What have you done to your Mazda3 today?

[thejeans]

installed a twm sts with shortened boot monday...
and then ordered led's to replace the map lights, dome lights (glove box, trunk, license plate etc) on tuesday
and wednesday finally got around to ordering the BSD delete

[Akaveli]

installed a twm sts with shortened boot monday...
and then ordered led's to replace the map lights, dome lights (glove box, trunk, license plate etc) on tuesday
and wednesday finally got around to ordering the BSD delete

How you like the twm sts? The BSD is a sweet mod to do as well. You will notice a difference right away. I currently have all of thoughs mods u just listed and they were well worth it.(headbang)

[YearOfTherat]

Installed OEM rear diffuser.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k22/cjlee9/IMG_0726.jpg

[thejeans]

How you like the twm sts? The BSD is a sweet mod to do as well. You will notice a difference right away. I currently have all of thoughs mods u just listed and they were well worth it.(headbang)

i love the sts... the strangest adjustment for me was not being used to it being so low and trying to grab above the shift knob a few times on the first few times driving after installing it.... lol

the bsd is something ive been wanting to do for a while, just was waiting for coondog to get some money in so we could both order and install at the same time....

and i cant wait for the led interior lights...

have a few other goodies, but those wont be told til they come in and get installed (lol2)


The OEM diffuser is HOT! looks great YearOfTherat

[Akaveli]

i love the sts... the strangest adjustment for me was not being used to it being so low and trying to grab above the shift knob a few times on the first few times driving after installing it.... lol

the bsd is something ive been wanting to do for a while, just was waiting for coondog to get some money in so we could both order and install at the same time....

and i cant wait for the led interior lights...

have a few other goodies, but those wont be told til they come in and get installed (lol2)


The OEM diffuser is HOT! looks great YearOfTherat

Yea man it has some small adjustments to it. LoL I remember from a start I would throw the car into 3rd gear instead of first. :mad:

For your BSD install pick up some red loctite, and some oil resistant RTV. Thoughs items should help you out as well.

[my3needsaname]

Installed OEM rear diffuser.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k22/cjlee9/IMG_0726.jpg
They make those!?!??!? (boom04) I had no idea!!! I'd scrape it up anyways. I want more pics of your car though...looks good!


I'm probably getting it back from the shop tomorrow so I'll probably get to drive it tomorrow for the first time since last Sunday! (thumb) Although I'm enjoying the Expedition...(wiggle) (signifies slight body roll)

[YearOfTherat]

They make those!?!??!? (boom04) I had no idea!!! I'd scrape it up anyways. I want more pics of your car though...looks good!


Thanks !! It was available for the 04- 06 hatches. The dealership I got it from sold it to me @ cost (yippy) and I couldn't refuse. I'll post more up soon.

[my3needsaname]

Thanks !! It was available for the 04- 06 hatches. The dealership I got it from sold it to me @ cost (yippy) and I couldn't refuse. I'll post more up soon.
Damn...another disadvantage to having an 08.5. lol
I'm waiting for them!

[brian2029]

added new clipless seat covers :) going to rotate tires,full detail tomarro

[thejeans]

Yea man it has some small adjustments to it. LoL I remember from a start I would throw the car into 3rd gear instead of first. :mad:

For your BSD install pick up some red loctite, and some oil resistant RTV. Thoughs items should help you out as well.


thanks for the tip on the bsd install... im are both hoping to have it in before this weekend... for the dyno day (saturday) and autocross (sunday)

[YearOfTherat]

Damn...another disadvantage to having an 08.5. lol
I'm waiting for them!


Here's another view of the diffuser. Taken near Niagra Falls.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k22/cjlee9/IMG_0729.jpg

[my3needsaname]

Wow that's really nice. I like your car, wanna trade?

[jomil91]

u know, I though about adding the AXELA badge, but then, if u say it in english (pronounced in spanish "Axila") it sounds like arm pit... and my wholy family speaks spanish and so my best friends, so its out of the question!

[NTIMD8R]

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k22/cjlee9/IMG_0729.jpg[/QUOTE]

I like your gas cap door! That's the optional one you can get from the factory, isn't it? Am I seeing this correctly--did you paint it to match your body color? I always liked the optional gas cap door but didn't think it would look good on a black mica 5-door. This opens up some possibilities...(naughty)

[YearOfTherat]

Yeah its the optional one from the dealership. There is a thread on another Mazda3 forum dedicated to painted gas caps and knew I had to have one. IMHO, not a cheap mod considering the price of the cap and paint but worth it.

[thejeans]

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k22/cjlee9/IMG_0729.jpg[/QUOTE]

what lip spoiler is that??

[YearOfTherat]

what lip spoiler is that??

Its the GV lip spoiler from Japanparts.

[coondogg]

http://i41.tinypic.com/2u7ub94.jpg

I really like the roof line of the 10 hatches. It is much sharper of a transition and falls down at a higher angle...

To keep on topic, I installed my braided stainless brake lines that I've had since Christmas, lol...

[coondogg]

http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn129/akaveli2g/106_0513.jpg


Ak, is that the G2 blue? It looks darker than mine...

[thejeans]

dyno-ed today... ill get the vid and graph up as soon as i get them :D

the vid wouldnt embed, so heres the link to it...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xOrlaVscEw

[my3needsaname]

Drove it for the first time in 2 weeks. It's been at service for those 2 weeks...feels kinda strange though, dunno what happened to it.

[AllyMazda3]

bought some tires for it. :)

[Akaveli]

Ak, is that the G2 blue? It looks darker than mine...

Nope. Its dupli-color spray paint.

[coondogg]

Beat the snot out of it...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysC9C0pP28E&feature=channel_page

[stiv444]

took it to get detailed yesterday, and to the bar for a brew or two today!

[my3needsaname]

Got it washed at the local valero touchless...didn't really feel like doing it. It was alright but to get a good job something has to touch the paint.

[LeavEmDusty]

Changed oil and detailed it today, this is my first post on this forum, i will be posting pictures soon :)

P.S: I have a Mazda 3, Black Mica, 2008.5, S GT with the Navi/leather/bose/sunroof package, so far, just limo tint all around, foreign (Lebanese) plate in the front, personalized plate in the back. Future mods, Mazda 3 spoiler, cold air intake and an exhaust. Recommendations gladly accepted :)

[my3needsaname]

Changed oil and detailed it today, this is my first post on this forum, i will be posting pictures soon :)

P.S: I have a Mazda 3, Black Mica, 2008.5, S GT with the Navi/leather/bose/sunroof package, so far, just limo tint all around, foreign (Lebanese) plate in the front, personalized plate in the back. Future mods, Mazda 3 spoiler, cold air intake and an exhaust. Recommendations gladly accepted :)
Welcome! Everybody wants pics!
Is it a sedan?

[LeavEmDusty]

I will have better shots as i will be doing a photoshoot pretty soon, but there we go for starters :)

[my3needsaname]

Nice, I really wanted the nav but they didn't have a hatch with nav. :( Oh well. Looks good!

[BurnoutX]

detailed the car.
eyebrows on
roof rack on.

[christy628]

got cf eyelids =)

[Akaveli]

Looks good. ;)

[christy628]

why thank you kind sir!

[tsunami]

installed my MS3 shocks and struts on monday. for 200$ plus renting an impact gun for 20 it was an awesome investment. the car handles nicer, tighter and the rear end really feels solid now. can't wait to add the tripoint rsb when it comes in the mail.

[tsunami]

installed the RSB from Tri Point and couldn't be happier!! feels nice and tight in the rear lots less understeer and less inside wheel spin accel through corners... very happy

also took apart my passenger door panel and added new push clips (there are 2 kinds some have an added spacer now to tighten it up) it seems to have cleared up my constant rattle on the lower b pillar side of the door. time will tell though.

[my3needsaname]

Put like 140ish miles on it today...it was happy to get out for once. Still got issues though. It's really interesting how 2 weeks just hanging out in a garage can bring back not only that new car smell but can basically make it problem free for a few hours. Then once it gets everything warmed and settled back in, it didn't really change.

[AllyMazda3]

installed mazdaspeed sport dampers on saturday. yay.

[Akaveli]

installed my MS3 shocks and struts on monday. for 200$ plus renting an impact gun for 20 it was an awesome investment. the car handles nicer, tighter and the rear end really feels solid now. can't wait to add the tripoint rsb when it comes in the mail.

I have the same setup on my car and it was well worth the investment. The handling on my car has improved so much. (rockon)

[NTIMD8R]

Installed color-matched optional fuel-filler door inspired by YearOfTherat's nice looking 5-door! (thumb)

[tsunami]

I have the same setup on my car and it was well worth the investment. The handling on my car has improved so much. (rockon)

have you installed the tri point bar yet akaveli?? the bar plus the ms3 susp is just awesome!! i am stoked with it on the middle setting will prob put it to max on my next autox and see how that goes.

[Akaveli]

have you installed the tri point bar yet akaveli?? the bar plus the ms3 susp is just awesome!! i am stoked with it on the middle setting will prob put it to max on my next autox and see how that goes.

I've done alot of spirited runs with twisties and hills in my area and my car has perform excellent with the setup. It grips the tight corners, no body roll or any type of rocking. The suspension is nice and stiff and hugs the corners.

Nope. I didn't purhcase the tripoint rsb. (nervous) I'm no longer modding my 3 at the moment, I'm starting to work on my protege.

[tsunami]

oh i thought you had... wiat what you aren't modding your 3 but you are a slowtege??? what gives man?

[Akaveli]

oh i thought you had... wiat what you aren't modding your 3 but you are a slowtege??? what gives man?

ahahahahah....Before I bought my 3 I had a 2002 DX protege. Its been sitting around collecting dust while I've been driving/modding my 3. Now I'm going to put my 3 on hold and start modding my protege again. At the end of the month the car is getting a tranny swap and then i'm going to boost it. (peep)

[YearOfTherat]

Installed color-matched optional fuel-filler door inspired by YearOfTherat's nice looking 5-door! (thumb)


Looks great !!!

[bbrich57]

Installed color-matched optional fuel-filler door inspired by YearOfTherat's nice looking 5-door! (thumb)

HEY!!! That's exactly what I had in mind for mine. The alum against the white with med-gray wheels doesn't really cut it as well as I had hoped.

[eraser851]

I put on new Windshield wipers. Work so much better!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/eraser851/Car/DSC01758.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/eraser851/Car/DSC01757.jpg


Weeee. Huzzuh!

[NTIMD8R]

HEY!!! That's exactly what I had in mind for mine. The alum against the white with med-gray wheels doesn't really cut it as well as I had hoped.

Ooooooo WHITE!! Now, that would look nice!! Are your badges still burgundy, bbrich57? Maybe you could paint the allen-head bolts burgundy? Or would that be a little much?!(lol2)

[bbrich57]

Ooooooo WHITE!! Now, that would look nice!! Are your badges still burgundy, bbrich57? Maybe you could paint the allen-head bolts burgundy? Or would that be a little much?!(lol2)
Yeah, I think a little much. Besides, that is an old pic and the badges are no longer burgundy. I loved the look, though not everyone did, but they proved too hard and time consuming to take care of for a DD. Sun fade and stone chips did them in on a regular basis in spite of my best efforts to coat them well w/an UV protecting clear paint and bake it on.
If there were another way, I'd go back to them though.

[tsunami]

you know i am not sure how much it would cost but if we got the badges in aluminum and had them anodized to the color we wanted i am sure it would last a lot longer... and Rich the allen head bolts you could also just get red anodized stainless screws for them it could look pretty good imo...

[Akaveli]

Got my car retuned today. Woohoo! Can't wait to hit up the dragstrip again.

[tsunami]

nice... where is the dyno chart??

[Akaveli]

No printout. I did 151.6whp/150tq on their mustang dyno.

[thejeans]

installed an ETD (engine torque damper)

its even more fun now, made such a big difference

[sl0wthe0ry]

finally got my Cosworth BSD and ProtegeGarage Oil Pan Baffle installed today since i needed an oil change. I'll be damned if i ever do one of those again. haha

[sleet_22]

Nothin exciting... just vacuumed her out today...

[tsunami]

finally got my Cosworth BSD and ProtegeGarage Oil Pan Baffle installed today since i needed an oil change. I'll be damned if i ever do one of those again. haha

was it that bad? i plan on doing the same thing on my next oil change and was hoping it wasn't much of an ordeal.

[thejeans]

im hoping to do the BSD this weekend along with my header and racepipe (as long as the header and racepipe remain on schedule i should get them thursday night of friday afternoon)

[sl0wthe0ry]

nah the BSD was easy as cake. but i was having the damdest time getting everything apart, breaking extensions and the balance shaft is factory torqued to like 1bajillion ft/lbs of torque. a/c compressor parts was easy, and once you find a way to slide the pan off itself (which there's really only one way that i've found), it's simple.

[tsunami]

im hoping to do the BSD this weekend along with my header and racepipe (as long as the header and racepipe remain on schedule i should get them thursday night of friday afternoon)


i ran a header/race pipe/catback combo for all of 2 weeks... way to loud!

[Akaveli]

(lol2)

[thejeans]

i ran a header/race pipe/catback combo for all of 2 weeks... way to loud!

I got the Catted Thunder Header from Gary (protephile)... so i dont think the set up will be obnoxiously loud,

not like i can piss the neighbors off anymore anyway, lol... roomate with an msp and the 3" ion turbo back exhaust (no cats) and then my buddy with an msp with 3" turbo back apexr1 (no cats, no resonator), so everyone on my street has gotten used to hearing ungodly loud cars (lol2)

[sl0wthe0ry]

ha! nice man. yeah mines pretty loud right now with the F2 catless header, 1 factory cat and custom vibrant exhaust with no res. it's much louder now with the BSD

[Akaveli]

I wish I could hear how ya'll cars sound cause the sound on my set up is very mild....or maybe i'm going deaf. lol I've been told several times my car isn't that loud at all but the inside of my cabin shakes. Aftermarket RMM, BSD & ETD = vibrations like a mutha! lol

[sl0wthe0ry]

ohhhhhhhhh yeah. my whole car shakes bad. i don't have the ETD yet. but soon.....

[Akaveli]

ohhhhhhhhh yeah. my whole car shakes bad. i don't have the ETD yet. but soon.....

An ETD is a good addition to your car especially if you have an aftermarket RMM. (nana)

[my3needsaname]

Minor maintenance:
drove some
checked fluids
cleaned filters
...bolt fell out of my hatch (scratch)(ugh)

[sl0wthe0ry]

An ETD is a good addition to your car especially if you have an aftermarket RMM. (nana)

yeah, i definitely need to get with ken on that. did you end up with the weaponR etd?

[thejeans]

i have the weaponR, bought it used off coondogg still works and looks great

[Akaveli]

yeah, i definitely need to get with ken on that. did you end up with the weaponR etd?

Yup.


i have the weaponR, bought it used off coondogg still works and looks great

Another excellent mod. Have you notice any difference yet since you installed it? After I installed mines, my shifting became much smoother and the car felt stiff.

[thejeans]

the etd made SUCH a difference, shifting is super smooth and with the sts its crazy quick, the car feels alot stiffer, vibes are there but it doesnt really bother me, lol however the cars acceleration seems alot more violent than it did before, before there was a delay when you hammered the throttle, now there isnt, it just goes... lol

im very happy with it...

[sl0wthe0ry]

sweet. i'll definitely put it on the to-do list.

[NTIMD8R]

sweet. i'll definitely put it on the to-do list.

(iagree) +1

[Strobe Media]

last friday was tail light tinging, painted my engine and battery cover today, saturday is caliper painting and Fujita F5 install.

[sl0wthe0ry]

http://i39.tinypic.com/zvbtwh.jpg

yay! =]

[YearOfTherat]

Installed my redlinegoods stuff:

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k22/cjlee9/My%20Car/IMG_0783.jpg

I love the smell of leather...(lol2)

[sl0wthe0ry]

nice! now you just need a STS!

[YearOfTherat]

nice! now you just need a STS!

That is one of the things on my list... :)

[eraser851]

I got my fog lights installed!
Got them from here (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160339016724&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWNX%3AIT&salenotsupported).

Off
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/eraser851/Car/DSC01794.jpg

On
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/eraser851/Car/DSC01797.jpg

Switch
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/eraser851/Car/DSC01795.jpg

I've got the switch plugged into the passenger's side fuse box in the 15A 'Double Locking System*' fuse. However the light on the switch stays on all the time. Even when car is off. Anyone have an idea of which fuse slot I can put it in so the light isn't on until the electrical system is on?
And does it have to be a 15A fuse? (that's what the directions recommended).

Tomorrow I'm gonna put in my Angel Eyes (http://xenonexpert.com/ddekits.html), provided I can find a tutorial that will tell me how to connect them to a switch for full control. Anyone know of any?

[eraser851]

Got my angel eyes in. Just put them with the parking lights instead of the switch. It's not bad.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/eraser851/Car/DSC01823.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/eraser851/Car/DSC01818.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v242/eraser851/Car/DSC01821.jpg
They go well with the fogs. :D

[YearOfTherat]

Went from this:
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k22/cjlee9/My%20Car/Pedals.jpg

To this:
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k22/cjlee9/My%20Car/IMG_0787.jpg

I had the xenonexpert ones on my car for over 2 yrs and decided to change it up. Nothing beats OEM !! For those wondering, my car is not a MS3.

[AllyMazda3]

today i drove my car home from work.

[my3needsaname]

My chincy ass parking brake busted. (pissed) Couldn't get Mazda to fix my front window leaking, inspect for the explosion in the front end, check out the tranny (gotten worse), or look in the drivers door for what broke when I rolled up my window...love my dealer.(yupnope)

Does "the added weight of your window tinting made the motor wear out faster" even sound like a reasonable excuse...puts my BS-o-meter at 9.5. Aside from that, the whole car is 1 year old.

Maybe I just expect too much from Mazda? (dunno)

[sumixali]

well after i changed the air filter i got pulled over and raped for tinted tails....

[Brad]

My chincy ass parking brake busted. (pissed) Couldn't get Mazda to fix my front window leaking, inspect for the explosion in the front end, check out the tranny (gotten worse), or look in the drivers door for what broke when I rolled up my window...love my dealer.(yupnope)

Does "the added weight of your window tinting made the motor wear out faster" even sound like a reasonable excuse...puts my BS-o-meter at 9.5. Aside from that, the whole car is 1 year old.

Maybe I just expect too much from Mazda? (dunno)
That's incredible if they tried that and you believed them. It's obvious they are trying to get out of it. By that logic they would have weight restrictions for people to get into the car because the car would always be carrying at least one person.

[L3vzoomzooom]

I cleaned off the "chapstick" smiley face that my coworker left for me, on my driver side window.

[my3needsaname]

That's incredible if they tried that and you believed them. It's obvious they are trying to get out of it. By that logic they would have weight restrictions for people to get into the car because the car would always be carrying at least one person.
I never believed him but he was threatening to void my warranty because of it so I just took my keys from him and left, I wasn't even going to deal with it. I'm so done dealing with Mazda idiots.

That dealer probably does have weight restrictions...

[Brad]

I never believed him but he was threatening to void my warranty because of it so I just took my keys from him and left, I wasn't even going to deal with it. I'm so done dealing with Mazda idiots.

That dealer probably does have weight restrictions...
I'd challenge him on it. He'll back down.

[speedymazda04]

bought tien lowering springs 2" drop and drove to work! im ordering some JDM parts commin soon cant wait!

[L3vzoomzooom]

Washed outside, and cleaned inside. Also hit some curves.

[my3needsaname]

I'd challenge him on it. He'll back down.
I might when I go to get my parking brake fixed. It's not totally worth it, there's a guy at Mazda NAO who's "willing" to get the dealer to fix my problems.

[Brad]

.

[Amemiya]

Today was a good day for my 3, took it to the dealership and got the work done on the belt tensioner, got the oil changed, and took it for a good long drive. In the next few days I plan on getting the tires rotated, and do a much needed clean to the interior. I won't wash the car until the construction down the street is finished. EDIT: Well yesterday but it's close enough.

[NTIMD8R]

My first auto-x last weekend! What a blast! (drive2)

http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww317/ntimd8r/LAP07122009100.jpg

http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww317/ntimd8r/LAP07122009102.jpg

photos by David Fink

[LeavEmDusty]

Got white HID foglights installed :)

[AllyMazda3]

installed new scuff plates

http://goldphishe.com/images/cwp/doorsills/IMG_5428.jpg

[LeavEmDusty]

installed new scuff plates

http://goldphishe.com/images/cwp/doorsills/IMG_5428.jpg

These are nice!!

[Strobe Media]

i want blue angel eyes bad

[thejeans]

in the last week, i re-wired my horns (dont sound like a dying duck anymore), installed my mid-chassis brace, race-pipe and header... i took vids of the car so you can hear the header, race-pipe, ms3 catback combo... should have the vid up tomorrow or wednesday hopefully

[speedymazda04]

went **mph down the expressway!

[speedymazda04]

question does any one know if i keep the stock OEM head unit and add subs would i be able to remove all the bass from the door speakers or would i have to get an after market radio?

[Strobe Media]

in the last week, i re-wired my horns (dont sound like a dying duck anymore), installed my mid-chassis brace, race-pipe and header... i took vids of the car so you can hear the header, race-pipe, ms3 catback combo... should have the vid up tomorrow or wednesday hopefully
haha you killed the duck?!?!?! that thing was funny!

[thejeans]

haha you killed the duck?!?!?! that thing was funny!

yeah duck is gone...

[bbrich57]

question does any one know if i keep the stock OEM head unit and add subs would i be able to remove all the bass from the door speakers or would i have to get an after market radio?

I'm really not a stereo guy, but I know it is possible to tap into the door speaker wires to run a crossover/powered sub box or amp. I read about but forget what the adapter is called....
Anybody?

[Brad]

i believe its called a line-out converter

[bbrich57]

That sounds about right to me, but.... what do I know? :D Thanks.

It takes the high output, line-level signal from the OE amp and reduces it to a pre-amp voltage level, ending in RCA plugs, right?

[thejeans]

That sounds about right to me, but.... what do I know? :D Thanks.

It takes the high output, line-level signal from the OE amp and reduces it to a pre-amp voltage level, ending in RCA plugs, right?

yup... easiest place to tap into it would be right behind the stock stereo, plenty of room for the Line Output Converter back there...

[speedymazda04]

would i be able to add to 12's with a 1500 watt amp from the stock stereo cuz i have the 6 in dash changer and that would be a pain in the A** to take it out and typically its more expensive for a double den cd player

[bbrich57]

I don't see why not, except that your neighbors may not love you anymore.
The new amp would not be drawing power from the OE HU, just taking a signal from it.
I'm sure this is not the cleanest way to drive other speakers, but it should be fairly easy, cheap and a good way of keeping the integrity of the dash... and steering wheel controls too.

[speedymazda04]

thats what im scared of taking integrity from the dash i love the way it looks and do not want to ruin it by putting aftermarket HU and about the neighbors i dnt plan on blastin it thru my apartment complex already got complaints when i added the exhaust

[metrogreyM3]

i bought my line out converter from best buy for like 25 bucks and i works great. took like 15 mins to hook up

[L3vzoomzooom]

I dove my baby for the first time in a week.

[speedymazda04]

wered you get it from and where does it hook up to??

[metrogreyM3]

wered you get it from and where does it hook up to??

the converter? i bought it at best buy......... and you just do some re wiring......

here are the colors you will cut.....

Accessory: Yellow
Left Rear +ve: White/purple
Left Rear -ve: Gray/white
Right Rear +ve: White
Right Rear -ve: Gray
Ground: Black/green

and i used these so i didnt have to literally cut the wires

http://www.frozencpu.com/products/1881/ele-45/Heavy_Gauge_Dual_Splice_Connector_-_Blue.html?tl=g4c155s321&id=5vEUb2jj

hope this helps

[bbrich57]

I hope you used the red ones? The blue ones are probably too big for most factory speaker wire.

[thejeans]

installed the open mouth grill
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/DSC_0417.jpg
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/DSC_0423.jpg

[Strobe Media]

looks sick levi!

[Brad]

WANT. Where does one get these?

[thejeans]

WANT. Where does one get these?

i bought mine from a forum member on another forum... for the open mouth grill look at ebay (not the best fitment but cheap) or the other route is a mazdaspeed accessory grill (not cheap, but fitment is great)

[Brad]

And those will fit an 08 MZ3GT Sedan?

[thejeans]

the ms acc. wont work but you can check ebay... if i recall the ebay grills fit alot better for sedans than they do for hatches...

[fatti03msp]

in the last week, i re-wired my horns (dont sound like a dying duck anymore), installed my mid-chassis brace, race-pipe and header... i took vids of the car so you can hear the header, race-pipe, ms3 catback combo... should have the vid up tomorrow or wednesday hopefully

a blast from the past lol, i should have the vid up this weekend.

Seagate finally sent me my a new hard drive so once i get it in my pc ill need to find the files again for the sony vegas and i should be back in business.

[da beast 23]

NEEDS MORE ENGINE WORK !! NOT FINISHED



http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=74&pictureid=428

[da beast 23]

Side view of alil something i did to my 3 ..



http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=74&pictureid=427

[Brad]

Installed MS3 CBE on my sedan

[bbrich57]

I FINALLY have something new to report (it's been a while since I have done anything to the car)... although not exactly earth-shattering.
I replaced the white reflective taped rear/side reflectors with smoked/clear LED's.
I think the clear ones would have looked better on my white car, but I couldn't find any... at least any I could afford and thought were worth the money.

I also replaced the broken Progress sway bar mounting clamp on the RS. I used one of the OEM's which seem a lot more sturdy(?). I may do the LS before long too, if it works out.

I also ordered the spin-on oil filter conversion kit from Mazdastuff.com, which is actually known as Mazda South (a dealership) 'round here. $9 to ship from 15 miles away, but you can't just go there and buy the "stuff." It has to be ordered and shipped. They still had the best price and are local to me so I went with them.

edit: Oh yeah, how could I forget... Got the title in the mail the other day. After 5 yrs of payments, she is mine.
And rotated the badly wearing Kumho ASX's on Kosei Racings K1-TS's today too. Will NOT be replacing the Kumho's with the same.

[thejeans]

new wheels :D

http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/DSC_0486_4_5.jpg

http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/DSC_0479_80_81.jpg

[fatti03msp]

nice and lol at the spot, we have so many pics from that spot.

But the pictures are turning out better each time though, you edit them at all?

[thejeans]

nice and lol at the spot, we have so many pics from that spot.

But the pictures are turning out better each time though, you edit them at all?

made the hdr's in photomatix, but other than that didnt touch them... and that spot is great, its a couple mins from my house and has a nice white lighting... i wasnt trying to go out and run all over the place just for a few pics last night, so i hit the spot, snapped a few shots and back home in less than 20 mins

[YearOfTherat]

Bought Weathertech rear mat for the car as well as a set of PIAA Super Sporza wipers :)

[bbrich57]

Last night, with 50,000 miles on the clock (49,929) :
1) I replaced the broken Progress rear sway bar clamp with greaseable 7/8" Polyurethane bushings and new clamps, which in spite of my asking, Auto Zone forgot to charge me for. (FREE bushing kit!! Their loss.) Re-centered and re-torqued the bar & end links.
2) I FINALLY converted to the 2.0L spin-on filter and changed oil. Castrol Syntec 5w-20. I used the K&N filter which I suspect is made by WIX. It is obviously a very heavy duty filter but also way too expensive. It was either that or the Mobil1 filter which was only 0.50 cheaper but appeared to be basically the same construction w/o the bolt on option, or the Bosch filter. And Bosch is not what it used to be but the cost was easier to take. I opted for the better, more expensive filter since I run my oil to 10k (new filter every 5k.)
Next time I go with the WIX name for about half the cost.

Today:
3) I will install my Apexcone DDE HID kits, low beams (55w, 6000k) and fogs (35w, 5000k.) I hope I can find room for 2 sets of ballasts w/o too much trouble?
4) And if I have time, and can find them (currently lost somewhere in my shop,) install the rear mud flaps. I'm tired of that dirty, hard-to-clean rear bumper cover.

[KCjohnny]

My 2007 Mazda 3 i-touring sedan is going into the garage for some performance upgrades on my all stock OEM components:

1) new brake lines installed, Goodridge G-Stop Stainless Steel
2) brake fluid flushed and replaced, Ate Super Blue
3) new rotors installed, Centric Premium Vented Blanks
4) new brake pads installed, Hawk Performance Plus
5) oil and filter changed, Pennzoil Full Synthetic 5W20 and K&N Filter (screw-on)
6) manual transmission fluid changed, Redline MT-90
7) power steering fluid topped off, Mercon III ATF
8) radiator flushed, Prestone SL22 rated
9) air filter replaced, K&N drop-in
10) new tires, Dunlop Direzza Star Spec Z1s (replacing thoroughly used up Goodyear Eagle F1s)

[sunrun176]

Wrapped the OEM Snowflakes in new rubber: Dunlop SP Sport Signatures (not the Signature 5000/8000/etc.; just 'Signature'). http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Dunlop&tireModel=SP+Sport+Signature

The OEM BadYear RS-A's were worn down to 4/32s after just 17.5K miles (20K on the car minus ~2.5K on the winter tires... XP) and one of them had some damage in the center of the tread (all the way down to the steel (boom05)) that was irreparable. Looked like it'd been there at least 500 miles, tho', and I have no idea what I hit.. (uhm)

The shop I bought the Signatures from has already had to replace one of them (they noticed it had 3 "micro-slices" in the sidewall while they were installing it and they "didn't feel comfortable" leaving it on there (actually they were legally obligated to replace it) but said it was safe enough to drive on until they could get the replacement in) and they've had to rebalance them all again due to some fairly severe shuddering at 50-55MPH on smooth, fresh asphalt, and which still isn't quite gone, so we'll see how it goes..

Also, I just saw that Consumer Reports' latest tire ratings are due out in a little less than a month and they'll include the Signatures. If the results come out in time and they're not high on the list, I might still be able to take advantage of the 30-day money back guarantee. Heck, I might take advantage anyway, considering how the car handles hard, high-speed turns with them (50MPH posted S-curve, taken at 65+MPH (drive)) -- really loose in the back end. (nailbyt) These don't squeal, but the RS-A's handled more predictably even when they did squeal, which was rarely. Maybe that's what one gets with a V-rated tire with a 60K mile tread warranty and a tread wear rating of 460. (dunno)

UPDATE: I'm keeping the SP Sport Signatures. They've worn nicely the last ~1,000 miles and now they handle that same curve with aplomb rather than apathy. (Either that or I've become used to how the handle it.) The remaining speed instability/vibration was actually probably caused by low tire pressure in the Right-Rear, which in turn was caused by a leaky valve stem, which was caused by a faulty TPMS Sensor housing, which was repaired under warranty for $0. (cabpatch) And even though they're not the Signatures that CR tested AND recommended, which were the straight-up All-Season (i.e. "Dunlop Signature", not "Dunlop SP Sport Signature" (c'mon, Dunlop.. come up with some more imaginative tire naming scheme that doesn't serve to confuse people.. please?)), they handle the wet SOOOOooooo much better than the RS-A's ever did (albeit with just a hint of wheel hop if floored from a dead stop on wet asphalt, but then they dig right in with nary a squeak or a slip; corner in the wet like they're running on dry). They even handle better than the Kumho Ecsta ASX's that were on the Silver '04. All that, plus I just didn't wanna take the time.

I've got a set of winter steelies wrapped in Goodyear UltraGrip GW3's which are awesome in the snow, so I was looking mostly at "summer" tires that I can swap out once the temps dip down below ~40º.

[KCjohnny]

Wrapped the OEM Snowflakes in new rubber: Dunlop SP Sport Signatures (not the Signature 5000/8000/etc.; just 'Signature'). http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Dunlop&tireModel=SP+Sport+Signature

Trying not to spend more than $120/tire, but I may end up going that way for the right tire. I've got a set of winter steelies wrapped in Goodyear UltraGrip GW3's which are awesome in the snow, so I'm looking mostly at "summer" tires that I can swap out once the temps dip down below ~40º. Any suggestions?

I am upgrading this week to summer ultra-performance Dunlop Direzza Star Spec Z1s. I'll give you some feedback once I get them on. They run around $100 each. If you want to maximize your car's handling, get a highly rated performance tire - just upgrading that alone will make a huge difference. When I went from stock tires to the F1s, it was like night and day - I was able to do things I would have never tried with stock.

I did a lot of research on tires, and narrowed it down to the Dunlop Direzza Star Spec Z1 and Yokohama Advan Neova AD08. I went with the Dunlops on the great things that autocrossing and track goers said about them, and the fact that they were considerably cheaper than the Yokohamas. After I ordered the tires, I read a tire review in Sports Car Club of America Magazine's October issue, titled "Ultimate Street Fighter". Guess which tire won....the Z1. But they were all so close, it doesn't really matter which tire you went with on their list if you are street only. The tires they compared were Bridgestone Potenza RE-11, Dunlop Direzza Star Spec Z1, Hankook Ventus R-S3, Kumho Ecsta XS, Nitto NTO5, Toyo Proxes R1R, and Yokohama Advan Neova AD08.

If you want an ultra-performance all-season radial, I can vouch for the Goodyear Eagle F1s. A little slippery and spinny in snow, but that's to be expected from an ultra tire, but great traction in the rain. The only time I ever heard the tires howl (and believe me, I tried to!) was at open track days, which just about any tire will do except R-compound. Once they go though, they deteriorate fast.

Hope this helps!

[sunrun176]

Got a faulty TPMS sensor in the Right-Rear replaced under warranty, and I took the attached pic in the evening sun Weds. night before heading home from work. I wanted to take more but the camera batteries died and I didn't have time to muck around with swapping them out.

[smoke_31]

Installed AWR rear motor mount.

http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn276/smoke_31/motormount.jpg
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn276/smoke_31/motormount2.jpg
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn276/smoke_31/motormount3.jpg

[YearOfTherat]

Installed some rear chrome dipped turn bulbs as well as replaced the bushings on my rear eibach swaybar with some prothane greaseable ones.

[sunrun176]

Last Saturday I swapped out the summer tires/wheels for the winter set now that average daily temperature is down below 40ºF. Also, I discovered a strange orange and silver "rock" in the tread on one of the winters. It turned out to be the diagonally ground-down head of a 1" phillips-head wood screw. (eekdance)

Luckily it was pushed into the tread largely parallel with the direction of rotation rather than down into it perpendicularly. Didn't even get down to the level of the bottom of the circumferential sipes (where the wear bars are). Dodged a bullet with that one!

[sunrun176]

Mon., Dec. 7th: Oil change, tire rotation (winters). Also, reported a creaking sound that recently started coming from the right front when going (carefully) over speed bumps. Diagnosis: faulty sway bar bushings, warranty replacement. Parts ordered, to be installed this Weds. :)

[thejeans]

just bought an AEM UEGO wideband... :D more goodies coming this spring and summer

[Krazee]

I drove it in all the ice on my parking lot

[ZoomZoomFan]

I went out and checked all of my motor mounts today. An episode of wheel hop the other night scared the shit out of me.

[bbrich57]

Yeah, that can be scary, especially if you didn't intend it.
Upon reading this post, I checked my mounts too.
However before that, and with bad weather coming tonight and tomorrow, I replaced the OE battery (5.5yrs, +/-) w/a top-of-the-line Small-Mart battery. I hate Small-Mart though. My business is actually in direct competition with them so I try not to shop there very often, but their auto batteries are rated as the tops and a very good buy. (C.U.)
I also swapped out the Trico Neoforms that have been on there for over 2yrs and replaced the w/Rain-X Latitude blades. I can only hope these last as long and are as quiet as the Tricos when they were new.

[L3vzoomzooom]

Well I didn't do this today, but I did it last week .Change my oil used Royal Purple 5w20 and their oil filter for the first time, the pep boys near has a deal 5Qts + filter $50 not a bad deal. Only time will tell on if it was worth the extra 20 bucks.

[sunrun176]

Replacement extra-bright low-beam lamps (Sylvania Silverstar (4000K)): $40

Losing (and retrieving) a retaining pin for the driver's-side cover panel: $0

Discovering that the retainer clip for the passenger's-side lamp assembly was improperly installed at the factory, resulting in it freeing the assembly from the housing while it was still attached to the power socket and the rubber gasket, prompting me to attempt to reseat it in order to remove the power socket from the lamp assembly: ~2 hours, 3 scraped knuckles and 10 nearly frozen fingers

Changing strategy and instead trying to free the lamp assembly/gasket/socket from the head light housing and retainer clip: ~20 seconds (hand)

Successfully performing routine maintenance on my own car rather than paying someone else an exorbitant sum to do it: priceless :D

BTW: low-beam brightness much improved over the OEM bulbs. Assuming they last at least as long as the OEMs (~18 months) they'll be well worth the extra $5/bulb.

[OCARISEORTIZ]

Dear all mazda family

my name is ocaris and i am a proud owner of mazda 3s 2004. I heard this is the best place to chat with my fellow mazda family.

My question is where is the best place to locate a right tail light for a mazda 3s. Any suggestions please help !!

Ocaris ortiz
black mazda 3s (aka batmobile)

[ZoomZoomFan]

Dear all mazda family

my name is ocaris and i am a proud owner of mazda 3s 2004. I heard this is the best place to chat with my fellow mazda family.

My question is where is the best place to locate a right tail light for a mazda 3s. Any suggestions please help !!

Ocaris ortiz
black mazda 3s (aka batmobile)
Try eBay and snatch one from a reputable seller. :)

I plowed through the snow with my 3 today. Pretty sure it's the first time it's seen snow, considering it was an Atlanta car before I got it.

Goodyear RS-As suck in the snow, but I managed okay. I put it in manual mode and kept it in 1st as I had to go down a huge hill with cars on either side. Engine braking FTW. I just kept my speed to a minimum and my concentration to a maximum and made it alright.

[ZoomZoomFan]

I bought an Axela badge from eBay for like $5. I like it.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/GMFWDFAN/Mobile%20Uploads/1263330744.jpg

[sunrun176]

Wow.. not much goin' on for a couple of months... Huh.

Yesterday I swapped out the winter tires/wheels for the summer set. Now it just needs a wash and interior detail (NEXT weekend).

[thejeans]

well i was gonna keep all this on wrapstil after MWMF, but f*ck it... haha heres a MASS update with whats happened to whitney so far this spring


angel eyes died on me so i tore them out, while i was in there figured id paint the rings to change it up some... heres what they look like now, also moved the horns up into the upper grill behind the open mouth
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/DSC_0011_2_4_5_6.jpg

i then decided the silverstar turn signal had to go (have since been replaced with the chrome dipped bulbs) the yellow overlays needed to go as well and that it would go alot further to the look i want if the housings were blacked out, so after a few weekends this past weekend was so nice i was able to get that done

the plaid wrapped engine cover... got bored one night so i figured since it hasnt been on the car in a year id play around with it and see what it would look like wrapped in plaid :lol: (still dunno if i like it or hate it)
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/Mobile%20Uploads/0_0-6.jpg
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/Mobile%20Uploads/1_0.jpg

my AWESOME bandaid to "fix" the damage thanks to the bitch on her cell phone in a wal-mart parking lot
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/Mobile%20Uploads/0_0-4.jpg
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/Mobile%20Uploads/0_0-2.jpg

blacked out fog housings
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/Mobile%20Uploads/0_0-3.jpg
http://i259.photobucket.com/albums/hh319/thejeans/Mobile%20Uploads/0_0-1.jpg


sorry for the crap pics, didnt get a chance to go for pic so some quick phone pics will have to suffice til it stops raining in shittsburgh :lol:

[sunrun176]

Wow! Nice job on the low-beam surround paint!

I would cross the street before I walked in front of that open garage for fear that it might devour me! (bolt)

Also, love the plaid! (2thumbs).

[thejeans]

thanks, i dunno how i feel about it on the engine cover... haha i mean i LOVE it on the interior but not wild about it on the engine cover

thanks, its subtle but the high beam ring and the turn signal surrounds are blacked out, ill get some up close shots soon, its rained most of today and is supposed to be off an on tomorrow... once the weather clears ill be going out for a proper photoshoot with the car, then ill have some good pics to whore out, haha

[ZoomZoomFan]

I recently did a photoshoot with my good friend and his '98 Monte Carlo LS. It's got almost 190k on it now, but looks/performs way better than you'd expect.

http://s22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/GMFWDFAN/Mazda3%20and%20Monte%20Carlo/

And on Thursday, I got my door sills from partplaza.net and my MS3 rear valence came in from onlinemazdaparts.com! This was perfect, as I had to have the parts shipped (and installed) at my friend's house (the Monte Carlo owner) to avoid a fight with my grandparents (they're adamant about me not modding my car - even though I'm 20 and I do it with my own money). I bought the car myself, too - it's in my name. Oh well, I'm moving out in a few months and I'll be able to do what I want without fear of reporcussions then. :D

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/GMFWDFAN/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG00296-20100318-1753.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/GMFWDFAN/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG00292-20100318-1741.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/GMFWDFAN/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG00291-20100318-1741.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/GMFWDFAN/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG00289-20100318-1741.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/GMFWDFAN/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG00288-20100318-1741.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b336/GMFWDFAN/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG00287-20100318-1741.jpg

Those last few are BlackBerry pictures, so excuse their quality - and the filthy car!

[YearOfTherat]

Installed my Rally Armor's as well as smoked LED rear reflectors.

[toloveistorebel]

Well yesterday I got 4 new tires put on, got an alignment, installed some sweet pro line wiper blades (bogo at pep boys mir.), and washed and vacumed. Today I took a few quick pictures and made my first post in the forums in the welcome section. Its been a productive couple days (2thumbs). The tires are Hankook Ventus V4 es 205/40ZR17s. Liking them so far...

[Matt V]

Would anyone happen to know how much the 16" 5 spoke 3 wheels weigh?

[sunrun176]

Would anyone happen to know how much the 16" 5 spoke 3 wheels weigh?

This question properly belongs in the Rims, Tires & Brakes section (http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=321), but...

If I had to guess, I'd say ~25 lbs.

[sunrun176]

Last weekend I vacuumed and washed it (first hand wash of the year -- yay, Spring!).

Just put in an order for the CP-E Towplate and a pair of BumperPlugs. Happy birthday to me! (cabpatch)

[thejeans]

This question properly belongs in the Rims, Tires & Brakes section (http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=321), but...

If I had to guess, I'd say ~25 lbs.

WRONG!!

they are like 16 lbs

[sunrun176]

WRONG!!

they are like 16 lbs

Hey.. I said it was a guess... I didn't say it was a good one. (lol2)

Thank you for the correction, tho'. :)

[thejeans]

Hey.. I said it was a guess... I didn't say it was a good one. (lol2)

Thank you for the correction, tho'. :)

hahaha... only reason i know is cause a freind was looking for a set so he could autocross in H-stock and he wanted 16 instead of the 17s cause they were lighter and tires were cheaper


i wasnt trying to sound like an ass in my reply, but i guess ikinda did.. oh well (lol2)

[L3vzoomzooom]

Blew out two tires :-( Spent $748.25 on four BFG G-Force Super Sport A/S tires plus alignment and road hazard.

[mikelebz]

two days ago tire got stabbed by a piece of metal sticking out by a curb and found two big dents on the side of the car. now it is parked in the lot behind my building with the spare on. I'm leaving it for a couple of weeks until I calm down. then paying far out the ass to get everything fixed.

[sunrun176]

Blew out two tires :-( Spent $748.25 on four BFG G-Force Super Sport A/S tires plus alignment and road hazard.

Dude.. That must've been one huge pothole! Condolences on the cost and congrats on the new rubber. I've been curious how those tires handle. Have you had them before or is this your first set of them?



two days ago tire got stabbed by a piece of metal sticking out by a curb and found two big dents on the side of the car. now it is parked in the lot behind my building with the spare on. I'm leaving it for a couple of weeks until I calm down. then paying far out the ass to get everything fixed.

Yikes. Sorry to hear that.. Hopefully insurance will cover the dents. If not, just remember to breathe.

[sunrun176]

CP-E TowPlate and BumperPlugs are here (showed up at the end of last week). Now I'm waiting for a spare weekend to install since it involves front bumper removal for proper installation. Never done that before -- we'll see how it goes.. (nailbyt)

I'm not really that worried; just wanna take my time and be well prepared, so I'm gonna check the How-To section.

[hat1018]

The wife and I cleaned the windows on our 06. a little extra work and they are crystal clear:D

[kjohn]

WED I took her in for an oil change and they plugged a tire that had a 2in bolt stuck in it :( Yesterday i gave her her first wax! she is sparkly now. Today I get my MS CAI in the mail and monday I will install it and my TWM STS !!!

[sunrun176]

A week ago I took it in for its 25K mile service.

Had 'em investigate the creaking that had supposedly been fixed by replacing the front sway bar bushings last winter. I rode with the mechanic and we were only able to reproduce the sound about half the time and then only when I drove gently (~2mph) over the speed bumps in a nearby parking lot -- driving over them quickly (~4mph) and they basically moved too fast to make the sound. He reiterated what I'd been told before, that it's basically just a sound and that it's not causing or indicative of harm or failure.. Once it's out of warranty and I start adding technical mods (like sway bars), then I'll take the earlier suggestion of that high-quality bushing lubricant (can't remember the brand/product name at the moment / don't feel like looking it up right now).

Also, got its annual alignment and had the tires and wheels match-mounted and balanced properly -- they were never quite right after the new tires last fall.

A handy lesson: just because a shop claims to have the best equipment available for balancing tires (Hunter GSP9700 RoadForce Balancer with StraightTrak®) doesn't mean that they train their employees on proper usage of same. Basically, the place I bought the tires from didn't match-mount the tires initially (they were supposed to) and they doubled-up the weights on one wheel that needed more (~5oz. (wow)) instead of using weights with more mass. And that was the second attempt.

Needless to say, I'm not buying tires there again.

STILL don't have time to install the CP-E TowPlate... (gah)
At this point it's lookin' like June. (toetap)

Gonna wash it Sat. or Sun. -- it's in DIRE need. Rain has an awful lot of dirt in it.

[southendskin210]

well this wasnt today but i dropped 800 on a carbon fiber hatch door VIS baby!! so ill be sportin that soon and pics will be up.....I did however get a brand new extra light weight new bumper, freshly painted this week and i put it on this morning

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a293/URBACKUPPLAN/05-20-10_1322.jpg

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

a couple of weeks ago did the throttle body ground and coolant bypass, last friday i got my stubby antenna in the mail, so i put that on! same day i changed the spark plugs, yesterday (sunday) bought the material for the hd lip and will do that soon! (can post pics if ya like) (2thumbs)

[Azexa]

I painted my front emblem black. It looks pretty good on a sunlight silver car. I also bought an Axela badge at the occ meet and painted that black. havent put it on my car yet, probably this week and i hand washed and waxed it.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

I painted my front emblem black. It looks pretty good on a sunlight silver car. I also bought an Axela badge at the occ meet and painted that black. havent put it on my car yet, probably this week and i hand washed and waxed it.

nice. i need to give my car a nice wash and wax. the things i hate most about cars lol. (and i love the smiley face on your sig with the shifty eyes lol)

[Azexa]

nice. i need to give my car a nice wash and wax. the things i hate most about cars lol. (and i love the smiley face on your sig with the shifty eyes lol)

lol i love this shifty eyes. washing and waxing is my favorite and least favorite thing to do with my car. i get a little OCD when i wash my car.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

i get a little OCD when i wash my car.

we all do... we all do. lol wash it over and over and scrub till you cant scrub no more, than once i think im done i go back at the same spot 4 more times lol

[Rhon]

I broke down and picked up a CPE towplate. Talk about stout. It would make a great push bar.

and it's turning some heads when we go by another 3...

[bbrich57]

Removed the now burned and faded Rock Blockers in preparation for the new Lamin-X film on the way.
The RB's did their job protecting the headlight lens though. No addition degradation of the polycarbonate layer. They look as good and clear as the day I installed the RB's, but what a pain to remove them. The adhesive that "is so easy to remove" and "most should come off with the film," did not.
Tar and bug remover (Turtle Wax T&B Remover was recommended) hardly touched the stuff. I used half a bottle of adhesive remover, half a roll of paper towels and a soft plastic scraper, then the T&BR for further sun protection (carnauba wax) and to clean up the adhesive remover... plus 1-1/2 hrs and a lot of sweat.

[sunrun176]

I broke down and picked up a CPE towplate. Talk about stout. It would make a great push bar.

and it's turning some heads when we go by another 3...

Awesomeness! How long did it take you to get it installed, start to finish?

[Rhon]

Not more than twenty minutes. I was amazed how easy it was to do. Here's how it turned out. Sorry for the background, I just took the pics at work...It is a little pricy but well worth the $$ when you see how it's built. I haven't yet plugged the holes that the old plate frame was mounted with but they're so small you can't hardly see them.


http://inlinethumb22.webshots.com/3925/2356599410029704457S425x425Q85.jpghttp://inlinethumb46.webshots.com/14701/2179462060029704457S425x425Q85.jpg

[southendskin210]

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a293/URBACKUPPLAN/06-11-10_1345.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a293/URBACKUPPLAN/06-11-10_1346.jpg


http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a293/URBACKUPPLAN/06-11-10_1600.jpg


http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a293/URBACKUPPLAN/06-11-10_1602.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a293/URBACKUPPLAN/06-11-10_1601.jpg

[L3vzoomzooom]

It looks good all you need now is a carbon spoiler

[NTIMD8R]

It looks good all you need now is a carbon spoiler

(iagree)

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

love the cf hatch! no spoiler tho! :p

[Chefsp0t]

Wash n wax!

http://i977.photobucket.com/albums/ae260/chefsp0tmazda3/Mazda3/037.jpg

[ZoomZoomFan]

Ms3 exhaust is on! It sounds great. :)

[Antoine]

Chefsp0t (http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/member.php?u=70155): (cool) color combo you're rockin' there with those MS3 rims...Definitely a unique look! (thumb)

[Chefsp0t]

Thanks Antoine! I think they came out just right. There's more to come too.

[bbrich57]

Looks good on gray. But REALLY GREAT on white!! :D :D :D (Sorry for the dirty bumper cover. I took these about ten minutes ago... :o)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1970-1.jpg

I'm not trying to burst your bubble here really, but mine light up w/3 LEDs in each of them too.
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1969-1.jpg

Here's what I did to mine today....
Before (Hint: Old faded "Blue" RockBlockers:)

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1952-1.jpg

After (Hint: New Blue Lamin-X:)
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1959-1.jpg

I HIGHLY recommend this mod to anyone wanting to save their expensive, plastic headlight lenses. I put the RB's on nearly 4 yrs ago (2006) and my lenses were already showing signs of age. And when I took them off before installing the Lamin-X film, they looked just exactly how I remembered them 4yrs ago. Really cheap insurance, IMO. About a $1.35/month for protection. And if you want them in color, a nice appearance mod too.
Naturally, I polished the lenses completely clear again before installing the film this time. Live and learn!!

I also cleaned the CAI filter (first time, 30k miles) and drained the H2O (right! W~A~T~E~R!!!) out of the LS fog light(?) That's a first also!! I hope I got it sealed up correctly now too?

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

way to crap all over my post
(getout) lol

[bbrich57]

Nah Man, I was just messin' w/cha'!!
I've had mine for a few years now... eBay specials, but I'm very happy w/them.
Yours do look good on the gray... and I'm being serious about that now.
I'm also glad to see that you didn't clear the rears, which is not only illegal in most states, but potentially dangerous too. 'Course big trucks w/BIG smooth shiny chrome bumpers are even more dangerous, especially when they shine your own headlights back in your eyes. I HATE that!!!
Did you add the spoiler too or was that the factory optioned one?
'Need to lose that side molding though, Bud. I'm sure you've seen 3's like that before. It just makes the sides SOOOO much cleaner. Easier and nicer to wash too.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

lol well thanks! i like em! yeah i honsetly did not know rear reflectors could be illegal lol and yeah i know what you mean bout them dang trucks! veeeerrrrrrry annoying! and thats the factory spoiler! (thumb) this mite sound dumb lol, im not real sure how to remove the side moldings and afraid i would mess something up lol, my main concern is what if the paint is faded were the side molding were!

[bbrich57]

1st: Yes. Most states require that the rear reflectors be/show RED only. Clear ones might confuse other drivers into thinking its the front of the car and cause an accident.
2nd: Removing the molding is fairly easy. You would need a way to get them started, such as dental floss, fishing line or an old guitar string. Wait for a warm day, but I do not recommend direct sun light. I had the hardest time w/the LS of mine and the sun was on it. Peel them back slowly using the "tool" to get them started only. Most of the adhesive will come off, but what's left will come using Goo-Gone or some other adhesive remover. I actually used WD-40 on mine. Pros have been known to use that to remove stripes!!
If the body has faded, and that's likely, use some polish to help hide the different shades. If it's really bad use compound first, but only as a last resort. You may be amazed just how fast the line will blend in w/the rest. It may take a few weeks but it will disappear.
The good news is, you will no longer have a place for dirt, grim and especially grit to build up under there. Mine were awful and I was sorry I hadn't done it sooner. They took some polish, time, patience and some elbow grease to make it look right again, but be patient. Be sure to fully clean and wax that area when finished.
And as I'd said, it makes it much easier to wash and clean the sides of the car w/o them, and you will LOVE the look.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

lol that just sounds funny about people thinkin it could be the front of the car, its like how ever could u think that? lol, but im sure it happens! also, thanks for the info, but i honestly dont mind my side moldings lol, i dont think there bad lookin! but maybe some day ill take them off! (dunno)

[Azexa]

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs296.snc3/28483_505504274391_117000196_30140726_7853824_n.jp g



Newly painted black emblems and badges as Axela.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

love it! very nice! clean!

[hat1018]

"im not real sure how to remove the side moldings"
you could try a heat gun/ blow dryer to help start the removal of the mouldings then just slowly peel them off. -3M- sells a "wheel" of sorts that is a foam like material that attaches to a drill and virtually rolls the adhesive off without paint damage. i still have my mouldings on but i used to sell auto body supplies and we moved a pile of these things!

[bbrich57]

Newly painted black emblems and badges as Axela.

love it! very nice! clean!

Agreed!! They look nice and clean.
Besides, us N/A guys need to stick together w/all the MS3 guys out there.

j/k.....

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

true story.... theres tons of speeds out there and not enuff n/a! we should form an alliance! (protest)


Agreed!! They look nice and clean.
Besides, us N/A guys need to stick together w/all the MS3 guys out there.

j/k.....

[Azexa]

Thanks for the feedback, i was amazed how easy this was.

[bbrich57]

The difficulty is not always in doing the mod itself. The difficulty often comes trying to keep it up. Maintenance is usually required after the fact.

BTW: I love your choice of smilies, MZ3SPORTRUE!! ("Protest")

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

lol thanks man! but seriously tho about the alliance, you wanna? (thumb) hehe

[imadad89]

Use a blow-dryer and a plastic paint spreader to remove side moldings and badges. Once you warm up the molding with the blow-dryer slide the spreader underneath it slowly the whole way across the panel. Should come off cleanly and easily. Just be careful you don't press little rocks/sand into the paint while doing it. WASH THOROUGHLY FIRST.

My emblems are black too. Looks good (cool)

[Azexa]

Just ordered my intake- i did go with an ebay intake but i made sure to read the customer reviews and they are all positive, so i'm going to give it a shot.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

Just ordered my intake- i did go with an ebay intake but i made sure to read the customer reviews and they are all positive, so i'm going to give it a shot.

what intake did you go with? linky?

[Azexa]

BCP racing.. i hadn't heard of the brand before.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

BCP racing.. i hadn't heard of the brand before.

definitely let me know how it performs/build quality,etc! i may get one! (thumb)

[bbrich57]

Considering it costs about 4x's less than a name brand I suppose you could do worse, but keep an eye on those connectors for cracking and the filter for developing holes. They may be made of a non-silicone rubber (regular unreinforced neoprene) and crack over time.
Then again, it may turn out to be a worthwhile cost saving purchase? Who knows?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/04-05-06-07-08-Mazda-3-Mazda3-2-0L-2-3L-Cold-Air-Intake-/390207097331?cmd=ViewItem&pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5ada27c9f3

[Azexa]

I figured it's worth a try for the price. I'll def. keep updates to tell you you all know how it works out. I just got the email saying its shipping today. :)

[bbrich57]

OK, not earth-shattering news, but I've waited probably a year to do this. That's right. This stuff has been in my shop for over a year.
Install of the day, and yes I know my fog light surrounds are chipped:

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1975.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1976.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1977.jpg

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1978.jpg

I also "green greased" my replacement polyurethane rear sway bar bushings for the Progress... soon to be replaced by a R. B. anyway.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

you should next time def. say what you actually did lol, i was staring at these pics for a couple mins and was like what is he talkin about? it all loooks stock except for the chipped fog surrounds lol, then i finally noticed the hd lip (assumin thats what you was talkin bout lol)

[bbrich57]

See? You got it and I didn't have to be specific. :D You know the old saying, " A picture is worth 1000 words.

But the real automotive challenge of the day was doing this to the wife's Vibe:

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/06pvibe/IMG_1973.jpg

The compound curve in the Mazda3 headlights are no match for the curve in the Vibes.
Lamin-X does not offer precuts for the Vibe, so I had to use bulk and cut them myself.
Good thing I've done this several times before, and even w/that they did not come out perfect.

So after, I had all these cut-off pieces left and wondered what I should do with them? This is what I came up with:

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/06pvibe/IMG_1974.jpg


To my eye it helps complete the look. What do you guys think? Opinions ((yupnope) (cool) (dunno) (gtfo) (hand) (no) (2thumbs) (notcool)) welcomed.

[NTIMD8R]

Over the winter I accumulated a bunch of lighting projects for my 3 that I put off 'till the weather improved. Well I FINALLY got them installed... (sorry, not the greatest pics!)


Predator Chromium Angel Eyes

http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww317/ntimd8r/P1010170.jpg


Angel Eyes directly wired to LED toggle switch on dash

http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww317/ntimd8r/P1010172.jpg


Angel Eyes with parking lights on

http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww317/ntimd8r/P1010163.jpg


While I had the headlights out for the Angel Eye install, I installed some DDM 55w 6000K HID low beams with the additional harness that draws the power to the headlamps directly from the battery

http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww317/ntimd8r/P1010162.jpg


Once I was done up front, I installed some Option Racing LED taillights in the back

http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww317/ntimd8r/P1010165.jpg


and an LED 3rd brake light from the Xenon Store

http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww317/ntimd8r/P1010167.jpg


I also installed some chrome-covered amber turn signal bulbs up front and lightly sprayed some amber turn signal bulbs with some Nite Shades for the back.

Whew!!

[Azexa]

i really like the look of the tail lights! good job.

[NTIMD8R]

Thanks, bro! I appreciate your compliment!

[Azexa]

bro? lol im a girl hehe :)

[NTIMD8R]

bro? lol im a girl hehe :)

SORRY! Should have known that the first time I actually use that phrase on this forum that it would be a female that I'm responding to! (hand) My apologies...(bow)

[hat1018]

gave her a nice hand wash, then a true family project.....wax!

[bbrich57]

Over the winter I accumulated a bunch of lighting projects for my 3 that I put off 'till the weather improved. Well I FINALLY got them installed... (sorry, not the greatest pics!)

While I had the headlights out for the Angel Eye install, I installed some DDM 55w 6000K HID low beams with the additional harness that draws the power to the headlamps directly from the battery

Once I was done up front, I installed some Option Racing LED taillights in the back

and an LED 3rd brake light from the Xenon Store

I also installed some chrome-covered amber turn signal bulbs up front and lightly sprayed some amber turn signal bulbs with some Nite Shades for the back.

Whew!!

Good Work!!! That was all in one day??? All that would've taken me a week of intensive modding to do... well, maybe several days at least.

Your mod list is starting to look a lot like mine!! I never did the Angel Eyes and have Amber LED bulbs in the rear turn signals, but everything I just highlighted in your post is the same as mine... only different. :D

It looks like you decided to keep the OE reverse lights too, yes? I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like the AM ones too, but installed them just to have a look. They didn't last an hour before I went back to the OEs.

[Azexa]

SORRY! Should have known that the first time I actually use that phrase on this forum that it would be a female that I'm responding to! (hand) My apologies...(bow)


Lol its alright. I'm just giving you a hard time. (2thumbs) I'm so used to it from the video game forum I am in also.

[NTIMD8R]

Good Work!!! That was all in one day??? All that would've taken me a week of intensive modding to do... well, maybe several days at least.

Your mod list is starting to look a lot like mine!! I never did the Angel Eyes and have Amber LED bulbs in the rear turn signals, but everything I just highlighted in your post is the same as mine... only different. :D

It looks like you decided to keep the OE reverse lights too, yes? I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like the AM ones too, but installed them just to have a look. They didn't last an hour before I went back to the OEs.

Well...It wasn't all in one day. Took two days to take the headlights apart to do the Angel Eyes install and to do all the wiring for everything in the front (Angel Eyes, HID's + I FINALLY got my oil pressure and oil temperature gauges in my gauge pod wired to their respective sensors!).

It then took an additional afternoon to install the rear taillights and LED 3rd brake light. And, NO, I didn't keep the OEM reverse lights. Like you, I don't really care for the AM reverse lights--THEY'RE TOO BIG! I like the smaller "circle" of the OEM reverse lights better. However, I thought it would look stupid if I had these nice clean outer lenses (brake lights/turn signal) and worn inner ones (reverse lights). I'm kinda getting used to the AM ones. They're not as noticeable to me as they initially were.

I DID purchase a Wolfgang headlight lens restoration kit and it did wonders for my headlights and foglights. And I really didn't think that they were that bad to begin with! Maybe I could use it on the reverse light lenses as well... Another project for another day!

BTW, nice job on your HD lip and Lamin-x installs! Your wife's car is starting to look like yours! However, we all know it'll never be as cool! (drive)

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

nice angel eyes NTIMD, i hope to get some, some day!


Your wife's car is starting to look like yours! However, we all know it'll never be as cool! (drive)

and Amen to that! (drive2)

[solez]

i just bought a set of 2010 Speed3 rims. got to get some tires put on them and does anybody know where i can find an oem rear bumper lip that came on the 1st gen speed 3's?

[imadad89]

Angel eyes looks sweet intimidator. (2thumbs)

Just ordered some yellow Lamin-x fog light films. Nothin big.

Post a pic when they're on.

[Mazdafreak67]

Decided to paint the calipers and center-hub of the rotors.
I think it turned out pretty good.
What do you think?

Front Before Paint......
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/jjuhring/01FrontPre-Paint.jpg

Front After Paint......
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/jjuhring/02FrontPainted.jpg

Rear Before Paint......
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/jjuhring/03RearPre-Paint.jpg

Rear After Paint......
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/jjuhring/04RearPainted.jpg

Overall Look After Paint......
http://i570.photobucket.com/albums/ss149/jjuhring/05SidePostPaint-1.jpg

[bbrich57]

... I FINALLY got my oil pressure and oil temperature gauges in my gauge pod wired to their respective sensors!).

... Like you, I don't really care for the AM reverse lights--THEY'RE TOO BIG! I like the smaller "circle" of the OEM reverse lights better. However, I thought it would look stupid if I had these nice clean outer lenses (brake lights/turn signal) and worn inner ones (reverse lights). I'm kinda getting used to the AM ones. They're not as noticeable to me as they initially were.

I DID purchase a Wolfgang headlight lens restoration kit and it did wonders for my headlights and foglights. And I really didn't think that they were that bad to begin with! Maybe I could use it on the reverse light lenses as well... Another project for another day!

BTW, nice job on your HD lip and Lamin-x installs! Your wife's car is starting to look like yours! However, we all know it'll never be as cool! (drive)
Thanks!! Yeah, we seem to go for the same colors in cars. I had a burgundy, so she had to get burgundy. I bought the white 3 so she had to get a white Vibe. And of course I am making most of the decisions as far as the modding is concerned, so both being white, what works on mine works on hers also.

Polishing your tails will bring them back, but you didn't need to buy a system for that. I bought a new tub of Dupont #7 car polish, which is basically what those kits consist of anyway. $3.99.
Maybe not the best pic, but here are mine w/the OE reverse lights. They've been on for about a year now.

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1948-1.jpg

The angel eyes look good, as always. I hope you used clear silicone to attach them and not the double-sided tape they come w/though? That stuff yellows and then browns out, as a friend of mine found out.


nice angel eyes NTIMD, i hope to get some, some day!

and Amen to that! (drive2)

What do you mean? I like her Vibe, though I wish it were a monchrome instead of two-tone.
I also wish she would allow me to do more in the way of performance upgrades too, but not her. She doesn't even want to tint the windows... IN TEXAS???

Angel eyes looks sweet intimidator. (2thumbs)
Just ordered some yellow Lamin-x fog light films. Nothin big.
Post a pic when they're on.

You better!! :D Take my advise though and order the headlamp film too. You won't be sorry, even if you only want to clear them. I NEVER recommend using smoked film/spray on anything though. It's dangerous and asking for trouble IMO.
After 4yrs of sitting outside in all weather, the film was pretty shot. Faded and had hardened on the edges, but still protecting the lenses from chips and this MASSIVE, abusive Texas sun we have here.
If I have to do it over in another four years, I will. 'Cheap insurance.

[bbrich57]

Decided to paint the calipers and center-hub of the rotors.
I think it turned out pretty good.
What do you think?


Yup!! Looks pretty good MF67!! And you don't see too many of us sticking w/a stock looking silver color for the calipers either, but it looks good!!
(Stealthy) (2thumbs)

I've really got to redo mine too. I used the Duplicolor ceramic and it has chipped badly over the years. I'm gonna try the epoxy this time. It should last and look good for a long time. Well, half of the new rotors are in and the pads have been here, and new stickers from XenonMods are coming too so it won't be too long now.....

[imadad89]

Mazdafreak67 what kind of shocks/suspension/springs whatever you call it, do you have? I don't really know much about cars except how to drive them fast. I don't know where to begin as far as lowering it. I like the way yours looks so I figured I'd ask.

If anybody has any advice it'd be appreciated. Kind of a noob here (hand)

[NTIMD8R]

Decided to paint the calipers and center-hub of the rotors.
I think it turned out pretty good.
What do you think?


SWEET! Looks great! (first) Now all you need are some black caliper decals from XenonMods! Those will look awesome on the silver calipers!

[Mazdafreak67]

Mazdafreak67 what kind of shocks/suspension/springs whatever you call it, do you have? I don't really know much about cars except how to drive them fast. I don't know where to begin as far as lowering it. I like the way yours looks so I figured I'd ask.

If anybody has any advice it'd be appreciated. Kind of a noob here (hand)

I've actually done a couple of things....
Replaced the factory springs with Eibach Sportline springs that drop it nearly 2 full inches. Let me warn you, these babies are stiff, but the handling is phenomenal. Dropped 2 full seconds on my autocross times.
My rear camber was already -1.5 degrees with the factory springs, so I added the SPC adjustable rear upper camber links when adding the Eibachs. Now, even lowered it's only -1.0 degrees in the rear.

So, my recommendation is to decide what's most important and also what you're willing to sacrifice before making a decision.
If you want Max Performance and adjustability, and price is no object, then go for a full adjustable coil-over setup.
If you just want to go low and get great handling with no regard for comfort or suspension travel, then get the Sportlines, or Tein S-Tech, or Megans.
If you want better handling but still a nice ride with a 1" drop, then get the Eibach Pro-Kit or Tein H-Tech springs.
Then, the only other decision is whether or not to add the rear camber links. Note, the rear camber is non-adjustable from the factory, so taking it to an alignment shop will only tell you what it is.

[Azexa]

I just put my cold air intake. I got one off of ebay and honestly it's incredible. brand new intake for around 60$ I can't complain.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs120.snc4/36368_505554134471_117000196_30142465_4649759_n.jp g

[tschatzinger]

Dang, $60 is a heck of a deal.

Cellphone pic makes the HD lip look all crooked, but it's not really like that. Custom cut matte black vinyl.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b315/tschatzinger/37321_1366474440908_1203060033_3089.jpg

[imadad89]

Nothing terribly exciting.


Lamin-x fog tints

http://img576.imageshack.us/img576/309/img0563y.jpg (http://img576.imageshack.us/i/img0563y.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Custom-cut badge. prolly gonna turn it in to the "M", just wanna try this on for size for a couple days.

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/4723/img0564k.jpg (http://img202.imageshack.us/i/img0564k.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Lowered side badges.

http://img805.imageshack.us/img805/2776/img0565.jpg (http://img805.imageshack.us/i/img0565.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

[mikelebz]

installed TWM STS

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

Dang, $60 is a heck of a deal.

Cellphone pic makes the HD lip look all crooked, but it's not really like that. Custom cut matte black vinyl.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b315/tschatzinger/37321_1366474440908_1203060033_3089.jpg

where did u get that from? i want it!!! linky? looks greaT! (thumb)

[Azexa]

@Imadad89 I really like the look of you custom badge. It's something different.

[Chefsp0t]

It looks like one of those man-eating flowers from Mario. You should get a green insert for it and put a mario decal jumping over it.

Props for being different. I like it.

[tschatzinger]

Here's a little bit better picture.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b315/tschatzinger/P1010350.jpg

Thanks MZ3SPORTRUE. I got the vinyl on ebay, and had someone apply it and then cut it to make it line up with the curves in my hood

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/HOOD-VINYL-BLACK-MATTE-48-X-60-MAZDA-RX8-3-6-ANY-CAR_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem4a9fdc26f7QQitemZ32 0509585143QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAcce ssories

[imadad89]

chefspot... freakin phenomenal. (iagree)

I'l post pics when its done.




Thanks peeps.

[imadad89]

correction. it looks like the flower that gives you the ability to throw fireballs... not the maneaters that pop out of pipes... how dissapointing... that would have been dope as a rope.

http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.146567965.jpg

that'd be sweet.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

correction. it looks like the flower that gives you the ability to throw fireballs... not the maneaters that pop out of pipes... how dissapointing... that would have been dope as a rope.

http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.146567965.jpg

that'd be sweet.

hes right. it does look like the fireball ability lol. and yeah that mario sticker on there would be gangster. (although id never put it on my car lol)

[Chefsp0t]

I was thinking more like this one...

http://www.mariomonsters.com/contents/characters/200705/piranhaplant/main.jpg

[imadad89]

I guess I need to work on my classic Mario knowledge.

[Chefsp0t]

I think you could pull off that look on your white car as long as it is not bone stock looking. The tuning world is all about personal style now anyway. My 3 will have a few haters when it is done but I want it to be unique.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

I guess I need to work on my classic Mario knowledge.

lol

[imadad89]

chefspot you're outside philly? east or west? you're about an hour from me. any mazda clubs around here to join?

[Chefsp0t]

I'm closer to you than that. I live near Pottstown. I am not a member of any local clubs but I might join if I could find a decent one.

[Nathan@LEA]

I installed a red SMD dome light, and SMD strip trunk light in my roommates Mazda3!

And I'm not sure if this counts...but I took a white 5-speed Mz3 for a test drive.

[sunrun176]

Last Saturday I finally got up the guts to take off the front bumper and install the CP-E TowPlate™ (birthday present from April) and Wolo BadBoy™ dual-tone air horn (last-minute (as in "go ahead and get something from your upgrades wish list that's less than $50", and, while I didn't have any that were, I'd been thinking of adding it to the list) Father's day present).

I think I picked about the worst day to be outside in a hot garage working around and under a car -- sunny and nearly 90˚F with a dew point in the mid-70's. It was what I imagine it would be like walking around inside someone's mouth. I had to pause about every 5 minutes to wipe the sweat off my face and I had to take quite a few breaks to stay hydrated.

Started at ~2:30pm. Wasn't finished until 1:00am Sunday. Yeah. (ughdance)

The two steps that took the most time were taking off the bumper (after discovering that neither the instructions for the TowPlate™ nor the official Mazda Service Manual were complete in their descriptions of what to unscrew, unclip, unplug or remove and that the least complete was in fact the Service Manual) and figuring out how the hell I was going to fit that ginormous horn where the stock one fits, being that it's about 2.5x the size.

It turns out that (as I'm sure some of you know) there are no less than 19 screws, 6 fasteners (of two different types), 3 clips (5 if you count the two hook-style built-in clips that basically hang the bumper from the reinforcement bar) and 4 plugs that need to be disconnected before the bumper will be freed. And some of them (especially the clips holding the wiring harnesses) aren't as easy to remove as the instructions suggest. In fact, I instead had to use a small flat-head screwdriver to release the wiring harnesses from them rather than removing them from their moorings.

I ended up drilling out the hole in the stock horn mounting bracket to accommodate the 3/8" bolt for the Wolo. I also ended up mounting it with the bottom facing forward with the trumpets on the bottom instead of vertically as the instructions suggested ("mount vertically when possible" (emphasis mine)). And I ended up making two wires; one to connect to the factory positive wire and the other to ground under the factory mounting bolt for the bracket.

For the TowPlate™, I followed the suggestion in the instructions and added a dab of red "permanent" (as in "parts must be heated to at least 500˚F in order to decouple") thread-locker to the base shaft's threads and a dab of blue thread-locker to the Allen bolt's threads. T'ain't goin' anywhere! I'm glad I installed it with the bumper off, too, because the base shaft was a tight fit into the tow-hook mounting hole (some of the powder coating got scraped off of the shaft by the top edge of the hole in the front of the reinforcement bar) so I had to use a box-end wrench to tighten it in as I don't have a deep-socket the right size for the nut and it would've been impossible to tighten with the bumper in place.

After I got everything back together, I put the TowPlate™ itself on. At first I was going to make it level with the ground, but that looked a bit odd with the curves of the bumper, so I matched it with them instead and that looks awesome (or at least much better; the bottom edge is parallel with the top of the fog lamp surround instead of partially blocking it).

Then I removed the plastic license plate holder and transferred the license plate to the TowPlate™, drilled out the holes in the bumper a bit and popped in the BumperPlugs™.

I thought about taking pictures, but it was already taking me forever to make progress (I'm a bit too meticulous sometimes), so I'll post some "after" shots later this week.

[MZ3SPORTRUE]

Started at ~2:30pm. Wasn't finished until 1:00am Sunday. Yeah. (ughdance)



that made me lol. i love the ughdance! good work tho man

[bbrich57]

sunrun, I'm guessin' you are somewhere in the NE US?
I'm from Pa myself and know that even when the temp isn't up that high, the humidity is and it can be miserable. Try it here in Texas, w/no garage and the temps up nearler 100*!!
Speaking of which...
After waiting nearly a month, my new tires (225/45-17" Continental DWS) are in and waiting @ my installers, but I will not be able to have them installed (and alignment) until the week after next.

My automotive project(s) for today are:

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1991.jpg

And....

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1992.jpg

BUT....

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l110/bbrich57/Virgin1/IMG_1994.jpg

= :(

[sunrun176]

bbrich57 - MN, actually. (Just changed my Location to reflect that; hadn't bothered to enter it at first.)

Yeah, I hear the Southwesterly states get "dry heat"... More like an oven but better than a sauna. (lol2)