project. Should be a belter when done. The engine alone makes me go all soppy. :cool:

[Martin]

MINT Crack on lad

[robertdevlin69]

looking well mate,i love the spinergy wheels on the giant hanging on the wall,there ridiculously lite!

[craig green]

I clocked the Spinergy's yesterday too.

[dj_wudgey]

does'nt look bad that mate good little find you got there!!

[Count Vaux Alot]

It should look better once i've finished! :thumb: The Giant is my old mans is uber light lovely race bike.

[Benn]

Its for sale Benn! along with everything else i don't need!

Dont. Sadly it wouldnt go with the blue of my car.
Love it tho.

Is there a difference from mk1 to mk2 bonnet?

[trackdaynova]

some more of the weekends fun

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/ncJH01.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/ncJH02.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/ncJH03.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/ncJH04.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/ncJH05.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/ncJH06.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/ncJH07.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/ncJH08.jpg

[Benn]

Is it bad that stereo gives me the horn?

Love the b&w pic, really good qualty. Love the rear light pic too..

[Adam]

Wheres the ipod connection on the headunit? :confused:

[trackdaynova]

lol @ you

it doesn't even have FM, thats what I found funny

[Count Vaux Alot]

more great pics matey, i didn't know you had a good 'me throwing the stick one lol'
Benn the bonnet on the mk1's don't have a badge or recess for one i think, and yes the radio is sex but i don't need it now as i won't here classic gold over the sccr lol

[Benn]

Benn the bonnet on the mk1's don't have a badge or recess for one i think, and yes the radio is sex but i don't need it now as i won't here classic gold over the sccr lol

Is that the only diff?
You should keep the stereo just cause it rocks!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Think so mate unless anyone else knows otherwise?

[Benn]

Are there no dents in it? No rust? Is so how much and where in bedfordshine are ya?

[Count Vaux Alot]

i'll pm you

[Benn]

Cool.

[The Simps]

If you want that bonnet mate I could detour on my way down next week. I'll be heading down to brighton on the tuesday. Then again, will it fit along the back seat of the audi? I could even pick it up from donny sunday maybe?

[Count Vaux Alot]

A plan i see...

[discoinferno]

cant wait to this thing around the tracks in 09

[John]

pm'd you james.

[matthew172]

exactly, its a port and polish by a CNC machine not by hand.....

how much did it cost to have the head cnc'd ?

[trackdaynova]

well, its a race head, probably £1300's worth:thumb:

[matthew172]

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/CVA09.jpg


that looks so naughty!

[Jayznova]

Looking good mate. Im finally selling that B reg i brought as well now. goodluck with the build bro.

[dhdev (Oli)]

I hope you have a big selection of holesaws ;)

[Count Vaux Alot]

More than you would ever know lol

[dhdev (Oli)]

lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

Bit of an update but not really as i have been lazy and cold ridden but i'm back on it now - the weekends activities went like this

Engine to go into the saloon (the £80 one) rebuilt with pipes brackets etc

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/forsalebits002.jpg

Fly,clutch and box on

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/forsalebits004.jpg

Small modification to the O/S inlet studding - it was removed (Olly knows why! :mad:)

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/forsalebits005.jpg

The offending items - it will be replaced by a bolt and a spacer as the nut fouls the inlet manifold and is a BIATCH to get on or off!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/forsalebits006.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/forsalebits007.jpg

Then there was plenty of

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/forsalebits003.jpg

And ta-da :thumb:

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/forsalebits008.jpg

PS is that photo quality better for you??

[Count Vaux Alot]

Oh and a quick one for Mr DH dev, sizes 19 -102mm should do it!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DSC00409.jpg

I'm coming for ya!! lol lol lol lol

[John]

Lol at the stud spacer! I had the exact same problem with mine, cured with a corsa c exhaust manifold nut, same thread, but smaller diameter with a 10mm head.

[General Baxter]

theres a black thing in your tea lol

[John]

paint that rocker cover too!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Lol at the stud spacer! I had the exact same problem with mine, cured with a corsa c exhaust manifold nut, same thread, but smaller diameter with a 10mm head.

Yer its a pain in the ass when i fitted it the first time i hoped i would never have to take it off again! If i can find one of the 10mm head jobbies at work i will use that instead.

And Baxter its coffee...

[Ernie]

Hi mate, i look forward to meeting you at some point as the stick among others is an inspirational car for me, and it would be good to have a chat. Your latest looks good too i also hope to see you on track for a blat in the near future :cool:
Sorry for the late reply but missed this.
If this comes out half as good as the loon it's going to be another stunner.
Good luck with the build and if you fancy a chat on msn.
lambie293@hotmail.com
Cheers
Chris and the new stick

[General Baxter]

looks like tea lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

paint that rocker cover too!

Honestly do you think i wouldn't....its just the spare so the good one doesn't get damaged. A painted one will be refitted.

Once this is back on the road i can get the saloon out and the track car in and start actually doing some thing interesting with all my new goodies :D

[Adam]

Real mincers drink Tea!

[trackdaynova]

and in typical James stylie, all done single handedly no doubt? on your own?

if so - top work!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Real mincers drink Tea!

Real men drink both...i alternate

And yes Olly i did it all on my own :thumb:

Hopefully get the rest sorted tomorrow if a can be @rsed :roll:

[Ernie]

as above and say hello

[Count Vaux Alot]

ok ok ok

[Andy]

Fantastic build mate,looks really good.Wish i had the money to build one

[dhdev (Oli)]

Oh and a quick one for Mr DH dev, sizes 19 -102mm should do it!

I'm coming for ya!! lol lol lol lol

You're gonna have to drill a hell of a lot of holes in that paper thin shell to make up for the massive lump of cast iron under the bonnet :p

[trackdaynova]

who said anything about cast iron ;)

QED Alloy block all the way, saves 19.9kg ;)

[Andy_L]

Then there was plenty of

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/forsalebits003.jpg



That is the weakest tea I've seen in ages. What did you do wave the bag at the mug? :p

[Count Vaux Alot]

Y

And Baxter its coffee...

Thats the weakest reply i've seen in ages what did you do? Not read the thread?? lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

You're gonna have to drill a hell of a lot of holes in that paper thin shell to make up for the massive lump of cast iron under the bonnet :p

That sounds like you could be thinking i might be able to do it though lol scared?

[Riggy]

lol @ the who's goin to be lighter comp ,

build is comin on good aswell mate :thumb:

[nova ian]

Nice to see you cracking on James :)

Who to say that mine won't be in with a chance of being on the light weight bandwagon! lol (Doubt it, but you never know!)

Keep at it James, I know you will:thumb:

[dhdev (Oli)]

That sounds like you could be thinking i might be able to do it though lol scared?

That was sarcasm, you'd have to run without a shell to make up for the weight of that old lump lol

[Andy_L]

Thats the weakest reply i've seen in ages what did you do? Not read the thread?? lol

lollol I am a :tard:

[Count Vaux Alot]

That was sarcasm, you'd have to run without a shell to make up for the weight of that old lump lol

What a good idea.....

[Count Vaux Alot]

Not much of an update more of a sneak preview of whats to come. Basically i've been fannying around sorting bits and bobs (with the saloon and generally being ill) and working to pay for what i have just brought - details soon.

Any way in what free time i have had i've been having a little play:

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS001.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS014.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS012.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS008.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS003.jpg

Can you guess what it is yet? lol

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS016.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS020.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS024.jpg

These arn't my best efforts and they arn't finished but i have done both sides and the lower arms and i'm happy. I need to fill the gap at the top of the mount and give them a clean up/paint.

I have made them so you don't need the spacer between the cross member so one less thing to worry about.
These are in the RnD stage at the moment so they may not be right in which case i will have to try again :roll:

More pics to follow soon, should start making some reasonable progress soon....

[Jay]

Looking good mate :)

[The Simps]

Nice work! I like watching this sort of fabrication stuff!

[Benn]

Is it a cup holder?


Really nice welding.

[Count Vaux Alot]

Is it a cup holder?

Bugger you guessed correct first time lol

[Spudly]

Is it a cup holder?


Yes for ther cups of water he is trying to pass off as coffee lol


Looking good there bud cant wait to see this progress if the standard of your loon is anything to go by:thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

It should be better than the saloon standards wise just much much more usable, i wish i had known the coffee would cause so much concern i would have just posted that on its own (it was a latte btw) lol

[Dar]

Good work!
You have mad fabrication skills :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

Thanks Dar means a lot coming from you!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Did a little more tonight, got the fab on the drop mounts done and got on with the control arms...just the tie bars to go....

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1016.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1014.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1012.jpg

And the bottom arms

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1001.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1004.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1006.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1010.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1011.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/DROPMOUNTS1018.jpg

[Benn]

Nice work!
What do you do with your hand bag when you drink your latte? lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

I have two hands ben...latte in one hand handbag in the other :roll: :p

[Adam]

Nice fab work there.

[The Simps]

Awesome work James!

Whats your day job? you work in a bodyshop don't you?

[Count Vaux Alot]

Thanks for the comments Simps im a professional all rounder really lol but at the end of the day i'm classed as a technician!
The company i work for does engineering, paint, crash repair and general service work in the commercial vehicle sector so i have learned a few things.

[Pistol Pete]

Some excellent fabrication work there. Cant wait to see the finished product.

[craig green]

Nice work matey. Keep at it.

[021-bennettt]

I can't wait 2see this finished ;)

[Count Vaux Alot]

Cheers people, i can't wait to see it finished either. I can wait to abuse it more though lol. I'm hoping to get on with at least something car wise over the weekend, perhaps get her stripped out.

[trackdaynova]

Todays progress: lol

http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=112314

[Kinda-Egg]

are you selling the bump strips and boot?

If so 1st dibs please

[Count Vaux Alot]

We are so cool! lol its amazing i love it, i'm in tears lol lol

[trackdaynova]

lol no we're saddos... so speak for youself lol :confused: :D

[The Simps]

pair of mincers you! absolute quality that!

[trackdaynova]

lol i'm insulted, there was no mincing going on there lol

the two phonecalls to me were from Lee (boootlethrooody) and Specky lol :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

No mincing but plenty of failed leapfrog lol

[Kinda-Egg]

also if you were selling boot i could swap if wanted

[Count Vaux Alot]

As everyone can see Oly and i have been busy boys today and i would just like to say a massive thanks for his help and for making that video!

Cheers buddy lol

[corsakid]

funny vid and a lot of progress looking good mate!

[dhdev (Oli)]

Not enough grinder/holesaw action IMO.
I want a XXX grinder/holesaw marathon vid :eek::eek::eek:

[Count Vaux Alot]

lol That Oli was only stage one, sort of a warm up...you will have your grinder hole saw XXX rated video don't you worry lol

[trackdaynova]

and boy oh boy am i looking forward to the next sesh :thumb: :cool:

[Plug]

i think we all are cracking vid :thumb:

[dhdev (Oli)]

lol That Oli was only stage one, sort of a warm up...you will have your grinder hole saw XXX rated video don't you worry lol

:cool::cool::cool:

[Ernie]

+rep added for the vid mate.

[Frankspeed Motorsport]

soundz gud m8 good luck

[Nev da nova]

Quality video there:thumb: , top work gents

[Count Vaux Alot]

Thanks!

[trackdaynova]

any updates James? another weekend has passed.... :D

[Ernie]

Come on james pull ya finger out lol.

[Count Vaux Alot]

any updates James? another weekend has passed.... :D

You know there is be patient! :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

Right for those waiting - i have been busy doing more than explosing my inner anal tract with my index finger this weekend so here goes!

After putting the saloon in to storage Saturday morning I commenced a mental garage clear out it went from this:

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage003.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage002.jpg

There was the saloon on the gap and loads of other sh/t to this:

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage073.jpg

Its the complete opposite with all the crap on the other side so i can use the left hand door to get the car in and out - it just works easier for me.

I had tp do two tip runs in the astra estate and i haven't touched the loft yet!

I did have some hlp from some friends though

Marmite

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage074.jpg

Jasmine

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage076.jpg

And the latest edition to the family - a rescue 16month old spaniel Toby, some t@sser didn't want him!!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage008.jpg

Anyway after the clear up which took From 2 sat afternoon to about 5 today i started playing with the nova...

The front wings were the worst part of the car and had 'gone' at the bottoms, the O/S had been damaged quite badly and 'reshaped' with some type of large club or stone therefore prompting replacement. Following this i thought Funk it i'll go wide so here they are!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage055.jpg

You like?

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage058.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage067.jpg

I have the rears also but i don't think i will fit them - its more work (not just bolt on for no real gain)

Not sure whether to wide track, wide wheel, or space opinions please.

[Count Vaux Alot]

Here is a good comparison between the standard Astra GTE xe exhaust manifold an my Simpson 4-1 its nice imo :D

Note the shoddy welding power flow did on the primaries :mad: i could have done better my self - i will be getting them tiged up properly now its off the car!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage071.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage072.jpg

And the car in its new home - Olly i know the light is behind the car but sue me!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage095.jpg

And i wipped the loom out of the bay

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage098.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage097.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage099.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage101.jpg

And after all the effort the crap is back in the other side for the time being!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/cleangarage103.jpg

Bring on the complete strip down of the engine bay in the week and the beginning of the shell prep! I cant wait :thumb:

[Simon 1867]

Seems as if you have been busy matey...Love the garage, wish mine was that big.:)

P.S Shame i cant take some of the MK1 bits off your hands, would all be ideal for mine.

[Count Vaux Alot]

/\ no monies mate?

[Ernie]

Good work James and sweet dogs.

[trackdaynova]

Toby is adorable!

[Plug]

nice garage lol mines only a single so all panals off before it goes in

[Simon 1867]

/\ no monies mate?

Sort of (other half has restricted my spendinglol ) Also its getting the bits home

[Count Vaux Alot]

Good work James and sweet dogs.

Thanks Chris and Olly the are my best mates! lol

[The Simps]

Let the games begin!

Looking forward to the shell preppin updates :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

So am i....i'm working on a few things...not sure if they will work yet though!

[Count Vaux Alot]

Not sure whether to wide track, wide wheel, or space opinions please.

Any one got any gen on these options? Best route to take etc any thoughts appreciated :thumb:

[The Simps]

could you not use corsa bottom arms and steering rack/arms to add some width? Arms would bolt on but not sure about the rack?

Would be nice to get a wider wheel base, clear the spring platform with ease AND still get a 205 in comfortably.

[Count Vaux Alot]

I thought that (Olly and i talked about it earlier) but i didn't know if it would drastically effect camber spacing the bottom out giving heavy neg camber as the strut top would be mounted in the same place if you get me??

[The Simps]

Ah yes! but could you not correct it wit the top mounts? You could even extend your top mounts outwards like nova.ian has done and make the main strut hole sausage shape so you can ajust from standard outwards as well as the usual eccentric adjustment.

[The Simps]

like so...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/DSCN2337.jpg

[The Simps]

This is from a mk1 astra but same sort of idea...

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l69/Wetterskog/strut.jpg

[Count Vaux Alot]

I could correct it like that yer but i'm not sure how much adjustment would be needed to counter the bottom arms? could always space frame the front end lol

If i move the strut out with the arm i won't be able to 'clear the spring platform with ease AND still get a 205 in comfortably' as the hub would have moved with everything.

I would have increased the track but a lower off set wheel would be needed to move the wheel out me thinks

[The Simps]

Oh well!! lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

lol thanks!

[AlexW]

Corsa rack does fit (might need the hole in the blukhead made bigger) will only add inch or so i think.

I should make a trip up there some time.

[Count Vaux Alot]

I know the corsa rack fits its 10mm longer each end i think...i don't really want to change my rack as i have a nova quick rack already so it would be a backwards step imo.

Were should you make a trip up to matey?

[dhdev (Oli)]

The wide arches are gay, I'd get rid personally :p Get some beefy spacers on there! at least for the time being, WE can get something more permanent drawn up/made in the future ;)

And how the funk do you have the energy for 3 springers, my brother has two and they're mental! They are awesome dogs though :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

The wide arches are gay, I'd get rid personally :p Get some beefy spacers on there! at least for the time being, WE can get something more permanent drawn up/made in the future ;)

And how the funk do you have the energy for 3 springers, my brother has two and they're mental! They are awesome dogs though :D

It was you car that sold me the wide front end esp after that passenger ride :thumb:

I was thinking spacers, but then if there is a better solution then i might as well go for that now.....

What do you think to the wider bottom arms idea as i can make them myself, i think its a good idea but don't know exactly what the side effects will be camber wise and if i will be able to alter the top mounting point to counter that....???

The dogs are mentalists especially Toby but he is getting better!

[Jonlem]

Good to see its coming along James, a proper wide arch setup is the only way to get a nova to handle properly, quite easily proven by how well Robs Astra handled 400hp through the front wheels ! personally like no nova I'd ever been in !

Shame to see the almighty f**k up by powerflow on that manifold, after seeing your welding work I'd also agree you could of done much better ! The only niggle is that I believe they were slip jointed for a reason, most probably (and this is a guess) to stop them cracking with a change in temperature, the Tony law stuff uses clamp on each join to keep them the pipes together

a la :

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v306/Jatec/Glynn%20Cars/eng1.jpg

Something else worth pointing out that Vauxhall did actually get right themselves was a fixing for the manifold onto the back of the block, if you limit or stop the movement at the furthest point of the manifold you just about guarantee it won't then start to crack, it is something mainly overlooked on the turbo stuff but as Vauxhall did it on a stock manifold I'd be inclined to do the same with the Simpson one.

I can't think of any ideal solution to sorting the top mounts out for wide track, I've looked at a fair few and not seen that many modifications to the strut tops but I'm not all that genned up on that subject, like yourself to go wide track I didn't want spacers so this was the solution :

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v306/Jatec/Escort%20Build/22012009241.jpg

Now its not all different to a nova in a way, could you not maybe make up a spacer of some sort and move the leg inwards like they were ?

[Count Vaux Alot]

Good to see its coming along James, a proper wide arch setup is the only way to get a nova to handle properly, quite easily proven by how well Robs Astra handled 400hp through the front wheels ! personally like no nova I'd ever been in !
I would agree mate!


Shame to see the almighty f**k up by powerflow on that manifold, after seeing your welding work I'd also agree you could of done much better ! The only niggle is that I believe they were slip jointed for a reason, most probably (and this is a guess) to stop them cracking with a change in temperature, the Tony law stuff uses clamp on each join to keep them the pipes together

I know I know power flow did make a complete spunk shot of that fortunately it doesn't go all the way round so i can remove the ****ty splatter and do some thing else about it.
I understand what your saying about the joint movement (esp vaux's bracket off the block - and on this one some thing similar will be going back on to support the back of the manifold) and the reason for the slipper joints in the first place, but the weight of the system was pulling them apart and they wern't sealing up at all so could only be doing more harm than good blowing the way they were and it sounded terrible.
The springs are a good idea i also thought of this as they are used on motorbike cans so i approached Ducati and they were £12 each :eek: given that i need six i thought naaaaah but that might be they way forward?

Love that pic thanks \/ :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v306/Jatec/Glynn%20Cars/eng1.jpg


Something else worth pointing out that Vauxhall did actually get right themselves was a fixing for the manifold onto the back of the block, if you limit or stop the movement at the furthest point of the manifold you just about guarantee it won't then start to crack, it is something mainly overlooked on the turbo stuff but as Vauxhall did it on a stock manifold I'd be inclined to do the same with the Simpson one.
As said very good idea!


I can't think of any ideal solution to sorting the top mounts out for wide track, I've looked at a fair few and not seen that many modifications to the strut tops but I'm not all that genned up on that subject, like yourself to go wide track I didn't want spacers so this was the solution :

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v306/Jatec/Escort%20Build/22012009241.jpg

Now its not all different to a nova in a way, could you not maybe make up a spacer of some sort and move the leg inwards like they were ?
As said on the reply to your txt that pic is w@nk material i love it and can't wait to see the car complete!
Like your self i haven't see many mods to the strut top not am i that genned up i just hoped some one else could shed some light on the subject.
A spacer is a good idea and i'll look in to it...i wonder what HH sell or suggest in their wide track kit (i think they do one?)

[Count Vaux Alot]

Slimmer of the week goes to....

In the last couple of evenings i have felt the urge to really get on with the car now it is in the garage so i set about a few little jobs....

I cut the rest of the bulk head out as there were a few bits left in the corners, i also cut off some brackets and other bits of unwanted metal

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay003.jpg

Slipped the rear windows out

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay001.jpg

Removed the complete car loom so i can 'thin it down a little'

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay004.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay005.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay002.jpg

This bastid weighs 4.7kgs!

I weighed the brake balance bar at 4.9kgs!

The FG wings weigh 2.5kgs and the standard wings weighed 3.8kgs that means the FG wings weighed in at 1.3kgs less than standard EACH!!

Then i weighed the dash alone (with out the bottom tray, centre console etc) and it came in at 9.7kgs :eek:

What a saving :D :D

[Ernie]

Have a poo as that gets rid of loads of weight before a good track session lol.Nice work keep it up.

[Count Vaux Alot]

While the grinder was out and i was engine bay bound i decided to crack on with the alternator/chassis leg mod like so

Area marked out

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay007.jpg

Used a nice thin disk on the grinder to try and get it as neat as possible

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay006.jpg

Then cut it out

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay008.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay011.jpg

Following this i made up a gusset section to fill the hole

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay010.jpg

And tacked it in place for the night

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay013.jpg

I also cut out some blanking plates from Ali for the holes created by the removal of the brake servo/balance bar and heater blower

Heater blower hole

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay016.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay015.jpg

and servo hole

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay018.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay017.jpg

Next is to carry on with the bay prep and some more weldy weldy

Enjoy!

[trackdaynova]

surely it would have been lighter not to cover the holes? lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

I think given certain peoples experiences a 'sealed engine bay' is a good idea as it tends not to let fire and water in to the cabin so quickly....and i used 1mm ali so you cant get much lighter.

[Benn]

Looks good. Corsa servo?

[AlexW]

I mean up there to see this beast lol.

You sorted your self a corsa servo etc? got one for sale.

If you need any help with the wiring PM me, what i do for a living lol

[Jonlem]

I would agree mate!



I know I know power flow did make a complete spunk shot of that fortunately it doesn't go all the way round so i can remove the ****ty splatter and do some thing else about it.
I understand what your saying about the joint movement (esp vaux's bracket off the block - and on this one some thing similar will be going back on to support the back of the manifold) and the reason for the slipper joints in the first place, but the weight of the system was pulling them apart and they wern't sealing up at all so could only be doing more harm than good blowing the way they were and it sounded terrible.
The springs are a good idea i also thought of this as they are used on motorbike cans so i approached Ducati and they were £12 each :eek: given that i need six i thought naaaaah but that might be they way forward?

Love that pic thanks \/ :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v306/Jatec/Glynn%20Cars/eng1.jpg


As said very good idea!


As said on the reply to your txt that pic is w@nk material i love it and can't wait to see the car complete!
Like your self i haven't see many mods to the strut top not am i that genned up i just hoped some one else could shed some light on the subject.
A spacer is a good idea and i'll look in to it...i wonder what HH sell or suggest in their wide track kit (i think they do one?)

The Tony Law one pictured doesn't use springs, just M6 bolts and some tidy brackets, being honest though you won't have much option to use anything but springs due to clearance, there MUST be a cheaper route than going to Ducati !

HH did do one, either it was their own or it is the Pilbeam one, I remember them being very similar, I don't remember seeing modifed tops on them tbh

[Count Vaux Alot]

I mean up there to see this beast lol.

You sorted your self a corsa servo etc? got one for sale.

If you need any help with the wiring PM me, what i do for a living lol

Benn and AW06 i am going corsa bias pedal box so i will need a corsa set up to use the pedal etc from....how much are you looking for?? I'll PM you.

Your welcome to visit anytime i'm about working on the car, and i will keep you in mind if i need any helpings with the wirings :thumb:

[Benn]

Sounds good dude.

[Jay]

As above, love the way you just cut things out and weigh it all up, as Tesco says "every little helps" :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

Cheers Benn and AW06!

I've been busting a groove again tonight now i have a taste for it so here are the results

Up in the air to a height that doesn't hurt your back when working on the engine bay seams etc and so i could get under the car to remove the brake and fuel lines

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay022.jpg

And wheels off

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay023.jpg

Then the suspension came off

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay025.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay027.jpg

and the fuel/brake lines

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay029.jpg

then the old shifter cam out

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay038.jpg

And the rack

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay031.jpg

Once all was clear i started on the seams with the nitro moors and wire wheel a la grinder

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay041.jpg

Had a massive session on the tar like matting that vauxhall thought would be a good idea...it was a very messy affair but if it saves weight i'm there!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay037.jpg

And this was the situation at the end of play

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay044.jpg

[Count Vaux Alot]

I also whipped the boot and bonnet off ready to be delivered to their new owner tomorrow

The bonnet weighed in at 10.6kgs were the FG version is around 5kgs

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay040.jpg

And the Boot weighed in at 15.6kgs (with the wiper motor and strut etc) - the FG version is also around the 5kgs mark

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay039.jpg

'Ever little helps!!!' lol lol

[Jay]

I also whipped the boot and bonnet off ready to be delivered to their new owner tomorrow

The bonnet weighed in at 10.6kgs

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay040.jpg

And the Boot weighed in at 15.6kgs

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay039.jpg

'Ever little helps!!!' lol lol

What do the FG ones weigh then? :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

FG weights added they are both about 5kgs each so over half the weight each!

[Jay]

FG weights added they are both about 5kgs each so over half the weight each!

:thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

[Joe Richardson]

:thumb:

[The Simps]

I love stripping down!

You've got lovely clean legs...

[GDN16v]

Nice work, :thumb: Getting that crap of the floor isnt fun at all!:cry:

[Count Vaux Alot]

I love stripping down!

You've got lovely clean legs...

Why thanks you ;)

[Count Vaux Alot]

Been on the car all day again today and i have done loads (although it doesn't look like it!)
After the clean up and paint stripping in the week i had a few areas left to 'tidy up' before i could get on with the welding and strengthening (i'm not going for the full plating kit as i don't think it to be neccary for what i want ie i will not be air born or encounter numerour high impacts as in rallying...hopfully so only see the plating kit as extra weigth)
I will however be strengthening the lower crossmember due to the lower tie bar brackets etc.

Anyway the last of the rust removel

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay045.jpg

Then before i got on to the stitching and crochet i took out more metal (see last pic)

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay046.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay047.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay048.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay052.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay051.jpg

Took the bulk head right out all the way back and stiched it up

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay050.jpg

and finished of the alternator/chassis leg mod although this still needs some workings! Can anyone see my new found hole in need of some repair?

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay049.jpg

At the end of the day i was left with this...more weight savings ahoy!

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay053.jpg

Enjoy

[peester]

FG tailgate will have to have plastic window fitted yes?
Cant fit o.e glass to it?; although it does defy point of saving weight lol

[Benn]

hahaha love the note you left your self.. I see it.

Great work dude, weldings very nice and very good, nova pannels are piss thin, i cant get it anywhere near that nice and have been doing welding a while..
Rep added.

[Count Vaux Alot]

FG tailgate will have to have plastic window fitted yes?
Cant fit o.e glass to it?; although it does defy point of saving weight lol

Your right 2mm 'plastic windows' will be fitted! :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

hahaha love the note you left your self.. I see it.

Great work dude, weldings very nice and very good, nova pannels are piss thin, i cant get it anywhere near that nice and have been doing welding a while..
Rep added.

Your right they are piss thin and a right PITA to weld, although the car is quite clean for its age there was enough rust and pitting in the seams after i had wire wheeled them for ages for it to make it even harder to weld! :mad:
It has come out ok though :)

[Jay]

Love this build, your really putting alot of effort in to it. Well done. Rep+

[scott.parker]

Your right 2mm 'plastic windows' will be fitted! :thumb:

Can you use the OE rubber?

If so do you know any where to buy it from,or a copy? as i dont want to use the one from my boot.

Scott

[krobinson]

Good work mate, moving along fast now :)

[The Simps]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/untitled-4.jpg

[Count Vaux Alot]

LOL Simps and thanks for the comments people :thumb:

[Count Vaux Alot]

On from yesterdays mince and the discovery of an unwanted hole in the front cross member i decided to address the issue by removing the gash metal and replacing it as so:

Small rust hole

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay055.jpg

Bigger hole under the '1st skin'

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay056.jpg

Rust cut out

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay057.jpg

And repair section made up and tacked in

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay058.jpg

And the cross member tidied up

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay059.jpg

Then i made up a new '1st skin' and welded it on

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay065.jpg

The welder then decided it was too hot so while it was cooling i cleaned up the front panel.
I used 80 then 150 grit pads on the DA then a bit of hand work on the arkward places then, some panel wipe and gave it a light coat of acid etch primer to cover the bear metal until i paint it properly.

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay066.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay070.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay068.jpg

And relax...any objections to the colour of this tea?

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay063.jpg

While the front panel was drying i got on with the stitching under the front wings and a few areas in the engine bay that i hadn't completed yesterday

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay092.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay095.jpg

[Adam]

Top work, nice welding.

[Jay]

Love it.

[John]

Superb work, as always.

I've pm'd you again today lol lol lol.

[Count Vaux Alot]

Then i gave the welder a rest again and got on with raising the steering rack by around an inch

Out come the rack mounts, the black line in between the two mounting points is my reference line and lines up at the bottom of the top rack stud.

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay074.jpg

Then i tacked the rack mounts back in

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay075.jpg

And used the reference point to make sure they are level and raised an inch

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay076.jpg

The original mounting point is were the ruler is in the pic below

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay078.jpg

Once i was happy with the position i made up some metal to fit in the holes and welded them in

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay080.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay081.jpg

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay083.jpg

Then the other side

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay088.jpg

I've still got the top part of the rack mount to finish and then tidy them up.
I then got on with cleaning up the N/S inner wing as i did with the front panel

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay085.jpg

Then some more cleaning, sanding and priming on the O/S inner wing

http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg167/Count85/engbay089.jpg

Not a bad day all in all but loads still to do, at least i'm getting there with the engine bay perp! :D

[Count Vaux Alot]

Superb work, as always.

I've pm'd you again today lol lol lol.

Thanks bud and PM replied btw :thumb:

[Jay]

Whats the advantages of raising the rack?

[The Simps]

Slow down mate - you're making my progress look pathetic! lol

Cracking stuff as always. I've been ummi n arrin over doing the rack mod. I like the way you done it - makes it look easy!

Scary the front panel hole considering the condition of the rest of the shell, really makes you think.

[Ernie]

nice work James.
Keep it up

[Count Vaux Alot]

Whats the advantages of raising the rack?

If you lower the suspension the steering arms go from near level a la the very basic drawing (the red bit is the rack) - -- - too \ __ / Once the car has been lowered this can cause issues with geometry and bump steer so by moving the rack up i'm effectively going to be - -- - when the car is low and hopefully avoiding any such issues. ;)

[Benn]

Love the work on the front pannel, will you be welding the rest of the seam (under the turret and along) in the arch?
Weldings very nice again.

Edit as youve answerd above.

[Count Vaux Alot]

Slow down mate - you're making my progress look pathetic! lol

Cracking stuff as always. I've been ummi n arrin over doing the rack mod. I like the way you done it - makes it look easy!

Scary the front panel hole considering the condition of the rest of the shell, really makes you think.

Progress wise once i get involved i like to get on and there arn't enough hours in the day!
The rack mod is a great idea imo (if it works out ok lol) and i thought while i'm here as you do, and as for the fecking hole it was the size of a penny until i hit it with the wire wheel which, its luck i did in heindsight as i could fit my hand in it afterwards! lol
I suppose it does make you think what might be lurking hiden away on even the leanest cars :(