Project Winter Freshen Up

[John]

This is another thread that needs pics!

[MARTIN KELSON]

This is another thread that needs pics!

I do take quite alot of pics, just dont think people are really interested in pics of rubbish i take!! lol

[scott.parker]

Good luck mate, hope it passes (cant see why it wouldn't) and your going to love it once your back on the road..

Scott

[John]

I do take quite alot of pics, just dont think people are really interested in pics of rubbish i take!! lol

Of course we are! Post em up Martin !:thumb:

[dj_wudgey]

^ as above of corse we would!

[krobinson]

Happy times Martin, Billing?

[MARTIN KELSON]

Right here is my boring pics!

Strutbrace back on for first time since being re-polished

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04019.jpg

Speced the wrong size battery & struggled to start, so sold it & bought this

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04025.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04028.jpg

Then gave it a quick wash

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04034.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04031.jpg

Told you i take pics that nobody would be interested in :)

Martin

[John]

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04019.jpg

Engine p0rn Martin!

[Graeme]

Excellent Martin, can't believe you think no one would be interested, perfection just got better

[scott.parker]

Your engine looks clean enough to eat fried eggs off, lets hope it dont get hot enough to fry them on eh! lol

Still one of the very best out there mate, credit to you.

Scott

[krobinson]

Looking perfect as always Martin!

[MARTIN KELSON]

Happy times Martin, Billing?

Really not sure.

Going to Goodwood for few days, then Mrs birthday same weekend as Billing so may be pushing my look :(

Have to see nearer the time

[Benn]

Looks stunning.

[peester]

makes me wanna get those pricey aeroquip connectors..

[Adam]

Looks stunning!

[Spudly]

Would you mind if i swiped this for my desktop background please...

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04019.jpg

Its not often a picture comes along that id happily stare at everytime i turn my laptop on but theres one of them:thumb:

[MARTIN KELSON]

Would you mind if i swiped this for my desktop background please...

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04019.jpg

Its not often a picture comes along that id happily stare at everytime i turn my laptop on but theres one of them:thumb:

You can gladly have it as desktop :)

[Connor]

Looks lush Martin,
Credit to you, looks spot on.

[matthew172]

looks great, will be nice to have it back on the road

[Mazz]

pah....



....me and stu decided you need keep the speedlines too

[discoinferno]

looks stunning mate really does :) hows the heated windscreen

what spec is the engine mate, is that john toovey of toovey road & race???? if so he baffled my sump on my engine

[MARTIN KELSON]

Well today it went for its MOT.

I fealt like an expectand dad waiting for some news.

Well after some sweet talking i have an MOT.
Once i had that i went straight to get this

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04198.jpg

So i'am now legal & back on the road :)

Just need some better weather & clearer road & i'am out for a run to stretch its legs.

Weather today was awful & i had to take it out in the wet :(

Any so pleased after a year & a half its back!!!

Martin

[Benn]

Awesome dude, just need pics of you out in it now...

[Mazz]

Great news dude - don't forget my passenger ride!

[Will F]

looks stunning mate really does :) hows the heated windscreen

what spec is the engine mate, is that john toovey of toovey road & race???? if so he baffled my sump on my engine

I dont think he built it did he?

And they are one and the same!

[craig green]

That's brilliant Martin. best way to describe the MOT feeling also, like an expectant father. LOL

[MARTIN KELSON]

I dont think he built it did he?

And they are one and the same!

Toovey dynoed & mapped the engine.

To be honest i have no idea if he had any hand in building the engine or not.

Tim Adams where i dropped it off builds big V8 race engines, but he built mine previously when on carbs, so i asked him to do it this time.
He is good friends of Toovey so no idea if it was a joint venture or Tim built it & John mapped it.

John came to my house other week to sort few starting issues out. Worked his magic out on laptop & now starts almost as easy as my daily drive Golf!
Not bad for a throttle bodied XE!

Just need to wash it again as it was p1ssing down when went for MOT then get some miles on the old girl. Cant wait.

Loving the popping on overun :)

[peester]

:-) happy days.. just like u say about the weather, lol

[MARTIN KELSON]

Hi,

Yesterday took the Nova for its first proper drive in a year & a half :)

There was a rolling road day at Shrewsbury about 20 miles from where i live & few mates taking there cars up for a run out so tagged along in the Nova.

Steady drive up there down some 'bumby' B roads with my mate in his Integra Type R, then met up with another mate in his Supercharged Golf VR6.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04203.jpg

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04204.jpg

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04202.jpg

Hung around for hour or so, quite alot of interest in old Nova which was nice.
Watched an Astra GSI Turbo on rollers do 371bhp.........Then break :(

Then drove back, but this time dual caridgeway and a little more 'spirited!'

Nova seemed to run okay for its first outing. Smoking abit, not an oily smoke so maybe overfueling, so something to look into later. Getting some flames apparently out of exhaust, so maybe unburnt fuel causing some smoke when giving it a little.

Forgotten after so long how much fun it was to take out, so its nice to have the old girl back!

Mate did record a bit on his phone & posted it on the tube!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPmYLSBf39I

Martin

[craig green]

Looking ace mate. In good company & Novas really do cause quite a bit of interest when you roll about town in them.

Just watched the vid, that Golf sounds lovely, looks rapid too. You have epic negative camber on your fr wheels by the looks of it to.

[novacabrio]

Awesome mate has it been mapped properly yet with the throttle bodies?

[craig green]

Probably a bit rich for running in...?

[peester]

awesome, glad to hear youve got little-to none running-in issues

[MARTIN KELSON]

Awesome mate has it been mapped properly yet with the throttle bodies?

Pretty well.

John Toovey came down few weeks ago and had a 'fiddle' with the laptop.
He mapped it on his dyno, then i swapped the bodies so he came round to do a few adjustments.

Will stick few hundred miles on it, see how it goes then maybe pop it over to him again for a check & see if its running too rich.

[MARTIN KELSON]

Just watched the vid, that Golf sounds lovely, looks rapid too. You have epic negative camber on your fr wheels by the looks of it to.

It is very quick with 300bhp

We had a wee 'dabble' on way back on not much in it between us.
He has more power, i have less weight so pretty close.

Need to get a full suspension set up.
Was thinking of getting it corner weighted & a geometry set up as the year goes on & funds alow!

[Will F]

I wouldnt worry about fuel-related smoke, all TB'd cars get it - much safer than leaning out! ;)

I get it when I am flat out and also when I pootle for prolonged periods and then deck it....

Looking good mate

[discoinferno]

looks a bit more than just fuel to me but i could be wrong, once its mapped properly you'll have a better indication? have you a wideband you'll see instantly if its rich, if it is just rich then it must be in the 10's or even richer as its puffing it out at a fair rate!!!! but tbh though i think its oil its too light to be fuel and the quantity if it was fuel it wouldnt run very well, and it sounds pretty crisp


looks nice though, is that an sccr i hear????

[Will F]

Ah - I didnt even watch the vid and cant at work...

It shouldnt be fuel then if its been mapped properly - at least not that much...

[scott.parker]

Looks awesome mate, sounds even better! Again one of the car's that made me want a XE in a nova even when it was Carbed lol

As for the smoke issues, it's hard to tell, do you get a burnt oil smell in the car before, or after booting it? i do some times on mine, and im not 100% sure whether mines a mix of fuel/oil yet, as mine is still in need of a map, it's on the list.

Hope it's nothing to serious though, be nice to see it, you coming to billing Martin?

Scott

[MARTIN KELSON]

As for the smoke issues, it's hard to tell, do you get a burnt oil smell in the car before, or after booting it? i do some times on mine, and im not 100% sure whether mines a mix of fuel/oil yet, as mine is still in need of a map, it's on the list.

Hope it's nothing to serious though, be nice to see it, you coming to billing Martin?

Scott

Not noticed any oily smell.
Not driven it enough yet but pretty sure it only smoken when i give it a 'foot full' on the throttle.
Mate following says when i shut off it pops & get a flame inside the exhaust which mays me think its more to do with fuel than oil.

Do a few more miles then propobably pop upto Toovey & plug laptop back in & see what the crack is.

Billing, not sure yet. Would like to pop down on the Sunday but i'am away just before at Goodwood, then Mrs birthday so see if i can score enough browney points with her from now till then :)

[Damo]

Yea its hard to tell by the vid if its fuel or oil but it does look a blueish colour hope its nothing serious though martin.

Great build by the way read it from the begining.

[dj_wudgey]

it looks awesome that mate golf looks nice aswell!!

[Benn]

Nova looks great in the vid and pic, that Golf gives me the horn too.

[MARTIN KELSON]

Its my mates Golf & very nice, & damn quick. Gave the old Nova a good run on way back Sunday.

We are taking them to the Retro Car Show at Weston Park Shropshire at start of June is anybody fancies coming

http://www.retrocarmania.co.uk/

[Jeff16v]

never ever seen this one in the flesh, only pics. and much talk of it, Looks and sounds fantastic.:thumb:

[MARTIN KELSON]

Not updated recently as i have been a lazy ass & not done alot!

Small update:

Ordered stud conversion as fed up with adjusting 'Stack' speedo sensor everytime i want to change wheels as it counts wheel bolts, so this should be now fit & forget.
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04697.jpg

Also new hub flanges as mine were worn, & with studs fitted and threadlocked in.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04698.jpg

Went to fit yesterday & wheel bearing fell apart.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04699.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04700.jpg

Bought & fitted new bearing. Was a tough job getting somebody to press em in for me. Couldnt believe all garages i went to couldnt be arsed to earn a couple of quid for their back pocket!

Fitted front & rear.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04708.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04705.jpg

Oh yea also got these to fit soon :)

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04703.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC04701.jpg

When wheels are on i will update & decide if i like em & sell the speedlines.

Martin

[dj_wudgey]

new wheels look the sh*t matey!!

[moffat]

agree with mark new wheels look amazing

[Pistol Pete]

Bugger about the bearing. Wheels will set the car off just right.

[Benn]

High specs on the rear? Nice. Wheels are a bit tasty!

Where did you get the stud kit? I keep thinking of one cause my discs are free to move so getting the wheel on can be a pain.

[S1 RST]

I'd have a good guess that it is oil on the overun as it was plooming out as you set off

[matthew172]

new wheels look top notch, didnt realise you had hi spec brakes on the rear

[Rich]

old wheels are the only thing i didnt love about this car, new wheels look wicked!

How do you rate the hi spec brakes?

[Nick J]

Hi Martin,

Did Mark pass on the different coloured graphics for the wheels? I never bothered using them after I had them made up as I prefered the look without but each to their own... The wheels looked much better with anodised black bolts I found also but I guess you wont want them after splashing out for a stud conversion! Looking forward to seeing them on the car even though Ive always liked the chronos to be honest.

Nick.

[peester]

nice update, perfecting perfection lol

[krobinson]

Nice work Martin!

[MARTIN KELSON]

Thanks for the coments.

To answer some questions:

The oil from the video seems to of stopped. It was first outing on a fresh engine build so presume it was something to do with that!

Yea ran Hi-Spec rear calipers for quite few years. Not sure if Hi-spec now sell them as a kit. At the time i sent the origonal calipers off to them & Hi-Spec made the necessary brackets etc to fit.
Bit overkil really on rear of a Nova but they match the fronts so i wanted them!!!

The stud/nut conversion came from Rally Design - see Spanishfly's guide in 'Articles' section on what to order.

Looking forward to seeing what the wheels look like, just need some boots for then now. Thinking Kumho V70A's if anybody ever tried them any opinions greatly received.

Martin

[boss]

just been looking on page 12 whats that thing called that goes between the pullys and were can you buy them from stunning car btw

[fearless]

just been looking on page 12 whats that thing called that goes between the pullys and were can you buy them from stunning car btw

That will be a Swindon Race Engines cambelt 'cover'

Hope youve got deep pockets coz they aint cheap for what is basically a machined piece of 'plastic'

[craig green]

Wheels look like they'll be nice Martin.
new wheel bearing is always a good plan, esp when the old one is about to fail.

Please PM me with any news of the Chronos being FS. If you read back you'll see I've commented on them many times.

[MARTIN KELSON]

Please PM me with any news of the Chronos being FS. If you read back you'll see I've commented on them many times.

Will do

When i decide what i'am going to do i will give you first refusal.

Cheers

[Graeme]

What length studs did you get Martin?

[dj_wudgey]

cantr wait to see this with the new rims dude!! any new pics?? lol

[MARTIN KELSON]

cantr wait to see this with the new rims dude!! any new pics?? lol

No not got pics
Not got tyres for them yet.

[MARTIN KELSON]

What length studs did you get Martin?

I used Spanishfly's feature in articles section.

I bought the SS12's from Rally Design which are 50mm long (38mm exposed)

Martin

[hybridturbo]

Nice wheel choice Martin

I think you should keep the chronos/rl7's and get a set of et49 oz racing wheels with decals and swap between the 3 best wheel sets that are on offer for one of the best well spec'd nova's about :)

[MARTIN KELSON]

Nice wheel choice Martin

I think you should keep the chronos/rl7's and get a set of et49 oz racing wheels with decals and swap between the 3 best wheel sets that are on offer for one of the best well spec'd nova's about :)

If only i could afford & have space to keep 3 sets of wheels! :)

[Graeme]

Thanks very much Martin

[MARTIN KELSON]

Thanks very much Martin

No problem.

I would measure for yourself though as wheel offset will alter the length of stud required so dont take what fits me will fit you.

Cheers

[craig green]

Its not so much the offset, but wether the bolts sit out near the surface or deeper into the centre.

As said, measure up in every case.

[MARTIN KELSON]

Nova now back of the road after the summer.
Managed to do a massive 447 miles in it this year!!!

Last trip out was to John Toovey to sort a small running issue out. Weather was awful & as it never goes out in the rain i was gutted, but it needed to go before tax ran out.
Drive back it was 100times better but still needs a rolling road session to get it 100% perfect.

Was following a truck on way back covering car with dirty water. All i could think about was that dirt going through bonnet scoop & sucked into my engine as i never ran filters.
Quick call to Jenvey me thinks & this arrived

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05155.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05156.jpg

Strip down & trial fit

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05158.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05159.jpg

Small problem. Throttle linkage rubbing in backing plate & seized it up. Call again to Jenvey.
Apparently how i have set my linkage most people cut that bit off apparently. Trust me to use it that way.
Options, buy some spacers at £20 each x 4 plus delivery or cut a slot on backplate to allow free movement of linkage. Didnt fancy spending another £100 so went for slot option.
Today drill & Dremmel came out

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05162.jpg

Took abit of fettling but seems okay.

Trial fit it all back together
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05163.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05164.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05166.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05167.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05169.jpg

So that was todays quick play.
Want rear beam off next to get re-powdercoated & sort wheels out.

Martin

[Graeme]

Excellent as always Martin

[Benn]

Looking good, cover/filter makes it look very tidy.

[discoinferno]

awesome car this :D

[MARTIN KELSON]

All trial fitted & seems ok

Need to take the filter backing plate back off & get it sprayed up properly so it looks 'nice'

[scott.parker]

Glad you sorted a backing plate out mate, never seen one thats dished like that, perfect though for your rail issue etc, looks spot on!

Scott

[Will F]

Nice to see a different air filter than ITG!

So why the decision to go with the shorter rams?

When I had mine mapped, we tried all kinds of lengths and the difference was quite significant... with torque especially....
:)

[scott.parker]

Don't think he's changed them Will, just the back plate is dished/concaved so that it comes up the trumpets more, so he's got round the fuel rail issue, think i right in saying this?

Scott

[discoinferno]

As Scott said just the back plate

[Will F]

Oh yeah I know that - I just wondered why he had the shorter rams.

If anything you could run even longer ones with that air box...

[MARTIN KELSON]

Still 90mm trumpets.

With longer trumpets, then a larger filter i would be getting close to having issues closing bonnet.

Think 90mm is about the norm without issues

[scott.parker]

I think i could go 100-120mm on mine with that filter back plate and my itg filter, not sure, but to start with i cant find any alloy tapered 100-120mm trumpets..

Scott

[MARTIN KELSON]

You can get spacers from Jenvey or Jonlem on here to lengthen the inlet.

Dont know how much extra performance you gain from an extra 10-20mm inlet length.

[scott.parker]

Be interesting to try it on the rollers to see how much more torque it will produce, as i assume you could get the LBFT/BHP equal by fiddling with the trumpet/inlet length etc, as I'm sure there is something like -20 LBFT to BHP normally on a standard car/set up etc?

Scott

[MARTIN KELSON]

Gotta stick mine on the rollers next year when back on the road.

May see if i can try it whilst there

[scott.parker]

Any idea what yours is running? 210-220bhp? what lbft?

Scott

[Will F]

Actually ignore my comment re length of trumpets, I just looked again! lol

I thought you had stubby ones, like you see on corsas etc...

When we were fiddling with mine, we had 120mm trumpets on and although tehy looked rediculous, torque was up by 8lb ft - whilst power was around the same mark..

I couldnt justify the exepnse though - 90mm is a good all rounder

[VXNova87]

beautiful engine bay!!

[MARTIN KELSON]

Need to mount the air temp sensor.
Was going to drill into the air filter backing plate, but what to use to mount it.

Any ideas much appreciated, & its gotta look right so no sticky tape or cable ties! :)

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/DSC05171.jpg

Martin

[scott.parker]

Mines mounted on the slam, I'm sure others have them mounted behind the bumper, where do you have it at the moment? Will where is yours mounted?

Scott

[peester]

mines behind firewall..

[MARTIN KELSON]

It was mounted inside passenger side wing

Trust it would always be getting cold air though so presume it should really be in the bay close to inlet hence wanting to mount it in the filter backing plate, just dont know how to hold it in place & make it look neat.

[MARTIN KELSON]

Not to sound totally stupid but what does it do.

Dont say senses air temperature either!! :)

I mean by detecting the temperature of the air what does it tell the ECU to adjust??
So does it need to be close to inlet to detect the temp of air being sucked into inlet or doesnt it really make much difference if in or out of engine bay?

[peester]

i dont know a great deal about it - but ecu will alter fuelling slightly to air temp. i believe..
SBD told me to mount it as close to filter as poss - so its an as honest temp reading of the air the engine is taking in as poss..
At the time i never thought to drill the filter mounting; just found an existing hole in the nova firewall; which is near the filter.

[discoinferno]

will's ats is attached to his fuel rail

[scott.parker]

Humm, see mine use to be attached to the filter backing plate, but Dar advised i move it,as i am sure he said it's more of an abeyant air reading, not a direct air intake sensor, might be wrong, anyone wish to ask Dar or Lee where theirs are/were mounted?

Scott

[MARTIN KELSON]

Just read this from SBD Instruction sheet from website:

The air temp sensor should measure ambient air temp so should be mounted away from engine heat.

So may put it back inside the wing.

[scott.parker]

I thought it was mate, fancy me getting something right for once! lol

[Will F]

It should be mounted away from heat (backing plate can get quite hot - conducting heat from the head etc), but close enough to the trumpets/inlet to give a realistic reading of the actual air temp going onto the inlet manifold...

Mine is near the fual rail - its not ideal, but doesnt conduct as much heat as you'd think...

I would think that mounting it somewhere 'cool' would not give a true indication of inlet air temp...

[MARTIN KELSON]

Its time to start this winters project.

Got these sitting in Souther Ireland for me. Genuine Vauxhall items. Mine are copies & fit like ****, so hopefully these will be better.
Just got to get them in the new year.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/PB130534.jpg

Need to take rear beam back off & strengthen where the shock mounts to beam.
As i'am using coil overs all the weight on the back is held by the shock bracket & needs a little attention.
Anybody any pics of they have done to resolve this much appreciated.

Want front end re-painting if i can persuade Ade who does my paint to take it on as i have few stone chips i want rid off.

As & when i pull my finger out i will post some snaps up

Martin

[fearless]

Nice to see you have found some wings - but don't expect them just to bolt on and be a perfect fit - they will need a bit of tweeking to fit perfectly.

Best to trial fit them first before you get them painted !!!


If your looking for a small winter project I have a few finishing touches that need doing to mine ;)


Dave

[MARTIN KELSON]

Nice to see you have found some wings - but don't expect them just to bolt on and be a perfect fit - they will need a bit of tweeking to fit perfectly.

Best to trial fit them first before you get them painted !!!


If your looking for a small winter project I have a few finishing touches that need doing to mine ;)


Dave

Yea i'am planning trial fitting when they arrive next year.

Hopefully not too much work :)

A 'few' finishing touches eh Dave. Still waiting for some updated pictures. Must be nearly finished surely lol

[fearless]

Only progress is an extra inch of dust on the shell :)

[MARTIN KELSON]

Start a thread in 'projects' so we can all see what youve been upto.

You might get enough hassle to pull your finger out!

[Big_Chap]

Anybody any pics of they have done to resolve this much appreciated.

These are all I have mate, don't have any showing them before power coating. Ive since beefed them up by cutting a similar size plate and replacing the inner one that was still the original bracket. I've since binned the welded nut and went for a regular nut n bolt setup, can just fit a spanner down the back when the coilover is in place

Do the inner one first so you can get in to weld it then the outer one.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Big_Chap/DSC00685.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Big_Chap/DSC00688.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Big_Chap/DSC00693.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Big_Chap/DSC00694.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v82/Big_Chap/DSC00692.jpg

[scott.parker]

Martin you definatly need to trial fit wings, as i didnt as my gm mk2 wings were 2nd hand i just guessed they would fit, but nope!! still one of the top 5 all time novas!

Scott

[matthew172]

wings look nice

[Connor]

Good find on the wings martin.
Beam looks spot on aswell :thumb:

[Jonlem]

Love this car, SO tidy.

Cut a hole in the bonnet and I'll have some 12 inch extensions made for you lol

[lee-loon]

Nice to see you have found some wings - but don't expect them just to bolt on and be a perfect fit - they will need a bit of tweeking to fit perfectly.

Best to trial fit them first before you get them painted !!!


Dave

what many people don't realise is genuine replacement panels are rejects from factory that didn't fit within a time scale and after end of production of the vehicle vauxhall/ford/ etc are made to make replacement part for several years, basicly after end of production of the vehicle the quality of the parts arnt allways like they should be.

[merv beckett]

thats going to look a stunner m8 keep it up!

[MARTIN KELSON]

Well had few hours spare this morning & as i have had some Raceline RL7 wheels sitting doing nothing since last year i decided it was time to get a couple of tyres swapped & fit two wheels to see if i like them & decide what wheels to keep.
The tyres aren't what i'am going to finally use but wanted to see wheels finally on so just swapped two over.

Was hoping to get car out to get a proper look but battery was flat & wouldnt start & as battery is under seat its not easy to use jump leads so pics aren't what i wanted.

Here you go:

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000028.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000030.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000029.jpg

They fit better

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000019.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000014.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000013.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000020.jpg

So now decision time.

WHAT WHEELS DO I KEEP???????????

Martin

[Graeme]

I like the Rl7s

[MARTIN KELSON]

I quite like em

Going to try to get it out of the garage again tomorrow for a proper side on pic so i can see if i like em

[Nick J]

They look well Martin! And the black only compliments the cars colour...... But I always felt the chronos suited your car very well and no one else has them so maybe gave the car that extra individuality etc.

Nick.

[nova_stee]

love the new wheels such a stuning car

[MARTIN KELSON]

They look well Martin! And the black only compliments the cars colour...... But I always felt the chronos suited your car very well and no one else has them so maybe gave the car that extra individuality etc.

Nick.

Yea always liked that nobody else had the chrono's but the RL7's aren't exactly common.

Just fancied a change to be honest but gotta be right to let the Chrono's go.

[The Simps]

As Nick has said - both look excellent! Maybe have some with grippy tyres on and some with wets??

Oh, you need to polish the car a bit - doesn't look shiney enough :p

[Paul]

The RL7's look 10 times better IMO

[Will F]

RL7s are awesome - I have a set but have never fitted them!lol

IMHO though, they need to be a lighter colour - white's probably too stark, but something to bring out the wheel more - you cant really tell what they are cos they're too dark - they look a bit like 15" astra sport wheels! lol

[The Simps]

RL7s are awesome - I have a set but have never fitted them!lol

IMHO though, they need to be a lighter colour - white's probably too stark, but something to bring out the wheel more - you cant really tell what they are cos they're too dark - they look a bit like 15" astra sport wheels! lol


Its a good point! Bronze maybe?

[MARTIN KELSON]

Black wheels were never a colour i would have really chosen.

That was just they colour they were when i bought them & wanted to try them on to see if i liked before i went too deep & wasted money on something i wasn't going to keep.

[krobinson]

I like them! I vote RL7's!

[NOV4_SPORT]

mmmmmmmm the wheels look well smart.

iain

[krobinson]

Iain is such a legend that you should listen to him...

[hartley]

looks stunning mate a love them wheels be nice to see the car in the flesh are you gonig to any shows this year mate

[Breeny]

Car looks ace Martin, just as it always has! :)

[scott.parker]

Ive always liked your chronos tbh, but rl7s are ace! As said though maybe repaint them in an anthracite color simalar to your chronos, say sod it, go white!

[John]

Tough call! I'd personally keep the speedlines. One off's imo, just update the colour?

[MARTIN KELSON]

looks stunning mate a love them wheels be nice to see the car in the flesh are you gonig to any shows this year mate

Hoping too as in last few years i just havent been *rsed.

May pop to Billing as not been for years & quite like the variety. Dunno about Total Vauxhall last time i went it was poor.

May stick the RL7's on leave em black & do few shows & gauge what i think.

[matthew172]

i think the rl7s look the dogs bollocks

[kevster]

they are very nice wheels !!!

[Mazz]

RL7's look 10x better, now sell me the chrono's ;)

[Pistol Pete]

Chronos suit your car so much better IMO. Maybe the black against your car doesnt suit?

EDIT: lol how wrong was i...
Wheels will set the car off just right.

[scott.parker]

Get a better pic of them on the car and Southie nicely to do some shops of different colors etc..

[Benn]

They do look nice, but i think would look nicer if they where a bit lighter in colour.

Surprised you put it away for winter dirty tho, same you so far away of i'd offer to clean it for you..

[MARTIN KELSON]

Went to do alot on Nova today but didnt really achieve much in the end.

Nova had some new shoes.
Kumho V70a road legal track tyres.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000045.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000047.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000048.jpg

Changes to studs & nuts recently & the fronts were too short!
Had to remove, which wasnt easy as stud locked in!
Bit of heat & finally managed to get em out.
Here is new ones in.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000051.jpg

Was planning on starting it but no joy (read mechanical as i'am stuck!)

Was also planning on getting rear beam removed, but as i say it really didnt go to plan today :(

Martin

[kevster]

nice rubber !!! who did you get them from if you dont mind me asking

thanks kevin

[MARTIN KELSON]

Local tyre fitters that i have known for years.

As Kumho motorsport division is close to me they knew people who worked there so they got them & fitted them for me.

Now i know they fit i need to order the other two! :)

Not as nice looking from the side as there a 50 profile but i'am more into performance now than looks so who cares!

[kevster]

i work with/for a tyre wholesaler , will have to see if i can get ahold of some of them me think's .
we cant get a hold of the toyo r 888 anymore for some strange reason someing to do with tradeing reg's , i dont know .

but i am lovein the tread pattern (must be sad to coment on the tread lol)

[discoinferno]

rl7's :)

[blue_peg_16v]

rl7s definatly

[scott.parker]

**** hot tyres, think i need to invest, just wish funds permited me... grr...

[honie5]

This car looks immaculate top work lad!

[novadose2009]

Just Read This From Start To Finish 40Pages

Awesome Car Mate Hard To Get Any Better I Also Prefer Your New Wheels Over Your Old Ones.

Good Work NOVA FTW

Simon

[MattBrown]

Also read all 40 pages!

Looks top.

Is there a thread for the origional build?

[MARTIN KELSON]

Now the old girl will start i dragged it out of the garage today so i couls see what i think of the RL7's
Here are some side shots

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000055.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000054.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000053.jpg

Odd tyres at the moment, tried to ease the pain ordering 4 Kumho V70's in one hit!

Whilst i was there i replaced one of the fuel pipes on the left as was abit short and tight.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000056.jpg

Really pleased with how its starting at the moment. Starts & idles like a standard XE!!

Like the RL7's but not 100% sure if the colour of them does them justice with the car being dark.
What do you think?

Martin

[fearless]

Nice wheels, wrong colour

[MARTIN KELSON]

Nice wheels, wrong colour

What colour you suggest Mr France?

[krobinson]

I'd go a nice metallic grey

[fearless]

Definately something a lot lighter - Not sure if white would look too much


I'm sure someone will do a few photoshops for you

Maybe a nice shade of pink :)

[scott.parker]

Looks ace dude!

Yeah just a subtle medium metallic grey would set them off a treat!

God knows how your car always looks so stunning!!

Scott

[MARTIN KELSON]

Definately something a lot lighter - Not sure if white would look too much


I'm sure someone will do a few photoshops for you

Maybe a nice shade of pink :)

Dont think pink is quite me, on your mystery project maybe!

Wouldnt go 'proper' white. Rocker cover is Honda Championship White which is quite a creamy colour....................Maybe!

Scott, trust me it aint looking anywhere near how i would want it :(

[fearless]

Scott, trust me it aint looking anywhere near how i would want it :(

So how would you want it then :p

[peester]

Yeah may look better in an anthracite colour, dont have photo-shop on this new pc yet..
front tyres have quite a healthy/chunky profile to them; if fussy looks-wise like..

[MARTIN KELSON]

So how would you want it then :p

Starting to look a wee bit tired around the edges Dave.

Ready for next stripdown but need to sell my house first & get a garage. Been on the market now 9 months and nothing!

Proper cage next time & a lighter colour

[fearless]

So I take it your happy with the Performance/Handling/Braking - just after a change of look - something easier to keep clean :)

Didn't realise you were selling up - need something with more bedrooms for Kids ?

[MARTIN KELSON]

So I take it your happy with the Performance/Handling/Braking - just after a change of look - something easier to keep clean :)

Didn't realise you were selling up - need something with more bedrooms for Kids ?

Yea happy with the car, handling could be better but think i just need suspension setup properly.

Definetly something easier to look after & keeping clean.

Just me and the boss selling my house and getting one together, with a garage!!!

[fearless]

Just me and the boss selling my house and getting one together, with a sex dungeon

Didn't realise you were into that so much :roll:


Feel free to invite me to your house warming/swinging party - I'm getting quite good at taking pervy photo's now

[The Simps]

I think dave has hit it on the head. Wheels look good wrong colour. I was thinking of going with some bronze wheels on my black 200 to break it up a touch. Maybe work on this although I know your not black?

This kind of bronze....

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ROTA-GTR-Alloy-wheels-Nissan-Skyline-R32-R33-R34-18x9-5-/170425001412?pt=UK_CarParts_Acc_Wheels_tyres_Trims _Car_Rims_ET&hash=item27ae1f25c4

[The Simps]

Re-looking at it I think your car colour is too close to that shade anyway :(

[hybridturbo]

Looks great i would go gold with new decals :thumb:

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c139/gsijoe/DSCF0505-1.jpg

[MARTIN KELSON]

Not really an update bit got these back from powder coaters.
There the metal brace / thingy that goes in the door to seperate the quarter glass from the main up/down glass

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000101.jpg

Once back in i dragged its sorry ass out of the garage & gave a real quick clean before sticking it back under its cover.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000105.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000106.jpg

Just waiting now for my new Magnecor leads to arrive.
Had heard loads of good things about Magnecor & their customer service & delivery times. To be honest my opinion at the moment is their toss!!
Hope their leads are better than their service :)

[carlo46]

Just read every page of your build martin and your nova is stunning I have also pmd you dude

[Ben]

Had heard loads of good things about Magnecor & their customer service & delivery times. To be honest my opinion at the moment is their toss!!
Hope their leads are better than their service :)

Car looks awesome, but have to say anyone i have ever spoke to say magnecor leads are way overpriced for no gain whatsoever other than a bit of bling for the engine bay.

[scott.parker]

Thats why i bought some of them kernielson f1S *SP* just like magnecore but alot cheaper

[njc11]

Hey Martin!

Cars looking good matey... :thumb:

Hows tricks with you and what about Mr France??

Cheers

Nick
:thumb:

[Benn]

2nd pic down, car looks stunning!

[MARTIN KELSON]

Hi,

Been for a small tat on the Nova tonight.
Ever since i have owned a Nova with an XE i have always been missing the cover from gearbox over the flywheel.
Picked one up the other week then dropped it at powdercoaters for a spruce up.
Now on once i had some M7 bolts. What were Vauxhall thinking..............M7 now there is a uncommon size!

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000232.jpg

Never been a fan of the pipework on XE Novas where you have to tee in the waterpipe return to the header tank. Always looks a little messy to me. Decided this week to do something about it!
Quick e-mail to Bailey Motorsport got me a water 'spout'
Then out with the drill!

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000233.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000234.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000235.jpg

Obviously still work in progress.
Will drop it off hopefully Monday to get it welded on then off to get it spruced back up.

This damn thing also broke so whilst at the welders hopefully he can do me a fix on this.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000236.jpg

Will post some more snaps up once the welder has done his stuff & hopefully will make the bay look just that little bit neater that nobody will probably ever notice!

[fearless]

IMO I'd scrap the stainless heat shield - too brittle for the heat from the exhaust manifold

If you must have one - It will be cheaper and easier just to buy a new one rather than pay someone to re TIG the old one, grind up and polish etc

[MARTIN KELSON]

IMO I'd scrap the stainless heat shield - too brittle for the heat from the exhaust manifold

If you must have one - It will be cheaper and easier just to buy a new one rather than pay someone to re TIG the old one, grind up and polish etc

Dont know if you can still buy ones the same as this.

Had it from Dave Franzak, cant remember what his company was called or if it still even trades.

Will see if he can repair, if not dig into that wallet again i suppose!

[fearless]

http://www.v-tuning.com/index.htm

But not sure if he's still trading

[kevster]

i live 10mins away from that address , i can look in to it for you if you wish ?

[MARTIN KELSON]

Home page says last updated Feb 08 so i think they have gone.

£30.60 from Courtenay!
Think i will try a repair first :)

[kevster]

how much !! lol they never used to be that did they :(

[Mazz]

pah, carbon Mart!

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y191/mrmazz/Nova/DSC_0023_Medium.jpg

[fearless]

Yeh - think of the weight you'll save !!!

[scott.parker]

Mazz wheres that Carbon one from??

Martin, i had one of the stainless ones, funny enough i ditched it as it also got brittle and snapped on the bolt holes etc..

Good call on the header tank, i might get this done to mine too, as i know a guy locally who welded two of trumpets after the welds failed on them, so he might just make it all for me etc, and if i do that ill get a TX rad while its drained out..

Good to see progress mate, Ive been on on mine tonight just getting it on stand and draining oil/remove filter ready for new oil tomorrow.

Scott

[MARTIN KELSON]

Yeh - think of the weight you'll save !!!

I need to mate. Seem to have a bit of middle age spread going on at the moment, so need to counteract that! lol

[fearless]

I need to mate. Seem to have a bit of middle age spread going on at the moment, so need to counteract that! lol

Yeh - it's not easy when you get to our age - I can't image you with a little pot belly


You need to compete in a few more bedroom athletics with the mrs- that should shed a few pounds lol

[MARTIN KELSON]

Yeh - it's not easy when you get to our age - I can't image you with a little pot belly


You need to compete in a few more bedroom athletics with the mrs- that should shed a few pounds lol

Its the BIG birthday next year :(

I will put your suggestion to her!

[peester]

and if i do that ill get a TX rad while its drained out..


make sure it doesnt leak

[novacabrio]

Its the BIG birthday next year :(

I will put your suggestion to her!

You don't look 50 mate? lol :d

[MARTIN KELSON]

Ha ha!
Feel it sometimes!
Just take 10yrs of then your correct.

[scott.parker]

make sure it doesnt leak

Have some of you lot had issues with them then?

[Mazz]

yea there a thread somewhere, crap welds and leakage problems.. :(

http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=165894

[Benn]

I've had two and not had a leak yet...

[Jeff16v]

Mine doesn't leak either, it's just got fugly welds

[Mazz]

I'm sure i read that someone did and they had welded up :confused:

[Jeff16v]

I'm sure i read that someone did and they had welded up :confused:


You're correct, some had to be repaired due to dodgy welds:thumb:

[MARTIN KELSON]

Not really an update but got these back from a mate who welded them for me.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000237.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000238.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000239.jpg

Next job is to make them look pretty & a few other engine parts i have in mind :)

[mrT]

this is probably my favourite nova on png, well nice car:thumb:

[kevster]

looking good :)

[MARTIN KELSON]

Got some bits back today from Powdercoaters.
Not 100% if I like yet. Need to get car out of the garage to see in proper light.

My photography dont do it justice either!

What do you think?
Fed up with shiney & saw alot of VW's at Ultimate Dubs show earlier in year with 'crackle' powercoating and liked it so thought, give it a try.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000331.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000332.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000334.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000336.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000338.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000340.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000341.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1000342.jpg

Next job..............................Dreaded MOT :(

'If' i get an MOT pass then were back on the road for the summer.
Not driven it for 6 months so looking forward to getting back behind the wheel.

[Iain]

Crackle looks cool but the bay looks quite dark now? Nice work, shouldn't be much to fail on the MOT surely?!

[MARTIN KELSON]

Yea does look a little dark whick is why i need to drag it out into daylight for proper look.

Only done 300 miles since last MOT so hope not.
Emmisions always what i worry about most!

[John]

Really Liking that Martin! :)

[Novasport]

Like it on the strut brace, not sure about it on the tanks yet but may grow on me.
Could do with a metal spark plug cover done in the same finish.

[Novasport]

Cut round the drain plug with a sharp blade before removing it but you can probably still expect it to peel. Better still, don't use it.

[MARTIN KELSON]

Cut round the drain plug with a sharp blade before removing it but you can probably still expect it to peel. Better still, don't use it.

The drain plug on catch tank was done seperate & i re-tapped it earlier before screwing it back in so 'hopefully' be okay.

[Will F]

Yea does look a little dark whick is why i need to drag it out into daylight for proper look.

Only done 300 miles since last MOT so hope not.
Emmisions always what i worry about most!

Emissions are no probs at all when you have an adjustable FPR!

Just turn it back a tad!

And of course, remember to turn it back up again!

;)

[MARTIN KELSON]

Emissions are no probs at all when you have an adjustable FPR!

Just turn it back a tad!

And of course, remember to turn it back up again!

;)

Really is it that easy?
Have an adjustable FPR & a gauge so i can see whats its set at.

Maybe screw gauge in before MOT just incase.

Cheers for the heads up on that one Will.

[Adam]

I like the crackle finish, looks different and cool!

And as Will said, if emissions are high, just drop the fuel pressure down until its ok, obviously keep note of where it was before you turned it down.

[MARTIN KELSON]

I will have puel pressure dropped to nearly zero to get this Nova legal!!

Need to give it a run first too, not moved for 6 months.

[matthew172]

looking good that powdercoating is, how much of a task would it be to remove if you wanted to go back to shiney ?

[MARTIN KELSON]

looking good that powdercoating is, how much of a task would it be to remove if you wanted to go back to shiney ?

Nothing is impossible as they say.
Think it would be a tough task though, so i think its a matter of like it or lump it!

[matthew172]

Nothing is impossible as they say.
Think it would be a tough task though, so i think its a matter of like it or lump it!

lol well i kinda like it tbh

[novacabrio]

Powder coating can be dipped in an acid to remove if you don't like it

[scott.parker]

I like it as it looks just like the air filtter...

Scott

[Nick J]

Nothing is impossible as they say.
Think it would be a tough task though, so i think its a matter of like it or lump it!

Its a lot easier than you think! Ive used paint stripper on a few powdercoated fearless braces now and re polished them. I quite like it Martin as it tones the bay down and looks more simplistic which is a look many are going for these days. Id say the gearbox casing in the same finish would look great but I doubt you'd want to go that far! ;)

Nick.

[hybridturbo]

Nice i would crackle black the cage,rear brace and any other shiny stuff to match now

[MattBrown]

Its a lot easier than you think! Ive used paint stripper on a few powdercoated fearless braces now and re polished them. I quite like it Martin as it tones the bay down and looks more simplistic which is a look many are going for these days. Id say the gearbox casing in the same finish would look great but I doubt you'd want to go that far! ;)

Nick.

One of them "little" jobs hey nicklol

But just to copy what everyone else has said, its one of the all time greatest novas:thumb:

[MARTIN KELSON]

10.00am this morning the old girl was booken in for its MOT.

I absolutely hate MOTing the Nova. There is probably so much they could be picky about if they wanted, emmisions being the main one.

Anyway we managed to get the ticket then i dropped Nova of & went to get this.
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/photo.jpg

It is now back on the road!

Cant believe after weeks of beutiful sunshine, today it totally p1ssed it down so its back in the garage looking sorry for itself.
Was looking forward to going for a blast, not in this weather though. It will wait for another day!!

[Mazz]

Called 'sods law' I believe!

Stopped raining here now though, so might pop down t'garage and tinker :)

[MARTIN KELSON]

Afternoon,

Not really an update but i have been p1ssed of with when the engine went back in last year the oil pressure sensor on Stack decided it wasnt going to work.
Could only be a sensor failure i thought as worked fine before engine came out so eventually i bit the bullet & parted with nearly £120 for a new sensor from Demon Theaves.

Plugged it & still nowt :(

Couple of weeks ago decided to pull Stack loom out. Didnt realise that when my mate rewired the car he taped all the Stack loom into the car loom so had to undo loads of his nice work to get it out.

Spoke to Stack about sending it back, they want £40 to just look at it, then whatever it costs to repair & unless you want to pay extra they quote 20 working days (1 month!) to even come back to you with a quote!
Bit of searching on web & spoke to 'Field Motorsport', really nice & helpful so off the loom went. Found few issues with it, so thought great when it comes back at least it will work & finally put back together & dash back in.

Nothing ever that easy! Connected live & earth to the dash & plugged in oil sensor, still dead!
Thought maybe as there was an issue with loom i had damaged the new sensor. Saw a new still in sealed packet one on the bay so bought that. Yesterday thought, right this will be it finally.............................Nope still dont work!

Think i'am going have to bite the bullet & send it to Stack & wave goodbye to the dash for over a month & wait for them to empty by bank balance!

Also speaking to Stack, my dash had the option of an air sensor, found out now Stack cant get that sensor so tough sh1t, asked about reconfiguring it so it can read Fuel Pressure (i seem to be now breeding sensors), no problem.......................£200 please!! Not my fault Stack cant get the air sensor & not willing to help in the slightest regarding the cost.

Wish at the moment i had never bought a damn Stack dash :(

[craig green]

STACK sound like a nightmare.

Chin-up! The car looked ace at Billing.

[Edd]

I was considering a STACK dash, don't think I'll bother after reading about your problems

I wouldn't be too worried lol you have one of the best nova's around

[Nick J]

The car looked ace at Billing.


Indeed it did! Big fan of what you've done to change it with the engine bay/wheels Martin....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/39.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/DSC_0088Medium.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/DSC_1580.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/40.jpg

[Benn]

Cant believe all the grief with the dash, that's crazy.

[MARTIN KELSON]

Thought it would be a quick fix hence why i did it now.
Now i have car in garage all taxed & ready to use with no dash!

Should of really left it till it came off road over the winter. Never mind too late now.

Thanks for nice comments anyhow from Billing

[Mazz]

Time to have a little :cry: ?

[MARTIN KELSON]

Time to have a little :cry: ?

Really fed up with it at the moment chris!

[Jonlem]

When I had problems with my Stack it ended back with them via the guy that makes my looms. I think my bill was something like £300 !

I know the early stacks like I had used VDO sensors, Stack may not do a sensor but I'm sure there must be a alternative ?

Keep at it mate, the car rocks.

[MARTIN KELSON]

Just wish i had left it till it came off the road in the winter.
Never mind, we live & learn dont we!

[Iain]

How was the Stack loom connected? No chance of running standard dials for a month?

[Pistol Pete]

TBH if i had your car and the only problem was the dash, it wouldnt be a massive issue!!

Still, i can understand how something like that would be annoying. Hope you get it sorted.

I really look forward to having a look at this in the flesh someday. Your car is up there with the best IMO.

[MARTIN KELSON]

How was the Stack loom connected? No chance of running standard dials for a month?

Too much hastle.
all wiring for origonal dash has been removed, plus i dont even have a std nova dash!

I will get it sorted, probably just in time for its winter break!

[MARTIN KELSON]

Well its this time of year again & Nova of the road & see what i can spend on the old girl this year.

With alot of talk at the moment of stubbie mirrors i thought this lunch hour i would have a go at making a set.................................How hard can it be!!
Armed with some standard mirrors & an aerosol can of spray i ended up with this :)

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010085.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/StubbyMirrors.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010090.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010089.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010088.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010087.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010091.jpg

Dunno what all the fuss is about, seem easy to me!!

As you can guess i havent made them, but a big thank you to the gentleman who did :)
Need to get it out of garage, fit the other side & get some better pics taken.

Next plan is to get the rear beam off, need to get new mounts made for rear shock to beam as now on coilovers dont like the weight of the rear all on these origonal flimsey mounts, then off to powdercoaters.

Then i could do with a suspension sort out & propper mapping sesion on the rollers.

Anyway winter fun just got started!!

[scott.parker]

pmsl, you bought Nicks old ones?

Look ok mate.

[MARTIN KELSON]

As i said mate, made em in my lunch hour then a coat of shiney stuff from a can in our works workshop :)

[krobinson]

Only took you 15 years Martin! Look great :-)

[Novasport]

Dunno if I am getting old but I find little mirrors as much use as a chocolate teapot. I have had Irmscher mirrors on the 888 since I bought it in 2005 and not been bothered by them. This year when I drove it I found them rather annoying as I could see 'F' all out of them! Standard mirrors going back on next year.
Also thought it would be a good idea to remove the passenger mirror on the Swing, I have now lost the ability to park the bloody thing on my drive lol

Anyway they look nice but they are totally impractical I presume. Might want to get some of them caravan extending mirrors so you can see what is behind you lol

[MARTIN KELSON]

Dunno if I am getting old but I find little mirrors as much use as a chocolate teapot. I have had Irmscher mirrors on the 888 since I bought it in 2005 and not been bothered by them. This year when I drove it I found them rather annoying as I could see 'F' all out of them! Standard mirrors going back on next year.
Also thought it would be a good idea to remove the passenger mirror on the Swing, I have now lost the ability to park the bloody thing on my drive lol

Anyway they look nice but they are totally impractical I presume. Might want to get some of them caravan extending mirrors so you can see what is behind you lol

Nothing really practical about my Nova anyway so dumpy mirrors make little or no difference to the driving experience :)

Keith - if i was waiting for Dave i would be waiting another 15 years!! :)

[fearless]

Like I've always said Martin - All good things come to those who wait :)

[MARTIN KELSON]

Like I've always said Martin - All good things come to those who wait :)

How long do you think i have left on the planet Dave to wait???
Iam nearly 40 now & been waiting 10+ years already!!!

Hope your imaginary Nova project is worth the wait too :)

[Nick J]

Another trick addition for a car already stacked with them! Id say they were a definate improvement on the previous mirrors Martin as novas tend to suit the standardish look etc. Visability wise I bet they are probably better too? Either way I hope your happy with them and I look forward to seeing the car again next year.

Nick.

[mcgee.m]

nice one martin love this nova iwas on carbs too im in the middle ov changing to tbs

[Will F]

Can you actually see anything in those mirrors!? lol

They look a bit silly imo and dont really suit the car (I cant see what 'type' of nova they would suit tbh).

You dont know until you try though I guess!

[MARTIN KELSON]

Yea i can actually see through them :)
I will run with them this season & see how i like them.

[brainsnova]

When your going that fast who needs mirrors lol

[mcgee.m]

hi mate when u was runing twin 45 carbs wot ignition system was you using

[MARTIN KELSON]

Hi
When I ran the carbs I was using Weber Alpha ignition.

Cheers

[ocdstigy]

nice nova,can't wait to see the freshen up complete :)

[Benn]

It was this year..lol

[nova mad daz]

Hi martin glad to see you have still got the nova i also live in newport and have always wanted this car :-) keep up the good work cars looking betta than eva

[MARTIN KELSON]

Hi martin glad to see you have still got the nova i also live in newport and have always wanted this car :-) keep up the good work cars looking betta than eva

Thanks
Hopefully it will be with me to the bitter end now :)
Where in Newport do you live? Have we ever met?

[nova mad daz]

No i dont thinl we have mate just seen you out in the nova , i think i can remember it when it was silver if im right ? i live next to the fire station mate , i have just brought a nova gsi its in the project section under project gsi if you get time have a look an let me no what you think / eney ideas welcome :-) it a mess at the mo but hopefully get it mint again . hows yours have you done much since your last post ?? :-)

[MARTIN KELSON]

I havent been sitting around doing nothing.

Needed to connect the oil cooler back up after engine was out last time.
Goodridge bought and hose making started

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010215.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010211.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010217.jpg

Not been happy with the rear beam for a while. Was powdercoated few years ago & starting to get tatty.
Also now iam on rear coilovers i dont like the fact the weight of the car at the rear sits on shock brackets not designed to take the weight.
So today off it came

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010386.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010387.jpg

Old shock mounts

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010389.jpg

New ones to weld on.

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010390.jpg

Needed to car back in garage minus rear wheels

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010391.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010393.jpg
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a220/NOVAMARTIN16V/P1010394.jpg

Will take to work this week to get brakets welded on then powder coaters owe me a favour i will be calling in so hopefully soon back & putting back together.

[krobinson]

Great work Martin!

[Iain]

Sweet those tabs should take the weight a bit better! I thought powdercoat would have lasted for more than two years.