Plans for the 08-09 offseason?

[1LE]

No real off-season here. Autox might be done, but now it's time to get ready for the next TSD rally. I'm keeping an eye towards a generic setup since I haven't decided what all I'm doing next year. I hope to do some TSD rally at least, perhaps do the MI SuperRallyx series if I can, and maybe some local autox again as well (but I just wasn't feeling it for autox this year). I'm probably done hitting the big track, it just doesn't do anything for me anymore. So, the list is minimal:

1) Keep reducing weight (not only the car, but my own weight!).
2) A really GOOD inspection of everything on the car to make sure it's still in perfect working order.
3) If I have time, build a skidplate.
4) Add some Amateur radio gear if I can come up with the money, in case I end up working a RallyAmerica event or 2.
5) Start looking into some new summer tires that can handle street/autox use.

 

[pagosa dsm]

Ski season is here,ski every weekend
new skies,ski pants,ice ax,self arrest ski poles,new pack
Go back to Chamonix France for a month to ski big mountains 8,000 plus per run.

Now for the car,more shop equip,metal lathe,band saw,chop saw.
I picked up a sub frame and front control arm from the junk yard,so I can fab some front control arms.I would like to fab some rear lower control arms.I have been thinking about installing a nascar racing rear sway bar.I am looking for some ideas?Insalling a 4 point roll bar.I hope I can do half of them.

 

[tsiboosted]

Well I just dropped of the TSi at the tranny shop to have them drop it and ship to TRE to get the Stage 3 TRE LSD put in. Hopefully they can have it pulled today or tomorrow, ship it to TRE and back in around 2-3 weeks

After that, Christmas is a great time to ask for all kinds of goodies. Camber adjustments all the way around will be what "Santa" is brining me

 

[housegsx]

After that, Christmas is a great time to ask for all kinds of goodies. Camber adjustments all the way around will be what "Santa" is bringing me

My gf started ordering me Christmas stuff last night. I know I'm getting a new boost gauge. I didn't realize mine only went to 20psi until the last time I had it out to tune... Haha, anyways, a new 30psi gauge is on the way. I think I'm getting some poly suspension bushings from her as well. That should be a fun project. After it's done I can finally get a decent alignment. I'll probably raise the car just a little while I'm at it.

Btw, here's my Xmas list... I'm sure I won't get even 1/4 of it, but it's nice to dream.

Baer slotted rotors
Urethane bushings
Race Seat
Oil Cooler
B&M Short Shifter
Fluidampr
30psi Boost Guage
Radiator
Frank's CF pin-on Hood
Air Compressor
Welder
Torpedo style heater

 

[Ludachris]

Ski season is here,ski every weekend
new skies,ski pants,ice ax,self arrest ski poles,new pack
Go back to Chamonix France for a month to ski big mountains 8,000 plus per run.

Now for the car,more shop equip,metal lathe,band saw,chop saw.
I picked up a sub frame and front control arm from the junk yard,so I can fab some front control arms.I would like to fab some rear lower control arms.I have been thinking about installing a nascar racing rear sway bar.I am looking for some ideas?Insalling a 4 point roll bar.I hope I can do half of them.

On your idea for the swaybar - I've been able to find some Whiteline discontinued swaybars for the GVR-4 still on the market - 26mm in the rear and 24mm in the front to compliment the rear. I'm going to be trying these. I don't know that they'll be easy to bolt up since the stock brackets are so small, but I won't let that little detail hold me back.

My guess is that it will be an improvement over the RM DSM bars, being a little larger, yet not overly huge. We'll see. The problem is, these bars are discontinued so even if they do work, not everyone will be able to benefit from them, unfortunately.

 

[tsiboosted]

Well with some miscommunications cleared up and details worked out, my tranny is off to Kalamazoo Michgan and TRE to get a Stage 3 upgrade on it. Shipped out of Florida today heading on up to Jon to work his magic on it. Here is a list of a few other things that will be going on the car this holiday season.

Symborski Shifter Bushings
Shifter Cable Stiffeners
Camber Kits for front and rear

I will also be getting some new pit equipment. Camber/Caster gauge and toe plates. I am really going to be working hard the rest of this season at tuning in the chassis setup on the car. Finally have a good suspension package on it and I want to be able to take full advantage of it.

Since missing 2 maybe 3 events would most likely put me out range for a championship. I am just going to be focusing on getting the car dialed in to the track. Plans for the "off" season will include flaring the fenders so w can get some rubber under the car. And maybe some dash modifications.

 

[Flash]

I don't care what I have to do I just want to be able to take my car to the new track being completed- High Plains Raceway. Even if I just watch the whole day, I just don't care.

 

[snowborder714]

Eddie, care to post some links about the pit equipment you are looking to get? I'm interested in a DIY alignment setup and am curious what you plan on using.

 

[tsiboosted]

Eddie, care to post some links about the pit equipment you are looking to get? I'm interested in a DIY alignment setup and am curious what you plan on using.

Sure thing Brian. These 3 listed below are what I am going to be using to start off with. I'm sure down the line I will be adding more tools to this list. But these are what I believe we will need to get going on the right track. One good things about Longacre is they make great products and nothing on this list is over $140. The Camber/Caster gauge is the most expensive at $136.99. I hope this helps you out.

Not to go too much off topic here but I think allot of people dont realize or underestimate all the tools and equipment you need to be competetive in racing. Its not just about what you have done to the car. There are LOADS of other things you have to consider as well with pit equipment etc.

Starting out with the Longacre Camber/Caster Gauge. It will measure the camber and up to 20 degrees of caster as well without having to use different gauges.

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I will also be using the Longacre Quick Set Adapter for the gauge as well. It has 3 points to measure the camber/caster bascially on any wheel with an almost hands free design.

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Longacre Toe Plates w/Tapes provides one of the quickest and simplest ways to measure toe-in on your car. You just have to rest one plate on the side of each tire and use the tape measure to find your setting. Works on most any tire up to 20 1/2" diameter at the sidewall.

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[snowborder714]

Thanks for the pictures Eddie! I think I've seen the camber/caster rig before, but not the quick set adapter. I'll have to go read some more about that. And I was watching MuscleCar on tv the other weekend and they were doing a road race Mustang build. I saw them using the toe plates and was wondering where I could get them! They looked pretty easy to use as well. They may have also use the camber/caster tool.

 

[tsiboosted]

No problem Brian. Yeah, the toe plates are not hard to use at all. Most of this stuff is pretty straight forward, but VERY necessary when you are racing. A good alignment, proper camber/caster & toe settings could mean the difference between getting a set of tires to last 4 events instead of 2 events. We check the camber/caster & toe after every run and after every adjustment on the coilovers or whatever as well. Write everything down in my data book along with notes on what the car did or did not do, how it felt etc. etc. Lots of time spent after the race or at lunch reading back through them to see what worked and what didnt work.

Just an FYI, all my equipment I listed came from Pegasus. They usually have everything you need in stock. Good company.

 

[Ludachris]

Thanks for the pictures Eddie! I think I've seen the camber/caster rig before, but not the quick set adapter. I'll have to go read some more about that. And I was watching MuscleCar on tv the other weekend and they were doing a road race Mustang build. I saw them using the toe plates and was wondering where I could get them! They looked pretty easy to use as well. They may have also use the camber/caster tool.

Brian, was that the Mustang with the massively flared fenders they fabbed up with fiberglass? I have Musclecar set to record on my DVR but it has only recorded 3 or 4 of the episodes of the Mustang build. I haven't seen any new shows with anything newer than the flared fenders fabrication from months ago.

 

[snowborder714]

Chris, it was a white '65 Mustang (I believe). I only got to see the final episode when they finished it up, got it all set for the track, and took it out for it's first run. The first lap the owner took it easy, but the second lap he opened it up. The commentator for the show had said the track owner wanted the guy to slow down, but of course he just pushed the car harder Then he did a cool-down lap and brought it in to make sure everything was ok and that there were no leaks.

 

[tunernewb92]

Me and 360glitch are getting into the SCCA club here in Mississippi. One more race is scheduled for this weekend. As the car sits right now there is no motor/tranny/driveshaft/transfercase in it at all. We hope to get all that in friday afternoon, night and early early saturday morning.

During the offseason we are going to change to rx-7 rims and rig up a camera mount in the car. May try and clean the interior up some more.

We have small aspirations. Next winter though we will get a coilover kit finally and be serious competitors.

 

[Ludachris]

Just an update on my progress - haven't gotten much done really.

I sold off my whole exhaust and have gathered up many of the pieces for the new exhaust I'll be fabbing up. The plan is to fab up an exhaust that will do a few things - reduce underhood temps, reduce weight, and be versatile. What I mean by that is, I'll be using v-band clamps for the whole thing and will be able to use two different rear sections - one that dumps under the car (behind the driver) for racing and one that exits on the side behind the driver door for the street (primarily for emissions testing). I'm also going to recirc the external wastegate back into the downpipe to create more room for an additional radiator fan and to cut down on the heat in that area. I'm also considering JetHot coating the O2 sensor pipe section. Now I just have to find a welder and learn how to use it!

I also sold my rear RM swaybar and put an order in for some Whiteline adjustable front (24mm) and rear (26mm) swaybars. They might be a little overkill, but I'm doing it anyway. These swaybars are made for the GVR-4 but also fit the 1G (we'll see how well). Whiteline is discontinuing their GVR-4 swaybars so I wanted to get a set before they were gone. They're adjustable, which should be nice for fine-tuning.

Other plans that I really want to get done include.... fabbing up a front bumper crash beam (and rear). I just ordered one of JM Fab's aluminum race bumper supports. I figure I can modify it to work in combination with a chromoly-fabbed crash beam, which should make the crash beam design very simple since it won't have to support the bumper cover. The crash beam will have a provision for a tow hook.

I'd also like to get a universal DSM fuel surge tank designed and send off the design to be fabbed up by one of our supporting vendors. I'm trying to find time to get it designed so that one tank will work for all DSMs. The only difference would be in the brackets. From what I've seen it should be possible. A surge tank should allow us to shed 30-40 lbs off our cars in fuel weight alone.

At some point I'll try and find some time to piece together some upper rear control arms using threaded tubing and solid bushings/rod ends. I also have to get around to installing the Jay Racing active rear toe control eliminator kit. I currently have the poly bushings and the old Taboo welded bushings in place. Lower rear control arms are more difficult since the factory pieces have provisions for the rear swaybar attachment points. In the front suspension I'd like to figure out a solution that will improve the roll center. I've seen aftermarket ball joint solutions for other cars like the Evo and the S13 240sx that might be made to work with the 1G.... I just have to do some more research.

I'll be taking another look at brake ducting as well as a bunch of other projects. Not sure if I'll be able to get around to fabbing some fender flares.

Man, lots to do.

 

[DSMunknown]

Just dropped off my Evo calipers to be disassembled. Then they'll be powder coated gloss black along with the rotors. Still need to get the rebuild kit, JDM steering knuckles, dust shields, and caliper bolts. Other than that I'm all set to throw these effin' things on. Also am beginning to look at suspension to help with handling and wheel gap.

 

[cioc]

I'm finally throwing in the towel on my current 1/2 interior. I was holding on to the occasional street driven clean interior look but now I'm gutting this pig. Gutting the doors completely, going full speed glass, removing all heater/ducting components. Not sure what I'm doing with the dash yet, I may leave half of the surround over the gauge cluster and cut it just after the center console or completely take it out and go with an AIM digital dash setup. But that's some big coin that I know is better spent elsewhere. I'm also contemplating a Traqmate system but again budget may prevent that from happening. I'd love to get on board with the roll center initiative and finally be able to bring the CG down but that's pending.

Also, for all you alignment DIY's, check these out:
BBX Racing Ltd. - Hubstands - $895.00
They were at the last HPDE at Watkins Glen this year. Nice product.

 

[D_Eclipse9916]

Finally get her running? How about thats mine. Just went with a few new setup.

Get engine running (just a wisecoed and eagle shortblock)
fp2x cams and manleys so I can use a bit more gear
17x8 evo wheels with now im throwing on 245 hoosiers
17x9 wedsports with 245 toyos
I gotta clearance the SPC upper arms and put those in
G-Force cam-lcok harnesses
Finally got both my momos seats in

Anyone know where to get a really good deal on an autopower? I can find one for 431 but its 200 shipping to get it here

PS-I have a set of those long-acre camber measurers they are nice quality.

 

[awdfun]

D_Eclipse,
How far is your car lowered, and what offsets do you run on the 17x8 and 17x9's? And what tire specs? How much clearance or rubbing do you have?

I just cracked one of my track wheels...which means I'm searching for another set of wheels (my SSR Integrals were discontinued a few years ago). I'd like to get a 17x9 with a good sticky 255 under the car, but not sure if it is possible without major body modifications. I'm hoping 17x9 @ +35 with -2.5 deg of camber will clear the front fender, and -1.5 in the back will clear.

Also, I never clearanced my SPC arms. I just let em bang up the fender liner. I have pics if you are interested (the next ones I'll post in my "a summer of racing...my 2g talon" thread), but it really wasn't as bad as I was expecting. I'll probably sand the edges off the arms next time the front end is apart, but just to be sure I'm not losing a half or quarter inch of travel.

And my car completely woke up with more front (neg) camber. It is sooo much more fun to drive!!

 

[D_Eclipse9916]

D_Eclipse,
How far is your car lowered, and what offsets do you run on the 17x8 and 17x9's? And what tire specs? How much clearance or rubbing do you have?

I just cracked one of my track wheels...which means I'm searching for another set of wheels (my SSR Integrals were discontinued a few years ago). I'd like to get a 17x9 with a good sticky 255 under the car, but not sure if it is possible without major body modifications. I'm hoping 17x9 @ +35 with -2.5 deg of camber will clear the front fender, and -1.5 in the back will clear.

Also, I never clearanced my SPC arms. I just let em bang up the fender liner. I have pics if you are interested (the next ones I'll post in my "a summer of racing...my 2g talon" thread), but it really wasn't as bad as I was expecting. I'll probably sand the edges off the arms next time the front end is apart, but just to be sure I'm not losing a half or quarter inch of travel.

And my car completely woke up with more front (neg) camber. It is sooo much more fun to drive!!

Yeah id love to get pics of what you did to let it clearance and where you think sanding it down will help.

I ran evo wheels with 225/40/17 Hoosiers R6 on them before with actually tons of spacing. So, that is why im upgrading to 245/40 R6s. The Wedsports are 17x9 with 245 toyos. Only reason why im running the 245s is because I have em lying around in almost new condition. As soon as I can afford it ill be running 255s. They are 35 offset.

I will get pictures as soon as I have em mounted. Ill go take pictures tomorrow of the 245 toyos on the evo wheels thats on my car right now if youd like.

 

[tsirider13]

Well, The winter is finally here in Toronto, so its upgrade time AGAIN.

I will fanally be finally finish installing my Stoptechs, Swaping the standar 35r for an HTA model, Got a nice SLS manifold sitting on my cofee table and lots of heat wraps with a turbo blanket wating for its HTA to hug it, a 44 tial its on its way too.

On the grip side, I have a set of FNORC's 17x9 with 255 A032's waiting to be taken for a spin.

So overall I cant wait for next season.
I will be a good year.

-Manuel

 

[awdfun]

D_Eclipse, if you have pics that would be great, but don't go take pics just for me. My old wheels were identical to EVO wheels, and I was running 245's as well so I'm familiar with the look and fit.

But if you (or anyone else) could get pics of the 17x9's @ +35 and some 255's...now that I'd love to see!

And FYI, I posted the SPC 'self clearancing' pics in my "a summer of racing...my 2g talon" thread.

 

[UofACATS]

17x9 wedsports

This will be the rim I get if it ever happens.


*Road Race*

My plans. I'm unfortunately taking some steps backward with a few forward.
Backwards: I sold off my extra evo rims and NT-01s. LOVED the NT-01, it is heaven sent compared to any street tire. Will track on "summer" tires, unfortunately. It will probably make me a better driver and suspension tweaker in the long run, as r-comps make up for a lot. It won't be fun to be slower though.

Good: I'm currently installing evoIX Brembos front and rear. Really excited about this. And wow, does it look amazing on my car. Having strong brakes is worth SO MUCH on the track. If nothing else but the extra confidence.

Mildly bad: I've done minor weight reduction which I'll be reversing as the DSM will now regain DD duties. That's more of a blessing than a curse however, as I'll get to feel the boost everyday.

Good: Also installing a new clutch and FP2x cams with FP dual valve springs. The few extra revs will absolutely help me out in at least one corner where I usually hit third for a brief second, or, sometimes I leave it in second and hang out at 7500 for what seems like forever.

 

[bmoha2]

You are really cranking out some great ideas. The idea of having a v banded exhaust with multiple options is pure genius! I really like that idea. Maybe one purely built for racing like you said and one complete with a cat for emissions.
I think it would be easier to build a purpose built race car but our cars are just way too fun to drive just on the track. I really haven't seen many trailer queen DSMs.

 

[tsiboosted]

You are really cranking out some great ideas. The idea of having a v banded exhaust with multiple options is pure genius! I really like that idea. Maybe one purely built for racing like you said and one complete with a cat for emissions.
I think it would be easier to build a purpose built race car but our cars are just way too fun to drive just on the track. I really haven't seen many trailer queen DSMs.

I'm a "trailer queen" ...My car has not seen the street in over 2 years. Well, unless you count the street behind the shop and bedding in the brakes. No tag, no insurance, nothing for the street. But I am into DSMs and racing for a whole other purpose I guess. But I get what you are saying though.