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

[Dar]

That is a sweet car! Keep up the good work:thumb:

[8valve-craig]

Thanks for all the positive comments. It's far from perfect, but I knew very little when I started so have learned on the job. It would be a better car if I started again, but that's not going to happen.

Regarding the the tyres I don't use R1R, just put them on as a wet tyre which I hopefully won't use. It made sense as fitting them frees up space, as well as protecting the OZs from damage in storage. My tyre of choice is the Dunlop Direzza 03g, which I have a new set of ready to go on the TH's.

[kevster]

Looks amazing to me , very neat and clean

[Iain]

What made you use the Clio column? Just availability?

Looks like a proper competition car, when is the first outing planned?

Regarding r1r, theyre a good road tyre but wouldn't hammer them in the dry. Should make a good damp/wet tyre for track as very soft.

[RallyMarshal]

I always hated the handbrake cables too so got rid of them and fitted a hydraulic one I had lying around.

Just one thing to mention is that if the car needs an MOT to compete then you need a cable handbrake as a mechanical backup - hydraulic with a line lock / handle lock isnt enough to pass an MOT.

Lots of rallycars picked up and questioned at scrutineering due to this even when they have an MOT.

Thats why I have a vertical hydraulic handbrake and a separate cable handbrake in the Astra.. Just rather you know now if you didnt know than later when you might have issues

Paul..

[8valve-craig]

Hi Paul, thanks but yes I know that already. It will never need an MOT to compete.

[RallyMarshal]

No probs.. Didnt know the rules in racing.

Even on events with no road sections (ie race tracks like Donington) we need to have MOTs..

Paul..

[8valve-craig]

A little more work today, but not a lot. Just re-fitting the dash and making some changes to the wiring. It will stay as it is for now, but after a bit of racing a full loom will be made to do away with anything not required.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsqufw2c5o.jpeg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsljqw4aom.jpeg

[BRoadGhost]

Tidy, but will look more professional with anodised pieces matching (black tbh).

[toymex]

Tidy, but will look more professional with anodised pieces matching (black tbh).
Anodising won't make it any faster ! Function over form is my moto ,can't wait to see how you get on Craig

[BRoadGhost]

Finish should always be a consideration imo

[8valve-craig]

Ok WideGhost pm me a list of things you think I should change and il do my best for you.

[Will F]

Lol - always happens.

your stalks also look like they need refurbishing... you can get alloy TVR ones maybe?

[bazzap8389]

Great stuff Craig, it's awesome. You've given me plenty of ideas! What shifter are you using bud?

[novarally]

Looking excellent Craig, nice to see how it's progressed. I'll be interested to hear how you find the Tilton pedal box, I'm thinking about one of those myself.

[8valve-craig]

I had this out at Castle Combe today and it seemed to go well. No real drama's, just a bit of development needed. It's possibly the first time I have been happy with the car in years.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsyenc0ydv.jpeg

[House]

How did I miss these updates!! Looks exceptional mate!! Another car that makes me realise how far away mine is!!

[corsakid]

Love this car and the quality workmanship makes me want to.book a track day now :)

Sent from my MotoG3 using Tapatalk

[Iain]

I do like a good sticker or two so this pleases me.

Brakes feel OK?

[8valve-craig]

Its not as pretty close up guys. I have done a lot more but don't bother with the minor details on here as the photobucket upload malarkey tests my patience. Fuel system moved again, cute little switch panel made up and a neat quick release front bumper for access to the oil pump.

Brakes seem fine now bedded in, only cheapo caliper's and old pad's for now though so those will only get better. Rears are working too which is surprising.

I just need to re-build a shaft, shim the top mounts and fit some sort of centre bonnet pin, then can get it back out.

[Benn]

Shame you dont add all the updates, i enjoy them.

Glad it's going better and your enjoying it. Cant wait to see videos... And more photos. I love photos!

[BRoadGhost]

I'm just being hyper picky on detailing I think it deserves! Great car overall & look forward to a video :D

[8valve-craig]

I had this out with Track Attack Race club on Saturday in the Deutch Marques Cup. I entered it as an Opel Corsa which they seemed fine with. I managed to qualify 2nd overall and put it at the front of the grid for Race 1.

Being my first ever race i messed up the start and let a lot of cars through, but then picked through them and finished 3rd overall (2nd in Deutch Marques). The same happened in Race 2, where i only managed a 6th overall (again 2nd in Deutch Marques).

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/trophy._zpsxwxnh5gi.jpg

The car is fine, so with a spanner check, some tyres and fluids change it will be back out at Thruxton 2nd July.

Full video of Race 1 below. A few frustrating moments with missed gears, missed braking points and missed apex's which i will learn from.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqlLNda-1Tw

[nova_niek]

Straight cut gears :d

[Iain]

Awesome result for a first days racing. You got a good sized trophy shelf?

Looks to handle well so further fine tuning should have it gaining yet better lap times I imagine?

What do you think caused the poor start? Amazing how quick the others seem to get off the line.

We will be discussing geometry in great depth over the coming weeks ;)

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk

[BRoadGhost]

Thanks for sharing; that's not a slow car ;)

I bet your heart sank at the 12:00 minute mark! I don't wanna be critical of little things in a race environment as it's as hard as it gets ~ things like gear changes & lines etc all come from practice & confidence.

If you're wanting more turn in then add castor. If you're wanting better high speed stability & braking; aero aside; then go for larger wheels.

Great stuff man.

[TallDave]

At last this car is used in anger, Yippeeeeee!

I had to knock the video quality back (crap equipment) so I could view the video, which doesn't help the viewing pleasure, not a fan of the position of the camera tbh, but thats my problem I suppose. :d

One small observation I did make was the gear lever kicking backwards and forwards more than I'd have expected, maybe this added to your gear change problems? Also seemed to have quite a long throw for a Quaife lever?

Thruxton should be a hoot, it should definitely get your attention through Noble, Village and Church round the back of the circuit :eek:, I just hope you don't run out of revs going up Woodham Hill to the Club chicane?

[8valve-craig]

Awesome result for a first days racing. You got a good sized trophy shelf?

Looks to handle well so further fine tuning should have it gaining yet better lap times I imagine?

What do you think caused the poor start? Amazing how quick the others seem to get off the line.

We will be discussing geometry in great depth over the coming weeks ;)

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk

Red lights go out and i assume i waited for a green, I only put my foot down when i heard other engines, all learning i suppose


Thanks for sharing; that's not a slow car ;)

I bet your heart sank at the 12:00 minute mark! I don't wanna be critical of little things in a race environment as it's as hard as it gets ~ things like gear changes & lines etc all come from practice & confidence.

If you're wanting more turn in then add castor. If you're wanting better high speed stability & braking; aero aside; then go for larger wheels.

Great stuff man.

Thankyou, yes its a hard environment. The car has spent some time on the scales which you will probably know is just as important as geo. Its hard to get all the weights perfect but i did what i could.


At last this car is used in anger, Yippeeeeee!

Not a fan of the position of the camera tbh, but thats my problem I suppose. :d

One small observation I did make was the gear lever kicking backwards and forwards more than I'd have expected, maybe this added to your gear change problems? Also seemed to have quite a long throw for a Quaife lever?

Thruxton should be a hoot, it should definitely get your attention through Noble, Village and Church round the back of the circuit :eek:, I just hope you don't run out of revs going up Woodham Hill to the Club chicane?

Thanks Dave, Yes the camera angle is my own preference, it lets me see pedals, hands and observations. I appreciate it may not favour the spectator but my filming is mainly there for my own review and personal improvement

Gear shift is an issue I agree.

Thruxton will be fun, may run out of revs yes.

[toymex]

Fantastic result Craig,as I said on FB. I don't think it can be overstated what a fantastic achievement for your first race. I know only too well how gear change issues can mess cornering and braking up its hard to spot brake points ,apex,s etc when you are stirring the gearstick looking for a gear .I hope to pop down to watch at Thruxton

[House]

Fair play mate, proper

[RallyMarshal]

Looks like your having similar issues to me with the box..

Ive got a very direct cable shift system now. That means Im beating the synchros constantly and damaging them - especially 1st and 2nd in my case.

Im just in the process of swapping oil to see if that will help - just out of interest are you running the Millers NT oil with LS additive?

Paul..

[Novarally140016v]

Looks like your having similar issues to me with the box..

Ive got a very direct cable shift system now. That means Im beating the synchros constantly and damaging them - especially 1st and 2nd in my case.

Im just in the process of swapping oil to see if that will help - just out of interest are you running the Millers NT oil with LS additive?

Paul..

I use Fuchs sync 5 75w 90, my hockley F20 diff has done 15 rallies and didnt need any parts when I stripped for rebuild.

[toymex]

I use Fuchs sync 5 75w 90, my hockley F20 diff has done 15 rallies and didnt need any parts when I stripped for rebuild.

I use Fuchs SRG in mine and it's been spot on diff plates and synchros showing less wear compared to previous oils

[8valve-craig]

I had a superb day at Thruxton. Qualified 12th
and had a brilliant race 1, getting up to 7th with lots of action. There were some serious cars out, so I had my sights only on a top 10 finish out of 42. The car started to suffer and I had to take it steady towards the end giving up a few places, so finished the magic 10th overall and 1st in Deutsche Marques.

The issue turned out to be a severely cracked front cross member which altered the geo. I decided not to start race 2, but still had a great day. Thanks to everyone who attended for the support, can't wait to fix the car.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/432B5D29-1440-4FE6-8B7D-D2A0875F1806_zpsqrqwim1r.jpg

[Iain]

Drive it till it rips itself apart. Haha. Looking forward to seeing the metal work that goes into it. And what a great result too.

[BRoadGhost]

I managed to crack mine just from road driving on normal tyres; you can over engineer now & come back better than ever!

[House]

Is the HANS part of the regs Craig?!

[toymex]

Is the HANS part of the regs Craig?!
Yes Hans are Mandatory from this year

[TallDave]

Yes Hans are Mandatory from this year

Just to clarify, HANS devices are mandatory for both Circuit Racing AND Stage Rallying as from the start of this year.


I had a superb day at Thruxton. Qualified 12th
and had a brilliant race 1, getting up to 7th with lots of action. There were some serious cars out, so I had my sights only on a top 10 finish out of 42. The car started to suffer and I had to take it steady towards the end giving up a few places, so finished the magic 10th overall and 1st in Deutsche Marques.

Great result, and by the sound of it you didn't run out of revs, fantastic! :thumb:

From memory the cross-member was one of the few items you didn't replace/repair (think you had to patch up the front valance though), it'll be interesting to see the damage and the subsequent repairs.

[8valve-craig]

This may explain it. Looking at the pics i hit that kerb on every lap. Never mind.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_3374_zpsbccyo1sd.jpg

[Pistol Pete]

Cracking!! Goes very well indeed. Fair play for getting out there. Gives me ideas for mine when i'm finished mincing with it for shows etc.

Noob questions...how did you get into the racing. licenses, fees etc. Can you PM me or post here for others!

[toymex]

This may explain it. Looking at the pics i hit that kerb on every lap. Never mind.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_3374_zpsbccyo1sd.jpg
Got to build them strong if you want to go curb hopping ,I broke a front tie bar mount doing it ,not quite that hard though lol

[8valve-craig]

Agree totally Jezz, it will be much stronger for Brands 30th July.

Pete its easier than you may think. Order an MSA "Go racing" pack which has your application form and a copy of the Grey book. Go to your doctor for a full medical then do your ARDS test (Castle Combe for you). All that's left is to build a car which fits the reg's and pay your entry fee. Turn up and race whoever is there.

You will need mostly in date safety gear (not seat), but that needn't be expensive, Its the same as any other hobby you can spend as much or as little money as you like.

[Pistol Pete]

Wow, it really is easy!! Whats the fees like ££?

Oh oh....i feel an expensive new hobby coming on lol

[House]

Have seen this car up close, all I can say is it's proper proper, really really impressive. Craig is alright too, I spose!!! lollollol

So many little things I love that will be going into my new one!!

Quite like those Cobra Evolution seats from earlier in the build, might get some of those!!!........:roll::roll:

[8valve-craig]

Thanks House. After Thruxton there was a fair bit of repair work to do to the crossmember, but the more i looked at it the more i realised it had to go. I spend a few hours per day over the last 3 weeks slowly removing and re-building it, managing to get it done and painted Thursday 28th July.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/front%20end%201_zpshvczpqzp.jpg

I decided to build a strut brace underneath to tie in the load bearing points, something i had seen on another car and liked.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/front%20end%202_zps7xuddbbv.jpg

And had to make the oil cooler mount removable which was a bit of a pain.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/Nova%20on%20bike%20carbs/front%20end%203_zpshbibrluw.jpg

A quick clean, weigh in, geo session and it was on the trailer Friday afternoon heading to Brands Hatch.

I raced with Track Attack Race Club in the Deutsche Marques Cup, sharing a grid with the Nippon challenge and Tricolore Trophy. Good close racing, totally clean and lots of fun. Never been there before so only qualified 16th, but finished 8th overall in race #1 against some pretty quick cars.

Race #2 went well, again getting up to a similar position and setting a PB of 56.3 (semi slick) but i retired on lap 15 of 17 with a simple clutch pedal problem.

Video below of Race #2, we now have a 7 week break before Mallory Park so the engine mountings and gear linkage can be addressed, i already know what I am going to do about them.


http://youtu.be/ee_d_ySiiTY

[Benn]

Love what you've done on the front end, looks great. That lower brace is very nice, must really tighten the front together.

Car looks like it goes really well out there and handles great. You pass a few with ease which is good to see.

That start, so many cars everywhere.

[BRoadGhost]

Thanks for sharing Craig.

IMO both you and the car are faster than even the stuff in front of you, BUT until you have 100% confidence & reliability in that GD gearlever, trolls in Clios are gonna think they've got the measure of you.

I feel your pain as I'm in a very similar position with my XE with a new gearbox & drivetrain, this time on a cable setup and there's things I need to do to improve changing into 4th and 2nd. The last thing you want when you've got such close ratios is issues selecting them at full tilt.

Watching the amount of movement on your lever though; I'd be upgrading to proper metalastic w/ ally & probably front gearbox 4th mount ~ You'll notice it straight away when you drive it on it's toes!

[BRoadGhost]

Oh and maybe a drivers footrest to stop any potential clutch riding problems :)

[House]

As you know mate, this is impressive!!!!

There's nothing about it not to love!!!

[8valve-craig]

Thanks Broad / House. Yes the car is quicker when it all works, most of the others are very well developed though so I'm at a disadvantage with such a new build. When it all comes together I'm sure it will finish higher up.

RE the shifter the main issue is the Compbrake "solid" mounts, there is far too much movement in them so the engine isn't settled when I'm shifting and it's popping out as I lift off. I'm either going to solid mount it (properly) or build a 4th mount. It won't be a gearbox dog bone at the front though, more like a 2-piece removable stabiliser higher up and through the bulkhead to the dash bar.

Only one mod at a time though, if I can keep the rod style shifter after that I will, if not it will be a cable shift of some description.

My last car was an XE on solid metal mounts and it shifted perfectly so I'm leaning towards going that route first.

[RallyMarshal]

Only one mod at a time though, if I can keep the rod style shifter after that I will, if not it will be a cable shift of some description.

My last car was an XE on solid metal mounts and it shifted perfectly so I'm leaning towards going that route first.

Hockley mounts, expensive but worth it (certainly on the Astra - I assume the Nova ones are good too)

If your going a cable route, the standard ones arent suitable for competition - I know, Ive been there. Ive ended up with a hybrid gearstick from a Mk5 Astra with different bulkhead bits on a "lift bracket" plus a modified bracketry and mounts on the gearbox end with custom cables. It gives a very precise short shift now but has taken some work to find the weak spots. FB message me if you want more details but the main bits are in my diaries.

Paul..

[toymex]

Looked like fun Craig albeit a tad frustrating with the Clio ,I feel your pain with the shifter ! I'm sure you can knock a second a lap off those times with a clear lap and a bit more circuit knowledge . We can't have that French crap beating the Nova,s lol

[8valve-craig]

I had this out at Mallory park last week for a little circuit knowledge. It was a good day, made better by a friends apprentice bringing his camera along.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/good%20nova_zpsyoii4akp.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/good%20nova%202_zpsm2gj77lx.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/good%20nova%203_zpsfo0y93ux.jpg



http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/good%20nova%204_zps8neebbng.jpg

A few other Nova's turned up with House, Iain and Andrew. Given the steady decline of them it would have been rude not to line them up by the lake for a few shots.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/good%20nova%205_zpszmhtarmb.jpg

I only went out a handful of times as I'm not looking to put any unnecessary strain on the car. I made a new set of engine mounts the week before to try and straighten out the gear linkage and they seemed to work very well. I never missed a gear all morning. House nearly punted me off the track but i have forgiven him.

Next meeting with Track Attack Race Club Sunday 25th September @ Mallory Park. Shall be racing a mixture of Subaru's, Civic's and an M3 in race one then in with the Clio's race two.

[Benn]

Awesome photos, Nova looks great in them Craig.

[8valve-craig]

This weekend it's my last proper race of the season. The car didn't need a lot so has mostly just sat waiting. I decided to swap the wheels and have had a 5mm Lexan screen made for it, which although is not fitted yet I'll take with me and maybe fit at the track if the broken one fails scrutineering.

I think it looks good on the new wheels and should be a little quicker on them.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_5427_zpsxwfptoyi.jpg

[novarally]

Looking good Craig.

Where did you get the screen from? The one on my car is very hazy now, and I want to get one made slightly bigger so I can bond it in place and do away with the rubber seal.

[8valve-craig]

Hi Colin. Contact Tony at ACW motorsport plastics. Mine is hardcoated so should last well. If you don't mind a little flex a 4mm one is lighter.

01275 546008

01275 546 008
or mobile 07
77 231 876

[Benn]

Wheels look good.

[Iain]

Nice flare

[novarally]

Hi Colin. Contact Tony at ACW motorsport plastics. Mine is hardcoated so should last well. If you don't mind a little flex a 4mm one is lighter.

01275 546008 (tel:01275 546008)

01275 546 008 (tel:01275 546 008)
or mobile 07
77 231 876 (tel:77 231 876)

thanks Craig. How much was yours (PM if you'd prefer not to discuss on here). You didn't by any chance weigh it before installation did you?

My screen has always flexed, hence the brace down the middle.

[toymex]

thanks Craig. How much was yours (PM if you'd prefer not to discuss on here). You didn't by any chance weigh it before installation did you?

My screen has always flexed, hence the brace down the middle.


i spoke to them recently ,I wanted to bond one in but they didn't seem keen on makingone slightly oversize to enable this for some reason

[novarally]

i spoke to them recently ,I wanted to bond one in but they didn't seem keen on makingone slightly oversize to enable this for some reason

Interesting.

I spoke to Plastics 4 Performance a couple of years ago and they were happy to do an oversize one. Not cheap though.

[toymex]

Interesting.

I spoke to Plastics 4 Performance a couple of years ago and they were happy to do an oversize one. Not cheap though.

No P4P are not cheap had them in my escort ,good quality though .

[8valve-craig]

I'm sure if you tell Tony you know what you are doing he'll be happy to make one. My side and rear windows were made oversized so they could be bolted.

A hardboard template normally helps.

[8valve-craig]

I raced the little Opel Corsa with Track Attack Race Club at Mallory Park this weekend and couldn't be happier. It qualified 2nd overall which put it on pole for race one. Had a great start despite losing the lead to a guy called Rich Hockley. I stayed with him in his rapid Civic as long as I could but lost him when we started to hit back markers. I finished 2nd overall, (1st in Deutsche Marques). Race two I started again on the front row and after a mega race with lots of action finished 3rd overall (1st in Deutsche Marques) with a 52.7. I lost the rear bumper and picked up some damage when a Class A Clio hit me out of the hairpin, which was totally my own fault. The car needs quite an awkward repair but will be fine to race again and it can be done over the winter.

my best race to date by far, sadly the camera didn't record it though it just totally froze up.

The car is flyng now with only very few missed shifts (1 in each race) and no braking problems. Next meeting Snetterton in October.

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

[toymex]

Well done Craig,great result

[bazzap8389]

well done mate :thumb:

[BRoadGhost]

Awesome!

Any video? :P

[8valve-craig]

Thanks, it all came together and is a superb little car when it works right. Below is a link to all of the live timing if anyone is interested. Sadly no video, but the car behind in Race 2 filmed it and he was in my mirror for the whole race so could be a good watch. Il post it here when I have seen it.

http://www.tsl-timing.com/file/?f=BRSCC/2016/163832nip.pdf

[Benn]

Well done, a very good year and result.

[8valve-craig]

Here is Race two From Tony Hunters car (Class A Clio). He finished behind me so it's as close as a video i have.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6JaSvYfhr0&feature=youtu.be

[BRoadGhost]

It's like he's got some sort of vendetta; hitting you up the chuff then on the next lap running over what he broke off :cry:

[Benn]

Shame the car got damaged. At least you finished infront of him.

[8valve-craig]

That was quite an easy repair, a surprising amount of damage for such a small knock though. These Novas really aren't strong

I had the car out for the Autumn Trophy at Snetterton, but it didn't go well. Someone hit it hard on the first lap so it now needs two quarter panels, two doors and almost a total respray. The pillar also needed an awkward repair on the drivers side.

I started work but it won't be a quick fix this one. Il post progress over the winter and it will be back out in March.
http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/image_zpscf6ncnvr.jpeg

[Iain]

You'll be kicking yourself when you realise... I think the repair panel shop have given you the wrong panels lol

[Benn]

Really nice neat job. Liking that, will give better clearace.

[8valve-craig]

Thanks Ben.

I did the metal work and dropped the car down to a good friends paint shop at the beginning of January. He had it for a few weeks fitting the work in amongst his regular customers. I picked it up today and I'm very happy with it. Its had almost a full re-paint inside and out in Ford Frozen White. Its bright.

This was not an easy job and took me many hours over a few months, I wouldn't like to do it again but have bought another pair of full saloon quarters just in case the worst happens.

Plan now is to get it quickly rebuilt and sign written, fill the arches with some 215's and enter it into the new Castle Combe Hot Hatch Challenge. The first meeting is in April and should be fun.

Thankyou Nick Gwinnett at Nuffield Accident Repair for the great work, and Jack for selling me the rear quarters at a fair price.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_9570_zpsqmoy4zws.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_9569_zpsb7xsfrbe.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_9574_zpsp8rzt1sx.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_9575_zps2qxvsp1i.jpg

[ben doodar]

That actually looks mega with the saloon arches. I've heard many people ask for opinions of how it would look and often peoe say it wouldnt look right. That's the first 1 I've ever seen done. Nice work.

[8valve-craig]

Oh thank you. I have seen a few saloons with hatch arches, and one road car hatch done like this in Europe which looks awesome.

I have wanted to do it for years. Turns out the rears are not much wider without a lot of flaring. Fronts are though which will help.

Once its built back up im going to start making a new rear beam with adjustment.

[bazzap8389]

Looks brilliant, I was a bit sceptical at first but seeing it in paint looks ace :thumb:

[Iain]

Will look ace with some wide semi slicks under there. Hopefully they survive for a little while!

[Benn]

I'm frigging loving that! Looks ace. Cant wait to see it all built back up.

[tb16v]

Great work Craig, like that

[prs]

looks nice! are you gonna use the red and white colours again?

[8valve-craig]

Thanks folks. Yes same colours. Nothing else will change bar the side skirts, may need to use 4x front sections instead of the fins as they don't sit nicely on the round arch. May just trim them though.

[8valve-craig]

All fixed, ready to race.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_0051_zpsp8tryoey.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_0055_zpsjvbcied4.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_0068_zpszqykya6p.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_0067_zpsptxwwt0d.jpg

I made a few changes underneath on the advice of a friend who had already modified his beam.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_0061_zpslc1gkzpa.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_0060_zpsq1ux6vbg.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_0069_zpskozzazbm.jpg

Out in it on Friday to make sure everything works, scrub some tyres and bed some pads then first meeting early April.

Thanks for reading.

[Iain]

Thanks for reading.

You're welcome.

[8valve-craig]

Don't pretend you can read Lain.

[slimtater]

Very nice indeed! Are those wheels staying on?

[8valve-craig]

Very nice indeed! Are those wheels staying on?

Thanks, yes wheels are staying. They have new tyres on.

[Iain]

Don't pretend you can read Lain.
I'm here for the pretty pictures of your banger racer.

It's looking good now. Can't wait to see some more race footage.

[Benn]

Loving the beam mods, like the fuel pump and pot dropped thru the floor. Any reason for it?
Glad you've done the round front wings too.

[carls nova sri]

Love them arches never seen saloon ones on a hatch before:thumb:

[8valve-craig]

Loving the beam mods, like the fuel pump and pot dropped thru the floor, any reason?

Its a heavy unit when full of fuel. I wanted it as low in the car as possible. Also needed to be fire walled anyway, which it is when the box inside the car is fitted.

[novarally]

Looking good Craig, nice to seen it's ready again.

[brainsnova]

Looks good and the sides reminds me of the mk1 astra

[8valve-craig]

Thanks for the kind comments, I like it. It's great for swapping wheels quickly, and can get trailer straps on no problem.

I had the car out at Combe today for a little test. Treacherous conditions, but actually quite enjoyable. It had good pace on the little Toyo R1R's so happy with that. Sadly it never dried enough to fit the proper wheels, but that time will come.

Housey was there too. He's actually alright.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_0250_zps6z4ektzp.jpg

[Iain]

Shame about the weather. Looking like a proper race car now. And yours looks fresh Craig.

[8valve-craig]

I booked another track day there two weeks ago but unfortunately the gearbox expired early in the day. It needed to be quickly repaired, which it was.

Monday 17th was the first Castle Combe Hot Hatch meeting, it went well. After a restless night I got up at 6:30am and started stripping the diff out of the car, paranoid I had assembled it incorrectly. 2hr later it was back together and all was well. Qualifying was dry and I had an idea where I needed to be so stayed out for nearly the full session. A 1:16.5 put me on the front row in P2 which I was more than happy with.


The rain held off and I got a blinding start, leading the race for around half a lap before Gary Prebble went up the inside at Tower in his Peugeot 205. He had the better line into bobbies so had the place. I stayed with him whilst defending from the Astra of Mark Wyatt before he also went through.


As the race progressed they extended their lead so I sat in 3rd place with no other cars around feeling relatively relaxed. Towards the end of the shortened 18min race I slowed a little to investigate what turned out to be play in the steering rack, only to very quickly get caught by the 4th place Focus of Mike Webb. With just a lap to go I held him off and finished in 3rd place overall.

Brief video below, some tough competition but I'm confident I can give those front runners more of a race as I learn the circuit more.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1i18gbkZ22I

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_1458_zpsosmvyq6u.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_1465_zps84azmm4y.jpg


http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_1454_zpsnf2zg6rs.jpg

Very happy with that, minor work required to the car but nothing major so will be back out soon.

[Will F]

pfff passed by a shonky Astra Mk4 - you're a disgrace to the Nova community... lol

Seems to be going really well mate. Remind me next time you're out!!

[8valve-craig]

Ha that's 2015 Saloon Champion Mark Wyatt in what is a very serious Astra! I'll get him one day though.

I'm out for the May bank holiday meeting so if you can make it il send over a ticket or two.

[Benn]

Video is great, very nice driving too.

Looks very hard and like it handles really nicely.

[toymex]

Well done Craig,as you know I think it's only a matter of time before you are pushing that Astra all around the circuit

[nova_niek]

Very enjoyable video of the proceedings at Castle Combe. Looks like you were sitting there all cool and relaxed. Nice.

Sent from my Nokia 6310i using the keypad

[darragh792]

How do you rate the rear anti roll bar?

[8valve-craig]

Cheers everyone. I'm back out next weekend so see how that goes.

The only ARB it has is the standard GTE one inside. The braces are to control flex in the beam. They are doing a great job the car feels really good in the bends.

[BRoadGhost]

So the 205 is an all alloy Mi16? Anything in particular about the astra or just everything? That circuit sure is fast!

[darragh792]

yes I meant the braces in the rear, good to hear. Keep up the good work

[8valve-craig]

Monday 1st May was the second Hot Hatch meeting of the year with Castle Combe Race Club. Qualifying was tricky and I only managed a 3rd, which put me on the 2nd row of a 2x2 grid behind Wyatt and Prebble. We had the last race of the day and although the rain held off it didn't start particularly well, with what I'm told and accept was a false start. I squeezed the little Nova between the two of them and believe most of the grid followed. This led to a race lead which I managed to hold onto for 5 laps, before Prebbles 205 went up the inside into Camp with what was a great move.


Another lap down and Wyatt went through, but this time we all stayed together to within a second or two of each other. As the race progressed the lead would change on lap 13 to see Wyatts Astra then take the top spot. With only a few mins left I couldn't get close enough to the 205 to challenge, so accepted a P3 finish 1.4sec behind the Prebble 205, who in turn was 2.4sec behind the Wyatt astra after the full 20min distance.


A 10sec penalty was accepted at the end of the race for the questionable start, which did not alter the finishing order, but of course my apologies were offered to those involved or affected.

I set a personal best of 1:15.72 which suggests the car is going in the right direction, and somebody caught a great picture out of Esses. No idea who took it but thankyou.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_1881_zpsowc1c8qd.jpg

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_1896_zpsduxayr3u.jpg

[nova_niek]

I set a personal best of 1:15.72 which suggests the car is going in the right direction, and somebody caught a great picture out of Esses. No idea who took it but thankyou.

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_1896_zpsduxayr3u.jpg

This pic made me smile. It just screams "maximum effort!". :d :thumb:

[brucer]

Good going, any videos?

[8valve-craig]

I didn't film that meeting, The camera was not where i thought it was just as i was leaving and I'm a bit sad about it. Must have left it at work.

Its a real shame as it was a cracking race. The last video represents very little now and although it was educational i hate to watch it back. Braking points, corner speed and gear shift points have all changed which shaved over a second off the previous best lap times and crucially kept me near the front.

[Iain]

Shame about forgetting the camera. Great to see definite improvements leading to getting closer to the faster cars.

[8valve-craig]

Shame about forgetting the camera. Great to see definite improvements leading to getting closer to the faster cars.

Thanks Lain. As you know the 205 driver is a 60x race winner there and the Astra makes no secret about knocking on the door of 300hp. Im happy to even be within sight of them, for now.

[boffer8]

Any updates from the weekend gone?

[8valve-craig]

Monday was another Castle Combe Hot Hatch meeting which went relatively well. Dry qualifying on new tyres was disappointing, back down into the 16's which put me again 3rd on the grid. I had hoped for either 2nd or 4th, as i knew there wouldn't be a gap in the front row of Prebble and Wyatt this time around.

Shortly after qualifying the heavens opened and persistent rain was the order of the day, so around 30 mins before the race start some road tyres went on and i hoped it would stay wet.

The race came around and after the formation laps were done there sure enough was no longer a gap in the front row. That turned out not to be a problem as they both got great starts, so off I went to Quarry in the spray. The Focus of Mike Webb got in front putting me 4th, but i managed to go around the outside of Wyatts mighty Astra into 3rd. This order remained for 5laps, but under real pressure from the Astra i made a big mistake at Camp. Luckily I held the slide but had lost momentum for the straight and he went past at Folley as we went either side of a back marker. Now in 4th place and with a drying track i could maintain a distance to him but not get near, so finished as such.

My 4th was upgraded to 3rd when it was found that the race winner in the Blue Focus was out on full race wets and subsequently disqualified.

All in all a great day. There's an 8 week break now, but looking forward to the next meeting

http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af79/smith9051/IMG_2600_zpsdb13uomh.jpg

[Benn]

Well done, 4th/3rd is very good going.

[8valve-craig]

3rd. Cheats aren't counted.

[Benn]

True. 3rd is a great result.
Glad to see you enjoying it.

[8valve-craig]

On board from the last meeting.


https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Ax06_phShRI

[BRoadGhost]

Actual /popcorn - watching now.

[BRoadGhost]

Cor yeah.

See you've got the puddle-O- G meter installed! Car's sounding aggressive & that focus / 205 are not slow in the wet. Dunno if I could be that brave. Mega moment @ 6:50; novas do like to do that in bad conditions ;O cue the DEJA VU music!

Can I ask what cams you're on?

[8valve-craig]

The water in the footwell is awesome! Conditions were tricky yes. It was my first wet race so am pleased to have even finished it let alone be on the podium. The guys in front have a huge advantage with their experience there but I'm still having fun.

Big moment yes, it could have all gone very wrong.

The cams are from SBD / Kent. They called it their 295 but don't offer it anymore. They will be changed very soon.

[House]

As know Craig, this is proper!!

[8valve-craig]

Looks like that will be the end of this thread. I don't have the time or patience to Re-host the pictures.

Its a shame, I often flicked through it for motivation. Next racing at Combe on 28th August with some new parts if anyone fancies a day out.

[totalnova]

That's a shame I've always enjoyed your updates, just find a new host and update when you can, forget the rest.
Nick

[Mxcrazy]

I think if you use the Tapatalk app and upload photos they'll stay? Mine seem to have from my project thread.

Keep it up though Craig. Not everyone comments but look at your post views, people like seeing and reading about whats going on.

[toymex]

Don't be like that Craig, we all want to see some pics of the new head :thumb:

[BRoadGhost]

People need to stop using mainstream sh1t like photobucket.

just type 'free image upload' into google & select one at random from like the 7th page; I've never had issue - even months down the line.

[Iain]

Months! This thread started in 2012.

Keep it updated Craig I'd like to keep up to date with your third places.

[RallyMarshal]

Managed to sort photo hosting yet?

[8valve-craig]

Its not something I have really thought about. I may start a new thread sometime though. The car is currently stripped with no engine or wiring loom. I'm missing the next meeting this Monday which hurts a little, but when its back together it should be a better car.

It would have been nice to do the full season but would only mean rushing jobs. I will make a Test day on the 28th Sept my new target and last race 14th October.

[Benn]

Craig, what Ecu and loom do you use?

[8valve-craig]

Used to be Omex 600. Now Motec.

[total_vauxhall]

Take it you will have sold the omex?

[8valve-craig]

Its provisionally sold, But the guy doesn't particularly want the loom which is a shame. If i cant get him to buy it as a package it will be available.

[prs]

Used to be Omex 600. Now Motec.

are you going to use a motec pdm?

[total_vauxhall]

Pm me a price what you are looking for mate

[total_vauxhall]

Did it sell mate

[8valve-craig]

Here is a short video from the weekend. Despite the DNF it was a great day. I qualified on the front row with a 1:14.2 then went on to get a crap start and break the car on lap 4 of the race. Not so fussed about that though, it was good to weigh it up against the opposition ready for next year.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdTWwG_3RFc

[toymex]

Good going Craig, how did the new engine compare with the old one?

[8valve-craig]

Good going Craig, how did the new engine compare with the old one?

Thanks Jez, The new motor is brilliant with plenty of power and torque. The old one was good enough to get me going but it just needed a bit more ooomfh.

The little Nova see's off that Astra (which is near 300hp) pretty easily now which was the plan. It's all getting a bit serious out there now though and there are some very quick cars turning up. Next year should be fun.

[toymex]

Thanks Jez, The new motor is brilliant with plenty of power and torque. The old one was good enough to get me going but it just needed a bit more ooomfh.

The little Nova see's off that Astra (which is near 300hp) pretty easily now which was the plan. It's all getting a bit serious out there now though and there are some very quick cars turning up. Next year should be fun.

Sounds exciting,should be some close racing,just a shame it's all at the same circuit

[totalnova]

Car is looking really quick, shame about the start but you made some places up quickly, that green 205 did not want to let you past though haha.
Any idea what went wrong?

[BRoadGhost]

Haven't really studied video properly; just watched it quietly at work - what's happened to knock your steering wheel out of alignment?

Things do seem to be getting faster & faster & faster in that environment!

[prs]

Just watched the YouTube video and there is an solution for the shifting probs...

http://www.shop.cae-racing.de/index.php?a=31&lang=eng lol

[8valve-craig]

Haven't really studied video properly; just watched it quietly at work - what's happened to knock your steering wheel out of alignment?

Things do seem to be getting faster & faster & faster in that environment!

I did two qualifying sessions before the race, I am having trouble stopping the rack moving in its clamps. All in hand.


Just watched the YouTube video and there is an solution for the shifting probs...

http://www.shop.cae-racing.de/index.php?a=31&lang=eng lol

Before I buy a CAE are you sure that speeding up the shift will solve the problem on my Synchro box?

Have you got any footage of yours being used in a race environment on a synchro box?

[prs]

I did two qualifying sessions before the race, I am having trouble stopping the rack moving in its clamps. All in hand.



Before I buy a CAE are you sure that speeding up the shift will solve the problem on my Synchro box?

Have you got any footage of yours being used in a race environment on a synchro box?

look at the smiley mate ;). a cae is an great improvement over the quaife/hockley style shifter but the gearbox is the first thing you should look at.. the syncro boxes doesn't like to shift over 7500/8000rpm(syncro's can't hold up) and thats where the power is at with an NA engine..
other side of the story, you couldn't get the gearbox in any gear when you retired the race. could you shift when you started the car back up again?

only footage of my car is this:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4p7aDPOag70




few notes: this video was of the previous owner and i don't know if the cae shifter was in the car at any off these points.. i know he was using an quaife sccr gearbox..

[prs]

can only add 1 vid. per post:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMxtmBy6Ae8

[prs]

nr 3


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qd9XgRnAdRA

[8valve-craig]

Thanks. Mine broke a drive shaft.

[BRoadGhost]

Drivetrain is actually quite a big thing on such vauxhalls; I'm on a SCCR with CW & pinion 4.85 FD, RJ cable shift, equal length hollowed, peened shafts, big bearings CVs ATB diff. It seems to shift better in anger because the revs drop off fast & the FD is so close (lightened crank flywheel etc.), downshifts require throttle to match right & it helps again to be quick. It does not like down changes into 1st and 5th down to 4th on the shifter tends to beat synchros. That said high rpm shifts are ok & with big heavy wheels & brakes o.e helical boxes munch themselves even at low revs I've found. TBH the internals of an F20 F16 etc aren't big enough for this kind of duty when you compare it with other modern boxes.

You hear all sorts of stories like grinding off alternate teeth on the synchro rings to ease engagement & although I've not tried I could see how this might help, but tbh might lead to less reliability.

A dog box simplifies servicing but you need to change the clutch plate & cough up the extra ££££. Someone on here's using a cable setup with dog engagement so it can be done!

[BRoadGhost]

Having watched the PRS videos; I wouldn't say the guy's driving hard like craig racing is - his box is comparatively silent not having the spur gear CWP.

[RallyMarshal]

A dog box simplifies servicing but you need to change the clutch plate & cough up the extra ££££. Someone on here's using a cable setup with dog engagement so it can be done!

I suspect your talking about me.. Did it on the first 2 events of the year and got stuck in 2nd gear twice on both events, despite fast positive changes.. Whilst the cable setup is strong enough, the standard cable selector mechanism we use from the F17 has a slightly different shape "ball" that moves the selector rods on the end and we think that was enough difference to allow it to slide out of the 2nd gear position with the dogs still holding the gear in 2nd and ending up with the lever in "no mans land" between 2nd and 3rd..

Have now converted to a Quaife lever and rods plus just bought the brass fingered turret too...

Paul..

[8valve-craig]

This box / linkage has done well enough this year. Its having a proper 5sp and associated parts over the winter.

I always respect Paul's opinion as he has real world experience. We both race / rally for fun.

[RallyMarshal]

This box / linkage has done well enough this year. Its having a proper 5sp and associated parts over the winter.

I always respect Paul's opinion as he has real world experience. We both race / rally for fun.

Cheers Craig :-)

Dog or SCCR?

If its SCCR then I Id be more than happy using the cable shift system - the one on my 2000cc car is awesome and the cable setup a fair bit cheaper than the Quaife and turret. If its dog then as above :-)

Can you run a sequential?

Paul..

[8valve-craig]

I'll be fitting a 5sp dog kit with clutch and turret. Hoping to keep the shifter but may swap the joints and shorten it.

New motor makes power over 9k so was advised to go for dog engagement.

Not allowed sequential and must only have 5 forward gears.

[BRoadGhost]

It's good that everyone making a comment here has real world experience, else damming with faint praise wouldn't be appropriate.

That's what I didn't mention before; having any movement through steering IMO is god awful. Been running these IRL for over a decade & there's no looking back:-

https://www.pro-tecmotorsport.com/parts/product/nova-corsa-b-steering-parts/nova-corsa-b-alloy-steering-rack-mountings/

I just had the front steering setup IRL yesterday after upgrading TCAs to the larger diameter & shortened due to the castor. Tie bars also run a 3/4" bearing as I found smaller can fail ~ from the real world experience of braking, on tarmac.

[RallyMarshal]

I'll be fitting a 5sp dog kit with clutch and turret. Hoping to keep the shifter but may swap the joints and shorten it.

New motor makes power over 9k so was advised to go for dog engagement.

Not allowed sequential and must only have 5 forward gears.

Quaife or Samsonas or others?

Paul..

[Iain]

New box should be a good opportunity to fix that final drive ratio - it was totally wrong at Mallory.

[8valve-craig]

Quaife or Samsonas or others?

Paul..

I sent SQS a message, but will probably end up going Quaife yes.


New box should be a good opportunity to fix that final drive ratio - it was totally wrong at Mallory.

Very good Lain

[8valve-craig]

Photo's fixed

[8valve-craig]

Its been a while.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNFUAilbIsc

[House]

Rapid!! As I already said to you Craig

[prs]

It looks like the car is going very well!
what happend in the end of the video with all smoke?

[8valve-craig]

I didn't know at the time but the turret had came loose and spilled some oil. My own error, cost me the win.

[RallyMarshal]

Mine are held on with Nordlock washers as Ive had that issue previously..

Paul..

[boffer8]

I do similar with using schnorr washers on mine, even with the cable selector too

[8valve-craig]

I’ll keep this better updated next year. Box was a mess, loads of broken and burned parts. All ordered now so will be back together soon.

Chassis loom is being done this month with a new display then it’s in for some paint end of the year.

Hopefully have some reliability and better results next year in Castle Combe Hot Hatch

[House]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181110/7d6738200cdb1d3f529a3bf4371661c7.jpg

[prs]

what was the cause of burning gearbox parts?

[boffer8]

Burned parts from over heating the oil or something else?

[8valve-craig]

The output shaft bearing failed so no support one end and the selectors heated up against the drive discs. It took out the crown wheel, pinion gear/shaft, both 4th gear, both selectors and a load of other little bits like the nut and a splined sleeve. I think the turret bolts were a separate issue.

All ordered and was delivered yesterday so it can go back together now.

[Iain]

When does next season kick off? Or is it just continuous throughout winter?

[8valve-craig]

Monday 22nd April is the first meeting next year. I’ll try and get it out over the winter for some testing if I can though. Currently has zero wiring in it, cut it all out on the weekend.

[Benn]

New loom?

[8valve-craig]

New loom?

Chassis loom and display yes, The car already has a new engine loom and management.

[boffer8]

Who are you going to get your loom done with if you dont mind saying?

[totalnova]

I had mine made by this company, they did a good job

https://www.stmotorsport.net/

[8valve-craig]

Loom is being made by GWR, he’s the dealer that supplied the ECU and dash, he also maps the car for me. It’s in very good hands.

[8valve-craig]

I downloaded Tapatalk so if I can get the hang of it will keep updated better.

The car is back from wiring which I’m very happy with. I went for the Motec CDL display and had all wiring inc fuse box replaced with modern equipment.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/ed233c3e58f79d1359e78e9aa5d8b453.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/73a960c58c7a5ef73cb39f763d21ab88.jpg

[8valve-craig]

The gearbox is built up into a replacement casing ready to fit, just waiting on some parts for the diff before that can go back together so it’s rolling on a scrap casing at the moment.

I fitted new brakes a little while back which are working well

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/73556eb5d52cc4ab99affa78e292f739.jpg

The braking system was let down a little by some other hardware so I have fitted a better reservoir, balance adjuster and additional lever type bias valve.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/0ccd9165be2bd1b17994197b2c97a201.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/2779346d1ad5434fd9c3eb82837c09ff.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/d47214c23894f4d5f2e0f5aa070b9e07.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/b7aabee4a6fe3cae40ef29c6af2aa1dc.jpg

[8valve-craig]

Also needed was some kind of cold air feed to the rear of the bay. There is no room for a tumble dryer hose and they look rubbish anyway. Over the last few months I have been thinking about modding the slam panel and making a two piece under bonnet channel that seals together when it’s all fitted.

That’s mostly finished now, just needing one final assembly, some sealer and paint. It was quite a head scratcher but has turned out pretty well. It sits about 15mm over the cam cover when fitted.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/84057150e466c979db54c0e957b69eaf.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/fbd4bc4e1e48dc0f815410094c813eb8.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/778cbc58163b30707644a1aa0ed7da67.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/255efe3135c1b9c9ae0dfc6a4b01c3c7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/e742106c3b8a1bed871607525e96469b.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/dc3367190d26964046ad8d70a5608b54.jpg

The grill seals against the lower part nicely with a rubber trim fitted to the sharp edge and I use a seal much like a tailgate one on the bit that seals to the bonnet.

It meant moving the radiator down and the oil cooler right so definitely not a simple job. The lower rad hose had enough give in it but new hoses were needed for top rad and both cooler lines.

[8valve-craig]

I also commissioned some new doors as I have raced for about 18months on one steel one and one fiberglass one.

These will now be available to anybody who wants them with 9 sets sold so far.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/3bfb6e01fbafb1dcd3516af202b60a5a.jpg

Finally, parts removed for inspection / servicing.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/b5e94d8cb4bd73980c87fa357c9709b5.jpg

[8valve-craig]

One more. I also ducted the radiator to the bumper. This was also a pain in the bum as it’s off centre but that’s all sorted now.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/03b9948d4c0f104b791653e47a9232a8.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/2799c2bd4acd75a56c2ea7e129b2d3c0.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/5592ddaffd02cfc9f343d3ad57f71b49.jpg


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/6b6d4dc917e95abc3c88ac8809bc32b8.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190224/b35a1039f0da3c57e715555d98749a9e.jpg

Once finished I cut out that lower slot in the bumper and drilled more holes to aid flow but no pics of that.

It was fitted for the Donington race in September and despite cool wether the temps were just right.

[totalnova]

Looking good Craig, nice to see the car developing. Look forward to seeing some videos of the car on track.
Nick

[total_vauxhall]

Loving that intake

[novarally]

Great work Craig, it's really coming on now.

[Iain]

Mega update. I wouldn't have thought there's enough room to cool over the rocker cover. You got sensors for data logging to check it's all working as expected?

[8valve-craig]

Thanks, yes it’s developing well. My next job is to alter the rear beam slightly but more of that when it’s done.

Yes Iain, those jobs will only affect oil temp engine temp and air inlet temp. All are monitored and logged / displayed if required through the ECU and dash.

To be fair air inlet temp wasn’t a huge problem but a bit of fresh air isn’t going to be a bad thing. The other two were a serious problem especially given how hot last summer was. The oil cooler used to sit in front of the rad, now it’s above. Plus the rad used to be mostly blocked by the bumper.

[prs]

nice updates!
can you give some more info(pm) on the fibreglass doors?

[8valve-craig]

I had the car ready for some pre race testing at Castle Combe 11th April. Usual last minute rush, finishing jobs that in my mind take moments but in reality are half a day each.

The panels are all painted now and had to be refitted with my old windows, that was a pain because they are bolted so it was like fitting them in reverse. I also went back to original mirrors because visibility in the Mattig ones wasn’t good enough.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190414/bc7dcb5b05ad1b7e67c6ac51b92465f3.jpg

Interior door release I went back to original handles, again because the wire I was using wasn’t substantial and I would hate for it to fail in any kind of incident.

I finished off the air vents, very happy with those.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190414/b094cbf47f251655eb1f138ab98d79ae.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190414/09eec77adb89c85225563f228633c096.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190414/24ac5f868842ed723b125e372c641b9d.jpg

I got it to the track I haven’t driven for a year and started to learn it over again, hoping for a competitive lap time.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190414/f7c57d787362c027cd9e0b49bd164764.jpg

It wasn’t to be as I couldn’t get a hold of the car. It was far too stiff and unpredictable, despite being exactly how I liked it before. Maybe I’m getting old?

I spoke to an experienced friend and he said to soften it all off and start over again, progressively stiffening it up. I did that and the car started to feel good again.

Ended the day after maybe four sessions with a personal best of 1:13.13. Very happy with that.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190414/4d27da6f5bb8ad91ef2da35fad84fe57.jpg

So a successful winter rebuild. Box feels good, engine feels strong and Hopefully it’s straight back to being a front runner.


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[Iain]

The sealing on that bonnet is very neat, would you mind coming to do the silicone work in my bathroom?

[nova_niek]

The sealing on that bonnet is very neat, would you mind coming to do the silicone work in my bathroom?

+1 :thumb:

[8valve-craig]

What are the opinions on the GSi badge? Happy for some constructive criticism.

[prs]

I don't like the GSI badge but the rest of the car looks very well :thumb:

have you done something about the heat issue on the gearbox?
which front calipers were you using before the AP setup?

[8valve-craig]

Thanks. I originally clipped it on just to see how it looked, Its for another Nova of mine which doesn't have a slatted grill yet.

I have fitted a temp sensor to the diff cover which is monitored by the dash now. It will trigger an alarm if it gets near to the set maximum temp. I cant explain the failure but no longer think it was heat related. Possibly the outer bearing race which is pressed into the casing nearest the diff had damage on it which i never noticed when fitting?

Brakes before were Wilwood Dynalite with a Bmw Mini 1 piece disc. They actually worked quite well

[prs]

So you have another nova and havent started an thread about it :wtf:.
The Gsi badge is quite common over here, so it's nothing special to me.

I was thinking about the same solution on watching the gearbox temps, although I rather have it positioned on the box itself instead of the diff coverplate because of ground clearance issues.
I just do not have enough room for an extra gearbox cooler, so I hope it will hold.

watching the pictures I noticed how low the engine sits. What engine mounts do you use and did you need to modify the mounts to have it so low?

[House]

I fitted a cooler in quite easily with a small pump

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190421/66a53ce7dcac2ddfadc551ca05e3a288.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190421/eca2e178a56826110d869498869ba809.jpg

[stt]

Great to see the hard work paying off!

[8valve-craig]

Thanks it’s all coming together now.

Hot Hatch round one at Castle Combe Monday. The little Nova was performing brilliantly with pole position, race win and fastest lap. Excellent driving by everyone and a good clean race. Hopefully more to come.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190424/c977bb8eaa662add44ed487a74994bfc.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190424/62f1ed369f538e9cf7069598ba2c5917.jpg


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[novarally]

Fabulous result Craig, very well done.

[totalnova]

Great result, well done,
Can we expect some footage?

[boffer8]

Awesome result craig, good to see it all come off and have a nova winning stuff again! nice work :thumb:

Looking forward to seeing the in car now ;)

[House]

Come on Craig get the vid up!! Haha

[Benn]

Well done.

[8valve-craig]

Pole lap from the previous meeting. I don’t have the race footage uploaded yet.

https://youtu.be/VtAJTDXAXw8


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[8valve-craig]

I took the little Nova up to Snetterton 300 this weekend for a double header with Track Attack Race Club. Qually went well, front row P2. Race 1 I took the lead late on lap one and held onto it for the win just 2sec clear of Rich Hockley in his rapid Civic. He was way quicker in the bends and drove superbly as expected.

PB 2:09 which was fastest lap of that race.

Race two I started with a leaky rear damper and on rotated tyres. Couldn’t hold onto the car, had a little off and decided to retire it on the first lap.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190601/7da7817aa6b6320ba2a676d3fa749c06.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190601/8c90713ff1cd978175fb05e904c7b00f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190601/bf02fb7cf06523795f20157e406a1f72.jpg


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[8valve-craig]

Here’s the best lap. Race footage is a bit boring.

https://youtu.be/jJCy3bls-a4

[House]

Proper

[8valve-craig]

I took the little Nova racing at Castle Combe last weekend, back out in the Hot Hatch series. I missed out on Pole by a couple of tenths but still got in front on lap one. A mega race commenced with a local lad in his K20 EG Civic until I missed a shift and he got by.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190713/978abf5c16573f72455ea11cf78169a4.jpg

I had to do some work to catch up and it took some time but I did manage and passed him again. I was leading into the last lap but then made a mistake and hit the wall. Josh in the EG took the win and the lap record. It’s no slouch that car and very well driven.

I patched the car up and got back out for race two. Similar story we traded the lead a few times but on lap 12 of 15 I took it back and held onto it for the win by just 0.288 making it one a piece.

Race two there was less than half a second between us for the full 20mins so pretty intense.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190713/655f9be73ea940cd76c0c424a18b753e.jpg

The car is Ok, needs a Gearbox rebuild, a bumper a wing and a headlight but I’m not overly concerned about that.

Video below is well worth a watch. Shame there was no rear cam as he was right behind me for the first half of the race. Race two is up on my YouTube page as well but its not such a good watch.

https://youtu.be/1dw9nPsFOnY

[chris gsi]

It’s a shame about the finishing on the grass but your car flys I love the way the engine revs does the civic run a camera as it would be nice to see your on the outside

[House]

Weapon

[8valve-craig]

The Civic has front and rear cameras so providing they recorded he will normally integrate them. I’ll post a link if he decides to publish it as that would be a good watch too.

[nova_niek]

Some nice track action going on here. Like it. :d :thumb:

[8valve-craig]

Still at it. I took the car back out in September for Grand Finals day at Castle Combe. In just two qualifying laps I secured pole, then a wheel broke free.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191211/f8e74124819217d5c28a92ee1cd597df.jpg

It did some damage but managed to get the car out 4 hours later and led from start to finish for a win by 5 seconds, second and third were K20 Civic’s driven by local guys.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191211/cd8ac06288badfa7aca61a623c4ed6a4.jpg

The car is covered up for the winter now and some new dampers are in the process of being drawn up.

I have played with the idea of replacing the rear suspension with something more racey. This will fit but maybe a job for some other time.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191211/9299e8830a08e7004b0acfb30f041478.jpg

Back out in Feb testing then hopefully racing again in April.


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[Jonesfach]

Any idea why the wheel came off?

[8valve-craig]

Any idea why the wheel came off?

Yes all four studs sheared off. They had done a fair bit of work and being a predominantly clockwise driving car Gave way. I assume one went, then two and so on.

lesson learned, I’ll replace them once a season now.

[nova_niek]

I have played with the idea of replacing the rear suspension with something more racey. This will fit but maybe a job for some other time.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191211/9299e8830a08e7004b0acfb30f041478.jpg


Looks interesting! What is the rear axle assembly off? Looks like a major job to fit, modifying the floor pan will be involved by the looks of it.

Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-A505FN met Tapatalk

[boffer8]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191211/9299e8830a08e7004b0acfb30f041478.jpg

Back out in Feb testing then hopefully racing again in April.


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Looks very interesting, whats it from?

Are you allowed to change suspension mounting points etc then?

[8valve-craig]

This would use the original beam mount for the drag link and original strut top mounts which are both mandatory. The others would be additional which i see no problem with.

[8valve-craig]

Still got it, no update for 2.5 years!

Raced it a few times since, taken 3 wins this year, maybe one last year can't remember.

Off to Thruxton next on slicks

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220615/10655cb17bfbf096cd922ff52f031587.jpg


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[Iain]

Full slicks should be fun.

[8valve-craig]

I would be happy on Dunlop semis but all of the cars around me will be on slicks.

Got a handful of Bmw M3, a Skyline, some Cosworths and Australian V8 super cars to deal with so not expecting much.

I also bought this last year and developing it slowly.

Mk1 Swift GTi. Big power built engine, dog box, super light

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220615/3f64d260f93d4ca0e4d5c1a9c12dd43e.jpg


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[scottmasterton]

I would be happy on Dunlop semis but all of the cars around me will be on slicks.

Got a handful of Bmw M3, a Skyline, some Cosworths and Australian V8 super cars to deal with so not expecting much.

I also bought this last year and developing it slowly.

Mk1 Swift GTi. Big power built engine, dog box, super light

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220615/3f64d260f93d4ca0e4d5c1a9c12dd43e.jpg


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Very nice Craig! Got a build thread for this anywhere?

[8valve-craig]

Thanks. No I haven't mate, I doubt many people would be interested or even remember them.

[Nova_Tek]

don't remember the last time I saw a MK1 Swift!

The Nova's looking good, glad it's winning races.

[8valve-craig]

I took the little Nova to Thruxton last weekend. Into a difficult race with some pretty impressive cars.

Qualified well, race started off very good but unfortunately DNF after a little driver error.


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220722/1c1cc12c4542317aa8ccc8e4b4d1fd22.jpg


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[8valve-craig]

Here is the live coverage, Watch from 3hr 3min if interested.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kk9Z49S7_-0&t=11294s (https://youtu.be/Kk9Z49S7_-0)

[Iain]

Fending off some serious machinery there. What broke on your off?

[Will F]

Epic racing - what an interesting race series!

Mate you get some decent airtime when the commentator cant believe your agility when you take the two on that corner!

[Benn]

WOW seeing you out there with those cars is impressive. Big money there.

[RobSRi]

You made that race soo entertaining to watch! shame it was cut short for you.

I recognised a few cars you were up against and realise I watched this group at Donnington in Oct when I went to watch the Vectra super tourer.

Will you be running in the same series this year? Would be nice to catch the action in person!

I plan to go watch the hot hatch series at Mallory in June and the ctcrc at Dono again in Oct if you'll be at either of those?