pimpin intro with pics this time!!

[capella re]

names simon, most of you know me from various meets and cruises. this is my intro/build up page of my rx2 then sold the rx2 (before i hardly started!) to buy my black fd
black fd build up from page 5 onwards
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TDmnKPXtmtI/AAAAAAAABOQ/ekbhOPHHIU0/s640/S6301212.jpg
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TDmpMOJpHdI/AAAAAAAABOw/aBKPXbos5dY/s800/S6301243.jpg


http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/Sv1Bup2anaI/AAAAAAAAAP8/ZgF26jDgjNM/s800/100_1084.jpg
THIS IS ME AND A MATE IN THE RX2 AT THE 2009 SA ROTORS BIRTHDAY CRUISE
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/Sv1CA6GcMlI/AAAAAAAAAQA/m9p_ppvqNUE/s912/100_1082.jpg
AND HERES ANOTHER PICK OF THE BDAY CRUISE NEXT TO MY MATE IN MY OLD RX7 (THE WHITE ONE)

[13bwankel]

That's pretty sweet. I've seen it around but I didn't know that it was injected.

Love those wheels too!

[capella re]

yeah thanks james, the wheels seem to be a love or a hate thing. some people love mini lites, other people think they're played out but new wheels are a fair way down the list. but maybe if i got some 17inch fr simmons, people wouldn't notice the paint. hmmmmm??? be good to see you get your rotors running again. i feel for you with the electric water pump boo boo. if you see me again yell out and give me the finger, or wave, up to you

[Kotter31]

i like the wheels cos they look like they go with the theme of the car, i think they give it a tuff but still standard look

[Kotter31]

the only thing i dont like tho is the tail lights, but thats just me

[ScottsRx]

Hey Sim, car looks sweet mate. I love the S3 tailights and the minilites look perfect on it.

Looks like a pretty straight, neat ride. What's the engine go like? run well?

At least you don't have to worry about taking too many joy riders with no back seat.

Nice work mate, look forward to hearing this one day.

Scott

[capella re]

yeah thanks nic and scott. the body needs a bit of work. has been resprayed but don't think they could be bothered getting the dents out??hmmmm. I'm not the biggest fan of the taillights either nic, i made up a twin circle tailight cover and rear beaver out of cardboard which looked sick, but when i washed it the sticky tape fell off. I'M JOKING!!!!!!!!!!
the engines good, had a full rebuild done about 8 years ago but hasn't been used much. the car originally came from victoria and if you saw it, without looking closely you wouldn't beleive that the original owner spent over $20,000 in mods over a 3 year period.

The plan isn't to win auto salons but just to be a neat streeter. I'm hanging to put a 13b j port in it but as to how soon, im not sure. Like i said body work is probably my top priority!!

Thanks for the comments though.

[Kotter31]

are you going to to the body work yourself or pay someone to do it?
i know a guy that does a great job, you can see his work on my car

[capella re]

yeah geez thanks for the offer nic. i'd be really interested in meeting your mate. the other painter i had lined up does it on the side, the very side so its really taking a long time to get him to budge. sent him an email with all pics and he said he got them and thats about as far as i got. the plan i had was to go back to the original mettalic blue seeing as even the door jams are blue. so the paint job required wouldn't be a 10 grand job as a mate of mine who was a panel beater for 12 years tried to convince me to do, just a neat shiny job to make it a respectable street car. so if you think that fits the bill with your friend pm me and maybe we can hook up and he can have a look at the car. thanks again. i pmed you this too. thanks buddy

[jesse_RE]

nice capella man, wish i still had mine. one day when i get a good shed/workspace i plan to build an rx2 coupe. i still have most of the parts i've collected over the last few years. :quagmire::quagmire: might see ya on the next cruise anyway.

[capella re]

thanks jesse, yeah i'll see you on the bday cruise i guess. i dont have a good workspace at the mo either makes life alot more difficult working under a carport hence why my bodywork has to be done elsewhere. must admit ive been a bit slack lately, run outta rego and a flat tyre will do that to you though. have to do something though, cant roll up to the bday cruise how it is now.

[GASDRE]

the car looks sweet.. have done very well.. i like that u have gone with ur own style.. its just a very nice rx at the end of the day.. not much else you can say.. very nice.. good work.

[capella re]

the car looks sweet.. have done very well.. i like that u have gone with ur own style.. its just a very nice rx at the end of the day.. not much else you can say.. very nice.. good work.

Wow, you certainly earnt that fifty bucks i gave you for the comment, but everyones going to see how much you lied on november 8. My thumbnails are all gone to, think its to do with the new server problems?????
And if you need any help on your cars let me know, im always down your way anyway. thanks josh.

[capella re]

so i'm still working on the rx2 so its all running sweet for the bday cruise. i decided to do alot of work on the ignition side of things such as plugs rotor button leads dizzy cap and such. had a look at the coils and they are well past knackered which is probably why there seemed to be a missfire at high rpm due to the spark breaking down. i replaced the echlin ic88 which are one of the most popular coils for the 12a to the new bosch coils. turned out to be one of those days where the missfire didnt seem so bad in comparrison with what i went through!!

so i wire up the new coils, car seems to run well for about 20 seconds till it dies. then i have a major heart pulpitation when i see smoke coming from one of the wires to the coil. turned ignition of and inspected the damage, thankfully just one wire which i have now replaced. not sure why it burnt out. then car wouldnt start, well that was easy fixed couldnt hear the fuel pumps so fuse was blown. finally got car started, running a bit lumpy but may need a road test to unflood it from the stop starting while testing.

i was also wondering if many people were running their coils without ballast resistors as i heard it wasn't too necessary to ignition setups that dont run points but not sure??? i'l keep mine for now as i dont want anymore dramas this weekend.

and finally i got my new indicators from thailand off ebay on friday, took two weeks to arrive and there wasnt any lady boys in the box which was agood thing i guess. look smick and were cheap as so thats a bonus to an annoying week so far

[capella re]

I have finally finished my door trims. The old ones were completely f$#ked so these had to be made from scratch. If you had something to trace by it would be much easier though. Never done this before so learning experience on all the materials needed and where to get them from. If anyone else needs or is planning to do something like this let me know and i can help out on where to get the materials from and how much it costs to save you running around a hell of alot like i had to
before the vinyl went on showing semi construction
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/St5etxwkUSI/AAAAAAAAAFI/TxH3T-saENQ/s800/rx2%20trim2.JPG

this is how they look on the car. Could have done a pretty pattern, but wasn't neededfor what i wanted
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/St5egjviWYI/AAAAAAAAAEs/a1B3sv__dP4/s800/rx2%20trim3.JPG

and thanks to kunsanagi for showing me how to do pics in this format :)

[yelloS2Rx7]

Nice car man, keep up the hard work!!!
I luv the S3,4 tailights, and superlights/minilites!!!!!
hope I get a ride one day ;)

[Kusanagi]

Hey Simon!

Good job mate! Just wondering what materials are those used on the panel? Is that a foam sheet on top of the panel? Did you use glue between the layers?

Ket

[capella re]

Nice car man, keep up the hard work!!!
I luv the S3,4 tailights, and superlights/minilites!!!!!
hope I get a ride one day ;)

yeah thanks corey, and i'l take you out in it for sure. It would be good to get your advice on how the car handles and what else could be done to improve it. Currently its un registered and i just took the boot off, to give it a quick coat of paint, so will have to rain check that. As you can see in the picks its weathered a fair bit on the boot. It'l only be a quick spray for asthetics not a proper spray.

Hey Simon!

Good job mate! Just wondering what materials are those used on the panel? Is that a foam sheet on top of the panel? Did you use glue between the layers?

Ket

thanks ket. Its a special wood then some 6mm foam then the vinyl. Foam is glued to wood with headlining adhesive, and vinyl is liquid nails to the back with a strip of cloth tape over the edges and headlining adhesive was used to glue the vinyl to the foam. Considering the $399 price tag for just the remake of vinyl covering from phils rotaries, and lack of good used trims, i didn't have much of a choice but to make my own.

[capella re]

Nearly finished work on the boot.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuOlPgv35OI/AAAAAAAAAGI/R-kd5sUHkEQ/s800/S6300790.jpg

Heres a picture of some of the prep work. Didn't want to bare metal it because then it would require priming and alot more paint and because theres no rust and nothing wrong with existing paint, didn't think it was neccesary. The white spots are spray putty for a few imperfections, im pretty slack but not that slack i found the effort to get rid of them.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuOlcCjnjxI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/SMrWtHc594M/s800/S6300791.jpg

UPDATE, NEVER EVER USE THIS PAINT FOR YOUR CAR. YOU CANNOT PAINT CAR BODIES WITH ENAMEL, IT MUST BE ACRYLIC. I LEARNT THE HARD WAY. ENAMEL PAINT WILL TAKE UP TO 12MONTHS TO CURE AND WILL STAY SOFT AND DAMAGE UNTIL THEN :( heres me modeling the paint. Dulux has alot less harmful chemicals in the can to prevent chroming (inhaling vapour) hence why my lips are blue, i had to suck alot harder to get high. Also i only woke up so didn't do my hair, apologies.


http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuOli7Nm4gI/AAAAAAAAAGU/n-CPwXWWizQ/s800/S6300792.jpg

Heres after the first coat. I'l show finished product when its back on the car so people can tell me how awesome it looks (or not) Also in the reflection it looks like i have no legs, but rest assured i do.

[capella re]

And heres the finished product.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuQVkZtKZBI/AAAAAAAAAIg/OnKdU3Q4ZGg/s800/S6300797.jpg

still needs its polish but it come up really well. Now i need advice from people as to what my excuse is for the shocking colour match. I thought of saying it was like it when i bought it but then i'd have to delete this thread and it took alot of time to do, so i'm thinking we have an agreement just to pretend none of you guys notice till i get the car completely resprayed.

and heres a picture of my car at the cruise kunsanagi organised a few months back. lucky he brought his camera cos i didnt.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuQgRFKQDOI/AAAAAAAAAJA/V3AkBKEOEUM/sa%20rotors%20cruise.jpg

[Kusanagi]

Good job, a bit of fine grade wet sanding then cut and polish will get it mirror finish. Colour matching is always the trickiest part, may be you should do the whole car!! :P

So what colour you have in mind when you do your respray?

BTW, like your rotary jacket in the photo.

[13bwankel]

I'm guessing the reason for the bad colour match is that the paint was made up for you by the code. the paint on the car is faded being 30 odd years old, so the fresh paint never matches all that well unfortunately. Also who ever made the paint up mayy have been a little slack with the weights...

[capella re]

I'm guessing the reason for the bad colour match is that the paint was made up for you by the code. the paint on the car is faded being 30 odd years old, so the fresh paint never matches all that well unfortunately. Also who ever made the paint up mayy have been a little slack with the weights...


ah james, i think i'l have to take full credit for stuffing up the colour match, i just grabbed a green and went "she'll be right" but sadly she was far from right, kind of like my teacher in primary school who said i'd never amount to anything, look at me now ms humphries!!!
The car was painted about 12 years ago in the green you see, it used to be the factory mettalic blue/purple as you can see in the pic of the door trim. I've had a mate of mine look at the body and he thinks if there was anything real bad about the body it would have come through by now so most cancer is purely surface wise. Problem is its got a few battle scars which make it about as wavey as the christmas pagent but it will just take time to smooth out.
I havent decided a final colour but am considering getting a gun and painting it myself in a mates shed once the panel beating is done, but havent set a date.

http://www.braptv.com/play.php?vid=380
http://www.braptv.com/uploads/thumbs/cqew8rqom3buaqqd.jpg Watch "summer drags 2GAGON ,RX2 SEDAN" (http://www.braptv.com/play.php?vid=380)

I love this colour and this car has been an inspiration in getting mine spot on, love it!!!
and thanks for the kind words fellas, we need a group hug

[capella re]

Good job, a bit of fine grade wet sanding then cut and polish will get it mirror finish. Colour matching is always the trickiest part, may be you should do the whole car!! :P

So what colour you have in mind when you do your respray?

BTW, like your rotary jacket in the photo.

Oh and ket, thats not me in the rotary jacket. I'm the mofo in the white pac hat and thats my best mate with the hood on, he's a dentist so he can't show his face but if you need teeth removed he's the man to see!!! and i beleive thats "fat4re" from this site standing next to me he has a green rx4 coupe with cream vinyl roof absolutely immaculate.

[Kusanagi]

Oh and ket, thats not me in the rotary jacket. I'm the mofo in the white pac hat and thats my best mate with the hood on, he's a dentist so he can't show his face but if you need teeth removed he's the man to see!!! and i beleive thats "fat4re" from this site standing next to me he has a green rx4 coupe with cream vinyl roof absolutely immaculate.

Oh sorry my bad, I've been thinking that was you all along!! Too many names at the time, and brain was full haha!

Dentist hey, may be I'm wrong, he had one of those braced teeth? Teeth removal with the knuckle? no thanks.

Fat4re? rarely see him post, was he in someone's car?

[capella re]

yeah, i don't see him much on here either. He came in his daily the purple mazda3 work was being done on his rx4

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuUbBmaQZrI/AAAAAAAAAKA/r7wXriC2YYA/s720/S6300800.jpg

this is a picture of my injection setup

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuUbV3YDx_I/AAAAAAAAAKc/Et5cRz_uYpE/s720/S6300798.jpg

and heres a pic of my interior
on holidays at the moment hence why i've got time to do all this.

[Kusanagi]

yeah, i don't see him much on here either. He came in his daily the purple mazda3 work was being done on his rx4

this is a picture of my injection setup

and heres a pic of my interior
on holidays at the moment hence why i've got time to do all this.

Nice, simple and clean engine. I have to say, very NICE dashboard!

Holiday aye, I'm in dying need for one!!! :(

[capella re]

heres some more pictures, probably the last of what i have time to do for a while

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuViueZRZxI/AAAAAAAAALY/vsqz1sbONrM/s720/S6300804.jpg

heres a pic of boot mounted surge tank and fuel pumps

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuVi-OgowcI/AAAAAAAAALc/rOMGBNjnQZI/s720/S6300803.jpg

all nice and cleaned up

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuVjC13YBSI/AAAAAAAAALg/7S8-RpsVFaE/s720/S6300802.jpg

how the rear section of interior is looking (the newspaper in the window is for passengers to read when they get bored or dry their tears when they want to whinge about something)

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/SuVjJYK0VuI/AAAAAAAAALk/6wDPbBiaS30/s720/S6300801.jpg

this is a pic of painting the window frame (didn't really need to explain that)

and that about does it.

[capella re]

Update time, well my boot is totally stuffed and has to be redone. Why you ask?? I screwed up and painted the boot in enamel which should never be used on cars. You must only use acrylic. Enamel takes up to 12 months to cure and harden properly. I washed and polished car, put cover back on then next day went to look at boot and paint had resoftened and cover had left marks all through boot, so now i start over. Also worth mentioning you cannot paint over enamel with acrylic, you have to remove all enamel, if you could see my face it looks something like a kid whos had all his gi joes taken off him. Not happy but only myself to blame :(

[capella re]

heres a handy tip. Don't waste your time sanding, just get some paint stripper 30X easier

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/Suflj_nZWNI/AAAAAAAAAMg/ILwTQaD-0aQ/s720/S6300805.jpg

Heres another handy tip, probably don't do what i do, i just make it up as i go along. Ive got til next weekend to get this done but least i know for the rest of the car, stripping an entire car would really suck big time. Better off calling a soda blaster i reckon.

[13bwankel]

that's gonna need cleaning well, use wax and grease remover, then primer and then paint and then clear coat. can do all in a day! You planning on using paint only from spray can or do you have access to a compressor and gun?

i can mix from the code into a pressure pack for ya. Probably get everything you need from about $70ish..

[capella re]

yeah, thanks alot for the offer james. I got most of what i need. No clear as yet but i've got prime and the colour in a can. I've got a compressor but no gun. So far ive got rid of all enamel which was a nightmare. Definately use coarse wet rub not sandpaper, it just clogs after a few rubs where as coarse wet rub goes to a paint paste which you can wash away with water and go again. Its drying now after wet rub then im going to prime and wet rub in a couple of hours. Good weather for paint drying but!! Thanks again.
I have now used a large can on painting boot but need another and also require clear. acrylic is quite flat off the gun so needs a good hit of clear to bring shine and lustre. Needs 3-5 days to harden then cut and buff with polish. Should have clear on and dried by tonight then i'l leave it til sunday to buff depending on what the finish looks like after clear goes on. Looks like i can undo the damage before next weekend but have lost two days on other stuff i was going to do like tune and alignment. Son of a #$*tch. and thats car modifying for you.

[capella re]

finished painting the boot and fitted back on car. The colour match is much better this time and its transformed the whole look of the car, see below

http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/private/6296826.jpg
Now i know what your thinking "thats not the same car" but i swear!!! In my dreams i guess.

All i have left before sunday is get the battery in the boot and i done, if i get time. Oh yeah and i better register it too.

[capella re]

I have now sold my rx2 . I will update my page when i aquire new car, as for now i'm rotorless but i'm still cool so don't go ignoring me or nothing. I think im having withdrawl symptoms already!! If it gets real bad one of you guys is going to have to take me for a drive in yours so i can get my rotor fix. Thanks for all the positive comments made on my efforts to do the car up, shame i didn't have the time to go the whole way with it but my loss is someones gain.

[Kusanagi]

Thought your plan of selling is to buy back your old 7?

[capella re]

thought your plan of selling is to buy back your old 7?

well for one, i got a bit shy of what i wanted for the rx2 so i gotta russel up a bit more doh and second adam wants sexual favours on top of the price of the car which we're still negotiating, nothin suss though, much.
Time will tell, really busy at the moment to jump straight in, need to get some carport space freed up and what not.
http://www.sarotors.org/forum/album/events/index.php?sfpg=QmlydGhkYXkgQ3J1aXNlcy8yMDAwMjAwOS8 qSU1HXzA0MDIuSlBHKippbWFnZSoqOTgzMDc1NDEzZGYyNTZlY TVhZTU2MzdjNGMwNGI4NjA
this is the car here. most of you severley underestimated this car.(and i don't mean that it rivals packs drag car underestimate, i just mean that you couldn't guess what under the bonnet looked like, i think madaz4's words were "wasn't expecting that" i think because it doesn't have bunched bone leather and 20inch spinners you don't expect an over the top engine bay) adams a bit shy so he didn't pop the bonnet till i did it for him in blanchtown. alot of work went into making the engine bay gleam because i love nothing more than a smick engine bay. Its a 13bre cosmo motor fully polished and detailed, braided lines gilmer belt i even found a non pwr assisted steering rack and binned all the power steering. pwr radiator and intercooler custom mounted and designed by mark and pwr for the car, battery in the boot carbon fibre strut brace turbosmart 48ml external gate with plumbed in and flanged exhaust for quick release at drag strip, all existing wiring harnesses were removed and most of the microtech was hidden. an absolute credit to mark mills skills as a fabricator. I'l get a picture up when i find the sd card. the car had a full feature in speed magazine about 2 or 3 years ago after i took it to the fours and rotor nationals. So because none of you probably even noticed it, proof a sleeper doesn't have to have stock rims, oh and can you tell i still have a thing for the car;)

[Tuffy]

I just got the thing home and now I remember why I stopped buying old cars a long time ago. :smiley1: Its been about 20 years since my very last rotary and it looks like im ready to go again. :popcorn: Ive already made plans for it while I was driving home...

1) Install a softer spring so the accelerator pedal isnt so stiff.

2) Fix the brakes

3) Fix the play in steering

4) Put much taller gears in the asre end. (It sits on 60kph in 3rd at 2k rpm) :confused:

5) Take it to Alex for a checkup and tuneup

6) Paint and body work along with retrim etc if I CBF :D

Cheers for the car mate. Ill probably start a thread of my own once work begins so keep an eye on the forums over the next week or two if you want to see how it turns out.

Cheers
Mike.

[skimboynemo]

hey,dude Im bob, Im wokin with the guy shows on the attached picture, I think we met once while you bringing down your van to our shed for a clean, you guys look like chopper gang thru the picture,,,, hahahaha!!!!! nice shot, both of you were wearing black top, you need to put your shade on which you didnt haha,,,,, nice car, I talk to dxxx already, if I can sell my mx5 I will get your cappella but, ..... someone act before me..... damn!!! anyway, gl with your next ride... lovely FC.. hahah....

[capella re]

hey,dude Im bob, Im wokin with the guy shows on the attached picture, I think we met once while you bringing down your van to our shed for a clean, you guys look like chopper gang thru the picture,,,, hahahaha!!!!! nice shot, both of you were wearing black top, you need to put your shade on which you didnt haha,,,,, nice car, I talk to dxxx already, if I can sell my mx5 I will get your cappella but, ..... someone act before me..... damn!!! anyway, gl with your next ride... lovely FC.. hahah....

jeez bob, your as bad as me with cars!! he told me you sold your type r and your two skylines and had an mx5 now. I'l have to come out next time you guys go drifting he's always telling me about it. Talk to you later.

[capella re]

well, no where else to put this so here is the latest update.
still havent got a new car yet, made an offer on two just waiting to hear back. one offer has had 2 days to think about it so its looking promising. been really tied up at work with a new roll, hence why ive been on here bugger all last couple of weeks.
all the cars your submitting me threads of, trust me ive already seen. appreciate support from members such as ryan dave james and everyone else who's helped out so far. will ask their advice when these offers come back as i still havent driven the cars yet, just said "dont want to stuff you round, i have this much, if your keen im ready to buy".

soon as something happens the photos will be up :) definately struggling, so close i can taste it! but a reminder if no fd's come up i will have to look elsewhere, but so far theres still alot i havent seen yet its just hard finding the free time to call and view them.
hopefully by our next meet i dont have to ride a pushbike still.

[basketcaseFC]

good to hear you are possibly close to buying a car Simon, exciting times!!

and it's good you are not rushing into it too, plenty of good cars out there just a matter of waiting for the right one!

don't worry about looking elsewhere... an FD will come (as will the ladies after you get it, zing!).

looking forward to see how it all pans out, the next cruise could be a whole lot better for ya :D

[capella re]

well, as you all know been saving for a long time and sold most of what i own to get my new car. picked it up yesterday after much searching and umming and ahhing. it is:

a 2000 model series 8 rx7. 68,000km on the clock. rebuilt engine and turbos 2000km ago with receipts for over $12,000 (glad it wasnt me!!) has a reconditioned new lsd in it too so all the hard work and money has already been spent on it.
has a full body kit (front rear side skirts) and for those that are asking YES i did manage to get the factory bumpers and also a nice vented fibreglass hood. it also has a pioneer stereo in it too which is good as many i looked at still had jap stereos which are pretty much useless for picking up our channels.
its also had a $4000 respray (outside needed only) when the kit got fitted so paints in real good nick too. servicing is all up to date and with copping a defect in early 2009 this car hasn't seen much of the road since the guy bought it in 2006. (due to various mechanical work meant it was in workshops a bit, kind of feel sorry for him plus it only being a fun car not a daily)
got a really good deal on it and the guy was really genuine so i don't think i have anything to worry about which is good.
Also came with a 3 inch titanium catback exhaust but currently has a new standard exhaust fitted (due to the previous defect and the guy being 45 years old so a bit over the loud exhaust stuff)
he actually got the car from sydney and said it was no walk in the park as i too was worried about getting one from sydney through regency. he's happy though with his 2 brand new m3 bmw's ve ss and a 2001 5 series bmw!!!
thats about all the info i can remember for now so time for the pics (YES THE WHEELS AREN'T MY TASTE EITHER, BUT PLEASE DONT COMMENT ON THEM!!)

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S5GdAuN_WDI/AAAAAAAAAeY/_uZaPKridrE/s800/S6300964.JPG
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S5GdYxdwokI/AAAAAAAAAe4/bwk3tmAUoLY/s800/S6300965.JPG
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S5Gg4mxOCNI/AAAAAAAAAfY/vEJVM2t9IPs/s800/S6300966.JPG
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S5GhZSOmYMI/AAAAAAAAAf0/8WBrWunMKvs/s800/S6300967.JPG
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S5GhnnN3LZI/AAAAAAAAAf4/aZ0a4tix6Mk/s800/S6300972.JPG
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S5GiWjLm4aI/AAAAAAAAAgw/l3LcMZ6G1FM/s800/S6300968.JPG

thanks again to all the people on here that helped out with advice and opinions along the way. now i dont need an excuse not to show up to the next meet!!

[basketcaseFC]

Congratulations Simon!!!!! :smiley1: Looks freaking sweet as mate, very tidy and can't wait to go for a cruise in it next meet ;)

Don't worry about the wheels mate, am sure someone will take them off your hands and allow you to get some more tasteful ones lol!

Sounds like you got a really good deal and, although it was unfortunate for the previous owner, most of the big $$ appears to be spent already (for a change!)

Now for another meet?!

[Kusanagi]

simon, well done!! this is the one from carsales without the wing? now you need some fat arse ssr professor rims to go with the kit and it will be perfect! now when we gonna cruise again? good shit good mate!!

3G keep cutting off can only see half a pic :(

[mUnky-matt]

so close to perfection... just get the nice rims, a computer and you're ready to go :D

congrats man, looks fantastic. friday night cruises?

[capella re]

thanks guys, yeah pretty stoked with it but the ssr proffessors are going to have to wait as im broke as. friday night cruises are out matty as i work late and long during the week. and yeah leigh it does make a change for someone else to spend the dollars rather than me!
went out last night in the rain after i put the exhaust on, very slippery and a lot of fun. didnt see "ih8v8s" post or i would of got in contact with him. had to chase up a gasket to put the exhaust on then swap it over and went straight out. saw a really nice s15 getting defected by a highway cop (sucks to be him!)

heres the exhaust
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S5LuK5RthvI/AAAAAAAAAiM/GC2Zxb1RAEY/s800/S6300973.jpg

and fitted
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S5LuT74FqoI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/nrhK0NY8EK4/s800/S6300974.jpg

as you can see it is a bit loud so im going to try and find a baffle to shove in the end to keep the cops happy but good to hear that rotor noise. pops on downshifts too.
and also the exhaust isnt titanium, googled the brand and its a thin walled stainless steel and you can lift the whole thing with 1 finger (hence why i thought it was titanium, never felt an exhaust so light)

[Kusanagi]

Now I can see all the pics... been out all day yesterday.

Very nice!! and I'm sure you got a good deal on this as the initial asking price was quite reasonable and o.n.o considering all the extra bits that comes with it as well. Any interior pics?

[capella re]

Now I can see all the pics... been out all day yesterday.

Very nice!! and I'm sure you got a good deal on this as the initial asking price was quite reasonable and o.n.o considering all the extra bits that comes with it as well. Any interior pics?

i low balled him but i was honest. he took 2 days to think about it (i guess another 2 days of no calls??) and then said yes. this really is still a $hit time to sell a car. no ones spending at the moment, so theres alot of bargains out there to be had. it was dave that said make an offer whats the worst that can happen!!

they certainly are small cars, i put 2 cds in the boot and nearly couldnt close the hatch. il get pics up of the interior soon. just about to head out to the porsche show at glenelg.

[gotorx7]

Congrats Simon!

Looks the goods.

[FLEX]

congrats Simon!

Bet you over the moon, dont worry about the wheels. There easy enough to change, some fat rims will complement the bodykit nicely, just make sure they have decent dish and offset.

[jesse_RE]

I just sent you a pm man but then i saw this thread so dont worry about it. Sweet ride, hows it feel to be back in a rotang again! loving it. I've still got some 19x8 and 19x9.5 racing hart wheels for sale if your interested.

[capella re]

yeah, thanks again guys, still sinking in i guess. i slept in it last night (just kidding) my neighbours are starting to think im weird, mates come around and we just sit there kind of staring at it.
still getting over how quick fd's are in standard trim. jesse made 180kwatw without an exhaust but due to their light weight they really move. handling is predictable and quite easy to control.
http://images.google.com.au/url?source=imgres&ct=img&q=http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_bjD68JYXSFo/SOvwlJ_cjRI/AAAAAAAAA-s/-43RoceKOgo/s400/Web%2BI%27m%2BLovin%2BItMcDs_Print.jpg&usg=AFQjCNHm0E8_hcfNwee6HzQD1g9G5vjY9w

as for your wheels, unless you take empty cans as trade, im a little short on money at the moment :)

next on the menu is quietening the exhaust a bit (some sort of baffle) and opening the intake up, ideas???

[FLEX]

id be finding some stock wheels to chuck on with GOOD tyres, surely one of the FD boys have some lying around. Anything has to be better than the current ones.....

[jesse_RE]

[QUOTE=capella re;]
as for your wheels, unless you take empty cans as trade, im a little short on money at the moment :) [QUOTE] Damn i just cashed in all my cans... only got $30 though lol

[binnzy]

Nice car Simon! Congrats!! ;o)

[capella re]

yeah thanks binnzy, havent been anywhere near your house recently but when i do first stop is your house (least now i've got a good reason to see you rather than eat all your food and drool over your rx4!)

[binnzy]

Ha ha, it's in bits at the moment! Plus it looks good in photo's but needs more work, I'll get there eventually!! P.S black Mazdas are cool ;o)

[vortex]

man i have been asleep :)
looks boss, were having a small fd cruise in a couple of weeks, tag along!

[vortex]

next on the menu is quietening the exhaust a bit (some sort of baffle) and opening the intake up, ideas???
SMB full system, PowerFC, Tune and cheap bastard mod that airbox :)

SMB is nice and quiet down low, but as anyone who saw my FD at Mallala on Monday will attest, nice and loud when it matters :)

[capella re]

yeah ive seen the cheap bastard mod, hard to understand without pics all i saw were words. smb good quality but not cheap so save i shall. are power fcs legit or defectable like stand alone ems's??? thanks for the advice james

[vortex]

yeah ive seen the cheap bastard mod, hard to understand without pics all i saw were words. smb good quality but not cheap so save i shall. are power fcs legit or defectable like stand alone ems's??? thanks for the advice james
Yeah PowerFC is a replacement aftermarket ECU, so it is defectable. Good thing is it's plug and play, so you can swap it out and go back to stock if you do get defected. Important point that, wouldn't want to go something like Microtech and hard-wire it - would be a massive pain to go back to stock if needed.

[capella re]

Important point that, wouldn't want to go something like Microtech and hard-wire it - would be a massive pain to go back to stock if needed.

trust me james i know, had micro in my fc and had all existing loom removed to get rid of alot of wiring for neatness etc. was warned about potentail defect clearance issues but at the time we werent as bigger targets as now.

pulled out my airbox last night to give me an idea of what im dealing with for a new intake, damn no ones lying when they say theres no room there!! you could get a bit of ducting but would have to go backwards generally rendering it useless.
i dont want twin pods due to sucking nothing but hot air. i've got a few tricks up my sleeve so i'l see what i can do. (custom box around the pods)
i don't like fibreglass (vented headlight cover) had one on my fc and they're crap. so thats a no go. think i might make up a box shielding two apexis (with the hard piping) not sure yet.
i really like this kit from pettit but at $550 not a chance in hell!!!
http://www.rx7store.net/v/vspfiles/photos/Pettitintake-2.jpg

and this is the pics of the space i have to work with
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S6QUIB-W0mI/AAAAAAAAAnw/rV0Pj98bhPM/s800/S6301013.jpg
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S6QTQvZ32HI/AAAAAAAAAng/MDE3zwZ3L0Q/s800/S6301010.jpg

and what it looks like all put back together
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S6QZ3JS5t2I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/tL84dfp1HFA/s800/S6301014.jpg

still have some other things to do like under tray water temp and boost gauge install and also having quote done on install of power fc.
mainly getting quotes as still trying to save money hence alot of work i'll do myself (bseides pfc install)

[FLEX]

THATS HEAPS OF ROOM!

you seen how much room ive got in the rolla

Like the plans, leave the STAUNCH wheels to last. Youve got decent rubber 18's for now :)

[capella re]

THATS HEAPS OF ROOM!

you seen how much room ive got in the rolla :)

nah i know what you think i mean, but i don't mean no room to create a box or mount filters i mean there is no room to create an opening to feed the cold air!!
normally you got a bit of room beside the radiator or on my fc i ran a duct from the front bar to an opening just under the pop up light where theres a rectangle opening, but theres nothing on the fd. that tiny bit of ground you see next to the bottom radiator hose is it and if you ran a duct from underneath to a custom box, the duct would be angled backwards.

and yes i know, ive seen your setup and im the last the should be complaining about space in comparrison!!

i saw a few other setups on fd's yesterday which have given me a few more ideas but the best way would be a sealed box with an open top and a vent in the bonnet to force air in the box but unlikely i'l chop the bonnet.
i'd rather the standard box than a half assed pod setup (which is my signature move!!) that i'l get defected for but i do like jesses and james's set up with the (blitz??) hard piping and pods i'd just add a sheild from the engine side.
thanks for the comments though ryan and i might see you later if all goes well with your fuel cell.

[capella re]

finished my undertray today, so thats another thing off my to do list. simple as, took 30minutes and cost me 15 bucks worth of 1mm alloy. biggest expense was a new pair of tin snips which cost me 44.95 but on the plus if anyone needs any tin snips you know who to ask now.

heres a pic showing before. you see theres a huge gap where the airflow hits the air con then 90% of the air will just bounce off that going straight under the car missing the radiator.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S6W5MZ8th8I/AAAAAAAAAqA/xyNfl9JHcV0/s800/S6301031.jpg

another shot sowing how big the gap is. with a factory front bar there would be a plastic undertray to do the same but the problem with aftermarket front bars is they either won't fit properly after fitment or people don't bother refitting them thinking they are useless.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S6W6VfSK_jI/AAAAAAAAAqg/zjtuLA_RSrE/s800/S6301032.jpg

this now shows the alloy tray fitted. its bolted to the frontbar brackets and the swaybar mount bracket so its not going anywhere.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S6W7y0UWFqI/AAAAAAAAArA/h5GMTPciQtA/s800/S6301034.jpg

you can see here, tight fit to bottom of radiator and cannot see the floor anymore so now 90% of airflow will be forced through air con and then through to radiator behind it therefore increasing cooling efficiency when moving along. not bad for 15 bucks.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S6W7-TXDS6I/AAAAAAAAArc/v4SNF-7BVF4/s800/S6301036.jpg

[FLEX]

nice work simon!

splitter looks gd, oh now i understand what you mean. Hopefully you can sort something out without hacking the body (which im sure you will not want to do).

[vortex]

I have an old S6 undertray you can have for nothing Simon. Should have said something before ;) It's not 100%, but it's ok :)

[capella re]

yeah not keen on hackng the body. because the car looks like cop bait as it is and having already been through regency i want to keep the mods legal as possible or if there are any illegal mods they can be removed with ease. really wanted those wheel tubs!!!

I have an old S6 undertray you can have for nothing Simon. Should have said something before ;) It's not 100%, but it's ok :)

ah now you tell me!! thats ok thanks for the offer. because of the frontbar and custom brackets to hold it in place i doubt any of the original tray bolts would come close to even lining up.
the alloy one will suffice. it goes deep into the front bar and tabs cut out near the swaybar so theres no chance of it getting ripped off at high speed-a recipe for decapitation (if you've ever seen final destination!!)

hoping to do the water temp and boost guage install this weekend but see how i go for time and dosh.

[vortex]

ah now you tell me!! thats ok thanks for the offer. because of the frontbar and custom brackets to hold it in place i doubt any of the original tray bolts would come close to even lining up.

They will. The original front tray has 6 bolts holding it on, two near the engine crossmember, one in front and and one behind the anti roll bar on each side. Front, at least on mine, simply sits under the lower edge of the front bar with no bolts. It's not going anywhere under there :)

[capella re]

was having an issue with power when flat out. seemed to be dropping off a bit only under full load. think i sourced the problem, or if not the problem, another problem. poking around under the bonnet i found one of the intercooler pipes had split, once at the top once at the bottom

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S61yeWrq2BI/AAAAAAAAAsE/Dapo1BQXRW4/s800/S6301037.jpg

the split

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S61yxFz_N6I/AAAAAAAAAsg/3DaWC9hEwHk/s800/S6301038.jpg

this is the whole pipe running from inlet to bottom intercooler entry. its covered in crao as i was cleaning it out. not much residue in there so thats a good sign. cooler could probably do with a flush out but other things to do

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S61zKQgK5gI/AAAAAAAAAs8/Yu6494ccme8/s800/S6301039.jpg

this is the new pipe. would have liked black but the size i needed didn't come in black (from where i got it from anyway, better things to do that shop aroud for bits of silicone, unless its friday night in a club)

must thank adam from autobarn gilles, he also runs club psi and has helped me alot. he's not as awesome as james but close.

and i understand that now i can be defected under rule 31 of the police handbook which is suspicious looking fancy coloured piping which must enhance performance but i give a crap less :) :) :)

[vortex]

Could also be a solenoid failing under heat, or a split line in the rats nest...

[capella re]

yeah true that, its a mess of vacuums under the hood of fd's. going through the bay there are so many vacuum lines perishing (due to the notorious under bonnet heat) or lines about to pop off. im lucky ive had the full rebuild so most of the probs should have been found and fixed. id hate to nose around in an original one that hasn't been looked after. it would take weeks to source problems.
i read half the development time of the fd went into the development of the sequential twin turbs keeping it smooth and responsive at all revs etc etc. always reading things where people having trouble with the second turbo kicking in or cheapskates altering the system to make both kick in at the same time. its crazy.

just need to get a boost gauge but not sure what to do with it. very limited with where to put it without drilling the dash (which aint going to happen) i seen all you guys are running the multiple holder from the centre speaker so thats an option. i'd kind of be happy with a digital psi read out one in pencil form which i could put on the dash on the right hand side just behind where the indicator stalk sits (down by the cluster, ive got an apexi timer there). benefit there is i could hide it too. have it on a clip and chuck it under the dash if i get pulled over. (which is how ive got the timer)

ideas??? if i go round face need alot more room and or a holder (must be legal if its permanent though)

[capella re]

for those doubting the complexity of the fd vacuum system, check this $hit out.

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/6512/vacuumhosediagram28ssdz8.jpg

also need some help from someone that knows, ive pulled the plugs out they look good so ive just emery papered them and chucked them back in. ive got BUR9EQP NGK in the top and BUR7EQP NGK in the bottom. is that alright or is there a better plug type / combination available?

[vortex]

Check out the RE-amemiya boost gauge pod, replaces the stock top shroud of the steering column, only downside is it's 52mm.

On the plugs, BUR7/9 are a good plug and is all you need unless you are running really big boost, then there are some other Greddy plugs (actually NGK) that you can run.

[capella re]

thats perfect. you spun me out, i did a search on it and found a thread you started on the same question 2 years ago. no wonder you get annoyed answering my questions!!

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y200/sbfd3s/PICT2994.jpg
if i cant get the re amemiya column one i'll find some way to mount another gauge there

[FDTRX7]

Could look at a Pillar Mount setup (That way it doesn't block your vision to the Tacho)?

I'm just not sure of the legalities behind them.

This is what I'm looking at buying.. Just been putting it on the back burner at the moment. Mechanical is more important than accessories.
http://www.cartoys.com.au/product-images/365.jpg
http://www.cartoys.com.au/products/Mazda/TRUST+GREDDY+PILLAR+GAUGE+MOUNT-FD3S+RX7.aspx?SC=13B-16040011

I'd be interested in knowing if it's an opption as well.

[capella re]

Could look at a Pillar Mount setup (That way it doesn't block your vision to the Tacho)?
yeah already looked into that setup damo. vision only blocks bottom as shown in pic which obviously isnt important

Mechanical is more important than accessories.
accessory?? a boost gauge is one of the most important parts to have in a turbo car. every change you make to your intake exhaust intercooler will affect your boost in one way or another. the + - factory gauge just don't cut it. need to know your afr's as well but if boost is standard not so important, but i for one want to know exactly how much boost im running.

I'm just not sure of the legalities behind them..
yeah just like everything else they are illegal. you can get some engineered (independant engineer to advice the setup is safe) but why would you spend the money??
if the pillar gauges go anywhere past the steering wheel its automatically an illegal modification. this is due to impact to head in crash.
same with gauges on your dash. impact to occupants head a risk and also due to impact turning inadequetly fixed gauges to missile. (don't ask about gps units with lick tabs that stick to your window, that shit is f%^king crap and i have no idea how people get away with it. one day there will be a crackdown on them though)
likewise, externally mounted gauges illegal due to impact with pedestrian.

decisions decisions. i do like the re amemiya one though

[FDTRX7]

accessory?? a boost gauge is one of the most important parts to have in a turbo car. every change you make to your intake exhaust intercooler will affect your boost in one way or another. the + - factory gauge just don't cut it. need to know your afr's as well but if boost is standard not so important, but i for one want to know exactly how much boost im running.

Good point man, I agree. At the moment I only know when I'm boosting when I feel and hear it.... Other than that, the only pressure I can gauge is my Oil (S7 and up had the Boost Gauge)


yeah just like everything else they are illegal. you can get some engineered (independant engineer to advice the setup is safe) but why would you spend the money??
if the pillar gauges go anywhere past the steering wheel its automatically an illegal modification. this is due to impact to head in crash.
same with gauges on your dash. impact to occupants head a risk and also due to impact turning inadequetly fixed gauges to missile. (don't ask about gps units with lick tabs that stick to your window, that shit is f%^king crap and i have no idea how people get away with it. one day there will be a crackdown on them though)
likewise, externally mounted gauges illegal due to impact with pedestrian.

decisions decisions. i do like the re amemiya one though

I found a thread on FDRX7.Com that showed a set of 3 "Single Din" Gauges if you don't mind them taking up Centre Console space?

http://www.defi-shop.com/product/din/images/ar.jpg
http://www.defi-shop.com/product/din/images/df05610.jpg
http://www.nippon-seiki.co.jp/defishop/product/din/images/rei2.jpg


http://www.defi-shop.com/product/din/din_type.html

Dave Pointed these out in a seperate thread
http://www.nippon-seiki.co.jp/defishop/product/din/din_top.html

[vortex]

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y200/sbfd3s/PICT2994.jpg
if i cant get the re amemiya column one i'll find some way to mount another gauge there

I've got a mate who is convinced we can modify a stock shroud to fit 2 60mm gauges on it. I'll give it a shot one day when I can be bothered.

I have a 3 pod gauge holder ready to go in my car that replaces the center speaker, but I don't have the gauges to go in it yet :) Some day I will order some Defi's to go in it.

accessory?? a boost gauge is one of the most important parts to have in a turbo car. every change you make to your intake exhaust intercooler will affect your boost in one way or another. the + - factory gauge just don't cut it. need to know your afr's as well but if boost is standard not so important, but i for one want to know exactly how much boost im running.

I see what you're saying, but when your right hoof is on the floor, you're not looking at the boost or AFR gauge :) You're better off making sure the car is tuned to handle a boost spike, which is what happens when you free up the intake/intercooler/exhaust - because in a lot of cases if you were to happen to notice that your Boost was spiking or the AFR's were too lean - it's probably too late. I'm told my car is set to 0.7 bar (10psi), but I have seen 0.9 bar (13psi) on a cold night. Likely this is also due to the poor boost control in the PowerFC.

I have an LC-1 wideband and DB gauge to go in the car for measuring and displaying AFRs, mainly to help with tuning. Haven't bothered to install it yet for the above reasons :) Oh and the other major one is the Dump pipe needs to come out to do it, and i'm not a huge fan of doing that job again just yet :)

[capella re]

well i got the morning shift at the moment so i got a few hours of daylight in my day for a change. what a way to spend it pulling cars apart. starting to strip all the interior out for the roll cage measurements and nitrous bottle installs (thinking 6 bottles should do)
while i was pulling the drivers seat out i found some anal beads (beaded neckless, same thing though)so if anyone is unsure about their sexuality and wants to share with the world theyre gayness, pm me and you can have it. i did however find $7 as you can see in the picture so thats a bonus

and even though in the first pick it looks like a perfect spot to fit gauges under the stereo never fear because that spots no good either as the stereo flips out and does all sorts of shit that would hit the gauges. (ryan may also notice my new shift knob, i only got it in titanium finish so i can rub it and say im polishing my knob)

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S7BRF9LQ08I/AAAAAAAAAt0/r84oEIMEwFQ/s800/S6301040.jpg
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S7BRORPtnlI/AAAAAAAAAuI/aYiiYWM46Tg/s800/S6301041.jpg
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S7BRqRKYzFI/AAAAAAAAAuU/g9MpGHQpfeo/s800/S6301042.jpg

and above you can see my collection of crap acumulating with my spare front and rear bars, probably soon to be accompanied by my belongings on the driveway if i get caught spending big dollars on my car again

[vortex]

Kinda hoping you're not serious about the roll cage and nitrous Simon :)

[FLEX]

get some new wheels and dont let your boyfriend choose them this time!

so why are we stripping the interior down???

[RazzaCaine]

6 bottles of nitrous? is that serious or a joke??

[FLEX]

6 bottles of nitrous? is that serious or a joke??

im sure its a joke

[RazzaCaine]

yeah i thought so, im guessing the roll cage is serious though? or is simon just having a damn good clean up of the interior?

[capella re]

get some new wheels and dont let your boyfriend choose them this time!???

ahahahahahah!!! laughed my ass off :) its not my fault you changed your mind after you picked em!!

ive pulled the fronts out and mats to shampoo them as they looked like rick james had got to them
http://media.ebaumsworld.com/picture/schmitty0550/YoCouch.png
im going to mount an extinguisher in there too so need room to work out where to mount it. must be within easy reach to spray out the window when going past cops and hot chicks (may also come in handy if my car catches on fire)
no nitrous or roll cage but nice to see james got upset thinking i was going to steal his idea (u know u wanna be vin diesel)
i didn't think anyone would give two $hits about my seats or extinguisher so i lied - worked for a minute. now you can go back to shaking your head going what a tool.

[RazzaCaine]

fair enough then haha

[capella re]

just got my arc airbox in the mail last night, pretty keen so fitted it already. should make a big difference, i mean comparing the two, ones silver ones black judging by that im expecting big things.

looks like the arc box is a fair bit smaller but factory air box is deceptive due to the thick plastic. the arc box has panel filters top and bottom to maximise amount of air which can be drawn in. panel filter replacements are $250 so not looking forward to that, theyre foam so they are washable then a bit of filter oil.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8jyTakCKLI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/rM9jpLQjdCk/s800/S6301058.jpg

old airbox
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8jyqhZAWcI/AAAAAAAAA1s/NRBZj5Oj5Yc/s800/S6301057.jpg

new airbox (i put the filter upside down just to be different)
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8jz7cH2bcI/AAAAAAAAA2I/RlwU-hlJwMk/s800/S6301059.jpg

and here it is fitted, really was one of those excellent fit no stuffing around installs (if only everything was like that)
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8j075MbvuI/AAAAAAAAA2k/BBHOSugbeoM/s800/S6301060.jpg

havent tested it yet, im pretty hungry (no breakfast), but stay tuned for more dribble later.

[miket]

Colour matches the strut brace......:D
Need a red intercooler now.....

Very clean rx7 ......... im wanting one now but cannot fit in it :frown: ( too tall )

Michael.....

[capella re]

heres the back of the box (obviously!) they have like these tuned length trumpets on the inside of the box which are supposed to control turbulence inside the airbox, thus increasing airflow. i'm guessing il get a bit of backflow noise from the turbos on gear changes (same as when you fit a pod) but maybe not.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8j4a09Os0I/AAAAAAAAA3A/wA15S9y_pDU/s800/S6301061.jpg

heres a link to arc
http://www.arcinter.co.jp/english/arc/products/intake/induction/index.html

tells you about the box etc.
Large capacity box enables excellent air flow efficiency. By using the box-type design, ARC SUPER INDUCTION BOX can keep large amount of air in its box-shaped body. This system enables the engine to get very quick response against ON and OFF of acceleration. This large aluminium box is designed for more efficient air flow.

The funnel shaped hole produces more reliable air intake efficiency. By using funnel shaped hole in it, this induction box can achieve much better air flow efficiency. As the hole leads fresh air into engine efficiently, the engine will respond to acceleration very quickly and will take fresh air more smoothly from low rpm to high rpm.

To offer superior intake performance, the filter part has been improved from paper-based type to sponge foam type. As a result, more amounts of fresh air can be lead into the engine effectively.
In addition to these advanced features, this sponge type filter is still excellent for filtering dust and quieting intake sound.

[vortex]

im going to mount an extinguisher in there too so need room to work out where to mount it. must be within easy reach to spray out the window when going past cops and hot chicks (may also come in handy if my car catches on fire)

I mounted mine on a flat piece of steel, bent to suit, under the front of the passenger seat mounts. Easiest place to do it and totally non-distructive. I had it there when I took the car to Mallala and it passed scruteneering easily.

How To: How-To: Mount a Fire Extinguisher - S.A.Rotors Forums

no nitrous or roll cage but nice to see james got upset thinking i was going to steal his idea (u know u wanna be vin diesel)


LOL! Roll cage, yes, but only when I build a track car :) Not on my streeter ;) I'll leave the giggle gas to the dentist, though :D

[capella re]

Colour matches the strut brace......:D
Need a red intercooler now.....

Very clean rx7 ......... im wanting one now but cannot fit in it :frown: ( too tall )

Michael.....

i dont want to go overboard, maybe just some red velvet on the underside of the hood, and some down light :)

yeah theyre a tight squeeze alright!! i hit my knees on the column getting in and out and you did trial fit in my car last weekend and it didn't look to comfy for you thats for sure. all it needs is the seat closer to the ground, some sort of lower rails the distance to pedals and steering wheel is fine.

[capella re]

I mounted mine on a flat piece of steel, bent to suit, under the front of the passenger seat mounts. Easiest place to do it and totally non-distructive. I had it there when I took the car to Mallala and it passed scruteneering easily.


yeah, flat piece of steel across where front seat is, then drilled where seat bolts to floor. only problem is you cant get the seat to slide forwards which is a pain for getting junk you put on the back seat out. but like you said, no destruction or extra holes which is best. i also think it would last two seconds there before one of my mates found it and sprayed it (yeah i roll with a$$holes!!! :) )

[RazzaCaine]

so is that information on the arc box you posted directly from the website?? the grammar is terrible! haha! i always find when i read fast fours mags that there are tons of typos, but oh well haha

[capella re]

so is that information on the arc box you posted directly from the website?? the grammar is terrible!

it reads exactly how a japanese person would have converted japanese to english, which being a japanese product is exactly what i would expect. i have fixed the bad grammar on my thread and emailed arc to let them know of your concerns.

[vortex]

yeah, flat piece of steel across where front seat is, then drilled where seat bolts to floor. only problem is you cant get the seat to slide forwards which is a pain for getting junk you put on the back seat out.
Yeah that's the down side. I just pulled mine out when I got home from the track :)

[capella re]

so driven the sev now with new intake box. not bad, alot of spool up noise and pssscchht on gear changes but not enough to be annoying (more than i was expecting though) power increase, cant really tell, only have 1st gear at full power then the f^&ken clutch starts to slip so must be more power than before as it was only noticeable when hot.

need to mod the factory intake snorkel as the outlet hole for the factory airbox doesn't line up with the filter panel (just misses it) so may have to dremel a few cm out. also want to hard pipe the rubber turbo intakes (like the apexi or greddy kit) then just some small silicone joiners to attach to turbos and arc box.

pissed about the clutch, was hoping to get a bit more use before having to spend money but such is owning a rotor, im sure theres going to be alot more money to spend in the future. got a few other plans i want done at the same time so no fat skids for a while. (and your going to have to look at my rims a bit longer ryan so suck!)

[capella re]

apologies for the shocking pics but years ago i had a bad computer crash and lost everything so i took these photos of the originals from my album. one day i'l get them scanned but i dont have a scanner so for now its the best i can do (have plenty more of other rotors ive had but due to the quality im guessing this is all you guys can bear.

my old s3 12a turbo haltech fontmount waterspray race seats mb quartz stereo and my 1974 race bridgeport rx3 coupe (yes the one the cops hated so much in blackwood)
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8queyWZZII/AAAAAAAAA3c/3YY9KQarPsc/s800/S6301065.jpg

my 12a turbo again (godarota aka jared ended up owning this - got highflowed lsd and bunch of other stuff done
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8quuTgZ1QI/AAAAAAAAA4A/9UfmH22YeQw/s800/S6301066.jpg

my old rx3 coupe again with flared guards and 265's on the rear (see josh, this is why i thought yours may have been mine!)
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8qvdtTNGYI/AAAAAAAAA4g/fjMxR0whSko/s800/S6301068.jpg

my mates old rx4 coupe, still saw in round holden hill a couple of years ago, best sounding rotor ive ever heard to this day don't know why just was. yellow s2 stocker in the background
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8qu45TbhJI/AAAAAAAAA4E/bt09cJHAyrg/s800/S6301067.jpg

mates uncle working on his r100/1200 (this is the one derrin ended up owning nic) with blue s1 rx7 12a turbo in the background
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8qw0h88ZiI/AAAAAAAAA48/lr3votkKYjc/s800/S6301070.jpg

engine bay of my rx3
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S8qxkPere2I/AAAAAAAAA5Y/IPiIkPjAcvA/s800/S6301071.jpg

going through the albums sure does bring back some good memories thats for sure

[FLEX]

RX3 looks FAT

[RazzaCaine]

it reads exactly how a japanese person would have converted japanese to english, which being a japanese product is exactly what i would expect. i have fixed the bad grammar on my thread and emailed arc to let them know of your concerns.

sarcasm =) haha

seriously, your old rotors look amazing. i really love the real old school ones. rx2s to rx4s have to be my favourite ones

[B_JPORT]

That's my old 12AT S3 also!

[capella re]

That's my old 12AT S3 also!

no shit! small world. i was talking to jared saying how i sold it 8 or 9 years ago and it was mint as. it was my best mate that built it then i got it and sold it to a guy i worked with near pt wakefield road who later swapped it for the orange 1200 or 1300 with the plates "noboost".
seen it or vortex's rotary grunt site a year ago then on anzac highway 6 months ago dumping some major flames.
was surprised to see it still around, most of my cars i've sold dissapeared off the face of the earth or i heard later they'd been written off in crashes.
i sold the rx3 coupe and the silver 12a turbo to get my fc (when they cost a hell of a lot more than they do now. back then mint condition rx3's were going for 9 10 grand and fc's were 14,000 - 15,000 for a mint one)
how times change

[capella re]

crossed another thing off my to do list ------- the boost gauge install

heres all i needed. 4 metres of vacuum hose (make sure you get the right size) a cup/holder for the gauge, and of course the gauge. i went autometers cobalt series. its a mid entry gauge (not top of the line, but not $hit) and its also a nice compact size and the face matches the factory gauges (i think white face wouldnt have worked as well as black)
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S9PTCpFO1NI/AAAAAAAAA50/0kphozO1jCI/s800/S6301072.jpg

first step is to run the vacuum hose. not wanting to drill a new hole in the firewall, i went with splicing a hole next to the steering box. keep as far away from the actual arm as possible, as it moves when you turn you dont want it to rub or catch. easy to cut the rubber then tape the vacuum hose to a coat hanger and poke it through as you can see.http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S9PW58JkHAI/AAAAAAAAA7k/-B4ylf8TAxg/s800/S6301075.jpg

next you need a good spot on the manifold to get a vacuum reading from. some cars you can tap into the manifold and thread a barb into it, but lucky for me the series 8 already has an unused manifold barb (it will have a black rubber grommit on ithttp://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S9PUqcd3vCI/AAAAAAAAA7E/M_nAW41zCdg/s800/S6301077.jpg

all ways a good idea to throw a zip tie on the vacuum line to prevent it popping off (the line will get soft due to under bonnet heat, add boost to that and it could blow it off) also make sure where you run the vacuum line in the bay you keep it away from extreme heat sources and moving parts or sharp edges
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S9PVnTQ-2HI/AAAAAAAAA7g/26P7CwlN2Dk/s800/S6301078.jpg

now due to mounting mine on the a pillar, i wanted all the wires (for the backlight on gauge, also vacuum hose) to come up throught the dash near where the mounting point is (hence the mess you are currently looking at
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S9PXFz9bzxI/AAAAAAAAA8A/PljPJUKCeJM/s800/S6301079.jpg

i chose the a pillar due to the fd being a bit expensive i didnt want to go drilling holes in the dash. i can easily replace the a pillar cover. a handy hint i picked up from doing backyard stuff because im too tight to pay people to do things, always goddamn make sure your nuts will stay tight. split washers and those lock washer tabs do the trick. because of your stiff suspension it will rattle itself loose in seconds if not done properly, and yes it will pi$$ you off. another tip is if you have a straight plastic a pillar cover, put some rubber between cover and mount as the hard surfaces together will bounce the needle on bumps and give false spikes (also freaking annoying)
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S9PZpmZc72I/AAAAAAAAA80/iqnDx8A6-3E/s800/S6301080.jpg

to neaten it up a bit, get black split tubing to put around the visible wires at the back of the cup to where they dissapear into the dash. you will see ive also snugly mounted it so its kind of wedged between a pillar and dash. if you have it half way up the pillar,
big bump + weighty gauge in centre of plastic = snapped cover = manly tears of having to do this all over again
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S9PaB6wf_qI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/5L4np9Z-20o/s800/S6301083.jpg
and there you have it. a couple of hours later and awesome (legal, as i followed the law on mounting procedure) little gadget to let school kids know your cars the $hit as it has a gauge on the dash. anyone who wants to know anything extra pm me such as wiring, how to get trim pieces off and how to mack the ladies and ill be more than happy to help out.

oh and i know i should be fixing my clutch not fitting fancy gauges

[yelloS2Rx7]

The gauge is easier to read for LH corners,
but damn hard goin round RHanders???? Haha

[capella re]

The gauge is easier to read for LH corners,
but damn hard goin round RHanders???? Haha

if i had a sense of humour left corey i'd probably get it but i lost it a couple of weeks ago. clutch came in wednesday and checked out sweet so just need some free time to get it booked in to be fitted as i have nor the time or the space to do it.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/S_c4gHZemuI/AAAAAAAABGs/QJ9QSMihVn8/s800/S6301138.jpg

still need to fix another problem that has arosen from the rear wishbone but havent had a chance to have a proper look. lucky i enjoy spending copious amounts of time and money on things i hardly use or this whole car thing would be mildly annoying. looks pretty sitting there doing nothing though.

[capella re]

another quick update, found a big crack through pilot bearing, went ape and turns out wrong clutch has been sent (this one is an older model, worked it out when trying to quote part numbers) and new one should arrive late next week so another 2 to 3 weeks off the road still.
good news is i now have 2 clutches as the other one is staying with me, just needs a new pilot bearing.
on another note if anyone knows a good therapist pm me their number.

just lucky i hadn't booked it in to be fitted yet i guess, and thats my whinge for the day.

on the upside anyone looking for an exedy heavy duty pressure plate for an fd in perfect condition, i had it checked out by my engineer (pictured above, im using the clutch plate and the pilot bearing is cracked) you know where to come as i wont be using it when the new one arrives.

[miket]

Therapy you say.....I use mallala race track for all my problems hasn`t failed me yet.:D
Need it as work is full on at the moment
We will be out there on the 4th of july if all goes well with my new 13b ...will be firing up this week and the running in starts ( hopefully all goes well )

Michael....

[capella re]

the right pressure plate rocked up friday so im now good to go. got the extra heavy duty pressure plate new clutch plate and spigot bearing just trying to get it booked in to the workshop. been off the road for pretty much a month now so rather annoying but il get over it. il try and get some pics of it when its pulled apart.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TADNWgkjpoI/AAAAAAAABHA/YVqjwRm0xjw/s800/S6301139.jpg

now just need another meet to test it out in a few weeks.............................

probably next on the list is power fc if anyone see's one around (cheap!) :)

[FDTRX7]

Great to hear that Everything's looking good now. Can't wait til you've got it back on the road after all these headaches and heartaches.

Funny how they've put TUFF an on the packet yet it's pink? Or is it just me? :)

[vortex]

Recon you'll have it done by the long weekend Simon? We're having another morning FD cruise if you're interested...

[capella re]

Great to hear that Everything's looking good now. Can't wait til you've got it back on the road after all these headaches and heartaches.

Funny how they've put TUFF an on the packet yet it's pink? Or is it just me? :)

no i find it funny too. should come with a ribbon on it or something!! and yeah this has been a headf^&k and a half. i should of just taken up 13bwankels offer to get me one and i would of had it 3 and a half weeks ago but im trying to keep the budget down so i can get wheels and power fc. if i make an attempt to get parts cheaper i get to listen to less bitching about my habit of spending all my money on cars (yeah, how damn selfish am i :) )

Recon you'll have it done by the long weekend Simon? We're having another morning FD cruise if you're interested...

not sure, hope so, just a matter of work and free time, ive got the bits i need and as long as theres nothing else broken or nearly broken should be sweet. it looks terrible at the moment!!!

[jesse_RE]

Hey simon, how much did the clutch set you back if you dont mind me asking?

[capella re]

Hey simon, how much did the clutch set you back if you dont mind me asking?

nah i don't care who knows what i pay for stuff, half of its stolen anyway (joke :) )
not sure if your aware but fd and fc clutches are quite different and don't fit each other (part numbers are different too)
long story short mines the next above heavy duty and retails for about $850. the fc equivelent is about $520. a guy sells them on ebay. the come with spigot, clutch plate pressure plate and align tool.
fd clutches are also about double the price to have fitted too!!! i have pull clutch, you have push clutch.

[jesse_RE]

nah i don't care who knows what i pay for stuff, half of its stolen anyway (joke :) )
not sure if your aware but fd and fc clutches are quite different and don't fit each other (part numbers are different too)
long story short mines the next above heavy duty and retails for about $850. the fc equivelent is about $520. a guy sells them on ebay. the come with spigot, clutch plate pressure plate and align tool.
fd clutches are also about double the price to have fitted too!!! i have pull clutch, you have push clutch. Yeah i knew they are different just interested to know what the excedy clutches are worth. Still havent seen your car yet :frown: mine is out of reg at the moment, i'm saving for the brake overhaul. just got some DBA slotted rotors for it so far. havent driven mine for over a month now, driving me crazy.

[capella re]

quick update. my car was dropped off to alex at injectmaz this morning for the clutch to be done. got a braided clutch line wednesday as well so hopefully no more issue with the gearbox for a while. fingers crossed nothing else is found to be on its way out but not holding my breath.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TBGqTPkYhcI/AAAAAAAABIY/JZgVakEZUxE/s800/S6301185.jpg
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TBGqa243qXI/AAAAAAAABIc/NmmMKyRJWbc/s800/S6301189.jpg

got some new oil and oil filter, just need some plugs and my (very) minor service will be done. i use the drift filter which cost a bit more due to extra features such as anti drain back, internal magnet for collecting metal and a nut on the end of filter to make getting it off a breeze and also it says drift on it which gets me major street cred right??
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TBGpywbttvI/AAAAAAAABIE/abM_mEtOtDM/s800/S6301195.jpg

ive still got to sort out another issue when i get the car back so still not out of the woods, but close. fu^&ing hanging to go for a cane. its been about two months now that i havent been able to use boost due to the clutch issues and a rear end issue.

i'll update after i pick it up and let you know how i go with alex as i met him for the first time this morning.

[vortex]

Personally I only ever use Genuine Mazda oil filters. Around $10 from Mazda direct..

Don't forget the Monday Morning cruise too Simon, if you're keen!

[capella re]

Don't forget the Monday Morning cruise too Simon, if you're keen!

don't think i'l make this one james, got a bunch of stuff i gotta do to the car before its ready.
well i picked up my car yesterday evening from alex at injectmaz all done and ready to roll. he's actually a really top bloke to deal with so i think ive found my new rotary mechanic!! there was a few issues that came up, such as there was still a bit of meat left on the old clutch plate so it was possibly out of adjustment or theres an issue with the old pressure plate or clutch plate. i need to get it to abs to have them test it out.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TBSxZQbH4BI/AAAAAAAABJM/l6Fv3B-AXfo/s800/S6301201.jpg

its certainly seen better days and has the tell tale red dust of heat but thats to be expected in this sort of car. overall all besides a few chatter marks on pressure plate it was in quite good nick.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TBN4Kt5WQYI/AAAAAAAABI4/f6VR_Go2qSs/s800/S6301198.JPG

i also did the oil change and fitted the braided clutch line as can be seen here.
havent had a good chance to drive it yet but it feels a fair bit different so it'll take a while to get used to the clutch engaging alot earlier. definately feels like a tougher grab and pedal feels alot better than my past extreme clutches.
still got a few other things on the to do list but i'll get there if i dont run out of money first.

[capella re]

had a few spare minutes today so thought id get the plugs outa the way. ended up going for the bur9eqs all round which was a good thing as once the plugs were out, its easy to see which were the trailing and leading plugs. not too long and i think flooding on start up would have become an issue.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TCbLaqazTkI/AAAAAAAABJw/d9wqNpcHH7c/s800/S6301204.jpg

not the hardest job in the world but a pain in the ass none the less. it would probably prove much easier to remove from under the car but seeing as its just as big a pain in the ass trying to get a jack under the car, i just perservered from the top. the rear rotors fine but the front rotors got a whole buch of shit in the way purely there to make your knuckles bleed. this picture shows a bit of the crap in the way (the oils not a leak, i was just too cool to use a funnel on the recent oil change and paid the price)

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TCbMIwzXuaI/AAAAAAAABKE/1OVC8LYJxbw/s800/S6301205.jpg

as always dont forget the anti seize to make next time they come out a bit easier. time for a fang now. tools i used were a 21mm deep socket with a bendable joint (no extension, theres no room)

found a couple of rims id like on my car but got the bad news from corey that i'd be looking at nearly a grand a wheel for them which is well out of my price range (liked them before i found out they were advans!!) heres a pic

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TCcGY_PMpLI/AAAAAAAABMA/8V7MIM5cbSQ/madfd2.jpg

damn they'd look good though.

[Kusanagi]

The Advan RS and RZ are always my top favourite, and unfortunately by the time you add on decent rubbers, they're like at ~$6000 mark, and you have to live through the nightmares of finding out your car resting on bricks the next morning too...

If you just want the look, there are copies made by Rota, should be ok as long as you don't track your car as they're heavier and less rigid, you can find them easily, eg ebay, forums etc.

http://fakewheels.com/2009/02/advan-rs-vs-rota-g-force/

Other rim I think would suit well is what Jesse (Ownage) has on his FD, the Tenzo type M, comes in various colours, and you should be able to find a deal somewhere $1300-$1500 (for 4) I think.

http://wheelworx.com.au/tenzo.html

Otherwise, keep an eye out on Jap Import Spares, I have seen very good 2nd hand deals before, Work Meister / Professor!!!
http://www.japaneseimportspares.com.au/wheel5stud1143pcd/

Check this link for various Rx7 parts too...
http://www.japaneseimportspares.com.au/mazdarx7/

Just for laugh...
http://fakewheels.com/2009/04/teddy-bear-vs-ronal-teddys/

[capella re]

yeah thanks ket. i've been getting help from corey and jesse re behind the scenes. don't want to spend too much (cos i dont have it!) so i want to stick with 18's as my tyres are awesome and near new so i can save doh just having my current rims stripped.
i do like jesses (ownage) rims but two black fd's with the same wheels in such a small place like adelaide im pretty sure isn't a good idea (not to mention im sure jesse would be pissed!!)
i got a couple of ideas but the sooner the better in my opinion.

[yelloS2Rx7]

jap import spares have some
WORK VS-KFs 18x8.5&9.5
1 set with tyres one without
some rays SE37 bronze 178.5s and 179.5s
and some RAYS GTCs in a few colours.....
but Ket has it spot on.....
for a black FD, Id be chasin some SSR Professor SP1s black centres, mmmmmm
but then id have to go widebody again too
just to fit 18x10s @ rear, in the stupidest offset they make,
okay atleast i know Im a dish junkie!!!!!

[capella re]

not much need for an update as most of you would have seen toady at the meet but i finally got some new wheels!! 19X9 racing hart r451's. suit the car really well and didnt cost me an arm and a leg (just a leg) had to get skinny alloy wheel nuts and a tool as normal lugs don't fit but wasn't a hassle at all. surprisingly they dont scrub (much)
yes i know it needs to be lowered
no i don't have anymore money :)

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TDmnKPXtmtI/AAAAAAAABOQ/ekbhOPHHIU0/s640/S6301212.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TDmobmqzjQI/AAAAAAAABOs/b8MVXxkJ2n8/s800/S6301213.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TDmpMOJpHdI/AAAAAAAABOw/aBKPXbos5dY/s800/S6301243.jpg

my old wheels and tyres are available (i'l just be charging for the tyres, rims are free) so if you need some new 18inch tyres 235X40X18 adrenalin re001's pm me.

[jesse_RE]

Nice rims man ;) and for anyone who needs tyres, the RE001's are awesome, i'm running the same tyres on my FC

[FLEX]

new wheels look gd simon, car def got alot of looks down at victor.

Time to roll those guards and slam it

Cheers

[capella re]

well its about time i did another update but no actual pics as my home pc is still stuffed and the photos are stuck on there (as usual, no dodgy porn this time though).
ive got an autometer electronic full sweep temp gauge, still doing the wiring and thread tapping the thermostat housing. was going to use the manifold coolant line but decided not to. still not 100% sure where to mount it, was going to use centre dash speaker but looks homo as by itself, would be much better as a triple there so thinking under stereo face or another spot im still working on.
http://www.autoaccessoriesgarage.com/img/vendor/lg/60/6155.jpg

also went to see corey on saturday, put my car on the hoist and gave me a full aligment and inspection also checked out what the knock in the rear is. big thanks to corey as the time he spent adjusting and setting everything up for me wasnt reflected in the price. all settings are now within .001% of each other and it doesn't get much better than that!
good news is, settings were close to neutral so hadn't already been adjusted due to a knock and everything looked sweet under there so as corey explained, its highly unlikely the cars taken a hit which is a good thing to hear when it would be quite common to have accident damage in that sort of car.
he made recommendations on future upgrades so currently looking into that.

http://www.banzai-racing.com/products/Diff_Brace/94_db_install.jpg
not mine, illustration purposes only.

bad news found out what the knock is, my lower rear control arm bushes are worn, not too expensive and certainly not a hassle so thats the best bad news i could want. corey recommended buying a whole bush kit (like energy suspension etc) and we'll fit it over time when its available, so thats the plan

http://www.moss-europe.co.uk/Graphics/UK/Products/Large/MOSS%20Superpro.jpg
the new lower contol arm bushes

got other plans im still looking into such as the new dump and mid pipe but the cost is pretty freakin phenominal for an fd. dump pipe alone from 2 manufacturers is $950-$1000 when in comparison the same manufacturers charge $485 for a gtr dump pipe. i think i might pay the $1000 for the dump pipe and save money on the mid pipe by wrapping toilet rolls in alfoil. just need some high temp sticky tape to hold it all together.
think i might get someone to make one up for me, same guy that did the manifold and dump for my fc

http://www.smb.net.au/images/rx7exhaust.jpg
smb, pricey but very high quality.

http://justjap.com/store/images/P/hpifdfrontpipe1.jpg
hpi dump pipe, same price as smb

still alot of things on the christmas wish list but trying to get everything thats worn fixed before i make any power mods. still havent got on to the cooling system yet (yes i know still running the plastic ast, i'l get around to that too!)

[jesse_RE]

sounds good simon, the toilet rolls and alfoil idea is great! i should have thought of that before ha ha!

Regarding the bushes, i have bought through energy suspension and they are good to deal with, i purchased front and rear lower arm bushes but havent installed them yet. (brakes are 1st priority)

[yelloS2Rx7]

Corey at fisher perf does TOP work on exhausts
they are located in tilbrooks old premises
new fisher signage is now up!!!!
Fishers actually designed the original rotorflo muffler!!!!!
Did all my cooler piping, exhaust dump etc
he's as good as ET sooo much better on price!!!

[capella re]

(brakes are 1st priority)

brakes are over rated, just ask fred flintstone

Corey at fisher perf does TOP work on exhausts
they are located in tilbrooks old premises
new fisher signage is now up!!!!
Fishers actually designed the original rotorflo muffler!!!!!
Did all my cooler piping, exhaust dump etc
he's as good as ET sooo much better on price!!!

i have heard good things about fisher. i'll speak to mr mills first and see if he's keen to help out. good job on the wheels selling too, more money for the fd kitty. just need free time to beable to organise all this. got some doe now but no time.
i'll also keep an eye out for second hand dumps too as anyone going from twins to big single won't have a use for theirs anymore, so if anyone sees a good quality dump pipe going cheap, yell out for me please.
don't want to pull too much apart on it yet though with the bday cruise coming up. might just keep saving and do it all in one big hit just after christmas when work slows down.

[capella re]

i finally got my temp gauge sorted, i swear the older i get the longer it takes me to get around to things.
tapped the thermostat housing, coated sender thread in teflon sealer (side note, your not supposed to use plumbers tape on the thread as it interupts the ground signal from the sender. i had to buy a big tube, takes about 30-40 hours to cure. if anyone needs some yell out as it's one of those things you buy once and never need again)

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TLpPX5aczUI/AAAAAAAABck/Dvc07ls9GxA/s640/S6301362.JPG

ran wiring along factory path with split tubing taking care to go nowhere near the turbos

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TLpTOTlvO1I/AAAAAAAABc8/YQ62AWvm120/s512/S6301363.JPG

mounted the gauge in centre console, just making a replica of console lid at the moment to slide gauge into. everything ive done to the car is completly reversable to make it easier to re sell or get off defect, hence i didnt drill the dash. the gauge isn't in line of site but neither are big boobs and i manage to spot them everytime.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TLpUbZf9brI/AAAAAAAABdA/Y6Isa_s4qhs/s640/S6301365.JPG

split a power steering belt last weekend so replaced alternator and power steering belts with gates racing ones. if you've never done the alternator on an fd before, remove the airbox to get to the airpump adjusting slide. they missed that on the thread i used to see if there was anything special to do, belt wont come off as the airpump is too close to thermostat housing.
part numbers for reference are
power steering belt - 6pk1050
alternator belt - 5pk1345

got some re amemiya parts coming from japan so i'll update again when they get here.

[vortex]

Great job! Nice clean install by the looks. That's by far the best spot for the sensor, now you can compare the aftermarket gauge and the OEM and see exactly how BAD the OEM is! :)

[capella re]

thanks james, i thought you were going to slam me for the location. its not the best but i even had a mate with me yesterday trying to work out where to put it but without dremeling the dash or under the stereo there was just no where. i was going to use the left side of the dash similar to the boost gauge but we both agreed it was a bit to cop baitish.
if i get 1 more gauge i'll get the triple centre speaker pod and start all over again.
i saw your reply about the power fc payment - thats one hell of a bargain if its legit and not a rip!!! extremely tempted

[vortex]

Yeah the gauge location isn't ideal really, but that's no biggie :) Sensor location is far more important :)

[Kotter31]

aftermarket dump pipes always come up on fdrx7.com
you need to get on there more and pick up some good bits here and there

[capella re]

now you can compare the aftermarket gauge and the OEM and see exactly how BAD the OEM is! :)

they're not lying on what they say about the factory gauge thats for sure. i went for a scoot yesterday afternoon and the factory gauge didn't budge between 160oF and 200oF. just sat in the middle, my car sits on 180oF - 185oF when boosting but on idle when i was checking the thread tap to make sure no leaks after about 5 mins got to 200oF.
finished making the top cover plate as well. painted in satin black and fitted it last night.

aftermarket dump pipes always come up on fdrx7.com
you need to get on there more and pick up some good bits here and there

i actually get on there more than you would think, dont have to log in to see sale items so i do look a bit. i bought something off there a while ago and got ripped by some total fu%^ing tool and took alot of threats of cheap virgin blue flights to sydney to get something sorted so not keen on forum sales unless someone i know knows them or they're in the same state as me.

found cheap trust 75mm dump pipe so thats the go i reckon. not stainless but i plan to ceramic coat anyway so no big deal there. hanging out for a bit more power at the moment, aiming for 240rwkw - 250rwkw while keeping standard turbos. just finish exhaust aftermarket injection front mount and more boost

[gotorx7]

Hi Simon,

I hope you started a "rate them" thread about the tool so nobody else gets caught?

[capella re]

i sent you a pm dave regarding above, you would have got it by now anyway.

so i got a couple of parts in the post this week. i got my crystal tinted rear bar lights and side indicators from new zealand to help make my car corner faster (more aerodynamic and shit, gimmie a break ive lasted 6 months without a wank mod!!!) they are advertised as street legal but i'd suggest thats new zealand, any sort of tint (other than factory) you'll get pinged for - as i'll probably find out.
i saw a heaps nice red fd on glynburn rd, clear parkers, similar wheels to mine (they were moving, hard to tell) looked nice as but with a big canary in the front window.
i also got my re amemiya alloy ast from japan to replace the plastic one which at any moment could explode wiping out a whole city block killing women and children (or so ive read)
as jesse agrees, nothing better than opening packages containing shiny new bits for your car. cant wait til i get to the power upgrade side of things though!!

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TL7YGr8s9fI/AAAAAAAABdw/0w6gFO9F7kY/s640/S6301376.JPG

the new lights and air separater tank

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TL7X4fDgRsI/AAAAAAAABds/mQ2A4-vsDfw/s640/S6301375.JPG

the cover i made for the temp gauge (from stuff i had in my shed from other jobs)

so thats a couple more things off my hit list

[RazzaCaine]

looking good simon!

[FLEX]

nice work simon

[capella re]

thanks for the kind words guys, we'll have to go cruising soon with your new car ryan. let me know when its ready :)

today i fully boxed off my radiator airflow with some 3mm alloy, definately think this would make a huge improvement along with the alloy undertray i did a while back (certainly over what it was before anyway!) forcing all air through rather than round with those big gaps i had

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TMKzrJ-qZkI/AAAAAAAABeQ/xdLjjj5hl3w/s640/S6301378.JPG

this will probably be the last mod i do to the cooling system until i decide how far im going to take the car. if all out, i'll make sure i buy a v mount kit from the get go rather than trying to custom put together a radiator and intercooler that wasn't designed as such. no idea about that yet (comes down to $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ which currently i dont have :) )

fitted the alloy ast from re amemiya and also the tinted lights today. lights were excellent, really good fit so definately happy with that even though it reflects the price as theyre not $15 cheapies. a word of advice if you decide to follow suit, the side indicators are probably a tad dark and would almost guarantee a defect - if i did it over i would probably go clear, still looks killer but less hassles from the po po. rear lights match taillights well so shouldnt be an issue there.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TMKz2kOznqI/AAAAAAAABeY/hdUMnAmPuSI/s640/S6301379.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TMK0DhyDV3I/AAAAAAAABec/q-1WkwzcdsE/s640/S6301380.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TMK0bAN1RrI/AAAAAAAABeo/_6yJVLArJBE/s640/S6301382.JPG



all in all, pretty productive so i think that'll do for a bit till i decide the direction im taking the car.
always open to advice so if someone has any suggestions on excellent gains on certain mods (by word of mouth or personal experience) feel free to let me know

[jesse_RE]

Mmm shiny. lookin good simon.

[FLEX]

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/mm83/Lightning_Dynamics/DSC01342.jpg

tail light cover would suit your car well IMO, but ive already told you this before....

[jesse_RE]

^^ X2 love the JDMness

[capella re]

my turn for a bit of an update, work sucks, too busy. pulled my intercooler out, ordered a new one and piping kit (short elbow, hard pipes for the rest). bought from america, coming from japan - headfu&* central. i'll be lucky if i ever see it. this will be the last time i buy a product from overseas i swear to god - i'm fu&*ing over this crap to save a few dollars.
battery and tray is out - won't be going back in the engine bay - sorting a boot install out now. looks like i'll probably doing this all myself as usual. optima d51 should be weapon of choice - if anyone can get good prices, hook a brother up :) as theyre far from cheap.
once the coolers in, its time for computer, fuel and 50,000,000 pounds of boost (or not) dyno tune in here too. these are the small time consuming mods - mainly due to no free time. once theyre out the way i can get down to business. (i should really consider selling and buying one with all this done, i do enjoy pulling things apart though)

more stuff to add to my pile
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TQvqRoOj2cI/AAAAAAAABiI/zzkohrzEQm0/s640/S6301384.JPG

removed cooler / battery - should be doing radiator at the same time, but not enough free time to do it all in one hit. i'll do that in a bit.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TQvq1dQXN5I/AAAAAAAABiU/D4Xlhobl5io/s640/S6301387.JPG

due to space constraints, its always best to plan all engine mods at the same time. will end up saving you money and time. i maybe should have gone for pods with hard piping kit (i like the airinx) to free up more room. once space is freed up theres less reason to go for a fully sealed box as air flow in the bay is inceased and also room for cold air intakes is increased - oh well live and learn


as with everyone, i get sick of the headf^&ks with cars so i have the below of my screen saver.
http://jalopnik.com/assets/resources/2008/02/Mad_Science_PCH_Demotivator.jpg

aint that the truth!!!

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ru0DYqNHAeoOIM:http://pix.motivatedphotos.com/2008/8/18/633546401545604825-MazdaRX7MakingexcellentmechanicsoutofordinarymenDe motivator.jpg&t=1

[vortex]

Which Intercooler kit did you get Simon, and who from? Don't forget your tune should be looked at to make sure it's safe once you have the new intercooler in as well.

FD's seem to be popular enough that companies make plenty of bolt on bits for them, but not popular enough to keep in stock at retailers.

Don't push the twins past 12PSI either if you want them to survive for a while.

[Davebro]

Nice thread.

Can't wait to get started on mine!

[capella re]

Which Intercooler kit did you get Simon, and who from?

I looked at alot of different options from greddy LM and LS to knightsport U type. Weighing up cost vs installation vs what I need, I went with an re amemiya intercooler with greddy short elbow and hard piping kit.
The LM is pretty good but depending on thickness of radiator how much to tilt back, shaving of support bar etc I decided against - very good price though. If i had the fab skills to v mount and box it up with vented bonnet (this is where cost comes into play for me) i would do it. Knightsports and the one ard is making is just way too high in cost. Once piping is done and fitting it will cost about $2400 - I could get a v mount kit with radiator included and all piping brackets and sillicone for that (and thats what i would prefer anyway)
Ive said before im not sure how far I will take the car power wise so i'll stick with a smic while running the twins then if i want more power (big single) the amemiya should be quite easy to sell (compared to some no name run of the mill) when I need to upgrade down the track. (especially with the piping kit, people love bolt ons)
getting the intercooler did my head in, theres that many different options, pros and cons for each design its enough to send you mad. I think this will be a suitable upgrade for what im looking for at the moment (240kw at the wheels, running the twins)

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y121/purerx7/polishguide038.jpg
http://michael-david-palmer.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=5955&g2_serialNumber=2


Nice thread. Can't wait to get started on mine!

thanks, when doing it though, take stuff you read with a pinch of salt. everyone thinks they know best, but 99% of the time theyre just using someone elses opinion they read elsewhere. Also be careful where you get parts from - cheapest isnt always best if you get burnt (if its not local protect your funds no matter how cheap or quick it may sell)

[Davebro]

Yeah mate I'm hearing you.

I built up a couple of Subaru race cars pretty much from scratch in my garage back in NZ, a 92 RS Legacy (liberty here) and a 99 STI WRX. Both caged, for track racing.

I've been burnt a few times, and hopefully have learned. I'm new to the FD RX7, although did own RX2 and RX3 coupes in my younger days.

I'm reading and talking to people here locally, and prob wont be starting things until the new year.

Need to fond somewhere to keep the car too! I don't have a garage currently!

I'll keep an eye on your progress.

Cheers.

Dave.

[capella re]

finally got my intercooler and hard pipes. its fu&*ing awesome happy with the choice, size difference is larger than what i thought. flow rates are off the chart for these in comparison to stock too. for what i want power wise, much better off with this than a frontmount. (large power - front or v mount would be better)
now for the good bit - the pics

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TRHmbFIif_I/AAAAAAAABiw/v9aGoKghTqc/s640/S6301388.JPG
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TRHmnHVF0vI/AAAAAAAABi4/8q6_Np8qJc0/s640/S6301389.JPG
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TRHm3c9SUeI/AAAAAAAABi8/xE6-HobXmvY/s640/S6301390.JPG
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TRHnEqwbg9I/AAAAAAAABjE/sOK57pRBluk/s640/S6301391.JPG

standard duct doesnt come close to fitting so i'll need to make one. fitting soon as i get some free time. il just keep an eye on afr's when fitted till i get a computer. debating on getting piping polished or painted black - just want to get it on there at the moment so i probably won't do it just yet.

who's as pumped as me? (is that crickets i hear?)

[yelloS2Rx7]

Anything RE-Amemiya is sick!!!!!
It's obviously way bigger than stock!!!
I just love the feeling of throwing the old crap great distances
black piping I rekon!!!!Even the top and bottom tanks??
Stealth it like the factory one!!!

[vortex]

You're game putting it in and watching AFR's without a computer :)
Which Wideband have you got, out of interest?

[FLEX]

black! stealth simon, looking good mate.

Sing out if you need/want a hand, ive got a few days off : )

[capella re]

intercooler is all fitted up now, pipes are silver not black. silver matches the inlet manifold so it actually looks more factory that way. most of the shiny intercooler will be hidden by the factory black plastic cover so should still be stealth.
still waiting on the black sillicone joiners (also stealth) but being f^&ked around like you wouldn't believe. nearly had them today but no the stooge monster reared its head and my car still sits there doing nothing with rags jammed in all the pipes.
on a good note, due to being fu&*ed so hard with some parts im waiting for the seller has refunded my money but i get to keep the goods, can't complain about that. sometimes going ape s&*t does get results.
finished cleaning out all the throttle body too, fitted the greddy elbow so install nearly done.
unfortunately definately out of the cruise tomorrow (i was going to offer you the seat josh) but no hope now. still havent finished the battery install, things just havent quietened down as much as i thought after christmas and still don't have much free time.

i'll post some pics of fitted cooler / elbow when i get a bit of daylight. who would of thought something so simple would take so long. i'm going to go hangout with ben cousins.

[GASDRE]

mate ben cousins is a champ.spewn it wasnt finished..would of grabbed that seat with out batting an eyelid..luxury yes please.aircon leather.stereo.. and the saying such is life is truer than you think.good on ol ned kelly. mate whether its a silicone hose or a bloody tune rotaries are the last ones on peoples lists.. i might go down and see the cruise but i will definitely be on any other cruise after i get some cars on the road..

[capella re]

finally got some parts i've been waiting for earlier in the week to finish intercooler install. just finished it half an hour ago. ended up having to use and modify the factory duct as fabbing a new one proved quite difficult (and would be moulded on the factory one anyway) had to shave a bit here, cut a bit there to get all the factory bits back in, but in the end it all fitted.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTDiB_0I2kI/AAAAAAAABkA/1vWjGYCawgs/s640/S6301395.JPG

couldn't slide a piece of paper between things now, but it all fits.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTDikmX546I/AAAAAAAABkQ/6r-Omd6MZL4/s640/S6301392.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTDk2i8dwcI/AAAAAAAABkg/E6RHDRMwQuQ/s640/S6301396.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTDlZy0rwBI/AAAAAAAABkw/icgsfN1QqcY/s512/S6301398.JPG

can you say factory??? definately doesn't look out of place once all back together. if i had black filter panels on the airbox, i don't think it would get a second look.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTDmEjFZu4I/AAAAAAAABlA/g_o9XS7H0E8/s512/S6301399.JPG

ive got it booked in to go on the dyno 25th of january, check the afr's and diagnose any leaning out problems (if any). as i since found out (yes you were right dave) fd factory computers have absolutely zero adjusting properties. if it shows its leaning out, then where it starts leaning it will beable to be diagnosed as to why (fuel pump, injectors etc) im hoping for 190 to 200rwkw, but guess i'll see. might make stuff all if it can't go flat out due to fuel supply problems.
if the leanings bad, i'll have to upgrade to aftermarket ecu, which considering the minor mods i have done, would certainly be a pain in the ass.

so thats the good news. bad news (as there always is) now its all back together i cant get it started???? it cranks fine, but no splutter or anything, just won't run?? would i be expecting any problems from fitting the cooler (ecu wise?? i doubt it, fitted a fair few before without an issue) or could it be from when i cleaned out the throttle body, maybe some gunk went down?? i'll start with pulling the plugs out i guess. hasn't been started in nearly 2 months so maybe ive flooded it??
certainly jacked off finally back together and still cant use it. any ideas???

[vortex]

Why would an aftermarket ECU be a pain in the ass? The Apexi PowerFC is 100% plug and play and supports all the modifications you have done, easily. Plugs into the standard loom, and allows you to go back to stock if you get defected.

The stock injectors should be OK as well, just don't push the boost much past the stock 10psi, perhaps 12psi max if you want them to last.. I think it's unlikely you'll make 200rwkw on the stock computer. Did you have a turbo-back exhaust as well?

Re the starting problem, pull the plugs and see how they are, might need to pull the EGI fuse to stop it putting more fuel into the motor and spin it over to clear the juice out. Ideally you'd put in new plugs if you have them handy but the old ones cleaned up would be OK if you have nothing else.

IC wouldn't cause any issues as far as the stock ECU goes (other than the improved volumetric efficiency it's not capable of dealing with) but that won't stop it starting :)

There is some fuses and relays down the front as you would know as well, perhaps check all those for broken wires or connectors, that's all it could be in that area. I know when I did my radiator I had to move the fusebox, and that scared me because FD looms can be brittle..

[capella re]

Why would an aftermarket ECU be a pain in the ass?..

it would be a pain in the ass because for such basic mods as exhaust, intake and intercooler to have to fork out $1300-1500 for a power fc then a further $500 to get it tuned, when i have no intention of going much further (as i stated before, trying to stay legal so any major mods are out of the question) would be absolute overkill financially. i dont know how rich you are but adding up the cost of the mods i have done already, plus ecu and tune would be rediculous for the small gain i would have at the end, hence why its a pain in the ass if i cant keep factory ecu. its got nothing to do with how hard to fit the computer, im not an idiot, i know what a power fc is.

I think it's unlikely you'll make 200rwkw on the stock computer.

well if jesse can make 170rwkw with his and i can't make 20-30kw more with a brand new engine and turbo's, big exhaust with straight through mufflers, aftermarket airbox with cold air intake and high flow filters, and large aftermarket smic (with modified duct), new fuel pump (constant mainline 12v rigged) then that was the biggest waste of money ive ever spent, hence why im not looking at $2000 more for aftermarket ecu (and yes i know that will add gains too)

Re the starting problem

running now, and wouldn't you agree with all of the above james?? i do think before i write

[vortex]

it would be a pain in the ass because for such basic mods as exhaust, intake and intercooler to have to fork out $1300-1500 for a power fc then a further $500 to get it tuned, when i have no intention of going much further (as i stated before, trying to stay legal so any major mods are out of the question) would be absolute overkill financially. i dont know how rich you are but adding up the cost of the mods i have done already, plus ecu and tune would be rediculous for the small gain i would have at the end, hence why its a pain in the ass if i cant keep factory ecu. its got nothing to do with how hard to fit the computer, im not an idiot, i know what a power fc is.

Sorry, I didn't intend to come across like you didn't. But honestly, I am suggesting you do a PowerFC to keep the tune safe. I have seen stock ECU's detonate and take out the motor, and then you're up for $6k at least if you get a workshop to rebuild the motor.

Basically it's my strongest possible reccomendation. You may not like the money involved, but the FD is expensive to modify correctly, as you know..

For you power levels, a PowerFC is a one-time deal. You install it (the base tune is OK for some bolt on mods) and then tune it, of course. Jas at REVS can plug in his laptop and put on a better map that is more suited to certain bolt ons - that's all I'm running and cost I think $300 to have done when I did the exhaust, and I'll get the Map tweaked when I do the intercooler down the track.

As for legality, I think you'll find the changes to the Intercooler, Intake and Exhaust are all illegal now. Give Vehicle Standards a call, and see what they say if you're concerned.

well if jesse can make 170rwkw with his and i can't make 20-30kw more with a brand new engine and turbo's, big exhaust with straight through mufflers, aftermarket airbox with cold air intake and high flow filters, and large aftermarket smic (with modified duct), new fuel pump (constant mainline 12v rigged) then that was the biggest waste of money ive ever spent, hence why im not looking at $2000 more for aftermarket ecu (and yes i know that will add gains too)

You may get 200kw. But, what I said, was I'm not sure if the stock ECU will be able to do it - but to clarify I mean doing it safely.. maintaining the right AFRs.

running now
So, just flooded then?

and wouldn't you agree with all of the above james?? i do think before i write

Huh? I agree, to a point. But, my opinion is that all the bolt ons in the world are useless when the computer at the center of it is a timebomb waiting to kill your motor. I know I'd rather spend (and did spend) $1200 on a PowerFC to at least allow the tune to be modified to suit the car than risk a $6k engine rebuild.

I just love the FD, and like to see people modifying their cars correctly, which yours absolutely has been. :)

[gotorx7]

Gee Simon, I still think you're running on the dangerous edge here...

It's long been a rule of thumb that 2 mods are safe (IE any 2 of CAI, Exhaust, IC), but 3 is the point where you are forced to get an ECU, as you will be running lean and seeing boost creep. I certainly observed this when I started modding my car.

I have heard that a restrictor plate in the exhaust can help, but I''ve never actually seen or tried it.

If Shawn says you should get an ECU, please take him seriously, and good luck with the tune.

[capella re]

I did think before I wrote


if you read my post james, it says "i do think before i write" NOT "you should think before you write" which was written due to your response suggesting i'm not aware of the issues you raised. theres no attitude, i think your reading too much into things. im asking if you agree, to see if the points i raised (such as my mods vs jesse's) you had taken into account. i think your suffering from forum paranoia.

the whole reason im putting it on the dyno is to check its safe, if i was stupid id just start flogging it now.

my engine and turbo rebuild was 12,000 so a bit more on top of your 6,000.

i understand im on the edge, but i dont want to spend another 2,000 if im only on the edge. id rather it lean at 120rwkw at 4500rpm than lean out at 190rwkw at 6500rpm as there would be such a small margin between needing to spend the money or not.

i spoke with shaun friday morning and sorted out all that could be done and worst case scenario what would be needed. i'll find out in two weeks anyway whats going to happen next.

and its running now because i checked plugs, no wetness, checked voltage on fuel pump, which had none. in pulling everything out, i had bumped the fuse block made for the hardwire fuel pump and the clip had popped out the block.

i might add, while i was waiting for shaun to call me, i rang another tuner who suggested they could make changes to the computer but when i challenged them to info already found out, the story changed. seems like if your knowledge is limited theres people still willing to take advantage of that. (comment made of "well no actual adjustment can be made but i can check things" original comment was "adjustments can be made while on the dyno for the mods you have done") interesting??

[capella re]

more bad luck, car wouldn't start again and has now been diagnosed with a stuffed fuel pump. not real happy when i have receipts for a new one only 12 months ago (previous owner) but a bit suspect on that. i am actually stoked as that the fuel pump failed because on removing the fuel pump i have now fixed my fuel gauge which hasn't been working since i bought it. the cause? probably the float sitting in the bottom of the tank.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTKVPehGrtI/AAAAAAAABlc/3I7Y9VCwuXE/s640/S6301401.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTKVjUgfsFI/AAAAAAAABls/pWZ0skvcKSg/s640/S6301402.JPG
the green plug is from depressurising the fuel system, works a treat. once done i think i lost about 10ml of fuel. no mess.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTKWFxQ8phI/AAAAAAAABl8/NSH1SdVmdhk/s640/S6301403.JPG
reattatching the float and checking it out. apparantly fuel pumps have wound up coils of copper or something and they can crack (not surprising as when i go over bumps, sometimes i think my spines going to snap) then the current jumps the crack and heats up (just like a short) then causes pump to run intermittently then die. no idea what caused the pump to fail though.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TTKYXyZHGMI/AAAAAAAABmM/LtMKK3mkA2U/s640/S6301404.JPG
this is the best part of the job. you've finished pulling it out, now you can light yourself a fat cigar while leaning over the boot (i can't be sued if someone actually does it can i????)
you'll also notice theres a factory in tank baffle that sits around the fuel pump.
so bit of a problem now. no fuel pump and dyno next wednesday. i think i'll go with a walbro 255 in tank, i had one feeding my 044bosch on my fc. anyone had experience fitting these?? straight bolt in just bend the cage a bit or bit more than that???
another option is bosch 040 but better for using a reg and big injectors.
anyone know where you can get these on the shelf in adelaide?? tried sprints and autobarn, no luck though. with the dramas ive had lately if i buy off the net it will be massive dramas if theres problems with shipping (wont beable to get to dyno) maybe motor traders??

[FDTRX7]

Hey Simon,

Good job on all the stuff you've done!

I'd give Motor Traders a call (20 Beulah Rd, Norwood SA 5067 - (08) 8362 1188) or you could try an old contact of mine. Did great work pretty cheap!
Murray Rodgers Auto Electrical (12-14 Tapley St, ADELAIDE, SA, 5000 - (08) 8212 4265)

Been trying to catch up with you too man, Got the RX back running again. Will be another 2 weeks til I can drive it (Needs Rego) but all the work has been done.

[13bwankel]

Simon I will look into the walbro for you tomorrow, cheap cheap.

Pm me your number.

[jesse_RE]

New cooler setup looks nice. good work.

[capella re]

Hey Simon,
Been trying to catch up with you too man.

yeah sorry damo, been flat out and these little probs with the car i'm having arent making it easier thats for sure. dying for a weekend with my feet up.

Simon I will look into the walbro for you tomorrow, cheap cheap. Pm me your number.

sorry mate, only seen this now. got onto ebay to check prices etc but due to not being able to risk something going wrong with shipping it was more to look than anything. some were really cheap, but from malaysia, get my drift?? (fake anyone!) ended up ordering one on the way to work, not cheap and tried to slug me shipping too so went mental and now don't have to pay shipping (the quote i got yesterday from them didn't include shipping but still $15 more than the most exspensive one i found on the net.)

New cooler setup looks nice. good work.

yeah, it was quite easy in the end, had to pull battery and airbox back out (3 times in the last week!!) but other than the pump now dying it was alot easier than a full blown front mount. idled a bit high (1800rpm) to start with, but im guessing computer was just getting used to the extra air or flow or something, but now its fine.

should have fuel pump wednesday or thursday, fit it this weekend, give it all a once over (again!!) then ready for dyno next tuesday.

[FDTRX7]

yeah sorry damo, been flat out and these little probs with the car i'm having arent making it easier thats for sure. dying for a weekend with my feet up.

That's cool man, Definately know the feeling!

idled a bit high (1800rpm) to start with, but im guessing computer was just getting used to the extra air or flow or something, but now its fine.

Was this on a cold start and lasted around 5 - 10 seconds?
If so, that's normal. Mine does that as well.

[gotorx7]

start it with the clutch in (might need to be in gear too - can't remember now!) to avoid that cold start nonsense..

[capella re]

(might need to be in gear too - can't remember now!)

can't remember, HA!!! the joys of having haltech. as far as im aware the cold start is a series 6/7 thing, don't think it comes on the series 8. mine certainly doesn't do it, mind you i always start cars with the clutch in, just habit. then it idles at no more than 1300rpm. the 1800rpm i was talking about was when i pull up at the lights and take it out of gear, stopped after about 15-20minutes, could of been another symptom of the fuel pump dying or something though.
fuel pumps coming from melbourne and the road to melbourne is currently experiencing flooding issues so i hope i don't find out before its too late whether my parts been affected in transit time. obviously if given the opportunity to fly the part to avoid it being late, i would much prefer that. i'll ring wednesday to make sure.
keen to get it on the dyno though, a week to go!!!

[Luke]

start it with the clutch in (might need to be in gear too - can't remember now!) to avoid that cold start nonsense..

Yup. Mine doesn't do it, but I have to start it with the clutch on the floor.
If I touch the accelerator after it starts, it then idles about 1800rpm, then backs down to normal after a few minutes.

[jesse_RE]

Who did you end up ordering the pump through?

[FLEX]

looking good simon, bummer about the little dramas.

[13bwankel]

Simon I'm curious where/how much you paid for the pump, can you pm please.

[capella re]

looking good simon, bummer about the little dramas.

thanks ryan, and your starting to get a little too quiet for my likings. we'll catch up after i get the tune done or something.

Simon I'm curious where/how much you paid for the pump, can you pm please.

pm sent

[FLEX]

thanks ryan, and your starting to get a little too quiet for my likings. we'll catch up after i get the tune done or something.

Hey simon

Clear your inbox MUPPET!!!

working LONG HARD hrs atm, not much time for internet.

This weekend im flat out but usually im pretty free on the weekends so keen to catch up. Give me a buz mate

Cheers

[capella re]

This weekend im flat out but usually im pretty free on the weekends so keen to catch up. Give me a buz mate.

will do soon.

finished fuel pump install. sorry no pics, it was like 3am when i finished and had already installed it once but had probs so it all had to come back out. patience was thin so wasn't in the photographic mood. but if anyone wants clearer details on how i did it sing out.
so on the internet it is said the walbro is a drop in replacement for the fd. cough *bullshit* cough. my idea of a drop in, is drop it in - this was not the case. the walbro will fit, but so will any pump of similar size.
the problems i had were-
wiring on old pump had eyelets, new pump spade connectors. no biggie, just cut and join.
walbro slightly smaller than factory pump so base of holder i bent up slightly to hold in place like factory item (otherwise it will eventually rattle out the cage)
now for the problem, couldn't get a good enough seal from the walbro to the pick up pipe (the pipe the pump feeds fuel from the tank up) this needs to seal 100% or pump can/will suck air, also can't get/hold full fuel pressure and not sucking properly will strain pump causing it to fail prematurely. the oem seal is old getting worn so thats a no go, other problem is this pipe has a flared eyelet on the end making it hard to get a good seal anyway. it has a rubber o ring which the base of the holder presses down on the pump, thus pressing it against the eyelet creating the seal.
as i said before, pumps slightly different size, so this seal doesn't work.

the solution, cut the pipe (cutting the eyelet off, cut about 3cm off) then get some fuel hose (about 7-10cm of good efi hose) and 2 hose clamps. attach the fuel hose between pump and the pipe (thus eliminating the factory eyelet type seal) and bobs your uncle. perfect seal.

it looks like this
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/1026/241/27562620008_large.jpg

and just for reference, a few people say the walbro is noisy. i don't think it is after running my car, maybe without an aftermarket exhaust or on start up (when there is no noise from engine or exhaust) but i can't hear it.
i had a walbro as a pick up and an 044 on my fc, now thats noisy, so have fun with 2 of them jesse!!

so now just wait for tuesdays dyno run and as long as its all safe, then i'll beable to drive it as nature intended for the first time in 2 months.

[rxfc3s]

Hey Simon,
Walbros are a piece of piss to fit, just like you said, bend the support bracket a little to get it to fit.
I got one for my fc 2 years ago, bought it from petroject over at stepney.
Car looks great, good idea getting it dynoed though to make it isn't leaning out with the extra mods.

Andrew

[jesse_RE]

and just for reference, a few people say the walbro is noisy. i don't think it is after running my car, maybe without an aftermarket exhaust or on start up (when there is no noise from engine or exhaust) but i can't hear it.
i had a walbro as a pick up and an 044 on my fc, now thats noisy, so have fun with 2 of them jesse!! I can definately hear my walbro in the car.. its not super loud but you know its there, though i have no back seat in there either.. the noise doesnt bother me too much, the exhaust sound is definately louder. Good to see you got yours all sorted for the dyno man.

[capella re]

Good to see you got yours all sorted for the dyno man.

thanks jesse, but im going to take a wild stab in the dark and say you didn't touch wood after writing that??
well as usual more dramas, but thats later. first i need to take you back - i was but a small lad, yeah nah we won't go there.

early wake up for 8.30 dyno appointment, never been to boostworx before so keen for a looksy. got the nod of approval when i first walk in theres this there

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TT458Re2cwI/AAAAAAAABmg/1hxcOfDp-o0/s640/S6301411.JPG

not sure if its pats, but yellow gen1 with 20b, nice.

and this 808 coupe with stomper cooler.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TT46R68UDcI/AAAAAAAABmw/2C0JX1KRyV8/s640/S6301413.JPG

okay so im getting to the point.
all set up to go on rollers, few runs not high revs but sounds okay. stops. i look at the screen 120.7kw. oh my god thats awesome couldn't beleive, man was it great (prime example of not hearing sarcasim in text)
bad news, i have a problem. my second turbo isn't kicking in (all fd owners can stop laughing now, im well aware this isn't new) my actuater is opening on deccelleration not acceleration suggesting solenoid is wrong way??? told shaun havent driven car enough or other fds to know how long its been going on (admitted i had noticed sometimes secondary seemed not to work)
problem is, i had seen this diagnosed in my receipts folder previously and it took 3 weeks and $1200 to fix. to say i was laughing, is well, bullshit. hoses off manifold off (that was shaun, i was trying to find a lighter to burn it) looking over the rats nest (google it if you havent seen it) lucky for me, it was obvious. 3 vacuum lines had blown off. tested, refitted, and zip tied all those suckers to stop it happening again, time for another run.
problem fixed, alot of idling, alot of runs, my intake temps were up to 65 degrees, ambient temp outside by this time was 32 degrees (last run done at 12.00 first at 9.15) so a degree or two of timing had to be shaved to keep the detonation gremlins happy.

at last - my final run. afrs held up (just, definately on the threshold, hence reduction in timing, aftermarket ecu is needed)

i made 193.4kw at the wheels. considering how hot today is etc im stoked with that. i saw the lowest point earlier on with thinking im limping it home, to half way between my top goals. happy as.

setting up for dyno.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TT48AU8pRCI/AAAAAAAABnA/WEE8lYachNs/s512/S6301419.JPG

and the all important trophy
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TT4_MPpH5HI/AAAAAAAABnQ/26m0L6HjhFg/s640/S6301423.JPG

the big spike halfway up the graph is the secondary turbo kicking in if your wondering what the hell happened there.

il give shaun a plug. real happy with his work, good price and another expert tuner without a god complex - more needed like him. so i'll definately be using them again.
http://www.boostworx.com.au/
8/12 William St
Cavan SA 5094
(08) 8260 5566

i said hello for you dave.

so there you have it, after discussing what my alibi is for when my car got stolen and torched, it all worked out. damn it runs good!!!

[vortex]

i made 193.4kw at the wheels. considering how hot today is etc im stoked with that. i saw the lowest point earlier on with thinking im limping it home, to half way between my top goals. happy as.


Good result! Glad to see it all went OK and the boost issue was easily sorted out :)

[capella re]

the post i wrote is the half of it. no one wants to hear me whinge so beleive it or not thats the short version. it got that bad, i said to a mate, "i could of bought a fu&*ing brand new ve commodore and still had change and not have to deal with this shit"

but when you see it how its supposed to be on that dyno and hear the noise, it makes it all worthwhile. yes that was me you saw leigh, on the way there. i also saw troy in his silver fd on the way home.

[binnzy]

I bet it's a different car now mate! Good work!! ;o)

[basketcaseFC]

Sorry to hear of your troubles mate, good figures in the end! Aftermarket ECU is next I am guessing :p

Yeah you could have bought a VE... but f#$k that! :D

[capella re]

I bet it's a different car now mate! Good work!! ;o)

yeah it is, for once its running spot on. how long it stays that way well........ but for now, looking forward to some fun times.

Sorry to hear of your troubles mate, good figures in the end! Aftermarket ECU is next I am guessing :p

Yeah you could have bought a VE... but f#$k that! :D

i think i may just leave it alone for a while. im making some good reliable power and have retained the drivability so don't want to mess with it too much. maybe in the future i'll look at single turbo, but for now - time to enjoy.

i got videos of all the dyno runs, just have to work out how to put them up.

[FLEX]

wouldnt be a rota without dramas, good final result though so have to be happy with that.

Catch up soon mate, you going to the Ben Simpson cruise?

[capella re]

i'm planning to ryan, but see what happens.

heres the video of a couple of dyno runs.
1st run secondary turbo not working
2nd run made 185.3 kw at the wheels
3rd run 193.4kw at the wheels

YouTube - FD3S DYNO RUN

dyno runs get pretty boring to watch so other 300000000 videos not worth putting up.

[FLEX]

not bad for a hairdressers car.....

Buz me if your going to the cruise dude, ill prob just rock the daily.

[gcoupeRE]

Good power for exhaust and intercooler mods!

[gotorx7]

il give shaun a plug. real happy with his work, good price and another expert tuner without a god complex - more needed like him. so i'll definately be using them again.
http://www.boostworx.com.au/
8/12 William St
Cavan SA 5094
(08) 8260 5566

i said hello for you dave.

so there you have it, after discussing what my alibi is for when my car got stolen and torched, it all worked out. damn it runs good!!!


Really good news Simon, great to hear it's running properly at last..

You'll be happy with near enough 200 for a while - it's actually a good power level for the street IMO.. I keep mine dialled down to a bit under that 99% of the time (not that I've driven it much for ages, but any day now! lol )

I told you Sean knew his stuff, hey? :)

[jesse_RE]

Nice one! Looks like i'll have to take mine into boostworx for a tune with my new turbo set up when its done :rapide: Mate of mine also takes his 2 cars there both subaru legacy gtb's though.

[capella re]

Buz me if your going to the cruise dude, ill prob just rock the daily.

will do

Good power for exhaust and intercooler mods!

yeah i was pretty stoked with that


You'll be happy with near enough 200 for a while - it's actually a good power level for the street IMO.. I keep mine dialled down to a bit under that 99% of the time (not that I've driven it much for ages, but any day now! lol )
I told you Sean knew his stuff, hey? :)

yeah, if im smart i'll stop now before i ruin a perfectly good car. may come down to selling it and buying one already with single turbo etc if the need arises for much more power. still wouldn't mind getting the bigger alloy radiator. and yes you were right about shaun :)

Nice one! Looks like i'll have to take mine into boostworx for a tune with my new turbo set up when its done.

i hate going to new places with my car but boostworx was really good. i was more surprised he fixed my car rather than say "you came here for a tune, i got heaps of jobs on, you'll have to come back another day"
i was surprised he was so cluey with rotors, i always thought he was a skyline nut. yeah he had plenty of skylines there but just as many rotors too.

[capella re]

It's been a long time since i've given an update so about time I got my ass into gear and did one. I now have a power fc computer with hand controller. went with power fc due to price and covers everything I need from an aftermarket computer. Due to not planning on going stupid and at this stage keeping the twins, it handles my current needs perfect.

http://www.streettuned.com.au/images/uploads/rmagic_holder_4.jpg

I also now got my hands on a new exhaust. Full system this time so i'll put my catback kakimoto pipe for sale soon. I've got a 3 1/2 system with 200 cell mettalic cat, 3 1/2 in dump pipe and 4 inch wank tip. It is a bit louder than my old system, getting close to cop bait territory but long as I don't open it up next to them should be okay.

http://www.smb.net.au/images/rx7dumppipe.jpg

http://www.smb.net.au/images/rx7metallicconverter1.jpg

http://www.smb.net.au/images/rx7titiprearmuffler.jpg

After the exhaust was fitted, it's back on the dyno at boostworx to get the tune checked and a bit of fine tuning to suit the new setup, I was pretty suprised with the result and as you would expect, very happy.

THIS IS THE OLD DYNO SHEET AS DATED
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_6galpzg6SxU/TT4_MPpH5HI/AAAAAAAABnQ/26m0L6HjhFg/s640/S6301423.JPG

NEW DYNO RESULTS, 3 1/2 INCH EXHAUST AND RETUNE
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YV4G4kzqW4E/TiVxJWlqFpI/AAAAAAAABoQ/8OW0i7NYPQg/s640/S6301443.JPG

Sean at boostworx did this tune as well and once again did a killer job. explained everything he did and why which was good. you can see how much smoother the transition when the second turbo kicks in is with the free flowing dump (the dip at the 120kph mark) also the power curve is much higher throughout the revs. The difference is huge, driving at 40kph in second, tromp it and it just lights up the rears, then lights up third too. Most noticable at top end but torque is also way up. Definately money well spent. Definately looking forward to getting in the hills this weekend.

[vortex]

Awesome Simon, good to see you're still around the place.. Transition on that graph looks perfect, those numbers are perfect grunt for the street :) Did he up the boost a touch or still on stock 10psi? Looks like an SMB exhaust? Great exhausts those, yours is similar to mine, I just have a different rear muffler (SP style) - money very well spent.

[capella re]

Yeah i'm still around, just lurking in the shadows. From the little I've driven it so far it does feel really good, best thing is the faster spool up so no lag / hesitation (or no where near as much as before)
sean didn't touch the boost but because I don't have a boost controller and the much larger dump pipe I've got creep which at full noise increases to 12psi so nothing to worry about and fuel has obviously been increased at top end to compensate, proof is in my burnt rear bumper.
It is an smb exhaust, little bit louder than I was expecting from a mass produced aftermarket exhaust but most people go for the 3 inch which as you would know is a fair bit quieter. I'll probably end up getting a droopy on mine too, 4 inch titanium looks a bit naff and flames are best directed at the ground.
Probably get stuck into a bit of suspension work now, when that happens though, i'm not sure. Comes down to time and dollar bills.

[vortex]

Sounds very similar to my setup. I see 12psi creep but like yours is tuned to suit so there's no worries. I have the 3.5" SMB as well, but the rear muffler is pretty big especially compared to the cannon so that certainly helps keeping the noise down.

[Fat 4 RE]

Simon very good results buddy got to be happy with that

[capella re]

Yeah i'm really happy with that. I said I would be happy with 205 rwkw and the gain from faster spool up, but a 21 rwkw increase is excellent. When you were behind me with binnzy on the bday cruise I was pumping out a huge 125 rwkw due to the second turbo not operating (unknown to me at the time, still hadn't driven it much by then) so now it's nuts. Not sure how long i'll be happy with that before I want more again, but for now i'm stoked. The only thing eating away at me is I remember how fun my fc was with 260 rwkw.

[gcoupeRE]

200+kw is super impressive from the twins. This makes me want an FD more than ever, well done.