So about a month ago I pulled my 300ZX from the market because it was pretty obvious I wasn't going to sell it(for what I wanted). Don't really think I was asking anything too huge but apparently the Z market(especially in my area) is downright laughable. Only ranking slightly better than the 240sx market(which I too, have decided not to sell). It was a pretty interesting summer though. While they are both very sought after, they both seem to have the small issue of being desirable to people with absolutely no money(and in the case of the 240's, no brains either).
While "entertaining" buyers of my Z I started to think. For what I was asking(and willing to take) I couldn't even come close to getting something of equal performance or condition. My desire was to sell everything and buy 1 car(of higher expense) and make it fairly track worthy. Candidates were mostly corvettes(C5 Z06's or C6 Z06's) with the occasional Cayman S floating it's way into my search(great car, reasonable to buy, expensive to modify).
Anyway onto the Z, I couldn't even get 12-13 thousand for it. So IF I sold it, and got 13K, what the hell could I buy that would even be close? A descent C5 Z is well over 20K(which I think is a bit nuts, but corvette guys are a bit more than nuts). So I figured why not just take what I would have got(13, maybe) and throw another 8K(or so) into it and have a nice track car. I do like the Z as a package, but was just ready for something different.
It seems much more logical, and for the "value" of the car it's hard to beat. A 430(ish) HP 2 seat sports car with 70K on it in VERY nice condition.
So, since this isn't worth anything and I can't see values going up(I've never bought a car as an investment) it appears these cars aren't "worth" anything. Also since I won't ever probably sell it, due to it's lack of value, I have no problem tearing it all up. Which is pretty much what I'll do.
Stay tuned, I'll put some updates in here as time goes by. Should get most if not all of it done over the winter.
Hoping to do the following.
-Aluminum Driveshaft and Quaife Differential install
-Suspension Bushings, Components and Coilovers Installed
-Redo Brakes, all 4 corners with larger discs and calipers
-New wheels and Tires(18"), don't know what rubber yet
-Roll bar installation
-Racing seats
-Various Weight reductions
Phase 1 is going to be finishing up the suspension modifications. It's also probably the largest and most time consuming phase in what I have planned. I had originally purchased some coilovers for the car about 7 months ago(maybe more). I just never got around to installing them because the cost of the other components(control arms, bushings, etc) was pretty high and at the time I had 3 cars in the shop all at various stages of modification. It's pretty hard when you have so many and are trying to spread money out here and there. But now that the Evo is gone and the Miata is too I can focus(read dump) more time(money) into this.
I just received all my suspension stuff in the mail last week. It was a box that was about 70lbs. Consisting of pretty much everything I'd need to finish up the suspension. All for a measly 2500 dollars, what a deal. :cry:
List of the parts:
-SPL Hicas eliminator kit(expensive, but rids the car of the stock rods and ends unlike other kits)
-SPL Upper Rear Control Arms
-SPL Rear Traction Rods
-SPL Front Tension Rods
-Z1 Front Upper Control Arm
-Stillen Sway Bars
-Powertrix Adjustable Front and Rear Sway Bar Links
-Energy Suspension Differential Bushings
-Energy Suspension Rear Subframe Bushings
-Energy Suspension Steering Rack Bushings
-Front and Rear Energy Suspension Bushing Kits(pretty much every other bushing I need in these two)
Also unboxed and inspected my Coilovers(Powertrix R/T's with Swift Springs), which I probably should have done months ago just in case there was something wrong with them. Everything looked good.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/20141006_185402_zps1rjiiyis.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/20141006_185529_zps9kxprzql.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/20141006_185511_zpsxqsbrg9y.jpg)
I realized since I'm doing the subframe and diff bushings I should have sorted some things out there. I'm going to order a one piece Aluminum driveshaft and Quaife Differential so I don't have to re remove the diff while doing this suspension stuff. So maybe that is Phase .5
If you want more than market value you do indeed see cars as an investment ;).
:popcorn:
Nice. You're installing that yourself?
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on October 09, 2014, 08:28:21 AM
:popcorn:
Nice. You're installing that yourself?
I plan to do everything myself.
Sounds like fun, and can't wait to see the finished product! Take some pics during the install and post em up, threads like that are somewhat lacking here in "The Garage"!
Quote from: Pancor on October 09, 2014, 08:40:33 AM
Sounds like fun, and can't wait to see the finished product! Take some pics during the install and post em up, threads like that are somewhat lacking here in "The Garage"!
I'll take all I can of what I'm doing and the steps along the way. Because everyone knows pictures makes reading funner. :lol:
This is gonna be a fun build. I wanted to do something similar but I've been to the track once in the past year and a half. If you can get to the track regularly a balls deep track build is a great idea
I love these cars to begin with, and I think your mods are going to make it a stellar handler for sure.
Can you at least do something about those oversized, ugly 5-spokes you had on that car before? :lol:
Quote from: MrH on October 09, 2014, 10:48:40 AM
Can you at least do something about those oversized, ugly 5-spokes you had on that car before? :lol:
I'm selling the 19" wheels and going down to an 18" wheel. I'd even go down to 17 but the brakes are too big for 17" wheels.
You should really help out my Z31 friend. His VG30 Turbo is annoying and his car looks ragged as fuck.
RPF1s!
Quote from: MrH on October 09, 2014, 10:51:05 AM
RPF1s!
Probably not, I'm having a hard time finding sizes that would work in those(and then an equally hard time just finding someone who sells them by size and offset instead of by vehicle).
Quote from: MrH on October 09, 2014, 10:51:05 AM
RPF1s!
My Z31 friend has a really nice set of those.
I've come across a few that I think would be OK, haven't given it too much thought though since the wheels will be the last thing I buy.
(http://image.superstreetonline.com/f/techarticles/1305_wheel_guide_2013/44583014/1305-2013-wheel-guide-gram-lights-57dr.jpg)
I like the Enkei RS05RR but I don't know if the multi spoke look would look good on a z32.
(http://whatmonstersdo.com/blog2/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Enkei_RS05RR_Wheel_Japan_Concave_31.jpg)
I really just care about weight, so the RPF's are always in the back of my mind. If I can find sizes that would work.
Multi spoke is always a good call.
Rota P45Rs, they go up to 10.5" wide
Z32 is probably the best Z. Def the best looking.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 09, 2014, 10:51:59 AM
(and then an equally hard time just finding someone who sells them by size and offset instead of by vehicle).
Ugh yes. Worst part about buying parts for a project.
Anybody use a Braille battery?
I was checking them out last night, looks like I could cut 30lbs just from changing over to a Braille. They aren't too bad either, about 150 bucks.
Volk CE28N, TE37, Work Professor SP1....
Don't you already have TE37s? You can probably trade for an 18in set.
(http://www.drivermotorsports.com/v/vspfiles/photos/N-F-Z32-LR-BW-2.jpg)
(http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/615530_10151159265898337_1909792273_o.jpg)
Even some Nismo wheels
(http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5300/5588756979_427d3da7ea_b.jpg)
I don't have te's they are one of the hundreds of look alikes.
I don't really want to spend 5 grand on wheels, so actual forged rays are out of the question.
Never thought of the nismo wheels, I think stillen sells them(or they did in the past). Probably a good(atleast light) wheel. I know all the new 370 stuff(sport trim and nismo trim) use rays. I wonder if i can get my hands on a set of those.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 09, 2014, 11:56:41 AM
Anybody use a Braille battery?
I was checking them out last night, looks like I could cut 30lbs just from changing over to a Braille. They aren't too bad either, about 150 bucks.
What's the weight distribution? If it's front biased, get a battery that can be relocated to the trunk.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 09, 2014, 11:58:50 AM
I don't have te's they are one of the hundreds of look alikes.
I don't really want to spend 5 grand on wheels, so actual forged rays are out of the question.
Never thought of the nismo wheels, I think stillen sells them(or they did in the past). Probably a good(atleast light) wheel. I know all the new 370 stuff(sport trim and nismo trim) use rays. I wonder if i can get my hands on a set of those.
You could pick up a used set for prolly 3K in like new condition. 18x10.5 CE28N are only 18 lbs.
Quote from: hotrodalex on October 09, 2014, 11:58:59 AM
What's the weight distribution? If it's front biased, get a battery that can be relocated to the trunk.
Don't know specifically, but there isn't enough to move around and get a better F/R balance. I'd be better off just striping as much weight off as I can and leaving it at that.
Besides, battery is in front and I'd rather exchange a 40lb batter for a 7lb battery and take the weight off the front than dick around and relocate a 40lb batter to the rear and make no difference in weight distribution.
Quote from: 68_427 on October 09, 2014, 12:02:56 PM
You could pick up a used set for prolly 3K in like new condition. 18x10.5 CE28N are only 18 lbs.
I hate trying to find used, most of the time they are bent.
I should just call a nissan dealer, I see some wheels for 400-500 a piece(rays forged OEM) on a few of the site. It's not the style I want but the price should be the same, I'd think.
I'd do the sport wheels off the new 370's
(http://www.nissanusa.com/content/dam/nissan/vehicles/2015/370z-coupe/colors-photos/exterior-photos/007-14TDI_Zb005-zoom-hd.jpg)
but I'd rather have 18's. Now that I think about it, Anything that's off the newer z's is going to be 19 which is just too big(unless I increase overall diameter).
Shiiiiiitttttt
http://www.ebay.com/itm/VOLK-RAYS-NISMO-LMGTs-18x10-20-5x114-FORGED-MAGNESIUM-SKYLINE-GTR-R34-R33-RARE-/261597651910 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/VOLK-RAYS-NISMO-LMGTs-18x10-20-5x114-FORGED-MAGNESIUM-SKYLINE-GTR-R34-R33-RARE-/261597651910)
Forged Magnesium.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 09, 2014, 11:56:41 AM
Anybody use a Braille battery?
I was checking them out last night, looks like I could cut 30lbs just from changing over to a Braille. They aren't too bad either, about 150 bucks.
I've read mixed reviews. If you have a batter tender for long periods of inactivity, it might be fine.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 09, 2014, 11:56:41 AM
Anybody use a Braille battery?
I was checking them out last night, looks like I could cut 30lbs just from changing over to a Braille. They aren't too bad either, about 150 bucks.
They go dead after a few days
Quote from: S204STi on October 09, 2014, 01:25:00 PM
I've read mixed reviews. If you have a batter tender for long periods of inactivity, it might be fine.
The car is always on a battery tender, I have one wired in so I just plug it in after I park.
Quote from: r0tor on October 09, 2014, 01:29:16 PM
They go dead after a few days
According to Braille, that's exactly what they don't do. :huh:
For 150 bucks though I'm sure I'll just try one, probably the best "mod" for weight savings per dollar.
Taking the hood and doors off is free.
:lol:
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 09, 2014, 02:01:30 PM
According to Braille, that's exactly what they don't do. :huh:
For 150 bucks though I'm sure I'll just try one, probably the best "mod" for weight savings per dollar.
Per the real world, that's exactly what they do.
What causes them to die in the real world? I want one now.
Do they die even if on a battery tender? I'd find it hard to believe, as Braille would be giving out replacement batteries left and right.
I'm going to try to finish up my pads and ramps this weekend so I can get an initial weight. I have an old slip from a few years ago from the weight station, IIRC it was just a hair over 3400 lbs(1/2 tank?, no driver). I'll get a new start weight and start pulling a few things out of it.
I'm also going to get a bunch of measurements too. Current(starting) ride height, suspension measurements and other geometry measurements so I can have something to do up some drawings.
Cool thread.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 09, 2014, 07:20:12 PM
Do they die even if on a battery tender? I'd find it hard to believe, as Braille would be giving out replacement batteries left and right.
Take it with a grain of salt, but most of these reports probably come from import owners with a glass-shattering sound system. Hondas use batteries roughly the same size as these Brailles, and don't seem to have a problem. Which, I guess, might indicate that a Honda Civic battery might be a good alternative, but I mean, if the cost isn't a deterrent you might as well try it out for your own sake.
Quote from: S204STi on October 09, 2014, 10:45:00 PM
Take it with a grain of salt, but most of these reports probably come from import owners with a glass-shattering sound system. Hondas use batteries roughly the same size as these Brailles, and don't seem to have a problem. Which, I guess, might indicate that a Honda Civic battery might be a good alternative, but I mean, if the cost isn't a deterrent you might as well try it out for your own sake.
I probably will, and I'm pretty good with my batteries. I use tenders for long periods of time during the summer and normally pull them and bring them indoors in the winter.
I'm trying to shave 200 to 300 lbs off of this car, which will be pretty difficult. So it's hard to turn away from a 30lb weight savings like this.
I bet you could shave another 30 lbs if you ripped out the whole interior.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on October 10, 2014, 08:06:38 AM
I bet you could shave another 30 lbs if you ripped out the whole interior.
The car is complete at the moment, so there is some decent and easy weight savings to be had. Space saver spare and jacks and inflater bottle along with a few miscellaneous other pieces might be 50 lbs right there. Plus 30(ish) pounds for the battery. From then on it will be pretty tough. I'm sure I'll hit 200, but 300 might be a stretch. Under 3200 with a tank of gas ready to drive would be great. I am trying to keep it pretty "streetable" looking. So I'd like to keep most of the interior intact. We'll see, I'm going to weight everything individually as I take it out.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 10, 2014, 08:10:31 AM
The car is complete at the moment, so there is some decent and easy weight savings to be had. Space saver spare and jacks and inflater bottle along with a few miscellaneous other pieces might be 50 lbs right there. Plus 30(ish) pounds for the battery. From then on it will be pretty tough. I'm sure I'll hit 200, but 300 might be a stretch. Under 3200 with a tank of gas ready to drive would be great. I am trying to keep it pretty "streetable" looking. So I'd like to keep most of the interior intact. We'll see, I'm going to weight everything individually as I take it out.
Remove that huge fuel tank. Mount a 1-gallon polyethylene fuel cell in the passenger seat.
Plus the tires that are on it now are heavy, going down a size and going with something light weight might save me 10 lbs at each corner. Plus all the light weight suspension stuff I'm putting in might be another 8-10 per corner. That would be huge and very beneficial since a majority of that would be unsprung weight. Aluminum driveshaft is 15lbs(one piece). The stock steel 2 piece shaft with the carrier has to be pretty heavy, might pick up 20lbs there(rotating mass).
If I can get numbers like that, and in critical places like rotating or unsprung then I'll be just fine with the extra weight of the full(ish) interior.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on October 10, 2014, 08:13:36 AM
Remove that huge fuel tank. Mount a 1-gallon polyethylene fuel cell in the passenger seat.
:rolleyes:
Can you get all aluminuminum axles and control arms, and carbon fiber rotors or something? Or does it just make more sense to crank up the boost?
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on October 10, 2014, 08:16:51 AM
Can you get all aluminuminum axles and control arms, and carbon fiber rotors or something? Or does it just make more sense to crank up the boost?
The suspension stuff is pretty light, but the stronger pieces are not made of aluminum. Yes, I have carbon fiber rotors, and wheels too. The wheels actually weight -10 lbs, they consume weight.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 10, 2014, 08:14:53 AM
:rolleyes:
You could convert it to run on CNG and just stick a fuel line up your butt.
Or srsly, how about running it on ethanol?
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 10, 2014, 08:20:30 AM
The suspension stuff is pretty light, but the stronger pieces are not made of aluminum. Yes, I have carbon fiber rotors, and wheels too. The wheels actually weight -10 lbs, they consume weight.
That is fucking crazy.
I want to go on record and say this build thread >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Char's
The Garage >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Luxury Talk
Sports cars >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> off-secretary leases
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 09, 2014, 07:20:12 PM
Do they die even if on a battery tender? I'd find it hard to believe, as Braille would be giving out replacement batteries left and right.
Probably on a better tender all the time they will be fine. If your car has any kind of small electrical load while being off, it will discharge in a matter of days... But would probably charge back up.
Quote from: r0tor on October 10, 2014, 10:47:38 AM
Probably on a better tender all the time they will be fine. If your car has any kind of small electrical load while being off, it will discharge in a matter of days... But would probably charge back up.
If it isn't driven it's on a tender.
Any possibility of going lexan for the front and rear windows?
I wouldn't do lexan in front for a road car...
Quote from: 68_427 on October 10, 2014, 11:59:53 AM
Any possibility of going lexan for the front and rear windows?
I thought about it for the rear hatch glass. That piece is huge, I was going to see if there was a way to compute the weight difference. If it turned out to be significant I would do it.
Something like this for the front?
(http://www.americanracingnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Road-To-Daytona-Day-1-Ford-Logo-Added-To-No2-Windshield-590x260.jpg)
Why wouldn't you do it?
Quote from: 68_427 on October 10, 2014, 12:47:30 PM
Something like this for the front?
(http://www.americanracingnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Road-To-Daytona-Day-1-Ford-Logo-Added-To-No2-Windshield-590x260.jpg)
Why wouldn't you do it?
because safety :huh:
I found a place that sells windows for race cars. They have every window for my car. Problem is that they are located in the uk.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on October 11, 2014, 01:44:41 PM
I found a place that sells windows for race cars. They have every window for my car. Problem is that they are located in the uk.
What's the weight savings?
I don't know, haven't found any good hard numbers yet.
I'm guessing maybe 20 lbs saved on the HUGE rear hatch glass. If I could pick up a window for a few hundred bucks I'd do it. If I come to find out it would barely be 10lbs I wouldn't waste my time.
The $/lb on that doesnt seem to add up. Plus Z32TT is already very front heavy. Light glass would lower CoG but by how much really? I'd probably put that $$$ elsewhere.
If the company that sells it can pack it, I can ship it cheap
Quote from: HotRodPilot on October 19, 2014, 06:14:24 AM
If the company that sells it can pack it, I can ship it cheap
How so?
Got some space open on a C-17?
Quote from: hotrodalex on October 19, 2014, 09:28:52 AM
Got some space open on a C-17?
Hmm
:hmm:
So would you just parachute it out over my coordinates?
This stance is perfect
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7556/15874089466_6fcd3b0a86_b.jpg)
It's not bad, certainly looks nice.
I really have to get going on this. I got sidetracked with a home theater renovation that's taking up tons of time(money too of course).
Hopefully in a few weeks I'll have the theater thing wrapped up and then I can get out in the garage and spend some time getting the first stage(suspension) of this project squared away.
(http://www.gtplanet.net/forum/proxy.php?image=https%3A%2F%2F33.media.tumblr.com%2Fcf45a239699d87f2b5a15f352b4af1db%2Ftumblr_nhjdm9miMG1r3jowno2_1280.jpg&hash=8a392e55b8091b1e82736db2135e62fe)
and a big red X to you too.
That red one looks hot.
FBC, Where do you track?
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on January 13, 2015, 09:59:27 AM
That red one looks hot.
FBC, Where do you track?
I've only ever been to the local(to the state) road course and a small track the local college has. I'd like to get out east to a few other tracks like Blackhawk farms, Gingerman, Autobahn and Mid Ohio. Mid America is also fairly close. Sadly, outside of BIR(which is about 2 hours away), everything else is 10+ hours away.
So, I've decided to get off my ass and back on this. With 2 more cars coming into the stable and the Z project untouched over the winter I've got a metric shit ton of work to do.
So last night I got the Z back down in the garage and got my initial weight readings with my new(last fall) scales.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX/20150422_185129_zpsmn967hhr.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX/20150422_185219_zpspamerwkv.jpg)
Not bad, IMO.
3433lbs with a weight distribution of 55/45. Should be pretty easy to work with.
I'm hoping to drop 150-200 lbs off the curb and hopefully shift the distribution back 2-3 percent. We'll see if that will happen.
Also got started on the front end, installed the steering rack bushings.
Looking over the rear I realized that installing the rear subframe and differential bushings pretty much requires dropping out the subframe. So to save time in the future I'm going to order my driveshaft and Quaife differential today(probably grab some new ball joints and tie rods too).
It's nice to get going on this, finally.
Super excited to see where you go with this.
I wish I had buckets of dough to throw at the Miata and get everything I want done to it at once.
:hmm:
This would solve the issue I'm having with trying to get wider tires on the front and rear.
https://conceptzperformance.com/Cart/description.php?II=10180 (https://conceptzperformance.com/Cart/description.php?II=10180)
Or not, those fender vents are kind of weird looking.
Fender vents are groce, breh.
Ya, they make it look a little strange. Even if everything was painted those would stick out and look weird.
I approve of this thread. Again.
I think losing weight overall is very doable. Improving the weight distribution will be very tough.
Where will you run it?
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on April 23, 2015, 11:57:39 AM
I approve of this thread. Again.
I think losing weight overall is very doable. Improving the weight distribution will be very tough.
Where will you run it?
A couple of places locally in my home state and hopefully at a few out east.
I'm sure I can drop atleast 150lbs, but I don't know about shifting anything rearward. I'll just have to hope that more weight comes off the front than the back in order to achieve a better weight distribution.
Trunk mounted battery and radiator.
Quote from: thecarnut on April 23, 2015, 12:02:31 PM
Trunk mounted battery and radiator.
Battery may be relatively easy. Radiator is a huge project.
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on April 23, 2015, 12:05:49 PM
Battery may be relatively easy. Radiator is a huge project.
I'm going to run a brail battery, which should save about 30 lbs. If I move that to the trunk it would take 45ish pounds off the front and put 15 in the rear. That will help a bit.
I'll have to find some more up front that I can remove.
I have a Deka agm battery. Saves about 20 lb from my car.
Although right now it's saving 0lb because it's been sitting in my garage since November. :facepalm:
Quote from: thecarnut on April 23, 2015, 12:13:34 PM
I have a Deka agm battery. Saves about 20 lb from my car.
Although right now it's saving 0lb because it's been sitting in my garage since November. :facepalm:
300ZX has a boat battery, it's huge. I'm estimating it's weight at about 35-40 lbs.
That weight balance is surprising. That's what my car/truck is.
Quote from: hotrodalex on April 23, 2015, 01:10:53 PM
That weight balance is surprising. That's what my car/truck is.
55/45?
I'd find that pretty surprising. Unless you've done a lot of work to change what I would figure would be pretty close to a 60/40 stock distribution.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on April 23, 2015, 01:15:11 PM
55/45?
I'd find that pretty surprising. Unless you've done a lot of work to change what I would figure would be pretty close to a 60/40 stock distribution.
Lots of rear overhang, I suppose. I haven't done any weight shifting, since I don't have a trunk to put the battery in.
Were you gonna get new wheels for this too or stick with those?
Quote from: hotrodalex on April 23, 2015, 01:18:48 PM
Lots of rear overhang, I suppose. I haven't done any weight shifting, since I don't have a trunk to put the battery in.
Were you gonna get new wheels for this too or stick with those?
I'm going to get new ones, drop down to 18's and run a little wider in the front.
Any possibility of going to a single turbo setup to clean up the engine bay and dropping a couple pounds?
I assume you are already on coilovers? You should be able to get a 9.5" wheel on the front with a bit of camber. (3 degrees and fender work you MIGHT be able to get 285s up front)
Quote from: 68_427 on April 23, 2015, 09:54:29 PM
Any possibility of going to a single turbo setup to clean up the engine bay and dropping a couple pounds?
I assume you are already on coilovers? You should be able to get a 9.5" wheel on the front with a bit of camber. (3 degrees and fender work you MIGHT be able to get 285s up front)
A singe turbo is a mess on a V6, IMO. Due to the amount of crossover pipes and whatnot. Plus if you look under the hood and how they designed the motor, it's essentially two I3's connected at a crankshaft. With separate intercoolers, and throttle bodies a single turbo would be a mess. I don't think I've seen a lot(if any) single turbo Z32's.
As far as the wheels go, well, these cars suck. I've been doing a ton of reading and the front end just doesn't accommodate much. I'm looking at 8.5" rims with 245 or 255 tires. The rear will take a 10"er with 275's or slightly bigger but the front end is a real pain. If I wanted to go 9.5 with a 265/275 I'd have to cut up the fender, which I don't really care to do. I'm not going to use large amounts of camber for wheel fitment because I want to track this thing and I think sacrificing proper camber for wider wheels will be a wash at best, and a decrease in overall performance at worst.
For Reference:
(http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/3127/enginecutawaylargeweb.jpg)
Where would you put a single turbo?
And imagine all the pipework.
I think better weight savings would be to bit the bullet and dump unnecessary systems like A/C, ABS, Cruise, ETC.
And here is the front suspension, and the major issue with wheel fitment.
(http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/601/881/26500440019_large.jpg)
That gigantic "leg" that is next to the coilover. I'm sure on of the suspension guys can chime in. But I'd call it a modified macpherson strut with an upper link. I'm guessing to try and make the suspension travel and camber change closer to a double wishbone setup. It's goofy, and it's certainly an issue with regard to fitting wider wheels and tires.
Man that setup must have been all the rage in the 80s. Looks like my old Accord except the upper link was an A-arm that wrapped around the shock.
Truthfully you may not need mega wide tires dude. My Z was pretty neutral at the limit on 225/245s. Obviously you will be dealing with way more power and higher loads but I feel like some trackday 245/255s on a lightened Z32 will be PLENTY. Id worry more about getting the right tires/compounds
335s or nothing.
Well, I ordered some new Inner and outer tie rods and front and rear balljoints today. Since I'm in there I might as well get this stuff done. I should have ordered the driveshaft and quaife but I'm sure the front end will keep me busy for a few days(a lot of bushings to swap out). Plus i need to find a way to drop the rear subframe while on the 4 post lift. I'm sure it will take a day or two to just get that down.
So I spent the last few weekends cleaning up my garage real good, installed a new shelf section and moved some cabinets around. Then spent a few days just organizing and really getting this place cleaned up nicely before winter. So I can just focus on the projects(Z and GTR) that I have planed this winter.
Started working on the Z, got a lot of the front end ripped apart and going to get the front bushings, say bar, control arm, camber arm and coilovers installed up there first. Also popped the bumper and reinforcement off so I can do some cleaning of the intercooler and other areas(tons of dead bugs). Also popped it off because I'm thinking of pulling the AC also changing the front end over to the later 99 Jspec front end.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151031_182236_zpstr1qufr0.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151101_143814_zpskndmz3zh.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151101_143844_zpsluoj5wgr.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151101_143823_zpsioehmms1.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151031_175710_zpsgpkftgb5.jpg)
Did some quick weighing of some of the parts, the coilover is about 2 lbs lighter than the stock strut/spring. The front SPL control arm is 2 lbs lighter than the stock, which is huge because the stock one was just a few oz's short of 5 lbs.
Wow. You have a nice garage.
So you've got the Z, GTR, Miata, and what else? You don't have a boring daily driver in there somewhere?
Quote from: MrH on November 02, 2015, 11:23:05 AM
Wow. You have a nice garage.
So you've got the Z, GTR, Miata, and what else? You don't have a boring daily driver in there somewhere?
Thanks, It's actually a pretty small(ish) garage for around here(about 1200sqft). But it's nice for a individual, I do wish I had a second hoist though so I could have 2 cars torn apart at the same time.
It's really nice to work in right now since I cleaned it up and organized it. Got a lot of stuff on the shelves and off the floor, hate tripping over shit on the floor.
I just have the Z, GTR and miata. My daily driver is a 97 ford f150 with 220K on it, you'd think that such a fine connoisseur like myself would have something much more interesting than that for a DD. :lol:
I'd kill for a garage like that! I'm dreading doing the fluid change (rear Diff) on the G8 as we speak!
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on November 02, 2015, 12:18:10 PM
My daily driver is a 97 ford f150 with 220K on it,
Are you sure it's not a '99 Lightning in red?
Quote from: HotRodPilot on November 02, 2015, 09:55:37 PM
Are you sure it's not a '99 Lightning in red?
Did they make a '99 Lightning? I thought those went out of production in '96.
Quote from: Gotta-Qik-G8 on November 02, 2015, 10:55:17 PM
Did they make a '99 Lightning? I thought those went out of production in '96.
didn't you ever watch Fast and the Furious?!
LS swap. There's a bunch of weight savings right there.
Quote from: 68_427 on November 03, 2015, 12:00:44 AM
LS swap. There's a bunch of weight savings right there.
Too much money, my engine is in great shape and at this point an LS swap wouldn't net but maybe 50 more HP than what I have.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on November 02, 2015, 05:51:03 PM
Really..... :hmm:
I actually would kill for a garage like that, since it would otherwise never be achieveable in my lifetime. Just PM me who you need taken out.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on November 03, 2015, 07:15:38 AM
Too much money, my engine is in great shape and at this point an LS swap wouldn't net but maybe 50 more HP than what I have.
Turbo lag sucks for a track car... I assume you are installing an anti-lag system, then.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on November 03, 2015, 07:21:36 AM
I actually would kill for a garage like that, since it would otherwise never be achieveable in my lifetime. Just PM me who you need taken out.
Turbo lag sucks for a track car... I assume you are installing an anti-lag system, then.
Turbo lag is pretty minimal, these are still the stock sleeved bearing turbo's. If(when) I upgrade they will be to slightly(not much) larger ball bearing turbo's which should give me the power I want(550-600HP) while having about the same lag as stock.
Quote from: 68_427 on November 03, 2015, 12:00:44 AM
LS swap. There's a bunch of weight savings right there.
http://www.lojinnovations.com/ (http://www.lojinnovations.com/)
They state it's actually cheaper to convert to LS than to rebuild the original TTV6. So not only more power potential, it's also lighter and sits back further in the chassis.
Quote from: GoCougs on November 03, 2015, 03:48:58 PM
http://www.lojinnovations.com/ (http://www.lojinnovations.com/)
They state it's actually cheaper to convert to LS than to rebuild the original TTV6. So not only more power potential, it's also lighter and sits back further in the chassis.
I often find some of those claims dubious. Normally those figures are obtained with junkyard pullout motors at hard to find prices. A crate motor will set you back 7K, you can buy a lightly built VG longblock for 4K.
I don't know; I think an LS swap into a 300ZX is, well it would be effective- but ultimately underwhelming. Kind of what I always thought of the small block powered RX-7s. I can't deny it works; but it just seems wrong.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on November 04, 2015, 07:57:42 AM
I don't know; I think an LS swap into a 300ZX is, well it would be effective- but ultimately underwhelming. Kind of what I always thought of the small block powered RX-7s. I can't deny it works; but it just seems wrong.
Swap a rotary into a Z. Is that wrong?
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on November 04, 2015, 07:59:31 AM
Swap a rotary into a Z. Is that wrong?
Yes, but in a bizarre and brilliantly pointless way.
Same as an LS in the 964 or bunches of other cars. Better motor by far but yeah, it is a bit generic.
What about a VQ? Even with turbos should be a good bit lighter.
Perhaps the F113 would be less generic. I'm sure there is a way to mount one somewhere in a 300ZX.
V10 out of the m5........ :ohyeah:
Seriously though, this motor runs well and has great compression. For a few k i can upgrade turbos and injectors and reach my goal of around 550 to 600hp. Plenty for a 3100 to 3200 lb car.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on November 04, 2015, 07:46:16 PM
V10 out of the m5........ :ohyeah:
It's a deal, then. Get to work.
If I see even moderate curb weight reduction, it will be like adding 50 hp at the existing weight. It's the right move IMO. This winter everything will be either handling related (with component weight reduction) as well as just plain weight reduction.
I'm sure it will feel like night and day come next spring.
An anti-lag system will only add negligible weight. But it will increase track performance times infinity.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on November 04, 2015, 08:23:49 PM
An anti-lag system will only add negligible weight. But it will increase track performance times infinity.
Not hugely concerned with that, since track time will be non timed/competitive.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on November 04, 2015, 08:29:54 PM
Not hugely concerned with that, since track time will be non timed/competitive.
They sound badass.
It's dumping raw fuel into the manifold. I think i can do without that wear and complication.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on November 04, 2015, 08:43:12 PM
It's dumping raw fuel into the manifold. I think i can do without that wear and complication.
Compound turbos, then.
Been making some progress on this, albeit slow(I'm cleaning a lot, it's OCDish).
Starting getting the drivers side tore down, as you can see it's pretty dirty in there.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151031_175630_zpskm7t4d3m.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151031_175637_zpswzvza8kj.jpg)
It's an interesting suspension setup, and kind of cumbersome to take apart.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151031_182231_zpsd3cenubi.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151031_182236_zpstr1qufr0.jpg)
Decided to pull the bumper off and get it out of the way. I intend to clean up the intercoolers and the surrounding area. Also I'm on the fence about picking up the 99 J spec front end and converting that over.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151101_143814_zpsvpwgb1j7.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151101_143823_zpsioehmms1.jpg)
Setting some shit up, I did weight the stock parts vs the aftermarket parts. IIRC it's about 5lbs saved per side between the lighter coilover and tension rod.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151101_143844_zpsluoj5wgr.jpg)
Did I mention the cleaning, are you down with OCD???
I actually cleaned the lower control arm on the right(closest) with brake cleaner and other chemicals. The one on the left(furthest) was cleaned with my new steam cleaner I picked up(figured it would work great for interior detailing). Did a fantastic job on these, make them look like new. Saved me from repainting them.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151114_140030_zpsxox9d1yw.jpg)
So clean.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151114_140039_zpsfmvzbskt.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151114_140042_zps3pzx7anl.jpg)
Took the steam cleaner to one of the intercooler too.
Passenger side uncleaned.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151114_141756_zpsj5xrzl8h.jpg)
Drivers side after about 3-4 minutes.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151114_1418090_zpsukqlna4o.jpg)
I steamed cleaned the wheel wells, and also hand scrubbed them(sad, I know). Drivers side mostly done.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151121_174152_zpsl8nkyhug.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151121_174249_zpsnflz3wgv.jpg)
The table of parts is starting to thin out(good, because I have more on the way).
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151122_142753_zpsipq9bdka.jpg)
The table of old parts is starting to pile up.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151122_1428050_zpsiltthuzx.jpg)
Passenger side stripped down, mid cleaning.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151122_142833_zps8cuxlye6.jpg)
I got the passenger side all done, and then threw the brakes on both sides so I could get it rolling. I'm going to back it out of the garage and so I can discharge the air. Want to do that before it gets too cold.
Once that's done, I'll start tearing into the rear end. So hopefully I'll have another update in a few weeks. I'm pretty happy at the progress so far, compared to last year(I didn't get shit done). Going to definitely get done all I want to(sans money issues) on the Z. Should also get a fair amount done on the R32 by summertime.
Still in the que for the Z
Complete rear end component replacement, bushings(solid subframe and diff), drive shaft(1 piece aloominEum) maybe a quaife(I'll make the decision when I'm back there, it's a cash thing at the moment).
Would like to address the brakes.
Pull the a/c and some other small things(cruise) and clean the engine bay.
Partial roll bar install
pair of seats
and of course a full detail and fluid change.
This thing is going to be great come summer, can't wait to see the final result.
Such clean.
I love struts but I hate struts. Limits the max tire width so much. Gotta get some flares.
Front tire width is an issue with these cars. I think 245 is on the bigger end. The rear end isn't an issue, it'll take 295's and 10" wide wheels.
Got this past shipment of parts un packed and put out on the "pending" table. Take some off the table and install them and then just go and pile more on. I figure there will be only 3 more orders before I'm done adding to the table.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151205_174242_zpse43jkwp9.jpg)
Added spl solid subframe and diff bushings, decided not to use the energy suspension ones. Also added spl tie rods, brake cooling plates and the one piece aluminum driveshaft.
Backed the car out today since it was nice out and took care of the ac.
Also started tearing into the rear end.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151205_183129_zpstszpnra0.jpg)
Thats about as far as I got on the drivers side. Had to make a tool run to get a 36mm socket and grabbed some extra wrenches.
Also opened up the subframe bushing box to confirm my suspicions.
The good news:
The box had instructions inside....
The bad news:
Step 1
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/2015-12-05%2018.39.06_zpssoekikc8.jpg)
Gotta pull all the exhaust up to the downpipes anyway to get the driveshaft out. By the time I drop all the suspension components, hicas system, rear differential and sway bar. The subframe is going to be pretty much bare anyway. Going to order a quaife next week. I was on the fence about doing this now or waiting. Given the depths of the work I'm doing, it would be foolish not to do it now.
Going to need more space to put all this stuff.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151205_174429_zpsfyvlf1xt.jpg)
Wish I could redo the exhaust too, but I'll take care of that when I upgrade turbos (likely next winter).
Decided to work a bit this morning. Got the passenger side striped down.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151206_141954_zps6ruqmw0o.jpg)
Then finished getting the exhaust, heat shields, and hicas system out. It's pretty much bare. Just have to pull the diff and driveshaft and the subframe will be ready to come out.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151206_142102_zps5vptpicp.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151206_141855_zpscxjvuehk.jpg)
Starting to run out of room for all this shit.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151206_141815_zpsrmsk25ws.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151206_141831_zpsgsziuwjc.jpg)
wuts the funny looking yellow wheel go on?
300zx spare, didn't think it was still in there.
Oh well, good news is it was in there for my beginnig weigh in. An easy 20-25 lbs shed.
Best way to reduce weight...put the Z32 engine in the Miata...put the Miata engine in a Spitfire...put the Spitfire engine in a lawnmower...put the lawnmower engine on a bicycle
I'll keep that in mind.
I've been doing some rough math. Around 3150 for a final weight seems possible without going to extremes. I'd be happy with that, would love to he closer to 3k even but I don't think that would be realistic.
Drill more speed holes!
Overdue update, I actually should have added some of this weeks ago. I missed like one or two weekends over the holidays but I'm still making fairly good time on this.
Continued on in the rear and got the differential and subframe dropped out, Diff was heavier than I expected.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151212_155408_zpsihcnejvq.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151212_161043_zpsg3bmxece.jpg)
Subframe was a piece of cake, pretty light and came straight down(as opposed to forward, tilt and down with the diff due to mount design).
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151212_162513_zpsaqizqqtg.jpg)
Not much left back there now.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151212_162719_zpswt2rddmr.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151212_162746_zps0hzquijj.jpg)
Next step was too work on the subframe, get all the old bushings out(pain in the ass) and get it cleaned up and ready for the new solid subframe bushings. Read a lot of opinions online about getting the bushings out. I took a shortcut and skipped all the heating and torch nonsense. I just drilled holes around the bushing and then used a vice grip and a lever to twist the inner right out. Worked great, then I just used a sawzall to cut the outer shell and then punched them out. Still was a lot of work and very time consuming, but it did the job.
Ready to get worked on.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151212_1627570_zpsmuzhdgmh.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151212_162803_zpsgajsgztg.jpg)
I did a quick comparison, what a complicated heavy piece(stock driveshaft). Should see some nice weight savings from this.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151212_162827_zpsu1qovvl2.jpg)
Pressing the bushings in was a pain, big and bulky subframe. It was hard to get it set up in the press. I ended up actually pressing the subframe down onto the bushing which worked great, but just made it difficult to manipulate the subframe and operate the press. Once some pressure got on it though it supported and guided itself.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160101_163702_zpsyrnau9fq.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160101_163707_zps2ydbxryn.jpg)
sammich
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160101_163724_zpsa6tw5c6f.jpg)
The subframe cleaned up(well I'll wipe it down one more time I'm sure, :rolleyes:) and all the bushings in place.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160101_182707_zpscsldpxtd.jpg)
With the subframe done, it was onto the hard part(for me). I've never done a diff install, so I figure I'll just take my time and check everything over 10 times(I do that anyway).
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160101_182818_zpsr1l47e1i.jpg)
I tossed around the diff options for awhile, decided to do the quaife. Supposed to be great on the track and with no setup and service issues that the clutch units have.
Digging into it.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160102_153144_zpsvupphii1.jpg)
What goes where again???? I did label everything with a cryptic multi dot pattern that only I can decipher. Sadly I'm already starting to forget what it was since this was right before christmas.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160102_1741190_zpsmplap4tm.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160102_174215_zpsui7z42sl.jpg)
One of these is not like the other, but according to quaife I have to change that. The passenger side(longer) has to be cut down. Shouldn't be hard, I'll do it myself instead of bringing it to a machine shop.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160102_1742230_zpsvfzjudoa.jpg)
Which brings me to the present day, hopefully will have this diff all done and put back together this weekend so I can button up the rear end and get back to the suspension stuff.
Now that you have it out, you should paint it hot pink or something faster than dirty black. Or swap to a solid rear end. Ford makes good ones.
:clap:
:violin:
(http://i.imgur.com/uqR06ln.jpg)
HURRRRRRRZ
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81FLLNtBthS._SL1500_.jpg)
I've been thinking about doing the rear JDM light conversion, it's not very expensive but I never really minded the yellow turn signals. That picture does make them look nice though.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on December 06, 2015, 08:28:07 PM
I've been doing some rough math. Around 3150 for a final weight seems possible without going to extremes. I'd be happy with that, would love to he closer to 3k even but I don't think that would be realistic.
How much was it stock?
Quote from: BimmerM3 on January 15, 2016, 02:45:48 PM
How much was it stock?
2900 lb.
All that rice is heavy.
Quote from: BimmerM3 on January 15, 2016, 02:45:48 PM
How much was it stock?
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on April 23, 2015, 09:32:10 AM
So, I've decided to get off my ass and back on this. With 2 more cars coming into the stable and the Z project untouched over the winter I've got a metric shit ton of work to do.
So last night I got the Z back down in the garage and got my initial weight readings with my new(last fall) scales.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX/20150422_185129_zpsmn967hhr.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX/20150422_185219_zpspamerwkv.jpg)
Not bad, IMO.
3433lbs with a weight distribution of 55/45. Should be pretty easy to work with.
I'm hoping to drop 150-200 lbs off the curb and hopefully shift the distribution back 2-3 percent. We'll see if that will happen.
Also got started on the front end, installed the steering rack bushings.
Looking over the rear I realized that installing the rear subframe and differential bushings pretty much requires dropping out the subframe. So to save time in the future I'm going to order my driveshaft and Quaife differential today(probably grab some new ball joints and tie rods too).
It's nice to get going on this, finally.
3400 lbs, not nearly as heavy as people thought these cars were.
3400 is exactly what I thought this weighed lol.
With 4 wheel steering, t tops, adjustable suspension and all the other garbage they piled into these it wasn't hard to understand why everyone thought they were heavy. The later cars were really "luxury", with such touches as leather wrapped a pillar trim and even leather/vinyl headliners and suede door/dash/center console trim.
You gots the 4WS?
Hads,
Schwarzenegger
It's been tuuuurminated!!
/Schwarzenegger
Nooooooooooo!!
Ideas for when the VG blows:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCXfXX8z8wQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCXfXX8z8wQ)
Blows?
Why would it blow?
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on January 25, 2016, 07:05:30 PM
Blows?
Why would it blow?
I've seen how you drive. You got a heavy foot.
How have you seen this?
What?
No, you what.
You know what? I saw you when I was working a halfway house in Cedar Rapids back in '98. You had a heavy foot and you blew it.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on January 25, 2016, 07:05:30 PM
Blows?
Why would it blow?
Blows pretty hard compared to an LS
Quote from: CaminoRacer on January 25, 2016, 07:29:08 PM
Blows pretty hard compared to an LS
It does, those twin turbos be blowing.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on January 25, 2016, 07:28:09 PM
You know what? I saw you when I was working a halfway house in Cedar Rapids back in '98. You had a heavy foot and you blew it.
Ohh, that was you.
I didn't recognize you without your 3 legged cat.
Get out of town
But I just got in to town. And I have tickets to see Bette Midler.
Charming
Stop wrecking my thread, you're a bully.
Is this thing back to drivable? Diff together and in the car yet?
Putting the diff together now. Still have to reinstall the subframe and diff, as well as all the rear suspension components.
Getting a new brakes, figured I'd do it now. 14" all around with 2 piece units in the front. Will post some pictures when everything gets here.
From there it's just new wheels and tires, 4 point roll bar, seats and some misc weight reduction and misc things then its ready to go.
Hope to be eone by the end of march so I can get some things done on the gtr and miata.
Yeah, it needs new wheels. Sorry, only thing I've disliked about your car is your wheels :lol:
Quote from: MrH on January 25, 2016, 08:02:17 PM
Is this thing back to drivable? Diff together and in the car yet?
It would be driveable if he didn't spend all his time arguing with Nick.
How many pistons in ur calibers?
Quote from: MrH on January 25, 2016, 08:12:38 PM
Yeah, it needs new wheels. Sorry, only thing I've disliked about your car is your wheels :lol:
I ordered what i wanted, and then was told they weren't even being manufacturered yet. Thanks tire rack. What i got was a second choice with time constraints. The next set will be better.
4 in the front, just 2 in the rear
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on January 25, 2016, 08:12:46 PM
How many pistons in ur calibers?
Pretty sure Calibers came with 4 pistons.
Quote from: thecarnut on January 25, 2016, 08:16:18 PM
Pretty sure Calibers came with 4 pistons.
Yeah but I don't think all the pistons worked.
Piston envy.
Everything cleaned up and ready for assembly.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160123_165641_zpskqsqiyeo.jpg)
Cut down shaft, turned out ok.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160123_165700_zpszuaeq7nk.jpg)
Ring gear installed and inner bearings pressed on.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160124_115740_zps3rkwziqx.jpg)
Real pain in the ass moving this thing around, on and off the vice and all over the table. But getting it in the vice is a must. Center installed, torqued and preloaded. Installing seals and the side flanges.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160214_1300310_zpsveaq8qxb.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160214_132730_zpskwde6erq.jpg)
Flanges, bushings installed. Preload set, backlash set, tooth contact set. A few measurements aren't what id like them to be, but its only by tenths of a thousandth. So all thats left is gooping it up.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160214_1327370_zpswnmnjd67.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160214_133549_zpshpziazxd.jpg)
Ready to go back in.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160214_140324_zps79tcwwlm.jpg)
Hoping to get the rear underbody cleaned up, subframe re installed, differential installed and the new 1 piece aloomineum driveshaft installed this saturday. I'm itching to get the back all done, but I got a new truck and I want to spend some time this weekend cleaning it up, installing a radio and polishing the exterior.
Also glad to get some table space back, got a my brake hardware a few weeks ago. I'll post an update on that this weekend.
I need to clean up my rear underbody, too. And I too lack the time to do it, and as well I can blame that on my truck.
Reported to moderator.
Truck thread or ban.
I'm going to punch mighty max while you sleep.
Good. Mighty Max is bored sitting in the yard, and cylinder 3 is probably all rusty by now.
Found how to fit wider tires
(http://i.imgur.com/OQUaXtw.jpg)
I like it, but I really don't dig the idea of cutting up metal. I could find some front fenders to cut up and use, but cutting the quarter panel is something I probably wouldn't do.
It looks like a nice kit, and it's priced pretty well.
:wub:
The front is more of a problem for fitment right?
Quote from: 68_427 on March 12, 2016, 09:04:09 AM
The front is more of a problem for fitment right?
Yes, 245's are easy, a 255 is pushing it. Rears will take a 295 or possibly 305 depending on your hicas setup.
Got the truck all done, pretty much. Only need to throw some tire shine on the tires and give it a wipe down with a spray detailer.
So this weekend I'm going to clean shop a bit and get back on the 300ZX. I'll throw some pics of the new brakes I got up, and hopefully find a place to put this until I get around to it.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160315_105230_zpsgg1lgogj.jpg)
I want full pics of the truck, so we can judge you for having a boring daily and 3 sports cars.
Quote from: MrH on March 15, 2016, 01:55:20 PM
I want full pics of the truck, so we can judge you for having a boring daily and 3 sports cars.
I don't follow, it isn't any different now compared to before.
You've shown like 10" x 10" pictures of the paint condition. I want to see the whole thing. So I can laugh at your mirror chrome.
Got the truck all cleaned up, cleaned up the shop a bit and moved back on the Z. Looked over all the brake stuff I got about a month ago.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160319_163458_zpsqh4oblbr.jpg)
14" 2 piece rotors with 4 piston nissan calipers in the front.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160319_1635130_zpsvrlycblu.jpg)
14 " 1 piece rotors with 2 piston Nissan calipers.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160319_1635250_zps3bo7yybm.jpg)
With a few hundred pounds (200-230) taken offx this should be adequate. I hope.
Do you have the stock calipers?
Yes, and a 13" ap front kit for this chassis.
Are the calipers the same for NA and turbo cars? If so they're the same calipers I've been trying to find for my car (same as WRX)
No, turbo is delifferent.
Ok. That's actually good cus I just bought pads and rotors that wouldn't have been compatible anyways...
Still been plugging away on this, been pretty slow lately because I've lost a few weekends due to social commitments.
Picking up where I left off, I was pretty much down to final assembly of the rear.
Out with the old, in with the new.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160402_173602_zps2ewdpjsb.jpg)
Starting to cobble together the drivers side.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160402_1736210_zpspfphbvf9.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160409_174200_zpsvsaxbcbf.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160409_174206_zpsswb1din2.jpg)
Can't imagine how bad this would be if I had to sit on the ground and do all of this.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160409_195809_zpsvedd3abt.jpg)
What a mess
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160409_195815_zpsqvwngd7i.jpg)
It's starting to come together.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160409_202142_zpss0ljt5dk.jpg)
Until I hit this little number.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160409_202337_zpsiwr83hbi.jpg)
The bolts provided with the brake kit are about 5mm too short, imo. They are only holding on to the caliper by about 3 threads. I had to wait til next weekend to get some new 12MM x 1.25 grade 10.9 bolts. It took about 3 stops, in 2 towns, to find what I needed.
In the meantime, I decided to get the other side's spindle striped down and replace the bushings, as well as clean up the wheel well and get that side ready to go together while I waited for the bolts mentioned above.
Got the spindle all taken apart.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160410_172538_zpsspus9ezl.jpg)
The lower control arm striped, it's a real pain to get those inner stock bushings out.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_144653_zpsvd3uryt7.jpg)
Spindle with the new bushings greased and ready to be pressed in. Pressing in greasy soft bushings is about as easy as you would think(meaning a complete pain in the ass).
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_155533_zpsxwgktr2x.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_162652_zpsaj0bqcsp.jpg)
I pretty much have the hang of it now, so about 40 minutes later I had the spindle all bushed up and ready to go.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_165342_zps73uxs1iu.jpg)
Cleaned up the hub assembly and removed the outer shield from the brake backer and got it all cleaned, assembled, and torqued down.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_171848_zpsxzttvoua.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_171907_zpshfsomtlz.jpg)
Along with the lower control arm with it's new bushings and ball joint.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_172348_zpscy1ifxjo.jpg)
With the 2 major components ready to go, I wanted to do a quick cleaning of the wheel well. This side turned out much better than the drivers side, thanks to a new product that I tried out on it.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_173037_zpsqka5sn90.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_173043_zpscxqcwo49.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_173050_zpsse0w88ym.jpg)
Sprayway, makers of the best glass cleaner ever, crazy citrous cleaner. Works great.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_173022_zpsuubjggnu.jpg)
Now I just spent some time cleaning up a few other things for the passenger side assembly.
Cleaned the driveshaft and greased the boots to give them a bit more of a usable appearance.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_182033_zpswypxn8ua.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_182103_zpsejaecddd.jpg)
They aren't too bad for 20 years and 70K miles.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160416_182219_zpshx44wwmf.jpg)
With new bolts in hand, I moved back over to the drivers side to wrap it up.
Got the rear hicas arm installed.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160417_171947_zpspc1ce4li.jpg)
Put the new rotors on and caliper, installed the pads and adjusted the ebrake.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160417_190349_zpsfzkvnj5p.jpg)
And lastly I cleaned up(I spend a lot of time cleaning, obviously) the filler neck cover and reinstalled it.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160417_193459_zpswvqkdjff.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160417_194326_zpsdzh8krsd.jpg)
Drivers side is all wrapped up, the passenger side needs assembly, but everything is pretty much prepped and ready to go in. Should be able to wrap that side up, and have the ass end back on the ground this coming saturday. Then I'll just pop up front and change out the rotors and calipers for the new ones and I should be done with assembly of all the suspension components.
Which leaves me with a few minor things(oil cooler install, roll bar, seats) and of course setting ride height, corner balance and alignment. Followed by new wheels.
Then I can do a few things on the GTR and Miata and get them ready for the driving season.
Meanwhile I picked up a more long term(er, I guess they are all long term, let's just say a ways away from seeing the road) project.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/20160415_175347_zpsial8b5tz.jpg)
I'm sure I'll start a thread on this in the future.
God damn. You're one of the few people I'd want working on my car. :clap:
Quote from: Cookie Monster on April 18, 2016, 03:50:46 PM
God damn. You're one of the few people I'd want working on my car. :clap:
Thanks, but I take a long time. You'd never see your car again.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on April 18, 2016, 03:09:17 PM
With new bolts in hand, I moved back over to the drivers side to wrap it up.
It all looks good. I respect the way you keep the work area tidy. That's the only way I can work.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on April 18, 2016, 03:53:18 PM
Thanks, but I take a long time. You'd never see your car again.
That's the difference between me and a real mechanic, especially a real bike mechanic.
Yeah, that's really impressive work. I don't have the skills, patience, or dedication to pull off half the shit you do. :golfclap:
Quote from: MrH on April 19, 2016, 06:50:47 AM
Yeah, that's really impressive work. I don't have the skills, patience, or dedication to pull off half the shit you do. :golfclap:
Thanks, but I really don't have any of that either. I've tried letting things sit and get done on their own, but that doesn't work. So somebody has to do the work, I'd really rather be driving than working on stuff.
You're going to redo the Mustang suspension, right?
(http://40.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m28like25C1r8z5joo1_500.jpg)
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on April 18, 2016, 03:53:18 PM
Thanks, but I take a long time. You'd never see your car again.
Meh, not like I drive it anyways. I've had a radiator and A/C delete pulley sitting in my room for the past 2 months. I have a giant laundry list of things to do to my car, most of which don't even cost that much money or I have the parts for, but I haven't gotten around to doing it.
Hell, I only need to spend about $600 on the car to get it where I want it to be. Just need to do a bunch of little things that I really just don't have the time or patience for. Plus, on the weekends I'm always off riding my motorcycle somewhere.
Quote from: CaminoRacer on April 19, 2016, 09:34:28 AM
You're going to redo the Mustang suspension, right?
Ohh god yes, these old cars are garbage.
I'm going to do a budget build, it's going to be pretty minimal(caged, no interior/rear seat).
I'm most likely going to do a rear IRS subframe as well as a nice coilover front(found some aloominium ones). With some bracing and a cage the car should be pretty stiff, hopefully it will handle pretty well.
Quote from: Cookie Monster on April 19, 2016, 10:21:51 AM
Meh, not like I drive it anyways. I've had a radiator and A/C delete pulley sitting in my room for the past 2 months. I have a giant laundry list of things to do to my car, most of which don't even cost that much money or I have the parts for, but I haven't gotten around to doing it.
Hell, I only need to spend about $600 on the car to get it where I want it to be. Just need to do a bunch of little things that I really just don't have the time or patience for. Plus, on the weekends I'm always off riding my motorcycle somewhere.
I had my coilovers for the 300zx for 14+ months before I finally got around to putting them in.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on April 19, 2016, 11:23:46 AM
Ohh god yes, these old cars are garbage.
I'm going to do a budget build, it's going to be pretty minimal(caged, no interior/rear seat).
I'm most likely going to do a rear IRS subframe as well as a nice coilover front(found some aloominium ones). With some bracing and a cage the car should be pretty stiff, hopefully it will handle pretty well.
Biggest issue on those cars is the tiny front wheel wells. Same problem as your Z, actually. :lol:
I would like to find a tasteful way to widden both the front and rear on the mustang.
Wouldn't be too hard to flare the fenders since it's already in need of paint. Here's the same Mustang that I posted the rear suspension of:
(http://www.newcarsrev.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/2998551.jpg)
Probably just do that then.
Well, finally got the back end all put together, just needed to throw the exhaust on. Which I of course gave a quick cleaning too before doing so even though It will just be replaced this fall.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160430_182727_zpsrifs3ou6.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160430_182809_zpsvmpy9r6i.jpg)
Not real dirty, but could certainly use a bit of work. Side by side after a light clean and quick pass with some metal polish.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160424_190054_zpsyqfwpp42.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160424_190036_zpshzgcc9kr.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160424_190029_zpsjkasiug9.jpg)
Back on the car.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160501_173254_zpswocvpivs.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160501_173306_zps0j12poce.jpg)
All I have left to do now on the suspension is head up front and put the new inner and outer tie rods on(stock inners, SPL outers) and change the calipers over to the new setup.
Getting the SPL outer on after installing the inner and new boot.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160501_190858_zpsc4gqzybx.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160501_190930_zpsm5md7ucn.jpg)
Pulling the old AP kit off the front.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160501_190944_zpswbwajh8b.jpg)
New caliper next to the old.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160501_202849_zpsnqyt2tme.jpg)
Should have the front all wrapped up this weekend. Then I just have some things to do around the motor(remove AC, put my new battery in, maybe some misc removal and cleaning) then I can get on to putting the 4 point bar in and picking up some seats. Which I think will be the stopping point. Once all that is done I'll get a weight measurement and set the ride height, corner weight and do a full alignment. Once all that is set I'll take some measurements and find out what I can run for new wheel/tire sizes.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on April 19, 2016, 12:23:17 PM
I would like to find a tasteful way to widden both the front and rear on the mustang.
I liked what the Ring Brothers did with their Espionage Mustang build. Widebody that doesn't really look widebody (until you park it next to an original car). They sell the kit, but it's like $28K for the fiberglass version ($40K for carbon fiber).
where do you keep this car? Is that your garage or somewhere else??
That's my shop/garage, its a big 3 car detached.
I thought I posted some pictures after I cleaned up before winter profect season.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/20151018_174141_zpsjesuj8pd.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/20151018_174133_zpslx2unxmm.jpg)
Through the door there is the 3rd stall for washing or light painting.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/20151018_174116_zpsav77yy7w.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/20151018_174103_zpsjxwosdu1.jpg)
I'm glad I took these pictures. It's a shithole now.
So jelly. :cry:
Also, which is bigger...your house or garage? :lol:
Quote from: giant_mtb on May 07, 2016, 11:06:08 AM
So jelly. :cry:
Also, which is bigger...your house or garage? :lol:
The house, by a bit. House is too big, garage is too small.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on May 07, 2016, 11:12:59 AM
The house, by a bit. House is too big, garage is too small.
Same issue I have! :ohyeah:
Quote from: giant_mtb on May 07, 2016, 11:06:08 AM
So jelly. :cry:
Also, which is bigger...your house or garage? :lol:
LOL +1
Late update, should have posted weeks ago.
Got the brakes all done in the front. Was a little disappointed that the new front rotors where heavier. They are only a half inch larger in diameter and I figured the 2 piece would have saved me weight over the old single piece. The reason became apparent when I did a side by side.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_163331_zps7md7hjpx.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_163406_zpssrfyxnyt.jpg)
Old AP Racing rotor in front.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_163719_zpshw0obqgo.jpg)
The reason for the weight gain.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_163523_zps9yurnxoc.jpg)
New Rotor
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_163606_zpsqcacb7mn.jpg)
Old Rotor
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_163635_zpsm2ydtoqj.jpg)
Front pads, old(top) vs new.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_170448_zpsqm6qoray.jpg)
I really didn't want to add weight on ANYTHING that I did, but here proved to be the exception. I'm not happy about it, but given the obvious benefits in surface area and rotor thickness(not just the braking surface, but cooling structure as well). I think I can live with it given the hopeful performance benefit.
Here it is, all assembled up.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_165626_zpsv9rddxwq.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160507_194518_zpsam5dq4pu.jpg)
You can make that back with new wheels.
Quote from: 68_427 on June 19, 2016, 04:47:13 PM
You can make that back with new wheels.
Or just skip the wheels altogether! How serious are you about saving weight?
I'm going to step down to 18s and buy something nice and light. I'm sure it will even out.
18" ce28n's are fairly light :3
Ive actually found a few volk wheels that are pretty nice and surprisingly reasonable.
The new CE28SL in 18x10 should be like 17lbs
Quote from: 68_427 on June 19, 2016, 10:18:57 PM
The new CE28SL in 18x10 should be like 17lbs
Oooo, those look good. I like them.
Long overdue update.
Moved around front to get the A/C out and clean up the front end. Also installing a larger oil cooler.
Pulled the cooler out.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160530_174900_zpshd67uwg6.jpg)
Old oil cooler hanging there waiting for removal, gaping hole is where the compressor once was.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160530_174905_zpstehrchtz.jpg)
Pretty dirty up in here
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160530_174916_zpsdvao9ajm.jpg)
Got the old cooler and lines removed, as well as removed the old A/C lines from the compressor to the condenser. For the time being I left the lines that go to the passenger compartment. I'll get those when the engine comes out in the future.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160620_200623_zps77nf5y57.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160620_200634_zpsqp4spagq.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160620_200644_zpsbmgf2hzs.jpg)
This thing was looking pretty rough, I've seen cracks in it before but I don't remember it being this bad. I'd better replace it. Apparently when they blow to pieces it sucks.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160621_202014_zpsrv2whcu6.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160621_202047_zpsnby9xioq.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160621_202100_zpsi2oli5e7.jpg)
Cooler mounted, and getting ready to run the lines.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160624_182408_zpsw0ljtlcx.jpg)
Tight working area, really had a bitch of a time getting this all bolted up. Lines should have been about 4-6 inches longer, or the fitting should have been 60 or 90 degrees instead of 120 at the sandwich plate.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160716_191801_zps7htnvysi.jpg)
Used a lot of hose to wrap the braided lines in some key areas. Both to protect the lines, surrounding components and paint finish. Those lines can rub and really do damage.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160716_191829_zps8ony7zqv.jpg)
The most important area, these lines would have been rubbing both the radiator and the passenger side (pressurized) IC pipe.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160716_192329_zpst2lhhwlh.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160716_192612_zpsbfrndz9c.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160716_192617_zpsrhm7jiqt.jpg)
Rad and oil cooler installed.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160716_192807_zpssnrdpocz.jpg)
Got everything all hooked back up and checking the cooling system. Love this coolant tool, one of the best tools I've bought in the past 5 years.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160717_174558_zpsba5qfrkr.jpg)
No leaks.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160717_174607_zpshl92j30l.jpg)
With a vacuum pulled, fill it up.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160717_181138_zpsjkpdy7co.jpg)
All back together.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160717_190248_zps9dszypva.jpg)
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20160717_190237_zpsclc8vuoz.jpg)
Much better(cleaner, better airflow) than it was before.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/300ZX%20Winter%202015%20Build/20151101_143823_zpsioehmms1.jpg)
Just have to refill some fluids(engine oil, differential fluid), check the transmission oil, bleed the brakes and then do all my suspension setup(ride height, cross weight, F/R toe, F/R camber) and then she should be ready to drive for a while.
Remove the horn too! That should save you 1-2 seconds per lap........ :mask:
I actually thought about removing, not for the weight, just to get it out of the way. It looks kinda dumb just hanging there. It's a 90's japanese car horn, it doesn't do anything anyways.
Got her out, going right back in(have to take the differential back out). I apparently did something wrong reassembling the differential. So that will be a lot of fun.
(http://i419.photobucket.com/albums/pp273/FlatBlackCaddy/DSC_0023_zps9f2mayhr.jpg)
Can't see anything
Huh? I see it.
Stupid Photobucket
(https://s26.postimg.org/aem7u8op5/DSC_0023.jpg)
Guess I'll have to find a new image hoster, photobucket wants you to pay to be able to link images.
Laconian steered me towards Imgur, which is decent, except for all the weird super-active members who downvote your mundane/technical photos.
It's like, I'd be mad too if I had to look at the most boring photos in your album, which is why............I don't.
I use this one http://postimages.org/ don't even have to sign up.
Quote from: Tave on August 30, 2017, 04:47:55 PM
Laconian steered me towards Imgur, which is decent, except for all the weird super-active members who downvote your mundane/technical photos.
It's like, I'd be mad too if I had to look at the most boring photos in your album, which is why............I don't.
I set all my posts to "only me" so people can't comment or vote. You can still hotlink.
But I enjoy the corresponding vapid and undeserved compliments?
yes,,, very like
I agree sir
Quote from: Tave on August 30, 2017, 05:27:29 PM
But I enjoy the corresponding vapid and undeserved compliments?
Yeah there's some weird shit on imgur...I put up a picture once and within minutes some random person just comments "fuck off op" and I'm just like whaaaaaaa???
Quote from: FoMoJo on August 30, 2017, 04:50:18 PM
I use this one http://postimages.org/ don't even have to sign up.
I used that one, should be a new picture up in the post above yours that I'm quoting.