Craig's Xe track Nova (pb fixed to page 10)

[Benn]

Tank looks good.

[MiniManDan118]

That turned out a bit flimsy so did a bit of CAD.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4370_zps0ab7fd47.jpg


lol Cardboard Aided Design right?

[8valve-craig]

Indeed, but that's one of Lee's so I cant take credit for it.

Yesterday was a complete write off, so just sat at home feeling sorry for myself, but got back on it this morning. Didn't really have a clear vision of what I wanted to achieve, but went ahead anyway.

First I fitted up the sump pan, then the Simpson manifold, which didn't go too well as it was just a gnat's bollock away from the O/S tie bar and tight on one of the scavenge trough's.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4386_zpscbe025bf.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4388_zpsc6bc78d5.jpg

It could have been persuaded to fit around the sump, and with a rose jointed arm kit would have cleared the tie bar just fine, so I ignored it and cracked on with the Oil pump.

The drive pulley fouls the O/S chassis leg, which I was fully expecting and prepared for, so just a few swipes with the grinder left me with a nice area for it to run clear of the body.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4394_zps338e9fa4.jpg

Did another technical drawing and transferred it to a scrap of steel I had knocking around.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4397_zpseae1a0d7.jpg

Bent it in the vice, then over my knee, which left me with this tidy-ish fillet. Thats now tacked in place, I know its a little different to how most people do it, but I was concerned about the belt coming into contact with the bodywork, so took out a little more than required to be sure that wouldn't be an issue.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4400_zps154b5d78.jpg

View from underneath, which shows the extent of the chassis intrusion.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4402_zps40aac5ab.jpg

And one from underneath showing some of the shiny bits.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4404_zps0b4ba70e.jpg

Once the pump was fitted I attempted to re-fit the manifold, but disaster, Its not even close to fitting.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_4389_zps8d82da52.jpg

So that's that up for sale, which is a real shame as I quite liked it. Sent Simpson and Tony Law E-mails to see what they can do regarding a new one.

That's enough for now, but couldn't resist a shot of the cover and bodies fitted.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4405_zps6a3858d8.jpg

[Pistol Pete]

Blatant scavenger....how my for the manifold? lol loving the build by the way. Would like to do a dry sump conversion when funds allow.

[8valve-craig]

Thanks, Manifold is advertised in the for sale section at a reasonable price.

[Pistol Pete]

Yeah lol just saw your fs thread. Want so much want. Rocker cover looks bloody awesome too!

[thegingerwhinger]

This is going to be the tits when done! Well done

[8valve-craig]

Yeah lol just saw your fs thread.

Yeah its not a cheapy. You would fall off your chair if you got a quote off Simpson to make you one.


This is going to be the tits when done! Well done

Thankyou, I'm no fabricator, but I'm hoping it will be pretty special when finished.

[zeifer33]

Interesting project, the manifold fit well with standard XE sump??

[Iain]

Great mod on the chassis leg for clearance, should look quite factory when ground back and painted up.

[Will F]

Nice - dry sump has been on my 'want-but-too-scared-to-cut-my-nova-up' list for years... Your pics dont make it look too bad at all though...

There's a cheap new kit on Mig that keeps me dribbling.... so what will you be revving to, to warrant such mechanical porn??

[8valve-craig]

The kit on Mig is well priced for whats included, and that tank will go into a Nova..

I never really planned for the DS, it just came up at the right price so made sense. Only really planning to rev about as far as you do, but nice to know its there for those long corners, and means i can comfortably experiment with slicks in the future if i want to.

[Will F]

Exactly - I have no doubt that my baffle will keep me safe with my 888s, but less so if I go full slick...

[8valve-craig]

Engines done.

Last visit and collection today. Popped it in the van around 12:30

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_zpsae3d5131.jpg

Got it home and lifted out, then lowered it onto an old bread crate and fab'd up some mounts for it to sit on. (then painted it cuz I'm gay)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4676_zpsfba80863.jpg

So here it is.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4677_zps4748b9c9.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4679_zps44072896.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4680_zps58978771.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4683_zps5be1d16a.jpg

And my favourite pic by far.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4684_zps7d537736.jpg

Looks good, should go OK, so just need a car to put it in.

Massive thanks to Lee, Top bloke with loads of knowledge, really glad I went with him now and would recommend him to anybody considering a similar build.

[Will F]

Sexy! Black toovey inset looks better than mine! Lol
whats the spec?

[8valve-craig]

Ta, Yours still looks very cool though.

Spec....

Early crank, acid dipped.
Fully balanced bottom end
ARP rod bolts, Mains, Headstuds, and flywheel bolts
Arrow Rods
Omega 87mm pots
Cometic 1.3mm
KS head, Ported and polished with +1mm all round
Double springs
Titanium caps
SBD 295 Matched pair of cams
Piper pulleys
Pace front mount dry sump
45mm Jenvey Taper ITB's with 90mm Trumpets (probably swapping for 110mm)
Omex 600
Paul Exon steel flywheel
Helix 4 paddle clutch & cover.

12.06 - 1 CR

All to be fitted to the Quaife SCCR syncro 5sp with Gripper plated diff for the time being. 6sp Dog box soon after.

[Pistol Pete]

Wowsers. Looks amazing!! I'dhave that sat in my living room until install!!

Cut out doesn't look as fierce as i imagined. Still on my ultimate dreamy wish list lol

[BRoadGhost]

Going wide arch?

[8valve-craig]

I really don't like the look of wide arches on Nova's. I'm going to put it together with standard track rose jointed front arms etc and see how it goes.

[MiniManDan118]

I dont think Im going to have much luck keeping up with you now...

Let me know if you wanna sell that gearbox, I doubt Ill ever be able to afford it but its worth a try!

[8valve-craig]

Sure will. It has more wear on cog 2 than any others, I presume as it was used in an oval racer, but Il stick with it for a little while.

[Nick J]

Top bombing Craig engine looks great.... Bet it's going to be lively with that spec too!

nick.

[BRoadGhost]

The six speed dog cluster won't fit that engine without going wide arch.

[8valve-craig]

Oh I can see why that might be an issue actually. I was thinking along the lines of Lee's arrangement, but keep forgetting that's smallblock.

Il see how my syncro's cope to start with, they may be just fine for what I'm using it for, but if not will reconsider.

[_Jake]

Engine porn!!

[Will F]

12.06 is higher CR than mine (11.75), and cams are different.

Be interested to see the figures when she's running. I am getting mapped in the next few weeks...

[8valve-craig]

Il have a nose through in a sec, from what I can remember ours are pretty similar. I always said i'd be happy regardless of the numbers, just so long as its a good strong engine which is relatively reliable and pulls well, so we will just have to see.

Did a bit more this week, not a lot though

First up were these little mounts, 22mm x 2mm tube, with a riv-nutted washer welded on top.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4751_zps223f99d5.jpg

To hold this.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4752_zpsf068717f.jpg


Then positioned and fixed the Surge tank. Got very lucky with this, It was a used ebay find, and as luck would have it all of the outlets are pointing exactly where I want them.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4761_zps06d29d02.jpg

Then the battery holder. Went for a Varley Red-Top 25, but with a powervamp cage.

All nice and straight

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4757_zps3de95980.jpg

Got the M8 pedal box mountings drilled, then drilled the footplate. Temporarily riveted it in place with just two nearest the pedal's, as they pass through angle as opposed to box, so when I drill them off I can retrieve the ends. The rear-most mountings will be riv-nutted, as if I ever need to remove it the old rivets will rattle around inside the box section and drive me crazy.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4756_zps39eec5f7.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4760_zps93aa2ec1.jpg

Measured up for the pull cord and will be hanging it from the gear selector tower, so can run it down the tunnel.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4758_zps6acd4721.jpg

Also had this lot delivered

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps6abb72d4.jpg

Still chipping away at it a few evenings a week. Managed to get the tunnel plated, and covered up all the unwanted holes in the bulkhead, so not far off prepping for paint now.

[corsakid]

This is looking really good :)

[stt]

Coming along nicely, makes me think I should pull my finger out!

[8valve-craig]

This is looking really good :)

Ta, still a long way to go yet though. Getting my engine loom back this week so can lay it out and drill the hole for it, then measure up for fuel and brake lines.


Coming along nicely, makes me think I should pull my finger out!

Don't forget I have seen your secret photo's, yours is coming along just fine.

[8valve-craig]

Spent a couple of weeks sorting the rear arches. An hour here and an hour there.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps259d5ae1.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4911_zps60dd3f61-1.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_4974_zpsba70f83c.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5022_zps2f45a31a.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5025_zps3254131f.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5028_zps8e2b6adf.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5029_zps54bfe412.jpg

Both still needed a little pulling out. After some measuring it turns out the Corsa C stub axle setup gives a little extra track, so not a straight swap atall.


http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5242_zps2fcd9e5c.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5243_zpsd1608a4d.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5241_zps58df7602.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5244_zpsb595e528.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5236_zps8ba29a1c.jpg

Went inside and started scraping off the Hammerite

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5019_zpscd8026c8.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5020_zps8dec95ff.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5021_zps9c2a8481.jpg

And that's it.

Not got a lot of love for it at the moment, but did jack it up and set it on some high stands today in the position I will be painting it in. Off the wall means its in my way, so should motivate me a little.

[brainsnova]

Nice job on the arches and looks like a mouse is living inside

[bazzap8389]

Good job on the arches mate :)

[Iain]

Looking good, bit of extra track off the Corsa stubs sounds good to me!

[zeifer33]

Yeah, really good job with these rear arches. And the wheels.... are in my opinion the most lovely thing you can put on a nova. Fantastic:thumb:

[8valve-craig]

Nice job on the arches


Good job on the arches mate :)

Thanks, they aren't a bad job, but having no experience are the best I could do.


Looking good, bit of extra track off the Corsa stubs sounds good to me!

With your arches you will be fine.


Yeah, really good job with these rear arches. And the wheels.... are in my opinion the most lovely thing you can put on a nova. Fantastic:thumb:

Ta, I do like them. Got them stripped now for a winter refurb. On the look out for some Cromodora's now too.

.......................................

Did a bit more today, but only a little update. Got it up nice and high, then stripped the front end.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5252_zps977f4d63.jpg

Went on a rust hunt.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5253_zpsa511bc9e.jpg

Got sick of my candle in a jam jar, so went and bought a proper light.

Didn't find anything too scary, but did have a few hours of patching to do.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5259_zps36a470b6.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5261_zpsa49c3516.jpg

The lower cut out was a previous repair, not done by me. So for piece of mind I sliced it open and had a poke. Just as well really as it was a mess underneath, just a very thin patch over an un-treated rust hole. Obviously needed dealing with so cut it right back and repaired it to a better standard.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5262_zpsaa70e4c2.jpg

Finished on that side now, But plenty to be getting on with over on the O/S.

[zeifer33]

hahahaha, If you get bored of those wheels, I'd be happy to buy them. Maybe I have something interesting around here ...;)

[Vlietje]

Some good progress Craig! I'll drop off my GSi next time I'm around! :d:d

[Benn]

Standard rust places. Good wprk repairing it all. Bright light too...

[8valve-craig]

Some good progress Craig! I'll drop off my GSi next time I'm around! :d:d

As long as you bring me over a 20xe Spiess F3 rocker cover...... Deal? Cant find one anywhere.


Standard rust places. Good work repairing it all. Bright light too...

Ta Benn, did the other side yesterday.

.................................................

Rust finding in the O/S/F arch. Was a bit gutted by what I found, but it needed sorting so cracked on with it.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5349_zpsa41eeed3.jpg

Not an easy fix, as it was mostly the bulkhead seam which had rusted, which was sandwiched between 2 others (turret & firewall)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5350_zpsec61d1d5.jpg

No access from below, as it had rusted into the chassis leg recess, so had to open it up from above.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5351_zpsaf0e4497.jpg

Got rid of the bad metal, then started rebuilding it as close to how it was from the factory as I could.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5352_zps5e4c8c5b.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5354_zpsa2f92ffb.jpg

Sorted. Or as good as its going to get at least.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5355_zps7c900b39.jpg

Went up into the bay and tidied up the mess. Welded in a patch then flap disc'd it down so it looks relatively neat.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5357_zps351d9752.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5358_zps0516f908.jpg

Quite scary how much rust all that factory underseal hides. Still a bit to do before I can spray the new Gravitex, but its getting there.

[Benn]

Factory sealer is a nightmare.. Hides rust all over the place. Nice repair on thr 3way join.

[Johnny A]

Good work Craig, they love it rot out just there

[Iain]

Nice repairs, bet if you ground the welds flat you'd not see it at all under the new stonechip. Think mine went in very similar places too, I definitely remember the battery tray/splash guard area going through!

[8valve-craig]

Thanks all. Keep meaning to properly read your build Ian.

........................................

Did a bit this week. Started fixing the spare wheel well. Instead of hammering the flutes down in the boot floor I got all fancy and cut into them with a 3mm blade.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5359_zps68358796.jpg

Then trimmed down the ally plate and riveted it in place.

Pic also shows some areas of the boot seal which I cut out due to the dreaded.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5361_zpsf96e3881.jpg

Boot seal repaired

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5379_zps15a2874e.jpg

Moved round to the N/S inner arch again, and addressed a patch behind the headlight.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5369_zpsd234e5b1.jpg

Then went on a rust hunt in the front valance

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5367_zpsbc7fd66f.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5370_zpsdbdcd9fb.jpg

All sorted. Wasn't going to mess around grinding the welds too much.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5375_zps18ec678e.jpg

Cut this out. It was a bit scabby, and not required any more. Was surprisingly heavy too.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5372_zps868d48a0.jpg

Plated

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5377_zps7c18638f.jpg

Gave it all a quick tickle with the grinder and left it there.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5378_zpsbfe1d509.jpg

Getting very close to having a rust free Nova now. Pretty sure I could run around tomorrow with some Krust for the flakey bits, then be ready to mask for underseal.

[Johnny A]

Brilliant repairs bud, don't make it too good otherwise you will be scared to drive it!

[8valve-craig]

A little more progress this week. Sorted out a compressor ready for spraying the underseal.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/image_zps4908a9e4.jpg

Then acting on sound advice, ordered up a chassis plating kit from Pro-Tech. I was initially only planning on fitting the bits for the chassis legs and cross member, but as its a 14piece kit thought I might as well do them all. (A couple of bits missing from pic)

First job, work out where they all go.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsd5e2d12a.jpg

O/S had to be altered to suit the chassis mod where the oil pump will run,

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpscdab45b3.jpg

Tie bar mount and N/S plated.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpscb6e4ec8.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsd6f99d5f.jpg

Plates inside the arches.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps0c7aa58b.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps42c997f8.jpg

These 2 are a pain to fit, but with a light, something to rest my left arm on and some extra layers of clothing managed it.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps3994433d.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsbb13a6f3.jpg

And finally the rear beam.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpse8a3d35b.jpg

Took around 4hr's to get them in and actually quite a nice job to do. I'm still not convinced they are all necessary, but at least it makes the shell more saleable if for any reason it ever gets broken up.

Started scraping off all the Hammerite in the engine bay. God knows why I ever thought it was a good idea, but it had to go.


Also needed to grind out all the stitch welding on the chassis leg's / turret's and re-do it. It was untidy, and being done with the gassless wire I used to use when first learning its structural integrity was questionable.



http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsc3b642a8.jpg


Two more plates. Top one was a captive bolt fixed to a spot welded plate which used to hold something pedal related, bottom one clutch cable.


http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps063cfe52.jpg


Also made a lower mount for the oil tank so its held on 2 bands, then treated the remaining surface rust and gave a coat of primer out of a can.


http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps11ded6f9.jpg


http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps6bd08acb.jpg


Then briefly moved into the back of the car to start removing more Hammerite


http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps563d37b1.jpg

[8valve-craig]

So, Its been a while since I updated this. Been mega busy getting it to a point where it could be painted.

I didn't really take a lot of photo's, but started by stripping off all of the Hammerite inside. A complete nightmare. Cant believe I built the cage around it.

Then made some additions to the cage. A rear strut brace in-between the turrets, and some vertical bars in front of the dash, slightly smaller in diameter at 31mm, but make such a difference entering / exiting.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpse86a4949.jpg

A few more bits, like plating over the old SPi pump hole in the floorpan, and fitting a flat plate to mount my pumps on.

Also made the bolt's for the shifter base captive, and did the same with the bolts for the bulkhead bearing. Then measured out and riv nutted the floor for all of the brake and fuel lines, which you can see right down the centre of the tunnel (brakes) and to the left sill (fuel).

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps91363ec2.jpg

Moved onto the bonnet hinges. They fouled the cage, so needed offsetting a little. Just fitted the bonnet, braced the hinges, cut them and re-welded so once the braces were cut off they were in the same place

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps7522dc97.jpg

Also bought some top mounts and modified the front turrets so they offer full adjustability.

Started rubbing it down, 320g dry.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsbf51268c.jpg

And did a bit more tidying on the rear arches.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps77656309.jpg

Masked it all up for the Gravitex (admittedly should have sprayed it before rubbing down, but I was waiting on air fittings)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsd2e3dc8f.jpg

Did a test patch on the door at 4bar, then went for it.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps7be56968.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps20eb02b7.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps95aefa1e.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsb55701ff.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps3256a9b4.jpg

It came out pretty well. I could have done with a better mask though as my head was spinning. Had to go outside for some air very late last night, if I had hit the deck I probably wouldn't have been found until the morning so lesson learned, Air fed mask next time.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps4032b868.jpg

I booked it in for paint 2 weeks ago, so my deadline was 9:00 today. Had it not have been absolutely pissing it down I would have been there on time, but had to go and fetch a big cover to protect the bare metal areas.

Got it loaded up

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps0a463588.jpg

And dropped off at 11:00, which in my eyes is on schedule.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps6f589f77.jpg

I couldn't be happier. I'm a shell of a man, but nothing a few days off wont sort. Painter has instructions to "do a good job", so despite him originally giving me a very good price, I made it clear today he should do whatever necessary.

Got back, gave the place a good sweep out. Seems weird not having it in the way,

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps8acfefd7.jpg

Lots of stuff is now being stripped and coated..... Wheels, tank, straps, suspension, shafts etc. Loom has already been trial fitted so can be wrapped, and the dash has been further trimmed, so can now be flocked.

More soon

[Balley]

Just read through the whole build, very impressed Craig.

Keep up the amazing build!

[_Jake]

Might have to nick your spare wheel well plating idea, very neat!

[Benn]

Fantastic work dude.
Under sides looks great, are they being painted over? Or left in the Gravitex finish? (sorry if you said i can't remember)
Shell looks great, rear brace in a nice add in too.
She's gonna look great when all painted. can't wait to see it, might have to pop over when it's back.

[bazzap8389]

.

[bazzap8389]

Great work mate! Coming on well. :) can't wait to see it painted.

i also might have have to steal your wheel well plating idea :)

[8valve-craig]

Just read through the whole build, very impressed Craig.

Keep up the amazing build!

I just had a read through myself. Seeing it parked at the roadside early last year bought back fond memories.


Might have to nick your spare wheel well plating idea, very neat!


Great work mate! Coming on well. :) can't wait to see it painted.

i also might have have to steal your wheel well plating idea :)

Thanks, I can give you the measurements if you need them. The most important part, which I haven't actually mentioned is that there is a 90degree angle pressed into the plate where it meets the rear panel. Only 25mm, but it means it can be riveted to the panel. I cut the rest of the metal away underneath so it doesn't act as a parachute, then sealed it all up with PU adhesive. You can see the 4 rivets in this picture. I'l trim the bumper also.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5379_zps15a2874e.jpg


Fantastic work dude.
Under sides looks great, are they being painted over? Or left in the Gravitex finish? (sorry if you said i can't remember)
Shell looks great, rear brace in a nice add in too.
She's gonna look great when all painted. can't wait to see it, might have to pop over when it's back.

Yes its getting painted everywhere. Its on rolling dolly's, which I got off Craig (Twag), so despite being low, once its in the booth it will be jacked up on stands so its fully accessible

By all means do pop into the yard if you are passing, you can normally see my van from the road, so if its there..... I'm there.

[bazzap8389]

If you could get me the sizes that would be great mate :)

[8valve-craig]

Just had a look through my messages and found the measurements

730mm x 705mm with a 25mm 90deg return on one of the shorter sides making the flat part 730 x 680. Best use those as a rough guide though and measure yours properly when its cut out.

Cut the wheel well out at the area as soon as it goes flat with boot floor, To get the nice curved shape just hold a piece of string in one hand pressed to the wheel post, with the other hand holding the string and a marker pen. Then after a couple of dry runs you can mark it up with OCD levels of accuracy.

Thats 3mm, I wouldn't go thinner, place ally on top and draw round from underneath. Be careful not to cut on that line though, draw another around 20mm outside of it so it has a good overlap.

[Iain]

The paint stage! Exciting stuff can't wait to see it in one colour

[_Jake]

Ta for the sizes :) book marked as i wont be getting there any time soon lol are you keeping the O.Z's on? i love them wheels

[bazzap8389]

Thanks for that Craig, it will come in very handy :thumb:

[MiniManDan118]

So, what 2 weeks and this will be finished then yeah? ;)

[Benn]

Yes its getting painted everywhere. Its on rolling dolly's, which I got off Craig (Twag), so despite being low, once its in the booth it will be jacked up on stands so its fully accessible

By all means do pop into the yard if you are passing, you can normally see my van from the road, so if its there..... I'm there.


Ah that's a very good bit of kit. Played with it at the bodyshop..
Sounds like a plan, is a nice drive from winny so i'll pop over at some time when its back.

[8valve-craig]

Are you keeping the O.Z's on? i love them wheels

Oz are being blasted as we speak. Il paint them frozen white and buy new graphics. Keep them for track with Semi's on.

There are 4 sets of wheels for it though. a set for wets, a set for semi's, a set for experimenting with full slicks and a set for shows.

6x15 ET49 (will be refurbed with the original graphic's)
http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_5473_zpse019cd5f.jpg

6X15 ET49 (ready to go with wet's fitted)
http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_1144-Copy.jpg

6X16 ET49 (Show only, refurbed in silver with road tyres fitted)
http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/wheels%20and%20tyres/DSC01951.jpg

Popped in to see it today and found it baking. Inside and underneath are done and looking good, exterior should be done tomorrow morning.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps1e1db9b9.jpg

A bit sooner than I would have liked if I'm being honest, but who's complaining.



So, what 2 weeks and this will be finished then yeah? ;)

2 Month's would be nice

[Nick J]

Sweet!

Nick.

[bazzap8389]

Very nice!

[M Sutton]

Awesome! Will be a beast when its all back together!!

[8valve-craig]

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsa21e13b3.jpg

[Benn]

Oh FUNK that looks nice!

[corsakid]

awesome

[zeifer33]

Magnificent work.

[matthew172]

looks the bollox

[8valve-craig]

Thanks, Picked it up this morning and the heavens opened on the way home, so just spent 2 hours with the chamois inside and out.

Couldnt be happier with it. Got a load of pics taken, but cant upload them until later.

[jonn]

nice one, now the fun begins putting it all back together!

[8valve-craig]

Picked it up this morning. Here's why I chose Frozen white over the usual Diamond / Polar / Cassablanca. (Van is Diamond).

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsca3785ea.jpg

Got it home and went over it, couldn't be happier. There are a few blemishes, but only a handful and I'm certainly not complaining.

Inside pics first.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpse5d5ceef.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsde51a0ad.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps196f2227.jpg
A couple of random shots.
http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsda1bd7f1.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsae53da86.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps1a74acb2.jpg

A few untidy bits in the bay. He sealed the welds, and didn't quite do it as neatly as I would have, but hey ho, still not complaining.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps6e6fcc47.jpg

And the best ones.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps2b06c625.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsa9626d22.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpscf061f20.jpg

Overall, as I'm sure I have made quite clear, I am over the moon with it. Il be flatting off a couple of runs, mainly in the cage, but will leave it to fully harden first.

Couldn't get a decent pic down the O/S due to the light, but its just as shiny.

[bazzap8389]

Wow, that looks great, love the colour. Top work :thumb:

[Benn]

Really can see why you picked that colour. Looks fantastic.

[MiniManDan118]

Looking lovely mate. The odd 'blemish' will soon become un-noticeable when the car is built. I was so picky with mine, but it's made sod all difference as you cover half of it up with an engine, suspension and interior.

[Balley]

Looks fantastic mate!

[Ernie]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v617/chunny01/JDL%20Project/jdlnova068.jpg (http://s.photobucket.com/user/chunny01/media/JDL%20Project/jdlnova068.jpg.html)
Like what you did with the wheel well. This is my old build.

[Ernie]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v617/chunny01/JDL%20Project/jdlnova085.jpg (http://s.photobucket.com/user/chunny01/media/JDL%20Project/jdlnova085.jpg.html)

[8valve-craig]

Wow, its been a while since I updated this over here. Have done a bit though.

Its been a few months of refurbishing / re-building parts which are to go back on the car, so started with all of the bolts which I had dipped in CS then zinc coated.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6159_zpsd86c0570.jpg

Then trial fitted all of the panels. Being glass fibre they needed a bit of tweeking, especially the doors, but they all fit now.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsebdc1842.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsba737e80.jpg

Had my OZ's blasted, then painted Frozen White to match the car, as they were a bit rough and a sort of creamy colour.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6457_zps74795c3c-1.jpg

Rear beam coated (as well as every other chunk of metal, just didn't take many pics.)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6463_zpsbf833b35-1.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6462_zpsab8f8e5a-1.jpg

Tank fitted

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsd204a6ca.jpg

AVO rebuilt my suspension.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpscf722d10.jpg

So gave them a freshen up and some new springs

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6732_zps8226af91.jpg

Rebuilt the steering rack with 2.75 Corsa parts and got that fitted up.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps335fc0d3.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsa675eeca.jpg

Also dismantled the Jap alternator and re-assembled it 90deg off, so the positive doesn't face the block any more.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6728_zps53c280f8.jpg

[8valve-craig]

Built up the rear beam and got that all fitted.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6746_zps32c1dbd4.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6748_zps1c26d62b.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6756_zps8939edf3.jpg

lowered to the floor, so I could start on the front

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6759_zps41fee7e3.jpg

Protec mounts arrived,

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6769_zpsc3407869.jpg

So put the engine and box in (re-assembled the box with a new Gripper diff and original SCCR cluster. 3.9FD)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6776_zps8ef4905a.jpg

Front end built up

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6784_zps45795cac.jpg

And rolling

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6785_zpsd1eeab2d.jpg

Loaded onto the trailer for its trip to SRE yesterday

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6791_zpsa1c417ce.jpg

And dropped off. Stripped the panels back off it and bought them home, so they can be painted this week hopefully

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c109/leeh303/guitar/IMAG1265.jpg (http://api.viglink.com/api/click?format=go&jsonp=vglnk_jsonp_13943525909668&drKey=1059&loc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.migweb.co.uk%2Fforums%2Fproje cts-restorations%2F453445-craigs-xe-track-nova-57.html&v=1&libId=643f1b02-8acd-471b-8b54-6e8ec6be8903&out=http%3A%2F%2Fs26.photobucket.com%2Fuser%2Fleeh 303%2Fmedia%2Fguitar%2FIMAG1265.jpg.html&ref=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.migweb.co.uk%2Fforums%2Fproje cts-restorations%2F453445-craigs-xe-track-nova-56.html&title=Craig's%20XE%20track%20Nova&txt=%3CIMG%20alt%3D%22%22%20src%3D%22http%3A%2F%2F i26.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fc109%2Fleeh303%2Fgu itar%2FIMAG1265.jpg%22%20border%3D0%3E)

That's all folks.

[Iain]

This is lookingffantastic now Craig. All the prep and careful planning and trial fitting coming together. Panels look good fitment.

[Pistol Pete]

Oooosh....looking super smart there! What's your aim for completion Craig?

[Balley]

Very nice work pal.

[zeifer33]

He looks really really nice, well done!!!

[L33 LEG]

Looks stunning!

[BRoadGhost]

Looks neat. You might find those disks designed to work best swapping left with right

[8valve-craig]

This is lookingffantastic now Craig. All the prep and careful planning and trial fitting coming together. Panels look good fitment.

Thanks, as much planning as I did it wont have been enough. Paint is getting chipped and holes are being drilled, but its minor.



Oooosh....looking super smart there! What's your aim for completion Craig?

Thanks, I have no date in mind for completion, but it would be nice to get a shakedown session booked for a few months time, something to aim for I suppose.


Very nice work pal.


He looks really really nice, well done!!!


Looks stunning!

Thankyou very much. I'm really pleased with how smoothly it has gone together so far.


Looks neat. You might find those disks designed to work best swapping left with right

Cheers BRG, I did think that might be the case when I posted the pic, but to be honest they will be coming off a few more times yet anyway as I'm wanting some spigot rings made up to centre them, and need to plumb the callipers in.

They were nearly the last thing to go on at around 12pm Friday night. I even had to drive home to get the other one as I only had 1 down the unit, but was hell bent on getting it on the floor before the morning.

I also noticed the strap on the N/S/F wheel was a bit low, but it held fine and in my defence I was mighty tired.

[bazzap8389]

Fairly cracking on with this mate. It looks awesome great work :thumb:

[M Sutton]

WOW, that will look awesome when its all built back up! Love it mate ;)

[8valve-craig]

I did a bit last week whilst waiting for the exhaust to be made, gave a fine skim of stopper to the doors, then dropped them off at the body-shop with the wings and bonnet. They should be done by now, but I haven't been in to check.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6800_zpse2512f3d.jpg

Flatted off the fronts of the OZ's. Not a very pleasant job so didn't go to town on them

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6632_zps76e137f4.jpg

Bought new graphics and applied those. Again a job I don't want to do again any time soon.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6633_zps8ab86125.jpg

Then got the tyres re-fitted and balanced up.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6801_zps08877dd9.jpg

Then this morning had a call From Matt Simpson saying the car was ready for collection, so a quick check on Met-Weather and the forecast looked ok-ish, as long as I set off within the hour, so did just that.

Got it back safe and sound, even beat the rain by about 5 mins!

I genuinely couldn't be happier with it.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6878_zpsa0f93aad.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6879_zps2f738c74.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6880_zpsc3fcfce0.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6881_zps8151efef.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6882_zps25ae8d29.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6883_zps4d76487b.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6884_zps74255a7f.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6885_zpsc1f25ce8.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6886_zps5e116618.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6887_zpsb65068d4.jpg

And my favourite....

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6889_zps81385157.jpg

Bumper will need a fair bit of trimming, but just what I wanted. He left the tailpipe about 1ft long too, so I can trim it to suit when its all fitted up.

[8valve-craig]

And a few better pic's here that Matt took when it was on the lift.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/ex2_zps1c524ed1.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/ex1_zps1273c632.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/ex4_zps21dea068.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/ex3_zps6bc08d93.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/ex5_zps34e97e8f.jpg

Cant wait to hear what it sounds like now.

[bazzap8389]

Looks amazing mate bet you're chuffed. I need to get myself something like that.

[dgbnova#1]

That's lovely not seen them before proper job that is

[Pistol Pete]

Work of art!!!

[chris gsi]

As pete said That is a work of art, seems a shame for it to sit under the car maybe fitting a glass floor

[M Sutton]

Stunning system!! Look forward to seeing this in person some time!

[Iain]

Phwarrrrrrrrrrrr sexy.

[Benn]

Wow that is lovely. Beautiful welding on it. Bet it will sound fantastic too.

[Maddukeman]

Very nice work ��

[Balley]

That's a lovely exhaust, very jealous!

[8valve-craig]

Thanks for the positive comments lads. Based on the fabrication alone I would highly recommend them for any similar work.

Simpson Race exhausts
Orchid Nursery, Nursery Lane
Slough, Berkshire
SL3 6BY

01753 532222

[Kev Turbo]

If you don't mind me asking what did it come in at money wise?

looks awesome!!!

[8valve-craig]

I would prefer not to say. It was costly, but in my opinion it was money well spent.

[Kev Turbo]

You get what you pay for! Quality doesn't come cheap

[turbojolt]

I hope that work of art doesn't end up damaged would be like throwing thinners at the Mona Lisa.............but WORSE!!!!

[Vlietje]

They delivered top work Craig! Looks bullet proof! Love the craftmanship. Now go and abuse it!!

[BRoadGhost]

Proper craftsmanship right there; very similar to another I've seen in a different material.

A complete system like that wouldn't be less than 700 big ones if I had to guess & worth every penny.

[Kev Turbo]

Proper craftsmanship right there; very similar to another I've seen in a different material.

A complete system like that wouldn't be less than 700 big ones if I had to guess & worth every penny.

I would imagine well into four figures - manifold alone is worth £700 compared to what you can get off the shelf from sbd and the like

[8valve-craig]

Moving on, I picked up the panels Friday morning.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6892_zps89c84c01.jpg

Really happy with the doors, He has done a great job. There was a fair bit of work do around the window apertures which I simply couldn't be bothered to do, so I'm really pleased that he tidied them up before paint. Especially as he keeps referring to it as a "Race Car".

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6893_zps4fa39d2d.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6894_zps9a0e47ed.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6895_zps58e1247d.jpg

Bonnet is not so good, but that's not his fault. Its just a very poor cmcomposites moulding. Could have put a ton of filler in it, but that sort of defeats the object so its not an issue for now.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6896_zpsb851bf01.jpg

Overall I'm happy. Just the tailgate and grill to go now.

Think I'l concentrate on Brakes, Oil & Fuel next, but it might take a back seat for a few weeks as il be busy elsewhere.

[thedjse]

Stunning work pal

exhaust as already said is awesome really some of the best work i have ever seen.

Amazin the weight saving that the fibreglass panels will give you pal

[_Jake]

exhaust is a work of art, very nice! cant beat simpsons quality of fabrication imo

[nova.mike]

Amazing project mate, love it to bits.

Are you by-passing the heater matrix? Im looking to save some weight and just wondered if your connected the 2 hoses together which go into it?

[brainsnova]

Good choice on the frozen white it makes a lot of other whites now look creamy

[Benn]

Panels look great Craig.

[8valve-craig]

Amazing project mate, love it to bits.

Are you by-passing the heater matrix? Im looking to save some weight and just wondered if your connected the 2 hoses together which go into it?

Yes the heater matrix is history, I wont be using a plastic water bar, will be getting a new one made up in ally or stainless steel to suit the car.

[nova_niek]

Love the exhaust welding, as well as all the other work that has gone into it. Ace job! :thumb:

[kevster]

wow , this is comeing on nicely ! keep it up

[BRoadGhost]

Craig; see this red plastic bush?

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_2844_zpsd6f397fd.jpg

Don't rely on it. I made a 3MM steel insert & welded to replace it and the difference is like night & day.

[Johnny A]

Craig; see this red plastic bush?

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_2844_zpsd6f397fd.jpg

Don't rely on it. I made a 3MM steel insert & welded to replace it and the difference is like night & day.

Bit of an angle on the 1st column joint, work ok?

[8valve-craig]

Works fine, and yes that plastic bush is crap. It keeps slipping down, I ptfe'd it which made it a little better but a more permanent fix would be great.

Just a solid bush was it?

[8valve-craig]

This needs updating anyway.

.................................................. .........

Internal brakes and clutch done in hardpipe

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsf59186e1.jpg

Pressure switch take off

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsd3a3ccb8.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps01c0e95e.jpg

Bought an unpainted GSi bumper to match the skirts and cut rear.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps6e2ce6a2.jpg

Finished internal brake / clutch plumbing and secured the pedal's

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7012_zpsb2fd98f5.jpg

Shifter and a mint handbrake fitted (old one accidently got painted with the shell).

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7020_zps37017df2.jpg

Dash and modified loom trial fitted

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps512ba389.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps6549d8fb.jpg

Extinguisher in. (still needs plumbing and 2x pull cords though)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsca2ec210.jpg

Warning light panel wired just incase I decide to get it MOT'd

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps17e30f7d.jpg

Full bench test on the loom

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps48cb52c8.jpg
And relocated fog / hazards, along with an MSA isolator (to be turned 180deg)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsa3bfb9bb.jpg

That's about it for now. I have been working on a new steel bonnet for something a little different, and fitted the Uno wiper motor today which works well. All fuel system is on order and the oil system will hopefully be done by the end of this month, so getting close to having a running car.

[kevster]

That's looking grate !!! Real weapon looking .

i like the Pressure switch take off , we're did that come from .?

[BRoadGhost]

It's all looking very business like :); would you change the blue gear knob to another colour?

Yeah just a glorified thick steel washer if you like, welded in. It does then alarmingly tighten up the column until you oil it & spend a while spinning the wheel round.

[Benn]

Love love love. Everythings looking great.

[TallDave]

Spent toooo many hours going through this thread, so many good ideas (like moving the handbrake back), and making space for the pedal box, all very useful as I try to figure out how to make space for my lanky 2m frame! As a result I have been making copious notes for my own car build. Brilliant stuff, only challenged by Tomfromdelmonte's rally car build.

Parts wise I'm liking the use of the rear brakes from a Corsa C, I don't suppose you have a spare set of donor parts in your store that you'd like to sell? I travel up to Salisbury every week so collection shouldn't be an issue, indeed it will be a pleasure as I might get to see your car in the flesh.

[Nick]

I take it you had some luck with that front bumper then ? Glad to see it's going to get some good use

[8valve-craig]

Spent toooo many hours going through this thread, so many good ideas (like moving the handbrake back), and making space for the pedal box, all very useful as I try to figure out how to make space for my lanky 2m frame! As a result I have been making copious notes for my own car build. Brilliant stuff, only challenged by Tomfromdelmonte's rally car build.

Parts wise I'm liking the use of the rear brakes from a Corsa C, I don't suppose you have a spare set of donor parts in your store that you'd like to sell? I travel up to Salisbury every week so collection shouldn't be an issue, indeed it will be a pleasure as I might get to see your car in the flesh.

Thanks for the compliment. If i started again i would still do things differently though. I have a complete rear beam here off an 1800 Corsa C. You wouldnt need it all, but it is for sale yes.


I take it you had some luck with that front bumper then ? Glad to see it's going to get some good use

Ah Nick, Hi. Yes it went back into shape relatively easily. To be honest i felt quite bad, but as you will understand it was a gamble. There was a broken off bolt in one of the L brackets too which was an ass to get out, so i still had to fight for it a little bit. If i see you about in the summer il buy you an ice-cream.

.................................................. ...........................

A little more progress. Got the catch tank mounted under the bodies. Fitted nicely on the old clutch cable plate which I blanked off.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps66c217e4.jpg

Made a mock oil cooler so I could make sure it would fit where I wanted it. (Mocal 16row 234mm)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsaf8b76d4.jpg

And got the wiper motor mounted up.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps5c2f79a8.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps84ba661a.jpg

That's all for now. Got a deadline now though so doing as much as I can.

[Nick]

Thanks for the compliment. If i started again i would still do things differently though. I have a complete rear beam here off an 1800 Corsa C. You wouldnt need it all, but it is for sale yes.



Ah Nick, Hi. Yes it went back into shape relatively easily. To be honest i felt quite bad, but as you will understand it was a gamble. There was a broken off bolt in one of the L brackets too which was an ass to get out, so i still had to fight for it a little bit. If i see you about in the summer il buy you an ice-cream.

.................................................. ...........................

A little more progress. Got the catch tank mounted under the bodies. Fitted nicely on the old clutch cable plate which I blanked off.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps66c217e4.jpg

Made a mock oil cooler so I could make sure it would fit where I wanted it. (Mocal 16row 234mm)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsaf8b76d4.jpg

And got the wiper motor mounted up.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps5c2f79a8.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps84ba661a.jpg

That's all for now. Got a deadline now though so doing as much as I can.

A deal is a deal .. Glad it was usable and out of principal i'd rather have let it go for the money it did and get to see it on a car of this quality than see it on a pile of rubbish .

Ill have a 99 flake

[TallDave]

Thanks for the compliment. If i started again i would still do things differently though. I have a complete rear beam here off an 1800 Corsa C. You wouldnt need it all, but it is for sale yes.

A pleasure.

I know what you mean, as soon as you think you know it all is the time to stop, still practice makes perfect they say...

How much do you want for the 1800 Corsa C rear beam bits, feel free to PM me.

[8valve-craig]

That's looking grate !!! Real weapon looking .

i like the Pressure switch take off , we're did that come from .?

Its just a 4 way tee. I needed 3 way anyway to get into the front brakes, so inverting a 4 way meant I cound mount the pressure switch in the cabin.


It's all looking very business like :); would you change the blue gear knob to another colour?

Yeah just a glorified thick steel washer if you like, welded in. It does then alarmingly tighten up the column until you oil it & spend a while spinning the wheel round.

I like the gear knob's height. Could buy a Quaife one but they are stubby. Blue wouldn't be my first choice, but it will do for now and I may drop it in the oven cleaner one day and get it re-annodised. I'l have a measure and maybe see what my bearing man can offer for the steering column.

.................................................. ....................

This weekends progress, a wiring loom.



http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps003e367c.jpg

Got it all fitted and routed. I'm waiting on some of the proper loom ties for behind the dash and the N/S sill.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps35280acf.jpg


http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsed91fdf1.jpg

[kevster]

And we have light lol

[8valve-craig]

We do, and everything works which quite frankly astonishes me!

.................................................. ..............................

I have been working on a steel bonnet. It's a mixture of function and form, which should see me with a nice smooth surface and coupled with a plate behind the bodies offer a bit of air to the back of the bay.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps0dbf79dd.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_7226_zps44fdff96.jpg

Its a bit flimsy, and didn't like staying up on the single prop, so I liberated some light duty struts from a vehicle in the breakers and got them mounted up. They work fine. (Ignore that one is upside down in the pic).

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7287_zps72ae357b.jpg

That's now finished and is at the body-shop being painted, so moved onto the fuel in the rear.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7289_zps5350d2ab.jpg

Also mounted up the main pump. Needed a fitting tor the 044 though which I didn't have so had to leave it there.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7291_zpsdc5065ba.jpg

Routed the OMEX loom into the bay using another Nova grommet. Slit it open and passed the stack loom through it too before gluing it back up.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7376_zps4cb7455b.jpg

Lots that cant be plugged in yet so cant tidy and secure it, but it meant I could mount the ECU and fit the instrument.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7377_zpsa3769eed.jpg

Realised there wasn't anywhere within reach to fit the recall buttons, and as I needed a convenient place for the extinguisher pull anyway made up a neat bracket for it all.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7378_zps9b53d3f2.jpg

Not a lot more I can do on the electric's, as I need to take a trip to my man for various length's of cable and ring terminals etc, so moved onto the rear bumper which I haven't been looking forward to.

The tailpipe is a little to the right and slightly higher than it would normally be, so the bumper needed modifying. I didn't really want to drop the whole system down to mark it, so levelled the car and dropped a plumb line off the left bumper mounting hole. Measured to the centre of the exhaust, then transferred that to the bumper on the bench.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7379_zps9e3d172c.jpg

Thankfully got it right first time all bar a little tidying.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7389_zps6688525b.jpg

I know it needs cutting, but I just cant bring myself to do it. I need idea's as I don't want to drill holes either. Due to the contour the holes will be egg shaped.

Something will need doing, but I'm not sure what yet. I already cut the returning section off so its not so much of an air scoop.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7387_zps3a4b6844.jpg

And this lot turned up, so guess what I'm doing soon.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7391_zps35b19723.jpg

Serious suggestions as to what I can do with the bumper which doesn't involve cutting it laterally?

[dgbnova#1]

I'm poss being a little thick but cutting what of the bumper ? Looking good mate love the bonnet looks well

[BRoadGhost]

You will be getting JICy with it ( /sigh)

Get some 2MM sheet ally & make a bolt in flat bit?

[scott.parker]

I'm poss being a little thick but cutting what of the bumper ? Looking good mate love the bonnet looks well

He's on about the bottom of the bumper, to stop it actin as a parachute fro less drag etc..

IMO just come up half way and cut out straight across from original exhaust exit to toe eye cover..

like the drop vent, I was planning on something similar my self on my old car

[8valve-craig]

Yes, trying to avoid the parachute effect. The ally plate is a good idea which I hadn't considered. I also thought about two sausage shapes, which would work.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7389_zpsbf95ff1a.jpg

I think Il concentrate on getting it to a point where I can drive it for now and address that in the future.

[chris gsi]

This is looking very smart, the quality of the work you have done looks awesome.
as for the rear bumper I'm sure dh-dev put triangles in the lower part of his as the cuts in the pic above might give the bumper to much flex like on the old ford mondeos

[Kev Turbo]

Time for a bad ass carbon defuser!

Great work

[LDAWSON]

Looking good Craig...

[bazzap8389]

Coming together nicely. My favourite build that's on the go just now :thumb:

[_Jake]

If it was mine id destroy within the red box apart from the exhaust:
http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh160/bodmin344/IMG_7389_zps54e6ea48.jpg (http://s255.photobucket.com/user/bodmin344/media/IMG_7389_zps54e6ea48.jpg.html)

but ive been watching way too much time attack lol

[8valve-craig]

Thanks for all the comments. Just spent hours looking at all possibility's, and will probably leave it for now as I have a deadline and don't want to ruin it before then, giving myself more work.

Above is what I wanted to avoid. If I did do that it would be narrower so the chassis rails weren't exposed,

[Iain]

I like your ovals idea but you'd have to paint it black behind the bumper.

Mine's all cut away with original chassis legs, boot floor and spare wheel tub, I think I've avoided most of the parachute effect and all that's exposed is the wheel well when you're down low.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/654.JPG

[8valve-craig]

My rear panel is cut away. The way you have done yours is really tidy, I like that.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_6889_zps81385157.jpg

[Iain]

Yeah see you could cut away similar amounts, maybe a little more level with the rear panel, and it'll look tidy.

I like what you've done with the new bonnet, shame you're having to go back to a metal one for now though.

[scott.parker]

Why not go full on defuser like Dar and Christian did?

http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/scottie3080/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_41912206965757_zps8xy97p90.jpeg (http://s1257.photobucket.com/user/scottie3080/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_41912206965757_zps8xy97p90.jpeg.html)URL=http://s1257.photobucket.com/user/scottie3080/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_41923601283844_zpsxssita4y.jpeg.html]http://i1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii505/scottie3080/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_41923601283844_zpsxssita4y.jpeg[/URL]

[dgbnova#1]

That's more like it ^

[8valve-craig]

Maybe one day. Not looking for any extra work right now though.

.................................................. ...............................................

Visited Steve @ GWR Motorsport this week who is the guy I use when I need a lesson in electrics. It just so happens that he has all the stock I could need too, so after a cuppa we went through my wire spec list to locate the battery and Anderson plug behind the passenger seat.

Couldn't have asked for a better service, as always he gave me great advice and I came away with every part required to do a nice job, most importantly all of the correct gauge / hole terminal's, which would make the installation hassle free.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7393_zps60c86198.jpg

Started on the terminals for the 175amp Anderson plug.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7394_zps803b0471.jpg

Not got a proper crimping tool, but the vice worked a treat with a bit of extra leverage.

(Top 2 soldered though).

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7397_zps5fa9fd7d.jpg

Didn't really take any in-between photo's, but you should get the idea.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7403_zpseeced413.jpg

I had already mounted the instrument and loosely fitted the aux loom, so started wiring it up as much as I could.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7405_zpse4bfac18.jpg

Ended up with this, which seems like a tidy enough installation and perfectly functional.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7408_zpsc4500fbd.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7409_zps9c375cb0.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7407_zps3dc8958b.jpg

ECU is wired up ready to go, but that's only 4 or 5 wires so dead simple


The extinguisher is now also plumbed as far as the engine bay, mainly as I wanted to clip the hose to the body then use that to tie the fuel pump / recall button / handbrake loom to, so that's another job down.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7410_zps17a30d72.jpg

I went to collect the panels and grill this morning too. They are, er, white, and I'm happy with them for what I paid.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7406_zps79243e1d.jpg

And fitted the tailgate, just to get it out of the way really.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7411_zps8f29f9a7.jpg

That's all for now. Tomorrow will be spent with real cars, then back on it Monday.

(Yes the tailpipe needs trimming, it was purposely left long)

[jonn]

great work

[M Sutton]

Looking good! Will this be at PVS or Billing? Would love a look around it as its an impressive build ;)

[corsakid]

Fantastic

[Iain]

Loving this build Craig, really jealous of all the posh parts that are going into it. Given me some inspiration to tweak my own car a little bit too.

[8valve-craig]

Thanks guys, yes I plan to get it out to some shows this year as It's not too far off now.


Loving this build Craig, really jealous of all the posh parts that are going into it. Given me some inspiration to tweak my own car a little bit too.

Oh thanks, I wouldn't say posh though. The Stack instrument was born out of necessity, Its just so compact and versatile that its hard to find an argument against fitting one. Except maybe the price, but once you have bought all the individuals and wired them up to senders you probably wouldn't be far shy of the retail price anyway.

.................................................. ........................

A little progress, but still slow as all the jobs are despite being small, very time consuming. Started by fitting a Jenvey linkage and a throttle cable.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7591_zpsa87f40c8.jpg

Started work on the Oil fittings. (Lets not have the upside down cooler debate, it's fine).

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7596_zps4ff4da55.jpg

Wired the alternator and starter

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7599_zps336d65bd.jpg

Then made up some templates for my new coolant feed hoses.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7574_zps096f68c4.jpg

Sent them off and went to see my welder friend who helped me knock this up together.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7604_zpse862a434.jpg

Still might need the tails trimming, but will keep them long if I am able to due to the bead roll's.

Side repeaters, (Thinking possible MOT).

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7641_zps859a317c.jpg

Oil filter

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7643_zpsf0e82ae7.jpg

Exterior pull cords sorted.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7651_zps1acaa221.jpg

Fuel lines secured, cable's ran, passenger footrest in.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7648_zpsc029bf40.jpg

Dash flocked and re-assembled (Thanks Al)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7656_zps99ef745b.jpg

Rear window fitted.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7646_zps2d86a158.jpg

And finally the bay starting to fill up.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_7652_zpscfc26469.jpg

Shouldn't be long now. I just have one more bout of spending to do on Leads, Fuel reg and injectors then we should be good for a start up.

I made up a nice coil pack bracket yesterday too, but that's in for powder coating already, along with the bumper irons as they were a bit crusty.

[jonn]

nice work, will stainless braided lines pass the mot ok? i was thinning of using then for my fuel and brake lines.

[8valve-craig]

Yes, should do, they are all Teflon core so don't breath like rubber.

[Will F]

Superb! What regulator are you going for? May seem an odd question, but I've just bought a new aeromotive one.

[8valve-craig]

Thanks Will. Im looking at the Fuelab regulators.

[kevster]

Fantastic !

[Benn]

Looking good dude.

[8valve-craig]

Ok, So this is due an update.

Anybody who attended PVS yesterday and wasn't completely overwhelmed by the vast variety of top class cars to look at may have spotted this at the front of the Total Vauxhall stand, looking remarkably complete. Its nigh on finished, and despite trailering it there, there is no reason why without some vital fluids it wont start up.

So, towards the end of the build I didn't take so many pictures, but here goes.

.................................................. ...............................................

Front grill, Wasn't happy with the standard one so removed the slats and grafted in some honeycomb mesh from another vehicle.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps9cb88380.jpg

With all the panels and windows fitted I took it down to the guy who painted it to rub out some runs and machine polish it.

The only picture I have of the windows going in. 121 M4 stainless button heads with nylock nuts inside. I never want to see another 4mm drill bit or 7mm spanner again.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpse2bc96e1.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps5d961c23.jpg

On the same estate I know a guy who lets me use his vapour blaster, so gave the bodies a squirt,

(then thoroughly rinsed and dried of course)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps640ab049.jpg

Happy with them, so collected up some other bits to do, (not using that diff cover though)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsee42e60a.jpg

Made a neat little bracket for the regulator and plumbed up the rail. Fuelab do supply one, but I didn't like it.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps56e6498e.jpg

Under the bonnet finished.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsb7f1aa56.jpg

Spent an hour or so fitting a sun strip

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsaa5d95b2.jpg


Errr? fitted some mirrors too. Scary.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsa157d9b5.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps6986554d.jpg

Gave it a hoover and a good wipe down inside

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsdaa02d95.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zpsdbd6b736.jpg

Seats went in at 9pm Saturday night, gave it a quick chamois off then home to bed. Back up at 3am to load it and arrived at Santa Pod 7:30.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps80e70b15.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps5ee525e4.jpg

And a shamelessly stolen bay pic thanks to Johnny. I actually watched you take it but was lording it up on the balcony so couldn't say hi.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/10453389_10154164957700214_8028715906584673638_n_z psdec15477.jpg


Whilst chatting with Dan White yesterday it was agreed that another TV feature will follow which will be shot in their studio's. The plan is to start it up very soon, iron out the niggles on a friends private road then get it photographed before it gets used.

Thanks for reading.

[conza123]

Car looked awesome, are you replacing the front lower valance as noticed I nice new one in the back ;) lol

[8valve-craig]

Car looked awesome, are you replacing the front lower valance as noticed I nice new one in the back ;) lol

I don't understand?

[conza123]

You had a new one of these in the back
http://www.247spares.co.uk/res/direct/product_images/5/5f87-600-166-wm-nwm.jpg

Are replacing your patched one

[8valve-craig]

You had a new one of these in the back
http://www.247spares.co.uk/res/direct/product_images/5/5f87-600-166-wm-nwm.jpg

Are replacing your patched one

There was nothing in the back of my car. And no, I am obviously not going to be cutting and welding my freshly built and painted car. The patched valance is fine.

Remember, I'm not trying to score points with the concourse guys here.

[conza123]

There was nothing in the back of my car. And no, I am obviously not going to be cutting and welding my freshly built and painted car. The patched valance is fine.

Remember, I'm not trying to score points with the concourse guys here.

must of been wrong car sorry, did look good anuff to be concourse, and u forgot to put your harness's in aswell as the fluids lol

[8valve-craig]

Ha, I know! It dawned on me about 10 miles into the journey! Really pissed me off for about 5 min's, but then realised that it was a minor and most people wouldn't notice. lol

[corsakid]

Craig awesome to see your car looked really really good, think the panel that conza123 saw was mine and it was in wills silver gsi I only bought it because it was cheap!

[conza123]

Craig awesome to see your car looked really really good, think the panel that conza123 saw was mine and it was in wills silver gsi I only bought it because it was cheap!
I know it was on the TV stand lol

[peester]

Its been an amazing build, loads of people talking about it - all the best ideas for a Nova are here to be pinched I reckon. The benchmark, ha. The only photo I took all day at the show.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/peester/DSC_0527_zps9c5eef66.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/peester/media/DSC_0527_zps9c5eef66.jpg.html)

[LDAWSON]

that looks spot on craig, I would be too scared to track it myself......bet you can't wait to get it around a track now.....

[8valve-craig]

Post deleted.

[Iain]

Tease. I want updates!

[8valve-craig]

It was up for a whole 40mins. I'l update it properly in the new year.

[Benn]

Hope it's running better...

[8valve-craig]

Better than what?

[conza123]

Stop teasing :p

just show us some pictures :p

[8valve-craig]

I haven't taken a picture of it since back in August when it was partially mapped. The engine suffered a failure on it's second afternoon of mapping, and as a result has been stripped for an expensive rebuild. It will definitely go back together in the new year, but for now it's not my main priority.


http://youtu.be/9kE9d3vtxvM

[8valve-craig]

http://youtu.be/4oSp8QAtOGs

[8valve-craig]

http://youtu.be/vFOprtTiQdo

[nova_stee]

This things pure epic

[Benn]

Better than what?

The probs you had while mapping.
Looks great in the vids.. gonna watch the in a few.

[Will F]

Wat caused the failure mate? That's devestating! Can you get any compensation from the original builder etc?

[TallDave]

Sounds like the engine builder was off the Christmas card list then lol

You weren't by any chance bringing the car into Salisbury on the 10th December? Only I espied a neat white Nova being trailered down the A36 near Petersfinger around the middle of the day, first thought was it might be yours Craig?

Looking forward to reading the sorry tale soon! Nice to see the car still lives, I've missed the frequent updates...

[8valve-craig]

Yes that would have been me Dave. It was a miserable day and the Nova got absolutely plastered. I used to rent a unit down Petersfinger, but have since moved on so you probably saw me on the day the cars went over.

Not sure what caused the failure yet Will, there were a few different issues, both completely separate. Neither were catastrophic though so the pistons, head and 3 rods will go again.

I spent last Sunday taking the remains out. The head was already off as its been for crack testing at Ridgeway, so didn't take long.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0040_zps487593b4.jpg

Got the rest of it apart.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0051_zps32f4d4c0.jpg

Then seeing as I'l be needing a new block and crank decided to strip another XE as a donor.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0054_zps64a966c0.jpg

Block is getting bored on 7th Jan, rebuild parts can be ordered on Monday 5th. It's still not my main priority though so will be fixed when its fixed.

[Benn]

Can i ask, did a rod leave the block then?

[nova_niek]

Can i ask, did a rod leave the block then?

Block looks intact Benn. Seeing as the crank is dead it's probably an oil pump related issue. Did it end up with a spun big end bearing shell?

[Will F]

Glad it wasnt a complete catastrophe craig! Still a huge pain in the ass though.

have you seen the new Millington blocks on eBay?? Mmmmmm! Lol

[BRoadGhost]

Is that a forged crank that failed? Did something break or overheat?

[8valve-craig]

Yes Will, those MD blocks look dead nice, designed for a completely different build to mine and yours though without lopping 10mm off.

BRG, no it was a GM crank

Ok, so without wishing to intentionally ignore any questions I'l just state the facts from which you can draw you're own conclusions. Morning one on the rollers went fine, Mapping idle, running in and sorting out weeps, fan polarity etc. Morning two was a little more fraught, with a drop in pressure @ 5k immedietely after an oil and filter change had gotton up to temp. We shut it off and called it a day.

Later that week at home I ran it back up and found it to have good pressure, all be it not so hot, but then when idling the cambelt tensioner bolt failed. Caused a right racket, which sounded like contact so I took it to the guy who built it and had the head off for a look. All seemed well so reassembled with a new gasket, ran it up and down the road, came back, did a compression test and #4 was down.

That brings us to now, where its been stripped to find a spun #4 big end and a piston to head contact, #3 following closely behind but salvageable.

That's why its a little difficult to explain. 99% sure the #4 bearing turned on the rollers, which in the builders defence wasn't apparent when the head first came off, then our reassembly and further running has caused it to wear enough to enable the piston to hit the face. The tensioner bolt was just unfortunate and nobody's fault, it had more to do with the type of idler I had fitted.

I haven't stripped the pump yet, nor have I blown through the crank, but will do both. If I don't find anything obvious, which I'm not expecting to I'l start looking at the design of the oil tank and hose runs to determine whether the pump could have suffered cavitation or not.

The crank is scrap, one of the Arrow rods has had it.... that's it, so some might say lucky.

I don't feel very lucky though.

[BRoadGhost]

Did you run new main bearings, rods & bearings, pistons & rings, cams & followers for the first time on the rollers that morning?

[8valve-craig]

Everything above new bar the cam's.

[LDAWSON]

Gutted about your engine Craig, the new unit looks massive compared to your old unit.

[BRoadGhost]

Everyone has different theories on engine run ins. Personally I would have put as close to 1000 miles on it as possible before climbing rpm much above 4,5k; then an oil change. You could just pootle about on the rebuild now you've got a map?

[8valve-craig]

Gutted about your engine Craig, the new unit looks massive compared to your old unit.

Thanks Leigh, yes the new place is a nice size. Its predominantly business space of course, but does have its perks.


Everyone has different theories on engine run ins. Personally I would have put as close to 1000 miles on it as possible before climbing rpm much above 4,5k; then an oil change. You could just pootle about on the rebuild now you've got a map?

Agree, although as its not road legal and had a map which would have been way out we opted for the harder (quicker) running in proceedure on the rollers. Ran it up with mixed loads on Millers CRO for about 30 / 40 mins (Video 1).

I did call Dave this week to chat about its rebuild and he said the map is now fine for running in, so will probably get an MOT and do it on the road next time around.

[Will F]

Another fecking tensioner bolt failure!? I can't stress enough how crap they are! Hence why mine have been beefed up! It was suggested by Ridgeway too... Is that on the cards now craig?

[8valve-craig]

I had a meeting with Paul at Ridgeway a few months back to talk about it when they crack tested the head. They aren't happy about re-using any of the parts and don't want to put their name to it without fitting a steel crank (which conveniently they can supply). If it went to them it would be a hugely expensive build so although I did consider it its not on the cards anytime soon no.

RE the tensioner, it wasn't so much the bolt that failed, but it did loosen enough to allow my idler to slip round. It was a trimmed down adjustable pulley from the gates kit which in hindsight wasn't a great idea as when it loosened it quite obviously allowed the belt to slacken off. When we put it back together i used another fixed roller and tensioned the belt on the water pump.

SBD did develop a brace for that area last year, but from what I can see it's nothing I couldn't make myself, so one of those will be going on too.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/VX-2L-Idler-bracket_zpsdfbfcbf4.gif

[BRoadGhost]

Those do look to be a good move from SBD; I'm also making an anti belt flap roller bearing solution for in between the two verniers.

...I didn't like the look of the belt movement at high rpm, watching mine on the rollers a couple of months back.

[Will F]

Ooh yes that sbd brace looks sensible and should reduce the stress on the bolts...

im sure ridgeway wouldn't be cheap either, especially with the addition of one of their cranks!

[Benn]

Gutted for you over the probs you've had. Glad you're gonna be carrying on and upwards tho.

[nova_niek]

The crank is scrap, one of the Arrow rods has had it.... that's it, so some might say lucky.
I don't feel very lucky though.

After having lunched my X16XE that had only done 2k miles after an expensive rebuild, I know exactly how you feel. Crap. It's salvagable but it costs money that could be spent on other things. Hope you get to the bottom of this and that you can avoid similar misery in the future. Keep us posted.

[8valve-craig]

Lesson learned i suppose.

[8valve-craig]

I decided recently to have another go at this. Its sat in the unit looking sorry for itself and the Astra track car's getting far too much use, so got together some engine bits and took them down for machining. Sadly the crank is scrap, so may have to use a late one in it, but hey, what difference will it make.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsytdmdokb.jpg

Now also have a full set of rods to use in it, after it wrecked #4 last time around.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsbi1zgcqv.jpg

I'l just chip away at it and hope to use it sometime this year. Sadly it may not see the Quaife box again, as that's now on the Astra and i quite like it.

[TallDave]

Hey Graig nice to see you are back on this one, looking forward to watching progress once again. Hope all goes well this time around.:thumb:

[BRoadGhost]

With it all out are you not tempted to knife edge the crank?

[House]

This was the first project thread I read when I joined PNG, hopefully see it working again soon!!

[stt]

Glad to see you've got some enthusiasm back for the nova

[8valve-craig]

It's 100% going back together, with the new engine being nearly finished. I Decided I didn't have the time, tools or confidence to do it myself so sent it somewhere reputable. Same engine spec as before, but as above will be minus the Quaife gearbox and gripper diff, just with a modified Daewoo box and a used Tran-x.

It's also never going to be a track car now, but will always look like one.

Thanks for reading, I forget about this thread.

[nova_niek]

Arrow rods mmmm :thumb:

[House]

Good news.

whats the ETA on the finished engine?

[Benn]

So it will be a road car but in track look? Why did you have to bin the crank? Glad your carrying on with it.

[Iain]

Pics pics pics.

[8valve-craig]

Good news.

whats the ETA on the finished engine?

No idea, hopefully built and dyno'd soon, then fitted when I get the time.


So it will be a road car but in track look? Why did you have to bin the crank? Glad your carrying on with it.

Sort of, I doubt I'l drive it much, but it would be hard to change back from the way it looks now anyway. Since buying the GTE I have realised that track cars needn't be expensive, or pretty. It's too much of a bastard child to race, so it isn't really going to have a place other than occasional road use.


Pics pics pics.

Sorry to disappoint.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsbrz1lvie.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpspwen7hmz.jpg

[Iain]

It should look like a reasonably tidy road going car if you chuck some glass windows back in it. Just a bit mental under the bonnet lol

[House]

Having it dyno'd and run in out of the car!! I wanted to do that with my new engine but means having mine off the road so I can use the throttle bodies and exhaust.

[Benn]

Sadly track cars are built to take abuse.

[8valve-craig]

Sadly track cars are built to take abuse.

Quite like yourself Benn I wouldn't feel too comfortable aimlessly hooning it around a track just to impress a crowd. I have an ITB'd Astra GTE to do that in with a fraction of the money in it. Ironically that would probably wipe the floor with the Nova too.

The plan is to go circuit racing next year, so trackday's are off the cards anyway.

[Benn]

That's what has really stopped me doing it again as much as i would love too. Looking back at old videos, my lap times where better and i drove much faster.. As i didn't worry about the car as much then as i do now.
So totally understandable when you've sunk money in to it like you have.

Astra is a full on set up track car, so perfect for it and would be perfect for circuit racing too.

[Iain]

Wimps get out there and rag them lol

[8valve-craig]

Wimps get out there and rag them lol

Like this?


http://youtu.be/Be4JVmF4Gos

[Nick J]

Awesome!!

[House]

Top shelf video!!!!

What are you looking down at at the end of each lap??

[BRoadGhost]

That Astra is FCing quick; chassis looks to be done right too. Open diff or LSD with the spur gears?

[Jonlem]

I'd imaginie its the lap timer

That astra is hugely impressive Craig !

[8valve-craig]

Thanks James, Its long gone now as you know.

The Nova is almost back together though.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0092_zpsngr1ojmk.jpg

Quite a few little changes and a change of plan again, so keep an eye out for it in Red & White this year.

http://www.trackattackraceclub.com/p...p?season_id=36 (http://www.trackattackraceclub.com/pages/season-overview.php?season_id=36)

[Iain]

Do you have a picture of the planned colour scheme? All the fastest cars are red so good choice.

[House]

Do you have a picture of the planned colour scheme? All the fastest cars are red so good choice.

Everyone knows red cars are fastest!!!

[Benn]

That's looking good, love the CF bottom air box bit.

[Andy]

Excellent stuff.Best of luck with the racing mate.

[josh-sri]

Engine bay looks great nice work, what wiper motor are you using if you don't mind me asking please?

[8valve-craig]

Wiper is a Fiat Uno one. They are pretty hard to find used.

Proposed colour scheme. Numbers are on and a few bits are painted, But the motor had to come out again last week which is a bit of a set back.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/race%20car_zpsrdbg0o0w.png

[Andy]

Love that colour scheme.had that myself in my first season.Same number aswell lol

[Iain]

Racecar.

[8valve-craig]

Racecar indeed. 85 was McRae's number on his first Nova, so seemed fitting.

I had a spare hour today so set about the bumper. It was a shame to drill the unpainted one for pins and cooler, but I didn't have much choice, so that's off to paint now.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zps2tty0ybi.jpeg

[Benn]

Can i ask what was wrong with the engine?

Loving the race colours.

[8valve-craig]

Nothing too serious, just a leaky rear oil seal.

[Benn]

Ah cool.

Car is looking awesome from all the photos i've seen.

[TallDave]

It is nice to see this thread is back up and running again, I'm also relieved that the engine problem isn't really a show stopper, especially after the first failure. I've got my fingers crossed this one is a good un.

Keep the updates coming.

[LeonStr]

And got the wiper motor mounted up.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps5c2f79a8.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/image_zps84ba661a.jpg



Where is this wiper motor from? Looking for something like this for a while now, this looks great!

Nice Nova you have there!

[bazzap8389]

Fiat uno he said.

The nova is looking great Craig, top work.

[Iain]

This needs more updates. One a day minimum.

[8valve-craig]

You know too much already.

[8valve-craig]

A few things changed recently. I got rid of the CompBrake pedal box as it was rubbish, so Fitted a Tilton 600series with AP stubby cylinders. Should have done that from the beginning really. Also got rid of the hard lines and had the whole car done in swaged steel overbraid. I always hated the handbrake cables too so got rid of them and fitted a hydraulic one I had lying around.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/pedals_zpso7w2fob2.jpg

Skirts and bumpers painted in Audi Brilliant Red (LY3J for my reference)

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0561_zpskrdtpczd.jpg

Another thing I didn't like was the steering column and display support. It was quite a big decision but I cut all that out and started again too.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0730_zpshhefnefb.jpg

It now has a modified Clio steering column but no pics of that yet.

Whilst the screen was out I took the chance to paint the A pillars matt black, which was a good decision. Also did a larger sun strip with the rubber off so when fitted there aren't any gaps.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0858_zpsvehcvu4h.jpg

The engine had to come out for the rear oil seal, which is all done and back in now.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0237_zps2j8a9tm5.jpg

I had some good R1R's lying around off another car, so had them put on the OZ's as a wet tyre, hopefully never to be used.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0696_zpsecngispt.jpg

Also had some TH's painted the same colour with a fresh set of 03G's to go on.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0801_zps5psixtyb.jpg

I had a bit of a play with my Cromodora's but they just aren't going to fit until i do the arch mods sadly.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0690_zpstqimxtxi.jpg

The fuel system was always inside the car, Not an issue on a track car but all had to be either boxed or moved. I made a neat tray to mount it all under the car, which is fine for now, but if truth be known that will almost certainly be moving again soon also.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/IMG_0522_zpslmocyc2d.jpg

That's all folks. It wont make the first race now, still lots to do and health isn't great so it will happen when it happens,

[Edd]

Epic car

Looks like a real credit to you

[totalnova]

Car looks great, love the mods you've made. Oh how many sets of wheels do you have? lol

[corsakid]

Awesome.

[josh-sri]

Stunning build with a great attention to detail, always look forward to the updates on this :)

[prs]

awesome build :thumb: like the tilton pedalbox!

where did you buy these brake lines?

[Benn]

Wow! Looking amazing, love the hydro handbrake.

Really liking the red bumpers too, gives a touring car feel to it.
Glad the engines going back together too.

[zeifer33]

Looks clean and nice, how you feel about the R1R tyres?

[Will F]

This really has moved to the next level now!