My Nova Build -WIP-

[nova ian]

Thought I'd finally get round to putting up my WIP thread for everyone to see.
Im doing a bareshell rebuild which will eventually house an XE. (I know its been done lots before, but always fancied building one!)

So here goes!! The build began with this 1.2 Merit which I found in a local Scrapyard of all places! After having a nosey around I thought sod it I will take it as it wasnt in that bad condition, and it didnt have a sunroof. So I swapped another 1.2 nova I had which was a 110% rust bucket and a small amount of cash, and trailored away my new shell. The main areas that were bad and tin worm had set in were, the slam pannel and passenger side rear arch, The drivers side rear arch and boot floor were solid.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/29042006006.jpg

Passenger Side rear arch, behind rub strip.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/29042006009.jpg

So that is the base for my project.

When I got it home

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14052006.jpg

[nova ian]

Since then I have stripped it down to a bare rolling shell.

Engine out
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/31072006001.jpg

Had to laugh, when you compare the 1.2 Lump with the jerry can behind!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/31072006003.jpg

Interior out, roof lining, interior pannels, Sound deadening removed, Dash out, and wiring loom labelled so i remember whats what! LOL
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/24092006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/24092006001.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006006.jpg

Also I have had a new front crossmember and slam pannel.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006014.jpg

And two new rear quarters
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006004.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006001.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006007.jpg

I also had any other bits that were a bit worse for wear plated up, such as the inner wings
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006012.jpg

[nova ian]

and today I have took a few more pics, and done abit more work.

The wiring loom has been removed.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006005.jpg

I also seam sealed the lips on the rear arches, which were rolled for me when the quartes were fitted. Also just gave a sweep out as there was loads of dust and bits everywhere.

Next on the list is to have my plating kit welded in, which I recieved the other day from Chris Astley Motorsport. And also sort the chasis leg for alternator clearance, aswell as move the drivers side front engine mount down a bit lower.

Thats about it so far. Took me about 6 months up to now as I dont get much time to work on it, but aiming to complete it for next summer.

I will update as and when I make some progress! Hope you enjoy.

Thanks. Ian. I will leave you with a few more pics.

Battery tray
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006010.jpg

Engine Bay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006009.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14102006008.jpg

Boot Floor
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/29042006008.jpg

[rednova]

looks like a good find there bud - keep the progress pics comin, looking good so far

Phil

[alistairolsen]

thats a damn good find for a scrapyard car!!

Glad to see youre doing it properly tho and not just covering up the rust!!

[Iain]

Can I ask who did the rear arches and if you can recommend their work as I'm looking to get mine fixed/replaced too. (Tried to PM you but your inbox is full ;))

Nice project by the way. :thumb:

[Wilson]

Thats a very good find for a scrappy car. looks like your doing everything properly aswell. good luck with it mate :thumb:

[staggy_gsi]

i would also like to know who did the rear quarters as my passenger side needs sorting. approx how much am i looking at? looking good anyway mate, keep it up and make sure you keep posting pics!

[nova ian]

Thanks for the interest. The body work was done by someone i know who works in bodywork. He did it as a side job for me in his spare time, and doesnt usually take that much work on, was only because I know him, So sadly i cant help you there guys. Sorry.

I will keep the topic updated, but as I have already said, I dont get to work on it as much as id like.

Ian

[General Baxter]

i would also like to know who did the rear quarters as my passenger side needs sorting. approx how much am i looking at?


i got quoted ?500 a side with out paint lol

[nova ian]

i got quoted ?500 a side with out paint lol

Jesus, I paid alot less than that for both quarters, front end and any other plaing that was done!

You just need to shop around. I had alot of silly quotes whilst I was looking

[draper]

theres a guy near me who quoted me ?150 a side including paint and from what ive heard about his work his brilliant - altho that qoute was last year

[General Baxter]

i got quoted high, as my arches were well gone, so if they cut them off to replace and found loads of rust, would be a lot of work they dont want to do, so they quote high prices

[nova ian]

Bit of an update,

Picked up a 6 point safety devices cage at the weekend, along with a spal slim line fan to keep things cool in the engine department!

Cars going to have the strengthening kit pu in and be seam welded as well as sorting the chasis leg for the alternator clearence. This is being done this saturday all being well, so pictures to follow over the coming weekend.

Ian

[Adam]

Some nice work there, nice one.

[craig green]

Good shell that.
Hope its going well.

[milkybargsi]

getting there will be good to see finished

[Riggy]

that shel is a million time better then some of the examples that you see on the road lol

and you dont have to have the drivers mount lowered , you can just use a conversion mount on it , only bout ?20 now aswell :thumb:

other then that there looks like some great progress goin on there , keep it up

[Chris Astley]

You got the plating kit fitted mate? any more progress pics?

Chris

[nova ian]

You got the plating kit fitted mate? any more progress pics?

Chris

Hoping to have that done this weekend mate, then will have some more pics.

Cheers for the interest guys.

[Dar]

Nice project. Looks like your really cracking on with it as well. Keep the piccys coming:thumb:

[Olli2004]

It's amazing the conditions of the shells you can find in a scrap yard!

Looks a really good project. Keep up the good work. Looking forward to seeing some more pics.

[nova ian]

Right, quick update, didnt complete all the strengthening and seam welding yesterday but thought i'd show some of the progress anyway.

We cleaned all the seam sealer from all the seams, and gave the areas that were getting welded a clean up. To do this we used a wire brush attachment for a drill and angle grinder, but then resulted to burning it out from right in the joins! got some of the strengthening plates in and thats about it.

Next saturday the rest of the plates will go in and the seam welding will be completed, aswell as the alternator clearence. So more pics next weekend. But heres a few of yesterdays progress.

Passenger side engine mount and cross member plate in place.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/28102006.jpg

Strut top plates in.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/28102006001.jpg

Drivers side engine mount plate and crossmember plate.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/28102006002.jpg

Thanks. Ian

[NOV4_SPORT]

looking good fella, keep it up, good find for a scrappy :)

[nova ian]

Bit more of an update. The clearance for the alternator has been sorted, and any holes found along the way were patched up. Then slapped some red oxide on to protect it until it gets painted.

Chasis Leg chopped out.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/04112006005.jpg

Then Plated up.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/04112006006.jpg

And as it satnds at the moment!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/04112006010.jpg

Ian.

[Martin]

Looking good mate.. what paint is that?

[nova ian]

Looking good mate.. what paint is that?

If you mean the reddy, orange coloured stuff, its just red oxide primer painted on with a brush, just to stop it rusting while its stood there.

Cheers. Ian

[nova ian]

Well not done any work on the nova since, but an update in parts!

Got my engine today, its got a load of paperwork with it, service books been stamped from first service until current mileage! (80k, from a G reg Mk2 astra GTE) and the person I bought it off has already had it in a nova that he never put on road so its a good engine and has everything I need to get it in mine. Its also come with a mantzel power cap, and brand new Green induction kit.

Sorry about the poor pics.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/18112006020.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/18112006021.jpg

Thanks. Ian

[greg1.4]

looking good mate! That engine sounds like a good one? Are you doing any other engine mods or will it be standard for just now?

[puss puss]

pure porn!

[nova ian]

For now the engines going to stay as it is, Just want to get the car built! but im sure im going to crave more power eventually!! lol

[matt_mph]

Very nice car mate :D can't wait to see it finished

[nova ian]

Well it has been a while! But finally pulled my finger out and made some progress on the nova seeing as the weather is getting better!!

Updates since last purchase wise is a full set of powerflex bushes.

As for the car I am getting it all cleaned up ready for the rest of the seams to be welded and the engine bay painting!

Found some holes:roll: But at suppose now is the best time to get them sorted!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/07042007107.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/07042007106.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/07042007105.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/07042007104.jpg

Also took the fuel tank and lines out, and removed both the doors. More pics to follow tomorrow and monday!

Ian

[nova ian]

Well some more steady progress today.

Got the underseal off from around the passenger side chasis legs and had a poke round for more holes as now seems the best time to find them! lol

So heres some pics!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/08042007112.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/08042007111.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/08042007109.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/08042007110.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/08042007108.jpg

And heres a hole i found in the passenger side rear arch behind the shocker

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/08042007114.jpg

Personally I didnt think its to bad underneath, and the repairs should be pretty straight forward in its present state.

Tomorrow is attack the drivers side underneath chasis legs etc! So more pics tomorrow.

Ian

[Dan 130]

cracking progress mate starting to look good already lol

[Iain]

Woohoo more progress, sucks about the rust holes but at least you'll know it's sound when you've finished.

[draper]

doesnt look to bad ian, looks like your working out in the countryside tho lol

[nova ian]

Monday's work saw the rest of the underseal off!!

I have now cleaned up all the chasis legs and arch seams that need seam welding up. What a pain of a job! lol I am glad i did though as its uncovered rust I wouldnt have realised was there, but now it can be all patched up and make what I think will be a strong rust free shell. So Im well pleased with this weekends progress!

Heres some more pics!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/09042007115.jpg

My mate Mike who kindly lent a hand and brought the car home for me on his trailor!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/09042007120.jpg

The workbench!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/09042007119.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/09042007118.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/09042007117.jpg

Drivers side chasis legs and rear arch.

Thats it until next weekend when there should be some quite dramatic progress. Cant wait!! All being well a 6 point safety devices cage will be in and all seam welding complete and finished off by the engine bay being painted.

Ian

[nova ian]

Update time!!

Really pleased with this weekends work as I am going to finish up with one strong and solid shell!:)

Was up nice and early on saturday and got the shell over to Toms who not ony did the welding for me but taught me to weld aswell! Top man:thumb:

Heres some pictures of the work so far, all be it not complete yet I am chuffed to bits with whats been done.

Some engine bay strengthening

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14042007124.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14042007123.jpg

Bulk head pannel removed and seam re welded for extra strength.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14042007131.jpg

Holes in the passenger front arch plated and Strengthening plates added to chasis and wishbone brackets, plus seams welded.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/15042007133.jpg

Competition time now, The first person to guess who is learning to weld in this pic wins a Bourbon Biscuit!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14042007127.jpg

Heres my attempts at welding.

First

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14042007126.jpg

And second which I was well pleased with!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14042007125.jpg

Then I went on a hole blowing spree! lol

Rear passenger arch seams welded and hole plated

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/15042007132.jpg

A view of inside the car, shows where has been welded.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/15042007134.jpg

And Strut top strengthening.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/15042007136.jpg

As I've already said, really pleased with the progress.

Many Thanks to Tom for the work, help, and hospitality.:thumb:

Ian

[draper]

mincing at its best eh

sorry again i couldnt make it sunday

[tom reid]

Ian cutting out the bulkheadhttp://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w195/tomreid/CD4.jpg

[tom reid]

Draper and I thought Ian was taking too long cutting out the bukkhead, so we made him hurry it up

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w195/tomreid/CD5.jpg

[nova ian]

lol lol lol

[bigbened]

any more pucs of cutting the bulkhead, or a little goide as to where to cut as im doing mine soon

[tom reid]

Sorry mate, I've no decent photo's of a complete bulkhead.
If your cutting it out and NOT welding across the seam, I would leave about an inch of the b/head in place above the seam.
If you are welding the seam, carefully cut just above the seam and then linish it down to the seam, ready for welding.
If you need any help, don't hesitate to ask

[nova ian]

Well thought I'd put up a few new goodies I have aquired!

Cav shifter donated from a mate who stripped his cav:D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01052007143.jpg

Power Flex tie bar bushes

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/03052007147.jpg

Power Flex TCA arm bushes

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/03052007148.jpg

Still waiting on the rear bushes, should have them soon though.

Next is I thought I'd start to freshen up my 16v callipers. Gave them a good wire brush up and got the old paint off, and also slipped on one and split the piston seal! lol BUT I was going to re do the seals anyway.

So from this

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/03052007144.jpg

To this

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/03052007145.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/03052007146.jpg

Should be getting the seam welding completed within the next few weeks too all being well:)

Ian

[craig green]

Cracking pictures & diary.

good luck with the rest of it.

CG

[Rob77]

Looking spot on mate!

[nova ian]

Well its update time again, and this time im well chuffed as it actually looks as if its taking shape. Really happy with it as it stands:)

Anyway here goes! The rest of the seam welding complete

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/12052007182.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/12052007183.jpg

Hole that was in the corner of boot floor plated

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/12052007184.jpg

Interior seam welded, and if you notice that the standard seat mounts are there, this is because there will be more than just me driving this so need to keep the seat adjustable.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007186.jpg

Drivers side front arch and chasis leg, holes plated and seams welded and strengthening plates in place

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/12052007185.jpg

Now for the big bit!! We trial fitted the cage and I made up the mounting plates, then my final decision was to weld the cage in as it will be stronger than bolting, so in it went! Had the porter power on it as well and go it nice and tought and got it welded in place.

One of the main hoop mounting plates welded in and cage sat on.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007187.jpg

welded and red oxided!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007191.jpg

Front cage leg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007194.jpg

[nova ian]

Cage in Place good and proper!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007188.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007189.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007195.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007193.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/13052007192.jpg

Finally, I purchased this Quick release race spec column tonight.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14052007196.jpg

Just a few more seams to be welded, other strut top boxed in and few other bits and bobs and I can get the car prepped and ready for paint, but will be a while before that yet! need to save some money! lol

Really happy with the car as it stands though a its finally making good progress.

Cheers
Ian

[kevster]

sweet good job really wish i just had the space to do all this :(

[draper]

looking good fella :thumb:

[tom reid]

A few more pics of the weekends workhttp://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w195/tomreid/ian.jpg

[tom reid]

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w195/tomreid/ian6.jpg

[tom reid]

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w195/tomreid/ian4.jpg

[tom reid]

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w195/tomreid/ian2.jpg

[tom reid]

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w195/tomreid/ian1.jpg

[nova ian]

Well little update, been spending again!!

Got myself a little welder so I can start practicing :) (boy do I need it!!)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/31052007213.jpg

Also a TRS 5 point Harness

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/31052007214.jpg

Thats it for now.
Ian

[draper]

same welder as me ian lol

[SRimon]

bloody great project

keep an eye on this one, will one day do a welding course and find me a nova to do this too!

[Dan 130]

lol the handle on the welder looks like someone put an axe through it great project looks goog

[tom reid]

I can feel some more welding lessons coming on.lol :thumb:
Bring the welder with you, on the next visit Ian.

[nova ian]

Well this weekend I made a start on the engine. Wanted to whip the head off and check everything was ok in there and headgasket etc. Also I was planning on doing the cambelt, water pump and generally give it a tidy up. Aswell I just wanted to take an engine to bits as I've never done it before and want to learn so thought this was a good opportunity!!lol

Heres some pics

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10062007225.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10062007223.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10062007222.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10062007224.jpg

[nova ian]

Cams

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10062007226.jpg

In the ports there is some oil that has been coming up from the block, so a new set of rings are in order!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10062007230.jpg

You can see here on the valves evidence of this too

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10062007231.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/10062007232.jpg

Head gasket was in good order, no signs of deteriation, so alls well really. Next is to strip the head, and start cleaning everything up. Well chuffed that i'm making some constructive progress now. Thanks to my mate steve who gave me a hand too!

Cheers
Ian

[Rob77]

The thing on the sump is the oil level sender for the oil level gauge on the 'digi dash'. If you are using a digi dash, connect it, if not, snip it off at the sump.

[nova ian]

Cheers Rob:thumb:

Ian

[nova ian]

Not much to report, however I have stripped the head and have mostly been lapping in valves! very fun job :thumb: Also cleaned up some parts, sump etc so its nice and clean for when needed!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/20072007241.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/20072007242.jpg

Purchase wise I picked these up for future use

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/20072007244.jpg

Also waiting on a pair of magnum bucket seats from Gazz on here :thumb:

Should be getting a set of Avo coilovers as well from Chris Astley.

So just been collecting parts really, but it will all be needed soon!

[gazz]

look like your getting on well with this one..

seats will be with you soon as...:thumb:

[Iain]

Nice one, looks like some good progress and not slacking too much. :p

Did you get the welder new? I've been looking at them since finding more rust on mine and was wondering how you're getting on with learning how to weld. :)

[Adam]

Awesome thread this, proper hardcore amount of welding gone into it lol
Looking good.

Do you and tom fancy coming mine and giving me some welding tips? lol

[craig green]

Great work. Coming on well & agree with the 'lots of welding' remark.

[nova ian]

Nice one, looks like some good progress and not slacking too much. :p

Did you get the welder new? I've been looking at them since finding more rust on mine and was wondering how you're getting on with learning how to weld. :)

Cheers dude,

I bought the welder off my brother but he bareley used it as it wasn't powerful enough for what h needed it for. Not had chance to use it yet mind!

Thanks for the rest of the comments people :thumb:

[tom reid]

Not much to report, however I have stripped the head and have mostly been lapping in valves! very fun job :thumb: Also cleaned up some parts, sump etc so its nice and clean for when needed!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/20072007241.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/20072007242.jpg

Purchase wise I picked these up for future use

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/20072007244.jpg

Also waiting on a pair of magnum bucket seats from Gazz on here :thumb:

Should be getting a set of Avo coilovers as well from Chris Astley.

So just been collecting parts really, but it will all be needed soon!

Good man!!, you know it makes sense, I'd better sort you out a manifold then.

[nova ian]

Had these Shiney new news through from Chris Astley Motorsport today.

Full Set of AVO Coilovers, with 300lb front springs. Should help in the handling department!

Well chuffed with them:D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/25072007245-2.jpg

[Iain]

Very nice indeed! Looks like a mighty fine suspension setup.

[Ash]

ah, the wicked new ones. old ones where very good, but no one looked after them and complained, these new ones are **** hot.

[draper]

its true, you have more money than sense lol

coilovers look spangly :thumb:

[LEWI007]

how's it doing now then any progress it's looking mint.

[nova ian]

Well not done anything as Ive been off on me hols for two weeks, although my seats turned up just before I went, BIG thanks to Gazz for them, well chuffed with them, there sooooooo light!!!

Heres a pic with my harness on one of them

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/27072007248.jpg

Need to stop slacking now im back and get something done! lol

Will update as soon as!

Cheers. Ian

[krobinson]

Just had a quick read through, projects moving along nicely! Have you picked a colour for the shell?

Keith

[nova ian]

Thanks Kieth, as for the colour, yes I have picked a colour, wasn't going to say, but what the hey!lol

Going for pineapple yellow, what the astra sport came in, and having gloss black wheels and bumpers.

I've always liked the colour as its not a in your face yellow, more of a pastel colour. Just wanted to do something that to my knowledge isn't a very common colour on novas.

Ian

[Iain]

Sexy 5 point harnesses! They all FIA approved?

[vaughanmc]

Ooooh I can't wait to see this one -- Same colour scheme as I want mines

But except for yellow and black I want yellow and grey :D

[nova ian]

Sexy 5 point harnesses! They all FIA approved?

Dunno! lol, they were good enough for a 500bhp F1 stock car so im sure they will be more than capable of keeping me where I should be!!

Thanks for the comments:thumb:

[nova ian]

Another few goodies picked up tonight, Pair of Strengthened TCA's and a set of goodridge braided hoses

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/23082007292.jpg

This weekend I will be getting a full set of TAS solid engine mounts and some side mounts and subframes for the seats.

So parts wise its coming together! Just need to get the actual physical stuff movinglol

More "work" soon promise!

Cheers

[gazz]

looking good mate..:thumb:

glad you liked the seats.:thumb:

[nova ian]

Picked up some TAS engine mounts, but I need the gearbox front mount as they came off Rob's turbo nova which ran two front engine mounts, so if anyone has one let me know!!

Also got some Nova subframes with side mounts for my seats. Cheers Rob:thumb:

Then picked these up today. Brand new ATE Callipers, Spacers and 284mm Discs.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/26082007294.jpg

Progress wise I have done the breather mod to the cam cover and also got my head gasket set.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/26082007296.jpg

Not much but its something!! Cylinder heads going to be skimmed/faced next weekend and then the head can be rebuilt and I will make a start on the bottom end.

[Rob77]

Pleasure doing business with you dude!

[squealer]

going well so far

[big gra]

bit of a transformation! wish i had the time and money to do something like this!

[Lee]

I see youve gone for the side mounts on the seats, are you getting rid of the standard seat mounts now then?

Cracking project that, enjoyable reading!

[nova ian]

I see youve gone for the side mounts on the seats, are you getting rid of the standard seat mounts now then?

Cracking project that, enjoyable reading!

Cheers,

No I'm not gtting rid of the standard seat mounts as I need the drivers seat to be easily adjustable, The seat mounts I have are normal nova gsi runners that have been modified with side mounts.

I would like the seats fixed but as I said I need to keep it adjustable.

Thanks for the comments

[nova ian]

Well update time.

Been and fetched a pair of GTE bumpers and a grille today. The rear one came with genuine dealer sport mudflaps too! Bonus!:D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007304.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007305.jpg

Also had a trial fit of the rear coilovers to see if they were going to cause problems, and thankfully they went on a treat, Just need to give the welds a tickle up with the grinder just to give an extra mm or so, but as they are seemed all good. heres some pics

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007300.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007298.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007301.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007299.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007297.jpg

[nova ian]

External pics with rear coilvers fitted

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007303.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007302.jpg

Note the coilovers are wound to the lowest either and damn that seemed slammed at that!

Then fitted the front end, almost done me thinkslol lol

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007306.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007307.jpg

In all seriousness though I'm well chuffed the coilovers fit with no issues. More updates soon

[Rob77]

Good news on the rear coilovers mate, but I think you may have overlooked a few of the pannel gaps on the front end... They might need re-setting!

Rob.

[Shaun_O'Donnell]

Do you need to strengthen the rear turrets before fitting coilovers?

Great project you have there. Looking forward to seeing the paint scheme.

[nova ian]

Update time again!

Took my Cylinder head to be skimmed/faced

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/04092007308.jpg

And then got it built up, with new stem seals, but its less lifters and cams at the mo, but thats the hardest part out the way!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/05092007309.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/05092007310.jpg

Ian

[nova ian]

Been busy on the shell this weekend, Rear strut brace is in, had a practice with my welder and plated the holes in the floor up. Just a few odds and sods left to do, as we ran out of wire on the big welder and gas on mine!!

couple of hours doing them and I can then start prepping for getting it painted up.

couple of pics

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/16092007324.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/16092007325.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/16092007326.jpg

[nova ian]

Bit of of an update, The shell is now completley seam welded and all ready to start prepping, and I have just got a dizzy setup for my carbs. Cheers again Gazz!

More pics soon.

Ian

[Iain]

Nice one, is that all the welding out the way now?

[trackdaynova]

just read thats from start to finish - very very good build, loving all the pics :)

certainly gonna be a stiff one ;) lol

[deano26]

Looks a good project! ;)

[tom reid]

just read thats from start to finish - very very good build, loving all the pics :)

certainly gonna be a stiff one ;) lol


Yeah, we like stiff ones, here at The Bumshunters Corporationlol

[nova ian]

Not much to report really, Started on painting my cam cover, Rubbed down and first coat of primer on now.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/23112007338.jpg

Other than that nothing else to show!

[krobinson]

Good work :D

[Plug]

just reading throu nice project im lookin to do one while im banned so hopefully will see me in WIP with nova or corsa b

[Lee-1984]

A few more pics of the weekends workhttp://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w195/tomreid/ian.jpg

whats the idear in boxxing the strut tops?

[burgo]

whats the idear in boxxing the strut tops?looks better?? thats why i did mine anyway

[Iain]

Would imagine it strengthens it too.

[nova ian]

Couple more additions. Picked up a bias-pedal box from nova---chris (cheers dude:thumb: ) complete with full braided line to run through the can and also all the connections so well chuffed with that

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/14122007347.jpg

Rocker cover has had first coat of paint, need to finish that off, and started painting up some other engine bits.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01122007346-2.jpg

Real progress should come after christmas!

[nova---chris]

glad its all fine and your happy mate. good luck with it all :thumb:

[Ste L]

The rear one came with genuine dealer sport mudflaps too! Bonus!:D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/01092007305.jpg



They aint "genuine" vauxhall/dealer sport mudflap's, they are eBay specials.



good progress so far though :cool:

[nova ian]

Ste L: Well I have a set of the Ebay specials on my runaround and they are dead flimsy, The ones on that bumper are alot stronger and have proper fasteners as opposed to self tappers. Maybe they are still not genuine, but there deffo loads better quality than the current Ebay specials!

Chris: Yep well happy with it mate, was going to ask though, how do you alter the bias?? can I get one of the in car switch things to attach to it??

[nova---chris]

if you want in car bias you should behable to buy a adjuster and fittings from rally design or tweeks ect ect.

But the pedal box is adjustable also . theres 2 adjustable threads which alter the amount of pressure put on either the front or rear .

[saloonwoody]

looks like a crackin car in the makin there dude :)

[nova ian]

Couple more updates. Picked an air filter up from Olly for my bike carbs

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/15122007354.jpg

Then got myself 5 cessaro alloys with all the centre caps, bolts and tool.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/15122007350.jpg

[Adam]

Nice.
What carbs are you using? R1's?

[nova ian]

Yep R1's theres a pic a few pages back of my carbs.

[Adam]

Just found the pic, they look cool mate. Top condition.
Using one of Tom's manifolds?

[scott.parker]

Ian mate just read it all and nice work, top thread shall be a dam nice car mate!

Keep up the ggod work.

Scott

[nova ian]

Another small update. Had the plate for my snap off steering wheel turned down to fit my momo wheel.

My bosses dad did it for me and made a top job of it.

The black line on the inside of the outer ring of holes is where the step originally came too, which was way to big for the centre hole in my steering wheel.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/17012008363.jpg

This pic shows it with the wheel on. He is going to trim it down for me now as you can see its sticks out proud of the wheel, will make it a little more aesthetically pleasing! (not used that phrase in a while! lol)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/17012008362.jpg

Then it just needs the holes drilling and tapping for the threads of the bolts that hold it on. Not much but its one of them little jobs out the way.

Ian

[Adam]

Looking well Ian.
Any ideas when you're hoping have it on the road for?

[nova ian]

Well its not actually going on the road, and no! lol Would like it done sometime this year, but will have to see how things go. I dont ever seem to get time to work on it as much as I'd like but hey ho, theres no rush.

Cheers Adam

[RSTurboSI]

A-up dude, Thought ill sign up, Cant find the newbies and i aint able to post my project on the RS, but!

Iv signed up, Waaahooo to keep an eye on your project, Ill be around soon to check it out, Give u a hand if anything is needed.

Si.

Grate project mate, Iv always loed what you have done to the novas Top work mate. :thumb:

[nova ian]

Not much to show, but finally finished my rocker cover, Its not the mintest finish ever, but from a can I'm happy!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/08022008370.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/15022008371-2.jpg

Also painted a couple of other little engine bits.

[Iain]

You need to wash your car lol

[greg1.4]

cracking thread this!!

[NOV4_SPORT]

Wash that poor nova in the background lol, just finished reading through the thread mate, love the work you have done on this car.

iain

[nova ian]

Update time,

Finally got myself somewhere suitable to work on the nova, with cover, light and electric! I'm so chuffed!:D

So Saturday morning was spent moving the car from my garage to its new home!

Today I basically made a list! everything I need to do before prepping the car for paint and what I will need to do it. I also took out the windscreen, Took off the tailgate, removed the pedal box and handbrake. I cut the handbrake bracket off but that was my last cutting disc and I need to get some Grinding discs too! Also removed the steering rack, Just got the column left to get out, but didn't have a drill to hand to drill out the shear bolt that holds it on.

Also bought some more goodies for the car too.

Hydraulic handbrake, Eccentric Top Mounts and some ally side mounts for the passenger side seat.

In its new home!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1923.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1929.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1930.jpg

And my new goodies

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image001.jpg

Thats all for now...

[Adam]

Cool :)

[trackdaynova]

ok ian, you've left yourself open to this...

i require daily updates with copious amounts of photos :D as now, there is no excuse lol

[tom reid]

^ what he said, get a friggin move on!lol

[nova ian]

Saturday 26/04/08

Got the passenger side seat mounts cut out today. Started cutting one out and the grinder got a little hot! and it decided to take up smoking lol So a crap start to the days work!! Managed to borrow another grinder though and it lasted the day and got the job done. What a pain to cut out though, made harder by the fact we originally stitch welded the seams of it as both seats were going to stay adjustable. But Ive decided that theres no need for the passenger one to be adjustable.

Mounts out

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1931.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1932.jpg

Next I had to fill the holes I had made from drilling spot welds and where the grinder went through. So had a blast with the welder! My welding began badly, and got slightly better... It may not be the best looking finish etc when all done, but A) this was never going to be a minter of a build, and B) I'm happy knowing I've had a go:thumb: Only problems were that because I had grinded the mount the floor had become pretty thin in places and the I kept blowing holes so had to do some patchwork quilt style repairs lol

Plated up

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1935.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1936.jpg

Quite happy with the welding on the plate over the handbrake cable hole, managed to get a decent run along rather that stopping and starting. Not brill but Im pretty pleased with it

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1937.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1938.jpg

Finally I sat my hydraulic handbrake in to see if it would fit without plating the kink in the tunnel where the original handbrake fitted.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1934.jpg

Also took the remaining plate off from around the gear stick hole, and some other grinding off of welds.

[Adam]

Nice
Welding will look fine once painted :)

[tom reid]

Welding looks ok mate, as long as youv'e got good penetration, we like deep penetration in the Bumshunters Corporationlol

[trackdaynova]

sorry i didn't come up again chap - next time will be more organised!

glad to see it went well :thumb:

[nova ian]

sorry i didn't come up again chap - next time will be more organised!

glad to see it went well :thumb:

No worries dude, always another time :thumb:

[Rickyb]

looks good dude :thumb:

[nova ian]

Sunday 27/4/08

More welding fun!

Found a couple of holes on the drivers side inner wing, so patched it up

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1939.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1940.jpg

Not much else to show.

[nova ian]

Finished work early yesterday so went and did a bit more work as I,ve not been down to the car for a week. Started cleaning up the wheel arches for stoneguarding and paint.

Drivers side arch before I started
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image011.jpg

Wire brushed up, remaining underseal removed and Cleaned, followed by etch/zinc primer
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image012.jpg

Seam sealed seams, and repaired areas, then gave a thick coat of stone guard
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image014.jpg

Also cut a plate to cover the old gear lever hole
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image013.jpg

[Adam]

Nice work :)

[nova ian]

Todays work

Same deal as yesterdays work but on the passenger side

wire brushed up, kurusted, and cleaned. Etch primed and zinc primed
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1948.jpg

and seam sealed
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1952.jpg

Still got to stoneguard this one as didnt get time to do it.

Turned my attention the the remaining sound deadening and uderseal mess on the bulkhead

Before
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1946.jpg

Bit of elbow grease!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1947.jpg

cleaned and etch primed
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1949.jpg

Drivers side arch primed again ready for paint, although it needs another coat as some of the stoneguard has come through
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1953.jpg

and finally a random shot of the car!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1954.jpg

[CP]

Very good and thorough work - should be a great trackday car when done:thumb:

[Iain]

Nice one, making some good progress. Are the inner arches going body colour or black?

[nova ian]

Nice one, making some good progress. Are the inner arches going body colour or black?

There going white, as is the interior of the car. I don't know about body colour now, I keep changing my mind evry other daylol lol

Theres a while before that anyway!

How are you anyway long time no see, hope your cars going well?

[Iain]

I liked the yellow idea you had! Pineapple was it?

Still no time for cars with me I'm afraid - finish uni in just over a week so will be free to do car stuff again if you need a hand with anything. :thumb:

[trackdaynova]

Looking good progress Ian - give me a shout when you want any help :thumb:

[nova ian]

Been and spent a couple of hours on the car again tonight, Gave the passenger side arch a good lathering of stone guard, and the drivers side one had its second coat of primer, which covered really well and its now ready for its top coat.

Passenger arch stoneguarded
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image015.jpg

Drivers side primered ready for a lick of paint
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image016.jpg

[trackdaynova]

Cool man - looks good progress happening now - get it done, and join me on my July Sprint :thumb: lol

[draper]

good work ian

you'll have to call in at mine for a coffee next time your this way

[nova ian]

good work ian

you'll have to call in at mine for a coffee next time your this way

:thumb: Yea mate deffinatley, its been a while!

[trackdaynova]

Any more progress Yan?

[nova ian]

No not yet, had other stuff to sort, and this weekend were off camping. Off work next week so will get at least a day down at the car as got a few bits to do at home then friday someone is dragging me out kicking and screaming to play racing cars!! lol

[trackdaynova]

playing racing car drivers is cool, wanna come play? :D lol

burrrrrr, (deeper) burrrrrrrr, bupdpdpdpdpd (limiter), eeeeerrrrrccchhhhh (brakes)

thats it lol

[nova ian]

playing racing car drivers is cool, wanna come play? :D lol

burrrrrr, (deeper) burrrrrrrr, bupdpdpdpdpd (limiter), eeeeerrrrrccchhhhh (brakes)

thats it lol

lol lol thats it now, If I don't hear you making soundeffects on friday then I'm not playing!!!

Seriously though, looking forward to it:thumb:

[nova ian]

Quick update, got one back arch cleaned up etc...

Before
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1956.jpg

After
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1957.jpg

Just one arch to go then got underneath to do! I officially hate underseal!:thumb:

[trackdaynova]

I hate underseal too, but it's certainly worth it - and it never looks as good on camera, as it does in real life! lol

Try and take the pic next time with a long exporsure, lower aperature and without a flash :)

[nova ian]

Parts update, got a manifold back, 2 1/2 inch Ashley exhaust system, and a Harry Hockley Quickrack kit. Cheers Olly!

And just ordered a new bearing for the quickrack too.

[trackdaynova]

ahhh glad you got the bearing number alright :thumb:

how much was it ?

[nova ian]

Fiver delievered

[trackdaynova]

bargain man... so whats your plans this weekend? kitchen? lol

[nova ian]

You B**tard!! looks like it, theres no way out, especially since you forced me to buy that stuff off you and made me go Donny!! lol

I'll be on the car in the week though deffinatley

[trackdaynova]

ack :( spent all day on the bathroom... dagnabbit - why didnt you need help on your car :mad: lol

[nova ian]

lol Why didn't you save me from jobs in the kitchen and shed cleaning!!:cry:

Went down to the stores today and wondered how I got the car in there! Think I need a tidy up!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image023.jpg

[Adam]

Cool.
Are the rear arch lips just ground back?

[nova ian]

Cool.
Are the rear arch lips just ground back?

No they have been rolled when the pannels were fitted

[nova ian]

Update time

Last arch cleaned up, to uncover someone had bodged up two rotten holes with a load of seam sealer... :roll: :wtf:

When the rear quarters were fitted rather than tell me the end of the sill was rotten and say its going to cost a little more the guy obviously thought he was doing me a favour by filling the hole with a plate and seam sealer:tard:

So now need to get the rot cut out and replate it up. Not really what I wanted but hey, good job I found it I suppose.

Nasty horrible underseal gone
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image031.jpg

How much came off with a grinder for scale!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image030.jpg

The hole...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image024.jpg

... The piece of metal that was bodged in
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image027.jpg

And finally, etch primed and zinc primed to protect the bare metal
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image032.jpg

[trackdaynova]

looking good Yan :thumb:

bit of a crapper about the rot! but as you say - at least you've spotted it early enough before paint etc

[nova ian]

Bit of an update, mr postman delivered some more goodies for the car:D

Full set of polycarb windows with sliders
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image002.jpg

Cheers Olly for spotting these on the bay and letting me know, good man:thumb:

[Lee]

Nice rear window ports :) They help a lot. Might let a bit of water in without cowels over them though :( Or do i spy holes for some cowels?

[Adam]

Nice purchase Ian.

Good to see you sorted that bit of rust too
Better sorting it now than letting it get worse.

[nova ian]

Nice rear window ports :) They help a lot. Might let a bit of water in without cowels over them though :( Or do i spy holes for some cowels?

Yes Lee, there are some holes where someone has had cowels over them, I was looking around for some but not having much luck, also can you get them that big?

Where did you get yours from Lee? Are the expensive?

Another question I keep meaning to ask, The clutch cable router thing, do I need to bend it? If so which way and how much etc...

Cheers
Ian

[Lee]

Mine were made by plastics4performance. I just have two large holes covered by seperate cowels so i doubt the off the shelf items will fit. They (or a similar company) shoudl be able to make you some, but not too cheaply I would imagine.

The clutch 'nipple' needs to be bent down and to the right as you look at it from the front pal. About 4 o clock ish.

[nova ian]

Update time.

First off I want to say a MASSIVE thanks to Olly (Trackdaynova) for coming over and giving me a hand today, really good to have someone else to help out, muchos appreciated and a good laugh :D :D

We got the passenger side seat rails made up and welded in, Using plate on the sills and tunnel and some 1 inch box section across. We got the seat sat in on the side mounts, but I didn't want to start drilling and bolting it in yet as I want to make sure I have the clearence when the door bar goes in and the door is on, and at the same time didn't want it to be to close to the drivers seat. But drilling four holes is the easy bit anyway so that can wait.

Also started welding in the plate over for the internal shifter, however the welder ran out of wire... Bugger! :(

Next up we fitted a rear coilover and a 15 inch rim with a 888 on to see if I was going to have any cleance issues, and so far I'm well happy as it was clear of the outer arch lip by at least 15mm maybe more, however it was touching the spring, but this didn't worry me to much as theres plenty of room to get a spacer in to bring it out. Happy with that! :D

Good days work, with everything achieved I wanted too. No pics as yet as I didn't take any on my camera, but Olly has a few so i'm sure he will put some up.

Big thanks again mate really appreciated :thumb:

[trackdaynova]

No probs mate - thoroughly enjoyed it, love cars in the WIP stage, and with it being the first time I've seen yours, I'm impressed :)

Had a cracking day - very funny throughout, and now my muscles are aching from playing Wii for the first time last night lol

Anyway, pics

Before we started, just took a few general pics
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan01.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan02.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan03.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan04.jpg

I welded in the outer sill plates, exactly the same as how I did mine, in the same places
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan05.jpg

Ian done the inner tunnel plates
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan06.jpg

Getting the bars parallel and level
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan07.jpg

Still at it
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan08.jpg

Bars being welded in
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan09.jpg

Shifter hole
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan10.jpg

Plate made
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan11.jpg

[trackdaynova]

Stitched in
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan13.jpg

No holes
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan14.jpg

Rail bars complete
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan15.jpg

Wheel with 195-50-15 Toyo 888 on
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan16.jpg

Plenty of clearence!
http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q161/neocapture/Mates%20Cars/novaYan17.jpg

[Mike]

Looking good there :D

[adam-d]

i really need to learn how to weld like that, would save me a fair wedge of money, what welder are you using?

i have a sip Weldmate T90P Gas MIG Welder

it seems ok, but i get what a panel beater friend described as pigeon s**t welding

instead of the smooth solid looking stuff your getting

[kevw]

Some decent progress there! Fabricating seat mounts is always time consuming, all part of the fun though!

Did you put the 1/4 panel(s?) on yourself? I'm contemplating the same on my K reg shell but not sre yet

[Adam]

Nice work lads :)

[nova ian]

Cheers for the comments guys.

Adam-d: The welder I have is a clarke 151te, this one!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/31052007213.jpg

My welding is probably best described as pigeon ****e too but hey got to start learning somewhere!

Kev: No I didn't do the quarters myself, there ok, not fitted brilliantly but they will do for this car as it is never going to be prettylol

Cheers for the pics Olly:thumb:

[nova ian]

Thought I'd put a couple of pics courtesy of Olly

Looking sorry for itself!!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/21-06-08015.jpg

Some of my improved welding
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/21-06-08027.jpg

[draper]

same welder as me that ian, very good welder for the price imo

you still not finished it yet tho ?? i reckon i could have one built before yours lol

[nova ian]

Update time again,

Today I got all the remaining plates cut out that I need to weld in place, including the end of the sill that was rotten. Ive also cleaned this area up ready for plating. Also cleaned up the seat rails and red oxided them as didn't get chance to last time when Olly and myself were there.

Then my mate Steve came down (Cheers Ste :thumb: ) to give me a hand so we got it on its side and cleaned up the underside. Heres some pics...

On its side prior to wire brushing
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image009.jpg

Wire brushed and cleaned with thinners
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image036.jpg

Kurust doing its thang!!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image039.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image041.jpg

Couple of hours and a maccies later we gave it a lathering with red oxide
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image042.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image044.jpg

And finally a pic of the workhorse with the nova in the background!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image045.jpg

Next up is to clean up the rear section (spare wheel well area) and give it the same treatment, then seam seal and stoneguard etc... Starting to get somewhere now :D

[trackdaynova]

Looking good Yan :thumb:

Good progress on the car too - loving the car being on the side, despite not having a spit lol

[nova ian]

Looking good Yan :thumb:

lol I know ;)

Who needs a spit! just a few tyres and some weetabix is alot cheaper!! Though to be fair a roll over jig would make life easier!!

Cheers Yoof!:thumb:

[Adam]

Have you just got it turned onto some tyres then? Lol


Good to see the underside all cleaned/primed, nice and solid :)

[C612DNM]

Did somebody call??

Is this the car that's going to be a trackday machine eh?

Now, let's see - the strengthening - good stuff. IF you still can - connect the front strut turrets to the cage with triangulation to the bottom of the front leg. It will help the Nova's front end cope with the torque.

I'll have to look at the back end pics again, to see what you can do there to make it stiffer.

The down side of making all of these improvements is that any hit on the right can be transferred to the left, and vice-versa.

Before you nail that lump in, what mounts are you going to use.

ASW developed some mounts which put the 2.0XE in there in a better position, which results in improved traction & thus performance. So before you get carried away, check with ASW (If they still exist!) - the details I have are:

A S W Motorsport

312-312a Old Rd
CO15 3NP
01255436433


I'm sure that Royston Gravestock - ancient Nova thrasher of olde Maldon town (who has been know to come on here and insult me) will confirm or deny their existence.

PM me for some more info... we won't mention your message on the ASTRA forum.... (I'll keep quiet if you will!)

Rob.
59.

[nova ian]

Hey!

Thanks for the reply, Astra forum, don't know what your on aboutlol

Seriously though...

Re triangulating cage, I understand this will improve the chasis, I will have to see, would mean quite a bit of work for a novice like myself!!

As for the rear, I have a welded in strut brace/Harness mounting bar and will be running coilovers, I've had alot of people tell me not to run these, but to be honest I have them and can't afford to change so they will be going on!

Engine mount wise I have solid TAS engine mounts

I feel i'm finally starting to get somewhere with the build and can't wait to get it finished! My plan at the mo is to get it built up and begin using it and find areas that can be improved as and when I can afford too.

But any pointers in the way of setup would be muchos appreciated, however using them is a long way off!!

Thanks again
Ian:thumb:

[vaughanmc]

Looking good mate

Will be interested to see it with the Internal Shifter in and also painted

Is there much work still to be done ?

[silvertornado_sr]

looking good mate :)

[nova ian]

Looking good mate

Will be interested to see it with the Internal Shifter in and also painted

Is there much work still to be done ?

Cheers pal, yea theres too much still to do, never ending lol

Bit of an update, Got a new addition to my already very fashionable wardrobe!

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

I will never forget my name again! ;) :thumb:

In all seriousness, Im going to do some more work on the car this weekend and im waiting on a delivery of some more parts that will be useful...

[General Baxter]

that cap is ghay, where can i get one lol

[nova ian]

lol lol See you love it!!

got it as a present, so don't know where its from sorry!

[General Baxter]

thats even worse, some one get it you as a gift lol

[nova ian]

Your only jealous because you dont have one!! lol

Got to have a laugh hey!

[Iain]

They spelt your name wrong :(

[Paul]

No, you spell your name wrong you goon. ;)

[nova ian]

No, you spell your name wrong you goon. ;)
lol Its true Iain, there is just no need for that extra 'i' thats just being greedy! A vowel O.D

[nova ian]

Serious Update this time!!

Recieved my Inlet manifold today for the R1 Bike Carbs...

After Speaking to a friend who races grass trackers he bought to my attention of a company that were producing manifolds and were being run really successfully. After a call to the said company I decided I would order one. I ordered this on Monday and came this morning.

The manifolds are a one piece ally casting. They don't have the water outlet or vacuum take off for brake servo, but not hard to do, although I need neither so its perfect for me!

The company is BP Grassing. Can't praise them enough. Extremely helpful and efficient. I will deffinatley be using them again

Website - www.bpgrassing.co.uk

Anyway, heres a few pics of the manifold

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Inlet_06.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Inlet_05.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Inlet_03.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Inlet_04.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Inlet_02.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Inlet_01.jpg

[draper]

this still not done yet lol

[burgo]

price of manifold??

[nova ian]

price of manifold??

It was £150inc VAT... Cheaper than Bogg Brothers and no 5 month waiting list or however long it is now!lol

[burgo]

thats very impressive indeed. do you know if they do them for baby xe's?

[nova ian]

I wouldn't like to say personally, but I'd give them a call and see, the bloke is very helpful indeed.

[Adam]

That manifold looks nicely done. Much better than the one i had.

I bet they dont do them for baby xe's, hardly any company that makes stuff for 20xe's makes the same for 16xe's for some reason. Even though the ports etc are similar.

[nova ian]

Heres a few more pictures to show the fitting against the head and carbs etc...

I checked the spacing of the holes on the flange against a gasket first and they were cock on. When the manifold is bolted up to the head theres a slight step on two of the inlet ports, but I can just open the ports on the head slightly so as it matches the manifold perfectly, however I am really happy with how well it fits. In regards to the carb end of the manifold the spacing is out by about a mm on one or two of the pipes, which again isn't an issue as they mount with rubbers anyway.

All in all very very happy with it :thumb:

Manifold on the head
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image001-1.jpg

You can see here the slight step into the heads inlet port
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image003.jpg

Carbs offered up
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image009-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image008.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image007.jpg

and a random one seeing what it would look like with the air filter!! (Just need to sort a new backing plate that fits the carbs for this)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image010-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image012-1.jpg

[shy witness]

loos very good mate.

nice job with manifold

[burgo]

looks proper that. take the time to match the ports wont you. would be crazy not to

[Benn]

What are the black plastic pots on the top?
Flote like bits where the fuel gos in?

[shy witness]

are the bike carbs a real good alternative then??

i was interested in doing this with my 2.0 8 valve that i have for my nova.

but i'd kinda went off the idea.

will be interesting to see if it all works well....and is easily set up etc etc.

[trackdaynova]

That manifold does look damn sexy, and don't think the air return to the servo is a bad thing, not having one - as even Jenvey manifolds from SBD don't have this, as they presume everyone is running a pedal box :thumb:

Looking good mate - by far the nicest carb manifold I've seen anyway :)

[Adam]

What are the black plastic pots on the top?
Flote like bits where the fuel gos in?
They are the seal covers for the vacuum diaphram in the top of the carb

[nova ian]

looks proper that. take the time to match the ports wont you. would be crazy not to

I will do mate, I've already put all the valves in, but its no hardship to whip them out and make a proper job of it as you say, it would be crazy not too:)

Cheers for all the comments guys, very much appreciated:thumb:

Ian

[trackdaynova]

nice one mate :)

[brainsnova]

Have a go yourself all you need is a grinder and a welder and an eye for panel allignment

[blueosis1]

hi ,like the look of that manifold,how are you going to attach the brake servo hose.just to 1 of the inlet pipes or link them all together.

cheers
mark

[nova ian]

hi ,like the look of that manifold,how are you going to attach the brake servo hose.just to 1 of the inlet pipes or link them all together.

cheers
mark

I don't need the brake servo hose as i'm going to be running a bias pedal box:thumb:

[Adam]

But to answer his question, just piped to one the inlet runners is fine :thumb:

[blueosis1]

thanks for the reply guys,will be sorting out the manifold as the carbs have now arrived

[nova ian]

Made some more progress, Big thanks to Olly for offering to help me out and coming over Muchos appreciated :thumb: Thanks mate

Got a plate welded in on top of the tunnel to make it look nicer as I had done some shocking welding there! and also because it was a little thin from removing the seat mount

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1977.jpg

Close up of the welds done by Olly:thumb:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1976.jpg

Hole cut for internal shifter
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2007.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2010.jpg

Then we got the car on its side again to clean up the rest of the underside and to begin seam sealing the chasis legs and other seams

Before
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1997.jpg

and after a bit of cleaning
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2000.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1999.jpg

Then primered up
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2004.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2005.jpg

[nova ian]

And complete with seam sealer on the front half of the underside
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2001.jpg

Also welded up the hole that was at the end of the sill
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1987.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN1988.jpg

Thats it for today, Cheers again Olly for helping out:)

[Benn]

Looking hard core.

[L14MNP]

Coming on well lads :)

Where are the axle stands from Ian?

[trackdaynova]

Loooking sooooper dooooper on the pics matey, no probs on the help - any time :cool:

It's not far from being painted, which effectively means the build up... and then the track! :)

[t45_ste]

Looking good:thumb: Alot of time and effort going into this:D

[nova ian]

Cheers everyone for the comments!

LI4M, the axle stands aren't mine, they were in the garage that i rent, The guy is into 4x4's so there big hefty one's lol

Yea its getting there slowly!

[trackdaynova]

I still think we should take the hole saw to all the places where there is unnecessary metal.

I can borrow a plasma cutter to do the door and bootlids innards :)

[nova ian]

I still think we should take the hole saw to all the places where there is unnecessary metal.

I can borrow a plasma cutter to do the door and bootlids innards :)

Wicked man, sounds good to me :thumb:

The more metal cut out the less to prep lol lol

[trackdaynova]

Cool - so thats the plan for when you get back from your holiday then.

Alternatively we can use a grinder anyway, and do it neatly.

I intend to cut more out of my doors, and lose the rubber edging

[Prey]

Id be interested to see this in the flesh lads so if you need any more help with any of it let me know!

[nova ian]

Thanks for the interest mate, very much appreciated:) :thumb:

[trackdaynova]

I know Yan has an update, why he's not updated the thread I don't know! lol

Get it done :p

[nova ian]

As Olly has said, got a small update. But not alot to show really

Got the front end stripped of Struts, TCAs and Tie Bars and gave them the first coat of paint

Stripped
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image020.jpg

Both Sides with first coat of white
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image021.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image022.jpg

Also got some other areas cleaned up (Cheers Ste:thumb: ) Mainly sealent stuff off roof gutters and from around windows etc...

[nova ian]

Well went out with the intention of working on the car today but ended up helping my dad out.

Took one of these
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/Lorry_01.jpg

Some of these
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/Lorry_07.jpg

Got in here
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/Lorry_05.jpg

Bit of this
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/Lorry_10.jpg

and job done!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/Lorry_06.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/Lorry_09.jpg

Going to go to the car tomorrow now!

[Iain]

I was wondering how you were getting on the other day. Good to see you're still persevering with it. lol

[Ash]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/Lorry_09.jpg

^ Drifting wagon! lol

Very tidy build mate. Whats the plans for tomorrow?

[nova ian]

Plans for tomorrow is to just carry on with the rest of the painting. Got the rear arches to do, and a second coat on fronts, plus underside. Tedious job, but will be worth it I suppose.

Quicker I get that out the way I can then concentrate on bodywork prep for paint.

Iain: Cheers mate, yea im still at it! lol

[Martin]

nice one.. god it wa sthat long ago i looked at this thread that my user name was Novalicious(maybe thats why its not been updatin my subscrrbed threads)

keep it up

[nova ian]

As promised went to the car today. Got a fair amount done. It feels like its getting somewhere again now!!

Got the front end built up again so as I could tip it over again. Then carried on seam sealing the rear half of the underside
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2174.jpg

Whilst waiting for that to dry I got the fuel nozzle pipe rubbed down and primered
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2177-1.jpg

Then it was back to the car for the first coat of paint on the underside... Looks so much fresher now!! it went on quite well, but does need a second coat
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2178.jpg

Whilst painting it hammered it down, and some of the rain that blew under the cover had settled on the front arch I painted last time, You can see that it just sat in droplets and a wipe over with your hand and they just brushed off.... Well impressed with that as at least its not going to hold the muck and water like the standard underseal seems too
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2182.jpg

Then back on its wheels and bonnet hinges removed
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2184.jpg

Then I fancied a bit of detailing!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2185.jpg

Lathered some gunk degreaser around the bay and let it do its thing for 10 minutes
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2187.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2186.jpg

And a wash and rinse and dry later....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2188.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2189.jpg

Then I gave the fuel pipe a coat of gloss black, but didnt get a pic. Needs another coat anyways!

Thats all for now!

[trackdaynova]

ohhhh looking good Ian, at this rate you'll be joining me at Cadwell in October! yay!

nice to see updated pics too, keeps everyone involved and interested, keep it up! :)

[vaughanmc]

Looks good underneath mate, keep up the good work :)

[ade]

How did you get it on its side?

Did you stick anything down to protect the side panels?

Looking good though

[nova ian]

How did you get it on its side?

Did you stick anything down to protect the side panels?

Looking good though

Hey Ade, cheers for the comments:thumb:

Getting it on its side is easy enough, and not a single pannel touches the floor. Its resting on 3 tyres with some cloth over them. They sit in the door shut area and the roof gutter part is what rests on the tyres. I check every time to see if its damaged but nothing.

Not the best pic but, you can just see the tyres its resting on at the bottom of the pipe, and you can also see the angle of the car is not totally on its side

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/DSCN2177-1.jpg

[nova ian]

Not much to report...

Gave the underside a second coat of paint. Started rubbing down/keying the engine bay ready for primer
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image044-1.jpg

Then removed the vynal from the passenger side B pillar and started filling/smoothing out the joins of the new quarter pannels
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image041-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image042-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image043-1.jpg

[trackdaynova]

filler on a track car lol

looking good homo :thumb:

[Benn]

[quote=nova ian]
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/cruisindude/nova/Image044-1.jpg

Can i ask, why have you plated up the side of the turrets?(boxed the gap in i mean..)

Looks good dude.

[nova ian]

Can i ask, why have you plated up the side of the turrets?(boxed the gap in i mean..)

Looks good dude.

Benn: Thanks dude, I had them boxed in to give them a little more strength, definatlley not going to hurt. Also will give me somewhere to weld to if I ever decide to triangulate the cage.

Olz: Ya cheeky swine it looked a right state needed smoothing out!:p lol

[Benn]

Ah cool, do the turrets move that much? Or is it a just in case/why not..

[nova ian]

Not that im aware, was just more of a why not case lol as said beefing them up a bit isn't really going to hurt