Just another silver NB....

[tsingson]

Finally got one started. Please forgive me if anything is out of order and if the pics suck. This is my first build thread ever.


It all started in the 8th grade. I remember being in my French class and one of our assignments asked us what is our dream car. I had put away from my mind the Ferraris and the Lamborghinis simply because I know that I never would buy one. But I remember writing down on my ditto “a miata.” I also remember my best friend at the time writing down the same thing. His was misspelled though. I believe he spelled it, “a meeatah.” Dude couldn’t spell to save his life. I remember the first time I saw one up close. My dad had gone to a Pontiac dealership looking at the brand new 95 Trans Am. That same dealership also sold Mazdas. I remember walking up to a 95 Marina Green M-Edition NA. That thing was beautiful. I remember thinking to myself, since I was a young teenager still, “I bet you won’t fall asleep with the speakers behind your head.”

But flash forward to 1998. I was into the whole street racing thing. Yes, I know. Stupid. I had a 1989 Toyota Corolla GT-S. First year of the front wheel drives. I wish I still had pictures of that car. I loved it. I had a front clip of a Japanese AE92 sent over and my best friend Lyle helped me swap in a 4AGZE along with the front lower markers and hood with functional hood scoop. For those who don’t know, the 4AGZE is the supercharged motor that came in the MR2 supercharged cars. I had it running about 14 pounds of boost and that thing was pretty quick. I remember racing my little brother’s MR2 turbo the day I was selling it and he had me off the line but I pulled on him real quick. He was like, “What did you do to that thing?” I sold that car because I wanted the comforts of AC and just reliability. The AE92 kept breaking something so it was always down. I sold it to a guy from Arizona that bought it using his credit card and paypal. I picked him up from the airport and the after finishing up the paperwork, he was on his way back to AZ. I watched it drive off with the Panasport wheels and the OEM looking exhaust. I wasn’t too sad because on the way home, I was going to look at the Mazdaspeed Miata.

I never expected that I would’ve been looking at the Miata. I didn’t even remember my 8th grade assignment. It was just something that told me to look at it. Test drive it. Well, I test drove the Mazdaspeed. Love at first drive. I remember it was the Black Mica. I wanted the Titanium Gray one though. I remember sitting down with the salesman and that’s when my bubble was burst. The payments for it were too much for me to make monthly since this was going to be my first car loan. The salesman wanted me to try and buy a Focus to help build up my credit and then get the car later on. I said no. I left the dealership thinking what are my other options.

I kept searching and searching. I found a 2003 Honda S2000 for $10,000. I instantly emailed the seller asking when I could take a look at it. I also contacted my finance company and was approved for $15,000. The seller of the S2000 had emailed me back and had some story about how he was in Europe with the car and that I couldn’t take a look at it. The seller also stated that the car was in perfect condition and if I put a down payment on the car, he could send it to the states so I could see it, contrary to what the craigslist ad had stated. The ad stated that the car was in the states and could be seen when available. First thing that popped into my mind, SCAM. So I blew him off.

After a few days of looking on autotrader, I found a 2000 NB in Highlight Silver. The car had 45,000 miles and the factory appearance package. He was asking $13,000. I contacted the seller and scheduled a test drive. I loved it. I negotiated the price to $12,000 and a couple of days later, I was the new owner of a 2000 NB. I loved the car. The way it drove, the way it handled. It was the best car I had ever driven. I quickly started looking into parts. I purchased a Hard Dog M2 Sport with no diagonals. That was installed by a local shop. I also purchased a set of KYB AGXs and Ground Control coilovers. I matched them up with Flyin’ Miata front and rear adjustable sway bars. Then a friend that was stationed in Japan emailed me about a set of wheels that he felt that I may want. When I saw the picture, I told him I wanted them. They were a set of Top Secret gold SSR Type Cs in 15x7 with a 43 offset. It took forever for them to get to me but it was worth the wait. They were light as hell. I also ordered an AEM intake just to hear intake noise.

Then the move. I moved from California back to Philadelphia, where I was born. I was so happy to be back where I belong. Everyone loved my car. I found some new friends that were into cars like I was. I had installed Tein Hood Struts. A great investment for any miata owner. I also had the stereo redone with Focal Speakers in the door and a Fosgate amp powering them. This was all controlled by Pioneer AVIC D3 head unit. My valve cover had been powdercoated to match the gold of the wheels as well as the shock tower brace. I found an older guy selling his OEM Mazdaspeed muffler for $30 so I picked that up and installed it. Things were definitely looking up for the car.

I met my wife not too long after moving back to Philadelphia. We had some history together so we instantly picked up where we left off. She had purchased a Roadster Sport midpipe for me and I installed it as soon as it arrived. The exhaust sounded great coming from the Mazdaspeed muffler and the midpipe. I looked into the 01 exhaust manifold swap but I saw a hardtop for about $500. I looked at the hardtop but decided that I wanted the performance since my top was still mint. I ordered a manifold from Planet Miata and installed it when it came. Problem was the flange on the manifold was warped and causing a huge leak. I didn’t know that the flange was warped until I took it to a shop to have it looked at. Let’s just say after I was done paying for the shops to fix the manifold and to fix the studs that had come out while removing the old manifold, I had spent enough to have bought the hardtop AND the manifold. Lesson learned.

When I got the car back, I drove it like a mad man. The car felt great and just sounded awesome. I was in car heaven. Then my wife broke some news.

This was her prior to moving.
4975 4976


She had been looking at moving to North Carolina. She had applied for a job down here and she got it. Well, let me tell you. I didn’t even know where North Carolina was located on the map. But I decided to move and tried to keep telling myself that the move would be a good step.

That’s where I was wrong.

Flash forward about 2 years from when we first moved. I wasn’t driving the Miata as much anymore because I had my Pathfinder to drive to work. I didn’t have any friends to hang out with that was into cars. I tried hanging out with a group here that got together monthly and I overheard some of them ripping into the car saying things such as “Why is it so low?” and “He should’ve just left the car alone.” I decided that they weren’t the group to be around.

I put about 45,000 miles on the car during the 6 years I had her. But my love and passion for her had gone since I had no one to share the passion with. I did something that I regret every day.

I listed her for sale. I was asking only $7,000.

Naturally, I was bombarded with calls. I wanted to make sure the car went to someone who could appreciate her. I met this one guy who wanted the car and had the cash ready to go. A couple of days later, the car was sold and I had a wad of cash in my hands. I remember watching her drive off and I think I teared. Go ahead and laugh. But I watched my baby drive off with someone else. That hurt. Even my daughter cried that I let her go. I told her, “Don’t worry. You and I will build another one. A better one.” I think I said it just to ease her tears, but in the back of my mind. I knew there wouldn’t be another one like her.

Fast forward a couple of years, and this brings me to the present.

I was commuting to work in a 2005 Ford Expedition. Let me tell you. This is not fun. The fuel gauge moves about as fast as the speedometer. I told myself that I need to get something that is better on gas. I started to look into the Miatas again. I had money that was burning a hole in my pocket and I needed to use it on something that will be better in the long run instead of just throwing that money into the Expedition’s fuel addiction.

What really sealed the deal was my wife buying a baby grand piano for our daughter. Granted, I am glad that she has one since she plays and is really good and the deal was a great deal, but the space that one takes. I said to myself, “I am going to buy a miata without telling her.” I kept my nose to the grindstone and found one in Charlotte. He was asking $7500 for a 1999 Highlight Silver NB with 114,000 miles and the factory appearance package minus the front lip. It had been for sale for a while and I contacted him and told him I have $5,000 cash and I could get it today. We went back and forth on the price and finally got it settled at $5,200. I was ecstatic. I told my wife that we were going to Charlotte to pick up a car.

When she pulled up at the meetup spot, I loved it. It was very close to my first NB.

This is her after her first wash.

4974

Then while on one of the sites, I had seen a possible meetup. This is where I found my friends that share the passion and love for the roadster that I have. These guys will keep my love for my Miata going and I am most thankful for meeting them and being able to speak to them and ask questions about what I should possibly do. These guys are great and very knowledgeable.

I want to give a very special thanks to my buddies at Starbucks. We have to keep this thing going.

My wife and daughter deserve a lot of thanks also. For everything.

From here on I will be just updating pictures and so on but I have laid down the foundation of my story/build. Hope you enjoy.

and this is where the story begins……

[Blueiii]

I wanted to make sure the car went to someone who could appreciated her.

A saying that only car guys will understand... I sold my Ti the same way - sold it cheap, but made sure I chose who bought it. I saw it about a week ago with a friend and wanted to chase it down, but the friend was insistent. "Its not your car anymore, so what do you care?"

Lucky for me, my miata purchase was the same way. The owner wanted to make sure it went to someone who could appreciate it.

[tsingson]

When I was in the market for another one, I tried like crazy to find the guy who bought mine. Even going as far as joining LinkedIn but to no avail.

[Blueiii]

That's why I always get email addresses.... I still have the email address of the guy who bought my Ti back in 08.

[tsingson]

That's ok now. I will try to make this one better and I won't let this one go. But I do know for future reference. And let me tell you. 3 days after the guy bought it, he called me up looking for a replacement wheel because he hit a curb trying to chase a Vette. I told him they were bought in Japan. From a friend that was stationed there. I regretted even more from that day on.

[The Driver]

This is such a lovely romantic story, I think I'll need a cloth handkerchief!!!


Nah dude, messing with ya, cool story!

[treeafodo]

Great read so far, I can't wait to see where you take this thing, you sound very passionate about it :)

[atank]

Nice work Tsingson!!!

[tsingson]

I got a great price on a Hard Dog M2 sport no diagonals and assisted in the installation with mhogan0. Thanks again Buddy and I still owe you a six pack.

Here are some of the pics during install:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8452/7917927178_feaf3fb565.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917927178/)
IMG-20120715-00041 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917927178/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8296/7917928774_bf5ff082fe.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917928774/)
IMG-20120715-00042 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917928774/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8447/7917929752_54809a5198.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917929752/)
IMG-20120715-00043 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917929752/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8031/7917930808_7fbaabca83.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917930808/)
IMG-20120715-00044 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917930808/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr
The Hard Dog sticker has since been replaced with a Mazdaroadster.net sticker.

And here is the picture with my homemade bikini top Version 1.0. Sorry Project G, but I can't afford one of your beautiful dime pieces. I had to try and make one of my own. I have since made Version 2.0 which is all vinyl as Version 1.0 was a breathable mesh. Oh and before I forget, thanks Gavin aka I<3flippyheadlights. You know why.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8032/7917931554_69bfdd289d.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917931554/)
IMG-20120716-00045 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7917931554/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

I will get pics of the car with the new Version 2.0 bikini top and I should be coming into a set of used KYB AGXs soon. I just need to see what springs I will be using or if I use GC coils like I had last time.

[tsingson]

Here are some recent pics. This is before getting the suspension on.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8456/7974657919_796b581d54.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7974657919/)
IMG_00000045 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7974657919/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8170/7974656456_0a46d29ddf.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7974656456/)
IMG_00000047 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7974656456/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

And here is my homemade bikini top. Version 2.0

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8435/7974657461_3c64d1ee09.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7974657461/)
IMG_00000046 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7974657461/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

And I love my MR.net sticker!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8321/7974656485_0c8eb04dbf.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7974656485/)
IMG_00000048 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/7974656485/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

[Willywongka]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading your story man... felt like I was there with you.

I am glad you are pursuing your long lost passion!

[atank]

Your progress looks great!

[tsingson]

Thanks guys!

[tsingson]

Update:

So I put on the KYB AGXs and the OBX coilover sleeves that I had purchased. The OBXs are only temporary but they actually ride pretty good for my standards.

Here are some pictures during the installation. I didn't take much because I just wanted to finish as soon as possible.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8448/8015932803_4197f4ab36.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/8015932803/)
3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/8015932803/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8176/8015932747_47b356c23b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/8015932747/)
4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/8015932747/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

After having it just a little bit lower than stock, I went and dropped it. I will raise it just a little bit though.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8444/8015933011_6bf1a3012e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/8015933011/)
1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/8015933011/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8303/8015933838_9f2168aa07.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/8015933838/)
2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17284552@N06/8015933838/) by asingson003 (http://www.flickr.com/people/17284552@N06/), on Flickr

Up next is the OEM Mazdaspeed exhaust and the 01 manifold....

Stay tuned.

[SteelReign]

Its always nice to read a story like that. So many car guys have this same mentality.

[tsingson]

So the car was hit while parked. Didn't notice it until I was taking my cleats off next to the car and kicked something underneath the car. I knelt down to see what it was then I realized that there were pieces of something on the road. I thought maybe someone threw a beer bottle at the car or something but then I saw the damage. Thought it was just a hit and run but luckily the person that hit the car had left a note with his contact number. I called him and we had everything setup and his insurance company ate the bill.

Here is the damage:
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8489/8246565563_2c012fbe62_o.jpg

The car has since been fixed and I will get pictures up of the after.

[maharaj]

Thought it was just a hit and run but luckily the person that hit the car had left a note with his contact number. I called him and we had everything setup and his insurance company ate the bill.


Isn't it nice to know that there are still some decent people?

[tsingson]

Truly. But I have a theory on what happened also. It was a busy park that was full of people so maybe he hit it and thought about running but when he saw how many people witnessed it, he thought better. That might be my negative side thinking though.

[etikoner]

Wow, crazy story, I had no idea the car in your avatar was sold.
This one looks like it'll be just as sweet. Sucks your car was hit, but atleast the person owned up to it...

What are the spring rates on the OBX coilovers?

[tsingson]

I believe they are at 390lb front and 275lb rear but don't quote me on those either. I feel that they ride good enough for me but I can swap them out later if I get tired of them.

And yeah. I am trying to get this one along the same lines as the other one but it is a little difficult at the moment. Eventually....

[sk4775]

Truly. But I have a theory on what happened also. It was a busy park that was full of people so maybe he hit it and thought about running but when he saw how many people witnessed it, he thought better. That might be my negative side thinking though.

If he really was a scumbag, he would've just pretended to write his number down.

Great story though man, glad to see you've picked up another one.

[tsingson]

Thanks SK!

New update:

So this happened....


http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8373304956_ae20afa2ff.jpg

Sucks it happened while I was driving but new tires are going on. Nothing special. Falken ZIEX 912s I believe but hey, the car gets back on the road and I can drive in the rain without feeling like I am going to lose it driving straight.

[Demon I Am]

wow, blow outs like that suck. I was almost badly injured in one a year back. Glad you are OK.

[tsingson]

Yeah. All I heard was a chugging type of noise and I knew I had leaking issues with that actual tire but didn't know to what extent. The tires freaking look damn near like slicks. The PO put on brand new tires and didn't get the damn thing aligned.

[Demon I Am]

eesh. Did you ever do any mods/rebuild that rainproof cockpit cover you were working on?

[tsingson]

No, I left it the way it is. I know the rain was just coming through on the seams but none of the seams are over the cockpit itself. Granted, the cover is not intended to be used for 2-3 days of storage in straight rain but if you are at the mall and it may rain, I think it works great. The interior during the initial downpour test at that one miata meet was dry except for the water that came in when we took off the cover.

[Demon I Am]

cool. I was thinking that coating both sides in that spray-on waterproofing would help things a lot.

Something like this http://www.scotchgard.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/NAScotchgard/Global/Products/Product_Catalog/?PC_7_RJH9U523005FA0IQ73MR5E1AJ1000000_nid=Z76J5GQ 1KVgsDZQG2JGH6Wgl6JSGJ9HM6Gbl

http://multimedia.3m.com/mws/mediawebserver?mwsId=SSSSSufSevTsZxtUOY_UMx_ZevuSe vTSevTSevTSeSSSSSS--&width=256

[tsingson]

Yeah I was looking for my water repellant that I use for my sneakers but it's somewhere in the garage.

[tsingson]

So here is a pic of the new tires I had purchased to get rid of the "slicks" I was driving on. Car feels good and I definitely am not scared to drive in the rain anymore.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8394912281_5d3744372a.jpg

Also did my oil change. I'm trying out the Eneos oil. So far it felt pretty good but I'll give it this week to get a good feel.

Also replaced my rear section with an MSM rear from Atank. Thanks again man! The PO had a Dynomax muffler on it that gave a pretty good rumble but I wanted to try and replicate the exhaust I had on the other NB.

Out with the old:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8471/8395996556_777bf9d610.jpg

In with the new (to me):
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8054/8398717719_5358668cca.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8088/8395995500_06db440dee.jpg

[artcentermiata]

In for more silver nb love!

Nice work on the bikini v2. Looks well done!

[tsingson]

Thanks Jeremy! You are keeping the standards high with yours.

[atank]

OH YEAH looking good, and I bet it sounds sweet!!!!

[tsingson]

I love it. I will be mating it with a Roadster sport midpipe and an 01 manifold. Then my exhaust will be where I want it. After that, it's driving and saving until I save enough for the Kraftwerks kit.

[Phatmiata]

Congrats on your win !!!

http://mazdaroadster.net/rotm/2013_01A.png

[tsingson]

So I received a care package from Project-G. Came with stickers galore and even better the shirt I ordered. I was expecting some JDM candy but did not see any. :(

6620

Also finished installing the fog lights bezels from Treasure Coast Miata.

Before:
6621

After:
6622662366246625

Already bought the fog lights to put behind it. Just need to figure out how to mount them. Now all I'm missing is the front lower lip. Just debating whether I want the OEM one or the Garage Vary one.

[tsingson]

Was able to get it up on a lift to do the Tranny and Diff fluid. No frame rails on yet. Soon though.

Here is a pic of it in the shop. Unfortunately no pics during the process.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8528272684_3d3f450a6a.jpg

[tsingson]

Ok. So update. I found a hardtop. A silver one at that. I can finally get rid of that torn soft top that has been pissing me off. Thanks to Steven (Kung Fu Jesus) for picking it up for me, I was able to install it today.

So without further ado:

Here is the nasty soft top. Be gone hideous beast!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8508/8566324181_f294f89bd3.jpg

All Clear!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8370/8566323945_60da1c2b29.jpg

TADA! Installed!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8508/8567420686_6bbcd6a832.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8389/8566324475_911ec08593.jpg

[JLBMX5]

Looks great and really awesome that you found a color match.

[tsingson]

Thanks!

[theothersawyer]

That looks amazing!!

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Looks great!

[tsingson]

Thanks guys! I am possibly looking into making my hardtop spoiler after I move into my new place at the end of the month.

[JLBMX5]

Thanks guys! I am possibly looking into making my hardtop spoiler after I move into my new place at the end of the month.

Are hard top spoilers expensive. You might come out cheaper just buying one.

[tsingson]

If I purchase one, it will be the Project-G one. But I like trying to DIY things. That's how I did my bikini top.

[JLBMX5]

Ok i was just asking. I have not researched them yet because. I have no top

[darwynism]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8508/8567420686_6bbcd6a832.jpg


What paint did you use to color the falken letters on the tires?

[tsingson]

7318

I used a paint pen from Walmart.

[tsingson]

So I was finally able to pick up the 01 manifold from Toney (AdvancedSpecV) and I went and installed it.

This is what it looked like before:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8261/8693046946_616c3145c5.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8116/8693044988_ac862397aa.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8265/8693043576_c72bd29222.jpg

Freaking heavy son of a gun. I didn't get any pictures during the install. A lot of PB Blaster was used to avoid having a repeat of the removing the studs from the head in my previous NB. When it came to the bottom 3 bolts on the flange for the midpipe, I ended up punching the control arm when the ratchet slipped. Knuckle bruised and finger throbbing, I was able to make a call to Steven (Kung Fu Jesus) who had just finished his 01 manifold on his 10AE so everything was still fresh on his mind. Surprisingly, everything went pretty smooth from there. Steven was jelly with how easy it was compared to his.

Looks stock which is what I like:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8395/8691924313_f6158da19b.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8262/8693033082_6776c82eb5.jpg

I was supposed to get a front lip from DK but assholes went and stole all of the parts he was shipping out. Thieves suck. Next up is the fog lights and hardtop brackets.

Thanks again Steven.

[tsingson]

I was also able to find a slight picture of my AE92.

It's the one next to the Civic Hatch. That is a factory OEM hood and hood scoop from Japan along with the bigger front parking lights.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8121/8658472062_00a40b6c16.jpg

I really loved that car but it was worked on more than it was driven and it didn't have the comforts of AC and power windows and little things like that that you appreciate once you start getting older. I really wish I had more pictures of it.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Wait... your parts got stolen before they even got to you? That blows...

[tsingson]

Yes. He was supposed to send them out but I guess he had them in a storage unit on base. Thieves broke in and stole it all. Just waiting on the refund so it can go elsewhere.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Damn :/

That is a really shitty situation.

[tsingson]

Tell me about it. I have been looking for a front lip for my car since I first bought it. It was even silver. It sucks.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

You don't like the one you have?

[tsingson]

I need to change my avatar. That was my old NB. I want my current NB to be able to surpass what that one was.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

I just realized that. I'm sure this one will be awesome

[tsingson]

It's getting there. Probably not going to do the high dollar wheels that I had on the other one though.

[tsingson]

So long overdue update:

I was really starting to get bored with the color of my wheels, so I stripped them down.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7291/8742113385_01efe96b92.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7283/8742112147_d46d2319ef.jpg

The finished results:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7290/8742110975_588967a4a5.jpg

Wasn't able to fully get all of the crevices of the wheels, so I hit them up with white plastidip and left the lips polished. I didn't get a picture of that but I will one of these days. Even that was a pain because of the amount of spokes. But this is all temporary until I can get the wheels from Steven (Kung Fu Jesus).

Also, replaced my tired Bose radio. Damn thing would not play my CD's all the time. It kept spitting them out. So I replaced it with a JVC KD-X50BT. Great stereo! Love not having a ton of CD's in the car.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2869/9065507125_d0f475542c.jpg

Didn't take many pictures of the install because I was trying to locate the wires for the speakers as I installed some Kicker 6.5" coaxs in the doors. I will eventually be upgrading these to 8" components but for now they sound great. I also have an amp that I will be running to these. 65W RMS will definitely brighten up the tunes.

I also was having a problem with excessive EGR flow (CEL P0402). I need to get the car inspected and with this CEL, it won't pass. I tried to see if I could buy myself time by erasing the code, but it didn't take long for the code to pop again. I had to do the intake manifold cleaning. One of the "Other Sites" has a great walkthrough on how to do this. Took me about 40 minutes to do this. No pictures showing this because I just wanted to get it done.

http://www.miata.net/garage/manifold/index.html

I started the car and it took a bit to start. Probably because of some of the leftover carb cleaner. When it finally started, it ran pretty rough for a bit, then it smoothed out.

I drove it to work today and noticed a little bit of a smoother idle. I had erased the code and it has been roughly 5 miles that I have driven. I guess we will see if it comes back.

Fingers crossed.

[tsingson]

Just finished installing the GT Grant steering wheel I had in my AE92. Just wanted to pay tribute to it since that was the car that really got me into cars. That was more setup for straight line but I swapped the 4AGZE in it. I ended up using the Grant steering wheel hub 3597 if I remember correctly. I had to shave the airbag connector from the clockspring to get it to sit flush. I have a separate clockspring coming in when I want to go back to the stock wheel.

Here it is:

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2812/9253335468_95353a33f6.jpg

I also ordered the Works Bell Airbag Defeat from Miataroadster.com. Actually spoke to Bill on the phone because I thought I messed up my order. Real nice guy! Definitely will order from him again!

I just have to wire up the horn when the Airbag Defeat gets here.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

You need a wooden shift knob now!

[tsingson]

I'm not really fond of the wooden knobs though. I have thought about it since changing the wheel. Haven't decided yet.

[kung fu jesus]

love the wheel, no more wood is needed.

[tsingson]

I don't think I will change the shift knob. The next thing I need is a new(er) driver's seat.

[kung fu jesus]

I do have to admit...between the orange VC and the brightness/orange glow of that wooden wheel, DISCREET usage of orange elements and brushed/matte aluminum would be really killer.

[tsingson]

As far as the valve cover goes, that will be changing color soon. I honestly did not like the way it was done. It will be a surprise what color I do it in.

[tsingson]

I just finished wiring up the horn. Works great! Also, I received my backup clockspring today for when I want to put back my stock wheel. Jason in Apex was charging $28 shipped. When I was searching for his auction on ebay, there was a guy selling it for $17 shipped. So you know which one I bought.

Just waiting for the Airbag Defeat from miataroadster.net now.

[tsingson]

Got a gift from Bill at Miataroadster today! Bill is great to deal with so I highly recommend ordering from him for your Miata needs.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7424/9320759801_641bc426b9.jpg

Going to work on installing this later today and reworking my clockspring. Pretty excited. Waiting on a spare turn signal and wiper switch assembly from Anthony (Atank) also.

[tsingson]

So finally installed the Boss Frog Frame Rails that I won from the MOTM. With a lot of help from Kung Fu Jesus, it took about 4 hours and that was moving at a steady pace and us running to Lowe's for a few things.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7406/9388783396_fdc9b788e9.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7283/9386002081_cc7fe0b2a2.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2813/9388761822_cf8a799729.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/9385962927_981e85791a.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2884/9388731232_94d2a7e924.jpg

On the drive home, I did notice a difference with the car. The car felt completely solid. I will try and drive a little bit more and see if I notice anything else. But I am glad that they are on and that they were installed with no huge problems. Thanks again Steven for helping with the install. Thanks Ben from Boss for a great product. And Thanks Randy for a great site!

[kung fu jesus]

http://memecrunch.com/meme/AD6B/i-can-t-quit-you/image.png

[kung fu jesus]

FWIW, the Boss frame rails were easier to install than my FM rails.

[tsingson]

Was there any particular reason why? I mean aren't they essentially the same design? I know you told me that they had a helluva lot more holes to drill but was that it?

[kung fu jesus]

Yeah, I think so.

[tsingson]

New update. Decided to paint the wheels. They were plastidipped white but were done kind of rushed and I wasn't too happy with it. So I decided just to go with a basic silver after seeing how Kung Fu Jesus' BBS' came out.

Before shot:
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3701/9700120991_ea209215d2.jpg

So I hit the entire wheel with white plastidip that I had remaining because I read online that it actually works pretty well as a primer like coat. Well while doing the white on the entire wheel, I was almost tempted to just go with the all white look since I was able to cover the spokes better since it was daytime.

Here it is in white dip:
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3765/9703381272_de80f9706f.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5340/9700168071_cdddf2c07f.jpg

So I decided to just go with the silver but after seeing how nice the paint coated the wheel and how easy it was, I almost went back to the store to get gold like my previous miata. I decided against it as I am not going to keep these wheels in the long run.

Here is after the silver was sprayed and the cards removed:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7325/9703419752_419751d196.jpg

I also decided to hit up the white lettering on the tires with my paint marker while the paint was drying. I decided to do it in the sun so it would help dry. That sun was beating on my back pretty good.

Here is the finished product:
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3778/9703440080_06b0abe98a.jpg

Overall, I am pretty pleased with the results. As stated, I am not going to keep these wheels and I am actually hoping to get new wheels next year with my bonus from work but we will see.

[atank]

Man your Roadster really looks Nice and Clean, the wheels turned out Great!!!

[tsingson]

Thanks Anthony. I was actually going to hit you up to see if you had a set of 15" stock BBS' laying around.

[tsingson]

Ok, so it definitely has been a while since I last posted and after a flirt with selling it and grabbing a different car, I have decided to keep unless a once in a lifetime deal comes my way. So, onto the updates....

I recently purchased a used set of Rennenmetal hardtop brackets. I hate the OEM side latches so this was a no-brainer. I got the brackets from a member on the other site for $40 shipped for the front and back. I immediately removed the side brackets and installed them.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7350/10518206614_9f500617bc.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5546/10518242296_833f2fa875.jpg

I also picked up an OEM Style front lip from Morr for a helluva deal. It was in better shape than what I was expecting. Here is what it looked like when I picked it up.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7426/10518138226_63fd6d551b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5489/10518326783_bca8262098.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5492/10518088465_47360be432.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5519/10518086524_73d65256d3.jpg

So to repair the side of the lip so I can attach it to the car, I cut off the part of the lip on the bottom that I could not repair so I can cut and epoxy it to the side of the lip for attachment.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5522/10518061234_88541ee735.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2873/10517902135_7613928417.jpg

Since I will eventually get the whole car painted, I just used spray paint to paint. It doesn't match perfectly but I can live with it. I used white plastidip to start and then covered with silver spray paint and finished off with clear. I knew if it didn't turn out well, I can just peel it all off and go flat black. But I think it turned out well.

Of course, I don't usually take pictures while I am working, I only have the before and after pics.

Here is the final product:

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2814/10520970263_eb0543171e.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3719/10520682576_7e3642bfeb.jpg

[RoadsterTech]

Looks very nice...

[tsingson]

Thanks Rick! I am trying to get it back to the standard that my previous one had set.

[tsingson]

Alright small update....

So after switching Cruise Control switches with Steven (Kung Fu Jesus) and his 10AE, we were able to remove the wiring from his 10AE and I was able to wire up my non-fog light switch to his 10AE and his fog light/cruise control switch to my NB. It wasn't a simple plug and play. Luckily, the same colored wires were there and it was just a matter of soldering in the plugs from each NB.

The hardest part was trying to get them mounted. Now, my car originally didn't come with fog lights. So from reading on the other site, I found out that the NB1 had an option for fog lights but they had to be cut into the bumper and wired up by the dealer. They said that there were raised bumps behind the bumper that show where to cut. Well as documented earlier in the thread, I didn't see those bumps. So I just kinda eyed it as best as I could.

The factory fog lights to me suck. They break too damn easily and they cost so damn much. So like I did on my other NB, I went to Walmart and found some $15 fog lights that fit almost perfect in the holes. They had never broke on my other NB and held up a lot better than OEM. And even if they do, I can buy 3 sets of them for the cost of one OEM.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2828/11243456704_403d958645.jpg

Steven had this brilliant idea to gut out the factory fog light and mount the aftermarket fogs into them.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2853/11243442506_1776cacb50.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7349/11243422934_4516949f0c.jpg

The problem starts when I tried to mount up the fog lights using the factory brackets. They just did not line up with the holes I cut. And I finally did see those bumps that they were talking about. And man was I off. So I had to grind a little bit of the metal where the brackets are supposed to be mounted to. And all I used was the bracket that actually held the fog lights and drilled holes and bolted it down.

Fog Lights installed! Finally.

Before:
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3719/10520682576_7e3642bfeb.jpg

After:
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3833/11242957195_a19c2dfe24.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3771/11243078644_2e7610fd21.jpg

I defintely wanted to thank Steven for all of his help and his idea of mounting the fog light. If it weren't for him, this never would have gotten done.

[kung fu jesus]

Looks awesome! I am glad it worked!

I was removing the foglights out of 10ae anywas to use the holes for future brake ducting hose. We found there was a slight wire harness adjustment made at the factory in '99. Anthony's car didn't have the same harness as my car so the foglights weren't as PnP as we thought. Too much coffee had me doubting the logic of wiring the relay, but Anthony figured it out and we tested the circuits before we called it a day. He can run the fogs without the headlamps illuminated and the car will remind him with the chime if he leaves them on after turning the car off. The relay is switched by an OEM fog/cruise combo switch from my car. The fogs' relay is powered from the parking lights, we found a circuit example to do it this way from the internet. I was really surprised how well those aftermarket lights fit in the OEM holes. They are much brighter, too! My factory fogs were melted and the lenses were road blasted, making them unusable.

[Agent☣Orange]

The '99 is a weird year for Miatas. We have a local club member with a '99 and none of our experiences seem to help.

[kung fu jesus]

Agreed. My wife's first NB was a '99 with an early '98 build date. That car never seemed to match up to the wiring diagrams the FSM had. It was a great car, though.

[tsingson]

My other NB was a 2000 and they were all pre-done so all I had to do was swap the fogs in the front. On this one, it was just starting from scratch almost.

[tsingson]

Alright, slight update…..

My seat had been a wreck since I first bought the car. The cushion was all torn and ugly so I decided before to rip out the cushion and put a pad there and sit low. Well, that worked until the metal started tearing at my jeans and slacks. So I had hunted and hunted for some seats. I almost had some Lotus seats in my possession but the price was something I could not afford at the moment. So I went along and kept searching. I tried car-part.com and it said they had one in stock at a place in Graham but when I called, they did not have it. Damn.

But luckily today on my day off, I looked at the inventory of vehicles at my local pick and pull and low and behold, they had a white 99 NB. It was just placed out there earlier this week and I figured with the weather as bad as it has been and how stupid cold it has been, the car should not have been ravaged. Well, I was right. I found a very nice drivers seat with no tears. A small puncture but nothing huge. Yes, it was leather and tan but I said hell, I can have it recovered later. And for $40 bucks, I can't go wrong.

So here it is!

Before:

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3686/11874064604_404663a05d.jpg

After:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7408/11874021654_2e376da67a.jpg

Steven took the old seat as he is going to try and do something with it. But overall, I am happy with it and the price I paid for it.

[atank]

For $40 bucks I would use it up, then have it recovered!!!!!!!! Looks Good, how was the passenger seat?

[tsingson]

It looked pretty good as well. I just didn't want to spend a lot on both. I sit real high though. I want to do the foamectomy but wasn't sure how well the leather would hold up.

Any word on the shock tower brace?

[Mustang73351]

I was also able to find a slight picture of my AE92.

It's the one next to the Civic Hatch. That is a factory OEM hood and hood scoop from Japan along with the bigger front parking lights.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8121/8658472062_00a40b6c16.jpg

I really loved that car but it was worked on more than it was driven and it didn't have the comforts of AC and power windows and little things like that that you appreciate once you start getting older. I really wish I had more pictures of it.


Like the third gen prelude sittin there I've built 4 of them

[tsingson]

Where is the third gen Prelude? In order from closest, EG Hatch, First Gen MR2 (AW11), EF Hatch, AE92 Corolla. Unless I am missing something. But Old School is definitely awesome.

[Mustang73351]

My 91si looked very close in aperance but now that I look closer I c that it is an mr2

[tsingson]

Ok. I was just checking since I didn't remember a Prelude in our group. It's all good man.

[tsingson]

So after a day of driving with the new (to me) seat, I hated how high I sit. So I performed a foamectomy. I like how I sit now. It is lower but not too low. It took me about 20 minutes after I got home from work to do it. I just used a saw blade that I had to cut out the bottom section of the seat.

Here is what I took out:
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5536/11895192126_2a09d4b5be.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7392/11894738864_b9d52fcf54.jpg

I will be going back to the junkyard and trying to grab the passenger seat tomorrow after work.

[tsingson]

Well, I ended up picking up the passenger side seat as well. Installed it and it looks great. I just need to find some leather cleaner to get rid of some of the grime.

Installed:

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2880/11916377545_1442163b5a.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5486/11916349805_069cf6b842.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3792/11916598323_4d1c88f54c.jpg

[atank]

It looked pretty good as well. I just didn't want to spend a lot on both. I sit real high though. I want to do the foamectomy but wasn't sure how well the leather would hold up.

Any word on the shock tower brace?

I saw it this weekend, but from under the front of a car, will get it and send pics..........those seats look great!

[tsingson]

So.......I am awaiting a care package from Goodwin Racing.

10825

[tsingson]

Care Package arrived yesterday from Goodwin. It would have been delivered by FedEx but it got bumped by all the Valentine's Day packages that were late so I went and picked them up.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7451/12545908113_00e98d2e11.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5505/12551751314_c3d8d10186.jpg

[Dandy]

http://25.media.tumblr.com/65574aaf08a71ee259f1b3e2c145f057/tumblr_mi6cgtMsJi1rpd6h5o1_1280.jpg

[TimTim]

What tires planned for this?

[tsingson]

http://25.media.tumblr.com/65574aaf08a71ee259f1b3e2c145f057/tumblr_mi6cgtMsJi1rpd6h5o1_1280.jpg

I live by those words. I have downsized my Nike collection to about 35 pairs.


What tires planned for this?

The tires that I had on the car already. 195/50/15 Falken Ziex 912

[tsingson]

So I finally had my exhaust fixed. The tip was hanging kind of low even with new exhaust hangers, so I took it to Henry's Muffler off of Millbrook and they did it up right. Took them maybe 30 minutes.

https://s3.yimg.com/so/7455/12592393115_6f2db7fbb9.jpg





But I know everyone has been waiting to see what came from Goodwin so without further ado…..

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2818/12597823875_e3028649b4.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2857/12597833875_bd9321b45b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5518/12551637474_bce7920f19.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3788/12549448493_446fa5e79c.jpg

https://s3.yimg.com/so/7411/12551162975_1bfc8db1c1.jpg

https://s3.yimg.com/so/7334/12551321323_6e540417e9.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5530/12598181983_9bdaf828a5.jpg

I am pretty much done with the car minus some very minor things. Overall, took about 2 years and I am very satisfied. Now onto just enjoying it and driving it. I will continue to update as I need to but most of the big stuff is complete.

[morr]

Lookin good!!! I'm thinking you could fit some more tire under those fenders though :winky: Have you done anything with the beat up lip yet?

[tsingson]

Morr, you didn't notice the lip on the front of the car yet?

And I don't know what I'm going to do as far as tires go.

[morr]

I did, but I didn't realize it was the one I sold you (based on your avatar pic) haha. It cleaned up nicely! I'm thinking some 205.50's would look good on there. I was gonna spam my lotus seats some more, but I really like the new wheels with the tan seats :lol:

[tsingson]

I have been meaning to change my avatar pic. It confuses everybody. That was my old NB. But yeah I had to do a little surgery on the lip but it turned out ok. I am feeling the tan seats but I still would love your seats. I honestly thought you had decided to keep them. I had thought about 205s but am not too sure yet. When these start to go, I will look at all of my options.

[morr]

Oh dang, I didn't even realize that haha. Glad the lip worked out for you! I'm trying to find time to figure out shipping for a few people, but I'd rather not ship. Ultimately, I want black seats so they're still on the market. I think 205's would help square out that stretched look on the rears at least. For budget tires, I've been pretty happy with my Kumho XS so far.

[tsingson]

I wasn't even going for the stretched look. After I stepped back and looked at them, I said "Oh damn." I want black cloth back in the car as well if I can't find Lotus seats later on.

[speedypenguin]

Looks great!

[Malibu Q]

Gold on silver looks great! Good wheel choice.

[tsingson]

Thanks guys for all the kind words.

[WASABI]

Looks SUPER! I really like the new wheels.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2818/12597823875_e3028649b4.jpg


Any pictures of the top off? I want to see the seats and new wheels together.

[tsingson]

Any pictures of the top off? I want to see the seats and new wheels together.

Hopefully this week, I can get pictures with the top off. It is supposed to be really nice this week but there is a slight chance of rain.

[tsingson]

So, I finally got around to making my hardtop hoist.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2141/13045092903_daf0912b1f.jpg

And on a suggestion by one of our new group members, I believe his name is Landon, I tried yellow lettering on the tires. I figured, why the hell not?

I think they came out great. I hope to get more pictures this week along with the bikini top.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7388/13044896605_abd8f18e99.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7457/13044905665_753e60e9f5.jpg

I also removed my front lip and used new double sided molding tape thanks to Tim.

[JamieH]

Ugh, this makes me want a HT hoist even more. Car looks great, man.

[Ihatecars]

Those wheels look great.
Once I get my new wheel I think I might go with yellow lettering myself.

[tsingson]

Ugh, this makes me want a HT hoist even more. Car looks great, man.

Jamie, all this is is a deer hoist I bought from Walmart. It was $13. I already had the ratcheting straps.


Those wheels look great.
Once I get my new wheel I think I might go with yellow lettering myself.

Thanks man! I was a little skeptical about the color but I think it turned out great. The white wore off too soon.

[JamieH]

Huh, I will definitely look into that. If it can support a deer it can support a HT.

[tsingson]

That's what I was thinking. I had to buy at Lowe's an eyebolt to put in a stud in the ceiling, a rope cleat to hold up the hardtop and an anchor shackle to attach to the bottom of the hoist to hook the ratcheting straps to.

[kung fu jesus]

Looks good! What keeps the straps apart?

[tsingson]

Tension? They actually don't move. I had a hard time trying to even them out. I had to completely loosen the whole assembly. They wouldn't slide at all.

[tsingson]

Just took some pics before I put the hardtop back on for the rain.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3476/13093227945_0ff8facbd2.jpg

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2311/13093222215_45805ca734.jpg

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2220/13093217675_565b96ae94.jpg

[atank]

Looking very good Anthony, I love the HTH!!!!!

[tsingson]

Thanks Anthony! $13 bucks from Walmart. Can't beat that!

[Dandy]

Definitely like the wheels. Very worthy of the parking lot look back.

[JLBMX5]

Have you thought about paint matching your emblems with the paint you used on your wheels ?

[tsingson]

Not at all. I typically leave all of those alone.

[ueru]

Love the tire paint, looks great!

[tsingson]

Thanks man!

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Your car looks sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooo good!

[tsingson]

Thanks Gavin! That means a lot.


On another note, the leather seats have been really growing on me. They have some flaws but no tears whatsoever. I have been debating on whether I am going to keep them, dye them black or get some cloth seats again. Recently, I have been throwing around the idea of dyeing the seats a darker brown color. I don't know. What do you guys think?

[WASABI]

the leather seats have been really growing on me... I have been throwing around the idea of dyeing the seats a darker brown color. I don't know. What do you guys think?


Could you take the hard top off, get her outside, and take some good cabin pictures? Perhaps someone could do a quick photoshop for you.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s404/some_guy123/PerhapsPeterGriffin.jpg

[tsingson]

Okay. The hardtop just went back on it. I will try for this weekend, just for you. Anything in particular that you want to see?

[Demon I Am]

boobies

[Martin]

Anything in particular that you want to see?


boobies

agreed




(of course not here - we don't want to get in trouble with His Phatness)

[Crossusn]

Awesome read! Someone hit my parked car too but didnt leave a note. The damage is minimal though. Can hardly tell. I was giong to mention a shift knob for you too. I plan on getting one of these sometime. http://www.mpcmotorsport.com/big-leagues-shift-knob---orangeblack.html

[Roger11489]

truly inspirational!!! I needs these fog lights!!!! and front lip!! and gold rims!!! hmm i think Gold rims would lo0k nice on my green 99NB

[Malibu Q]

Mmm chocolate. I think dyeing the seats brown sounds like an awesome idea.

[tsingson]

So I did my oil change in preparation for MATG. I also received and installed my hub centric rings because one of my old ones was mangled all to hell. Had a couple of things come up recently so I hope to be able to make it to MATG.

[tsingson]

So, it's been a long time since I last updated my build thread. A lot of stuff going on and not much done to it. Until today.

Removed the seats today. Cleaned up underneath the seats. It had been a while and it definitely need it.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7413/16280456659_c7342efb9c_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8598/15846634383_841a046492_b.jpg

So maybe you are wondering why I removed the seats. Well to quote Morr:


The lotus seats are gone, but will still be seen on this forum :3:

That's right. After almost 2 years, I finally bought the seats from Morr. I absolutely love them! They fit me very well. I was afraid that I may have been too big for them, but my big ass fits perfectly. I have thought about having them redone in Tan later down the line, but I kinda like the red. Let me know what you guys think. And sorry for the dirty ass exterior. Weathermen suck.

So without further ado…..

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7326/15844223404_0ff1e74727_b.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7339/16279047838_97b71501d0_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8681/15846674923_2bf890e584_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8582/16280956927_38b4337cfd_b.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7459/16280610679_45b1745362_b.jpg

Thanks again Paul for meeting up last night and text me your paypal addy also.

[Dandy]

Looks good! Red and silver is a good combo. :encouragement:

[Cermivelli]

Couldn't agree more! lovely seats, they do suit your car!

[Martin]

All the cool kids have silver and red ;)

[JamieH]

Nice. Looking forward to trying those out. I should be in Raleigh tomorrow. Small group of Goldsboro folks going for Firehouse subs. If you're free, Anthony, maybe you can show me them purdy seats in person then?

[tsingson]

Looks good! Red and silver is a good combo. :encouragement:

I am really starting to think the same.


Couldn't agree more! lovely seats, they do suit your car!

Thanks!


All the cool kids have silver and red ;)

Strictly classy, Martin. We should have stickers made.


Nice. Looking forward to trying those out. I should be in Raleigh tomorrow. Small group of Goldsboro folks going for Firehouse subs. If you're free, Anthony, maybe you can show me them purdy seats in person then?

I am working tomorrow from 10am to 6pm. If you are available after 6pm, that should not be a problem. Just let me know.

[kung fu jesus]

I love a silver/red/black combo. Matching insert in the doors would be pretty killer.

[JamieH]

Matching insert in the doors would be pretty killer.
This. Maybe some MSM door cards that have the red center panel.

[kung fu jesus]

There is some trickery to swap NB2 cards to an NB1 but its pretty well documented and right up Anthony's alley with his modifications.

[morr]

I love a silver/red/black combo. Matching insert in the doors would be pretty killer.


This. Maybe some MSM door cards that have the red center panel.


There is some trickery to swap NB2 cards to an NB1 but its pretty well documented and right up Anthony's alley with his modifications.

I vote leave the seats red! Ironically, I do have some black NB door cards with red inserts. I just never got around to messing with the handle location to make them fit properly. Still have the LE carpet too if you decide to go full Red :8):

edit: You can see the gap to the right of the handle in this pic.
http://oi46.tinypic.com/2zxrryr.jpg

[tsingson]

Paul, I may have to take you up on those as well. Just not the carpet. That would be too much red.

[tsingson]

If I do the red inserts, I'll probably install the 8" drivers in the door as well since I am in there already.

[kung fu jesus]

I vote leave the seats red! Ironically, I do have some black NB door cards with red inserts. I just never got around to messing with the handle location to make them fit properly. Still have the LE carpet too if you decide to go full Red :8):

edit: You can see the gap to the right of the handle in this pic.
http://oi46.tinypic.com/2zxrryr.jpg

That shit is HOT!

[tsingson]

With the red interior as well?

[kung fu jesus]

I like a red on black mix. Black carpet, red seats, red accents, maybe some silver details. It's a little more modern and subdued for the NB's styling. Sort of like the s2000 package in red. All red suits the NA with that 60s-70s nostalgia theme. Just my $.02.

[kung fu jesus]

http://www.s2ki.com/s2000/uploads/gallery/1274562872/med_gallery_106368_15_14030233704bf961dad0d0b.jpg

I like the red carpet below the sight lines. Trying to think how an NB would look with that red carpet, but a black parcel shelf. I think it would work, it would definitely pop the seat visually approaching from the front...very unique without being over the top?

[kung fu jesus]

http://rev9auto.rev9autosport.netdna-cdn.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/2ebe3f9af00f8fff3d7b5d435f231925/9/2/92150002shi1_thumb.jpg

This is interesting.

[tsingson]

That looks pretty good. I think I may just leave the carpets black and try and do the red inserts. I may even look into creating my own red inserts on my current door cards as well.

[tsingson]

So this happened.

After visiting KFJ while he was working on his E30, he gave me a slight push to get my valve cover gasket done. It had been slowly leaking for a while and I always just put it off. Well I decided, after being told to put my man pants on, to tackle it.

The valve cover was nasty looking as well and I decided that I was going to change the color of it while I had it off. The color isn’t bad but it was dirty and the PO didn’t do a great job on painting it and such because the paint was chipping off very easily. So here it is before….
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8622/16615965741_b9f5a8ba8a_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8661/16430080270_b153b8d070_h.jpg

Here is the slight leakage…
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8570/15997332393_4f3960bfc3_h.jpg

Removed!
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8609/16431274159_9a1c65880c_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8621/16591039296_ecdb49637a_h.jpg

So while taking the spark plug wires off, this happened…
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8633/16431147119_1db01ce962_h.jpg

Looks like I need to get new wires. Might as well get new plugs as well. So now moving on.

Here is the paint stripper at work.
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8562/16429902410_7c5a809371_h.jpg

The new stuff going on the car.
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8621/16431110939_032612712e_h.jpg

More pics to come as I complete the job.

[JLBMX5]

Just be carefull tightening those valve cover bolts they are very easy to snap. I have broken two of them. Luckily i have a few spares left over from my motor swap.

[tsingson]

Here are a couple more pics of the cover stripped down.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8576/16598697716_3154fe13c3_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8609/16417373147_a6624e0c90_h.jpg

[tsingson]

Just be carefull tightening those valve cover bolts they are very easy to snap. I have broken two of them. Luckily i have a few spares left over from my motor swap.

If you use a 1/4 inch drive ratchet and grip it by the head, you should be fine. No need to go Hulk on them.

[Phatmiata]

what paint stripper did you use?

[tsingson]

Spray on Aircraft stripper.

A lot of it was coming off when I hit it with Carb Cleaner. It wasn't prepped properly before.

[kung fu jesus]

Nice. Just because it's winter doesn't mean you can't do work. Did you find the PCV grommet locally too?

[tsingson]

Yes. I went by Advanced in Durham because they were the only ones that had the NGK wires. Funny thing is I called and asked if they had them in stock and they said they did but the price he quoted was $51. The price on the website was $40. I asked him about it and he said there must be a coupon or something. I didn't enter in anything.

I should have it all buttoned up tonight. I baked the cover for about 10 minutes because the smell became too much. I was debating about throwing on a few coats of clear though. I did about 7 to 8 coats of the paint already.

[Demon I Am]

Can't wait to see pics. So, what color did you go with?

[tsingson]

I'll post pics of it all complete tonight. I should be able to finish it up. Just got to run out to Advance and Napa for a couple of things.

[tsingson]

So, here it is. I finally finished it.

Here is what I pulled out of the engine. The plugs didn't look that bad but I was already replacing the wires so I might as well. I don't know when they were last done.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8637/16602593836_8aecb7bcf2_h.jpg

Here is the valve cover while it dried:

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8595/16624024272_0068fc583d_h.jpg

All complete!

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8569/16008806903_37f9293942_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8585/16441399588_79fd27f969_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8606/16441411608_3f0a0ef2cd_h.jpg

So I was going to head to Lowe's and see what color would really jump out at me but I looked at my shelf in the garage and my wife had this color sitting there from when she was making decorations for the house. I put it next to the wheels and said "close enough". I think it turned out great. Reminds me of my old one. Kind of like a tribute.

[atank]

Looks very good........Anthony!!!!!

[Demon I Am]

looks really nice against your silver bay

[tsingson]

Thanks guys. I was going to drive it today but we got hit with some white stuff. I would rather play in the Expedition with the snow tires.

[Demon I Am]

oh-hoho! be glad as fuck you didn't drive it in today. I about lunched mine twice on the way in to work.
Now I'm stuck in Chapel Hill

[tsingson]

Sorry to hear man. Yeah, I looked out the window this morning when I woke up and saw the light dusting and I said no thanks. I don't trust the tires I have on there right now to be driving in it. I was going to Steven's on Sunday and just the light puddles would shimmy the rear.

[Demon I Am]

I'm going to hang out til noon and hope the roads empty out a little bit.

[tsingson]

I may work from home tomorrow. But I kinda like playing in the white stuff with the Expedition. As long as I am the only one on the road.

[Demon I Am]

Unfortunately, that's rarely the case

[tsingson]

Small update. I have driven the NB the past few days and after a couple of hundred miles, I have not seen a leak coming from the valve cover! YAY! I can still smell the paint when it's warm but the smell decreases each time I drive it. Car feels a little more responsive possibly because of the wire and plug change. The other wires pretty much disintegrated when I pulled them off so who knows what was going on in there. Going to drive it some more and enjoy it until I buy whatever comes next. Who knows.

[tsingson]

So I pulled the AGXs off of the car. I got a smoking deal on some lightly used MSM Billies. Tony (Demon I Am) and I attempted to install these and for some reason, it was a pain in the ass. The Billies were significantly longer than the AGXs and for the life of us, we couldn't get the fronts in. Enter Pyromonkey. Dude was a champ. Got all 4 in and dropped it off of the stands. Tony and I didn't mess the alignment up too bad so I took it to McNair Performance in Raleigh and got it aligned. Car is a bit higher (Started at 13.5 but has since come down to 13) but handles like a champ. I absolutely love them. I will get pics of the finished product as I didn't take any pics while installing. I also changed my fuel filter and got a lovely gasoline shower. Sucked. Ass.

[kung fu jesus]

I also changed my fuel filter and got a lovely gasoline shower. Sucked. Ass.

http://files.sharenator.com/268922.jpg

[Phatmiata]

........ I will get pics of the finished product as I didn't take any pics while installing. .....


:TTIWWP:

[tsingson]

Just got new rubber protectors for the hardtop feet and the little screws that go on the cap. I also threw on a new universal rubber seal on the bottom of the hardtop that sits on the car. I think I am pretty much going to leave the hardtop on from now on. I also bought GarageStar side brackets. I will probably be parting with my bikini top here shortly. The hoist may be next as well. Love how quiet the car is though with no wind noise coming in from the openings.

Will try to get pics up later today.

[tsingson]

Ok. So now here's the pics of what I did.

You can see the top sits a bit higher because of the seal. As long as it's sealed, I'm good.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/266/18362783945_799e731016_b.jpg

Here are the GarageStar Hardtop Side Brackets. Picture sucks but you get the idea.

https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7796/18176601979_64225cec45_b.jpg

Also was able to get the little screws that keep the hardtop feet cap closed.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/561/18362785385_cfb3798b1e_b.jpg

And then I picked up some Eclipse Vents. Here a few shots.

Open.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/552/17742106703_3e9052f52c_b.jpg

Closed.

https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7785/18358658242_a826ec6fcc_b.jpg

Here are the center vents.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8768/18362764345_4e450bef71_b.jpg

Tires are next on my list to get done but that will take a couple of months. Other than that, it's just drive it.

[tsingson]

So Zach was finally starting to part ways with some parts. Was able to get the AEM short ram from the 10AE. Now a part of the Blue Lion is with mine.

Before:

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/483/18487094565_9fbe8d0b05_b.jpg

After:

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/424/18299286008_9b00b15a1e_b.jpg

A whole lot of shine on it. That's it for now. After seeing Jamie's GarageStar braces, it has me thinking.

[kung fu jesus]

You should know that intake also spent time on 949 Racing's Crusher.

https://vagaxt.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/2011t25_team_final1024.jpg

[tsingson]

Extra 5hp?

[Martin]

At least :lol:

[tsingson]

Works for me. I need all the HP I can get.

[Greasemonkey2000]

Oh how i miss my NB1... :( .....great work so far! You ever consider picking up another set of those sweet gold ssr wheels?

[Demon I Am]

Bling bang!

[kung fu jesus]

I loved that intake on the 10ae. That, with the uncorked exhaust, sounded awesome at WOT.

[JamieH]

Good to see that intake on a car than in storage.

And do it, get some fender braces. But you know you need a short throw now.

[tsingson]

Oh how i miss my NB1... :( .....great work so far! You ever consider picking up another set of those sweet gold ssr wheels?

I did but I realized that is way too much to spend on a set of wheels when I can get some wheels that I really like for a fraction of the cost. Then the money can go towards upgrade projects for my house or my Expedition. Thanks for the kind words!


I loved that intake on the 10ae. That, with the uncorked exhaust, sounded awesome at WOT.

I just opened it up this weekend and I must say, this thing screams. I am still on a stock midpipe but the sounds, oh the sounds.


Good to see that intake on a car than in storage.

And do it, get some fender braces. But you know you need a short throw now.

I will be calling you when I get both of them ready for install.

[Demon I Am]

I just opened it up this weekend and I must say, this thing screams. I am still on a stock midpipe but the sounds, oh the sounds.


It's a lovely snort, isn't it?

[tsingson]

Yes.

[tsingson]

Been a while since I last updated this. Finally put the Neo Gens on since I was doing a long trip this weekend into VA. Great timing too since the rain was crazy in NC. Only problem was the wheels were scuffed a bit when they tried to remove the 195s off of the 15x8 wheels.

Able to make it out to VA on Friday from NC only using a half tank one way. Car rode great, seats felt great. I do need to cut down on outside noise coming in. That is my only complaint.

Funny thing was the amount of compliments I received while driving up. From thumbs ups to the pictures being taken. Felt weird.

I will get some pics up when I get a moment. Been pretty hectic with the funeral and all.

[tsingson]

So I added some sound deadener to the rear parcel shelf under the carpet to help cut down on the noise. I also added some deadener to the hardtop and then covered that with some foam headliner covered with black suede. I didn't take any pics of the rear parcel shelf but I did manage a couple of the hardtop.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5782/22793576974_b01f28872b_b.jpg

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5791/23274217012_0be613bb01_b.jpg

Haven't had a real chance to take it out and drive it but the rear parcel shelf deadening has really helped out. I am sure the headliner will also.

[HarryB]

Nice! Did you remove the original headliner? How did you glue the suede, contact cement? Also, what type of material did you use for sound deadening?

[tsingson]

Nice! Did you remove the original headliner? How did you glue the suede, contact cement? Also, what type of material did you use for sound deadening?

There was no headliner to begin with. I have a foam headliner attached to a thin piece of cardboard attached to the suede. I used spray adhesive to attach each piece. I used Gorilla heave duty double sided tape with contact cement to attach it to the hardtop. I used actual sound deadener that I bought online.

[tsingson]

So these just came in.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1578/24314254014_2ffde6d557_k.jpg

Will install everything when it gets warmer. Will post pics of them installed.

[Demon I Am]

not big enough to be tail lights...

[tsingson]

I love the taillights on the NB. I have one more order to place with them. Not sure when but that will be the last for a while.

[Martin]

Hard top rain rails and ???

[RustRat]

Short console?

[tsingson]

Ding ding ding!

[woahmiata]

Just curious, how did you install the fog lights so evenly? I want them bad but i'm worried about lining them up properly.

[tsingson]

Mine are actually off. If you look behind the bumper, there are raised bumps where you should cut. Make sure that cut there or the brackets for the fog lights won't work. I made that mistake already. The bezels I believe I got from either planet miata or treasure coast. I can't remember. They actually had the silver ones in stock. The fog lights were from walmart. Ran me I think $18 and they dont crack or melt like the OEM ones do. Pm me if you have any questions. I can help you out.

[woahmiata]

Thanks man, I appreciate it. I'm definitely going to look into it, these bumpers look a bit empty stock and I think with the fog/lip combo they look great.

[woahmiata]

Just looking through the thread, I vote yes for the Touge Run on your car, it'd look most excellent.

[tsingson]

So I installed the rain rails and the shorty console this weekend since the weather was nice. I love the shorty console. I just need to get some fabric to make a tunnel cover. I have been driving the NB to work the past couple of days since it was raining to give the rails a whirl. They work great. My shirt stays dry until I get out into the open. I will get pics up soon. Weather is crappy. Maybe grab a couple pics at Cars and Coffee this weekend.

[Greasemonkey2000]

Look forward to the installed pics! :)

[tsingson]

So I finally took some pics. I installed the One touch window switch I got from RotorNut and he sent me a picture of how the pins need to be placed in the plug. Worked like a champ. Also picked up some fabric from Joanns and made a cover for the exposed holes that the console used to cover. Had to break out my sewing skills again. I thought it turned out great.

So here are the pics:

Rain Rails:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1628/25218010769_db102f505e_k.jpg

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1610/24955067874_cc84d36e47_k.jpg

Shorty Console:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1459/24958847023_fc5f74d3b3_k.jpg

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1536/25289889880_cd3207f090_k.jpg

Fabric Cover:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1598/25492836621_ffada0d396_k.jpg

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1654/25217993389_edceb14c1c_k.jpg


The CarbonMiata pieces fit great. I recommend them to anyone. Very happy with the product.


Now I am just waiting on my BeatRush hardtop latches and I will get them installed. Will take pics of those when they get here.

[Martin]

Looking good!

[tsingson]

So these just came in yesterday.....

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1458/25524105792_35091ee049_k.jpg

Beatrush Hardtop Latches.

Hopefully, these help with the ease of putting on and taking the hardtop. I took the top off last night but haven't had a chance to put these on yet. I will try today. Hardtop is sitting nicely on the hoist in the garage. One thing I did notice, the Beatrush Latches may have me sitting closer to the steering wheel than I want. Will definitely find out tonight.

[tsingson]

I installed the Beatrush latches the other day but have not taken pictures yet. I was able to keep the seats at the same position but I need to move the seats forward to unlatch them. Very nice pieces and will have to look into some security bolts for them. Weather has been too nice for me to even look at putting the top back on. So the hardtop just hovers from the garage ceiling.

[tsingson]

Hardtop will be placed back on tonight. Had a lot of home improvement stuff I needed to do so I put it off. Have to take pictures of the GarageStar side brackets as well. Will probably sell them off. Pics when I am able to get them.

[Demon I Am]

Surprised you weren't driving the Miata on Tues. We've had some lucky weather the last few weeks.

Someone at the park (i'm guessing another kickballer) had a green Miata with a rollbar in the lower lot. We were in her Jeep, so I didn't have any MR cards to leave.

[tsingson]

I didn't get to see that. I was parked in the lot you saw me in. I try not to drive the Miata when I know there is going to be a crap load of traffic.

[kung fu jesus]

I remember in CA, someone used security bolts on the Beatrush brackets then found a trailer hitch lock that fit through the latches.

[tsingson]

Got an envelope from Rosenthal Mazda.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1540/26168708235_7532222770_k.jpg

Needed some hardware for my hardtop. Pretty sure this will cure some/possibly all of the rattling.

[Demon I Am]

That is one expensive nut; for just a nut.

[tsingson]

I know but I found out you have to pay to play. I would rather have the OEM part than try to find one at Lowe's or ACE.

[Demon I Am]

Exactly. it's impossible to find that size nut in a hardware store, I've even tried specialty bolt companies. I really should rebuild mine as well (if I keep the top), they are quite crusty.

[tsingson]

They really aren't that expensive for a specialty nut. Peace of mind is priceless.

[HarryB]

I *think* it is a thin profile M8 nut and a M8 bolt. Not sure how easy is to find metric hardware in US though.

[tsingson]

So I installed all of the pieces that I received from Rosenthal. I think I have solved my hardtop noises. It is solid and no creaking at all. This is what the pieces looked like that I replaced. The white rubber things were so worn and I think that's what was giving me my rattling noise in the back. I think they were hitting the frankenstein bolts and not being held down.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1701/26429342225_0a37eda532_k.jpg

All in all, money well spent.

[HarryB]

They definitely were. Worth replacing before reaching this state, as the metal to metal contact can damage your Frankenstein bolts.

[tsingson]

Got the car inspected and it passed. But was informed of a few things. So I am taking it down. Ordered from Rosenthal the complete timing belt kit. Also threw in the thermostat, gasket and hose kit. Trying to go Full-Steven on while I am there. Will probably start the job sometime in May.

[Demon I Am]

I need to order that as well, since Rosenthal is closing soon :(

[tsingson]

Just ordered the Flyin Miata timing belt tool kit. Hopefully, I will be all ready and take care of a bunch of things while I am in there.

[Demon I Am]

Poop, can you cancel? I have the crank pulley and front seal tool you could borrow

[tsingson]

It's cool. I have been wanting to have these in my tool box for a while now. I appreciate it though. Question for you, where in RTP can you get rid of coolant?

[JamieH]

Call the nearest Advance Auto, they should be OK with it being dumped into their recycling tank. Mine is pretty lax about what goes in theirs.

[Demon I Am]

I've had the same experience. Some Pep Boys will do this also.

[tsingson]

Ok. I know the Autozone I use wants only motor oil. If it's mixed with the oil, how would they know?

[Demon I Am]

They wouldn't, really. that oil get refined and burnt.

[tsingson]

Got the CARE package from Rosenthal yesterday. Waiting on a couple of other things and then I will be all set.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1659/25946541313_5989fa2b98_k.jpg

[Hyper]

Engine rebuild? I see gaskets including water pump gasket in the last pic.

[tsingson]

Timing belt and anything in the vicinity. Trying to take the Kung Fu Jesus approach.

[tsingson]

Received this from Flyin Miata. The Tool Kit. This was the last item I was waiting for. Will be ripping into the NB in a couple of weeks.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1638/26592310742_924b2601f7_k.jpg

[Demon I Am]

Lemme know what weekend, I'd be down for helping out, if I can.

[tsingson]

I think it's May 7. Nothing is in stone yet.

[tsingson]

So I will be tackling the timing belt and stuff this Saturday with Andy. Hope all goes well. Probably won't have pictures because I just want to get the job done. I can do a before and after, maybe.

[Demon I Am]

Sweet. It's honestly more intimidating to read than it actually is. I do suggest pulling the radiator and fans for extra clearance. Some people just pull the fans, but it's only like 4 more bolts.

[tsingson]

Getting it ready for a long road trip next year. Make sure that I am all good.

[Demon I Am]

I hear you. I'm closing in on 100k, and need to start a refresh list. Fluids, TB/WP, etc.

[kung fu jesus]

Sweet. It's honestly more intimidating to read than it actually is. I do suggest pulling the radiator and fans for extra clearance. Some people just pull the fans, but it's only like 4 more bolts.


Pull the fans with the rad still attached. Just disconnect the wire connectors, two bolts for the radiator on top, drain, pull.

[Pyr0monk3y]

Pull the fans with the rad still attached. Just disconnect the wire connectors, two bolts for the radiator on top, drain, pull.

Yep.

The job is a piece of cake compared to some cars, no reason to be intimidated. After mine ripped I did it in a rush in an hour by myself, but that was just the belt. No doubt, it will be an all day deal since we are kind of doing an overhaul. We'll take our time and enjoy it rather than cursing and rushing through it.

I'm a little excited. We've been cutting the rust and bad rollcage out of an old E30 this week, and cleaning out dead rats from between the floorboards. It will be nice to work on a nice car.

[NCGreasemonkey]

Sounds like you have my job. :cheers:

[JamieH]

Sorry, I couldn't help ya out Anthony. But, at least this way ya ain't gotta do 180 miles of driving for it.

[tsingson]

It's not a problem Jamie. This way when I make it over there, it will be for Cars and Coffee.

[tsingson]

So car is done. Andy and I completed it on Saturday. Took us about 7 hours but we were moving at a very relaxed pace. Even having to stop by his house to grab a tool and then Autozone and lunch at Pei Wei. Cam seals looked like they were leaking so hopefully this will help with the piddling under the car. A bunch of hoses were replaced. One was not as it was very difficult to get access to. It didn't look bad but if I decide to go squaretop, that will get replaced. Car was registered as well. Didn't tackle the tranny and diff yet. Got an email from Bill at Miataroadster and it looks like my short shift is on it's way. Will do the diff, tranny and shifter all at the same time. No pictures as I didn't really think about it when we were working.

[Demon I Am]

Glad it went smoothly!

[tsingson]

So my MiataRoadster shifter came in last week. On Saturday, I drained and filled the diff and tranny. I also installed the shifter and removed and filled the turret. Shifter feels great. I mean I really can't describe how the shifter feels. If you haven't felt this shifter yet, you need to find someone who has used it. Installation was really easy and everything is included in the kit. Highly recommend this kit!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7526/26713390140_84e1556b46_k.jpg