I haven't checked around the forums yet (search), but I'm assuming there is a go to brand for seals that folks prefer. I also need to get the Blue Point valve keeper remover tool to make the job easier. (mj)
I picked up a 2003 MazdaSpeed Protege from 65+ year old man in Phoenix a few months ago after being Mazda-less for many years. It was his grandsons car, but he was deployed and had no use for the car, so gramps sold it. It needed a lot of work to get it running properly. Exhaust manifold was...
I'll get some exhaust pics this weekend when the car is back up on stands. Will be installing some new exhaust hangers, so I can get some solid pics of the exhaust (Tom Pope does some quality work!).
Got the POPE downpipe and exhaust installed. Replaced a bad CHRA on the stock GT25 with a new one from Garrett. The car is feeling so MUCH better.
Can't go wrong with POPE goodies.
I have a local shop that will do my manifold and turbo housings for $210. I may go that route eventually. I'm trying the VHT stuff as we speak. Letting the manifold dry for another few hours and then I'll start the curing process. We'll see how this stuff holds up.
Didn't realize you had forged goodies. I still recommend the POPE downpipe though, Tom does some badass work.
As for the transmission question, I have no input on that. I'm a stock GT25R user with plans of only running 8-10lbs daily, lol.