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Iain
14-08-09, 07:10 PM
Having arch clearance issues, esp on the drivers side, anybody got any suggestions? The Astra wheels are ET46 5.5J 15" with 195/45 tyres and I have about a cm clearance. I was hoping to get 6J MO's but I'm pushing it a bit for room?!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/451.JPG

Clearance:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/452.JPG

Had to prise the arch out a bit to make the room above!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/453.JPG

Got my seam sealering done in the arch though:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/454.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/455.JPG

Pistol Pete
14-08-09, 08:36 PM
Have you trimmed the arch lip at all??

Good work on the repairs, look spot on.

Iain
14-08-09, 08:52 PM
They're rolled not cut, the tightest bit at the back is flat on itself so can't see much more room gained from cutting it off.

Going to try something like this I think. Found this method on the net when looking for arch rolling tools and then found more pics in Olly's WIP:

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/nc0953.jpg

Benn
14-08-09, 09:31 PM
Something not right in my books for it being that tight.

Pistol Pete
14-08-09, 09:47 PM
Was to much of the inner arch lip cut away, hence bringing the outer arch inwards??

Have a go at the arch modding method by all means.

Iain
14-08-09, 11:09 PM
It was cut away about a cm up the arch and tacked on the vertical part and not the lip like std. I don't see how that would pull it in any further though as it lines up fine with the window, sill, bit behind the rear bumper etc.

Benn I swear they weren't spacious before I started, can't find any pics though!

Benn
14-08-09, 11:17 PM
I know some drunk Spanish whop made the novas but that's taking the piss.
As said mines got more room.

Adam
15-08-09, 12:00 AM
On standard arches on my old one, 15s rubbed with 195 tyres. There is very little clearance at all. About a finger gap id say there is on mine, and ive cut my arches back slightly.

The Simps
15-08-09, 12:20 AM
All this hard work to get wheels to clear on a mediocre drop. Just buy a coupe.

Adam
15-08-09, 12:29 AM
lol

The Simps
15-08-09, 12:39 AM
nuff said. lol

burgo
15-08-09, 03:22 PM
lol re for simps, he knows the truth

Iain
15-08-09, 09:04 PM
True Simps, but where's the fun if something fits without mods? lol I do feel quite stupid going to these lengths to have 6J wheels with the right offset though!

I did the arch widening technique earlier using a bottle jack. Worked well. Worked very well in fact. I got so carried away I've got quite a large flare on the rear arches! 6J might be wide enough to fill them now! lol

Pressing it out while heating with a heat gun:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/456.JPG

Flaaaare:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/457.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/458.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/459.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/460.JPG

Skim of filler as it distorted slightly where I had tacked it to the inner tub:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/461.JPG

Plenty of room now (well, not this low as it's too close to the arch lip I've left at the front!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/462.JPG

Also picked up a Corsa brake pedal assembly from the scrappers:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/463.JPG

Just need to work out how and where to fit this to the tray:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/464.JPG

Benn
15-08-09, 09:07 PM
Sorry dude i'm not liking the flare.

Iain
15-08-09, 09:16 PM
:( I'll go hammer them back in to the original shape.

General Baxter
15-08-09, 09:18 PM
you want a saloon so badly, look at you making your arches bigger lol

Benn
15-08-09, 10:19 PM
:( I'll go hammer them back in to the original shape.

No, if you like them leave them.

burgo
15-08-09, 10:26 PM
euro look ftw lol

The Simps
15-08-09, 11:03 PM
I thought they looked ok. I'd roll the front bit too tho and gradually fade it out to normal if that makes sense.

Iain
16-08-09, 04:50 PM
It does Simps, I'll try my best to get them looking good!

Dry fitted the Corsa brake setup earlier, copied a few people's WIPs for placement, although the bit inside looks quite far forward? Does it all work out ok once the pedal has been shortened?

In place in bay:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/465.JPG

How it lines up inside:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/466.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/467.JPG

Picked up a new F20 casing to replace the cracked one I've got. All clean and shiny so that saves me a job as I hate transmission fluid! Thanks to Colin Smith (novarally)!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/468.JPG

Novaboi_1991
16-08-09, 05:28 PM
Coming along nicely mate,

quater dont look too bad tbh, what about giving it a skim of filler so its smooth? then it will look lined up?

Iain
16-08-09, 05:33 PM
Yeah after it's first layer of filler it doesn't look too bad.

The Simps
16-08-09, 06:17 PM
Here's where mine is. Can't comment on whether it works yet tho! lol

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/Nova%20Coupe%20Project/06-05-0914.jpg

Iain
16-08-09, 06:43 PM
My holes are roughly in the same position as yours in the shell:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/Nova%20Coupe%20Project/03-07-0812.jpg

Just found another problem though: The reservoir hits the bonnet, and that's with no cap on?! lol

MK999
16-08-09, 06:51 PM
Just found another problem though: The reservoir hits the bonnet, and that's with no cap on?! lol

Muscle supercharger styley ftw lol

AlexW
16-08-09, 07:31 PM
Just found another problem though: The reservoir hits the bonnet, and that's with no cap on?! lol

You have to line it up so it fits, theres a sweet spot where it fits fine.

Iain
16-08-09, 07:52 PM
Line what up with what?

I've just rotated the servo 90 degrees so the reservoir is facing a different way and it will just fit in the rearmost 'groove' of the bonnet strengthening, is this what you mean?

Adam
16-08-09, 07:57 PM
The flare looks quite cool.
I never realised how long the corsa brake pedal is,Lol. Are you stregthening the bulkhead? as that flexes like hell

Iain
16-08-09, 08:04 PM
Yeah just a trial fit at the moment, will weld in the Corsa spreader plate (like Simps above), reweld along the firewall join and brace the back of the pedal so you don't transfer as much pressure in to the battery tray to induce flexing.

The Simps
16-08-09, 08:43 PM
I've just rotated the servo 90 degrees so the reservoir is facing a different way and it will just fit in the rearmost 'groove' of the bonnet strengthening, is this what you mean?


Yep, thats what I did.

Benn
16-08-09, 08:45 PM
Pedal send up looks cool.

Iain
17-08-09, 09:30 PM
Spreader plate cut down and in position:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/469.JPG

Cut some triangles out of the dip thing so the pedal can sit a bit more flush:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/470.JPG

Stitched in:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/471.JPG

Then thought I'd try my steering columns. Turns out the Nova one is going to be wayyyy too long, which means I'm having EPAS again!

Found this ex-brake setup hole could hold the bottom mount, winner!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/472.JPG

Just need to fab a top mount and it's good to bolt in! Easy!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/473.JPG

It's not perfectly straight as I hoped, but loads better than standard.

scott.parker
17-08-09, 09:51 PM
Good going dude!

billy bonus on the epas lol

Dar
17-08-09, 10:00 PM
You still fannying around with this!

EDIT: OK, good work.... Keep it up :thumb: Get it finished chop chop

Iain
18-08-09, 08:45 PM
Column is in! Well, needs welding in properly but shouldn't take too long now:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/474.JPG

Using Corsa bottom joint with EPAS column:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/475.JPG

Top mount looks a bit ghetto at the moment. Two tabs are welded to the car (will be braced between them for strength) then the |_| shaped bit will bolt to those, hopefully giving me height adjustment!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/476.JPG

Pic taken from directly above middle of drivers seat:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/477.JPG

nova ian
18-08-09, 08:49 PM
Really good work Iain, really coming on.

When you coming to fetch these bits and bobs from me?!

Iain
18-08-09, 08:51 PM
PM'd :)

Benn
18-08-09, 09:40 PM
Looks pissed still...





Good work, brake pedal looks like a better fit now too.

Iain
18-08-09, 11:21 PM
It's not perfectly straight but a damn site better than what it used to be. Didn't have the room to get it perfectly straight (lack of room around the brake pedal and for the motor on the column). The seat is pointing slightly inwards too so it all feels straight when you're sitting.

Rich
18-08-09, 11:39 PM
I found it amazing how angled the column is with buckets fitted, no dash in mine so it really stands out. What uj did you use on it? The corsa one? Think a corsa non-pas column might be worth looking at. You think it would work with the dash fitted? (mk1)

Iain
19-08-09, 12:13 AM
Yeah the whole lot is straight out a Corsa B including the joint. I imagine a non-EPAS would be the same dimensions etc?!

Not sure if it would work with a dash fitted, not even going to bother trying it!

Iain
19-08-09, 07:31 PM
Got my steering column top mount done, but it's flexing too much side to side for my liking where the horizontal bolts go (rubbish fabricating! lol).

Any suggestions how to stop the flex/redesign it?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/478.JPG

corsakid
19-08-09, 07:36 PM
some triangulation supports would stop the movement side to side

Benn
19-08-09, 07:57 PM
Good fab, boxing it in a bit more on thesides will help too.

Adam
19-08-09, 08:32 PM
Bracing on the bottom and sides???

Adam
19-08-09, 08:36 PM
Good fab work btw, making your own column mounts eh, top stuff!!!

Iain
19-08-09, 08:42 PM
I'd have used the standard mount if it wasn't miles different position to where it used to be.

I still can't think where to brace it as want to keep the bottom part unboltable (MS paint pics would help, anybody? lol). If I can't figure it out by the weekend it's having a fixed mount fitted like std!

Benn
19-08-09, 10:37 PM
Flat across the top to box it in more.. Was what i was kinda thinking..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/bennh/Crap/478.jpg

chimp007_uk
19-08-09, 10:44 PM
Good idea Ian, I wanted to lower the steering wheel on mine, sits way to high.

Like Ben said, and brace ouwards each side :)

Iain
20-08-09, 06:43 PM
Good idea Ian, I wanted to lower the steering wheel on mine, sits way to high.
You could always space it down with washers/longer bolts on the standard mount?

New exhaust came today :d It's a full Ashley 2.25" system with 4-2-1 manifold and black tailpipe.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/479.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/480.JPG

Manifold to system join is actually a sleeve fitment rather than a flexi joint. Should be okay on TAS solid engine mounts though?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/481.JPG

Stealthy tailpipe :cool:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/482.JPG

Also put an order in with RallyDesign for some Quaife goodies :O

Benn
20-08-09, 07:11 PM
Stealth sucks.

Nice and new tho.

Adam
20-08-09, 09:32 PM
That manifold looks the bollox :cool:

Really shows how w&&k small the standard one is lol

Oh and sleeve fits are gooooood. Mine was fine on my 1600 16v with rubber engine mounts, so it'll be rate.

Does your xe not run a lambda???

Iain
20-08-09, 11:34 PM
Nah no lambda as it's an early 20XE. Yeah it's pretty fat compared to the standard manifold, should be good! Just needs coating in something to stop it rusting tbh.

Adam
21-08-09, 06:24 PM
Nothing will stop it rusting as they rust from the inside out.

Iain
21-08-09, 06:46 PM
Redesigned my column mount, chopped the old one off as it was rubbish and welded on a 3mm beasty, only thing that flexes now is the part it's attached to lol

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/483.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/484.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/485.JPG

Mazz
21-08-09, 06:49 PM
...only thing that flexes now is the part it's attached to lol


lol made me laugh lol

the mount looks really good dude, well done..

Iain
21-08-09, 06:52 PM
Thanks, pretty happy with it - managed to retain the height adjustment too :cool:

Spudly
21-08-09, 06:57 PM
only thing that flexes now is the part it's attached to lol



That would be the nova then:p



Err ive spotted two more brackets you can remove mr (sticks hand up in the air like a little kid) the ones the dash top bolts do up against, as im sure i read youre not going to be running a dash so therefore you dont need them, more weight loss, do it lol

Iain
21-08-09, 07:00 PM
Thought they looked quite useful for tieing the wiring to/around, and mounting a dash display to, so going to keep them :p

Any other weightless you see shout though! lol (except big block comments)

Spudly
21-08-09, 07:03 PM
Thought they looked quite useful for tieing the wiring to/around, and mounting a dash display to, so going to keep them :p

Any other weightless you see shout though! lol (except big block comments)


I must admit i did think that after i typed it tbh, ill yell should i spot anything else though dude, and with all the weight loss in the shell and the fact youre a skinny mofo its gonna be lightest (piloted) XE nova anyways lol

Adam
21-08-09, 07:07 PM
Column mount looks spot on, nice work.

I see another way to save weight on the piloted car, let me drive it :p :p lol

Spudly
21-08-09, 07:08 PM
I see another way to save weight on the piloted car, let me drive it :p :p lol


Lol, even skinnier pilot FTW:thumb:


lol

Adam
21-08-09, 07:10 PM
lol lol lol

The Simps
21-08-09, 07:51 PM
Top bit of work again chap!

Iain
22-08-09, 08:46 PM
Last noisy job completed! My neighbours will be happy! lol

All underseal underneath stripped off, surface rust wire wheeled back and treated with Kurust, etch primered and seam sealed.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/486.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/487.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/488.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/489.JPG

Next task is to"anti-rust" primer, stonechip and paint it with white Hammerite. All done tomorrow depending on drying times!

brucer
22-08-09, 09:02 PM
would there be another way to lift the body up like you have without a rollcage? wouldnt want to bend any part of the shell.

Iain
22-08-09, 09:17 PM
I think it's possible with a couple of people and no crane, can't think where else you could attach a crane to though.

burgo
22-08-09, 09:59 PM
holy ****. you nutter, but fair play

draper
23-08-09, 01:11 AM
gay !

Iain
23-08-09, 01:40 PM
Shut up Draper, just jealous because I can see a project all the way through :p

Underside primered, had to primer my white arch again too because the stonechip reacts to the paint :(

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/490.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/491.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/492.JPG

Will get a few coatings of this stuff:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/493.JPG

Benn
23-08-09, 02:26 PM
Very good work. Put some gloves on...

Paul
23-08-09, 03:56 PM
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/493.JPG

Grubby little urchin ;)

Adam
23-08-09, 05:53 PM
Just been over to Iain's have a look over his shell, looking top top!!!!!
Really is one sorted shell now, and the flared rear arches look cool too :cool:

And Paul, he applies primer and seam sealer by hand (literally lol ) lol lol

Iain
23-08-09, 06:02 PM
I don't apply it by hand all the time lol Just on small bits where it's not worth getting a brush. The ride out in yours has made me want to finish mine ASAP now though! :cool:

Got most of the underneath covered in stonechip. It's not particularly thick but when it dries it's very tough. Need to find somewhere locally that sells it for another quick coat over the underneath, then Hammerite white.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/494.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/495.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/496.JPG

Also tried one of Adam's Cesaros as this is the size wheel I was looking at, looooaaaads of room, an inch minimum!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/497.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/498.JPG

Drivers side:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/499.JPG

Passenger side:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/500.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/501.JPG

So choice now is... Enjoy the massive amount of clearance knowing I'll never get scrubbage, or look at changing the width/offset to suit.

The Simps
23-08-09, 06:06 PM
As long as the rear shocks/coilovers clear the tyres stay as they are mate. No point wasting money that could be spent elsewhere.

I must say, this thread is inspirational. Gonna go have a tinker with mine now I think :D

Iain
23-08-09, 06:09 PM
Well I want new wheels anyway as the Astra ones aren't that great.

Benn
23-08-09, 06:13 PM
Looking awesome.

Adam
23-08-09, 06:21 PM
The ride out in yours has made me want to finish mine ASAP now though! :cool:



:d :d :d



http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/501.JPG
Met Green Cesaros F T W! :cool: lol lol

SRimon
23-08-09, 06:22 PM
Looks great! Coming on well..!

Jay
23-08-09, 06:39 PM
Liking the progress.

Rich
23-08-09, 06:52 PM
Arches look cool, adam sprayed his wheels green?? :confused:

Wish i had the motivation to work on my car every weekend!

Iain
23-08-09, 07:21 PM
His spare is green, the rest are black lol

Rich
23-08-09, 07:26 PM
Im guessing he run out of black paint by the last wheel then, the green looks very much like that wrong colour he bought for his engine bay lol

Iain
23-08-09, 07:28 PM
I think that's the paint he used, the wrong colour match one. For some bizarre reason he thought it looked cool in green on my car too.

Rich
23-08-09, 07:43 PM
It does go quite well with that primer colour tbh...

Whats the planned colour for the car or still not decided?

Iain
23-08-09, 08:01 PM
Boring old white I'm afraid. With unpainted bumpers, probs silver wheels and bits of red here and there.

Adam
23-08-09, 08:21 PM
See, Rich agrees with me on the colour looking cool!! :p

As did your neighbours!!!!!! lol

Iain
25-08-09, 02:52 PM
Finished the underside with another can of stonechip and 2 coats of Hammerite smooth white. Looks good!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/502.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/503.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/504.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/505.JPG

One for Benn/Paul :p

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/506.JPG

Also my solid engine mounts arrived, thanks dhdev (Oli) :thumb:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/507.JPG

peester
25-08-09, 05:58 PM
^^ yay same mounts as me scott and ad

Iain
25-08-09, 06:11 PM
Woohoo lol I need to mod the drivers side one to stop it fouling the chassis leg but I'll just take a few mm off the bolt head.

chimp007_uk
25-08-09, 07:35 PM
I've got the same mounts, engine doesn't move an inch! or a mm :)

Looks like good progress, I need to carry on with mine once i'm back from holiday.

Top work Ian!

Benn
25-08-09, 10:52 PM
lol you filthy funker. Get some gloves, believe me after a while your hands wont just wash up nice.

Slapping that paint on the under side...

Iain
28-08-09, 04:39 PM
Been modding my brake pedal, going to cut the Corsa one off the top and weld a straightened Nova one on to get the right position.

Also got my new wheels delivered, well chuffed with them. 6x15 Revolution Milleniums:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/508.JPG

Also had my front coilovers modified by Gaz. He has extended the thread down the piston further so I can fit eccentric topmounts without spacers/washers/bodges, which is good. Even replaced the seals, cleaned and painted them for the same price!

Before:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/509.JPG

After, see the thread at the top:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/510.JPG

Nova Ian is also sorting me out my topmounts, getting a few mm machined off them for an extra bit of camber/caster.

Prey
28-08-09, 04:59 PM
very smart wheels dude!

Adam
28-08-09, 06:57 PM
Good to see the coilovers looking useable again, they looked in terrible cosmetic condition!!!!!!!!!!

Spudly
28-08-09, 07:13 PM
Thats some sterling work iain keep it up bud:thumb:

draper
28-08-09, 07:51 PM
them wheels are pr0n !

nova ian
28-08-09, 08:01 PM
Good work Iain, Them wheels look beautiful! I like!

Glad you got them coilovers sorted easily enough too

Iain
28-08-09, 08:04 PM
Yeah they are cool, a few paint stuffs and chips but might leave 'em for now as they're not that bad.

Yeah coileys were sorted easier than I thought! Good customer service from Gaz as it didn't even cost me any more to get the seals etc done.

Benn
28-08-09, 08:11 PM
Comming on very well, white one white will look good.

scott.parker
29-08-09, 11:15 AM
Coilovers are bang on mate, top service there!

Wheels look well smart, i say if they need a coat of paint go for it, mine are rattled can'd, but will get powder coated soon.

Scott

Iain
29-08-09, 04:18 PM
If I repaint them white I might as well have bought new wheels though lol

More parts! 22 spline shafts with conversion inner CVs, and GSi thicker tie bars:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/511.JPG

Fibreglass bonnet with full underside strengthening, which I'm dreading cutting up for the Aerocatches!!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/512.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/513.JPG

Benn
29-08-09, 11:22 PM
Do me a fav, lay the tie bars side by side, see if they are the same...

djbrowney
30-08-09, 02:18 PM
Do me a fav, lay the tie bars side by side, see if they are the same...

They should be :thumb:

Iain
30-08-09, 06:50 PM
Do me a fav, lay the tie bars side by side, see if they are the same...

Same as eachother or same as the thinner ones?

AlexW
30-08-09, 08:37 PM
There the same side to side if thats what you mean, and i do have a pic showing the differance between thicker tiebars and the thinner ones.

Progress looks good as per usual

Benn
30-08-09, 10:10 PM
The same side by side, as my long shaft *snigger* touches the chassic rail.

Iain
31-08-09, 07:33 PM
Benn I compared the tie bars and they're identical.

Finished the brake pedal setup by welding a Nova pedal to the top of the Corsa one. Please shout if it looks a bad job as I'm quite worried about it lol

Nova one cut down:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/514.JPG

Welded both sides with 150a welder on full power:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/515.JPG

Original bracing modified to fit pedal housing for extra support:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/516.JPG

Fitted:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/517.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/518.JPG

Fancied having a go at making an arch rolling tool lol

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/519.JPG

Tried rolling an old wing to see if it worked:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/520.JPG

It worked ok for folding the lip up but I couldn't get any flare using it. So tried cutting an arch using tin snips:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/521.JPG

Would be fairly easy to get some flare like this, but a lot of effort of welding up and fillering.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/522.JPG

I've been assured I can get what I want to match the back with basic tools and no cutting so I'll try this first.

brucer
31-08-09, 07:36 PM
if your worried about the brake pedal then you could cut 2 small plates to go either side of the join and weld them to it.

Adam
31-08-09, 07:37 PM
Hope that pedal stays attached lol lol

Nah, it should do, maybe.

Brucer has a good plan, weld a plate on either side

Iain
31-08-09, 07:38 PM
Shut up Adam lol

I'll have a look at it tomorrow, but yeah brucer could plate it either side.

Adam
31-08-09, 07:41 PM
:p :p

LEWI007
31-08-09, 07:55 PM
Very interesting stuff with the arch flaring there matey.

keep us updated.

Benn
31-08-09, 08:04 PM
Pedal looks good, what the crap have yo done to that wing.

Iain
31-08-09, 08:06 PM
It's an old rusty one lol Going to try and match the rear arches on the front, or it'll look weird.

Benn
31-08-09, 09:07 PM
Oh....

Arch rolling tools good.

The Simps
31-08-09, 11:45 PM
Pedal should be fine imo. Penetration looks good enough.

scott.parker
01-09-09, 04:47 PM
Cracking progress as always of late, your really getting on with it now mate, top marks.. :thumb: :thumb:

Scott

novalovingned
01-09-09, 10:59 PM
Cracking read. Top notch work from the start :)

Iain
02-09-09, 07:16 PM
Cheers.

Been tinkering with the engine since it's raining.

Got the crankshaft sprocket bolt off with a screwdriver wedged in the flywheel, an XE manifold as a prop and my breaker bar:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/523.JPG

Then stood there wondering what I should remove to check for wear/scoring/marks/signs of damage. What should I be looking at? Everything?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/524.JPG

Holes in the crankshaft, are these standard and what are they for?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/525.JPG

Removed oil pump too, been told to replace with GM one only?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/526.JPG

Adam
02-09-09, 07:22 PM
Holes in crank webs are there to balance it afaik

Remove the big end and main caps if you want to check the shells for wear....

Benn
02-09-09, 07:26 PM
I got quoted a price on gm pump, was about 700...

MK999
02-09-09, 07:30 PM
I got quoted a price on gm pump, was about 700...

Bargain :eek:

AlexW
02-09-09, 07:56 PM
The holes are indeed for balancing, somthing that a lot of people do when rebuilding. Ment to make the engine more reliable so im told.

Oil pump - refurb your one imo

Iain
03-09-09, 05:41 PM
I assumed they were for balancing, but didn't know if they were there as standard or if the crank has been balanced before.

Had some of the big end bearings off today to check for wear. There's a lot of marks and grooves in them, most of them you can feel with your nail. Does this mean they're fit for the bin?

Marked the caps with a file as per Haynes instructions:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/528.JPG

#1 off:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/529.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/530.JPG

Bottom half:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/531.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/532.JPG

Top half:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/533.JPG

Crank doesn't look too bad:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/534.JPG

Then whipped off #4 as the crank was in the right position to do so. Bottom half:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/535.JPG

Top half:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/536.JPG

Crank has some visible grooves on #4, I can just about feel one of them with my fingernail, is this bad?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/537.JPG

L14MNP
03-09-09, 06:00 PM
I read up until you started tinkering with the engine and could read no more at this sitting.

Nice job on the arch roller, but.....does this mean you hacked up one of the famous skateboards? :(

Love the Revo's too! Guess our wheel convos can no longer take place! lol

Iain
03-09-09, 06:04 PM
The famous skateboard/engine moving tool has lost a wheel, but it'll get it back as the roller tool isn't that useful since all my arches are rolled already lol

Our wheel conversations always went along the same lines though? "Your Astra wheels look crap" "Yes" lol

AlexW
03-09-09, 06:30 PM
Replace those shells, marking like that looks like lack of oil.

Iain
03-09-09, 07:54 PM
Got rest of the shells off, they're all in the same condition. Also removed the crankshaft to check the main bearings, they are all good except the end one which looks a little worse so I'll fit new ones of those too.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/538.JPG

Worst one, still not bad:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/539.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/540.JPG

Worth removing the pistons? I don't have the tool to refit them and Haynes says it can damage the rings if there's any lip on the block?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/541.JPG

Benn
03-09-09, 08:48 PM
Crank looks ok, i've seen worse, just change the shells as you have them out already. (engines run with alot more wear than that..)

nova ian
04-09-09, 09:35 AM
Good work Iain, can't believe you got that bottom pulley bolt off so easily, we had a nightmare and a broken socket with mine! lol

To be honest I'd replace all the mains and big ends, they look worse than mine were. Also if you've gone this far I'd drop the pistons out and rering them and have the bore honed too. You know you will be majorly pee'd off if you leave them and after all that time you put into building it and its smoking you be gutted you didn't do the rings!

Entirely your call, but personally I would, and did :thumb:

L14MNP
04-09-09, 11:11 AM
A piston ring compressor is only around a tenner dude. As above, definitely replace the rings!

AlexW
04-09-09, 11:16 AM
What i was about to say, its about £60 for rings, well worth doing it. Is there a lip on the block then? If there is get it honed and everything, same as if there is any marks down the bores.

L14MNP
04-09-09, 11:28 AM
He never mentioned any lip or scores on the bores over MSN, also said that the cross hatching is still very noticeable. May get away without a rebore if that's the case.

I'd do the rings as a matter of course anyway, easy job when the engines on a stand! lol

AlexW
04-09-09, 03:02 PM
Excatly, Rings are well worth it, when you consider the work needed to redo it all after its pooring out blue smoke.

If the bores look ok you might get away with just doing the rings without a rebore or anything. Depends how much iain wants to spend.

nova ian
04-09-09, 03:48 PM
Excatly, Rings are well worth it, when you consider the work needed to redo it all after its pooring out blue smoke.

If the bores look ok you might get away with just doing the rings without a rebore or anything. Depends how much iain wants to spend.

I doubt it will need a rebore with the condition of everything else, but I would deffo re-hone the bores if your putting in new rings, and that costs nothing if you know someone who has the tool ;)

AlexW
04-09-09, 03:51 PM
Pah ment to say re-hone. Agreed if you know somone who has all the tools its all free, like my mate has everything lol

Iain
04-09-09, 04:16 PM
Ok ok you've convinced me lol Will whip the pistons out and fit new rings. There's no lip on the block, just a bit less smooth where the pistons/rings don't reach up to (which is normal?), but will get it honed anyway.

Will it need running in again with all this work?

L14MNP
04-09-09, 04:19 PM
Gay. I meant honed too! lol

Yep. Run her in.

AlexW
04-09-09, 05:26 PM
So no thrashing it for a few miles lol.

Havnt you finished it yet? lol

Iain
04-09-09, 06:40 PM
I've finished removing the pistons if that's what you mean lol

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/542.JPG

A slight lip on a few of them actually, not massive but I don't really know what's big in engine terms:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/543.JPG

Bore shows crosshatching marks:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/544.JPG

Tried to finish removing the head studs and this is what the head stud extractor that "doesn't damage the thread so they can be reused" did to them lol Welded a nut to the end of them to get them out :roll:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/545.JPG

Paul
04-09-09, 07:22 PM
Iain, did you grind a V into the join in the pedal, I would have done and filled that with weld.

Iain
04-09-09, 07:54 PM
I did not, there was a slight gap a bit like a V join would have been on one side though?

I've only just got over the worry of the pedal, good job lol I'll be plating it on one side tomorrow now!

Iain
04-09-09, 07:58 PM
I now have some badass flare on my front R/H wing to match the rear arch. Hooray.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/546.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/547.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/548.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/549.JPG

Prey
04-09-09, 08:06 PM
Ur a very busy bugger.... looking quality tho mate!

Iain
08-09-09, 06:00 PM
Today's update, been doing bodywork which for a novice is very time consuming! Getting there though.

Arches almost done! Subtle flare on the front:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/550.JPG

And rear one is taking shape, I find the biggest problem is getting where it starts to flick out look right as the light catches it slightly differently and highlights it:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/551.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/552.JPG

Shifter plate smoothed in to the tunnel, looks almost factory:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/553.JPG

Back almost done, with smoothed seatbelt holes:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/554.JPG

Tinkering with my Aerocatches, they're currently like this:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/555.JPG

I'd quite like to fit them like this, but the shape of the slam panel doesn't really allow for it. So I guess they'll stay as above!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/556.JPG

A few parts bought. Quaife ATB diff:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/557.JPG

New poly bushes as most of mine met a melty end with the welding work lol:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/558.JPG

Weeny Racetech mirror weighing hardly anything:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/559.JPG

stevie-p
08-09-09, 06:01 PM
looks ace love the arches - good work and progress

Adam
08-09-09, 06:03 PM
Arches are looking really good now.


And i need a parcel like that on my doorstep!!!! lol lol

peester
08-09-09, 06:08 PM
nice parts.. itll be a totally different animal

scott.parker
08-09-09, 06:35 PM
Good going mate, the cars going to be a nice drive once it's all back together, totally different car infact.

Benn
08-09-09, 09:14 PM
Looking good dude, catchs look good, like mean eye brows.

Get new manifold studs and nuts. Vx can do you a full set of about a tenner iirc.

021-bennettt
08-09-09, 11:27 PM
I just went through all of the pages and my eyes are hanging out of my head...was nearly too tired to write this comment lol EXCELLENT work!

burgo
08-09-09, 11:48 PM
loving it all

Iain
09-09-09, 05:21 PM
Thanks all for your kind comments.


Get new manifold studs and nuts. Vx can do you a full set of about a tenner iirc.

Yeah was planning on doing, a tenner doesn't sound bad. :)

Paul
09-09-09, 05:24 PM
Nice Iain, the quaife is the best thing you can do to a big block.

Its a shame that you wont have driven an XE without one, so you can see just exactly how good it is!

Iain
09-09-09, 05:31 PM
I'll drive Adams when I'm back on the road with drive-other-cars, assuming he hasn't bought one before mine's finished!

scott.parker
09-09-09, 05:53 PM
Nice Iain, the quaife is the best thing you can do to a big block.

Its a shame that you wont have driven an XE without one, so you can see just exactly how good it is!

I finally got to test mine at combe, MASSIVE improvement! :thumb:

Mazz
10-09-09, 11:05 AM
Where did you buy your diff from Iain?

Iain
10-09-09, 01:02 PM
All the latest parts are from RallyDesign.

novalovingned
11-09-09, 05:21 PM
Good progress. I might actually get to a show next year to see this in the metal. Providing its finished :)

draper
11-09-09, 05:23 PM
Good progress. I might actually get to a show next year to see this in the metal. Providing its finished :)


lol


nice shiny bits lionel

did you have a look at that astra ?

Iain
12-09-09, 06:31 PM
Couldn't find the Astra, looking at Volvos at the moment lol

Yep it'll be at the shows next year, in the metal and filler lol

Smoothed off the plates in the engine bay to try and achieve a more factory look. Before (plating them seems like ages ago now!):

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/088.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/099.JPG

After:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/560.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/561.JPG

More work on the rear arches, using more filler than I'd like to but they should look good when finished:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/562.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/563.JPG

Smoothed boot floor (factory spot weld marks and unevenness from chassis leg stitching);

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/564.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/565.JPG

More on the exhaust tunnel to get that looking decent:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/566.JPG

Adam
12-09-09, 06:35 PM
This is loooking too good for my liking

The Simps
12-09-09, 06:35 PM
I really hope it doesn't all crack first trackday you do :(

Good work as always bud.

Jay
12-09-09, 06:36 PM
:)

Ste L
12-09-09, 06:36 PM
nice Iain, looking lovely and smooth

Iain
12-09-09, 06:38 PM
I really hope it doesn't all crack first trackday you do :(

Good work as always bud.
lol Me too. I used a special flexible filler for the engine bay so hopefully should overcome any cracking possibilities.

Adam
12-09-09, 06:39 PM
I really hope it doesn't all crack first trackday you do :(

Good work as always bud.
With the amount of weldage hes put into this thing i cant see that happening lol

novalovingned
13-09-09, 01:27 AM
With the amount of weldage hes put into this thing i cant see that happening lol


+1

I would feel sorry for anything he hits.

draper
13-09-09, 03:42 AM
fancy coming and doing the filler work on my 106 lionel ?

Adam
13-09-09, 08:49 AM
Hes already told me hes had enough of bodywork once his cars done lol lol
Wanted him do my arches lol

Benn
13-09-09, 09:59 AM
Awesome work dude, good job on the bay, still looks factory ish.

Iain
13-09-09, 11:15 AM
Cheers all, it's not that much welding?! Yeah it'll hopefully look "normal" once it's finished and painted, and I've put seam sealer over it.

Why have I got a queue of people wanting my DIY bodging skills lol I'll no doubt get bored of not welding etc when my car's finished tho!

Iain
22-09-09, 05:44 PM
Feels like I've been slacking lately, been putting in lots of hours to try and finish the bodywork to a good standard. Think I've decided to hand it over to somebody to paint though, so might let them finish off the pillars etc.

Seam sealered most of my engine bay, including where I filled so it looks normal. Not a bad job, just need to buy some more to finish it off.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/567.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/568.JPG

Won't look bad when it's painted:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/569.JPG

Also got some GSi dials so I don't need to chop the wiring about for my digidash, as I dream of getting a Stack dash eventually lol Reset the mileage to 0 to track the mileage of the new engine!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/570.JPG

scott.parker
22-09-09, 05:53 PM
Cool looks good mate, but whys that cardboard box producing Oil pressure!? :confused: mega fire hazard!:eek:
















lol

Benn
22-09-09, 06:35 PM
Looks good dude!

Iain
27-09-09, 06:02 PM
Rest of the car has been seam sealered and reprimered now, I just need to paint the inside and engine bay and ship it off to a bodyshop.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/571.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/572.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/573.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/574.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/575.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/576.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/577.JPG

Also trial fitted my fibreglass bonnet, fits well!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/578.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/579.JPG

djbrowney
27-09-09, 06:04 PM
awsome progress not looked at the thread for a while, who you going to get it painted by ???

Iain
27-09-09, 06:08 PM
On with fitting the Aerocatches! Dreading this job on a new fibreglass bonnet but wasn't as bad as expected.

Pins fitted from previous installation here:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/580.JPG

Cut away some of the inside to line it up and mark where to drill (red dot):

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/581.JPG

Hole on the surface of the bonnet is roughly 100mm in from the side and 125mm back from the front:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/582.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/583.JPG

Lost the original template so mocked something up from my old bonnet and measurements off the web:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/584.JPG

Drawn on, front edge lines up with the front edge of the bonnet:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/585.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/586.JPG

Iain
27-09-09, 06:08 PM
Multi tool with cutting disc is my weapon of choice:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/587.JPG

Cut:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/588.JPG

Removed:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/589.JPG

Next up, shaping it with this sanding thing on the multitool:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/590.JPG

Perfec':

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/591.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/592.JPG

Shaped nicely around the back of the Aerocatch (downside is I won't be able to use 3 of the original bolts but some tigerseal should keep it in place:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/593.JPG

Job's a goodun:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/594.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/595.JPG

Iain
27-09-09, 06:13 PM
Cool looks good mate, but whys that cardboard box producing Oil pressure!? :confused: mega fire hazard!:eek:

I'm sure that used to say fuel level lol:p


awsome progress not looked at the thread for a while, who you going to get it painted by ???

Might paint inside and bay myself, not sure about the exterior.

Paul
27-09-09, 06:17 PM
nice work Ian, :)

Benn
27-09-09, 07:09 PM
Good work on the shell, you lined the catches up well after all then..lol

Iain
27-09-09, 07:20 PM
20 measurements each side and a couple of drawing attempts but should only be a couple of mm difference now. :cool:

scott.parker
27-09-09, 11:31 PM
Looks good dude, yeah might have edited it! lol

Adam
28-09-09, 03:53 PM
Good work!

peester
28-09-09, 05:27 PM
coo, youve bought the bonnet ive had my eye on getting one soon too.. my ol' bonnet has a dent in it and the strengthened fibre-glass version (the one that goes onto o.e hinges) is just one ive fancied for a while..
do you have to use rally-esque pins/catches for it, cannot use o.e catch??

Iain
28-09-09, 08:20 PM
All the holes on the underneath are filled in (latch, rubber stops etc). I guess you could mod it to fit a latch but I don't think it was made with that in mind.

Aerocatches look quite cool anyway! Better than the classic pin design & lockable so safe.

Iain
29-09-09, 06:10 PM
Rubbish update, it's taking me ages to choose/buy/paint it so doing odd jobs instead.

Was cleaning the underside of my slam panel and noticed more weight saving that could be done! 262 grams of pure unrequired metal!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/596.JPG

Gone:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/597.JPG

Looks weird from the top without the spring bit!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/598.JPG

Also drilled the rear bumper holes, guessed the measurements and they were bang on, winner!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/599.JPG

Benn
29-09-09, 06:11 PM
That's some crazy weight saving.

Paul
29-09-09, 06:15 PM
Also drilled the rear bumper holes, guessed the measurements and they were bang on, winner!

Dear Lord

Iain
29-09-09, 06:22 PM
Exciting stuff eh.

burgo
29-09-09, 06:56 PM
lmfao. that slam panel weight savage is legendary

Spudly
29-09-09, 07:05 PM
I can see his next update, after a few beers and watching an episode of the simpsons.......





Looky, speed holes......



1722 grams saved from drilling holes in the entire shell, started here.....



http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/599.JPG

scott.parker
30-09-09, 12:16 AM
Iain, why not just go for alloy replacement slam, or chopped out one for access?

Scott

Adam
30-09-09, 05:40 PM
Thats half a second shaved off your 1/4 time right there!!!

Benn
30-09-09, 06:58 PM
Iain, why not just go for alloy replacement slam, or chopped out one for access?

Scott

I never get that, you can get the rad out with a xe in piece of piss, so when does it need removing...

Iain
30-09-09, 07:03 PM
I did think about removing it a while ago, but decided it wasn't worth it. Would replace with alloy one if I did remove it though.

draper
30-09-09, 07:16 PM
carbon fibre one ?

Plug
30-09-09, 07:26 PM
carbon fibre shell? space framed out with a 4wd beast?

Go on you know you want to

Iain
12-10-09, 11:06 AM
OK not much progress, but the cage is repainted matt black:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/600.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/601.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/602.JPG

Suspension and steering gear has been loosely bolted/cable tied in place to make it a rolling shell again. First time off axle stands in about 6 months?!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/603.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/604.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/605.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/606.JPG

Front wings have been seam sealered where they have been rolled:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/607.JPG

And annoyingly I have somehow broken my toptint windscreen in storage! Grr.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/608.JPG

vaughanmc
12-10-09, 11:07 AM
Looks good Iain, early style boot will make a difference :)

AlexW
12-10-09, 11:07 AM
It needs lowering lol

L14MNP
12-10-09, 11:58 AM
http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/606.JPG
More info on the turbo brick needed. lol

Whitey is looking very impressive thought mate! colonhatsofftoyousir

Benn
12-10-09, 06:50 PM
Looking good dude, wouldn't it have been easier to paint the cage after the shells painted?

MK999
12-10-09, 06:52 PM
Looking good dude, wouldn't it have been easier to paint the cage after the shells painted?

Guessing he's thinking along the lines that it's easier to mask up the cage than an entire shell?

Iain
12-10-09, 06:53 PM
Figured masking up a cage is easier than masking up a whole car when it's done! lol

Edit: Yep as above!

Benn
12-10-09, 06:55 PM
Masking a cage isnt easy!

brucer
12-10-09, 07:08 PM
monster truck novas FTW. all you got to do now is make the rear wheels turn with the front. haha

Novaboi_1991
12-10-09, 07:23 PM
why not paint the cage the same colour as the shell? no masking...

Iain
12-10-09, 07:30 PM
Breaks it up a bit having black seats, wheel, cage etc I think. And I have black cage padding for it.

MK999
12-10-09, 07:37 PM
cages always have to be a different colour, it's just the rules lol

Iain
14-10-09, 05:41 PM
Going to get a quote for powdercoating loads of stuff so decided to strip them down ready. XE covers:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/609.JPG

Rear beam is looking a bit tired, and I think the bottom shock mounts are knackered:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/610.JPG

So I removed the ARB:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/611.JPG

The replacement beam, have since removed the rear drums/mounts etc:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/612.JPG

Rear axle bush cut off at one end:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/613.JPG

And out:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/614.JPG

Same with front lower arm:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/615.JPG

And components ready for cleaning and powercoating/painting. Is it worth plating/strengthening the bottom of the lower arm?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/616.JPG

Also picked up another F20 gearbox to fit my Quaife diff in to:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/617.JPG

Paul
14-10-09, 05:48 PM
a lot of people say strengthening the lower arms is bad, as they bend if u crash and dont bend the chassis, howver mine are strenghtened as are quie a lot of peoples.

Glad to see youre having the lot powdercoated, be worthwhile with all your bling bling shiny bits!

Iain, have you considered fitting a Corsa rear ARB?

Paul
14-10-09, 05:50 PM
And annoyingly I have somehow broken my toptint windscreen in storage! Grr.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/608.JPG

A ha ha ha ha ha lol

Iain
14-10-09, 05:50 PM
Yeah noticed a lot of people have strengthened them. Got me thinking about it as they could flex quite a bit when I put them in the vice.

Corsa rear ARB, does that go inside the beam or is it different?

Adam
14-10-09, 05:52 PM
Different

scott.parker
14-10-09, 05:57 PM
IMO if you don't strengthen the underside of the front arms your asking for trouble, but then i don't know of anyone who wouldn't wen doing a good XE/LET conversion.
Also i like the bush removal, similar to how me and my mate did his lol

And as for Corsa anti roll bar, Humm you could try it, or go for a straight bar across the rear part of the rear beam, to them tow mount holes, Benn was going to try, don't know if he did or not.

All looking good though mate.

Scott

Paul
14-10-09, 05:58 PM
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v14/lashednova/DSC04753.jpg

Corsa whiteline rear ARB

Benn
14-10-09, 06:27 PM
The corsa one of over 15mm wider each side...
I'm waiting on a cav one comming to me to try and use, its ment to fit better.
So i will be soon.

I haven't plated my lower arms, after seeing how they are ment to fold when you slide in to a kerb. So i'd rather they fold them it bent the chassis.

AlexW
14-10-09, 07:04 PM
I haven't plated my lower arms, after seeing how they are ment to fold when you slide in to a kerb. So i'd rather they fold them it bent the chassis.

I was thinking of that too, and i suggested to iain about Tigra ones as there plated but not as strong as aftermarket plated ones :)

Just need to get iain some pics.... when i remember lol

Benn
14-10-09, 07:11 PM
I've seen tigra/corsa ones and didn't think about coping them. Plate them but with a gap in the middle...

Iirc tigra/corsa ones are to long...

djbrowney
14-10-09, 07:18 PM
I've seen tigra/corsa ones and didn't think about coping them. Plate them but with a gap in the middle...

Iirc tigra/corsa ones are to long...

yes they are longer :thumb:

Benn
14-10-09, 07:22 PM
Same length so Mr Aw says...

burgo
14-10-09, 10:15 PM
Same length so Mr Aw says...mr AW knows feck all. i thought everyone knew that

vaughanmc
15-10-09, 12:15 PM
mr AW knows feck all. i thought everyone knew that

lol

bmw156
15-10-09, 01:02 PM
mr AW knows feck all. i thought everyone knew that

lol, project looks immense, i have sent you a pm about your engine :)

AlexW
15-10-09, 01:25 PM
They ARE the same lengh. I have a ****ing tigra and i compared the lenghs!

Pic:
http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh30/AW_06/HPIM1970.jpg
Bear in mind its not easy. But you can see there not 1 inch longer at all. You can also see the strengh plate.

draper
15-10-09, 02:36 PM
^^ you idiot - there obviously longer even from that angle

AlexW
15-10-09, 03:13 PM
That pic isnt the best, but the one held up is the nova one, There the same funking lengh!

let_nova
15-10-09, 03:22 PM
aw06 they are the same length. i run corsa bottom arms on my nova. its the chassis width of the corsa that is wider not the running gear.

AlexW
15-10-09, 04:01 PM
Excatly.

Benn
15-10-09, 07:14 PM
Was gonna saying going by that pic its just the shape that difference..

Iain
19-10-09, 06:50 PM
Got my eccentric topmounts back after being machined down for slightly more camber/caster adjustment, thanks to Nova Ian.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/618.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/619.JPG

Also stripped down my steering rack for the Quaife internals:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/620.JPG

Poly rack mounts to be reused:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/621.JPG

All of it was quite easy, just unbolts. Found the best way to get the pinion out is a pair of mole grips and hammer it up and out:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/622.JPG

Out!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/623.JPG

Rack casing to fit my internals in to:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/624.JPG

Benn
19-10-09, 06:57 PM
Ah have wonderd how you take the rack apart...

Iain
19-10-09, 07:04 PM
It's dead easy, just remove the arms, undo the big tension nut, and the pinion comes out after removing a circlip.

nova ian
19-10-09, 07:13 PM
You got the bearing back in then! lol

Did you finish painting that fuel tank??!!

Good stuff Iain

Iain
19-10-09, 07:32 PM
Yeah got the bearing back in, I modified the circlips too so they weren't touching the bearing when they rotated. (Remember what I was pointing out to you when I first gave them to you)

Nah fuel tank is half paint strippered, that's one for a rainy day in the garage! lol

brucer
19-10-09, 08:13 PM
have you got a pic of the top mount before the work was carried out? how much did nova ian charge if you dont mind me asking?

bruce

Iain
19-10-09, 08:47 PM
Here's the topmounts before fettling. I think it's about 3mm taken off. It's Ian's mate that did it so PM him for more info!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP/131.JPG

MK999
19-10-09, 08:48 PM
They the rally design ones? Look similar but mine don't have the recesses either side of the bearing, that i've noticed anyway.

Iain
19-10-09, 10:30 PM
They're Compbrake CMB0230 topmounts.

Iain
21-10-09, 06:48 PM
A little more work on the rack and topmounts today, pics are more for reference than an interesting update!

Quaife internals vs standard:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/625.JPG

Part no. on pinion, also the bearing I need to fit to my new internals in the bottom left:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/626.JPG

Looking at the bearing number, and comparing it to Olly's post (http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showpost.php?p=873715&postcount=932), it's a standard one. So I've ordered a new one:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/627.JPG

Measurements are 40mm outer diameter, 17mm internal diameter and 12mm thickness:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/628.JPG

Iain
21-10-09, 06:52 PM
Next, on to the topmounts. I had bought new threaded inserts to use but they're too long, over 3cm here:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/629.JPG

Which leads to this:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/630.JPG

So I dug out my old ones which were already cut down:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/631.JPG

Much better:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/632.JPG

Perfect:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/633.JPG

Not sure if I've said yet, but I'm upgrading my 275lb 8" springs (for the 16SE) to 325lb 7" springs for the 20XE:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/634.JPG

Markings of the springs from Faulkner:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/635.JPG

Next up I had a play with my camber bolts!

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/636.JPG

Fit in the strut like this:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/637.JPG

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/638.JPG

However two problems....

1 - I cannot get full adjustment as the washer hits the strut here:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/639.JPG

And 2 - The bolt can twist without moving the washer?! So that surely makes them unsettable as the washer can be pointing in a completely different location to the bolt!

Adam
21-10-09, 06:56 PM
Have you still not got way too much thread sticking out the top mount??????

And why camber bolts? Just adjust the top mounts :confused:

Mike
21-10-09, 07:01 PM
And why camber bolts? Just adjust the top mounts :confused:

I though this when i had my LEDA's, but when i fitted it all upto the shell, i ended up with umpteen more adjsutability.

Iain
21-10-09, 07:02 PM
There's loads of thread coming out of the topmount still because I have the topmount straight on top of the top spring platform:

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/640.JPG

The coilovers are designed for standard topmounts. Most people fit the bottom and top spacer which leaves a 'normal' amount of thread poking out the top, but the benefits of what I've done are no play in the top spring platform, and slightly more travel at lower ride heights.

Camber bolts.... Just more adjustment. I can set the topmounts for maximum caster and sort the camber on the bolts - win win!

scott.parker
21-10-09, 07:04 PM
Them bolts are more for caster then anything, but as Ad say's the top mounts give more then enough adjustment Iain.

Good progress though mate.

Scott

Iain
21-10-09, 11:06 PM
I can't see how the bolts modify caster?

I used to run -1deg neg camber and +1deg caster on the topmounts, so if I can set the topmounts to give more caster then the bolts alone will get -1deg camber.

That's the theory anyway, if I can iron out the weird issues explained above then I'll use 'em.

burgo
21-10-09, 11:16 PM
concidering they are called camber bolts then im guessing scott is abit sleepy