Ray's 818C Build in Maryland

[Ray Vidal]

Hello all,
I just wanted to take the opportunity to thank those who have posted before me here. I read many posts and build stories before I decided that at 57 years old it is finally time to live my dream of building a kit car!
I already found a donor 2002 Impreza and when the rain around here quits for the summer I will start tearing into it. My actual kit is ordered but it takes 4 months for FFR to get it ready to ship. It wont be here until early to mid August. I don't have a garage so I had a cement pad built on the side of my house and I purchased a portable garage to protect me and the kit from the rain.
So far my kit is just the base 818C kit. Does anyone have any advice on adding parts like the trunk kit or the steering wheel and adapter plate?

Thanks again,
Ray

[Dave 53]

Welcome fellow 57 year old with an 02 donor. Parts to add? Wire harness. I'd suggest you do some research on using the donor car harness vs an aftermarket 818 wire harness before you spend any time with the donor car wire harness.

[Kiwi Dave]

Welcome Ray!

Depending on where in MD you are there are several 818S/C builders in the DMV area that I am sure would be happy to have a visit from you while you wait for your kit. If you are on Facebook, we have a Messenger group that can share their experience quickly with you.

I have a number of tools that are used once or twice during the build (engine crane, engine stand, Eastwood flaring tool, vacuum pump if you are going with a/c) that I would be happy to lend to you.

The FFR steering wheel & adapter are a nice upgrade - the donor one looks outsized and it has an airbag you won't be using. Adjustable rear lateral link control arms and rear axles/CV joints are also worth getting IMO.

^+1 on the other Dave's comment on the wiring.

Cheers

Dave

[Ray Vidal]

Hey Dave 53,
Thanks for the tip on the harness. I will shop for one. I did read a post about what can be removed from the factory harness and others that said the security system can be a pain to get around.

Ray

[Ray Vidal]

Hey Kiwi Dave,
Thanks! I was thinking of renting an engine puller and buying an engine stand. I have a single and double flaring tools and a tube bender. I also have a vacuum gauge. The one I have has over 200,000 miles on it so I will either take the time to rebuild it top to bottom, send it out for rebuild, or purchase a replacement. Same with the transmission just to be safe. It is a running car so it cant be too bad. The right side head gasket has an obvious leak but that is a standard issue Subaru boxer engine problem. If I decide to get a replacement engine I am considering an EZ36D as it has 6 cylinders and a bit more power. There is no replacement for displacement!
I am on Facebook. I can be found at Raymond Vidal. What is the name of the group you mentioned? I would definitely want to join it. I am in New Market and would love a chance to see other builds and talk with other builders of the 818. I have not seen a real 818 yet.
I plan to start taking apart the donor car soon. Let the fun begin!