Leeboo's Nova Project No. 2

[Leeboo]

I got myself another shell recently as a project. I got the chance to buy this shell and I snapped it up because its a good shell as far as Novas go.

I was surprised how little rust there was after digging around!

I didn't get any pics of how it landed on the street (it came with a GSi kit etc which is now safely put away). But here goes...

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010300.jpg

Mint driver's door yay!

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010303.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010306.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010309.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010317.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010318.jpg

The worst bit I've found:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010322.jpg

Both chassis legs are solid.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010323.jpg

So I brought it into the garage and took out the 1600 engine that came in it, and put it to one side.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010344.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010343.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010332.jpg

The engine bay seams were just starting to go, luckily I'll catch them now before its too late!

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010337.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010338.jpg

Splash guards good:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010339.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010342.jpg


Sorry for the amount of pics.

...So thats what will be emptying my wallet for the next while. But at least its a good shell to start a project with.

Its a long term project but plans at the min are seam weld the front end, re-do all the underbody protection, either fit a 1200 engine again (thats whats on the tax book), or a 1400/1600 mpi engine. Sprayed same colour, GSi kit, white rally wheels etc. I'm sure the plans will change along the way, and progress will be slow as I'm still at school with a part time job.

[Leeboo]

Inner wings good:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010340.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010341.jpg

Gonna be a shame to remove these too, genuine GSi stickers which can't be bought anymore, might take measurement of them before they are taken off.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010346.jpg

[7ova]

was it originally a nova sxi 1.2?

good luck with project mate, looks solid

[Leeboo]

Cheers man, yeah 1200 spi sxi.

[xe Dan]

great starting point what are your plans

[Leeboo]

Well I'm in my last year at school with a part time job, and I have to keep petrol going to my other Nova aswell. So progress will be very slow.

But I'm thinking, seam weld front end, re-do all protection underneath, maybe powder coat back axle, maybe polybushes all round, respray in same colour (metallic black), GSi kit on again, white rally wheels, 2 spot lamps up front with white covers, and haven't decided what engine.

Thats a lot of money and work though so it will take ages.

[Leeboo]

Due to unforseen circumstances, it looks like this project is going underway a little bit faster than I had first anticipated.

I won't be able to have the car resprayed or polybushed etc just yet, as I am trying to get this shell ready for the road as soon as possible.

But don't worry, its not being put on the road in that state. Plans are now to tidy up the engine bay, stitch weld the seams around the front -arches/engine bay, prime, seam seal etc, then re-spray the engine bay in the original colour.

Cosmetically, the car will have a front wing and GSi bumper resprayed. I have then to add GSi sideskirts and wheels. The rest of the paintwork on the car is actually very clean.

Engine wise, I am returning the car to a 1200cc to keep on the right side of the insurance. I will fit a new wiring loom as parts of the old one have been badly burnt by the last owner.

I made a start this evening, by stripping the front end further. First of all, I removed the dash board so that I could begin to remove the old wiring loom. I then turned my attention to the engine bay, I removed hubs, calipers, tiebars, wishbones, steering rack, heater matrix, and I also started to bring some areas back to bare metal with the wire brush attachment on the grinder.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010371.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010372.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010373.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010369.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010367.jpg

[Leeboo]

I stripped all the old stonechip/underseal off and took places back to bare metal including the seams. So I employed my friend Ross to seam weld the front end for fear of me making a hash of it! http://www.reallymeansounds.com/forum/images/smilies/teeth_smile.gif

Passenger arch stripped back and seams welded:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010375.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010376.jpg

Steering rack mount seam welded:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010379.jpg

Driver's side turret and inner wing seam welded:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010380.jpg

Passenger:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010383.jpg

Tie bar mounts on front panel:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010382.jpg

Chassis to bulkhead/firewall:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010389.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010390.jpg

So then I went on to paint the front arches with red oxide primer:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010388.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010384.jpg

I stripped the dash etc out ready to remove the loom:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010391.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010392.jpg

I really need a new camera!

So I need to get the engine bay prepped a bit more and then red oxide prime the seams and most other places. Then I will use brush on seam sealer on the seams, then stonechip the front arches, then get the engine bay sprayed and spray a wee bit in the arches over the stonechip to give it a more factory look. edit - Big thanks to Ross for welding and my uncle for the lend of the welder!!!!! http://www.reallymeansounds.com/forum/images/smilies/thumbs_up.gif

Comments welcome.

[~~joycey~~]

Wots with the wires? Fire?

[amggsi]

Getting on well there!!

I have a passenger wing in Diamond Black if it is off any use to you?

It's rusted down at the bottom where it meets the front panel, but the bumper covers it anyway. It just might save you painting the wing at this stage. Free of charge!

[AlexW]

You mean stich welding. ;)

Looks good. Will be nice to see it finished.

[vaughanmc]

Good work fella, do you still have the red Nova ?

[Leeboo]

joycey - Yeah the last owner managed to burn some parts of the loom, probably when he was replacing the engine.

amggsi - Cheers. Thats an offer I might have to take you up on! I'd get away without painting it? I'd just have to work out a way of getting it! It really would help me out, as the car came with a very badly painted pattern wing!

AWO6 - Lol you know how I mean, stitch welding the seams lol. Thanks mate, the lack of a car keeps a bit of drive in this project. Just need to sell some spare parts if I'm to get everything done quickly.

[Leeboo]

Good work fella, do you still have the red Nova ?

Cheers Vaughan, yeah I still have the red Nova but I crashed it last weekend (I know, I'm a tard). Thats why I've started this project sooner.

[vaughanmc]

Oh, is it bad like ?

[Leeboo]

Bad enough, driver's side and front took a good hit. Could be put back on the road but would need a lot of work.

[7ova]

looks well mate keep up the good work :thumb:
+ rep

[Leeboo]

Cheers 7ova, right back at ya.

edit - have you got a project thread or anything for your gsi?

[stuartyj21]

good work leeboo keep up the good progress..

[Leeboo]

Cheers stuarty!! It should end up looking similar to yours! except my paintwork wouldn't be as mint and yours has loads of attention to detail! :)

Not a very exciting update people but I want to keep the progress steady with this project!

Sealed the seams:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010394.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010395.jpg

Sprayed on the first coat of stonechip around front arches (2nd coat will cover seams and create a good thick layer all over):

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010404.jpg

So then I went on to prep most of the engine bay:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010401.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010400.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010402.jpg

I hope to have the engine bay in primer on friday as I'm away to newcastle from wed til thurs night!!

[7ova]

Cheers 7ova, right back at ya.

edit - have you got a project thread or anything for your gsi?

hi mate
i've stripped my k plate gsi to the shell
and hopefully over next couple of weeks
i should be changing the full front panel,
and painting the engine bay
(i keep meaning to take photos, but i just get stuck in)
engines allso in bits waiting to be put back together
keeping it as a small block gsi :thumb:

i will get around to doing a project thread
thanks for interest

[Leeboo]

No probs mate sounds good, try to get some pics I'd love to see it! :thumb:

[Leeboo]

Most of the engine bay in red oxide primer....

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010406.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010408.jpg

I just need to prep and prime the firewall now. Then wet sand the upper front panel and strut tops, inner wings etc (places that are most visible) so that my friend can get a good finish when he's spraying top coat and laquer.

[dj_wudgey]

coming on well there dude!!

[Leeboo]

Cheers wudgey...

Another wee update... bit of painting done.

I finished prepping and priming the engine bay:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1846.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1849.jpg

Sealed the seams:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1851.jpg

So then we fitted the front running gear loosely and my friend kindly towed the shell to his house to do the painting.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1857.jpg

Running gear off:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1876.jpg

Two random farts who wouldn't go away lol. The one on the right is the painter:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1859.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1861.jpg

So it was almost ready for paint (black stuff on the front panel is light layer of black stonechip). Masked it, then I lightly wetsanded 800 grit in some places like the front panel, inner wings strut tops etc.

After a bit of panel wipe and making sure all was dry, my friend applied the basecoat.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1864.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1865.jpg

After that was let dry, obviously then the laquer was applied.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1869.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1871.jpg

Sorry about the picture quality, but its a great job, cheers ross. I got him to blow some paint in over the stonechip in the arches/splash guards, so the whole front of the shell is now properly protected.

Until next time... comments welcome

[vaughanmc]

Really good progress mate :)

Keep the updates coming :thumb:

[Leeboo]

Cheers Vaughan, it should be good once its done!

[vaughanmc]

Should be a nice stiff shell too with being stitch welded etc :)

[Leeboo]

Yeah well I've only stitch welded the front end but hey you are probably right. At least if I keep it long and decide to fit a red top or something then its already stitch welded. Just one small patch to go on the rear behind the shock.

[vaughanmc]

Aye every little helps mate :)

[stuartyj21]

goodwork leeboo keep it up...

[Leeboo]

Cheers stuarty, plans are standard gsi look outside, red strip in bumpers with gsi alloys and -60mm kit off the red Nova

[dj_wudgey]

looking good matey keep up the good work!!

[Leeboo]

Cheers again dj_wudgey, I appreciate it!!!

Got the engine in yesterday, not exciting but its a vital part of the car lol. Also swapped the tanks.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1892.jpg

Have to pull the loom out of my other Nova and stick it into this, get her fired up, think I need a new radiator too, meh.

Also a big thanks to Adrian (amggsi off the site) for giving me a front wing in the right colour and everything :thumb: , aoppreciate it.

I should have some better quality pictures next weekend!!

[krobinson]

You'll have this ready for the Meet no sweat :)

[Leeboo]

I hope so Keith lol, the funds are running low, I might have to murmur "good morning mother, fancy the opportunity to tax a Nova today?" ... at some stage.

I have most of the stuff I need to get it ready for mot, just need to get the front and back bumpers plastic welded and painted and stuff, and the v5 should be with me soon.

[Leeboo]

Another wee bit of progress... Brought her back to my house! pictures speak louder than words!!

I took the full wiring loom out of the red Nova, and fitted it all to the black one, and fitted the bare dashboard for the moment:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1904.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1911.jpg

So heres a few phone pictures (proper camera won't focus!):

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1908.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1910.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010440.jpg

Swapped the hubs over from the red Nova and fitted the ATE Corsa calipers, and put in new brake fluid and bled the brakes - she stops on her nose!

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010442.jpg

Heres a couple of pics of the seam welded seams and the plant:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1914.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1913.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1915.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010445.jpg

Fresh primer, stonechip and paint in arches and under wings etc...

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010443.jpg

Front/back bumpers had quite a few scuffs and a crack on each so got them dropped off to plastic welded properly and then we rubbed them down. Heres pics of the front bumper.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1900.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1901.jpg

Primed:

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1903.jpg

So that brings me up to date.. the car isn't runnin right, its getting too much petrol with the twin choke carb so think I'll fit the SR cam aswell. But the engine is good. Loads of wee jobs to do now.

The car looks really rough at the moment as its in pieces and its got dust, dirt and overspray on it, hopefully it will look a little better within a few weeks!

Again a massive thanks to Ross my right hand man who done the paintin and helped out and let me mess up his garage for a few weeks! Couldnt do this project without him!

Comments welcome!

[vaughanmc]

Looks good fella :)

Get that front panel caked in Waxoyl :D

[Leeboo]

Cheers Vaughan, well I lightly stonechipped the front panel before it was painted so I just intend to waxoyl inside it underneath!!

[Leeboo]

Keeping the ball rolling... usual poop pictures but you get the idea!!!

Ross put the topcoat and laquer on my bumper on friday night, he make sexy job!!

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1935.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1936.jpg

Turned our attention to the engine....

had it up and going with the bigger inlet and carb off a 1300 engine, but it was running like a big heap of the proverbial! So rather than finding a cam and farting about with getting it tuned, Ross and Jamie kindly fitted the 1200 inlet and pierburg back on while I fitted my freshly shampoo'd seats and done some wee odd jobs! Got it going pretty well but couldn't take it for a rip last night as it was very late.

So I went out to do a bit of mincing this afternoon, changed my leaking radiator for one I got off a mate, and guess what, it leaks too lol. Might try a bit of that radweld stuff in it. The car started to bog down and splutter again, took it a quick spin and it kept going off cylinders etc. (Engine has sat for a year or so). So I held a rev on it and sprayed a few doses of carb cleaner down it, cleaned and sanded tips of plugs til I get new ones next week, and it cleared itself out down the private road so I then adjusted the idle whilst it was warm. Without sounding like a chav lol, its pretty sharp for a 1200 8v, and I've had a 1300 and 1600!

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1932.jpg

I fitted the cleaned seats and carpet but hopefully I will have pictures of her mostly built up towards end of week/weekend as the mot is booked for the 19th!

Comments welcome

[dj_wudgey]

well done matey good to see its nearly there!!

[vaughanmc]

Good progress mate - Can't wait to see this done

You seem to be doing all the right things anyway :thumb:

Have some rep...If it will let me :D

[amggsi]

Looking well - I might have a radiator here - will get a look in daylight sometime to see if it's any use!!!

[Leeboo]

Cheers men!

All the pictures so far have just been of bits and pieces but the next update should resemble a car lol.

Adrian - that goes much appreciated!! I was gonna try some of that 'radweld' stuff first to see if it would it work? What do you reckon?

[stuartyj21]

good progress leeboo, keep up the good standard...

[amggsi]

Adrian - that goes much appreciated!! I was gonna try some of that 'radweld' stuff first to see if it would it work? What do you reckon?

From past experience I wouldn't recommend it - it clogs up the radiator and it won't work too well.

As far as I could tell on Saturday my radiator was grand, but it wasn't something I paid much attention to when I was picking the car up!!lol

[Leeboo]

Thanks stuarty! I look forward to seeing yours at the meet because mine and yours will be similar on the outside except my paintwork won't be mint!

Cheers for keeping me in mind adrian... I texted you back last night. I may have sourced a gte radiator closer to home but I will let you know either way thanks dude.

[amggsi]

Cheers for keeping me in mind adrian... I texted you back last night. I may have sourced a gte radiator closer to home but I will let you know either way thanks dude.

No problem, it's here if you need it anyway!!:thumb:

[sr jack]

cool car dude

[Leeboo]

Cheers both of you leds!

[numptysport1]

looking good ,when you have finished that i will send you round a couple more projects .

[Leeboo]

haha gary two sittin on the driveway is enough at the minute. I've an f13 gearbox here if you need one! Suppose you would be usin f10 sr ones though!

[numptysport1]

mine is an f13 dog box .the casing is the same ,how much you looking ?

[Leeboo]

Ah right, well not 100% sure what its worth so offers, it was in prefect workin order before I took it out the red Nova if that makes any difference to you.

[Leeboo]

Heres couple of pics of her built up a bit, but really still needs red bumper lines, gsi grille badge, some touch ups, undersealed round the back, back boot vinyl done right, back bumper painted and fitted, mudflaps... the list never ends lol. I'm just glad shes mot'd taxed and insured!

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1962.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A1963.jpg

Any comments welcome but theres a lot of wee jobs still to do!

[7ova]

looking good mate, any shots under the bonnet?

[stuartyj21]

copy catlollollol

only joking mate car looks great, well done:thumb:

[Leeboo]

Thanks 70va, yeah theres some on page 4 but I need to get some better ones!

Stuarty - lol I'm hoping to swap our number plates at the meet at easter and drive yours home! Cheers

[stuartyj21]

Mmmmm i will have to keep a close eye on you then:wtf:

[vaughanmc]

Looking really good mate :)

Get some better pics! :thumb:

[stuartyj21]

were did you get the 3 spokes mate, they look like new...

[Leeboo]

Well I had them on my last Nova... got them local but they aren't mint!! They are good and straight but only one is clean and original, the other 3 are badly painted but look dead on from a distance! They are on my long-term to-do list!!

[stuartyj21]

get youself plenty of wire wool and wet and dry mate...

[Leeboo]

Time for another wee update!

I knew I needed to redo underneath around the rear of the Nova so I thought I'd do it before the meet at Port.

So I powerwashed the back end and took off the suspension and exhaust. I ground down usual rust hotspots and any wee bits of surface rust. I also ground down the chassis legs, spring seats, along bottom of inner wings and around axle mounting points. Then I painted all of these areas with red oxide primer.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010451.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010453.jpg


http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010456.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010457.jpg

I had ground away some of the original seam sealer in some places so I renewed it where necessary.


http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010461.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010462.jpg

And then I stonechipped the areas that i had worked on.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010466.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010467.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010471.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010475.jpg

Then I undersealed everywhere round the back, including up to the edge of the arch lips etc. And gave the rear axle and drums a 'quick lick' of paint (funds don't permit powdercoating yet) and fitted silver painted shocks.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010480.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010488.jpg

We welded her behind both shocks (cut out rot, weld in new metal), but apart from that there are no other nasty surprises. Not a concourse job, but then shes not a concourse car.

^^ Most people will find that part of the update boring but trust me its a vital part!

These pictures were taken at the Nova meet yesterday at Portrush (thanks to those who took them), from the last update, they show the back bumper painted and fitted and red stripes in the bumpers, also I fitted mudflaps all round and fitted a new bonnet badge. Lastly, I fitted new leads, dis cap and rotor arm.

She had done well over 100 miles in total before these pics so wasn't spanky clean!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v37/keithrobinson/PNGmeet2009/100_5664.jpg


http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/jafanan/IMG_2249.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg84/jafanan/IMG_2250.jpg


Still a right few things to do but I've got most bases covered for now.

I welcome any comments good or bad

[vaughanmc]

Looks really good, I seen the pics of that one in the NI region but I didn't know it was yours!

Looks brilliant :thumb:

[jafanan]

the last photo looks like one i took of yours leeboo, did you get a chance to cheack them out on jon44w?


was a really good day, roll on next year when i get mine up

great project thread with plenty of photos, keep it up

[stuartyj21]

the last photo looks like one i took of yours leeboo, did you get a chance to cheack them out on jon44w?


was a really good day, roll on next year when i get mine up

great project thread with plenty of photos, keep it up


get your photos uploaded on here johnny:mad:

[7ova]

looking good, any other plans ?
always liked a clean black nova

[Leeboo]

Cheers for the comments!

Vaughan - yeah!! Thanks.

jafanan (jonny is it?)I did but I just couldn't remember who took them!! Where you the fella that was takin a pic when I was at the car? Thanks a million.

7ova - thanks mate. I've still lots of plans really. Its almost looking how I want it now. Sometime after my A-Levels (I finish in 4 weeks) I want to get window sorrounds and rear vinyl. I also (long-term) want to fit a 2.0 8v, 2L brakes, bilsteins and polybushes. At least its seam welded. Its a daily driver at the moment but I hope to buy a td cav or mk3 astra during the summer maybe.

[7ova]

good luck with your A levels mate ;)

[Leeboo]

Thanks a million dude!

[shy witness]

you turned that arround pretty quickly mate.



lokks like a decent wee nova now.


i seen it up at portrush myself......but hadnt seen your build thread before.

should be a real nice car when you get some of the finishing touches organised.

[Leeboo]

Cheers shy witness aye portrush was a crackin day! Yeah. there probably won't be any more updates for a month or two as I won't have time.

[jafanan]

get your photos uploaded on here johnny:mad:

because im not a member i can only upload 15 images (sh*t rule by the way)

ive a 50 or so here id love to share but i cant join as a menebr at the minute as ive no bank card :mad:

@ leeboo - yup that was me being the camera nerd! lol

[vaughanmc]

because im not a member i can only upload 15 images (sh*t rule by the way)

ive a 50 or so here id love to share but i cant join as a menebr at the minute as ive no bank card :mad:

If you have 50 - Copy and paste 10 links into each post which means you'll bump up 5 extra posts with all your pics ;)

[Leeboo]

Wee bit of maintenance...

Headgasket was done, she was using a right bit of water and mixing. (I have been quite hard on the wee 1200 over the last month or two).

I hadn't 'blew' the gasket so the head didn't need skimming. So, before I started..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC02219.jpg

Stripped..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2143.jpg

So I took off the head/cam carrier and soaked the lifters etc in fresh oil for a while..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2145.jpg

Block and head mating surfaces cleaned a prep'd, head set on with new gasket..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2144.jpg

Built back up..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2147.jpg

Head torqued down with new rocker cover fitted, bit of instant gasket between cam carrier/head and then 4 branch, carb cables, distributor etc back on..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2150.jpg

Also changed oil and filter too for obvious reasons, so its running sweet now, using no water, staying cool and pulling nicely for a wee 1200. Engine seems in good shape internally. Been up to the coast last two days in her.

Also some random pics I took a while back with a better camera..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC02202.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC02206.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC02207.jpg

Oh and lowered another 20mm at the back!

[vaughanmc]

Looking very nice and tidy mate, 10/10 on the resto :)

[Leeboo]

Thanks Vaughan dude!! Actually starting to love my 1200 for some reason lol :confused:

[vaughanmc]

1200's are the future lol I'd prefer a carb over the SPI engine mind you

[Leeboo]

Carb version is supposed to be slightly more powerful but then again with spi you don't have to worry about choke etc. Finally I've got mine running smoothly. Got rear window sorrounds earlier too

[vaughanmc]

Aye the 1200 Carb is far quicker than the 1200i engine

Manual choke is a lot better than the SPI I'd say

[Leeboo]

Not much of an update I suppose but just thought I'd revisit the thread.... still racking up the miles daily on the wee Nova, alls been good after doing the headgasket, apart from altenator and ignition issues but I had spares for both.

Wanted to see what speedlines would look like on her and a mate had a set so he kindly let me try them on...

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/resized2.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/resized3.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/resized4.jpg

Also heres a set of white cesaros from a while back..bad pic..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2175.jpg

I fitted my back window surrounds too.

Which wheels look better? I'm thinkin speedlines. Would love a set sometime in the future and lowered more all round. But I'm planning on buying a corsa or cavalier for the daily drive at the end of the summer so Nova should be going into the garage. Comments welcome!

[JShannon]

Speedline lee! look good at the height to mate!:thumb:

Joe

[vaughanmc]

Looks awsome on the Speedlines mate, I'm quite into the Cesaros as well though :)

[Leeboo]

Thanks Joe and Vaughan.. would love a set of speedlines but the money would have to go elsewhere first. Front centre cap isn't sitting right there because of the driveshaft. The cesaros did look good too but I didn't get a good pic, they are freshly blasted and powder coated white. In some ways I can't wait to take her off the road at the end of the summer. Any other comments welcome folks.

[vaughanmc]

I managed to pick up a set of Speedlines for £270 with 4 tyres and 4 centre caps :)

Keep an eye out for some bargains - How come your taking it off the road dude ?

[Leeboo]

I managed to pick up a set of Speedlines for £270 with 4 tyres and 4 centre caps :)

Keep an eye out for some bargains - How come your taking it off the road dude ?

That was cheap lad!! Planning on taking it off the road because I want to get a cavalier or corsa for wrecking about in instead if you get me, might be going to uni in belfast so want something that I won't care about as much.

We have a wee green corsa sitting round the side of the house out of mot and tax lowered on sport wheels etc but I hate the 1.0 12v engines with a passion lol. Not sure if I should put it back on the road or save for something else

[Leeboo]

This is the bubble!

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/resizedcorsa.jpg

[Leeboo]

Part of the reason I haven't bought speedlines!

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010523.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010506.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010510.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010508.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/S4010509-1.jpg

Thats the only pics I've got so far!

[vaughanmc]

Another shell/project ? :)

[Leeboo]

Another shell/project ? :)

Aye Vaughan...its going like clockwork a wee spi, not sure what way to go with it... I probs won't do much with it too soon cos I need to start saving to buy a corsa or sumthing for the road or else put that green corsa back on the road ^^^.

[JShannon]

nice one lee. your always better having more than one lol taking mine off the road for this wekend to send the shell for sandblasting so should be a wip thread of my own up pretty soon. hopefully going to see adrians sport tonight! i need inspiration from a sorted nova lol have you a windscreen by any chance lad.??

Joe

[Leeboo]

Money burns a hole in my pocket Joe! Aye I seen Adrians sport at the portrush meet, its a nice wee example.... sounds good lad you getting the whole thing sandblasted or just the floor pan or what? Make sure and get a wip thread up asap with loads of pics!!! Sorry lad I don't have a windscreen but my mate had to get one for his white nova when he was building it.... it cost £40 for a top tint + £60 for call out and fitting fee. Not GM obviously but same job... I'm sure its a similar price wherever you go....

[JShannon]

yeah mate, the whole shell. Thinking of goin diamond black, the white is getting on my tits a bit. thanks for the advice, must give autoglass a ring or someone of the sort! Will Definitely have a w.i.p up at some point in the near future!

Cheers fella

Joe:thumb:

[Leeboo]

Good man joe, aye diamond black is the same colour as mine, nice enough colour without sounding cocky...

[Leeboo]

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC00356.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC00357.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC00353.jpg

Bang lol

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC00355.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC00352.jpg

Got some 16v brakes lyin in the garage to fit

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/DSC00358.jpg

Just working on sourcing a new donkey now!

[vaughanmc]

New passenger wing ?

[Leeboo]

Nah don't think I will bother with a wing just yet, I'm not so worried as its behind the bumper and its not part of the bodyshell. Will most likely get replaced in the future when it gets repainted etc. God knows when that will be lol

[AlexW]

Nice hole! Going for another 1.2?

And agreed, no point in replacing the wing, wait untill its flapping in the wind lol

[yellowsrnova]

forget that save up and buy my sri lol
what engine you sticking in chum ?

[Leeboo]

AW06 - yeah part of the block is hanging on by the sump bolts too lol . Not sure on an engine haven't found one at reasonabe money yet..

Freddie - If I had the corno's I'd have the sri but unfortunately not lol ... Probably 1200 again just working on sourcing an engine lad

[stuartyj21]

i know where theres a good redtop forsale mate. gearbox, shafts and loom pm me if your interested...

[JShannon]

You'll never bust a 1.2?? lol

Wats the craic with this lee??

Joe!!:thumb:

[Leeboo]

Oh aye I should probably change that joe lol...

Its lying up in my garage, waiting on a few parts to fit the new plant, Chris astley is holding up this project as I ordered parts parts from him a while back and I haven't recieved them yet, I'm not the only one either by the looks of it. Might try ringing him today.

Took a deposit on my daily driver a few days ago too so trying to sort out a new one atm.

Lee

[JShannon]

You went for a mighty dturbo then lee??

Seen over on jon44w. Get some new pics up on here!!!!

Joe

[Leeboo]

Yeah joe I got my self a D turbo as the daily driver, good enough wee motor.

What do you mean pics of the nova or the d turbo? lol

[JShannon]

dturbo!! Under the bonnets pics please!
And a few of the nova in its current state for all these nova heads lmao

Joe:thumb:

[jimbob-mcgrew]

good project this mate, just read it thru, u sorted out the front end sweet by the looks of it :thumb:

shame about the volcano hole in the block, what happened, a rod snap and smack the casing ?

keep it standard on the 3 spokes, looks class.

[Leeboo]

Thought I better do something with the Nova, its been a while!

Joe - I'll include a pic or two of the d turbo in this post..

jimbob - thanks, yea thought the front end needed sorted cos it would have just got worse.... the hole in the block is from too much abuse lol but I was goin to take it off the road for a while anyway.

I want to get the nova on the road again asap, the mot expires on the 18th march so thats a few days away, so I made a start on doing a few things yesterday.

Got polybushes and fitted them to the bottom arms and tiebars.... two new balljoints to collect on monday, just to make sure everythings nice and tight. Still have to fit rear beam polybushes.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2384.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2439.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2441.jpg

Then I took the gearbox and exhaust manifoldfrom the old engine, and mounted the gearbox into the car..

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2449.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2446.jpg

Bit of a crappy pic but this is how she sits at the moment, I'm hoping to keep progress steady now and and hopefully get/put together an engine over the next few days, that red top isn't being fitted to this btw...

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2452.jpg

Also got a few parts from a guy I know who was having a bit of a clear up.....gsi interior including dashboard, minus front seats... so either need 2 front gsi seats or two black bucket seats...

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2445.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2444.jpg

Strengthening kit inc. strut top plates (won't be used on this nova)

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2443.jpg

Also got a few spare parts such as gsi rear bumper and spoiler, gsi 22mm tie bars and anti roll bar, set of front and rear window sorrounds etc. Will probably just keep them as spares or for a project in the future.

Heres a few pics of the daily driver at the moment, might sell it soon and drive the nova.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2366.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2367.jpg

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2332.jpg

Joe sorry this is the only engine bay pic I have of the dturbo, its pretty bad quality.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/leeberto/SP_A2342.jpg

I will hopefully have another update on the nova soon!

[connor c]

nice project lad:thumb:

connor