JW's GSX - Green Manalishi

[jw4free]

Rear subframe bushings in. These are so much easier to install than the fronts. No adjustment to diameter required.

Ready for powder coating.

 

[jw4free]

Black oxide coating today.

I think the finish didn’t come out as good as I had expected. We’ll see when the fasteners are dry tomorrow.

Regardless, they’re miles better than their condition before I wire wheeled them.

 

[jw4free]

Installing the long wheel studs in my hubs. 18mm 1/2 drive deep socket works good at the press.

So I’m weighing all the parts to confirm/ detail my running spreadsheet.

Weighing the difference between stock studs and aftermarket 3in studs. Good info. Couple oz difference.

Then I weigh my 235 40r18 wheel and tire combo: 50.4 lbs. each (stock is about 35 lbs).

I’m going to have to buy a lighter set.

 

[jw4free]

Installed poly bushings in the rear knuckles.

Press in the first half on the chamfered side of the joint. Lube the half bushing with high pressure/temp thick grease. Then, install the metal insert. This will protrude and help center / align the second half of the poly bushing. Lube then align other half and pound it home using a plastic hammer. You’ll probably naturally chamfer the poly bushing, but this is better than chamfering the metal at the perimeter where the joint wants material to inhibit flex. (My opinion).

Install the toe link connection first. The access to install is tough. I used a c-clamp to force the issue.

The rest go easy using a plastic hammer and gently cradling the knuckle in your lap.

Before and after pictures only. Satisfyingly work with some Volbeat in the background.

 

[jw4free]

CTS-V brake mockup.

18x8.5 with 37mm back spacing. Using 5mm hub centric spacer to push out the rotor.

Plenty of knuckle room. Not so much on the wheel spokes.

 

[jw4free]

Fuel supply and return tubing. Shape roughed in with Father’s Day gift. Vevor Tube bender. Tool works. The exercise was more art than science. Guy operating it (me) was eye balling the shape instead of using math. Though I did take some lengths and angles of the stock HP fuel line.

Once the underbody is cleaned and painted, brake lines installed and subframe returned from powder coating, I’ll fine tune the tubing for a final install. Finalize length and install 37 deg flare for female AN fitting with tube nuts for dash 8AN and dash 6AN (return)