Chimps Trackday XE

[chimp007_uk]

Right... Where to begin??? I've had the car a year now, and slowly things have changed and evolved, and are still evolving. I'm in the process of doing some more work to it, so thought I'd start a projects thread now I'm not working to ho[efully give me some motivation.

Here's how it was when I bought it...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/car.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/DSC07400-1.jpg
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1.2 shell
C20XE with Mantzel powercap
Quaife LSD
Adjustabel fuel reg
Spax 40mm springs
Corbeau seats
3Point harnesses
"one off exhaust" lol
Corsa GSI wheels
Digi Dash

Just had a top end rebuild and full respray.

On the way home the clutch cable snapped... Luckily it was 300yds from my front door, so first thing was a new cable then set up the fuelling on the rollers. Then there were some electrical issues and the insurance required an immobiliser... Step in Stubs to save the day :)

First thing to go was the wheels... :tard: Purchased some mint cav slabs, but after fitting they didnt quite look right. Ideally I wanted some MO's :( but an absolutely mint set of cesaros popped up with brand new proxes and a539's for £100, so went with them.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/DSC07573.jpg

Next thing to sort was the poo suspension, again another bargain... Picked up some Spax rsx coilovers brand new for £250 with brand new GM topmounts as well.

Then, the ultimate find... I purchased all of this :D

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/13062008064.jpg

sold the bumpers and skirts to Mr Dod and kept the boot and bonnet (as they were minter than mint) as spares. With all the white on the car, I decided to spray the headlights and splitters black...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/14062008074.jpg

Last thing to do was fit my Courtney half cage, and thats where the car stands.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/15062008081.jpg

[chimp007_uk]

The car has sat about for a few months now covered up... It has a couple of parking dings and one of which was on the arch which has now cracked the paint and rusted :mad:

I started sourcing some new parts to go on over the winter, now being out of work, I have the time but not the money to do anything :cry:

Anywho... Winter purchases:

Set of R1 Carbs, manifold, H&H ingnition, coil and loom, R1 fuel pump and filter kings pressure reg. There are obviously other options, like throttle bodies. But I couldn't warrant spending £1500-2000 and not get time to use the car. These seemed the loigical option.

Set of XE covers, which I purchased for £5 lol :thumb:

Stianless steel magnex exhaust system, again ebay bargain £30.

Finally bargain number 3, a full 6point safety devices cage, brand new powder coated in white with rear cross bracing and harness mounts, along wtih mounting points to the b pillar seat belt mounts.

So... I've got enough to keep me busy, along with fitting a new sump gasket, new brake pads and discs, and fittign my quick rack and eccentric top mounts.

Luckily Tom has offered some help, and has offered and generous hand with the carbs, and other bits. I might possibly fit some cams as well if I can source some :) Goign to be aiming for 185/190hp and to improve on my pod time of 14.1. Fingers crossed all with me sorted for PVS now I can make it...

[auzzy-b]

personally i'd loose the grille, think the first pic looks sweet;) looking good tho:thumb:

[tom reid]

I quite like the grill, i think?

[chimp007_uk]

I quite like the grill, i think?


Its like a period feature in a victorian house... I think its should be known as the marmite grill.

Tom, did you get the pic i sent?

[valvercorsa]

looks well mate.
you shouldn't need to run a pressure regulator as the R1 fuel pump will run at the right pressure for your bike carb's :)

[chimp007_uk]

looks well mate.
you shouldn't need to run a pressure regulator as the R1 fuel pump will run at the right pressure for your bike carb's :)


Cheers! Looks I'll be able to put some pennies back in the bank :)

[tom reid]

Its like a period feature in a victorian house... I think its should be known as the marmite grill.

Tom, did you get the pic i sent?

No mate, my phone only makes and recieves callslol

[chimp007_uk]

haha, should have guessed lol It is your manifold :)

and can you see the pidgeon poo "seam" welding fromt he engine bay shot?

[valvercorsa]

Cheers! Looks I'll be able to put some pennies back in the bank :)

no worries. just to warn you aswell that they are very noisey, i rubbered mine up and it was still noisey. they work really weird, once pressure is up in pipes they change tone, sounds like its fecked lol
but they work really well :)

[Count Vaux Alot]

Interesting start - i'm looking forward to seeing it out on track at some point!

[chimp007_uk]

Cheers for the heads up :) Is it a clicking sound like the facet pumps? I'm trying to source some filter socks atm.

[chimp007_uk]

Interesting start - i'm looking forward to seeing it out on track at some point!


So am I... Its car that was bought and built purely for track and then got used as a road car last year due to money, and never saw the track :( This year was looking good money wise till i lost my job. But there's no point selling the bits a regretting it so onwards and upwards :)

[chimp007_uk]

I believe i need a 1.2 coolant hose? Does anybody know which one? :)

[Cle]

Very nice looking car mate :thumb:

[AlexW]

Looking good chimp.

I want a track car! Its not fair! lol

[valvercorsa]

I believe i need a 1.2 coolant hose? Does anybody know which one? :)

what for???

[chimp007_uk]

When i run the bike carbs?!? Apparently i need a rear 1.2 coolant hose... :confused: :wtf:

Bit of progress today... Took my half cage out last night, and sold it to twistie. Was a bit lasminute.com but i don't need it and its cash in the bank now when i need it :)

So... After reading a couple of peoples questions about spraying rocker covers etc, i dug out my £2 XE cambelt, rocker and plug covers :D Started sanding them back and prepping them. With all the crapy wiring soon to be gone, I thought i'd make the engine bay look appealing so going to go a bit funky with the covers (fingers crossed it works :roll: )

Then, this evening i decided to go get my new cage and fit it in... :( It wont fit :eek: :cry: Its got so many bars in the rear section its hard to twist and manouver, plus i think the box section seat mounts i've got welded in and in the way... :roll: I've measured it and it might be a roof lining out, which i really didn't want to do for the sound deadening and condesation without it.

Anyone had any similar problems?

Ps. Will get some pic sup tomorrow :thumb:

[chimp007_uk]

I want a track car! Its not fair! lol

Buy my manta lol

[Count Vaux Alot]

Then, this evening i decided to go get my new cage and fit it in... :( It wont fit :eek: :cry: Its got so many bars in the rear section its hard to twist and manouver, plus i think the box section seat mounts i've got welded in and in the way... :roll: I've measured it and it might be a roof lining out, which i really didn't want to do for the sound deadening and condesation without it.

Anyone had any similar problems?


I suggest you cut some more stuff out and stop being a girl about the roof lining lol

[chimp007_uk]

I really don't want to, I've got a 2l 8v with no roof lining and it sounds like a van and always has condensation.

The main thing is the seat mounts, so will have to grind them out but can't weld them back in, plus the plates I have fitted for the old cage to line up, and... the b pillar mount doesn't line up... I think it might be for a mk2 seatbelt mount.

[chimp007_uk]

one quick question, other than the water pipe i asked about, will i also need to change the fuel tank to a carb one? or can i still use the injection tank? I'm guessing it'll be ok, but thought i'd check lol

[Geordie-Chris]

The hose you need is the 'S' shaped one from the back of the water pump to the transfer pipe on the back of the block. Mine came off an Astra 1.4 8v, I'm pretty sure all the 8v ones will fit.
Just block the return pipe on your injection tank.

[chimp007_uk]

Cheers Chris! Will put up a wanted post foor one! Happpy about the tank aswell, as its been one disaster after another atm...

[chimp007_uk]

Right, made some progress... Slow and steady wins the race :) Split the GTE engine and box down so its ready to go and started on my £2 covers lol

Got them all sanded back and in primer! The finish isn't bad, just the top coat to go on now, but still undecided on the colour scheme...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0009.jpg

Going to fit my goodridge hoses as well when I get a chance. Need to sourse a sump gasket/baffle plate, I believe the 8v ones the one to go for?!?

Then these puppies will be going on :)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/R1carbkit-1.jpg

Along with my quick rack, manifold and exhaust.

[Jay]

Love the pic with the grill on the car! Have some rep my friend!

[Cle]

this is going to be a fair beast on the track :thumb: Keep up the progress :)

[chimp007_uk]

Glad someone likes it :) Yeh its dated and yeah its black and in your face but I like the retro-nous of it!

Everyone who hates it is just jealous lol

[chimp007_uk]

this is going to be a fair beast on the track :thumb: Keep up the progress :)

Cheers! It'll be all the gear and no idea lol

I really do want to get out on track this year, so wanted to get it all sorted! Got all the parts, bar gaskets and small bits and bobs. Biggest thing is the time involved, good job i have lots and some really nice guys helping me :)

[chimp007_uk]

Some presents arrived yeaterday to cheer me up, after I couldn't get the :)8valve running :(

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0032.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0033.jpg

They fit perfectly over the original trumput rubbers, so it'll improve the air flow and they have a wire spring inside so they wont get sucked in :) Bargain at £20 delivered!

[chimp007_uk]

Alternator bracket:

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0040.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0041.jpg

[geth_xe]

looking good mate

[chimp007_uk]

Right pulled my finger out today and sprayed my engine covers... Colour was a last minute decision as my first choice was a no go :(

After them getting rained on whilst drying :mad: The result wasn't too bad :) They need lacquering though.
Did have a small mishap when taking the pics this evening :cry: I had them sitting on a punch bag that wasn't feeling to sturdy and they fell :eek: the rocker cover has a small chip and some scartches and the spark plug cover has a scuff. So resprayed the plug cover, that should be fine. But the rocker cover is a bit worse, plus I've run out of paint so it'll have to wait for tomorrow. Fingers crossed :roll:

This is prior to accident-oh no (Glacier White and Arden Blue)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0047.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0048.jpg

[novait]

that looks very nice.. top work fella..:thumb:

[chimp007_uk]

Ta Ben, hopefully it should be fine once i respray it. I hope so lol

[novait]

it looks good in the pic mate.. just depends what it looks like close up i spose.. but then when it fitted im sure you wount see the small bits..:D

[MK999]

Looks quite nice in person too :thumb:I managed to steal one of the base cushions for your seats btw, I have 3 now, tenner and it's yours... again! lol

[chimp007_uk]

Mark you cheeky booger lol pm'd lol

Right, I've resprayed the covers :( but they're looking much better and now have them drying/baking in my sun lounge. Will leave them in there till monday to throughly dry then I'll lacquer them.

[chimp007_uk]

Right with the weather looking good I decided I'd get some bits sorted on the nova... Finally lacquered my engine covers. Didn't turn out toooooo badly, they'll soon get covered in oil and much so not the end of the world lol

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0049.jpg

While they were drying I thought I'd have another bash at fitting the rear section of my nice new bargain roll cage. I haven't assembled it yet, so being an over excited child, I roughly bolted it all together and stuck my new Imola (skinny version) that i swapped with MK99 (Mark) for one of my Imola GT seats inside... Yes I did pretend to be driving...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0053.jpg
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First off meant clearing the car of rubbish along with 6 bucket seats lol

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0051.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0052.jpg

I did find this... quite appropriate given the plans... Also shows I don't cleant he car much.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0065.jpg

The problem I face is, I've welded in some seat bars for mounting the buckets and I can't get the cage in over the top.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0061.jpg

It gets extremely tight (to the roof lining) and gets stuck... I don't want to remve the lining just yet, and I can remove the bars as I need to be able to bolt a seat in so I can get the car to Tom Reid's in 3weeks to fit the bike carbs and weld all neccessary plates for the cage in. So for now, I'll have to put the cage in sideways to get it up there... lol

Whilst mincing, I found some other new parts that will be going on in the next couple of weeks...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0059.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0064.jpg

Some braided hoses and some new track rod ends for my quaife qwik rack. I plan to rent an engine hoist and take the engine and box out to fit a clutch, mod the clutch cable guide, fit the rack and paint the engine bay. Its seen better days and is embarrassing to show off. So I'm toying with the idea of spraying the strut brace Arden Blue to tie bits together and then things should be looking tidy.

As you can see the interior could do with a lick of paint...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0060.jpg

But I'm probably going to get some smooth white Hammerite and give it a couple of coats once the cage and welding has been done. Need to remove this too... Whats the best plan of attack?

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0063.jpg

[Cle]

Cage looks immense :thumb:

[chimp007_uk]

Cage looks immense :thumb:

The rear is... Its also immensley difficult to get in lol Stress has halted play :roll:

[Cle]

The rear is... Its also immensley difficult to get in lol Stress has halted play :roll:

lol It'll be worth it in the end. :thumb:

[MK999]

Arden blue and white will look immense, metallic blue and plain white really is a good combo because it really makes the metallic 'pop' against the plain white finish.

The new imola looks amazing, whoever the last owner was obviously looked after it rather well and must be just a stunning person :thumb: lol Also looks comfy as hell with those wide pads squashed in, my passengers definitely got the short end of the deal there :D

Cage is pretty awesome too, couldn't really see it before with the 6 bucket seats in the way (MPV track nova is a brilliant concept actually, you'd be miffed watching that fly past with 6 people in the back) After checking out the inside of yours I'd take the seat rails you've welded in out, and remove all the dead metal from the originals at the same time, kill 2 flying feathered things with one small hard object!

[chimp007_uk]

Just got all the driver's side sound deadening out... Hammer and chisel ftw lol

Got some pics, its suprising how much there is after!

Not sure about a nova mpv track car lol, although... there was that limo "f1" car, you might be on to something there.

[MK999]

I actually found some of the sound deadening under my rear seats (it got soaked in oil so had to come out lol) came off just with a paint scraper and a pull, like cheap wallpaper, but theres one bit which is an absolute ass :( not looking forward to my drivers footwell, since i figure that's well stuck down with 16 years of people treading on it lol

[chimp007_uk]

just given the footwell a coat in white hammerite smooth

doesn't look the greatest :( needs another coat definately, but going to have to dot he whole interior of the car

[Iain]

How many buckets do you need? lol That cage does look nice tho, will have a nosy around it when it's at Toms :cool:

[chimp007_uk]

How many buckets do you need? lol That cage does look nice tho, will have a nosy around it when it's at Toms :cool:

I know lol well i had one red forza and one of the tiny bucketed corbeau seats in the car, then the pairs to go with it. And picked the blue cobra clubman's up brand new cheap.

Pop round mate, I'll be up for a few days to fit the cage and carbs mainly. prob tinker with a few other bits you know the score.

[Plunky]

hello mate, just been reading through you wip thread and noticed you have quite a few bucket seats lol
would you consider selling your all black corbeau seats at all?
pm me
cheers
Liam

cars coming on nicely btw, very nice! :)

[MK999]

Hammerite out of a tin really is crap for getting a finish on anything that isn't perfect to start with, just ask andrew1988 he has a set of brake calipers I didn't use in the end lol Paints about 1/2 inch thick and it's still worse than the finish they started with lol

[L33 LEG]

this is turning out really nice. glad you listened to my idea for the rocker cover. looks nice! :)

cant wait to see the interior all finished aswell

[BIGS]

Just seen this. top work so far and the covers look great :thumb:

[chimp007_uk]

Cheers guys :)

[tom reid]

I do like the cage, although all the bars in the rear don't do much to protect you, I'd consider having crosses in the doors and maybe a dash bar.
If i'd known you were painting your cam cover I'd have said leave it, I can get sand blasting and powder coating done at very good rates.
I wouldnt bother putting more hammerite on, you'll just be dissapointed, I have 2k paint in polar white when the time comes.
Don't worry about the cage, I can pick it up when I'm doing the engine run to Surrey.

[chimp007_uk]

Tom...

What can I say... :wisewood: You are a true gent! I'll leave off the paint fumes this week then. When are you popping down to Andy? Don't worry about the cover, it kept me busy inbetween looking for jobs :D

Going to order the sump baffle and rocker gaskets tomorrow. Tempted to drop the engine out to fit the qwik rack and paint the engine bay.
Tell Alan I haven't forgotten him :gay: I've got a reminder to get pics tomorrow.

[tom reid]

Well thankyou sir, I may be a gent, but I'm also The Bumshunter! lol
Hope to get down the weekend before your'e due, I'll keep you posted.
Have you completed the welding in the bay?, if not I'd suggest dropping it out at mine, welding the bay, xmember, chassis mods etc, then paint it at the same time as the interior, what do you think?

[chimp007_uk]

I have a grin from ear to ear lol

I can get you some pics of the "seam welding"... but you'd only want to vomit :( It has been strengthened in places. I'll leave it for then, if you think it looks ok I can always drop the engine out at a later date, just thinking of things I can do at the same time etc.

Do you want me to pop down and pick up the engine? Give me something to do :)

[tom reid]

Do you want me to pop down and pick up the engine? Give me something to do

???, what engine?
Pics of the welding would be good

[chimp007_uk]

Don't worry about the cage, I can pick it up when I'm doing the engine run to Surrey.

If my services aren't required... :(

I'll get some pics tomorrow when I take some of the manta. The welding is pretty poo and I'm so ashamed I dont want to post pics. I guess as I didn't do it I might as well lol

The front tca mounts, engine mounts, chassis legs and around the turrets have been attacked with a pidgeon's bum. Honestly and truthfully, I can just picture you saying "...Oh dear, thats not good, not good indeed..." lol

I'm looking forward to coming up, I want to learn more and can't wait to fit the carbs :D I really do appreciate your help and advice!

[tom reid]

Ithink you misunderstood, I'm going to Surrey to deliver 5-6 engines,so will pick up the cage on the down or on the way back, you're more than welcome to come along and see the old man.
I'm looking forward to fitting the carbs too, wait till you see the pics of the engine in the garage just now, pure engine porn.

[chimp007_uk]

Engine porn you say :tosser: :gay: Whats this? :)

Give me a shout when you're heading down, I'll pop along. I thought you meant you were picking up an engine off andy. My bad :(

Paul (the twin) is thinking of selling his 2.1 8v and fitting a redtop on either bike carbs or use the 45's from the old engine and get a new manifold. He's waiting on the outcome of mine lol

[tom reid]

I'd love to do an 2.0 8v on bike carbs, haven't we been here before....lol

[tom reid]

Here it is.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3456637283_844d7d0dd1_s.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3456637283/)http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3485/3457454924_efcf4f44aa_s.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3457454924/)

[chimp007_uk]

Ka-ching..... That is sexual! Is that the Mach1 and mine will be the Mach2 :D

Whats it going into then? Seeing that reminds me I need to source a throttle and choke set-up. I like the trumpets, are they the machined down ones?

[tom reid]

It's going into my Nova, just need to fit the ally crank pulley and trigger wheel.
I have the throttle and choke cables, just need a std outer cable for donor bits.
Trumpets came off of an old Triumph, bought 12 i think, so will have some for you, they are machined to fit the R1's

[chimp007_uk]

Is that going in the new white one then? I see a trend appearing.
You can't keep tempting me with all these nice shiney pieces, I'm going to be broke lol
You'll have to keep me posted on how you get on, when's it going to be ready to fire up :)

[Prey]

I'd love to do an 2.0 8v on bike carbs, haven't we been here before....lol

u trying to be funny sunshine?

[tom reid]

u trying to be funny sunshine?
Sorry if i upset you Allan, didn't mean to:p

It should have read"my OLD Nova", it's not mine any more, should be ready to go in next week or the week after.

[chimp007_uk]

Quick update...

Stripped the sump down. Stupid welded exhaust/manifold was a pain but managed to get the sump off and the pick up pipe to ge thte baffle off.

Decided to try the "cheaper" option... Got two cork gaskets from work and removed the gaskets from the baffle plate and bonded the cork ones on. Cleaned up the surface of the block and sump and bonded and bolted it all back together. Left over night and hey presto...

It still leaks slightly, in the exact same place!!! ahhhhhhh....

Ah well, I put some poo 20/50 in and will have to redo the gaskets at a later date, got some valveline vr1 20/50 oil when it gets redone :)

Anyone had similer problems from leaking sump gaskets? Its at the front left edge(as you look at the front of the engine).

Also picked up some wheels and tyres today :):):)

Astra GTE teardrop wheels with part worn yokie A048 softs on the front and mint Kumho road tyres on the rear. Also was a bargain price of £40 lol Bargain! One has a slow puncture so will get that sorted then happy days.

Got some new ATE discs for the front and going to now get some Maxtorq pads, then fit them and the goodridge hoses either one nice evening or ina couple of weeks

Will get pics up later.

[gaznovalet]

looking good some nice work gone into this mate.

[Prey]

Sounds good mate - lookin forward to seeing it in the flesh (and speaking of seeing - wheres my manta pics ha ha)....

[chimp007_uk]

Right, spent a few hours at the weekend stripping the front brakes down and cleaning up the oil that had accumalted due to the leaky sump :(

It was a mess!

Now though, I have some nice new ATE discs, and some Ferodo track pads. The pads were a gamble as they only cost me £17 delivered off ebay. Will let you know how they go. Reviews were all good and supposedly no fade...

Insured it today... :cry:

£782.71 Fully Comp, agreed valuation, track cover and 3rd party cover on other vehicles. Sadly a hefty excess of £500 :eek:


Tried to talk them round and knock them down but they weren't having it! They had to speak to the under writers several times to clear my job so i could get he 3rd party cover.

Tax it Wed bed the brakes in, then off to Toms for some mincing and fitting some tasty bits.

Watch this space... :thumb: :D

[chimp007_uk]

Sounds good mate - lookin forward to seeing it in the flesh (and speaking of seeing - wheres my manta pics ha ha)....

Will send pics now ;)

[chimp007_uk]

Insured and taxed and on the tarmac... Cheers Lee for the new tax discs holder, perfect timing lol

Went for a spin, got carried away and realised I hadn't bed the brakes in, so spent the evening poodling about braking from 30 then 60.

Does make me smile to drive, but need to sort the steering as its very "nervous" under acceleration.

Got to pack it up tomorrow night then Toms for cage and carbs ;) :tosser:

[draper]

Got to pack it up tomorrow night then Toms for cage and carbs ;) :tosser:

dont forget lube unless you like pain ;)

[chimp007_uk]

draperQuote:
Originally Posted by chimp007_uk

Got to pack it up tomorrow night then Toms for cage and carbs ;) :tosser:


dont forget lube unless you like pain ;)

:wisewood: :eek: LOL

[chimp007_uk]

Right... Where do i begin...!?!

Friday evening I headed out into wind open untamed northern England lol Had a few issues on the way, one being my tail lights which stopped working :( had a couple of stops in service stations to fix. One lad offered me a bulb, only to find out it was the wrong one. But we had a chat and found out he lived 10mins from my house lol Small world. Then I was spotted in Donny Services :) Finally made it, and was made very welcome by Tom and his wife.

Ah... brew time :p


DAY 1

Saturday saw MOT time, which brought more bad news (and work). Failed on:

Outer offside CV gaitor
Rear Offside brake hose
Headlightalignment
Front indicators
Hole in sill

Overall expected being a 20year old car. apparently my fog light indicators would have passed if they had orange bulbs lol.

Fitted braided hoss all round, and when we cleaned up the old hoses they were like new... Removed the driveshaft to do the gaitor, and there was no split... bonus :) Put standard lights infor ease so jobs a goody there, then came the sill. Filler... Welder doesn't like it :( ground it all back and Tom plated it as best as possible. So everything was grand... Then came the proper work.

Was slightly embarrassed when Tom removed my seat bars :( Poorly fitted would describe them best lol Karma even meant I cut myself removing them, and grinded through my rear loom, DOH!

Day 2

Next came the cage and welding... NowI have done a very small amount of welding before, but nothing well! We had a practise and went through the basics and with Tom's guidance I started to learn what to look for when welding and welding different angles and directions and thicknesses. He's a good teacher, and within an hour he let me loose on the inside of the car.

In with the cage and quick measure up, cut some plates, and welded them all in. After much debate over pros and cons of welding a cage in and bolting it,I wimped out and bolted it... I may live to regret it but only time will tell.

[chimp007_uk]

Day 3

Was a PNG'r day. Alan (Prey) and Alex (phoenixhairart) were round helping and chatting, made a nice relaxed day. Draper was about most days after his night shift.
Cage in again... (not the easiest thing to lug about, it's not light). Holes marked out, cage out again... Drilling holes... Not a hard thing, but when there's 22 of them through 8mm or so of steel, I was fooked! Cage in once again and bolted in place. it fitted so tightly even without bolts nothing moved! Bolted it all in and sat back and admired.

Day 4

Seam welding... I don't know what it was but once I started I couldn't stop, I could have been left there for days, it was so satisfying and theroputic! I was stitching everything in sight :) Tom had to stop me... There were a couple of seams I had to leave at the front whilst the engine was in. Tom then had the bright idea of seeing what state the engine was in... I cried... We did a compression test, ok itwas brilliant, but it wasn't bad... Then came the leak test, 25-8% on each cylinder. Rings... Oh well, time to build a good engine :)
I also got out my new freshly painted rocker cover, Tom asked if i'd had the breather plate off... What a mistake! It was full of sh!t... It need thinners and scrubbing resulting in fooked paint job. Atleast it wasn't fooked engine! (I still had a good sulk...)

Day 5

With me restrained from the welder Tom cracked on with the seat bars and strengthening. We got the seat position perfect. Before I was always dissapointed with the positioning. I then TFR'd the engine bay and gave it a good pressure washing. Then we tried to run it... lol Anti-lag eat your heart out. Sounded like a WRC car on the start line... Flames, bangs the lot! Dried out all the connections and things were back to normal, phew. Awhile ago I noticed my battery tray was fullof filler... On Monday Tom saw this as an opportunitytomake holes, noise, mess the lot. So today I cut up a piece of plate to cover the area, and Tom welded it in. It looks brilliant, and not really noticeable. Plenty of sealer and some bbq paint to protect it all and it was sorted!

Day 6

MOT retest... PASSED :) They actually checked the whole car again, a nice change. Once we were back, it were bike carb time ooo-arr. For some strange reason this was cornish day for Tom. Still kept me amused... lol I cracked on prepping the inside for some paint, not a fun job and kind of gave up halfway through. Then started tidying up the welding to the sill/arch area. I did all the hard work then Alan came along and took all the glory! lol He actually has done an awesome job with it, and now needs spraying.
I had so much enjoyment ripping the loom out. Never fitting an XE I had no idea actually how easy they are to wire in. Tom stripped all the intake down and within a couple of hours we were ready for some carbage.
Jetting the carbs, now we thoght we'd start at 1.75mm but after stripping the carbs they were already 1.80mm... Result!
Another 3hours saw the carbs fitted and wired in. I'm running H&H ignition set-up for carbs and an R1 fuel pump, so no need for pressure regulator as the pump is an interupter pump. I had a wee fuel leak lol and some fuel burns but hey-ho.
9pm saw fie up... Fingers crossed... I turned the key and...




Started first time lol Woohoo Ran suprisingly well. will need checking for fuelling but a good start. Ran it up to temp and all was grand.

Day 7

Plans...

Tidy up loom
underseal the underside
weld in passenger seat mount
weld in eye bolts for harnesses
paint interior
tune carbs
Fit some chequer plate.


Then, if we have time lol

Fit rear strut brace and stitch turrets
Fit new exhaust system (manifold needs chopping)

I've nabbed Alan again, as he has the day off :)
Wish us luck! Pics to follow :)

[skidmarkz]

good luck :)

[draper]

pics or not of it ever happened you lieing soutern softie lol

[MK999]

Sounds pretty good so far :thumb: Look forward to seeing it again

[draper]

i actually have our love heart - i love you gayness

[chimp007_uk]

I'll get some pics up tonight...

We got it all pretty much sorted, didn't get a chane to to do the exhaust :( or weld a rear strut brace and stitch the rear. But... Carbs are sorted!

It was my fault, I thought the jet was screwed in tightly and fitted the back cover only to find the car missfiring the following day and taking 2.5hours to work out what was wrong lol sorry... :)

Car ran spot on from the word go! Leanest it ran was 13.8 flat out and when i fit the new exhaust it'll need setting again.

Drove the car round all weekend :) We ended up getting it painted and I welded in the seat bars, will sort pics :p

Bad news though... Left my gf's, got 100m down the road and the car died :( checked over everything and found the R1 pump to be cooked and smoking DOH!! AA time... And this is when the story goes downhill.

Now the "Lee" saga. The AA man couldn't take me all the way so had to take me to Northampton services and then get another guy to take me home. And so the 5.5hour journey began lol

I now have 3days to sort the car for POD, I think the R1 pump was struggling running by the tank, needed to be under the bonnet. Call on the facet... Anyone lol


Oh and draper, just because I gave you one didn't mean you had to parade round where it all week lol I found the other one inside my door :)

[Prey]

pics or it didnt happen...... although most of the pics will be of various acts of surprise gayness i imagine so maybe not....

cant believe it broke on you dude! think you might be right about it being at the back tho - that and it not being new always a bit of a gamble i guess. tis a nice car tho and now sounds the part too!

was good that you could come past and check out the place on your travels - now you now where we are no excuses ha ha

[tom reid]

Lots of gayness and love here, here's the pics to prove
Prey(Alan) turned up in a vest, prick was teasing me with his muscular frame.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3661/3560456297_071bb03487_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3560456297/)
Alan and Chimp the welder
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2438/3561269244_5200a70654_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3561269244/)
Chimp(Chris) bent over double, what was I supposed to do?
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3321/3560447403_b07c660bf9_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3560447403/)
Shunting session followed, no pics thoughlol

Weldage
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3402/3560454229_93b3736ef9_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3560454229/)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3406/3561272066_0d76000d50_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3561272066/)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3640/3561267244_48428cbe0d_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3561267244/)
Wonder how the loom got cut?
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3407/3560449491_fb0bb6e67a_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3560449491/)

The poor wee soldier cut and welded his handlol
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3634/3561270220_e60a262740_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3561270220/)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3599/3560458399_f603807f49_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3560458399/)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3368/3561275932_db2b19646f_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3561275932/)
Gay Alan checking he had'nt split his fingernails:gay:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3571/3561268218_98acd9cab4_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16764489@N05/3561268218/)

[Count Vaux Alot]

Looking good - couldn't the pics have been a bit smaller? lol

[chimp007_uk]

Cheers Tom :)

You manage to sort yee spare fuel pump ;) ;) :D

Was going to strip mine down tonight but just didnt get time :(


Looking good - couldn't the pics have been a bit smaller? lol

They're links mate :) I'll get mine up tomorrow eve now... There's more car mincing than gayness :cry: :tard:

[tom reid]

Yee brand new Facet is in the post this morning.

So now you know it's on it's way
I expect some manlove, what you say?
And if you find it hard to do
Don't worry darlin, cos I'll SHUNT YOU!

[chimp007_uk]

Yee brand new Facet is in the post this morning.

So now you know it's on it's way
I expect some manlove, what you say?
And if you find it hard to do
Don't worry darlin, cos I'll SHUNT YOU!

pmsl lol

[skidmarkz]

awsome progress mate :)... starting tot hink u are gay though with all the photographic evidence! :thumb:

[AlexW]

lol Looking good mate.

And skidmarkz were all gay :D Like one big GAY family :D

[chimp007_uk]

Righ apromised... The pics :) there were 52 so left i uploading over night lol

[chimp007_uk]

Spreader plates

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0128.jpg

Rot in the battery tray that was hidden by filler...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0129.jpg

The repair :)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0141.jpg

Rotten arch/sill that failed the MOT

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0130.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0135.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0136.jpg

Mish-mash exhaust thats on it, we didn't get time to fit the new one :(

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0132.jpg

Nice new Goodridge hoses

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0131.jpg

Cage in ;)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0140.jpg

Welding in the seat bards and bracing

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0139.jpg

TFR'd the engine bay...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0143.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0144.jpg

[chimp007_uk]

More to come, Off to work now :(

[Prey]

U goin to get some proper pics up then - u took what seemed like hundreds ha ha - or even better the vids?

[cgcr]

clean lookin engine bay, body looks good 2

[chimp007_uk]

Bit of a delay...

Coil and Amp removed

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0147.jpg

Intake removed

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0146.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0148.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0149.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0150.jpg

The $hitty loom and intake

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0145.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0155.jpg

[chimp007_uk]

Nice shiney manifold

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0152.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0158.jpg

Trial fit :p

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0153.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0154.jpg

Carbs silicone hose'd in place

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0159.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0160.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0161.jpg

R1 fuel pump mounted on the existing pump mount (mistake)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0162.jpg

[chimp007_uk]

We used the existing throttle cable, I came up with this to securely mountit to the carbs :)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0164.jpg

Tom's Finished aticle

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0165.jpg

Seats in a perfect position.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0168.jpg

I gave the inside a sand down ready for a lick of paint...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0151.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0156.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0157.jpg

Alan's handy work

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0166.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0173.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0175.jpg

Note to self... remember harderner next time lol

Changed the rocker cover, Cams looked good, breather's had a small amount of carbon in them.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0170.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0172.jpg

Clocks remounted

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0174.jpg

Tacho mounted

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0167.jpg

[chimp007_uk]

Everything wnt swimmingly, the R1 pump was spot on and with the jets drilled out fuellign was perfect on the wideband lambda, went like the clappers ws really smooth across the rev band.

I left tom's stopped in at my gf's in Coventry, then things went tits up and ended up making my way home like this...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0176.jpg

But oh no... not just one AA van, but...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0178.jpg

2 AA vans, as I was outside of their area code. So 4.5hours to do 75miles and I made it home...

The problem was the R1 pump, it had let go, and luckily not gone up in flames, as it was baking!! It's ot so hot its penetrated the outside of the pump. I think it ideally needed to be mouted near the carbs and suck the fuel rather than pull, or it was a duff pump lol

Anyhow with PVS 4days away, Tom to the rescue, and this turned up...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0179.jpg

A Facet 40106 solid state pump, sdy it came with no fittings and i thought I was done for, then suddenly a moment of inspiration...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0180.jpg

I fitted the pump on the existing mount at the rear a sit's a pusher pump and the car fired up a treat. However it's not been fuellign right sice, I have tried increasing th pressure to 4psi but still slight missfire. I believe that the pump isn't flowing enough fuel... As with the R1 pump there was never a problem. Lookign on the net today, the pump is designed for 150HP engines, Mine's goign to be over tht slightly, which is why I feel that its underfuellign hence the missfire and slight lack of power.

[nova ian]

Good stuff, car came on leaps and bounds after a visit to tom's then. Good to see another R1'd XE. How are you able to see what pressure the fuel reg is running at? do you have a gauge for it?

See my stickers are still going strong too:cool:

Nice one lads :D

[rallye_matt]

Great project! Loving the cage and progress so far :)

[chimp007_uk]

Good stuff, car came on leaps and bounds after a visit to tom's then. Good to see another R1'd XE. How are you able to see what pressure the fuel reg is running at? do you have a gauge for it?

See my stickers are still going strong too:cool:

Nice one lads :D

Hahaha... Yeh, finally got round to fitting most of the parts I've been storing up lol.

Best bit was being let loose with the welder lol I turned into a hooligan. If i'd have had my way the car would be 100kg heavier lol :D

I was running the R1 interrupter pump so no need for a pressure reg, but when that died I went with a facet and filter king reg. It comes with a small gauge you can fit to set the pressure ;) :thumb:

[chimp007_uk]

Great project! Loving the cage and progress so far :)

Cheers Matt, Things are slowly getting there.

Need to look at engine options next, either rebuild another xe to a good spec or look at ecotecs.

I've had a wee engine project idea put to me, that could well go ahead :roll: :D

[Rickyb]

this is looking awsome very well done to you and the people who helped you.
rick

[chimp007_uk]

Right...

It's been far too long!!!

Bits I've added over the past 4 months:

Micro Dynamics Rev Limiter
Choke cable (for the cold mornings)


Bits to fit:

Quick rack
Track rod ends
Eccentric top mounts
manifold and exhaust
Spal 12" blower fan
Brand new GSI rad
brand new mk1 oranga indicators
ATE Blue Racing brake fluid

And also picked up a spare clutch cable from work :)

Been raiding all the nova parts left in stock at work... Only one rad left and one clutch cable.

Lets say I got a good price :)

Going to try and fit the fan and rack this weekend, providing I cna shake this man flu :(

Bought a sound meter as well to check the exhaust, only alloed 100db at bedford, mine came in at 102db :( Need to come up wiht a cunning plan, any ideas??

EDIT

Forgot to add... My Astra GTE wheels and Yokohama A032 cut slicks were stolen from my drive, well 3 were! Calimed on house insurance and they are only going to pay out for 3... So disputing that atm, as i've explained to them:

"if my garden furniture was stolen, but they left a chair, are you going to replace the stolen table and chairs and leave me with one odd one?!?"

The money they've offered isn't even enough to buy a set of 4 tyres, let allow a set of alloys on top.

However, I have purchased a scrubbed set of Yokohama Ao32 tyres that I'll fit to a set of Cav Slabs, so atleast i can get a trackday booked :)

Going to strip the tyres off the wheels and paint them red this weekend and get the slicks fitted and balanced :)

[Plug]

one rad left? is it a gsi ?

[draper]

pics or none of it happened lol

you still having these wings when you come up again ?

[chimp007_uk]

one rad left? is it a gsi ?

I need some dimensions for a standard rad... On the system this one is listed as a 1.6 rad.

TBH even if its not, I can't complain and my 1.2 rad has never overheated on my xe.

[chimp007_uk]

pics or none of it happened lol

you still having these wings when you come up again ?

I'll get some pics at the weekend... Hopefully I'll be feeling better!

And... Yes I do want the wings! Will be up in a couple of weeks, Tom wants some more fans :roll: and picking some bits up from al.

Might come in the nova if it a, doesn't break my back again and b, cost a gazillion punds in fuel.

(and c, if i get all the work done lol)

[Prey]

Good lad - 1200 rad is 9x21in btw....

Best bring the nova, after I let you kick mines teeth in lol :thumb:

[chimp007_uk]

Good lad - 1200 rad is 9x21in btw....

Best bring the nova, after I let you kick mines teeth in lol :thumb:

LOL

Fair does...

Mine wont handle half as well :( If i fit the quick rack i need to find some where local that'll track it up :confused:

Just measured the rad... The element section is 11 1/4" by 21" So does look larger.
Will obviously have to check it is the correct rad yet, knowing my luck they'd have supplied me with a corse one or something lol

[chimp007_uk]

Rght...

I had a day off with man flu on Thursday, so spent the morning in bed till I couldn't take the boredom anymore, then cracked on with the nova lol

Fitted the Spal fan and removed the old one. Looks spot on and fit prefectly, will be better with the GSI rad rather than the 1.2 one, but will hold for the time being.

Also had a spot of good news yesterday with my insurance claim for my stolen wheels. I wrote a letter to them on Wednesday, and had a phone call yesterday to say they're going to pay me out for all 4 wheels and tyres :) £556 - £50 excess. HAPPY FECKING DAYS lol

Today I was ment to be finishing refurbing my cav slabs, but the weather's been pants and still can't decide on a colour :(

I think I need a trip to B&Q to browse throught eh gloss paint isle :)

Will get some pics of it all later.

Off to Brands Hatch tomorrow to watch my mate racing.

[chimp007_uk]

Right... It's been a while.

Finally I thought I'd invest in a Rev Limiter, silly not to have one I know, so settled for a Micro-Dynamics one, £20 Ebay find. I loves it. Works a treat and I've got it mounted on the dash, has a primative launch function.

Yeh Yeh Yeh... I fitted a sunstrip, and it was a Max-Crap one, I was struggling to see in the low winter sun, I have no sun visors with the cage in. Works a treat!

A few updates to add. I bought myself a hand held sound meter, as I fear my car is too loud for 100db limit. Sadly, I think it's touch and go... I've got a stainless magnex exhaust system, so decided to buy a couple of XE manifolds, however neither line up so It's going to be a cut and weld job at some point.

One of the manifolds has been stored for 15 years and is mint, and a brgain at £20. The other was bought after i realised i needed to chop it, so it can be the prototype :) Both sound though.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0386.jpg

I've wanted to run a bonnet vent, to help the carbs breathe. Been looking at Isuzu Trooper ones, but never found one for sensible money. Then a couple of weeks back, a White bonnet appeared on Ebay with a Scooby Doo vent attached. Dibs... £30 All the paint was glazed and the finish was terrible, not to mention the construction site he must have driven through... There was so much tar splatters. No bother, a good G3 cut and polish and as good as new. I know my car is Polar an it is Glacier, but function over form :)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0381.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0390.jpg

As you can see from the pics, it currently has 6 1.5" holes above the carbs, not ideal, but not a bad start. The problem I face is RAIN. I'll most likely take the dremel to it and open it up into an oval at the back of the scoop to force the air down better and less rain. Something to add tot he list. As you can see below my brothers carbs get drowned in the rain, something I want to avoid.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0389.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0388.jpg

Spare bonnets :) (on the Manta :()

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0387.jpg

Something I have been putting off for a while, was fitting my Spal fan that I got from work, it couldn't have fitted any better! Granted, I did have some teething problems, as I fitted it and then couldn't shut the bonnet lol Still live and learn. Works a treat and as you can see, frees up a hell of alot of space in the bay. I used the existing Nova connector and some spade terminals.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0342.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0343.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0344.jpg

Finally the car was taking shape for some track days this year... Even my girlfriend "bought" me a day/Session for my birthday in October. All I needed now was some boots after the last set of wheels and tyres were borrowed...

Take one set of very tidy Cav Slabs, and a wire wheel, an air compressor and a tin of Mail Box Red Exterior Gloss paint and "Hey Presto..."

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0380.jpg

Granted not to everyone's taste, but sod going with the norm of black, white, silver or antracite. Got a part worn set of Yokohama Advan AO32's to go on for £150, down 8laps so scrubbed. Just need fitting and balanced now.

[chimp007_uk]

I have a bad habbit of scanning Ebay for things when I get bored, and usually end up buying ****e (looking at 4channel electric helies atm if anyone has one for sale ;) ) Anywho, bought a set of polycarb rear windows off here, a pipercross carb filter and a XE rocker cover with the cam cover lip machined off inc stainless oil cap and bolts for.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0382.jpg

Need to fit a vent similar to this on the rear screen.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/rearwindowvent.jpg

Filter

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/filter.jpg

Rocker Cover

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/rocker.jpg

Just need to wait for delivery / collect etc.

Also a dash coutesy of Mark (MK999), just toying witht he idea of fitting or chopping etc. Not the lightest of things.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0385.jpg

Then final job before it goes on track is going to be the quickrack and new rod ends and this bloody sump gasket... MAybe fit the new GSI rad :)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0345.jpg

There is light at the end of the tunnel!

[tom reid]

Looking good mate, don't like the red wheels though, it's just wrong, lol.

[chimp007_uk]

Yellow is wrong... :p

Little update, purchased a X20XEV bonded baffle gasket from work and some VW gasket sealant.

I came to the conclusion, that most people suggest some sealant, and when I changed the sump on my golf, it's an ally sump and doesn't use a gasket, only the sealant. So... I went for it.

Sealant on both sides of the gasket and bolted it all up! Finger's crossed! as I can't be dealing it with leaking again! I've tried, 2 cork gaskets and 2 rubber ones preiously and it was leaking when I got it! Will fill it with some 20w50 tomorrow and see how it goes. Drained the oil cold which was much easier, the sump wouldn't move through contracting and the oil wasn't running down the insides of the block as i fitted the new gasket.

Whats the proceedure? Fill, bring to temp and re-torque?

[Adam]

Nice work!!!
And mk1 dashes weigh fook all!!! lol

I put a very light smear of sealent on both sides of the gasket, and i mean LIGHT. Fit it, tighten the bolts up progressively.

Leave for a day or two and then fill with oil. Mine doesnt leak at all, yet.... lol

[chimp007_uk]

I may have put on more than a smear... :roll:

Not masses but enough. I've tried everything last couple of times, little bit and lots and both were no better.

I'll leave it till tomorrow afternoon, which will be a day. I pray for the day that it doesn't! It sprays it from the front edge all over the underside of the car and the driver's caliper :eek: :mad:

Might try chopping down one of the manifolds tomorrow and fitting my new exhaust. Hopefully lower the DB's. The car will be at Cov next week, so that'll be a good test to see if it leaks :(

[Prey]

Nice to see it's still alive mate! You gonna be at vboa next wkend with it then?

[auzzy-b]

[quote=chimp007_uk]
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Photo0342.jpg
quote]

Were exactly is/how your fan fitted? ill need to do the same with mine but have a couple of ideas to choose from..

[chimp007_uk]

Nice to see it's still alive mate! You gonna be at vboa next wkend with it then?

Indeed I will! Providing it doesn't pi$$ oil out of the sump tomorrow lol

You going down in the Nova? Linsey's confined to the house, so I can have a proper rummage. Was going to give you a bell this week to sort out, still owe you for the tape. Tom coming?

[chimp007_uk]

[quote=chimp007_uk]

quote]

Were exactly is/how your fan fitted? ill need to do the same with mine but have a couple of ideas to choose from..

It's fitted with a fitting kit. Goes through the rad and has large spreader fittings on the back so it doesnt pull through the rad. Also has foam pads between fan and rad to prevent damage from viabration. Nothing complicated.

Recommend the fan though! Super quiet and free's up so much space. I bought a load from work for other PNG members.

[Prey]

Indeed I will! Providing it doesn't pi$$ oil out of the sump tomorrow lol

You going down in the Nova? Linsey's confined to the house, so I can have a proper rummage. Was going to give you a bell this week to sort out, still owe you for the tape. Tom coming?

Doubt ill be in the nova cause theyll probably be a few of us coming down so 2 seater a no-no lol. Yeah give me a bell in the week and we can sort. Don't worry about the tape chap (cant believe you remembered - id forgot)

:thumb:

[auzzy-b]

[quote=auzzy-b]
I bought a load from work for other PNG members.

Fans with fitting kit?

[chimp007_uk]

[quote=chimp007_uk]

Fans with fitting kit?

Yeh 12" Spal pusher fans.

[chimp007_uk]

UPDATE:

The sump no longer leaks...!!!!!! Hurrah :)

Good old bonded gasket baffle and VW sealant.

Purchased a secondhand oil pressure sender off John H (Cheers). Fitted that today so the gauge is all working, however it reads slightly high. At warm idle its showing 4 bars on the digi dash. Is this correct? I would have thought it should be lower.

I took the PRV apart. Found out I have the nylon one fitted. It was moving freely and there didn't seem to be any crud etc. The oil is still a nice yellow/brown colour.

Wondering whether it's just a result of running 20w/50 oil?

Or, if I could space the bolt out slightly to reduce the tension in the spring?

Central locking packed up on the passenger door, had a play and there is a supply to the control module and what looks like a supply from it, but tested to solenoids that i know work and nothing... :confused:

All in all a mixed day... :wtf:

[MK999]

20/50 will lower your oil pressure afaik, that's how mobil 1 gets it's high pressure claim, it's piss thin and leaks through turbo seals lol

edit: is the pissing swear filter broke?

[chimp007_uk]

20/50 will lower your oil pressure afaik, that's how mobil 1 gets it's high pressure claim, it's piss thin and leaks through turbo seals lol

edit: is the pissing swear filter broke?

You what?

I thought thicker oil results in higher pressure but lower flow?

[MK999]

well instead of the ****ing i expected it actually said pissing lol more drag/strain on everything in a thicker oil so i'd expect both to drop, fluid dynamics is about as logical as a tomato with a phd in law though. And I'm 99% sure mobil 1 claims a higher oil pressure than most 10/40's and is infamous for leaking through turbo seals, so that fits.

[chimp007_uk]

bit of an update...

I finally got rid of the mishmash exhaust :-) I purchased my brothers brand new Ashley 2 box 2.25" exhaust as he needed the cash for new house purchases. Grinded the old exhaust off and then cut the manifold to size and sleeved it with a reducer.

Fit is really good! Just need to get some sealant, clamps and new rubbers to finish it. Pics to follow.

The exhaust note has depeneded but is still raspy. Haven't had a chance to take it for a drive till I seal it all.

Won a nice oil cooler on eBay in the week :-) £20.99... Came with sandwich plate and adapter. Collected it today only to find that it's a novak one lol happy days, it's really clean and tidy too, not a mark. So that will be fitted next weekend.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/563d9f9b.jpg

Not much left to fit and sort now, then get out on track!

[chimp007_uk]

Been awhile since I had an update... Booked a trackday at Bedford for the 25th October so best thought I'd pull my finger out and get everything sorted!

Car has been off the road due to lack of funds and time, MOT, TAX and insurance all running out in one hit :(

I started by sorting things for the MOT, I had a hole in the NSF splash guard, so fab'd up a peice of steel to fit and welded that in. Welds weren't brilliant, but it'll pass the MOT. Will finish it all off once I get the wings off to replace.

I took the springs out of the coilovers, for anyones interest, spax rsx springs are 8" long, OD is 3.25" and ID is 2.35". Looking at those figures, replacement springs shouldnt be a problem. Will prob look towards 350lb 8-10" springs. Dont want it too hard for the little road use it gets. With the Yoki AO32 slicks I've got for the trackday, I decided to raise the front 10mm to prevent any rubbing. Looks like I will also need to run 10mm spacers on the front to clear the coilovers, 5mm doesn't seem to be enough. will order up some extended bolts.

Finally got round to stripping down my quickrack... only taken 4years lol everything is good, fitted some new rod ends, just need to source some lock nuts for the arms.

Had a leaky outer CV boot, so resealed that with some cable ties rather than the crappy metal one. Will see if it holds when the grease and boot get hot.

Also dropped the steering column down about 1.5". Much better driving position with the seat being alot lower than standard. Used some thread rod to drop it, and made up an extion brack for the lower mount on the column itself. Suprised about the flex as well, no more than standard, so happy days.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/d2fc345b.jpg

Padded up the roll cage with some good old insulating foam.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/59a4c464.jpg

Fitted a couple of fire extinguishers, one in the centre and one under the passenger's legs.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/7c5316ab.jpg


Purchased a load of goodies too... :):):)

Floflex TCA, Arm and Rack mount bushes
Fibreglass Boot
Fibreglass bonnet
poly carb window set
New front and rear bumper and grill
Strut brace that'll hopefully fit with the carbs
Switch panel, so I can position all the bits that I currently have cable tied everywhere... lol

Things are coming together nicely now. Just need to bleed the brakes for the MOT, then it's full attack. Pics to follow.

On a side note, anyone got any ideas how to remove a driveshaft nut with the hub and shaft removed as one from the car? Tried clamping it, soaking it in WD and tapping it... No joy!

Cheers
Chris

[MK999]

Glad to hear it's still alive lol Haven't seen you on msn in ages to check :p Might have to come down for your trackday, as you haven't been at any of the shows this year, depends what I'm doing at uni at the time!

[chimp007_uk]

I rarely use my PC... I usually come home from work and just chill and get away from sitting in front of a screen all day.

Come along if you're about! Paul is out as well, he's MOT'ing his car atm. Hes going to town to reduce weight lol.

Hows thins your end? Yellow one started?

[MK999]

Hows thins your end? Yellow one started?

Lack of money halts play there :( Just gotta get the cage sorted and then it's pretty much full steam ahead though. Will be tidying up the garage etc ready to start before I go away to uni, and hopefully get started on it during the long xmas break (I get about 6 weeks off!) and have the cage before summer next year, if I've got cash around and I'm quick about it might have it ready for the tail end of the shows :)

[chimp007_uk]

Sounds like a plan... Did you not have much joy with summer work? I'm not too fussed about the shows, want to get some use out of the car...!! Got given another engine so that'll go in over Xmas and mine will be rebuilt to an ok spec money permitting.

[Prey]

Jesus man it might as well be a shell! Get cracking!

[MK999]

Sounds like a plan... Did you not have much joy with summer work? I'm not too fussed about the shows, want to get some use out of the car...!! Got given another engine so that'll go in over Xmas and mine will be rebuilt to an ok spec money permitting.

sort of, was also in dire straits after last year though, so what little I did earn kinda made a half ass attempt to clear the debt from that. Apparently no one at work was aware I wanted the hours, apparently "as many hours as possible, I'll do open til close 7 days a week if you ask" isn't clear enough lol

[chimp007_uk]

Some may be aware that my eagerness and positive attitude had come to an end.... Brakes (http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=154664) The weekend was not all doom and gloom as on Sunday, my the Mrs took a poodle down to Spanishfly's to pick up some goodies
:d Top bloke and a pleasure to deal with. Half hour later and I had the built filled with:

Fibreglass Bonnet
Fibreglass Boot
Polycarb Window Set
Strut Brace
GTE Front Bumper
GTE Rear Bumper
Grill
Switch Panel

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/bfa4c95f.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/7fb96c35.jpg

Got the strut brace back within 15mins of walking throught eh front door :) Little squashing of the filter, but fits a treat.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/6560c55e.jpg

(Apologies for the manky engine bay :( :cry: )

Driving the car around for 2years with no comforts, I decided I neded some door cards... Preferably some CF or Ally, but being as I was spending too much on this shed as it was, I opted for my old GTE ones. Mrs is happt too lol

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/2e38ecd5.jpg

So, with all the help I did a bit of digging at work today, and with a bit of luck and measuring found that we sell a MC and the unions :) Worked out at £30 + VAT for the MC and a couple of quid for the unions. Hey ho I thought, whilst I'm at it I may as well buy some ATE Blue Racing brake fluid and brake cleaner. Came to £58 inc VAT, bit a result me thinks. Normal price on the Fluid is £12 a litre + VAT

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/a402721c.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/7655d8e7.jpghttp://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/16d08fa0.jpg


An added bonus, with the brake fluid being blue makes fluid changes a doddle ;)

Our inhouse AC engineer had a flaring kit, so with some sweet talking I was already to go.

Here's the union that was butchered, didn't have a flat side to start with.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/724fba4a.jpg

(iPhone quality...)

I cut the old union off, slid a new one on and flared it nicely. If I'm honest it did take me 2 attempts, but I'm well chuffed. I started to get drowned at this point, so will try and get it all bolted up tomorrow.

Is there a need for hydraulic sealant on the unions?

BTW, photobucket iPhone app is ace! the end.

[Connor]

So its your engine bay in the pic in toms garage,
looking good with those bumpers on, proper track toy

[chimp007_uk]

So its your engine bay in the pic in toms garage,
looking good with those bumpers on, proper track toy

No mate, they're in my drive 10mins after I got back from picking the parts up on sunday lol

It's slowly coming together, hopefully sort out this brake issue this week and get it MOT'd. Then I need to decide whether to fit a towbar and trailor it, or pay out and put it on the road...

[tom reid]

No mate, they're in my drive 10mins after I got back from picking the parts up on sunday lol

It's slowly coming together, hopefully sort out this brake issue this week and get it MOT'd. Then I need to decide whether to fit a towbar and trailor it, or pay out and put it on the road...

Think he means he's seen a picture of your engine bay in my garage and has realised that it's your carlol

[chimp007_uk]

Think he means he's seen a picture of your engine bay in my garage and has realised that it's your carlol

My bad... The secret is out, nice to put a engine bay mess to a car lol

[chimp007_uk]

MC fitted and everything hunky-dory, filled it with fluid to the brim so will see if all is sealed :) fingers crossed!! Will get it all bled on Thursday I hope.

Another impulse buy turned up this evening... Fancied a spare set of calipers, when I came across a pair of calipers, new rotor discs and new pagid fast road pads. £36 posted :-) arrived today. Will most likely run the discs and my ferodo pads for now. Pics to follow.

[dj_wudgey]

oil cooler looks nice matey lol

[chimp007_uk]

oil cooler looks nice matey lol

Whats lol ???

It's just slung in a box in the boot... Need to buy some more 1/2" hose. Can't beat a mocal cooler for £30 iirc.

[dc1984]

[quote=auzzy-b]

It's fitted with a fitting kit. Goes through the rad and has large spreader fittings on the back so it doesnt pull through the rad. Also has foam pads between fan and rad to prevent damage from viabration. Nothing complicated.

Recommend the fan though! Super quiet and free's up so much space. I bought a load from work for other PNG members.

sorry if its already been asked mate, but how much for the fan, and can ye still get them?

[MK999]

it was a clearance line I believe, so there are no more, not sure if that's the exact reason but I know theres a reason I know not to ask for one lol

[tom reid]

Think I'm still waiting on another two?

[MK999]

Think I'm still waiting on another two?

You're just looking forward to making him pay the debt in other ways lol

[chimp007_uk]

Think I'm still waiting on another two?

Hahah... I tried to buy some this week and they said no... :wtf: :mad:

Only thing I can suggest Tom, is I'll have a look how much it'll cost at cheapest to public and have words :)


On a side topic, sorted the brakes out. MC was indeed fooked lol However, after head scratching 20mins, I was regretting asking my Dad to help me bleed the brakes!! :wtf: I couldn't get any fluid out of any of them! I just happened to look up when trying the NSF for the 2nd time when I realised my useless father had been pressing the clutch peddle!!!!!! :mad:

So, once that little issue was resolved, the brakes blead through perfectly and as is now well. We'll have to see what the ATE Blue Racing Fluid is like.

These turned up this week

http://i.ebayimg.com/01/!B0dzzmg!2k~$(KGrHqYOKm8Ew9Bs7C7-BM,bmrmgm!~~_12.JPG

Nice spare set of calipers, that are supprising tidy, photos dont do them justice. Also, a brand new set of Pagid Fast Road pads and Rotor grooved discs. Will no douft fit the discs for the track day, as I am only running standard discs atm. Unsure about the pads as I have a set of Ferodo track pads fitted.

The nova also got is bill of health today... :thumb: As I will most likely trailor the car to the track (once I find a Golf MK4 towbar ;)), it was more for peice of mind. HAPPY DAYS!!

Now the fun begins.

[chimp007_uk]

Small update...

Got the front and rear bumpers fitted along with the grill. Modified the rear bumper to run pins.

When i got the rear bumper off, the panel wasn't the best... Needs a bit of plate on the NSR corner (has a hole).

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/90e52c43.jpg

Front cross memner needs some attention. Has been plated around the TCA mounts and then smoothed with fibreglass and filler... Will hack that away and repaint.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/fb78c5d9.jpg

I lined up the mounts with the bumper, popped a large drill bit through and fitted some fastnings.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/94637b00.jpg
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/9a0c546b.jpg

I only have one of the front atm.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/5666fd68.jpg

Waiting on some keys from Spanish for the bonnet, then that will go on. Painted the towing eyes red too :gay:

This weekend I am to fit the quickrack and polybush mounts.

Also purchased a towbar for my MK4 Golf on eBay, £30 :thumb: So will get that fitted and trailer the car.

[tom reid]

Looks good mate, although I think I preferred it with the other headlights in, It just looks like any other Nova now.

[MK999]

Has that got headlight protectors on it? lol

We need to have a serious chat about unneeded weight :p

[chimp007_uk]

Looks good mate, although I think I preferred it with the other headlights in, It just looks like any other Nova now.

Don't worry mate... I've still got them :d

Was thinking about spraying it up the same colour as the bumpers and fitting it, will look quite evil :tard: :thumb:

[chimp007_uk]

Has that got headlight protectors on it? lol

We need to have a serious chat about unneeded weight :p

Don't start... I didn't fit them! :roll: A mate had a MK1 nova and we did a trade, I was going to sell them on, he ended up fitting them. They wont remain on the car! :p

Not sure what they're worth, slight crack on one that is hidden by the bonnet.:confused:

[Prey]

They must be worth at least thirteen trillionty pounds judging by current prices lol

On the negative side, I dont like your car looking like it a track weapon, it makes me want to come on this trackday too......

[chimp007_uk]

They must be worth at least thirteen trillionty pounds judging by current prices lol

On the negative side, I dont like your car looking like it a track weapon, it makes me want to come on this trackday too......

I saw a set of Mk2's on here for just under £100... :d

Get on it Al, I don't want to hear excuses!! Paul is sorting his as well. That's all MOT'd and stripped out. Man up...! :p

[chimp007_uk]

Bit of an update...

Golf is now needing a new engine :( so, I had to buy another towbar for the grandad mobile. Arrived on Friday, so need to try and fit that today.
On the Nova front, I finally got round to fitting the rotor discs and my quick rack after 3 years... Fitted new rod ends and poly rack bushes. What a ball ache trying to remove the bottom nut on the passenger bracket!! A couple of hours later, plus cuts it was in and bolted up. Tracked it by eye lol

Because I still have eccentric top mounts and polybushes to go in the lower arms and rear beam, I just wanted it tracked. Prob not going to have
time to fit prior to the trackday, move to Coventry on Tuesday and the golf is the priority ATM. Anyway, towed the car to my local qwik fit... What a bunch of useless jobsworth knobs!! Bearing in mind I rang them first, explained that I'd fitted a new rack etc, the said they couldn't do it because the steering wasn't straight and it wasn't safe...!!!??? After arguing with the idiot, I dragged it off the ramp.

I've straightened the wheel and put it on some level ground and the car drives better, but still well out. They recon I need to take
it to a 4 wheel alignment place to get it done?! Granted, I will once I get the car how I want it, but not ATM. I just want it tracked!!! Got to find somewhere else now, and tow it there next sat.

[chimp007_uk]

Started my New/Old job this week back at JLR. Took my yokies and wheels with me, as it my local place wanted £60 to fit and balance them :(

The finished article
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/e8772592.jpg

Soft compound
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/835f52bb.jpg
This made me chuckle...
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/00df1824.jpg

Fitted...

Before
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/a1a0731f.jpg
After
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/205cf9fd.jpg


Just ordered some wheel studs too. I had a quick search on here, found Spanish's thread about the sizing etc but when I priced up a set with Rally Deisgn I was mildly shocked by the £10 carriage!!

Shopped around, and search eGay, found Competition Supplies Ltd, they're based in Silverstone. Gave them a call, spoke to a friendly helpful guy there called Bruce, who sorted me out with the sizes I needed (running 5mm/10mm front spacers) and 60degree tappered open ended nuts for £28 posted. Could ahve saved myself some money if I'd collected them but hey ho, should be here by Friday. It would have cost £37 through Rally Design!!

[MK999]

Glad you found something a bit more 'in your field' than euro car parts, cars looking a bit different now!

PS how much do rear window surrounds weigh? lol

[chimp007_uk]

Glad you found something a bit more 'in your field' than euro car parts, cars looking a bit different now!

PS how much do rear window surrounds weigh? lol

Don't start... They're wafer thin ally!! It's a trackday, "non competative"... If I wanted to be anal I'd fit the FB bonnet and boot lol

I'm more concerned about the leak on the cylinders :( got to sort out collecting my spare engine at some point before my mate forgets lol

[MK999]

http://www.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/2901148/2/istockphoto_2901148-wind-up-key.jpglol

You mean your compression issue? Or leaking brakes?

[chimp007_uk]

engine...

Just had a phone call from Competition Supplies Ltd... They fecked up my order and forgot to add the price for the wheel nuts!! So, RD it is then... Typcal!

[chimp007_uk]

Just ordered from RD... £42 Inc VAT and Postage :(

Oh well, atleast they're sorted.

Went for 48mm exposed on the front:

5mm Disc + 10mm Spacer + 10mm Wheel + 22mm bolt = 47mm

Went for 38mm exposed on the rear:

10mm Wheel + 22mm bolt = 32mm (leaves a little incase i ever needed to run a 5mm spacer)

Then open 19mm nuts with a 60deg radius.


Just need to sort the tracking now!

[chimp007_uk]

Well, lots of progress since finishing at 1pm today... Nipped over to Jetex in Stratford upon Avon, purchased a 2" bung and step down sleeve. Was the best we could come up with after a good rumage through their parts. I'll make something work! Tried it up against the car and definately queiter.

Then, drove back home from Coventry to St Albans, fitted above said studs that arrived in the week, only to find that they really are as exposed as they quote!! So, I'll be calling/emailing them tomorrow! Word of wisdom, they come up ~5mm less exposed than quoted! Had no option but to fit them and they will be ok for Monday, however I have a feeling scrutineers will have something to say on a competative event.

Then I went over to a place in Watford to ask about tracking, as they have a computerised 4 wheel alignment system, £30 for tracking, then £60-80 for tow, castor and camber :) well chuffed, as places round here are dear and useless!! Going in tomorrow at 9.30, so should atlest be going in a straight line then, and going to run ~2mm toe out.

Then, for the finally... My mate rang and said I have a trailer. Ok, brilliant I thought. Only to find it needed an axle fitting lol So, in true fasion we cracked on in the dark. 1 hour later and the car is sitting on said trailer in my drive.

RESULT!

Only small niggle, I was a picky wiring in my towbar, splicing it into the rear loom. It's already blown a couple of rear light fuses (10A). Will be buying some 20A to go in there tomorrow me thinks!

[chimp007_uk]

Car is tracked up, went with standard specs in the end as I didn't have the toe figures in 1/100 of a degree. Will get it all done again once I polybush it all and fit the eccentric top mounts. As you can see I need to sort my camber and castor out!

Before:
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/ed88e06a.jpg

After:
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/c81e621b.jpg

Also made up my DB reducer, ended up sleeving it with some pipe from my Golf's old cat.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/a4ee792d.jpg

How the car stands ready to go!

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/d9487c73.jpg

As I couldn't get dwn to Alex today, I ended up making a primative camera mount...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/81a7baa9.jpg

Fired the old girl up, flushed the old oil out and put in some lovely jubbly Valverline VR1 Racing 20w50 oil.

Fingers crossed all goes well!

[chimp007_uk]

Just got home. Had a quality day, weather couldn't have been better if it was a lil chilly this morning... Not nice at 5.30am :( Didn't even get Maccy D's brecky :(:(

We arrived at 7.30am, first thing to do... Sound check :| My insert worked a treat, 92DB :) So things were looking up lol

Did my sighting lap on the road tyres, not sure what i expected for my first time there and not sure how many people off here have been, but it's a really good layout. Tight hairpins, fast sweeping coreners, massive straights.

I changed the boots over for the Yokie AO32's, and set out... Little did I really think about how long it would take to get the tyres up to temp, 9th corner... Spin lol rear end just let go on entry, luckily there was nothing coming and all was well. Bigger double shame, was that my camera didn't record it :( and me the stupid retarded halfwit, forgot to remove the headlamp protectors from the car. Now The car doesn't get used on the road, they were given to me by my mate and he fitted them a couple of weeks back, however I forgot to remove them prior to going on track and all ?I can say is, I am now down to only one solitary cover :'( It wasn't till the second lap that I twigged that the glass like pieces on the track were indeed the NS cover, thrown from the cart in the spin.

BALLS BALLS BALLS, there goes £60-100 down the pan.

Day got alot better and got quicker and quicker lap by lap, down the back straight I was hitting 115mph, and as I was getting used to the awesome level of grip from the tyres, my corner speeds improved too. Only downside was the DB insert firing out the back of the car on the back straight, and me getting brought into the pits for excessive noise :p insert was found, but by which point it was the end of the day.

All in all, brilliant day and higly recommended! Vids to follow.

PS. if anyone happens to have a spare NS MK cover and wants to do a deal etc etc either way let me know.

[scott.parker]

Sounds good shame i could of booked the day off work to come, wish i had..

Look forward to the vids..

Scott

[chimp007_uk]

As promised... the spin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkyYNnJntwE) lol

[draper]

i blinked and missed it twice lol

least it wasnt a major off

[scott.parker]

looked like fun! lol you were pured on to chase the car that overtook and thats what made you spin i say..

[Prey]

lol spin..... that wasn't a spin..... i wish i'd had a camera for my off!

[VXNova87]

great job mate ;)

From Malta.

[chimp007_uk]

I'm glad it wasn't a full on spin... That was one of those slow speed not going to hit/break anything enjoy it ones lol no broken axles for me :)

[scott.parker]

Any more work done on this mate?

[chimp007_uk]

Not at the mo Scott. I'm back working/living in Coventry, car is in St Albans :-( looking to buy a house so money is tight. Need to rebuild the engine asap really. Got a widearch rally x kit for it, but not sure whether to fit or not!? Got the fibreglass boot and bonnet to go on, along with a full set of poly carbs. Sold my manta yesterday :-( so down in the dumps atm.

Need to get atleast the engine done so I can get on track at some point this year...

[MK999]

I'll have mine finished before yours is out again at this rate lol

I'd only go for wide arches if you were going to do it properly with extended arms etc, huge offset wheels etc is asking for trouble as I'm sure you know really. The wheelbase/track width ratio on a Nova actually comes out as an ideal performance figure for the style/speed of car though, and you're only going to hurt the camber compensation with longer arms on a mac strut setup, unless you start looking at some major surgery with some jap saloon inspired suspension like the celica figure 8 link setup or the primera that used something similar.

We should also have that tea meet up we arranged months ago, still want those check straps? lol

[scott.parker]

Not at the mo Scott. I'm back working/living in Coventry, car is in St Albans :-( looking to buy a house so money is tight. Need to rebuild the engine asap really. Got a widearch rally x kit for it, but not sure whether to fit or not!? Got the fibreglass boot and bonnet to go on, along with a full set of poly carbs. Sold my manta yesterday :-( so down in the dumps atm.

Need to get atleast the engine done so I can get on track at some point this year...

RIGHT, if your down come over to mine and ill take you for a blast, pm before tho.

[chimp007_uk]

RIGHT, if your down come over to mine and ill take you for a blast, pm before tho.

Rubbish... only just seen your post. I spent the whole day watching the f1 and then doing jack! You about next weekend?

[Mazz]

One time only offer i'm afraid!!

[chimp007_uk]

We should also have that tea meet up we arranged months ago, still want those check straps?

I'll let you know when I'm next back. Do still need the check straps lol

[chimp007_uk]

One time only offer i'm afraid!!

Don't be mean... :-(

[Connor]

Scott i wouldnt post your address on here imo
never know whos reading it

[Damo]

Scott i wouldnt post your address on here imo
never know whos reading it

Agreed never know whos reading threads etc.

[scott.parker]

Good point, chimp can you edit your quote mate, well if your about my way mate pm me an we can sort something

Scott

[chimp007_uk]

Done.
I'm about most weekends, and you're only 20miles away. Might give me some inspiration to sort mine...

[chimp007_uk]

Been an extremely long time since there was any action, but a year on and I now own a house with a nice size garage, so thought it was time to pull the nova up and tuck it up in it's new home...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/ecee3b35.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/caa1dc06.jpg

Just this one left at my parents now... Once I get the drive done I'll bring it up. I've got twin 40's to go on, then the Mrs will have it lol

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/f72c45a0.jpg

Picked up a new engine (or 2) a couple of weeks ago. Golf was slammed...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/bee184d0.jpg

Snug

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/953f6cc9.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/cb84b48a.jpg

The new engine is getting a freshen up, crank seals, sump baffle gasket, oil pump gasket, rocker gasket, cambelt kit and clutch kit. It's running megajot and Bogg Bros R1 set-up, was rolling roaded at 179HP.

[chimp007_uk]

Had a bit of time over the weekend, so ordered up camshaft seals, crankshaft seals, rocker gasket, baffled sump gasket, shorter bolts (M6*20mm), timing belt, gearbox oil (ep80/90) and a clutch kit.

All arrived ok, bar some f**k ups with the front and rear crankshaft seals, they thought the rear crankshaft seal was the same size as the camshaft, and the front crankshaft seal was ~30mm OD... Eventually got the rear sorted, but had to order the front from GSF and should arrive today.

Leaky camshaft seals, althought when I removed the seals, alot of the oil was coming from the bearing caps. So I took them off and sealed them down.

Before:
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/4c6fae66.jpg

After:
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/31b79e79.jpg

Cam lobes looked good.
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/aa656ac6.jpg

I noticed that the threads had been pulled out of one of the cam cover fixings, so drilled it, tapped it and helicoiled it...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/caf5bd5c.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/d759fd24.jpg

All that was left was to put the cam cover on. I've gone with a clean, completely standard cover and metal spark plug cover. I put a smear of sealant round the head face and in the t-joints, then bolted it down. Fingers crossed no leaks...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/43302b7f.jpg

I haven't been able to put the engine on the stand as I'm waiting for some M12*80mm bolts to arrive. So the sump, oil pump and cranksjaft seals had to weight. I have a new oil pump to go on too, so all should be good! As at the mo it looks leaky...

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/c29f034f.jpg

Whilst the engine was on hold, I turned my attention to the car... I strippedthe cooling system and the wiring harness. I remembered to tape and write on every connector :)

If anyone has an expansion tank to rad hose, please let me know!

Started like this:
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/997bf315.jpg

At end of play, it looked like this:
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/2c2efac0.jpg

Just the exhaust manifold and gearbox linkage to remove. There is light at the end of the tunnel...

Also had a good bit of news, my Gaz GHA's and eccentric mounts are ready. They'll be collected in 2 weeks. So gives me time to stitch up the rear turrets etc.

[chimp007_uk]

Not much of an update really but the car is still alive just... It's been in my garage for over 3 years. I decided to turbo my MX5, so money and time has been spent on that.

The engine is still sitting rebuilt on the engine stand and the gearbox with Quaife diff is all assembled and re-sealed under a cover.

I decided to fabricate a new front crossmember rather than fit the new front panel I bought. I made it from a 75*100mm box section with a 3mm wall. This means I don't need to worry about plating the tie bar mounts and can jack and tow off this.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/White%20Nova/80DE3D45-1DBE-40A8-9143-966EDF8215FD-2979-000003EE556FEB58_zpsd7632217.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/White%20Nova/80DE3D45-1DBE-40A8-9143-966EDF8215FD-2979-000003EE556FEB58_zpsd7632217.jpg.html)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/White%20Nova/0E5CC413-6BAB-43E4-A629-4447E68136D5-2979-000003EE618338D1_zps2638fd9f.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/White%20Nova/0E5CC413-6BAB-43E4-A629-4447E68136D5-2979-000003EE618338D1_zps2638fd9f.jpg.html)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/White%20Nova/DA1D44E0-9304-4E3C-9CDC-E35C344AFE4B-2979-000003EE36B5D20A_zps5638baf8.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/White%20Nova/DA1D44E0-9304-4E3C-9CDC-E35C344AFE4B-2979-000003EE36B5D20A_zps5638baf8.jpg.html)

I had some help from Alan (Prey)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/White%20Nova/C3EF7444-F938-42F4-AB81-560D7D6C6C05-2979-000003EE2E6ECAA8_zps05672bee.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/White%20Nova/C3EF7444-F938-42F4-AB81-560D7D6C6C05-2979-000003EE2E6ECAA8_zps05672bee.jpg.html)

Finished article

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/White%20Nova/7B8562F9-AF04-420C-80AF-DFE4EBED7F2F-2979-000003EE0A4E8EA4_zps80e32d9b.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/White%20Nova/7B8562F9-AF04-420C-80AF-DFE4EBED7F2F-2979-000003EE0A4E8EA4_zps80e32d9b.jpg.html)


It would be rude not to pic some pics of the mx5 up :)

It's now running 239hp and 221lbft on standard internals (1.6 115hp and 101lbft)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Mr%20Miata/1EBAB976-9FD2-42F4-8152-3726DF46D877_zpsmqvr8vrt.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/Mr%20Miata/1EBAB976-9FD2-42F4-8152-3726DF46D877_zpsmqvr8vrt.jpg.html)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Mr%20Miata/E8EEB461-09D7-45B5-BB86-A72299534060_zpsfu6zsbnz.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/Mr%20Miata/E8EEB461-09D7-45B5-BB86-A72299534060_zpsfu6zsbnz.jpg.html)

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/Mr%20Miata/27945B98-0148-4005-A059-68B30F9DB91A_zpslcq0oxqq.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/Mr%20Miata/27945B98-0148-4005-A059-68B30F9DB91A_zpslcq0oxqq.jpg.html)

[Iain]

As I've just learnt the hard way don't forget crush tubes in the vertical bolt holes!

[chimp007_uk]

As I've just learnt the hard way don't forget crush tubes in the vertical bolt holes!

For the tie bar mounts? What's happened to yours? The box section is pretty solid, it's completely over engineered and weighs a ton!

We rewelded the captivenuts in for the horizontal bolts.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e229/chimp007_uk/White%20Nova/022E66DF-7385-4A88-91E6-A597DE85F0A7-2979-000003EE256A90D4_zpsb86a552a.jpg (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/chimp007_uk/media/White%20Nova/022E66DF-7385-4A88-91E6-A597DE85F0A7-2979-000003EE256A90D4_zpsb86a552a.jpg.html)

[josh-sri]

Will the small triangle strengthening pieces you have at either end of the crossmember foul the rad at all? I was going to do similar but until I buy a rad for mine I couldn't check.

[Iain]

I used 50x50 3mm wall and it still crushed when tightening the vertical bolts... Had to retro fit some crush tubes.

[scott.parker]

Hello stranger, I randomly contacted you on eBay recently lol nice to see you still have one. I like the MX5..

[chimp007_uk]

I used 50x50 3mm wall and it still crushed when tightening the vertical bolts... Had to retro fit some crush tubes.

Interesting to know Iain, thanks for the heads up. I had a look at your build and saw how you resolved the issue, doesn't look too big a job, I'll order up some steel tube...


Hello stranger, I randomly contacted you on eBay recently lol nice to see you still have one. I like the MX5..

I'm still alive... Still got three, need to sell the blue one still. Looks like I'm going to have to trailer to my house and repair it and mot it. Fun!
MX5 is a good weapon, not sure which I prefer to drive, been ages since I drove a nova. MX handles really well and goes like stink now! Need to build a forged engine at some point, but for the time being I'm just going to fit another engine as mine is smoking on overrun and can't work out if it's control rings or stem seals.

[chimp007_uk]

Based on Iain's advice, I've just ordered some 16mm OD steel tube with a 3mm wall thickness. Should stop the crossmember compressing.

http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&alt=web&id=251488398244