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andybishop
12-07-10, 07:48 PM
Probably worth just fitting a standard F28 and lsd then
Thats something we were discussing, for what Nick wants from the car it might be the best option, the gearbox is only putting a strain on the turbo with it constantly being on boost, it's a shame, my mate only sold a F28 with Diff a couple of months ago..
Benn.... cheers but seriously their was no one more gutted than myself. The only show I wanted the car to be spot on for was this one and it didnt happen. I saw Keith pull along side me on my way in and my heart sank..... His motor just looked stunning and he looked proud as punch as he drove in (which he shoud). At that moment I just wanted to turn round and go home. After all the hard work that was the proud feeling I wanted on my way in but it wasnt to be. :(
Nick.
I bet, but there's always next year. Dont feel to bad dude, these things happen to all of us.
discoinferno
12-07-10, 08:01 PM
chin up nick, i would consider an f28 if sticking with the kkk they are not very reliable turbos at the best of times and if yours is on boost most of the time then i 'd say the new turbo (if you get one) would go the same way!!!
at 80mph mine sits at 3,000rpm and is in vacuum no strain at all on the turbo yours would be up into the 4-5k region (my brothers is the same no good on carbs way to loud for long journeys) you can sell your sccr buy and f28 with diff for half the price well worth doing imo
SCCR does seem a bit pointless on a relatively low revving LET engine.
Get a diff'd F28 in, and have fun driving down to next years shows in 6th gear :)
Shame it didn't make it Nick, but it's always better to return than do further damage. Like others have said, f28 :) Trax?
chin up nick, i would consider an f28 if sticking with the kkk they are not very reliable turbos at the best of times and if yours is on boost most of the time then i 'd say the new turbo (if you get one) would go the same way!!!
at 80mph mine sits at 3,000rpm and is in vacuum no strain at all on the turbo yours would be up into the 4-5k region (my brothers is the same no good on carbs way to loud for long journeys) you can sell your sccr buy and f28 with diff for half the price well worth doing imo
Cheers Gary, At approx 75mph in fifth your around 3700 rpm so it is constantly on boost. The box is cracking for acceleration and strong enough to take the 280bhp too but I probably would benefit from having a diff'd F28 for what I want from the car as Andy said above. If I was one for the dragstrip or track days it may be different. I know Mark beeson has used his sccr with a let brutally over the years and its coped well from what Ive heard.
Graeme,Adam,Jeff,Benn,Gary .......... Thanks guys.
John...... I'll get it checked over soon but I imagine there will be no chance of trax to be quite honest unless it did by chance come down to a breather problem.
Nick.
andybishop
12-07-10, 08:21 PM
I know Mark beeson has used his sccr with a let brutally over the years and its coped well from what Ive heard.
Not without problems... he had a problem on the way back from the Nurburgring a few years ago, gradually loosing gears on the way back, eventually putting a gear shaped hole in the side of the gearbox on the M25..
Not without problems... he had a problem on the way back from the Nurburgring a few years ago, gradually loosing gears on the way back, eventually putting a gear shaped hole in the side of the gearbox on the M25..
I stand corrected their then Andy.... We'll see what happens as if its an engine problem and that has to come out then it may be time to change the box for the six speed too.
Nick.
Don't get rid of the sccr if it adds to the enjoyment of the car, but consider replacing fifth gear with a standard fifth to make cruising on the motorway more bearable for your ears and your turbo. Ask Richard, novasport as his new sport has a straight cut gearbox with a standard fifth for comfortable motorway cruising to and from events.
At approx 75mph in fifth your around 3700 rpm so it is constantly on boost.
Really? At 75 in fifth in mine is about 3700/3800 but i'm at about -7 psi..
discoinferno
12-07-10, 09:39 PM
c20let and f28 are the only way to go if you intend on doing road miles imo
they are stronger than the f20
as said earlier today at 80-85mph all the way home from billing i used 20 litres of fuel - 163miles - 40mpg :D
Don't get rid of the sccr if it adds to the enjoyment of the car, but consider replacing fifth gear with a standard fifth to make cruising on the motorway more bearable for your ears and your turbo. Ask Richard, novasport as his new sport has a straight cut gearbox with a standard fifth for comfortable motorway cruising to and from events.
I know what your saying Paul and I can appreciate it.... however the fifth gear has already been changed. John shield of courtney sport built the box for his xe on tb's only to later change the fifth gear as it didnt suit him either for the motorway drive to shows/dragstrip. Apparantly its not straightcut nor is it stock. I guess Id have to call him for specifics really as Im only going on what I was told by the previous owner etc.
Benn.... I guess that must be down to the different box ratios and the different turbos also? Shaun apparantly went through two stock turbos before buying this aet hybrid it currently has.
Nick.
My Let gets better mpg than my Xe's ever did..lol 300+ round trip on one tank (40lts worth)
hybridturbo
12-07-10, 10:08 PM
Get a trailer, be a proper bufty lol
Hope you get it resolved without to much hassle, real shame it didnt make it after all that hard work
Get a trailer, be a proper bufty lol
Hope you get it resolved without to much hassle, real shame it didnt make it after all that hard work
Never Joe!! I enjoy driving the car to shows even if the weather was pouring Id still go regardless! ;)
Nick.
Mark Beeson
19-07-10, 11:13 PM
A new custom ratio from Quaife is just over £250 for 2 gears ! Not cheap but does what it says on the tin. I dont like F28's as its hard to find a decent one, they are heavier and you have to modify the car to fit it.
discoinferno
20-07-10, 08:39 PM
A new custom ratio from Quaife is just over £250 for 2 gears ! Not cheap but does what it says on the tin. I dont like F28's as its hard to find a decent one, they are heavier and you have to modify the car to fit it.
they are not that bad one mount needs changing and you get a gearbox that is stronger than any f20 variant, you can fit the f28 with a diff for about half the price of the f20 sccr
for what nick uses the car for the f28 is the only real option they are basically fit and forget items:d
Novasport
20-07-10, 10:24 PM
Don't get rid of the sccr if it adds to the enjoyment of the car, but consider replacing fifth gear with a standard fifth to make cruising on the motorway more bearable for your ears and your turbo. Ask Richard, novasport as his new sport has a straight cut gearbox with a standard fifth for comfortable motorway cruising to and from events.
This works in principle and has its benefits but it also has its downsides. It is great I can cruise at 80 mph +(On a track of course:roll:) in fifth relatively quietly with the engine revs at a suitable level. Unfortunately the change from fourth to fifth is not so good as the drop in revs is so great if you dont let the revs drop after depressing the clutch or double de-clutch it crunches into fifth. Also If you are giving it some beans its great upto about 60-70 from 1st through to 4th then you run out of gearing and have to jump to 5th. Its like changing from 2nd to 5th on a normal box!
I would like to have all 5 gears straight cut but my ears would bleed when driving to shows and would be doing 7k rpm at motorway speed, mmm great fuel consumption!
I think I may need to put in a 5th cog from an F13CR and different final drive. Was worse on the 13's as they had a smaller rolling radius giving it even lower gearing!
Anyway Nick, whatever you do I am sure you will do a great job as you have elsewhere on the car. Me personally I think an F28 may be better for a better more pleasant drive. SCCR gears sound great but not when you are doing 100's of miles.
Sorry your car didnt make it, was looking forward to seeing it. Wanted to have a chat at Billing but it didnt seem to happen, weekend was far too short!
Mark Beeson
21-07-10, 10:03 PM
This works in principle and has its benefits but it also has its downsides. It is great I can cruise at 80 mph +(On a track of course:roll:) in fifth relatively quietly with the engine revs at a suitable level. Unfortunately the change from fourth to fifth is not so good as the drop in revs is so great if you dont let the revs drop after depressing the clutch or double de-clutch it crunches into fifth. Also If you are giving it some beans its great upto about 60-70 from 1st through to 4th then you run out of gearing and have to jump to 5th. Its like changing from 2nd to 5th on a normal box!
I would like to have all 5 gears straight cut but my ears would bleed when driving to shows and would be doing 7k rpm at motorway speed, mmm great fuel consumption!
I think I may need to put in a 5th cog from an F13CR and different final drive. Was worse on the 13's as they had a smaller rolling radius giving it even lower gearing!
Anyway Nick, whatever you do I am sure you will do a great job as you have elsewhere on the car. Me personally I think an F28 may be better for a better more pleasant drive. SCCR gears sound great but not when you are doing 100's of miles.
Sorry your car didnt make it, was looking forward to seeing it. Wanted to have a chat at Billing but it didnt seem to happen, weekend was far too short!
Ive ran a sccr box for approx 6 years. I used to run the short 5th and it did rev on the motorway . So I got a longer 5th. Yes the revs do drop but the power is still there its not like 2nd to 5th at all. SC gears only get loud with load. So at normal motorway speeds they quiet down. Put your foot down anf they get louder win win situation. F28 is the cheaper option only if you can get a good one. SCCR boxes are alot newer and my new box is an uprated version last year.
Hi all,
Thanks for the opinions on the gearbox's. The sccr is a fun and enjoyable addition to have so whether or not I take the leap to an F28 will be something I'll have to ponder over. Although the sale of it may become beneficial sooner rather than later! which brings me to were we are currently with the car....
Id made plans to drop the car off for checks to be made on monday morning. Before setting off I thought I'll just check the fluids.....To my dismay the reading was halfway between minimum and empty! :eek: Bearing in mind It was only two days prior it had an oil/filter change and the level was bang on upon setting off for billing. So that means its either passed or most likely burnt 90% of its oil in a 50 mile journey! So I stuck a litre in it and went and dropped it off. The guys have carried out cylinder leakage/checked crankcase pressure/compression test amongst others that I dont really understand tbh! Unfortunatly numbers 2 and 3 are well down. So its definately an engine issue. Obviously rings,bores,pistons are all suspect but until I have the cash and its stripped down we wont know the full extent of the damage. I did consider buying another engine but as the guys have said you never know exactly what your buying or how well its been built so Ive been advised to work with what we have So its rebuild time folks! Ive shared a few texts today with a few of you so some will know I was a bit down about it today but thanks for perking me up with some enthusiastic words! For a few hours I was considering breaking or selling. But when I think hard I do love everything about it and wouldnt want anything else at this moment in time. However I dont have the free cash to fix straight away so it will have to wait for a little while.... which gives me chance to consider my options. One being to sell the sccr to possibly buy a diff'd f28 and have a substantial amount towards rebuild costs? I want to do it properly so everything will be checked,freshend up or renewed including the /crank/head/bearings etc so it will cost a bit but hopefully that would make it reliable and trustworthy for the future etc. Plus as the motor is going to be coming out a change to an f28 wants to be happening at the same time if I decide to go down that route. The only upshot will be I could do some more painting to make it even cleaner! Things like the gearbox,block etc would all be done and the whole engine bay would probably be re done too if the mount gets changed so it would all be perfect for next year. The cars now back at home until I decide what route Im going to take and save some cash to fund it. Either way If anyone knows of a strong mechanical F28 with diff ideally that has had a freshen up please pm me as I may be interested.
Thanks for reading,
Nick.
Rick Draper
22-07-10, 12:31 AM
Nick if you are thinking of a rebuilt LET then speak to steveboyslim without a question.
Also dont believe any of the bollocks people tell you about F28's, none have had anything more than diff bearings and syncros. The main killer is the main shaft bearing which no one can get and the input shaft bearing which develops play. Again no one can get this one. People will tell you its had it and talk the talk but ask for a receipt and they are like Michael Jackson at a kiddy fiddling trial lmao.
Is it not possable to get a taller diff ratio for the F20 box? rather than going F28
Southie
22-07-10, 05:11 AM
Well Nick never knew you didn't go to Billing in the Nova, gutting but you'll fix it and with your eye for perfection it's bound to internally as clean as is on the outside.
David :)
MattBrown
22-07-10, 03:25 PM
Personally nick, I would sell the F20 sccr, and buy a standard F28 for now, rebuild the c20let engine.
Then when funds allow, after you have "minted" the engine bay, you can always add a diff piece of pish:)
Nick if you are thinking of a rebuilt LET then speak to steveboyslim without a question.
Also dont believe any of the bollocks people tell you about F28's, none have had anything more than diff bearings and syncros. The main killer is the main shaft bearing which no one can get and the input shaft bearing which develops play. Again no one can get this one. People will tell you its had it and talk the talk but ask for a receipt and they are like Michael Jackson at a kiddy fiddling trial lmao.
Cheers for the advice and honest opinion on the box Rick I shall bear it in mind.
Bazil..... Yes it is possible and I may look into that also.
Southie.... I'll do my best!
Matt... I'll see how things go and weigh up my options when the time comes and go from there.
Nick.
gary_126
26-07-10, 04:19 AM
Just read 90% of this thread again, Awesome car! Like yourself i think its the little details that make a project.
The dedication and time gone into it really shows! Hope to see it at some shows next year:thumb:
Just read 90% of this thread again, Awesome car! Like yourself i think its the little details that make a project.
The dedication and time gone into it really shows! Hope to see it at some shows next year:thumb:
Cheers Gary,
Hopefully all will be well for next year funds pending. :)
Nick.
matthew172
11-09-10, 01:09 PM
update you hairy sheep farmer
Jeff16v
11-09-10, 01:48 PM
^^^ indeed, been some time.
dj_wudgey
11-09-10, 02:30 PM
glad your not going to break her matey would be such a shame!! but yea if you do take the engine out i can only imagine it will get even beter!! stick to it fella when funds allow!!
update you hairy sheep farmer
Hey Matt, Thanks for the bump! lol It seems sooo long since the last update Id almost forgotten I had this thread! Im afraid their isnt much to update nova wise as apart from acquiring a few tasty parts I havent done much. Its still just sat in the garage looking pretty. However I have been working long hours recently to save the cash up to change that. Most of my time out of work hours has been spent on the cooper s which is now starting to look really well and to say its been a joy to own is an understatement. Once the nova is sorted the mini's going for some uprated parts along with a re map which apparantly gives them substantial power gains up from the 160bhp they came with from factory so that should make the drive to and from work more interesting! Update soon keep your eyes peeled! :)
Nick.
dj_wudgey
12-09-10, 01:51 PM
whats the tasty parts you have aquired then matey? and we allready looking pretty lol you got any pictures off the said mini? im not two keen on these but with what you do to cars i imagine this will be very interesting!
whats the tasty parts you have aquired then matey? and we allready looking pretty lol you got any pictures off the said mini? im not two keen on these but with what you do to cars i imagine this will be very interesting!
You will have to wait and see! Their is a few pics of the mini a few pages back iirc.... ;)
Nick.
Pistol Pete
12-09-10, 03:45 PM
My mate had his Mini remapped a few months back along with a small pulley wheel. The whine on full chat is highly amusing!!!
Look forward to updates on the Nova.
My mate had his Mini remapped a few months back along with a small pulley wheel. The whine on full chat is highly amusing!!!
Look forward to updates on the Nova.
Thats it Pete........ The -15% pulley wheel and a re map give good gains or you can go for the works exhaust,air box kit/injectors or even the works head/charger for gains up and above above 200.
Nick.
Pistol Pete
12-09-10, 04:04 PM
He said he was not fussed about a pipe, injectors etc. They dont give that much more. He got the most from re map and pulley. And lol when all said and done, its his other halfs car! Hes got an Evo to blast around in!!!!
dj_wudgey
12-09-10, 07:01 PM
You will have to wait and see! Their is a few pics of the mini a few pages back iirc.... ;)
Nick.
there a suprise then eh lol and ill pop back and have a look mate as i said i dont really like them but you've fettled with it so it will be interesting lol
edit mini looks ok fella but i just keep finding pics off one wicked nova lol
there a suprise then eh lol and ill pop back and have a look mate as i said i dont really like them but you've fettled with it so it will be interesting lol
edit mini looks ok fella but i just keep finding pics off one wicked nova lol
lol Cheers Wudgey!
Nick.
Hi guys, A little bit of an update as to what Ive been up to recently........ With the nova still laid up for the moment and wanting something to keep myself busy shorterm Ive concentrated my efforts on our cooper s. As Ive said before its an excellent genuine example but as it seven year old with 65k and dark blue in colour all the light scratches around the car and chips on the front end were starting to show quite a lot. To start with I fitted the genuine cooper s wheels I painted a while back then I had my dent guy run round the whole car to remove the few small dents it had here and there. Once that was done the car was stripped down one friday after work. I started with the front end sanding down the bonnet and filling were neccessary which was quite a lot! .......................
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini003.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini002.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini001.jpg
Then slowly but surely I rubbed down both sides and the boot again filling were necessary .........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini016.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini017.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini019.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini018.jpg
Whilst I was waiting for the filler to cure on the car I turned my attention to the plastics. As you can see the front bumper was quite badly peppered.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini013.jpg
And the back bumper had a little bit of damage too so that was heated up and pressed back into shape then filled and shaped.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini014.jpg
After a bit of a sanding and filling session we had the following........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini027.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini028.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini026.jpg
The bonnet vent,front grille,petrol cap surround,tailgate handle and boot grab handle also saw the same treatment.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini025.jpg
That was it for a friday night and I went off home for a well deserved beer!
Saturday morning I was back in to rub down all previously applied filler. A few hours rubbing and I was at this stage......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini030.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini032.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini033.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini034.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini035.jpg
Here's how the bonnet looked close up...... look at all the white dots!
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini031.jpg
With the front end being so peppered I knew there would be a possibility Id missed some chips also I decided the only way to go would be to prime the first third of the bonnet using a think high build primer. Off into the booth it went..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini036.jpg
And primed/guidecoated.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini038.jpg
Whilst the car was baking in the oven I went off to rub down the filler on the plastics.......
Front bumper rubbed and ready for primer........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini039.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini040.jpg
The front bumper was just as bad as the bonnet so I decided to again use high build primer to get it perfect etc.....
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini063.jpg
The repair on the rear bumper was primed at this time also.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini062.jpg
You just can't help yourself mate!
Once the primer had baked on the bonnet I had the car back out of the booth and sheated up under the bonnet to keep things clean whilst wet flatting a fair bit of high build primer.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini042.jpg
A little while later I had that rubbed and ready to be cleaned up........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini044.jpg
By late afternoon on the saturday the shell was masked up and degreased in the booth ready for paint........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini046.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini048.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini049.jpg
Everywhere has been backmasked or carefully masked along existing edges so no masking lines/paint edges will be seen at all once finished.
Nick.
saloonwoody
17-10-10, 03:51 PM
you tease !! how can you leave it like that ! i want to see fresh paint lol
MattBrown
17-10-10, 03:53 PM
Ohh:) looking good nick.
Lovelly nova here needing paint, and a Corsa, 306 and a jag bumper lol
You should open up a body shop!
Sometime later we had the following.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini061.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini060.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini054.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini056.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini057.jpg
And a little close up of fresh indi blue pearl........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini059.jpg
That was it for saturdays action, I left the car to airdry as appose to baking it as I always feel the finish flows out better than when forcedried (baked) and your less likely to have other issues also. sundays action coming shortly.
Nick.
So a little tired I got myself back in early sunday demasked the car and got it back out into the workshop.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini071.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini073.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini074.jpg
No white dots here!............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini075.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini076.jpg
Nice reflection shot.............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini077.jpg
Again with this being a darkish colour it shows the clears finish more than lighter colours etc. So with this in mind a good flat was in order.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini080.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini083.jpg
It is hard going but worthwhile when you see the finish coming back up. Here's a 50/50 shot........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini081.jpg
Few finished shots..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini086.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini084.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini085.jpg
Nick.
vaughanmc
17-10-10, 04:15 PM
Great attention to detail mate :)
By sunday afternoon I had the primer on the bumpers rubbed down and the other various items ready for paint.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini087.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini088.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini092.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini090.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini091.jpg
Then later just like the shell I hit them with a black coat of primer followed by base and clear..............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini094.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini095.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini098.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini096.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini097.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini099.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini100.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini102.jpg
With all that done a little worse for wear I wandered off home to enjoy what was left of my weekend.... not much! :(
Nick.
Over the course of monday and tuesday eves one of our panel guys carefully fitted the car back up for me. New number plates,badges all round and a couple of wheel arch trims as well as dealer tax disc holder/stickers went on just for good measure. By the time Id applied the paint work sealer and a few coats of collinite we had this........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini106.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini103.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini107.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini108.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/projectmini105.jpg
A job well done I think. Normally I wouldnt have gone this far with a daily but this is a definate keeper for a few years for myself and the missus so the hard work will be worth it.
To the nova then........ A few more parts have been aquired recently and I've also booked it in for engine removal and strip down within the next few weeks. So pretty soon I'll know exactly what caused the failure and can look forward to the rebuild to have it ready for next years show season etc.
Thanks for reading.
Nick.
Cheers Si,Matt,Adam,Vaughan and saloonwoody! :)
Nick.
Awesome stuff Nick,
Any more thoughts about the Nova engine rebuild ?
Awesome stuff Nick,
Any more thoughts about the Nova engine rebuild ?
Thanks Edd, As said above the engine/box will be out within the coming weeks. Once the engines stripped and we know what the problem is we can act accordingly etc. Pretty sure the block will be bored/honed and fitted with a good set of mahles. Crank will be checked while were at it. The head will also be freshened up too. It will be mainly a standard rebuild with arp's and brand new parts all round.
Nick.
scott.parker
17-10-10, 05:29 PM
Nick your dam good at your job mate, wish you sprayed novas cheep! lol
dannymcc
17-10-10, 06:44 PM
Very nice Nick. Great attention to detail :cool:
Top Quality work, as per usual nick :thumb:
sparkie1401
17-10-10, 07:13 PM
looks great nick, hope your well!
your boss must really like you lol
did you see my steering wheel in my WIP
saloonwoody
17-10-10, 08:02 PM
top work fella , wish i had access to facilities like that :(
Top Skills Nick. Your attention to minor detail is superb. One of the wifes friends has (i think) some sort of modified works cooper, the sound is superb!
discoinferno
17-10-10, 08:30 PM
awesome as ever nick
Pistol Pete
17-10-10, 08:33 PM
Wow. Top notch work.
Fantastic out of the gun finish there dude, looks stunning with a flat and polish. Awesome work.
Cheers for all above comments guys. Its always a pleasure to hear positive comments especially when its not the nova! lol
Nick.
andybishop
18-10-10, 10:02 AM
Awesome work as usual Nick, Looks Stunning!
MattBrown
18-10-10, 10:13 AM
Nick, please do the engine removal and fitting yourself.
Imo, its something you have to do, same as if you paint the bay, and they scratch it putting it back in?
Just go for it in the garage nick, plenty of people will be willing to help.
ben doodar
18-10-10, 05:13 PM
great work on the mini nick. my mrs has just had a brand new cooper and its ace ive borrowed (pinched) it a few times and i love it!
when you have filled the stonechips have you used knifing putty/stopper or just normal body filler?
great work and i look forward to seeing progress on the nova.
Nick, please do the engine removal and fitting yourself.
Imo, its something you have to do, same as if you paint the bay, and they scratch it putting it back in?
Just go for it in the garage nick, plenty of people will be willing to help.
If Im honest I like to stick with what Im good at Matt...... I know my boys wont let me down and it will be perfect once finished. ;)
Andy B....... cheers pal!
Ben....... Thanks, I use a bmw stopper for all stone chips and small repairs etc.
Nick.
ben doodar
18-10-10, 06:32 PM
Ben....... Thanks, I use a bmw stopper for all stone chips and small repairs etc.
i wont be getting any of that from my local body supplies then lol.
similar to other stoppers i presume then buddy.
also i see why you keep to what your good at, why remove the engine etc yourself just for the bragging rights of "ive done it myself" if your more comfortable to let your friends/work buddies do it for you. then so be it. nothing wrong with that.
Ben.
i wont be getting any of that from my local body supplies then lol.
similar to other stoppers i presume then buddy.
also i see why you keep to what your good at, why remove the engine etc yourself just for the bragging rights of "ive done it myself" if your more comfortable to let your friends/work buddies do it for you. then so be it. nothing wrong with that.
Ben.
Yes pal just like the majority of normal stoppers but remember to buy a decent product then its less likely to sink and not show all your chips again in six months. On the above I like to do as much as I can with my car using my ideas/skills and knowledge to the best of my ability however I do like everything to be to a high standard so If I feel Its something Im not capable of then yes I'll let someone else suitable for the job take it on. Pretty much how many are with the bodywork side of things when it comes to the better standard of novas out there Im just the other way around! :)
Nick.
krobinson
21-10-10, 08:05 PM
Looks stunning Nick!
With regards your engine, your right to just freshin it up, standard parts etc. It'll be great to see it finally at billing 2011!
novacabrio
21-10-10, 10:14 PM
The Mini is awesome.... Just don't go adding anything stupid like stickers saying The Mini adventure starts here
Oh, your ebay feedback says you bought one!! lol lol lol lol lol
The Mini is awesome.... Just don't go adding anything stupid like stickers saying The Mini adventure starts here
Oh, your ebay feedback says you bought one!! lol lol lol lol lol
I have 3 words for you! .................. "MADE IN SPAIN" ;)
Nick.
novacabrio
22-10-10, 07:07 PM
I have 3 words for you! .................. "MADE IN SPAIN" ;)
Nick.
Factory fitted...... :thumb:
Factory fitted...... :thumb:
As are the Mini adventure stickers!!! hence why I wanted one to go with other dealer spec items recently fitted. Originality is the way forward. ;)
Nick.
my car still has the made in spain sticker in the windscreen :)
Everyone points and says its a german car lol
ben doodar
07-11-10, 08:01 PM
Any updates nick? I see you've bought a nice new strut brace. lol
Ben.
Any updates nick? I see you've bought a nice new strut brace. lol
Ben.
Nothing to report at the moment Im afraid.... Coming weeks should change that though with a bit of luck! ;)
Nick.
dj_wudgey
01-12-10, 01:09 PM
hope there are a few updates to the nova!! i want to see it get evn beter than it is!! that must be a hard task though making that nova beter lol
Cheers Wudgey, However I am hoping I can improve it in a few areas. Whats below is the start of just that!
Update time then guys...........
I know its been sometime but progress has now begun. I dropped the car off the other week for engine removal and strip down. A day or so later we got the call to go collect the car minus its engine and gearbox. I wanted the car at home as I intend on doing some engine bay and sundries paintwork. Myself and one of the guys from work headed up to collect the car the other saturday morning. Here's what greeted us............
One c20let awaiting stripping.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip001-1.jpg
One sccr removed.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip003-1.jpg
One nova looking rather sorry for itself.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip005-1.jpg
Loaded up and ready for home..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip007-1.jpg
Once home and unloaded it was time for a quick wash as the weather wasnt so good when I dropped it off and it really needed a quick spruce........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip008-1.jpg
Empty engine bay..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip010-1.jpg
Engine stripping and inspection will commence shortly with a bit of luck. My immediate plans are to strip the front end down and prepare the bay and some other items for paint as I may as well whilst the motors out etc. Plans are to paint the block,gearbox,shafts,mounts and a couple of other bits in the semi matt grey finish Ive used throughout the car as I think it will really suit it when its all back together. Big thanks go to Mike and Craig for removing the motor without a mark anywhere and to Jeffo for trailoring the car home for me. Hopefully now things are in motion it wont be long until another update is possible! cheers for reading.
Nick.
ben doodar
01-12-10, 10:16 PM
Nick I've said so many times but your nova rocks!!!
Have you decided what your doing about the gearbox? The work shop in the above pictures look so nice, ah what we would do to have a garage like that at home!! Lol. Really glad of an update mate will really look forward to more updates.
matthew172
01-12-10, 10:29 PM
good progress daddy
novacabrio
01-12-10, 11:16 PM
Have you got much planned for the engine bay while the lump is out?
dj_wudgey
02-12-10, 01:55 AM
glad your making progress and looking to improve her further still!! i love this car to bits have done for many years now since the first time i saw it at pv years back! it was nice enough then but you managed to make it better!! i cant help but save every pic that gets posted off it lol
Rick Draper
02-12-10, 09:42 AM
Whats the plan for the engine Nick?
Cheers Ben! After a fair bit of thought Ive opted to stick with the sccr box.
Matt..... cheers old boy!
Mark..... Bay will get a quick flat/paint and thats it really. Everything is in good order and all strengthening/welding/plating work has been carried out to a good standard so no need for any alterations their etc.
Benn.... Me too!
Wudgey..... cheers pal.
Rick..... Mainly a stock rebuild fella with just a few choice uprated parts such as tensioners,oil pump,arp's and the like.
Nick.
Get some new rack mounts before engine goes back in
You can get solid or poly ones
Hi guys,
Update time it is then. This week Ive removed some front end parts and checked the bay over to make sure it was all sound and areas that have had the plating kit added or have been cutout and boxed such as the alternator/intercooler cutouts etc had been done well. Im pleased to report all is good and all the work has been carried out to a high standard. So it is just a simple re paint for the bay. The car now currently sits like this awaiting a good degrease/cleaning session before I start preparation for paint etc...........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip025-1.jpg?t=1291474680
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip034-1.jpg?t=1291474786
Ive also been busy preparing quite a few other parts ready for paint......
One gearbox degreased/rubbed and masked up........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip042-1.jpg?t=1291474897
That went into the booth and was painted along with all the other items Id prepared over the course of the week in the same colour as whats all over the rest of the car.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip075.jpg?t=1291475049
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip077-2.jpg?t=1291475049
Engine front/gearbox rear mount and spacer.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip080-2.jpg?t=1291475127
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip078-1.jpg?t=1291475175
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip084-1.jpg?t=1291475175
Weber fuel regulator and bottom pulley face......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip079-1.jpg?t=1291475175
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip083-1.jpg?t=1291475175
Anti roll bar/bracketary and gearbox inspection plate.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip082-1.jpg?t=1291475175
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip086-1.jpg?t=1291475175
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip087-1.jpg?t=1291475175
And last but not least my recently acquired genuine early fearless brace......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip088-1.jpg?t=1291475484
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip091-1.jpg?t=1291475484
dj_wudgey
04-12-10, 03:31 PM
top top work as allways matey!! i wish i could paint like you!!
Big_Chap
04-12-10, 03:34 PM
Top work as per!...
Joe Richardson
04-12-10, 03:38 PM
Nice work Nick,will be nice when all the bay is painted the same standard as the outside of the car :thumb:
Very nice Nick, more stuff looking minted !!!!
That brace looks nice, see why you sold the Sparco one to me now lol
dj_wudgey
04-12-10, 03:39 PM
damn right it will joe its a stunning car has been for many years before nick had it but its even beter now!!
Boxed demasked...........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip097-1.jpg?t=1291475484
Painted parts pile.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip096-1.jpg?t=1291476136
Due to the weight and strength of the roll bar it would have been very hard to drill to mount so as I used the ends to mount it I'll have to paint them a little later along with the linkage that I intend on doing matt black along with the clutch lever arm on the gearbox for a more standard look etc.
Fuel reg looks real well!............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip101-1.jpg?t=1291476390
Impressed with what Ive achieved this week I finished up this morning and headed off to speak to the guys sorting the engine to see If it was stripped down as yet. It indeed had been but the news wasnt good.
One coscast head............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip109-1.jpg?t=1291476390
And one bottom end.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip112-1.jpg?t=1291476390
My mechanical knowledge isnt huge but even I can see the problems here........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip102-1.jpg?t=1291476390
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip103-1.jpg?t=1291476390
All pistons are burnt and all have damage to the edges as you can see. Pistons from cylinders two/three being the worst. Rings are damaged/broken across the board and two are stuck to the pistons. The head is also damaged and a suspected write off............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip110-1.jpg?t=1291476390
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip111-1.jpg?t=1291476390
You can just make out the damage to two/three at the top of the cylinders in this picture. Due to how bad the condition is their opinion is it will need too much material removing to repair via skimming meaning its probably going to need another head. But it will be checked by a local expert first to confirm this. The bottom end/bores however doesnt look bad and will go again fine with a rebore.
Its not what they expected to find. Initially we thought the rings may be worn due to general wear and tear or they may just be damage to one cylinder inparticular however due to it being all four substantially damaged their opinion is that it could be a map/fuelling issue which has caused it to run lean and lead to this.
So as said via text to some of you this morning. Id like your opinions on cause also. Could it be down to the eds phase two software having a bad map? Im sure I read Dayle over on corsasport with the white c20let removed his phase two chips and replaced them due to them having just that. Could the Weber fuel reg be adjusted incorrectly? Also I was told the engine had an xe inlet cam however their is no vernier pulley to retard the timing which could also cause issues so Im told. However I have a spare inlet cam to check the part numbers on so I can check if it does indeed have an xe item or not. Obviously their is an issue which needs to be sorted out as I cant have a freshly rebuilt engine going the same way. Maybe I could run it in on a stock ecu and then go for a chipset from Beardy as everyone seems to give good feedback on his items? Opinions and advice needed guys please as it certainly is not my speciality!
Regards,
Nick.
Id put it all standard as you say and go from there mate.
Least you know exactly where you are then
Top work on the other stuff.Looks really well.
Rick Draper
04-12-10, 04:26 PM
IMHO thats been running lean.
If i was you i would be on to SBS and get a LET off him. He has ones that have been freshened up with new rings, gaskets etc and sure he would put a set of ARP's in one for you and do the other bits you wanted doing.
Although I know very little about c20let's I would also put it all standard and work from there, if the only things that have been changed are the chips and fpr I would go with others in the future, lad I know round here melted his c20let engine in his corsa after fitting eds chipset, so maybe there is a problem with there chips.
Cant really tell from pics - but it does look like detonantion...
Head looks salvagable though
The 2nd piston edge looks liked some things got in there and been smashing about. Rest look very dirty but not badly damaged.
Gearbox looks great dude. As for the fuel reg and bits.
MattBrown
04-12-10, 04:58 PM
Looks to me nic, likes a combo of timing and underfueling.
Personally, if it was me, as Rick said, go to SBS, get a bare engine, then get a recon turbo etc.
Then its upto you, weather you go for a genuine EDS chipsets (Regal, no ebay ones)
Or, go down standalone route, not only for power, but you will be able to make the loom look amazing, and looks count a hell of alot for this build!
The other thing, did it have a wideband lambda sensor? I would be fitting one, even if you poke the cable through the glovebox, and hide it in there, then get your passenger to watch it once rebuilt etc.
Paintwork looks really good fella, will the linkage pivot be done too?
dj_wudgey
04-12-10, 05:33 PM
the box looks amazing mate!! your work is allways top class!!
Looks to me nic, likes a combo of timing and underfueling.
Personally, if it was me, as Rick said, go to SBS, get a bare engine, then get a recon turbo etc.
Then its upto you, weather you go for a genuine EDS chipsets (Regal, no ebay ones)
Or, go down standalone route, not only for power, but you will be able to make the loom look amazing, and looks count a hell of alot for this build!
The other thing, did it have a wideband lambda sensor? I would be fitting one, even if you poke the cable through the glovebox, and hide it in there, then get your passenger to watch it once rebuilt etc.
Paintwork looks really good fella, will the linkage pivot be done too?
We'll have to see what the future brings.... I dont see any need for standalone with my spec and all the looms hidden so I have the looks anyhow! The car doesnt have a wideband sensor just afr and boost gauges. May be something to add that though. As far as I was told they are a genuine eds chipset but who knows. Linkage and pivot will be done in black at a later date fella.
Thanks for all above comments.
Nick.
that head is very salvageable. just needs welding and then skiming
Get better pics of the head. Its fine, as long as the det marks are clear of gasket surface and not touching valve edges.
Need detailed pics.
Paul
drop me a text matey and ill give you a buzz tomorrow for a chat.
07807 040522
discoinferno
04-12-10, 07:25 PM
you say it has an afr gauge in the car? where does it get its reading im assuming its just a narrow band sensor and not a wide band....
i would SERIOUSLY consider one nick as you can keep an eye on the fueling all the time, it will save an engine if you understand what the display is telling you.
as for chips i would only use genuine eds too many **** replicas out there, do you have an EML on the dash .... any codes?
Does your ECU has the high/low boost button?
Genuine EDS ones came with it.
steveboyslim
05-12-10, 09:10 AM
Looks to me nic, likes a combo of timing and underfueling.
Personally, if it was me, as Rick said, go to SBS, get a bare engine, then get a recon turbo etc.
Then its upto you, weather you go for a genuine EDS chipsets (Regal, no ebay ones)
Or, go down standalone route, not only for power, but you will be able to make the loom look amazing, and looks count a hell of alot for this build!
The other thing, did it have a wideband lambda sensor? I would be fitting one, even if you poke the cable through the glovebox, and hide it in there, then get your passenger to watch it once rebuilt etc.
Paintwork looks really good fella, will the linkage pivot be done too?
That engine could possibly be repaired, but clearer pictures of the damage are needed.
Deternation (and welding) removes the heat treatment from the metal making the head very soft and you can have head gaskets problems later, so the head may not be suitable for your engine, but would be perfect for e-bay.
Like I said in my messages give me a call.
Steve
sorry to hear about your find on your engine nick,caught it at a good time as could of been alot worse,hope you get it all sorted mate
tony
Hi guys and cheers for the replys.....
Gary.... Yes mate it does have an air fuel ratio gauge however Im unsure how its plumbed in and were the signal comes from etc. Wideband could be a good investment for the future I have no doubt.
Mieren.... It doesnt have a switchable boost button but Im pretty sure Im correct in saying thats not to say they arent genuine eds chips. Regardless I think they will be changed to some proven item such as Beardys. At least then I know exactly whats in there.
Tony.... these things happen dont they, just going to get on and repair it as soon as possible.
Steve and Philip...... I'll give you both a call today for opinions/options as both your work/knowledge comes well reccommended.
Thanks,
Nick.
Rick Draper
05-12-10, 12:27 PM
Nick is the AFR gauge a Auto Meter one?
Nick is the AFR gauge a Auto Meter one?
Auto something Rick iirc! Id have to go have a look later to be sure.
Nick.
MattBrown
05-12-10, 01:04 PM
We'll have to see what the future brings.... I dont see any need for standalone with my spec and all the looms hidden so I have the looks anyhow! The car doesnt have a wideband sensor just afr and boost gauges. May be something to add that though. As far as I was told they are a genuine eds chipset but who knows. Linkage and pivot will be done in black at a later date fella.
Thanks for all above comments.
Nick.
Ahh, all sounds well then.
In the new year ill have to pop down, try and seduce you into doing me some painting:d
On a more serious note, i'd love to see the car up close:thumb:
MattBrown
05-12-10, 01:06 PM
Does your ECU has the high/low boost button?
Genuine EDS ones came with it.
2nd this, my ph2 ecu has a small button, press this and you spin the world backwardslol
Cheers to Steve and philip for advice today. much appreciated guys.
Nick.
Love the look of this :) What ever happened with the red one havent heard of it since you sold it ?
discoinferno
05-12-10, 04:25 PM
it will be a narrow band sensor, which if it is, its as useful as a ash tray on a motorbike.
if you want a chat to my engine builder mate let me know, pete will be more than happy to inspect, machine, spec the engine for you
The other thing thats making me think they're not genuine chips is when you buy an EDS chip from Regal for example they give you an uprated FPR that looks like a standard one but your car had an adjustable aftermarket one.
The fixed ones that come with chip set are usually one thats been squashed in a vise to increase the fp, the weber cossie ones are one of the most reliable ones on offer, I can only presume that is the reason that Sean (sp) used it when building the car
nova_stee
05-12-10, 07:14 PM
Lambda fault not picking the reading up quick enough so making it run lean.
Mieran...... I hear what your saying but Graeme is right regarding the weber fpr regs. They are well recognised as a good one to have. The crushed regs do the job but are seen as a bodge in many eyes.
nova stee...... Its funny you should mention that as both Steve and Philip mentioned that amongst other things when I was on the phone to them earlier. I'll have to check it to see if its a genuine bosch item as well as checking the ecu's chips and the plugs. Apparantly denso iridiums which is what I was told the car was using arent the best plug to have in a let. A change to the rst plugs seems to be the best option so Im told.
Nick.
nova_stee
05-12-10, 07:51 PM
Mieran...... I hear what your saying but Graeme is right regarding the weber fpr regs. They are well recognised as a good one to have. The crushed regs do the job but are seen as a bodge in many eyes.
nova stee...... Its funny you should mention that as both Steve and Philip mentioned that amongst other things when I was on the phone to them earlier. I'll have to check it to see if its a genuine bosch item as well as checking the ecu's chips and the plugs. Apparantly denso iridiums which is what I was told the car was using arent the best plug to have in a let. A change to the rst plugs seems to be the best option so Im told.
Nick.
Mine had ran scary lean when i checked data log change lambda and never had another problem
Mine had ran scary lean when i checked data log change lambda and never had another problem
For the sake of £115 its certainly not worth the risk..... It will be on the replacement parts list.
Nick.
Southie
05-12-10, 07:55 PM
Gutted Nick that your having to rebuild the LET, have you got intouch with the previous owner to ask what spec was run?
Wish I could help on the problems your having but I ain't got a bloody clue Nick, photoshops ain't gonna help I'm afraid :eek:
Anyway maybe it's a blessing in disguise at least you'll know the engines right when it's sorted, good luck :)
Gutted Nick that your having to rebuild the LET, have you got intouch with the previous owner to ask what spec was run?
Wish I could help on the problems your having but I ain't got a bloody clue Nick, photoshops ain't gonna help I'm afraid :eek:
Anyway maybe it's a blessing in disguise at least you'll know the engines right when it's sorted, good luck :)
Ive emailed Shaun larnder to see If he can shead some light on a few spec parts for me so Ill wait and see what he says. Bit gutted tbh but it has given me chance to make the car a little bit better on a few levels so it has a few plus points even if it is draining my pocket! :)
Nick.
matthew172
05-12-10, 08:44 PM
at least once you get it rebuilt and set up it will give you a bit peace of mind to know its been done right etc
Jeff16v
05-12-10, 10:02 PM
Gutted it thats bad Nick, I suspect mine will get pulled next year and temp replaced with an xe to do a rebuilt. I'd prefer the piece of mind knowing what build parts are being used. It'll be well worth the investment one it's done.
Cool painting as usual. Have you used an enamel clear coat?
novacabrio
05-12-10, 11:47 PM
Stick a 1.3 back in it, you know you can't handle the power of a Turbo lol
Matt...... exactly fella I know it will be worth it in the end etc.
Jeff.... These things happen dont they! I just want to concentrate on sorting it now. The clear coat is the semi matt gear I used on the other areas of the car with an additive added.
Mark.... I wouldnt have it any other way now, any other engine in a nova would seem rather bland! You just havent seen the light yet as your always too busy tinkering with small blocks! ;)
Nick.
Olly755
13-12-10, 11:42 AM
Nick, you have PM. :)
chambers1984
13-12-10, 04:36 PM
have u got a pic of how u got the turbo intake pipe to fit with out cutting the front panel please?
MattBrown
13-12-10, 10:40 PM
A lad up here cuts the turbo inlet off, turns it 90 degrees and welds it up.
Nick, you have PM. :)
Hi Olly...... Ive replied fella. :)
Chambers.... As Matt said above The turbo inlet is cut off,turned and re welded so no slam panel cutting is needed. The best way to go for a much neater look etc.
Nick.
Nick are you using a Straight cut f20 when it goes back in the hole?
I thought Shawn cut the slam panel?
Nick are you using a Straight cut f20 when it goes back in the hole?
Yes mate Im sticking with the sccr box.
Benn...... no cutting here dude. Shaun had the inlet cut,turned and re welded like many have done for the neater look etc. ;)
Nick.
straight cut gears look the boom :)
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f66/Cle_555/DSC04796.jpg?t=1292357783
I might be thinking of something else.
chambers1984
14-12-10, 09:32 PM
thanks for the info. very nice car to mate.
thanks for the info. very nice car to mate.
Glad to help and cheers. :)
Cle.... They sound even better!
Nick.
dj_wudgey
05-01-11, 01:03 PM
straight cut gears do sound ace whining away lol
scorge01
05-01-11, 01:31 PM
ha its the whining noise that makes me want one.lol anyone know of any f28 straight cut boxes going?b
Hi guys its been a while!! But its time to give this thread an overdue update. So were to start then...... Back in december I dropped the block with the machinist not realising at the time he wanted the new pistons with it. So by the time the pistons had arrived and the machinist had come back from his christmas holidays abroad we were well into January. Once his shop was back up and running I called in and dropped these 87mm forged omegas off with him so he could get to work........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip044-2.jpg?t=1299351084
At the same time I also gave him the crank for checking/polishing and the connecting rods to make sure these had no problems either.....
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip046-2.jpg?t=1299351283
Whilst the block was away a few more parts were arriving. Cue a parcel from spanishfly being a set of David Dixons big block shafts/hubs complete with carriers and new bearings. Unfortunatly Rob had painted them a dodgy looking hammerite grey..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip036-2.jpg?t=1299351402
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip037-1.jpg?t=1299351954
Not really being a fan of the colour I taped up the bearings and brushed on some stripper.....
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip038-2.jpg?t=1299351752
Once all the paint was off I gave them a quick jetwash to neutralise the stripper and clean them up. Then blew them dry leaving me with these.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip041-2.jpg?t=1299351874
Then after a wirebrush/sanding session I got them taped up ready to paint later with a few other parts........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip009-2.jpg?t=1299352222
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip012-2.jpg?t=1299352249
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip011-2.jpg?t=1299352275
One of Davids equal length shafts bought previously in a groupbuy was also rubbed down ready.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip017-2.jpg?t=1299352554
And by this time so more goodies were arriving..........
A new -31 actuator and custom bracket for direct fitment from scooby on mig.....
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip032-2.jpg?t=1299352640
Some verniers from sbd to retard the timing for the xe inlet cam, new Ngk Bcr8es spark plugs, new dummy shaft bearing and fan switch also.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip058-2.jpg?t=1299352883
A few weeks later the machine shop called to say the block was ready so I went and collected it and dropped it with my engine builder to check he was happy with the work that had been carried out. He removed the internal oilway bungs and cleaned out the oil ways before giving it to me to clean then prep for paint. Its had a rebore to suit the 87mm omegas and a slight deck also..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip034-2.jpg?t=1299356834
One thing we had noticed was that the block had been paint previously and I didnt know what with or how well the prep had been beforehand so I made the decision to strip it..
Paint stripper brushed on.............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip040-2.jpg?t=1299356385
Once the stripper had worked its magic I lifted it onto some makeshift wheels and rolled it outside to give it a cold wash neutralising the stripper and cleaning it........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip006-2.jpg?t=1299356542
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip005-2.jpg?t=1299356574
Once I was happy all the stripper was off I upped the heat and steam cleaned the outside before tipping the block onto its side both ways to clean all the insides out as well.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip007-2.jpg?t=1299356678
Then it was back onto the wheels and inside too be dried out........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip008-2.jpg?t=1299356735
My builder had warned me to dry it out thoroughly and re lubricate the bores and face to prevent them flash rusting etc. So I spent sometime using the airline blower drying it all out then re lubed the bores and face before wrapping it up to keep it clean and dry until I got round to prepping for paint etc........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip016-2.jpg?t=1299357066
During the course of the following week I used a combination of sanding tools and some wire brush attachments on a drill as well as a fair bit of manual rubbing to remove any flash rusting the block had and to give a good key for the paint to stick to...........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip014-3.jpg?t=1299357260
Once I was happy it was as good as I could get it I degreased it thoroughly or more than one occasion! and then we lifted it into the booth ready to mask and paint......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip021-2.jpg?t=1299357713
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip023-2.jpg?t=1299357745
All the areas I was instructed to keep free from paint were masked up then I placed random bolts in all the threads and used a few sealer nozzles to prevent paint from going into other areas too.
Then I applied an acid etch primer followed by colour and then a high temp engine enamel lacqeur which I added a little matting agent to as I wanted the block to follow the same colour scheme as everything else. Once painted I demasked it and heres the outcome.....
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip029-2.jpg?t=1299358013
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip030-2.jpg?t=1299358013
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip031-2.jpg?t=1299358013
It took sometime and effort but the outcome has been worth it! Nearly forgot to mention these were done at the same time too.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip019-2.jpg?t=1299358525
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip027-1.jpg?t=1299358437
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip028-2.jpg?t=1299358437
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip025-2.jpg?t=1299358577
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip024-2.jpg?t=1299358602
The next morning all dry things were looking real well.....
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip053-2.jpg?t=1299358676
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip052-2.jpg?t=1299358704
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip047-2.jpg?t=1299358738
Shortly after I again re lubricated the bores,face and other mating surfaces ready for the block to go back to the engine builder. More updates tommorow if I get the chance.
Nick.
Good to see your still cracking on nick
Looking good there,nice engine bits
Should look good as always with your work lol
Keep it up mate,love this car will be awesome when all put back together
Cheers
Tony
Good to see your still cracking on nick
Looking good there,nice engine bits
Should look good as always with your work lol
Keep it up mate,love this car will be awesome when all put back together
Cheers
Tony
Cheers Tony, I do hope so as all the effort will be worth it then! :)
Nick.
peester
06-03-11, 10:35 AM
oh aye - deffo worth the effort.. looks great; as it has to :thumb:
awesome update Nick! Back on the road for billing?
krobinson
06-03-11, 11:02 AM
Nice update Nick, glad things are moving along again, can't wait to see the next update!
some top work there pal not keen on the colour of the block but each to their own keep it up!
Nick you're still my hero! Excellent stuff chap!
I think i love you Nick x
;)
Stunning work
matthew172
06-03-11, 11:37 AM
great work mate, looks awesome
Southie
06-03-11, 11:46 AM
Glad you've not stopped building this after the downfall of getting to Billing last year, must of been gutting but these things happen for a reason, in your case it will be yet more perfection. :)
What's planned for the coming months then Nick?
Hi guys and thanks for the great comments! :)
Ive got the football to watch thisaft amongst a few others things but Ill do my best to get another update posted this eves so keep your eyes peeled! ;)
Nick.
Jeff16v
06-03-11, 02:17 PM
Nice to see an update, I was wondering what was happening with the engine. 2011's is going to be the year of mustard:thumb:
Had a read of your updates an what not last night Nick, suffice to say its given me a whole lot more motivation & inspiration to crack on with things Ive got going on here lol
Thankyou for the comments guys!
A little more of what Ive been up to recently then.........
With my side of things finished on the block side I dropped that off with the engine builder along with the majority of rebuild parts that Id also recently recieved including a full glyco bearing set,genuine oil and water pumps,timing belt kit,elring gaskets and assembly bolts. The only uprated parts we are using really are the omega pistons,cometic head gasket and the arp rod bolts........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip064-2.jpg?t=1299432930
These wideband and boost gauges were also another recent purchase.............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip059-2.jpg?t=1299433041
With the rebuild parts also came an original unskimmed coscast head which was in very good condition apart from the exterior looking a little grubby. Once my engine builder had looked it over and was happy with its condition he suggested having it vapour blasted to clean it up. A local company he knew of had the facilities to do this so I went by one day to have a chat with them to see what they could offer. They explained they put the heads through a vapour/aqua blasting procedure followed by a chemical clean and parrafin wash to finish them off. With that I left the head with them and went to collect it a week or so later. Here are the results........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip066-2.jpg?t=1299433873
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip065-2.jpg?t=1299433905
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip067-2.jpg?t=1299433933
It has come back way better than I expected! By the time its been for a skim at the machine shop the head will be ready for assembly. On to a little more painting then.........
The new actuator bracket if you remember came polished and thats not something I wanted in the engine bay on this build so thats now black with a semi matt finish......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip069-2.jpg?t=1299434080
At the same time I had broken down the dummy shaft. The bracket assembly area is all black and the shaft is grey. Looks well now its all back together.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip070-3.jpg?t=1299434324
The Big block short shaft was also degreased and cleaned. Then the boot clips were removed so I could pull the boots back and paint the middle of the shaft without removing cv joints etc........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip068-2.jpg?t=1299434456
Whilst I was on with the above the machine shop had called saying they were finished with the crank and rods. The crank was fine after being checked over and the journals have now been polished. The connecting rods were also checked and trued so all was coming on well. These were then collected and dropped with the builder.
Whilst I was their I collected the fuel rail and labelled up the injectors as these are going to be ultrasonically checked and cleaned next week.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip071-3.jpg?t=1299435186
The block is now on the stand and a dry assembly has been started........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip062-2.jpg?t=1299435622
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip063-2.jpg?t=1299435622
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip061-2.jpg?t=1299435622
Their is more to come but it always takes me ages to upload and get these updates sorted so bear with me! I hope you have enjoyed reading so far.
Nick.
Good progress Nick.
Nice to see everything looking so clean.
That head has cleaned up fooking well
kevster
06-03-11, 07:06 PM
looking good nick !!
nova_niek
06-03-11, 07:41 PM
Then I applied an acid etch primer followed by colour and then a high temp engine enamel lacqeur which I added a little matting agent to as I wanted the block to follow the same colour scheme as everything else. Once painted I demasked it and heres the outcome.....
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip029-2.jpg?t=1299358013
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip030-2.jpg?t=1299358013
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip031-2.jpg?t=1299358013
Nick.
Nick, needless to say I admire your work no end as do quite a few others round here... I'm speechless mate! Stunning! :thumb:
The above pics leave me with one question, hopefully you can help me with this.
Last year I restored a motorbike for a mate (1982 Kawasaki Z1000-J2, aircooled), which was nothing special - until it came to repainting the cylinder block and head.
<rant mode>
I first had the lot bead blasted with the finest grit possible. This gave a wonderful grey(ish) and very smooth finish.
I then brought this lot to a place where it was to be resprayed in a 1K heat resistant paint. The end result was horrid - the paint was an inch thick and started shifting as soon as I cleaned the block using a bit of degreaser.
So the lot was bead blasted again and I went to another place for an alledgedly "indestructible, scratch and heat resistant" coating. Too right the coating proved tough as nails, but the imbeciles decided to blast the block and head beforehand using what appeared to be bricks! The coating looks naff compared to the OEM coating on the crankcases. Not only that, but the heat treatment (required for the coating to work) caused the freshly honed cylinder liners to sink through the block (yes really!) and softened the alloy of the cylinder head to the point where ALL the threads had to be helicoiled. Not to mention the block got wet and the bores rusted all nice and brown. GRRR. :mad:
</rant mode>
Long story short: can you please give us the lowdown on the paint you used on your engine block? I'm sure it will be helpful to all of us in choosing the right paint for the job.
Sorry to hijack your thread Nick.
Thanks in advance and keep up the good work,
Niek
Good progress Nick.
Nice to see everything looking so clean.
That head has cleaned up fooking well
Cheers Adam, The head has indeed come back in exceptional condition I really didnt expect it to be anywhere near as good! :)
Kev......... cheers pal!
Niek....... Thanks and Im sorry to hear of your misfortune in the past. Most of the products I used on the block were specific for the job and I havent used them before. Id prefer to make sure I have no future issues before advising people to use the same products if you see were Im coming from. If in six months time everything is fine then I'll gladly offer the information to anyone who wants it.
Nick.
Count Vaux Alot
07-03-11, 05:48 PM
Nice work nick - what are your plans turbo and boost wise? A -31 actuator is quite strong!
matthew172
07-03-11, 05:57 PM
lots of big booooost mate
Nice work nick - what are your plans turbo and boost wise? A -31 actuator is quite strong!
cheers James, The car has an almost new aet hybrid unit but I'll still only be running phase two spec so no huge boost levels. Quite a few of the mig guys are using the -31's with great feedback. Apparantly the boost kicks in 500rpm earlier, holds thoughout the rev range to the limiter and a strong, smooth power delivery. The car already has an uprated item but with the comments Ive seen and heard I thought It would be worth the money and If in the future I go for a little more boost then at least it will be able to cope etc. :)
Nick.
lots of big booooost mate
Your just a booooooooooost junkey mate! My pockets arent as deep as you farmers! lol
Nick.
ben doodar
07-03-11, 07:35 PM
Awesome update nick I've been waiting for this!! Nice spec list, nothing to wild is a sensible way in my opinion! I'll be looking forward to reading more.
fearless
07-03-11, 07:48 PM
I've got 2 injector clips here for you Nick - PM me your address and I'll pop them in the post
Dave
I've got 2 injector clips here for you Nick - PM me your address and I'll pop them in the post
Dave
Thanks Dave I really appreciate it! pm on route. :)
Cheers Ben!
Nick.
Pistol Pete
07-03-11, 09:32 PM
Awesome attention to detail. Will look great when rebuilt no doubt about that!!
Awesome work dude, everything you've done look fantastic.
I didn't think Scooby was still active let alot selling the actuator any more...
nova_niek
08-03-11, 03:17 PM
Niek....... Thanks and Im sorry to hear of your misfortune in the past. Most of the products I used on the block were specific for the job and I havent used them before. Id prefer to make sure I have no future issues before advising people to use the same products if you see were Im coming from. If in six months time everything is fine then I'll gladly offer the information to anyone who wants it.
Cheers Nick,
I'll drop you a PM in about a years time then. Much appreciated! :thumb:
Niek
MattBrown
08-03-11, 05:25 PM
Looks really good nick.
Hope the head was thoroughy cleaned out after blasting.
Heard some people leaving bits of grit in, and it getting into the oil etc.
Looks really good nick.
Hope the head was thoroughy cleaned out after blasting.
Heard some people leaving bits of grit in, and it getting into the oil etc.
Cheers Matt, The head was treated to aqua/vapour blasting so no form of grit was used at all. My engine builder wouldnt have had it any other way! I also spoke to cnc heads and they more or less use exactly the same process and really know their stuff.
Nick.
Nice few updates Nick, top quality work as always, will look awesome when done
Head looks like new !
Edd
Very nice buddy, attention to detail is awesome, something i havent got the patience for!
discoinferno
08-03-11, 08:45 PM
nice to see it coming along
MattBrown
08-03-11, 10:47 PM
Cheers Matt, The head was treated to aqua/vapour blasting so no form of grit was used at all. My engine builder wouldnt have had it any other way! I also spoke to cnc heads and they more or less use exactly the same process and really know their stuff.
Nick.
Sounds good.
Definately the best way, see people in work blasting engine parts, dangerous game lol
Very nice buddy, attention to detail is awesome, something i havent got the patience for!
cheers Paul,....... You tend to get used to it when its something I have to apply everyday at work etc. However it can get frustrating sometimes!
Cheers Gary,Matt and Edd :)
Nick.
kevster
19-03-11, 05:59 PM
Any updates nick ?
Hope all is well bud
Any updates nick ?
Hope all is well bud
Hi Kev, Possibly next week mate we'll see how things progress! ;)
Nick.
Hi guys,
Onto a overdue update then! I am a little behind but have finally found a bit of spare time to show how things are currently progressing...........
My injectors went off to Nigel of migweb for ultrasonically cleaning/flow testing. The results showed they were actually pretty sound anyhow but did show a slight improvement after cleaning. They also came back with new orings,filters and pintle caps and for £40 including postage Id say that was a bargain........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip092-2.jpg?t=1302458886
I dropped these back with my guys building the engine and saw a little more progress on the motor..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip108-2.jpg?t=1302459234
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip110-3.jpg?t=1302459282
Over the past few weeks some more parts have been arriving too........
Genuine stud/nut kit and a rotor arm from autovaux.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip115-1.jpg?t=1302459369
Oil filter and tophat gasket also........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip124-1.jpg?t=1302459432
A new cool running stat turned up as well so I wasted no time in painting that and the lower housing also........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip111-2.jpg?t=1302459557
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip112-2.jpg?t=1302459583
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip114-1.jpg?t=1302459612
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip113-1.jpg?t=1302459635
The linkage/pivots have also now been freshened up too.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip096-2.jpg?t=1302459687
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip098-2.jpg?t=1302459747
Then some parts............
Genuine lamda sensor/water pump and nortech oil blank........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip095-2.jpg?t=1302459854
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip094-2.jpg?t=1302459878
Nick.
Then it was onto preparing the engine bay as the more I get done at home the less I will have to do once its back at work etc. First up was a huge degreasing session to removal all waxoil/grease etc which saw everything in the bay including the steering rack/firewall cover and all paintwork cleaned thoroughly. Once that was done I moved onto rubbing in all the stubborn and hard to get to corners using a flatting paste and finished by wet flatting the whole bay going through the grades as I went. As it is in excellent order their isnt much to repair as such but certain areas were things have been bolted down had marked the paint surfaces so I rubbed these areas down then etched the bare metal and used some high build primer to build the areas back up. Some small chips here and there have also been filled with a little stopper. Although it took me weeks of a few hours here/their the end result should be spot on for it. Once the cars back at work I'll remove the final parts I want off and give it a final prep before paintwork starts. Here's how its currently looking.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip074-3.jpg?t=1302462887
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip075-2.jpg?t=1302462887
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip076-3.jpg?t=1302462887
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip077-3.jpg?t=1302462887
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip078-2.jpg?t=1302462887
Going back to the engine then.........
Once the head was back from the machine shop only having the bare minimum removed in the process we then knew what size head gasket to order. A quick call to Steve Milton saw this arrive.........
1.3mm cometic...........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip123-1.jpg?t=1302463019
I never knew gaskets could be so expensive!......
By the time this week came and I got back to the builders shop the head had been built up with all new stems seals,valves lapped in etc and was sat on the block awaiting the headgasket before bolting down etc.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip121-1.jpg?t=1302463061
Looks more like an engine again and I'm starting to see light at the end of a long tunnel!!
Nick.
kevster
10-04-11, 08:50 PM
looking smart already , are you going to use a f28 or not?
shaun larnder
10-04-11, 09:28 PM
Very nice work Nick, looking so forward to seeing it at Billing this year.
The Simps
10-04-11, 09:30 PM
Good to see some progress Nick. Will be interesting to see it all done!
Kev..... Im sticking with the sccr box fella.
Shaun,simps........... cheers guys! :)
kevster
10-04-11, 10:07 PM
Kev..... Im sticking with the sccr box fella.
Shaun,simps........... cheers guys! :)
i just spotted that further back in the thread fella lol sorry mate lol
could up pm me the paint code of your car if you dont mind :)
scott.parker
10-04-11, 10:11 PM
Looks nice that engine nick, good to see its all coiming together mate, hope it all goes well.
Awesome progress dude, engine looks great.
Looks nice that engine nick, good to see its all coiming together mate, hope it all goes well.
Cheers Scott...............me too! lol
Benn....... cheers dude! :)
Nick.
NOV4_SPORT
11-04-11, 07:00 PM
oooh looking very nice matey. :thumb:
iain
Jeff16v
11-04-11, 08:16 PM
Engine looks nice Nick, all set for billing take 2?
oooh looking very nice matey. :thumb:
iain
cheers Iain!
Jeff............ Cheers and I'd like to think so! We'll just have to see how things go and hopefully I will make the trip with a vauxhall this year! Be good to see yours their also! ;)
Nick.
loving your work :thumb:
stu
loving your work :thumb:
stu
Thanks Stu! I see your making just as nice a job of your gsi ;)
Nick.
Jeff16v
12-04-11, 06:04 PM
Be good to see yours their also! ;)
Nick.
doubt it, that's the problem with a daily, it's tatty now and I don't have the time or money to dedicate to it.
The only good thing on the horizon is buying a house with a garage to store it in.
doubt it, that's the problem with a daily, it's tatty now and I don't have the time or money to dedicate to it.
The only good thing on the horizon is buying a house with a garage to store it in.
Thats a shame but I know what your saying Jeff as I seem to have less and less time for cars every year and feel this could well be my last project! On the other note a garage would make your life a lot easier and preserve the car for longer too. I also enjoy just being able to walk away from it when things arent going so well just leaving it sat their to go back at a later date when it suits.
Nick.
Southie
12-04-11, 07:14 PM
My favourite MK1 gets better and better, good work as ever Nick, the engine looks very nice mate. Will you be reconditioning the turbo then?
Joe Richardson
12-04-11, 09:12 PM
stunning Nick, great work :thumb:
My favourite MK1 gets better and better, good work as ever Nick, the engine looks very nice mate. Will you be reconditioning the turbo then?
cheers fella! The turbo is an aet hybrid which has only seen approx 1500 miles from new so hopefully it will be good for a few more before it needs a recon.... Fingers crossed anyway! lol
Joe.... cheers pal! :)
Thanks Stu! I see your making just as nice a job of your gsi ;)
Nick.
cheers nick
i'm trying but i think yours is on another higher level than my project
stu
Engine build looks sweet! bet you can't wait to get it out and get a few miles on it. Will be good to (fingers crossed!) see this at billing this year, after not seeing it last year.
Engine build looks sweet! bet you can't wait to get it out and get a few miles on it. Will be good to (fingers crossed!) see this at billing this year, after not seeing it last year.
Cheers John, If I manage to get it their for the weekend I'll be happy! :)
Nick.
krobinson
22-04-11, 10:47 AM
Can't wait till billing now Mate, few beers =win
Can't wait till billing now Mate, few beers =win
Me too mate....... Beers and INDIAN = win! ;)
Nick.
krobinson
22-04-11, 11:19 AM
Indian beer :-)
Hi Guys,
Update time it is! Its been a while again I know but we do have some more progress. Before easter I dropped in to see how the guys building the engine were progressing only to find them timing it up with not much left to do which was great to see. Inspired by this I toddled off and finished up the gearbox by painting the clutch lever arm in black before wrapping the box back up to keep it nice and clean.............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip129-1.jpg?t=1304536269
A recently acquired tx replacement rear pipe was then rubbed and painted to remove the shiney!..............
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip125-1.jpg?t=1304536596
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip132-1.jpg?t=1304536685
Anyway enough of them boring bits! After work today I dropped in to see the builders to find the engine build has now been completed.
As it currently sits now looking great!...........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip137-1.jpg?t=1304537003
I know its only a short update but it seems like a huge milestone has been hit! Ive got to drop the gearbox with them this week so thats ready for bolting up and then it will be time to finish off the bay and start thinking of a time suitable for all to get the motor back in and running. Billing is eight weeks away and I would really like to make it with the car this year! Fingers crossed!!!! Thanks for reading. :)
Nick.
Southie
04-05-11, 08:39 PM
I always read your wip Nick :)
One word...
... PORN
MARTIN KELSON
04-05-11, 08:51 PM
Spot on Nick
Not been to Billing for years so think i need to make the effort this year just to see this Nova.
May need to dig my tent out too :)
Jeff16v
04-05-11, 09:12 PM
Geat news Nick, can't believe it's Been nearly a year since the engine let go.
Engine going in and turbo on after I presume?
Spot on Nick
Not been to Billing for years so think i need to make the effort this year just to see this Nova.
May need to dig my tent out too :)
Cheers Martin..... You should go to billing if you can spare the time. A car of your quality Im sure would be welcome on any stand and we would all enjoy seeing it out again. :)
Southie.... Much apprecated cheers fella! :)
Jeff....... Yeah how time flys! Manifold/turbo is only held on by one nut currently. I think they have just been piecing it all back together and are just mocking up etc.
Nick
MARTIN KELSON
04-05-11, 09:28 PM
Cheers Martin..... You should go to billing if you can spare the time. A car of your quality Im sure would be welcome on any stand and we would all enjoy seeing it out again. :)
Nick
Billing not really that far for me. About 1.5hr tootling along so will probably come along, just got to see if to camp or not!
Would need a new memory card in camera for the amount of snaps i would take of the quality of yours.
love it nick, you have far to much spare time on your hands
do you do any work at work :roll:
keep it up its looking great
as usual!
stu
Porn dude, box looks sexy, engine looks good. Like the yellow.
Wont be long and you'll be bored running it in...
Royston
04-05-11, 09:58 PM
Looking absolutely fabulous Nick, shame I can't make Billing this year, we'll have to have a "Local" meet at York Dragway or something;)
Billing not really that far for me. About 1.5hr tootling along so will probably come along, just got to see if to camp or not!
Would need a new memory card in camera for the amount of snaps i would take of the quality of yours.
Thanks Martin, Its really nice to hear comments like that from a guy thats been on the scene for such a long time. :)
Stu..... I only wish I could do my own thing in works time then Id get twice as much done!! Sometimes after a busy day the last thing I want to do is stay after hours to work on my own parts etc. Im hoping next year will be a no personal projects involved one so I can take a well deserved break from it if Im honest.
Benn........ cheers dude glad your liking my mattness! lol
Royston.... Thanks fella! I had heard you werent making billing this year..... such a shame! Im sure we can sort out a local meet between a few of us. Be good to get a few novas together. ;)
Nick.
You know I love that yellow, just don't park it anywhere near mine when mines done or I might just start seeing too many flaws (or acquire your keys) lol
Grey is very similar to my normal 'secondary' colour too, pretty sure the appeal is pretty universal with this one but it certainly strikes a chord with me :d
craig green
05-05-11, 12:04 AM
Top progress as usual Nick. Even the gearbox looks amazing.
Enjoy mounting it all back up.
Btw whats the spec on this now? You having phase chips or whatever?
discoinferno
05-05-11, 11:22 AM
i bet you cant wait to get it running again :)
MattBrown
05-05-11, 11:44 AM
Looks quality Nick.
Hows your ECU hunting going?
NOV4_SPORT
05-05-11, 03:25 PM
Looking very good mate, engine and everything looks amazing.
Epic !
Iain
Top progress as usual Nick. Even the gearbox looks amazing.
Enjoy mounting it all back up.
Btw whats the spec on this now? You having phase chips or whatever?
Cheers Craig, I cant wait to see it all back together now! Basic new engine spec is below fella............
-Decked/Rebored and honed block with low comp forged omega pistons
-Fully Refurbished coscast head with xe inlet cam retarded properly by sbd vernier pulleys
-Cometic head gasket
-Aet hybrid turbo with an uprated actuator
-phase two spec ecu
-Uprated walbro high flow fuel pump and weber adjustable regulator
-Pace front mounted intercooler with hard pipe kit.
Nothing groundbreaking I know but I just wanted a strong and safe spec that will last. Shaun had the previous engine rollered at courtenay some time before I bought it and it made 280bhp. How accurate that is Im unsure! Im not one to talk power figures but with it now having a fresh engine coupled to the quaife sccr box and new equal shaft setup it should make a pretty quick car! :)
Nick.
Looks quality Nick.
Hows your ECU hunting going?
Thanks Matt, The ecu hunt is no more......... The car will be setup properly and carefully monitored on exactly what chips it has in the ecu now. If it turns out they do need changing I will do so then. Their was never any proof the map was to blame and their was a few other faults found which could have well contributed on a 85-90k engine. Ive spoken with Eds direct and they will sell me an electronic kit with the switch for approx 280 euro and I know exactly what Im getting then. With all the poorer quality chipset makers using their name on their inferior chips its hard to believe when buying a second hand ecu that whats inside is indeed genuine or not even if it has a power switch. My mk4 let astra had phase two chips and a genuine looking switch wired in but it never actually did anything! The car just ran at the higher boost level all the time.
Gary.......... It seems like soooo long. I cant wait to drive it again now!
Mk........ cheers fella.
Iain..... Thanks fella much appreciated!
Nick.
dj_wudgey
06-05-11, 04:37 PM
the box pipe and engine look fooking awesome matey!!!
Hi guys,
A bit of an update then..........
After speaking with the guys to arrange and confirm a suitable booking date for the engine refit I had to get a move on with the engine bay so the car would be ready for them this coming week. So we trailored the car to work and got it into the workshop for paint last week. I started by cleaning off the etch primer I previously applied as etch is hydroscopic and attracts moisture which we dont want trapped. Whilst doing this on one side I noticed two tiny perforation holes next to the original radiator mount holes. Even though the outer skin looked perfectly clean bare metal under further investigation using a torch to look into the crossmember at either end from underneath we noticed that the inner skin around both radiator mount holes were rather corroded. With this area being pretty close to the tie bars we wasted no time in making up some templates and cutting out a small section at either end of the crossmember to repair this. As I was on a tight schedule anyway extra work wasnt needed but big thanks to my foreman Mark for cracking on and leaving me with this..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip146-1.jpg?t=1306001586
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip147-1.jpg?t=1306001622
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip145-1.jpg?t=1306001805
With that problem sorted I prepared it for primer and then used an overpaintable stone guard for extra future protection........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip156-1.jpg?t=1306001983
Up in the air so I could get to the underside of the crossmember.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip154-1.jpg?t=1306002743
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip152-1.jpg?t=1306001983
With that applied I left it to dry and went to collect a few bits that I dropped for blasting last week.........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip142-1.jpg?t=1306002309
Tie bars and brackets have come back spotless which was good to see!
I then ordered the following from autovaux and had a tinker with the ecu by degreasing and scotchbriting it which brought it up well........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip141-1.jpg?t=1306002414
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip139-1.jpg?t=1306003998
At this point I also ordered some tca plates from David dixon. Once these arrived I cleaned up the new arms so they could be stitch welded on.......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip144-1.jpg?t=1306002518
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip158.jpg?t=1306002601
A painting session then followed leaving me with these..........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip177-1.jpg?t=1306002651
From their it was back onto the car to remove some more parts and prep for paint. Unfortunatly I didnt have any time to stop for pics but after a few very late nites and early mornings here is how its now looking......
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip179.jpg?t=1306002922
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip160-1.jpg?t=1306003205
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip162-1.jpg?t=1306004763
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip167-1.jpg?t=1306004804
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip165-1.jpg?t=1306004840
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip169-1.jpg?t=1306004893
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip160-1.jpg?t=1306004919
With all the necessary parts back on I sealed the paintwork in the bay and then applied a few coats of collinite making sure I applied a little extra in the areas I wont be able to get at once the engines back in etc. A quick waxoil application in all the same areas and it was time to get it ready for the trailor........
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip181-1.jpg?t=1306005122
Earlier today we dropped the car off and with a bit of luck the engine will be back on its mounts on monday. Good times! I cant wait to drive it again now. Big thanks to the guys at work for their help with the car and to Dan for helping me out again with his trailor.
Nick.
awsome work as usual nick. :thumb:
Novasport
21-05-11, 08:21 PM
Looking excellent as usual, cant wait to see this at Billing.
NOV4_SPORT
21-05-11, 08:29 PM
Amazing the quality of your work is amazing.
Epic
plus rep.
iain
Looking excellent as usual, cant wait to see this at Billing.
Cheers Rich, I just hope everything gets done in time and I make it! lol
Thanks all for the above comments! :)
Nick.
scorge01
22-05-11, 10:26 AM
looking good bud this an an amazing nova i hope that one day i get to see it in the flesh :)
david dixon
22-05-11, 10:30 AM
Thats looking very nice Nick.
David.
Southie
22-05-11, 10:38 AM
Awesome work Nick, you'll be grinning like the Cheshire cat once that engines back where it belongs ;)
krobinson
22-05-11, 11:40 AM
Stunning work as always Nick! Can't wait to see it complete!
Dude that looks awesome. Please tell me it's not your welding..lol Its good.
Bay does look fantastic.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip169-1.jpg?t=1306004893
This pic tho, it might just look it. But doesn't look like that is much paint/protection inside the cross member where the ic cut out is.. Might just be worth a look just in case..
Stunning work as always Nick! Can't wait to see it complete!
You and me both mate! :)
Benn.... cheers dude. I did plan on attempting to aim the stone guard through the holes but they are just too small to get in without making a real mess and you would get it all anyhow! I was on limited time saturday morning so I just waxoiled box sections and the areas I wont be able to get to later with engine in situ. Once its all back together I will be applying a lot of waxoil into the crossmember/cutout area to keep it sound for years to come. ;)
David... cheers and thanks for the speedy delivery of the plates!
Southie and the rest of you guys...... Thanks a lot! :) :)
Nick.
Quality of work is real nice Nick.
I am shocked however that you havent welded up around the TCA mountings!
Quality of work is real nice Nick.
I am shocked however that you havent welded up around the TCA mountings!
Cheers Paul, You've lost me their though fella.... were exactly do you mean? On the arm its self around were the bush goes through or at a point on the car? Tie bar to crossmember end their are plates at the back and underside etc. Im intrigued to know if you do things a little different etc! :)
Nick.
That workshop is so clean lol great work :thumb:
I usually stitch them round here too, dont know if it makes any difference, on my latest build i welded every single seam front to back though lol
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v14/lashednova/novaturbowip147-1.jpg
Yeah I can see why people may weld round their. Its not something that would concern me with it being stitched and plated everywhere else that it should have been but I do see your point Paul cheers.
Nick.
I've welded all the 3 seams where Paul have circled too. Force from the arms moving was my thinking...
And yeah getting in the cross member is a ****. I taped all the top holes and then sprayed till it ran out the bottom ones..lol
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