GRM Project Miata MXR2 Status

[kcbhiw]

This:
http://www.msprotege.com/members/kcbhiw/DSCN1118.JPG
...plus this:
http://www.msprotege.com/members/kcbhiw/DSCN0850.JPG

...equals Grassroots Motorsports $2005 Challenge!

(nana) (nana) (naughty) (first)

Miata MXR2 (or XR-5). More to come........

Paul, are you watching? ;)

[SpeedMcheen]

post vids, miata's rock!!!

[Natey]

Please say that you're gonna put a BP-T in a Miata...

[rx7gslse]

sweet! inexpensive turbo miata project!

let us know the project progress ;)

[Prodigy]

Please say that you're gonna put a BP-T in a Miata...Nope. He was planning on putting the spoiler w/ badges on the miata.

[Captain KRM P5]

no offense, but how are you going to route the front wheel drive turbo capri motor into a rear wheel setup?

[Prodigy]

no offense, but how are you going to route the front wheel drive turbo capri motor into a rear wheel setup?He's just going to swap out the turbo parts. (rei)

[rx7gslse]

no offense, but how are you going to route the front wheel drive turbo capri motor into a rear wheel setup?

I thinkyou're missing the minor detail that the Capri turbo and the miata share the same block... All the little turbo parts more-or-less bolt right up..


more info here; http://members.aol.com/solomiata/MX5Engine.html

there's been a couple people to do that swaqp already, but I can't seem to find their sites just now....

[anarchistchiken]

Every time I see a badass miata, it makes me wish that much more that I could fit in one, lol.

[kcbhiw]

Please say that you're gonna put a BP-T in a Miata...Close....B6-T :D

I'll be posting pics as the project comes along. I just picked up the Capri this past week. Once I'm done with all of this business travel, I'll be working on this project non-stop.

The manifold will bolt right up in that the Capri and Miata share essentiall the same engine. The only detail that I'm concerned about is the clearance between the turbo and steering colomn.

[altiain]

Sounds like a sweet project. Make sure and keep us posted.

[kcbhiw]

ARRRRRGGGG, the XR2 turbo is just trashed. I finally got it out of the XR2 and and partially dissassembled. There was minimal rubbing of the compressor wheel, but the spindle was offset by almost a millimeter on the compressor side. The turbine side of the turbo is even worse. See the attachments for clarification (rolleyes). The turbine wheel is offset a hair more than 2mm and is resting agains the housing. I'm willing to bet that this turbo isn't going to be cheap to rebuild. It almost appears that the spindle is bent. I basially mangled the seal plate because it would slide past the offset spindle. The four thurst bearing screws (T10 heads) are now stripped because they're so damn tight. Etc. Etc. Etc.

But fear not, Miata #2 will be turboed before the deadline!

Does anything look a bit strange to you?.....

[scapamouche]

Dibs on a chance to drive it!!!!! I'd offer to drive it for ya if:
a.) You didn't already know what you're doing
or
b.) I wasn't going to be at sea for the challenge next year :mad:

By then, I should have broken down and bought r tires for our new MSM, so we could slap them puppies on for some REAL grip....

What do you say, Kevin???? :D

[kcbhiw]

Dibs on a chance to drive it!!!!! I'd offer to drive it for ya if:
a.) You didn't already know what you're doing
or
b.) I wasn't going to be at sea for the challenge next year :mad:

By then, I should have broken down and bought r tires for our new MSM, so we could slap them puppies on for some REAL grip....

What do you say, Kevin???? :DYou're more than welcome to drive it! :) . I can at least say that I'll be running better tires than I was at the divisional in Gainsville, hehe.

Also, I think you should go for the R's. They're lots of fun (lol2) . Go two sizes over the stock recommendation of the wheel (as long as there's no rubbing). For example, I'm now running 225's on my 5.5" stockers. Talk about lots of grip.

[maitai92]

sounds like a fun project but isnt it cheaper and easier if you just put a Greddy turbo?

[scapamouche]

You're more than welcome to drive it! :) . I can at least say that I'll be running better tires than I was at the divisional in Gainsville, hehe.

Also, I think you should go for the R's. They're lots of fun (lol2) . Go two sizes over the stock recommendation of the wheel (as long as there's no rubbing). For example, I'm now running 225's on my 5.5" stockers. Talk about lots of grip.
What! Are you implying I have no experience with Rs???? ;) What do you think I was running on in DS...

I am a bit concerned because I have to go all the way to 225/45s if I want something wider than stock... compared to 205/40s.... That's A LOT more sidewall.... good for gearing, bad for weight, I'm thinking... And I'm not sure if they will clear.

Anyone have experience with 225/45-17s on a Miata???

[kcbhiw]

sounds like a fun project but isnt it cheaper and easier if you just put a Greddy turbo?
Negative! I bought the car for $100. I have since reclaimed the money and still have quite a few rather valuable parts to sell. Had the manifold and turbo been good, I'd be set (vs. a $2000+ greddy setup). Still, If I weld the mani and rebuild the turbo, I'd be out only a couple hundred dollars.

[kcbhiw]

What! Are you implying I have no experience with Rs???? ;) What do you think I was running on in DS...

I am a bit concerned because I have to go all the way to 225/45s if I want something wider than stock... compared to 205/40s.... That's A LOT more sidewall.... good for gearing, bad for weight, I'm thinking... And I'm not sure if they will clear.

Anyone have experience with 225/45-17s on a Miata???
Did I imply that? I meant it to be obvious since you were so slow ;) j/k.

Yikes! That's a big jump. I doubt that they'd add that much weight though. I'd be more concerned with the rubbing aspects.

[scapamouche]

I'm not worried about the weight.... the rubbing is...... the rub...

[kcbhiw]

I'm not worried about the weight.... the rubbing is...... the rub...
I wonder how much it would rub. I have to space out my front wheels a 1/4 of an inch to clear any (very minute) rubbing with 225's. I am, however, unaware of any differences between the wells of the NA and NB Miata's, so that may be a moot point.

[maitai92]

Negative! I bought the car for $100. I have since reclaimed the money and still have quite a few rather valuable parts to sell. Had the manifold and turbo been good, I'd be set (vs. a $2000+ greddy setup). Still, If I weld the mani and rebuild the turbo, I'd be out only a couple hundred dollars.
Schweeet...keep us posted with this project.

[kcbhiw]

Well, folks, Sunday morning I had what one may call an epiphany. In my semi-awkken state, I considered how much trouble it would be to purchase a used 1.8 and turbocharge that, instead. My thought is this: Starting with a STOCK BP (127 hp) then t'charging that versus a [stock] B6T (130hp) negates the point of starting with the B6. The engine would essentially bolt right in. Better yet, I have a lead on a on a 99 Miata Motor for $75 that would be the perfect candidate.

So, as they say, the plot thickens. I'll post updates as they come :-D.

[Prodigy]

That'll be one fast go-cart...err miata.

[kcbhiw]

That'll be one fast go-cart...err miata.
I hope so, especially when it'll weigh less than than 2200 LBS (when I'm done) :D.

[xelderx]

So how about selling me the B6T setup...for cheap since it seems that none of it is in good shape. I'll even come pick it up.

[kcbhiw]

So how about selling me the B6T setup...for cheap since it seems that none of it is in good shape. I'll even come pick it up.If I do decided to use the BP, I'll definately let you know. I'll still be keeping the turbo setup (manny and turbo), however.

[xelderx]

If I do decided to use the BP, I'll definately let you know. I'll still be keeping the turbo setup (manny and turbo), however.
Ehh. I really need the whole thing together. Let me know if you change your mind.

[Luv2RedLine]

Wow...thats kinda wired. Justin if you go pick it up I will definately tag along. The miata is my old baby and I shall drive it if it gets turbo'd...part of the deal right Kevin?
I've been wondering what's been going on with it lately and have been dreaming of finding one in the same condition for the same price. If she ever gets runnin nicely, well even if it doesn't, and you want to cut the family back down to 1 miata put me first on the list.
Any new pics of the progress? I've checked imagestation but didn't see anything new.

[kcbhiw]

Wow...thats kinda wired. Justin if you go pick it up I will definately tag along. The miata is my old baby and I shall drive it if it gets turbo'd...part of the deal right Kevin?
I've been wondering what's been going on with it lately and have been dreaming of finding one in the same condition for the same price. If she ever gets runnin nicely, well even if it doesn't, and you want to cut the family back down to 1 miata put me first on the list.
Any new pics of the progress? I've checked imagestation but didn't see anything new.Ahh, there you are Paul :) . No real updates as of now regarding the Miata itself. The front body panels are back on, but only in primer. I haven't forgotten our deal ;). I'm currently in the stage of gathering parts and resources, yet, I only have a few months to get things together. So once I (basically) work out the manifold issue (which will determine 1.6 or 1.8 - overall project cost), I'll be full throttle on this project.

I should probably keep the project expectations on the downlow to minimize expectations (FWIW) and competition (doubt many competitors read here or really care for that matter).

Mind you, this list is ONLY tentative!!! Just because they're listed here, doesn't mean it's going to happen. Project cost dictates 90% of this (I'm only allowed to spend $2005).

Exterior (Concourse Judging):
-Gray/Black bottom/top paint scheme following car lines
-Low Profile Headlights (the ones with clear covers, not "lazy-eyes"
-Any sponsored or donated body parts
-(perhaps to maintain original as purchased paint scheme) ghost racing stripes

Interior (Mostly Concourse):
-Drivers only (real) racing seat/removed passenger
-Remove interior panels to facilitate weight reduction, but limited to asthetic apearance (let your mind be your guide - works for me).
-Center console gauge clustering (boost, EGT, AFR, whatever)

Suspension:
-KYB AGX Adjustible struts
-Dropzone coiloivers (450F/350R Springs) - Corner weighting, baby!
-Custom front and rear sway bars - depends on shop availability
-2nd Gen RX7 4-Pot Calipers
-larger rotors

Engine (definately turbo):
-B6T OR '99 MY BP - using stock ECU
-Some sort of turbo installation with probably a RHB5 turbo - we'll see what gets used

[Luv2RedLine]

If you can get the 99 1.8 for 75 bucks....go for it. You can definately get more power out of it and it's a stronger engine then the 1.6. Shoot, if you don't want the engine for 75 bucks I'd definately take it in hopes of my own project sometime soon.
Whenever I can find a triple black for a good price...I'm all over it.

[StuttersC]

Good luck with the car...Have you registered yet?

I might just see you down there...

[kcbhiw]

If you can get the 99 1.8 for 75 bucks....go for it. You can definately get more power out of it and it's a stronger engine then the 1.6. Shoot, if you don't want the engine for 75 bucks I'd definately take it in hopes of my own project sometime soon.
Whenever I can find a triple black for a good price...I'm all over it.I picked it up today. The guy knocked of $20 because it had seized since he removed it (water in the oil). It'll need a full rebuild, but that should be no thing. I just need to find a cheap turbo manny to use on the 1.8 to get this rolling. $55 ain't bad for a full motor (fuel rail, injectors, oil pan, cam cover, half of the intake manny, exhaust manny, accessory brackets...everything. I'm not complaining. It did hurt to see a ton of water dump out of it though :(.



Good luck with the car...Have you registered yet?

I might just see you down there...I need to register. Perhaps I'll be able to do that this week.

[kcbhiw]

Here's the latest update for the GRM challenger (Ghetto Rebuilt Miata <-- thx, Chris :D )

Damn, I'm sluggish with this project. However, I scored a working IHI RHB5-VJ5 (as opposed to my seized VJ14) today for $50. It bolts up the same. The only difference that I can determine is the intermediate housing and a wastegate actuator port on the compressor housing. It spins freely, but there is a bit of a "grab" that concerns me. However, it's nothing a simple rebuilt kit won't fix. After next weekend when my friend finally removes his car from my driveway, I should be ten tenth's on this project.

Here are a few pics....

[StuttersC]

Cool score...


Have you registered?

[kcbhiw]

Cool score...


Have you registered?Yep. Sent my registration info in this morning. So I guess I'm committed to this project now :D.

[StuttersC]

Yep. Sent my registration info in this morning. So I guess I'm committed to this project now :D.
Cool deal!

Hopefully I'll get to come down and visit for this years event...

[kcbhiw]

Cool deal!

Hopefully I'll get to come down and visit for this years event...Cool! I hope to see you there. :) Will you be driving or just visiting?

[StuttersC]

Cool! I hope to see you there. :) Will you be driving or just visiting?
Just visiting and helping the staff, like last year.

Wife says no Challenge car until I pay somethings off.

[kcbhiw]

Just visiting and helping the staff, like last year.

Wife says no Challenge car until I pay somethings off.
Sell the wife ;).

[MiaTurbo]

cool

[kcbhiw]

It's a sickness I swear. Well at least the engine isn't toast on this one. I was able to crank it today dumping fuel through a vacuum line (fuel pump is toast) and I could get it to sputter and hold for a bit, but not run optimally. So we'll see what the newest POS brings this Tuesday. I've got a fuel cell with integral fuel pump that I'll connect temporarily and get some gas to the engine. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens :D.

Pics here.
http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?p=1364497#post1364497

[kcbhiw]

Well, I got the latest XR2 to run! Better yet, I hit 10 PSI (according to the stock boost gauge)! So the turbo is good!!! yay. Since the fuel pump wasn't working, we rigged up a fuel cell with an internal fuel pump and ran it from that. Since the stock tank is full of 6 year old gas, we had to catch the unused fuel in a 1 gal jug. fun-fun-fun. Now I have a CONFIRMED working turbo (hearing that whine was sweet) and I'm now ready to go full throttle on this project. However, I'm going to clean out all of the junk and broken glass, swap the fuel pump from the other XR2, and hit the drag strip one night before I tear this one apart. Miata MXR5 is just around the corner :D.

Here are a few pics from tonight.

[Prodigy]

one step closer!
hit the dragstrip? with which car?

[kickniteasy]

Here are a few pics from tonight.


LOL, ghetto rigged......awsome (cool)

[kcbhiw]

This past weekend, I finally got the Miata to my place to begin work (damn, it's nice to be able to work on a car in a heated garage). Dissassembly of non-essential stuff began tonight (A/C and such).

I have a confirmed working turbo and a manifold that will work with this car, so things will be full go from here on out. I need to find a smaller width radiator to accomidate the intercooler piping. With that, considering the cooling system of the Miata is already sub-par, I will be rerouting the cooling system as depicted in an article I've found here http://members.aol.com/solomiata/CoolantReroute.html

For those that are interested, updates will be coming regularly, especially once the holidays are over.

(Seeing the boost come on in XR2 that runs has really floored me with this project).

[Super Matty P]

womp 4 U?

[kcbhiw]

womp 4 U?i'll stick with the turbo since i've already paid for it :D.

[xelderx]

I have a 2nd Gen RX7 radiator sitting in my garage. It's skinnier than the original Miata radiator, but I'm pretty sure it's a little taller.

[kcbhiw]

I have a 2nd Gen RX7 radiator sitting in my garage. It's skinnier than the original Miata radiator, but I'm pretty sure it's a little taller.
I'll check those out at the junker this weekend if there are any available. If not, I may take you up on that. I don't think being taller will be an issue. What's the width of it?

[xelderx]

I'll check those out at the junker this weekend if there are any available. If not, I may take you up on that. I don't think being taller will be an issue. What's the width of it?
I'll measure it tonight when I go back by the garage.

[kcbhiw]

Recently, I've been getting a lot of things in order to get this project underway. With items such as a peice of plate metal to fabricate a conversion flange (Garritt manifold to IHI turbo), boost and AFR guages, 2.25" and 3" steel U's for plumbing, fittings for oil supply, etc. on the way. I'm willing to say that the project is finally in full effect. I acquired yet another turbo (VJ11). I have 4 to choose from, but the latest one appears to be the peach. It spins beautifully and has no shaft play, so i'll probably be using that. I've begun to prep the engine bay for the "pretty points" so that I may expedite the installation of the turbo. If all goes as planned #2 should be boosted within a month. I've become really hopeful with this project and am really looking forward to how things turn out.

Here are a few pictures of the progress under the hood. Still, not much to look at. The gray will be the final color of the engine bay and lower half of the exterior. It's a bit darker in person and resembles that of the RX8 (without the metal flake).


EDIT: Justin, any word on the RX7 radiator?

[xelderx]

EDIT: Justin, any word on the RX7 radiator?
I had to work all weekend so I didn't get a chance to swing by the garage. I have to go over there tomorrow afternoon so I'll have that info for you then.

[xelderx]

The 2nd Gen radiator is about 24" wide and 20" tall

[kcbhiw]

The 2nd Gen radiator is about 24" wide and 20" tall
That size is perfect. I'm going to try to find one at the junker today. If not, I'll give you a call. How much would you want for it? I'll be passing through your area Monday, so I could pick it up then.

[xelderx]

That size is perfect. I'm going to try to find one at the junker today. If not, I'll give you a call. How much would you want for it? I'll be passing through your area Monday, so I could pick it up then.
I know what you are using it for. How about this...you buy the radiator for whatever sounds good to you (I just need to get it out of my garage). Then when your done with all those nice B6T motors I get first dibs and a deal I can't refuse.

[kcbhiw]

I know what you are using it for. How about this...you buy the radiator for whatever sounds good to you (I just need to get it out of my garage). Then when your done with all those nice B6T motors I get first dibs and a deal I can't refuse.
I'll keep you in mind for that radiator. Unless I'm able to find one locally (to avoid shipping), I'll drop you a line. I'll keep you up to date on the B6T also. You're first in line :D.

[kcbhiw]

It's been a while, but here's an update. I've been busting my hump (when I'm not away on freakin' business) prepping the engine bay and what not. I finally got it completely painted after removing everything (except the engine), sanding, sanding, sanding, and of course painting. The sheet metal is a dark gray (the flash in the pics lightens it up quite a bit) similar to that of Mazda's graphite color and the brackets and what not are black. All of this to compliment what the exterior of the car will look like when finished. I also made a new harness to work with the larger injectors that I am using, installed the fat(er) injectors, turbo oil line, and a few other odds and ends. I picked up an FC RX7 radiator today (sorry Justin), but have yet to determine whether or not it'll work well for me. I hope to have the car back to a running state tomorrow (Sunday) to make sure everything is connected properly before I move onto the turbo installation. If all goes well, the turbo shall be installed and plumbed (minus intake/exhaust) by next weekend's end.

Here are a few pics for the time being. The first pic is how the engine bay looked before the project started. The second is how it stands now, still a bit of work to be done, though. The third is of the cleaned intake manifold with new injectors installed while the fourth is the oil feed setup for the turbo.

[xelderx]

I can't tell fromt the pic but make sure that the oil pressure sender is supported. I found that the nipple threaded into the block isn't strong enough to support the weight on it's own...especially with vibration and bumps in the road.

[kcbhiw]

I can't tell fromt the pic but make sure that the oil pressure sender is supported. I found that the nipple threaded into the block isn't strong enough to support the weight on it's own...especially with vibration and bumps in the road.
Good call. I've been a bit concerned about that aspect. I'll look into some way of supporting it.

[xelderx]

I had to spend some time underneath a Pro5 with some easy-outs because of that...in the middle of a 24 hour AutoX...luckily it wasn't mine...but we live and learn.

[kcbhiw]

I had to spend some time underneath a Pro5 with some easy-outs because of that...in the middle of a 24 hour AutoX...luckily it wasn't mine...but we live and learn.
The thought of such ran through my mind the entire time that i was threading that assembly into the block. God, how it would suck if it some how snapped off. With the weight of such a large oil sender so far out, some sort of support is necessary, even at least to protect the entire assebly. Such a system shouldn't be too involved to fabricate.

[kcbhiw]

I disassembled the "good" turbo today to rotate the housings so that the oil drain has the proper downward orientation. Upon doing so and much to my dismay, it seems that the car from which it was removed had a bit of a lean-running condition. Molten aluminum is splattered all over the inside of the exhaust housing as well as the impeller. Since the plate behind the impeller is now unloaded after removing the housing, the impeller now rubs and grabs on the aluminum. I hope that I can find some way to torch the aluminum off. Suggestions?

So, the 'saga' continues.....

Attached are a couple pics of the issue, as well as a conversion flange that I had to manufacture to fit this turbo to my manifold.

[StuttersC]

You are probably going to have to grind it down or something.


Good luck...Hopefully you are up and running in time. Will you still come if you can't?

[kcbhiw]

You are probably going to have to grind it down or something.


Good luck...Hopefully you are up and running in time. Will you still come if you can't?

I'll be there regardless, even if the car has to be N/A.

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

I disassembled the "good" turbo today to rotate the housings so that the oil drain has the proper downward orientation. Upon doing so and much to my dismay, it seems that the car from which it was removed had a bit of a lean-running condition. Molten aluminum is splattered all over the inside of the exhaust housing as well as the impeller.
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/images/smilies/bigeek.gif

[Prodigy]

Just take a die grinder to get rid of the excess molten aluminum...
it shouldn't slow you down too much (unless you don't have the tools.. (doh))

good luck.

[kcbhiw]

Just take a die grinder to get rid of the excess molten aluminum...
it shouldn't slow you down too much (unless you don't have the tools.. (doh))

good luck.

That's exactly what I did (except with a dremel). It also seems that the plate beneath the impeller compresses to a more concave shape. So, as it seems, I now have plenty of clearance on the impeller side.



The turbo is now re-assembled and the manifold is in place. This week, I will be manufacturing the downpipe. Once completed, I can bolt the turbo in place, route the oil and coolant lines, and plumb the I/C and remaining intake lines. If all goes well, I should be boosted within two weeks.

Heh, everytime I look at it after I'm done working on it for the day, the thought of it being boosted floors me even more.

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

Heh, everytime I look at it after I'm done working on it for the day, the thought of it being boosted floors me even more.
Hell yah!

[StuttersC]

Cool, I'm glad things are coming together for you well.


Just a thought, once the car is finished I would print this thread out and put it in your build book to turn into the judges. They kind of like stuff like this.

[kcbhiw]

Cool, I'm glad things are coming together for you well.


Just a thought, once the car is finished I would print this thread out and put it in your build book to turn into the judges. They kind of like stuff like this.

Ahh, cool. I'll definately do that. Thanks!

[StuttersC]

Ahh, cool. I'll definately do that. Thanks!


No problem

[kcbhiw]

So here's the latest update. The downpipe is complete (with exception of a second O2 bung and outlet flange), the intercooler is mounted, a radiator from a 79(?) Mitsubishi truck has been test fitted, and the cowl area is painted (amongh painting other odds and ends). Typing that, it doesn't seem like much (doh). I have since recieved a new set of KYB AGX struts that will be installed as soon as the car is running, which will hopefully be within a week or two. All in all, to get this thing boosted, I need to create a mounting system for the radiator, plumb the turbocharger's oil and coolant lines (an hour max), and plumb up the intake track. However, I must also install a blowoff valve and fifth injector to the intake plumbing. Ha!

Here are a few pictures to tide you (the few watching ;) ) over. Yeah, I know, not the best welding, but it'll work.

[anarchistchiken]

Wow it's really starting to come together. When's the deadline?

[xelderx]

Wow it's really starting to come together. When's the deadline?

When the race starts.

[kcbhiw]

Wow it's really starting to come together. When's the deadline?

I have to have the car running by the first weekend in March. I want to attend the first local autocross to get the car dialed out. I need to have the project complete by the last weekend in March as that is when the actual competition is held.

[Prodigy]

I can't wait to see the car in person.
What are you planning on using the remaining budget on?

[kcbhiw]

I can't wait to see the car in person.
What are you planning on using the remaining budget on?

Paint, mostly. Perhaps a custom low profile headlamp setup. Other than that, just odds and ends that I'll end up needing as I progress.

[Luv2RedLine]

Hmmm....give me my car back.....NOOOOWWW!!!

Looks like it's coming along nicely. Should be up and running soon huh?

I can't post from my laptop(i'm on my roomates computer) but I've still been tagging along.

[kcbhiw]

Things are still progressing on the GRM Miata, albeit slowly. All of the easy stuff has come together to create a bunch of small difficulties, of which should be expected. To make this short and sweet, the turbo is permanantly mounted, the water and oil lines are plumbed (I previously stated an hour...HA! I wish), turbo to I/C pipe is done (except for powder coat), I/C to intake is 75% done, the radiator is fitted and mounted, the two new radiator fans (Honda Accord :D ) are fitted and mounted, started to install the suspension, but ran into problems, and the down pipe is complete with outlet flange, O2 bung, and header wrap (to protect items in close proximity).

I had to use the waterpump "distribution manifold" from the Capri to allow clearance for the turbo to I/C pipe. The Capri unit is significanlty shorter (as seen in the forth pic) and allowed the perfect clearance for the piping. I had to tap and thread a fitting into it to allow for the turbo coolant return line.

I have also acquired a Bipes ACU to dynamically retard the timing, basically (hey, the chances of me grenading the engine have lessened :D ).

It turns out that the threaded sleeves that I'd planned to use with the adjustable coilover setup won't work [easily] with these dampers. Unless I find a different set of sleeves/perches or manfactur a different lower perch for the KYB's, I'll be forced to use the stock springs (as funds are running low).

God willing, this car WILL be running by Sunday's end (2/20).

Per the norm, here are a few pics. Enjoy, heh........

[kcbhiw]

Five more pics...

[kcbhiw]

Hmmm....give me my car back.....NOOOOWWW!!!

Looks like it's coming along nicely. Should be up and running soon huh?

I can't post from my laptop(i'm on my roomates computer) but I've still been tagging along.

So you're going to buy the first round when you visit, right? ;)

[Rogue]

i thought i'd make a post to make you feel special that people were actually looking into your thread.

[kcbhiw]

i thought i'd make a post to make you feel special that people were actually looking into your thread.

Thanks......

[jflo]

looks like it's gonna be a fast miata (thumb)

[wscottl]

Looks like you'll have a busy month before the event. Be sure to do some testing before you head for Florida. We blew a motor with the BMW 3 days before we had to leave because of a blown head gasket. We learned our lesson for 2003. While testing the Miata we blew a radiator that would have ended our event.

Looks like you'll have a great time, be sure to take time and look around when you're there. Time just flies by.

Good luck and have fun.

-Scott

http://www.v8miata.homestead.com/drag2.html

http://www.v8miata.homestead.com/auto2.html

[kcbhiw]

Looks like you'll have a busy month before the event. Be sure to do some testing before you head for Florida. We blew a motor with the BMW 3 days before we had to leave because of a blown head gasket. We learned our lesson for 2003. While testing the Miata we blew a radiator that would have ended our event.

Looks like you'll have a great time, be sure to take time and look around when you're there. Time just flies by.

Good luck and have fun.

-Scott

http://www.v8miata.homestead.com/drag2.html

http://www.v8miata.homestead.com/auto2.html

I'm really looking forward to the event, but feeling the crunch at the same time. I've got some dyno time planned within the next few weeks to get this car tuned a bit. The first auto-x of the season, with a preceeding test and tune event, is 3/12-3/13. Hopefully, that'll allow me to get the car dialed in.

[kcbhiw]

Sooooo, I got the car running tonight, albeit without boost. I had everything completed on the exhaust side so I quickly rigged the setup to run N/A on the intake side. I wanted to check all of the liquid plumbing to the turbo and radiator setup for leaks (under pressure). As per Mazda tradition, she started with no problem whatsoever. There were a couple water leaks here and there but things were looking sweet. It was absolutely awsome to hear the turbo whine under throttle (<4500 RPM). I let the car idle for about 15 mins (3 sessions of 5 minute durations with checks in between) and goosed the throttle here and there to warm the system a bit (FWIW).

I was floored...until I checked the oil. To my surprise, and dismay, my fresh oil was a milky white color!!! WTF!!!!! I pulled the oil supply line to the turbo, stuck it a can, disconnected the ignition coils, and dry cranked the engine. The can filled with a milky white liquid. My F****G oil was impregnated with water! $h!&!!!! Such an occurance is typically experienced with a blown headgasket. Considering the fact that the Miata ran fine before the turbo with no water leakage and since I was basically running it in an N/A manner with this test, the only cause had to be the turbo. So I pulled the turbo and dismantled it, the seals are, of course, trashed. When the turbo came off, about two teaspoons of water dumped from both the intake and exhaust sides.

With water in the engine oil, I needed to purge it from the engine to avoild a rebuild and was therefore forced to fork over a few more bucks (sic). So I hopped in the P5 (yay) and went on my merry way to buy "stuff". Long story short, I drained the oil (if you want to call it that in such a state) and installed a new filter. I then filled the engine with a gallon of diesel fuel (cheap, and less viscous than engine oil and has the ability to more easily reach 'tighter' areas), and performed 4 to 5 dry cranks (about 20 secs each). I then drained Gal. #1 of diesel then filled the engine with another Gallon of diesel and again dry-cranked a few times. Then, I drained that round of diesel, filled it with a Gallon of fresh oil (all the while still using the same filter), and cranked some more. Then drained the oil, replaced the filter, and filled with yet another Gallon of fresh oil....and cranked her a bit more (damn, that's a strong battery). Tomorrow, I will drain the oil again, install a new filter, and refill with Mobil 1 (which I had initally done, ugh).

So here I am; basically back to square one, but with a bit of spent money, and nothing more to show for it other than 3 busted turbos, an adjustable coilover system that won't work, and an un-painted Miata.

Frustrated? Yes -- to no end! Finished? No way. This car will be boosted, painted, and riding on a decent suspension before the deadline.


I tried to upload a vid of the turbo spooling, but it's too large, so here's a pic from tonight (meh). The right oil filter is before the flush. The left oil filter is after the flush.

[Luv2RedLine]

That sucks man. I was getting excited to see pics of it running tonite. Guess it'll be another day.

So what's the total at now?

[kcbhiw]

That sucks man. I was getting excited to see pics of it running tonite. Guess it'll be another day.

So what's the total at now?

I havn't updated the total spent yet, but I think it's going to be in the neighborhood of about $1700-1800.

[StuttersC]

Have you seen the recent issue of GRM?

Home made boost article with lots-o-tech for you...

[kcbhiw]

Have you seen the recent issue of GRM?

Home made boost article with lots-o-tech for you...

Yep, I've got it turned to that page now to remind me to read it. As soon as I get a few minutes this week, I plan on reading it.

Thanks for the heads up!

[kcbhiw]

So I found why water blew through the turbo....

I'll let the pics explain.

[wscottl]

Too bad it wasn't an oil cooled turbo.

Sorry, it sounded funny in my head.

-Scott

[anarchistchiken]

I'd say that qualifies for an "owned" photoshop session.

That sucks man. What are you going to do? Just find a new turbo?

[kcbhiw]

Too bad it wasn't an oil cooled turbo.

Sorry, it sounded funny in my head.

-Scott

I know. I've been wishing I'd used some breed of Garrett turbo. Instead of dimantalling two turbo's to find good parts tonight, I could have been finishing up the I/C to manifold piping. Oh well....

There's a light at the end of the tunnel, however. I have a good intermediate housing with a rebuild kit that should be here by the weekend. If all goes well, she'll be running again this weekend.

It sucks that I have to travel this week, more lost time to complete this project.

[kcbhiw]

I'd say that qualifies for an "owned" photoshop session.

lol, care to make one?

[anarchistchiken]

There ya go.


When's the actual deadline for this thing anyway?

[kcbhiw]

There ya go.


When's the actual deadline for this thing anyway?

lol, awsome. I should have taken a lighter picture.

I've got to have it ready in two weeks to put on the dyno and dial in the suspension in time for the first auto-x this year. The actual event isn't until March 31 - April 2.

[Rogue]

you gonna need a pit crew for the event?

[kcbhiw]

you gonna need a pit crew for the event?

Perhaps! Come hang out.

[Rogue]

where is the GRM event being held? and it's Th-Sat?

[kcbhiw]

where is the GRM event being held? and it's Th-Sat?

Gainsville, FL. Yes, Thurs-Sat (Wed - Sun with travel).

[Rogue]

Gainsville, FL. Yes, Thurs-Sat (Wed - Sun with travel).

i don't think i could take 3 days off for work :(

[kcbhiw]

i don't think i could take 3 days off for work :(

Bah, I can, hehe. And to boot, the boss is loaning me the diesel excursion and 27ft enclosed trailer :D.

[kcbhiw]

It's do or die time. I have scheduled a dyno session (Dyno-Pak, yay :D ) for next Wednesday (3/9). Unless I'm bleeding, dying, or the engine has a hole in it, the car will be drivable under boost by the end of this weekend (I know I'm jinxing myself with that statement). Following the dyno session, there is a SOLOII Test and Tune event with the local SCCA chapter followed by the first points event for the season. If all goes well, the points event will be this Miata's first competition. I can't wait to see how she performs.

I finally have a working turbo installed and 90% of the intake piping complete. The suspension will be complete this weekend, corner weighted, and aligned. In addition, wiring will be completed to the gauges and assorted controllers.

The light at the end of the tunnel is visible. If everything goes well in the next 1.5 weeks, the only issue remaining will be either cosmetic or drive train replacement ;).

[MiaTurbo]

Very nice work. I've been keeping an eye on this thread, and you have truly done well.

FYI, I see you 'converted' the power steering rack to manual. FM has a nice write up on it to properly do it so you don't need the hoses etc. Though, you do have to take off the rack and disassemble it...

[kcbhiw]

Very nice work. I've been keeping an eye on this thread, and you have truly done well.

FYI, I see you 'converted' the power steering rack to manual. FM has a nice write up on it to properly do it so you don't need the hoses etc. Though, you do have to take off the rack and disassemble it...

Thank you very much. The complement is really appreciated :).

Also, thanks for the pointer regarding the rack and FM. I haven't seen their info on the rack yet, but I will definately look into it. Unfortunately, I won't have the time to dissassmble it before next weekend (first local auto-x/Test and tune of the season), but I may be able to get it done before the GRM event. Good call!

[ZeroAccess]

Damnit :( , If I had my car I'd come see it dyno :(
this sucks...nothing to do today except play gt4, eat cheeto's, and masterbate...
oh well..

Need anything gimme a call four zero four - 446.688seven

[kcbhiw]

Short and sweet. I got the Miata on the dyno today, finally. And all I can say about the results are un-freakin-beleivable.

183.6 RWHP
161.56 lb/ft Tourque

!!!! I'm still shocked. The tourque curve is flat-ish from 3500 to about 5700. This car pulls OH MY GOD fast. The shifts through 1-2-3 are crazy fast (relatively speaking). There's no noticable turbo lag, AFR is in the 10's throughout the "power" band (which is where I'd like it considering the only control that I'm running is a rising rate FPR), and max boost was at 8.6.

I'm absolutely floored that I've had such success today with all of the downfalls I've had. I couldn't have asked for better. Given a mild 15% drive train loss, that'd equate to roughly 210 crank HP!!!!!! I had been hoping for 170 crank HP, then last night, I was hoping that it would just make it to the dyno.

Here's a scan of they dyno results. Being that this was run on a DynaPack, the "flywheel" numbers stated are at the flywheels in the "packs", not the engine's flywheel. I questioned the tuner about this and he confirmed that the dyno made no corrections for drivetrain loss.

[anarchistchiken]

Hooooooly shit. Never saw that coming...

Congratulations man!

[kcbhiw]

Hooooooly shit. Never saw that coming...

Congratulations man!

Neither did I!

Thanks!!! :D

[Rogue]

i did the suspension! :D

so if something breaks...it's my fault

[kcbhiw]

i did the suspension! :D

so if something breaks...it's my fault

That's very true.

Many thanks to Luke as he installed about 75% of the suspension. He's saved me a ton of time.

However, when it comes time to dial it in, he bails to Alabama. What's with that? ;)

[Rogue]

it's not my fault your stuff didn't work tonight

[kcbhiw]

it's not my fault your stuff didn't work tonight

Whatchoo talkin' bout Willis?

Everything went fine. We couldn't accurately cornerweight the car since half of the body panels (as well as a few other things) are missing, lol.

[Luv2RedLine]

That's just not fair. I must have a miata now.

Congrats.

[Gbourdon]

Booyah. I was just reading about the GRM challenge in the magazine.

[MiaTurbo]

nice. Very nice.

[kcbhiw]

That's just not fair. I must have a miata now.

Congrats.

Your old car is a totally different beast now :D .

BTW, are you every going to change your poll on your car domain page? hehe.

[kcbhiw]

I won't begin to go into the misfortunes that I ran into this weekend (the car is cursed, I'm sure). Things were bad. $75 for a weekend with a possible 30+ runs, and I got 4, lol. Yet there is a silver lining within this cloud and I think I'll be able to work it out in time.

For the time being, here are a few pics of #1 and #2 together.

[kcbhiw]

A couple more.....

She'll be painted within the next 2 weeks.

[AZDriftR]

so that was yer car out AX'in... i was there watchin ya, and hangin with luke and wayne.. looks like hell but its got some go... have fun man.. oh and whens the Challenge and where, i would love to come watch and cheer you on

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

Wow. looking good. I want an na!!!

[kcbhiw]

so that was yer car out AX'in... i was there watchin ya, and hangin with luke and wayne.. looks like hell but its got some go... have fun man.. oh and whens the Challenge and where, i would love to come watch and cheer you on

lol, yes, it does look like hell. That should be corrected soon.

The challenge is March 31-April 2 in Gainesville, FL.


I wanted to meet you, but Luke said you took off with some friends.

[AZDriftR]

hmm... i was there all day. maybe when i went on ride alongs with my subaru friends. ya ive been wanting to meet you as well... had not a clue that was yer car or i would have came up to you haha... i figured you would be in a white miata... not a primered, headlight missing black wheeled beast of a car u brought :D.... but ya if that Challenge doesnt get in the way of school i will definitly try and make it out, i talked to the guy with the 5.0 RX-7 and he's going to be there aswell.

[MiaTurbo]

I Just noticed you don't have a roll bar. Is that an oversight, or is it not required?

[kcbhiw]

I Just noticed you don't have a roll bar. Is that an oversight, or is it not required?

I have one and it should be installed this weekend.

[MiaTurbo]

ah... Just checking ;)

[kcbhiw]

ah... Just checking ;)

IIRC, the rules stated that a bar was required for the drag portion of the event. It's fortunate that I found a guy who had converted his Miata into a Spec racer and had his old bar sale (cheap) :D .

[AZDriftR]

well its set! im coming out thursday night and staying till sat evening. hey kevin where are you staying at?... i think ill just sleep in my car or if my frind wants to come his 4 runner. how much does this cost to come watch? and ill probably need directions...

[StuttersC]

well its set! im coming out thursday night and staying till sat evening. hey kevin where are you staying at?... i think ill just sleep in my car or if my frind wants to come his 4 runner. how much does this cost to come watch? and ill probably need directions...


It'll cost you $15 to go watch.

Look here for details. (http://www.grmotorsports.com/board/viewtopic.php?t=7902&highlight=)

[AZDriftR]

thanx...you going too stutters??

[kcbhiw]

well its set! im coming out thursday night and staying till sat evening. hey kevin where are you staying at?... i think ill just sleep in my car or if my frind wants to come his 4 runner. how much does this cost to come watch? and ill probably need directions...

I'm staying at the even hotel (Comfort Inn?) just off of 75.

[Scott]

I really wanted to enter my VW in the challenge this year. But progress didn't move as rapidly as I had hoped so I'll have to wait untill next year (unless i go over my budget in the mean time.

EDIT: I might swing by up there. I'm renting out that course again and need to pay my deposit, so I might try and make it on that weekend so I can see some racing action whil I'm there.

[kcbhiw]

I really wanted to enter my VW in the challenge this year. But progress didn't move as rapidly as I had hoped so I'll have to wait untill next year (unless i go over my budget in the mean time.

EDIT: I might swing by up there. I'm renting out that course again and need to pay my deposit, so I might try and make it on that weekend so I can see some racing action whil I'm there.

Cool! I look forward to meeting you.

[StuttersC]

thanx...you going too stutters??

I was going too, until my job got stupid and said no...

I was going to help the magazine run the event.

[AZDriftR]

ya looks like i may only be able to go one day or not at all... i have a final on fridayfor my TCOM class... which is stupid cuz normanl finals arnt for a while...DAMNIT

[kcbhiw]

The updated budget has been posted in my sig.

The latest power figures are an estimated (at higher RPMs) 200+ RWHP / 185 lb/ft with the clutch letting go at 4500 RPM and a registered 177 lb/ft @ 188 RWHP --- AT THE WHEELS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AFR is in the 12's with two short spikes into the low/mid 13's.

All I can say, is DAMN! Neither the tires, nor the clutch can hold this power. I can spin 225 Hoosiers completely through 2nd. This should be interesting considering the budget(boom06) . Not to mention, a car that weighs 2150 with driver and a 1/4 tank!

Methinks I'm going to have to find some way of reducing the boost to be competitive. I plan on bolting up (rigging) the entire stock exhaust to the setup to reduce the power gains a bit (sounds funny, eh?). It's not like this power is currently usable with this configuration/budget. Doing so will also allow me to hear any detonation that may occur (none as of yet).

[AZDriftR]

wow sounds like yer really coming along

[anarchistchiken]

I assume you're gonna take it past where the budget is holding you when you get done with the GRM thing? Or are you just gonna leave it as is?

That is unreal power for the money you've put into it. You should look into building turbo kits, lol.

[kcbhiw]

I assume you're gonna take it past where the budget is holding you when you get done with the GRM thing? Or are you just gonna leave it as is?

That is unreal power for the money you've put into it. You should look into building turbo kits, lol.

Heck yeah I plan on taking this further (after the competition). I'm eyeing a widebody setup and wide wheels to accomodate [everything]. Additionally, I plan to re-engineer just about everything under the hood. However, at this moment, that is only a pipe dream. This car is my project car and when it's done (who knows when), it's going to be awsome.

Building custom turbo kits, eh? Sounds like a good idea ;). However, I'm quite sure FlyinMiata has that down pat and does a far better job than I could ever do.

[jflo]

i want turbo for my miata :(

[Luv2RedLine]

I want a miata for my turbo. Anybody know anyone selling for around 1K or 2G if it's already got a 1.8?
I'd be willing to drive a good distance to get a decent deal.

[kcbhiw]

I want a miata for my turbo. Anybody know anyone selling for around 1K or 2G if it's already got a 1.8?
I'd be willing to drive a good distance to get a decent deal.

It's gonna be hard to find a 1.8 for that much. However, if you are persistant, you can find a hell of a deal on a decent 1.6.

I happen to have a turbocharged Miata for sale...IF the price is right ;).


All in all, as of tonight, she's beginning to look like an actual race car. If all goes well this weekend, the primer should be done and the sills and such will have the final top coat. With that, she'll be ready for final paint next weekend, with only 2 days til departure (boom08) .

Pics will follow.

[Luv2RedLine]

What might happen to be the right price....I know what you paid for it...haha.

A guy around here got a 94 with around 106K on it for under 2. It had minor damage to the passanger door. If he can do it i guess it's possible.

[kcbhiw]

What might happen to be the right price....I know what you paid for it...haha.

A guy around here got a 94 with around 106K on it for under 2. It had minor damage to the passanger door. If he can do it i guess it's possible.

There's a bit more to the car now; a few more accessories are attached ;)

That's a heck of a good price. You should jump on that.

----------------

As a side note, there is a TON of bondo on the car. It's nuts. I don't think a single panel is untouched, hehe. However, I got it completely stripped today, and some of it primed. She's looking pretty good, FWIW.

It looks like a Mad Max car the way she sits now. I hope to have the primer finished Sunday with the door jams painted with the final top coat. We'll see.

Thanks again to Luke (RoguePro5) for his help.

[Luv2RedLine]

I would have but that was one of my buddies...he bought the car, I didn't know about it.

Those pictures hurt....after it has already been done once. I think it took us a little longer the first time. I just wish we would have known a little more about the whole painting process.

[kcbhiw]

I would have but that was one of my buddies...he bought the car, I didn't know about it.

Those pictures hurt....after it has already been done once. I think it took us a little longer the first time. I just wish we would have known a little more about the whole painting process.

I thought you might cringe with that. Unfortunately, the paint wasn't adhearing anywhere except to the plastic bits and bondo. I was pulling off sheets of paint with my fingers in the order of 6"x7". Don't worry, she'll be painted again, and still have the stripes :-D.

EDIT: after you stripped all of the paint, how did you prep the surface and what kind of primer did you use?

[kcbhiw]

All of this talk and what not and I completely forgot to post the latest dyno results.

Again, the "flywheel" reference is to that of the DynaPack's pod flywheel. This pull (as well as every pull in this session) unfortunately ended at about 4500 RPM at which the (new at the time of car purchase) clutch could no longer hold the power. The power plot goes crazy when the clutch lets go, hence the strange curve on the graph.

Compare the 4500 marks of my previous dyno graph to that of this graph. That being said, it's almost guaranteed that I'm well over 200 RWHP.

Crazy.

[Luv2RedLine]

The mistake we made was not using etching primer. That's why the paint was peeling. It was primed but not etched.
I bet that made it a little easier to strip, huh?

I just might have to get one of those snail looking things and another miata. I guess one the deal is right...I shall have one.

[kcbhiw]

Alrighty, less than a week to go and the car will finally be painted Saturday and Sunday, yay. That's not to mention the other 25+ items on my list that need completion before departure/race day.

Below are a few pics from last weekend (3/19-3/20) of which the majority of the [paint] prep work was completed. All body panels that are removable from the Miata have been removed, hehe.

Included are a couple shots of the gray and black that will complete the dual color paint scheme. All of the sills, jambs, and assorted other crevices are currently painted with their respective top coat (be it black or gray). Saturday, the upper [black] paint will be applied; Sunday, the lower [Gray] paint will be applied. Pics of the progress will, of course, be posted for those interested :D .

[kcbhiw]

I'm off to Gainesville, Florida tomorrow (well, today now FWIW). The car is complete with the exception of a few vinyl bits. She looks great in my opinion. In addtion, I took her for a few test runs today, both straight and curvy (the cul-de-sac in the back of my neighborhood is perfectly suited as a skidpad :D ), and she seems to perform quite well; this weekend will determine such.

I'll post pictures from the event upon my return. God, I hope she holds together, hehe. All the same though, I'm looking forward to this weekend. Saturday night is going to rock. I'll be celebrating the completion of the car as well as my BD (4/5)...in a college town. I hope to find a couple worthwhile clubs, hehe.

For the time being check out the latest picutres. I've made a posting in the picture section instead of here, so visit: http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?t=103472 .

Opinions?

[AZDriftR]

Best of luck... wish i could dome out, i have finals the next week :(

[kcbhiw]

So everything is said and done. I'm so releived that this project is over.....for the time being. I've already got ideas on what is going to be improved and what is going to be changed. The car performed beautifully for the most part, the biggest complaint being rubber width and clutch semi-failure. She drew so much attention at the event what with people asking question, complements, and so forth. In short, I'm thrilled with the car. She has met and exceeded my expectations and will continue doing so with the changes that I am planning.

Thanks to those who have been following this thread and giving your support. I really appreciate it. And a HUGE thanks goes to Luke (RoguePro5) for busting his hump with some of the grunt work the past couple of months. His assistance really made a difference. Thanks, bud!

[/speech]

My results are posted HERE (http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?t=103892).

And the lastest pictures are HERE (http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showpost.php?p=1618340&postcount=18).

For those interested, the budget is attached in XLS format. This is the sheet that I turned into the GRM officials, so ignore the crazy numbers under "Receipt".

[Prodigy]

Congratulations on finishing your project. I love the paintjob.

[anarchistchiken]

Hawt

[Prodigy]

do you have any close-up shots of the camera mount?

[kcbhiw]

do you have any close-up shots of the camera mount?

No, but I can get some for you this evening.

[StuttersC]

Cool, glad you had a good time...

[kcbhiw]

Cool, glad you had a good time...

You better be there next year!

[kcbhiw]

do you have any close-up shots of the camera mount?

Here are a couple shots for you.

[Prodigy]

cool thanks.
How's it work? Does it vibrate too much without cushioning?

[kcbhiw]

cool thanks.
How's it work? Does it vibrate too much without cushioning?

The camera is solidly mounted. However, the sways and vibrations in the car are noticable, but not terribly so.

[StuttersC]

You better be there next year!

If I can get the time off from work, I will be.

I couldn't get the time off this year, much to my dissappointment.

[pluto316]

BUMP for an awesome thread!

[Prodigy]

BUMP for an awesome thread!

round 2 : http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123636964

[pluto316]

Yeah, I know. I just read this one linked from Round 2.

[hustler]

what are you doing for engine management, and what can be pulled off the capri for the turbo system?

[Rogue]

he just used the stock ECU.

[hustler]

he just used the stock ECU.

boom

[kcbhiw]

Cool! Back from the dead.


what are you doing for engine management, and what can be pulled off the capri for the turbo system?

Nothing more than a RRFPR and the stock computer.

I used only a few odds and ends from the capri. Really the only thing that was used was the turbo. I'd hoped to swap the exhaust cams but the machine work to "polish" the cam and head journals would put me out of budget.


boom

Maybe one day, but for now it's working OK. AFRs are in the mid 12's to low 13's. I've put about 100 "race" miles on it since I've built it and all seems well.