My Nova Build -WIP- [Archive] - Page 4 - Performance Nova Group

nova ian

09-03-11, 05:06 PM

looking forward to a nosey round it mate - and hearing it! ill drop that fusebox off on sat mornin if your about?

also hows it running with the carbs etc - u done any tweaking?

Yes Alan, should be about, will be tiling the kitchen me thinks! Thanks for the fusebox :d

As for running issues, its not to bad, all we've done so far is ignition timing and idle screw. So I know the fuelling isn't going to be the best, buts runs really smooth and ticks over nicely so its a good base I think :)

Must be half decent as Iain even complimented me on it sounding really nice :eek: lol

The Simps

09-03-11, 05:40 PM

Prey

09-03-11, 08:30 PM

fun starts when you get the wideband on it - i couldnt believe how much the jets on mine wanted taking up!

nova ian

27-03-11, 09:46 PM

Done a bit more on this today. Iain popped over to give me a hand too in his freshly run in beast, Cheers mate :d

We pretty much got all my vapour dash working, just got to do a bit of tweaking for the rev counter on it!

But all warning lights on dash are sorted and working. But annoyingly the headlights have stopped working, but we think its a dodgy switch.

Also started on getting all the wires where they need to be and mounting switches etc. on the centre console and dash.

Centre console out and roughly marked up where I wanted stuff.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo4.jpg

All drilled out and external fusebox for fuel pump mounted. (Thanks for the fusebox Alan :thumb: )

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-6.jpg

In the car

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3.jpg

Just got the pannel to finish and mount for the vapour, fuel and oil pressure guage. Then it can all be screwed together

tom reid

27-03-11, 10:11 PM

Getting close mate...

Harvey

28-03-11, 04:21 PM

What are all those horrible bullet connectors doing, rip them out immediately and do some proper solder and heat shrink connections.

Enough of my rant, tidy update so keep at it.

nova ian

10-04-11, 09:31 PM

Bit closer to getting this done now!

Got some stickers for the cage and the centre console for marking switches up etc...

New Safety Devices Stickers on cage

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-7.jpg

Also got all the wiring finished off and tidied up, along with the guages fitted and all mounted nicely

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-1.jpg

And with the wheel on

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3-1.jpg

Only problem I have is that the petrol gauge goes up to full when the ignition is turned on, but there is no petrol in the tank. Does this mean I have put the wires onto the sender unit the wrong way around, or would it be a faulty sender??

The Simps

10-04-11, 09:35 PM

Looking motorsport now!

Iain

10-04-11, 09:39 PM

That dash looks quality now Ian!

Thought you took my old fuel sender unit to fix your faulty one? Or is that reading with my new one fitted?

nova ian

10-04-11, 09:48 PM

That dash looks quality now Ian!

Thought you took my old fuel sender unit to fix your faulty one? Or is that reading with my new one fitted?

I thought I'd just give it a go with mine as it was already wired up, but also I've not fitted your old sender as I need the plug because its different, do you have the plug for it on your old loom?

Iain

10-04-11, 09:49 PM

Yes, if you can find it in my "bag o' loom" you can have it lol

nova ian

10-04-11, 09:51 PM

Yes, if you can find it in my "bag o' loom" you can have it lol

Thanks dude, I'll have to pop over at some point, but I'm pretty busy now for 2 weeks. Got loads of over time to do at work :(

scott.parker

10-04-11, 10:16 PM

Looks ace dose that dash mate! love it..

Harvey

13-04-11, 01:52 PM

Nice one Ian, glad she's nearly there. You had the carbs setup yet?

Got my wee beastie back on the road for Summer after a stroke of luck with the insurance and saving myself £145 (35%) off the renewal. It's great getting older and older and older ;) Got the MOT this Saturday so fingers crossed.

Anyway back to your thread. I believe the fuel gauge is like the temp gauge, not connected it'll read full/hot and grounded it'll read empty/cold.

nova ian

30-05-11, 06:17 PM

Still working away on this as and when! but actually have a deadline now as I have my first trackday booked for the end of next month at Donnington :d

Had alot of issues with oil leaks though and don't seem to be able to win with them :cry:

To date it's had 2 set's of cam seals, 2 crank seals (oil pump side) & 2 sump 8v sump gaskets/baffles.... and I still have a bad leaky sump and crank seal!! Really getting on my nerves now as everything is new and just cant seem to cure it. I'm looking into seeing if my sump can be machined to make sure it's not warped on the mating face, and as for the crank seal I'm just going to try another and hope for the best!

Despite this I got some other stuff sorted yesterday and Iain popped over to give me a hand with a few bits. Big big thanks for that mate :thumb:

Got my Avon Slicks fitted on rims and balanced up by my tyre man
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-8.jpg

Iain gave my mirrors a tidy up & another lick of day-glo orange
(even though it looks pink in the pic!)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3-2.jpg

Rollcage padding fitted
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo4-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo5.jpg

Set the ride height on the coilovers
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo6.jpg

And even got a photo of both the beasts together!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/2novas.jpg

So as it stands at the minute I have all the timing gear off awaiting the new seal. Sump needs to come off again for machining if possible.

Only other problem I had was that when the fans kick in or are turned on it causes my digital dash to freak out and all the lights start flashing and the rev counter reads like 12 grand on tick over! :confused: Soon as the fans go off it goes back to normal, so the stumped on that one!

Also waiting on a thread adapter for fitting another oil pressure sender unit to run my guage.

Tracking was setup today, and was going to corner weight it aswell, but didn't get chance to do so as we ended up chasing these oil leaks. Just hoping I can get it all sorted in time, but will have a good go

Adam

30-05-11, 06:22 PM

Looks well Ian.
Digidash weird-ness will be an earth problem somewhere.

Iain

30-05-11, 06:26 PM

Aw man yours looks so much more hardcore than mine :(

This is the thrust washer I was thinking of, maybe it's worn a groove like this one and is stopping the crank seal from sealing properly?

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2/930.JPG

nova ian

30-05-11, 06:29 PM

Will check out the thrust washer when this seal is out. I take it that isn't your washer?! lol

Iain

30-05-11, 06:31 PM

That's my old one, fitted a new one @£40 from Vauxhall :(

nova ian

30-05-11, 06:35 PM

Ahhh, didn't realise you fitted a new one, I thought you priced one up and were put off by the extornsionate price!!

scott.parker

30-05-11, 06:35 PM

Looking ace mate, you coming to pv with it if it's done in time?

nova ian

30-05-11, 06:50 PM

Looking ace mate, you coming to pv with it if it's done in time?

Thanks Scott, it's getting there, just all these niggles are starting to get at me now, but just got to keep on at it I guess. Thats why I want to do this trackday so I get to actually use it and boost my spirits with it!!

Doubt It'll be at PV as I've not got a towbar sorted for the van yet, and the money will be best spent on sorting the car I think. Got my dad on towing duties at the mo! lol

scott.parker

30-05-11, 06:53 PM

what track day you booking on to? When?

nova ian

30-05-11, 07:20 PM

Donnington Monday 27th June, Open pit evening

scott.parker

30-05-11, 07:38 PM

is it just an evning/afternoon or is there the option for full day?

nova ian

30-05-11, 08:54 PM

is it just an evning/afternoon or is there the option for full day?

Just evening mate. On track between 5:30 - 8:30... Thought it'd be ideal for the cars first outing as if (God forbid!) I have any problems I wouldn't have wasted a full day and alot more money!

nova ian

01-06-11, 09:24 AM

Got the oil pump crank seal out last night again :roll:

Also pulled out the thrust ring aswell, and by the looks of the condition of it, it could well be contributing to my oil leak problems!!

You can see it has worn a groove in the front edge where the seal sits, so I thought I might be able to get away with turning it around, but it's not in the best condition on the back edge and there's also a few scratches and grooves from screwdrivers and picks being used to remove the seals!

So a new one will be on order today with a new seal and fingers crossed it will seal as this will be third time lucky lol

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/photo.jpg

Harvey

02-06-11, 03:53 PM

That doesn't look at all good Ian as you know it should be nice and smooth. Shame I can't make 27th June with the GTE, as I said in my txt bit of a logistical nightmare for me, but I will pop down after work to give you some moral support.

nova ian

02-06-11, 04:53 PM

nova ian

13-06-11, 11:10 PM

Few more bits done for the Donnington deadline!

New Crank Thrust ring is on with new seal in place, and so far so good, (touch wood and fingers crossed!!) No oil leak :d

Some rachet straps with wheel straps turned up today so I can strap the car to the trailer... Ebay bargain at £50 for four

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-2-2.jpg

Got my foot rest plate rivetted in with a bead of silicon under it to stop rattles and dirt getting under

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-3-1.jpg

New sender unit for oil pressure and adaptor

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-5-1.jpg

Note to self, when it goe's tight don't go that little bit more! lol

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-4-1.jpg

Bugger, that's the thread stuck in the block then!! Luckily Allen saved the day!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-6-1.jpg

So got to order another adapto now, I love doing things twice!

Air filter had a wash and spray with ITG Dust Retention Spray

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-8-1.jpg

And finally got the cambelt cover fitted (Note for iainel, yes all 3 bolts are in it! ;) lol )

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-9.jpg

So left to do is...

- Fit Sender unit
- Fit flywheel cover plate
- Make a bracket for kill switch pull cable
- Fasten in extinguisher pull cables
- Fill washer bottle with screen wash
- Re-seal cam sensor as it's still seaping oil out (My engine really dislikes having oil in it I think!)
- Input wheel measurement on dash for speedo reading
- Spanner check
- Trial car on the trailer as it's never been on it since I got it! lol
- Corner weight if I get time
- Finally get some laps in at Donnington! :d

Iain

13-06-11, 11:13 PM

Three bolts good to see you're not BODGING it lol That thread adapter just shear off then? Oh dear.

Paul

13-06-11, 11:14 PM

Ive got the £50 eBay wheel straps, had them for over 18months now, used them loads of times (30+) and theyres still cock on.

nova ian

13-06-11, 11:18 PM

Iain: Yep just sheared off off with almighty strength :(

Paul: Cool glad there good, the bloke I bought the trailer off recomended them to me as he had them aswell and said they were brill for the money

Iain

13-06-11, 11:20 PM

Almighty strength? You had someone helping you? lol

nova ian

13-06-11, 11:41 PM

lol only help was the 19mm spanner!!

nova ian

17-06-11, 02:34 PM

Crossed a few more bits off my list, one of which was to make an ally blank for the glovebox

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-10.jpg

Also received another union for oil pressure sender unit. I'll try not to snap this one! lol

Almost ready for it's track debut and for me to loose my trackday virginity! :d

Adam

17-06-11, 07:04 PM

Good work.
Whens the trackday?

Iain

17-06-11, 07:05 PM

Ian is that blank using self tappers? It may need to come off if there's any wiring issues?

Adam it's the 27th

nova ian

17-06-11, 07:39 PM

Ian is that blank using self tappers? It may need to come off if there's any wiring issues?

Adam it's the 27th

Yes Iain, self tappers through those speed clip things.

Adam, as said above trackday is Monday 27th but it's evening, not full day

Harvey

28-06-11, 09:13 AM

Looks like you were all having fun last night, been trying to find some pics online but failing as I didn't take my camera :(

nova ian

28-06-11, 12:13 PM

It's been a very long time coming, but deffo worth all the hard work! My first trackday is complete and got the car home in piece!

Monday morning started out with a few last checks

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Prep.jpg

Then got the car loaded on the trailer for the first time... Had a few issues as the car couldn't go far enough forward because it was hitting the winch. This meant the ramps wouldn't go up at the back, so out came mr angle grinder, and chopped the ramps off and chucked them in the van! lol

Iain and myself got a pit garage and got unloaded before sign on. Both cars looking good and ready

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2751.jpg

Then we were joined by a couple of my mates cars also on the trackday. A Radical SR4 Clubsport and a DC2 Integra Type R.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2753.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2756.jpg

After signing on and briefing we headed out on track for sighting laps. Iain got out in the first session and I was out in the second followed by Ste in the Integra

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2752.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2761.jpg

Went out on the Toyo T1R's first as I wanted to feel the difference when I moved onto the slicks. Also was only taking it steady to begin with

nova ian

28-06-11, 01:31 PM

Sighting laps went well, car felt solid and no obvious problems so headed straight out on track

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2760.jpg

Only managed one lap before having to go in as a DC5 Integra spun out on the chicane in front of me and had swerve to miss it and ended up going over them nasty new HUUUUGGGEEEE humps! Luckily no damage was done other than causing the exhaust to rattle as it caught the manifold.

Also noticed a slight fuel leak from the blanked off return pipe on the tank, so nipped up the jubilee clip and gave it a wipe down and was all good. So out it went again this time with my dad driving. He really enjoyed it :)

Came back in and noticed my oil leaks seemed to be pretty bad! from the head down the block was lathered in oil. Tom Reid had a look over it with me and suggested I open up the the catch tank as it was restricting the breather system. So next on the list of project cure oil leaks is a new breather system.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2765.jpg

Got it all cleaned up and decided it was time for the slicks :d Alan (Prey) gave me a hand getting them on. Cheers dude

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2764.jpg

Meanwhile Iain was off to do some Evo killing!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2754-1.jpg

Went out twice on the slicks and what an improvement handling wise! unreal grip. Avon ACB10's are an awesome tyre!

The day came to an end though as the fuel leak came back, and the where the return pipe is braised to the tank, it must have corroded and tightening the jubilee must have been the final straw so Dad and my Grandad drained some fuel out too see if it would stop dripping, and I then went out for a passenger ride in Iain's beast.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2770.jpg

I think my cheesy grin above sum's up that I was really happy with the day despite the problems! Can't wait to get it sorted and get out again now!

Thanks to everyone who came and helped, especially all the TCR crew, Dad, Grandad, Iain, Tom, Alan and Harvey :thumb:

I know the car is nowhere near at its best, but was deffo a good start. Here's a few more pro pics from Xtreme Photography

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/XSP_0455.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/XSP_0487.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/XSP_0663.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/XSP_0664.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/XSP_0511.jpg

And finally on the way home, thankfully still in one piece!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/home.jpg

Adam

28-06-11, 04:15 PM

Glad you had a decent day out

Iain

28-06-11, 04:44 PM

Evo killing lol Don't think I saw that beast again after the first corner lol

Harvey

29-06-11, 11:09 AM

To say it was the first proper drive of the car since you built it it did pretty well even with the few issues you had. It certainly seemed you were all having a great time. I really really need to get out on track with my Astra before the end of the year, sod the house improvements!

If you are thinking of sticking the Nova on the road you could do worse than giving these a buzz for a quote www.reis.co.uk they offer road legal track car cover with limited road mileage, agreed value etc etc

tom reid

29-06-11, 03:53 PM

Boy done good on your first track day, like Harvey says, a few issues are to be expected first time out.
Harvey, didn't get to meet you, didn't even know you were there.

Jedro

29-06-11, 06:09 PM

just had a scim read though this, insane crazy good work, loads of effort in this mega rep :thumb:

Harvey

06-07-11, 08:40 AM

Harvey, didn't get to meet you, didn't even know you were there.

Same here Tom.

This was me with the pink Sparco shoes (they were red!) licking the headlight of Ian's Nova while attempting to hump the front bumper.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2765.jpg

Harvey

06-07-11, 08:41 AM

Have you had chance to take the back plate off and check the head oil way core plugs I mentioned in the PM last week?

nova ian

06-07-11, 10:12 AM

lol at you licking my headlight, wondered why one was cleaner than the other!!

In all seriousness though, not had chance to do anything yet, the garage is still a mess from arriving home and chucking everything and the car back in! Been busy doing other stuff, you know how it is!

Going to get the petrol tank drained and out this weekend, then that is going for repair as the price of a new one is alot more than I remembered. £140 for a basic carb tank! :eek:

Then will get the back plate off. I've ordered yet another 8v bonded sump gasket and shorter bolts this time instead of using washers, so I'll have another go at the sump, also ordered an inline fuel filter as I thought I ought to add one just to be safe. Even though the pump and pressure reg apparently both have one.

Iain

06-07-11, 11:44 AM

You think the sump is still leaking then? I thought it was dribbling down onto it to make it look like it was leaking from there. If you're having the sump off again though it'd be worth seeing if you can get it machined/skimmed or replace with a better one as it was a bit bent at the pulley end IIRC?

Give me a shout if you need a hand this weekend :)

nova ian

12-07-11, 10:15 PM

Got some time in on the nova at the weekend to get it ready for another trackday :d

Fuel tank drained and removed. Dropped it off today to have the leaky return pipe removed and it's being pressure tested and any rust cut out and re plated/leaded. Works out alot cheaper than a new tank! They said it should be ready tomorrow.

Also stripped off the cambelt and backplate to investigate the oil leaks

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Nova_July_11.jpg

Harvey told me to check out the threaded core plugs in the end of the oil galleries in the side of the head. Circled here behind the pulley's...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Nova2_July_11.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Nova4_July_11.jpg

it does look as if they have been leaking, so I will check these out when I run it up again without the backplate on.

Also got another 8v sump gasket and the correct sized shorter bolts, but need to check the sump properly first for level.

Just bought a Mocal oil cooler setup aswell to keep the oil a bit cooler and thicker and hopefully help stop leaks lollol

Added bonus aswell tonight as I got a trailer stabliser setup from my father in law as he was chucking it out. Will hopefully keep the car abit more stable as it was swaying a little on the trailer

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Nova3_July_11.jpg

The Simps

12-07-11, 11:25 PM

Glad to see you're using and abusing this dude!

MattBrown

13-07-11, 05:56 PM

You tow it with a mk4 astra?

Is that legal?

If I've missed something, and it is, then you have made my day!

Iain

13-07-11, 06:00 PM

Those oil gallery bolts look quite far out to me, maybe they were forgotten about when reconning the head? Let me dig through my pics to see if I have any of mine fitted.

Edit: Meh mine look like they stick out a bit too maybe not!

nova ian

13-07-11, 07:08 PM

You tow it with a mk4 astra?

Is that legal?

If I've missed something, and it is, then you have made my day!

I haven't towed it with the van yet as I haven't yet got a towbar for it... But the I've looked into the weights and all seems legit. I only have a single axle trailer too that is literally only just big enough to fit the nova on.

My dad towed it for me for me with a Passat estate and that coped fine, said it didn't know it was there :thumb:

Harvey

14-07-11, 08:52 AM

nova ian

14-07-11, 09:08 AM

I would remove both oil way core plugs and clean the threads with white spirits or similar and then pop them back in with Loctite of PTFE tape to properly seal them up. Running the engine up to temp might not show the leaks as the engine may need to be under load i.e. driven.

Cheers Harvey, deffo going to take them out and reseal them, you may have a point about it just idling and not leaking, but with the cover off I'll be able to see if anything is getting out there if it does leak. Fingers crossed I'm able to solve it as it's the only thing stopping me from using it! Hopefully when it's done we'll be able to get on track with the astra too :)

Harvey

15-07-11, 08:27 AM

Hopefully when it's done we'll be able to get on track with the astra too :)

I hope so as I've hardly used it this year and covered less then 200 miles. I'll start squirreling away some pennies for a track day. Ideally I'd like a full day open pit but not too bothered where.

nova ian

28-07-11, 11:18 PM

edited due to video being removed from youtube!

nova ian

26-02-12, 08:59 PM

Well it's been a very long time coming but the nice weather this weekend inspired me to actually dig out the nova and start sorting it out ready for this years trackdays!

After the last trackday at Donnington I had 2 issues that needed addressing, 1 a fuel leak and 2 a big oil leak that has plagued me from day 1 lol

The fuel leak has been sorted, petrol tank was taken to a local radiator repair place who removed my return pipe (Which is where it was leaking from) and also pressure tested it and gave it a coat of stone guard paint. This has been refitted along with a new low pressure glass inline filter.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/IMG_1087.jpg
Return pipe was at the top in this pic

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/IMG_1088.jpg
Freshly painted and repaired tank ready for fitting

Since this got refitted I pretty much gave up on the nova and it sat unloved! But yesterday I finally got to the bottom of the oil leak. I was given a special flaw detector spray from a friend who works at ZF. It's a spray that when applied is clear, but as it dries it becomes like a white chalky like texture.

So first up the cambelt and backplate were all sripped off again and cleaned and degreased the side of the engine. Then gave the engine and backplate a generous coat of the spray and reassembled. Ran the car for about 5 mins (Which burst into life first time with a touch of choke :d) and then began the stripping process again!

Here are the results:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-1-3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-3-2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-2-3.jpg

Obvious conclusion is rocker cover gasket! Can't believe how much it's leaking. So when payday arrives I'll be getting a new gasket sorted, fit my oil cooler and new sump gasket and then fingers crossed it'll be leak free and ready for some more track action. Can't wait to get cracking on it again now seeing as I actually have an obvious problem to solve rather than guess work.

Ian

Iain

26-02-12, 09:05 PM

You have no idea how happy I was when you rang to tell me this was resolved, can't believe it was the freaking rocker gasket after all those seals you replaced!

When are we going to Donington then?

nova ian

26-02-12, 09:11 PM

Cheers Iain. You don't know how happy I was! lol

As for Donnington it will be sooner rather than later, we've got to get some testing in with the Radical and Ste wants to get the teg out there again, so we will be looking at getting something booked in the near future. Just need to sort the towbar on the van too :)

Balley

26-02-12, 10:20 PM

Wow that spray looks handy!

Harvey

22-03-12, 11:22 AM

Super duper dude, glad you finally got to the bottom of the issue. I recommend you only stick to decent quality rocker gaskets from here forth. I only use Elring as they supply Vauxhall, or so I'm lead to believe. You can get them at less then half the Vauxhall price from here (http://www.vauxhallworldparts.com/vauxhall.php?partnumber=90466638&partid=453), never had mine leak.

Adam

25-03-12, 06:35 PM

That sprays one of those stupidly simple, but great ideas lol

nova ian

04-04-12, 09:18 PM

Been treating the nova to some goodies aswell as doing a few more bits to it since finding my oil leak.

Package number 1 courtesy of - www.performanceleads.co.uk
Custom silicon ignition leads which have been made longer to suit my cav dizzy with the proper vauxhall ends. Should help it run a bit smoother as the last set had a poor connection due to wrong plug ends. Excellent service from these guys all done via phone/post, and brilliant price. Very happy with them.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-12.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-1-4.jpg

Also had a play with my oil cooler. Decided it is going to be mounted here

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-2-4.jpg

and pipes as so...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-3-3.jpg

The pipes needed shortening and some 90 degree fittings on the oil filter end, so took them to Pirtek who swaged the new ones on. So need to get this all fitted up. New rocker cover gasket has been fitted and sump gasket with correct length shorter bolts. So all starting to come together.

Finally the car has been booked in to be setup on 12 May at a local rolling road and tuning specialist. The bloke doing it has done loads of these engines on bike carbs, webber carbs, tbs etc etc... as he does alot of autograss cars, so looking forward to getting it running at it's best. After speaking to him about my setup I decided to take some of his advice on board and ordered a new airfilter which he has had the best results with. So I'm waiting on mr postman for this to turn up

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/kn_universal-airbox.jpg

Finally I've also bought and fitted a towbar to the van, so can tow the car without having to rely on my dad all the time :d

So after it's all sorted it will then be trackday time for the summer/good weather. Cannot wait! :thumb:

Prey

04-04-12, 09:52 PM

Nice work on the cooler, are you drilling some holes in the bumper for airflow to it?

(Hi its Iain by the way)

nova ian

04-04-12, 09:58 PM

Hello you random profile hacking serial poster! Lol

Yes going to drill out some holes in the bumper :)

nova ian

09-04-12, 09:10 PM

Had a productive afternoon on the nova today. Few more jobs crossed off the list ready for the rolling road day.

Oil Cooler brackets made up. Need some shorter bolts mind! They were all I had in stock! lol Also ordered some anti-vibration mounts for the cooler to brackets fastenings.
But still, good trial fit and pleased with the position and fitting

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-13.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-2.jpg

And Pipes worked out just as planned too

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo5-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo4-2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3-3.jpg

Grille still fits with no trimming required, which is a bonus. However the bumper will need some cut-outs around the unions/pipes I think

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo11.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo12.jpg

With the cooler all done I moved onto my new airbox. Got the holes marked up and cut out of the baseplate. It was alot easier to cut with it being a thick plastic, when compared to that of the old ITG backing plate which was metal. Made a neater job of it with no silicon required! lol

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo6-1.jpg

The eagle-eyed will notice that the holes aren't in the centre, but this is A: So the bonnet will still go on, and B: to miss my fuel pressure guage!

All fastened up on the carbs

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo7.jpg

And filter all clipped in place

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo10.jpg

Love the look of the bay with this filter on :cool: and as planned the bonnet went on a treat with no clearance problems

Benn

09-04-12, 09:34 PM

Nice work on the filters.

Iain

09-04-12, 09:56 PM

Filter looks very motorsport! Are those hoses staying attached to the tiebar?

nova ian

09-04-12, 10:09 PM

Filter looks very motorsport! Are those hoses staying attached to the tiebar?

Possibly yea! Do you think it'll be a problem them being there? I suppose if there fastened to the bodywork they can't move, but there not interfering with anything there and even if there's some movement there not under any stress.

nova ian

17-04-12, 11:27 PM

Received my anti-vibration mounts for the oil cooler, also picked up some shorter bolts for the brackets I made up.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-14.jpg

Will get the cooler bolted up for good this weekend, bumper trimmed and fitted. Dash back together as I had to put a new battery in it. Then fill it up with oil, start it and check there is no more leaks!

Then get it washed and ready for its graphics ;)

Iain

18-04-12, 10:07 AM

What graphics!!!???

nova ian

18-04-12, 10:32 AM

Did I not show you the design? :confused:

Iain

18-04-12, 11:21 AM

Yeah you did sorry just forgot.

http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/1855/2361/4636180005_medium.jpg

nova ian

18-04-12, 12:55 PM

Well that's ruined the grand unveiling

Thanks Iain :roll:

OllieKing

18-04-12, 04:02 PM

Best thread iv seen in a while! keep it up!

nova ian

22-04-12, 10:03 PM

More jobs done this weekend. Despite getting the anti-vibration bolts for the oil cooler I opted against them and just bolted it up solid onto the brackets. Basically because this way it doesn't require the grille to be cut, and also because it sits almost perfectly inline with the cut out in the GTE bumper. I do need to do some quite severe trimming of the inside of the bumper though to make it fit. Pics to follow for that.

Only pics I got were of a switch I fitted for my digital dash. Not really needed but I've noticed when turning the car off there seems to be a slight back feed sometimes to the dash, so thought this way it'll keep the dash safe.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-1-5.jpg

and the next is the fitting of an all important sticker lol

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-2-5.jpg

Other things I did were...
- Ran a new length of wire to the oil pressure gauge as the previous one had a join in which I wanted to get rid of with some nice new fresh wire.

- Wired up the fuel gauge the correct way this time lol It now reads empty when the ignition is turned on, which is accurate as there is less than a gallon in the tank, so touch wood thats sorted. Previously it was reading full when the ignition was turned on.

- Washed the car, wheels and under all the arches, also splashed a bit of polish around the engine bay and Rain-x'd my windscreen.

- Filled it with oil and ran it up for 10 minutes and took it all the way up and down the drive lol So far there doesn't appear to be any obvious leaks, and was left with a clean drive and garage floor. So touch wood I've finally managed to eliminate my oil leak.

I'll get some more pics later in the week when I get the bumper back on, but other than that it's pretty much ready for the rolling road tuning session next month

Harvey

23-04-12, 09:18 AM

Good work sir. Instead of the bobbins try using some rubber tap washers between the front panel and brackets as they are only around 3mm thick, I did this and it works a treat.

Prey

23-04-12, 10:09 AM

Good work sir. Instead of the bobbins try using some rubber tap washers between the front panel and brackets as they are only around 3mm thick, I did this and it works a treat.

thats a neat idea!

looking good ian and great that you've finally nailed the leak!

nova ian

24-04-12, 10:07 PM

Got the bumper cut out and back on this evening, along with the grille. Here's a few pics of the progress and as it stand at the mo. A little disheartened as there's still a slight weep of oil on the sump and a couple of spots on the garage floor. Just going to keep my eye on it. No where near as bad as it was though!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-15.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3-4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo4-3.jpg

Count Vaux Alot

24-04-12, 10:33 PM

I like
:)

BRoadGhost

24-04-12, 10:39 PM

Oil coolers scare me.

nova ian

30-04-12, 10:15 AM

Decided to have ago at some arts and crafts this weekend, so I bugged my mum for a fairy washing up liquid bottle (Other washing up liquids are available!)... But she wouldn't let me have one, so I got on with making some graphics up for the nova instead! lol

This is just part of what I have planned for it, but so far I'm happy with the outcome. Will hopefully tie in well with the colour scheme and totally transform the look of the car.

First up I got the design knocked up as a vector image and got it cut out. Then it was a case of putting all the pieces of the puzzle together!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-16.jpg

mmmm shiney!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-4.jpg

one down, one to go!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3-5.jpg

All taped up and ready for application, hopefully we'll get some sunshine or atleast no rain! then I'll get them all fitted
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo4-4.jpg

Prey

30-04-12, 11:11 AM

that's going to look amazing mate - really looking forward to seeing it on! btw i've been meaning to call you about some more stickers all last week but forgot....

nova ian

30-04-12, 11:14 AM

Cheers Alan, No probs, I keep meaning to call you about web stuff too lol just been really busy just lately and not had chance to sort anything for it! Give us a shout about the stickers though

Jedro

30-04-12, 11:19 AM

great stuff matey

nova ian

05-05-12, 07:34 PM

Well unsuccessful day today, all my hard work on the main graphics didn't pay off! Had my first attempt at applying such a big graphic using wet application as I knew doing it dry would be a nightmare.

Started off well, but the awkward curves around the arch got the better of me! Ended up with some creases :( Me being the perfectionist I am though, wasn't happy, so it got screwed up and binned! lol Its a learning curve though and I think I would have been better off layering the colours on the car, as the vinyl would have been thinner and more maneuverable. Got to learn from my mistakes! So eventually I'll have another go at it. Did really like the design mind, thought it transformed the look of the car. (Big thanks to Ste for the help with these aswell :thumb:)

Still made a few other little stickers up and got them on, here's a few pics

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-3-4.jpg

Some touring car style numbers, but with a subtle twist, actually my initials instead of a number! ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-4-2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-5-2.jpg

nova ian

11-05-12, 11:13 AM

Final preparations done for this weekends rolling road session and up and coming trackday done last night.

First thing was looking at my front coilovers, which appeared to have naff all travel. I had put some bumpstops on when I first got them, but I have a feeling they were too big! As Avo don't recommend them anyway. So binned them. Also noticed a step at the top of the piston which my trusty sidekick with his wrongly spelt version of my name (Cheers for the help and advice Iain (And Karl seeing as your a member on here too now!)) and I thought could do with a spacer to stop the spring top hat getting caught in the gap.

So got someone local I knew to knock me up a couple on his lathe.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo6-2.jpg

Said step at the top of the piston

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-5.jpg

Top hat, new spacer and previously made spacer followed by top mount locating spacer. Job done, and ready to be refitted to the car.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-17.jpg

Next I moved on to the trailer which needed a few tweaks. Firstly winch needed swapping to the opposite side and moving further back.

Winch Gone

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo7-1.jpg

And in its new posistion, also fitted the stabliser bracket

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo8-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo9-1.jpg

Followed by a new jockey wheel as this one looks a bit sorry for it's self. The previous owner of the trailer left it down and drove off!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo11-1.jpg

Shiney new one all fitted

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo10-1.jpg

Next up I moved back to the coilovers. Bolted back in the top mount.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo12-1.jpg

Next up I compressed them to check clearance of the oil cooler lines. Looks all good to me, plenty of room, anyone think it'll be a problem having them routed here?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo13.jpg

Fitted a D-link to front tow eye to make getting the winch hook on easier

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/towphoto.jpg

And last of all noticed a new job that had appeared on my list, as added by Iain! lollol

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo14.jpg

So other than strap the car on the trailer I'm good to go :thumb:

Benn

11-05-12, 06:59 PM

Coming on well. Graphic look cool.

Iain

11-05-12, 07:10 PM

Do you still need that other spacer between the gold step and the new one now you've got the new one?

Glad to see you've kept my addition to the list, its not too late to cancel your carb setup lol

RobC20LET

11-05-12, 08:04 PM

Nice work mate, actually like the graphics too! Shame they got creased yet its all good practice.
I had the cooler pipes run like that on a corsa let and they were fine but mine was cabletied together every two inch to make abit more ridgid and help stop movement. Good luck with the RR.

Rob.

nova ian

13-05-12, 10:03 PM

Well what a weekend! The nova went to have the carbs setup at a local tuning/rolling road garage. Thankfully all went well and it didn't blow up on the rollers, thank god! lol

The guy that set it up really knew his stuff as he has been setting up autograss cars for over 25 years varying from twin carbs to bike carbs etc. His rollers are an odskool setup with two big gauges that show the power etc. So no fancy digital printout! Not that I wanted one to be honest. Although I was interested in the power it would make (who wouldn't be!?) the whole purpose of it going there was to have it setup properly and make sure it runs at its best regardless of BHP.

So all loaded and ready to go, nice sunny day for a change aswell!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-6.jpg

All strapped on the rollers and ready to go! My god was I nervous at this point
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-18.jpg

He began with a base run, getting all the info he needed to go forward and tune the carbs. This didn't happen straight off though. After taking it up only a couple of thousand revs he said he didn't want to go any further and load it up as it was pinking very badly. The ignition timing was massively out and this had to be sorted first. He pointed out that if I had continued to run it as it was, it was only a matter of time before it blew up! Eventually the ignition timing was sorted after a few tweaks and the initial base run was done. From here it was just a case various different tweaks to the carbs to achieve the optimum performance and balanced air/fuel ratio through the rev range. Once he was happy with it he gave it two final power runs and got me a figure. It made 172bhp at 6500rpm which I was more than happy with.

Now I know there are bound to be doubters out there that would argue the figure, but as said in the beginning, I wasn't fussed what it made aslong as it was above the standard 150bhp and that it was running at it's best. After test driving it around the industrial estate believe me it certainly does feel 110% better. The power delivery is just there instantly where as before it was alot flatter (And I thought it was quick then!lol) Its evident now that a LSD is needed and I'm pretty sure one will be in it soon!

Only two problems from the day were that the gearlinkage has gone sloppy again, but has been diagnosed as a loose pin on the linkage assembly (Cheers Iain, well spotted!) and secondly I still have oil leak issues :( All be it not anywhere near as bad as before, but still needs investigating.

I took one video whilst I was there, might not be brilliant as it was only off the phone. All in all though I am a happy bunny, and really pleased with the car. The guy said he was impressed with how well turned out it was and that I had a very strong engine. So good feedback. I'll leave you with the video.

Cheers
Ian

http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/?action=view&current=26491c03.mp4

Harvey

14-05-12, 11:43 AM

Fantasic dude and I bet your well pleased, shame about the ikle oil leak.

nova ian

14-05-12, 09:38 PM

Fantasic dude and I bet your well pleased, shame about the ikle oil leak.

Yes I'm really pleased, didn't think it'd do aswell as it did!

Got the linkage pin secured again and now have a positive shifter again! Also started taking the exhaust off as I'm going to take the kink out as is rattling on the tunnel and annoying me.

Benn

14-05-12, 09:44 PM

Sounds lovely in the vid.

~~joycey~~

14-05-12, 09:53 PM

Of course it leaks oil its a red top lol

nova ian

14-05-12, 09:59 PM

Of course it leaks oil its a red top lol

lollol I have to agree with you but it seems to leak more than your average redtop!

nova ian

01-06-12, 05:05 PM

Better bring this topic up to speed

After the rolling road setup it was all systems go for trackday prep. Had a Cadwell Park booked for 30th May along with a few mates including Iain on here.

First up was to address the super heavy brake pedal. Research showed me that redrilling the pivot point 20mm higher gave a better pedal ratio when using a bias pedal box. So off it came, drilled and refitted. Just sitting in the car and pressing the pedal it felt loads better. But more on that later!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-19.jpg

Next up was to take the kink out the exhaust where it goes round the shifter housing, because it was knocking on the tunnel which was annoying! So with me having the cav internal shifter I opted for straightening it. Wasn't that simple, but with some technical drawings on cardboard I got there in the end!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3-7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo4-6.jpg

All painted up with VHT paint and some new Mikalor style clamps

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo5-3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo6-3.jpg

And fitted

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo7-2.jpg

Massive thanks to Iain for the help with the exhaust. Wouldn't have managed on my own, not enough hands! lol :thumb:

nova ian

01-06-12, 05:29 PM

With all my prep done I was ready for Cadwell.

Went the night before and camped over with Iain, Karl and Andy, and then the rest joined us in the morning to setup our pit area!

After we were all setup and signed on I got the car warmed up and took it for noise testing. The limit was 105db, the nova made 105db lol So looks like I need to re-modify my exhaust with a third silencer, or I have no chance at places like Donington with low noise limits!

Took the car out on sighting laps and instantly was not impressed with the brake pedal. It had gone from feeling like trying to push a brick wall to treading on a sponge. Although the brakes worked they gave a very vague feeling indeed, and I had no confidence to push with them. So the pedal was re-adjusted to the standard pivot, and again this gave different results again!? The pedal became sightly harder but not as it was originally which seemed odd. Also had to pump the pedal before you got a proper bite, was like I had major knock back on the pads. So I deffo need to look into the brakes.

My dad also took the car out and whilst he was driving we heard a massive klonk from the steering as he turned into the right hander for the mountain, annoyingly only a few feet passed the track exit! So we took a very steady drive back to the pits. After investigation the pre-load nut had lost a bit of tension and come slightly loose causing the rack to jump a tooth and lock out at a certain point. Got this sorted and gave it a test run around the pits and all was good so got back out there after lunch!

also on Lunch break Iain kindly lent me his 200lb rear springs to see what difference it made over my 150's. So got them fitted and the difference was really noticeable. So stiffening the rear and lowering the car more are part of my future plans.

All in all engine wise it never missed a beat even in the almost 30 degree heat :cool:
Power delivery is awesome and always there when needed throughout the rev range. Following Iain highlighted the need for a diff though as his cornering speed was massively different. If I tried to match it I just lit up one wheel and began to understeer and had to back off to get the grip back.

Still got some oil leak issues aswell so further investigation is needed into that. Thinking its just sump though as the rest of the engine at the top end was bone dry all day. Finally as I was taking the slicks off at the end of the day I noticed a strange clonking noise when rotating the front wheels. Basically the diff bearings have given up lol So maybe now is the time to upgarde ;)

Didn't take any pics on the day, but found this on the trackday organisers website.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/cadwell_park_trackday_32_20120530_1653559577.jpg

Iain

01-06-12, 05:40 PM

No probs with the help. Snap of yours with Coxy's Radical, which me and Ian were consistently beating throughout the day. Honest.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/617.JPG

Exhaust wise, I'd taken this along just incase you needed it, I think it reduced the noise on mine slightly although its a bit of a shonky fit! Yours has a fair way to come down to suit 98dB.

http://iainel.co.uk/images/forums/NovaWIP2a/382.JPG

nova ian

08-06-12, 02:16 PM

Managed to get hold of a replacement sump to try, but I'm unsure at the minute whether it will be ok or not. Wouldn't mind a bit of feedback and others opinions on it...

Sump bung thread looks as if it's been re-threaded/helicoiled, Do you think this would be up to the job, or be point of concern for leakyness? Does look as if it's been done well, but suppose the only proof will be trying it and see.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-20.jpg

The other thing I'm slightly more concerned about is the number of fine looking cracks all over the inside of the sump. They feel quite rough and scored to the touch

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-8.jpg

However... On the reverse side of this area there is no signs of the same cracks/imperfections.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3-8.jpg

The mating face looks good and looks to be level with the metal rule test. I thought about giving it a rub down with some wet an dry, or having it bead blasted, or would you leave as it is?

Does anyone else's sump have a similar look to this? As said after opinions on whether to use it or not, or look for another as I really want to sort these oil leaks and not have to continue chasing them after spending more money.

In theory I should have got photo's first, but you live and learn lol

Any opinions would be greatly appreciated on what I should do

Cheers
Ian

nova ian

08-06-12, 02:24 PM

Few more pic's of overall condition

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo2-9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo3-9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo4-7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo5-4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo6-4.jpg

Karl_

08-06-12, 02:57 PM

id say it was all good. helicoils are stronger than ally so its probably replaced someones attempt at tightening to stop a leak / not using a new crush washer.

the inside isnt an issue mate and lets face it, not likely to leak as much as the current one eh?

RobC20LET

09-06-12, 12:53 AM

As Karl said its good to go! The lines (cracks) inside are just casting marks, they all have them. You could clean up the mateing face up abit by looks of things but nothing to rough as to not remove the good stuff lol.

The helicoil looks good, as long as its not loose and is straight... Try with a new washer to torque it up to 55Nm and if it doesnt pull itself out, get it fitted :)

Adam

09-06-12, 12:35 PM

What brake setup are you using?

nova ian

10-06-12, 12:30 PM

What brake setup are you using?

Bias Pedal box with:

Front Master Cylinder: 5/8
Rear Master Cylinder: 3/4

Complete braided lines throughout with ATE Super racing Blue DOT 4 fluid.

Front Brakes:
Unknown 284mm Vented & Drilled Discs
Astra 256 Callipers spaced out with bigger v6 pads EBC red stuff carbon ceramic pads

Rear Brakes:
Standard Drums

This is a pic of my balance bar set biased to the front as far as I can go. However I have just set this now with the in-car adjuster as I noticed it was set pretty even and probably explains why there didn't seem to be any form of aggressive bite. Never adjusted this at the track as I had messed with the pedal ratios and didn't want to do too many things and loose track of where I was with it all. Think I need to give this setting ago as it seems to have stiffened the pedal feel up abit again. But without driving it I obviously can't gauge it properly.

Front Master Cylinder on the right
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/photo-21.jpg

The reason I can't get any more front bias is because the pushrod on the master cylinder has been cut down (Not by me) So there are not enough threads. I'm thinking I could swap the pushrods over or get a longer one for the front and adjust accordingly

Harvey

11-06-12, 09:27 AM

At rest the front m/c should have a longer adjusted pushrod than the rear. When braking the front pushrod travel further than the rear. I had a similar issue with my pedalbox until I adjusted the pushrods and now the bite is much better as the fronts are getting more pressure to them now.

There is some techie balance bar setup detail on the Wilwood site here http://www.wilwood.com/TechTip/TechPedalTip.aspx (http://www.wilwood.com/TechTip/TechPedalTip.aspx) (see halfway down the page) you may find it useful as it helped me when I was researching the pedal box setup.

MattBrown

12-06-12, 04:39 PM

Looking really good fella!

Keep it up and will be one of the fastest track novas about:)

nova ian

27-06-12, 12:51 PM

Small update, been collecting a few parts since Cadwell.

- Another sump pan
- New sump gasket/baffle
- Pair of 300lb rear coilover springs
- Camber Bolts
- Diff bearings
- Gearbox seal and gasket set
- And finally, my favourite part!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/664696a0.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/03f12c4f.jpg

Big thanks to steveboyslim on Mig for the diff :thumb:

Harvey

27-06-12, 01:30 PM

Get it fitted this evening and go play on some private land :d

Iain

27-06-12, 01:32 PM

Schwing, best mod ever, I'll be over at 6, should be test driving it by 8 lol

Benn

27-06-12, 06:05 PM

Ooooooo nice buy.

trackdaynova

05-07-12, 07:21 PM

what what old boy - nice to read the progress, rises and falls of the last few pages.

glad to see you're still cracking on with it.

looking forward to getting together still - do you have any further days booked?

I'm at Wittington on 22nd July

nova ian

25-07-12, 08:21 PM

So decided to drag this out last night and with the much appreciated help of Iain and Karl we had the box out

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/5365b03e.jpg

The standard diff has been removed after struggling to get an inner cv out, but Heman Iain just smashed it to smithereens and it was sorted! So ordered a new inner cv and an outer aswell as a spare.

Going to get the quaife in the box over the weekend so more updates then

Iain

26-07-12, 11:36 PM

Bish bash bosh lol Chore of a job but all good, looking forward to seeing pics of the diff fitted up with its new bearings and in the box!

Mieran

27-07-12, 12:32 AM

I fitted my diff with the box still in the car, much easier that way

nova ian

27-07-12, 09:22 AM

I fitted my diff with the box still in the car, much easier that way

I was going to do the same, but I thought I'd use the opportunity to check the end bearing cap and crank seal to see if that's where my oil leak is coming from :thumb:

nova ian

29-07-12, 09:07 PM

Got the diff in the box today. First off got everything cheaned up and the final drive gear swapped over onto the quaife. Then soaked the old diff speedo ring in boiling water, prayed it off gently and fitted that too.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/e649cace.jpg

New bearings, races and seals fitted too and the cleaned out box awaiting its new diff!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/df686762.jpg

All ready to go back in the car :)

Iain

29-07-12, 09:24 PM

Standard diff with a Quaife sticker lol Nice work, can't wait to race you at Blyton!

Benn

30-07-12, 10:53 AM

I have that screw driver set too...

Iain

28-08-12, 09:01 PM

Where's the update?!

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/523534_313275192103264_582688207_n.jpg

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/523099_313276155436501_1131194523_n.jpg

nova ian

28-08-12, 09:28 PM

OOoo pictures! :)

Update wise I have no pictures and due to my shares in use once only oil I cannot afford a video camera, so had no pics or vids to add! :(

Blyton went pretty well though. Oil leak is still present all be it alot lot smaller and in one area, so that's better although I really thought we'd cracked it this time!

Quaife Diff is money well spent, totally transformed the car! instead of loosing Iain in the corners as I understeered off previously, I am now able to keep up and get him worried! lol

Few problems still, fuel pump died, luckily this was near the end of the day anyway, speedo cable got cut through (not really a problem, just annoying!) and properly cooked the back brakes. The drums got so hot its burnt all the paint off and until they cooled it was as if the handbrake was applied and the car couldn't hardly be moved when pushed. It also melted the grease in the rear bearings to the point where its all over the wheels!! Anyone else ever had this problem? Discussed getting a bias valve to put in the rear brake line to knock down the rears some more. Also the suspension needs looking at too. A lower ride height and stiffer springs I think. It was lifting a rear wheel about a foot off the floor at times and there is far to much body roll, but thats just a case of development I guess.

Managed to pass some more expensive machinery in it though, M3, RX8 and an Elise so I'm doin something right! had a really good run with Iain where we both pushed very hard until I spun out lollol

Good fun day though, but as always car needs more attention and money spending on it!

Iain

28-08-12, 09:45 PM

I agree you were far too quick for your first outing with a new diff! lol Get yourself a video camera, our race would have been an epic video.

Still planning to paint the wheels orange?

Harvey

28-08-12, 09:49 PM

Still planning to paint the wheels orange?

Do it, do it now I demand it ;)

http://gt3rscape.bryangira.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/white-orange73444_1635235528342_1460322489_31567121_6361 877_n.jpg

nova ian

28-08-12, 10:04 PM

yes wheels are still going orange, just not had the pennies to sort it as yet! they have been rubbed down if thats ant consulation! lol

Benn

28-08-12, 11:27 PM

Videos are really needed.

turbojolt

12-09-12, 02:13 PM

just read through this build begin to end, top work on everything fella the prep photos at the begin of the build have really given me a better insight to what i need to do to mine

i will keep a eye out for this thread from now on :thumb:

nova ian

08-10-12, 01:02 PM

After Blyton all those months ago I thought now was the time to sort out the problems I had encountered.

First up, spotted this! So need a new one as it has started fraying!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Alt.jpg

Next was the problem with the rear brakes. They were basically getting seriously hot and sticking on until they had cooled. One hot drum!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Drum4.jpg

So whipped the drums off and here's what was left of the shoes!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Drum1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Drum2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Drum3.jpg

Not sure what to think at the moment other than I need new shoes! I'm not sure if it's doing it because:

a) Too much rear bias, athough pedal box was at least 85% to front
Possible Solution: Fit an inline bias

b) The adjuster is adjusting up everytime I'm braking hard and forcing the shoes to constantly sit against the drum
Possible Solution: Remove the adjuster lever and adjust manually every so often.

c) Having no handbrake cable is affecting adjustment?
Don't know whether this matters or not. The handbrake swing arm has been welded up so it doesn't interfere with the working of the drum as no cable attached.

So if anyone has any ideas on this I'd welcome suggestions!

Iain

08-10-12, 01:23 PM

My alternator belt turned itself inside out too and ran on the outside of the bottom pulley. I slackened the tension off and it's been fine since. We can get you a belt from Halfords if you want, they're about £2!

Benn

08-10-12, 01:38 PM

Does the alt not touch the leg too? Looks like its mm off... I thought the hand brake cable did hold the shoes in a bit (as it's an **** to fit) but i might be wrong.

nova ian

08-10-12, 03:08 PM

Does the alt not touch the leg too? Looks like its mm off... I thought the hand brake cable did hold the shoes in a bit (as it's an **** to fit) but i might be wrong.

Alternator pic is a bit of an illusion! there's masses of space between the pulley and chassis leg as it's been cut out and boxed in.

As said, rear brakes is a strange one as I've never heard of anyone having problems like this before!?

Harvey

09-10-12, 08:36 AM

Shift light will be fine spliced into the single rpm wire. My ECU rpm feed has shift light+LCD tacho+AutoMeter tacho+EPAS all off the one feed and no problems.

nova ian

19-10-12, 05:52 PM

Been collecting a couple of bits to get it running again and also to improve things.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10DDC59F-620B-412C-9278-208894769BF6-8502-000006C4BFF2AF50.jpg

4.5psi max Facet silver top pump and a nice stack oil pressure gauge. Also dropped my dash off to Prey at flockingfantastic.co.uk to be flocked in black. Will look loads better once he has worked his magic!

nova ian

28-10-12, 05:58 PM

Update time again, first off an out of blue phone call from a friend prompted me to do this... Remove my current front brake setup and swap for a Wilwood 4 pot setup. They are the 4 pot dynalite callipers with ally nova mounts and greenstuff pads (Although these will be changed), and 280mm drilled discs.

Lastly I got my dash back from Al at flockingfantastic.co.uk Looks really really good. Should make the inside look loads better.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/B5752EAD-038A-428F-B32A-6FE47ADF143E-14065-00000B554A2D03AA.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/3D817AB5-B7F7-4B6A-A821-17F22B3608B7-14065-00000B5553B75079.jpg

turbojolt

28-10-12, 06:08 PM

nice brakes, will they fit behind your current wheels or will they be getting changed aswell?

nova ian

28-10-12, 06:10 PM

nice brakes, will they fit behind your current wheels or will they be getting changed aswell?

Yes they will fit, the discs are actually 4mm smaller than my old setup!

LiquidPug

28-10-12, 06:54 PM

But yesterday I finally got to the bottom of the oil leak. I was given a special flaw detector spray from a friend who works at ZF. It's a spray that when applied is clear, but as it dries it becomes like a white chalky like texture.

Hi Iain - been meaning to ask you about this for a while. I've searched & searched, but can't find anything that looks / sounds like the spray you used, can you remember what is was called?

Nice brake upgrade btw, not jealous at all ;)

nova ian

28-10-12, 08:30 PM

How's it going Steve? And it's Ian spelt correctly not Iain who makes up for his lack of induction by cramming as many vowels into his name as possible! ;)

Pretty sure this is the stuff. I remember my mate saying when they used it at ZF they used it with a dye and a reacted, but just the flaw spray alone is all I used and it worked a treat as the pics I posted showed!

www.cromwell.co.uk/SOL7320240K

LiquidPug

28-10-12, 08:58 PM

Thought the Ian / Iain / Eion was the running gag? :p

Cheers for the info - saw the two / three part developer stuff with the dye, but wasn't sure if it was the same. Trying to find a water leak rather than an oil leak, but think it should work the same.

Cheers :thumb:

Iain

29-10-12, 05:53 PM

Thought the Ian / Iain / Eion was the running gag? :p

The only joke is Ian's ability to spell.

Dash looked awesome when I picked it up, and I'm well jealous of the brakes. You're mad if you want to try and do another trackday before the end of the year tho!

nova ian

01-11-12, 12:06 AM

Not done anymore to the nova, although been preparing a good friends F600 autograss car which I'm going to be racing this weekend. Can't wait!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/D1F010B8-13F9-4F76-A8EB-33720B599DAE-1388-000000C57673CDC1.jpg

It's got a Honda CBR600 engine but will be grouped with the class 8 specials which run a Busa, so doubt I'll be doing any winning! lol, however there will be a few more F600 too so will have some close competition. Going to be a different experience to the nova but will be awesome none the less!!

Calamity Josh

01-11-12, 09:05 AM

Harvey

01-11-12, 11:22 AM

Stop tarting around and get the Nova out to play. Have fun at the weekend ;) is it a local event and if so when and where?

nova ian

01-11-12, 11:25 AM

Not really local, its at the Northampton Stadium on Saturday, so not too far

NOV4_SPORT

01-11-12, 12:16 PM

The callipers look good mate I have the 280mm set up on mine and it's a really good set up imo

That F600 looks like a lot of fun !

nova ian

04-11-12, 09:35 PM

So Saturday was my first time out competitively in the F600. Had a few issues to sort before scruteneering, replaced the battery, and mended a broken fuel line. But got it all sorted and the all important pass sticker! So minutes later I was strapped in and out in the que for practice session 1. All went well and was blown away how quick it is! Even though the Busa's (class 8s) were steaming past! lol

Was a bit too stiff though all round. Turned in well but the back end was coming round to much. So we softened it up and let some air out the tyres and off I went for another 3 sessions getting quicker and more confident everytime.

They called the final practice of the day and thought the more time I get in the seat before racing the better, however it wasn't to be. Going into the first corner I had a class 8 pass me on the inside, so I backed off and moved out to give him space but he decided to bury the throttle and kick it out sideways as he was near my front wheel. So as I'd powered on to thinking he was clear, we ended up interlocking wheels with the result of my car being fired up in the air and continuing to roll twice until it stopped on its side next to the fence! I was ok, bit bruised today but safety wise car took it really well. Rest of it is a bit of a mess but fixable.

Heres A few pics

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/7EB27BD5-D756-45CB-B44E-5F722595457E-2111-000001162C8551DB.jpg

Bent one of the front bars and suspension top mounts

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/B937BBEF-E48B-4BEF-A673-3735CCF9FA5E-2111-000001163E6CA12F.jpg

Ripped a rear wheel off and Knackered wheel

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/982FAFD7-1B04-4F73-84E7-E9EFA8B071B2-2111-0000011685D1366E.jpg

Cracked the bottom of the chassis due to trailing arm damage

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/4C85D934-A7F8-4AC8-98A3-D001ECF89D97-2111-0000011648DAEF51.jpg

Some roof damage

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/48A936F4-9A49-4E3D-9446-F543BFF4B685-2111-000001165BF45DE9.jpg

Bent and broke rear arm

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/BED76C53-89A9-40A8-AED0-DC9F050E3106-2111-0000011673107DC4.jpg

Made a start on stripping it down this morning though and this is as it stands until we assess how we're going to rebuild it. As we might be updating the rear arm setup.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/937FAF0A-F2A8-4172-8516-43DAB767C934-2111-00000116A3FD281F.jpg

So I was quite lucky to not damage any shockers etc. so nova is going to take a back seat now as I need to repair this seeing as a. It's not my car and b. I made the mess! Sorry Ste :( It'll be back to life better than before though. And I can't wait to give it another go as I never made the race.