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etikoner
01-08-2012, 07:53 PM
(Formerly known as the Green Hornet)
-As of today (01/08/12) My car is a 1995 Mazda Miata M' Edition, Merlot Mica which looks like this:
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/389495_10151144337480235_625885234_22664013_214591 2801_n.jpg
I've gone through a Journey to get her like that...

Having driven a Dark Forest green Nissan Maxima for most of my upperclassmen (high school) years had me itching to get into something else. I loved my Maxima, it was quick, torque-y, four doors, and my friends loved it. I left her at home for 10 months while I went away to Israel to study abroad with the thought of selling her off and buying a 350Z or something.
Fast forward to 2010 and my goals weren't gonna happen. My brother crashed my car and my dad shelled money out to repair it and paint her. I quickly grew tired of not having a proper car to mod, and no matter what Ideas I had in my mind I just never got around to it.
Clean, and boring with lots of oil leaks:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/stuff%20for%20sale/photo5.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/stuff%20for%20sale/photo32.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/stuff%20for%20sale/photo22.jpg

I finally convinced my father to let me sell the Maxima so that I could get something of my own to play around with. I had several Ideas of what would be an ideal car for me at the time. I've always been around MK3 Supra's, so I wanted one. I LOVED 300ZX's, but I only really wanted a twin turbo, and those were out of my price range. Having seen plenty of Low FC's also had me wanting one, and I almost traded the Maxima for a relatively clean NA FC3S, but the rotary engine scared me away. I recall having either a Smurf Blue, or BRG Miata in the back of my mind. The time arrived that I sold my beloved Maxima for $2,100 and was left carless. :chargrined:

My father felt that going down from a 97' to a car older than that would be a big mistake, thus really limiting my scope of cars that I would be able to chose. I also got antsy really quickly, because I hate having to take a bus anywhere.
Craigslist became my friend, I would basically live on it for the two weeks before I got my car. I came to know a little more about Miatas, and recall reading stories of some very nice ones on Speedhunters, which prompted me even further to get one.

Sure enough, I found a 95' M edition Miata, which I really didn't know much about, for a decent price. I think it was advertised for about $3,100 bucks. I didn't really care for the M edition things, I just saw the car for what it was. It had a Torsen, BBS wheels, 1.8, and cool leather seats... I drove up 100 miles with my parents to go see the car, drove it around a bit and decided to buy it. S
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/183970_10150109229519696_503469695_6209905_1938230 _n.jpg

I sadly don't remember the date I got her, but I know it was February 2011.
I had joined CR* the week before, and sent money to Mr. Woolery for his cool stickers. I also got an R-Package front lip from Wes at Treasure Coast Miatas as part of the package.
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/188788_10150537976860235_625885234_18084306_319829 7_n.jpg

etikoner
01-08-2012, 08:18 PM
I feel that I should have gone around closer to home to test drive other Roadsters, but I'm pretty impatient so I didn't really think my purchase through too much. I searched everywhere hoping that my car was some sort of OEM color, but once I got there I knew it wasn't... The engine bay, trunk, and door jambs were all Wine red.
My brakes were pretty awful, but I figured I'd just change em. They had told me it had a newer engine with only 111k Miles, so I took what they said at face value... Oh well, there was no going back now...
I ordered a set of Pads and Rotors from 88rotors.com, I had gone through them when I did the brake job on my last car, and they left me fairly happy.

My old pads were pretty hideous looking, one set was off the bracket and was engraving itself onto the hub. (too bad I didn't snap a picture)
Here's a cool picture of me being awesome with my vehicle ;)
http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/226521_10150589069685235_625885234_18531243_791603 3_n.jpg

One morning I caught the temperature gauge going into the hot zone on my way to school, i babied it till my destination and put the heater on full blast, at the time I had a little internship/ volunteering at a local shop. A pressure test on the radiator showed a leaking water pump... I promptly ordered the parts and saved a shitload of money by doing the labor myself with the guide of a mechanic.

I had changed the Water pump, Timing belt, Cam shaft/ Crank shaft seals, and Valve cover gasket. Obviously I neglected to get pictures of doing the work, but it went fairly smooth.
A week later I got fed up with the stupid lifter tick and changed to Royal purple 5w/30 and was happy with that.

I bought a K&N intake from a member on here, I ended up just installing the filter and selling the pipe to someone else.
Somewhere along the first week of owning it the gauge cluster and other back-lighting died. so i drove around like that for like a month... I paid a guy to diagnose it and it turned out to be a relay...

I also saved up some coin from my new job, and found a sexy steering wheel on the classifieds.
Nardi Gara Type 3 (wood grain)
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/226954_10150628368100235_625885234_18886309_442366 4_n.jpg
Got it for a pretty decent price from some dude up in Canada. I also picked up a bunch of little things that my car needed like a new Gauge cluster hood, and some NB floor mats to freshen up my interior.

Here's another cool little picture I snapped back then.
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/249453_10150209685454696_503469695_6994197_816083_ n.jpg

At the time I was just enjoying the drive, going top down whenever I could. I would be on the old forum, craigslist or ebay looking for deals on cool parts I wanted.

I remember finding an ARC Power chamber on Ebay for really cheap, I sent the seller an offer and he accepted it, so I got my Intake with a hole in it... I asked my Brother in law to get it welded up for me..

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/247958_10150218403129696_503469695_7071557_1502713 _n.jpg

We then threw it on:
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/247532_10150220420319696_503469695_7092215_2168665 _n.jpg

I sensed an improvement in throttle response, and some midrange gains. But it's all just what I felt through my BUTT- Dyno.
People talk shit about ARC intakes and JDM products. But I'm fairly happy with my power chamber, and I didn't really spend too much money on it so it's staying on for a while. The sound definitely changed when I threw it on, sounded a lot more throaty and raspy on induction.

A little while later, I had my eyes on getting my valve cover refinished by a forum sponsor. I wasn't too happy to have to pay for a core charge and all that garbage. At the time, Comic Artist posted a black valve cover for sale for a cheap price and I hopped on it.
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/284752_10150259131909696_503469695_7346083_1883580 _n.jpg

The rainy season was quickly coming and I kept on pushing off buying a new soft top...
Mine looked like this:
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/198667_10150290825974558_296110024557_7450020_5740 663_n.jpg

I then went ahead and did some research. R-speed.net had the best prices, along with having a website that wasn't a pain in the ass to maneuver. I pmed him and he hooked me up with a much needed discount on a Robbins Three window black canvas top.

I went through some local guys to get the top installed... They turned it out in a couple of hours for a hell of a price.
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/223017_10150277214729696_503469695_7513849_5075201 _n.jpg
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/205978_10150276542199696_503469695_7506231_2753857 _n.jpg

The ricer in me decided to order a EUNOS nose badge as well.
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/281745_10150277214309696_503469695_7513841_351261_ n.jpg

Andy
01-08-2012, 09:54 PM
Nice story

etikoner
01-09-2012, 01:21 PM
Nice story
Thank you :)
I'm trying to keep the general time line, but not outright copying everything from my other thread word for word.

Lowering my car has been a priority for me since I got her. I've been pretty cool with the slamburglar guys out in SB and really admired how they could drive their cars daily at that ride height. But doing it at that level just isn't for me...
I always generally drive faster than the speed limit, and don't wanna be hassled with breaking shit on my car all the time.

I searched around for deals on forums for coilovers but everything was usually out of my price range. SLVMX5 ended up posting a set of Tokico Blues with Ebay Coilovers for sale at a decent price... I messaged him to find out more about the ride quality, and to see if he'd lower the price abit... He did and so we set up a time to swap money for his old set-up...

I needed top hats for them, and so I ordered a set from partgroup.com at a good price. I ended up holding these in my house for the longest time without installing them.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/284565_10150276446594696_503469695_7504978_7264994 _n.jpg

Ever since I could remember, I've loved the styling of RPF1's... Seeing them on Miatas made me want them even more.
Then I saw Adams car with 14's and knew I had to have them.... Someday, haha.

I then figured that if I wasn't going to be getting 14" RPF1's, that I'd at least get a set of 14's for cheap. I knew that E30's came in 4x100 so I quickly set out to search how'd they fit on a roadster...

This guy was doing it right. (farmernate)
http://i568.photobucket.com/albums/ss124/farmernate/BMW%20Wheels/IMGP0620.jpg

Just a short while later I was browsing craigslist and someone had posted a set of their E30 basketweaves for sale at a crazy low price.
I still owed my dad money for my new convertible top, so I decided that If I sold my 95M BBS wheels that I'd have some coin left over to give him... I sorta regret my decision to this day...

The Basket weaves came white and with basically dry rotted tires. I needed the money so I settled on selling them to xbeatlesxxx for very cheap. I threw the 14's on that very day..

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/252097_10150281648584696_503469695_7560427_439820_ n.jpg
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/185381_10150281971519696_503469695_7564452_7856860 _n.jpg

I was happy for the time being not realizing the mistake I made putting these wheels on when it was raining basically everyday.

Two days later I drove my brother to work and this happened:


No bueno :(
I did the silly thing of driving my car in the wet while rushing to get my brother to work.
Rear tires were really not in the best condition to be driving with.


S curve on the beach, slick roads.
Starts curving left, driving at about 45MPH
Car slides out to the left with the road starting to curve to the right side.
Countsteer to try and correct/ ride it out.
Rear end swaps with the front, my car is practically hydroplaning and i just get on the brakes.
Hit the median and I face the way i was driving and smack a pole coming to an abrupt stop.


Pretty much I feel dumb for having too much confidence with my new wheels with shitty tread.
It sucks to have hurt my car, it was a huge shock to me that I let this happen. I was able to limp the car back home, not sure yet of the extent of the damage done because I haven't taken the car to a body shop. I can't open the hood cause my bumper bent up over it...

I'm really bummed out cause I love this car a lot. It's not nearly as well sorted as many cars on here, but it's been a nice journey to get it up to where it is.

http://i56.tinypic.com/25qr9sp.jpg
http://i55.tinypic.com/2yluyr7.jpg
http://i53.tinypic.com/21lvhie.jpg

Still trying to figure out what I'm gonna do. I wanna fix her back up, but I know it's not gonna be the same if the chassis has been tweaked.. Fixing it the right way might cost a lot, but to be honest I'm sure cause I don't know the extent of the damage. I know if I sell her as is there's no way I'm getting the money I've put into her. Parting out may be one option but I don't have the resources or tools/space to do so.

Very stressful situation..

etikoner
01-09-2012, 01:41 PM
I sat around depressed waiting to see what I would do. Even though I only owned the car for about 4 months, I felt that I had created a bond with it. I really didn't wanna get into another Miata that I wouldn't be totally happy with. I was going to end up selling her to a friend for cheap and get to keep lots of things so I could buy a very very clean 94M that I had found on CL. By the time I was ready to go see the car, though, I found out she was sold...

But it's okay cause this guy (SFL_MIATA) ended up buying it and doing good things to it.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6102/6349743190_ea75166494_z.jpg

I then had to rethink what I would do with my car... A lot of people were supportive of me, I guess I thought the damage looked worse than it was... My boss had a body shop dude that he trusted whom I had spoken to. He started off wanting around 3grand to repair and paint her. We settled for him doing it for less. Then came the choices; What color? What bumper? Blah blah. In the end I just left it up to him to get me replacement parts and to paint her in the original Color code A1Q Merlot Mica.

I should've been on his ass more than I was and asked him to roll my fenders, but this stuff escaped me...

He really took a lot longer than what he told me he'd take. But I was fine as long as I got her back looking pretty and working well.
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/296360_10150318452509696_503469695_7867417_2911922 80_n.jpg
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/302251_10150345508989696_503469695_8012751_1878573 137_n.jpg

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/316540_10150350469319696_503469695_8035221_1165105 56_n.jpg

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/321684_10150353078474696_503469695_8050254_7237907 35_n.jpg
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/320963_10150353074389696_503469695_8050200_1575582 188_n.jpg
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/296325_10150353075764696_503469695_8050220_1537222 727_n.jpg

During the down time, I settled on ordering a set of 195/60-14 Falken Ziex 512's.
I also ordered 949 racing valve stems, and asked the guy to paint the centers of my wheel gold.

I finally got her back around two months after I brought her in!
I fell in love again.
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/303860_10150354804164696_503469695_8061545_1689528 380_n.jpg
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/298019_10150354719964696_503469695_8061155_2805429 11_n.jpg

I gave my brother in law my New Garage Star shift extender so that he could fab me up a custom shift knob as well.
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/312212_10150354718174696_503469695_8061152_8688144 87_n.jpg

Damage I had done to the wheel on impact.
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/314489_10150874956155235_625885234_21412302_299272 620_n.jpg
and the painted replacement wheel.
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/307483_10150874952775235_625885234_21412277_635020 711_n.jpg

I<3flippyheadlights
01-09-2012, 01:59 PM
Wow goes to show that things happen for a reason. Now you will have the car for a long time and remember it for even longer. Nice story, nice car :D

Andy
01-09-2012, 07:44 PM
I feel so terrible every time I see the crashed car. I somehow feel like I had something to do with it. I am so happy that you were able to get the car fixed and look awesome. Now bring it to our miami meets.

WASABI
01-09-2012, 08:28 PM
Way to go etikoner! It's an amazing story. It's good to see that she's a Merlot again.

-Jim

etikoner
01-10-2012, 02:18 AM
Wow goes to show that things happen for a reason. Now you will have the car for a long time and remember it for even longer. Nice story, nice car :D

Basically that's exactly how I feel now. I really was just pissed off at myself for having crashed like that, but I guess it was just a blessing in disguise.


I feel so terrible every time I see the crashed car. I somehow feel like I had something to do with it. I am so happy that you were able to get the car fixed and look awesome. Now bring it to our miami meets.

Read above, haha. It's all good man, you didn't force me to sell em to you. Work's been kicking my ass, but if you guys do this sunday morning I may be able to make it, lol.

Way to go etikoner! It's an amazing story. It's good to see that she's a Merlot again.

-Jim
Thanks a lot! Means a lot coming from you, haha. Your car is an inspiration.

I LOVE Merlot Mica. Such a classy color, lol.

SFL Miata
01-10-2012, 09:20 PM
Nice recap and summary of this car. I have to see this thing in person, but I'm glad you stuck with the car after the accident and painted it the original color.
Although I suspect you haven't spoke about a few additions to the car :cool:

yosh95m
01-11-2012, 10:30 PM
nice color.... and nice car looks good

etikoner
01-13-2012, 03:59 PM
Getting my car back from the body shop only meant that I was half way done with her.

My Horn still didn't work from my Nardi wheel install. My gauge cluster/ tail light relay had gone out on the drive home. My car would smell funny and shut off on me, and my tires were still shitty dry-rotted tires.

I changed my relay the same day, as well as poured some coolant into the new replacement radiator and let it run with the cap off to let the bubble come out.

I also researched tire prices. I've wanted a set of Azenis for the longest but I just couldn't justify paying the premium for them if I wasn't gonna put them to good use. Also - It rains a lot in Miami so I wouldn't wanna risk hydroplaning with a set of them in the future due to wear.
I had found a local guy selling a new set of Toyo RA1's for 300 dollars (killer price) but they were 225/50/14 and were just wayy to wide for my wheels. I like the fatter sidewall of 14's but I don't want balloon tires either.

I settled on a new set of Ziex's. I had bought a set of 912's for the Maxima and liked them, but whenever it would rain I'd spin the wheels like crazy with a minor stab of the throttle. 512's were cheaper but almost no-one had them in stock.

I found em very cheap on some random website- around 58 each without shipping. And I sent a link to discounttiredirect.com for a price match.
The guy sent me an email and asked for me to call in to see what he could do for me. They ended up having some new 512's in stock and offered me the tires for -$54 each shipped. I bought em right then...

They arrived the next week and I changed them the same day. I had ordered some silver aluminum valve stems from 949racing for around -$18 and had them install them as well.

Oh, and I threw on the Eunos badges as well. Cool picture my brother edited :
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/310101_10150885367150235_625885234_21475724_597393 819_n.jpg

The very next day I headed to my good buddies shop space to throw on my new suspension set-up so we could lower my car.
I suck at taking pics when doing work on my car. SO I didn't take any :)
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/314983_10150376256304696_503469695_8175439_1291383 365_n.jpg
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/316897_10150376211144696_503469695_8175303_1464867 278_n.jpg
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/298811_10150376256619696_503469695_8175440_1638395 13_n.jpg

This was basically as low as the threads would let us go. I was still on the stock NB top hats in the rear.

I always drive fast so on the way home I bottomed out nasty on the highway and blew my radio fuse, hah.

It still handled relatively nicely when the roads were smooth, but the rear was pretty much unbearable with the bottoming out.

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/316085_10150377354374696_503469695_8180486_1911409 201_n.jpg

I also bought the set of Mazdaspeed plug wires from Mild7

http://s1-03.twitpicproxy.com/photos/large/437460760.jpg

Calebbel
01-13-2012, 04:06 PM
Its lookin' good :cool:

Andy
01-13-2012, 04:27 PM
Nice. If you ever need help let me know.

etikoner
01-13-2012, 04:38 PM
An important thing for me was finding the right exhaust. I always wanted an Artech exhaust with a turn down tip... IIRC he quoted me around 375 for a 2.25 straight through cat back exhaust with a resonator and turn down style tip. The price wasn't bad but I never bit the bullet. Some more rare model exhaust popped up for sale from japan, but 600 bucks was out of my price range as well. I also toyed with the idea of an ARC titanium exhaust, but a few PMs to and from the guy with a silver rotary NA8 (AJ?) kindly let me know that I should expect to pay a premium to find one and make a purchase.

All the while I always had the Fujitsubo RM-01A in the back of my mind. I had read the threads that 949racing had created about the exhaust. It weighed in at about 17 lbs and was really good quality. I was prepared to save up 700 bucks and buy one because I felt it was the best alternative for me.

A week later I walked into a muffler shop and asked to see what they could do for me.... I ended up walking out wanting to punch the guy for trying to sell me a $400 subpar system with what could be shitty welds. lol, well maybe I didn't wanna punch him but he had me face-palming myself.

I digress. I found a killllerrrr deal on a brand new Fujitsubo RM-01A from Evasive motorsports. I even called in to make sure it was not a typo... Long story short:
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/379418_10150418351204696_503469695_8363319_1202001 667_n.jpg
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/382956_10150418356874696_503469695_8363337_3715066 72_n.jpg
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/314982_10150418361469696_503469695_8363340_2113721 670_n.jpg

I was stoked! This piece of piping made me promise myself that I'd only buy their brand exhaust on any other car I own. (unless of course I happen to ever get my hands on an ARC made exhaust.)

Oh, and I also got a good deal on some ISC Racing top hats from Arun (imput1234) on cr.

Here's a cute picture of my car.
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/375431_10150918088185235_625885234_21705266_658468 516_n.jpg

etikoner
01-13-2012, 04:45 PM
Oh, and another thing I bought from Mild7 was a PNP Splash steering wheel hub so that my horn would work.It's basically the same thing as a Daikei model but I got it for a whole lot cheaper :).
It looks like this when it's taken apart. (So you SRS guys could know what kind of hub would work without major modification)
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/305190_10150350722429696_503469695_8036395_5178170 70_n.jpg

I took it down to some local dudes that run a shop called Motion Motorsports so he could re-wire my Clock spring back in and to fix the hack job some other dude did in my car. Having a horn made me super happy :)

Fast forward a few days and this happened:


Installed the ISC racing top hats on the rear shocks. I threaded the coils higher to compensate, and that raised my rear ride height to about 13" hub to fender (No pics lol)

We also steam cleaned my engine bay, so glad we did this, looks much better than before.
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/390724_10150422757809696_503469695_8372428_8051697 14_n.jpg

We (Mostly my friend Carlos) also threw on my new Exhaust :

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/379107_10150422507699696_503469695_8371799_7926123 63_n.jpg

You can see how much we raised the rear ride height as well. (It was a little to high for my liking so I ended up lowering it a bit more)
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/378766_10150422516119696_503469695_8371820_8738251 04_n.jpg

etikoner
01-29-2012, 02:47 AM
I've been largely neglecting my CAS O-ring oil leak for a while and it came to bite me in the ass.

It turns out that when the heater hose gets enough of that hot oil it'll burst and leak everywhere...

I'm sure my engine is leaking a lot more places too, so I plan on getting her refreshed. I dropped the car off at a shop for them to replace the hose with a new one.

It still smelled bad when driven hard. So I said fuck it and bought a new Valve Cover gasket kit.
Asking over the counter for the CAS O-ring did nothing for me. Discount Auto parts, Napa and Autozone didn't even list it in their electronic catalog. That really put a hamper on my day cause I specifically took they day off to get it changed at my buddy Carlos's work space. A quick search online for the O-ring dimensions and he was able to find the same exact O-ring for me to use!

We drew a red line with a sharpie to mark the CAS positioning.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120124_190209.jpg
Looks okay in there.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120124_190159.jpg
We also took the time to de-grease my valve cover from the inside. It was full of sludge.

And Carlos went ahead and took off the evaporator canister off and plugged the lines right up.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120124_193052.jpg
My engine bay still needs lots of TLC.

I also went ahead and ordered the T3 SS shiftknob from Kenjo :D
It arrived super fast and I got it on the same day. I fucking love it. Feels nicely weighted and just fits me perfectly.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120127_164837.jpg

I asked him to send me a shifter extender as well, but now I have no need for it, so if anyone wants to buy one for cheap let me know :)

Oh, and I also bought a set of light weight Lug nuts off of someone from CR. But I forgot his username atm.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/393927_10150567421259696_503469695_8849662_2824071 50_n.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120127_165143.jpg

Kolbotn
01-29-2012, 10:42 AM
Nice progress Erick, im really glad you re-painted it Merlot! One of my favorite OEM colors! Kinda jealous of The 3 window top!

etikoner
02-06-2012, 01:52 PM
Saving up some money to get the ball rolling engine wise.
Two things I have bought recently consist of a Mazdaspeed rollbar and a set of Rock Auto Pistons.
The pistons I plan on selling. I'll see when I install the roll bar, cause I barely have time off work and school.

I was planning on staying N/A, but I've driven, and ridden in my friends Mini Cooper S turbo enough times to say I want a turbo in my Miata.
Seeing how my engine still leaks oil and I see little clouds of smoke pouring from under the hood at times I'm gonna just have my engine go through a minor rebuild.
The plans consist of a complete Re-seal. I'm gonna have the head ported a bit to free up some flow. My rods are going to be shot-peened for extra strength my pistons are going to get new rings and the crank will be getting new bearings.
I'd also like to go ahead and purchase a new clutch and fly wheel to swap in for the one I have. I have no idea how much mileage my clutch has at all, and I'd like a stiffer one that grabs better. I'll also go ahead and throw in my SS Clutch line as well.

Once that happens I'll break the engine in and save up some more to do a budget turbo build with some choice pieces that'll allow me to upgrade when the time comes.

Wish me luck ;)

etikoner
03-26-2012, 11:23 PM
Not a lot has changed. A friend and I changed out the CAS O-ring seal. Looked frantically for it. Drove some 15 miles to a Mazda Dealer, they had to order it. Then I called auto zone, and they didn't have it. Then I called Napa; nothing either... I was pretty bummed out. My friend saved the day by finding me an O-ring in his shop with the same dimensions as stock. Cleaned the hell out of my valve cover and replaced the valve cover gasket, too. I also took it apart and found half of the old PVC valve stuck in one of the baffles. lol

I have pictures somewhere in my phone, but they're boring and don't really have a point.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/393927_10150567421259696_503469695_8849662_2824071 50_n.jpg

I wanna buy tons of shit for my car. But I've had so many expenses lately they I don't really get to splurge as much as I'd like.

Ever since I drove to the last Miata meet we had here in South Florida, I noticed my clutch pedal losing pressure. I topped off the reservoir and forgot about it. Two weeks later it was empty and I lost my clutch pedal. Two days later it was empty again.

I bought a local Clutch slave cylinder and dropped it off at the shop to get installed with my Technafit SS clutch line. My car felt like a new Miata again. I was so used to having the engagement point so close to the floor that it caught me off guard.

Anywho, Bill from Miataroadster.com had sold me on a Cool goodridge line that he sells. It's called the straight shot line. Goes all the way from the Clutch Master, to the slave cylinder. So I got it thrown in and took off the SS line( You can have it for 20 bucks ;) )

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/s720x720/429428_10150677659494696_503469695_9181647_9006463 10_n.jpg

I also found someone on MT.net selling some New Arp head studs for cheap, so I picked bought em' from him for my future engine rebuild.

The reason Bill sold me on the clutch line, was that I bought a Miataroadster short shifter from him. It was so convenient to just buy everything I needed for the job from him. I threw it on tonight with my Brother in law. I also ordered a shiftboot from redlinegoods. I loved the look of the tan shift-boot with the Nakamae console. Too bad I don't have a spare $500 bucks to buy one. The shift boot is very nice, and way better to look at then my 16 year old ripped ugly stock boot. I'm just sad that they didn't include a ring for the boot to sit on the shifter properly. I'lld figure something out....

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s720x720/553723_10150707266844696_503469695_9282553_8685077 42_n.jpg

So next on my shopping list is a clutch and lightweight flywheel.

Deciding if I should bite the bullet and by an F1 racing, Exedy, ACT, or Compclutch kit.

Gah...

etikoner
04-30-2012, 12:09 AM
http://www.roadsterlife.net/post/20902220812/force-opening-the-roof-of-his-na

Cool, I'm famous.
http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m1w2qcnjL81rn6e90o1_500.png
Lol other then that, I removed my Mud flaps, Hit a dumpster cracking my rear bumper paint, and my friend Painted my m2-2001 vitaloni mirrors. Still need to do a clear coat on them and then I'll get em mounted with my good buddy.

I wanna install my MS sometime soon. I have so much shit to do, lol.

Andy
07-10-2012, 02:15 PM
Any updates?

etikoner
07-11-2012, 01:03 AM
Been doing some shopping.
Bought a sweet Mazda Strut tower bar from Deliverancehttp://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/912fc9209e1f11e180d51231380fcd7e_7.jpg

Bought Gio's long block from his 94 for a rebuild

It's gonna consist of;


99 Head
Arp Head Studs
2001 10:1 Cast Pistons
99 Ex- Intake cam swap
94 Block
Getting all new seals and ACL Bearings with new Piston rings.
F1 Racing 1.6 Chromoly Flywheel 11lbs
Exedy 1.6 Stage one Clutch


The Crankshaft had some scoring, so it's gonna be machined down, this engine burned some oil, but it should be all good :)
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/s720x720/252203_10150998229819558_1245191606_n.jpg

Mod wise, I'm planning on open up the breathing with ITB's and Headers.


Megasquirt built by Brain
Block castings are gonna be cleaned up
Head will be ported by Curtis at Motion Motorsports
Suzuki GSXR600 Throttle bodies with a custom Manifold flange adapter and Long 77mm stacks
Fujitsubo Header
Some sort of wideband

http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/94c7e1e0aadf11e181bd12313817987b_7.jpg

My good buddy Curtis, who'm I met from having him install my soft top will be taking care of my engine build, and hopes to have it built with a budget I could meet. He's top notch and always makes sure to let me know of any progress step-by-step..

I'm just shooting for maybe 150 WHP. Aiming to retain the mid range torque that the 1.8's have so DD'ng won't be a huge pain in the ass. Coldest it gets down here in 30's for about five days in the year, and I live on the beach where there's lots of dense air so I should be ok.

Also, my friend and I installed a set of H4's with some HID's. They're so much better then the sealed Beam, haha.

My car got flooded a good while back.. My ecu got wet but I spent the hole week drying the interior out, vacuumed and basically just got really pissed of... My car started driving like shit and I was so close to throwing the towel and selling it. All this combined with my wiring constantly frying my relays has me wanting to sell it, but My friend Curtis got my car running nicely again and got my idle back to normal.. Turned out my plugs were bathed in oil, and that my AFM was super dirty :/ lol.

Anyways, I'm gonna hopefully solve the wiring problem soon :) My engine is all apart and ready for machining :) Also Installed a set of Vitaloni Sebring type mirrors with the wide blue lense. I really love them!

One more thing I wanna tackle is my handling, or lack thereof. I've been on tokico HP's for a while, and while they're comfy on smooth roads, they really suck on rough roads at my ride height and spring rates. I also didn't throw bump stops on that set- up as well.

I really wanna spring for the FCM Elite revalve, or I'd also like Fortune Auto coilovers but that's out of my price range for now.. I did the next smartest thing, Found a set of 10AE Bilsteins for sale and ordered some FCM 36/46 bump stops.
I plan on running the shocks with the FCM bumpstops together with the EBay Coils and NB front top hats with the ISC 1.5" rear top hats. Hopefully my car's handling should improve with this set up. I could drift comfortably from 0- 25 mph but after that it just feels uncontrollable and very bouncy.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/306525_10151920032430235_1573492016_n.jpg
http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s720x720/600350_10151034067769558_2051821980_n.jpg

afc2112
07-12-2012, 02:38 PM
This going to be nice once you get the new shiny bits installed...

tsingson
07-12-2012, 03:04 PM
Loving the Darth Vader pic...

I<3flippyheadlights
07-12-2012, 04:04 PM
One hell of an update man. That engine is gonna be awesome when its finished. I think with the 99 head, header, IRTB's and a good tune you can easily hit 150.

etikoner
07-13-2012, 12:38 PM
Thanks for your comments.

I think I'd be happy with the power. I love the way the car drives but the lack of power really has me annoyed, lol.
It's most likely lost some power as well just from me re-filling the engine with oil cause of the leak. It smokes so bad when I press the throttle more then half way through.

The new engine combined with higher compression and the higher flowing head should make me fall in love again, It's just a lot of work for not that much of a gain... I even keep on second guessing myself if I should bother throwing the ITB's on. But only time will tell.

The tech I left my car with said that the relays were being over worked. The amperage they're rated for is 10 Amps and he said that my lights would go up to 30 amps the longer they were running. I'm gonna try and install another relay for my new HID's and maybe that'll solve that problem. lol

I also can't wait to throw on the Bilstein Shocks I have, should be a lot better with FCM bump stops and I also purchased some helper springs for the front to not have the springs unseat when the wheels droop down. :)

afc2112
07-13-2012, 03:22 PM
It's just a lot of work for not that much of a gain... I even keep on second guessing myself if I should bother throwing the ITB's on. But only time will tell.



If you already own the ITBs, why the hell not?

etikoner
08-16-2012, 01:53 AM
You're right. I just need to be more patient haha.

Finally through on the Bilsteins. Miles apart from the Tokico's... Way better handling, actually absorbs bumps now! Pretty good budget set-up, imo.. It raised my ride height, but I'm gonna fix that soon i hope.
http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/f3349f16dd2011e1bccc22000a1e8b84_7.jpg

I think the the Helper springs caused the front to be like .75" - 1.00" Higher, combined with the static position of the oem spring perch has me riding higher than i want :( ... Oh well
My tires were super worn on the inside so I flipped them...
I also went ahead and ordered ES bushings and supermiata end-links. :)
Can't wait to get my car lower again with all the new stuff, I'm gonna get rebuilt wheel bearings, and ordering two new tires for the front. Debating Between Azenis, or Federal 595s in 195-60/14

Once I get those, I'll be getting my car corner weighed and Aligned :)

I'll post pics once I get said Items :D

atank
08-16-2012, 05:35 AM
Looks good man, and I have refinished two of your old BBS wheels.

Big Red
08-16-2012, 08:46 AM
Erick.... your car is looking great :) & the new engine will be a bloody ripper :frantic:

tsingson
08-16-2012, 10:23 AM
Do you like the 3 window top? Just was wondering what your review is.

etikoner
08-16-2012, 11:10 AM
Looks good man, and I have refinished two of your old BBS wheels.
Thanks, It's good to hear that! Can't wait to you get em mounted. I think they'd look awesome with some spacers.


Erick.... your car is looking great :) & the new engine will be a bloody ripper :frantic:
Thanks man! I hope so, haha.


Do you like the 3 window top? Just was wondering what your review is.
I love it. I think it gives my car a retro vibe. Plus I now have an opening whereas with my last top i had a huge blind spot.
The Canvas material is pretty nice, and durable as well.

etikoner
08-22-2012, 12:11 AM
Got my car washed and Waxed on Sunday, it really feels a lot nicer driving a clean car rather than a dirty one..
http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/f4cf4852ea5011e1b1281231381b6846_7.jpg
Here's a preview shot of some photos my brother took of my car:
http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m945llrxJq1revskno1_1280.jpg

Changing out the shocks to Bilsteins made me wanna go even further in the handling department..
I ordered the ES Basic front and back kit, as well as Super Miata end-links.

Changed the back bushings to Energy Suspension black Poly bushings, and swapped out the oem end links for the 949 ones.

I failed to get a picture of the 16 year old oem rubber bushings, but they were pretty useless and torn up.
http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/d6177858e7d011e1b65722000a1c8644_7.jpg
http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/61e3c7beebe211e18ed022000a1e87a9_7.jpg

I'll do the fronts either this week or on Sunday, and I'm gonna order tires soon after that.
Big thanks to my friend Carlos from SGSRacing for doing taking his time helping me out big time and basically installing them for me.

Here's a cool shot of my buddy's work space:
http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/d5bd24dcec0511e1b93522000a1e8aaa_7.jpg

Big Red
08-22-2012, 01:04 AM
Brilliant update Erick, Suspension upgrades are something always make the beast corner better :8):
What tyres are you looking into?

I did not realize you had different mirrors. *drool*

etikoner
08-22-2012, 12:30 PM
I wanna get Falken Azenis RT615K for the fronts for now..

Yeah, I had these mirrors on for a while, they're just so small and black so they barely show up on pictures lol. I love them, though.

Can't wait to get the front bushings on and have it aligned!

treeafodo
08-22-2012, 01:23 PM
I can see the bond you have with your car, this is a proper build thread if you ask me. Keep it up, subscribed!

etikoner
08-29-2012, 12:06 PM
^ Thank you good sir. It's a love and hate and love again affair with this car.... It's been good to me, though (for the most part)

I just ordered a pair of Azenis RT615K from discount tire direct for a great price!
I also have a few things in the mail that I can't wait to throw on!

:D :D :D

1.6 stage two clutch
Fujitsubo header


I just need time off work so I can finish installing my damn Front bushings and get it aligned!!!

Willywongka
09-04-2012, 04:16 AM
I commend you for sticking with your car through all of the ups and downs. I am also pretty impressed that you are able to do the timing belt/water pump job yourself. People say its easy with the manual and all, but I definitely do not have the confidence to do that sort of job.

I am still running on Tokico blues with racing beat springs and I have been keeping an eye out for new suspension. I've considered Tein flex's or Mono flex's just cause I hear how comfortable they are, but I also hear that if you are gonna pay for Mono's might as well just get Xida's... hell I dunno I guess I need to get something for my needs, so we'll see!

Either way, I love the progress so far and I am awaiting your next update. Hopefully it'll involve the engine rebuild and ITB installation! (Wish they were legal in CA).

revlimiter
09-04-2012, 08:40 AM
Wow, I never saw this thread before now. What a story! I am amazed the merlot beauty at the end is the same car.

etikoner
09-04-2012, 08:56 AM
I commend you for sticking with your car through all of the ups and downs. I am also pretty impressed that you are able to do the timing belt/water pump job yourself. People say its easy with the manual and all, but I definitely do not have the confidence to do that sort of job.

I am still running on Tokico blues with racing beat springs and I have been keeping an eye out for new suspension. I've considered Tein flex's or Mono flex's just cause I hear how comfortable they are, but I also hear that if you are gonna pay for Mono's might as well just get Xida's... hell I dunno I guess I need to get something for my needs, so we'll see!

Either way, I love the progress so far and I am awaiting your next update. Hopefully it'll involve the engine rebuild and ITB installation! (Wish they were legal in CA).

I was | | < that close to giving up parting the car out and starting again with another chassis. The Crash damage wasn't too bad and I had already fallen in love with the car to just jump into another, I'm glad I stayed with the car cause it gave me a chance to get it painted up as well :D

I'm sure the Tokicos are comfy with RB springs and some bump stops haha. I didn't have bumpstops installed in mine so the ride barely bottomed out, but when it did it sucked bad... Handled decently, but bumps really upset the car when driving quickly.. I'm okay with the Bilsteins for now, but in the future when money isn't so tight I wanna upgrade to either Rspeeds fortune 510's or to FCM Elite suspension.

My engine build has been really slow cause the shop has so many projects, but I should be getting updates sooner or later (hopefully sooner, haha) Thanks for checking the thread out!


Wow, I never saw this thread before now. What a story! I am amazed the merlot beauty at the end is the same car.

Thanks for checking it out haha, I too look back and i sometimes forget how the car started out and what it looks like now. I'm pretty happy with myself, and my friends who've helped me with installations and work. I've really forged friendships due partly to this car, and the Roadster community and I'm pretty happy about that!

So far (i'll take pics/post when I get a chance) I've received my Falken Azenis RT615k's (a pair for the front)
I got the clutch kit I purchased from someone on here as well. Turns out it's an "E Clutch Master" Brand stage 2 clutch..
I think I'm gonna end up using the 6 puck ceramic disk that it came with, but I'm gonna splurge on a Spec Clutch Aluminum Light weight pressure plate to free some lbs in the clutch assembly. It's gonna be paired with the F1 Chromoly fly wheel so I'll weigh it before it goes in and hopefully it'll be nice and light..

My friend and I installed the ES Poly bushings in the front end of the car, and I removed the Helper springs that I had threw on the car when I installed the Bilsteins. It got my ride height nice and low once again :D
but then I found all my ball joint boots are pretty much useless so I'm gonna dump more money into R-Package Tie-Rods and some sort of upper ball joint replacement (Still weighing my options)

I'm gonna get my car aligned in an hour so I'll post up pre and post Alignment numbers as well. I'm gonna see if the tech will set it close to 949 street alignment specs

etikoner
09-04-2012, 12:25 PM
http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/e7af8274f6ab11e1827612313814176c_7.jpg

Before Settings:

Left Front Right Front
-1.5 Camber -0.6 Camber
5.7 Caster 5.0 Caster
-0.47 Toe -0.42 Toe

Left Rear Right Rear
-1.8 Camber -2.4 Camber
0.4 Toe 0.13 Toe

After Settings:

Left Front Right Front
-1.7 Camber -1.7 Camber
5.6 Caster 5.3 Caster
-0.01 Toe -0.02 Toe


Left Rear Right Rear
-1.8 Camber -2.0 Camber
-0.02 Toe -0.02 Toe

Rear camber settings couldn't go lower (Less negative then the front) unfortunately. It tracks straight now too! For some reason it feels more prone to under steer now. It started raining when I left the shop, and i had an "Oh SHIT" moment about to leave the off ramp where the fronts just lost grip, I was headed for some stupid plastic poles but the front regained traction at the last moment so I saved it :D

I'm gonna mount these puppys soon too;
http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/8461ab40f3a211e1b2fe123138150f0c_7.jpg

Either way, I'm happy. I just need to order my tie-rods and ball joints, Once I have those I plan on taking my car to a shop called Breathless performance to get the car corner weighted and set up for me :)

etikoner
09-10-2012, 01:59 PM
I didn't do a burn out like I said I was gonna.

But with the tires mounted I've really fallen in love with the car again.
I've had the chance to drive around some back roads and with my suspension and alignment set-up I could really make the car do just what I want. Handles very nicely and I could make the rear step out with the throttle now, and when it comes back it does so very smoothly and predictably as well. I just wish Miami had better driving roads haha. The Azenis at the front also gave my car a much higher limit to explore than when I previously had the Ziex 512's all around. I used to drive pretty quickly around corners and the tires would just howl at the limit, but I've yet to break the front tires loose and I still have more room to go faster.

Just some Random pictures of my car Sorry for the crappy cell phone shots:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120909_125817.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120905_144312.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120907_000130.jpg


I also finally got my Fujitsubo 4-2-1 Header! I don't know of anyone else using this header. I can't wait to throw it on.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20120906_000604.jpg

And no pictures, but I also got my Blue printed wheel hubs from 5x Racing. The turn around time was very quick, and they maintained good communication with me :) Once I throw them on I'll hopefully feel and hear a difference cause mine make noise at times.

etikoner
10-15-2012, 12:01 AM
Got the header installed with my friend! Blocked the EGR on the intake manifold and now it sounds amazingggg. I really love it. Seat of the pants dyno feels the mid range is a lot stronger than before. My exhaust also got a bit quieter but a lot more bassy and deeper. The ITB's should be awesome paired with this.

I've also been doing some shopping.

SS brake lines
Motul RBF600
949 Racing Anodized Grey valve stems
And some wheels :)

I still need to spend the time to Change the Wheel bearings, install the brake lines and get the new fluid in there. I also wanna paint the brake calipers as well.

a little teaser:
http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/dfc6f41c165311e282c522000a1e957e_7.jpg

Can't wait to get these on :D

http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/7370cfa4083e11e29a5322000a1d0353_7.jpg

etikoner
10-26-2012, 09:55 AM
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20121024_150141.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20121025_153542.jpg

:) I love these.

Big Red
10-27-2012, 01:28 AM
Looks pretty good with then new shoes ;) notice much weight difference between the BBS's & the RPF1's?

etikoner
10-29-2012, 12:11 PM
BBS Wheels = 15 lbs
BBS Wheels with Falken Ziex = 29 lbs
BBS Wheels with Falken Azenis = ?? (Around 33-35 lbs)
Enkei Wheel = 8.7 lbs
Enkei Wheel with Falken Azenis = 28 lbs

BTW; Enkei Valve stems were 0.025 lbs and the 949 valve stems were 0.020 lbs lol, and I'm using 949 aluminum forged lug nuts as well.

I love the way they look. I like seeing the reflection on black cars when I drive. I love how they grip.
Super stoked to have these wheels on my car :)

Phatmiata
10-30-2012, 12:03 PM
Loving the new wheels!!


http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20121025_153542.jpg

treeafodo
10-30-2012, 12:05 PM
I love them as well. RPF1s look perfect on these cars!

etikoner
10-30-2012, 12:29 PM
Thanks guys!

My friend cut up some awesome stickers for the wheels. Just waiting to throw them on, get a nice car wash and get better pics up, haha. For now:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_2453.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_4014.jpg

I<3flippyheadlights
10-30-2012, 12:43 PM
The RPF1's are looking good mang! Are you still doing the IRTB thing?

etikoner
10-30-2012, 02:06 PM
Yep, my builder just finished up the intake side of the 99 head. Now he's gonna make the exhaust side nice and pretty :D

http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/d2cb7ea20f6111e28393123138133f89_7.jpg

Tons of stuff to do. Need to pay off some debt/ traffic tickets So I can get the ball rolling.

And I still need to change the wheel bearings/ brakelines/fluid as well.

etikoner
12-05-2012, 03:05 AM
Some pictures my brother took at night..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_5759.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_5776.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_5783.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_5784.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_5799.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_5774.jpg

My front lip is all messed up, and you can really see how my paint has gotten really messed up daily driving this thing and parking on the street. Ugh, oh well.

Willywongka
12-05-2012, 04:19 AM
Your car is looking good buddy! It totally reminds me of one of my favorite from Minkara!

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hvtpfd3Igx0/UL8Q7p4BUII/AAAAAAAAAoo/KfQxfHXKdNk/s800/DSC03626.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FYHcskPQyuM/UL8Q7B9WY7I/AAAAAAAAAog/ZJoFGIYKDts/s800/goldrpf1roadster3.jpg

Definitely how I would do it if I had a Merlot =).

atank
12-05-2012, 06:08 AM
Very nice, your Roadster is looking sweeeet!!!!!
Love her new shoes.......:slayer:

etikoner
12-05-2012, 12:10 PM
Your car is looking good buddy! It totally reminds me of one of my favorite from Minkara!
Definitely how I would do it if I had a Merlot =).
Thanks! That miater is pretty sweet, I love the Nakamae Seats, and that front bumper is awesome. Wish I had $$$ for a nice bumper from Japan.


Very nice, your Roadster is looking sweeeet!!!!!
Love her new shoes.......:slayer:

Thanks Anthony! Once I install my roll bar and new tail lights I think I'll be happy with how it looks visually.

etikoner
12-21-2012, 12:53 AM
Got my Super Tech Valve springs in the mail from 5Xracing, I can't say enough good things about them, customer service is really great, and John is really knowledgeable in Miatas, and genuinely tries to help a customer.

http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/9de93a62454411e28d2722000a1f8fa0_7.jpg

Also, Subie Greg hooked me up with the Super Tech pistons... I wasn't gonna buy em, but he gave them to me for free, so Fuck it.
Lastly, Ken from Garage star Got the Garagestar Pulleys powder coated in gold for me! So I paid last week, and they should be here Tuesday.

My head is basically done with the port work, just needs to be cleaned really well and decked/ ect.
I'll drop off the pistons, and the valve springs and things should progress really quickly.

Curtis from Motion Motorsport really is the man, and I'm definitely happy to have him Build my NA Engine. I was really gonna just ask him to do a rebuild with a set of 99 Pistons, but as I saw the amount of work he's put into my engine I just knew I had to get better hardware to maximize the build. Curtis's attention to detail really shows on a lot of his work, and I'm super stoked to have him put together my NA engine with ITB's.
iPhone pic I took and edited today.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/photo1-1.jpg

Also,

http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/60002870493911e2880f22000a1f9ca7_7.jpg

The GarageStar pulleys weigh literally nothing... The package was so light, it's incredible.
Subie Greg's old pistons found their way to my house as well as the Carbon Miata head light vent (passenger side) to feed air to my future ITB's

etikoner
01-17-2013, 12:31 PM
a minor update about my car... I was driving around doing errands and I caught my temp gauge going to the hot zone.. Long story short, I towed my car home and let it sit for a week, and then I called these guys to take it to Motion Motorsports so Curtis can get it ready for the new Engine.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/C2C1F6BC-67C8-4392-8F41-7949BB376B80-1928-0000016083EA9274.jpg

I've been buying a lot of stuff. lol I need to stop....
Mahura Cam gears; These came from a seriously awesome car. I've been holding off and I originally wanted Toda Cam gears, but these just came up for sale and i was like "OMGWTFBBQ" and bought them.. lol
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/9915530C-95C8-4D54-B7D5-45406CB0F8E5-1928-000001607CC2BE8B.jpg

I also went ahead and bought these:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/A67CE6B5-D4A1-4323-B7AF-E8F40781908E-3902-0000050AA9A85F1F.jpg

Found some Stance extended Top hats with pillow ball mounts that should work. I emailed Shaikh to see if their Bump stops would fit around the shock shaft, and future plans include 6" Swift Springs all around.

Spoke to Albert from BuddyClub US, he told me that these dampers are made in Japan, and that the US Spec Coilovers have 65mm ID springs and big spring rates. I just wish I could really confirm that these are 10/8 rates cause everywhere online says they're 8/6 kg/mm

Oh well lol.

sk4775
01-19-2013, 01:57 AM
yo homebro its st from pcf lol

nice cams, for your coilovers why not just see if anyone has a coil spring tester?

etikoner
01-23-2013, 10:54 AM
^ post up your car man!

Bought stance top hats from djsquiggles

Difference between the bc pillow ball mounts and stance;
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/78C60F88-81A9-4423-826F-C21E38AE419E-583-00000236273F596E.jpg

The BC bushings had to be pressed in, but they fit like a glove into the stance mounts.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/FACEB6FB-EA6E-41A6-8B0F-A519E7323B57-5641-000006DE045CD887.jpg

Working on ordering some bump stops. Fcm 36 for the front and Shaikh told me to use 74mm for the rear, but I'm thinking of going with the 58mm stops.

Also debating whether to go with 9/7 or 9/6 spring rates with swift springs.

I also took these to a motorcycle shop and had all four dampers filled with 30psi worth of nitrogen gas :)

Engine parts are going to get machined/balanced this week as well.
Here's a pic of how the BC bump stop hides (slides) into the stance top hat;
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/C2E25769-A0D4-446D-B578-0167A9BA4D9C-5641-000006DDEDA4E5ED.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/1ECAB48A-1E08-4AE9-AEA1-49323F700368-5641-000006DDF1C91AF0.jpg

etikoner
03-01-2013, 01:21 AM
Finally Put the dampers together how I want em.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/CC96C6CD-441C-4697-BAFB-3767A1C49649-4794-000003A7BB20E982_zps8ab24d49.jpg

Buddy Club Race Spec Dampers (with what I believe are shorter shock bodies than original)
FCM 36/76 bump stops. I trimmed the 76mm bump down to around 64mm
Swift 6" 65mm ID springs all around. 9kg/mm front 7kg/mm rear
Stance Extended top hats

This is so you guys can see the difference between the Buddy Club springs and the Swift Springs.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/499FF990-335F-44FC-811F-F89449E76834-4794-000003A7CD5CA6BB_zps1297dfbf.jpg

The 76mm bump stop only allowed about 1cm of shaft travel before engagement, I trimmed them to allow 1" of travel before engagement, but I think i would barely notice them because these are the medium stiffness. Even softer than their 58mm sets. I also went ahead and but the portion of the cut stops onto the front dampers to cushion the bump stop engagement a tiny bit. It may not make sense, but I just did it to try it out.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/E88B6E5A-B0F5-497E-9318-F970923D360E-4794-000003A82EC7FDA6_zps693c17fb.jpg

I bought swift springs because of this topic right here : Swift Springs Dyno'd (http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/suspension/157535-swift-springs-dynoed.html)

I couldn't find one single company that has outperformed Swift springs in any categories that I have stated
-weight
-stroke
-spring rate accuracy

Basically, I felt the extra money was justified so that my car could maintain a nice ride. Can't wait to try them out! Once I got them and held the springs I just felt how light they were and that right there sold me on em, that and the fact that swift springs are thoroughly tested to ensure that they won't break under lots of fatigue and stress makes the upgrade a no brainer in my head.

I also have a lot of other handling items I need to install. R-package tie rods, v8 Roadster upper ball joints, NB eccentrics and an NB front bar.

Also, this weekend I went to the Homestead Miami speed way for a "winter tour race"
It was my first time ever going to a racetrack, I must say I really like the atmosphere of it all. Hopefully I'll get to track my car sometime.

Just some snaps I took with my Iphone:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/0D7013B4-6C7E-4DA7-9695-A773E21ECB93-4794-000003A80B419AD0_zps600223f8.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/FE2C4E45-EB9B-4905-B795-9CF1CA838B18-4794-000003A7DA9DCB13_zps0589225b.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/4FAC1E79-19DF-4310-9203-4C2174D86F94-4794-000003A7E0F071D6_zps55e24342.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/7E7353FA-71C5-40B5-9878-CF594F877155-4794-000003A7FDB118FD_zpscaa894b2.jpg
Spotted a cool RHD escort
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/C9FF1D2E-F383-4674-ADF5-81CB5434679C-4794-000003A7EDA274C9_zps85bbdc92.jpg

And lastly, some pics my brother took of my car before it died.http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/F856A0DB-6AEE-48E9-8D88-25B2D7A31E87-4794-000003A8120A58FD_zps000ec6d0.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/053C5DA2-BB49-46D5-80A2-4B025D562409-4794-000003A819EA3D04_zpsa0c2e288.jpg

My head just got back from the machine shop. Once the block comes back it's assembly time!

sk4775
03-01-2013, 03:31 AM
looks good man, its still crazy to think us pcf guys are finally doing things lol

etikoner
03-01-2013, 02:58 PM
looks good man, its still crazy to think us pcf guys are finally doing things lol
Haha. Yeah, I always loved cars, I'm just happy to be able to modify and play with one in real life.

I'm so fucking stoked to drive my car again with all new mods.

etikoner
03-04-2013, 06:07 PM
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/B9922A35-1D4D-447C-B5FD-E71814D80F86-4772-0000035446CB24E1_zps4a258ca4.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/8A4ACFEE-AE28-48B5-A268-6B6DF135FB4A-4772-000003545101A4D4_zpsbcfe57b9.jpg

Complete with a 5-angle valve job.
Bp4w
Supertech valve springs
Port and polish
All new seals
Exhaust intake cam

The block should be done hopefully the next week or so..
Here's the clutch I ordered :)

Exedy 1.6 stage two racing clutch
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/B5023E61-F5DE-490B-8BB1-A01F462EB802-4772-0000035464A8D3E4_zps0c4c2dc9.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/66F40486-E7B6-4B91-AEA8-6FB2294A2DC9-4772-000003545A74ABAA_zpsa6084125.jpg

Didn't get to weigh it, but it's pretty light..

So happy that the ball is rolling.

I<3flippyheadlights
03-05-2013, 02:56 PM
This car is gonna be great when you are done!

etikoner
03-13-2013, 11:35 PM
This car is gonna be great when you are done!

Thanks! I'm pretty stoked to get to drive Mica again soon :D

The block should be getting back from the machine shop soon.

Once I get the car I'm gonna drive it around a few days with the 99 manifold and stock ecu.
I'm assuming I'll start the car with dino oil , change it a short while later with more conventional till I can use synthetic?

I could be totally wrong though, lol.

After that I gotta find time to install a whole lot of parts..
R-Package tie rod ends, V8roadster upper ball joints, Nb front Sway bar, Stainless steel brake lines with motul rbf600, and my 5x Racing blueprinted wheel hubs.

etikoner
04-19-2013, 09:51 AM
Today was a pretty awesome day.

Stopped by Motion Motorsports today to hang out and help around while they install some suspension upgrades/ maintenance.

Once there we started out by pushing my car outside to get some sun, and a very welcome wash.
http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/f66f4ceea84511e28d0622000a9e13b7_7.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/9A7FB2E9-C288-4983-B71D-728C88FE1273-4637-000003D0DDD0E75D_zps62563ba7.jpg (http://s20.photobucket.com/user/etikoner/media/9A7FB2E9-C288-4983-B71D-728C88FE1273-4637-000003D0DDD0E75D_zps62563ba7.jpg.html)
http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/03d022e8a84911e28e8222000aa82017_7.jpg

My car did leave a mess back in the shop, though.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/803491E1-C9D3-4F38-9DAA-6AD01FD39241-4637-000003D137A11BD3_zpsbfc5a69d.jpg

Up on the lift :
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/C68E9033-30DF-4FAB-A237-942AF061165B-4637-000003D11B1C2821_zps9bd6c451.jpg
Oil and grime everywhere...
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/929C5B25-5727-444A-A39B-698E1FC7778A-4637-000003D0EFE24559_zpsc12ec1a5.jpg

Everything that was gonna go on was laid out;
http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/857f02bca85011e2974122000a9e2969_7.jpg
NB front sway bar, 5xRacing blueprinted wheel hubs, R-Package tie rod ends, V8Roadster upper ball joints, Buddyclub coilovers, Russell stainless steel braided goodridge type brake lines, Motul RBF600 and NB eccentrics.

It was cool just hanging out and getting to wrench on my car/ dusting her off and preparing it to have the engine swapped in the next coming weeks.

Just a few reference pics:
NB VS NA front sway bar
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/9FF32D9F-04DD-49D2-9259-0E3C160B73ED-4637-000003D1163C48FD_zps79492203.jpg

V8R VS OEM ball joint
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/9F7E170B-FC43-4E80-BFAE-B0734591A2AB-4637-000003D10D16E035_zpsc6493723.jpg

Old VS New
http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/2dc2f5aca85911e2ac8422000a1fbf16_7.jpg

Once everything was swapped and brakes were bled we put the wheels back on.. I adjusted the damper length roughly based on tein SS and my bilstein damper length.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/A2202B53-4C99-4051-9261-2EB5455A9A3E-4637-000003D128FBEB58_zpsbcdffbb1.jpg

Oh yeah, I picked this beauty up as well. Got it for free99
http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/bca7faa6a89011e2bc9d22000a1fbcb9_7.jpg

The money shot:
http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/b2ce0604a8b511e289bf22000a1fa4a9_7.jpg

Back on the ground:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/6C536DF1-AC2D-4952-B4CA-BF5457B24C65-4637-000003D12DFEE5BF_zps32ae765c.jpg

This is an engine Curtis just finished putting together. Forged internals, 1000cc injectors 3in ID turbo tomei exhaust manifold that Curtis wrapped himself.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/B7A0D401-AB44-4650-8577-7C02025F773B-4637-000003D123F23B70_zpsbc8f482d.jpg

You can't tell in this picture, but I'm glad I came over and hung out with these dudes and got work done on my car. Once We pushed it back to the spot my car just looked so much better to me. Working on your car makes me bond closer to my car, I guess quality work and parts is what gives the car its character and what makes me love it even more even after not having driven it for months already.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/108AE0A8-0CFD-4DBD-A0E8-E0BB7F37BAB5-4637-000003D133047340_zps4d5e7957.jpg

Thanks for looking :icon_cheers:

Grip Driver
04-20-2013, 08:57 PM
you'll be happy you spent the time and money to do it right even though it means having to wait. Looking forward to seeing it back together.

etikoner
04-21-2013, 02:33 AM
you'll be happy you spent the time and money to do it right even though it means having to wait. Looking forward to seeing it back together.

Thanks man! Sometimes I could have cut corners but I always preferred to save rather than buy mediocre parts.

Thanks for taking notice and checking my car out!

RuckkehrMiata
04-21-2013, 02:41 AM
I feel like those changes gave your car a very aggressive looking stance. It just looks mean :D

SpeedWorks
04-22-2013, 01:08 PM
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/108AE0A8-0CFD-4DBD-A0E8-E0BB7F37BAB5-4637-000003D133047340_zps4d5e7957.jpg



Your car is comi.ng out great man and Curtis does awesome work.

funny that I can see my block in that picture above.

etikoner
04-22-2013, 02:15 PM
I feel like those changes gave your car a very aggressive looking stance. It just looks mean :D
Thanks man, that's just the look I was shooting for. I love the fat tire look and flat face rpf1s.


Your car is comi.ng out great man and Curtis does awesome work.

funny that I can see my block in that picture above.

Thanks for the compliment man. I see how dedicated Curtis is about his work so I have no problem leaving it to him.

Yeah, I saw that block and guessed it was yours, it's coming along nice.

SpeedWorks
04-23-2013, 11:14 PM
Thanks man, that's just the look I was shooting for. I love the fat tire look and flat face rpf1s.



Thanks for the compliment man. I see how dedicated Curtis is about his work so I have no problem leaving it to him.

Yeah, I saw that block and guessed it was yours, it's coming along nice.

Curtis is very dedicated to only giving the very best work so i trust him completely with my engine. The block work was something that he thought of for his car before he did the rotary swap and I liked the idea so much I told him to do it to mine and I left the rest to him. I haven't been by the shop in a while, but he did shoot me a pic recently so I know how its coming along.

Your car will be truly amazing once its done and I can't wait to see it finished.

lowandrusty
04-24-2013, 04:23 AM
Wow, amazing build! Can't wait to hear your feedback on that suspension setup. I too have been looking to switch over to swift springs when i send my fortune auto coil overs in for a rebuild. Keep us posted!

etikoner
04-26-2013, 04:26 PM
Thanks for the kind words.

Lowandrusty,

Just seeing how smooth the springs looked while being compressed while on the lift was promising. I'll come back to update once I ride on them.


On my Birthday, I got word that Ken (Garagestar) had shipped something out to me.

I was super excited for it, then I got home on that day and the box was missing..
I was bummed thinking a neighbor was holding it for me or something. Next day I go to the post office and it shows as delivered. Weird. I speak to the Mail Lady and she guarantees she left it at my door.

Fast forward three weeks and someone actually drops off my package!!

http://distilleryimage2.s3.amazonaws.com/5ea36420adf111e2b1b722000a1d0aba_7.jpg

The package was missing two items, but atleast I have my beautiful Valve cover :D

Phatmiata
05-06-2013, 03:02 PM
Wow some serious work getting done on your car now!! Good stuff Erick!!!

I<3flippyheadlights
05-06-2013, 10:17 PM
You got it back!? That is incredibly awesome! I mean, it sucks that it is missing some things but at least you got something.

etikoner
05-07-2013, 03:25 PM
Wow some serious work getting done on your car now!! Good stuff Erick!!!

Haha yeah man, got a bit carried away lmao. Can't wait to see what's in store for your cars!

@i<3flippylights I can't quote u for some reason :s

But yeah, I'm really lucky that ken sent me that package cause he's really awesome and gave me a nice discount on replacing those lost items.

Ihatecars
06-30-2013, 02:27 AM
Sorry to bump this from nowhere, but I want some updates! :3:
Your roadster is gorgeous.
That Nardi wheel looks so dang awesome, and I've always had a soft spot for 14x7 Rpf1s.

etikoner
07-02-2013, 05:29 PM
Sorry to bump this from nowhere, but I want some updates! :3:
Your roadster is gorgeous.
That Nardi wheel looks so dang awesome, and I've always had a soft spot for 14x7 Rpf1s.

I should have something to update soon.

*fingers crossed*

Hyper
08-03-2013, 10:10 AM
I should have something to update soon.

*fingers crossed*

pretty cool thread with the perfect mods

Hyper
08-03-2013, 10:12 AM
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/B9922A35-1D4D-447C-B5FD-E71814D80F86-4772-0000035446CB24E1_zps4a258ca4.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/8A4ACFEE-AE28-48B5-A268-6B6DF135FB4A-4772-000003545101A4D4_zpsbcfe57b9.jpg

Complete with a 5-angle valve job.
Bp4w
Supertech valve springs
Port and polish
All new seals
Exhaust intake cam

Didn't get to weigh it, but it's pretty light..

So happy that the ball is rolling.
How much did they shave this head? If you can find a 01 short block you can make tons of power.

etikoner
08-04-2013, 12:52 AM
How much did they shave this head? If you can find a 01 short block you can make tons of power.

I'm not sure, but he didn't shave it that much. He ported this head considerably so he didn't wanna shave off so much that I wouldn't be able to use it again later on down the line.

I'm running a 94 bottom end that's being balanced with Supertech 11:0.1 84.5mm pistons so it should definitely make nice power...

The block has been done with machining for a while now. He just needs to pick it up and start building it :)

Thanks for looking and for the compliments, :)

Gene Rodriguez
08-12-2013, 05:41 PM
Loving the new wheels!!


http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/IMG_20121025_153542.jpg

Dang i love me some meaty tires :D and great fitment. Is it et20 offset?

etikoner
08-18-2013, 10:53 PM
Dang i love me some meaty tires :D and great fitment. Is it et20 offset?
Wheels are 14x7 + 19, pretty spot on fitment I think. I just wish they were a little wider to give the car a more aggressive look. Thanks for checking out my car :)

http://distilleryimage10.ak.instagram.com/6a2343eee8ff11e2bf1822000aaa0492_7.jpg
Excuse my dirty- ass interior. I love this seat, I can't wait to be able to drive my car with it. I'm sure it's gonna be a lot more supportive than the 95M Seat that used to be there.

My Block is finally back from the Machine shop as well.
My 94 Crank shaft was Shot peened, Balanced, and cleaned up as part of Balancing the rotating assembly.
http://distilleryimage4.ak.instagram.com/335d749a030011e3826122000a1fd1d7_7.jpg
My 2001 Rods also received that treatment;
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/null_zps4cfdb377.jpg

My block was Bored out- Hot Tanked, and decked.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/null_zps528ad6f1.jpg

The block was Painted Alloy, for a clean factory type look. Then Curtis installed the lower main bearings, and then the Crank shaft.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/null_zps01fa4136.jpg
[IMG]http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/null_zps1a2a8e63.jpg

The Rods and pistons should be going on early this week, My New Boundary Engineering Street spec Oil pump should be arriving this week as well, and once Curtis from Motion Motorsports does his math I'll know which Height/ Bore Head Gasket I'll have to order.

Here's a pic of (what I think are ) my Intake Ports.
http://distilleryimage5.ak.instagram.com/727258d2044311e3b82c22000a1fbca3_7.jpg

I'm not sure how much material the head had shaved off, but it wasn't too much because the Plan is to develop this Engine to make more power in the future.. With all the porting he did, it wasn't wise to cut up too much material so that I would be able to re-use the head in the future.

Ihatecars
08-19-2013, 03:24 AM
That Nardi wheel looks awesome!
Nice work with the engine. It's always so intimidating seeing am engine torn down like that. Good stuff regardless.

WASABI
08-19-2013, 06:50 AM
Great work so far! You have definitely upped your game. I love how passionate you are when you talk about your car and the work that is going into it. Keep it up, and can't wait for more updates!

-Cheers,

Jim

etikoner
08-20-2013, 03:33 PM
That Nardi wheel looks awesome!
Nice work with the engine. It's always so intimidating seeing am engine torn down like that. Good stuff regardless.
Thanks, I'm so torn on keeping it or selling it, but I've had that wheel on my car since forever... I might get something else in there to change it up from time to time. Engine wise, I know what you mean.. My knowledge is very limited but it's always nice to see how things are done.

Thanks for checking in!


Great work so far! You have definitely upped your game. I love how passionate you are when you talk about your car and the work that is going into it. Keep it up, and can't wait for more updates!

-Cheers,

Jim
Thanks Jim! My car is nothing crazy like some other wild Roadsters, but it's better like that in my eyes. I'm just glad my cars gonna be sorted out nicely and I'm actually pretty proud with how much I've developed it in the last couple of months/ years. (With the help of my awesome friends, of course)

Lol ill post updated when I Get em :)

SpeedWorks
08-20-2013, 10:14 PM
Your car is coming along nicely and your engine looks amazing. I actually got to see your engine in person today and it looks awesome. Can't wait to see it completed and in the car already. Curtis does some amazing work and i'm looking forward to the engine he puts together for my project.

etikoner
12-09-2013, 10:34 AM
http://instagram.com/p/gLHL9BLau9/ <video of my block with supertech pistons installed.
a random pic of my car before she went to the shop
http://distilleryimage8.ak.instagram.com/e944f1e83c7b11e3963d22000a1f9cad_8.jpg

I've been in israel since september.... hopefully my car will be drivable when I'm back..

I was long boarding down the street and got into a collision with a city bus :(
was out for 26 days and broke some bones, but now i'm doing a lot better :)

http://distilleryimage6.ak.instagram.com/a9633dd42fe011e3a37b22000aeb0d90_7.jpg
i now have metal in my wrist, a long ass rod on my left femur, and six screws in my pelvis.

just thought i'd update you guys lol.

Martin
12-09-2013, 10:59 AM
Ouch!!

I<3flippyheadlights
12-09-2013, 09:49 PM
http://instagram.com/p/gLHL9BLau9/ <video of my block with supertech pistons installed.
a random pic of my car before she went to the shop
http://distilleryimage8.ak.instagram.com/e944f1e83c7b11e3963d22000a1f9cad_8.jpg

I've been in israel since september.... hopefully my car will be drivable when I'm back..

I was long boarding down the street and got into a collision with a city bus :(
was out for 26 days and broke some bones, but now i'm doing a lot better :)

http://distilleryimage6.ak.instagram.com/a9633dd42fe011e3a37b22000aeb0d90_7.jpg
i now have metal in my wrist, a long ass rod on my left femur, and six screws in my pelvis.

just thought i'd update you guys lol.


I hate to say this, but I forgot all about you and this car! I'm glad you are actually alive!

How much longer till we see the car? Also, you plan on longboarding after this incident?

etikoner
12-10-2013, 07:24 AM
Haha thanks man. I'm alive n kickin..

I haven't bugged my friend/ mechanic/ engine builder in a while. So I really have no clue where my engine is at regarding progress.

I'm secretly hoping he wants to surprise me once I'm back in the states lol. But then again he always has a lot of cars on his hands.

etikoner
03-23-2014, 04:53 PM
Thanks guys!
Feels good to be back home. I've just been focusing on my health and getting back to normal.
Also, my best friends dad just bought him self this gem, and I'm lucky enough to have driven it.

http://distilleryimage2.ak.instagram.com/a8a193a4a73c11e388c40a7c01487bce_8.jpg
The NSX is truly an awesome car to experience. Doesn't feel anything like what a 20 year old car should feel like. This thing must've truly been ahead of it's time when it came out.

Finally made the order for the final pieces to get my engine done. I need to drop them off an then cross my fingers I'll be able to drive mica sometime soon.

http://distilleryimage9.ak.instagram.com/ef023f8cae0e11e385a40e4cbd071739_8.jpg

Ihatecars
03-23-2014, 05:29 PM
I'm truly jelly that you got to drive an NSX.
Such a great car to buy. Those things are only going up in value.

etikoner
03-23-2014, 06:38 PM
Yeah, seriously.
I'm lucky in that I've been named "Chief Engineer" of his NSX and I'm in charge of getting it maintained and repaired (and upgraded) when needed. I'd seriously not mind moving up to an NA1 in the future.

Ihatecars
04-03-2014, 09:04 PM
Happy birthday Erick!

I think I'm late by a day... :fp:

etikoner
06-20-2014, 03:54 PM
Just bought this wheel thinking I'd sell it and get rich quick.
But I've fallen in love with it after cleaning up the spokes.
It will go into Mica :)

Nardi Personal 350mm from 1979
http://photos-d.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xfa1/10413280_655368197874059_853463088_n.jpg

Ihatecars
06-20-2014, 04:52 PM
So purdy.

Phatmiata
06-20-2014, 06:19 PM
cool & vintage :mrgreen:

etikoner
11-22-2014, 07:16 PM
Hey ya'll

http://photos-g.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xpf1/10431853_314621448739246_1395570595_n.jpg

Doesn't look as pretty as I envisioned it would be, but that's okay.

atank
11-22-2014, 07:18 PM
Looks Good!!!!!!!!

etikoner
11-25-2014, 09:21 PM
Thank you, since that pic was taking Wes has cleaned up and installed dirty and broken up belt covers!
I'm not too excited that they're torn up, but I don't wanna risk getting debris stuck in the timing belt or anything.

I am loving the Protoge VC that Ken had gotten powder coated for me too.
http://photos-g.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xfa1/10817822_757740837607998_1105700524_n.jpg

Excuse the filthy water neck, but it will go in like that, and once my car's running down the line I will install the coolant reroute I bought a while ago.
Also had him throw in a sweet working oil pressure sender.

Ihatecars
11-25-2014, 09:48 PM
it's gorgeous :cry2:

etikoner
12-04-2014, 10:10 PM
http://photos-d.ak.instagram.com/hphotos-ak-xaf1/10838781_347349812102939_1990398971_n.jpg
Super stoked they got this far. They're putting in work as I send money, so it will likely stay like this till I can scrounge up more cash.

So if you're awesome (Which you are) and you wanna help me (which you do) go purchase my awesome stuff for sale in the classifieds!!!

jdmfc3s90
12-04-2014, 11:06 PM
Glad to see the motors in! Hang in there man, you'll be able to drive it soon

etikoner
12-04-2014, 11:20 PM
Thanks bro, that's the bp4w head you sold me that's on there. I've been patient these last two years. I can wait a little bit longer, lol.

atank
12-05-2014, 06:08 AM
Great Progress...........

etikoner
12-12-2014, 12:41 PM
Looking at Middle next week or maybe the week after for me to get her back :D :D :D

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10538046_882808385097359_4536355242477821827_n.jpg ?oh=03fc7716d78e3f3cc6de9068df1a93c3&oe=550CCC57&__gda__=1426500847_5782fbbb9f62b3cf85c70593bc3c901 9

fwdtamiya
12-12-2014, 03:45 PM
Purty :3:

Phatmiata
12-12-2014, 03:55 PM
Very nice! Now take off that lower shield and show off those sexy Maruha Cam Gears !!!

etikoner
02-15-2015, 01:37 PM
I went through the hassle of saving all my FB miata pics to update the broken links but I can't edit my previous posts lol.
But anyways, I went last week to pick up my car from Treasure Coast Miata.

I'm really bad at documenting things. So sadly no pics of his sweet shop set-up for now.. But I do have some pics of Mica.

Excuse the dirty engine bay.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/EEB96349-D50B-4E59-A74A-31D44FBBD6D4_zpsbbtfms9f.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/9ABC1592-8185-40FB-B838-9FD983CCF49C_zpsoclvy8c6.jpg

First fuel up in two years. (Yes I did ask them to drain fuel and throw in new fuel for me)
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/98386011-94F9-4A36-8ACD-2D1DA8D2D15A_zpsg2di3iiu.jpg

My Miata Roadster SSK was installed in a muscle car backward facing fashion.. I used to have it facing the steering wheel, but it looks pretty cool like this imo lol.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/D9743D5C-FBA5-4A1F-85C8-2A1AE16B2F27_zpsncodpete.jpg

Anyways, My goal was to get the car home in one piece, and drive it safely and break the engine in the best way I could. I've read a bunch of difference sources, some advising against idling too long, others demanding max throttle pulls, ect. I basically drove slowly till the engine got to operating temperature, drove to a gas station, filled up with octane booster and filled my tires with air.

I stopped by someones house to pick up a new to me ARC intake :) [:rice/]
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/51413EAC-EA6A-4D37-A292-397A06B4EA63_zpsnyq7rp3g.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/FBAB3381-F4BB-4520-9229-52BEA925C6ED_zpsmidybsf9.jpg

Also, really surprising for me how comfy I was during the drive down with the S1 Lotus Elise seats. They literally have no padding, but I've lately (Since my accident) have had pain sitting at work/ dinner/ any hard chair, and my leg stiffens up drastically, but I was pleasantly surprised that I experience no discomfort the entire trip back down.

My drive was mixed with street driving I got on the high way for a little bit and just varied the rpm as much as I could without slowing down too much, but once I felt i was on there for too long I got off and found a nicer route down via US1/A1A. Also kept my eye on the AFR gauge and didn't step on the throttle too hard.

Over all, I'm super stoked to have my car driving again.
Wes and Thomas installed 01 Injectors, and backed my timing down to 10 Degs, and I've been driving with 93 octane and recently tried out a NOS brand octane booster. I've also been lucky to have cold weather so my engine doesn't sound too bad.

I had to change out the gauge cluster/tail light relay again for the fifth time. I really have to go in there and check what causes it to die so often.

Also, waiting till my buddy has free time and we're going to give another shot installing my MSpnp1 again and see if it'll work this time since Wes wasn't able to. (it would cut out intermittently)

I'm missing my front 949 racing end-links and a front sway bar. But I do like my new suspension. I would also like to trim down the rear bump stops I installed some more.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/73C64C1C-401D-4770-8ACF-9B5971AC3D74_zps5vkqntub.jpg

Also need to install my R-package tie rod ends, new eccentric bolts I have get her corner weighted and aligned.

:lol:

etikoner
04-19-2015, 09:42 PM
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/82944035-EBA2-4C6E-9EB1-D29869794BC0_zpsuqiryztb.jpg


Ken Auto Ridgid door spacers were recently acquired.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/7E9B39B2-2D46-4776-993B-ACFCFB8BFFD4_zpsrfcug9v8.jpg
I picked these up a few weeks ago after seeing them pop up in JoeyZ31's build thread.
My cars chassis is a limp-noodle-dick.. Only bracing I have now is the NA8 Stuff, the Beatrush PPF brace and Garage Star Brake master stopper.

I remember reading about the TRD version of these for the FT86 so I was hoping someone would make em for the Miata, and was gladly surprised when I saw them.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/3A5858A0-5B2E-4163-AEF2-0FA536657D09_zpswbq0q1mr.jpg
They appear to be made of Delrin, and they come with the hardware to bolt them in place.

I was skeptical of the results these would give upon my initial inspection, but after starting the install on the passenger side and seeing how solidly the door closed I thought their might be some weight to their design.

Comparison Vs. Oem Piece:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/C2557F26-B7F0-4C4C-A39C-97B4DD8309A2_zpspzpxkhs5.jpg

I must forewarn you guys; Ken auto made these specifically a bit over-sized for customers to shave down to get perfect fitment in their car. Once I installed them in the passenger side I noticed it took a bit more effort to open the door. But after installing them in the drivers side I was afraid I wouldn't be able to open my door again for sure...

This is how they looked after driving around a few miles without modifying them and you can see where the door cup rubbed them down a bit.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/78B5A7B7-C795-4765-A9EE-60A721A4C095_zpslcmpconj.jpg

I've now been using them just about a week and can say they really do make a difference in chassis rigidity. My buddy club dampers are relatively comfortable, but in my daily commute I would encounter some bumps on the road that transmitted a jarring feeling to me. Right away on my first drive my car went from vibrating and flexing to an hearing audible thump and quickly regaining it's composure. driving speed bumps now feels like it's allowing my suspension to articulate verses the spring rates being too stiff and thus causing the chassis to flex, and the suspension to do it's work secondary to that. I now drive over speed bumps and I don't feel the familiar chassis see-sawing that I was so used to.

I still plan on getting Garage Star Frame rails and fender braces, but for the money and ease of install these are hard to beat..

Lastly here's a quick video I made to demonstrate the difference when closing the door.
http://vid20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/61707A14-8022-47B2-8C4A-7B3A697CC758_zpsk6ekmw1s.mp4

After taking this video, I removed the drivers side block and hit it with some 150 and 400 grit sand paper to shave them down a bit, and opening my door still takes some muscle, but is much easier than the first attempt. According to Joey's research, this was done on purpose from Ken Auto for each user to have them fit perfectly on his roadster.

:hello kitty:

I should also say that someone close to the roadster community is working on a set of his own to bring out which I am very excited for!

Andy
04-19-2015, 09:52 PM
Now that is something I have not seen before. Ill have to check it out.

newoldm
05-30-2015, 11:28 PM
I've recently installed on of those door latches from Ken Auto and I must say I'm impressed. Takes a few minutes/side to install and car feels more composed. Took only 3 days to arrive from Japan too.

etikoner
05-31-2015, 10:43 AM
Yeah, (imo) it's a really great addition for the price. Did you sand your drivers side block down? I remember just throwing them onto my car i couldn't open the door from inside the car. I've since sanded it(drivers side block) down and now entering my car and shutting the door still takes (a bit) more effort than stock, but the benefit outweighs that point...

newoldm
05-31-2015, 12:23 PM
No for now I just left them as-is and will let them self clear. Driver's side closes OK but passenger side needs a firmer push/pull (didn't take the time to readjust the hinges after I put on the GarageStar fender so was slightly droopy to begin with anyway). In any case the extra effort doesn't bother me and I'd rather have a firm engagement to have max improvement in stiffness.

Paul B
06-01-2015, 10:12 AM
Now you've convinced me these are worth the money. $65 bucks isn't bad at all

etikoner
07-11-2015, 10:37 PM
Hey roadster bros.

Recently dropped my car off at Racelab here in Miami for megasquirt install and tuning. I had an itch to get VICs working so I bought the solenoid I was missing from Tom at parts group and he shipped it straight to the shop.

I was a bit optimistic thinking this thing would hit 160 whp. But just from driving around a bit I can say that I'm really happy with the outcome. Driving around now compared to not having it tuned really shows the difference.
I can give it throttle at any moment and it just responds nicely.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/151CEF67-F9E5-4E0F-AB91-1BFB719B08ED_zpsuqecdook.jpg
Here's a video of the final Pull:
http://vid20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/16B57502-6AE3-4A91-9C18-893945721632_zps1zrdrajs.mp4

I still need to bring it back to the shop so they can build a circuit to get my tachometer working, and have them re-pin my aem wb02 (it loses power randomly) and my TPS sometimes gives wonky readings to MS i think also due to bad wiring.

Also, my drivers side door handle broke:(

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/C00CE6B3-E2E5-4276-AFC6-A3F2E7308E7B_zpsejasdf3u.jpg

Maybe sometime in the not so near future I'll change out my factory 25+ year old catalytic converter and remove the head to see how much clearance is left for some cam gear timing on the dyno.

Also I still need to purchase gold tape and wrap the fuck out of my ricetastic arc intake.
https://scontent-mia1-1.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xfa1/t51.2885-15/11372207_127074070961002_1105252008_n.jpg

Greasemonkey2000
07-11-2015, 10:56 PM
Sorry my memory fails me, it has a header and catback exhaust? Either way 141whp/133tq probably feels great! I REALLY need to get my ms3 installed and tuned and start adding some power...it is just so slow with stock power. :(

Thanks again for the before and after video for the ken auto door blocks, that's what made up my mind! :drinkto:

etikoner
07-11-2015, 11:03 PM
Fujitsubo 4-2-1 Header, stock cat, Fujitsubo RM-01A Exhaust.

Andy
07-12-2015, 09:20 AM
What are the engine internals? Stock compression, cams...

etikoner
07-12-2015, 01:34 PM
Complete with a 5-angle valve job.
Bp4w
Supertech valve springs + titanium retainers
Port and polish by Curtis of motion motorsports
All new seals
Exhaust intake cam
Maruha cam gears

1994 Block and crank.
2001 rods
84.5mm 11:1 compression supertech forged pistons
boundary engineering street strip oil pump
acl race bearings
All arp hardware
cometic head gasket


With a 99 spec intake manifold with working vics
arc intake pipe and K&N filter
fgk 4-2-1 header and exhaust.

Sadly, I didn't get the head and block checked for valve to piston clearance, so cam gear tuning will have to wait until that is done.

(Engine went from Curtis' shop to treasurecoast miata and they just slapped it together.

etikoner
03-01-2016, 09:40 PM
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/24F4A5F8-51C5-418F-9199-BD9131A8D245_zpsmaidxv9w.jpg

I finally got around to picking up a hood I purchased about year ago. It's not pretty, but I was happy to get rid of the heavy steel aftermarket hood my car had on it.

I'm thinking if no one picks up my US Racing Sports bumper I may throw it on my car... Paint will eventually come. But I need to continue getting my car fully up to spec mechanically.

In the last six months I've replaced:
The starter for an NB8C Starter motor.
Rebuilt my original alternator.
Changed a bunch of relays and fuses- Now my gauge cluster/tail lights work again.
Changed the upper control arms for factory arms with serviced ball joints. My V8R Ball joints ended up working them selves loose since I didn't have em spot welded.

My Front Lower ball joints are bad, so I need to add that to the list.

I also plan on fitting NB Top hats, trimming my fcm bump stops, and installing a pair of swift helper springs on my rear dampers. I also Have to install my R-package tie rods, and swap out my eccentric bolts and get it aligned. Also need to install an NB front sway bar up front.

Also traded my ryokurob lotus elise mount for one that has OEM sliders fitted- Raised my seat maybe a half an inch and now it's easier to get in and out.

Also: Photo dump from my first auto-x event. My car was super loose.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/P1030140_zpsbxasyxum.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/86C0C6DD-E9E3-4004-905B-CEDBE5CCFB3C_zpsvgubvqmq.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/P1030147_zpssqyff1em.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/P1030142_zpsscwxxgf5.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/10C97ABE-3909-474C-96EA-8CC8A4ED4967_zpsrtxyj6xs.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/EEE0C3CA-EEB2-4C7D-9617-2832CAA9F849_zpstfyxuudq.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/6253C6D2-C785-4DF7-B5AE-5B147AC3B1F8_zpsp9eugqsg.jpg

I'm grateful my buddies Carlos and Gio came out with me. I hope to go to a few more once my car is in better shape.

etikoner
03-01-2016, 09:45 PM
Also had a valve cover shipped to a buddy in California- he powder coated my valve cover for me. Check out velocity power coating if you're out there!

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/etikoner/C8B51294-3DB8-4623-AA77-C509D2F24222_zpsjo7ltwza.jpg

I need to do something about my ugly-ass header.

Munky
03-01-2016, 10:20 PM
Its okay, we can be ugly header brothers :)

Martin
03-02-2016, 09:31 AM
I need to do something about my ugly-ass header.

I'd go with a TDR blanket. It will look ok and keep some heat away from the air filter.

etikoner
03-14-2016, 10:45 PM
I'm too vain to buy one of those ugly blankets :lol: