GA Limited 818S Build Thread - 07FIREBLADE & The Wizzard

[07FIREBLADE]

I guess its time to stop being a troll and start my build thread since I just finished up my semester of college. This is suppose to be the ultimate father/son bonding project. This is the first kit car they we have built together, but not the first project that we have tackled to date. Started out working on motorcycles and Honda's while I was in high school. I bought a 06 WRX with the plan of eventually tearing it down in plans of making a 818 after college, but being impaitient and my fathers retirement fastily approaching we decided to pull the trigger and put down a preorder. Got hotlisted about 2 months after the list was announced and got bumped up to a early Feburary production date from mid June.

GA LIMITED
Start up company, my father and I made a few years back. We did bike restorations and one off builds. Had a few aero pieces replicated for my DA back in the day under this business.

THE BUILD
We are going to building a 818S and its chassis 127, being built in our garage on our spare time after school and when I can get my homework done. Updates are going to slow and few in between. I want to do updates when I ht goals. Since I have been a troll though I am already art way into the build and have a DMV appointment for June 16th, hopefully I can get the car up and running by then. Pics will be all coming from my iphone so quality may not be top notch, but we will see.

Donor
02 WRX ~ 127,xxx $3000
Bought off a kid from NAOISC, who got his car "joyridden" which ended up getting crunched pretty bad... Car started idle, reved freely would go into gear but couldn't be moved. Bought the car on pure faith and reputation.

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/368-2.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/368-2.jpg.html)

DRIVETRAIN
2.2L EJ20 stroker motor - had low compression due to ring land failure.
Exedy stage 1 HD clutch kit
Transmission got rebuilt, replaced a few syncros and installed a quaife lsd
Decided to get the motor rebuilt by a Garage Tuning - now known as Ubersport. Was initially going to give the motor and trans to COBB, which is down the street from me but got a bad vibe from them.
Hybrid turbo - 18g turbo housing and a 20g wheel inside according to my tuner.
Shooting for 300hp/300tq at the wheels. We will see.
AWIC - Got my whole setup from Froozenboost.com
Cusco solid motor mounts
Moroso Steel oil pan
Techworks Equal length headers
Grimmspeed ceramic coated intake, tgv deletes, throttle body, crankshaft pulley
Tial 50 qr bov, ebay turbo inlet
CX Racing radiator

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/385-1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/385-1.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/364-2.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/364-2.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/310.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/310.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/271.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/271.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/269.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/269.jpg.html)
Wheels/Tires
Rota's G-Force
17x8 e48 - 10mm spacers
18x9.5 e35 - no spacers
Tire's
Falken K453

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/382-1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/382-1.jpg.html)

Brakes/Suspension
04 STI Brembo's/conversion kit from fastwrx
-Contemplated on putting these on my own WRX and switching brakes but decided against it.
SS Braided lines from the Race Line
VCP Trailing arm kit
Godspeed lateral links
JDM aluminium LCA



Body
Haven't decided on what color or style of finish yet
Cobra Imola Pro Gt kevlar seats
Schroth Profi-II ASM harness
Homemade harness bar
Handmade shift knob
TWM short shifter/Longislandwrx shifter mod

[07FIREBLADE]

http://vid657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/300.mp4
Delivery truck showed up after 2 breakdowns and getting lost...

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/317.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/317.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/319.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/319.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/336-1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/336-1.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/348.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/348.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/349.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/349.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/363.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/363.jpg.html)

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/360-2.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/360-2.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/DD7FCFF6-1188-4418-804B-CEF4003E28C2.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/DD7FCFF6-1188-4418-804B-CEF4003E28C2.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/474.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/474.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/404-1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/404-1.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/403-1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/403-1.jpg.html)

[07FIREBLADE]

reserved, photos to come shortly have a birthday party to go too

[07FIREBLADE]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kVYuAezVN0

Been busy with school lately. But finally got some time to get the 818 up and running. Coolant is burning off of the header wrap in the video. First start after i figured out that my fuel lines were switched.

[riptide motorsport]

Way ubercool!!! Congrats....

[Mechie3]

Where's all the pics in the reserved for pics section? ;)

[07FIREBLADE]

Trying to get my iphone fixed right now... Didn't back up my phone to iCloud and dropped it awhile ago destroyed my screen waiting on a replacement screen to boot it back up and upload.

[07FIREBLADE]

http://youtu.be/5k1qtKrXllE

Just got my car back from the exhaust shop, its been awhile since I've been able to update this thread. Life's been pretty busy and complicated lately. Haven't had that much progress on #127 lately. Couldn't wait for AJW to come to market with their exhaust system setup. Inspired by them with a bit of a twist, its about 80% done. Let me know what you guys think.

[Frank818]

I think it sounds nice! So a cat and no muffler?

Any rear view of the tip? It looks dual.

[07FIREBLADE]

Vibrant Resonator no cat, obx header collector flipped to make a quad tip. Full 304 stainless steel. I need to install my O2 and wideband in this photos, sounds way better in person. Took this video from my destroyed 5s... 32218

[STiPWRD]

Were you going for the Zonda look?
32219

[07FIREBLADE]

Was until the welder messed up my tip, might still do that.

[07FIREBLADE]

Got some new gauges since my cluster had a busted speedo. Speedhut revolution gauges. With led warning lights and custom wording. Now it's time to make some sort of support to attach them. Haven't decided on material yet and locations for all of the gauges. Let me know what you guys think.

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/A2395F64-9B3B-41D1-A3EC-5B5F61D08A6D_1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/A2395F64-9B3B-41D1-A3EC-5B5F61D08A6D_1.jpg.html)

[metros]

I had the exact same plan of using a collector tip flipped backwards. What size is each one of those 4 tips? Where did you find the turbo flange at the start of the exhaust system (new or used off an old downpipe)?

Not sure I like the diamond orientation of it. But sounds like you weren't originally planning that.

Sounds good.

Gauges look awesome. Reminds me of my 3rd gen rx7 for some reason.

[07FIREBLADE]

I liked the diamond configuration when I originally planed on having the tip come straight out the back section. They are 1.75" each. The flange is new, bought it off ebay. Stainless 76mm.

[07FIREBLADE]

Finally got most of my photos fixed

[Brando]

Has Garage tuning finished your motor? Good group of guys there, they did my first street tune and helped me button up a few loose ends.
Sounds like you will hit your target 300HP pretty easily.

Was your donor hit with a train? Jeez some joyride

[metros]

Thanks for the info.

If you have a chance, I'd love to see a photo of the rear of your 818 (straight on shot) to better see how the exhaust fits the rear of the car.

[07FIREBLADE]

Ill get a photo of the rear end next time I roll the car out with the body on. Right now it doesn't look like it fits all to well but I am going to make a bezel like the zonda and do the rest of the bumper cutout and it should look alright.

Drunk driver, ya Kelly and group are pretty cool a bit disorganzied at times but a great group to deal with. How did you like your street tune from them? How complete was your car when you had your tune done?

[Brando]

I had them tune it just after my first start, no body panels on. My ECU wasn't playing well with their laptop. That combined with the fact my o2 sensors were shot they just did a baseline tune based on my injectors and turbo. It was still on the rich side but it was enough so I could drive it in the HB show...where I saw you :)
I ended up using Church automotive for the final tune.
Tell Kelly I say what's up.

[07FIREBLADE]

Oh ok, I get ya. Im right at that point right now. Just got my O2 sensors installed. I need to go up their and do a baseline before I drive anymore. After my baseline they want me to break the motor in for 2k miles before I do any real dyno time. I dont know though if I'm going to be able to get a baseline done soon or might just wait until after I get my iWire harness done.

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-08/4F530CFB-CC34-495F-8557-206D9185CCFE.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-08/4F530CFB-CC34-495F-8557-206D9185CCFE.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-08/FC3F7252-DD50-420A-B589-549590DA2A94.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-08/FC3F7252-DD50-420A-B589-549590DA2A94.jpg.html)

Took a study break and started to mock up my gauge mount for the main cluster. Still need to do some more trimming and do a final finish with a CF top coat. Currently weighting out my options for indicator lights. Havent found that many options that I currently like.

[wleehendrick]

Took a study break and started to mock up my gauge mount for the main cluster. Still need to do some more trimming and do a final finish with a CF top coat

That should look great! If it's not too late, I'd put the tach in the center. I've always preferred that layout; it's in my current Z, and I was glad to get an 06 WRX donor with the center tach.

[metros]

Agreed, if you're planning on any track time the tach being centered is very helpful. If you're only going to drive on street then the mph centered would probably be better.

Going to look great either way though.

[07FIREBLADE]

Ya I was feeling the same way. Just was on autopilot when I threw this together. Grabed the gauges and inserted them while I was looking at my broke 02 cluster in front of me. I'm going to do a final trim and finish then finish with a cf top layer. But before I do that I am figuring out indicator lights and mounting.

Thread might go dark again for a few days. My dad is going in for neck surgery tomorrow to have some TI rods and screws put in.

[07FIREBLADE]

Its been awhile since I've updated this thread. My dad went in for neck surgery last month and school started again. So progress has been slow. I started to get the body panels hung last time I Well I guess its time for some pics.
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/FEB4E3D1-9767-442D-B866-C5FFEAEB921C.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/FEB4E3D1-9767-442D-B866-C5FFEAEB921C.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/629AC70D-8497-4A85-AF7C-BCEB97AD2B7E.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/629AC70D-8497-4A85-AF7C-BCEB97AD2B7E.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/8D2459C2-EBEC-44C9-B753-D45D4F7B9D53.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/8D2459C2-EBEC-44C9-B753-D45D4F7B9D53.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/8E205031-80FB-4D80-88D8-8EBD2149539A.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/8E205031-80FB-4D80-88D8-8EBD2149539A.jpg.html)

[07FIREBLADE]

I need to make some spaces for some of the mini quik latches, they are a little short in a few areas. Like the front of the engine covers. I also dont like having a 1/4" stud just sticking up with no real support. There isn't enough surface area to really have that much strength. The fiberglass flexes quite a bit while trying to latch the pieces together. Other than needing to adjust the driver door a bit more and hang the opposite side. Hanging the body so far hasn't been too problematic. Hopefully my luck will continue but I highly doubt it.

[07FIREBLADE]

Made a new spacer for the quik latches. I had some spare bolts laying around and didn't feel like ordering elongated studs since I'm trying to fund a new project. Every penny counts now. I also started mocking up the front end a bit more. But ran out of time to get more than the driver side some what together.

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/88000D83-01FE-4B69-A0E3-27E9925A5A61.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/88000D83-01FE-4B69-A0E3-27E9925A5A61.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/2850E4A9-9CFC-43C5-8CCD-61C92F6478DA.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/2850E4A9-9CFC-43C5-8CCD-61C92F6478DA.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/C2E14276-C3DE-4460-A754-89481152D225.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/C2E14276-C3DE-4460-A754-89481152D225.jpg.html)

[07FIREBLADE]

Just got off the phone with CHP, and i guess its time for me to kick myself into high gear. I have a VIN appointment on the 2nd of October. Need to get the body all hung and ready to go. Then its going to be down for a bit while Brian at iWire does a wire diet for me. Hopefully everything goes as plans.

[07FIREBLADE]

Got a new toy... It was time to trade in my original donor and get a new car. My 06 was running into way to many problems for me to justify fixing. Let me know what you guys think
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/2014-09/D3FEAFB9-A864-4DF3-8EDD-B72E9D01E43A.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/2014-09/D3FEAFB9-A864-4DF3-8EDD-B72E9D01E43A.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/2014-09/E3B9FD45-F58F-454C-9533-CF376C612E09.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/2014-09/E3B9FD45-F58F-454C-9533-CF376C612E09.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/2014-09/ECFB8233-8CBA-4420-8103-30AC75B470DC.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/2014-09/ECFB8233-8CBA-4420-8103-30AC75B470DC.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/2014-09/B0FCC00A-C8CD-4E2C-93B6-E8E776060731.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/2014-09/B0FCC00A-C8CD-4E2C-93B6-E8E776060731.jpg.html)

[billjr212]

looks good - congrats on the new car. white with the dark wheels looks really good on the new wrx.

how is the fitment on those Rota G-Forces? Can you share tire sizes you went with as well? I was thinking of getting the Rota's in Gunmetal or "Hyper black".

[07FIREBLADE]

I will post specs on tires when I get home tonight. I've put steering limiters from breeze on the rack so there are no fitment issues anymore. Need to finish mounting the front end and the aluminum to verify final fitment but it looks promising. I love the Rota's only regret is the pitiful looking rear brake setup with the staggered size.

[Hindsight]

Curious on that too... Will the fronts rub at all when hitting bumps? The Rotas look really nice on there.

[07FIREBLADE]

Im hoping for a test drive with body mounted next week so time will tell if they will rub on bumps. The only rubbing I had was prior to the rack limiters being put on. Im also running a 10mm spacer up front with extended studs. I will keep you posted how things go.

This is what im talking about for awful looking rotor/wheel size:
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/398.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/398.jpg.html)

Front wheel looks so much better:
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/397-1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/397-1.jpg.html)

These are the spacers that I bought:
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/451.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/451.jpg.html)

The rubbing that I had prior to fitting the rack limiters was on the very edge of the aluminium firewall hitting the inner most portion of the thread. I will post the tire sizes when I get home. I dont have a clear picture of them in any of my albums or I would tell you.

[07FIREBLADE]

Got more body panels mounted. I still have a ways to go to get everything where I like them before final tear down and body prep for road worthiness. I rescheduled my CHP VIN appointment due to a few complications arising. Decided to take my time instead of rushing to the finish line. I would eventually have to redo a lot of steps for future mods that I had on hold while I was prepping for CHP.
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/79BDD311-5A94-47A7-9269-4EE088C1B52E.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/79BDD311-5A94-47A7-9269-4EE088C1B52E.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/79EB7F7A-5142-4C19-9707-185752671466.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/79EB7F7A-5142-4C19-9707-185752671466.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/E5AD2060-8E71-44C3-A938-DD53B22D0001.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/E5AD2060-8E71-44C3-A938-DD53B22D0001.jpg.html)

I had to trim my windshield from so both sides would match. Surprised by how much the two sides were off. I need to do a bit more trimming and fitting on the fender, hood, windshield from area before I install my hood pins.

On another note: I had some fun the other day at work:
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/79886901-893E-4811-8570-B088C49BD752.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/79886901-893E-4811-8570-B088C49BD752.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/0D9EBCE7-B3A7-41F6-B04B-B85808E25B10.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/0D9EBCE7-B3A7-41F6-B04B-B85808E25B10.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/8C8F0D38-7463-4F9B-AA28-37F474C4D4BD.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-09/8C8F0D38-7463-4F9B-AA28-37F474C4D4BD.jpg.html)

[Mechie3]

Ha! That's awesome. Just random cars in a parking garage?

[wleehendrick]

Gold chrome wrap... ugh; why do people do that to such nice cars?!?

Those 3-wheelers are T-rex, right? Hayabusa motor? Never seen one in person. :cool:

Good luck finishing up and w/ CHP!

[Frank818]

Those 3-wheelers are T-rex, right? Hayabusa motor? Never seen one in person. :cool:

Depends, the models sold now all have an I-6 BMW 1.65L (the V13R, not T-Rex has a Harley V-Twin in). There are a couple in my area, I might say I am lucky, Campagna's factory is just minutes away!

[07FIREBLADE]

Nope still in school. I valet for a night club in OC called Sutra. These were just a few nice toys that came in over the last week or so that I had the honor of driving. Gold wrapped on the SLS. It was a poor quality wrap IMO. The T-rex has a hayabusa motor and the formula sae car had a 06 cbr600 engine. Liked the formula one the most. Very similar to the one we have at school.

[Mechie3]

So you're still in school, in CA, have a 2015 WRX, and are building an 818?

:winning:


:D

[07FIREBLADE]

Ya trying to finish up my Bs in mechanical and electrical right now. Have 2 years left if everything works out will class and availability. I like living a bit more. Lol:p

[07FIREBLADE]

Christmas came early this year because I've been a good boy. http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/59730041-BB20-4377-8162-C88D7721229B.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/59730041-BB20-4377-8162-C88D7721229B.jpg.html)

Also my turbo was giving me some problems, I think my actuator arm is messed up from the car crash. I can build boost, not even waste gate boost. So I picked this puppy up during a Black Friday sale.
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/6C78AE14-5F12-4FBA-9694-2BD14E240BE7.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/6C78AE14-5F12-4FBA-9694-2BD14E240BE7.jpg.html)

Unfortunately I am out of town for the holidays so I cant play on the car for a few weeks, visiting some family up to Seattle but unfortunately missed out on Mechie3 K1 speed day. Oh well, I'll hit the car at full speed at the beginning of the year. I wonder what a solid 2 weeks of car building can accomplish.

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f390/rubinm/photo1-1.jpg (http://s51.photobucket.com/user/rubinm/media/photo1-1.jpg.html)
So I need to replace my current turbo and it doesn't have coolant lines at all it only has the oil feed and return lines. This was the turbo that was in the donor car. My question for people that have a stock turbo setup is where does this hose go to. I understand its the coolant return line that goes back to the motor but to what location. The top line goes to the top of the turbo expansion tank which was capped off from my donor. Thanks for the help guys

[Hindsight]

The feed line goes to a banjo bolt on the back of the cylinder head. Return line goes to degas tank.

[Bob_n_Cincy]

So I need to replace my current turbo and it doesn't have coolant lines at all it only has the oil feed and return lines. This was the turbo that was in the donor car. My question for people that have a stock turbo setup is where does this hose go to. I understand its the coolant return line that goes back to the motor but to what location. The top line goes to the top of the turbo expansion tank which was capped off from my donor. Thanks for the help guys

With the turbo and up pipe off you can see the hose. See picture below.
Bob

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=36691&d=1419169132

[07FIREBLADE]

Thanks guys. Time to hit up the subie dealership

[07FIREBLADE]

I've been really busy lately but I just got my VIN today, so next its brake and light and then bar and finally DMV, hopefully i will have plates by mid april. Might make the HB cruise in, cars a long way out though.

[07FIREBLADE]

Minor set backs always suck but at least I was able to get the car tuned finally. It only decided to break down on the dyno which wasn't fun at all. Luckily I was in good hands with Cobb being my tuner. It put down more than expect which I am very pleased with. i have an appointment for next week to get an alignment than on to brake and light inspection. I just want to get the car registered before I go further into bodywork since Im waiting for the hardtop to arrive.
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-03/8A4D3557-B323-4281-9D83-A335F92F3A1C.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-03/8A4D3557-B323-4281-9D83-A335F92F3A1C.jpg.html)
Heres my graph if anyone wants to see what I put out. Its a 2.2L stroker.

[Frank818]

350isch?

[07FIREBLADE]

345 torque 348 horse. Cobb had to diagnosis a few issues on the dyno for me. They rushed the tune. I'm happy though I'm going to go back after I get the hardtop. I plan on doing an exhaust change and maybe intake routing.

[Frank818]

345-350 that's pretty good! Congrats!
Any plans to go over 20psi or that was your targeted boost?

[07FIREBLADE]

No real plans at the moment. I do plan on having it retuned after the hardtop comes out. I'm playing with a different exhaust and intake setup. Maybe upgrade for e85 I just don't know at this point. Really just want to get it registered and on the road so I can work out the kinks. Get it ready and finished for next years HB show.

[07FIREBLADE]

Man it's been forever since I've update this thing but I got some good news finally. I got my sb100 # and its 158. So I'm golden and so is everyone else in Cali. Good luck gents. Now it's time to drive this thing and get through BAR. More updates to come waiting on the hardtop to get here so I can finish body work. I'm going to finish up my ac in the next week or two.

[Tamra]

Congrats!

[Frank818]

All done!!! Great! Good job!

[07FIREBLADE]

Just finished up at the state ref. got my smog exemption tag. On last trip to the DMV and I will be street legal. Just in time for the hardtop to come out. The ref didn't even start the car up he just looked over my paperwork, did a walk around and checked for a PCV and that was it. Wait a bit while he may a few phone calls and then I was on my way.

[JeromeS13]

Just finished up at the state ref. got my smog exemption tag. On last trip to the DMV and I will be street legal. Just in time for the hardtop to come out. The ref didn't even start the car up he just looked over my paperwork, did a walk around and checked for a PCV and that was it. Wait a bit while he may a few phone calls and then I was on my way.

Congrats! My final DMV appointment is tomorrow. :-D

[07FIREBLADE]

Its been ages since I've touched my car but now that school is out I have some time to make some real progress. Fortunately I was able to get the only crate that was available from FFR and I will have the first hardtop/front retrofit kit on the west coast very soon. I kind of feel bad for everyone else. FFR has a bunch of tops and fronts just waiting for shipping quotes to come back. I decided to pull the trigger and not waiting on FFR and Stewart to figure out shipping. I will have to wait on glass but at least I can make some body progress in the mean time.

I will keep this thread updated with the progress of the retrofit but it may taper off a bit. Working at iWire and planning a wedding may take up some of my spare time. I really want to get this car done for HB but only time will tell.

[AZPete]

Back in June you wrote that you ere going to finish up the A/C. Did you? Builders with A/C plans want to know.

[07FIREBLADE]

No I need a final charge and work a few kinks out before that. Im going to rebuild my iWire harness and its been on the back burner til the new harness has been built. I think i have a problem with the pressure switch and it doesn't want to cycle on. Which leaves me with a slight charge but not full.

[07FIREBLADE]

TOPS HERE!!! Finally only took 3 weeks with the holiday season really killing my timetable. Pics soon to follow I just need to figure out how to get it off the truck now.

[07FIREBLADE]

Lets see if I remember how to attach photos.

The 1st one is the freight company trying to figure out how to get my crate off their truck. I let them struggle for a bit but than told them to call for another truck.

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/C960AE37-1F65-4282-B526-DA4E649CDE38_1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/C960AE37-1F65-4282-B526-DA4E649CDE38_1.jpg.html)

On the ground and in my driveway. I have a bunch of firewood now. The crate dimension are a bit off from FFR. They measured out to being 122x66x36 and weight came in for me at about 650lbs. I was quoted 550lbs as an overestimate from FFR but I shipped air instead of ground so mine is a dimensional weight I guess.

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/4F7A7CCE-40E4-4A37-9D10-50E86728F7E2.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/4F7A7CCE-40E4-4A37-9D10-50E86728F7E2.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/8D41E070-6E98-4754-A6C0-ABD5BF7F3DFF.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/8D41E070-6E98-4754-A6C0-ABD5BF7F3DFF.jpg.html)

Starting ripping the car apart right away. Like a kid on Christmas morning.
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/286AC501-56CA-41BA-93BF-EDCDD2CB3E9F.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/286AC501-56CA-41BA-93BF-EDCDD2CB3E9F.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/72B71B5A-31B1-4942-A6E6-DFDA6516D8CF.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/72B71B5A-31B1-4942-A6E6-DFDA6516D8CF.jpg.html)

[07FIREBLADE]

After a quick inventory I'm only short a few items. All glass except the windshield no date yet on shipment. I've already been in touch with Courtnie at FFR. Headlight bucket and lenses are not included and also the led lights in the headlight. Lastly is the manual revision for the retrofits. This might take a while so I started to scour the forum to find some pics of partial coupe builds and left the rest up to the builders discretion. I will come back and make changes when necessary if something doesn't work out to my liking or copy Lance Corsi bumper design to an extent.

Brackets are slotted and leave a range of adjustments so I did the best a guessing and approatiate distance and went to town. The 1st pic is with the bracket set back 1.5" from the front edge of the subframe. 2nd is the opposite side with the lower bumper frame attached. 3rd is with the nose support attached. Here i mounted the bar to the most logical place which may be wrong but I will adjust accordingly later. Last one is motivation to keep chugging away. Getting a bit sick and having to redo a million things is not helping right now.

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/C8697A9C-0DCA-43AB-9CCC-CE252B41E503.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/C8697A9C-0DCA-43AB-9CCC-CE252B41E503.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/AE46B97D-96D0-4865-A56B-B4468982CF01.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/AE46B97D-96D0-4865-A56B-B4468982CF01.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/D9F1AE68-5AE7-47B4-8046-49324A6A0E30.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/D9F1AE68-5AE7-47B4-8046-49324A6A0E30.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/59AC86A6-CDC2-48D3-872D-376989802826.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-01/59AC86A6-CDC2-48D3-872D-376989802826.jpg.html)

[Mechie3]

What mirrors are those? S2000?

[07FIREBLADE]

Correct, S2000. Got them off a old forum buddy for dirt that car was a long time favorite car while I was in high school too. I need to make a block off plate out of carbon or fiberglass to fill in the spot where the wrx mirrors would go. Looks like you might be able to just hard mount them to the A pillar like in stock configuration.

I will post more pics of any particular parts if needed. I need to rip the top off and redo the remote reservoir so I don't have to cut into the top frame and also switch out my master cylinder to the smaller piston Nissan equivalent. That is why the top is sitting high in this picture.

[Harley818]

I like the mirrors too.
I haven't bought mine yet. Donor didn't have any.

[07FIREBLADE]

I received Harley's Vman style bumper last week as a birthday present to myself. I was waiting to install the bumper after I work a few details out with mechie3 to make some of his rear grill/led light inserts into the new bumper. Before I do a full review of the bumper but from my quick once over I can tell that it is a top notch product. Easily 2x the weight as the ffr bumper and I wouldn't mind saying that it has the quality feel and fitment of an unpainted oem bumper. It gives you a quite of bit of confidence when you hold it in your hands.

I was waiting primarily on the new bumper grill/leds and the cutout for the bottom grill area. I might forgo this for the time being and get the bumper fitted this weekend and the front fully installed. Im trying to get the car to a point where it can at least make the HB show even though it wont be in paint of any sort. Planning a wedding is eating up so much of my little free time. Also the car is getting the newest version of the iWire haress treatment since we have progress so much over the last year. I can't stand the little features here and there that I want to change so its time for an upgrade. We will also be using my car as a full mock up for the finished coupe redesign.

[Solidworks-Mike]

I received Harley's Vman style bumper last week as a birthday present to myself. I was waiting to install the bumper after I work a few details out with mechie3 to make some of his rear grill/led light inserts into the new bumper. Before I do a full review of the bumper but from my quick once over I can tell that it is a top notch product. Easily 2x the weight as the ffr bumper and I wouldn't mind saying that it has the quality feel and fitment of an unpainted oem bumper. It gives you a quite of bit of confidence when you hold it in your hands.

I was waiting primarily on the new bumper grill/leds and the cutout for the bottom grill area. I might forgo this for the time being and get the bumper fitted this weekend and the front fully installed. Im trying to get the car to a point where it can at least make the HB show even though it wont be in paint of any sort. Planning a wedding is eating up so much of my little free time. Also the car is getting the newest version of the iWire haress treatment since we have progress so much over the last year. I can't stand the little features here and there that I want to change so its time for an upgrade. We will also be using my car as a full mock up for the finished coupe redesign.

Hope you can make it to HB, I'm going to be there and will hopefully be about a month in to my 818S build, so it would be cool to have an 818 to see up close. I've taken a bunch of pics of the various 818's at FFR in Wareham, but it's always nice to see others builds. I heard there were no 818's in HB last year, so I'm hoping a few show up.

If I see you decide to go I'll make sure to stop by.

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/94B55E40-5935-460E-ABEC-8B108B04AA11.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/94B55E40-5935-460E-ABEC-8B108B04AA11.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/4DDF74E7-F096-4194-B2C0-B425CC4DCBEC.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/4DDF74E7-F096-4194-B2C0-B425CC4DCBEC.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/32D46BF6-7910-4807-A298-F38A253A8AB6.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/32D46BF6-7910-4807-A298-F38A253A8AB6.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/D77A30EE-F822-4697-855C-3894D71C13C0.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/D77A30EE-F822-4697-855C-3894D71C13C0.jpg.html)

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/D37A5FD9-0921-4C8F-96C4-F1B24D18CD60.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/D37A5FD9-0921-4C8F-96C4-F1B24D18CD60.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/A80F7122-4A27-4879-812B-CAD3833BA335.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/A80F7122-4A27-4879-812B-CAD3833BA335.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/C21C7E16-F7E4-4736-AA6A-B104BDCF72DB.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/C21C7E16-F7E4-4736-AA6A-B104BDCF72DB.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/ADB7CBF0-8F1D-47D2-9168-BB052C322AAE.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/ADB7CBF0-8F1D-47D2-9168-BB052C322AAE.jpg.html)

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/EB332AF0-945A-47DC-A3D9-F72F867C00C0_1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/EB332AF0-945A-47DC-A3D9-F72F867C00C0_1.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/EEC11BC8-DD29-498B-9BBF-6A9675631845_1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/EEC11BC8-DD29-498B-9BBF-6A9675631845_1.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/7BC4414C-AD64-4772-91A3-6E04C9F32D87.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/7BC4414C-AD64-4772-91A3-6E04C9F32D87.jpg.html)

[07FIREBLADE]

I finished mocking up my new rear bumper. All the credit goes out to Vman and Harley818 for making this possible. I love the new look and might be changing it a bit more once Craig, mechie3 gets his to make some grilles for his leds lights. Onto the review though. I am going to do this on a 1-10 scale since this is the first production bumper that was made for a customer I want to give a fair review so others can see the quality when its being compared to the ffr part.

Fit (Harley) - 9 Its really hard to say a 10 here because I already had my panels drilled and set in place. It only took me 20 mins to mount this bumper after I did my initial cutouts. Harleys had the notch in the bottom where I made the same exact one for the transmount. Bumper was more pliable and easier to work with
Fit (ffr) - 7 This was the initial bumper and took several attempts to get mount and working correctly
Finish (Harley) - 8 I wish I chose the white option just so my car would of been more uniform but I getting ready for paint. There were a few voids but they are extremly minor and Im really nit picking here. Easily 2x the weight and thickness
Finish (ffr) - 5 The original bumpers had so many voids and pits. Also the was very thin. I have chassis 127 so its after the initial push but an older car. Since than ffr had made strides forward in qc for their parts. I wish my old panels were similar to the hardtop and front end I got.
Misc (harley) I liked how harleys bumper had the old mounting tabs for the hood pins. Personally I wont be using them and cut them off. But I would honestly trust them if I were to use them. They are quite thick and give you a ton of confidence if you had to rely on them to hold your panels together. FFR replaced this tab on there bumpers and provided a bent aluminum bracket where you could mount the studs for the mini quik latches. Personally I would like a little less glass in the middle of the bumper to keep weight done. Since most of this will most likely get some sort of cutout. But thats about it I cant really find any real flaws with the bumper and would definetly recommend it if you want to change the look of your rear end. Pricing is also not bad at all. Last time I checked the rear bumper was like $700ish from ffr and you get a far inferior product in both looks and quality. Even though Harleys is made a fiberglass it gives your a unfinished oem plastic bumper feel to it. I wouldn't be heart broken If I happen to back into a wall when reversing the car since my bumper wouldn't shatter upon touching an object.

[Harley818]

Looking good. Thanks for the feedback Robert.
I think I'll ask people ahead of time if they want the hood pin tabs. No point putting them on if we don't use them. I'm not using mine either. I like the angle in the corner better myself for the quick latches.
And good suggestion to thin out the glass in the middle.
Glad it fit well and I'm looking forward to your painted product.

Harley

[07FIREBLADE]

No problem. Those fitted shots were taken with only C clamps holding the bumper in place before I installed rivnuts. I was extremely happy with how easy and quickly I was able to get it fitted. The most frustrating portion was tearing the car apart to do the install. But this seems to be a reoccurring thing with this car.

[Harley818]

Robert,
In post #64, you show a picture of the front end without the body on, and the front panel wheelwell aluminum sheet looks like its coming off at 90 degrees from the frame.
I'm about to install this piece and was wondering if it attaches to the fiberglass body right at the front of the tire (so its 90 degrees), or further towards the front (so that it angles about 60 - 70 degrees from the frame). the panel comes with a 90 degree bend for mounting to the frame sheet metal so I would expect its 90.

[07FIREBLADE]

Thats for the old front end. But yes that aluminum piece comes out at a 90* and meets up with the rear of the front bumper. Maybe 1" inward from the very back. Bulb seal goes on the outside edge to form a seal with the bumper. You might want to put bulb seal on the top too or some sort of weather strip/edge guard due to the headlight bucket resting on top of the fender liner.

[Harley818]

OK, thanks.
How goes the C conversion?

[07FIREBLADE]

Slowly chugging along but school and wedding planning are taking up so much of my time. I also like to add to this project and constantly change my plans halfway threw the build. For example I'm pulling the car apart to get my V1 iWire harness out and we are going to redo it. Time to integrate the new changes we have made and the changes that the coupe/new nose have added.

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/63988459-D045-41D2-B2E4-B8C42ABA182D.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/63988459-D045-41D2-B2E4-B8C42ABA182D.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/686CEF66-355E-44CC-BC80-961D42DB4F7D.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/686CEF66-355E-44CC-BC80-961D42DB4F7D.jpg.html)
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http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/8EBE1A22-5588-4140-B7F6-01E2D23B9274.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/8EBE1A22-5588-4140-B7F6-01E2D23B9274.jpg.html)

Got bored while I was installing a wing on my wrx and wanted to see what it would look like on the 818, seriously tempted to get another one now. I also got the hardtop hood pins installed. The gaps need to be fixed a bit but its not as bad as the original engine covers. I still need to remount the front door brackets for the hardtop so I might be able to suck it in slightly. I got mechies hood hinge installed so I will get some pics of the front up hopefully tomorrow.I need to trim the recesses on the hood and mount the rear pins. This weekend I will get the doors installed again and the windows cutout and installed.

[Aero STI]

I like how the wing looks mocked up. Is that '08-14 or 15+?

[07FIREBLADE]

15+ Im tempted to check out the 08-14 though because it might fit a bit better. I could always build it up since it is just fiberglass. The rear fits pretty well and clears the hood pins. It was either the sti or possibly the gtr wing. Loved the look of both styles gtr might be a bit to wide though at the bases.

[mikeb75]

That wing is ridiculously good looking on the HT!!

A bit like a Lotus Exige 360 Cup, but better!
http://i1133.photobucket.com/albums/m595/MikeB75/lotus_exige_360_cup_7.jpg

[Aero STI]

Ebay has unpainted ABS plastic 08-14 wings for $100. Tempting even on my S. Factory five noted that a regular wing would need to be up pretty high to be functional because of the huge negative pressure zone created by the windshield of the S. I'm not sure how true that holds of the coupe. Probably more aesthetic than functional.

[07FIREBLADE]

If its only $100 than Im down to try it. Ive seen the 15+ on amazon for about $130 unpainted and I know its base for the most part fits with a slight gap but could be taken care of for the most part by bolting the wing down. It flexes a little bit and remind me of my old 06 wing I guess its time for some perrin wing stiffeners for my wrx. But this gives me hope that I could just bolt the wing down and get things to line up better.

[07FIREBLADE]

1am couldn't sleep work turned into a fun project:
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/B05EC878-2098-49ED-A18D-2C2F56C17829.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/B05EC878-2098-49ED-A18D-2C2F56C17829.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/C1A63CD5-F428-495C-A5DD-8AB289EC3517.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/C1A63CD5-F428-495C-A5DD-8AB289EC3517.jpg.html)
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Resulted in me getting one of my doors hung again with the new frame and I was able to cutout the slot for the window. The inside piece that's left over from the cut is very flimsy and ffr window trim aluminum gives little confidence in the door edge. I need to support the edge more and might do this by using some aluminum angle this would also give me something to bolt the door panels into.

[07FIREBLADE]

Sad news, sti wing will not work with the hardtop. Learned the hard way after I bought another one to try it out. I new I would have to fix the gap at the bottom but the hatch will not clear the wing when you go to open it. You would need to have wing risers of about 3.5" to make it work. Good news I used an ebay gift card to buy it so I'm not hurting that bad over it. On another note though I was able to get my driver door finished up and door panel mounted. Window fitment was a royal pita but I got it where I like it. One thing I noticed though was that my new door liners are not the same length. The passenger door card is about .75" shorter than the driver side leaving the door frame exposed if the front door aluminium block off plate isn't installed. I guess I need to call ffr in the morning and politely ask for a new matching door card.

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/IMG_3489.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/IMG_3489.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/IMG_3479.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/IMG_3479.jpg.html)

Anyone else having issues with the door panels not matching. This is really starting to get ridiculous here first it was the front fenders not being symmetrical now its the door panels.

[Aero STI]

Sad news, sti wing will not work with the hardtop. Learned the hard way after I bought another one to try it out. I new I would have to fix the gap at the bottom but the hatch will not clear the wing when you go to open it. You would need to have wing risers of about 3.5" to make it work. Good news I used an ebay gift card to buy it so I'm not hurting that bad over it. On another note though I was able to get my driver door finished up and door panel mounted. Window fitment was a royal pita but I got it where I like it. One thing I noticed though was that my new door liners are not the same length. The passenger door card is about .75" shorter than the driver side leaving the door frame exposed if the front door aluminium block off plate isn't installed. I guess I need to call ffr in the morning and politely ask for a new matching door card.

That's too bad about the wing. Did you stick with the '15+ or go '08-14? I still might order one of the $100 '08-14 versions to test fit on my S.

[Mechie3]

Can you make an extension piece where the wing bolts to the rear hatch but actually rests on the rear for support?

http://g01.a.alicdn.com/kf/HTB18ltALXXXXXXaXpXXq6xXFXXXq/Toyota-Supra-MK4-JZA80-2JZ-Bonnet-REAR-Trunk-Gas-Strut-Shock-Damper-Made-in-Taiwan.jpg

[07FIREBLADE]

Can you make an extension piece where the wing bolts to the rear hatch but actually rests on the rear for support?

http://g01.a.alicdn.com/kf/HTB18ltALXXXXXXaXpXXq6xXFXXXq/Toyota-Supra-MK4-JZA80-2JZ-Bonnet-REAR-Trunk-Gas-Strut-Shock-Damper-Made-in-Taiwan.jpg

I could but the wing is made out of abs, it would be much easier if it was made out of fiberglass. Easier to work with and I could of bonded the two together. What I could do if im really determined is rework the hatch glass panel. If this was about 1.25" shorter I could get the hatch to open. Its just fiberglass but thats a project for another day.

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/A2B1FF20-AA0C-40B4-86E4-E8E95CAF33FE.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/A2B1FF20-AA0C-40B4-86E4-E8E95CAF33FE.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/70514ABB-1C42-40DF-9E98-581384D175AC.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/70514ABB-1C42-40DF-9E98-581384D175AC.jpg.html)

Definitely stealing Harley818 idea of using the 02-05 Wrx radio trim for my center console. First pic is just with the radio trim sitting on the center tunnel bars. Second one is with the top mounted dash trimmed so the radio trim would slip underneath it. I didn't have to raise my dash to get it underneath. This is the test mock up dash since I ordered the new vinyl covered dash since the hardtop came with vinyl covered door panels nothing matches anymore.

[Harley818]

Robert, I'm angling my console a bit so it fits without lifting the dash. Looks good too.
Depends on how much room you have between your shifter and console.
I moved my shifter back a bit so it works well for me.

[07FIREBLADE]

I've got about ~4" between the console and the shifter. I'm actually going to offset the console towards the passenger side about 2" from its current position and trim it down so it's "floating" above the center tunnel. Definitely gives the car a bit of an oem feel.

On another note my V2 iWire harness should be done just in time for the HB show so hopefully I can make it to the show. I get to test out our new ecu box and hardtop revisions as well as the new front end conversions. Once we get the front conversion dialed in we can supply a retrofit for older S/R guys who happened to upgraded to the new nose.

[metros]

^Happy to hear that. Any new pics of your headlights with leds mounted?

[07FIREBLADE]

Left them at iWire over the weekend trying to wire up the new harness. I can post some next week.

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/4B343C65-EFC0-4CB9-9CBB-36E9FFD7EBA1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/4B343C65-EFC0-4CB9-9CBB-36E9FFD7EBA1.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/1260903C-8D4B-4D95-B613-7E7EB94923BA.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/1260903C-8D4B-4D95-B613-7E7EB94923BA.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/79EDE8F3-468A-48C3-863A-B7D17BE8B78D.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/79EDE8F3-468A-48C3-863A-B7D17BE8B78D.jpg.html)

Started my center console mods. Got rid of the cig lighter and ash tray from the radio trim. Going for a floating center console look. I'm going to cover the bottom with some aluminum and cover the whole thing with some vinyl of some sort. Next I wanted a clean looking radio trim without the open holes from the original buttons not being installed.

[Harley818]

Deja vu for me.... looks like we are after the same thing.....

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/44A10345-59DF-4425-B2FF-B2E2C448603D.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/44A10345-59DF-4425-B2FF-B2E2C448603D.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/38C457ED-A584-4A9A-9B61-4707E35FE283.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/38C457ED-A584-4A9A-9B61-4707E35FE283.jpg.html)

Got my projector installed and my LEDs. Working on wiring them up but I decided to epoxy them in place just for time. I might go back and make the retaining brackets depending on how they hold up.

[metros]

Looks good! I'm assuming you just eyeballed aiming them for now.

[07FIREBLADE]

Haven't even powered them up yet. They are just installed in the bucket. Im trying to finish up the wiring tomorrow and will get them fitted again before the weekend. Ill get them aimed hopefully by the HB show.

[JC Of NM]

Nice build...

[Mechie3]

Those LED's look much better than the multi faceted plastic ones.

[07FIREBLADE]

Under $30 for a set of 20 from most sellers. Search ebay or amazon or other online retailers for 23mm Eagle Eye LEDs. I had to buy them in multiples of 10 but I got the color combo that I wanted with plenty left over if worse case I need to replace one. They also have a viewing angle rated at 120* so they gave me some confidence in being visible and useful. I have a secret in store to make the car a bit more visible and it doesn't include using the FFR side markers.
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/F29630E0-BDF2-4055-B05D-3F18E18F3AFC.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/F29630E0-BDF2-4055-B05D-3F18E18F3AFC.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/56550D0E-AF2A-4F8D-B8E2-360459DBB07C.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/56550D0E-AF2A-4F8D-B8E2-360459DBB07C.jpg.html)

Going to test these this weekend. Legitely wrapping my harness all day tomorrow then its going to get installed over the next few days. Need to get the car hopefully back together enough for the show. And bust out a iWire harness in time for the FFR build school. Fun times

[metros]

I'm loving that wiring harness.

[Mechie3]

thanks for the sizing. Was searching eBay last night and stopped since I didn't know what size to get.

[longislandwrx]

I have a secret in store to make the car a bit more visible and it doesn't include using the FFR side markers.

Lucite bar around the perimeter of the lens to catch that led light? I feel like this headlight design lends itself for a glowing strip like my wife's Acadia

53024

[Loring]

I was considering that. You can cut EL sheet to virtually any shape and make it look pretty solid. It'd be easy to make strips with a sharp design.

The front inside vertical face of the headlamp bucket would be a great place for it as well.

[07FIREBLADE]

A truly plug and play harness. Drum roll please.....
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/FDDDC32C-0CC1-41F0-8C4B-A5F25BD91A40.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/FDDDC32C-0CC1-41F0-8C4B-A5F25BD91A40.jpg.html)

My V2 iWire harness. This thing is fully loaded with every option you could through at this car. You name it I probably have it or have a provision to have it added already built into the harness. Everything works and hopefully will be able to get installed in time for the HB show. It still ways less than the donor even with the new ecu box. I'm through the very box in but it's going to the powder coated or getting gold foil wrapped.

[Aero STI]

https://www.acrylite-shop.com/US/us/rod/acrylite-led-f6jbh2ymu4c.html

Bend and form into any shape you want...

http://i.imgur.com/uELlgllh.jpg

[metros]

Nice work!

Aero - that stuff looks pretty cool. Way brighter than I would have anticipated.

[07FIREBLADE]

I had something else in mind similar product same type of results just using a more commerical grade product.

https://www.theretrofitsource.com/led-lighting/led-halos-strips/morimoto-xsb-led-switchback-strips.html#.VxyNSDArJhE

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/xsb_strips_8.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/xsb_strips_8.jpg.html)

[Aero STI]

That stuff looks sweet!

[07FIREBLADE]

http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/7732132A-E7E7-49F5-A9BA-461C43568FD1.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/7732132A-E7E7-49F5-A9BA-461C43568FD1.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/57A65D41-0898-4E46-B4DB-A76AB903C96D.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-04/57A65D41-0898-4E46-B4DB-A76AB903C96D.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/18882469-CE5C-4D36-A0B3-101E29EBFD4F.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/18882469-CE5C-4D36-A0B3-101E29EBFD4F.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/DF8096DE-6CD4-4323-93DE-BD54E28D49E4.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/DF8096DE-6CD4-4323-93DE-BD54E28D49E4.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/6F6FDFCF-6141-439F-A067-71C9184CF52D.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/6F6FDFCF-6141-439F-A067-71C9184CF52D.jpg.html)

Had a fun weekend it was a crazy sprint to get the car to the HB show but I was able to. Cars not running great and limped into the registration area. Need to find my vacuum leaks and plug my maf back in. I had to have Tony and Dave push me into a spot right in front of the FFR booth. That was a bit embarrassing. Oh well I still won a trophy and was there to represent our car. There was a strong interest in the car its definitely and eye catcher just wished it was more complete. It will be for next years show and hopefully more people will show up and represent this car.

[metros]

Congrats! I'm sure that felt good to get it to the show with other ffr projects.

[Mechie3]

The first step to winning is showing up. :)

[bompus]

Congrats! It was great to see you there, and gave me inspiration to finish mine. Thanks for putting up with me taking a crazy amount of photos :)

[AZPete]

Congratulations! It looks very cool and makes me eager to get my hard top & new front end, which should be a month from now. Next year I will be at HB, for sure. And I'll drive from AZ - no trailer needed! My promise to me. How many 818s were at HB?

[07FIREBLADE]

Congrats! It was great to see you there, and gave me inspiration to finish mine. Thanks for putting up with me taking a crazy amount of photos :)


Could you email me some of them. I was so dead tired and forgot to take any photos at all. It's quite disappointing actually. I know I could take photos of my own car but it's not the same. Send them to robgutschow@gmail.com if you could.

[bompus]

Could you email me some of them. I was so dead tired and forgot to take any photos at all. It's quite disappointing actually. I know I could take photos of my own car but it's not the same. Send them to robgutschow@gmail.com if you could.

Here's a link to a shared album I made - https://goo.gl/photos/edbkmSW6ZMEjrRoq7 - the FFR 818c (black) is first, then 07FIREBLADE 818c (white) is after. You can click the "..." menu up top and Download All or pick and choose what you want. If anybody else has photos they'd like to add for either car, send me a PM and I'll add to it.

[07FIREBLADE]

Thanks greatly appreciate it.

[07FIREBLADE]

Congratulations! It looks very cool and makes me eager to get my hard top & new front end, which should be a month from now. Next year I will be at HB, for sure. And I'll drive from AZ - no trailer needed! My promise to me. How many 818s were at HB?

I can't wait. Hopefully there will be some competition this time. Honestly it was depressing that I was the only one there so I won by default since Dave Smiths 818 was disqualified. It's still an accomplishment to build a car so I'm greatly thankful of the recognition. I'm pretty close to being done outside of body prep for paint and finishing up my interior.

[Hindsight]

You've done very well, and very quickly too!

[flynntuna]

Here are some photos i took.

[07FIREBLADE]

Well schools out and now its time to finish this bad boy up. I've got a hard deadline of July 23rd to get this car finished. Its going to be fun and hopefully I make it.

[Harley818]

Looking good Robert, Congrats.

[eggman]

Great work! How do you like the Cobra Imolas for comfort and fitment in the car? I'm considering those in standard width instead of GT, but if a pair of GTs fit, I might go for those instead.

[07FIREBLADE]

I would go standard. I had to make mine fit by cutting the center tunnel down. Reason for the gt was because the car was initialing being shared with my dad. That's not the case anymore and I wish I went with the standard size. I love the seat just needs tweaks to work that for me was a waste of time.

[eggman]

Thanks for the feedback -- I'll go for a pair of standards, then. Hope you're making good progress toward your July deadline!

[07FIREBLADE]

Haha I wish. Wedding plans have derailed the 818 plans. It's going to be a bit of a challenge but I'll see what I can do. Glad I was able to help.

[eggman]

Ha! It's been a few years since I "helped" with my own wedding plans, but I'm sure you know it's wise to keep up with that and fight some of the temptation to hide out in the garage ;)

[AZPete]

Robert, I received my retrofit hard top yesterday so I've been studying the photos of your 818C from HB, and drooling. Two questions:
Aren't the new door frames included? I didn't get them and don't even see them on the inventory list. I'll call FRR on Monday but I hope not more money.
I see you painted the inside of the hatch white, which looks good. Can you tell me what paint you used that matches the white gel coat?
BTW, speaking from wedding experience, you should just agree to everything she suggests because she has pictured it for years, told her friends about it, and already ordered it. :D
Pete

[07FIREBLADE]

Good to hear you got your hardtop. Yes it comes with the door frames and should be on the inventory list. Its not an extra expense just call or send Courtnie and email shes be a great help for me. I didn't paint anything white on my car its all gel coat. The only areas that I painted were the window backings because I was going to install the glass. I actually painted the underside black to help eliminate transparency.

[Samiam1017]

1am couldn't sleep work turned into a fun project:
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/B05EC878-2098-49ED-A18D-2C2F56C17829.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/B05EC878-2098-49ED-A18D-2C2F56C17829.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/C1A63CD5-F428-495C-A5DD-8AB289EC3517.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/C1A63CD5-F428-495C-A5DD-8AB289EC3517.jpg.html)
http://i657.photobucket.com/albums/uu293/deathpanda949/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/7B9E37AE-3973-4F6B-8414-ED422E8909E3.jpg (http://s657.photobucket.com/user/deathpanda949/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03/7B9E37AE-3973-4F6B-8414-ED422E8909E3.jpg.html)

Resulted in me getting one of my doors hung again with the new frame and I was able to cutout the slot for the window. The inside piece that's left over from the cut is very flimsy and ffr window trim aluminum gives little confidence in the door edge. I need to support the edge more and might do this by using some aluminum angle this would also give me something to bolt the door panels into.

what door handle does FFR supply

[UnhipPopano]

Why does the gap/seam between the side sail and the Top by the door look like it is widening just as it approaches the door? It looks this way in all 3 photos.

[07FIREBLADE]

Miata door handle. Not pretty and the function is mediocre IMHO. This gap has something to do with the top not being perfectly centered at its final position. Also shortly after this I added ZDM side sail adjustment bar. The gap gets a bit better towards the back. Maybe different ages panels just don't like to play to well with each other. Time with the panel held in place with some tlc might help a bit.

[07FIREBLADE]

Well my hard deadline came and went. I got maybe 15hrs of work in over the last 2 months. Wedding took charge of all my time since I'm days away now. I did happen to get mechies tail lights installed and working. I'll post some pics once I get the grills back from powder coaters.

I also was able to get my hands on a race logic traction control unit so the car is coming apart again for this install. I might just do abs while I'm in there and add in an electric power steering setup. Over the next 2 months these are the things j want to tackle before doing final bodywork for paint.

[Hindsight]

Traction control - nice! Do you have abs? Let me know if yoyou run into any issues - I spent ages on mine and ran into every problem one could face. Got it working though.

Congrats on the wedding!

[07FIREBLADE]

No abs at this point. I know you were having problems trying to get both working. I'm sure I will be dissecting your build for a while before I get going on this install. And I'm sure I'll be messaging you a bunch.

[Hindsight]

Please do. One thing right off the bat you might consider is ditching the twisted pair brake sensor wires and using some nice new shielded wire. Andrew did that on his and ultimately I did on mine as well. You can tie in the shield wire of all four wires together, and solder it to the ground wire coming out of the traction control computer (on the same connector as the signal wires). That wire is grounded inside the race logic control unit. I wouldn't ground the shield on the ABS sensor-end of the wires.

[07FIREBLADE]

Ok sounds good. Getting some new shield wire isn't a big problem for me and adding it. Just need to get my hands on the unit and look it over. Then figure out my plan of attack.

I might switch out my gas tank while I'm in there and have the body off doing the abs/traction control. I also need to seal off the engine bay completely to get heat and noise down. I've always liked loud cars but this is just annoying at times. I might need to tweak my amp a bit and see if I can crank it up a bit.