1988 Mazda 323 GT Build-Up

[88323GT]

Hello all!, New to the Site, But not Mazda.
Currently own 2 Mazda 323's, One 88' GT, and one 89' SE.

Right now, Not alot has been done to the GT, But im hoping to change that. Paint was originally Dark Charcoal, But the Clear coat is pretty much gone, looks like someone Krylon'ed the front of the car.

Current upgrades are as fallows.

-Tokico Stuts
-HKS Turbo Timer
-HKS Intake
-2.5 Cat back exhuast bearing a Magnaflow muffler (Sounds Very good, nothing like a fart can)
-Font CorkSport Strut Bar
-Brand New Kenwood Audio
-Ford Escort "Powered MoonRoof Swap"
-Honda Civic Short Shifter
-MX6 GT Core Support Mount Intercooler
-Dual Guage Pod w/ Autometer Boost and Air/Fuel Ratio Guages
-Turbo XS BOV
-HKS Manual Boost Control

So far, the car is real nice, and a pleasure to drive. Keeps up w/ Turbo Civics quite well.

Future Plans as Follows

-Sti Blue / Gunmetal Silver two tone paint job
-H&R Lowering Springs
-Ecu Chip from CorkSport to handle up to 16 PSI of Boost (Increases Fuel Map)
- Lancer OZ wheels
-Escort/ Galant Brake Upgrade (Inside Hub)
-Imark Bumper Replacement
-Intercooler Relocated and replaced for Front Bumper Mount
-HID Headlight Conversion
-88'-89' GTX Front Seats Swap
-IHI VJ11 Turbo Swap
-HKS SSBOV
-Replace Cat
-Fog Lamps down the road.

If Possible, I want to keep this Thread up to show Progress of the build (Yes, w/ Pics) as I go.

I will snap some Before shots tomorrow for you all to see.(drive2)

Thanks!
Kyle

[Antoine]

Welcome! (hi)

Sounds good so far...be sure to post (pics) ASAP and keep us updated!

[88323GT]

Thanks! Glad I found this site too!

One more thing to add to the list Of future mods.

-Powered Windows and their appropriate door Panels.

Ile take some pics this afternoon.

Cheers!

[Lodivigo]

I'm glad I found this thread, definitly can't wait to see some pics. I've always had a soft spot for the 323.

[88323GT]

Well, I got stuck repairing my roof (PNW weather sucks!) so didnt have much time for anything else. Ile try to post some pics tomorrow.

Thanks!

[antlind]

Well, I got stuck repairing my roof (PNW weather sucks!) so didnt have much time for anything else. Ile try to post some pics tomorrow.

Thanks!


Ahh, finally a fellow GT owner on the forum.
Your ride sounds great, post some pictures. I also have an 88GT that I call my 'baby'. It's bone stock except for the suspension and wheels. I used Tokicos and H&R springs that I got from Derek at Corksport; and I got a set of 240SX wheels.
Corksport is a good (and perhaps only) source for GT components. Here is a picture of my ride.....
Anthony

[88323GT]

Hey Anothony!

I Recognize you from 323 Performance (Im 323SE). You really do have a nice car, better shape then most. Your lucky to find em anymore in decent shape, looks like we got lucky. :D

Ile try to take some detailed pics after work when we hopefully have some more light out.

Nice to meet you anyway.
Kyle

[88323GT]

OK, Some Pics...

These are way old, So Some Mods are not On the car at this point, but like i said, new pics tomorrow, hopefully....

[88323GT]

...and the Guage Pillar

[antlind]

OK, Some Pics...

These are way old, So Some Mods are not On the car at this point, but like i said, new pics tomorrow, hopefully....

Wow...that car looks like it's straight from the showroom...Very nice indeed. The body looks rock solid....

BTW, where did you source the pillar guages for your ride....I've been looking for a set for a while now.

Anthony

[mazdadude]

88323GT: What a clean ride! Looks great!

I have wanted a GTX since 88.

[Lodivigo]

Nice cars guys! My first manual was an '87 DX hatch. Not as nice as the GT's but it was still a blast to toss around.

[88323GT]

Unfortunitly, like i said earlier, its not that nice anymore. The front clear coat is gone, no more decals, and theres clear coat stripping off the roof, so its starting to show its age.

The Pillar, if i recall is off of a Civic, early 90's? Its not a direct fit.

I think my next car, if I can find one will be the GTX, I really want one of those!

And like last night, I got home too late for pics, since its getting dark way to quick for my liking.

[antlind]

Unfortunitly, like i said earlier, its not that nice anymore. The front clear coat is gone, no more decals, and theres clear coat stripping off the roof, so its starting to show its age.

The Pillar, if i recall is off of a Civic, early 90's? Its not a direct fit.

I think my next car, if I can find one will be the GTX, I really want one of those!

And like last night, I got home too late for pics, since its getting dark way to quick for my liking.

You know you can purchase the original side decals from any Mazda dealership. I got myself a complete set since mine were also coming apart. They're not all that expensive either. Check it out.
And I know what you mean about getting dark sooner...wait til they turn the clock back then it's going to be darkness leaving and returning home.
Anthony

[88323GT]

Can anyone help me with pics? I have them in my email, since i was on another computer, but the file is unrecognizable.
Also, antlind, When you got those decals, did they come as one peice, or one set of two?
Thnx

[antlind]

Can anyone help me with pics? I have them in my email, since i was on another computer, but the file is unrecognizable.
Also, antlind, When you got those decals, did they come as one peice, or one set of two?
Thnx


The decals come as individual pieces. I think it was something like $15CAD for each door decal. The 'GT' decal for the front fenders was under $10 each. So you may have to spend about $50CAD for the 4 items. I'm sure the US price will be less.
It's amazing that even though the US and CAD dollars are almot equivalent, we Canadians still pay more for many items (such as books, magazines, electronics etc) than our neighbors in the US.
Anthony

[88323GT]

Some pics, finally got it working. :D

[88323GT]

A few more, and....

[88323GT]

My current Interior, and shots of my Ford Escort Powered Moonroof swap.

[88323GT]

This is a HowTo Write up I did at Mazda 323 Performance, Thought it would come in handy here. Hope it helps some of you fellow 323'ers :) This is When I installed my MoonRoof to my car, Pics in previous Post.




"Well, i figured enough was enough, and theres just so much sun to be had this summer. So i headed to the local j/y to scout for a new sunroof.

I scored better then i thought. Found a 95' escort lx w/ the glass panel powered moonroof. So i snagged that and the controls out of an mx-6 gt, since i knew the escort controls didnt fit right.

Heres the install. (Sorry for the lack of photos, no cam right now)

For those who dont know how these are instaled, you need to remove both A pillars, seatbelt brackets, both B pillars, headliner retainer trim all around, sun visors and brackets, old roof crank and base, rear veiw mirror and bracket, passenger jesus bars, and center mounted light. Your headliner should fall out completly.

Gently pull headliner out of car, and set on flat, SAFE surface. This is a very breakable peace.

Now grab your 1/4 ratchet with a 10mm socket, and loosen all 8 nuts and bolts (6 bolts and 2 nuts). Be sure to unclip your center light harness, as well as the front harness and drain hoses.

Your old rusty broken panel sunroof should drop right out. There are 2 mounting tabs on the old sunroof that need to be moved over to the new roof. Reverse order for new moon roof install. The escort moon roof, even thought Identical in mounting and frame, will be a slightly tighter fit. Persuasion came in handy at this point.

This was the slightly tricky part of this whole thing. The escort controls/harness doesnt just clip in. Know this ahead of time so you dont get discouraged when it doesnt work at this point. The harness for the old roof just was set for lights. on it, you have a black ground wire that bolts to the body. It needs to be switched over to the main clip that plugs into the body harness. This wire needs to plug into the green wire. Now the sunroof will work.

After installing the headliner and such again, found the mx-6 gt control panel does not fit either. But this problem can be fixed with using a BG protege control panel. It plugs directly into the harness's, and screws right in, as well as covering the rear veiw mirror base, for that factory look and finish. Install complete. Play with it a few times, lock up the car and go enjoy a beer. "

[antlind]

Nice work....A glass powered sunroof sure beats the solid manual type.
Anthony

[88323GT]

Pics of new goodies comming soon!

[Rally Ninja]

Sweet car man! and an oregonian! woooot!

[Pmpkinhead]

I had the Vogue Silver 88' 323 GT from 88 to 99. I would recommend this color for any GT's getting repainted, its a blueish silver shade. Was a fun car! I upped the wheels from the 185/60-14's to the Enkie 82's with 195/55-15 tires and added the rear door decals and full window tint. I gave it away at 155K miles. I never knew the original HP/Torque specs on the 1.6 Turbo engine. Any idea?

PS: The electronic struts were the BEST. I miss the Sport setting.


367 (mp3yellow

[antlind]

I never knew the original HP/Torque specs on the 1.6 Turbo engine. Any idea?


367 (mp3yellow

132hp
Not sure of the torque.
At the time in 1988 it was advertised to be 'quicker than a Porsche 944 at half the price'....
Anthony

[88323GT]

I forgot that parts from Japan are never really quick...(screwy)

[88323GT]

OK, heres a little teaser for you, ile post a few more later.
Braking my own rule of performance before cosmetics, but Ive been searching for a BF badge for a while, and located one in Japan. (rei)

[broken]

So a few questions...
1. FE engine? and wtf is that you running a turbo carb system? I liek what you did though, with the plenum and everything...nice work there chaps.
2. What turbo your using? stock IHI or something else? PSI's boosting? How fast is your spool?
3. wheres the intake, cant see the HKS...unless you mean the air filter.
4. What about a FMIC, ever thought of it? If your not pushing many psi's I can see why you wont though...

Overall nice ride you got there. Fairly impressive, and Im glad to hear your a "engine first looks later" guy.

[CorkSport]

So a few questions...
1. FE engine? and wtf is that you running a turbo carb system? I liek what you did though, with the plenum and everything...nice work there chaps.
2. What turbo your using? stock IHI or something else? PSI's boosting? How fast is your spool?
3. wheres the intake, cant see the HKS...unless you mean the air filter.
4. What about a FMIC, ever thought of it? If your not pushing many psi's I can see why you wont though...

Overall nice ride you got there. Fairly impressive, and Im glad to hear your a "engine first looks later" guy.

The engine is a B6T and they are fuel injected. The turbo looks like the stock VJ14. Back in the day the HKS filter was considered an intake for the 323gt/gtx. Looks like he is running a MX6/626 intercooler there in the stock location. It is better than the stock IC.

Derrick

[broken]

That was my second guess on engine series. Should have known from the dif. mani. And how could you figure out the turbo without a clear picture of it? Only thing you can barely see is the compressor housing and that dont tell you much. And lol @ filter being considered a CAI, but cool beans.

[88323GT]

Obviously, you dont know Derrick very well. Hes one of the owners of CorkSport, a Mazda Performance shop, the one and only Best place on this earth for Mazda performance Parts, service, and help. ;) He, Himself, has a Very well done GTX w/ the 1.8 BPT swap in it.

The car does have a ways to go. It is the stock IHI VJ14, only doing 9 psi on an unchipped ECU. All the work to be done is listed on the first page. But, it will have a new Imark bumper installed, and then will be shot with MP3 Blue. Front mount intercooler will be installed after the bumper, with the extra space, is installed. I do plan on putting a VJ11 in a little later, after most engine work is done, and after I can pay Derrick to chip my ECU. Then some Lancer OZ wheels, and I think Ile be good from there. Right now, I reach full boost around 3500 rpms? Off the top of my head, thats a guestimate, I cant remember.
And, I never said it was a Cold Air Intake, its just an HKS intake, which technically does away w/o the filterbox, and small intake pipe routing. ;)

Ok, final shots from the teaser, Im very pleased. :D

[broken]

Oh, dont get me wrong. I dont doubt his general knowledge, and I could tell he was related to Corksports by the name. Just that seemed a bit farfetched he descrbing the turbo with no clear pic of it. But its cool, I guess he has worked on your engine/with you before.

On a side note, do not go with a VJ11. In my personal experience, they suck, they go boom very fast, and they are not efficient enough once you start boosting some decent numbers. There are better turbos out there with more efficiency and with better reliability (IMO). And MSP blue will look secks on your car.

[88323GT]

It depends entirely on the engine the turbos to be used on. On a 1.6 B6T DOHC, it pushes nice numbers w/o blowing chunks all over the place. Larger engines, I can see that being a problem, But the VJ11 has been a very well proven swap on the B6T, So its next inline. Only a Little more Turbo lag, but has a much better Full Boost ratio to RPM's. Besides, Our cars weigh alot less then most cars out there on the track, so if you calculate Power to Weight Ratio, You get a mean SOB.

And yes, Derrick has seen my car, plus the other forum im a regular on, hes been up to date on the build. ;)

[88323GT]

ECU is now CorkSport Chipped thanks to Derrick. Also, HKS SSQV is in the mail, comming soon.

[88323GT]

UPDATE:
HKS SSQV Installed and working.
Im abandoning the Imark bumper and the VJ11 swap.
Keeping the stock, ugly usdm bumper for a bit.
Thinking of a hybrid turbo now with either a vj14 or vj11 hotside and a vj16 or vj20 boost side.
Euro headlights are also installed with clear corners, but the corners are disgusting, so im picking up a set of JDM clears to match the euro's.
If you happen to buy a set of euro's off ebay which are now more and more, be for warned, they are NOT plug and play OEM replacements. These take h4 bulbs and a much different corner light socket.

On a sad not, some meth head bashed in my drivers glass and stole my stereo behind my work, which was in plane sight of a very well lit and buissy street. So now im out a new stereo, but the glass only cost me 28 bux at U-Pull-It.
Thats it for now. :)

[antlind]

Good progress man.....My 323GT is in the shop having the head rebuilt. I need new valves and guides....I hope to get her back by the end of next week.......

BTW, I have a quick question.....where did you source the adapter plate to install your intake filter? Did you get it fabricated locally or does this part exist somewhere?

Anthony

[Pmpkinhead]

I used to have the 88 323 GT and I was curious what the LSD was like in the car. I have already broke my MSP LSD (60,000 mi)and I never damaged the 323 LSD (155,000 mi). I was at least as hard on that car as I am on this one. Any info would be appreciated!(shrug)

PS: I did blow out the 3rd gear synchros twice. I never broke anything on the engine itself. I went thru 46 tires in 155,000 miles before I gave it away.


367 (mp3yellow

[antlind]

I used to have the 88 323 GT and I was curious what the LSD was like in the car. I have already broke my MSP LSD (60,000 mi)and I never damaged the 323 LSD (155,000 mi). I was at least as hard on that car as I am on this one. Any info would be appreciated!(shrug)

PS: I did blow out the 3rd gear synchros twice. I never broke anything on the engine itself. I went thru 46 tires in 155,000 miles before I gave it away.


367 (mp3yellow

I may sound like a complete moron ((hand) wouldn't be the first time) but does the 323GT have a LSD? I'm running the original clutch at 235K so I'm not going to be burning any rubber anytime soon. My syncros are ok, except for the 1st gear...Have to be gentle with it.

[Pmpkinhead]

Wow, I went thru the original plus 1.5 clutches(155,000 mi). I'm not sure if it has a LSD or not. I can assume you are talkin' KM but thats still really good. I could never drive a car like that. LOL


367 (mp3yellow

[antlind]

Wow, I went thru the original plus 1.5 clutches(155,000 mi). I'm not sure if it has a LSD or not. I can assume you are talkin' KM but thats still really good. I could never drive a car like that. LOL


367 (mp3yellow

Yupper....that's 235,000 kilometers on the odometer.
I'm an old fart pushing 45 so I've toned down the aggressive driving somewhat compared to you younger guys on the forum.

[88323GT]

The Air Filter Adapter, I got from Derric at CorkSport. Plus, if hes out of em, I would say look at Ebay. They pop up from time to time, but theres no telling of the quality.

The car now has JDM corners, and new clear Blinkers. HID kit is hopefully going to be here today, so ile atleast have something to do on my day off.

Well, I also will be trying my back yard mechanic skills at an easy FMIC using an MX6 intercooler. Ile take pix of it.

[88323GT]

I did the somewhat getto FMIC today, and Im quite pleased. Also cured a rough idle problem i was having. Ile post a How to Thread so's you can see it.

[88323GT]

Update!

HIDs came about 3 weeks ago, and installed. I cant say enough about it. These lights are tons brighter then the stocks. If you need visibility, I would recomend dropping about 150 for even a cheap kit. Thats what i have, and in my clear euro headlights, they are very well projected and bright! No regrets!

Also, the headgasket started showing bigger signs of going south, IE: Rough Idle at first start up, having to burn out the coolant in the cylinders. A good friend of mine was in town, so we both tackled the job. Pulled the head, and oil pan with the intentions of replacing the rings as well as the head gasket. We where absolutley stunned by what was staring back at us after pulling the head off. An almost perfect set of cylinders and pistons. The cross pattern from the factory hone was still visable, and the walls smoother then anything else on this earth ive ever touched. Nope! No rings needed! :D
The head was as strieght as an arrow, and the valves in great shape for their age. So we left it alone, cleaned all surfaces to as much of a clean shine, smooth as possible. Cleaned out the very little amount of sludge as was the pan, and resealed it to the block. After all said and done, she was back on the road in a matter of 13 hours, with a lunch break. Dont have any pictures of the overhual, but ile post new pics of the lights, and current condition when the rain lets up. ( :rolleyes: )

This was done on a 20 year old B6T, never popped open till now.

[88323GT]

Pics as promised. :)
http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/2683/p2260051tb0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/2672/p4010002lg8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/5968/p4010001fw5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/1712/p4010003jk3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/5504/p4170002hx5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/9552/p4170003qn9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Unfortunately the car is parked due to some ignition problems.
Its weird since when you put the key in and turn it to ON not Run, it starts the car and will not dissengage the starter, so the starter is spinning full time.
Ive replace the ignition switch, and the starter in hopes one of those had failed. I also have been all through the electrical and cant find one danm problem, so im pretty much stuck. :(

[antlind]

Cool headlight system.....I like.
Anthony

[88323GT]

Update:
Back in April, With my electrical issue, I had CS take a good look, (Thank you Jason!) and they found the ignition relay was fried in the closed position. So Ive been back on the road for a while. Also, Had some slotted rotors, new pads, and bearings put in last month. Thats it thus far.

[Blue323GT]

hey guys i love your cars by the way very nice. I sport a 323 GT as well and love it. i dont have many pics yet but will get some soon.

[88323GT]

Got some really fun go fast goodies!!! Post pics soon.

[Antoine]

(woowoo)...Awaiting (pics) of goodies!

[88323GT]

Update Photos!
Whatcha think? Ive noticed a huge difference in performance. Plus my newly painted spare valve cover.
http://img373.imageshack.us/img373/588/p8050001vz3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/857/p8050002xw0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/2604/p8050003rm3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/7321/p8050004ex0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
All put back together!
http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/7827/p8070007rr6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/4343/p8070008mi8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Before...
http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/9961/gtenginemw0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
...and just as it is today, with a few changes to My FMIC and intake.
http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/2325/p8120001yk3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Outside shots. :D
http://img373.imageshack.us/img373/7946/p8080009kr5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img370.imageshack.us/img370/9193/p8120003ya1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)(yippy)

[antlind]

Holy Intercooler Batman......That baby is huge, what donor vehicle did it come from.....You will need to be careful of curb damage with that thing hanging out front. How does it help performance.....i.e., it is recognizable off the line or about 3500rpm (which is where the standard set up tends to perform best...in my GT at least)?
Anthony

[88323GT]

None of that came from a donor vehicle. Its all new custom work. Im quite aware of it and curbs, etc. Im probably going to flip it and cut the bumper so it fits.
I have noticed much better boost as it was, since there is little to no restrictions for the turbo, so it spools up very quick. It hangs through a little further too. Im very happy with how quick it is. It will throw you back a bit. MUCH, MUCH better then the old setup, which was as well much better then Stock.

[88323GT]

Update!

I got the intercooler flipped and into the bumper. Fits well, and I also got the pipes flared, so no connectors have somthing to grip and dont just pop apart. On a sad note, the Turbo is shot and wont boost past 8 psi. Its tired and in need of a rebuild, so I have another one being rebuilt, and will hopefully be put on this tuesday.

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/6628/gtfront1ad0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Pic of me mates car with the Isuzu IMark Bumper. This will be the bumper that goes onto my car. Perfect fit for an intercooler.
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/2224/imarkbumperel9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[antlind]

The intercooler looks really good now that you've inverted it.
As for the Isuzu bumper, let me know where I can get one of these please......This is perhaps the best body mod you can apply to these cars.
Keep up the great work.
Anthony

[OhSchnapps]

......and take his wheels too while you're at it. They make look much sexy time.

[88323GT]

I have sexy..er wheels in mind for this beast. ^.^
Sourcing the bumper can be rather tricky as they are almost as rare as the car itself. By the way, the intercooler has since been streightend up. Doesnt look like a drunk mounted it anymore. Thanks for the props fellas! Greatly appreciated.

[88323GT]

Almost Forgot!

I traded a local performance shop, my Turbo XS Type RFL Blow off valve and $90 for a new Turbo XS type H Recirc/Atmospheric Blow Off Valve. Much quieter and better for the whole sleeper package.

[Blue323GT]

hey guys its been quite some time since my last post and for a good reason.

i got rear ended a month ago and my car was written off.
i did buy it back and i am currently looking for a new body
my engine has 165,000km and it was rebuilt at 100,000km
so it still has life left in it.
please let me know of any bodys up for grabes

[antlind]

hey guys its been quite some time since my last post and for a good reason.

i got rear ended a month ago and my car was written off.
i did buy it back and i am currently looking for a new body
my engine has 165,000km and it was rebuilt at 100,000km
so it still has life left in it.
please let me know of any bodys up for grabes


Hey, sorry to hear of your misfortune.
These cars are somewhat hard to find in Alberta. You may be lucky to get a 2-dr hatch but most of them are in pretty poor condition. I'll keep my eyes open to see if anything comes up here in Calgary.
Anthony

[OhSchnapps]

You got rear ended..... are you looking for an entire new body, or just a rear bumper?

[Blue323GT]

the entire body

[88323GT]

Well, I got my rebuilt turbo from the guys up at the turbo rebuild shop, and I installed it, just to find out I have to take it back out again. Its whining very badly, and not doing its JOB!!! I installed it via the directions given, as well as by the FSM. Its fualty, and has issues. DANMIT!!!

[antlind]

Well, I got my rebuilt turbo from the guys up at alamo turbo, and I installed it, just to find out I have to take it back out again. Its whining very badly, and not doing its JOB!!! I installed it via the directions given, as well as by the FSM. Its fualty, and has issues. DANMIT!!!

That sucks.....What did they do as part of the rebuild and what did it cost you to do this rebuild. I hope things work our for you.
Anthony

[88323GT]

When they rebuild a turbo, they replace all bearings, seals, clean everything, balance the wheels and shafts. I know these guys do good work normally. Its been shipped back today, and Im awaiting to hear from them tomorrow. They will find out what the problem is and hopefully fix it. They think it may be a hair out of alignment. Eitherway, Hopefully Ile ba back on the road by thursday night, or friday. Ile make an update once I find out.

[88323GT]

Well, they tore it apart today, checked all alignments with a feeler guage as well as play and movement. The compressor wheel was barely rubbing the inside of the compressor housing. They where able to correct it, checked the balance again and cleaned up the housing, anf got it packed and shipped back out in the same day. That is QUICK!!! I will have it by tomorrow, and will hopefully have it in and tested correctly by this time tomorrow night.

Ile let ya know the final outcome.
:cool:

[JaxJeff]

I just wanted to say very nice car ..... yeah i would say you got a sleeper there.. as long as they dont see the front,, . I wanted to ask you what kinda power you makin and how much does the car weigh ?

[88323GT]

Thanks!
With how much nooks and crannies I freed up with the FMIC, and the 16psi norm, I would have to guess in the high 160hp/low 170hp ranges. It comes factory with 142 hp, but Ive also heard of people doing the same setup with the stock turbo comming out in the 180 hp range. I will have to dyno it once I get the turbo back on.

I had to send the turbo back cuz there is still an un necessary whine to it, so this time they are going to rebuild it with new bearings and double check everything, but at the same time, they have no way of testing it in shop, so this will be trial once I get it back.

Thanks for the support guys/gals!

[88323GT]

Almost forgot, it weighs roughly 2k lbs without me in it.

[88323GT]

Success!
I got my Other turbo rebuilt and installed. It is quiet and pulls well for having it at stock psi.
I am taking it easy with it, going to nurse it for a week or so before opening things up to 16 psi. Im just happy to have my car back. :D The 65' pickup I was driving is nice, but eats a little more in the way of gas.

Eitherway, this part of the project is complete.

[OhSchnapps]

cool beans man, i'd like to see that thing rip up a ricer integra or something lol.

[88323GT]

Who says I havnt? ;)

[OhSchnapps]

didn't say u didnt. you have to get a video man!

[88323GT]

just bought another white GT. Its a project, but should look great once finished. Ile post pictures once I tow it up here to Portland. :D

[antlind]

just bought another white GT. Its a project, but should look great once finished. Ile post pictures once I tow it up here to Portland. :D

And I just sold mine 3 weeks ago.....Still suffering from the withdrawal pains....In fact I've been so grumpy around the house since I sold it that my wife told me to find the guy and buy the car back.......
Anthony

[OhSchnapps]

Why did you sell it then....?

[antlind]

Why did you sell it then....?

I'm asking myself the same question.....We had four cars and it was becoming a problem to park them, plus I knew that if I kept it I would have spent $$$ to replace the clutch and upgrade the exhaust and this would have led to more conflicts with the wife.
So I guess the answer to your question is that I sold it to preserve some semblance of matrimonial harmony......

[88323GT]

Aww, dude! That sucks! Couldnt sell any of the other cars, you pick the rarest of em all? Just given you a hard time. Im sorry you chose to do what you did, it is sadning. :( I would buy it back, and talk to the wife, tell her that it would make you happy to keep it. you couldnt pay me enough for my car. I love it more then most everything I own.

[OhSchnapps]

he does it for the poon. I understand.

[88323GT]

A bit late, but time for an update. Replaced the Tires....after having no traction in the snow, and sliding into a curb at 10 mph. I have a feeling, something is broken or out of alignment in the suspension/steering. Also will be getting a pair of MazdaSpeed Motor Mounts, as mine are shot.
Meanwhile, I had the clutch replaced. Much better not slipping through the first 3 gears under boost.
I think the car is getting to a point where most the major parts are being either repaired or replaced. Once this is done, I can focus more money on my White GT project. If tomorrow is nice, I can finish pulling the motor, put the car back on the ground, and get it out of my driveway and under my front tree, out of the way. Once work starts, Ile make a second project thread for it.
I hope you all had great holidays, and that no one else was forced to part with their cars. Once the car is washed, Ile take some new pictures of how it sits.

Things to come, are motor mounts, Alignment, Injectors need rebuilding, and new plugs.

[88323GT]

Bought another Turbo XS RFL. I missed the loud and obnoxious blow off that valve had, so i got another one. :)
Once I have a day of good weather, Ile post new pics.

[bwalt]

hey guys its been quite some time since my last post and for a good reason.

i got rear ended a month ago and my car was written off.
i did buy it back and i am currently looking for a new body
my engine has 165,000km and it was rebuilt at 100,000km
so it still has life left in it.
please let me know of any bodys up for grabes

I have a shell if your interested. I'm located in BC.

[88323GT]

The project Ive been spending some time on.;)

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/2504/p3030023.jpg (http://img300.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p3030023.jpg)
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/9013/p3030024.jpg (http://img16.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p3030024.jpg)
http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/1174/p3030025.jpg (http://img291.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p3030025.jpg)
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/3199/p3030026.jpg (http://img16.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p3030026.jpg)
http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/2884/p3030027.jpg (http://img300.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p3030027.jpg)
...and spot the problem.
http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/1125/p3030028.jpg (http://img300.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p3030028.jpg)

[kcbhiw]

The project Ive been spending some time on.;)






...and spot the problem.
http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/1125/p3030028.jpg (http://img300.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p3030028.jpg)

Yikes! I've been there. I purchased a Capri XR2 for $100 strictly for the turbo bits only to find the same thing, heh.

Stepping aside from the forum rules for a sec, I have a few IHI housings, wheels, and a rebuild kit that i won't be using any time soon if you're interested. I'll post proper pics if you're interested.

[88323GT]

Something that pic maynot be very clear on showing, and that is the Compressor shaft nut is gone. I was the first person to crack open the intake system and I find this. Wonder how long it was drivin like this...

As so far as the turbo parts, Im actually going to do a hybrid, so I wont be needing anything VJ14 specific. Im doing a VJ14/VJ11 hybrid here soon. ;)

[noobskier]

Hi, I recently purchased an '89 323 2 HB 4 spd w/ 186k on it for $500 and it runs. The gentleman sold it cheaply b/c he thought it might need a new clutch, which at the moment it is driving just fine clutch wise. I know this is no GT or GTX, but I figured this might be a good place to get some info...

I bought this car as a way to force myself to learn more about cars. I have a good friend guiding and assisting me in the process that has years of experience and a sweet garage. I'm looking for any additional advice or tips from Mazda drivers. So far I've replaced the fuel pump, distributor, wires, plugs, and later this week I'm replacing the valve cover gasket. It is leaking some oil, not tons. Are there other things to check while doing the vcg? I eventually want to do some suspension work, new tires and wheels, and all around make it "cool" looking but first I'm doing engine work to make it last and make it worth the potential coolness. I know the engine needs some more tlc, what are some more items I should check and fix if necessary? Also, are there any other good sources for Mazda parts and upgrades besides Corksport?

Thanks. The sleeper GT is sick by the way!

[Pmpkinhead]

Hey Noob, When I had my Vogue Silver 88' 323 GT Turbo, I bought summer rims/tires and used the stockers (4 lug 185/60-14) for winter. I went to a 195/50-15 tire and polished alum mags and received a lot of complements on the appearance. Also, I added GTS Smoked Headlight covers (I kept the High Beams on 24/7) and the 2 piece Factory Bra with the MAZDA embroidery. One final touch was the addition of the Factory 323 GTX rear door stickers "DOHC 16V TURBO" but that will come with time (and money) LOL. Good luck with her!

If you drive and it pops out of any gear, the synchros went bad (from experience).

367 (mp3yellow

[88323GT]

Went to the J/Y today, and snagged the 89 Imark RS bumper. Got real lucky on this as they are super rare.

Cars to under go a heart transplant with a new motor here real soon. Pics to come.

[Rollmodl]

Hello, I am somewhat new to the site but been in the import game for a while now. Those pics of the Mazda 323 GT brought back alot of old school memories. My friends had alot of Mazda's back in the days. Some of them included 323GT's, 323GTX's and MX6GT's. I owned 3 Mazda's in my time, a 1979 RX7, 1983 RX7 and a 1990 Mazda MX6 GT.

It's cool to see some history on the road. I am looking forward to seeing the finished project.

BTW I guess you guys already know about the intake/exhaust manifold stud issue in those cars.

[CorkSport]

Time for an update!!!

[323b6t]

^ x2

[88323GT]

Oops, ment to update this.

Recently installed a Auto Dimming Rear View Mirror with Compass and Out Side Temp readouts. Heres the latest pics. :)

Old Engine out....
http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/6061/pa250002.jpg (http://img94.imageshack.us/i/pa250002.jpg/)

New engine in...
http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/619/pa250006.jpg (http://img687.imageshack.us/i/pa250006.jpg/)
Starting the final steps... But ran into my stupidity. Once fixed, she fired up and purred like a kitten....after about 2 hours.
http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/7606/pa260009h.jpg (http://img94.imageshack.us/i/pa260009h.jpg/)

And as she sits now. :)
http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/5184/pb030002b.jpg (http://img94.imageshack.us/i/pb030002b.jpg/)
http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/517/pb030004.jpg (http://img145.imageshack.us/i/pb030004.jpg/)
And a very crappy shot of my newest add on. 30+ Horsepower!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/4392/pb100001.jpg (http://img145.imageshack.us/i/pb100001.jpg/)

[Protege03ak46]

kyle!!! i never knew you were on here. :)

[88323GT]

Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!

[Protege03ak46]

lol

[CorkSport]

Have you turned up the boost yet?

-Derrick

[88323GT]

You would ask that after leaving me in the dust last week. :p

I am at 950 miles, and already tried 15 psi, but im also still having that danm leaning out issue. You dont by chance have a spare Idle air control valve floating around do you?

[CorkSport]

I cant find one here at the shop. One good way to do a test is to plug the BAC rubber hose and see if it still does the lean out.

[88323GT]

Ile give that a shot tomorrow.

I did push 17 PSI today..... Lets just say, this motor pulls, and I mean hard. :D

[Slyder]

thats awesome what you have done with that car. will you be dynoing it?

[mazkam]

Love the setup of your 323 gt, especially with the imark bumper swap

[323b6t]

(bowdown)
good to see someone else w/ a gates timing belt
(I broke 3 before I got one)

[88323GT]

Thanks! I havnt broken any belts yet, but I only used the stock belts on the stock engine, so now that its built and im hoping for some extra ponies, a stronger timing belt is a good investment.
Car doesnt even hit 15 psi and Im already burning my front tires up through second gear. This new motor keeps getting stronger and stronger.

[Pmpkinhead]

Love the setup of your 323 gt, especially with the imark bumper swap

How would/did you know the bumper would match up? (I used to have an 88 323 GT)

[323b6t]

Thanks! I havnt broken any belts yet, but I only used the stock belts on the stock engine, so now that its built and im hoping for some extra ponies, a stronger timing belt is a good investment.
Car doesnt even hit 15 psi and Im already burning my front tires up through second gear. This new motor keeps getting stronger and stronger.

I hear ya on the burning the fronts up, I had to ease it through 2 then they'd catch and that was just off an 6 dollar maf sensor adapter
but by built what do u mean

[88323GT]

"Built" motor with SuperTech Teflon Coated Forged 8.8.1 pistons, Forged Eagle Rods, Stock Forged crank, CorkSport Adjustable Cam Gears, MAZDASPEED oil pump, Cometic Gasket set/Metal Head gasket, ARP Head Studs, CorkSport Chipped ECU to handle 16 PSI of Boost, HKS Manual Boost Controller, Custom FMIC, HKS SSQV BOV, AEM Intake, 2.5 cat back Magnaflow Exhaust system, MAZDASPEED Motor Mounts

[323b6t]

(google)
"Built" motor with SuperTech Teflon Coated Forged 8.8.1 pistons, Forged Eagle Rods, Stock Forged crank, CorkSport Adjustable Cam Gears, MAZDASPEED oil pump, Cometic Gasket set/Metal Head gasket, ARP Head Studs, CorkSport Chipped ECU to handle 16 PSI of Boost, HKS Manual Boost Controller, Custom FMIC, HKS SSQV BOV, AEM Intake, 2.5 cat back Magnaflow Exhaust system, MAZDASPEED Motor Mounts

ok good cause alot of people down in Atlanta consider build a motor is a stock rebuild w/ a mild port and 3 angle valve job pssh!
But damn I like to see it in person but that isn't gonna happen

[Protege03ak46]

trust me its beautiful

[superegg]

hey im new to this forum but i was interested in where i could find a shell in the states if anyone has some good ideas

[323b6t]

hey im new to this forum but i was interested in where i could find a shell in the states if anyone has some good ideas

step one-
create your own thread

step two-
keep your topic in YOUR thread

[323b6t]

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/2224/imarkbumperel9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

what lip is on the rs bumper?

[88323GT]

I believe that is an early 626 or MX6 front lip if I remember right. Its not bad, looks great too, but im opting not to drop my front end very much lower then it sits.

[323b6t]

I believe that is an early 626 or MX6 front lip if I remember right. Its not bad, looks great too, but im opting not to drop my front end very much lower then it sits.

Yea I like the lookS of it but once I drop mine i'd scrape coming out of my drive way...

Do you know if the H&R spring adjustable or just springs.
And w/ the ground controls and kybs would thy blow out cause the 323's are so heavy

[88323GT]

The H&R's are just short springs for a 1.4" drop. As for the other question, I highly doubt it as the 323 is actually rather light for its size.

[tireboy]

thats a pretty sweet ride...

[CorkSport]

88323GT is that Larry's car after the repair?

-Derrick

[323b6t]

The H&R's are just short springs for a 1.4" drop. As for the other question, I highly doubt it as the 323 is actually rather light for its size.

then i guess i just need to get better shocks then cause i keep blowing out my fronts.

the ground controls w/ lets say the tokico blues would that be considered a coilover( i dont know anything about suspension)

[88323GT]

I just recently entered the aftermarket suspension world, so I wouldnt be the one to ask.

Derrick, That was shot on our Mazda323Performance Drive up through northern washington a few years back. It still looks the same afterwords. He didnt spare much from having it fixed.

[323b6t]

lol so then would just the ground controls that were on corksport and some KYB's work?

( i want to pretty much scrap the s-10 front lip)

[RJ323GT]

does anybody know wher i can find the radiator for the GT, or if anybody has one they might wanna sell?

[CorkSport]

I had to purchase a new rad from Mazda for my 323 GTX last year. I couldnt find an aftermarket source.

-Derrick

[Mike_GT]

I had to purchase a new rad from Mazda for my 323 GTX last year. I couldnt find an aftermarket source.

-Derrick


Civic radiator and slim fan ftw

[323b6t]

any updates for the mazdas247.... you clubprotege whore...

[CorkSport]

Doh! Busted!

[Kwish]

This build helps me a bunch! I've got a B6T although its in a 91 Mercury Capri XR2 this gives me a general idea of the parts i'll need and so forth.

[88323GT]

Welp, cars bee sitting pretty much ever since I picked up my Speed 3 last month. I loaned it to a friend of mine while his car was out of order due to bad fuel, and just recently got it back. I threw it up on my lift and went over it head to toe. Looks like I have work to do (Not because of my friend or his driving mind you) as my Oil pan is leaking, Suspension is noisy (Going back to lowering springs, tired of these particular coilovers...), Front mount and intake need to be pulled, refined and reinstalled, Sway bar bushings and endlinks for the rear need replacing, driver axle seal needs replacing, Driver axle is puking through the inner boot, and needs to be replaced. Loks like a little work ahead of me. I also need to install my wideband some time soon hopefully. Ile take some pics later for a true update. :)

[88323GT]

Got the Tokico's and Intrax lowering springs swapped in from the coilovers. Pulled and resealed my oil pan as well. I tried swapping out my BAC Idle air control valve for a spare sitting around, and it is truly dead, so that was a failure. Still need to pull the front bumper and re configure my Front Mount and plumbing. Im planning on going with a smaller diameter tube for the hardlines and a new intercooler. I think I might be loosing power with the 2.5" lines Ive got.

Last 2 days Ive been swapping in power windows and controls/wiring and trying to figure out the best way to make the central locking working without replacing the lock mechanisms.
Pics WILL come when it stops raining,.....when ever that is.

[CorkSport]

Can you see the 323 GT with all of the grass growning around it from negelect, lol!

-Derrick

[88323GT]

That was a low blow........ and no. There weeds, not grass.

I DID drive it today though........and attracted a few of Portland's finest.

[88323GT]

Stole a friends JDM grill. Looks pretty good really. Pics to come. Also due for an oil change. That comes next week maybe.

Also have my other 323 gt project car, thats been sitting in my back yard. Needs a new home and I mean quick. Anyone interested, let me know.

[DeeAOne]

pictures!

[CorkSport]

His car looks like rudolph the red nose reindeer now, lol

-Derrick

[DeeAOne]

you have to keep the BFs alive! we are a dying breed. lol :(

[CorkSport]

Earth the 88323GT, Come in 88323GT, where are you?

[DeeAOne]

he became a traitor. guess im the only one left. lol

[CorkSport]

Nah, he still drives the car. He stopped by the shop yesterday.

-Derrick

[b6tstang]

hello
hey there im new to the group but i just purchased a 88' 323 gt. which are hard to find atleast in socal. well i didnt find any other mazda groups as good as this one for these kind of cars. well since you have one i would like to know more about these cars.
Thanks

[88323GT]

What might you need to know?

[kevinsheehan]

I need to buy a stub axle for my 1986 323 (BF) GLX 1500 cc Auto ( 55,000 mlies )

I would prefer a good used unit, because my left front wheel bearing keeps has given up 3 times now.

I have pressed 3 new bearings into the housing and after a few miles the bearing starts whining and this last one finally collapsed. I have not stripped it down yet and a good used unit I am sure is the answer. I do not want to give up on this car!!

Any help gratefully received

Kevin Sheehan