'95 R Package Turbo (Picture Overload Warning!)

[RotorNutFD3S]

I bought this car from the previous owner down in Pembroke Pines, Florida in March of 2007. It had 66,000 original miles on it, and was already well modified. It already had an FMII turbo kit with the Link EMS, fender flares, SM 002 wheels, FM Happy Meal clutch/flywheel combo, SS brake lines, and most notably, a Cusco 1.5 Way LSD. I knew this was a great platform to start with, since most of the expensive toys were already out of the way.
Here's when I bought it (minus the Runabout mirrors):
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/2562850_1_full.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/2562850_2_full.jpg

I may miss some small details, but this is the majority of the progress so far.

After buying it, the first thing I did was take off some of the unnecessary gold heat reflecting tape in the engine bay. Inside the car, I took the boost gauge out of the vent in the center, and I ordered a full pillar dual gauge pod and a 3-gauge radio mount from DDMWorks. My previous toy, a turbo'd 2002 Saturn SL sedan (which was the biggest pain in the *** ever, but no other driver ever expected 250whp out of a car that made 86whp from the factory), had just been totaled, so I still had all of the AutoMeter Cobalt gauges. In they went along with my AEM UEGO WBo2 sensor and my Pioneer 7" touchscreen DVD player.
I snagged a hardtop in Biloxi, MS for $350 and while there, the OEM clutch line blew right under the crimp. A DIY hardline formed from some parts at Advance Auto Parts, and I was on the way back home. Immediately after, I ordered a SS clutch line.

I started getting hot in the summer, so I ordered a set of vented quarter windows from OKMiata, which work great and getting fresh, cool air into the cabin. At the same time, I took off the red faux suede door panels, and put the OEM black door panels back in.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/IMG_1798.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/IMG_1799.jpg

The car came with Brainstorm's low profile headlight setup, but those things threw light everywhere, and generally were just not what I wanted. I was about to convert back to OEM headlights with some better lights, but then scored a set of Moss Motors low profile headlights on eBay for $150.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/HeadlightConversionCloseUp.jpg
And to show how much the BSP lights threw light everywhere compared to projectors:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/IMG_1811.jpg

Then I got a Tanabe front strut tower brace from Stealth97, a radiator cover panel from BEGi, a VooDoo shift knob, a Momo Champion 350mm steering wheel, some Rockford Fosgate 3.5" headrest speakers, and ditched the high-flow cat in favor of an FM resonated test pipe.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/DSC01108.jpg

Very soon after I bought a Zoom Engineering PNP push-to-start button, Beatrush rear strut tower brace, and a Devil's Own Progressive Water/Meth Injection kit. (And I mounted the tank on the spare tire bracket that came with the RSTB.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/DSC00826.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/DSC00847.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/DSC00835.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/DSC00837.jpg

I wanted a stiffer front strut brace, so I snagged the Cobalt 3-point brace when they offered a deal at RSpeed.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/DSC01112.jpg

Not happy with the original downpipe from the FMII kit, I ordered a BEGi divorced gases downpipe right before they raised their prices:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/DownPipe.jpg
That downpipe has been a headache from day 1. The first one they sent me had both WBo2 bungs pointed straight down, and some other smaller issues. I then waited 8 months for a replacement, which still wasn't right. Still don't have it completely right, but they're going to fix it.

Sometimes the small things bother me, and I was tired of seeing this:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/CoolantTube/DSC01146.jpg
So I got this:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/CoolantTube/DSC01151.jpg

[RotorNutFD3S]

Then in January of this year while FM had free shipping on roll bars, I bought one. Now I know why shops charge so much to install these things! It's very time consuming, and not exactly the easiest thing to do. But it's not too difficult either. Just have someone handy to help you tighten the bolts, it's not very much fun alone, ask me how I know. lol
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01170.jpg
Well, I'll just rip everything out behind the seats except the soft top.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01171.jpg
Cut some metal away, shimmy the bar past some wiring harnesses, and hey, it fits!
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01172.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01173.jpg
There was a lot of time between the last shots and this one:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01176.jpg
Definitely like this much better!
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01177.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01181.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01182.jpg

Then for a little more stiffness, I bought FMs frame rail kit when they had them on their Deal of the Day in April.
The interior getting torn apart:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/FrameRails/DSC01543.jpg
Finished product!
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/FrameRails/DSC01550.jpg
Brand name shot. lol
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/FrameRails/DSC01552.jpg
And ground clearance:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/FrameRails/DSC01544.jpg

Then after seeing someone else get them, I installed a set of SMT (Surface Mount Technology) LED tail/brake lights. They perfectly compliment the IL Motorsports 3rd brake light that came with the car. Nice and bright and crisp response!
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/LookWhatCameInTheMail/DSC01500.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/LookWhatCameInTheMail/DSC01501.jpg

[RotorNutFD3S]

Then I finally got brave enough to cut up my top boot to fit around the roll bar. I found that it fit better if it went over and hid the harness bar, which is a shame, but oh well. It does improve the look a lot I think!

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01681.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/InteriorMods/RollBar/DSC01682.jpg

I recently bought a set of APR Carbon Fiber Mirrors. Definitely lighter than the mirrors that were on there! I love the way they look.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/APRMirrors/DSC01690.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/APRMirrors/DSC01691.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/APRMirrors/DSC01692.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/APRMirrors/DSC01693.jpg

And then this happened, I sent my injectors off to get cleaned and flow matched, got them back, installed, and before the engine could even get started:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC01719.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC01787.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC01790.jpg

And the old vs. the new:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC01924.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC01925.jpg

That's all for now, if you read this whole thing, thanks!
I'm currently getting everything together to rebuild the car, shopping around for reputable machine shops (if you know of someone that does good work for a good price, please let me know!), and sourcing a GT2871R to replace the current GT2560R. I will also be swapping the old FM manifold for the new BEGi manifold, and I will be getting a new intercooler setup.

[Roadster]

:jawdrop: Flares....I love flares. You've really covered all the bases on this thing. Can't wait to see it in person once it's back up and running. Amazing work. :clap:

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Candidate for the coolest car on mx5atl.... simply breathtaking.

[MeFryRice]

Nice to see you joined the board Eric. How much longer before the car is up and running again?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Thanks Steve. Good luck with finding an NA!
All I can say is ASAP! I have to sell the turbo and the old IC stuff so I can help fund the new stuff, plus I still need to make a run up to Cumming, GA to drop everything off to get ceramic coated and cryo treated. Then after that, the short block assembly will be going to a machine shop to get the basics installed, then it'll be time to put the car back together where it is currently residing.
Maybe you should buy my stuff for your future Miata. :::hint hint::: :)

[MeFryRice]

I would but nothing you have will fit the setup I have in mind. :(

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

By the way, do you have any pictures of the tail lights with the new led's?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Are you going boosted Steve?

I have one picture of the tail lights with the LEDs, but it just looks like red lights at night time.
Ben91 has a video of his set. He has the LED tail lights and the LED turn signals and an OEM third brake light. You can see the difference when the brakes are pressed and released.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YpDWLM56Ms

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

They look really smart. Better than I thought they would.

[RotorNutFD3S]

So I got some seals, gaskets, belts, pumps, pulleys, and bearings from Finishline to rebuild the engine and trans. Oh, and the Workshop Manual too since they are on sale.
Not from Finishline are my ARP head and main studs and the pulley/bracket for adding a/c without power steering.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC02197.jpg

And while I was at it, I snagged a set of MSM pedals and an oil cap, not exactly needed, but oh well.

Now, it's time to take the pistons to get ceramic coated and the rods cryo treated at Evan's Performance.
Then, to the machine shop.

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

I'm looking forward to having a real job and being able to buy proper quality new parts.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Honestly, the money I've saved up over the past couple of years from regular hourly dayjob work and sidework is paying for this right now. Just very strict budgeting.

[MeFryRice]

Just very strict budgeting.

I'm having to do that myself now. Not that I need to but I'm currently trying to pay off ALL my debt (besides the cell phone bill) and put 15% of each paycheck into an IRA so by the time I'm 45, I'll have a decent amount of money towards retirement. :) This is also why I'm selling the S2K and getting an NA.

[RotorNutFD3S]

You and I are in the exact same boat sir.

[RotorNutFD3S]

So today ended on a good note, this showed up on the doorstep:

56 Trim GT2871R (743347-2) - .60/.64
Is only slightly larger in body than my GT2560R, but the real difference comes in the compressor and turbine wheels. Should be a great bump in power! And of course, I took it apart, but I needed to because the turbine housing is going off to get ported, fit for 10mm studs, have the cast-in divider (which is a nice feature) finished, and ceramic coated by BEGi.

Pictures of course:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02266.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02267.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02268.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02270.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02272.jpg

[MeFryRice]

You should get the housing gold plated! :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

:facepalm:

[MeFryRice]

:D :D :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

You funny guy... lol

This is still a very depressing sight:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC02198.jpg

The car is screaming, "Hey jackass, wanna hurry up and get me running again?!"

[MeFryRice]

Now would be a good time to do a wire-tuck to give it a cleaner look! :)

[RotorNutFD3S]

I don't like wire-tucks for function. They look fine, but I don't want to make it any more difficult than it already is to get to something.

[MeFryRice]

This is true but it just looks so clean! :D

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

When that car's boosting and killing everything in sight I think a wire tuck would be the last thing on my mind :cool:

[Doppelgänger]

Is it me or is Steve reading too many posts from the so-cal guys on CR :lol: Wire tucks, 15x8 0 offset wheels, no turbo




JK







Can't wait to see th efinished product Eric! I'm goign to pick up a 2nd job to help fund a new block with pistons, rods, 2871 and 3" exhaust. Ironically enough, the job i'm picking up is a friends shop... who will help build the motor.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Haha! I just pointed that out in your recent wheel idea post. lol

[MeFryRice]

Is it me or is Steve reading too many posts from the so-cal guys on CR :lol: Wire tucks, 15x8 0 offset wheels, no turbo

:butt:

Actually, the only time I get on CR is to look for any NA's for sale.

The only reason I mention of a wire tuck is after talking on the phone with Eric last night, this was finish off the engine bay quite nicely. Why put all the money/effort into a car then open the hood to see a cluster-phuck of wires??

Yes I like the lower offset wheels but don't worry, I'm not going to make my car look vintage with rusting the panels. It's different but not something I would do to my own car.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Like I said, I like the look just fine, I even did it on one of my RX-7s, the problem is, when I needed to trace an issue, which I hope is never to rare with this car, it was the biggest headache ever! Even though you look at that picture with no engine, when everything is installed, there's a minimal amount of wiring showing anyway. But I plan on unbinding some of the wiring and trying to get everything as hidden and routed together as possible, but that will be about as far as it goes.

[MeFryRice]

If you were running a bone stock motor or even something with just bolt-ons then it wouldn't be an issue but I understand your point of view as well....

[RotorNutFD3S]

Yup! We can wire tuck your car instead. :)

On another note, I really cannot wait to get this damn thing on the road again. I miss my roadster, I miss boost, I miss a fuel efficient vehicle, and I'm not getting to take advantage of this beautiful weather we're having. :(

[MeFryRice]

Yup! We can wire tuck your car instead. :)

I'll do it on mine when I install the F20/22. :)

On another note, I really cannot wait to get this damn thing on the road again. I miss my roadster, I miss boost, I miss a fuel efficient vehicle, and I'm not getting to take advantage of this beautiful weather we're having. :(


well hurry up fool and I'll help you get it done! I just request the first ride though! :P

[RotorNutFD3S]

Yup! We can wire tuck your car instead. :)I'll do it on mine when I install the F20/22. :)
Works for me!

well hurry up fool and I'll help you get it done! I just request the first ride though! :P
I can only go as fast as the people working on my parts at this point. I think I have everything else besides the manifold which will be on the way from BEGi shortly and the intercooler kit, which I have changed my mind on again. lol
As far as the first ride goes, I may have to draw a number, with you, there are 3 people that want first rides, they should be helping too, and then there's my g/f who wants the first ride as well, who will probably get it. So it will be the first ride after the first ride. :)

[Gotsol]

fun car

[RotorNutFD3S]

So my Enthuza 3" dual exhaust got here!

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/Enthuza3/DSC02276.jpg

[RotorNutFD3S]

Thanks to a good deal on here I now have Tein Super Street Coilovers with NB top hats and an FM front sway bar. Wasn't expecting to do coilovers quite so soon, but couldn't pass it up.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/ExteriorMods/Suspension/DSC02279.jpg

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Bargain on the coilovers, and that exhaust looks sick.

[jesseealexander]

holy ****ing **** i just came in my pants. i didnt see this before. you win. alot.

[deerock]

:jawdrop: im with jesse! i should bought the coils! youre a lucky man :clap:

ima go change boxers.:butt:

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol:
And I think that wins the title of best response to my build thread ever!

[RotorNutFD3S]

So I just got off the phone. My rods, pistons, and valve cover are on the way home to me from the coater's!

They CryoREM treated the forged rods for extra strength.
They ceramic coated the piston domes and first ringland for heat reflection and protection. The skirts and underside were coated with a dry-film lubricant.
And they powdercoated my valve cover red and polished the raised lettering.

I can't wait to see everything!

[MeFryRice]

You must post pictures!

[RotorNutFD3S]

Dude, if my stuff looks like anything I saw at their shop when I took everything there, you'll want to be there when I open the box. :lol:
Seriously, it looks so nice that it kinda sucks it's in the engine where it can't be seen and appreciated.

[Greg]

I want your car!

[RotorNutFD3S]

:) Everything is for sale... For a price.

I meant to add that my Supertech valves got here yesterday, so it looks like I'll be doing a little headwork now instead of none at all. Damn it. I was trying to stay on a budget, but now that everything is apart and I'm buying more parts, I might as well do it now...

[Greg]

I'll buy your wheels and tires... ;)

PM me a price :)

[RotorNutFD3S]

PM'd in all seriousness.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Just a quick shot of the Supertech valves, stock sized. Nothing real exciting, except for the fact I got them for $150/shipped. :)
Belfab sells them for $275 + shipping. Hell, FM wants $184 for just the intake side!

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/HeadStuff/DSC02455.jpg

[MeFryRice]

Were these new or used?

[Greg]

Replied.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Were these new or used?


New and still individually wrapped. Look at the picture man. :lol:

[MeFryRice]

Well the guy could be like me and keep the packaging for EVERYTHING. :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

I do too!
But I took a few out of the wrappers and looked them over. They are very nice.
The car better run like a freaking dream when I get done with it or I'll drive it off a cliff...

[RotorNutFD3S]

I'd like to take the first step and admit I have a problem. I can't stop buying parts for the car. It's addictive really. I thought I was almost done buying stuff for this car, and then the engine broke, and the deals started showing up.

So this weekend I'm driving to NoVA/MD to pick up a 6-speed transmission w/ 30k miles on it. The price is $500 and he's giving me the adapter plate and the starter too, which is an awesome deal. The 4.10:1 gears in my car are not going to be the most optimal with the 6-spd, so someone is giving me a hell of a deal on 3.636 gears, which are almost unattainable. Although those will go in at a later date.

Someone please stop me...

[RotorNutFD3S]

Got my internals and valve cover back today:

The valve cover is powdercoated, the pistons have a ceramic coated dome, dry film lubricant on the skirts, and an oil shedding coating on the undersides. The rods were cryo-treated, although I'm getting in touch with the company to see why they weren't REM treated as well.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC02456.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC02457.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC02458.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC02459.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC02462.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC02463.jpg

[Sawyer]

Are your fingernails painted in the second to last picture?

[Greg]

lol I thought the same thing at first

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: Definitely not, that's the valve cover in the background.

[Sawyer]

Haha just had to make sure!

[MeFryRice]

I hate you Eric. :(

[RotorNutFD3S]

I hate you Eric. :(


:cry:

[MeFryRice]

:lol: I'm just jealous.....

[RotorNutFD3S]

Well, if you'd hurry up and get one, we can hook it up too!!!

[MeFryRice]

I know man.....I know...

[RotorNutFD3S]

So Bell Engineering called as I was leaving work. They've hopefully done the last rework I'll ever need done on my downpipe. Also, they took the 2871 turbine housing I had, completed the cast-in seperator by welding a small piece in, ported the internal gate, and ceramic coated it. I also have a new log manifold coming from them, also ceramic coated, and it includes a handy-dandy little heatshield for the compressor housing.
Can't wait until that gets here!
It's getting closer...

[RotorNutFD3S]

Tomorrow is almost here! Which means all of my turbo bits are about to get here from BEGi!

Also, this has my interest now, BEGi is working on this piece of art:
http://www.bellengineering.net/templates/BEGi/images/Current_Projects/CP_intake_manifold/CP_intake_manifold/full_size/PA124761.JPG
http://www.bellengineering.net/templates/BEGi/images/Current_Projects/CP_intake_manifold/CP_intake_manifold/full_size/PA124760.JPG

Already setting funds aside to get one when they're ready.

And in sadder news, the coilovers are going to a new home. I already have a good setup now, the possibility of upgrading will always be there, and this will help me get some parts that I need more urgently anyway.

[RotorNutFD3S]

So my new stuff arrived!!!

My reworked downpipe:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/NewDownpipe/DSC02469.jpg

Manifold (Ceramic coated silver):
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02470.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02471.jpg

Turbine Housing (Also ceramic coated):
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02472.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02473.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02474.jpg

And the nifty little heatshield that bolts onto the front edge of the manifold and blocks heat from the compressor housing:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/GT2871R/DSC02475.jpg

[MeFryRice]

The parts sure are purdy in person. I see you decided to sell the coilovers after all?

[Sawyer]

Me likey!
They'res so shiny!! :cool:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Yes, the coilovers have a new home. I figure I can find another deal again someday down the road. Besides, my Bilsteins/H&Rs are a well-paired setup that don't need upgrading until I find the limits of them anyway.
The coilovers will be getting me the 3.636 gears I told you about last night, and the installation by a very experienced person. I need that more at the moment. :)

[MeFryRice]

That's true. At least the car isn't in 4-wheel drive mode.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Huh? lol I missed something there...

[MeFryRice]

Huh? lol I missed something there...


Meaning the car doesn't have enough wheel gap to stick you head in there...

[RotorNutFD3S]

Ohh... :wtf: Durrr... I always refer to that as 4x4 mode, but 4-wheel drive works too. :)

[RotorNutFD3S]

So a little update since I haven't had one in a while. I'm going up tomorrow or Tuesday to pick up a new engine thanks to a great deal found by Mike (Thanks Man!!!).
I've been weighing my options lately, and while building the bottom end with stronger internals is great, it's more than I want to invest in time and moneywise at the moment as I'd really just like to get my car back on the road. So the build is going to the sidelines, I'll be keeping all the parts and building it up at my own pace.

The new engine is out of a 2000 automatic Miata, I'm going to be checking it carefully for the reported '99-'00 thrust bearing issue and making sure that isn't going be a problem. But the write-up also says that it's not usually an issue in auto Miatas because they don't put any fore and aft load on the crankshaft like stick shifts do. We'll see.

Then when I've built the '95 bottom end the way I want it, I'll swap over the better head off of the '00 and MSM oil pan w/MBSP that I'll be adding to it for now.

In any case, hopefully the car will be on the road again very soon!!! :clap:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Well, after some confusion yesterday, I just talked to the people that have the '00 motor. I'm being told that something, no one knows what yet, might be wrong with the motor. This is sudden too, because on Sunday, they were completely fine with selling it and no one made any indication that something might be wrong. I've already paid for it, so unless I ask for a refund, it's technically mine.
I'm supposed to hear back sometime today as to what it is, but in any case, if there's nothing wrong with the head, I'll at least be getting that. Wanted to do a headswap to the '99-'00 head anyway.
Hopefully there will be a bright side to this somehow... Just gotta play my cards right.

[MeFryRice]

I can't believe that. I would ask about just buying the head (if it's unharmed of course) and seeing if you can get it cheaper for the inconvenience they caused you.

I wouldn't be too happy either.

[Sawyer]

Yeah, that's kinda messed up...

[ben91]

The new engine is out of a 2000 automatic Miata, I'm going to be checking it carefully for the reported '99-'00 thrust bearing issue and making sure that isn't going be a problem. But the write-up also says that it's not usually an issue in auto Miatas because they don't put any fore and aft load on the crankshaft like stick shifts do. We'll see.It's just the auto does not present the same type of axial forces to the crankshaft a manual will. But like I said yesterday, since it will be mating to a manual transmission, if the bearing is undersized, the engine will still destroy itself. If this car did have a bad thrust bearing, then it's extremely likely that the head is also toast. Though it's not a certainty.

I'd think that it's likely this salvage yard has the car because it was hit hard in front, so it's possible that the engine has some accident damage. Usually that type of damage is limited to external items like the cam cover (can crack up front, who cares), the water pump outlet neck, the water pump bracket, and other things up front. If that's all it is, still play it cool and see if you can get any $$ knocked off, but know in your mind that it doesn't really matter.

[MeFryRice]

Let me know if you wanna go take a look at it tonight.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Oh, I'm not happy, and it is messed up, we'll just see how it plays out.

Yeah Ben, I did some more reading, and along the point you made the other day, if the engine is mated to an auto, the only way an undersized bearing could hurt the engine is if it came out of it's recess (I did find out that sometimes the bearing was the incorrect size or sometimes the recess in the cap itself was too deep/shallow), otherwise, the autos typically never showed an issue. It's only when the engine is mated to a manual transmission that the problems start appearing.

I also got Mazda's recall on it and noted the VIN range affected. Worst case scenario, the recess is incorrect and I can swap the main cap and new bearings over from my '95 block as SoloMiata suggested in the write-up.

I hope that something minor like that is all that is wrong. I'm using my '95 cam cover, and I have all new accesories for the front of the engine, except for the oil pump, and my '95s is in great shape, and will be in even better shape after I put the billet gears in it.

[RotorNutFD3S]

I'll let you know. I'm trying to get things done to maybe leave work early. I'm also waiting to hear back from the guy there before I make any other decisions. Mike said he may be heading over that way as well, and I trust his judgement if he takes a look at it for me.

I'm also wondering if they realized they could get a lot more for the motor than what they already sold it to me for. However, I've already made it clear that I'm interested in getting it, problem or not, and I am, unless it's seriously FUBAR'd.

[Doppelgänger]

The car has no sever body damage. It's got some scuffs and scrapes..but no major hit... so any engine damage isn't from an impact.

[ben91]

The car has no sever body damage. It's got some scuffs and scrapes..but no major hit... so any engine damage isn't from an impact.
hmm, that's not good. i was hoping for broken waterpump outlet

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Good luck Eric, hope this works out for you.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Thanks Jack.
Like I said, I think that they're trying to figure out how to get me to back down to get more money out of it.

[Doppelgänger]

I don't know about braving the ****ty wind and cold to go out there when I get off work... it's pretty ****ty out there right now :(

[RotorNutFD3S]

:( You make me sad.

[Doppelgänger]

dude, there are like 98357609845 mph winds out there!!!!

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol:
Well, I still haven't heard anything back... this whole thing makes me sad.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Well, just talked to the manager there. He said that he got in contact with the people that sold the car, and they reported that there is a connecting rod sticking out of the oil pan... :cry:

Anyway, I'm about to leave work in a half hour to see if that's actually the case. If it is, I'll pop the head off to see if the piston has damaged it in any way, if not, score on that part at least.

[MeFryRice]

Sorry I'm not able to help you tonight Eric but hope for the best. :)

[RotorNutFD3S]

Thanks man! It's no problem, I know how work is. I just have to get up there before they close.

[MeFryRice]

Well good luck. When are you going up there?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Well, went up there. Good news and bad news.

Bad News first: There was definitely a rod sticking out through the oil pan between the starter and engine mount. Crushed my hopes of having a drop-in running engine.
Took the valve cover off, revealed that the owner didn't believe in changing the oil properly. It had a pretty bad sludge build up and it looked like the top end got pretty hot as the interior of the head was on the darker side.

Good News: I got the head, intake manifold, throttle body, and valve cover all for $80. So even if the head doesn't end up being usable for some reason, I've still paid less than the intake manifold goes for used.
So I'm going to spend some time cleaning it up and see what lies underneath all the crap.

So here's for hoping...

[MeFryRice]

Hopefully it's not too too bad.

[Doppelgänger]

I think it'll be OK, the bearing surfaces weren't bad considering the rod and the sludge.

[RotorNutFD3S]

The top bearing surface wasn't. Ben said the area to be concerned about is on the bottom. Still not worried about it, I can recoup my money if I have to. :)

[RotorNutFD3S]

I may have a machine shop lined up. I'm excited! Definitely a step in the right direction! This car has been down since July 17, 4+ months has been too long.

[Doppelgänger]

I know how you feel.... my 99 caught fire in October of 2005 and I didn't get it back until July of 2006.

[RotorNutFD3S]

That sucks! 9 months... I hope mine doesn't take that long. I'm going to the shop Friday morning to take a look around, meet the people there, and see how much they want to charge for what I'm asking for. My 6-speed should be on the way to me finally this Saturday, and my 3.636 gears are done getting cryo and REM treated, so hopefully those will be installed soon.

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Who are you going with?

[RotorNutFD3S]

I don't want to say just yet. But you and I talked about it at the meet, so you'll know.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Block and head are at the machine shop now getting a thorough estimate. A definite step in the right direction finally!

[wildfire0310]

Finally

[RotorNutFD3S]

You're one to talk sir. As I recall your engine is sitting on the table somewhere. :lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

My $130/shipped (thanks live.com) Energy Suspension Master Polyurethane Bushing Set arrived today!

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/OtherMods/Suspension/DSC02850.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/OtherMods/Suspension/DSC02851.jpg

My new BOV should be here Monday. :D

And now I think I know what I'm going to do for my intercooler setup. I've wanted Flyin' Miata's intercooler kit because I really like the way the silicone pipes keep the engine bay clean and failure points down, however, I can't justify spending $750 for it. So I called them and priced out just the piping and it came to roughly $300. I can deal with that. Find a $100 eBay intercooler that fits in between them and be good to go.

[MeFryRice]

I want that!!

[RotorNutFD3S]

Today:

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/BOV/DSC02983.jpg

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/BOV/DSC02986.jpg

[ben91]

The bushings will be a *****. I envy the product but not its installation.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Yeah, I've done one setup before. I'm not looking forward to the work, but I am looking forward to the end result. And unless I find a shop to work in, this will be a summer project. All that will get installed immediately are the diff bushings.

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

How much of a difference do you notice at the end?

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

That's a really good bov, I think that's what we were working with on Casey's 240sx over the summer.

[RotorNutFD3S]

The car I helped install a busing kit on (a 240sx) had a drastically improved feel about it. Not as sloppy. Of course, the bushings on it were 15 years old, so anything at that point was an improvement. :lol: However, I can't wait until mine are in and see what the difference is.

I've wanted an HKS SSQV since I had my FD RX7 (it had one). I like the Blitz I have now, but felt that it was time for something new (and a little louder). The thing I like about it is that if I get annoyed with the noise, which never happened before, is that there is a way to silence it to where it just sounds like rushing air.

[MeFryRice]

I had the Blitz DD on mine and it got annoying after a while, i can only imagine the nintendo sounding SQV will be worse.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Huh? I have the Blitz DD now and all it sounds like is a rush of air. And I happen to like the SSQV thank you very much, so you can bite my ***. :D

[MeFryRice]

The HKS is an awesome piece, don't get me wrong. Just the high pitched sound would get on my nerves.

[RotorNutFD3S]

I was just messing with you man. The only reason I got it is because unlike the previous version, you can change out the front piece and it takes away the normal sound, so if in the off chance I start to get annoyed with it, a little work and I'm back in business. :)

[RotorNutFD3S]

I had a gift waiting on me today:

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/OtherMods/Drivetrain/5SPDvs6SPD2.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/OtherMods/Drivetrain/5SPDvs6SPD.jpg

The one on the right is the 6-Speed (you can also tell by the extra amount of ribbing the housing has. I'm so glad to finally have it.

[MeFryRice]

Glad to see you finally received this! :D

[Sawyer]

You have something coming in the mail like every week!

[RotorNutFD3S]

Haha! You noticed that too? My wallet was complaining about that just a little while ago. :D

Next week is the built short block, but it's not coming in the mail. ;)

[RotorNutFD3S]

Figured I'd share the before and after of the cylinder head.

When I got it (Mike should remember this very well, :lol: )

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC02754.jpg

And then post-machine shop cleaning:

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC02995.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC02988.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC02989.jpg

Much nicer! And they checked it out and said that the only thing it will need are new valve guides. A steal for $80!!! :D

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

:jawdrop: wow I had no idea it was able to look like that!

Good job Tommy!

[Doppelgänger]

Oh I remember that quite well! Fun times.

[MeFryRice]

It's so purdy! :D

[Sawyer]

That looks a million times better!

[Roadster]

Aye, the soda blaster works wonders on aluminum.

[N3v]

came to nth the awesome car sentiment.

get it running, then do a fourth gear burnout.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Thanks!

:lol: That would be awesome. Burnout in fourth, and chirp into fifth and sixth. :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

I found a video a friend of mine put on YouTube. Makes me miss driving my car so much more. I remember that night, I wasn't even hard into the throttle. I cannot wait to feel that level of performance again...

B5okr7p13cU

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Ok... who was listening to DJ Khali!

And damn... that's a quick car. I have trouble imagining what it's like to live with a fast car.

[RotorNutFD3S]

I think that was Kris (in the white NB) listening to that. Good ear.

You'll become addicted to the point that you must have it. :D I have to go ride/drive with friends right now so that I don't lose my mind. lol
Just have to remember responsibility and respect with the car.

[jrjcrf150f]

damn man this is exactly how i want my miata to be. im farr from it now. but man really nice.
where can i find flares like yours?

[wonton]

those flares can be found here http://www.racinglifestyle.com/

[RotorNutFD3S]

Although I don't recommend Racing Lifestyle at the moment. That company is going through some owner changes and people have not been getting their parts. However, Autokonexion sells the same exact ones now.

[wonton]

that was the only place i found them! the ones that they offer are the Autokonexions if im not mistaken. i didnt know that they had there own site.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Racing Lifestyle was first. Actually, my car under the previous owner, received the first set of RL fender flares. Autokonexion is licensed to duplicate/sell the flares. There is a thread on ClubRoadster for a current sale.

[RotorNutFD3S]

So got some images from the machine shop. :D The block is just about done. Had some clearance issues between the ARP studs and the MBSP, but that's all good now. Oil pump is completely cleaned up, has a set of new billet gears, and is ready to go.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/Block/P1011734.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/Block/P1011740.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/Block/P1011735.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/Block/P1011733.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/Block/P1011737.jpg

No more bent rod now!!!

[matredd]

I've got to see this thing man. Looks great.

[wildfire0310]

finally starting to see an end to that long tunnel.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Man, you have no idea. Still a lot of ground to cover, but this was the worst of it. The head goes in when I pick up the block. Slowly but surely...

[LagunaRoadster]

that looks terrible. I think you oughta just go ahead and scrap that engine, I'll even dispose of it for ya :)

[RotorNutFD3S]

Crap! I knew someone would notice!
Trade for Stormtrooper costume???

[wonton]

its so purdy! :)

[LagunaRoadster]

Crap! I knew someone would notice!
Trade for Stormtrooper costume???

I'll let ya wear it if you give me a ride :) (preferably not all at the same time, as its a ***** to sit down in)

[RotorNutFD3S]

Haha! Deal! I'll let you drive it, just so that you'll get the boost bug again. :D We need to get you turbo'd ASAP.

[LagunaRoadster]

Sure, I'll be turbo'd soon enough...

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a364/SIDEWYS/l_55974ea33d094064ae5190090c9091eb.jpg

you know, I never really read much of your build thread til now. You have a lot of nice parts. the tein+NB top hats are nice, why would you want the FM ones? Great roll bar, I'd love to get one of those in chrome. the moss headlights are the sheeeit, I've got em too and they hands down kick the BSP's ***. sweeet beatrush rear bar as well. I'm excited to see this thing all running and stuff, let me know when you need a hand.

[ben91]

So got some images from the machine shop. :D The block is just about done. Had some clearance issues between the ARP studs and the MBSP, but that's all good now. Oil pump is completely cleaned up, has a set of new billet gears, and is ready to go.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/Block/P1011734.jpg

So you are indeed running that 4bbl right?!? :lol:

[wildfire0310]

Sure, I'll be turbo'd soon enough...



you know, I never really read much of your build thread til now. You have a lot of nice parts. the tein+NB top hats are nice, why would you want the FM ones? Great roll bar, I'd love to get one of those in chrome. the moss headlights are the sheeeit, I've got em too and they hands down kick the BSP's ***. sweeet beatrush rear bar as well. I'm excited to see this thing all running and stuff, let me know when you need a hand.

He sold the Tein's to Ben91.

[LagunaRoadster]

Oh... oops.

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: It's all good. It was kept pretty hush hush for a while.
I appreciate the offer for help, and thanks for the compliments on the parts!
I like the look of the roll bar in chrome (like on Peter's (BluePotato's) car), but I cannot imagine paying that much for one. lol
And yes, the Moss lights were a great upgrade!

[RotorNutFD3S]

Well, just another little update. The head assembly has been delayed. :cry:
Apparently Supertech does not like to package their valves correctly every so often, and I ended up with one intake valve that was shorter at the stem than the rest. A replacement is on the way from Belfab. Oh well, it's always the little crap. :lol:

From there, I'll be setting everything up on an engine stand and getting all the little seals and junk installed, assembling the head to the block, installing the timing belt, and just overall getting the engine ready to drop in. Gotta clean up the bellhousing of the 6-speed and install the new front and rear seal in it too.

Nick and I went in on the FM group buy and ordered the WillWood Proportioning Valve kit. That'll be a nice piece to have.

On the still to-do list:
Waiting on my differential to get finished up
Debating on what to do about an intercooler setup, because I change my mind on a daily basis and want something that won't create heat issues since I'm adding a/c
Gotta get a metal core cat from Enthuza
Find an OEM 6-speed shifter
Order my MSM oil pan turbo drain kit from FM
Order a silicone transition piece so my intake pipe fits the larger inlet on the GT2871R
Build my radiator shroud for my slim fans
Maybe get some adjustable cam gears? Still looking into those.
Order a 3.636 speedo drive gear from MiataRoadster.com
And get the other little odds and ends that are involved in tearing a car down and rebuilding it from the ground up and changing everything about it.

[MeFryRice]

So this should be on the street by say June-July realistically?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Yeah, or I'll be running on hopes and dreams again.

[RotorNutFD3S]

So I got bored and ordered a GV lip... Oops.

[FE3tMX5]

For intercoolers- I think you should consider a tube and fine after what JasonC saw after swapping over that track dog piece. There's was a substantial increase in air flow to everything behind the IC (a/c condenser and rad) without any negative effect to air temp. I'd also start looking for intercoolers that have better end tank and inlet outlet designs than the typice eBay coolers with the tiny end tanks and inlet/outlets at the very top/bottom. Just stuff I'd reconsider if I had it to do over again.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Thanks for the input! I've been continually considering the BEGi intercooler, but IIRC they are bar and plate. But yeah, tube and fin definitely allow a more efficient and smooth airflow to anything behind them. Still shopping around, won't have to decide for a bit still.

Also working on an undertray, hinged for oil changes and such, that will work it's way back almost to the transmission. Then going to look into something for the rear of the car that eliminates the parachute effect that the rear bumper/lip creates.

[LagunaRoadster]

dibs on the r front lip.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Sorry, not for sale.

[jesseealexander]

^^ dont be stingy. lol

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: I'm actually keeping it just in case something were to happen to the GV lip. My car does not look good lipless. lol

[Roadster]

I'll probably get banned for a nonsense post, but....Eric I can't stop roffling at your avatar. :lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: That commercial had me rolling on the floor. So many jobs I could think of where that was exactly how I felt... :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

I'm proud of myself, I finally chose an intercooler kit. :lol:
Some may argue that buying an intercooler kit rather than going the DIY route is silly because of the price, but I like this one a lot, it fits my needs, it looks clean, and it'll be drop-in and go, which is what I want. Well, the drop-in and go part is not completely true, I'm going to have to move /modify/relocate the a/c dryer can, but you can bet your *** the mouth of my car is going to be full of intercooler core! :D

[wildfire0310]

I'm proud of myself, I finally chose an intercooler kit. :lol:
Some may argue that buying an intercooler kit rather than going the DIY route is silly because of the price, but I like this one a lot, it fits my needs, it looks clean, and it'll be drop-in and go, which is what I want. Well, the drop-in and go part is not completely true, I'm going to have to move /modify/relocate the a/c dryer can, but you can bet your *** the mouth of my car is going to be full of intercooler core! :D

Nice and with all the waiting you have had to do, I can understand the lack of DIY right now.

One question..... Why do you have an a/c dryer can???? Your an R package. I mean I know your planning to add A/C but did you already install the a/c lines?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Nice and with all the waiting you have had to do, I can understand the lack of DIY right now.

One question..... Why do you have an a/c dryer can???? Your an R package. I mean I know your planning to add A/C but did you already install the a/c lines?

Yep, still going to be adding a/c. Nothing for the system is installed yet, but the can is mounted on the front of the condenser from the factory and it has to be moved to allow for the intercooler core.
Which reminds me, I need to add replacing the line's o-rings to my to-do list.

[RotorNutFD3S]

OK, so word from the machine shop is the replacement Supertech valve made it to them today, and if all goes well, I'll be picking the head up mid-week!!! :D :D :D :D :D :D
I bought an engine stand and a load balancer yesterday, and I've got to go pick up the engine hoist from my g/f's house, so that means this weekend is going to be a ton of fun! I'm f***ing ecstatic!

[wildfire0310]

OK, so word from the machine shop is the replacement Supertech valve made it to them today, and if all goes well, I'll be picking the head up mid-week!!! :D :D :D :D :D :D
I bought an engine stand and a load balancer yesterday, and I've got to go pick up the engine hoist from my g/f's house, so that means this weekend is going to be a ton of fun! I'm f***ing ecstatic!

sweet, finally :biggrin:

[FE3tMX5]

Wow - congratulations! Just in time for the dyno day! ;)

[RotorNutFD3S]

Wow - congratulations! Just in time for the dyno day! ;)

My thoughts as well. :) I'm trying really hard to beat that deadline. The only delay I can see at the moment is the differential not being ready.

[FE3tMX5]

...I've got to go pick up the engine hoist from my g/f's house...
Oh, you don't just drop the car off and pick up the next day with the engine installed? ;)
I missed that first time around
Well, I for one hope it all comes together for you this weekend since it's been a long road paved deep with patience.

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: Ouch, that kinda burned...
Thanks for the vote of confidence. :) I do most of my own work. (Except for the machine work, I don't have the precision tools or experience yet for that work, and I want it to be right the first time around...)

[FE3tMX5]

I meant your woman wouldn't install it for you - not you're incapable of doing it yourself. :lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Oh ****. :lol: Completely misinterpreted that!
My ex would have been able to, this one, not so much. Love her to death though. :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

My $80 '99 head is back in my possession all built up and ready to go!

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC03092.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC03093.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC03094.jpg

Photos of the ports did not turn out so well, but the majority of the porting was done down near the valves. Nothing extreme or fancy, just something to improve the flow.

And this is what you see when you walk into my office at home, otherwise known as: this is what happens when you buy too much s*** and don't have a running car :lol: :

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC03090.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC03089.jpg

Can't wait until it's all gone and back in the car.

[wildfire0310]

My $80 '99 head is back in my possession all built up and ready to go!

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC03092.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC03093.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/00HeadSwap/DSC03094.jpg

Photos of the ports did not turn out so well, but the majority of the porting was done down near the valves. Nothing extreme or fancy, just something to improve the flow.

And this is what you see when you walk into my office at home, otherwise known as: this is what happens when you buy too much s*** and don't have a running car :lol: :

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC03090.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/DSC03089.jpg

Can't wait until it's all gone and back in the car.

Wow just wow. I wish I had half those parts. Can't wait for your car to be running

[RotorNutFD3S]

Thanks Bryan! :D

So Sean came over tonight, we got the engine stand assembled, and got the block up on it.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03099.jpg

Then got the ARP head studs, water pump, and crank assembly installed, and got the block ready for the head.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03101.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03103.jpg

Head installed and torqued. Valve cover is only sitting on it to keep crap from falling in the head. Manifold torqued down and turbo and downpipe loosely connected.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03108.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03109.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03110.jpg

[wildfire0310]

looks great man.

[RotorNutFD3S]

So I spent yesterday staging parts, test fitting parts, installing some parts, but was not feeling very motivated and couldn't stay focused for some reason, just really tired I guess.

Anyway, Steve came over and we brainstormed on some ideas since I had reached a stopping point. I couldn't assemble the rest of the timing system because the water neck needs a new o-ring. But at the end of the day, I decided that I'll be installing a 30mm freeze plug, deleting the water neck, and going ahead with a coolant reroute setup. Might as well since the engine is out of the car. There are some small coolant line routing issues I have to figure out as well.

I'll be going back tonight to mock up the intake manifold and large bore dual feed fuel rail, making sure everything fits there, and taking measurements for a coolant return tube to go to the radiator from the back of the head. I'll also be picking up a sheet of Lexan to make my radiator shroud for the slim fans.

Intercooler kit gets ordered this Friday.

[wildfire0310]

So I spent yesterday staging parts, test fitting parts, installing some parts, but was not feeling very motivated and couldn't stay focused for some reason, just really tired I guess.

Anyway, Steve came over and we brainstormed on some ideas since I had reached a stopping point. I couldn't assemble the rest of the timing system because the water neck needs a new o-ring. But at the end of the day, I decided that I'll be installing a 30mm freeze plug, deleting the water neck, and going ahead with a coolant reroute setup. Might as well since the engine is out of the car. There are some small coolant line routing issues I have to figure out as well.

I'll be going back tonight to mock up the intake manifold and large bore dual feed fuel rail, making sure everything fits there, and taking measurements for a coolant return tube to go to the radiator from the back of the head. I'll also be picking up a sheet of Lexan to make my radiator shroud for the slim fans.

Intercooler kit gets ordered this Friday.

Sweet man keep up the hard work. You know it will all be worth it once you go for the first boosted run.

[RotorNutFD3S]

I know... It's just getting there at this point. lol

On a happier note, I scored a 6-speed shift lever finally. It was going to be pretty hard shifting gears by sticking my finger in the turret...

[wildfire0310]

I know... It's just getting there at this point. lol

On a happier note, I scored a 6-speed shift lever finally. It was going to be pretty hard shifting gears by sticking my finger in the turret...


:facepalm:

wish my car was running better man. I would make a drive down there and give you a reason to be motivate, but I swear I am getting 10mpg... so yea long drives are out of the question.

Give me a heads up on the date your looking to re-install everything and I will try and give you hand.

[dundunskeert]

That is awesome! Sweet car.

[Pitt]

WOW! Beautiful Engine! It will be epic when finished!

[RotorNutFD3S]

:facepalm:

wish my car was running better man. I would make a drive down there and give you a reason to be motivate, but I swear I am getting 10mpg... so yea long drives are out of the question.

Give me a heads up on the date your looking to re-install everything and I will try and give you hand.

You know that was funny as hell.
I will do so, if it comes down to it, I'll come get you. Thanks though!

That is awesome! Sweet car.

Thank you! I really like your RS as well.

WOW! Beautiful Engine! It will be epic when finished!

Thank you! I'm hoping for a good epic, and not an epic failure. lol

[RotorNutFD3S]

So after work yesterday, hit up Home Depot for some 1/4" thick plexi and some strip insulation to make my slim fan radiator shroud. Going to be a fun project, but I think it's going to turn out well.

I also looked into a few things that concerned me, mainly how I would be keeping my FPR in place with the new '99 intake manifold. So I test fitted the new rail with the manifold, and it barely fit with the supplied hardware. Doesn't look like it, but there is clearance.

[Doppelgänger]

Damn that's a good looking engine....

I bet you're just a bit excited. :D

[RotorNutFD3S]

Thanks man! And I could really care less though...

































...and if you believe that, I have some beachfront property in Arizona to sell you. :D

[Doppelgänger]

LoLL, The first part of that reply makes you look like an *******... and that lower part only makes it worse :D


i keed i keed


But soon, there will be beachfront property in Arazona....the sooner the better....Arazona Bay will be on the map.

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: I am an *******. Everyone knows this.

[Doppelgänger]

....and i've been on m-t too long :lol:

[nickt93]

So after work yesterday, hit up Home Depot for some 1/4" thick plexi...

Thanks for your business ;)

Glad to see everything is coming together!

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: Mike. Me too.

Haha Nick, I actually thought about it for a second, "Well, there went $40 for a sheet of clear plastic, here's to Nick's job security." :lol:

[wildfire0310]

:lol: Mike. Me too.

Haha Nick, I actually thought about it for a second, "Well, there went $40 for a sheet of clear plastic, here's to Nick's job security." :lol:

lol:lol: Nick got some good job security from me when I built my motor as I got an a$$load of random hardware and other **** from the local HD.

MX5atl's new economy plan = Nick's Job security.

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

I guess my old lip helped him out too... And my construction lights... and a few other things actually!

[RotorNutFD3S]

Today:

My 6-speed shifter arrived. It came out of a freshly totaled MSM.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03114.jpg

In preparation for my coolant reroute, I installed a 30mm freeze plug in the head where the water neck would have gone:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03118.jpg

Installed the timing system:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03120.jpg

And loosely attached the covers (as the bolts have mysteriously disappeared out of their marked bag):
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03121.jpg

That's all for the night (got off work kinda late).

[FooSchnickens]

Man I hate it when things run off like that. Me and hector have been trying to find a SC bypass actuator for DAYS now. It's become a running joke where we'll ask each other if we've seen it like it's the first time we're mentioning it :lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: I don't get it. When I tore the engine down, everything went into parts bags. You know, the clear bags that have paper adhered to the back that you can write on, and then you pull a tab off the top and seal the bag. Well I have a box full of them with all the little random nuts, bolts, grounding straps, gaskets, o-rings, etc. I'm OCD about this crap. I haven't opened the box since I took the engine apart. WTF?!?!?! I really don't get it because I have the bag for the bolts for the upper timing cover, just not the two lower ones. Oh well. I'm checking with Kurt to see if he has any. Y'all don't have any up at R-Speed do you? 'Cause these bad boys are gone!

[RotorNutFD3S]

Intercooler kit is on the way. :D That's the last big part. Differential is also supposed to be done soon.

[RotorNutFD3S]

I literally did one thing this weekend to the car (not in a big hurry to drop the engine in at the moment since BEGi is working on a coolant reroute spacer and kit and that's really what I need):

I added the silicone transition (2.25" to 3") to the inlet of the turbo. Sorry for cell-quality pic, it's all I had at the moment.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/0227091752.jpg

And a quick close-up of the oil drain into the MSM pan:

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/0227091754.jpg

[FooSchnickens]

C'mon, already.

PUT IT IN

[RotorNutFD3S]

That's what she said... :lol:

Still waiting on some small parts to finish everything up. *Theme from Jeopardy*

[RotorNutFD3S]

So my intercooler kit arrived as I mentioned. Made me very happy!

Always nice to see that familiar sticker on the boxes sitting outside the door:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/IntercoolerKit/DSC03156.jpg

All unpacked:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/IntercoolerKit/DSC03158.jpg

Throttle Inlet Hard Pipe. Don't know if this is a new thing, but I don't remember seeing it on the other FM kits I've seen, 3/8" NPT port. Will make reinstalling my water/meth injection seamless.
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/IntercoolerKit/DSC03157.jpg

And finally, a preview of what's to come. :D
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/IntercoolerKit/DSC03159-1.jpg

[ben91]

Eric, that port looks like the IAT probe bung.
Intercooler in the car is bad ***.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Eric, that port looks like the IAT probe bung.
Intercooler in the car is bad ***.

You might be onto something there. Fortunately, my IAT sensor is the circuit board type which sits inside the IAC hose, so it'll be my water/meth injection port. :D

Thanks! And it's not mounted by the way. My g/f's little brother was holding the I/C in place for me. The final result will be more centered. I'm glad I went with the upgraded core. Just will have to modify my a/c lines and dryer can.

[FooSchnickens]

Thanks! And it's not mounted by the way. My g/f's little brother was holding the I/C in place for me. The final result will be more centered. I'm glad I went with the upgraded core. Just will have to modify my a/c lines and dryer can.

I thought that was a baseball cap peeking up there...

[RotorNutFD3S]

Only did the turbo lines today, kinda stalling and waiting for BEGi to sell the reroute parts. lol

Nifty 5/16" hardline fitting to -6AN
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03326.jpg

Will clear the accessory belt just fine:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03328.jpg
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03329.jpg

And from the side:
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03330.jpg

[MoD_Scotty]

Tasty.

[caseyfoster]

How long has this project been going eric?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Since late July of last year.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Tonight was trying to be a pain in the ***. I installed the FM intercooler, didn't get 5 minutes into it and had another bolt break, one of the ones that holds the hood latch in place. It looked fine from the front, but it had rusted frozen on the back, who knows how. So, drilled that bastard out, dremeled the weld nut on the back off, and replaced it with a bolt, washer, and locknut, done. Got the intercooler installed. Kinda mad that FM offers a larger core, but doesn't center it in the mouth. The 15" core sits off to the driver's side, the 19" core is off to the passenger side. Oh well.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/IntercoolerKit/DSC03350.jpg

Silicone tubes coming up into the engine bay:

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/IntercoolerKit/DSC03351.jpg

Then started messing the actual engine some, still can't get that one timing cover bolt out of the oil pump, don't know what I'm going to do there. Probably just leave the cover on and let the crank pulley wear the plastic down. I'm done messing with it. I've tried 3 different methods of trying to get that bastard out, 2 of which have resulted in broken bits. I think it's meant to stay in there forever.
So I installed the covers, crank pulley, and water pump pulley. Finishing tightening the last bolt in the water pump pulley, SNAP, another bolt down, this one was easy to get out though. Didn't have another short one to replace it with, so found 3 slightly longer bolts (all the exact same to maintain even rotating balance) and put them in with no clearance issues.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03348.jpg

F***ing bolts...

[LagunaRoadster]

dude, my hood latch bolts both f-ed up as well!!

your build seems to be going decent though :) I dig the braided lines for the turbo fluids.

I think that if you could run 340 billion PSI and have it at -360*F... no that just wouldn't work. Nice lesson on physics though.

[nickt93]

Wow....your motor is a work of art! Look how clean everything is!

[wildfire0310]

Broken hardware FTL.

Looks like everything is starting to come together.

[RotorNutFD3S]

dude, my hood latch bolts both f-ed up as well!!

your build seems to be going decent though :) I dig the braided lines for the turbo fluids.

I think that if you could run 340 billion PSI and have it at -360*F... no that just wouldn't work. Nice lesson on physics though.

I just sent FM an email saying that they should put something in their instructions to check the backside of the latch bolts, or to at least PB Blaster them first. That was frustrating as hell. I'm thinking of going back and taking the other weld nut off and matching up the bolts. I hate mismatched hardware. lol

It's getting there, slowly but surely, I need BEGi to get on the ball with this coolant reroute kit that we're begging for on mt.net so I can finish the back of the engine and drop it in.

:lol: I stole that from a guy on mt.net that stopped using it about 2 months ago, it always made me laugh, so I adapted it for my use.

Wow....your motor is a work of art! Look how clean everything is!

Thanks! I'm going for the "you could eat off of it". :D
Someday I'll be able to prove I do have a Miata...

Broken hardware FTL.

Looks like everything is starting to come together.

No **** dude, twice in one night had me mad as hell. It's amazing how little crap like that will push you to anger so quickly. lol

[wildfire0310]

No **** dude, twice in one night had me mad as hell. It's amazing how little crap like that will push you to anger so quickly. lol

Trust me I know. I went to pull the turbo Monday night to try and fix the little leak I still have and I found out one of the turbo to manifold hardware is ****ed up :(

Any word on when Begi is going to be done with the reroute. If anything you could get the JR spacer and do it like most of the MT crowd. I still wish I had done the reroute when I had the motor out.

[RotorNutFD3S]

If you need some extra hardware, let me know. I have extra and it's all brand new. :)

They've gotten the spacer mostly done, apparently they are going to make some minor changes. Then they're going to figure out a hardpipe and hose option to make it a complete kit. I can wait though, I still have to order a cat and test pipe from Enthuza, get my differential back, and get some other little odds and ends. I'm close, just not tomorrow close.
The JR spacer method has always been an option, would just require some machining, welding, etc. We'll see.

[FE3tMX5]

http://i10.ebayimg.com/08/i/001/0d/4d/f2a4_2.JPG

re: coolant reroutes

I posted this tstat (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/BMW-THERMOSTAT-1600-1800-2002-318I-320I-1-6L-1-8L-2-0L_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3286Q2em20Q2el1116QQ itemZ250296438669QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fParts Q5fAccessories) up on mt.net and never got a comment. But IMO this is a simple solution. It's a bmw 2002 160f thermostat for $16 delivered. All you'd need to do is install an outlet piece on with a rad hose sized bung, then connect this housing. It has a pre-tstat outlet for the heatercore (which would need to be stepped down to match the core at the firewall) and an outlet to go to the rad. Then just plug the OE hole at the front of the head.

I haven't confirmed the bung sizes, nor that two of the bungs are pre-tstat (though I can't imagine a reason they wouldn't be). The latter being more of an issue. But this thing is VERY similar to the billet machined in-line pieces being sold in the kits. If I needed a solution, I'd risk the $16 on making it work. And a little net research might reveal the bung/port configuration/flow.

Edit:
Confirmed the configuration/flow per this thread (http://www.bmw2002faq.com/component/option,com_forum/Itemid,0/page,viewtopic/t,312774/start,30/sid,fea87256a6ccdcbe77bb6c3e0a308bbc/) and pics. Here's the flow:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Hmmm... Thanks Rob, gives me something to look into!

[FE3tMX5]

It's definitely not in the spirit of your build, but then again, something like this could easily sit behind the block/head - like under the coil pack... easily hidden from view. And that would still put it in proximity to the heater core inlet. On my current my heater core feed comes out of the top of the tstat neck on the back of the head because I installed it with the engine in the car. Yeah, I thought I could do with a slow heater on cold morning (hah) with the feed post tstat. Nope. So the hose comes over my CAS (on the exhaust cam) and down to the hc bung. Nothing unsual about routing longer heater hoses- the Miata just happens to have very short hose runs.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Yeah, it's something that definitely would not be visible. I'm all for different methods as long as it gets the job done well and without issues! I'm definitely going to research this one and see what it would take to get it installed and routed properly.

[wildfire0310]

Yeah, it's something that definitely would not be visible. I'm all for different methods as long as it gets the job done well and without issues! I'm definitely going to research this one and see what it would take to get it installed and routed properly.

Yea if you don't I will have to look into that. That seems to fit my build to a T:biggrin:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Bryan, he posted some more information about it on mt.net. Good read and it will work.

[FE3tMX5]

I happen to read this thread as I was about to post it at mt.net after the reroute threads over there (complicating things) ;)

[wildfire0310]

Bryan, he posted some more information about it on mt.net. Good read and it will work.

yea I already read his post on Mt before posting over here. :biggrin:

[RotorNutFD3S]

Haha! Cross-forum posting FTW!

[wildfire0310]

Haha! Cross-forum posting FTW!

yea I love cross-forum posting. I have both here and there up on my firefox at the same time. I am still trying to figure out why Pat and BryanTaylor where ban..??:wtf:

[RotorNutFD3S]

yea I love cross-forum posting. I have both here and there up on my firefox at the same time. I am still trying to figure out why Pat and BryanTaylor where ban..??:wtf:

Who knows, the thread about it didn't really shed any light on the situation. Ask Ben, I'm sure he has some insider information.

[wildfire0310]

Who knows, the thread about it didn't really shed any light on the situation. Ask Ben, I'm sure he has some insider information.

Yea that is what I was thinking also.. The thread left me with more questions then answers :wtf:

[RotorNutFD3S]

OK, so it apparently has a lot to do with Rick and him buying the homemadeturbo forum.
http://clubroadster.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=26436&highlight=&sid=dd18e0498dfbafa4dff7df010bda4b04

But that's way off topic for this thread. :lol:

[RotorNutFD3S]

So it's almost there. Just need to reassemble the VICS intake manifold, which I can do now since my gaskets arrived today, and get the coolant reroute parts. I was so happy putting the a/c compressor on tonight, it'll be so nice having it.

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03417.jpg

BOV mounted to the hard pipe (I hate snap rings! lol) :

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z104/RotorNutFD3S/EngineMods/EngineIncident/TheRebuild/DSC03420.jpg

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Getting excited?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Getting excited?

Very! Everyday we have nice weather and I'm over there working on the car is motivation to work that much faster.

Also got news that my differential is on the last part of reassembly, so it appears that everything will be coming together at the same time.

[Jack-MX5ATLanta.com]

Fantastic. I know you won't want to put a date on your car but what's the prediction you've got in mind?

I can't wait to go for a ride in it.

[RotorNutFD3S]

I'm really hoping a few more weeks at the most. Originally I wanted to be done with it by the end of this month, but that's not going to happen either. We also have an issue at work that has caused me to stop spending money on it at the moment, so purchasing the reroute kit and the catalytic converter has been temporarily put on hold until more details surface there. It'll get done though.

Haha! I plan on going through some tanks of gas giving rides out. :)

[scandmx5]

i...actually have ridden in this thing many years ago

[RotorNutFD3S]

It wasn't that long ago... Like mid '07 IIRC. :lol:

[scandmx5]

no...it was summer 06 i believe, i got my chip in the volvo at the beginning of 07. and YES you had those damn chrome sport bar things behind the seat...i remember them plain as day

[RotorNutFD3S]

no...it was summer 06 i believe, i got my chip in the volvo at the beginning of 07. and YES you had those damn chrome sport bar things behind the seat...i remember them plain as day

I bought the car February '07, so there's no way in hell you saw me in it in summer '06. :D
And I never had a style bar either. I can show you the pictures of before I owned it and all the meets I attended locally after I bought it, hell, there are people on here that can vouch that I didn't have one. lol I think I'd know what I had in my car... :)
Wait a second, you were the one that was all cautious to get in my car because it didn't have a rollbar! I remember you and the passenger you had in your Volvo that night say that to each other!

[scandmx5]

damn i guess you're right
"im getting out of the safest car in the world of auto production, to get in this cart with no rollbar...Ripley my forehead is literally over the top of the window...OMG what if we flip?"
yup thats me ROFLMAO

[RotorNutFD3S]

:lol: Good times...

[RotorNutFD3S]

Getting damn depressed with this build at the moment.
Gotta replace the a/c condenser and get the dryer can remote mounted before I put the engine in the car. No leads on a giveaway and funding is limited at the moment.
Now I have to find a VICS solenoid because apparently this one was broken when Mike and I pulled the head at the salvage yard. I can't find the harness end I specifically saved that goes to the solenoid so I could wire an RPM switch to it (and I still need an RPM switch).
Both M-Tuned and BEGi's coolant reroutes are more expensive than I was planning which sucks, but if I spend the time and money to go the DIY route, I'll end up spending close to the same amount anyway and will be even more delayed.
I really just want it running again. Why does sh** have to be so expensive...

/ :cry:

[Reverend Greg]

I am making one spacer for my coolant reroute with 2 3/8" npt ports & 1 for the stocksensor it would be almost as easy to make 2

[RotorNutFD3S]

You sir have my undivided attention. Although I only need one port for the heater core feed and one for the sensor. And of course machined for the thermostat.

[Reverend Greg]

You have helped me thru the site returning the favor I will pm you before the end of the week so you can pick it up

[ben91]

I am making one spacer for my coolant reroute with 2 3/8" npt ports & 1 for the stocksensor it would be almost as easy to make 2
Why (2) 3/8 NPT ports?

[Reverend Greg]

One for the heater and on for an aftermarket gauge on my dash

[ben91]

got ya. my autometer temp sender is in a hard tube spliced into the top radiator hose. but your way is cleaner. i'd also be interested in a spacer, if you want to send me a PM... (thx)

[Reverend Greg]

I will see what I can do