Tech Meet - January 31st

[LagunaRoadster]

Purpose: Tech Meet

Where: AutoFAB Motorsports
5055 Old Ellis Point
Roswell Ga 30076

When: Saturday, January 31st, 2008. 10:00am

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Is this the same as the one on the 25th?

[RotorNutFD3S]

You mean 24th? But yes, this is the same one. We changed the date. Yet again. :lol:

[Otto]

for anyone getting directions there from the mansell/400 side the map places will send you down old roswell, which you cant do anymore, since the bridge at the bottom of the hill is gone:p

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Lol I drive a Miata, I don't need no bridge!

[ericsbestshot]

so any chance i could get help putting in a new timing belt kit?
and this might be a dumb question but i've never been to a tech meet. does it cost anything? (does the shop just let us use the garage for free?)

[Doppelgänger]

Yes, it's free. As for the timing belt, I think we should be able to knock that out no problem.

[MeFryRice]

Since it was moved back a weekend, you can count on LB and I being there.

[Doppelgänger]

Oh, the directions are-
From anywhere south of Roswell, take GA400 north (there is a toll if you get on the beginning of 400, or just take 285 to GA400).

On 400, go to exit 9 aka Haynes Bridge Road. Go left.

Once you take the LEFT on Haynes Bridge, you'll go down 3 lights to Morrison Pkwy and take a LEFT.

Go down about 1 mile and you get to Hembree Rd on your RIGHT.

Once on Hembree, go down about 1/2 mile to Old Roswell on your LEFT. It sneaks up on you as you crest a hill.

Go down Old Roswell until you get to a traffic light, which is Old Ellis Rd. and make a RIGHT.

On, Old Ellis, go past the UPS warehouse (it's obvious) and Old Ellis Pointe will be on your RIGHT. Make the RIGHT and the 5055 bldg wil lbe on your right (3rd building down).

[Grantri]

Cool... I'm thinking thats a better date for me too .

[matredd]

i'm there to help where i can

[matredd]

Does somebody have an ODBII scanner they could bring?

[Doppelgänger]

there is one at the shop.

[redrumracer]

for anyone getting directions there from the mansell/400 side the map places will send you down old roswell, which you cant do anymore, since the bridge at the bottom of the hill is gone:p

why is the bridge at the BOTTOM of the hill? that seems a lil backwards.

[RotorNutFD3S]

A lot of things in GA are a lil backwards...

[matredd]

there is one at the shop.

Even better.

[Otto]

why is the bridge at the BOTTOM of the hill? that seems a lil backwards.
cause the creek is at the bottom of the hill

[jester911]

That bridge being out is the bane of my existence since it is the shortest route between home and work. At any rate I will try to make the "new" date. You guys are a moving target.:lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

You must be a dedicated follower to make one of our meets. :D

[jester911]

Dedicated isn't the adjective I was thinking of but we will run with that.:banana:

[LagunaRoadster]

more like "on your toes" to keep up with the constant changes... lol.

I invited Gumby to our meet via CR.net PMs. If anyone knows how to get a hold of Gumby, let him know he should come. He also has a friend with a fender roller who should come too.

[Atlanta93LE]

Any chance for frame rail install?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Those are pretty easy to do with the use of a lift. I knocked mine out in about an hour and a half. Be sure to bring some spray rubber coating. :)

[belvnmx5]

Springs and sways...I will make it this time! The new wheels cry out for a little lower springs...

[ls1_miata]

I hope to be there to chat and help out.

[wonton]

Any chance for frame rail install?

im doing the same thing this meet we can team up and do them! :biggrin:

[Atlanta93LE]

im doing the same thing this meet we can team up and do them! :biggrin:

Sure; we can do yours first to work out the kinks :biggrin:

[LagunaRoadster]

I hope to be there to chat and help out.

and for me to oogle at your car!

[wonton]

Sure; we can do yours first to work out the kinks :biggrin:

what frame rail kit do you have?

[Atlanta93LE]

what frame rail kit do you have?

I got it from a GB on miataturbo.net. It's basically like the FM rails, but with 6 holes per side rather than 4, and is solid rather than having triangle holes.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Those are the same rails wonton has.

[Boyd]

Hey guys, I haven't been to one of these but I really want to put in my 02 sensor. Do you think we would be able to put it in? I don't have any way to get a bung in the exhaust. Look forward to it.

[N3v]

remove your stock one.

[Boyd]

Don't you need the Narrowband stock 02. I don't have aftermarket Engine Management.

[RotorNutFD3S]

You need a welder.

[Doppelgänger]

there is a welder at the shop, just be sure to go to Meineke or any other exhaust shop and buy a bung (unless you already have the bung)

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Bung being the little ring washer thing the 02 sensor screws you into that you're going to weld to the exhaust :)

Not meaning to be patronizing but I didn't actually know what it was before I got mine done.

[N3v]

you don't need the stock o2 sensor with stock engine management, I think it'll just throw a CEL. big deal.

[MeFryRice]

Word of the day is "Bung". :D

[metalman]

Word of the day is "Bung". :D

Does LB know this? :lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Well, she knows about his other girlfriend now, so maybe he finally told her everything?

[MeFryRice]

Does LB know this? :lol:

eh....she will when she gets off work! :D

[metalman]

:lol:

So, I called the wife with this "news". Transcript as follows:

Wife - "Hello?"
Me - "Hi honey, I just got the word, the word of the day is bung"
*silence*
Wife - "whaaat????"
Me - "You heard me"
*more silence*
Wife - "Youre a perverted old man"
Me - "Perhaps so...but thats still the word of the day. I cant help it."
Wife- "Oh shut up"
*click*


Hahahahahaha.....

end threadjack....(no pun intended) :D

[matredd]

she called you an old man. haha!

[RotorNutFD3S]

ROFL!!!

[Flash13783]

i know this is a big job, but i didnt know with help of others it might not be that bad...
i need to re-seal my oil pan, i'm leaking and i cant stand it. I dont know if i have to pull the motor or not, but i'm sure some of ya'll know some tricks of the trade lol

[FE3tMX5]

No. Dropping the subframe is easier, but it's still a *****. Are you absolutely sure it's the oil pan and not a leak from somewhere else? Other leaks have habit of collecting around that seam and disguising themselves as a pan leak.

[Flash13783]

well...i'm pretty sure lol i just did the motor rebuild and everything went together tightly except for the oil pan...we broke a bolt tightening it so we tapped it out and re-cleaned the pan and block EXCEPT for the bottom of that shroud thing the pickup tube goes through...we can definately look before we do it though lol

[Bewst Pewp]

the windage tray?

[Flash13783]

the windage tray?

Yea that's it lol

[Sawyer]

eh....she will when she gets off work! :D

Haha, I know now!

[MeFryRice]

:lol:

So, I called the wife with this "news". Transcript as follows:

Wife - "Hello?"
Me - "Hi honey, I just got the word, the word of the day is bung"
*silence*
Wife - "whaaat????"
Me - "You heard me"
*more silence*
Wife - "Youre a perverted old man"
Me - "Perhaps so...but thats still the word of the day. I cant help it."
Wife- "Oh shut up"
*click*


Hahahahahaha.....

end threadjack....(no pun intended) :D

That's awesome! I knew that was an awesome word of the day!!

[jester911]

I thought the word of the day was legs.

[Sawyer]

Kurt, that's the best conversation ever!

[FE3tMX5]

Flash, if I were you I'd clean up around the seam and see you can tell where it's leaking. Then clean it up again and lay in some rtv. That might help or hold it over for a while until you get around to fixing it (if you need to). I've got the same problem and have just been living with the drops.

[jcmkam1990]

Hey y'all. I just moved down from North Carolina. I will be there. I have a question for anyone from the Fayetteville area. Are there any bars down here?

[Doppelgänger]

Good to see you made it over Jim :)




pssst...don't forget to introduce yourself to everyone ;)

[Sawyer]

Hey y'all. I just moved down from North Carolina. I will be there. I have a question for anyone from the Fayetteville area. Are there any bars down here?

There's the Red Room and Tavern on 74 in Peachtree City. Those are the only ones I can think of off the top of my head!
/threadjack.

[wonton]

Hey y'all. I just moved down from North Carolina. I will be there. I have a question for anyone from the Fayetteville area. Are there any bars down here?

and there is jekel and hides and bajah our here in newnan.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Stay away from Baja's at all costs. :lol:

/threadjack

[N3v]

I might be able to make it to this. Can we change my clutch? :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

We may need to start this earlier than 11am... Looks like there are going to be some decent jobs coming...

[N3v]

haa, i'm kidding, i wouldn't want to impose. IF i can show up and IF i have all the parts by then, i might just bring it with me, but i'm not nessecarily expecting it to happen.

[RotorNutFD3S]

It's really not to bad of a job on a lift. That is as long as your bolts are not salted or rusted in place. Just takes time and patience and a lot of maneuvering to get some pesky bolts.

[N3v]

well i just realized i need a new flywheel, what could i do about resurfacing the one thats in the car right now once i get there?

[RotorNutFD3S]

IDK what's at the shop that will be at our disposal to use... Maybe Mike will chime in at some point.

[Acro]

Not making this one. There is a meet at Mazmart that day as well. Imma go tour everything :p

[LagunaRoadster]

we can start earlier if need be, suggestion of time?

[RotorNutFD3S]

IDK. Might want to check with the shop owner and make sure it's ok first?

[ericsbestshot]

i would be ok with the tech meet starting earlier. I've got a job to do (install timing belt kit) got the one from ebay. Heard that it was a good kit. I don't know the first thing in how to put one in and maybe i can also enlist some help to figure out where my oil is going. can't figure out if it is leaking from some where or being burned.

[RotorNutFD3S]

i would be ok with the tech meet starting earlier. I've got a job to do (install timing belt kit) got the one from ebay. Heard that it was a good kit. I don't know the first thing in how to put one in and maybe i can also enlist some help to figure out where my oil is going. can't figure out if it is leaking from some where or being burned.

What did the timing belt kit include?
Best case scenario is that you're losing oil from the front main seal and not the rear main seal...

Do some early reading to get familiar with the subject: http://www.miata.net/garage/timingbelt.html

[Doppelgänger]

well i just realized i need a new flywheel, what could i do about resurfacing the one thats in the car right now once i get there?
This shop isn't equipped with the machines to resurface a flywheel. If you had a spare one sitting around, there are quite a lot of places that will do it for you...hell, there is even a moble flywheel resurfacing business that will come to you.

As for changing the clutch, that's a few hour job and if we have a lift available for that long and no one has a problem with it, I don't see why we can't. Bring the parts anyway, if you have everything by then.

[Doppelgänger]

Not making this one. There is a meet at Mazmart that day as well. Imma go tour everything :p

The MM meet is for rotary owners, not Miata owners:p
I'll be stopping by the MM meet on my wat to our meet, there is going to be someone there I need to talk to. Why not come up to our meet a little later?:D

[Doppelgänger]

we can start earlier if need be, suggestion of time?

I'll talk to the shop owner (Thomas) to see what time he'd be willing to get up on a sat. morning:biggrin:

[ericsbestshot]

This is what the kit includes any thing else that i should get while i'm at it? any materials?
*

One New GMB Water Pump (Made In Japan)
*

Two Water Pump Gaskets
*

One Water Pump Mounting Washer
*

One Timing Belt
*

One GMB Timing Belt Tensioner (Made In Japan)
*

One GMB Timing Belt Idler (Made In Japan)
*

One Front Crankshaft Seal
*

Two Camshaft Seals
*

One Valve Cover Gasket Set

[redrumracer]

Can we change my clutch? :D

lol i was wondering the same thing, but also thought the same thing you did.

[ericsbestshot]

in addition to my other question, do we need to bring tools or will the shop let us use theirs?

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Not making this one. There is a meet at Mazmart that day as well. Imma go tour everything :p

:facepalm: ditching us for rotary boys

[ben91]

Frame rails, oil pans, timing belts, clutches, oh my. You guys need to be more realistic about how many major projects can be finished in a short period of time.

[JennB]

Mike and I have already discussed this. It all depends on how many people actually show up (people always drop out last minute or just don't show up), how quickly things are accomplished and how many people are really helping out. No one can expect to take up a lift for 5-6 hours.... unless no one else shows up. We'll play it by ear and everything will be fine.

[nickt93]

If it was me, I would be hesitant to take on a job as complicated as a clutch or a timing belt on a tech day. Every time I do a job of that magnitude, it seems that there is always something small, unanticipated, and highly crucial that stops the job. Sometimes it is something you can get easily at an auto parts store, but other times it's something you have to get from a dealer. Not trying to discourage anybody - we should have a ton of knowledgeable people there that have done most of these jobs multiple times - but I would hate for someone to drive to the meet and then have to tow their car home!

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

That is a good point, every time I've done something elaborate it's ended up taking much longer than anticipated for one small reason or another.

[MeFryRice]

I've been there before and it sucks when something breaks and none of the local parts stores have what you need in stock.

[JennB]

And a tech day is really meant for people to learn and help each other out. It's not an excuse to get work done to your car that you don't want to pay for. That's why things like suspension, roll bar installs, basic oil changes are great for tech days. There is always someone there who has done it before and knows exactly what it required and everyone else can pitch in and learn how to do it themselves. And good point on driving to the tech day and being towed home. Do remember that this is a shop, it's not like doing a project in your garage or driveway so if it doesn't get finished one day, it can just sit.

Tech days are usually for things that people can learn and will be able to do in the future. Not for free repairs on your car that take many hours. If you bring a 6-7 hour job to a tech day, no one else will have anything done. But like I said, if only one or two people actually show up with projects, it's possible. As long as no one minds doing the work but do be very cautious and make sure you read up and bring everything you could possibly need. No one wants to leave a car sitting on a lift for an hour while someone goes to the parts store.

At least that's my opinion.

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Btw, anyone notice I added the event to the calender? :D

[metalman]

And a tech day is really meant for people to learn and help each other out......If you bring a 6-7 hour job to a tech day, no one else will have anything done......It's not an excuse to get work done to your car that you don't want to pay for.......

At least that's my opinion.

Bingo. ;)

Its my opinion as well.

[ericsbestshot]

is this tech meet still starting at 11?

[JennB]

Is anyone bringing a project that is relatively easy? Do we want to do oil changes on a few cars? Any suspension work this time? I think we need to figure out who has what to do.

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Oil changes sound fairly decent. I don't think I need one though. Not sure if I need to do anything :lol:

[ericsbestshot]

well i was planning on doing my timing belt for 1 i need it done and 2 i would really love to learn how to do it. I've been reading about how to do it so i think i got the main idea of how to do it. But if you think this job is probably to much for a tech day I'll just leave it for some other time. most of the work seems like it won't even need a lift.

[metalman]

No lift is needed for timing belt swap.
A good way to get help with a timing belt, clutch, or other more involved job is to invite others to your place after you have all the parts/tools etc and supply the beer/food while they watch and assist you. :D Its a proven method.

[JennB]

I thin kit just depends on how many people show up with parts and projects (and how many people show up with knowledge and ability to help). If ten people show up with something, obviously it's going to be managed in the way to get the most projects done. If just a few people show up with projects, it's likely they will all get completed.

[JennB]

No lift is needed for timing belt swap.
A good way to get help with a timing belt, clutch, or other more involved job is to invite others to your place after you have all the parts/tools etc and supply the beer/food while they watch and assist you. :D Its a proven method.


Yep. That's the best. So if something goes wrong, you can just leave it and come back the next day. And no one feels like they are just doing a bunch of work for free... they get beer and pizza.... mmmmmmm yum :lol:

[redrumracer]

well i do need to repair some of my rear suspension from the previous owners hack job. tried to do it once but then realized the 2 sides where different so they are equally messed up.

[Doppelgänger]

Yeah, the t-belt should be a go, but changing a clutch...no one will honestly know until everyone shows up, so i'm not going to say yes or no, but it can't hurt to bring the parts.

I'll have some stuff to install that will not require the use of a lift :)

I talked to Thomas, asked if we can start at 10am, and he has no problem with that.

[N3v]

well, I don't want to install my clutch until i get a light flywheel and I can't afford one right now, so its a no-go.

However, I'm in the process of fabbing up an exhaust, I wonder if they have a welder :P

But seriously, now that I have some things sorted out, I know that I'll be there for sure, but I shouldn't need to really do anything to my car.

Edit: it looks like it might take a little longer, but it looks like the "easiest" way to get there is through the tail of the dragon. bahahahahaha.

[LagunaRoadster]

changed start time to 10:00 am

[ericsbestshot]

cool i'll be there at 10. And thank for saying yes to my timing belt

[wonton]

i got a set of frame rails to install. which shouldn't be to hard i can prep the car off the lift and use the lift just for drilling the mounting holes and bolting everything up. i can put the interior back together off the lift. i also may be fixing my breaks there. i think my front calipers are locking down on my rotors. and i have no idea how to do any of that, i know i dont need a lift for it. will there be somebody there that has break experience.

[redrumracer]

i got a set of frame rails to install. which shouldn't be to hard i can prep the car off the lift and use the lift just for drilling the mounting holes and bolting everything up. i can put the interior back together off the lift. i also may be fixing my brakes there. i think my front calipers are locking down on my rotors. and i have no idea how to do any of that, i know i dont need a lift for it. will there be somebody there that has brake experience.

i fixed your brake problem for ya lol

[jesseealexander]

AUTOFAB! this would be a good place to bring the e30 lol. now i just gotta decide between the SDR track day and this...

[metalman]

this would be a good place to bring the e30

THIS would be a good place to bring your E30. :lol:

http://www.friedmanarchives.com/Non-Gallery-Images-1/images/Junkyard%208x12%20300%20dpi.jpg

[jesseealexander]

i see either an e21 or a 6 series... either way it makes me wanna cry.

[belvnmx5]

Still bringing springs to install, gonna wait on the sways as I am not sure I have all the parts I need/if I want to keep this set or get some adjustables....

[Boyd]

I'm not sure if this is possilble to tackle at one of these but I promise I will bring beer or whatever else. I'm not sure it needs to be replaced yet but my slave may be going out. I'm going to bleed it this week and see if it is air in the line but it keeps going out. It has just become my daily driver. Anyway, if we can't do it does anybody know someone that could either help me do it or someplace that can put one in on the cheap. Thanks guys.

Boyd

[MeFryRice]

i see either an e21 or a 6 series... either way it makes me wanna cry.

It's a 6-series. I had an '81 E21 a couple years ago that was monkey **** brown. I later sold it for $200.

[metalman]

I'm not sure if this is possilble to tackle at one of these but I promise I will bring beer or whatever else. I'm not sure it needs to be replaced yet but my slave may be going out. I'm going to bleed it this week and see if it is air in the line but it keeps going out. It has just become my daily driver. Anyway, if we can't do it does anybody know someone that could either help me do it or someplace that can put one in on the cheap. Thanks guys.

Boyd

Clutch hydraulic system repairs are a prefect project for one of these tech days...IF you have the parts. Its simple, made even easier with a lift, and is a common issue with Miatas that sooner or later everyone will face.

[Doppelgänger]

yeah, the slave cyl. is about a 10 min job :)

[ben91]

slave cyl is no big deal. perfect job for tech day in terms of scope. I did my last two in my driveway with a jack. watch your clutch fluid level in the meantime. keep it full. alternatively since it is your dd, if you come to my house on sat, I can show you how to do it. no beer r'qd, I have enough already. you can get a rebuild kit or a complete new slave for cheap at most any parts store.

[wonton]

i fixed your brake problem for ya lol

haha thanks im a really poor speller!

[wonton]

has there been any plans made for everybody meeting up and getting food after the tech meet? if not i vote we do! :biggrin:

[N3v]

I'm definitely gonna be needing some food before my drive back, so I vote yes

[wonton]

we got 2 votes for food after the tech meet! anybody else wanna vote. dont be shy!

[Doppelgänger]

i'm sure we'll get something going :)

[LagunaRoadster]

urbanspoon - find us some food!

[redrumracer]

i might be down to eat if i come, which i think i should. is it possible to do a cam change also?

[ericsbestshot]

i'm down for food afterward

[N3v]

I have a couple of exhaust components, would it be possible to weld them together there? I thought I'd just ask, since the place is called autoFAB :P

[wonton]

I have a couple of exhaust components, would it be possible to weld them together there? I thought I'd just ask, since the place is called autoFAB :P

i think there was talk of a welder there, im not certain, but bring it in case! if you need somebody to weld it up for you, that would be me as long as the welder is shielded gas and if your parts are steel.

[N3v]

sweeeet. yeah its all steel, I've got a magnaflow and a flex pipe. I'm trying to attach it right after the header. Its a pretty big muffler (6 inch cylinder, 27 inches long) but it will be my triumph if I can jam it up into the tranny tunnel enough so that it's higher than the frame rails, haha. Might have to "massage" it with a hammer in a couple places.

[ben91]

I mean no harm with my direct verbage, so please no one take what I say as an attack. As always I chose direct language sans sugar coating.

I have to be honest when I say that at the rate this is going, I personally no longer have any inclination to attend. I think that most of you guys really don't have realistic expectations of appropriate tech day behavior. I'm also not seeing realistic conceptions of the amount of work that can be performed in a day. Bear in mind that you'll be a guest at someone else's house (shop), so you'll be very unfamilliar with tools/tool locations (assuming you're allowed to borrow, which is a huge assumption). Plus at the end of the day, the shop will need to be left as clean, if not cleaner, than it was when the day started. I'm in the unique position of previously allowing people to use my dad's shop, and I don't think that any/many of the attendees have any concept of how much time I had to spend finding misplaced tools and cleaning up after everyone left.

Seriously there needs to be structure, or there's going to be a lot of people who leave disappointed that they didn't get their project accomplished. Right now I'm seeing a lot of cars needing a lot of work, and mostly a lot of people who don't know how to do it.

If I can make a suggestion:
Center the tech day around (pick one):
-A large project (IE engine swap, clutch or timing belt) on ONE car
-One quick to medium project (IE fluid/filter changes, frame rails, clutch hydraulics, motor mounts, suspension) that can be accomplished on multiple cars consecutively
-Car clean up of all attending vehicles

I'm sure there are more concepts that could be implemented successfully than the 3 I listed. However, a free for all approach is going to make for dissapointments. So maybe one of the originators (Laguna? Dopple?) can step up and lay some structure and set correct expectations.

[N3v]

I think a lot of people are just bringing parts, and they're of the opinion that if it gets done, great, if not, oh well. we'll just do what we can.

I'm not familiar with the place or its tools or if we'll be allowed to borrow them or anything. I've never even been to a tech day, so I was just gonna show up and see what it was all about. I'm not assuming anything.

I was just gonna bring a muffler in my trunk, and it'd be cool to get a flange welded to it but if not, no big deal.

Edit: also i think our biggest definite project is a timing belt. we're not changing my clutch or anyone elses to my knowledge. if you know what you're doing, a timing belt change doesn't take very long at all.

[JennB]

Mike and I have already discussed this. He will be leading it and we are very aware that some things may not be done.

As I said earlier, it's a tech day for people to learn thing not a "fix my broke *** car" or "someone else please do the work I don't want to pay for" day.

It's under control.


If you want to do a project at the tech day, come with the following things:
ALL parts. Do your research, find out what you need
The ability to help do the work
The understanding that if you have a 4-5 hour project, it very well may not be done. Long jobs are not well suited for tech days.
In all honesty, it would be polite to bring your own tools just in respect of the shop owner and his tools that he uses every day to work.


Also, this is a shop. It's their livelihood. This is also not a "get a shop to do free work for me" day. The shop owner will be there and will be assisting, of course, and what he says goes. Thomas is a really nice guy, he's going to help as much as possible but you have to understand what a tech day is.


Also, I don't think the negativity is needed. Just because there is a lot of chit chat about doing this and that doesn't in any way mean that Mike hasn't already taken all of this into consideration and doesn't know what he's doing. Chit chat is just that, talk. It's not plans by any means. I also don't think anyone will be disappointed if their project doesn't get done. If it's not done here, then hopefully as people meet each other and get to be friends, they can set up a day at their own house to get the work done on just their car with the help of anyone interested. I seriously doubt that anyone will be mad that they got to hang out and tinker with Miata's all day and meet new people.

[ben91]

No negativity. And I hold nothing but full confidence in Mike.
Simply someone needs to drive the bus.

Quoted for emphasis:

As I said earlier, it's a tech day for people to learn thing not a "fix my broke *** car" or "someone else please do the work I don't want to pay for" day.

If you want to do a project at the tech day, come with the following things:
ALL parts. Do your research, find out what you need
The ability to help do the work
The understanding that if you have a 4-5 hour project, it very well may not be done. Long jobs are not well suited for tech days.
In all honesty, it would be polite to bring your own tools just in respect of the shop owner and his tools that he uses every day to work.


Also, this is a shop. It's their livelihood. This is also not a "get a shop to do free work for me" day. The shop owner will be there and will be assisting, of course, and what he says goes. Thomas is a really nice guy, he's going to help as much as possible but you have to understand what a tech day is.

[N3v]

you seem like a negative nancy.

[redrumracer]

if i came i wasnt expecting to do something major. like i said i do need to fix some stuff on my suspension. but not even sure if i will be able to make it.

[ben91]

you seem like a negative nancy.:rolleyes:

[N3v]

:rolleyes:

<3 ;)

[LagunaRoadster]

I merely set the time, Mike filled out the details. I'll be there with my father to help out as best as possible. I have no projects to tackle at this particular tech meet this time (I took care of fender rolling already)
Either way, I think as stated, bring your stuff, then once everyone has arrived, survey what jobs are available, tackle what we can, and make sure to not make a mess ;)
From reading through the posts, I think everyone expects nothing, and is just happy that we'll all be meeting up, and possibly working on a few Miatas. Whether or not its this persons or that persons, I dont believe anyone's feelings will get hurt if their job wasn't picked to be worked on.

[Doppelgänger]

Don't worry, i'm driving the bus..and it CAN go slower than 55mph...if need be.


I've been monitoring EVERYTHING said in this entire thread and have addressed specific topics/ideas/work when I have deemed it need be. The clutch job was going to be a possibility and was discussed with the shop owner and between Jenn, the person wondering about the job and me. But since it will not be happening, there is no need to think someone will be taking up 4hrs on a lift.

As for tools. Thomas will likely set up ONE (1) roll-around cart with some basic tools (sockets, rachet, pliers etc...) and these tools need to be returned to the cart immediately after use. If any special tools are needed, you will have to request Thomas or me to get them for you. I don't think there will be a problem with the placement and usage of tools..or at least i'd think so.

Welding. The welder will only be used by one person, Thomas. Because of the cost of materials to run the welder and the time it takes to need it, there will be a small fee to use it. No exact amount has been set, more like you should be reasonable with making an offer (this was told to me by Thomas).


Snacks for the day. Feel free to maybe grab a cheap 2 ltr. or some cheap canned drinks for us. I supplied a good bit of food for the alignment tech day and it maybe cost me $10 to bring a bunch of stuff, maybe bring a bag of chips or cheap cookies/doughnuts/energy/sugary food. As for dinner, i'm sure we'll discuss it between now and then or the day of. There are a lot of food options in the area.

[LagunaRoadster]

Excellent. I appreciate you driving the bus. :)

All sounds well. I'll try to see if I can bring some snacks or drinks or something. Anyone else, you can too if you'd like.

[RotorNutFD3S]

It all sounds pretty good then.

I don't think Sean meant to step on any toes when he volunteered to weld. However, he is a very good welder and if you've ever seen any newer stretched Yamaha Golf Cars, chances are he's the one that cut, stretched, and welded them.

[ericsbestshot]

huh alignment tech day i should have been there for that. We should have another one. (was i just a bunch of miata's just getting alignments?) I'll bring my tool box doesn't have alot of tools, just the basics. I wouldn't have a problem grabbing some snack food before the meet.

what bus? (inside joke?)

[ben91]

Mike, thanks for stepping in. Ground rules are good.

[Doppelgänger]

No problems :D


Eric, actually, I think I skimmed over where Sean said he can weld. The statement I made was a blanket statement. If Sean wants to talk to Thomas and give him some b.g. on his welding exp., he is more than welcome to do so as Thomas is a pretty easy going guy.

[MeFryRice]

If there is a Little Caesars nearby, we can order a few pizza's for lunch and I'll pick them up.

[belvnmx5]

Well, I am HOPING to get my springs put on. But if not, its not the end of the world to me. but a lift is a godsend when doing suspension work. I will be bringing all of my own tools (spring compressors, sockets, wrenches, etc)to the day and am happy to lend them out as needed as long as I get them back. I will also stop and grab some sodas/chips to share. See everyone there!

[Doppelgänger]

Doing springs shouldn't be a problem as several of us can now do it in under an hour :lol:

There is air at the shop, so if you have any air tools, feel free to bring them.

[Doppelgänger]

If there is a Little Caesars nearby, we can order a few pizza's for lunch and I'll pick them up.

There is a LC 1/2 exits down GA400 @ Holcomb Bridge and Old Alabama...10min tops.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Doing springs shouldn't be a problem as several of us can now do it in under an hour :lol:

That is as long as you have 2 front springs and 2 rear springs. :lol:

[MeFryRice]

Doing springs shouldn't be a problem as several of us can now do it in under an hour :lol:

This is a true statement. :D

[Doppelgänger]

otherwise it gets done in like 0 seconds...flat.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Kris just told me he's bringing the springs he bought from LB.

[MeFryRice]

I'm not sure as to how many floor jacks Thomas will have available for use to use but maybe those that have intentions of getting springs installed should bring a floor jack as well so that we can at least begin the process while another Miata is using the lift.

[Doppelgänger]

yeah, if some of you want to bring a jack, feel free. I know he has a couple, but they're big and might not fit under some cars.

[RotorNutFD3S]

yeah, if some of you want to bring a jack, feel free.

If I bring the owner of this forum, does that count as "bringing a Jack"? :lol:

[Doppelgänger]

Why yes, yes it does.

[wonton]

No problems :D


Eric, actually, I think I skimmed over where Sean said he can weld. The statement I made was a blanket statement. If Sean wants to talk to Thomas and give him some b.g. on his welding exp., he is more than welcome to do so as Thomas is a pretty easy going guy.

yeah, i didnt mean any harm. i just wanted to get out there that i am a certified welder!

[matredd]

I can bring my beefy $70 big orange Harbor Freight jack. It'll almost flip the miata over. No... not really.

[ben91]

Doing springs shouldn't be a problem as several of us can now do it in under an hour :lol:
NA/NB I agree (especially if we have 2 sets of spring compressors)... I dunno about the NC tho.

[MeFryRice]

If I bring the owner of this forum, does that count as "bringing a Jack"? :lol:

Bring Jack In the Box for lunch as well. I love that place! :D

[JennB]

eewwww... why does everyone like that place? It's grrrosss

Oh, I'll bring the camera or something. Maybe some snacks.

[ben91]

eewwww... why does everyone like that place? It's grrrosssJack in the Box or Little Caesers? Had JitB in NY a couple times, it's OK I guess. I don't really like pizza but I can absolutely destroy a LC $5 ready now cheese or pepperoni.

[ben91]

yeah, i didnt mean any harm. i just wanted to get out there that i am a certified welder!
Dude I had no doubt in your skills or intentions.

[LagunaRoadster]

Jenn - yes please, your last pictures were excellent!

I <3 the crazy bread.

[JennB]

Jack in the Box or Little Caesers? Had JitB in NY a couple times, it's OK I guess. I don't really like pizza but I can absolutely destroy a LC $5 ready now cheese or pepperoni.

Jack in the Box. Eww.

I've been to a few out in Cali and we have them in SC. When I go home, it's like the last choice for fast food. I never go there.

[Atlanta93LE]

Jack in the Box was the only place within walking distance of the race shop I used to work with in Houston. Needless to say, I ate there a time or twenty. Haven't had Little Caeser's in years, but I love the $5NOW pizzas!

btw: still planning on coming to the meet, just not sure which projects I'll have done by that time.

[Reverend Greg]

Can I come? My Car is down now but I have a truck and tools and a manual and Im a certified welder/machinist........where was that again?

[ericsbestshot]

you said you are proficient in doing timing belts on another post right? Well i hope to be able to do mine that day. I would be happy to have your help and guidance (never done a timing belt before).

[Reverend Greg]

Yeah totally Bro.! I Just have to check with my lady,I posted last night while she was at work.if you have the time get a water pump as well it is only a few bolts while changing the belt also a good time for plugs CAS and belts and hoses..IMO

[Synthmob]

Yeah totally Bro.! I Just have to check with my lady,I posted last night while she was at work.if you have the time get a water pump as well it is only a few bolts while changing the belt also a good time for plugs CAS and belts and hoses..IMO

Best place to buy a belt kit & pump for NB before Saturday?

[ericsbestshot]

i already have the timing belt kit

[metalman]

Best place to buy a belt kit & pump for NB before Saturday?

Trussville Mazda or Montgomery Mazda. Either will take phone orders via credit card and ship immediately. Usually one day service for me.

[ericsbestshot]

bought my shift boot covers from trussville mazda on the 13th and was at my door the next day. Damn fast service if you ask me.

[ericsbestshot]

oh yeah and for food just so yall know i work for Papa Johns pizza so if yall want we can order and i can get half off.

[LagunaRoadster]

oh yeah and for food just so yall know i work for Papa Johns pizza so if yall want we can order and i can get half off.

sweeeet

[Flash13783]

umm....am i still gonna be able to re-seal my oil pan...? the only reason i really want to do it this time is because i dont know how to take the crossmember out. if i had to do it by myself i would have to pull the whole motor??

but i understand if everyone else has a priority over mine.

[Reverend Greg]

I will be attending I will also be bringing a few "extras" that may be of interest.Also I am a welder and machinist so if there is ANY welding I can help.I have no Idea as to find a timing belt quick,I am bringing my air tools and crank pulley tooland a small jack whatelse could I bring? also if some one is on the south side and needs a ride or truck for transport I have 1/2 ton ford truck to bring any "big things"I am quite excited to attend,I have no friends.I will also be available for custom consultation on things involving machine work, I will be bringing My metrology equip.

[N3v]

sweeet. I hope they have a welder there they'll let us use :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

They have a welder, but as stated, the only person allowed to use it is the owner of the shop, unless something is worked out there during the day. :)

[Reverend Greg]

I will be bringing my welding garb any ways mmaybe some one can talk him into it!Im totally stoked!!!seriously im not gay!

[ericsbestshot]

don't worry we always assume we are all gay until they can prove otherwise. I mean come on we drive miatas. lol jk

[Reverend Greg]

Have you ever noticed how a bunch of supposedly straight men always wind up talking gay crap? just an observation.Im married with 3 kids and my wife runs in fear of my attentions.But I do own a Miata and I do like Depeche Mode.What does that mean?I will see you all on Saturday I will Be the one with strange hair in the blue truck.

[ericsbestshot]

wow it kinda seems like we got a ton of people showing up to the tech meet. Anyone have a count. I wonder if there parking lot is big enough for all of us. This is going to be HUGE. and fun.

[Nicklandovich]

i will be at this meet and will use the opportunity to introduce myself. i will be the guy sleeping in the white miata seeing as a get off the graveyard from qt in roswell 2hrs prior to start time, so wake me up if im missin the fun!

[lance]

I will be bringing my welding garb any ways mmaybe some one can talk him into it!Im totally stoked!!!seriously im not gay!

If it comes down to it, I have a decent MIG welder I can throw in the back of my car. All I need is a 110 outlet. Should be heavy enough for any exhaust work.

[Doppelgänger]

Glad the turn out is loking good!!!!!! The more people the better :)


I'm sure that you people with welding exp. can talk to Thomas about using the welder, he really won't have a problem if you know what you're doing.


BTW... DRESS WARM! weather is looking clear with a high ~54 and a moring low in the upper 20's....much like the last tech day.

[ericsbestshot]

oh yeah, wondering if there is a tire balancing machine there with sticky weights.

[deerock]

well I'm planning on coming for sure, and gonna bring a publix snack platter, are ham and cheese sandwhiches good for everyone? Any add ons should be brought by you!

[Doppelgänger]

oh yeah, wondering if there is a tire balancing machine there with sticky weights.

Yes there is, there will be a small fee to have tires balanced though, (I still have to pay to use that..even when I use it myself..and have known Thomas for 6 yrs :lol:)

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

BTW... DRESS WARM! weather is looking clear with a high ~54 and a moring low in the upper 20's....much like the last tech day.

Then two pairs of socks it is!

[Synthmob]

don't worry we always assume we are all gay until they can prove otherwise.

There is the one-in-ten rule... let the rumors begin!

:*****:

[GVfanatic]

I'll be showin up for my first tech meet this saturday. got a set of H&R race springs to put on (thankyou STEVE!) and i still need to put on my rear EBC green pads. heard there will be a big turn out. can't wait to meet the fam.

[LagunaRoadster]

I'll be showin up for my first tech meet this saturday. got a set of H&R race springs to put on (thankyou STEVE!) and i still need to put on my rear EBC green pads. heard there will be a big turn out. can't wait to meet the fam.

sweet. we'll see ya there.

[Synthmob]

Trussville Mazda or Montgomery Mazda. Either will take phone orders via credit card and ship immediately. Usually one day service for me.

After pricing around, I ordered from Trussville - this morning, even - parts should be here tomorrow. Thanks :o

just wondering - what happened to our resident exclamation pointer??!?!!!!

[Reverend Greg]

Hey bring the welder and I can even give welding lessons,or not.I will also bring extra welding hoods

[N3v]

oh MAN! it would be sooo cool to learn how to weld! we can hack up my old stock exhaust and use it for practice! haha

[LagunaRoadster]

this tech day is going to be pretty awesome. I think we'll have a massive turn out.

[RotorNutFD3S]

just wondering - what happened to our resident exclamation pointer??!?!!!!

:lol: Sean's still around... Lurking...

[MoD_Scotty]

I'm actually going to try to make the trip from Augusta for this. I hopefully shouldn't have any work to do, but I'll bring some tools and some snacks, and will try to help where I can.

Anyone else bringing their significant other? My wife will be with me (she's into cars, but doesn't really work on them). I'm hoping she won't get too bored.

[Doppelgänger]

Steve will have LB, Jenn will be with me... so to answer your questions... yes. Also, since it's in the Roswell/Alpharetta area, there is a good bit of stuff to do... like to drool over the car at the Ferrari dealership thats 2miles down the road :D

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

"Sir... could you please refrain from spilling saliva on the Ferrari."

[Grantri]

But "I really love the car, it's so choice"

[RotorNutFD3S]

"More than you can afford pal..."

[Sawyer]

I'll be showin up for my first tech meet this saturday. got a set of H&R race springs to put on (thankyou LAURABETH) .

Fixed!
Those were my springs! I want the credit! :butt:

[JennB]

yeah, I think I'll definitely be taking a ride over to Ferrari to look at cars for a few minutes, get out of the cold, all that good stuff.

[RotorNutFD3S]

It'd be fun to pile into the van, go over there, get out where everyone can see us, and then let me walk up to one of the salespeople and with the straightest face say "I want to trade that in."

[Sawyer]

Do it!

[MeFryRice]

It'd be fun to pile into the van, go over there, get out where everyone can see us, and then let me walk up to one of the salespeople and with the straightest face say "I want to trade that in."

Don't forget to bring along some Billy Bob teeth! :lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Dude, you're going to break the forum with that picture of yourself...

[wonton]

just wondering - what happened to our resident exclamation pointer??!?!!!!

haha! im still here!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :p

[MeFryRice]

Dude, you're going to break the forum with that picture of yourself...

I see how it is now.....:(

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol:

[ericsbestshot]

i don't think my wife will be joining us. she says she'll get bored.

[Boyd]

Did I read that there is somebody that has a welder and can bring it on saturday. I've got a quick job I wonder if we could do. I want to put it in a wideband 02 sensor and I need a bung in my downpipe. Do you think we could do it? Thanks guys see you saturday.

boyd

[Synthmob]

So my parts from Trussville get here today -- and the Cam Cover Gasket is sliced in the center band part! Not just a nick - total separation in the band between two of the rings. Everything else looks good. I guess there's time to order a replacement and get it here Friday. Are they good about defective returns?

[ericsbestshot]

hey don't worry about getting another gasket i've got an extra.
The one i have on the car is about a month old so i'm not going to replace it. So you can have the one i got from the water pump kit i bought.

[metalman]

So my parts from Trussville get here today -- and the Cam Cover Gasket is sliced in the center band part! Not just a nick - total separation in the band between two of the rings. Everything else looks good. I guess there's time to order a replacement and get it here Friday. Are they good about defective returns?

Yes. Always have been in my experience.
A friendly call to them will probably do wonders.
Use ericsbestshot's and replace his later with the replacement from Trussville.

[ericsbestshot]

oh yeah and it's for a 1.8L i'm pretty sure it fits all years.

[Doppelgänger]

So my parts from Trussville get here today -- and the Cam Cover Gasket is sliced in the center band part! Not just a nick - total separation in the band between two of the rings. Everything else looks good. I guess there's time to order a replacement and get it here Friday. Are they good about defective returns?

So it looks something like this with the break between two of the rings?? (pardon my mad Paint skills)
If so, that's normal as those "webs" don't actuall fit into anything. The important sealing points are the perimeter of the valve cover and the individual rings around each plug hole. Technically, if you wanted, you could cut all of the rings off of their webbing and install them seperately on the valvecover.

[Doppelgänger]

oh yeah and it's for a 1.8L i'm pretty sure it fits all years.

Negative Ghost Rider ;). There are two VC gaskets... 94-00 and 01+ (VVT mecahnism on the intake cam causes the VC to have a different shape).

I do have an extra 01+ gasket at my house but I doubt we'll need it as his "cut" sounds like a normal part of the gasket (see diagram above).

[Synthmob]

I do have an extra 01+ gasket at my house but I doubt we'll need it as his "cut" sounds like a normal part of the gasket (see diagram above).

Matt at Trussville didn't know for sure - he took my number and just called me back confirming what you say above. I guess it's natural to think it should be one continuous piece since that's how it's photographed on all the parts sites.

Rock on! and Thanks for the offers.

[Doppelgänger]

Sometimes I wonder why/how I know such insignificant details about the weirdist things :(

[Doppelgänger]

Did I read that there is somebody that has a welder and can bring it on saturday. I've got a quick job I wonder if we could do. I want to put it in a wideband 02 sensor and I need a bung in my downpipe. Do you think we could do it? Thanks guys see you saturday.

boyd

The shop has a welder. Only the owner (Thomas) or someone approved by Thomas, may operate the welder with permission. Use of the welder will require some kinda of "tip" (hell.. toss him like $10 for welding/drilling a bung).


*general message*
Remember, the idea of a tech day is for small projects that you'd normally do by yourself in your garage..but are now doing it in one location with a group of friends. Tech days are not for getting a bunch of 'free work' done that you'd normally have to pay for or someone else do. I don't want to sound like a nazi dictator, but it's not fair to expect to use resources outside the norm with free reign. Lifts, tools, air....all typical things used when working on cars. Welding equipment, tire mounting/balancing, using fluids you didn't provide and such things..yeah..use courtsey when needing them. This is not MY decision, but was asked of me to pass on when I brought up the idea with Thomas.

And let me make the whole donations subject clear. This is NOT any kinda of fundraising event. No one is expected to pay up or anything, so don't feel obligated or that you will be any less welcome to be hanging out. But if you simply just appreciate the fact that a business owner is getting up early on a Sat. morning and opening up shop for all of us to use and simply want to show appreciation by tossing in your spare pocket change, a dollar or whatever, that'll be fine.

Everyone ok on this? Give me some honest feedback!

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Well bugger me I thought it was on Sunday, glad your post made me double check that! :lol:

Perfectly fine with me, most of what you said is normally considered a given anyway.

[Doppelgänger]

You better be coming still!!

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Well now I am. Up until 15 minutes ago I was going to be showing up on Sunday.

[Doppelgänger]

lol...that wouldn't have gone too well :lol:

[FE3tMX5]

I agree with Mike - don't want to wear out a welcome on the first visit, rather get invited back. Really is gracious of the owner to open up his shop like this, definitely worthy of "tips" for anything he has to use his skillz-n-toolz on IMO. Wished I could make it- take lots of pics.

[RotorNutFD3S]

I'm in agreement with you Mike on all points. We need to make sure that we don't take advantage of the situation so that he stays open to the idea of having more of these in the future, they'll benefit everyone.

Seriously Jack, you need to get more sleep... :lol:

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

:lol: quiet you

[RotorNutFD3S]

Uh-uh. Not happening. No way. :butt:

[jester911]

Nice turn out today. It was good to finally put faces and real names to you knuckleheads that came out.:banana:

[metalman]

Good meeting you too! :lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Great turnout today! I think most everyone that said that they were coming actually made it. Knucklehead is probably the nicest thing we've been called compared to past meets. :lol: Good meeting you too however.

I just got home about 30 minutes ago from up there...

[jester911]

Knucklehead is probably the nicest thing we've been called compared to past meets. :lol:

Well being only the first time to meet I did need to hold back a bit.:lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Well yeah, you want to be invited back right? :D