View Full Version : Iain's 20XE Trackday Nova
Pages :
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
[
13]
14
15
16
17
turbojolt
28-03-13, 04:22 PM
yer im well up for that mate
:( I want to be you track day fwiend
Iain on a dry track how many clicks do you have your rear shocks set to and what spring rates are you running?
Hobbit we'll organise something this year, not even looked at trackdays this year what with the weather etc!
I'm currently on 325lb front and 250lb rear springs, I honestly can't remember what damping settings I use as it's been so long lol 14 clicks on the rear rings a bell as a starting point but I fine tune it depending on the feel/handling of the car on the day.
My updates are getting more and more dull each time lol Not doing much work on the ol' beast recently, but...
Since the car steps sideways when braking, I've re-adjusted the rear drums and it now brakes nice and straight and is a lot more stable. Drums off, bit dusty:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/773.JPG
Loads of dust in the drums too:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/774.JPG
Quick clean:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/775.JPG
Self adjusting mechanism that needs a helping hand:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/776.JPG
Tapped the adjuster round with a screwdriver, only needed a few turns, set them both so you could only just get the drum on and felt the same resistance when the pedal was pressed:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/777.JPG
Planning on doing loads more trackdays this year so long overdue is this purchase. Plated 1300kg (980kg max load) Woodford lightweight, perfect for towing my 830kg Nova:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/778.JPG
One problem I had with it was I couldn't open the Nova doors when loaded because it hit the mudguard, so done some small mods to them. On:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/779.JPG
Wingnut and bolt on the inside mount:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/780.JPG
And with a slot instead of a hole on the inside of the mudguard, it neatly folds out of the way of the door:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/781.JPG
Booked onto Blyton Park on the 25th May (Saturday), so just over a week to wait till I can (hopefully) test out my slicks and recent tweaks.
peester
16-05-13, 10:22 PM
ha awesome modification to the trailer. Professional stuff now eh.
zeifer33
17-05-13, 09:28 AM
Yeah, i have the same problem. I like your solution:thumb:
Thats an awesome idea, simple but effective!
That's very good. I almost knocked my self out on a trailer like that, it has a small bar in front of the guard. The nova door hit that and slammed on my head. No nice.
That's very good. I almost knocked my self out on a trailer like that, it has a small bar in front of the guard. The nova door hit that and slammed on my head. No nice.
Sorry Benn, but I actually chuckled a little at that! lol
I didn't, felt like it caved my skull in... 3 people pushing it at full force...
Quick and easy trackday prep completed today, spanner checked it all over and fitted my brake ducting to try out the Mintex 1144 on track.
Front end disassembled:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/782.JPG
Ducting hole ready and waiting for some ducting to go on (Also bumper sides are now bodged on with a cable tie as I've bent the clips that hold the plastic block reversing up my driveway lol)
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/783.JPG
Brake ducting attached (had to refer to my own WIP to remember how I decided to route it!)
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/784.JPG
All ready for it's thrashing, minus it's spotlights as I won't need them on circuit:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/785.JPG
Looking good lionel! Spotted on facebook today too!
Looking good. Love you've done on the brake ducting.. Maybe go over the top of the brakes ok? Better routing...
Looking good lionel! Spotted on facebook today too!
Where's that? I'm not on FB myself lol
Yeah Benn a little while ago I trial fitted them over, under, round the back and this was the only route I could clear everything. Driven it from my parents home, used full lock, driven over speedbumps and reversed up the driveway and the ducts are still in tact so should be all good where they are. Should hopefully allow me to enjoy the nice initial bite of the M1144s without cooking them like I previously did, but taking my Yellowstuff pads just in case it doesn't work.
Where's that? I'm not on FB myself lol
Yeah Benn a little while ago I trial fitted them over, under, round the back and this was the only route I could clear everything. Driven it from my parents home, used full lock, driven over speedbumps and reversed up the driveway and the ducts are still in tact so should be all good where they are
The other half posted a pic of her mini and your nova together iirc :)
Where's that? I'm not on FB myself lol
Yeah Benn a little while ago I trial fitted them over, under, round the back and this was the only route I could clear everything. Driven it from my parents home, used full lock, driven over speedbumps and reversed up the driveway and the ducts are still in tact so should be all good where they are. Should hopefully allow me to enjoy the nice initial bite of the M1144s without cooking them like I previously did, but taking my Yellowstuff pads just in case it doesn't work.
Ah good thinking. Am enjoying your work.
zeifer33
21-05-13, 08:13 AM
Looks well these mods, how it goes?
Got on pretty well on my trackday on Saturday 25th with the slicks, here's a bit of a write up and copious amounts of pictures/videos
Big thanks to Richard, owner of Blyton Park, for being very accommodating and letting us camp at the circuit the night before. Also thanks to Harvey for coming to help out with the car/camping and also Turbojolt for showing up despite being too pansy to come out as a passenger lol
Firstly, got myself a spare set of rims with brand new Toyo T1Rs on for use as wets should the weather have been bad, not sure if I like them or whether I'll weigh them in and use the tyres lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/801.JPG
Got up early Saturday morning after camping, swapped to slicks immediately:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/786.JPG
Mmm sticky goodness:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/787.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/788.JPG
My trackday package, loving the new trailer:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/789.JPG
Had an issue where the alternator belt flipped itself inside out again, so me and Harvey adjusted the alternator position and fitted a new alternator belt for good measure. Seemed to sort it:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/790.JPG
Spare wheels, plus the set of Toyos/Astra rims pictured above lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/791.JPG
(Following on from previous post with pics of trackday)
Damaged a few things on the day as always lol
1) Gearbox now crunches into third quite badly, all the time. Possibly look at getting a gearset reconditioned.
2) Rear drums were sticking on after coming back into the pits. Front brakes were fading too, and it ripped the ducting apart with tyre contact but they didn't work all that well anyway. Possibly rear discs and 4 pot fronts are the way forward here?
3) Oil temperature/pressure was getting too high (temp) and low (pressure) again, so a bigger oil cooler is required.
4) A fair amount of tyre-body contact happened in the arches! Not sure what I can do here other than wider track front with custom lower arms and space the rears out more?
What's left of my ducting lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/792.JPG
All the arches are scrubbed from tyre rubbing, even after raising the rear coilovers 10mm they still scrubbed lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/793.JPG
Worst is passenger side rear:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/794.JPG
Drivers front scrubbed on full lock too though by the looks of it:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/795.JPG
My dipstick came out slightly and covered the engine bay in oil lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/796.JPG
Couple of pictures of me on track:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/797.JPG
Being a Mazda day there were tonnes of MX5s!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/798.JPG
Bit of tripodding:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/799.JPG
Videos of the day, here's a few of my quicker laps:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bufXEAFPzGw
Couple of exterior videos from the spectator bank:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeoTeu4TLdI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mgs4UH8Rrw4&feature=youtu.be
And here's one of me spinning it... Bit late on the brakes after passing an MX5, then possibly a bit of brake fade, snapped sideways and couldn't pull it back. Worst part is how it came to a stop sideways, it lifted the inside two wheels and felt like it was going to roll. Luckily didn't...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OShaPoVk3fM
Pic of the angle I got scrubbing to a standstill sideways!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/800.JPG
turbojolt
27-05-13, 09:15 PM
who's that handsome man in your pictures?
great day such a laugh, me and abby are well up for coming along to the next one aswell, might even get in the car if you promise not to nearly roll the dam thing lol
MARTIN KELSON
27-05-13, 09:19 PM
Think with those slicks being the size they are you will struggle to get no rubbage :(
iaiaiain, you can either co wide arch/wide track, or use narrower tyres & lock stops on the rack
who's that handsome man in your pictures?
I think Iain said his name was Harvey. lol.
What size tyres do you run? Do they expand when hot? Look good out there.
Look into a daewoo gearbox, they have hardly any power going through them so most of them are still mint and their final drive is ideal for track cars imo
It was an awesome day and the rusty Nova stood up well to your abuse. My forehead it still hurting from the sunburn, god dam receding hairline!
I was that shocked Iain actually offered to help it nearly turned all my hair white!!! I was more than in my element licking the tyre clean.
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/790.JPG
Think with those slicks being the size they are you will struggle to get no rubbage :(
Yep I knew they were large, they already have 5mm spacers all round so might have to jack the rear up a bit more so they don't catch as bad!
iaiaiain, you can either co wide arch/wide track, or use narrower tyres & lock stops on the rack
Don't really fancy wide arch after the work I put in to replace the quarters/wings/flare what's currently there :( Also don't fancy thinner tyres as this appears to be a common size slick so readily available.
What size tyres do you run? Do they expand when hot? Look good out there.
19/57/15 Michelin S9C tyres.
Look into a daewoo gearbox, they have hardly any power going through them so most of them are still mint and their final drive is ideal for track cars imo
Cheers for the heads up I'll look into them. Assume they have a linkage setup same as an F20 and almost a direct fit? I'll try and research fitting and ratios!
zeifer33
28-05-13, 10:09 AM
Nice pics Iain, what brake size you use?288?
Just on 256x24 at the moment.
Surely you've got a big hammer? That'll stop the scrubbing
Cheers for the heads up I'll look into them. Assume they have a linkage setup same as an F20 and almost a direct fit? I'll try and research fitting and ratios!
Yeah everything from your F20 will go straight on the daewoo box
They came with 3.9 and 4.1 final drive
zeifer33
28-05-13, 12:25 PM
Just on 256x24 at the moment.
Im running on 256 too, and only use the car on hillclimb events but enought to say that these brakes are too small under a hard driving with an XE, with the 1.6 L the 256 are good brakes even under pressure, but with the 2.0 weight...... Im thinking on upgrade to 288 V6 brakes or something similar.
Looks great, mate.
Talk about lucky, too!!
Is it just me that the sound is miles out on the videos for? Nice spin and landing...
Yeah it is ain't it, balls, I'll try and sort it
Fixed the vids for you Benn so you can hear the nice thud of the landing in the spin vid lol
So after the recent trackday and a bit of pondering on the brake setup, these 280mm Wilwood Dynalites cropped up for sale so I picked them up at PV show. Two pairs of Wilwood discs, braided brake lines and a set of Greenstuff, Yellowstuff and DS3000 pads included.
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/802.JPG
Nice calipers and brackets to bolt straight up to a Vauxhall knuckle:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/803.JPG
Poxy ATEs behind the wheels:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/804.JPG
256mm vs my new 280mm discs. Please ignore my poor attempt to clean them up, the camera makes it look horrendous!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/805.JPG
Wilwood calipers and brackets weigh in at a measly 1.9kg!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/806.JPG
Wasted no time in boshing them on:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/807.JPG
Braided lines are a little long but glad they were included as I'm not sure if I could use a standard banjo bolt with them? Had to cable tie them to the strut to stop them moving about and scrubbing.
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/808.JPG
Much better looking now:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/809.JPG
Been out and bedded in the Greenstuff pads to a used set of discs, they seem to stop quite well. They have a longer pedal compared to the ATE's, but I guess they're pushing 8 pistons in total instead of two.
Going to have the spare set of discs skimmed and bed in the DS3000s with them to see how they feel.
Current project is tidy up the cosmetic side a little bit, so ripped off the bumpers, skirts, handles, filler cap....
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/810.JPG
Everything needing painting, plus the handles/filler cap/mirror caps...
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/811.JPG
So far flatted the front and rear bumpers back with 120 grit to get rid of the worst of the pitting/chipping/flaking.
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/812.JPG
Need to go over them again with a finer paper, then plastic prime and probably going to gun-paint them satin black this time to see if they last longer without cracking/flaking.
Brakes look good. You should give them a once over with black when you do your trim
turbojolt
18-06-13, 07:55 PM
FOUR POTS!!!!!! yeahhhh baby
I found a glacier white touch up pen in the garage so you can have it next time I see you xxxxxx
Like those Wilwoods, that should make stopping a little easier.
Yet more good work.
Cheers guys well chuffed with them. I have some other braking tweeks in the pipeline so they'll be coming off for a paint sooner rather than later, just wanted to get them on and make sure they fitted and worked well first.
Cheers Leigh got some stonechips from the last trackday that need some paint lol
turbojolt
18-06-13, 08:09 PM
yer those slicks were throwing gravel everywhere, I had to do some funky matrix moves to avoid being hit lol
On with the bumpers, I stripped as much of the original paint off as possible with a DA
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/813.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/814.JPG
Most of the chips and stonechips taken back to primer:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/815.JPG
Then I shot some 2k primer over everything myself, things are taking shape:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/816.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/817.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/818.JPG
Primer was difficult, my compressor and gun weren't really up to it so I went over to my missus's dads who helped me finish the final prep and paint all the parts up so big thanks to him!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/819.JPG
Paint is supposed to be 2k satin black but it's pretty glossy finish:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/820.JPG
Rear fins tigersealed in place and the long sections clipped in:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/821.JPG
Bumpers and handles on:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/822.JPG
Front splitter reattached and bumper refitted with newly painted mirror caps:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/823.JPG
Final touch was to apply some red bumper pinstripe tape and take it to RetroShow over the weekend at Santa Pod, put the car on RetroRides stand area:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/824.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/825.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/826.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/827.JPG
M Sutton
11-07-13, 12:13 PM
Looks good! Saw the car but didnt got a proper look due to cueing for the strip. Went to have a look about 3pm and couldnt see the car. Hope to see it at Billing on sunday?
Looking good. Glad you got it all sorted without any reaction or anything
Weapon reloaded. Nice! :)
Looks good! Saw the car but didnt got a proper look due to cueing for the strip. Went to have a look about 3pm and couldnt see the car. Hope to see it at Billing on sunday?
Ah cool what were you running down the strip? Headed off around 3pm as the heat was killing me as I'd camped over too. Hopefully be at Billing on Sat/Sun yeah so come say hello to me. :)
Looking good. Glad you got it all sorted without any reaction or anything
Yeah me too, got taught some painting techniques and stuff so learnt a fair bit too so it's all good.
Cheers guys.
Yeah me too, got taught some painting techniques and stuff so learnt a fair bit too so it's all good.
All good then you can come round and paint my new car!
SimonTW
11-07-13, 01:07 PM
Nice work on the refresh!
Looks Great Ian, gutted i didn't go to the retro show :cry:
Looking awesome as always lemon, saw a pic from retro show that total vauxhall had taken/posted on their FB page, i hope you spoke to them r.e. a feature :d
Bumpers and skirts look alot better, brakes are a great upgrade.
Skud I'm not too good at it, the outcome and finish was mostly down to the help I had!
Thanks Simon, Connor, Benn.
Didn't know Total Vauxhall were at Retro Show. Just found the pic on Facebook and the huge conversation about me not using it hahaha lol lol I did send some info and pics into Total Vaux who did express an interest but that was a little while ago now.
M Sutton
11-07-13, 03:23 PM
I was in my red Nova 1.6 on TBs. Best time of the day was 15.07 so was happy with that!
zeifer33
11-07-13, 04:35 PM
Looks really good these changes, i like so much your nova. how it goes these new brakes???
15.07 is a good time, don't think I saw you run as was too busy sheltering from the sun!
New brakes feel a little less bite than the ATEs on the road in all honesty, but Skud has kindly skimmed up my spare discs so going to try a pad change when I get round to refurbing them and refreshing the rear brakes.
The trim refresh a looks well!
Not updated this in a while, but not done a huge amount. Not sorted the brakes out since the last trackday yet, but I have added some cooling mods to hopefully help it cope with the hot weather trackdays during the summer.
First off a Bailey alloy header tank to replace the slightly battered plastic one that was currently on it. Had an extra outlet welded on for the XE inlet pipe (by Alloy Racing Fabrications just outside of Mansfield) to remove the t-piece:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/828.JPG
While I was there I had the spare oil catch tank outlet welded over:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/829.JPG
Polished them both up with Autosol:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/830.JPG
And fitted:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/831.JPG
No more unslightly t-piece in the engine bay, just an extra pipe on the header tank:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/832.JPG
Next up, a nice big 16 row oil cooler to replace the current 10 row one:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/833.JPG
All fitted:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/834.JPG
Sits behind the bumper a little, but might add a flick to scoop air behind the numberplate holes:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/835.JPG
Next up I needed a water temperature gauge, a decent one, but ran out of space where I'd mounted the original Stack gauges. Gave a spare dash top and stepped gauge fascia to Flocking Fantastic (Prey) who worked this magic on it:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/836.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/837.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/838.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/839.JPG
Back with me and with my Stack gauges fitted:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/840.JPG
Even looks neat from the back lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/841.JPG
All fitted:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/842.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/843.JPG
Since I've used the original coolant sensor location for the Stack gauge, I blanked off the dials original temperature gauge:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/844.JPG
And relocated my window switches to elsewhere on the dash, as they were previously in the old clock location:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/845.JPG
Ooh shiney bits.
Love the dash upgrade too.
Hows the foot?
thegingerwhinger
13-08-13, 09:52 PM
Love it mate, well done.
SimonTW
13-08-13, 10:11 PM
Nice work on the gauge holder!
M Sutton
14-08-13, 07:51 AM
Looks good, gauges look smart!
Cheers guys well chuffed with how it's come out, quality of gauge pod mods are all down to Prey
Ooh shiney bits.
Love the dash upgrade too.
Hows the foot?
Foot is loads better now cheers, not holding me back much now. Kind of ruined Billing though having to limp about on crutches!
TIdy work sir. Prey is a flocking God ;)
At first i didn't like the gauge bit. But the finished item looks great. Love the Stack gauges too, they are proper pretty.
Ref this..
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/835.JPG
Could you not cut a slit in the bumper either side of the cooler, then warm the plastic and bend that bit down, so the air would flow down it and hit the cooler...?
8valve-craig
14-08-13, 08:23 PM
I fear this may have already been addressed, but having not read the whole thread feel I have to ask......
Electric windows? :wtf:
corsapowerr
14-08-13, 08:39 PM
Looks great! How much were the gauges and where from? If you don't mind me asking. :)
your pics make the top return look wonky lol (it's not, it's the bottom of another facia, reversed). looks good in the car mate - get it all hoovered!
At first i didn't like the gauge bit. But the finished item looks great. Love the Stack gauges too, they are proper pretty.
Ref this.. <img>
Could you not cut a slit in the bumper either side of the cooler, then warm the plastic and bend that bit down, so the air would flow down it and hit the cooler...?
Yeah the Stack gauges look proper classy don't they, blend in lovely with the dash. Yeah I could possibly cut a 'duct' and direct air up towards the cooler, I'm a little against cutting my freshly painted bumpers though lol I'll see how it gets on like this, I usually remove my grille on trackdays for more airflow anyway.
I fear this may have already been addressed, but having not read the whole thread feel I have to ask......
Electric windows? :wtf:
Hell yeah electric windows lol I did have polycarbs and sliders until it was unbearable one hot summers day on the country roads, so I moved back to glass. Already had all the EW setup in storage as it came with them originally. How else do you open the passenger side window when you're strapped into a harness?
Looks great! How much were the gauges and where from? If you don't mind me asking. :)
Gauges work out roughly £50 each I think. I already had the oil pressure and temperature gauges down the side of the dash so just needed a nice solution to get a third in there.
your pics make the top return look wonky lol (it's not, it's the bottom of another facia, reversed). looks good in the car mate - get it all hoovered!
Apologies for my last few poor pictures, think there's dust on the lense or something lol
Love my Stack gauge. Does removing the grille help that much? As the sides arnt big i wouldn't have thought it blocks to much air...
Been chatting to Total Vauxhall on and off over the last few months, they were interested in featuring my little Nova. Were interested in an old photoshoot I'd done but figured it's worth some new unseen pictures for the occasion so arranged a new photoshoot with my mate. So big thanks to Alex Wheeler for the photos and efforts there.
So happy to say it's got a seven page feature in Total Vauxhall's February 2014 issue. Think it's out in the shops in a few days! The new photoshoot coupled with some mid-build shots from this WIP means I'm pretty chuffed with it.
Couple of sneak preview pics!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/852.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/853.JPG
8valve-craig
12-01-14, 07:17 PM
A nice pat on the back that is, well done.
Did you tell them to leave the plate on? They photoshopped mine out.
Read your feature today.
Was a nice surprised when it dropped through my letterbox on Friday.
Congrats on your feature mate.
Did you tell them to leave the plate on? They photoshopped mine out.
Didn't ask them to, I did think about asking them to remove 'em but wasn't too bothered most seem to include them
Cheers Keif :)
M Sutton
12-01-14, 07:53 PM
Well done on the feature. Awesome little car and look forward to reading it ;)
Pistol Pete
12-01-14, 08:09 PM
Well done on the feature. Asked about mine last year. Got a no lol Too many on their list!!
Super duper sir, front page as well :)
scott.parker
13-01-14, 07:28 AM
I spotted it was in the back of the last months issue yesterday mate, well done on the feature, i was quite surprised to see it.
Well done on the feature. Asked about mine last year. Got a no lol Too many on their list!!
That's the thing, when i had my track car i asked about a feature, i was told there was to many track car features and a long waiting list, this wss when doug was working there, wish id asked Jamie before i sold it, as he would of probably featured it.
RallyMarshal
13-01-14, 12:19 PM
Nice One Iain :-)
Hoover your carpet.
As said, well done. Looks great.
Nice one Iain.
Well deserved.
To people saying TV said they had done enough track cars etc etc.
I think just the story of how Iain built his car up, tought himself to weld, pretty much learnt everything from scratch, was well worth a feature alone.
Not just about the car, someone buying a feature car doesn't make it worthy of a feature.
To see his motor come from a 8v 1.6 with a set of wheels, to then seeing it propped up on its side on top of a stack of tyres in his parents drive lol
And then turned into the car thats now been featured.
He's done a top job.
scott.parker
13-01-14, 11:47 PM
That's what I was told Ad, at the time Dar and others had had there car in tv, and i was told they had fea tured too many track cars, so i didn't bother again, as tbh i didn't like Dougies attitude on the matter.
Anyway i was just saying i should of asked Jamiebef ore i sold it, but i didn't lol
peester
14-01-14, 06:11 AM
good stuff Iain, look forward to reading the feature
To people saying TV said they had done enough track cars etc etc.
I think just the story of how Iain built his car up, tought himself to weld, pretty much learnt everything from scratch, was well worth a feature alone.
Trends come and go... One day everyones in to track cars, get its really low clean cars, then it's this big power...
All goes in circles really...
About bloody time tbh, but I've just cancelled my subscription to TV! :( Looks like a trip to WHSmiths now!
I went out and bought it so ive got a picture of lionel for my wallet ;)
Nice one Iain.
Well deserved.
To people saying TV said they had done enough track cars etc etc.
I think just the story of how Iain built his car up, tought himself to weld, pretty much learnt everything from scratch, was well worth a feature alone.
Not just about the car, someone buying a feature car doesn't make it worthy of a feature.
To see his motor come from a 8v 1.6 with a set of wheels, to then seeing it propped up on its side on top of a stack of tyres in his parents drive lol
And then turned into the car thats now been featured.
He's done a top job.
Definately well deserved, i saw a post on the TV facetube page asking about cars to be featured, and i sent them the link to Lemons wip thread.
Jamie added me and asked more about it, wanting to know more about the car and the builder, it wasnt just the finished package that sealed the deal, its everything you listed in your reply Adam, the fact that if he didnt have the skills to do a certain part of the build, he went out and learned them:thumb:
Awesome little car, and a reallt good write up, well deserved imo, glad to finally see it in print too :d
And just to add, im not trying to steal any glory or Iain's thunder, his skills earnt him the feature and nothing else!
Feels like I've not updated this in forever, summer's here and I have some motivation and somewhere to finally work on the motor so looking forward to prepping it for trackdays and hammering it this summer!
Took it out for it's last outing to Cloud 9 meet at Ikea on Sunday:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/854.JPG
And a few last pics of it before it gets tucked away:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/855.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/856.JPG
OK now to business. Reason I've not touched the Nova in a few months, been having this built and finished the final touches and a driveway so I can finally tinker with the motors:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/857.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/858.JPG
Spacious picture above, now crammed full of Nova spares and Novas lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/859.JPG
Now onto the trackday prep...
First off, clunking from the front is a sign the shocks are knackered again, so stripped all the suspension off ready for a refurb:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/860.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/861.JPG
(Rear brakes are also off for some sneaky upgrades!)
Suspension is looking a bit worse for wear, the front shocks aren't holding pressure properly so they're both ballsed for the second time in my ownership. Damage/rusty patch on the front piston has got worse too, so maybe it's time for some new ones if anyone's got any going!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/862.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/863.JPG
Looking forward to updating with some braking tweaks that should help trackday Porsche killing!
Novaload_Nick
07-05-14, 08:32 PM
I want that garage! Top work
kevster
07-05-14, 08:44 PM
wow smart garage there mate love it !!!!!
drop us a txt when your back on the road ive finally got the black one on the road will have to go out!
Not a bad size garage at all but black mini??
Nice Astra, even has the owners name above it :)
8valve-craig
08-05-14, 07:55 AM
Nice Astra, even has the owners name above it :)
Benson?
drop us a txt when your back on the road ive finally got the black one on the road will have to go out!
Will do, still after using the rolling road for some power figures if you're up for it!
Not a bad size garage at all but black mini??
Yeah potential next project on the cards after trackday prep and the other Nova has gone, needs lots of welding so if it's fixable it'll get an E16SE powerplant.
Ive got a pair of a panels I can donate lol
scott.parker
08-05-14, 10:21 AM
Nice, about time we saw this garage you've been building, bloody nice, I'd love a wider garage instead of long, meh maybe I'll build one on the next house we get..
What suspension is it your running?
Not sure if Stephen Baker has sold tgem, but he had some billy B8s for sale, ok not low coilovers but would be good to get you to a track day?
Ive got a pair of a panels I can donate lol
PM me info, going to need a fair few to get it into shape.
Nice, about time we saw this garage you've been building, bloody nice, I'd love a wider garage instead of long, meh maybe I'll build one on the next house we get..
What suspension is it your running?
Not sure if Stephen Baker has sold tgem, but he had some billy B8s for sale, ok not low coilovers but would be good to get you to a track day?
Cheers Scott, pretty chuffed with it. This one's just over 6m by 6m (6m between the supporting pillars). Built this with having one car in for repairs at a time so tonnes of room all around it, that lasted about 1 week before I crammed 2 in there lol
Could be interested in some B8s, just talked to Gaz and it's £100 to refurb mine with a new piston or over £330 for some new shorter body ones so interested in shopping around for second hand parts or ideas to make it better as well as fixed.
M Sutton
08-05-14, 10:48 AM
Love the garage!!perfect space for working on cars!
Awesome man cave there dude!
nova_stee
11-05-14, 05:47 PM
Screaming for a c20let this, nice car as it is mind
turbojolt
11-05-14, 05:57 PM
Screaming for a c20let this, nice car as it is mind
ive said that to him more then a couple of times but he wont do it :(
proper jealous of the drive and garage they are huge!!!
leggattr
11-05-14, 06:53 PM
After seeing this garage today, it is just perfect. I wish my house could be this big, and fit novas in too!! Nice to meet you today, shame I couldn't hang around longer.
Think I'm sorted for my PV/trackday prep now, other than a service and new cambelt and pulleys.
As promised in my feature the rear disc setup is on and working. Start with a Corsa C rear disc beam:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/864.JPG
Whip off the whole stub axle, old vs new:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/865.JPG
As people already know, the bolt pattern is the same:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/866.JPG
If you try to bolt it straight up, it sits wonky on the axle:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/867.JPG
This is because of two locating lumps in the rear of the Corsa stub axle:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/868.JPG
Tickle with a grinder sees them gone and flat:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/869.JPG
Stub axle bolted up:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/870.JPG
While I was tinkering I figured it was a good time to remove the beam, found a Cav ARB in the scrappy so that was mock fitted:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/871.JPG
Then using the very helpful parts list in the Articles section, the relevant bits were ordered and fitted:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/872.JPG
M10 U bolts, U bolt plates from a trailer company, universal 19mm ARB D bushes and brackets...
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/873.JPG
Rear of the ARB didn't look fun to drill, so I've bent the original brackets over the end of the beam and drilled for a small bolt on the other side, keeps it secure and as per Vauxhall's design (new end bushes available for £1.88 from Vauxhall):
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/874.JPG
Beam back on, calipers bolted up and original braided lines modified to suit the new calipers:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/875.JPG
Rear coilovers back from refurb so looking complete again:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/876.JPG
Looking shiney and motorsport Hammerite red now lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/877.JPG
Handbrake lines weren't an issue with the coilovers, I've pulled it straight down and P clipped it to the axle, the end of the Corsa sleeve butts up to the original Nova guide so it doesn't move:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/878.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/879.JPG
I used a new Nova handbrake front piece, Nova adjustment yoke, and Nova adjustment screw on the yoke. I joined these Nova bits to the Corsa ends half way along the beam using U clamps from a boating shop. The U clamps seem to hold it fine as long as you remove the teflon/plastic sleeve off the Corsa brake cable first:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/880.JPG
Rear end finished with a stud and nut conversion (little long but oh well):
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/881.JPG
Front calipers got the same red treatment and some new flexis with 90 degree unions on the end to try and stop them from rubbing:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/882.JPG
Front coilovers back from refurb, both with new pistons and full service:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/883.JPG
They included some new smaller bumpstops as I told him I had travel issues, which is nice!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/884.JPG
All done, fitted with some new Mintex 1144 pads!
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/885.JPG
Chav calipers ftw lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/886.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/887.JPG
So initial test drive was last night, the brakes got properly bedded in and left to cool down. Bite is strong and I have a lot of confidence in them, however there's a fair bit of pedal travel now. Not sure if I can adjust some of it out or just learn to live with it...
Also I have mega Wilwood pad rattle from up front, it sounds like my suspension is hanging off lol Need to try and find some anti-rattle shims for them.
The rear Corsa setup does gain a hell of a lot of track width, I used to run 5mm spacers and now they look similar if not further out without any spacers! Fingers crossed my slicks still fit.
8valve-craig
31-05-14, 08:09 AM
Welcome to the club.
Looking good Iain ,did you weigh the disc setup at all to see if there is a weight saving
Is there s secret handshake Craig lol
Forgot to weigh them sorry jez. Imagine its similar tbh.
Love what you've done with the RARB, i really wanna fit the one i have.
Nice you've still got a good petal, as the rear calipers are twin piston, so i thought you might lose that... But then that might be the travel you've gained.
Like the way you've done the C hubs too. Most of your photos a page back down work tho...
I think I can really feel the rear ARB working, it feels very planted.
Twin piston?! Looked like a single piston slide caliper to me?! Either way it has to be the travel gained from those as was running 4 pots before, so I think I'll be keeping my eyed peeled for a Corsa brake pedal bias box...
What pics? They're all working for me
Sorry, i was looking at the front caliper.
Well I'm booked into Blyton park for the 23rd so I've given it a good oil/filters service in preparation and filled the old beast up with Valvoline 15w50.
The brake pads were giving an awful rattle noise so I've fitted some Elise brake pad 'buffers' to quieten them down which seems to have worked!
I've also done a few tweaks to improve the gearing which I thought you guys may be interested in as it feels much better now.
1) With the internal shifter mech, you can get a better stick design that consists of a plastic ball rather than a ball and rubber washer:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/888.JPG
Difference is obvious:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/889.JPG
M12 threaded the end for my Quaife knob:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/890.JPG
All fitted:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/891.JPG
2) A better selector turret is available that bolts straight onto the F20 giving a better engagement feel
Original left, new one right:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/892.JPG
Original turret moves around freely and sloppily as the main part is free rotating:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/893.JPG
New one has a spring loaded nib fitting snugly into a groove giving you a much more positive feel when it moves as it is basically in one of three locations:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/894.JPG
Moved for better illustration:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/895.JPG
It's also got a spring loaded pin that you can use to lock it into first so you don't need the 'drillbit trick':
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/896.JPG
Part number for those interested:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/897.JPG
Both of these mods together make the shifter feel lots tighter and more direct with better feedback when engaged. If you want the turret, look for a Corsa B 1.2 in the scrappy with the spring loaded pin!
Dan Stanley
17-06-14, 12:01 PM
You should make an Articles thread for those gear shift mods. That's important info that could help those who have already done the RJ linkage and internal shifter.
Nice work.
Very good info on the turret and stick.
If your proper stuck the turrets will still be available from vauxhall as the current corsa and adam still use this set up
Malacin
18-06-14, 07:12 PM
hi is the corsa c hub the same pattern as the nova? straight fit??? thx
Yes corsa stub axles go straight on
Southie
18-06-14, 09:30 PM
Good little update that Iain, as mentioned it would be a useful write up for an article.
I like these spring loaded corsa turrets, don't have to use an allen key with lining gears up
No mention of who put you onto the stick and turret mods, I am disappointed :(
A few more direct comparison pictures of the early and late turrets in my build diary over on Astra-mk2.com click me (http://www.astra-mk2.com/forum/showthread.php?2827-GTE-valver-fast-road-track-car-project&p=379751&viewfull=1#post379751).
Get the pics up from Monday then slacker!!!
turbojolt
28-06-14, 12:08 PM
update?
Part number for those interested:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/897.JPG
Have either you or Harvey actually checked that Part Number on EPC?
Novasport
28-06-14, 10:49 PM
It does not exist on EPC, it will be the casting number
Figured the '90' number would be a Vauxhall part number? Hmmmm.
Went to Blyton Park on Monday and only just got round to sorting an update. Over-all successful day, new Millers brake fluid and Wilwoods felt epic with DS3000s in, and the rear discs performed excellently and did exactly what I wanted of them as an upgrade.
One slight off (vid below) where the rear brakes locked up on me, but I adjusted the bias on my inline adjuster and they were perfect afterwards. Also did a session on a totally flat tyre and all that happened was it understeered a bit turning right, crazy Michelins they must be pretty strong to not rip it off the tyre!
Oil pressure is dropping off after about 10 mins despite the temps sitting still at 110c so possibly looking into a better oil pump (z20let upgrade?)
Prep wise, I set it up with 1mm toe out and trial fitted the slicks, that's all:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/898.JPG
10 minutes toe out equates to 1mm:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/899.JPG
Parked up with Harvey in the pits:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/900.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/901.JPG
End of the day, old girl loaded up and ready to go home with no damage
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/902.JPG
Couple of videos of the day, nothing too interesting though!
Spin out when the rear brakes locked up and sent me off:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOuwxD2IEUU
Couple of free laps to put my foot down:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28acH3JYAvE
Following Harvey around for a few laps in his brutal Astra running ITBs and a Quaife box
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_z5BNb6P4o
That's actually 10 minutes of angle, 10 degrees would look silly broken lol
Glad to see this is still around and being refined! :)
Thanks for the correction you're more awake than me ha ha. Hopefully some more refinements to come to make it better... Still crunching into third so dying for some gearing upgrades
Has it still got :gay: electric windows?
nova_stee
29-06-14, 07:52 PM
Power looks nearly perfect on that track the gte barely pulled away from you but proably had 5k in the engine and box
Course it has electric windows are for winners.
Yeah it's suited to that track shorter gearing would be better though. Think harvey would hammer me around a bigger track, driven his and it's a well put together beasty.
Get a daewoo box on it Iain, best thing you can do on a XE without spending silly money on a quaife
I wish my changers into 3rd were working, darn pressure plate release fingers! Really struggled with gear changers at higher rpm on track :(
Nice vids, tidy update, cleaned the engine bay yet ;)
I must get myself some slicks.
BRoadGhost
30-06-14, 09:21 PM
Ok so a bit of roll on that Astra, but looked fairly nimble; love a chase!
I wish my changers into 3rd were working, darn pressure plate release fingers! Really struggled with gear changers at higher rpm on track :(
Nice vids, tidy update, cleaned the engine bay yet ;)
I must get myself some slicks.
Oh yeah I forgot about the dipstick coming out and covering the engine bay in oil lol Not cleaned it or put a spring on that yet...
TBH I don't think the slicks gave an advantage over your R888s or whatever that Rover was running, they may be getting a bit old
Garage looks great, nice and big.
From the sounds of it a Zlet pump would be a very good upgrade, I've never had any low readings since changing mine.
Car looks like its going very very well on track and your driving looks good. Good lines and that.
Your rear disc set up.
Did you just fit the discs, or did you have to use the plates and crap like you do on the old disc set up? As i fancy building a new beam up and if it's less to do, i'll go C disc and hub.
I fitted the whole stub axle (with built-in caliper carrier), disc, caliper etc from a Corsa C 1.8 SRi. Bolts straight onto a Nova beam with no welding like the other disc setups.
The C setup does add track width, Craig reckoned 8mm wider track from it, which may well cause an issue for some people. With my flared arches I used to run 5mm spacers all the time anyway so I don't mind it much. On the trackday I ran no spacers on the slicks and it only scrubbed a little bit, so it's definitely pushed out a bit. Maybe machining 2mm off the hub and a bit off the disc would bring it back in enough.
Ah, poo. That extra would kill me. Shame i like the idea of that setup, wonder if i could machine it down renough... They are alot easier than the earlier set up.
Small update, treated myself to some 5 point Luke aircraft-buckle harnesses to replace the old OMP 4 points...
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/903.JPG
5th strap is mounted around the seat rail, which is handy to have in the right place:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/904.JPG
Crossed the rear straps due to the length they run and spaced them with rollcage padding:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/905.JPG
scott.parker
06-07-14, 10:14 PM
Nice touch with the padding spaces...
novadave24
07-07-14, 01:44 AM
they look good mate what you doing with the omp ones ?
zeifer33
08-07-14, 08:41 AM
Nice car Iain!!
Cheers guys, OMP ones are going in another project as there's nothing wrong with them really.
LDAWSON
16-07-14, 03:03 AM
Seen this beast in the flesh today, what an amazing machine.....hope my track weapon is half as good....
Shame I had a table booked could have gone for a blast ha ha
Trackday booked, Oulton Park on the 23rd Sept. Been doing some prep work...
Last couple of trackdays my dipstick has blown out and covered the bay in oil, I'm sure there's an underlying crankcase pressure related issue, but for now I've popped a spring on the dipstick to try and stop it (out of focus pic sorry)
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/906.JPG
Since it's now garaged I installed a quick plug connector for my Accumate battery conditioner to keep it plugged in and topped up:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/907.JPG
Enjoying my nicely painted garage floor now:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/908.JPG
Main trackday prep is swapping out the Valvoline 15w50 for a proper Millers 10w50 fully synth oil to try and tackle my oil pressure issues when hot:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/909.JPG
When running it up I noticed the TXAutosport rad was leaking from one of the welded end caps! Never heard of this happening before on their excellent products (sarcasm)
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/910.JPG
Re-welded by a local lad:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/911.JPG
He also noticed I was close to wearing through the end where it was rubbing against the old bracket so that got fixed too:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/912.JPG
While investigating the dripping water I noticed some cracked paint near the tiebar bracket on the left hand side (not the overlapped metal seam, next to it!)
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/913.JPG
Bit of a tickle with a wire wheel, not looking too good:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/914.JPG
Tiebar bracket off, oops that's quite serious lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/915.JPG
Cracking around the top bolt holes also:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/916.JPG
Welded it up for now but I'll be making a custom crossmember over winter:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/917.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/918.JPG
Will be at RRG 2014 tomorrow if anyone wants to say hello :)
turbojolt
30-08-14, 06:23 PM
So your suspension set up is that firm the only give is in the shell. thats scary lol
Southie
30-08-14, 06:31 PM
Regarding the dipstick popping out all the time is it just a lot of back pressure then or a dodgy dipstick? If not the dipstick I'd be concerned about that tbh.
It feels like the rubber bit sits in nice so I can only assume it's pressure. My trackday mate has had it before too and has also put a spring on his.
It burns a bit of oil anyway so its probably suffering from the abuse over the last 3 years.
Been offered a gearbox with a Quaife 4.2 FD which I'm tempted by as my third gear synchro is knackered again.
Southie
30-08-14, 06:38 PM
If your happy so am I, just don't want your engine spitting a rod out when flat out ;)
Its all good if it happens I'll laugh it off on the day lol will need build a new engine for it at some point anyway
scott.parker
30-08-14, 10:39 PM
First off dude, don't worry about the dip stick, a few people have had this issue, I'm sure Will Foy has a spring on his, that oil should... I hope help mate, as I ran the mobile1 fully synthetic stuff and it was brilliant in mine..
Did you never fit the plate kit to the cross?
Turns out the Millers oil smells nice when burning, forgot to put my oil filler cap on properly and lost it half way to RRG lol Cue massive oily mess in the engine bay. Made it the rest of the way with a coffee cup cable tied over the filler hole which luckily got me there.
Never fitted any plating kit, foolishly deemed it overkill. Live and learn! All will be fixed.
Southie
01-09-14, 09:17 PM
Sounds like a blender with the cap off lol
What oil do you use out of interest? I used to use Valvoline but tbh I cannot remember what ratios it was maybe.
As pic in previous couple of posts, I've just moved to Millers 10w50 CFS. Previously ran Valvoline 'Turbo' 15w50. Couple of weeks until I put it to the test on track and I can report back.
Southie
01-09-14, 09:26 PM
I found the valvoline pretty good thrashing about but that was on my old bikecarbed 1.4 engine.
Been offered a gearbox with a Quaife 4.2 FD which I'm tempted by as my third gear synchro is knackered again.
Please say you bought this.
It's not a full straight cut box, just a standard F20 with Quaife 4.2 straight cut final drive. Been doing some number tweaking and with a F18WR fifth gear fitted I'd retain the same RPM for motorway cruising and get quicker 1-4 gearing.
Yep, my mate has a WR final in his Astra GTE. Just for motorway driving, at 70 its revving at 2.3k.... It's lovely. Wish i knew of it before fitting a F28.
scott.parker
03-09-14, 08:33 AM
Interesting, so an f18wr is wide ratio? is it an easily sourced part and easy to fit to an f20?
iirc you just need the 5th gear out of it and bang that in an f20 and you've got the best of both.
Sam detailed the 5th swap in his diesel astra wip
Update Part #1
So I bought a new gearbox as I've knackered the third synchro in my current one too lol Its still fine for road use but graunches on track giving it the beans.
Got myself an F20 with known history including a full rebuild/inspection 2000 miles ago, complete with Quaife straight cut 4.2 final drive on standard F20 helical gearing.
First off, I was a bit concerned with the higher FD and the maximum speed, so I've notched the chassis so I can change 5th gear without dropping the gearbox:
No access to 5th cover bolts here:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/919.JPG
Chop chop grind grind:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/920.JPG
Weld weld, grind grind:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/921.JPG
Paint paint, good as OE lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/922.JPG
Update Part #2
On with the box swap. Harvey brought me round some goodies and started unwrapping my pressies:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/923.JPG
Nice and clean so saved me a cleaning job there:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/924.JPG
Meanwhile I was whipping off the engine mounts to get the box off:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/925.JPG
Slight mishap with removal, the input shaft stayed in the clutch when we dragged the F20 off, wtf happened here lol Not investigated the old box yet.
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/926.JPG
Brokened lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/927.JPG
Swish new box doesn't look anything special here lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/928.JPG
Or here, standard gearing inside:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/929.JPG
Update Part #3
We swapped the selector turret, diff, diff bearing races etc over to to the new box so mine got stripped down:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/930.JPG
This is where the differences are, my 4.2 final drive vs old 3.55 one:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/931.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/932.JPG
Old pinion in old box:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/933.JPG
New pinion in new box:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/934.JPG
Harvey fitting up the crownwheel to the Quaife ATB:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/935.JPG
Many other Vauxhalls run a spigot bearing to stop flex on the input shaft within the end of the crank, so I figured why not fix one on the XE, can't do any harm. Remove the clutch to reveal the crank:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/936.JPG
INA bearing part number:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/937.JPG
Fitted with a tickle of the hammer in:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/938.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/939.JPG
Update Part #4
New box all done:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/940.JPG
New box has a neat idea for anyone who's smashed off the clutch cable retaining casting, seems to work well:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/941.JPG
Filled up with Millers 75w90 fully synth oil which costs a bomb lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/942.JPG
As another aside, I've given my slicks some Grip tyre softener to hopefully make them super sticky for Oulton Park in just over a week's time:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/943.JPG
My missus also drew on the raised bits of the slick which I thought looked quite funky so I had her do it on the Toyos too lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/944.JPG
'twas fun fun fun playing with gearboxes and I’m so glad you like the grin factor of the new none crunching one. I loved touching your knob...gear knob people, gear knob! The liquid gold Millers 75w90 smells so nice, I use it as aftershave on a daily basis.
In gear speed comparison between a stock 3.55 and 4.2 final drive at 6,000rpm.
With a 3.55:
With a 4.2:
1st = 32.1mph
1st = 27.1mph
2nd = 52.8mph
2nd = 44.6mph
3rd = 77.0mph
3rd = 65.1mph
4th = 100.9mph
4th = 85.3mph
5th = 128.1mph
5th = 108.3mph
scott.parker
14-09-14, 09:55 AM
Nice work guys, very good and informative, the new FD looks perfect for 1/4 mile times, but will you be topping out at 115-120 v max on track?
It will be topping out at just shy of 130 at 7000-7200rpm in 5th.
I hacked the chassis leg out a bit so I can fit an F18CR fifth in it (0.744 I think) which would bring it back to the 150mph area but I'll see how I get on with it on standard F20 fifth (0.89) first. Might stop me sitting at a tonne everywhere (on private land) which is a good thing
scott.parker
14-09-14, 12:43 PM
I would like to try one of these F18wr boxes as there meant to be good for 20let engines without the 6th a f28 offers.
Looks like fun!
Scott, having fitted a F28.. I'd keep the F20 and fit the WR 5th gear. 80mph at 2.6k rpm is way better than 3.5k... No messing with mounts either.
Been quite lucky with my trackdays so far but only managed half a day at Oulton, breaking it just before lunch which is a shame.
Couple of pics when I was out there...
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/945.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/946.JPG
On track with some mental stuff, this GTR was out spitting flames and destroying everything:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/947.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/948.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/949.JPG
Then just before lunchtime, limped it into the pits in third by rev matching it into gear. Clutch would depress but wouldn't disengage the clutch so I couldn't change gear, gutted:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/950.JPG
Something's tried to escape the bellhousing via the inspection plate:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/951.JPG
Quick piccy of the clutch, you can see the snapped clutch cover plate metal (not sure what it's called) which has departed and ran off somewhere after smashing around the bellhousing causing cosmetic damage (only, I hope):
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/952.JPG
Still yet to investigate fully but I am hoping I can just put a new clutch cover plate on, may look into uprated ones which are beefed up in the area of failure.
Video is currently uploading but it's not that interesting apart from my new gear ratios and noise...
Pressure plate is the term.
Good effort lol
Is that the term for just the bit that's snapped? I'm told the Helix etc ones have more metal there to increase strength?
Here's a lap with my new box before things went wrong, didn't really have enough time to do some flying laps after learning the track, waa
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpRzOU5_Kxw&feature=youtu.be
turbojolt
27-09-14, 06:13 PM
It sounds like a race car now. and it goes like ****e off a shovel
8valve-craig
27-09-14, 07:49 PM
Good effort, see what you mean about the shifter moving about. Did it stay in gear?
Definitely crying out for more power this one too! Are a set of bodies on the cards any time soon?
scott.parker
27-09-14, 11:42 PM
Well done, good killing there! lol sounds awesome dude, loved Oulton, just gutted I didn't get a dry day there.
Good effort, see what you mean
about the shifter moving about. Did it stay in gear?
Definitely crying out for more power this one too! Are a set of bodies on the cards any time soon?
Just about to say, all you need now is ITB'S, as imo you've got to it's limit now, so definitely need extra performance power.
Very nice driving, cars looks almost easy to drive out there...
Yeah it's pretty easy to drive in all fairness.
Didn't jump out of gear Craig but you can see it move can't you!
Power would be nice, the Astra I went with feels lovely that's running about 220bhp. Nice amount of power to pull you out the corners a bit more!
The Miller's oil is lots more stable on track but I still saw pressures drop so I'll probably be going down zlet pump route also before more power.
RallyMarshal
28-09-14, 10:31 PM
Damn your hard on those boxes and transmissions :-)
The current car has always used a std cover and a paddle cluch plate but I suspect I will need to go for the uprated one on the new car as well.
Paul..
That makes a sexual noise now! It does look almost effortless to drive actually, have you got power steering on it now?
Paul that reminds me I should pay Harvey for the box. Good job it survived the day ha ha. Yours will probably warrant a posh clutch as no doubt it'll have some tasty parts on upping the power somewhat!
Yes mazz that might have something to do with it actually. I put in epas and straightened the column when I first prepped the shell.
Ah yeah, i remember now :) Thought for second you were just double hard, obviously i was wrong ;)
Not sure why you'd think that, you have met me lol
zeifer33
02-10-14, 11:35 AM
Nice work on the car Iain, do you like the car handle with this mod?? with the circuit slicks its a big upgrade. I use Yokohama circuit slicks without LSD and the car sense more diferent.
With the EPAS Zeifer? TBH it went from a mostly standard 1.6 to a fully rebuilt/track prepped 2.0 with EPAS in one swoop so its hard to say exactly what benefits, but the steering is lovely and precise consisting of Corsa B EPAS, manual sensitivity controller, Quaife quick rack together with the Michelin slicks and Quaife ATB.
zeifer33
02-10-14, 02:57 PM
yes, that is i mean. fantastic car Iain, good work.
I have various upgrades to do to the poor beasty this winter, namely:
Replace the crossmember due to cracking
Fit a ZLET oil pump & pickup
New timing belt, pulleys
New shafts & CVs
Replace clutch due to damage
Check crank bearings as I've noticed some side movement in the crank, looks a little too much
Figured with all this to do it'd be easier doing it on a stand so tonight at 5:30 I started with a complete car, and a few hours later I had this:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/953.JPG
Cosmetic bellhousing damage from clutch letting go:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/954.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/955.JPG
Supposed to be two springs on the cover plate here:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/956.JPG
Engine on stand:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/957.JPG
Engine bay doesn't look bad after all the abuse:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/958.JPG
Or does it, more signs of cracks when you poke a bit closer.... Uh oh. This is by the alternator cut out.
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/959.JPG
Additional plan may be strengthening kit, extra welding and an engine bay respray too then...
zeifer33
09-10-14, 08:58 AM
Good work, now its time to refresh the little nova:thumb:
Johnny A
09-10-14, 10:51 AM
Or does it, more signs of cracks when you poke a bit closer.... Uh oh. This is by the alternator cut out.
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/959.JPG
Oh dear, time to add a load of meat to that area!
Loving your work though, its held up well
It seems everywhere I've added metal/weld/strength it's cracked around it. For example the crossmember. I do worry just adding more will move the problem elsewhere.
In two minds whether I want to put in a beefy crossmember or just a standard replacement with this in mind. Although if custom I can make it lower down and move back to poly bushed tiebar brackets which should batter the crossmember less than the lowered rosejointed items I have.
Johnny A
09-10-14, 10:55 AM
It seems everywhere I've added metal/weld/strength it's cracked around it. For example the crossmember. I do worry just adding more will move the problem elsewhere.
In two minds whether I want to put in a beefy crossmember or just a standard replacement with this in mind. Although if custom I can make it lower down and move back to poly bushed tiebar brackets which should batter the crossmember less than the lowered rosejointed items I have.
Not necessarily just welding more metal in with just the welder but adding a steel plate to act as a load spreader?
Bell housing is just surface and will be fine. What's the clutch friction plate like, any damage as seems to have loads of meat left which is a shame?
That stand and crane look spot on and the loan price was only a lifetime supply of jelly sweets for me :)
turbojolt
10-10-14, 09:39 PM
why didn't he use his winch lol
why didn't he use his winch lol
Wench was that? (sorry Hayley, couldn't resist)
turbojolt
10-10-14, 09:53 PM
Hayley is a wench.........I spell how I talk so its all retarded lol
Nice work, crack doesn't look too bad, beef it up with some wider metal to spread out the stresses. That will spread out the force and be stronger..
Think if i was removing the cross member i'd made a better stronger lower one. Then you could get a bigger custom rad in there (as you've had temp issues) And it will be much stronger too.
Zlet oil pump it a good upgrade, i get much much better pressures.
That stand and crane look spot on and the loan price was only a lifetime supply of jelly sweets for me :)
Blimey your price has gone up since I borrowed them.
Their claim to fame was they lifted and supported my C36GET.
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i124/Keif_1974/Cars/Lotus%20Carlton/Engine/DSCF1577.jpg
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i124/Keif_1974/Cars/Lotus%20Carlton/Engine/DSCF1619.jpg
Nice work, crack doesn't look too bad, beef it up with some wider metal to spread out the stresses. That will spread out the force and be stronger..
Think if i was removing the cross member i'd made a better stronger lower one. Then you could get a bigger custom rad in there (as you've had temp issues) And it will be much stronger too.
Zlet oil pump it a good upgrade, i get much much better pressures.
Water temp has never been an issue just oil temps.
Yeah I'll fix that crack no worries. I plan to put a new cross member in lower than the original so I can run original tiebar brackets instead of the rose jointed ones to reduce stress on the shell. Currently thinking CDS with boxed ends for the tie bars.
That explains why the crane looks a bit banana shaped Keif (Only joking Harvey it's fine honest)
OK on with the engine stripdown, glad I put some effort into the freshen up after seeing the state of the bearings.
Crank out, measured up and all within tolerance:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/960.JPG
Engine looking bare:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/961.JPG
Shells looking worse for wear lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/962.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/963.JPG
Old oil pump out that's being replaced due to pressure dropping issues:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/964.JPG
AutoVaux delivery, big thanks to them for sorting that lot out quickly and well priced:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/965.JPG
New +.25 bearings installed and lubricated:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/966.JPG
Crank installed, spins nicely and endfloat all within tolerance:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/967.JPG
Mmmm new Z20LEH oil pump internals:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/968.JPG
The crank seal just needs removing and fitting with an XE one due to ID size differences:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/969.JPG
Installed with steel gasket:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/970.JPG
Now due to the difference in pickup shape, you can't use a standard pickup pipe so it needs to be custom made. Got this nicely custom made thing from Germany (TBW Automotive)
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/971.JPG
Bit of fun trying to fit all these 'custom' parts.... It was nowhere near clearing the baffled sump as it runs down the middle:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/972.JPG
So this had to get chopped, ground down and hammered in slightly unfortunately:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/973.JPG
Sump got modified to take M8 bolts as the ZLEH pump uses M8s:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/974.JPG
As did the sump baffle, just needed the inserts knocking out
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/975.JPG
All fitted up:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/976.JPG
Then sump on, all sealed up.... New SKF pulleys, belt and all bolted back together and timed up:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/977.JPG
Engine will get it's new inlet system when it's installed in the car :)
FAntastic work, you cracked it all thought quick too.
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/975.JPG
Ref this pic, did you fit the gasket on the end of the pick up pipe?
How come youre using oversized bearing shells? had crank ground before??
Did you find the cause of low oil pressure?
Took a while to gather all the parts but it all came together quick. Yeah rubber oval gasket on the pick up Benn.
Yes Andy crank got reground on first build. Measures up fine based on adding 0.25 to the measurements to check within tolerance.
I think and hope the pressure issues were the old XE oil pump so fingers crossed the gauges look healthy now.
scott.parker
22-11-14, 03:13 PM
Nice one mate, some nice new parts, this will be awesome on tbs, can't wait to see it back and running, if I get chance be nice to go out in it..
Nice work Iain ,did you sort an ECU out as I am thinking of upgrading my MBE
Yeah sounds good Scott we'll go for a blast, look forward to seeing what the throttle bodies give, but also looking to some more space/less cluttcher in the engine bay!
Cheers Toymex, I haven't sorted an ECU/loom out yet all the mappers I've talked to seem to recommend Omex though so wouldn't mind finding a second hand Omex 600 at a reasonable price.
After some useful pics of people replacing their crossmembers on here, I've butchered my poor Nova ready for it's new one. lol
Engine bay and tiebar brackets braced up with some spare steel tube I've got kicking about:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/978.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/979.JPG
Ended up ripping it apart to remove due to space issues next to the tiebars:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/980.JPG
Then it fell off:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/981.JPG
Good job I'm removing it tbh, this nice thick plate I welded over some rot when I built it:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/982.JPG
Is cracked all underneath it:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/983.JPG
Equally cracking on the other side lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/984.JPG
I plan to mount the crossmember lower to suit the lowered tiebar bracket position,, which is unfortunate as removing it gives you this nice little square to weld into. You can see the different levels here:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/985.JPG
Quick mock up of what I'm thinking of doing, 50x50mm box section to bolt the tiebar bracket onto, 25cm either side, joined between the chassis legs with a run of CDS tube:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/986.JPG
It naturally wants to sit the box section about 5-6mm in front of the tiebar bracket, which I might go with in order to gain some castor. I can always space it out on the tiebar before the bracket if the lower arm bushes can't cope with it:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/987.JPG
More updates when I've done some more :)
scott.parker
23-11-14, 06:29 PM
Nice, fair play to going balls out on it!
turbojolt
23-11-14, 06:43 PM
its taken him two days of man up pills to start cutting it lol
BRoadGhost
23-11-14, 08:19 PM
Are you sure a couple of tacks per bracket is enough for holding them in place?
They seem quite solid BRoadGhost. Bolted them in place, tacked and removed the bolts and given them a good wiggle and they've not moved. Got various measurements in every direction too just in case.
POST 1 OF 6
Lots of pictures, finished my crossmember now.
50x50 3mm box section used to mount the tiebars against, I cut these to size for either end and drilled to suit:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/988.JPG
This nut was welded inside the box section to create a captive nut, the other holes were just drilled through on the pillar drill:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/989.JPG
4 washers were used to space the square section forwards from the original tiebar location:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/990.JPG
It was all levelled up and tacked together:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/991.JPG
Then fully stitch welded top and bottom:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/992.JPG
Getting there...
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/993.JPG
The chosen crossmember position was 4.6mm further forward than standard using the 4 washers...
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/994.JPG
And 18.5mm lower than standard, by positioning it on the tie bar brackets without the spacers in place:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/995.JPG
POST 2 OF 6
So time to make it a 'proper crossmember', start with it stitched:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/996.JPG
Cut plate to box it together:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/997.JPG
All tacked in place:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/998.JPG
And welded on, together with an end cap:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/999.JPG
Smoothed off:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/001.JPG
Attached to the car with lowering blocks made of the same 50mm box section:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/002.JPG
This meant the bracing could then come off:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/003.JPG
POST 3 OF 6
Scary moment, trying the suspension on to check I've not messed up too badly:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/004.JPG
I did plan to use the OE tiebar brackets but I didn't like the angle the bush sat on the front, so I have decided to use the spherical bearing ones. Unfortunately due to this line of weld, I can't fit them on my new crossmember:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/005.JPG
So I'll have to use one of the ally spacers, bringing my tiebar down another 6mm or so:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/006.JPG
While prepping for the bracing I found some rot, eek:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/007.JPG
Chopped out:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/008.JPG
Making up some repair bits:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/009.JPG
All strong again:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/010.JPG
POST 4 OF 6
Ends of the crossmember then boxed off:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/011.JPG
And two end caps made from sheet steel:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/012.JPG
Weldy weldy:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/013.JPG
Other side got the same treatment:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/014.JPG
Then created boxed sections on both sides:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/015.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/016.JPG
Inner chassis leg plates made up:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/017.JPG
More weldy weldy:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/018.JPG
Then flushed them off with the flapdisc:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/019.JPG
And finally capped off the fronts, with holes for water drainage so it doesn't hold water:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/020.JPG
POST 5 OF 6
Legs for the radiator to sit on, moved it towards the middle of the car a bit and slightly forward for more exhaust clearance:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/021.JPG
Plenty of bumper clearance:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/022.JPG
I plan to use the new crossmember for jacking up the front, so I've made the front bumper easier to remove by bolting on some threaded sections to the original bumper brackets (just a mock up at the mo):
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/023.JPG
Now it can bolt on through the front with 2 M12 bolts, all lined up properly:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/024.JPG
POST 6 OF 6
Couple of pics of the finished crossmember, going to repaint the chassis legs and stonechip the crossmember black:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/025.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/026.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/027.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/028.JPG
And repaired the crack I showed earlier in the thread:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/029.JPG
Nice fabrication there :)
turbojolt
20-12-14, 06:58 PM
epic. if this cracks its time to move on lol
Top work, can see your efforts and detailed pics innovating a few novas on here.
BRoadGhost
20-12-14, 08:39 PM
It's harder to weld against gravity huh? ;0 Should be plently strong-a-pull.
zeifer33
21-12-14, 09:41 AM
Simply amazing Iain, good work:thumb:
That looks fantastic, bloody nice work. Really good job, that will be so much better.
Awesome stuff Iain.
Your fab/weld skills now make me dislike you :)
totalnova
21-12-14, 07:50 PM
Really good work mate, if a jobs worth doing its worth doing properly and all that.
Really nice work, well done mate.
zeifer33
21-12-14, 09:44 PM
I see the work done by Iain and I think if it would be possible to made a detachable front panel. someone seen one before ??
scott.parker
21-12-14, 10:23 PM
That's spot on mate, loads better than I imagined it was going to be, should be able to take anything you can throw at it now!..
Cheers guys, the box and tube was a bit of a weird combo Scott but I think it looks pretty good now.
Finished it off over the last few days, so it's ready for it's refreshed engine and some more abuse.
Etch primer followed by regular primer:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/030.JPG
Hard-wearing paint on the bottom of the crossmember as it'll be jacked up regularly here:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/031.JPG
Had an aerosol colour matched to the original paint, they've done a top job it's a great match:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/032.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/033.JPG
Then on with some 3M stonechip:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/034.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/035.JPG
The ends were then painted up in 2 pack Glacier White, the same colour as they were painted 3 years ago but you'd never know lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/036.JPG
Done:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/037.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/038.JPG
And while paint was drying, I've remade a plate I made up years ago....
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/039.JPG
In lovely carbon fibre, should save a gram maybe lol
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/040.JPG
Love the cross member, looks good in black.
Loving the CF plate too.
Lovely tidy crossmember work their Iain... Just because the cars primary function is track doesn't mean work can be half heartily carried out! Thumbs up!
Ps... Did you still need a shaft or is the one I have no good for you?
Nick.
Well I've not updated this for a while, managed to get time to tinker with the Nova but not really update this.
Deadline for car up and running well is 20th April when I'm at Donington
Some time in January I attempted to set up my cam timing as per the Total Vauxhall guide. Tell me if I've got anything wrong, it's my first attemt and I found the dial gauge too fiddly after a while.
First off, a magnetic base to connect the dial gauge:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/041.JPG
Then find TDC:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/042.JPG
Timing wheel then attached to bottom pulley, marked up as TDC:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/043.JPG
My Kent AST1612 cams need to be timed to 110 degrees, so crank was set at that:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/044.JPG
Then rocked the camshaft with the verniers loose to find the max opening point of the lifter:
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/045.JPG
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/046.JPG
And this is what I ended up with on the cams. Anyone else done the same with Kent AST1612s? Can they confirm it looks vaguely right?
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2b/047.JPG
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.5 Copyright © 2025 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.