The Platypus's Slow Build.

[The Platypus]

Hi.
Super bored so I thought I would start a build thread or something like that. Basically a couple things about me/this thread :
1: Senior in HS, low-income. Most of my money that I get every paycheck is dedicated to my car.
2: I have a tendency to want the best, and since the best is usually expensive, this will probably slow the build down even more.
3: I am supportive of all criticism.
4: This will also be a dump-spot for pictures of interesting things I might do.

So with that out of the way, let's get started.
June of 2011, I bought this car from my mom's boyfriend :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6793808071_4a24d4f3a5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793808071/)
_DSC0841.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793808071/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/6793813901_222b191b06_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793813901/)
_DSC0845.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793813901/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Before I bought it, I actually hated the car. But then I drove it a couple times and actually really liked it. At first I really did not like the tan interior/top but now, I honestly love it.

After that, I started work on maintenance. I changed the oil, spark plugs, air filter, and cleaned off the valve cover. I also changed the tranny fluid and fixed an oil leak. This was all over the course of about 2 or 3 months. Then I bought these ATS DTC Complites with RT615 tires :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6793842061_e26174228f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793842061/)
_DSC0884.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793842061/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6793845257_6d5518928e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793845257/)
_DSC0887.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793845257/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Now, it was probably the end of October, and I wanted to get coilovers. I had plans of autocrossing and possibly road racing the car eventually and was already doing mountain runs. I wanted the best, so I talked to Shaikh, the owner of Fat Cat Motorsports, about my suspension and future plans. He took every little thing into account and by the end of the conversation he had me sold. I purchased custom coilovers from him with spring rates of 600 F / 375 R. They were going to take a while to get valved so I did some other stuff while I waited.

I got this RB hollow bar and a pair of 949 adjustable endlinks.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6793871015_a5996fb803_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793871015/)
_DSC0912.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793871015/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

After that I got my hands on a Nardi 330 Deep Corn and a NRG Quick Release/Hub.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6712785359_00065e30b7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6712785359/)
Nardi (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6712785359/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

My interior then looked like this :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6712788343_fb10340789_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6712788343/)
Interior Shot (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6712788343/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6712790083_3927b20231_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6712790083/)
Interior Shot (B&W) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6712790083/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

My car then looked like this :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6793914739_7e542e91e8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793914739/)
_DSC1323.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793914739/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Then the time arrived. I picked up the coilovers on Friday, Jan 27. This is what they looked like :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6787870177_07edf476fb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6787870177/)
FCM Coilovers (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6787870177/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6787876067_fbf0c92d03_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6787876067/)
Fat Cat Motorsports (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6787876067/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7005/6787873295_7ff12b5a0a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6787873295/)
Fat Cat (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6787873295/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6787878987_c993f10597_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6787878987/)
Fat Cat (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6787878987/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Installed :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7020/6793947905_fb3f651e3b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793947905/)
_DSC1484.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793947905/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6793951551_22db32b713_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793951551/)
_DSC1485.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6793951551/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

and my baby now :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7158/6792161757_26ce9a50d6_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6792161757/)
_DSC1510.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6792161757/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6792155221_11741c8874_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6792155221/)
_DSC1507.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6792155221/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6792149121_02989cd37e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6792149121/)
_DSC1489.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6792149121/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7171/6791658719_5f41229725_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6791658719/)
1/30/12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6791658719/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Will add a "future plans" post next time I log on.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Dude those coil overs look awesome. Wish I could say I had the patience to have the best for my car. Looks great and keep it up!

[Caoboy]

Very nice choice in coilovers. I wish I would have waited and saved for FCM's.

[snake520]

wow, those coilovers look amazing :8):

[The Platypus]

Thanks guys :)

Here's a future plans list that hasn't been that well thought out yet.
HDHCSD Rollbar
G-Fusers
Hardtop + G-wing
Garage Vary Lip

The rest I would rather leave as a surprise for both you and me.

[The Platypus]

Actually, scrap that list. I honestly don't know what else I'm going to do exterior-wise until I finish two things interior-wise.
They will take a pretty long time for me to get them so I probably won't be posting 'updates' to this thread for a while.
I'll post new pictures every once in a while though.

[The Platypus]

Took some pictures last Friday with my good friend and his EF Hatch. Thought I would share a few.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6826589991_4205589f97_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6826589991/)
_DSC1691.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6826589991/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6826586213_77c405b48f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6826586213/)
_DSC1684.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6826586213/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6815836589_c7d8bc6c9e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6815836589/)
_DSC1658.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6815836589/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6815834643_99f06a5af8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6815834643/)
_DSC1627.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6815834643/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6815833151_e338491a96_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6815833151/)
_DSC1607.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6815833151/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

[xjdesertfox]

Love your car man, youre in the same boat as me. Im in college working part time trying to build my car slowly haha.

[The Platypus]

Thanks man.
Hah it's always hard when you have a lower income but in the end it is SOOOO much more rewarding. The next two things I'm buying should take me until August or September to save up for, but I know it's gonna be so great once I get them.

[xjdesertfox]

Damn, I make enough to buy most of want I want for my car in reasonable time. EXCEPT for the beginning of each semester when I have to pay tuition, parking, and books.

Im really feeling those FCMs you got.

[The Platypus]

Yeah, they're really awesome. Definitely worth waiting for. You should get some and tell Shaikh I (Brandon) said hi.

But yeah, in my opinion it's actually better to have a lower income or whatever because then there's more time that you'll actually enjoy your car if that makes sense. If you just throw parts at it all in the span of a month then you have nothing else to look forward to, nothing new, so you end up not driving it enough and then get bored with it. Atleast that's how I feel.

[theothersawyer]

Yeah, they're really awesome. Definitely worth waiting for. You should get some and tell Shaikh I (Brandon) said hi.

But yeah, in my opinion it's actually better to have a lower income or whatever because then there's more time that you'll actually enjoy your car if that makes sense. If you just throw parts at it all in the span of a month then you have nothing else to look forward to, nothing new, so you end up not driving it enough and then get bored with it. Atleast that's how I feel.
I completely agree! The build is most of the fun, and if you just buy it all over a short period of time then you lose out on the fun. Also, waiting and saving up for parts is fun too!

Also, the car is looking great! Keep up the good work!

[The Platypus]

Thanks man

[The Platypus]

Here's a little update to the build :

Shift boot ripped more (was already pretty ripped), so I made a quick one out of an old Crown Royal bag to use until I order a new shift boot.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7043/6891924801_f67b819b7e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6891924801/)
_DSC1704.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6891924801/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

My mom got me a Blox 490 Neo-Chrome shift knob as a late Christmas present. It feels great shifting with a GarageStar 2 inch extender.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7195/6891933581_871f97693e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6891933581/)
_DSC1730.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6891933581/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7067/6891937349_e15ab22932_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6891937349/)
_DSC1745.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6891937349/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr


I bought a Clifford 1x Alarm and had it installed at GM Electronics. They are great. Installed it in about an hour and did a nice clean install.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7048/6891928449_bafb87184b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6891928449/)
_DSC1727.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6891928449/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Then yesterday, I changed the WP/Alt. belt and the AC/PS belt. It was my first time changing a belt, so I was pretty proud of myself when I started it up, even though it was not that hard looking back on it.

[Adam]

Any bit of experience counts, keep it up.

[The Platypus]

Here's another little update :

Re-painted my wipers black :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7055/6911685005_9e299581b0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911685005/)
_DSC1796.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911685005/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6911690105_e951e7db0d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911690105/)
_DSC1799.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911690105/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr


And I also painted my valve cover Wrinkle Black and kept the letters polished by putting chapstick on them before I painted it. I think it turned out okay.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7198/6911699669_51fe936727_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911699669/)
_DSC1805.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911699669/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/6911710871_5a6e1a7c10_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911710871/)
_DSC1811.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911710871/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7189/6911704141_ae10e090dc_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911704141/)
_DSC1807.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911704141/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6911721257_544426298b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911721257/)
_DSC1818.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6911721257/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

That's it.

[Cny]

Wrinkle black looks sooooo good on our valve covers!

[The Platypus]

I agree. Like it almost should have come like that out of the factory.

[The Platypus]

Got a catback coming soon. Would it be ridiculous to install it without aftermarket headers or anything?

[grrrant]

Wow nice build. I'm in the same exact position as you. Senior in high school with a low income. lol.

[The Platypus]

Ha yeah, shit sucks. I don't even mind my low income anymore. I end up getting the parts I want eventually. It pays to be patient.

[Selonari]

Awesome man, I totally feel you on the low budget building and how rewarding it feels to finally get the parts you're shooting for! Keep it up :)

[The Platypus]

So, a special part just came in the mail today. I installed it as soon as I got it. I'll post pictures and possibly a video tomorrow morning.

[Vash]

Slow& steady wins the race, I can already see your car evolving into something beautiful at a steady pace, matter of fact I am the same way-I'd rather take my time and save up for for exactly what I wanted than cheap out, as in the end, I actually spent more getting there as I upgrade a second time. Learned my lesson from my other hobbies that involved collection of antiques.

[The Platypus]

So yesterday I got this in the mail :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7239/6919526106_b33d3cf059_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919526106/)
AWW YEE (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919526106/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

I opened it immediately
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7067/6919528108_d7cb1f7d4b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919528108/)
RS*R Exmag GTii (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919528108/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

I installed it shortly after.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5348/6919529952_1766b8532b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919529952/)
_DSC1946.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919529952/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5324/6919531552_4912c57a55_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919531552/)
_DSC1955.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919531552/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7091/6919532640_6cd051f1d2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919532640/)
_DSC1957.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6919532640/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

I tried to make a video too, but my laptop keeps shutting off while it's rendering, so I'll hold off on that.


So uh ... yeah.

[The Platypus]

Actually the video worked. Here it is, but beware, it's quite boring.


http://youtu.be/YSvhmdEm3qs

[WASABI]

Well, that's 3 minutes & 14 seconds I'll never get back. :fp:

Seriously, sounds good. Looks tits! Great build Platypus!!!

-Jim

[atank]

Very Nice!

[The Platypus]

Thanks guys. I warned you Wasabi. :shrug:

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Love the look and the sound of it!

[The Platypus]

Thanks. I think I'm gonna go to the muffler shop tomorrow to get a bung welded in for the o2 sensor.

[psulja]

Nice build so far, keep it up! Always nice to see quality budget builds that don't just lead to cheaping out on parts just for the sake of buying parts.

[The Platypus]

Thanks. I've never liked the idea of cheaping out on anything haha.

[The Platypus]

So uh, funny story...

I was in a rush to get to the exhaust shop today, so I took off the part that needed the bung, and just marked it right at the bend in the front. Brought it to West Coast Muffler in Concord, and they did it in like 20 minutes for 20 bucks (10 for the bung and 10 for the welding, great shop btw).... anyways, I brought it home and was putting it back on and then immediately felt like an idiot. I marked it too far on the right (because I didn't even measure it, I just rushed) and the o2 sensor rubbed on the driveline. So, tomorrow I'm gonna go back and explain my story of stupidity to them, hopefully have a good laugh about it, then get a new bung welded in. I feel like such an idiot though, I honestly can't believe I did that. I would have posted pics 4 teh lulz but I was in such a bad mood earlier, I didn't even think of it while it was still on the car.

[The Platypus]

So I brought it back and explained my accident. The guy plugged the hole and welded in a new bung, and when I tried to pay him, he said we were all good. What a nice guy. I'll definitely come back next time I need something welded.

[WASABI]

Hmmm, you tried to pay a guy for plugging your bung hole? :fab: I hope you gave him a reach around. :teehee:

[The Platypus]

Well I do own a Miata....

:wink:

[Selonari]

I want that exhaust sooooo badly

[The Platypus]

Give me your Rx7 and I'll give it to you... :0

[Selonari]

As GREAT of a deal that is, I'll have to pass ;)
hopefully I can find the exhaust for a good deal sometime soon!

[Selonari]

If you don't mind me asking, how did you get it from japan and how much did it cost you? ;)

[The Platypus]

Well I got it from Rev9 (http://rev9autosport.com/)(a forum sponsor that deals with JDM goodies). I got it for $500 + $100 shipping to my door and it was in pretty good condition minus all the scrapes on the bottom. Lots of times Rev9 will get used JDM parts and put them up for sale on their website. Also you can try the Yahoo! Japan auctions.

[Selonari]

Hmm awesome, that's a price I can handle. thank you!

[The Platypus]

So I picked up a blue trunk lid, got it straight, then had it sprayed. No more oem trunk rack haha.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7256/6970982012_650b5eeb5a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6970982012/)
_DSC1979.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6970982012/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7117059889_152caea7f7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7117059889/)
_DSC1985.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7117059889/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

[The Platypus]

Went on a nice Sunday drive. Took a few pictures. It's time for some nice rollover protection and chassis stiffening.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7279/6980409422_f1af1f627f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6980409422/)
_DSC2048.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6980409422/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7211/6980407522_5f0219fd7d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6980407522/)
_DSC2045.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6980407522/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7090/6980405466_e05379aba1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6980405466/)
_DSC2031.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6980405466/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8166/6980403082_52a2ceed37_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6980403082/)
_DSC2011-2.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/6980403082/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

[The Platypus]

So I took a couple pictures last night. I was basically trying out a few different lenses. Here are a few :

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7219/7166619749_5c4c4974da_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7166619749/)
_DSC2348.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7166619749/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7217/7351826886_762bf87ae7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351826886/)
_DSC2330.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351826886/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7083/7351822122_3fdbb1aedf_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351822122/)
_DSC2290.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351822122/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7232/7351820710_e09e4368a5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351820710/)
_DSC2278.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351820710/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7080/7351819532_167e923f45_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351819532/)
_DSC2270.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351819532/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7095/7166608679_abbf8e307d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7166608679/)
_DSC2266.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7166608679/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7080/7351817714_22c9cc96b2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351817714/)
_DSC2257.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351817714/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8005/7351816832_d98c62a43d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351816832/)
_DSC2254.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351816832/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8149/7351816024_aa541cd7c8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351816024/)
_DSC2249.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7351816024/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7081/7166604833_b1a36faa87_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7166604833/)
_DSC2241.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7166604833/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

[Caoboy]

This car is crying for a r-pkg lip.

[friday]

tru dat

[iamdallas]

I really love white Miatas... but then again, I'm a bit biased. Haha.

Is the color on that soft top the NA vinyl color, or is the NB color?

[The Platypus]

@Caoboy and friday :
I know haha. I was thinking the same thing when I took the pictures. After I get my roll bar though.

@iamdallas : I'm pretty sure it's the NA color. It's been replaced once by the previous owner and I assume it was replaced with the NA color.
edit : I'm almost positive it's the NA color, a girl at my school has a NB white + tan and it looks a bit different.

[The Platypus]

So I haven't updated this thread in a while, but I got a few things.

TII Tranny :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7120/7637889392_0c75c00b33_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7637889392/)

TII Diff :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7637894750_b6777d64b0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7637894750/)

NB1 Head :
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7637896808_c2dd2dcc89_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7637896808/)

Nardi wood Deep Corn 350 :
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8293/7637904834_bd98568f4b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7637904834/)

Didn't take a picture with the camera, but I have a HDHCHTSD now. Here's the picture I took with my phone a while ago :
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8005/7496795716_575c101618_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7496795716/)

So I plan on building the next motor for boost. I'm going to mate that setup with the TII parts and the NB1 Head.

[The Platypus]

Got a good condition OEM R-Package lip this weekend.

Washed the car and took some pictures.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8424/7785904656_b7ef72417f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7785904656/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8439/7785909352_7312b629a4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7785909352/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7260/7785916490_c53b68ed96_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7785916490/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8438/7785924098_cec8ce407a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7785924098/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8306/7785934864_f4c67ed000_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7785934864/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8286/7785939824_6385c32a27_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7785939824/)


I need new tires haha
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8288/7785919536_618c8d4420_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7785919536/)



You can check the rest of the pictures out on my flickr below. There's not that many more though.

[Caoboy]

Lahb it.

[The Platypus]

lahb you

[WASABI]

Looking good!!! When are putting the tranny and diff in?...or have you already done that?

[The Platypus]

I think I'm going to wait until I finish with my engine build and piece together all my turbo bits. Do you think it would be worth it to just have it in on my stock motor? Because I might make all the mounts and get the custom fab done now so I don't have to worry about it later.

[Demon I Am]

How recent is your MOTM photo? You should adjust your headlight covers when you get a free minute.

[The Platypus]

I took it yesterday. Yeah, I guess I should adjust them haha. Good lookin' out brotha

[Willywongka]

Your car is coming together nicely! I have been trying to find the right suspension for my car, hopefully one day I can get a ride in your car to see how your setup feels. What part of Norcal do you live it?

[Doward]

This ticks a lot of my boxes. White on white, ATS DTCs, two tone interior, I like it. Keep it up!

[treeafodo]

For a budget build this is very good in my opinion. You have my favorite exhaust too.

[atank]

That Nardi wheel really looks good with your tan interior!!!

[The Platypus]

Your car is coming together nicely! I have been trying to find the right suspension for my car, hopefully one day I can get a ride in your car to see how your setup feels. What part of Norcal do you live it?

East Bay. (Concord, Pleasant Hill, etc)

And to the rest of you guys, thank you for the kind words :)

[The Platypus]

So last weekend, my car hit 150k. That same day I got a hardtop. I guess you could say it was like a birthday gift. It's crystal white but I'll get it matched in the next couple of weeks.

Sorry about all the driveway shots again. There's gonna be a photoshoot soon with my friends and I, so don't worry.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8438/7993780762_a8c828f178_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7993780762/)


And the Platypus decal that Smaeda made me.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8296/7993774301_2e8215d271_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/7993774301/)

[smaeda]

Haha hell yea!

[The Platypus]

haha YEEEEE! I love it man!

[I<3flippyheadlights]

That thing is so fucking cool!

[The Platypus]

^ Haha thank you!

[Caoboy]

Ruhb da platy-puss.

Car is looking awesome man. I would love to see how FCM's feel. I'm growing tired of blown Koni's.

[The Platypus]

^Thanks man. If you're ever up here in Concord, I'll let you see how the FCM's feel.



Anyways, my crew and I started a blog to keep all of our builds together and to post pictures of meets, races, track days, photoshoots, and other events. Right now we only have our builds up there, but were working on getting all the other stuff up there as well.

Check it out if you can, and give me feedback if you want.

http://bcgarage.wordpress.com/

[The Platypus]

My car was broken into at school. They smashed my window in and stole my steering wheel. Glass all over the place and couldn't go to work. It saddens me that people are like this, but I really shouldn't have left the steering wheel in there. I know better than that.

If the person who stole my wheel is on here, we both know that you don't deserve such a nice wheel, but please take care of it as well as I did.

[Martin]

Thieves suck :(

[treeafodo]

I love that sticker! It really sucks to hear about the wheel. x2 on thieves suck!

[Vegard]

That sucks balls.

Love the ATC's and how they look on your car! Purdy!

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Dude, that really sucks. I'm sorry to hear such a thing happened. :cry2:

[The Platypus]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the sympathy haha. Thanks for the compliments too. Just kinda sucks because I was saving my money for paint for my hardtop, and new tires, but this happened.

It's whatever though. What's done is done.

[The Platypus]

Replaced my wheel. Also, about a week or two ago, I got JDM v-special floormats. They are pretty awesome. I will post more pictures on that later.


http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8463/8078208967_29ba00f725_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8078208967/)

[treeafodo]

yay! I'm glad to see you got a nice replacement so quickly.

[The Platypus]

Yeah, only because I had money saved up for paint for my hardtop and tires. I figured paint will always be there and I'll get tires sometime soon, so I had to get it replaced haha.

[The Platypus]

So my crew and I showed our cars at the CarsxHype Carheads against cancer show.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8193/8088925080_b05af4bfba_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8088925080/)

You can check more of the event on our blog (link below) if you want.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Car is sexy man.

[The Platypus]

Thank you :) I appreciate it

[The Platypus]

So I got some 205/50/15 RE-11s. Now I'm ready for some track days.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8050/8123662070_007d2bb39b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123662070/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8473/8123659124_14d4ea1a8f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123659124/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8475/8123643361_130c086499_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123643361/)

I also decided to take more driveway shots...

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8335/8123660246_f6d6470f90_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123660246/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8473/8123659746_01b387b0df_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123659746/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8043/8123658152_0476e1e97c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123658152/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8328/8123639785_6be5d7c95d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123639785/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8325/8123639145_74d982869b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123639145/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8475/8123638511_d21751927b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123638511/)

I tried to use the camera's auto-HDR function on this one, and then I didn't like the flat look, so I tried to edit it.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8325/8123637745_79c0bab195_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123637745/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8324/8123654792_702b406aa4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123654792/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8046/8123636521_421e39e530_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123636521/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8123635895_1a4231300f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123635895/)

That's it for now.

[The Platypus]

So I picked up a set of my all-time favorite wheels - Techno Phantoms. I have been looking for these ever since I got my Miata and I never thought I would find a set. This particular set is 15x7 -2 all around. I am getting some adapters made and I will be ordering tires for them soon as well.

Here is just a dump of the pictures that I took.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8221/8254178128_b0fb815d73_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254178128/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254178128/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8340/8254179480_a0189a01e7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254179480/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254179480/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8357/8253108027_f3fdd64ecf_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8253108027/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8253108027/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8356/8254181696_20b4a6473f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254181696/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254181696/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8212/8254182818_1b1cb7da4f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254182818/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254182818/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8253110933_677ed60793_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8253110933/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8253110933/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8503/8253111431_3b85769e94_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8253111431/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8253111431/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8341/8254184532_3e2a82e480_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254184532/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254184532/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8337/8254185312_c830297455_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254185312/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254185312/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8361/8254186190_15f80e5d54_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254186190/)
Techno Phantoms (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8254186190/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

[tanakapz]

i love this build, definitely one of the nicest as of late. i live in the east bay, whereabouts are you?

[smaeda]

Woow thats sweet.

[The Platypus]

i love this build, definitely one of the nicest as of late. i live in the east bay, whereabouts are you?

Concord/Pleasant Hill area. And thanks, that really means a lot to me :)


Woow thats sweet.

Thanks man!

[tanakapz]

For sure, i'm in danville/san ramon haha. shoot me a msg if you head out to any meets over winter break, i'll be back!

[LostcoastNB]

Where did you find those ats complites?

[The Platypus]

For sure, i'm in danville/san ramon haha. shoot me a msg if you head out to any meets over winter break, i'll be back!

Sure, I'll do that.


Where did you find those ats complites?

A guy in San Jose who had them was selling them on CR quite some time ago.

[Demon I Am]

nice find! thems is pretty

[The Platypus]

nice find! thems is pretty

Thanks. They are quite pretty.

[speedypenguin]

Are you going to keep those ATS complites? If you're considering selling, let me know! I like those wheels. Haha.

I'm serious. :)

[The Platypus]

Most likely going to keep them as track wheels, but if I decide to sell them, I'll let you know.

[Caoboy]

Hmmm....

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_luu4b0hnNi1qd82l3o1_500.jpg

[The Platypus]

^ Yeah it might be pretty close to his, but mine are 15s (his are 14s, I believe). His car is definitely one of my inspirations. As much as I would like my car to be compared with his, I don't think mine ever could due to how simply clean his is.

[Heyitsryan]

Man, white miatas are really FTW.

[Caoboy]

It'll be interesting seeing the technophatnoms in 15. They might look really big with that lip.

[The Platypus]

Man, white miatas are really FTW.

Yeah, they're awesome.


It'll be interesting seeing the technophatnoms in 15. They might look really big with that lip.

Yeah, I'm not quite sure what it will look like yet. I hope I can pull them off.

[Heyitsryan]

So what's next for the car?

[The Platypus]

So what's next for the car?

Get the wheels on and get new tires for it, finish engine build and get Maruha header and ITBs, track the car, and I don't know what else haha. The finished engine is probably so far down the road. I keep getting delayed so I don't know when it's going to be finished.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Why does everyone want ITB's?

[The Platypus]

I've wanted ITBs since I got my car. I just strayed off course for a little bit.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Ah ok

[The Platypus]

I guess that doesn't really answer your question though. I guess everyone wants ITBs because they are awesome. Haha honestly that's probably why most of the people who want them do.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

I felt the same way for sometime, but then again I would rather have a good amount of power for the money I spend.

[The Platypus]

Yeah I know exactly what you mean. That's why I strayed off course for a while. For me though, I stopped caring about the max amount of power I could make vs the money I put into it and instead started to think more of what I really wanted and what I would have more fun in, and it always kept coming back to an all-motor ITB build. Definitely if I ever pick up a second Miata I'll boost the shit out of it with goals of 300+whp or something, I just don't think it should be this car that I do that to.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Interesting, well good luck. ITB's are really cool. Hope that it all works out for you!

[The Platypus]

So I put the wheels on. I think I just need smaller tires and maybe go a little bit lower.
Anyways, here are some pictures. A proper shoot will follow as soon as I get new tires and the weather stays clear for a while.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8492/8304605327_bb39800de1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8304605327/)
DSC_0338.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8304605327/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8083/8304619403_56f68233d8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8304619403/)
DSC_0130.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8304619403/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8079/8304620501_6bd1791ff2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8304620501/)
DSC_0139.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8304620501/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8305668816_b0ec9b9334_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305668816/)
DSC_0147.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305668816/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8357/8304622421_db61e4a21b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8304622421/)
DSC_0171.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8304622421/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8213/8305670944_c4fe975918_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305670944/)
DSC_0222.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305670944/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
Just an interior shot
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8081/8305671658_dd849e1646_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305671658/)
DSC_0239.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305671658/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8358/8305672618_ec3f0a0701_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305672618/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305672618/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8351/8305674230_a22c27db84_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305674230/)
DSC_0305.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305674230/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8305675590_a763e94fb3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305675590/)
DSC_0314.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8305675590/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

[Willywongka]

My car was broken into at school. They smashed my window in and stole my steering wheel. Glass all over the place and couldn't go to work. It saddens me that people are like this, but I really shouldn't have left the steering wheel in there. I know better than that.

If the person who stole my wheel is on here, we both know that you don't deserve such a nice wheel, but please take care of it as well as I did.

I know I am saying this a little late but, I swear I am hearing this happening more often these days in our area. So shitty man! =(. I guess it could have been worse.

Note: Thats crazy cause Techno Phantoms are my favorite wheels as well! I wish they made them in 4 x 100. You have great taste =). Esp since we have the same year car and color! Hope to see you at a car meet sometime man. Your car is coming together quite nice!

[The Platypus]

I know I am saying this a little late but, I swear I am hearing this happening more often these days in our area. So shitty man! =(. I guess it could have been worse.

Yeah, honestly it's not even a thing to me anymore. I'm way over it. I know that the shit happens all the time and it really wasn't a big deal looking back on it. You're right though, it definitely could have been worse.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Damn dude, those look amazing.

[The Platypus]

Thanks man! I'm glad I got them haha.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

How big are they? They look tiny.

[The Platypus]

They're 15x7 et-2

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Really? Wow...

[The Platypus]

Haha wow what?

[I<3flippyheadlights]

They look smaller than 15's. Maybe its the small face. I really love em.

[The Platypus]

Thanks man. I like them too haha. I think they'll look better with smaller tires, yeah?

[I<3flippyheadlights]

I like them the way they are. Is it a 205 tire?

[The Platypus]

The rears are 205/50 and the fronts are 195/50 (they came with the wheels)

[I<3flippyheadlights]

ahhhhh

[Caoboy]

Needs moar low with TechnoPhantoms. But I sure do like it.

[etikoner]

Fuck.... I've never even stepped in here. Tons of props for doing everything the right way first instead of cheaping out.
Sorry about the steering wheel incident.... Your post right after it though, wow... You seem like a really cool stand up guy lol.

Those ATS's looked right at home once you threw on the R- Package lip. And I'm sure those grippy ass tires combined with the FCM shocks was like heaven.

Also, when I first saw your Techno Phantoms I really thought you had bought Billy's old set, haha.I even really thought they were 14's! till I saw the pic posted of his and yours, but still, they look fucken sweet on this car.

Finally, Super excited for your future ITB build. Seeing how far you've gone I can only guess that when you tear into the engine that it's gonna be top notch!

[The Platypus]

Wow, thanks! That's probably one of the most awesome comments I've received ever. Thank you :)

[The Platypus]

My new tires arrived today so I took them to get mounted as soon as the delivery guy left.
They are just some 195/50/15 Hankook Ventus Concept or something like that. I gotta say though, I already miss the 205s on the ATS wheels. I might have to put them on this weekend and go for a drive or something.

Anyways, on to the random pictures I took.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8359295089_edd3e2d7ef_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8359295089/)
New tires (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8359295089/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8517/8360359446_e941b94ce1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8360359446/)
Tires ready to go (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8360359446/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8183/8359297059_a537dbc186_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8359297059/)
Squat (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8359297059/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
With the new tires

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8359298161_57218020fa_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8359298161/)
Sleeping after a long day's work (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8359298161/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8514/8360357268_85d71796a3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8360357268/)
Garage life (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8360357268/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

The inside of the wheels look weird as *f'k*f'k*f'k*f'k*f'k I wish they were wider, haha.

[Caoboy]

So. Bueno.

[The Platypus]

Gracias.

I forgot to upload this random picture that I took with my phone while waiting to get my tires mounted.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8216/8362079570_3f10b5d6e8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8362079570/)
IMAG0225-1.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8362079570/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

[WASABI]

Super build Brandon! You're car has really become unique. I love the stance, wheels, and hardtop. Keep up the good work.

-Jim

[The Platypus]

Thanks, Jim! I appreciate the kind words. I will make sure to keep up the good work.

[The Platypus]

Alriiiiight, so today was a pretty nice day so I took the hardtop off and went for a drive. I was planning on taking pictures at this place at the top of the mountain/hill or whatever, but there were so many people there and I didn't want to be rude or anything so I just left and continued driving down the road.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8526/8498628741_c82d882a82_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498628741/)
Inspiration point (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498628741/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

I actually ended up finding a pretty nice spot about a mile down past the inspiration point. So here are the pictures from that, I took a lot more, I just really only liked these few.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8499733990_8747ba4324_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8499733990/)
DSC_0453 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8499733990/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8498630925_d2f9151fc0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498630925/)
DSC_0430 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498630925/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8499736264_9c3b269226_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8499736264/)
DSC_0417 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8499736264/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8520/8498632923_698cf2e7ed_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498632923/)
DSC_0392 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498632923/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8527/8498634087_470c4d24eb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498634087/)
DSC_0361 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498634087/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

And an unedited one just for the heck of it:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8375/8498635111_78aa70f1d4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498635111/)
unedited. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8498635111/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

That's it for now.

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Car looks great man. I don't think I have a chance in MoTM against that piece of art.

[The Platypus]

Aw shit man, thanks. That's really nice of you to say that.

Much love <3

[maharaj]

How do you like the new tires?

[The Platypus]

How do you like the new tires?

They're decent, not anything like my re-11s though :/
I mean I can still somewhat push them hard but definitely not as much as I used to. They seem pretty decent for everyday driving though.

[maharaj]

Any reason you didn't go with the Ventus RS-3's?

[The Platypus]

Any reason you didn't go with the Ventus RS-3's?

They don't make them in 195/50, nor do I need performance tires on these wheels. I don't plan on ever tracking the car with these wheels on, due to the fact that I have to use lug adapters, they are only 7 inches wide, and they are my babies. When I get my 15x9 6ULs, I'll use RS3s.

[Selonari]

If you ever want to part with that rsr exhaust, let me know ;)

[The Platypus]

If you ever want to part with that rsr exhaust, let me know ;)

Haha, you're not the first to ask me :)

[The Platypus]

Damn, it's been a while. I guess I have a few small updates. First, a couple of old pictures I found on my phone.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2862/9926419576_b46c5545a5_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926419576/)
IMAG0466 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926419576/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5513/9926462384_5e971837de_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926462384/)
IMAG0464 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926462384/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Little throwback to when I had ITB's for a little bit.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7393/9926421926_b73d20f678_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926421926/)
Throwback to when my car had ITBs (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926421926/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Okay, so some time ago, I did a little wire-tuck.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5331/9926464354_8911e8fc26_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926464354/)
Starting the tuck (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926464354/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2868/9926464304_844744e2af_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926464304/)
20130728_132659 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926464304/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7358/9926562873_f8b9a10164_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926562873/)
20130728_141141 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926562873/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
All plugs on the passenger side unplugged, ready to be depinned.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7421/9926464174_986b4dc6fb_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926464174/)
20130728_144601 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926464174/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
Removing the safety tab to get to the lock tabs

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5484/9926562773_9025155d6e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926562773/)
20130728_144620 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926562773/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
Make sure to write down or take a picture of the order of the wires so you don't forget how they go back in

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7430/9926402085_3c51b6be0d_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926402085/)
De-pinning tool (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926402085/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
Make a little depinning tool by grinding down an allen key really thin and flat like so. You might want to make two (one smaller than the other)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7451/9926587683_24969479f9_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926587683/)
Wire-tuck (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926587683/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
Then place the tool in between the metal and the black plastic retainer, and push down while pulling the wire out the other size.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/9926423216_86bf274376_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926423216/)
Wire-tuck (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926423216/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr
Then wrap your shit in PET and reroute it. You should only have to extend a couple wires. Unfortunately I don't have any final pictures of it. But yeah, you get the picture.

Sometime before that I ordered a whole bunch of parts. Some new wheels, tires, AK widebody, trunk, finish panel, etc.
Parts were starting to trickle in, but unfortunately while I was at work, some girl hit my car while it was parked next to her. Hit and run. Someone saw it though and got the license plate and came in and gave it to me, so I called the cops, and they found the person the next day. She claimed she didn't know she hit me, but said her insurance would pay for the damage.

Here's a picture of the damage, along with the trunk and finish panel mocked up
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2823/9926562243_e7db916022_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926562243/)
Damage (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926562243/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Since then, I decided to sell that finish panel because I acquired a Slick Auto one instead.

More parts came in and I mocked some of them up as well.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5464/9926402885_9f6a688f90_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926402885/)
Tease (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926402885/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2875/9926561623_2c421e3f1d_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926561623/)
AK Fenders (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926561623/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

Last Thursday, we loaded the car up on the trailer and took it down to the paint shop. Gonna get the whole car resprayed.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5341/9926400125_5785c8c0f6_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926400125/)
Loaded up (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/9926400125/) by Some Platypus (http://www.flickr.com/people/theplatypus/), on Flickr

The wheels should be here by the time the car is done so I guess it works out perfectly.

That's it for now, but I'll be sure to take pictures when I get the car back.

[The Platypus]

Bit of an update: got the car back from paint, raised it up a bit to make sure I clear everything. Gonna get an alignment and lower it back down later.
I promise I'll get better pictures later, but for now:

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3720/11230388475_4b7d618467_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/11230388475/)

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3819/11230385215_357b5dcf56_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/11230385215/)

[psulja]

That looks awesome! Really like what you've done with the car

[I<3flippyheadlights]

HOLY SHIT!?

The car is completely different!? LOOKS AMAZING!

[treeafodo]

I wasn't expecting this at all. Looks amazing!

[Dandy]

That is one unique looking vehicle. It's going to be fun to drive.

[The Platypus]

Thanks guys. After I get an alignment and a new battery I can't wait to start smashing with it again

[theothersawyer]

Such an amazing change since the last update in this thread. Look great!!

[Vegard]

I've been looking at the top picture for a looong long time, looks so good!

Need more :)

[Grip Driver]

That looks great, very aggressive!

[The Platypus]

Thanks guys! Here's a couple more.

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3822/11265901715_594834f90b_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/11265901715/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7369/11265946194_e75a14dc96_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/11265946194/)

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3670/11265989843_00f06f045c_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/11265989843/)

[treeafodo]

Awesome! I like the second shot a lot.

[The Platypus]

Awesome! I like the second shot a lot.

Thank you sir

[speedypenguin]

Wow, what a transformation. Hope to have the opportunity to see your car in the near future. We need more meets in the East Bay!

[tsingson]

I love the way it sits and looks! Great Job! The only thing I am not a fan of the front fenders. Just not my cup of tea. But overall, you're Miata is so damn sweet.

[artcentermiata]

Oh man! i saw pics of this car around the net, i didnt realize it was yours! haha

what a transformation!

[The Platypus]

Oh man! i saw pics of this car around the net, i didnt realize it was yours! haha

what a transformation!

Around the net? Like where? haha

[The Platypus]

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3764/12148183186_613d8cea78_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/12148183186/)

So, I installed a 1.6 dash the other day. Here's a couple pictures my friend took.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5539/12159771936_2bcd27ba03_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bcgarlex/12159771936/)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7294/12159773476_6c0f827747_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bcgarlex/12159773476/)

I plan on getting some new gauge faces and possibly a starter switch/button panel or something to take the place of the radio sometime in the future.

[WASABI]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6793808071_4a24d4f3a5_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3670/11265989843_00f06f045c_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/11265989843/)

She's come a long way!!!

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Car is an incredible amount of dopeness. Seriously, I can't get over how great this car looks.

[The Platypus]

She's come a long way!!!
I know, haha. I almost can't even believe I used to own the car in the first picture.


Car is an incredible amount of dopeness. Seriously, I can't get over how great this car looks.
Thanks dude, means a lot :fab:

[etikoner]

I'm envious of your 1.6 dash swap.
The car's looking damn good, man!
That nardi just tops off the interior nicely!

[The Platypus]

I'm envious of your 1.6 dash swap.
The car's looking damn good, man!
That nardi just tops off the interior nicely!

Thanks. I'm planning on doing some custom door panels and possibly gutting the carpet and respraying the interior when I get some Recaros.

[BoBo]

Fantastic buildup bro! you car came a long way.

[The Platypus]

And the car is now sold.

Thank you everyone for all the love over the years and for everything I've learned from the people on the forum. I made a new instagram and I plan on buying an ITR in the next couple of months so if you wanna follow that build when it comes, it's @thats_bran

[Ihatecars]

And the car is now sold.

Thank you everyone for all the love over the years and for everything I've learned from the people on the forum. I made a new instagram and I plan on buying an ITR in the next couple of months so if you wanna follow that build when it comes, it's @thats_bran

I really idolized your Roadster. It makes me sad knowing that it's no longer your Roadster. Hopefully the next owner takes care of it.

I look forward to your ITR content.

[The Platypus]

I really idolized your Roadster. It makes me sad knowing that it's no longer your Roadster. Hopefully the next owner takes care of it.

I look forward to your ITR content.

Thank you, sir. I didn't know you liked it that much. If I ever see the car online again, I'll make sure to post it somewhere. And the new owner literally just turned 16 so I really hope he takes care of it as well.

And thank you sir. Might be a bit till I get it but when I do I'm gonna go all out on that build.

[theothersawyer]

Damn! Why'd you sell it? You just did a whole bunch of work to it!

[WASABI]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8123635895_1a4231300f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/theplatypus/8123635895/)

That's it for now.

http://replygif.net/i/933.gif

[Ihatecars]

^Stahp.