Spaceframed SR20DET RWD Nova

[Southie]

You realise that why you've actually finished building this were all going to be missing this build thread lol

Yet again nice progress though ;)

[Johnny A]

yes mate cheers, I was just curious

[The Simps]

Ha! When it is done i'm pretty sure i'll be diving straight into another project! Doubt it will be a nova but definately something with lots of custom fabwork. I enjoy a good grind & weld! Lol

[Southie]

Looking forward to the next project... Subscribed, roll on 2021 lol

[The Simps]

Cheeky bugger! Lol

[blue_peg_16v]

2021s optimistic lol

[Benn]

Love how you have so much room in the front.

[Dervy]

that is one hefty chassis, no chassis flex around here lol

[The Simps]

that is one hefty chassis, no chassis flex around here lol

Yeah, I have considered the impact on my spine after a front on collision! Oh well, just make sure its in a ball of flames! lol

[totalnova]

Well done mate really is a great build, I just read this from start to finish over last three nights while I was supposed to be working and just like everyone one else I can't wait to see it finished.
Nick

[The Simps]

Well done mate really is a great build, I just read this from start to finish over last three nights while I was supposed to be working and just like everyone one else I can't wait to see it finished.
Nick

Cheers Nick! :)

[craig green]

Great progress on this, I am still following.

[bazzap8389]

Any updates on this beast?

[Benn]

He's barely in the uk at the mo... HAven't seen any work of any form done in a while... lol

[The Simps]

I worked on it yesterday as it happened, thank you very much! lol

[Benn]

Pics or gtFo!

[The Simps]

So this is what the standard tie bar mount bracket looks like that bolts up to the front panel on the 200sx...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1064.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1065.jpg


It also holds the mounting point for the anti-roll bar...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1066.jpg


I've been working for a while now on how best to utilise this and make the mounts up. I don't really want to have it protruding past the front of the car now nor do I want it welded in completely because it is a bolt on part. Whatever I do it needs to retain strength. They're not under the same kinda strain as a fwd car but there is still a good amount of force put through them.

What I've come up with is this...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1067.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1068.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1069.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1063.jpg


It is obviously unfinished and a work in progress but you can see the direction its heading. Where the top piece meets the old bracket I'm thinking of running a horizontal from one side to the other or make triangulate again to the middle of the front member, or both, not 100% yet.

[Benn]

That looks good.

[Southie]

It's looking very intricate now, I hope it comes together how you want it as it would be a nightmare figuring out what's not right if it's not driving how you want it... Does look good though ;)

[The Simps]

Thanks guys. There's definately parts i would do differently/better if doing again but its too late to go back now.

[Benn]

There always are Si.

[The Simps]

Too true

[dan16v]

Never to late to re do things mate : ) x

[The Simps]

Done the other side this afternoon then ran out of gas...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1085.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1087.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1088.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1090.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1092.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1093.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1094.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1095.jpg


Hoping to do some more tomorrow. Need to add in vertical support now. Think I'm gonna drop both the subframes too, no need for them to be in there right now and will make it easier to work on.

[bazzap8389]

I love this build, love the fact you're doing all your own fab work too. Reading this gives me the motivation for mine. Keep it up mate!

[Benn]

Nice welding.

[The Simps]

Engine came out today so I can better access the bay for sheet metal work...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1105.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1107.jpg


Then I cleaned up the M3 as it was dry. Been working on getting the wheel fitment right over the last few weeks and pretty pleased with it now :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/IMG_1098.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/IMG_1101.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/IMG_1104.jpg


Hopefully more nova updates next weekend.

[staggy_gsi]

That M3 is stunning

[nova_stee]

Best thread on hear the updates are always worth a eead

[Benn]

Fitment on the M3 is very nice.

[nova_niek]

Wheels on the M3 look mental. Love E46 M3's.

[The Simps]

So started work on the rear turrets today. Had a friend lathe me up some thick steel top plates of which I then lined up and tacked in place...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1144.jpg




Then the skirts got welded on...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1145.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1146.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1147.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1148.jpg




I then made a start on the top supporting plate but then had to go.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1149.jpg




I will finish welding it all the way round once the shell is off as it will be much easier.


Once these are complete I can drop the rear subframe, remove the body then get the frame on the spit :)

[The Simps]

double post

[Southie]

Getting there slowly but accurately, love it.

[corsakid]

Awesome love this top work :)

[Iain]

This looks an enjoyable build nice work

[Benn]

Very nice Mr Day. Glad to see your still in there cracking on. Looks better each time.

[The Simps]

Cheers guys

[djbrowney]

:eek::eek::eek:

[The Simps]

Whats up Browney?

[blue_peg_16v]

Looking well mate

[scott.parker]

When you first started this I thought you were mad!




I still do..





It's getting there slowly, just glad you have the motivation to keep on going. :thumb:

[Benn]

Just thought. No camber/caster adjustments on the rear top mounts?

[The Simps]

Looking well mate

Cheers!



When you first started this I thought you were mad!

I still do..

It's getting there slowly, just glad you have the motivation to keep on going. :thumb:

i'm trying! Time is the issue these days.



Just thought. No camber/caster adjustments on the rear top mounts?

unlike nova set ups the 200 coilovers generally will have adjustability in the bearing plate/top mounts on the coilovers, for the fronts anyway. The rears have adjustable arms from the subframe to the hub set up for camber, castor & toe.

[The Simps]

No progress over the xmas break unfortunately due to spending plenty of time with loved ones but I did some welding therapy this afternoon on the front strut tops. They just need finishing up on the inside now.


Pleased with the few hours progress :)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/2FBD25F1-9BA2-47D3-AFBB-74E3D14E9EB6.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/7EBD220D-4A04-493E-B45C-364D3961805D.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/47F5321E-995B-4414-A461-A5B6D5DCFAA6.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/E95804AE-FC63-4D55-B90E-5469722702A2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/6590C62B-7075-4379-8E23-399628444810.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/9D6F2871-1866-4EF6-8F2C-5826CD010F85.jpg

[ben doodar]

That looks fricking awesome simps. I Finally got round to watching the project binky videos on YouTube over Xmas and after seeing this as well it really makes me want a more.. "Out there project"

absolutely awesome stuff mate.

[The Simps]

Cheers Ben :)

[Andy]

cracking stuff.what size tube is that?

[The Simps]

Thanks Andy. 45x2.5 I believe.

[Benn]

The day i see you drift then in a big long corner will be a happy day.

[Southie]

Welds look good, are you not going for adjustable top mounts then?

[The Simps]

Welds look good, are you not going for adjustable top mounts then?

Adjustment is in the bearing plate itself - http://www.driftworks.com/driftworks-control-system-2-cs2-coilovers-nissan-silvia-200sx-s14-s14a.html

[Southie]

Ah I see, they look the business ;)

[The Simps]

Built an exoskeleton tonight... :cool:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1357.jpg

[Benn]

For rolling?

[The Simps]

For shell removal ;)

[Benn]

Eek. F##k... awesome!

[The Simps]

I know right! :eek:lol

[scott.parker]

Is taking a long time, but once done this imo is going to be the best build ever on this forum, and possibly the most radical and original vauxhall nova build ever!?..

[Iain]

I thought rolling too. Nice work.

Radical custom build based on a nova appearance maybe lol can't imagine driving it around on the original nova plates!

[scott.parker]

Obviously I meant originality! lol not original as in standard...

[Edd]

Is this going to have standard width arches?

[Andy]

Still logged as 1.2 ftw haha lol

[The Simps]

1.0 actually ;) lol

[nova_stee]

Once done its going to be one of the best in existence and its the best build on hear in years

[The Simps]

Once done its going to be one of the best in existence and its the best build on hear in years

I appreciate the comment but i think it does discredit to other builds. Theres some serious quality builds on here that make mine look amatuer. Mines just different thats all.

[Benn]

Innovative is the word i would use.

[The Simps]

Cheers Benn :)

got the frame tacked to the shell tonight...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/B4171A27-FC01-4E33-904E-DBDB70BFD399.jpg


just waiting for some burly lads to give me a lift now, hopefully saturday!

[Benn]

I'm getting the shell is tacked to the cage, so cut off and remove?

Weld all the cage/frame up then refit?

[The Simps]

Shell is only attached to the main roll cage/chassis at the a & b pillar cage feet. Im cutting at the bottom of the a & b pillars (you can see the incisions in the above pic) leaving the sills behind essentially. Its gonna be a bitch to realign again i know but im not looking for show winning bodywork!

[Benn]

Ah so sill stays on space frame, rest is removed.... Staying removeable Or all rejoined?

[The Simps]

I'd love it to stay removable but honestly, doesnt need to be. It will come off, frame get finished, shell tidied up then refitted.

[Benn]

It would be awesome, but yeah isn't really needed.

[The Simps]

So I got impatient and couldn't wait until tomorrow for my mates :p


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1363.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1365.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1366.jpg




So chuffed, feels like I've hit a real milestone although the gf thinks its a step back and doesn't quite get it! lol

[Mike]

Put a fibreglass body on that chassis.... wouldnt even entertain messing about with a steel one lol

[The Simps]

Put a fibreglass body on that chassis.... wouldnt even entertain messing about with a steel one lol

Would love to Mike!

[Mike]

Is easy to do chief.

Checkout the RSR Mk1 and Mk2 Escorts for inspiration!

[The Simps]

Its obviously doable, maybe something to think about once the thing is rolling!

[nova_stee]

Theres litterly nothing left of that nova lol

[Mike]

Everything is doable :D

Theres no such thing as cant, wont or dont!

[Iain]

Ha ha ha there's a a little bit of sill left and that's it. Love it.

[Benn]

Love, love, love it.


Get welding!

[BRoadGhost]

So sheet ally floor?

[The Simps]

So sheet ally floor?

Thats the plan!

[scott.parker]

Mental mental.. Love it lol

[ben doodar]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/IMG_1366.jpg




that's so fricking cool!

[BRoadGhost]

Nova floppy vs nova boner

[walker-nova]

This is awsome great work can't wait to see it rolling

[maddogdaz666]

Fu#k yeah!!

[The Simps]

Some further progress today.


With the shell off I could continue with the rear turret tops..


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/B5FED6BF-2C81-4B0E-B05F-EDAA2176167D.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/B5288ED3-8D3A-47D5-8807-8568E4E30B38.jpg




There's still finishing work to be done and tidying but I want to weld it up from the underside 1st before I make it look "pretty". Repeated on the other side then moved the shell away from the wall so I could continue welding up joints that were inaccessible with the shell on...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/0AE394A7-545D-40F9-A1F8-361A54F37972.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/BF3775DF-1329-459F-B22F-A385E59EABED.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/19262C15-C640-410E-BFF8-4B19CEDC7AAC.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/40037988-2B41-4B80-B0E5-6BB2557985A4.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/74A752D3-778A-4565-8F30-3613B49B952D.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/D3D8A2CA-5E65-4216-AEF3-FAAA55DBB2B3.jpg




Then it was time to flip her over ready for the underside work to begin. I'll probably start from the front and work back.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/92A48289-CE21-4A1C-9FF2-09EDACF4553A.jpg




Really happy with how things are progressing at the moment :)

[bazzap8389]

Awesome work mate! Looking at it my biggest regret with my car is not doing the full space frame.

[Pistol Pete]

Hats off to you pal! Cracking project. Loads of pics to back up the work too.

[Mike]

once them welds are dressed back with an air grinder theyll look pukka.

[Alan lig]

Great work , just finished reading from the start.

[The Simps]

Awesome work mate! Looking at it my biggest regret with my car is not doing the full space frame.

Thanks and yeah, I'm really glad I went the full hog now.



Hats off to you pal! Cracking project. Loads of pics to back up the work too.

Thanks :)



Great work , just finished reading from the start.

That must of taken you a while! Its certainly changed direction a few times too! lol

[The Simps]

once them welds are dressed back with an air grinder theyll look pukka.


Now when you say dress back, I assume you mean smooth them off? Which welds are you referring to in particular or do you mean all?

Just to clarify this isn't a defensive reply, I'm genuinely interested to hear your thoughts!

[krobinson]

Looking good! Serious amount of work gone into this so far!

[Mike]

Now when you say dress back, I assume you mean smooth them off? Which welds are you referring to in particular or do you mean all?

Just to clarify this isn't a defensive reply, I'm genuinely interested to hear your thoughts!

Yea just all in general, not saying your welding looks shiz thats not what I mean at all! But if it were me, I dress them so once painted its basically looks like a seamless join, almost as if they were pressed panels as opposed to fabricated if that makes sense?

[turbojolt]

love these kind of builds. altho they do make me fell like a boy in a mans world while i struggle with a little welding you have all this going on!

[The Simps]

Looking good! Serious amount of work gone into this so far!

Thanks Keith



Yea just all in general, not saying your welding looks shiz thats not what I mean at all! But if it were me, I dress them so once painted its basically looks like a seamless join, almost as if they were pressed panels as opposed to fabricated if that makes sense?

Totally get what you're saying. I will probably have a combination of finished and smoothed and some parts the welds exposed, as long as they're neat! lol



love these kind of builds. altho they do make me fell like a boy in a mans world while i struggle with a little welding you have all this going on!

When I started this I could barely weld. I took on the project to learn new skills by chucking myself in the deep end. I built 90% of the frame by just tacking the tubing together. I then had a friend came in to weld it all up. That was summer time. Following a little training from him that day, I practised and my confidence has grown and I've been doing the rest myself and will most likely finish it too, unless I decide to get some bits tig'd. Patience and practice my friend.

The thing to remember too is that this is also a hobby built so it will never be on par with a proper motorsport shop's build, such as Project Blinky as an example.

[ben doodar]

A friend of mine and his dad built a tubular framed trike his welds were really neat i tried telling him that it looked nice with the welds untouched but they went to the extent of sanding them off and smoothed with filler it looks really nice as though the frame was all one piece if you know what I mean?

But that thing was defiantly a show piece. IMO your weldings plenty neat enough to be left alone. Especially as this is built to be used not shown! By time it's been hi build primed and painted they'll look plenty nice enough.

[The Simps]

The frame will all be powder coated before going back inside the shell so filler is out the question anyways.

[Benn]

I wouldn't fill them. Grind/sand them back a bit as you've got neat welds there.
If powder coating them, that will kinda smooth/fill in the welds anyway.

[maddogdaz666]

Your work is impressive! Can I come and touch it?

[The Simps]

Can I come and touch it?

I assume you mean the car? right? :wtf:

[The Simps]

So over the past few weeks I've been putting in hours where I can working from front to back welding up all the joins. I also tidied up underneath the turret tops front and back and welded the joins where necessary. Didn't take any pics of the fronts for some reason so will next time I'm up there. For now the rears...


Welded all the joins and stitch the large plate (its seam welded on top)...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/294359D6-F94B-42E2-9CD3-3DBB53268C25.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/50C621B4-7315-4FB6-82AC-EF662D2CC2E4.jpg




That complete the car was flipped back over. I had left the rear turrets like so previously...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/B5288ED3-8D3A-47D5-8807-8568E4E30B38.jpg




So I ground back the welds the went over every join with tidy (for me!) welds with an aim to be neat and finish them like the fronts...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/61D89430-4727-4FF4-96DD-AFBDE207300A.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/FE79ACCC-FD52-423F-823B-59403E96D96A.jpg




Just trying to decide how to finish off where the surround plate meets the tube work. Think I might grind it back, see how it looks, but most likely lay down some finishing welds like on the turret plates. The aim being that the other panels that will need welding into the car will all be finished the same way.


Thanks for reading, its getting there slowly! :)

[Andy]

Great work mate.Just out of interest..apologies if you did say but how were you fishmouthing the joins? Id be interested to see if there was an easier method than my current offer up draw and grind out with flap disc

[The Simps]

Like you say Andy, use a template, draw from the template, cut what I can away with the cutting disc then finish up with the flappy. I did find tho that with the flappy, rather than attacking it head on, if you grind away for a bit at 45deg then go back to 90deg it take it away quicker - if that makes sense?

[Andy]

Perfect sense mate aye.pretty much what i do but i use flappy from the start as i do a bit at a time til its right.
Thanks for your reply.Car is fantastic bud.Im currently building a rollcage for my grasser and fuly appreciate the work gone in yours!!!

[The Simps]

Profiling tubes is a ball ache thats for sure, but once you've done a few you kinda get the feel for it and it becomes more intuitive.

Good luck with your build and I imagine your cage will be a little less weighty than mine! lol

[Andy]

Cheers mate.
Yeah im using 32mm 2.5mm wall tube.But then i wont be going as fast as you lol

[Benn]

Weldporn!

[The Simps]

Thanks Benn, I got quite a bit of satisfaction standing back looking at it after :)


I'm now contemplating grinding back the continuous welds where the plate meets the tube and dress it with the pulse style welding I used on the turrets. Will do the same on the front prob too. I appreciate its a waste etc but when I come to do the other plating work it will only be 1.6mm thick and i will pulse weld all that, so it keeps it uniform!

[Benn]

Totally understandable. All the welds looking uniform will look fantastic as i'm guessing they wont be ground off.

Glad you did stay back and be happy. You bloody should be.

[BRoadGhost]

Once done, that body will be stronger than any production hyper / Super car. Stiff.

[DaveMarshall]

An incredible project and some very good craftsmanship.

Dave.

[The Simps]

Once done, that body will be stronger than any production hyper / Super car. Stiff.

Yeah, I think thats a good thing?! If I crash I think its more likely to just crumple my spine before the chassis does! lol

[The Simps]

An incredible project and some very good craftsmanship.

Dave.


Thanks Dave. The welding pleases me the most. I really couldn't weld at all when I started this project, now I kinda can.

[DaveMarshall]

Welding looks good to me. Really must teach myself to weld. Spent too many years around people that can weld so always left it to someone else and regret it now.

Dave.

[BRoadGhost]

It'll be fine; the car will just bonce off things instead ;0

[The Simps]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/E3F4A620-78F7-4921-87E4-E71D364124BD.jpg

[bazzap8389]

Sick! :cool:

[paul080803]

Wow, just wow!

[Southie]

It looks fantastic, it needs a Perspex shell making so you can see all the goodness :wisewood:

[The Simps]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/AE17C23F-069A-49BE-88D9-81334D3757EF.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/5AEC4038-E140-481A-9344-9CAAD4F58BC0.jpg

[Andy]

Now that is what im talking about!!!
That looks awesome.
Fukkin well done!

[Benn]

Dude that is amazing!

[corsakid]

epic awesome work

[bazil]

It would be a shame to cover that with a nova lol

Epic work :)

[Benn]

Make the shell removable... Like the M3 or Hilux... You'd be a frigging god if you did.

[The Simps]

It "might" be feasable to have it lift up like a dragster ie pivot from the back and lift up. Problem with making it removable is getting a seal around the firewall!

[Benn]

Hhhmm true. cut down the B pillar and removeable back? hahaha

[Alan lig]

Looks awesome and great work and looking forward to more progress updates

[turbojolt]

almost seems a shame to ruin it with a nova body lol

[torquey]

Take it you dont like nova's anymore lol??

[The Simps]

Thanks for the comments guys :)

[The Simps]

Tonights progress!


Both rear turrets are now welded and finished, if only welding in straight lines was easy!:o...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/76317B86-BC3B-4AE4-B94C-EA486B76CE60.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/CEC66FB7-6F80-4B29-BC67-7A77FFE12583.jpg




Started masking out the remaining pieces of tube work so I can get it ordered while at the same time finally making a decision on how I will do the floor, tunnel, exhaust route and gearbox mount...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/2B2C4DBC-EA41-4D29-93FB-218DD6C610BC.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/422A71AE-7025-4477-82AC-B579379D2284.jpg




Thanks for looking,


:D




p.s. The prop is floppy and in two pieces incase you were wondering why it looked wonky!

[nova_stee]

Best thread on png in years and proably the best nova in years once done

[BRoadGhost]

I think it will be strong enough



















For 600BHP

[Benn]

Loving it Si, think you'll really need the cross? Would it not be stronger/easier to go turret area to hoop? on the corner, then it would make a strong top shell like bit?

I'd be happy with that welding. Tidy coins, light buzz off and paint.

What a thread title change here too?

[The Simps]

I need to extend the back to take account of the seats being further back and thus changing where my head will be so I need the 2 new side pieces coming off the main hoop then a 45deg bend towards the rear turrets. These then need joining with the roof bar where the 45 is. Whether the X is needed, probably not I guess as it should be strong enough, does kinda finish it off tho.

Whats the best way to remove the welding splatter without hitting the grinder on the welds? I've tried using a normal wire wheel attached on the grinder but didn't work. Is it the twisted wire wheel I need to do it?

Might swell change title here too yeah, cheers.

[The Simps]

I think it will be strong enough

For 600BHP


Perfect! Plenty of room for a V8 lump down the line....

[Benn]

Ah i think i get ya. The x will look the great yes and work well in the set up..

You could try and 80grit lose flatter wheel. That or a belt sander... Just to do the spots of splatter...
even a twisted wire wheel i dont think/have found will more splatter...

What as the title again? i'm at work so dont have MIG open..

[The Simps]

Spaceframed SR20DET RWD Nova please Benn, thanks :)

[millworm]

looking good mate, looking forward to seeing the finished article

[The Simps]

While I wait for an opportunity to go get my tubing and some sheet metal Ive just been working with the cardboard and making up the panel templates, such a tedious job but I'm getting there, slowly!


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/39E0C8AD-3186-40F0-8FAD-2CEAFD29925C.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/49960A0F-58ED-4B77-B2DC-E8E9751A9689.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/53F62D8A-B00D-4ACE-A0EB-DE02677E10AD.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/2F830C7F-4792-4AFC-9B5E-777E0D13CDB6.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/CC2D9DF9-3AB5-47F8-8255-C22BE3B68A77.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/DC1D383F-D8FC-422A-ACB4-0B3CFE32385E.jpg




Black felt tip lines are where I will add bead lines to the sheet metal.

[Benn]

They look good, will look great in metal.

[Andy]

Great work.
i see those panels and think of the crystal maze lol

[The Simps]

Cheers guys!

When I look at it it reminds me of one of these....

http://www.kitsune.addr.com/SF-Conversions/Rifts-SW-Vehicles/Imperial_TIE_Fighter.jpg

[nova_niek]

Cardboard Aided Design is the way forward! :thumb:

[phunkynova]

Fantastic work, top skills, way beyond me BUT am I the only one thinking are you building a tank or armored car ! just how heavy will this car be ? . Sorry but this is not a go at you or your build but there is a lot of metal going on that frame.

[The Simps]

Fantastic work, top skills, way beyond me BUT am I the only one thinking are you building a tank or armored car ! just how heavy will this car be ? . Sorry but this is not a go at you or your build but there is a lot of metal going on that frame.

Nope, you are completely right, there's a lot of tubing gone into it and I'm intrigued to see how it turns out weight wise. Im building it for the track but also with a bit of design too, it iss a comprimise build if that makes sense? Im building it for me not for competition or anything.

[scott.parker]

Cardboard Aided Design is the way forward! :thumb:

Project binky ftw
Love the updates!

[The Simps]

Panel work coming together...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/FCCAFF3B-CF42-4A55-B1D8-EB8804D03BCA.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/1622875F-22E0-4F90-9410-A5D77EBA9A30.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/52955FCA-DF1D-4162-A318-D29135AD245E.jpg




Some tube work tomorrow to mix things up I think.

[Andy]

Class.and regarding tube,too much is never enough in terms of strength.

[The Simps]

So only got a couple of hours in today due to other commitments and it was all used up getting the rear cage started...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/93278321-60EC-40EF-9AE0-FFDA8BC7DB19.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/525ED92F-F333-4D7E-8D87-54ADF5BEF105.jpg




But really pleased with the fit and profile...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/8D67E0E4-306F-4D47-9B31-14DC7496ADFF.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/53C8FC72-3D6A-4B22-BB6A-BE1493471AA1.jpg




More again tomorrow hopefully!

[Iain]

Nice work. Its satisfying getting a good tube profile isnt it

[Benn]

Funk. I love it, love that you've added the bear rolled on to the panel. The shape looks great with the lower one in the middle.

[The Simps]

On with todays update and on with the other side support...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/5B3F2452-6682-460B-B3EE-735435B01638_1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/E9503A94-D20D-4D0C-9A93-CCA255385F14.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/BAD4ED2B-2472-455F-AC19-B6B766A05239.jpg




And join them up...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/C44FC037-A4E4-40BD-97E8-F25B3639C19B.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/B34D2C83-1FE2-4637-84B0-29F5483F75D9.jpg




And on with the first diagonal...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/0AFBE7A8-4E36-44E5-B0C3-1679CE03D3DA.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/236A260E-DDBB-49BC-A587-836747C39EBD.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/FA4ABC4F-E5CC-464F-9BCA-DFB3B4BDCB71.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/AC3ED698-7C77-4372-8A4F-D0BB2D56B8C9.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/AD334604-7896-4AD6-8369-A6F7B2FA341D.jpg




Hoping to finish the other part to the cross one night in the week but might not be until next weekend. Then its onto the floor and tunnel!

[The Simps]

Nice work. Its satisfying getting a good tube profile isnt it

Cheers! Yes, yes it is! Especially when its been a right ball ache of a head scratcher!!



Funk. I love it, love that you've added the bear rolled on to the panel. The shape looks great with the lower one in the middle.

Cheers bud, I'm really please how they've come out, just really want to weld them all round now to see the finished result!

[ben doodar]

proper job!!

[Jonlem]

Nice work Simon

[The Simps]

Nice work Simon

Thanks, couldn't of done it without you boys, well Ash! lol

[Jonlem]

He does a good job does Ash.

[The Simps]

I like to think the quality templates made a difference too ;)

[Jonlem]

Yes they certainly helped :)

[The Simps]

Rear end tube structure complete!


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/C1E9BB5E-B913-427E-ACEE-E1BB06278EDD.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/6B4C2D54-A0C8-4477-861D-9DBDF18ACCB9.jpg




So pleased to see it like this :)

[Benn]

Frigging love it. That view looking through is awesome too. Something i could imagine in madmax or such.

[The Simps]

:)

[Mazz]

Just gets more and more sexual!

[The Simps]

http://auto.blog.rs/gallery/108/ariel-nomad%2011111.jpg


Hmmmm.... :roll:

[Benn]

Nah yours is way cooler.

[The Simps]

Lol Just really got me thinking about not putting a body back on it but i guess off road & track is a tad different!

[Benn]

YEah you aint off roading...

[The Simps]

Tube work for the tunnel structure done. Gearbox mount next :)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/D3B2A385-EF9D-4FE8-97F3-6E72185D4987.jpg

[Andy]

The fab work in this is quite exceptional.nobody ever finishes these types of builds and youre way past the hard part now.bloody well done squire.

[The Simps]

thanks Andy, I appreciate that :)

[Jonlem]

Keep in mind that those gearboxes are chocolate and the alternatives are bigger ;)

[The Simps]

What are the dimensions of thd bmw gearboxes people use?

i quite like the idea of an M3 lump & 6sp box in this one day ��

[bazzap8389]

Anymore progress? I'm eagerly awaiting :)

[Dervy]

bloody hell this has come on a long since i last looked on here. top work mate, its going to be a beast

[Dervy]

Panel work coming together...


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/FCCAFF3B-CF42-4A55-B1D8-EB8804D03BCA.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/1622875F-22E0-4F90-9410-A5D77EBA9A30.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/52955FCA-DF1D-4162-A318-D29135AD245E.jpg




Some tube work tomorrow to mix things up I think.


add some nice cushions and this would make a very comfy arm chair :)

[The Simps]

Anymore progress? I'm eagerly awaiting :)


Would love to say yes but been working on the rest of the fleet...

The daily got the M3s boots and new BC coilovers...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/530d%20M%20Sport/IMG_1865.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/530d%20M%20Sport/IMG_1866.jpg


And the M3 got some new boots...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/DAD09ED1-FFC4-4B75-9C90-462B4BE2D756.png
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/1FE4851A-5D1E-49B4-AD14-5EA93ECF5B5F.png
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/117F4CD1-052E-4373-A482-A7012A34193C.jpg



I really want to make some progress on the nova in the next couple of weeks if I can because I then won't be able to work on it for at least a month. I want to focus on getting the gearbox mount made or at least tacked in position then I can remove everything to finish the sheet metal work.

[The Simps]

bloody hell this has come on a long since i last looked on here. top work mate, its going to be a beast


cheers!



add some nice cushions and this would make a very comfy arm chair :)


lol yeah I can see what you mean! :thumb:

[bazzap8389]

Loving the alloys on the 5 series! And the m3 looks proper tidy.. I want.

[The Simps]

Cheers :)

[NovalutionGSi]

Must have been the daily I saw the other week down on riverside. Thought I recognised the number plate.
Both beemers look great. Can't wait to see the nova's next instalment.

[The Simps]

Thanks Novalution!

[Benn]

Hang on i missed something here.

You have a daily 5 and 3?

[The Simps]

Daily 530d and the M3 toy benn

[Benn]

Man my life is crap compared to yours...lol

[Iain]

Everyone's life is crap unless you have 2 BMWs in it. They both look badass.

[The Simps]

lol

[The Simps]

Its been a dream/target for a long time to have two (daily & toy) clean, lowered & rimmed cars. Worked hard and got there. Ive always preferred the choice of rather than spend say £15-20k on a new car deal to split that into two used cars. Hand built custom track car is the next goal!

[saloonwoody]

cant wait to see this finished , and bimmers look awesome !

[CorsaBBoomer]

Then it's true what they say: never give up on a dream :)

Nice collection but since both bimmers are done, get on with the other little rocket :thumb:

[The Simps]

Thanks guys, I'm trying to find some time but not easy at the minute!

[Jonlem]

Looking good :)

[Benn]

Thanks guys, I'm trying to find some time but not easy at the minute!

Stop going overseas and you'll have loads... ;)

[The Simps]

Stop going overseas and you'll have loads... ;)


Benn, you know us old romantics will do anything to spend time with our ladies ;)

[Southie]

Benn, you know us old romantics will do anything to spend time with our ladyboys ;)
:eek:

[Benn]

Benn, you know us old romantics will do anything to spend time with our ladies ;)

Aaww so cute x

[The Simps]

lol @ Southie!

[bazzap8389]

Hahaha

[scott.parker]

Updates?

[The Simps]

Never got a chance to work on it I'm afraid. Now away for 3wks so hopefully something when I get back.

[bazzap8389]

Updates needed ;)

[The Simps]

Cheeky!

The update is I'm waiting for some bushes to be made then I came finish the gearbox mount. Then all the running gear comes out to complete the panel work, floor etc.

[bazzap8389]

Haha

Ah nice one. When you hoping to have all the panel work complete by?

[The Simps]

All depends on when the bushes come back, could be weeks as he's making them in his spare time.

Given that I have literally only spent 2hrs on the car since Mid May due to work and travel commitments and thats not easing, progress is certainly slowing on this build! But I am still dedicated to it. I really want at least the rear paneling on floor completed before I go away for xmas.

[The Simps]

So not a huge update but managed an hour tonight between commitments. Continued to make templates for the flooring. Its a PITA to be honest and will be so much easier once I can remove all the running gear and turn the shell upside down.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/92A1415B-E405-4B2D-B4F4-81F4B3ABEE39.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/4C0B278B-01D2-46CC-84B9-8F82AEE17159.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/D6186C49-A8DC-4DD2-9545-6CFF1A88655D.jpg

[BRoadGhost]

Are those flat pieces staying for the seat mounts?

[The Simps]

That is the plan yeah. I know usually people tie them into rails running left to right but this seem simpler in my set up. The plates are 5mm thick but to add strength and stop flex i was gonna to to panel the sides to box in with the floor. They also need welding fully to the tube work. For access to the fixing nuts underneath i was going to cut access holes in the floor then bung them.

See any problems mate? I'm all ears.

[Benn]

Yay, glad you've had a lil time.

[lee coley]

Just gone through this thread like jonny-5 on crack.

Best thing I've seen in ages ��

Lee

[The Simps]

Cheers Lee :)

[BRoadGhost]

What I mean is you've crafted a wonderful structure from tube overall to then just stick 5MM flat sheet on top. Is there not a smaller ID tube you can then weld captives onto?

[The Simps]

What I mean is you've crafted a wonderful structure from tube overall to then just stick 5MM flat sheet on top. Is there not a smaller ID tube you can then weld captives onto?

Oh I see! I think once boxed in it will look ok but I take your point. I just can't think of how to sensibly do it in tube without over tubing the area (yes, I am aware in the irony of that statement! lol).

[The Simps]

So decided tonight that I would drop the running gear and flip the chassis over, making it a million times easier to finish the floor! All was going smoothly until A wheel buckled on my little trolley that was meant to roll the engine out the way. Need to get me a crane sorted out now...



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/E7CFF862-E50C-4B0E-AF78-D95141A287AA.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/8CBDFA26-AACF-4004-85A4-F18FE7C03F75.jpg

[pete17]

personally, i dont think you have enough axle stands in that garagelol

[The Simps]

Oh I have more! Seriously :thumb:

[Benn]

Flat floor will look ace. Gutted for your trolley.

[The Simps]

Got the car flipped over this weekend and made a start on the templates for the floor....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/A640D767-2E6E-4100-9A43-EF85E24D17BC.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/Nova/SR20DET%20Nova/56BFF710-6298-49CF-8EFD-76767B091B99.jpg

[dan16v]

Get powder coating off homo?

[The Simps]

Not yet! Lol

[dan16v]

Lazy!!
How's things mate?
Car looks great, top work

[The Simps]

Im good pal, you?
thanks, its getting there, slowly. Enthusiasm comes and goes!

[t45_ste]

Looking good. Keep at it.every job that gets done is one step closer.

[Benn]

That looks good.

[dan16v]

Not bad mate!
Don't get a lot of time these days as have a 2 year old, not really into messing with cars much these days, to old!

[BRoadGhost]

Not tempted to save weight & rivet / bond sheet aluminium?

[The Simps]

Not tempted to save weight & rivet / bond sheet aluminium?


Cardboard is lighter ;)

[bazzap8389]

Any updates mate? :)

[The Simps]

Sadly not Bazza. M3 dominated my time over the winter break but very pleased with the fruits of my labour.... :d

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/IMG_4020.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/M3screengrab1.png
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/IMG_4046.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/TheSimps/The%20M3/M3screengrab2.png


The nova work will re-commence at some point soon. Got my welder mate lined up to tig all the sheet work to the structure to make it all look pretty. Just got to get the panel templates made, cut etc. Sounds simple enough but as you all know finding time in life can be a challenge sometimes. My other half is moving here from America next month so organising all of that is likely to take up any weekends from now until into summer :roll:

[Plug]

Why don't you rip the heart out of the m3 and throw it in the nova, best of both worlds them ;) haha

[Benn]

BM looks ace. Great news the lady is moving over too. She looks/sounds nice.

[The Simps]

Why don't you rip the heart out of the m3 and throw it in the nova, best of both worlds them ;) haha

Using an M3 engine has crossed my mind more than once! Would fit in the hole too!!

[The Simps]

BM looks ace. Great news the lady is moving over too. She looks/sounds nice.

Cheers bud, cant wait!

[Botedly]

Someone has just pointed your thread on here out to me. I've been following the thread on Stance Works not realising you have a thread on here haha

Awesome work! Can't wait to see your next update :)

[The Simps]

Someone has just pointed your thread on here out to me. I've been following the thread on Stance Works not realising you have a thread on here haha

Awesome work! Can't wait to see your next update :)

lol I love it when that happens.

The missus is very understanding that she has had the devotion of all my time for best part of the year now and I have been promised workshop time soon!

[Benn]

To much steak eating....

[The Simps]

It was veal steak tonight! :p

Been driving around the swiss alps today and my god their roads are so much better than ours, even the back roads! Their speed bumps are actually effective too - they're kinda smooth with a small hump that if you hit it at speed you'll be airbourne but theyre long & smooth enough that you have plenty of front splitter clearance :)

[Botedly]

lol I love it when that happens.

The missus is very understanding that she has had the devotion of all my time for best part of the year now and I have been promised workshop time soon!

Good to hear! Looking forward to seeing where this goes.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BRoadGhost]

Hey! Less BMW moar space frame please!

[blue_peg_16v]

Simps what’s happened to this?

[The Simps]

Simps what’s happened to this?

It's still there in the corner of the workshop. I've not given up on it yet!

[NovalutionGSi]

Keep going mate. Seems to be a growing number of Nova's in the area now.

[scott.parker]

It's go to have rotted away by now?

[blue_peg_16v]

Scott you b I thought there was an update then lol

[scott.parker]

lollollol:thumb: