View Full Version : My Nova Project.
SimonTW
18-11-12, 09:09 PM
It is excessive but it was the only way to do the job properly rather than a quick fix. The kitchen had previously been done and filled in about 20-25 years ago. The joists that ran the length of the house had just been cut and supported on a pile of bricks meaning one half of the living room was just supported on bricks. When the kitchen was filled in years ago this in effect stopped the air bricks working properly meaning there was no vent of fresh air passing under the house keeping it dry. The water table in the area has risen meaning the ground is a lot more damp than it has been in previous years. This has caused damp to build up under the living room rotting the ends of the joists where they are supported on bricks and meaning the floor had dropped off the skirting by about an inch. I could have just replaced about 1/3 of the joists and ended up with the same problem in a few years as there would still be no air flow under the house. We decided a permanent solution was to just fill the floor like in the kitchen and redo the damp course around the room meaning the room will be alot warmer due to 9" of insulation under there now and also dryer now. As the pipes and wiring used to run under the floor these all has to be rerouted. The pipes that ran across the living room had to be run up the wall and under the upstairs floor and down the wall on the other side. Also due to changes in building regs all the plug sockets had to be raised about 6cm. All this mean the room needed replastering, new skirting, new flooring etc. As the new floor is slightly higher than the previous one we had to have the front door and casing removed and raised about an inch too. The living room did need a refresh as it looked a bit naff (picture rail, uneven walls due to previous half plaster skim after damp proof, naff carpet that was damp in the corners, wood panelling in the bay window) I'm glad we have done it as its all perfect and will be for many years to come and I will feel happier selling the house on knowing it's not just bodged. We had the kitchen totally done last year so the downstairs is all new now. We are getting married in March so the expense defo wasn't needed right now but it just means we don't have to spend on it after the wedding.
I see ;)
Ours is an old house, 1915 iirc! And has the air brick etc with about 2-3ft under the floor boards, I heard a few horror stories about people bricking/blocking up the air bricks and stopping the house breathing..
SimonTW
14-01-13, 03:21 PM
Well its a year to the day that I made the trip to pick up my Nova so I thought I'd stick a little update up.
With the weather being rubbish lately and over xmas (and not having a garage to work in) progress has been a little slow.
I have been buying a few little bits for it though.
I have been putting off doing my rear disc conversion until I could get a proper bias setup for it to stop me having any locking up rear problems.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8345962206_ed2deb689f_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8071/8345966806_df13341c1d_c.jpg
I just had this arrive this morning for use with the bias box. I also managed to pick up a second hand line lock too for a few quid.
I'd filled in a few engine mounts with Tiger Seal a while back so while I was messing with the suspension I changed the gearbox one that I hadn't previously got round to.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8231/8349194573_a9d8d1e3cf_c.jpg
While I was messing around in the garage I trial fitted one of the BBS off the Mini. I reckon with custom dishes and baskets to make them a 16" wheel they would look awesome! But then one wheel would be worth as much as the car.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8234/8350255852_107221e19b_c.jpg
I also got round to fitting the modified Spax units I had made ages ago too. I ditched the Spax springs and put them on with some Mk4 Golf 1.8T springs I had lying around just to see how the car would handle. I had been getting some tyre to arch contact on hard cornering (as can been seen from the mullered arches). Adding a stiffer spring has improved the comfort which I'm surprised about but it also handles a lot better too. I'm thinking of sticking a set of Golf springs on the rear aswell to see what it drives like with them on. Overall I'm really happy with my Spax setup now though.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8217/8356521299_a159238ef3_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8358/8356512899_80f1dc2aed_c.jpg
I still need to get round to fitting my Mantzel and the front polycarb windows. I'm also keeping my eyes out for a 4 point bolt in cage to just for a bit of safety. I don't want to go the whole hog with a 6 point weld in one just yet as I think it would slow it down a little too much.
Hopefully once my weddings all sorted in March I can see about getting on a track day or taking it on a trip to the ring.
Bbs's would look mint on it
SimonTW
14-01-13, 03:45 PM
I know. Maybe one day when it's looking mint I will go to the effort of turning them into a 16".
Just been out and took a picture of the car too looking very sorry for itself.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8324/8380951634_5a9238dce5_c.jpg
This makes we wet and hard!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8234/8350255852_107221e19b_c.jpg
Are the golf springs made by JOM/Blueline?
SimonTW
17-01-13, 07:03 AM
Yeah that's the ones.
Thats weird cos they usually use very soft springs
SimonTW
17-01-13, 01:02 PM
They aren't rock solid but they are stiffer than the old one. The JOMs for the Nova are rated for 680kg front axle weight whereas the JOMs are rated 1020kg. As I say I don't know the exact spring rate of the JOM for the Golf but being stiffer it has improved the ride and handling so I'm happy.
PMSL. Didn't see your comment earlier Benn. I really am speechless..:thumb: Thanks!
novadave24
17-01-13, 05:27 PM
like them bbs as well mate :thumb:
PMSL. Didn't see your comment earlier Benn. I really am speechless..:thumb: Thanks!
Get the dishes on order then dude.
SimonTW
17-01-13, 07:20 PM
Its barrels I'd need as well Last time I bought dishes they were about 130 each. Barrels will be slightly more expensive. It's a lot of money to do them and I already have my heart set of centre lock BBS E50 as the ultimate end game wheel for this project.
Ever since I had my seat rails done I haven't been 100% happy with the wheel position as although I can reach, it's a little uncomfortable so I really wanted a bigger spacer rather than a dished wheel. I decided to bit the bullet and pick up a B&G quick release boss. I believe there are a few companies offering this same or similar boss kit. I had heard mixed reviews about there being play in the wheel due to the ball bearing design rather than the spline. I have fitted it and taken it out and I can't feel any play in it at all so I'm pretty happy plus its a little added security and with the small button that needs pressing in before I can pull the wheel off I know it's not going to come off in my hand either. The only downside to it so far is the wiper and indicator stalks are quite a way back behind the wheel which makes them a little uncomfortable to reach now. I'm thinking Corsa ones might cure this though.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8052/8388373501_e791bf64a2_c.jpg
Its barrels I'd need as well Last time I bought dishes they were about 130 each. Barrels will be slightly more expensive. It's a lot of money to do them and I already have my heart set of centre lock BBS E50 as the ultimate end game wheel for this project.
Christ that is a nice price... What do E50s look like?
Like the boss.
SimonTW
17-01-13, 10:27 PM
Similar to this. They run a high offset and period correct for the 80s. Kind of like the Astra GTE touring cars used to run.
http://www.speedhunters.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/BL_7178.jpg
Ah ok they are nice, need the faces polished and the inner edges painted.
8valve-craig
17-01-13, 10:48 PM
Glad you posted that, as i have just ordered one of the BG bosses, and was worried it might have play. It was a toss up between that and the lifeline one.
Looks like quality, despite the reach of the stalks which wont be an issue for me are there any other downsides to it?
SimonTW
17-01-13, 11:03 PM
I wanted the lifeline one. Its a lot of money though and you can't have a wheel mounted horn. I was a bit dubious of the lifeline copies on ebay too. They were almost too cheap. The B&G one has contacts for wiring the horn too which is another plus point.
The only downside is the amount it pushes the wheel out by. If your wheel is in a good position to start with then fitting it might push it a bit too close. You can see from the picture it looks a pretty far away from the coloumn shroud.
SimonTW
13-03-13, 01:59 PM
Not a lot to update but a few small goings on been happening. (It's a real pain not having somewhere covered to work and not had much time or cash free due to the wedding.)
Since buying the car I have always wanted it to look its best (even though it's a ****ty old Nova). Being pretty old now parts are becoming difficult to find. After going through a few different SR bumpers in average condition I decided to bite the bullet and buy a brand new one from Germany (It cost over half what the car cost me) but it was supposed to be perfect. When it came through I left it packaged up so it didn't get damaged but after recently unwrapping it to have a nosey it's going to need painting as it's not up to scratch.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8077/8429672826_8b3132072f_o.jpg
A brand new SR grill
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8466708543_9afcf8a34c.jpg
Brand new Hella indicators.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8551426107_ba9cbba46e_b.jpg
I'm currently saving for a pair of brand new genuine wings. They are about £150 each though so got a small wait until I can get those yet. I'm also going to go for a new rear bumper but that's about £200
Some new mesh style wheels (for until I can afford some E49's). I've decided to go gold with polished lips on these)
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8232/8476348681_0fe0539972_h.jpg
With having the bias box ready to be fitted it seemed pointless having the large holes in the front of the performance inlet manifold that are for the brake servo vacuum so for super neatness I got these welded up. I've also bought a couple of cans of VHT crackle black which I'll paint alot of the engine parts with.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8514/8539259376_75a3185b39_o.jpg
Few little bits arrived today.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8246/8553691121_9fdbb11b97_b.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8554793260_6aa23b4c26_b.jpg
Home made brake lines will either be epic win or possible death causing fail.
And now I think it's time for a respray. I'm dreading it as I've never had paintwork done before. :S
scott.parker
13-03-13, 05:44 PM
Lol Nice wheels and colour choice, where were the indicators from mate, I've been looking for ages for a set of hella ones..
Loving this. Bumper will look great, what's up with it? Few marks on it? Wheels will look ultra sexy!
SimonTW
13-03-13, 07:01 PM
There was a few marks on the bumper where its gone through the grey and you can see the yellow colour beneath but obviously yellow on grey is pretty noticeable
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8087/8519439848_ac6a49fd40_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8250/8519440644_29fc09dde2_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8518328463_aa19545c83_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8518329323_976f9cf621_c.jpg
I got the indicators off German Ebay searching "Corsa A Hella Blinker". There is a guy who has a few of one side for sale and I just kept searching until I found the other side come up for sale.
Oh yea, rubbed in the box at a guess.
SimonTW
16-03-13, 10:14 AM
Yeah, there was no protective foam or anything. After looking at the bumper in the light I want to go for a darker less blue grey I think so it's not the end of the world.
This morning I thought I'd have a dabble with the crackle. I sprayed a few bits, most of the floor at work and also my hands but hopefully it should turn out okay.
For those who haven't used it before... It's basically applied to bare clean metal with no primer. It needs 3 heavy coats with 5 minutes drying time between coats.
Pics after 3 coats:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8560900743_284dfb7768_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8385/8560899621_edcdba458d_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8560898489_7c415621e3_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8236/8562002500_abecb6f04c_c.jpg
Not very crackly so far but it needs 2 hours before it starts to wrinkle up. 24 hours to dry and 48 hours before assembling the parts back up.
L33 LEG
16-03-13, 10:21 AM
Nice update but I'd of gone mad about that bumper lol Have you contacted them to see about a discount or something?
SimonTW
16-03-13, 10:26 AM
Yeah I contacted them about it but as it had just been sat in the garage for a few weeks they wouldn't really do anything to help. I got the generic reply about damage has to be notified within 72 hours type of thing which is fair enough. I do need a few bits in the future so might mention it and see if they can do anything.
L33 LEG
16-03-13, 11:09 AM
Oh well, looks good anyway and at least you can do it a different colour now so it's not too bad :)
Arnt you ment to oven dry/heat crinkly paint?
Arnt you ment to oven dry/heat crinkly paint?
That's what I thought as well as the heat makes in crinkle/wrinkle. I thought you sprayed it on and heat dried it, then another coat and so on.
SimonTW
16-03-13, 12:17 PM
No, the instructions say it can be dried at room temp for 48 hours or 20 mins in the oven but that gives tighter wrinkles. Luckily I have a little makeshift oven set up in my office
Well a few hours into drying and still no wrinkles at all so I decided to whack some heat on it.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8103/8561060561_2ff956fa91_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8231/8562173308_ac6a216323_c.jpg
and 10 mins later
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8508/8561083253_0efe8fe462_c.jpg
another 10 mins later the wrinkles are tightning nicely
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8252/8562205574_63a66c6260_c.jpg
That's looking better!
It a bit of a coincidence as the other day as I looking at getting some red and black crackle paint and doing a couple of bits.
How much did one can cover as I am looking to do my rocker cover red like the VTEC and maybe the top inlet manifold black?
SimonTW
16-03-13, 12:28 PM
1 can did the upper and lower inlet manifold, my bias box metal work and a thermostat housing and 3 square meters of floor :D
lol Nice one cheers! So one can should do the inlet and rocker cover then. I'm still debating on whether to or not. I think I'll see how yours looks first!
Also, how much was your grill and where did you get it from. I'm looking for a mint grill insert/slats for mine but all of the ones I find are broken.
SimonTW
16-03-13, 01:48 PM
The grill was from a place in Germany and worked out to about £75 quid. There was a couple of new ones with slight scratches on gumtree a few weeks back.
SimonTW
18-03-13, 03:30 PM
Just bought a new GTE rear bumper. Figured as I'm replacing the front I may as well do the rear.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8368/8568103393_1ef59d5430_o.jpg
Still need a pic with my decent camera but you get the idea.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8562486482_45a2eb1a3b_c.jpg
scott.parker
18-03-13, 04:56 PM
Where the he'll did you get that rear bumper?
Crinkly paint looks much better heat dried. Looks good.
SimonTW
03-04-13, 05:45 PM
With Christmas, New Year, some birthdays and now my wedding all completed I decided I can get back to spending some time and money on the Nova before it's time for starting a family. It's actually pretty much a year since I completed the engine conversion and I haven't really done anything on the engine side since then. I stripped down the front end to give it a good clean as it's been a salty winter and the car has been battered by it. I also want to throw on the new bumpers, inlet manifold etc and get it painted in May.
Front end all stripped down.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8115/8615956611_b33e2b0df5_c.jpg
I gave the front end a good clean up to remove all the salt and thought I'd finally take a look at the rust on the cross member I ignored last year. At this point I got depressed and decided to use the Mini and leave the Nova until seeking some advice on the best way of going about the repair.
Any suggestions on the best way to fix this.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8540/8616915646_289a74eca5_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8393/8616914132_1d048dac0a_c.jpg
I'm on a bit of a downer about it as it's gone from being a fairly nice car to rusting all over which I know is just part of Nova ownership. Keeping it mint and using it in all weathers is impossible. I'm toying with selling it at the moment and putting my spray job fund towards it and buying something decent. I just know I would miss owning/driving it if I did that.
New panel is probably the best way to get rid of it all
SimonTW
03-04-13, 06:16 PM
Yeah, it's just a lot of faffing. I hate this Nova!
By the time I have that done, then throw two new front arches on it, two rear arches and have the paint job done it might be more cost effective to ditch this one and get something a bit minter.
My new GTE bumper arrived today too. I never knew they were just like what I have on it already being pretty much a painted base spec grey textured bumper with a lip on the bottom.
peester
03-04-13, 06:50 PM
Could you buy Lee Haslams car?
If not, ide say keep it, persevere - many/most other novas wont be much better than yours anyway ide say.
At least they are an easier, cheaper car to do such repair work to.
scott.parker
03-04-13, 07:07 PM
Suck it up, it's a Nova, they rot, so just repair it :)
SimonTW
03-04-13, 07:09 PM
Any details on Lee Haslams car? Had a look in for sale and nothing jumped out at me.
peester
03-04-13, 07:26 PM
ah.. looking into it he's sold the engine.. but hey; best shell going.
http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?175710-Diamond-black-Nova-GSi-C20LET
SimonTW
03-04-13, 07:43 PM
Thanks for the link. That's a seriously awesome car. I will scare myself by finding out what he wants for the engineless shell lol.
Been having a chat with my mate tonight. I might end up having the panel repaired as a temp fix. Get the arches and paint job done as planned and then get the engine bay stitched and front panel done and painted at the end of the year.
Everything old rusts, remember that... Just be happy it's not 8 years old and needing new sills.
You could cut out the rust and weld a bit in place.
I wouldn't change the original cross member unless its completely rotten
Tie bars never sit the same when new panel is welded in and makes Novas drive horrible (imo)
^^^^ weld it in straight then lol
Bolt the tie bars to the new panel then weld it in place
It's not that bad surely? I know I am a bit biased as its m old one, but as said all Novas have rot, hidden or not and this one has some areas, but no where near as bad as most.Whichever shell you buy, you will have to invest. Rear arches last about a year in standard form in this environment, so they need sorting even if you buy a car with 3000 miles on it lol.
If you're using it as a daily, it's just something that needs to be done unfortunately.
SimonTW
04-04-13, 09:18 PM
Its a vicious circle for me. I don't want to spend a fortune on it being a daily drive and because it's a daily drive rather than a show car more money needs to be spent on keeping it clean and mint. I'm going to get the front cross member welded up for now too. While its being done I'll have the area stitch welded and the strengthening plates added too as it will save me a job in the future.
Some stuff I ordered whilst on my honeymoon arrived (gotta love free wifi in the hotel!) lol
Roose silicone hoses in OEM matt black. I can't fault Roose at all. They sent the wrong rad top hose but even though it was bank holiday weekend they got it sorted next available working day for me!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8619246295_4609135f77_c.jpg
And as stainless hose clips are too blingy for my plans I got some matt black stainless Mikalor ones.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8125/8620349128_09a69907c6_c.jpg
masseyk@deeside.ac.uk
04-04-13, 09:43 PM
Hi Simon, like the lads say yours is probably one of the better shells around regarding rust problems, don't get to despondent about it, even if you start
off tackling the worst areas first and the not so bad areas later on. I always try and think where it will be in 6 months time if you address the problem
sooner rather than later. Keep at it and just remind yourself that I ended up with (at the last count) around 16 new panels that had to be fitted!!!
Keith
Calamity Josh
05-04-13, 03:57 PM
Rear arches last about a year in standard form in this environment.
couldn't agree more! mine were actually pretty good when i got it, now after a few months of being on the road i know that there going to need doing in the near future, it's gutting but what else would we spend our money on??
those hoses look very nice Si, if i knew about them i would of probably got them for the Sport
Liiking the hoses and the black jubliclips.
peester
05-04-13, 08:33 PM
to be fair a nova isnt an ideal car - if youre a details man.
to be fair a nova isnt an ideal car - if youre a details man.
This is very true.
SimonTW
06-04-13, 12:39 PM
Hi Simon, like the lads say yours is probably one of the better shells around regarding rust problems, don't get to despondent about it, even if you start
off tackling the worst areas first and the not so bad areas later on. I always try and think where it will be in 6 months time if you address the problem
sooner rather than later. Keep at it and just remind yourself that I ended up with (at the last count) around 16 new panels that had to be fitted!!!
Keith
Thanks for the pep talk! It's defo given me a motivational boost to crack on and just get it sorted! :)
couldn't agree more! mine were actually pretty good when i got it, now after a few months of being on the road i know that there going to need doing in the near future, it's gutting but what else would we spend our money on??
I might take up crack and reduce my monthly hobby spending lol
those hoses look very nice Si, if i knew about them i would of probably got them for the Sport
I really like the gloss on yours to be honest. I'll probably fit these and wish I had gone gloss lol.
Liiking the hoses and the black jubliclips.
Cheers Benn!
to be fair a nova isnt an ideal car - if youre a details man.
I like just messing around with ideas floating round my head to make it a bit different or to experiment with different products and looks. I think looking at peoples like Benn's, Martin Kelsons, Nick J's, Karl Rowntrees & Edd's to name a few that spring to mind details and unique touches can be made.
SimonTW
06-04-13, 08:06 PM
As I was at work today and I had a little wrinkle paint left I decided to strip a spare throttle body down and spray it up.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8125/8623502007_463684c33f_c.jpg
And as I've got it booked in tomorrow to have that cross member sorted so while I was putting it back together I decided to throw on my new front bumper, new amber hellas, new sr grill and also re-cover all the engine bay loom in cloth tape.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8105/8625666514_b9a6a51b37_o.jpg
Very happy with the way it looks now! I'm pretty excited about getting it sprayed!
shaunboy84
06-04-13, 08:14 PM
loving the satin finish on them bumpers might do my gte nova bumpers like that :)
I love that, looks fantastic. And i don't normally like orange lenses.
Looks great Si
I know you got a bit downhearted with the rust, but if over time you get bits done, seal and paint inner arches etc, fill cavity's with wax etc will last for years
IMO if your using a nova in all weathers you really want to be thinking bout taking off all the factory underseal at some and redoing it with something decent and painting over it
SimonTW
07-04-13, 04:32 PM
It's on my list of things to do Edd. The plan was the outside this year then over winter get a spit sorted so I can strip and stitch weld the underside and bay then get that painted. It is pretty solid still on the whole underneath. There are just a few areas like the back panel and passenger side rear suspension turret where rust is creeping up the seam. I'll need to source another car to use while I do that though!
I made an early start this morning. I got the welders unit and whipped the front end off ready for him to arrive and get cracking. I drilled the welds out from the strut between the slam panel and cross member. The only reason for this was to make it easier to remove and refit the radiator. I've made it so I can refit it with nuts and bolts though.
Jonathan attacking the car with his wire wheel grinder
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8627144259_d7e4bde8e7_c.jpg
On first look I thought it was actually not as bad as I thought.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8401/8627144811_73e7ec6328_c.jpg
The worst side
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8627145335_5f94706852_c.jpg
On the whole, the front panel isn't too bad. It's something I want to replace in the future as it's a bit battered but for now its okay hidden behind the bumper.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8542/8627147313_4eafec30ac_c.jpg
It turned out the second skin was the rustiest part so Jonathan cut out all the rust. I was hoping it could be done alot neater but there was quite a lot of affected metal underneath.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8256/8628255976_816ccf747a_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8396/8627148575_4c4310e96f_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8403/8627151947_f89bb15ac0_c.jpg
Jonathan waving the magic welding wand about
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8542/8627152555_4d8e617ec1_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8627152851_ec8461875f_c.jpg
Patched up and seam welded. I didn't do the strengthening panels on the tie bar brackets as they didn't arrive in the post in time.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8401/8628263566_2cce622c9d_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8627154361_e75b968063_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8122/8627154953_a32bf09397_c.jpg
Then I just silver hammerited to cover the welds up and threw it back together. Job jobbed!
peester
07-04-13, 06:45 PM
yes, good stuff.
M Sutton
07-04-13, 08:46 PM
Love this Nova. Looks great and its good your sorting the rust areas :)
SimonTW
08-04-13, 10:42 AM
Its not ideal but it means it's sorted. It will probably end up more butchered and welded up throughout my ownership of it and at least it's road worthy again for another year.
I'm not sure if it's a placebo effect but the car does feel a lot better when braking hard. It doesn't seem to lurch forwards as much.
scott.parker
08-04-13, 11:03 AM
Lol no its probably not flexing as it was before..
It's a good start. Everything can be changed later... Believe me.
SimonTW
08-04-13, 08:42 PM
Well it failed the MOT :( On rust. I dropped the car off a 9am and asked them to MOT it. I got it back at 5pm accompanied with a fail sheet. There was a patch where the chassis rail gets jacked from that had gone through a little hidden behind the factory underseal. It also failed on side lights being blown on both headlamps (something I totally overlooked whilst checking everything over.
I dropped the welder a text at 5pm to see when he could fit me in and said the sooner the better. He said he'd be at the unit for 7pm. Being totally sick of the car again I just had him plate over the problem are. Not very neat but just one of those things that needed doing.
Factory underseal is a killer.
^^^^ indeed, terrible stuff
scott.parker
08-04-13, 10:23 PM
Sorry to hear that Si, I will be stripping my saloons to start a scratch as I know to we'll how it hides..
SimonTW
09-04-13, 11:25 AM
I've had a good poke around whilst it was up on the ramp, there are a few seams underneath that need some attention shortly but nothing major. It's generally in really good condition. Even a lot of the unsealed seams around the wishbone mounts are nice and clean which cheered me up.
Anyway! It now has a fresh MOT certificate so I'm back on the road for another year.
SimonTW
09-05-13, 05:46 PM
Just a little update. I want to be able to take it to a few local meets and maybe PVS / Retro Rides without being embarrassed about the condition of it so I've booked it in with a mate of my Dad's for a respray. He's been doing it longer than I have been alive and was the guy who did my smooth bumpers last time round so I have faith it will look good. Plus, it can't really look any worse!
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7391/8722721861_63d2632947_b.jpg
I did think about telling him to do it yellow and just replicating this car!
A few "before" pictures!
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7367/8722983868_1297fd7c3e_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7391/8722987884_212a4362d7_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7382/8722990724_52bc67bca0_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7359/8721874023_234fe0ce10_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7457/8721876333_afd56c9e87_b.jpg
It's staying very much the same. He's going to change the front wings and roll them, sort the rear arches and roll them also. Remove the holes in the tailgate. Take all the glass out and then full hit it in silver and then paint the new bumpers and grill in the RAL colour I have painted the handles and mirrors in. It's going to be a long 3 weeks until I pick it up.
M Sutton
09-05-13, 08:36 PM
Will look gorgeous when its done mate! Shame about the MOT fails, i have mine in a few weeks time! I spy George and his Corsa C in the last picture ;)
Calamity Josh
09-05-13, 08:57 PM
Just a little update. I want to be able to take it to a few local meets and maybe PVS / Retro Rides without being embarrassed about the condition of it so I've booked it in with a mate of my Dad's for a respray. He's been doing it longer than I have been alive and was the guy who did my smooth bumpers last time round so I have faith it will look good. Plus, it can't really look any worse!
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7391/8722721861_63d2632947_b.jpg
I did think about telling him to do it yellow and just replicating this car!
A few "before" pictures!
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7367/8722983868_1297fd7c3e_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7391/8722987884_212a4362d7_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7382/8722990724_52bc67bca0_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7359/8721874023_234fe0ce10_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7457/8721876333_afd56c9e87_b.jpg
It's staying very much the same. He's going to change the front wings and roll them, sort the rear arches and roll them also. Remove the holes in the tailgate. Take all the glass out and then full hit it in silver and then paint the new bumpers and grill in the RAL colour I have painted the handles and mirrors in. It's going to be a long 3 weeks until I pick it up.
plans sound good mate! may i suggest getting a later tailgate to smooth and save doing it to an early one? :)
IIt's crazy how quickly they rust! Those arches are a million times worse than when you bought it from me! Lol
SimonTW
09-05-13, 09:39 PM
plans sound good mate! may i suggest getting a later tailgate to smooth and save doing it to an early one? :)
The later ones have a bigger recess for the plate once you take the handle off though. I'm just having the wiper hole, washer hole and lock hole done to tidy it up rather than. I'm not too bothered about preserving the early tailgate as they go for peanuts anyway second hand so it's hardly worth swapping it over.
I know Will it's crazy! The problem is it isn't tucked up in a garage any more. I figured if I don't take action now it will just get alot worse. Luckily although they are rusty it's mostly surface rust still, it hasn't started to eat the metal away yet.
peester
10-05-13, 05:07 AM
So are you goin to still be using the car everyday, in winter too?
SimonTW
10-05-13, 07:10 AM
Yes, even once painted I'll still use it daily. I've always been a firm believer that a car is meant to be driven and enjoyed! If the same happens again in two years I'll just get it painted again.
Sounds great, will look great all painted and de rusted.
Yes, even once painted I'll still use it daily. I've always been a firm believer that a car is meant to be driven and enjoyed! If the same happens again in two years I'll just get it painted again.
Amen to that, such a rare thing too nowadays... I would, but I do around 800 miles a week, so I would be skint, deaf, have white finger and need a rebuild once a month lol
SimonTW
11-05-13, 12:41 PM
Yeah I can bet. I'd sure give it a go. A lad on another forum summed it up saying he'd seen more Lambos out on the road in the last year than he had Novas and even in this state it gets more looks waves and thumbs up than my Mini.
Some times being sat doing nothing can be bad... Sure that's what made my roof go again.
I'd be very tempted to go yellow? I also think you'll change your mind about using it daily once you get it back mint ;)
Nick.
SimonTW
11-05-13, 08:32 PM
It did cross my mind but thought it would look very pikey having the exterior done yellow and having the engine bay and interior in silver. It has to be my daily as otherwise I'd have to use my Mini all the time or buy another daily and have two nice cars sat unused which would make my wife very unhappy lol.
It did cross my mind but thought it would look very pikey having the exterior done yellow and having the engine bay and interior in silver. It has to be my daily as otherwise I'd have to use my Mini all the time or buy another daily and have two nice cars sat unused which would make my wife very unhappy lol.
I didn't mean it like that... I'd have to drop the motor do the bay and inside up to the rear seats so that whatever would be seen again was yellow. I'd much rather use the mini daily also! I ran a cooper s for three years daily and found it great. Much comfier and useable as oppose to a nova!
Nick.
SimonTW
12-05-13, 01:49 PM
You're right about the Mini. It's a fantastic little car. I'll have had it 5 years soon and I used it for 3 years as a daily which put about 50k on it but it's something I don't really want to sell ever if I can help it so that's the reason I got the Nova as a daily plus it's a lot cheaper to run than the Mini.
SimonTW
18-05-13, 07:43 PM
I popped down to see the car yesterday. Not a lot had been done on it apart from being rubbed down on the exterior. The front wings had been whipped off though so I got chance to see if there was any nastyness lurking behind them. I was pleasantly surprised to see its all pretty solid still.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8393/8746527587_e11b932cdd_h.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8395/8747645686_acc73fe987_b.jpg
Id be very happy with that.
SimonTW
26-05-13, 01:06 PM
I'm a bit unsure on this mod now but i'll see it through for performance vauxhall show if its ready in time. I didnt go to any massive effort on them being a car I drive hard. If I like the way they look once fitted i'll have them refurbed properly and maybe have the lips done silver/polished. New rubber arrived too. I normally use Camskill but gave EARS motorsport a try this time and they were spot on. I wanted to go for a lower profile than the 50's I have on the fanblades so went for a 45. I had to get a Toyo PX4 as the T1 are out of stock with Toyo.
I spoke to the painter and he is confident in it being ready to collect next Saturday.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2872/8838490894_39f04c881b_b.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5463/8838496560_e46c45b1a5_b.jpg
A polished lip would make them look perfect for me. Please DO it.
SimonTW
27-05-13, 10:03 AM
I'm not going to go to so much effort with polishing on this set. If I like the gold on the car I'll probably sell these are invest in some genuine BBS and a proper refurb on them.
Cool. A polished lip will really set them off tho....
SimonTW
31-05-13, 09:50 AM
Not a lot to update but just a little update. I got home last night to find this posted through (thanks Hobbit), so the pressure is really on now. It's 10 years since I was last at the show with my red baby valver so I'm pretty excited about being there.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/8899161357_3a66a550a4_c.jpg
I managed to pick up a new screen locally for £50 which I didn't think was too bad. I dropped that off at the painters unit last night along with a few other bits and took a few progress pictures.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7405/8899709486_028c9799fd_b.jpg
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/8899739432_e216ff0cf9_b.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5329/8899110091_8e16076d70_b.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5340/8899114875_257bea04ae_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7372/8899119237_e3de100b14_b.jpg
This steel color looks cool!
Awesome! Glad it's been propley stripped too!
SimonTW
31-05-13, 02:32 PM
Yes, all the wiper mech was off, glass out, etc which made me happy. But then the rear bumper side brackets were left on lol.
novadave24
31-05-13, 03:43 PM
looking good mate nice colour as well :)
SimonTW
31-05-13, 05:08 PM
It's just the plain Astro silver. I toyed with changing the shade of silver or even the colour altogether but I'm looking forward to seeing it all built back up now.
did you need any panels replacing then? arches ?
looks good
get the bumpstrips back on the sides as well
Will be a beaut again when she's done.
SimonTW
01-06-13, 05:42 AM
I had the front wings done but I have kept the old ones to clean up and keep as spares as they are in better condition than I thought and although the rears were rusty, it was mostly surface rust so they cleaned up well which saved any welding being done.
Side strips are going back on too. I'm also considering re-badging it up too.
SimonTW
04-06-13, 09:17 AM
Called into national and had my wheels tyred up!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8420/8945644175_bbff502e31_b.jpg
Picking up the car later today! I'm both excited and anxious as hell!
SimonTW
05-06-13, 11:29 AM
Picked it up last night.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2851/8956879095_24ba605f24_h.jpg
SimonTW
05-06-13, 01:14 PM
Its far from amazing as there are a lot of little bits I wish had been sorted (small flaws and imperfections) but if it was an amazing finish I wouldn't want to drive it and for under a grand I can't complain. Even though all my blue powder coated suspension parts are now mostly silver :( Overall I'm happy and looking forward to PVS this weekend!
But that's the right attitude. At the end of the day it's a nova, not a mk1 rs 2000 or rs 500 etc, so best to spend conservatively and enjoy I say!
Very nice mate
Looks great
scott.parker
05-06-13, 04:40 PM
Looks spot on mate, rocking gold expressions is the future..
blue_peg_16v
05-06-13, 05:01 PM
Time for abuse!
But that's the right attitude. At the end of the day it's a nova, not a mk1 rs 2000 or rs 500 etc, so best to spend conservatively and enjoy I say!
Doesn't matter what car i if you love it and enjoy it. "rare" and "collecter" ones are only cause we make it so....
Bloody hell i frigging love this!!!
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2851/8956879095_24ba605f24_h.jpg
Doesn't matter what car i if you love it and enjoy it. "rare" and "collecter" ones are only cause we make it so....
Bloody hell i frigging love this!!!
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2851/8956879095_24ba605f24_h.jpg
I agree, but if your rs500 gets damaged or stolen its going to cost more than £500 and a beer!
SimonTW
06-06-13, 09:22 AM
Thanks for all the positive comments. The wheels have had some mixed opinions from people on other forums and friends. I'm going to try lowering a little more if possible. I can't put my finger on it but something isn't quite
Now I see it looking very nice I'm starting to think about things like not fitting the front lexan windows and sticking the tailgate and side glass back in and putting a "road" interior in it with some nice RS Turbo Recaros maybe. I'll hopefully get some inspiration this weekend.
8valve-craig
06-06-13, 10:02 AM
Its been ages since i last checked in for a look at this. Its looking ace mate, well done.
Glad the engine is serving you well, Hopefully see a set of Jenveys on it soon?
SimonTW
06-06-13, 10:20 AM
Thanks Craig. The engine has been spot on really and hasn't missed a beat (touch wood). No I won't be going that extreme on it I don't think. I will fit the mantzel I have for it already and get a chip and a manifold and leave it at that. I have been thinking about getting a 2.0 16v for it too though lately just for that bit of extra umph!
8valve-craig
06-06-13, 11:23 AM
I think you would be better off keeping the 1600 to be honest. A friend of mine made about 135hp on just a powerbox, 4-branch and stainless system which would be more than a match for a standard 20xe and so much more fun.
paddy235
10-06-13, 09:24 PM
Well done really liked the look of this, I think the wheels suit it
Looked amazing at PV dude, it's a real credit to me. Lol
SimonTW
11-06-13, 09:58 AM
Haha Cheers Will. I owe it all to you! It's defo looking a lot better than it did
I took a few pics of it at PVS. The car made it down and back and didn't miss a beat. I added my Lexan front windows before the show too. It got a lot of attention on the way down and lots of thumbs up from passers by (show goers and just normal cars lol). I wasn't too sure if I would keep the wheels gold but I they have really grown on me now so they are staying.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/963824_10152889170045720_1646068403_o.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/964941_10152889170415720_1581022370_o.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/941354_10152881204745720_1835662150_n.jpg
M Sutton
11-06-13, 10:55 AM
Have to say it looked stunning! Wheels looked great in person and I was a big fan of the car in general ;)
After staring out my window at it and seeing it in tesco in the morning, then coming to take pics of it at pv, i love it even more.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/964941_10152889170415720_1581022370_o.jpg
I like it when a nice, clean factory mixed with the racing car style, but not too little and not too much.
Your one is a perfect combination of these! I love it!
SimonTW
21-06-13, 04:47 PM
Thanks for the comments guys. :D I was very happy with the car
A few days ago I noticed a few drops of coolant on the drive way so I popped the bonnet and firstly noticed this on the front of the gearbox...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/9078846532_2c2047375d_c.jpg
Then after a bit more investigating I found this...
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5487/9078844190_777740a0e8_c.jpg
It's definitely coolant but all the hoses in that area are dry. The header tank still has plenty in so I don't think it is using much. There is only a few drops on the drive way and maybe a table spoon full in the cavity in the gearbox.
After a bit of investigating it looks like a split has occurred between the water way and side of the block. I have got 3 different quotes ranging from low £200's to low £500's. Having just forked out on the spray job it's really irritated me to the point I'm thinking of breaking it. I'm currently weighing up just dropping a new (to me, second hand) engine in it or sticking a 2.0 16v in it. What is more annoying though is I weighed up which car I prefer using and decided to stick my Mini on ebay.
Then I went and bought BMX for some crazy reason. Nothing fancy just something to tinker with that was on ebay local to me. I might need to do a 40mile a day commute on it at this rate.
peester
21-06-13, 04:51 PM
wowsers, the mini is going!? This sort of leak can happen on any engine really, unless you do a complete rebuild prior.. the timing of it is a bit pants.
therealnovaboy
21-06-13, 04:58 PM
Sounds pretty unlucky. The car is looking great.
sell the mini and get it fixed. its not the end of the world really.
SimonTW
21-06-13, 05:12 PM
It is just timing more than anything. All the Mini money is going back into another car. Just something newer, cheaper to run and a little bigger as my wife uses it mostly and when we go out for the day or shopping. The Mini is getting pretty expensive to maintain now and the the maintenance is getting more frequent as it's nearly 10 years old. If both end up going I'll just get two normal cars, lower both and stick a set of wheels on them.
Don't break it. So the water way has crack out of the block... Can't you just have it welded? I know welding case metal isn't very nice, but surely it would be cheap and easy for the time?
are sure that its not the headgasket that's failed ?
SimonTW
21-06-13, 05:30 PM
Yes, sorry when I said split I meant the head gasket has a split as there is no water in oil, oil in water and engine performance is still as normal. Those quotes were for head gasket change, cam belt kit and also skimming and inc labour. I'm not going to make any quick decisions just yet. I'm going to give it a week and see how I feel.
Oh, but of a easier job. Can you not do that your self? £40ish for a gasket and some bolts, you could do it in a day...
easy fix then, get it done :)
SimonTW
21-06-13, 05:36 PM
I've never done one before and don't feel that confident in attempting it to be honest.
Ah, fair enough, no mate that can help?
strip it down yourself, take head for skim, order parts then maybe get someone to build it back up ?
I would bet that's a hose leak rather than gasket failure! If the hg fails its unlikely that you get any external visible tell tales...
strip it down yourself, take head for skim,
Why skim the head? No need, it hasn't been boiled and even then there isnt a huge need....
Agree, get it checked if it needs a skim is more what I meant
SimonTW
22-06-13, 09:25 AM
I've wiped and cleaned everything, checked all the hose clips and nipped them up a little then done another run to work and checked all the hoses again. There is no moisture or coolant residue on any of the hoses There is just a few drips on top of the gearbox right under the coil pack.
So basically an engineering place would check the head before doing the skim to see if it's actually needed? The friend people go to when they need help is me lol. There are two things I always say no to, head gasket and anything removing modern subframes. Bit easier on friends cars as you can drive your own home if something goes wrong to hold you up.
Changing a head gasket is easy.(it's just unbolting bits) The only bit i don't like is setting the timing back up. I always get a friend to check that.
I still done see how a bit of water on the gearbox is the head gasket? If it is leaking from the gasket, surely you'd be able to see it leaking from the head area?I have a tool that pressurisises the system above normal tolerances so you can check for leaks... But I'm a bit far away lol
SimonTW
27-06-13, 12:12 PM
I'm presuming its a split between a waterway and the side of the block maybe. I've been all over it and the coolant is coming from that area somewhere. It's only been dropping a very small amount as I clean it up every few days. On Monday it started making a horrendous noise from the head area. After doing a bit more internet research and popping into a local garage it looks like the water pump bearings are shafted. Talk about bad to worse but at least if I do end up getting the head gasket done I'd have had them do the cam belt and water pump anyway. It just means the car is now off the road until I can get some cash together. I may have done a deal though for these and cash my way against some bits which would work out nicely. I need to borrow the parts first to see if I can make a workable set of 6" wide wheels from them in decent offsets.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5343/9149114527_72aeb66277_c.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/9148818467_25abaea68d_c.jpg
Awesome wheel, would look very nice. Hope you get the problem sorted to bud!
L33 LEG
27-06-13, 01:37 PM
Shame about the leak but I'd definitely try the head gasket yourself with a mate who knows what he's doing. Stick with the smallblock :)
Where are you buying those wheels from? I'm sure that car is local to me.
Nova is looking great by the way, sad news about the mini though :(
Oh man them rims are porn..... bad luck with the engine mate hope you get it sorted :)
If you have probs with parts, give me a shout. My work will have most of it in stock....
The wheels...... *holds knob* i'm damp! Love them.
8valve-craig
27-06-13, 08:50 PM
Edit.
Clearly have an "Image" sticker on. Thought for a second they were the mega rare Revolution splits.
Where are you buying those wheels from? I'm sure that car is local to me.
Didn't you use to have a white yaris that looked a bit like that?
lol
L33 LEG
27-06-13, 09:17 PM
Don't bring that up again lol
SimonTW
28-06-13, 09:37 AM
Shame about the leak but I'd definitely try the head gasket yourself with a mate who knows what he's doing. Stick with the smallblock :)
Where are you buying those wheels from? I'm sure that car is local to me.
Nova is looking great by the way, sad news about the mini though :(
Yeah I think he is fairly local. He's a mate of a mate. It might not happen yet but I think the revolution style will look spot on the for the mk1 and I'd love a set of proper split rims for it for summer use. Ideally I'd love a BBS e49 but they are mega money so these will do. Yeah I'll be sad to see it go, especially as I've been using it with the Nova off the road and I've really enjoyed driving it.
Oh man them rims are porn..... bad luck with the engine mate hope you get it sorted :)
Thanks! I'm sure it will all get sorted. As long as it's done for Retro Rides Gathering I'll be happy.
If you have probs with parts, give me a shout. My work will have most of it in stock....
The wheels...... *holds knob* i'm damp! Love them.
I knew you would love them :) Where do you work Benn. I think it's something I will just drop off with a garage and pick up a few days later. Hopefully it will be sorted next week. I'm dropping it off with the guy who does stuff on my Mini who is going to do it for £100 labour plus parts and extras. I'm going to have the Mantzel fitted at the same time as all the part are off it.
Vxlgsi on mig is selling the engine your after for £100 shipped. ;)
Nick.
I knew you would love them :) Where do you work Benn. I think it's something I will just drop off with a garage and pick up a few days later. Hopefully it will be sorted next week. I'm dropping it off with the guy who does stuff on my Mini who is going to do it for £100 labour plus parts and extras. I'm going to have the Mantzel fitted at the same time as all the part are off it.
Oh i do. Very good choice. I work in a motor factor down south. So i can get most the stuff. But if it's a drive in and drive out then your sorted.
SimonTW
02-07-13, 11:12 AM
Vxlgsi on mig is selling the engine your after for £100 shipped. ;)
Nick.
Thanks for the heads up Nick. It's much appreciated. I might see about getting it to keep as a spare.
Oh i do. Very good choice. I work in a motor factor down south. So i can get most the stuff. But if it's a drive in and drive out then your sorted.
Ah, I thought you worked at the bodyshop. I'll keep you in mind if I need anything in future though thanks!
Well the Mini sold on ebay but then the buyer has backed out last night as apparently his loan was refused. After the amount of stupid questions and offers I got for it I decided not to re list it so will keep hold of it for a bit longer. I decided to grab some of the BBS bits out of the garage and give the dishes and centre nuts a clean up. I have two built up already so just need to sort the other two out. I had left two un-built as I bought two stupidly wide dishes but I haven't had the balls to make them up and fit them yet so I decided to build them up on the narrower ones to get them back on the car.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7323/9192037294_a57151a905_c.jpg
I used to, but moved over the road..lol
scott.parker
08-07-13, 08:56 PM
Just seen this on corsa A Facebook page, you seriously need to get them bbs wheels on...
http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/scottie3080/2013-07-08205132_zps1cb9b702.png
8valve-craig
08-07-13, 10:18 PM
^ They are just run of the mill 4x100 RM's.
The RC's are far better in my opinion, especially considering the work involved getting them to fit.
(PS, front one looks like it has a flat spot too.... maybe just the angle though)
Just seen this on corsa A Facebook page, you seriously need to get them bbs wheels on...
http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/scottie3080/2013-07-08205132_zps1cb9b702.png
Yes, these BBS are one of the best wheels! Anyway the suitcase holder on the Michalak at background is also interested :D
SimonTW
09-07-13, 01:44 PM
That's cool Scott! The blue ones are built up to go on the Mini though.
Another pic all finished and sealed up. Just need to sort some tyres for them.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/9248208640_cb0114cc4d_c.jpg
I dropped the Nova off for the head gasket to be done last Wednesday with the idea to collect it on Saturday and drop the Mini with them to do a few bits (I hate working on the Mini as everything is always rusted solid!) When I got there on Saturday the Nova wasn't finished so it screwed my plans up a little. It should have been ready to collect last night but wasn't so I'm currently waiting to find out if it will be ready tonight.
Bugger on the Nova not being done, you sooooooooooooo need the BBS on the Nova tho, they would look amazing!
SimonTW
10-07-13, 09:18 AM
Yes, it's really bugging me now. If I had dropped it off and been told a week I could have made plans to work around it. It still isn't ready though and when I asked would it be ready today and they couldn't answer. I hate people who can't stick to deadlines and hate even more being told every day that it will be "ready tomorrow". I think a surprise visit may be on the cards as I'm now worried something's damaged that they are struggling to rectify. I can't understand why it's taken over a week to do. I probably should have done it myself. Even if I messed it up and needed to redo it all it still might have been done quicker. :roll: Bloody modified cars!
This is why doing it your self can be best. As you know what's going on and work break anything.
SimonTW
10-07-13, 05:03 PM
Well it's still not done but the explanation I have is they are waiting on a valve stem seal removal tool. The one they have is the wrong size and the new one is on its way but been delayed. Been told it will be ready tomorrow....
Ready for Billing over the weekend then...
SimonTW
10-07-13, 05:35 PM
I actually don't plan on going to Billing at all to be honest. The only other show I'm doing this year is Retro Rides.
SimonTW
16-07-13, 11:55 AM
Finally, I have the car back. After 13 days. Luckily there was no damage to the car, just the usual dirt and oily hand prints everywhere.
My Mantzel is now on too. They managed to lose the throttle cable bracket (which annoyed me more than I was already) so they had to modify the old one to get it sorted.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5332/9296289900_c12864e171_b.jpg
It needs a good clean and all the wiring tidying up. I'm not 100% sure on the blue now so I might change them to crinkle black too
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7434/9293510359_d5615c9ac4_h.jpg
Blue kinda stands out, but as it doesn't match it looks a bit out of place... Love the inlet box. Glad you got it back.
SimonTW
02-08-13, 03:28 PM
Quick update with a new additions. One to the family and one to the car.
Piper Exhaust System with a 3" outwardly rolled tailpipe.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3758/9420529535_f10741b7b5_c.jpg
My first child. 13 weeks along due 6th Feb all being well!
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5457/9420546791_f1ed950964_c.jpg
So happy right now I don't even care the car isn't running 100% since the head gasket was done and the powerbox fitted.
Congratulations mate! Ours is 5 months now... Fab news.
SimonTW
08-08-13, 01:05 AM
Cheers Will!
Tonight I decided to go take some pics of the Nova. I'm a big fan of long exposure light painting but I rarely get the time/weather/location to do it properly. Plus I'm always worried I'll be mugged and murdered.
Anyway, the pictures. (I still need a lot of practice.)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7350/9462787212_e0d75d9016_c.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5544/9462787820_9491079f2c_c.jpg
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3829/9460009133_00f52087f5_c.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7300/9462790624_a5a61bb170_c.jpg
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2845/9462791282_36ab43d456_c.jpg
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/9462792550_8cbc293367_c.jpg
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2872/9462794534_870c7a3f76_c.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5511/9462795022_c65f6dcc21_c.jpg
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3820/9462795424_445ffb8692_c.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7425/9462795974_74af9d2699_c.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7304/9462796602_41f757bc25_c.jpg
bazzap8389
08-08-13, 01:27 AM
Very nice pics mate, love the 6th one down :)
M Sutton
08-08-13, 07:11 AM
Looks gorgeous, the pics are awesome!!
nice pics, what was causing the wavy lines?
Tonight I decided to go take some pics of the Nova. I'm a big fan of long exposure light painting but I rarely get the time/weather/location to do it properly. Plus I'm always worried I'll be mugged and murdered.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3829/9460009133_00f52087f5_c.jpg
Now that's funny, as i too really wanna try some long exposure shots but am worried i'll be mugged and murdered so haven't done any yet.
Photos are fantastic! I love them. Love the one i've quoted the most. All done with to flashes/lights?
SimonTW
08-08-13, 09:36 AM
nice pics, what was causing the wavy lines?
That's basically a big ass led torch with a set of fairy tree lights hanging from it while I run past.
Now that's funny, as i too really wanna try some long exposure shots but am worried i'll be mugged and murdered so haven't done any yet.
Photos are fantastic! I love them. Love the one i've quoted the most. All done with to flashes/lights?
As above just a cheap rechargable LED torch. It came with a plastic lens so a removed it and sanded it down so I can use it to diffuse light as well as project it. I think next time I'll try a tube around it so it gives a more focused beam.
It's good fun to do. A little less so on your own. I want to try some driving ones next to give a light trail on the head and tail lights.
Also the pictures and the car looks great! Congratulation! :o
This one looks like a fashion advert picture :) Very nice!
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/9462792550_8cbc293367_c.jpg
As above just a cheap rechargable LED torch. It came with a plastic lens so a removed it and sanded it down so I can use it to diffuse light as well as project it. I think next time I'll try a tube around it so it gives a more focused beam.
It's good fun to do. A little less so on your own. I want to try some driving ones next to give a light trail on the head and tail lights.
Ah impressive, my led lamps should do it really well then....
SimonTW
09-08-13, 10:53 AM
Not much to update. Since having it painted I've never really liked the bold blue calipers with the silver and grey with gold wheels and orange indicators. It's a little too "in your face" and the cars is more of a historic rally car feel now. As I need the car daily I decided the easiest thing to do was just pick up another set of V6 calipers to strip and have powdercoated.
I just went for a standard gloss black with them.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3807/9471831522_bf14f1b3dc_c.jpg
I've been on the hunt for a replacement header tank too as the standard ones looks a little grotty but the bailey alloy ones are a little pricey new and they don't come up too often second hand so I got busy the crackle paint again.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2843/9471840288_32125d9624_c.jpg
And while I had the crackle paint out and thought I'd knock up a spare cam cover.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2816/9471835844_cb248c860d_c.jpg
Just got a few bits to do then give it a clean ready for the retro rides gathering next weekend!
Crackle paint everything should look cool, I'll look out for it at RetroRides :)
Love the crackle painted header tank. I'll have a look around it at RR.
M Sutton
09-08-13, 08:23 PM
Good idea on the crackle header tank! Gave me an idea for mine lol ;)
What exact paint did you use?
SimonTW
10-08-13, 07:14 PM
It's VHT hi temp crackle black. Item number 251289241791 on a well known auction site.
SimonTW
21-08-13, 12:26 PM
Well I did the Retro Rides show which will be the last show I will probably do for a while. Next show season I will hopefully have a son/daughter so it got me thinking about a family friendly Nova or retro car for use in the future. I'm still undecided on selling it.
I also got bored at work so had a play in photoshop.
a) As it is now but with grey lower section
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3773/9560086971_8de3b65da9_b.jpg
b) Grey lower section and wheels
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3773/9560086971_8de3b65da9_b.jpg
c) Grey lower section and silver wheels
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7295/9562875486_5642b3304e_b.jpg
d) Silver lower half with grey wheels
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2860/9560084219_99d9896e54_b.jpg
e) Silver lower half with silver wheels
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2861/9562873658_922afeda40_b.jpg
Gold wheels and grey lower looks great.
ocdstigy
21-08-13, 01:04 PM
I absolutely love this car!
Option A looks great
Keep it, don't sell
scott.parker
21-08-13, 03:30 PM
This might sound strange, but after seeing the wheels in person i think the shade of gold is too dark for the silver paint imo, so silver wheels would look nice so options C or E imo mate.
Scott
nova.mike
21-08-13, 04:23 PM
Silver and silver looks cool :)
I like the actual one, the silver is too stock for this wheels imo.
Maybe a lighter gold with polished silver border, like this:
http://www.der-schweighofer.at/public/files/300/80470_Felgen_Work_XSA_02C__26_mm_chrom__gold_6_mm_ Offset_LRP_Electronic_H329856832_300.jpg
Option A looks great
Keep it, don't sell
This man speaks the truth. Follow him.
SimonTW
22-09-13, 04:54 PM
The Nova has taken a bit of a back burner lately with me wanting to sell it. I turned my attention back to the Mini (which I also want to sell)
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2864/9876488776_ccf56eb016_h.jpg
Stuck the wheels back on it and gave it a detail. It's now on an auction site with a 99p start price.
Dislike the bottom part painted grey, looks mint as it is! Maybe just some diffrent wheels?
sell the mini, get some bbs for the nova. keep body as is, job done! :)
chrisd1986
22-09-13, 08:38 PM
i do like this car, seen it the other nigh and its as clean as it is in the pics not bad for a daily
Now the Mimi does look fantastic, but follow the below.
sell the mini, get some bbs for the nova. keep body as is, job done! :)
This.
SimonTW
18-10-13, 09:51 AM
Dislike the bottom part painted grey, looks mint as it is! Maybe just some diffrent wheels?
The idea behind doing the bottom half grey is for when the rust starts coming back on the sills and door bottoms (and I have no doubt it will with using it over winter) I can fix and paint it myself. If I was to do silver it would end up being a pro job and I've never seen a properly matched silver repaint job.
sell the mini, get some bbs for the nova. keep body as is, job done! :)
I'd love BBS on the Nova. I'll have my dream 16" magnesium e49 with 0.5" lips someday. But not for a long long time!
Now the Mimi does look fantastic
Cheers Benn. It's a shame the best it has ever looked in my opinion is when I'm trying to sell.
The Mini sold a few weeks back and the hunt for a new car started. I decided to keep it Vauxhall with the new car and after having a look around a mates Corsa C I decided to bite the bullet and buy one. I looked at a few 3 doors but in the end went for a 5 door for ease and practicality. I picked up this really clean 1.2 design 5 door with super high suspension and steelies and trims with low mileage for a decent price.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1278903_10153286817055720_762164756_o.jpg
Me being me though I had to start with the mods less than a week after picking it up so I got busy over the weekend.
Picked up some coilovers
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1381460_10153320205290720_1983573090_n.jpg
Found a set of wheels. (I know these are to the Corsa C what the Speedline Allesio is to the Nova and the Corsa B but they just work so well together)
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1395317_10153320205595720_1293694404_n.jpg
A good breakfast for a morning of modding.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1384125_10153316828260720_903400752_n.jpg
A promising sign
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1378533_10153316828630720_686039176_n.jpg
Rear end coming together nicely. I left the adjusters in for the first time ever although I've since wound them all the way down.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/528286_10153316829595720_1333112145_n.jpg
And done... I have dropped the back another 15mm since this pic was taken though.
https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1376655_10153316829905720_1490064573_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1378268_10153316828960720_709869415_n.jpg
scott.parker
18-10-13, 10:06 AM
Lol your mad! Them tyres look like with the coilovers its one mega harsh ride..
But fair enough, i would of kept it standard my self.
So does this mean that you are keeping the nova?
SimonTW
18-10-13, 10:27 AM
To be honest, it's really not at all. The coilovers are decent quality so the ride comfort is still there and even though the tyres are low profile it doesn't make it too harsh. The ride is just less boat like now. I've not gone mad on the drop to keep is usable. The adjusters and helper springs are still in there. I'm actually really surprised at just how nice it is to drive. No knocks, bangs or vibration at all.
A friend of mine was supposed to be having the Nova but I think he's having trouble raising the cash and I'm reluctant to take a chunk and then the rest over a period of time. I'm toying with breaking it but really don't want the hassle of that but for the time being I'm just still using it and enjoying it.
novadave24
18-10-13, 03:26 PM
very nice blue mate love them wheels I bet you will go lower looks good :)
Scott you're nuts saying you'd keep it standard! That stance and those wheels look epic! Even on a 5 door! Lol
nice work simon, all you need now is a z20leh....
scott.parker
18-10-13, 09:24 PM
Thats only as i thought it was a standard daily car etc lol
Thats only as i thought it was a standard daily car etc lol
Why would a daily have to be standard? Mine never have been, bar one, but that was french and temporary so...
scott.parker
19-10-13, 11:20 AM
Because when i modified my passat it became in practical to use dail once lower etc lol
Where as my Astra has been spot on virtually standard, and meant i put money into other cars etc..
SimonTW
19-10-13, 11:34 AM
I still class this as standard, it's just less crap looking now.
Engine conversions, buckets of cash on mods and radical changes are all behind me now I think for the time being. I will never drive something totally standard though. It's just really nice to have a car we can just use without any stress and that I'll be able to use with the newborn in Feb.
I'd love a Z/LET or LEH one. They engine just looks so at home in the bay but I think the idea of owning it would be a lot better than actually owning it. I could be a future project though to have sat on the drive!
SimonTW
21-10-13, 05:07 PM
Decided to give the C a wash and head to my favourite night time spot for some long exposure photography.
https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1380280_10153342880735720_1268085315_n.jpg
https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1069264_10153342882635720_478844877_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1392050_10153342882640720_1497179085_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1378539_10153342880090720_516493006_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1374104_10153342880065720_1225359522_n.jpg
M Sutton
21-10-13, 07:33 PM
Some wicked pics,car looks good as a daily!
bazzap8389
21-10-13, 07:35 PM
Love your photography :) looks great
FANTASTIC Photos. Love them, just done witn a torch shining at the car?
SimonTW
22-10-13, 02:36 PM
Yeah pretty much. I just set the camera up on the tripod, set it to ISO100 and connect a remote shutter. Then it's just a case of playing around with shutter times and lighting effects to and see what comes out.
novadave24
22-10-13, 03:41 PM
looks really good mate ;)
Yeah pretty much. I just set the camera up on the tripod, set it to ISO100 and connect a remote shutter. Then it's just a case of playing around with shutter times and lighting effects to and see what comes out.
Yeah, i need to play with my camera at night more...
craig green
23-10-13, 06:47 PM
I like the Corsa, partly cos its a 5dr & is practical for you.
Proof that a set of wheel and drop completely transform a car, well done :)
scott.parker
03-11-13, 12:18 PM
Proof that a set of wheel and drop completely transform a car, well done :)
lol thats all i did.
SimonTW
14-11-13, 09:21 AM
Thanks for all the comments. I love the 5 door. I went to Tesco to buy a new flatscreen. Got it to the car, opened the back door and just slid it in.
Well I made the decision and started to break the Nova. It just makes more sense as I'll get the money I would have wanted selling it whole pretty easily. I'll maybe build another one again in 10 years, who knows!
https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1398087_10153440181355720_1043606397_n.jpg
I've been so impressed with my little Corsa C I decided to go and buy another, 2006 again, 47k on the clock in SXi+ spec.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1465234_10153439392140720_63282556_n.jpg
I'm just going to lower this one and bang on a set of wheels and leave it.
scott.parker
14-11-13, 12:31 PM
Two corsa's?
Surely there not that good lol
are you taking hairdressing up now as well?
novadave24
15-11-13, 03:17 PM
what you going to do with the nova shell ? nice corsa mate and low miles :)
SimonTW
15-11-13, 03:48 PM
what you going to do with the nova shell ? nice corsa mate and low miles :)
I'll just stick it on ebay more than likely to get rid of it.
are you taking hairdressing up now as well?
Ooof thats a bit below the belt. It's not like Nova's a a huge amount more masculine than the Corsa lol
Two corsa's?
Surely there not that good lol
Luckily I didn't test drive anything other than Corsa C so I have no basis for comparison and compared to the Nova it feels like a Bentley
poor nova lol
I've not had to axe or burn anything yet so it's not that punishing on it. I'll see what silly offers come in for the shell on ebay but I might end up weighing it in just out of spite lol
Ooof thats a bit below the belt. It's not like Nova's a a huge amount more masculine than the Corsa lol
Hahahaha no insult intended :thumb:lol
SimonTW
15-11-13, 04:36 PM
Hahahaha no insult intended :thumb:lol
None taken. :thumb:
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.5 Copyright © 2025 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.