Where to start

[Settles]

I just bought a 98 Eclipse GST (my dream car) with some modifications. After purchasing it, I found out it has had well over $10,000 worth of modifications (receipts to prove it). I am in way over my head considering I don't know the basics of modding a car. Any pointers or websites would be perfect. I have been searching the forums, but every two words i am having to google another acronym. Is there a modding for dummies website or book? Unfortunately, I am unable to get the receipts for any of the mods as I have not personally seen the car due to my current location. The car doesn't run well in the cold, i was told it was running to rich. I will see and test drive the vehicle for myself in a few months, but without any knowledge it won't matter. It appears the car has only been ran at the track due to the extremely low mileage and the rollbars, plus the multiple kill switches in it. I do know it has a ECMLink, FMIC, and BOV. (i just learned those acronyms). That is the only mods i know about currently. Any help would be great. I need ideas on what to start reading so I can gain some knowledge. I would really appreciate any help that will get me started or pointed in the right direction.

 

[92AWDHX40]

Upgrade path in the tech section does it run, i would start driving it until you have problems the question is way too vauge.

 

[VIGILART]

your at the right place to start learning. just do alot of reading and research. this stuff takes time to learn and there realy isn't any short cut. I started at the bottom years ago and I am still asking questions. There are alot of people on here that have tons of experience with dsm and are totaly willing to help you. Good luck!

 

[Army4g63]

You need to go the the "Knowledge Base" of ECMTuning.com and start reading. This is the best source for, at least, tuning knowledge.

 

[TunaTalon]

When I first got interested in modding my DSM I tossed 1000 Already Answered Questions - Index page.

It's a lot but all helpful.

 

[thomcasey]

I just bought a 98 Eclipse GST (my dream car) with some modifications. After purchasing it, I found out it has had well over $10,000 worth of modifications (receipts to prove it). I am in way over my head considering I don't know the basics of modding a car. Any pointers or websites would be perfect. I have been searching the forums, but every two words i am having to google another acronym. Is there a modding for dummies website or book? Unfortunately, I am unable to get the receipts for any of the mods as I have not personally seen the car due to my current location. The car doesn't run well in the cold, i was told it was running to rich. I will see and test drive the vehicle for myself in a few months, but without any knowledge it won't matter. It appears the car has only been ran at the track due to the extremely low mileage and the rollbars, plus the multiple kill switches in it. I do know it has a ECMLink, FMIC, and BOV. (i just learned those acronyms). That is the only mods i know about currently. Any help would be great. I need ideas on what to start reading so I can gain some knowledge. I would really appreciate any help that will get me started or pointed in the right direction.

You also need to go here and register. Local INDY DSM site. lots of good guys with great DSM knowledge.

IndyStars :: Home

 

[ESleazy]

I know it is your dream car and all..... but you purchased the car with out even seeing it in person?
Also, how do you know it has $10,000+ of receipts, but you haven't seen the receipts either?
I'm not trying to be an ass... but you purchased this car on some one elses word. I would like to think that every one is completely honest and I do trust every one until they give me a reason not to.
After going through 2 DSMs I have realized that you will not get an honest picture of the car until you yourself/a mechanic you trust goes through it to find all the bugs. If every one was completely honest with me when I was buying the cars, I probably wouldn't have bought either of them.

 

[Settles]

I had people go check it out. I didn't see it and buy it just like that. I do have some common sense. I appreciate the concern though. I do not doubt there is something wrong with it, espically for what I paid for it. But you can't expect the perfect vehicle for the perfect price in perfect condition.

thomcasey - i am a registered member on indystars.org, it just seems that it is never used. I will be posting on there in the upcoming day about a possible meet up when i get back from Afghanistan. This way I can get some suggestions, opinions, and advise from people that know what is going on. I just don't know where people go to hangout. Also, i hear that ORP has tuesday night street legals, what do you know about that? That is something i am very interested to go try. Also, where can i take the car to get it Dyno'd?

 

[thomcasey]

If you post on the site, it will get activity. I don't use the site exclusively, but it is a great source for parts and info. Many veteran DSMers on there. Sometimes they go to TRUMotorsports parking lot to hang out. It is on the South side. As for ORP, yes Tuesday nights are great (when in season). It is 10 bucks to watch, or 15 bucks to run all night. A good place to go to run your car.

Not sure on local dyno's as most have AWD (I believe the nearest AWD dyno is in Louisville)

Everyone likes to caravan out to the Shootout too. In late may they have the Winged Warrior race at ORP. Lots a great racing (watched a local DSM guy beat everyone, including Shep's GTr to the crown).

 

[Settles]

I don't think i will be in town for the shootout, but if for some reason i am, i will be there. I can't wait to take it out for the first time, when i get back.