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mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:23 AM
Hey all.

My previous car was a Nissan S15 (http://forum.jdmstyletuning.com/showthread.php?26278-My-S15-)), built for track and street duties. Served me well but I sold so I could get an RX-7. Well instead of doing that, I've invested the money and bought an MX-5 instead. Should keep me entertained for the next 6 months or so, that's when I'll hopefully get my rotary fix.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0920-545x361.jpg
http://forum.jdmstyletuning.com/showthread.php?26278-My-S15-)

My blog - http://omgpham.com/

Modifications so far:

1.6L Engine from the NB6 (solid lifters, cam/crank angle sensors, etc...)
Extensively ported head
280 degree camshafts with 10.5mm lift
Oversized valves
Stronger valve springs
Toda adjustable cam pulleys/gears
HKS headers
Toyota AE101 ITBs
Garage Star/T3 ITB adapter
T3 Velocity Stacks
UNI filters
Outwears filter booties
Innovate MTX-L
Relocated brake prop valve
NB 5-Speed gearbox
Lightened flywheel 3.5kg
Cusco 1.5way LSD
4.778 diff ratio
Every nut and bolt re-zinc plated
Painted block
MegaSquirt DIYPNP ECU
Bluetooth ECU Connection
Custom ECU mounting
Toyota COPs
CNC cut COPs bracket
OBX dual feed fuel rail
Aeromotive FPR
Short shifter
Custom wiring harness, body and engine
FD3S RX-7 fuse folder
Dedicated engine fuse/relay panel
Flex-a-lite 16" thermofan
42 Draft Designs Catch Can
GarageStar radiator cooling panel
52mm aluminium radiator
MX-5 Plus custom exhaust
Yellowspeed Racing coilovers
Broadway Mirror
Frame Rail Braces
Low-Profile Headlights
Garage Vary front lip
Project-G Bikini Top
Carbon fibre side mirrors
Side Skirt Diffusers - http://omgpham.com/mx-5-miata-side-skirt-diffuser
R-Package rear lip
MX-5 Plus offset number plate bracket
Genuine hard top
Hard top brackets
KG-Works cluster
Vented front window
Momo Team 280mm steering wheel
Sparco Sprint V fixed back seat
MX-5 Plus Tall Boy roll bar
Whiteline sway bars
Genuine strut tower brace
Hankook RS-3 225/45/15 tyres
OG-San 15x8 +25mm with 5mm spacers to make it +20mm


My blog - http://omgpham.com/

How she currently sits (page 9):

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/evoblitz01-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/evoblitz01.jpg)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:25 AM
Had all four guards rolled yesterday, so the inner lip is now flat. Work was done by FineFitment (http://www.finefitment.com/) and I can definitely recommend them to anyone that needs some extra clearance for wheels.


http://omgpham.com/guards-rolled-wheels-arrived

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0737-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0737.jpg)
Car jacked up ready for some guard work =)

Also took a quick photo of the MX-5 Plus exhaust, love the lobster tail TIG welding!
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0738-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0738.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0739-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0739.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0741-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0741.jpg)
Guard roller mounted up ready for action.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0740-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0740.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0742-272x454.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0742.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0746-272x454.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0746.jpg)
Before and after shots of guard inner lip.

MY BRAND NEW WHEELS!!!!! Axis OG-San 15x8 +25
I ordered Axis OG-San (http://www.axiswheels.com/view-wheel/ogsan) wheels from JDMYard (http://www.jdmyard.com/), they were by far the cheapest I could find. Email response was fast and shipped out the next day. Definitely recommend them =) . The Axis OG-San wheels are replicas of the SSR Formula Mesh, which are the replicas of some BBS wheels. I ordered them in 15x8 +25 gold finish.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0747-545x325.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMGP4372-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMGP4373-272x204.jpg

For tyres, I've again chosen to go for maximum rubber instead (like my S15) of the stretched look. But I also wanted to avoid getting semi-slicks or R-Compound tyres for a car that I will most likely drive on a daily basis. So I decided on the Hankook R-S3 (http://www.hankooktyre.com.au/Product/product_main.aspx?pageNum=1&subNum=1&ChildNum=1&FnCode=01) in 225/45 R15. These were hard to source in Australia and they sell for $335AUD, compared to $110AUD from TireRack (http://www.tirerack.com/) in the US. After shipping and other fees, the tyres cost me just under $200AUD each landed at my door. Total saving of $540!!


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/ventus_rs3-545x726.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/ventus_rs3.jpg)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:28 AM
So my tyres didn't arrive last Friday... damn Customs held it for an extra day to inspect it. So should be here tomorow (Monday) and hopefully get some time to get the tyres fitted.

In other news, did some more work on the car =)

http://omgpham.com/under-bonnet-mysteries

I'm a bit OCD when it comes to wiring, I like everything to be neat and tidy. That means all wires bundled together, all connections soldered and heatshrinked. So every time I get a new car, I go through all the wiring to make sure everything was done right. Unfortunately, this is never the case...

While cleaning up the engine bay wiring, I found something really strange. Check out the photos below:


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/res01-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/res01.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/res02-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/res02.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/res03-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/res03.jpg)

Had to do some intense detective work to figure this out. Turns out it's a 1.5kOhm resitor that is in series with the coolant temp sensor for the ECU. This temp sensor's function is tell the ECU when to use the cold map (rich fuel mixture), this resistor in series tricks the ECU into thinking that the engine is actually cold.

In parralel with the resitor is a thermoswitch which closes when temperature rises to a specific point (not sure what temp though), this then shorts out the resistor and everything is back to normal so the ECU now thinks that the engine is warm.

I believe whoever did this wanted the engine to run on the cold map for longer because of Mazda's stupid coolant routing desing. This design flaw causes the rear of the engine to be hotter then the front. Meaning that the coolant temp sensor at the rear of the engine is reading warm when the engine is actually still a bit cold.

Although the mod works, there is no reason to have it. After removing all that junk, the car runs normal and no longer runs rich. So confused why they did this.... so silly!

The thermoswitch used - http://www.ngt.co.jp/en/Type03.html

Also spent the weekend replacing all the hoses and flushing out the coolant. Pretty happy to brand new hoses in the engine bay =)


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0755-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0755.jpg)
Intake and hoses removed.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0756-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0756.jpg)
All back together and happy again =)

And just another sneak peak before the new wheels and tyres go on.
Taken while we were at MX-5 Plus.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0753-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0753.jpg)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:29 AM
http://omgpham.com/wheels-tyres

Tyres finally arrived from TireRack in the US. Took a bit over a week because customs held it back for further inspections.... totally BALLS.

Quickly got them fitted up and installed on my MX-5 yesterday, first impressions were good but the alignment was all over the place. Had way too much toe and was crab walking all over the road. Turn-in was excellent though, steering is a bit heavier going from the 185 wide tyre to my new 225/45 Hankook RS-3 but still not too bad.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0765-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0765.jpg)

Today I got my alignment done at Rick's Wheel Alignments in Albion, I've been to these guys in the past and each time they have exceeded my expectations. Definitely recommend them =)

Aligned for mostly daily/hard parking with a bit of track work. Final alignment settings are:

Front

Camber : -3.0 degrees
Toe : ZERO
Caster : 5.0 degrees


Rear

Camber : -2.0 degrees
Toe : ZERO


The 15x8 +25mm wheels are a very safe fitment, I could probably do with a 10mm spacer on the rear and 5mm spacer on the front.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0762.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0762.jpg)

And just some preview shots before I get some real photos taken.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0763-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMAG0763.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/street01-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/street01.jpg)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:30 AM
So a pretty big update =)

http://omgpham.com/valve-stem-seal-leak

After doing a cruise through Mt. Nebo, I had lost about 800mL of oil. There were no leaks so the oil simply burnt up in combustion. This is usually caused by old piston rings or valve stem seals.

A quick compression test showed all cylinders produced identical compression readings, this rules out piston rings as the cause. When valve stem seals leak, blue smoke is usually seen when you start the car up first thing in the morning. Oil slowly leaks past the seals into the cylinders overnight, then burns up as you start the car up. My MX-5 did something different though... Under engine braking/over-run, the crank case vacuum sucks oil past the seals. Then as soon as you step on the throttle again, huge amounts of blue smoke escapes from your exhaust.

Was thinking about blowing up my engine and putting a new one in, but did my research and found that it's fairly cheap to fix.
So here it goes =)


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4421-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4421.jpg)

Firstly, I drained all the coolant and removed the top water hose as well as the intake piping. May as well remove the filter and air flow meter so you have more access to the exhaust manifold bolts. Everything was set to TDC, no need to though since the head is coming off.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4419-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4419.jpg)

Valve cover removed and showing the nice clean insides.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4420-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4420.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4421-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4421.jpg)

Cam pulleys removed and exhaust manifold un-bolted.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4422-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4422.jpg)

Camshafts and cam caps removed.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4423-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4423.jpg)

BOOOYAHHH! The head is off =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4425-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4425.jpg)

I decided to keep the intake manifold on the head to make removal easier. But will be removed before I send it to the engine machine shop.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4426-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4426.jpg)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:30 AM
Engine Out - http://omgpham.com/engine-out

After receiving my cylinder head back from Chilton Engineering, they informed me that my head was no good. The head tested too soft, which meant it overheated some time in the past, valve springs were damaged, valve seats were damaged. Pretty much scrap metal... To purchase a second hand head would cost around $500-$600, whereas buying an entire engine would cost $800 and also means I'll be replacing this "short nose crank" engine with a later model "big nose crank" engine. I obviously decided to go with a replacement engine =)

I was initially planning to remove just the engine and leave the gearbox in but this proved to be more difficult, so both engine and gearbox will be removed as a unit. The following had to be disconnected from the gearbox:


neutral switch wiring
reverse light switch wiring
speedo drive cable
clutch line
Power Plant Frame
shifter


While under the car, I also drained the transmission fluid so that it doesn't leak too much as we tilt the gearbox out of the engine bay.

Some photos now:


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4427-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4427.jpg)
Bonnet removed to make it easier to work one.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4430-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4430.jpg)
Radiator and fans removed.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4432-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4432.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4431-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4431.jpg)
Exhaust headers removed.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4433-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4433.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4434-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4434.jpg)
Shifter removed revealing ripped shifter boot.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4435-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4435.jpg)
The damaged head... =(

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:31 AM
She's Heartless - http://omgpham.com/shes-heartless

Had some time today so went ahead with removing the engine out, I like to call it a heart transplant. Was a pretty straight forward process and easy enough to do by my self. Tried to take as many photos as I could remember, enjoy =)


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4438-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4438.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4439-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4439.jpg)
Before I could start, had to remove the front lip because it couldn't clear the engine crane. Stupid ride height...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4440-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4440.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4442-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4442.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4443-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4443.jpg)
Chained up and slowly lift and tilt it out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4445-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4445.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4446-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4446.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4447-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4447.jpg)
And it's out!!!!!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4448-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4448.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4449-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4449.jpg)
Once the engine was safely outside of the engine bay, I split the gearbox away from the engine. Once that ws done, I saw that the clutch was getting old so decided to replace it while everything was out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4450-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4450.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4451-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4451.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4452-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4452.jpg)
Picked up a Exedy Heavy Duty clutch kit from NPC (http://www.npcperformance.com.au/). Price was awesome and came with the clutch, pressure plate and throwout bearing.

That's it for now, should be picking up the replacement engine tomorrow. Then more fun =)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:32 AM
So instead of buying a replacement NA6 engine, I bought a NB6 engine. Still 1.6L but was taken from a JDM 2002 NB Roadster. Has solid lifters instead of hydraulic lash adjusters and makes about 10HP more, uses my original wiring etc... More details later.

http://hphotos-iad1.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/338598_10150445511911072_524526071_10726377_123337 1781_o.jpg

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:32 AM
My New Engine... NB6 - http://omgpham.com/my-new-engine-nb6

Bought my replacement engine on Saturday from MX-5 Plus (www.mx5plus.com.au), but instead of picking up a regular 1.6L B6 engine from a NA6 I purchased a 1.6L long engine from the NB6. In Japan, the NB series Roadster (MX-5) had the 1.6L engine up until 2005. The cast iron block is identical, but the head and intake are different. The hydraulic lash adjusters are replaced with solid lifters and cams have more lift. The CAS is no longer used and replaced with a cam position sensor and crank angle sensor. The NB6 also uses the crank-shaft nose/pulley/cog, water pump and oil pump from the 1.8L BP engine.

To run the NB6 engine in a NA6, there are two options. First option is to swap the entire NB6 wiring and ECU into the NA6, the other option is to use the following NA6 items on your NB6 head/block.


intake
exhaust
CAS
rear water outlet
front water outlet
alternator (using the NB6 pulley)
air con (if you have it)
power steering (if you have it)


In addition to this, you will need a modified intake cam-shaft. The NB6 intake cam-shaft doesn't have a slot for the CAS, so the NA6 cam-shaft end is cut off and pressed into the NB6 cam-shaft. Pretty straight forward and costs $100 to do.

Now all that info is out of the way, here are some photos of my progress so far.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4453-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4453.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4454-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4454.jpg)
Showing the revised crank nose, difference between the short nose crank-shaft bolt (right) and the revised crank bolt.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4455-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4455.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4458-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4458.jpg)
Removing the old front seal, new front seal in. May as well replace all the seals and gaskets while the engine is out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4456-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4456.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4457-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4457.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4459-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4459.jpg)
Removing the sump was a bitch because the baffle is bolted under the oil pickup, and this results in the sump being "stuck" until you seperate the baffle from the sump.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4460-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4460.jpg)
Brand spanking new water pump =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4461-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4461.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4462-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4462.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4464-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4464.jpg)
Pulley boss attached, and most of the external parts attached.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4465-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4465.jpg)
Engine finally off the stand =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4466-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4466.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4467-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4467.jpg)
New rear main seal in and flywheel on (nearly anyways).

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:33 AM
New Radiator - http://omgpham.com/new-radiator-stuff

After finding out my radiator was leaking, I ordered a eBay special China radiator. Bought one for my S15 and it was pretty decent, especially for under $200. I ordered the 52mm dual core aluminium design for a low low cost of $175 delivered to my door from Melbourne.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4471-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4471.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4472-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4472.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4474-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4474.jpg)
Test fitting it, a bit of squeeze because its 52mm thick. But so worth it =)

Also I took my valve cover and water outlets to get blasted at Chilton Engineering, they turned out looking brand new! Much better then paying over $300 for brand new items through Mazda.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4468-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4468.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4469-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4469.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4470-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4470.jpg)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:34 AM
Engine Swap Completed - http://omgpham.com/engine-swap-completed

So stayed up late last night getting it all ready, completed everything apart from gearbox oil and timing. Didn't run into problems, just followed the service manual etc.. Did everything by myself, actually pretty easy to pull/install engines in the MX-5.

And now the photos I managed to take =)


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4479-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4479.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4480-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4480.jpg)
New clutch on and aligned, my freshly blasted alternator case.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4481-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4481.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4482-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4482.jpg)
The modified NB6 intake camshaft to allow use of the CAS.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4485-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4485.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4486-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4486.jpg)
Timing belt TDC, timing covers on.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4487-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4487.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4488-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4488.jpg)
Gearbox mounted and ready to go in =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4491-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4491.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4492-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4492.jpg)
Lowering it in slowly, easy does it.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4493-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4493.jpg)
BBOOOOooooooooyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa h!!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4494-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4494.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4495-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4495.jpg)
Exhaust manifold and valve cover back on.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4497-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4497.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4498-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4498.jpg)
52mm dual core aluminium radiator mounted up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4499-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4499.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4500-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4500.jpg)
Intake back on and temporary catch can installed.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4496-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4496.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4503-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4503.jpg)
Bleeding clutch with a "one man brake bleeder kit" and filling gearbox with oil using a funnel and hose.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4501-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4501.jpg)
THE END

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:35 AM
While doing the engine swap I noticed that my shifter boots were ripped, lower boot was leaking oil from the turret t00. So below are some details and photos of the entire process.

The part numbers for my 1990 MX-5 are:

lower boot - M514-17-480A
upper boot - NA01-64-481B


Had some troubles finding the lower boot though, fortunately there is an alternative part no. M513-17-480A which you can use too.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4511-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4511.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4512-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4512.jpg)
Firstly remove the gear knob, I find using some rubber gloves helps a lot. Then proceed to remove the centre console, this then reveals the upper shifter boot.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4513-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4513.jpg)
After removing the upper boot, this revealed by ghetto shift boot. Had to do this while I was waiting for the replacement boot, just helped to soak up any leaking oil.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4514-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4514.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4515-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4515.jpg)
Photo on left shows the damaged lower boot, then next photo is the lower boot removed. Take this chance to check your turret oil level and fill up if needed. Becareful not to overfill or oil will be pushed out once you put the shifter back in.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4516-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4516.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4517-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4517.jpg)
Shifter out showing the ripped boot. To remove the boot, oil up the shaft and pull it off up the shifter.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4518-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4518.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4519-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4519.jpg)
New lower shift boot, to install just oil up the shaft and slide it on.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4520-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4520.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4521-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4521.jpg)
When putting the shifter back in use a bit of sealant, then slide on the new upper boot and you're done!

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:36 AM
Bought my self some awesome presents,a MX-5 Plus Tall Boy roll bar and a Sparco Sprint V fixed back seat. I chose the Tall Boy roll bar because it sits 50mm taller than the standard version, bit safer and allows for taller seating positions if needed. The Sparco Sprint V is popular within the MX-5 community because it bolts up to the standard rails, but good because it actually fits inside the car!

There are more photos of the install after the break, but I was pretty slack with the camera this time round.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMAG0866-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMAG0866.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMAG0867-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMAG0867.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMAG0868-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMAG0868.jpg)


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4531-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4531.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4532-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4532.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4533-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4533.jpg)
Some better photos when I got the roll bar home.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4534-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4534.jpg)
The hardware that came with the roll bar kit.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4535-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4535.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4536-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4536.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4537-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4537.jpg)
Carpet and plastic trims removed ready for the roll bar install - the supplied spacer for the top mount - roll bar installed!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4538-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4538.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4539-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/IMGP4539.jpg)
Roll bar and seat installed =D

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:36 AM
Small update...

I recently ordered a new steering wheel, made a risky choice and picked the 280mm diameter Momo Team. It's ridiculously stupidly small.... Upside is that it feels like I'm driving a go kart and the response/feedback is amazing. Steering effort is increased but still manageable, only difficulty is reverse parking.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4546-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4546.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4547-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4547.jpg)
My small ass 280mm diameter steering wheel.

I also bought a proper oil catch can to replace the temprorary one I had. It's made by 42 Draft Designs (http://www.42draftdesigns.com/categories/products/catchcans.html) and I had one in my Nissan S15 (http://omgpham.com/oil-catch-can) too, build quality is amazing and has a filter inside to properly catch all oil vapours.

I purchased it locally through Carformance:
http://www.carformance.com.au/products/42-draft-designs/stealth-oil-catch-can.html


The multi-layer filter used inside the 42 Draft Designs catch can.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_d1QtJVKjgag/SwrDRSSd-cI/AAAAAAAAAJI/71_zpYQR7rg/cc_stl02%5B1%5D.jpg (http://lh5.ggpht.com/_d1QtJVKjgag/SwrDRSSd-cI/AAAAAAAAAJI/71_zpYQR7rg/cc_stl02%5B1%5D.jpg)

Now some photos of the catch can install =)


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4549-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4549.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4550-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4550.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4551-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4551.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4552-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4552.jpg)
Just used some U-Bolts to hold the catch can to my strut brace, and left over hose I had.

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:37 AM
Garage Star Radiator Cooling Plate - http://omgpham.com/garage-star-radiator-cooling-plate

Ordered a Garage Star Radiator Cooling Plate, pretty decent price of only $60USD shipped from the US.

So below are some photos, enjoy =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4559-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4559.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4562-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4562.jpg)
The build quality is very good and comes with all hardware to install, also a sticker =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4563-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4563.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4567-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4567.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4569-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4569.jpg)
Definitely helps clean up the engine bay, also has added cooling benefits by keeping airflow directed through the radiator.

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:37 AM
R-Package Rear Lip - http://omgpham.com/r-package-rear-lip-stuff


Took some quick photos of my baby also to show the R-Package Rear Lip I recently installed.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4573-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4573.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4570-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4570.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4572-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4572.jpg)

Now the R-Package Rear Lip =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4575-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4575.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4580-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4580.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4577-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/IMGP4577.jpg)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:38 AM
ITB Build - http://omgpham.com/itb-build

So over the holidays I put some money down on a few parts for the car, will make for some great New Years Resolutions =)

Found a brand new ITB kit "second hand" off a forum, was able to get it at a very good price so I'm going to try do a budget build. Kit came with the Garage Star/Techno Toy Tuning (T3) adapter plate (black), Toyota AE101 throttle bodies, fuel rail mount, velocity stacks (black), air filters, vacuum block, Toyota TPS and various gaskets.

I've also got myself a Megasquirt DIYPNP ECU for tuning purposes, will assemble this ASAP and get running with the car as is. Will need other parts too like a new fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, wideband O2 sensor and synchrometer to sync the throttle bodies.

ITBs will improve engine response, emit evil noises from the engine bay as well as a small jump in power. My initial goal is to have fun building/tuning the engine, but long term is to gain more power with cams, head port/polish (and maybe other expensive stuff!).

Some good info here:
http://clubroadster.net/vb_forum/showthread.php?t=39898


What it'll roughly look like when done.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-inst-02-545x370.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-inst-02.jpg)

Now some pretty photos of the ITB kit I bought!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-assem-01-545x405.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-assem-01.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-assem-02-272x182.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-assem-02.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-assem-03-272x182.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-assem-03.jpg)
AE101 throttle bodies mounted to the Garage Star/Techno Toy Tuning (T3) adapter plate with the velocity stacks.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-cnc-03-545x448.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-cnc-03.jpg)
mmmmmm ITB adapter plates.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-part-01-545x257.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-part-01.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-part-02-545x241.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-part-02.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-part-03-545x224.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-part-03.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-part-04-545x249.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/itb-part-04.jpg)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:38 AM
MegaSquirt DIYPNP ECU - http://omgpham.com/megasquirt-diypnp-ecu

Ordered my ECU from DIYAutoTune.com (http://www.diyautotune.com/) last week and it arrived today, will start building it ASAP and get it running on the stock engine. Should be able to get some practise tuning the ECU before I get time to install the ITB setup (http://omgpham.com/itb-build).

The DIYPNP ECU is based on the MegaSquirt Micro Module V2.2, doesn't have as many features as the MS3 but still provides a lot of tuneability and options. Definitely more then enough for a ITB intake setup.


Some quick photos before I start assembling.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4587-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4587.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4586-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4586.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4581-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4581.jpg)
Unboxing my new toy =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4588-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4588.jpg)
The MegaSquirt Micro Module V2.2

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:39 AM
Side Skirt Install - http://omgpham.com/side-skirt-install

I decided to add some products to sell on my blog, first being the Side Skirt Diffusers (http://omgpham.com/mx-5-miata-side-skirt-diffuser). The shipment arrived this morning and I installed them right away =)

Installation was a breeze and only requires the factory bolts as well as some self tapping screws. I took as many photos as I could below, but it's lacking because I was so excited....


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4596-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4596.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4597-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4597.jpg)
Didn't take me long... FedEx guy was still there when I opened the boxes!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4599-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4599.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4600-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4600.jpg)
Jacked her up and removing the factory bolts.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4601-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4601.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4603-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4603.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4604-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4604.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4605-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4605.jpg)
Installation completed and looking haaaawt!

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:39 AM
Prototype Gear Knobs - http://omgpham.com/prototype-gear-knobs

Been busy the last week with prototyping a few gear knobs that I hope to produce in the future. With help from a friend, these were turned manually on a lathe and made from stainless steel and Nylon with a steel insert. Threaded specifically for MX-5/Miata models.

Will be testing them over the next couple of weeks to see how they perform. And final production units will be available in stainless steel or Delrin.

I took some photos of the process and will update later with installed photos. Enjoy =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0946-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0946.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0947-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0947.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0948-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0948.jpg)
1. Bored out the centre and drilled a hole for the thread
2. Tapering the bottom half of the gear knob
3. Rounding/smoothing the top of the gear knob

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0949-545x911.jpg
Completed piece with a nice smooth brushed finish.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0950-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0950.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0951-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0951.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0952-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0952.jpg)
1. Centre drilled out and bottom tapered
2. Turned the entire length to give it a nice clean finish
3. Top of knob was rouned to a nice smooth finish

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0953-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0953.jpg)
Machining the steel insert that will be pushed into the nylon body, gives it added strenth.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0954-272x454.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0954.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0956-272x454.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMAG0956.jpg)
The completed knob and our method of "pushing" in the steel insert.

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:40 AM
Vented Windows - http://omgpham.com/vented-windows

It gets damn hot inside an MX-5, daammmnnnnn hot! So I picked up some vented front quarter windows. I wanted the KG Works "winged" windows but they're about $1200.... the ones I got are the next best thing =P

Installation was a breeze and they get a lot of air into the car, works much better than I thought. They're made from Lexan and the vents are designed for light plane air ventilation systems.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4622-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4622.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4624-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4624.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4625-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4625.jpg)
So first thing was to remove the door card, this will reveal a few bolts that hold the the window frame. Slide the seal out to reveal two screws to completely unbolt the frame.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4627-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4627.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4628-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4628.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4629-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4629.jpg)
The window then slides out pretty easily, rubber seal comes off too. I then cleaned it up with some warm water and soup, heaps of gunky build up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4630-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4630.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4631-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4631.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4633-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4633.jpg)
Slide the cleaned up seal onto my vented window, so pretty!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4634-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4634.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4636-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4636.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4637-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4637.jpg)
With the help of some rubber lubricant, the vented window slides in very easily.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4638-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4638.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4639-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4639.jpg)
Then repeat on the driver side, and my JDMST Supporter sticker.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4649-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4649.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4653-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4653.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4654-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4654.jpg)
Some nice close up photo.

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:41 AM
MegaSquirt DIYPNP ECU Build - http://omgpham.com/megasquirt-diypnp-ecu-build
(http://omgpham.com/megasquirt-diypnp-ecu-build)
I've been slowly building my MegaSquirt DIYPNP ECU (http://omgpham.com/megasquirt-diypnp-ecu), just wanted to take my time so I don't screw anything up. I have configured to be run on a standard engine with MAF removed, just so I can learn how to tune the basemap. This means standard narrow-band O2 sensor, stock TPS, etc...

All instructions can be found in the links below:
http://www.diyautotune.com/diypnp/docs.html
http://www.diyautotune.com/diypnp/apps/n76/usdm-mazda-miata-9093-16b6-mt.html

For photos of the unboxing, check my previous post here (http://omgpham.com/megasquirt-diypnp-ecu).

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4589-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4589.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4590-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4590.jpg)
This is the ECU harness connector, plugs right into the MX-5 factory harness.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4591-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4591.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4592-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4592.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4593-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4593.jpg)
1. Resistors get soldered on first
2. Diodes and other taller components are installed
3. Connectors, ICs and the rest of the parts soldered

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4594-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4594.jpg)
I found this to be the hardest part of the build. Heaps of wires that need to be cut to length, stripped and tinned. This pinout will be different for each model of car, pinout can be found on the DIYAutoTune website.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4595-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4595.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4659-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4659.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4660-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4660.jpg)
The finished ECU looking all clean =)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:41 AM
Panda Panda - http://omgpham.com/panda-panda

My rear garnish panel was cracked all over and need to be replaced, so I found a second hand one for real cheap. Decided that I wanted it black so had my friend give it a fresh coat of paint, it came out looking brand new =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4662-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4662.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4663-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4663.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4664-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4664.jpg)
Rear lights removed to give access to the rear garnish panel.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4667-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4667.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4668-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4668.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4669-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMGP4669.jpg)
New rear garnish installed =)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:43 AM
Clutch Slave Replacement - http://omgpham.com/clutch-slave-replacement

Small update tonight... my clutch slave was leaking bad, fluid going everywhere!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4678-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4678.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4679-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4679.jpg)
To make life easier, I removed the driver side wheel to reach the clutch slave.
From there it's just the matter of removing the two 12mm bolts and the clutch line.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4680-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4680.jpg)
The old rusty leaking clutch slave....

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4677-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4677.jpg)
My brand new clutch slave =)

mrpham
02-07-2012, 06:43 AM
Attended the JDMST Meet for February 2012.

Photos and coverage of the event can be found below:
http://www.freeworks.com.au/blog/2012/2/5/jdmst.html
http://streetkarnage.blogspot.com.au/2012/02/2012-feb-downshiftjdmst-meet.html
http://forum.jdmstyletuning.com/showthread.php?41217-QLD-Feb-2012-Downshift-meet-pics

Some photos of my car that I was able to find.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/06-545x361.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/06.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/6822067573_1ce30bdb50_b-272x180.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/6822067573_1ce30bdb50_b.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/6828603237_965a280d3c_b-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/6828603237_965a280d3c_b.jpg)

mrpham
02-15-2012, 12:54 AM
In other news, my Innovate MTX-L wideband arrived and I found myself an automatic model throttle body for it's variable TPS.

Also some various bits and pieces arrived today...

Hard top brackets and leather door pulls.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4725-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4725.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4730-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMGP4730.jpg)

mrpham
03-06-2012, 07:32 PM
Carbon Fibre Side Mirror Install - http://omgpham.com/carbon-fibre-side-mirror-install

Have just gone through TWO house moves in the past week, so I haven't had much time to post up something new. But here are some photos and a walk through of the Carbon Fibre Side Mirror install.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0655-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0655.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0659-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0659.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0661-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0661.jpg)
First step is to insert the arm into the carbon fibre housing, once that's in just tighten it gently at the top using the supplied hardware.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0665-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0665.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0666-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0666.jpg)
At the base of the arm is a large grub screw, tighten this up to make the ball joint firmer. This can loosen over time, so just re-tighten when necessary. Then attach the base to the mounting plate using the supplied hardware.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0747-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0747.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0749-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0749.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0753-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0753.jpg)
To remove the factory mirrors, simply pop off the plastic cover to reveal the screws. Once the mirror is off, give the surface a decent clean before proceeding to the next step.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0754-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0754.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0755-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0755.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0764-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0764.jpg)
Make sure to use the rubber gaskets when installing the mounting plate to your door, then simply install the plate using the supplied hardware.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0757-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0757.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0760-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0760.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0761-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0761.jpg)
The finished product!

mrpham
03-06-2012, 07:34 PM
I also had stickers made for my blog, if anyone wants any (free of charge), just like my Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/omgphamcom/141917812546614) :) and I'll get them sent out for you.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/423325_276352152436512_141917812546614_672272_1841 487983_n.jpg

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/417480_275874755817585_141917812546614_671309_6132 88960_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/pages/omgphamcom/141917812546614)

Slow updates lately, have had too much stuff on plus I'm moving houses in a week. But I was able to get the ECU flashed and basemap loaded.


http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/406518_276506115754449_141917812546614_672570_1406 031953_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/pages/omgphamcom/141917812546614)

Conundrum
03-09-2012, 03:08 AM
I like this build so far, nice job.

Phatmiata
03-09-2012, 06:22 PM
excellent stuff!!! love all the photos! left you some green rep points!

mrpham
04-01-2012, 07:46 AM
Meh.... so no real updates lately. Have been busy with holidays and business so all my money and time and gone into them. First world problems?

Only thing I've done is add a new sticker, visit Zen Garage and goto to the last JDMST/Downshift meet.

Zen Garage Visit - http://omgpham.com/zen-garage-visit
Downshift March 2012 Meet - http://omgpham.com/downshift-meet-march-2012
More photos by other people - http://omgpham.com/downshift-meet-march-2012-others

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/IMG_0901-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/stickers-rising-sun-x-roadster)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/jwalker03.jpg (http://omgpham.com/downshift-meet-march-2012-others)

mrpham
04-10-2012, 08:00 PM
GarageStar x T3 ITB Adapters - http://omgpham.com/garagestar-x-t3-itb-adapters

I've been a slacker... I've had my ITB parts for months now and yet to install them. Well today I've started pulling the AE101 ITBs apart to clean and possibly paint. I also took the adapter plate to Chilton Engineering (http://www.chiltonengineering.com.au/), can never recommend them enough, and had them check it over to make sure everything was flat. Unfortunately, the side that bolts to the head wasn't very flat at all. This was concerning because there are water outlet/inlets on that side of the head and I didn't want to risk water leaking into the intake.

Photos below of the amazing looking adapter and the re-surface that Chilton did for me.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1008-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1008.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1007-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1007.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1009-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1009.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1010-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_101-.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1011-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1011.jpg)

psulja
04-10-2012, 10:46 PM
A+ thread! Love all the detailed pictures. That's a tiny steering wheel lol! Just liked your Facebook page :)

The Platypus
04-10-2012, 10:58 PM
Dope shiz man! :D

mrpham
04-13-2012, 03:19 AM
Thanks guys!


Another update... http://omgpham.com/short-shifter-x-dildo

OK so I bought myself a short shifter (short throw) a couple of months back with the intention of using a very tall shift knob. The idea is to reduce the throw enough so that using a tall shift knob will cancel each other out and the throw is close to standard. However, the shifter will be a lot closer to the steering wheel for faster gear changes. WIN-WIN!

If using the tall knob with factory shifter, the throw was stupidly long (just too ridiculous). And using the short shifter kit (short throw) with a standard shift knob made it very difficult to select gears because of how short the throw was.

The shift knob I'm using was a prototype I machined awhile back:
http://omgpham.com/prototype-gear-knobs

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1012-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1018.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1018-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1018.jpg)
Obviously the first step was to remove the center console and old shifter.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1015-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1015.jpg)
Also a little surprise... the new lower shifter boot I replaced not long ago is already ripped!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1020-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1020.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1021-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1021.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1022-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1022.jpg)
Removed the factory plastic bush (keep this for later) and installed the supplied aluminium spacer, slot side down. Should sit just below the top, enough room for the plastic bushing.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1023-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1023.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1024-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1024.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1025-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1025.jpg)
Then installed the supplied plastic bushing, the piece on top the supplied top spacer with the locator towards the front. Make sure the holes line up with the original.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1027-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1027.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1028-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1028.jpg)
Secure everything with supplied bolts and top plate, top part of the shifter is then installed.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1031-545x817.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1031.jpg)
And completed!

I<3flippyheadlights
04-13-2012, 08:20 AM
Love this car! But I have to ask, are you going to be daily driving with the IRTB's? Also is the price of the AE101's with an adapter plate worth the difference from the jenvey one? I heard they can be a pain compared to the plug and play jenvey kit.

mrpham
04-13-2012, 08:58 AM
Love this car! But I have to ask, are you going to be daily driving with the IRTB's? Also is the price of the AE101's with an adapter plate worth the difference from the jenvey one? I heard they can be a pain compared to the plug and play jenvey kit.

Thanks mate!

Car isn't really daily driven, but I've talked to a few people with ITB setups that have a good tune and daily driving isn't an issue. A lot of cars come with ITB from factory so it shouldn't be too bad and I've looked into running a idle air control valve too, that will make idle a lot smother.

Well I picked up my kit very cheap 2nd hand so definitely worth it over the Jenvey, but the Jenvey isn't really plug and play either. Still need to fiddle around when installing and definitely need to get a propery tune just like the AE101 with an adapter.

I<3flippyheadlights
04-13-2012, 10:45 AM
Ah ok. I'm still deciding between a small turbo or an ITB setup for daily driving. Gonna cost about the same, both will be a pain... just need decide what I want. Thanks for the heads up

mrpham
04-13-2012, 10:55 AM
Ah ok. I'm still deciding between a small turbo or an ITB setup for daily driving. Gonna cost about the same, both will be a pain... just need decide what I want. Thanks for the heads up

Go turbo!! Hands down a turbo setup will give you more power and torque, the economical choice for sure.

Only reason I'm doing ITB is because I got them for real cheap and I'm the type of person that loves to play around with different things, but later on I'm definitely going forced induction.

I<3flippyheadlights
04-13-2012, 11:47 AM
But I only want 140-150 HP :P

WASABI
04-13-2012, 01:33 PM
Great build. Thanks for putting in the extra work, with all of your detailed pictures and descriptions. You have a new follower (subscribe to thread/blog/facebook)

-Cheers,

Jim

mrpham
04-16-2012, 03:29 AM
Behind The Scenes - http://omgpham.com/behind-the-scenes

Me and a few mates have been working hard on developing a new product for our Roadsters, it's been underway for over a month now but we're getting close to finishing our first batch. Testing was a tedious process but we wanted to make sure the fitment was dead on.

So here are some behind the scene photos =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0823-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0823.jpg)
The raw materials.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0822-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0822.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0820-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0820.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0818-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_0818.jpg)
The CNC lathe working hard.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6915-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6915.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6917-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_6917.jpg)
The completed components ready to be tig welded.

Caoboy
04-16-2012, 12:14 PM
What could these be?

mrpham
04-19-2012, 05:13 AM
ITB Strip & Clean - http://omgpham.com/itb-strip-clean

So my AE101 Toyota ITBs are filthy, full of grime and covered in weird corrosion stuff. I can't mentally install them without giving them a "refresh". I initially attempted to clean them by hand but to no avail, so I decided to get them professionally sand blasted.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1054-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1054.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1055-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1055.jpg)
The dirty yuk throttle bodies.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1056-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1056.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1057-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1057.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1063-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1063.jpg)
The screws holding the butterfly in are secured from factory by "mushrooming" the ends of the thread, this effectively prevents the screwd from backing out and getting into your engine. So I've had to drill out the screws to disassemble.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1067-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1067.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1068-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1068.jpg)
I then cleaned the butterflies as well as the insides of the throttle bodies, easily enough with some elbow grease a scotch-brite pad.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1069-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1069.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1070-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1070.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1073-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1073.jpg)
Because the throttle bodies use ball-bearings and seals for the main shaft, I had to tape off all openings before I take them to the sand blaster.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1074-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1074.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1076-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1076.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1077-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1077.jpg)
All the parts prepped and sorted out so I don't misplace anything, hopefully get a chance to drop it off to the sand blaster next week.

mrpham
04-22-2012, 09:50 PM
Decided I'm going to save up and get my head ported/machined as well as throwing in some billet cam shafts. So ITBs will be gathering more dust while I save up for the head work...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1083-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/IMG_1083.jpg)
Most of the ITB bits... all billet aluminium and murdered out :D

mrpham
05-09-2012, 05:57 AM
Custom Wiring Harness - http://omgpham.com/custom-wiring-harness-part-1

I decided that since my car would be off the road for a month or two as I work on the engine, it would be a great chance to do a custom wiring harness for the car. This would mean the body and engine/ECU wiring harnesses would be separated and independent of each other. Try to keep it all as simple as possible, will be especially nice to have a dedicated harness for the Megasquirt =)

So I was lucky enough to pickup an entire wiring harness (body, main, power, dash) for a decent price and got started working on it.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1274-545x363.jpg

I've stripped the following from the harness so far:


All engine wiring
Air Flow Meter
Ignitors & coils (going COPs for the Megasquirt)
IAC valve
Purge valve
O2 (going dedicated wideband)
AC stuff
Power-steering
Clutch switch
Neutral switch
Fan switch (Megasquirt will control fans)
probable more... can't remember


All engine/ECU related fuses and relays will be kept separate and located close to the ECU. The engine bay fuse/relay box will be made redundant and relocated under the dash as there will only be four fuses used at that location.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1275-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1275.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1276-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1276.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1277-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1277.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1278-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1278.jpg)
After a long day of peeling tape and cutting wires...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1280-545x817.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1280.jpg)
99% complete with the main harness, you can see the pile of tape and wires removed in this photo. Seems a bit excessive doesn't it?

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1281-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1281.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1282-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1282.jpg)
This is the wiring kit from DIYAutoTune, pretty handy. Will be used for engine to ECU wiring.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1283-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1283.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1284-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1284.jpg)
I then spent the rest of the afternoon de-pinning the ECU terminals so I could salvage the pins to re-use. It sucks having a budget...

mrpham
05-11-2012, 05:39 PM
ITB Clean & Paint - http://omgpham.com/itb-clean-paint

My ITBs were pretty dirty so I had them sent out to Chilton Engineering for some sand-blasting, got it all back today and they came out great! It was also recommended that I give the ITBs a coat of paint to keep them clean.

I picked up some VHT Primer Coat and Quick Coat in the aluminium finish, was considering painting them black but decided against it. Some clean silver aluminium will look spiffy in between the black adapter and velocity stacks.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1289-545x363.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1286-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1290-272x181.jpg
Fresh from the sand blaster, so clean. Had to mask the ITBs again to get it ready for paint. VHT Primer Coat and Quick Coat in aluminium finish.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1305-545x817.jpg
I was told a long time ago to always have spray cans dipped in hot water while you paint, apparently it gives a better spray or something. Don't know if it's true but it kind of makes sense.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1300-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1300.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1303-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1303.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1304-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1304.jpg)
Hanging out on the clothes line getting the primer coat sprayed on.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1307-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1307.jpg)
Primer coat all done!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1309-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1309.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1312-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1312.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1311-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1311.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1313-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1313.jpg)
Top aluminium coat lightly sprayed on, did a few "dusting" coats before I did a wet coat.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1315-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1315.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1316-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1316.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1318-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1318.jpg)
Top coats all done and left to dry.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1319-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1319.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1322-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1322.jpg)
All done!

Going to give it a week to completely dry before I start putting it all back together.

mrpham
05-13-2012, 12:03 AM
ITBs muhahahaha - http://omgpham.com/itbs-muhahaha

So I'm still waiting for the paint to dry on the ITBs, going to be a long 7- days... But I couldn't wait so I did a dummy fit of the trumpets (velocity stacks) on the ITBs.

I'm so WET with excitement!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1332-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1332.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1333-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1333.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1335-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1335.jpg)

Phatmiata
05-13-2012, 12:33 AM
The attention to detail on this is insane!! Love it! Keep it up!

mrpham
05-13-2012, 08:26 PM
The attention to detail on this is insane!! Love it! Keep it up!

Thanks mate!

mrpham
05-13-2012, 08:28 PM
Custom Wiring Harness Part 2 - http://omgpham.com/custom-wiring-harness-part-2

Over the last couple of days I finished off the main body harness, it's basically just wiring for the exterior lights and all in-cabin stuff plus fuses. It started out as a big mess but I think I did a pretty decent job in cleaning it up, also was able to relocate the engine bay fuse box to under the dash.

Another thing I did was remove all the stupid tape Mazda used on "wire splits" and replaced it with heat-shrink, I HATE TAPE!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1291-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1291.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1292-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1292.jpg)
I used zip ties instead of tape to bundle the wiring harness, all engine bay wiring will have convoluted tubing to protect it from stuff.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1293-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1293.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1297-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1297.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1298-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1298.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1299-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1299.jpg)
Removing the stupid tape and replacing it with heat-shrink.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1326-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1326.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1327-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1327.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1328-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1328.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1329-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1329.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1330-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1330.jpg)
Main body harness completed, now to start on the power and engine harness...

mrpham
05-13-2012, 09:05 PM
ITB Synchrometer (Syncrometer) - http://omgpham.com/itb-synchrometer-syncrometer

I picked up a Synchrometer from a local Motorsport business, Dirt Devil Ind. (http://stores.ebay.com.au/Dirt-Devil-Ind), just located 30mins from Brisbane. It's used to tune/sync ITBs or carburetors for a smoother idle and acceleration. It's not really necessary but why not hey?

It works by measuring air flow through the trumpet (velocity stacks). The synchrometer has a tapered rubber tip that inserts into the ITB opening, than using the bypass adjust screw to set each throttle body for the right amount of air flow at idle.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1336-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1336.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1337-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1337.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1338-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1338.jpg)

mrpham
05-14-2012, 05:28 AM
Mate dropped off some Toyota COPs (Coil Over Plugs) for me today, going to use them with the Megasquirt instead of the factory ignitor/coils. Should be killer :D

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/544239_328442733894120_141917812546614_800823_5597 67110_n.jpg

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/s720x720/559511_328442750560785_141917812546614_800824_1903 976318_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/omgpham)

We also tried out the Synchrometer on his ITB'd Daihatsu Mira Van, it's a fucking beast!

http://omgpham.com/synchronising-ians-itbs

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1339-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1339.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1342-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1342.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1343-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1343.jpg)

It's a slightly tedious process because adjustments on one throttle body will affect the others, so it can take a few goes to get it right. Once the ITBs are synced though, the idle speed needs to be adjusted too, with Ian's car the idle ended up being higher.

mrpham
05-24-2012, 01:41 AM
Build Update - http://omgpham.com/build-update

Not much has been happening but some updates for the build so far.

I received my first batch of Brake Cylinder Braces (http://omgpham.com/brake-cylinder-brace), so took some photos of what it looks like installed. It's too hard to take photos of the install, so will be doing it on a bare chassis in a few weeks.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1382-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1382.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1383-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1383.jpg)
Excuse my dirty engine bay.

I've also decided to ditch the old style CAS and go with dedicated crank and cam angle sensors. They're used in later model BP4W engines as well as NB6 engines.

Started my ECU harness too. Re-used the ECU connectors and just de-pinned the terminals so I could solder new wires on. Was a tedious process but well worth it, sensors/injectors/coils connectors will be installed later.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1388-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1388.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1387-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1387.jpg)
mmmm so fresh so clean.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1391-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1391.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1394-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1394.jpg)
Cleaned up all the connectors that I plan to re-use, de-pinned and bought new rubber seals.

Picked up this cool passenger foot well plate from MX-5 Plus. No idea what brand it is, but it looks useful as it'll give me more space for the MegaSquirt and fuse/relay panel.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1389-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1389.jpg)

Made a decision to get rid of the of standard coil/ignitors and go with the very popular "Toyota COPs". Coil-On-Plugs provide a much better spark as well as giving me sequential spark with the MegaSquirt.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/coils01-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/coils01.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/coils02-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/coils02.jpg)

mrpham
05-25-2012, 02:53 AM
ITB Assembly - http://omgpham.com/itb-assembly

The enamel paint on the ITBs finally dried, didn't air dry in 7-days like the instructions said. And I actually had it in the oven for a total of 12-hours at 60degrees. That was annoying...

Anyway, I had some time today so I went for a drive in search for new throttle plate screws. The factory screws are M3 which are "mushroomed" from factory to stop them from ever backing out. I drilled these out so I could pull apart the throttle bodies for sand-blasting and paint. Checkout the photos here - http://omgpham.com/itb-strip-clean.

The shop is called Small Parts & Bearings (http://omgpham.com/www.smallparts.com.au/), they stock a huge range of screws and taps. Had a chat with them at the shop and they recommended the M3.5x0.6 Hex Cap (http://www.smallparts.com.au/store/partslist/screwssocketcapalloysteel/fasteners/wide/1/3.5mm%28M3.5x0.6Standard%29/) screws. I bought the required tap too, total was $18. Not too bad I thought.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMAG1156-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMAG1156.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMAG1159-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMAG1159.jpg)
First step was to drill out the hole slightly and then tap the new thread.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMAG1161-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMAG1161.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMAG1162-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMAG1162.jpg)
Just test fitting the new screws, had to cut/shorten the screw too.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1408-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1408.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1409-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1409.jpg)
The assembly station, used a syringe to apply oil in the tight spots. Also picked up some spare ITBs for parts, was great having them there so I could check how everything went back together.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1411-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1411.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1413-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1413.jpg)
One throttle body done, three more to go.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1414-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1414.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1415-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1415.jpg)
All four throttle bodies assembled!

This next part is a bit hard to explain, but basically the Toyota throttle linkages don't really match up with the stock Mazda throttle cable. There's a bit of slack as well as not enough travel in the throttle pulley. The idea is to make more space between the throttle cable stop and the throttle linkages, this removes any slack in the cable. It's quite straight forward to do, just have to move some parts around so that the throttle linkages sit on cylinder #3 and #4 instead of #2 and #3.

After re-assembling the throttle bodies, the service manual outlines the procedures to adjust all four linkages that "daisy-chain" the throttle bodies together. I'll do that in the next couple of days hopefully.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1417-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1417.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1418-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1418.jpg)
I can't wait to get these on the car!

mrpham
05-25-2012, 05:36 PM
ITB Glamour Shots - http://omgpham.com/itb-glamour-shots

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2565-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2565.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2568-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2568.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2569-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2569.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2567-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2567.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2570-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2570.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2572-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2572.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2571-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_2571.jpg)

moerdogg
05-25-2012, 08:20 PM
Awesome build! Those ITBs turned out great!

mrpham
05-28-2012, 08:13 AM
ITB Update - http://omgpham.com/itb-update

In my previous update (http://omgpham.com/itb-assembly) I posted up about reassembling my ITBs. I had to use new screws to hold the throttle plates as the old ones were drilled out, they were replaced with socket cap screws but I was recommended to use something with a smaller profile head. I've now replaced the screws with button head socket screws.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1463-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1463.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1465-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1465.jpg)
The screws were also cut down so not much thread was left sticking out on the other side.

Spent some time over the weekend dialing up the ITB adjustment screws, still a few things to sort out and hopefully they won't cause issues down the track.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1421-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1421.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1423-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1423.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1426-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1426.jpg)
Stupid little adjusting screws, very tedious!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1453-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1453.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1460-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1460.jpg)
Finally received my FPR adapter piece for the M-Tunes fuel rail.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1399-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1399.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1401-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_1401.jpg)
Gave the foot-well plate a good clean.

friday
05-30-2012, 03:47 PM
I dig the car, it looks great with those wheels.

mrpham
06-05-2012, 02:26 AM
Wiring Update - http://omgpham.com/wiring-update

Small update... some wiring parts arrived and picked up a white board to help me scribble down wiring stuff. It's been pretty handy :D

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1517-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1517.jpg)

According to the MegaSquirt manual, it's a pretty good idea to shield the TPS and trigger wires. So have been on the search for a flexible 2-core shielded cable, ended up deciding on a microphone cable from JayCar (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=WB1530) (part no. WB1530).

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1500-272x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1500.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1501-272x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1501.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1504-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1504.jpg)
Terminated the shielding into it's own BLACK wire, this will grounded at the ECU end and left floating on the sensor end. The BLUE wire will be used for sensor return and the WHITE for sensor ground. The +5V/+12V wire will be run externally to the shield.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1506-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1506.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1507-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1507.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1509-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1509.jpg)
My awesome PURPLE (and grey) Deutsch connectors, all solid terminals too.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1511-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1511.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1513-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1513.jpg)
This is the relay block I'll be using, it's all modular so you can expand if needed.

mrpham
06-18-2012, 02:33 AM
Engine Harness & Wiring Parts - http://omgpham.com/engine-harness-wiring-parts

So a few weeks back I started (http://omgpham.com/build-update) working on the ECU/engine harness, this was re-using (http://omgpham.com/custom-wiring-harness-part-1) old connectors and terminals. Was never happy about re-using those parts...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_15291-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_15291.jpg)
How it was with the re-used parts.

Fortunately I was able to find the part numbers for new parts, all sourced locally from RS Components (http://australia.rs-online.com/web/) too! All parts are manufactured by Tyco/AMP and the part numbers are below:


Small Terminals : 173716-1 (http://australia.rs-online.com/web/p/products/712-1909/)
Larger Terminals : 173631-1 (http://australia.rs-online.com/web/p/products/712-1876/)
26-way Connector : 174516-1 (http://australia.rs-online.com/web/p/products/712-2501/)
22-way Connector : 174515-1 (http://australia.rs-online.com/web/p/products/712-2488/)


I also found a very good source for automotive wiring in Brisbane, the company is CECA (http://www.aussieweb.com.au/business/camerons+electrical+cables+_+accessories+%28ceca%2 9+pty+ltd/1215580/) and located in Geebung. They stock Tycab (http://www.tycab.com.au/automotive.html)'s full range of automotive cabling.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1602-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1602.jpg)
All new connectors and terminals!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1567-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1567.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1568-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1568.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1566-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1566.jpg)
Also started on my Deutsch connectors, love these things!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1573-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1573.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1575-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1575.jpg)
All terminated... this connector is used for all coil and injector +12V wires.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1611-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1611.jpg)
As a precaution, I also did continuity checks for every wire and terminal used.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1613-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1613.jpg)
These are the parts I picked up to do my dedicated fuse/relay panel. Includes terminal bar, bus bar, fuse block and a relay block.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1606-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1606.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1607-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1607.jpg)
On the left are the brand new terminals I used, and the right is the FD RX-7 battery fuse block. This is where I'll be relocating all my main fusible links, sits on the positive side battery clamp.

iamdallas
06-18-2012, 03:55 AM
This is such an awesomely detailed build. Great quality work and awesome documentation! Sub'd!

mrpham
06-20-2012, 05:14 AM
Over the last week I've had a few parts cleaned up and also picked up a KG Works gauge cluster http://omgpham.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/kgworks-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/kgworks.jpg)
Install photos are below...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1636-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1636.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1639-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1639.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1642-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1642.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1647-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1647.jpg)
So fresh so clean clean.

Since I'm going to be using the later model cam/crank hall effect sensors, I had my NB6 valve cover blasted and powder-coated in satin black. While I was there I also had the shop blast the NB6 water neck too, this will replace the NA6 water neck because I won't be using the fan switch. Megasquirt will control the fans now.

The work was done by Global Powder Coating (http://www.powdercoatingbrisbane.com.au/), price was the lowest I could find and service/turnaround was good.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1614-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1614.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1619-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1619.jpg)
First step is to remove all four screws and the steering column surround.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1620-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1620.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1622-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1622.jpg)
(http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1620.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1623-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1623.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1624-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1624.jpg)
There are two more screws holding the gauge hood, remove those and than gently pull the hood towards the rear of the car. It should pop out with little effort.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1627-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1627.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1628-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1628.jpg)
Unplug the two connectors at the back of the cluster to remove it.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1629-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1629.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1630-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1630.jpg)
The new cluster installed http://omgpham.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif

mrpham
06-24-2012, 04:57 AM
My new fuel rail finally arrived, had to replace the M-Tuned rail because it had clearance issues with the fuel rail bracket. And I was able to get myself a B6 cylinder head for free. This allows me to test fit all the parts and I can work on the fuel lines and wiring while my NB6 head is away for porting and cams.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/head-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/head.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/rail-272x162.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/rail.jpg)

Also did a quick test fit of the ITBs to see if there are any issues that need to be sorted out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1657-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1657.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1659-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1659.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1660-545x817.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_1660.jpg)

iamdallas
06-24-2012, 05:00 AM
I love the fact that you have the 225s at your height. Do you think I could fit them with a +13 15x8 wheel at a similar height?

mrpham
06-25-2012, 11:46 PM
I love the fact that you have the 225s at your height. Do you think I could fit them with a +13 15x8 wheel at a similar height?

Hey mate.

With +13 you would have to run a bit more camber, my wheels are effectively 15x8 +20.

I<3flippyheadlights
06-26-2012, 08:40 AM
You run a 335? Never noticed. We have the same wheels and I think the same ride height. Maybe I'll go 225 one day :P

Oh, PUT ON YOUR IRTBs ALREADY!

mrpham
06-26-2012, 08:16 PM
You run a 335? Never noticed. We have the same wheels and I think the same ride height. Maybe I'll go 225 one day :P

Oh, PUT ON YOUR IRTBs ALREADY!

Definitely do it :D or at least a fat 205/215.

LOL ITBs will go on soon I hope, just waiting to get my head work done. Will be a full porting job, 280degree cams with 10.5mm lift, stronger valve springs, larger valves and new shims for the solid lifters.

mrpham
07-01-2012, 01:15 AM
Last week I posted some photos of my OBX fuel rail that I purchased to replace the M-Tuned one that doesn't fit. Well I picked up more parts over the last couple of days, things like braided hose and the required fittings. Just some notes on the OBX rail... it's utter shit! They didn't even bother deburring the holes or cleaning up any metal shavings left inside the rail, not to mention the threads were damaged!

All fittings and hose I've decided to source from Aeroflow (http://www.aeroflowperformance.com/), and I'll be using all -6AN sized fittings/hose for fuel. Purchased all the bits locally from Race Car Engineering (http://www.racecarengineering.com.au/), good prices and good service, would definitely recommend them.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1696-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1696.jpg)
My Aeromotive FPR (fuel pressure regulator), and fuel pressure gauge.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1698-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1698.jpg)
The crappy OBX fuel rail...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1703-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1703.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1702-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1702.jpg)
Some of the fittings I purchased, have more on order too.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1708-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1708.jpg)
Aeroflow's -6AN black braided light weight hose. This stuff is nicer looking, more flexible and easier to work with. Sick of working with the full stainless braided hosing, I like this hose

mrpham
07-08-2012, 04:21 AM
More Parts & No Progress - http://omgpham.com/more-parts-no-progress

Blehhh not much progress lately, BUT I have acquired some more bits for the build. Also been talking with a few guys who are also doing the same ITBs and we've found a few more issues with the T3 manifold... The issue is that the TPS is located towards the firewall and hits against the clutch master hard-line. This is not an issue for all the US guys who have the clutch master on the other side of the engine bay (LHD).

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_4794-272x362.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_4794.jpg)
So that's the problem... there are possibly two ways to get around this.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_18441-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_18441.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_18461-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_18461.jpg)
So this is a solution that I'm going to test out, it involves taking 12mm off the end and machining the surface flat. So now I can use a banjo fitting that will let me clear the TPS.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMAG1233-545x325.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMAG1233.jpg)
The other solution is to use a braided hose like above, not sure if it'll clear the TPS though. Will figure it out when everything else goes into the car.

When I installed my new KG Works cluster I forgot to mention that my gauge hood also cracked. Was a pain in the ass but I was able to find a brand new genuine replacement . Apparently it was the last one in Australia too! Mazda have more on back order I believe.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1858-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1858.jpg)
So it looks amazing! It does't have the shiny finish like my old one but has a more smooth matte look. Will install this later on when I get a new dash to replace my cracked one.

The next part I found is a duct that is used in cars that don't have air-conditioning from factory. Since I'm removing my AC this part is perfect so that I can remove the ENTIRE AC system and still have functional air/heater.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1860-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1860.jpg)
Wasn't able to get a brand new one but Richard at MX-5 Plus was able to hook me up with this used part. Would prefer a new one but this is pretty decent.

iRoadster
07-10-2012, 09:03 PM
Have you been checked by a doc lately? I think this could be a serious case of OCD. This build is fantastic.





OCD= Obsessive car dude.:teehee:

mrpham
07-13-2012, 02:59 AM
Have you been checked by a doc lately? I think this could be a serious case of OCD. This build is fantastic.

OCD= Obsessive car dude.:teehee:

hahaha thanks mate!

mrpham
07-13-2012, 03:00 AM
G-String Bikini Top - http://omgpham.com/g-string-bikini-top (http://omgpham.com/g-string-bikini-top)

I've been drooling over Project-G's bikini top (http://www.projectgla.com/gstring_na.html) ever since I bought my MX-5, was never sure how it would look in person with my "tall-boy" roll bar so I never ordered it. But I recently found an awesome deal that I couldn't pass up, I'm now in possession of a Project-G bikini top!

It's a black top with red-stitching and also came with a carry bag. I've sourced a front bow locally for little money so pretty happy overall =)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1881-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1881.jpg)
w000000000000!!!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1886-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1886.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1884-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1884.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1883-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1883.jpg)
Some extra goodies that came with the bikini top. Always love stickers and free lollies

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1892-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1892.jpg)
The bikini top shown with the straps, center brace and carry bag.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02191-545x338.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02191.jpg)
Hopefully I'll look just as cool

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1898-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1898.jpg)
I also picked up some extra tools to make my life easier when I do my braided fuel lines.
Just some aluminium spanners so the nice fittings don't get scratched and a hose cutter.

etikoner
07-13-2012, 12:17 PM
Sweet.

I'm excited for you

mrpham
07-14-2012, 02:58 AM
ITB Build Part - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-1

Started pulling apart my car today, the head is being removed so I can get that ported. The AC, all wiring, intake, strut brace and fuse box will be removed to make way for my custom tucked wiring harness.

I was planning to port it myself but have decided to send it down to Warren Heath Performance (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Warren-Heath-Performance/135194779879292) down in Melbourne. The head will received an extensive porting job as well as larger oversized valves, stronger valve springs and re-shimmed solid lifters. The camshaft going in will be 280degree duration and 10.5mm lift.

Didn't get too much done today but photos below.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1901-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1901.jpg)
The operating table where most of the work will be done.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1902-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1902.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1903-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1903.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1904-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1904.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1906-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1906.jpg)
Bonnet off, radiator out and headers moved aside.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1907-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1907.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1910-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1910.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1911-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1911.jpg)
Valve cover off to remove the head, full port job on the way with massive cams going in.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1912-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1912.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1913-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1913.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1914-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1914.jpg)
The AC condenser removed and a pile of parts that won't be going back in.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1915-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1915.jpg)
That's all for today, covered up and put to bed.

I<3flippyheadlights
07-14-2012, 07:16 AM
Finally! This thing will be so awesome. Thanks for all the detailed pictures.

mrpham
07-15-2012, 04:28 AM
ITB Build Part 2 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-2

Some more progress today :D

Had a friend come over to help strip out the interior since my cracked dash and ripped carpet will be getting replaced. Also makes it easier to get out the old wiring harness. Enjoy the madness below, sorry for the lack of photos.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1916-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1916.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1917-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1917.jpg)
Seats and center console out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1918-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1918.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1919-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1919.jpg)
Steering column dropped and dash completely out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1921-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1921.jpg)
Everything nearly out, just need some more free time to get the wiring harness out.

mrpham
07-18-2012, 03:13 AM
ITB Build Part 3 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-3

Made little progress so not a huge update, continued removing the old wiring harness and attempting to clean up the engine bay.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1933-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1933.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1935-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1935.jpg)
Where I was at since last update and now the wiring is out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1936-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1936.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1937-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1937.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1938-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1938.jpg)
Looks so bare with so much stuff taken out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1941-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1941.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1945-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1945.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1944-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1944.jpg)
The new wiring slowly going in, new battery/power wires going in too.

tsingson
07-18-2012, 07:44 AM
Wow. Looks great so far! The G-String/Bikini top is definitely going to look as good as the picture. I had made my own because I don't have the funds and I have other stuff I have to pay for but It works great!

mrpham
07-23-2012, 06:25 AM
ITB Build Part 4 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-4

Bllleerrrrrrrrrrghhhhhhhhhh... Slow progress lately, held up by the wiring and have to sort a few parts sourcing issues.

I was planning to run the headlight wiring outside of the engine bay and under the guards, but at the last minuted I started to ditch the idea. Decided to keep the wiring in the engine bay and just neaten it up. I think it's a bit more practical and doesn't look too bad either.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1946-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1946.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1947-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1947.jpg)
The front bar has to be removed so that the guards could come out. I ended up not needing to remove the front guards, but this gave me a good opportunity to clean out all the dirt/gravel stuck behind there.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1951-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1951.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1953-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1953.jpg)
How the headlight wiring looked after neatening it up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1954-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1956-272x181.jpg
Next up I decided to freshen up the old rusty brake booster by sanding it down and a fresh coat of satin black paint.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1958-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1958.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1961-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1961.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1957-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1957.jpg)
Looks damn good back in the engine bay

I'm also getting all the old nuts/bolts cleaned up and zinc plated. At this point of the build I may as well take the opportunity to make sure no rusted hardware is returned to the car.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1962-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1962.jpg)
A whole buckets worth, can't wait to get them back all clean.

mrpham
07-27-2012, 02:49 AM
Build Update Part 5 - http://omgpham.com/build-update-part-5


So I got all my nut/bolts back from the zinc plating shop, and I'm so fucking happy with the results. They charge $1.30/kg to clean and zinc plate, awesome value!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1970-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1970.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1967-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1977.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1965-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1965.jpg)
Everything looks brand new

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1973-545x363.jpg
Also received my hydraulic lug crimper, awesome for doing starter motor, alternator and battery wiring. Produces 12tonnes of force to crimp the big lugs.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1978-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1978.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1984-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1984.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1987-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1987.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1989-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1989.jpg)
Pretty awesome stuff

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1976-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1976.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1975-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1975.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1977-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1977.jpg)
So this is where I'll be mounting my fuse/relay panel, it's a 15mm thick piece of polypropylene. It'll be covered and sit under the carpet, and the additional flip panel gives more protection and allows pretty easy access when needed.

iamdallas
07-27-2012, 05:28 AM
That zinc plating looks great! I bet it makes re-assemby super exciting.

mrpham
07-29-2012, 06:07 PM
That zinc plating looks great! I bet it makes re-assemby super exciting.

Definitely! Everything goes back on so much smoother and it's a nice feeling putting "new" parts back on the car.

mrpham
08-01-2012, 04:23 AM
ITB Build Part 6 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-6

I spent the last couple of days building my custom fuse/relay panel. I've been looking forward to this part of the build :D

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2001-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2001.jpg)

I went to the local plastics engineering shop and got them to cut out a piece of polypropylene for me. This is what I used for the "panel" part, got it pretty thick to make sure it was sturdy and adequately insulated from the car body.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_1990-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_1990.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_1993-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_1993.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_1994-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_1994.jpg)
I laid down some masking tape and marked where the parts would go and where to drill.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_1999-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_1999.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2000-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2000.jpg)
The parts attached to panel and quickly test fitted in the foot well for clearance.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2006-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2006.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2007-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2007.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2003-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2003.jpg)
The injector and coil +12v cables were installed first.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2008-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2008.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2009-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2009.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2011-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2011.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2012-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2012.jpg)
Slowly more wires were added, still looking neat and organised for now...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2021-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2021.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2019-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2019.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2020-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2020.jpg)
The completed fuse/relay panel, it got a bit messy where the large terminal block is. The purple Deutsch connector at the bottom powers the injector and coil +12v and the braided cable go into a ECU connector for power and various outputs for fuel pump and fans etc...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2027-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2027.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2026-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2026.jpg)
A successful test fitting!

iamdallas
08-01-2012, 04:37 AM
Beautiful! I don't know why there aren't more people following this thread.

mrpham
08-01-2012, 06:49 PM
Beautiful! I don't know why there aren't more people following this thread.

Pretty happy how it turned out, a bit messy near the long terminal block though.

Probably because I'm not slammed or turboed? :P

mrpham
08-01-2012, 06:56 PM
In other news, work has begun on my cylinder head. Shipped it down to Warren Heath Performance (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Warren-Heath-Performance/135194779879292) down in Melbourne.

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.385677974830970.92017.135194779879292&type=1

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/487093_385678588164242_359092242_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.385677974830970.92017.135194779879292&type=1)

mrpham
08-08-2012, 07:16 AM
Warren @ Warren Heath Performance (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Warren-Heath-Performance/135194779879292) recently received my cylinder head and has started porting work already! Some photo updates are below, make sure to visit his page and check out his work.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/00-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/00.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/01-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/01.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/02-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/02.jpg)


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/03-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/03.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/04-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/04.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/05-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/05.jpg)

iamdallas
08-08-2012, 07:21 AM
Jesus, that's massive!

tsingson
08-08-2012, 08:23 AM
I see great things everytime I look in you thread.

I<3flippyheadlights
08-08-2012, 03:02 PM
I see great things everytime I look in you thread.

I can't agree more. You're car is gonna be so cool.

mrpham
08-09-2012, 08:57 PM
Jesus, that's massive!

THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!!!


I see great things everytime I look in you thread.


I can't agree more. You're car is gonna be so cool.

Thanks! I can't wait to get it running, so much more to do.

mrpham
08-09-2012, 09:27 PM
Porting Update - http://omgpham.com/porting-update

More updates from Warren (http://omgpham.com/www.facebook.com/pages/Warren-Heath-Performance/135194779879292), he has started on the exhaust side and just doing more work in the take.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/06-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/06.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/07-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/07.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/10-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/10.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/08-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/08.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/09-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/09.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/11-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/11.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/12-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/12.jpg)

Big Red
08-10-2012, 10:23 AM
Love this build so much <3 Keep up the good work Mr Pham!

How is the wiring going?

mrpham
08-11-2012, 10:50 PM
Love this build so much <3 Keep up the good work Mr Pham!

How is the wiring going?

Thanks man!

The wiring is going slow, waiting for parts.

mrpham
08-15-2012, 05:42 AM
ITB Build Part 7 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-7

Another slow week for me, didn't get to do much and haven't been able to start the engine harness because I'm waiting for some heatshrink to arrive.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2049-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2049.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2050-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2050.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2051-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2051.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2068-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2068.jpg)
So I got the engine wiring in and quickly laid it out, my spare head went on with the Toyota COPs so I can mock everything up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2053-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2053.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2054-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2054.jpg)
The ECU side of the engine harness, blower motor back in and the AC bypass pipe.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2052-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2052.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2071-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2071.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2072-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2072.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2073-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2073.jpg)
The main power harness going back to the battery, there's multiple runs of cable because I've relocated all fusible links next to the battery. So the entire length of cables are protected, unlike the factory cables... pretty slack of Mazda.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2077-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2077.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2078-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2078.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2079-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2079.jpg)
This is the FD RX-7 fuse holder, works great and hangs right off the battery clamp.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2080-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2080.jpg)
Connected the steering column up so I could test out the body wiring. Headlights, indicators, retractors, brake lights, horns, wipers and water sprayers all worked perfectly first go!

tsingson
08-15-2012, 07:55 AM
God man..You can eat off of this thing.

mrpham
08-17-2012, 03:04 AM
ITB Build Part 8 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-8

Since the wiring tested perfectly, it was time for the interior to go back in =)

I replaced my crappy carpet with carpet from an NB, pretty much the same thing. I did have to cut some holes for the seat belt buckle because mine are bolted to the floor, I believe the NB buckles are attached to the seat rail hence no holes in the carpet. I would definitely recommend the NB carpet over the NA, it feels much nicer and usually found in better condition than older NA stuff.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2083-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2083.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2084-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2084.jpg)
Roll bar back in, super clean carpet =D

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2085-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2085.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2086-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2086.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2088-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2088.jpg)
Super happy with how the "flip-panel" turned out, looks awesome and gives plenty of protection for the fuse/relay panel. And yes, the kiddie seat is gone now.

etikoner
08-18-2012, 09:06 PM
Badass.

You inspire me.. too bad I'll never do any of this stuff. lol

mrpham
08-20-2012, 03:09 AM
Some more progress over the weekend.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2105.jpg

Big Red
08-20-2012, 05:29 AM
Soooooooooo CLEAN!!!!! :winky:

I love the gauge surround too..... <3

tsingson
08-20-2012, 07:37 AM
Wow. Didn't think anyone still used a dashmat anymore. Still looks great.

mrpham
08-20-2012, 06:16 PM
Wow. Didn't think anyone still used a dashmat anymore. Still looks great.

LOL, I personally hate the dash mat but need to find a way to protect it since good condition dashes are getting so rare in Australia now.

mrpham
08-23-2012, 03:42 AM
Installed the seat today, sat in it for a few minutes before. I wasn't going anywhere but it felt real nice :D

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/seat.jpg

Big Red
08-23-2012, 07:10 AM
Looking good. :winky:

I never really realized how small your wheel is until now... 0_0
Thought of looking into some Eunos roadster sun visors? They would really neaten up the cabin ;)

mrpham
08-24-2012, 09:42 AM
Decided to spoil myself and had a bid placed on this....

http://page11.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/jp/auction/n113497380

http://auctions.c.yimg.jp/img341.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/users/0/0/1/7/gigorolife-img600x462-1339950362z7gcvl95275.jpg
http://auctions.c.yimg.jp/img341.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/users/0/0/1/7/gigorolife-img600x454-1339950362eneo8195275.jpg
http://auctions.c.yimg.jp/img341.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/users/0/0/1/7/gigorolife-img600x450-1339950362xvc9vc95275.jpg

mrpham
08-28-2012, 03:40 AM
A friend gave me a sticker :D

Jinba Ittai...

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/558491_376299315775128_1784005451_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/omgpham)

tsingson
08-28-2012, 08:01 AM
Man the KGW surround looks great!

mrpham
08-31-2012, 03:30 AM
ITB Build Part 9 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-9

Did a bit of wiring today, can't do much until my head and manifold adapter gets back from machining.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2139-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2139.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2140-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2140.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2141-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2141.jpg)
Doing continuity checks to make sure I was terminating the correct wires.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2143-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2143.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2144-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2144.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2150-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2150.jpg)
Was only able to terminate the coolant temp sender, water temp gauge and oil pressure gauge senders. Everything is heat-shrinks and sleeved, no tape will be used in my engine harness because I hate that shit when it gets old and sticky.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2146-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2146.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2147-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2147.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2153-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_2153.jpg)
Sorting out where wires will go and fitted up the fuel pressure gauge.

mrpham
09-03-2012, 03:01 AM
Toyota COPS (Coil on Plugs) - http://omgpham.com/toyota-cops-coil-on-plugs

This a common upgrade for MX-5s/Miatas, replacing the factory coil/ignitors for Coil on Plugs from Toyota Corollas/Camrys/Yaris's/etc..

There are a lot of install guides on the web so I won't delve into that, but below are compatiable part numbers for the Toyota/Denso coils.

90080-19015
90919-02239
90080-19023
90919-02234

It provides a much better spark for boosting applications and can sometimes work out cheaper than replacing a broken coil-pack, not to mention it's more compact and neatens up the engine bay. I would recommend buying them second hand from a wrecker instead of generic stuff off eBay. If you're planning to run it on a stock ECU than you should use a dwell reducer so the coils don't get damaged, for standalone ECUs you just need to set the dwell timing lower.

You can also buy brand new connectors for them, I ordered mine from here:
http://www.bmotorsports.com/shop/product_info.php/cPath/109_219/products_id/1667

Below are some photos of my COPs wired up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2157-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2157.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2157-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2157.jpg)

mrpham
09-09-2012, 05:03 AM
Velocity Stack Stickers - http://omgpham.com/velocity-stack-stickers (http://omgpham.com/velocity-stack-stickers)

My mate recently had some of these awesome stickers made up, it's perfect for all of us who run ITBs. I've got them on my car now, just gotta wait till the real ITBs are installed haha!

Contact me (http://omgpham.com/contact-me) if you're interested in some of these stickers, they're $3 per velocity stack (plus shipping).

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2164-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2164.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2165-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2165.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2160-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2160.jpg)

Below is Ian's ITB Daihatsu Mira (http://omgpham.com/synchronising-ians-itbs) rocking the stickers. Three stickers because 3-cylinder

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/ianitb01-545x362.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/ianitb01.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/ianitb02-545x819.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/ianitb02.jpg)

I<3flippyheadlights
09-09-2012, 11:31 AM
Thanks for so much info in your build thread. I never knew what COPs was till now. Everything looks very nice and tidy as always.

iRoadster
09-09-2012, 03:32 PM
I need to find or make one of those passenger footrests to cover my ECU. How do you have the thing fitted?

mrpham
09-09-2012, 06:10 PM
I need to find or make one of those passenger footrests to cover my ECU. How do you have the thing fitted?

Some photos below show a bit more how it's mounted.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1976.jpg

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1975.jpg

mrpham
09-11-2012, 06:05 AM
Car Parts Make Me Wet - http://omgpham.com/car-parts-make-me-wet

^^ True story...

I've been working on a few small things on the car, but haven't completed any of the jobs so won't post up any photos. I have bought some new parts though =)

First up is a new lightened chrome-moly flywheel that weighs 4kg, which is less than half the weigh of the stock one. I actually had a few lightened 1.8L flywheels, but I didn't want to replace my clutch so sourced a 1.6L flywheel instead.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2190-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2190.jpg)
The drill-outs on the outer edge seem a bit weird, but makes sense that any weight on the outer edges would have a greater affect than weight closer to the center.

Next up is my Toda adjustable cam pulleys, these were sourced direct from Japan. They'll be dialed up with my billet camshafts by an engine builder.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2201-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2201.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2205-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2205.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2203-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2203.jpg)
The quality is amazing on these, glad I didn't cheap out on this part of the engine.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2204-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2204.jpg)
This is the intake cam pulley, it's slightly different from most other adjustable cam pulleys because it has the three little trigger knobs for the hall effect cam sensor. I believe this type of cam pulley is required for engines from 99 onwards?

The next part was also ordered direct from Japan, it's a KG Works stainless steel tombstone. It comes with the full face plate, hazard/retractor buttons, vent rings, HVAC face plate and gear surround.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2192-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2192.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2196-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2196.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2194-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2194.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2197-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2197.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2199-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2199.jpg)

etikoner
09-12-2012, 10:40 AM
I just love the quality of work/ parts/ work/parts you're putting into this car.

Toda cam gears are fucking nice hah. Which clutch kit are you getting? Should be pretty light weigh since you're going for a 1.6 set-up!

mrpham
09-16-2012, 02:43 AM
ITB Build Part 10 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-10

Update time! Head isn't finished yet so I've been doing a few odd jobs here and there.

One thing I did was start on the brake prop valve relocation. It's not necessary but does give me extra space for the velocity stacks, might be able to increase it's length later down the track too. So I picked up some angle aluminium plate for $5 and started cutting that up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2169-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2169.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2170-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2170.jpg)
Cost me $5, pretty awesome deal I thought.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2171-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2171.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2172-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2172.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2173-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2173.jpg)
Measure twice, cut once. Came out exactly how I wanted, the prop valve will than be mounted just above the brake booster. I'll get someone to make the hard lines when engine is out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2174-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2174.jpg)
Here is the capacitor used for the COPs install (http://omgpham.com/toyota-cops-coil-on-plugs), it's needed because the battery is in the boot and can cause voltage drops when the coils fire. The capacitor helps by storing a reserve of power and eliminates any voltage drop. Well that's what I think it does =P

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2311-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2311.jpg)
Terminated wiring for the AFR gauge, I used Deutsch connectors and braided sleeving.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2310-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2310.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2308-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2308.jpg)
Ordered these velocity stack booties from Outerwears (http://omgpham.com/outerwears.com/proddetail.asp?prod=202453), quality seems good but I'm not 100% sure they will provide enough filtering. So might experiment with some foam as well.

mrpham
09-21-2012, 06:58 AM
Head Update - http://omgpham.com/head-update

A quick update from Warren @ Warren Heath Performance (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Warren-Heath-Performance/135194779879292).

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head101-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head101.jpg)
De-shrouding begins, and valve seats about to be cut.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head103-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head103.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head105-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head105.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head102-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head102.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head104-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/head104.jpg)
Warren also ported the T3 manifold for better flow, you can see the side to side comparisons. Looks so much better and very happy how this turned out.

mrpham
09-25-2012, 02:45 AM
ITB Build Update Part 11 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-11

Small update today, some more work done on the car and more parts acquired.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2347-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2347.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2348-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2348.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2351-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2351.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2350-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2350.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2349-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2349.jpg)
Finished the bracket mounting for the brake prop valve.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2423-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2423.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2424-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2424.jpg)
Had these bolts machined so that the head was shorter, these bolt the fuel rail bracket to the head and there is shit all clearance. These should help out a bit.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2421-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2421.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2420-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2420.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2422-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2422.jpg)
Engine and gearbox was in preparation for the new head and getting a workshop to dial in the camshafts and adjustable cam gears. I've also picked up a new NB 5-speed gearbox to replace my old one. Will be replacing all the seals in the box too.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2436-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2436.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2438-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2438.jpg)
Received my custom CNC laser cut stainless radio panel, allows awesome fitment for DIN head-units and space for a gauge. These can be made for 2 and 3 gauges too, even 4, 5 and 6 gauge configurations. Matches well with the KG Works tombstone.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2428-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2428.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2429-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2429.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2431-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2431.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2432-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2432.jpg)
This is what it looks like on a regular tombstone, not bad ey!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2433-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2433.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2434-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2434.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2435-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2435.jpg)
Factory tombstone fitment with radio and gauge installed.

Epileptic
09-25-2012, 04:36 PM
oh gosh your car is amazing. thanks for the detailed write ups too! very helpful!

mrpham
09-27-2012, 01:45 AM
Quick snap of the front console back in.

http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/550454_10151204834186072_294481390_n.jpg

mrpham
09-28-2012, 12:12 AM
ITB Build Part 12 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-12

A few more pieces of the puzzle done today...

First up was to complete the brake prop valve relocation, had a mobile hose come by today to get the hard-lines made up. I used some coat hanger to dummy up the bends and he took over from there.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2440-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2440.jpg)
So that's my coat hanger template, pretty happy with the way it's laid out.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2444-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2444.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2443-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2443.jpg)
The existing front passenger hard-line was re-used by just bending it to the required shape, a new line and joiner has made for the rear brake line.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2445-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2445.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2457-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2457.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2455-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2455.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2456-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2456.jpg)
The smaller lines going from master cylinder to prop valve were bent up, following my coat hanger template from above. Turned out alright, could be better though.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2448-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2448.jpg)
All the brake lines completed and prop valve successfully relocated.

In other news, my 4.778 ratio diff gears have arrived, these will go into my Cusco 1.5way LSD, paired with the NB 5-speed box this will be an awesome combination for my high-revving engine.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2451-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2451.jpg)
Not too bad ey!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2454-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2454.jpg)
Finally I installed my KG Works tombstone and the stainless radio panel. I like it much better now, but is it too much stainless steel? Time will tell...

Vegard
09-28-2012, 04:19 PM
Very cool project and I love the attention to detail (and that you document it so well)!

Keep it up :)

mrpham
10-02-2012, 05:56 AM
ECU Mounting - http://omgpham.com/ecu-mounting

I've been dreading this part of the build, was never sure how I would do it and make it neat. But everything is coming together now and so I had to do something.

Because my custom fuse/relay panel sits where the ECU normally goes, I've had to install the ECU in the glove box. It's not a bad spot to put it, just my solution isn't "clean" for my liking.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2488-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2488.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2490-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2490.jpg)
I had to remove all the internal sides of the glove box, gives much more room for the harness to hook up. I'll also make a short serial cable "pig-tail" so I can hook up the USB connection.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2491-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2491.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2494-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2494.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2495-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2495.jpg)
All the studs were epoxied into place, not very clean and not sure if it'll be strong enough. So I might go over everything with some fibreglass, any thoughts?

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2501-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2501.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2502-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2502.jpg)
Test fit was good too, but I'll let it cure overnight before I tighten up the nuts.

I also decided to use the stock tombstone, goes much better with the rest of my interior. So the KG Works tombstone will be up for sale soon.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2498-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2498.jpg)

tsingson
10-02-2012, 02:33 PM
I'm interested in seeing how the studs hold up with the weight of the ECU.

The Platypus
10-02-2012, 03:54 PM
JB weld the studs

mrpham
10-02-2012, 05:23 PM
I'm interested in seeing how the studs hold up with the weight of the ECU.


JB weld the studs

You're both spot on I think, I'm not very happy with how it is at the moment. I'm hoping JB Weld or even fibreglass will strengthen the studs adhesion. I did roughen up the area around the studs with a grinder before starting, hope that helps a bit too.

I'll do what I can with this glove box lid, but ideally I would like to try make some sort of frame under the dash to mount the ECU. Not much space under there though...

mrpham
10-06-2012, 07:37 AM
ECU Mounting Revisited - http://omgpham.com/ecu-mounting-revisted

So my first attempt (http://omgpham.com/ecu-mounting) for the ECU mount was a failure, it sucked and was messy looking. This next mount attempt is so simple, not sure why I didn't think of it first. Checkout the photos below.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2532-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2532.jpg)
Used my spare dash to plan my bracket, much easier when flipped upside down.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2529-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2529.jpg)
Had some some left over angle aluminium, perfect for the task at hand.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2533-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2533.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2535-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2535.jpg)
Quickly positioned to make sure it clears everything.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2540-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2540.jpg)
Stickered my ECU because it's so awesome.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2536-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2536.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2537-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2537.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2541-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2541.jpg)
Marked all the holes and drilled everything.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2542-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2542.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2543-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2543.jpg)
Double checking that all the holes lined up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2546-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2546.jpg)
Done! Very very happy how it turned out, the bracket is strong and holds it at a good position. The glove box closes up fine, still emptied out so no real use but it'll be locked up anyway.

I<3flippyheadlights
10-06-2012, 10:54 AM
You sir are a genius. That looks so much better then the previous method. Love your stickers btw.

mrpham
10-06-2012, 11:44 PM
Thanks mate! Definitely much better, wasn't proud of the previous attempt at all.

Big Red
10-07-2012, 08:04 PM
Damn I cant wait to have a look at this thing in the flesh Mrpham :P I'm gathering it's not far off startup yeah? :popcorn:

mrpham
10-08-2012, 05:52 AM
Testing Coils - http://omgpham.com/testing-coils

Had a chance to try out TunerStudio's "Output Test Mode (http://msextra.com/doc/ms2extra/testmode.html)", basically allows you test fire your injectors and coils. Something I really wanted to do because I wired my coils for sequential fire.

Firing order is 1-3-4-2 so they are wired as such:


Cylinder No. 1 - Spark A
Cylinder No. 2 - Spark D
Cylinder No. 3 - Spark B
Cylinder No. 4 - Spark C


I initially wired them in the wrong order but luckily I caught on this error early.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2550-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2550.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2552-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2552.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2553-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2553.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2563-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2563.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2558-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2558.jpg)
Tried to take a photo of the spark but that nearly impossible so I've uploaded a video below.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whSU-c4V-6A

I also had a chance to change the transmission front seal and gasket.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2547-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2547.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2548-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2548.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2549-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_2549.jpg)

I<3flippyheadlights
10-08-2012, 09:47 AM
Every time I check this thread it makes me want ITB's... But I don't have enough money for respectable power from it! :cry2:

mrpham
10-08-2012, 07:44 PM
Do it man! But yeah money to power ratio sucks :D

I've owned and built turbo cars before, going NA with the MX-5 seemed logical to me. Gotta mix it up a bit and try different things, and the MX-5 is the perfect chassis IMO for a naturally aspirated build.

I<3flippyheadlights
10-08-2012, 10:38 PM
But a supercharger is cheap and effective. A few pages ago you told me not to do this. Now you are encouraging me! STOP IT!

mrpham
10-08-2012, 11:56 PM
LOL!!! Yeah don't recommend it if you're chasing power but I would recommend it if you've already owned a supercharged/turbocharged car before.

I<3flippyheadlights
10-09-2012, 12:06 AM
No, my Miata will be my first boosted car.

mrpham
10-22-2012, 04:41 AM
So I picked up a NB8A for a daily :)

Pretty much stock, paint is in good condition, has later model headlights, taillights, front bar, interior and seats.

http://sphotos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/177643_396904770381249_1495187961_o.jpg

tsingson
10-22-2012, 07:40 AM
Nice pickup man!

I<3flippyheadlights
10-22-2012, 10:01 AM
Sexy stuff mang! What are the plans for it? (We all know you have to do SOMETHING to it!)

mrpham
10-22-2012, 08:29 PM
Nice pickup man!

Thanks mate!


Sexy stuff mang! What are the plans for it? (We all know you have to do SOMETHING to it!)

No plans unfortunately, want to keep it presentable to law enforcement as I'll be daily driving it. Maybe some wheels? :P

mrpham
11-02-2012, 12:43 AM
Not a big update, haven't been able to do much since the cylinder head is still away.

Bluetooth x Megasquirt - http://omgpham.com/bluetooth-x-megasquirt


This is something I've been wanting to do for a long time, implementing Bluetooth connectivity for my Megasquirt ECU.

No more cables for tuning and data logging, I can even use my Android smartphone/tablet for data logging and digital gauge/dashes. The Android App is called Shadow Dash MS (http://www.tunerstudio.com/index.php/shadowdashmsmenu), free of charge from the EFI Analytics (http://tunerstudio.com/).

http://tunerstudio.com/index.php/shadowdashmsmenu (http://www.tunerstudio.com/index.php/shadowdashmsmenu)

http://www.tunerstudio.com/images/ShadowDash/homeScreenPortraitSm.png


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7JOLBSakIk

You can buy "off the self" devices that are plug and play, around $50-$100, but I've decided to take the DIY route which cost me $12!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2689-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2689.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2690-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2690.jpg)
These can be found on eBay for about $12-$14 shipped to Australia.

There is a bit of work to do like adjust settings as well as some soldering.

1. The module needs to be jumpered temporarily so settings can be applied.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2697-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2697.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2698-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2698.jpg)
Used some copper wire and soldered it from 3.3V to PIO (11), these are pin 12 and pin 34 respectively on the main circuit board.

2. Use some paper to insulate pins 6, 7, 8 and 9 on the DB9 Male connector. And than solder a wire from pin 9 to V+ pad, this is next to the break-out pins.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2701-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2701.jpg)
This wire takes +5V from pin 9 of the serial connector (Megasquirt side) and supplies it for the Bluetooth module.

3. An external +5V supply has to applied to the break-out pins.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2702-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2702.jpg)
This temporarily powers the device so settings can be applied.

So that completes most of the modifications needed, now on to software. I used Microsoft Hyper Terminal, which is available on Windows XP machines. You can download it below:

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/HyperTerminal.zip

1. Connect the module to your serial port, or your USB-Serial adapter.

2. Open up Hyper Terminal and create a new connection. Select your serial connection's COM port., mine was COM4. The settings below should be applied.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/screen01.jpg

3. To confirm that the connection is correct, quickly type in AT. It won't display what you've typed but it should display the response OK.

4. Open up Notepad and type the following AT+NAME(insert the name you want here), in my case I typed AT+NAMEomgpham.com . CUT all the text, go back to your Hyper Terminal window and click on "Paste to Host". You should than get a response saying OKsetname.

5. Next up we'll set the PIN Code. So back to Notepad and type in AT+PIN(insert your 4 digit pin here), eg. AT+PIN1234. CUT all the text, go back to your Hyper Terminal window and click on "Paste to Host". You should than get a response saying OKsetPIN.

6. Finally, we'll set the baud rate. By default it's 9600 but this needs to be set to 115200. So in Notepad you'll type AT+BAUD8, CUT all the text than go back to your Hyper Terminal window and click on "Paste to Host". You should than get a response saying OK115200.

The reason we have to cut and paste commands from Notepad is because Hyper Terminal needs commands to be typed completely in under a second. Stupid? Yes, but ah well.

So everything software wise is now done, this next part is optional and it involves removing the female DB9 connector which is used for applying settings. It's the connector that plugs into your computer's serial port.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2704-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2704.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2705-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2705.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2706-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2706.jpg)
Connector removed and heat shrink applied to protect the circuit board.

etikoner
11-02-2012, 01:08 AM
You are a fucking genius.

Can you make me one of those? lol

Big Red
11-04-2012, 02:05 AM
Brilliant, so not far off getting this thing back together? Just the head left now?

thedguy
11-04-2012, 05:42 PM
I didn't realize there were these cheaper bt adapters. I grabbed a different style one see how it works, hopefully with less mods required. Thanks for the heads up!

Phatmiata
11-05-2012, 11:29 AM
So since you are planning a trip to Japan what stores are you planning to visit while there? Any Roadster Tuners?

mrpham
11-11-2012, 07:30 AM
So since you are planning a trip to Japan what stores are you planning to visit while there? Any Roadster Tuners?

Yeah mate, first stop is Corn's than RS, Maruha Motors, would love to visit Garage One Hundred too.

mrpham
11-11-2012, 07:30 AM
Nearly There! - http://omgpham.com/nearly-there

Last post before I'm in Japan, leaving in a few days =)

Just some quick photos on the progress of my cylinder head, all nearly done just getting a few extra things machined.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port01-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port01.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port02-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port02.jpg)
More progress on the inlet side, bit more work needed around the valve guides.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port03-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port03.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port04-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port04.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port05-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port05.jpg)
The combustion chamber and areas around the valve seats cleaned up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port06-545x408.jpg
New oversized valves fitted!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port07-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port07.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port08-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/port08.jpg)
The port mismatch between head and manifold, painted area shows what needs to be removed.

Vegard
11-11-2012, 06:03 PM
Very much looking forward to reading about your travels! I hope it is every bit as detailed as you build thread!

Bon voyage!

mrpham
12-20-2012, 08:53 PM
What up everyone, no build updates as I just got back from Japan. Hopefully my ported head is ready soon and I can start whacking sh*t back together

I picked up a few things from Japan, visited a few workshops, checked out a few UpGarages. Very cool trip.

All photos car related photos from the trip can be found here:
Facebook - omgpham.com (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.409230579148668.97311.141917812546614&type=1&l=18fb93370c)

http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/429402_10151307354656072_878066381_n.jpg
Picked up an extra Sparco Sprint V from UpGarage.

http://sphotos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/396994_416589558412770_1005545869_n.jpg
Bought 480 cans of Boss Coffee.

http://sphotos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/479967_412237175514675_574622441_n.jpg
http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/14626_419430871461972_2100932798_n.jpg
Found some awesome Pole Position keys to bring back for people.

http://sphotos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/64652_10151313695511072_1770727700_n.jpg
Boss Coffee Gum....

Visited the Mazda Factory and Museum.

http://sphotos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/3509_10151305933521072_263727122_n.jpg
http://sphotos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/391880_10151305932931072_1269177842_n.jpg
Quad rotor, variable length runner ITBs...

Oh before leaving for Japan, I packed and shipped out roughly 30 frame rail brace kits...

http://sphotos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/535433_403663486372044_965562295_n.jpg
Not fun at all!

I<3flippyheadlights
12-20-2012, 09:12 PM
Just went through all the pictures. Can't believe there is a green Rx7 FB in the Museum. Thanks for all the stuff!

freedomgli
12-21-2012, 08:51 AM
Did you peen the ends of the replacement ITB throttle plate screws? Or use red (permanent) Loctite?

mrpham
12-21-2012, 09:42 AM
Just went through all the pictures. Can't believe there is a green Rx7 FB in the Museum. Thanks for all the stuff!

No worries mate, really enjoyed the Mazda Museum and factory tour, it's free of charge too. Only wished that they didn't have to rush us through the tour.


Did you peen the ends of the replacement ITB throttle plate screws? Or use red (permanent) Loctite?

Yeah mate, the ends of the screws were secured and thread locker used. Had to get my mate to do it because I didn't have a punch.

I<3flippyheadlights
12-21-2012, 10:10 AM
They rushed you!? That's such a shame.

mrpham
12-22-2012, 08:50 AM
Miata Low-Profile Headlight Kit Install - http://omgpham.com/low-profile-headlight-install

This is a install walk-through of the Low-Profile Headlight Kit. It's quite straight forward to get everything bolted into the car, but it does take a bit of time to make minor adjustments so that both headlights are level with each other.

The supplied instructions can be found below, please use it together with this guide:
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/low-pro.pdf

Before you start, have your headlights popped up than remove the retractor fuse/relay.

1.Remove the factory headlight and it's frame. This consists of 3 small screws, 2 large screws and a spring.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4401-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4401.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4406-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4406.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4407-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4407.jpg)

2.Using a pen, outline the brackets holding the headlight lid to the assemble. This will be used as a guide when you re-assemble.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4402-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4402.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4404-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4404.jpg)

3.Using a 14mm spanner, remove the nut and spring washer that holds the control arm to the retractor motor.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4408-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4408.jpg)

4.Remove the bolts/nuts on both sides of the assembly, this is the pivot point of the headlight assembly.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4409-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4409.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4412-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4412.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4410-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4410.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4411-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4411.jpg)

5.Remove entire headlight assembly from the car.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4413-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4413.jpg)

6.Remove the control arm from the assembly, carefully pry it evenly at the ball joint.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4414-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4414.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4415-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4415.jpg)

7.Drill two 6mm holes for the new control arm bracket.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4416-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4416.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4417-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4417.jpg)

8.Use one of the original factory screws, slip the supplied washer and spring onto the screw. Attach to the adapter frame and screw into bottom plastic clip.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4418-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4418.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4419-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4419.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4421-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4421.jpg)

9.Top holes of the frame are attached to the assembly using the supplied counter-sunk screws, washer, spring and nut.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4422-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4422.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4423-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4423.jpg)

10.Attach the Hella lense to the frame using the self tapping screws.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4424-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4424.jpg)

11.Loosen the locking nut and remove the factory stopper, install the supplied curved stopper.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4425-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4425.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4426-272x181.jpg



12.Re-install the assembly into the car, plug headlight cable back in.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4428-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4428.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4429-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4429.jpg)

13.Loosen the bottom stopper, set the top stopper temporarily down.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4431-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4431.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4432-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4432.jpg)

14.With the retractor motor in the UP position, attach the control arm to the retractor motor shaft. Make sure the control arm is as straight as possible and the assembly is in the UP position too. Tighten the nut just enough so that you can do some tests by popping the headlights up and down a few times and make sure that the headlight is lifted to the highest point. Tighten the nut when done.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4435-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4435.jpg)

15.With the headlight up, set the top stopper so it just pushes against the assembly. With the headlights in the down position, set the bottom stopper so it just pushes back against the assembly. In both up/down positions, there should be very little movement, this ensures that the assembly will not bounce around whether the lights are up or down.

16.Repeat the instructions for the other side, and make minor adjustments to ensure both headlight heights are equal.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4433-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4433.jpg)

mrpham
12-22-2012, 08:51 AM
17.Adjustments are made using the control arm, remove it from the retractor motor shaft to do so. Lengthening the control arm will raise the headlight, shortening the control arm will lower the height.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4435-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4435.jpg)

18.You can now install the headlight lid and the side panels, the outer panel uses 1 short screw towards the back and the front uses a long screw with the supplied plastic spacer. Inner panels uses 2 short screws, the front screw uses a washer as a spacer.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4436-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4436.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4437-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4437.jpg)

19.Aligning the beam is done using the 2 top screws on the lense housing, black plastic surround. These screws allow adjustments for vertical and horizontal alignment. For any reason you need more vertical alignment, the bottom screw that holds the adapter bracket to theassemblycan be adjust to raise/lower the lense.

20.Enjoy your new low-profile headlights!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4438-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4438.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4439-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4439.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4440-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/IMG_4440.jpg)

itsMikey
12-24-2012, 03:06 AM
loving it dude..those headlgihts are awesome!

mrpham
01-01-2013, 11:26 PM
COPs Bracket - http://omgpham.com/cops-bracket

Just some quick photos of the COPs Bracket installed on my engine, I gave it a quick coat of satin black enamel paint too. Came out great and really suits my painted valve cover.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4457-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4457.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4458-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4458.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4460-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4460.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4461-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4461.jpg)

Now with the COPs bolted onto the bracket.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4462-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4462.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4464-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4464.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4465-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4465.jpg)

mrpham
01-07-2013, 04:15 AM
Monday Bump!

Painting Engine Block - http://omgpham.com/painting-engine-block

I felt I needed to work on my car this weekend, so I went out and purchased supplies to paint up my block and a few other parts. Nothing like wire wheeling and paint fumes on a Sunday arvo!

First up was to mask the deck and start removing parts from the block.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4500-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4500.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4503-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4503.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4502-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4502.jpg)

Prep work is important so I wire wheeled/brushed the old surface. Had to sand a few spots and than everything cleaned up with presol/wax grease remover.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4504-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4504.jpg)

Water pump removed, front of block and sump masked off. Did a few coats of primer.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4511-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4511.jpg)

Than the gloss black coats went on, still needs a few heat cycles to fully cure the paint.


http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4513-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4513.jpg)

All done!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4516-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4516.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4517-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4517.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4520-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4520.jpg)

Also spent some time painting one of the water outlets.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4506-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4506.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4508-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4508.jpg)

Pulled apart the alternator to paint. Wire brushed and cleaned with prepsol.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4521-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4521.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4522-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4522.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4525-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4525.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4528-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4528.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4529-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4529.jpg)

The finished parts!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4532-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4532.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4534-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4534.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4535-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/IMG_4535.jpg)

Big Red
01-09-2013, 08:20 AM
You sir are my idol, my inspiration & what you do is what my dreams are made of. :fab:

Really hanging out to see what it looks like when its all put back into one piece again :D

Grip Driver
01-09-2013, 08:06 PM
the attention to detail amazes me, love this build!

mrpham
01-11-2013, 10:40 PM
You sir are my idol, my inspiration & what you do is what my dreams are made of. :fab:

Really hanging out to see what it looks like when its all put back into one piece again :D


the attention to detail amazes me, love this build!

Thanks!

Been thinking more about FI with my ITBs lateley... :D

smac
01-15-2013, 04:00 PM
Subbed, I need to take a few hours to read through this properly

mrpham
02-04-2013, 12:56 AM
So I got some good news today, my built cylinder head will be back with me by end of the week! So excited :D

I've decided on The Torque Team (http://www.thetorqueteam.com/) to install the head and degree in my camshafts.

iamdallas
02-04-2013, 01:00 AM
Eeeeeeeeeeek!!

Haha. That's very exciting. When do you expect to drive the car?

mrpham
02-06-2013, 04:31 AM
Eeeeeeeeeeek!!

Haha. That's very exciting. When do you expect to drive the car?

ASAP, but really depends on the cash flow in the coming few weeks.

mrpham
02-06-2013, 04:32 AM
Installed this roof scoop thing, it apparently helps divert fresh air flow into the cabin when the roof is off. Should be handy since I don't have AC.

http://sphotos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/285361_444497462288646_2126021998_n.jpg

tsingson
02-06-2013, 09:00 AM
I have been wanting to try the cool breeze scoop but it won't work with a bikini top.

mrpham
02-06-2013, 10:13 PM
Yeah I hear ya, wish it did work with it too.

And that reminds me to get off my ass and finish putting my bikini top together. BTW when you did yours, did you use any adhesive?

mrpham
02-25-2013, 04:08 AM
Centre Console Carpet - http://omgpham.com/centre-console-carpet

Was browsing build thread (http://mx5cartalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=57&t=56399&p=716932)s this morning and spotted someone doing a custom centre console carpet, looked cool so I decided to hack my spare parcel shelf carpet too.

I'm not sure if I want to get a shorty console yet, or just modify the current tombstone so it looks nicer. I'll also have to relocate the window switches.

I first used some cardboard to mock up a pattern.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4723-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4723.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4724-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4724.jpg)

I then transferred it onto an old pillow case to test out the fitment.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4725-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4725.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4726-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4726.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4733-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4733.jpg)

After I made a few adjustments to the pattern, I traced it onto the parcel shelf carpet and cut it out. If you're doing the same, make sure you place the pattern the correct side down.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4735-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4735.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4737-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4737.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4738-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4738.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4747-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IMG_4747.jpg)

Pretty happy how it's turned out, will pick up some Velcro (with the double sided tape) and attach it to certain spots so that the carpet sits nice and flat. I'm undecided whether I should get the the carpet edges "binded", might call an upholsterer for a quote.

Grip Driver
02-25-2013, 09:09 AM
Good job on the console, that turned out great :) I've heard of people using instabind with very good results, here's a link http://www.bondproducts.com/instabind/

tsingson
02-25-2013, 09:13 AM
Yeah I hear ya, wish it did work with it too.

And that reminds me to get off my ass and finish putting my bikini top together. BTW when you did yours, did you use any adhesive?

Sorry for the late response. I don't know how I missed this. But I didn't use any adhesive. I just used the metal straps and screws and screwed the fabric onto the front bow. I had to cut little pieces of the straps to get it to work but I will probably redo it using a solid single piece of metal strap.

tsingson
02-25-2013, 09:17 AM
Also, center console looks good man. When I was rebuilding my shifter, I had the center console out and I was kind of liking it without it but I use my center console for storage and the arm rest.

mrpham
02-25-2013, 10:58 AM
Good job on the console, that turned out great :) I've heard of people using instabind with very good results, here's a link http://www.bondproducts.com/instabind/

Thanks mate! Will check that out, binding will really make it look professional.


Sorry for the late response. I don't know how I missed this. But I didn't use any adhesive. I just used the metal straps and screws and screwed the fabric onto the front bow. I had to cut little pieces of the straps to get it to work but I will probably redo it using a solid single piece of metal strap.

Good to hear! I saw their video showing to use adhesive but I don't have any of stuff in my garage.


Also, center console looks good man. When I was rebuilding my shifter, I had the center console out and I was kind of liking it without it but I use my center console for storage and the arm rest.

It's surprisingly makes the cabin a lot of more spacious, I also have door pulls which add to the effect. Love it!

tsingson
02-25-2013, 11:27 AM
Good to hear! I saw their video showing to use adhesive but I don't have any of stuff in my garage.

It's surprisingly makes the cabin a lot of more spacious, I also have door pulls which add to the effect. Love it!

But where do your arms rest? :mrgreen:

It works well without the adhesive. Mine is wrapped up right now for the winter. I'll try and get pics up so you can see it.

Stealth97
02-25-2013, 10:10 PM
This thing just keeps getting better. Motivating me to work on the car again, almost

mrpham
04-02-2013, 04:45 AM
Finally installed my Project-G Bikini Top!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/biknitop.jpg

maharaj
04-02-2013, 07:21 AM
The top looks really good on the car!

I<3flippyheadlights
04-02-2013, 09:59 AM
Haven't seen this car in a while, looks good! Everytime I see it I'm jealous of your wheels. I want the polished lip on my OG sans D:

mrpham
04-02-2013, 08:32 PM
Haven't seen this car in a while, looks good! Everytime I see it I'm jealous of your wheels. I want the polished lip on my OG sans D:

I love my OG-San wheels, I get a bit of hate for them because they're "reps" but everyone has their own version of meshies so whatever haha. And they weight isn't bad either.

I<3flippyheadlights
04-02-2013, 11:42 PM
I also love my OG sans. In fact, I think we have discussed this before.

mrpham
04-03-2013, 12:41 AM
I also love my OG sans. In fact, I think we have discussed this before.

hahaha most probably!

mrpham
04-12-2013, 02:30 AM
I drew this Tombstone block off plate and had it CNC laser cut, hopefully I can make it into a kit for people. It cleans up the Tombstone after deleting the centre console, and relocates the power window switches. It's actually much easier to reach the switches compared to the factory location too.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4784.jpg

Stealth97
04-13-2013, 12:29 PM
Shifter tuck. Nice.

mrpham
04-25-2013, 01:35 AM
Centre Console Update & TSI - http://omgpham.com/centre-console-update-tsi

Small update!

I finished up my design to relocate the power window switches after deleting the centre console. The switches are automotive grade and will include wiring harness using crimped connections. A revised template for the carpet will also be included and will cover up the tunnel and fuel/boot release levers. The panel is CNC laser cut from 1.6mm thick stainless-steel sheet and all supplied hardware will be stainless-steel too.

Testing so far has been very good, functions like factory (no auto feature), and I find it easier to reach than the factory location for the switches.

These kits will be made available shortly!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4785-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4785.jpg)

Below are some photos of the first prototype.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/switch01-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/switch01.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/switch02-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/switch02.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/switch03-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/switch03.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/switch04-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/switch04.jpg)

I now stock TSI kits, Turn Signal Intake. Replaces the factory light assembly, and provides a good source of cold air into the engine bay. The vents have both LED parker and indicator lights.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4859-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4859.jpg)

Not too bad hey!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4875-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4875.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4863-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4863.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4877-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/IMG_4877.jpg)

wannafbody
04-26-2013, 08:32 AM
Those window switches are a great idea.

mrpham
05-31-2013, 10:05 PM
Interior Update - http://omgpham.com/interior-update

Still waiting to get my head back from the engine builder, so no real updates.

One of the perks from organising a group buy of 40 Sparco Sprint V seats... I kept a seat for myself so now my passengers can sit in comfort :) also ordered a OMP 330mm deep dish steering wheel that shipped with the seats.

Some seat bolster protectors from MX-5 Mania are on their way too.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_4957.jpg

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_4961.jpg (http://omgpham.com/interior-update)

Grip Driver
05-31-2013, 10:29 PM
Looks great, lovin the steering wheel!

mrpham
06-06-2013, 04:37 AM
Got my diff back from the shop today, had the crown and pinion gears swapped out for some 4.778 ratio ones. They gave all the parts a good look over and set the lash adjustment.

Shop was Diff & Gearbox Industries in Wishart, he has a tonne of knowledge, quick turn-around and his price was the lowest (nearly 5 times cheaper....).

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/lsd.jpg

mrpham
06-07-2013, 07:30 AM
Today I started to remove my rear subframe to install my new NB one with. Has all the NB brake parts and the 4.778 1.5way LSD. Hopefully I'll have it all done by tomorrow.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/hover.jpg

I<3flippyheadlights
06-09-2013, 09:37 AM
You are really going all out on this build! Any projected date on when it will be done?

etikoner
06-09-2013, 10:31 AM
This car is gonna be a hoot to drive once all is said and done

mrpham
06-14-2013, 11:44 PM
Received my seat bolster protectors from MX5 Mania, pretty happy with them.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_4997.jpg

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_4998.jpg

mrpham
06-18-2013, 04:36 AM
Strip, Paint & Repeat... - http://omgpham.com/strip-paint-repeat

Late last night I found myself staring at my old rusty looking starter motor... Decided that it must be wire brushed and painted! Good thing that I already had all the supplies I needed to start working on it the next day.

The plan was set, breakfast, work, wire brush, clean with wax & grease remover solvent, lay a coat of primer and a few light coats of "cast aluminium" paint.

As I was wire brushing I realised how far my obsession with "clean parts" has taken me. There's a stash of parts that I haven't taken photos of either...

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd01-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd01.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd02-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd02.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd03-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd03.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd04-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd04.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd05-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd05.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd06-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/ocd06.jpg)

Nearly every single nut/bolt from the car was removed to be cleaned and zinc plated.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1967-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1967.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1970-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/IMG_1970.jpg)

mrpham
06-19-2013, 03:38 AM
My new billet pulleys from Garage Star arrived :D

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1009344_501117376626654_42573495_o.jpg

mrpham
06-21-2013, 04:43 AM
Door Card Refresh - http://omgpham.com/door-card-refresh

My door cards were long overdue for a re-trim, been putting it off for ages because it looked like a tedious job. bleh.

Had some free time today so went to the local automotive upholsterer to pick some supplies. I bought the required length of vinyl and foam backing, stopped at Bunnings to pick up some spray adhesive too.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5007-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5007.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5015-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5015.jpg)

Gave the vinyl a quick coat of glue and than laid down the foam backing. While I waited for the glue to dry, I stripped my door cards back and gave it a quick clean.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5011-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5011.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5012-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5012.jpg)

The door card was used as a template to trace onto the foam backed vinyl, make sure you add the required "tabs" too. Once it was cut out, I decided to remove the foam backing on the "tabs". Idea was to allow easier folding and better adhesion to the door card.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5013-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5013.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5014-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5014.jpg)

Coated the door card and underside of the foam backed vinyl in glue. The "tabs" were folded over and I used the can as a roller to smooth out the folds and apply a bit more pressure on them.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5016-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5016.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5017-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5017.jpg)

The finished door card!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5025-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/IMG_5025.jpg)

mrpham
06-24-2013, 02:22 AM
Padded up (most) of my roll bar today, just used some stuff from Clark Rubber as I don't need anything CAMS approved.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/20130624_121238-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/20130624_121238.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/20130624_121251-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/20130624_121251.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/20130624_121149-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/20130624_121149.jpg)

atank
06-24-2013, 06:31 AM
Ah yes this looks slick! ^^

mrpham
06-24-2013, 11:27 AM
Ah yes this looks slick! ^^

Thanks mate! PM'd you back too :)

mrpham
07-12-2013, 07:54 AM
So got my built head back :D

- complete porting job, flow benched
- oversized valves
- 280deg 10.5mm lift intake
- 270deg 9.4mm lift exhaust
- stronger valve springs
- solid lifters

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/head.jpg

tsingson
07-12-2013, 08:31 AM
That looks good man!

Jimmy Vee
07-12-2013, 08:36 AM
Woooo!!!!:frantic: Can't wait to see it finally come together. It's almost a year to the day since you posted this (http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-1).

mrpham
07-12-2013, 05:36 PM
Yep I'm driving back home today, will arrive tomorrow and that will be exactly a year!

mrpham
07-17-2013, 07:37 AM
I'll just leave this here...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/891884_513136592091399_2115911876_o.jpg

tsingson
07-17-2013, 08:27 AM
God man. Freaking gorgeous! :worship:

mrpham
07-18-2013, 06:09 AM
ITB Build Part 13 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-13

So big update! I finally got my built head :D

Final specs:


2001 NB6 head
Intake camshaft - 280deg 10.5mm lift
Exhaust camshaft - 270deg 9.4mm lift
Solid lifters
Oversized valves
Stronger valve springs
Fully reconditioned
Extensive porting, de-shrouding etc...
Port matched

Intake camshaft is a custom billet profile, and the exhaust is a custom regrind.

Haven't had too much time to work on it, but things will move fast next week.

I bolted the intake gasket to the manifold and port matched it using my Dremel, nothing too exciting :P

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5096-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5096.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5099-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5099.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5105-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5105.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/engine02-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/engine02.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/engine03-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/engine03.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/engine01-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/engine01.jpg)

mrpham
07-22-2013, 05:48 AM
ITB Build Part 14 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-14

Dropped my engine off last week at the Auto Xperts, they did an excellent job and degreed my cams to the recommend specs. Final adjustments will be made on the dyno.

Picked her up this morning and have been on it since than.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5130-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5130.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5132-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5132.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5133-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5133.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5134-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5134.jpg)

After the crank bolt was correctly torqued, I started on assembling the timing cover and ITBs.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5138-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5138.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5139-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5139.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5142-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5142.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5143-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5143.jpg)

Some close-ups of stuff.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5146-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5146.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5148-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5148.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5145-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5145.jpg)

Lightened flywheel and clutch going in.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5152-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5152.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5153-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5153.jpg)

Engine going back in :D

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5157-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5157.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5154-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5154.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5158-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5158.jpg)

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5160-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5160.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5162-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5162.jpg)

atank
07-22-2013, 06:15 AM
Man that engine looks WONDERFUL!!!!!!!

tsingson
07-22-2013, 09:23 AM
My god man. You could have Thanksgiving Dinner on the damn car, it's so pristine!

I<3flippyheadlights
07-22-2013, 10:40 AM
What an amazing update! THIS CAR WILL BE INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

cbaylis77
07-22-2013, 07:29 PM
Wow!

Hyper
07-22-2013, 10:54 PM
great built yo, the mesh turn signals are identical to KG Works TSIs, are they made by KG Works??

mrpham
07-23-2013, 08:24 AM
great built yo, the mesh turn signals are identical to KG Works TSIs, are they made by KG Works??

Hey mate. They're the Jass Performance TSI.

Hyper
07-23-2013, 11:29 AM
Hey mate. They're the Jass Performance TSI.

Damn, they are identical to KG works TSI which are discontinued. I used to own a set of those. Show me link to JASS PERFORMANCE SITE, thanks!!

Martin
07-23-2013, 11:42 AM
Try this:

http://shop.jassperformance.com/index.php?route=product/search&keyword=tsi&category_id=0

SpeedWorks
07-28-2013, 11:04 PM
i love checking on this build. everything looks great

mrpham
07-31-2013, 03:32 AM
Quick update!

http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-15

For the last week I've been slowly working on the engine wiring. My goal wasn't to tuck anything, but more of a general clean up and make it look neat and easy to access.

Wiring was made from scratch, straight to the Megasquirt and power board. I used brand new connectors/terminals and Deutsch plugs whenever I could.

The air filters and hose clamps will be replaced with better parts very soon.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5175-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5175.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5177-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5177.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5179-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5179.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5191-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/IMG_5191.jpg)

mrpham
08-01-2013, 01:55 AM
Started a bit of the fuel stuff today, will go into detail tomorrow.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/q71/s720x720/970668_522824507789274_179047351_n.jpg

tsingson
08-01-2013, 07:04 AM
So fresh and so clean, clean!

mrpham
08-02-2013, 01:10 AM
ITB Build Part 16 - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-part-16

More progress today!

Picked up all my Aeroflow (http://www.aeroflowperformance.com/) fuel fittings from Race Car Engineering (http://www.racecarengineering.com.au/). Fittings are all push lock style, black and -6AN size. Thanks to the guys at Auto Xperts (http://www.autoxpertsmechanical.com.au/) for advice and supplying the hose, looks OEM and I prefer it over the black braided stuff I bought earlier.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5194-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5194.jpg)

For extra security hose clamps were also used.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5201-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5201.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5202-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5202.jpg)

Hoses completed and installed!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5207-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5207.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5209-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5209.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5203-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5203.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5212-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5212.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5213-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5213.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5216-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5216.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5221-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5221.jpg)

mrpham
08-05-2013, 05:25 AM
Got her running thanks to a few mate's giving me a hand.

It's yet to be tuned, just got it started and idling at a reasonable AFR. Have to look into stiffer engine mounts too.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOtC8uMnqwk

atank
08-05-2013, 05:41 AM
Damn that thing sounds mean!!

I<3flippyheadlights
08-05-2013, 12:49 PM
Pure sex

iamdallas
08-05-2013, 12:55 PM
Nicely done! It looks fantastic.

mrpham
08-10-2013, 11:48 PM
ITB Build Complete! - http://omgpham.com/itb-build-complete

Even though I say "complete" I really don't mean it, I will keep building and working on my car. It never ends! And I think many out there can relate :D

Big thanks goes out to mate Ian for helping me the last couple of days to get it running. A few issues here and there but all sorted now.

I've done about 500kms already and have loved every second of it. The noise and power increase, the engine has brought the car to a new level and I'm absolutely stoked with the results. Can't wait to build the high compression bottom end!

I was a bit slack with the photos, was too caught up in the moment. But here are a few snaps anyway.

Ian producing a base map for the engine.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5225-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5225.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5227-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5227.jpg)

The idle was really rough and shaking the engine a lot, once the throttle bodies were balanced everything became very smooth and idle was much nicer.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5230-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5230.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5241-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5241.jpg)

A few early mornings were involved to get the cold start idle and cranking settings.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5237-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5237.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5243-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_5243.jpg)

mrpham
09-25-2013, 08:42 AM
Put some proper filters on now, they're UNI Filters which came with the ITB kit. Not a huge fan of the red colour, so might sus out some black filters down the track.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/filters.jpg

Hyper
10-08-2013, 06:36 PM
what a nice looking car!! I love it, WIN!!!!

theothersawyer
10-08-2013, 10:39 PM
This car is beautiful! Great work!!

mrpham
10-27-2013, 07:59 AM
WTAC Road Trip - http://omgpham.com/wtac-road-trip-update

Hey everyone!

Long time no speak, been too busy driving/tuning/enjoying the car. It's easy to get caught up in all the fun and forget to update the blog :D . In all honesty, there hasn't been much to post about. I did however just do a road trip down to Sydney for WTAC 2013.

I really enjoyed the 900km each way drive, the seats were surprisingly comfortable. But with no AC, windows down and sitting my 4100RPM, we were slightly deaf from the ITB noise!

I'll post photos I took with my DSLR soon, but here are few I've collected in the last week. Photos were taken by various friends and props to them for the amazing shots.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac03-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac03.jpg)

Half-way through our drive down, the MX-5 was having some misfiring issues. It would lose RPM sync for a fraction of a second randomly. I packed spare cam and crank sensors but replacing them didn't do much, even bought a brand new one once we arrived in Sydney. But the problem turned out to be a bad plug, the one that plugs into the front cam sensor.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac14-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac14.jpg)

We arrived in Sydney a couple days early so stopped by at Zen Garage (http://zengarage.com.au/) for a quick visit and chill. Photos taken by Sergio.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac05-545x361.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac05.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac08-272x180.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac08.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac07-272x180.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac07.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac06-545x361.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac06.jpg)

Excuse my camera phone photos :P

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac17-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac17.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac15-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac15.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac16-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac16.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac19-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac19.jpg)

Now some photos from WTAC of my car, these ones directly below were off my phone.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac02-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac13-272x204.jpg

Some photos from friends.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/enginebay02-272x180.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/enginebay02.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/enginebay03-272x194.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/enginebay03.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/enginebay01-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/enginebay01.jpg)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac01-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac01.jpg)

Photos below are from BioHazard/Jacob, checkout the rest of this set here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/102767982@N04/

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac09-545x362.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac09.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac10-272x180.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac10.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac11-272x180.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac11.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac12-545x362.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/wtac12.jpg)

mrpham
11-07-2013, 06:38 PM
So this happened last night at Mt. Nebo....

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1394171_576187155786342_503244376_n.jpg

fwdtamiya
11-07-2013, 08:02 PM
:? take it back to the builder?

I<3flippyheadlights
11-07-2013, 09:18 PM
Damn that sucks. Is that a 3 inch exhaust?

Phatmiata
11-07-2013, 09:23 PM
wow thats a tad off eh? LOL

mrpham
11-08-2013, 02:38 AM
Not happy that it's happened, can't drive the car for a few days :(

It's a 2.25" system, 3" too big for NA I think.

I<3flippyheadlights
11-08-2013, 09:00 AM
3 inch is way too big for NA. It just looks that way from this angle. Sorry to hear, man.

mrpham
01-17-2014, 07:41 AM
Valve Clearances - http://omgpham.com/valve-clearance

Long time no post!

This has been a long over-due service item, valve clearances. Because it's a brand new head build, the clearances have to be checked roughly at the 5000km mark.

This forum thread below was very helpful.

http://www.miataforumz.com/how-40/how-check-valve-clearance-re-shimming-nb-head-331/

But I was too lazy to pull everything apart to remove the camshafts, so I ordered the Mazda special service tool for this :D It basically let's you remove the shims with camshafts still in.

Mazda part number is 49T0-12-0A0A.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5596-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5596.jpg)

Using my feeler gauge to measure all the clearances first, best to record everything as well. A couple of simple calculations are done to find what shims are required to get the clearances within spec.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5600-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5600.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/clearances-272x152.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/clearances.jpg)

Tool bolted in and setup.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5602-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5602.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5603-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5603.jpg)

Bucket pushed down, shim out so it could be checked and measured. This one is 4.00mm.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5604-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5604.jpg)http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5605-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5605.jpg)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5607-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_5607.jpg)

mrpham
05-26-2014, 05:03 AM
Radio Delete - http://omgpham.com/radio-delete

Been wanting to do this post for awhile now. It's been a combination of research and a lot of testing to get to this point. Quite pleased with the outcome but would like to make some changes later on, more on that later.

A few goals I had for this project:

Delete radio/head-unit.
Keep everything as simple as possible, think minimal.
Nexus 7 tablet to display all the Megasquirt gauges via Bluetooth (http://omgpham.com/bluetooth-x-megasquirt).
GPS with offline maps, pause/resume music on power off/on, wired tether to phone.
Maintain charge with full brightness, GPS, music and gauges running.
Easy to remove tablet from the car, one cable to dock.
Amplifier install that is compact yet has tone controls (bass/treble).
To make it possible for the tablet to dock with just the one cable (USB), and not have to plug the headphone/Auxilary cable in as well, I had to use the tablet's USB OTG Host feature. This basically allows you to plug heaps of USB devices to your Android device, keyboards, mice, thumb-drives, USB DAC, etc...


To make it possible for the tablet to dock with just the one cable (USB), and not have to plug the headphone/Auxilary cable in as well, I had to use the tablet's USB OTG Host (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB_On-The-Go) feature. This basically allows you to plug heaps of USB devices to your Android device, keyboards, mice, thumb-drives, USB DAC, etc...

However, while in OTG Host mode Android doesn't allow the tablet to be charged at the same time. This is where the software comes in to make it all possible. Check out Timur's website (http://mehrvarz.github.io/nexus-7-usbrom/) for details on his custom built ROM. It is optimised for car installs and enables charging while in USB OTG Host mode, deep sleep mode (http://nexus7.wonderhowto.com/how-to/put-your-nexus-7-deep-sleep-mode-conserve-battery-power-throughout-day-0154263/) when power loss is detected (huge power saver), and hot-plugging of audio devices.

You will also need a USB OTG Y-Split cable, I picked up mine off eBay for not much money. While you're there you'll also need a USB DAC, again very little money for these. The USB DAC (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=usb+dac) basically plugs into the tablet via USB and outputs sound for the amplifier.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/usbotg-272x153.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/muse-272x269.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

We're very lucky with Megasquirt when it comes to Android software. MSDroid allows tuning as well as gauges, still in the beta with a new major release soon. ShadowDash is by the same creators as TunerStudio and is a lot more stable but only allows gauges and no tuning features.

http://omgpham.com/msdroid
http://omgpham.com/bluetooth-x-megasquirt

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/screen01-272x170.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/screen03-272x170.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/screen05-272x163.pnghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/screen04-272x163.png (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

For amplification, I decided to go the DIY route. This consists of a pre-amp so that I could have bass and treble control. For the power-amp stage I picked a DIY kit that is built around a IC chip that is commonly used in car radio.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/20140508_192405-545x408.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/20140509_103011-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/20140509_103638-272x204.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/20140509_104921-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

Took me literally under ten minutes to build the power-amp, pre-amp took a bit longer. I than stuffed them both into a plastic case with the USB DAC. The case was picked up from JayCar (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=HB6011).

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5626-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5629-272x181.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5631-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5632-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

Sound wise, this combo worked very well. The pre-amp gave me plenty of tone adjustments and power-amp was able to keep up with the volume levels I usually listen at. But it did suffer from a "pop" noise on power up, and I may have blown the IC chip because of insufficient heat-sinking!

So the other option I'm look at is this little amplifier, Pyle PLMRMP1B (http://www.pyleaudio.com/sku/PLMRMP1B/2-Channel-400-Watt-Waterproof-Micro-Marine-Amplifier). It's very compact, plenty of power, remote gain control and anti-thump turn on. I'll re-use my current DIY pre-amp though, need those tone controls!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/PLMRMP1B-545x273.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

My initial install of the tablet wasn't very successful. Couldn't use my hazard/retractor buttons without removing the tablet, very flimsy, and blocked both centre vents.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/beta01-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/beta02-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

I than found a company called ProClip (http://www.proclipusa.com/tablet-holders/device/google/nexus-7-asus/holder-with-tilt-swivel-511412-19023.cmsv) that produce a Nexus 7 holder that was perfect for my requirements.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/511412-c-545x545.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

I used a custom made radio panel and made it a complete blank. This would allow me to hard mount the ProClip (http://www.proclipusa.com/tablet-holders/device/google/nexus-7-asus/holder-with-tilt-swivel-511412-19023.cmsv) tablet holder. Very happy with the qualilty from the holder, sturdy and easy to dock/undock from the car.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/20140516_112827-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/20140514_222417-272x204.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5637-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5614-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

For the wiring part, I used new connectors. 4-way connector for the outputs to the speakers, and a 3-way connector for ground, accessory and constant 12V power.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5620-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5621-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

Photos of the finished project!

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5643-545x363.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5636-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5641-272x181.jpg
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/IMG_5640-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/radio-delete)

Parts list:


Nexus 7 Tablet - $120
Centre console delete kit (http://omgpham.com/store/centre-console-delete-kit.html) - $100
Stainless steel radio blanking plate (http://omgpham.com/store/radio-din-panel) - $95
ProClip Nexus 7 holder (http://www.proclipusa.com/tablet-holders/device/google/nexus-7-asus/holder-with-tilt-swivel-511412-19023.cmsv) - $80
USB DAC (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=ebay+muse+x5) - $14
Serial to Bluetooth module (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=ebay+db9+bluetooth) - $12
Amplifier TDA7377 (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=ebay+tda7377+amplifier) - $12
Pre-amplifier LM1036 (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=ebay+LM1036+tone) - $11
Narva 4-way connector (http://www.narva.com.au/products/browse/quick-connect) - $6
Narva 3-way connector (http://www.narva.com.au/products/browse/quick-connect) - $5
USB OTG Y-split charge cable (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=ebay+usb+otg+ysplit) - $5
Plastic case (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=HB6011) - $5
USB car charger (https://www.google.com.au/search?q=ebay+3.1a+charger) - $4

freedomgli
05-26-2014, 10:16 AM
Good stuff! Your last two write ups on the valve adjustment and the tablet for MS were great. Thank you. I'm doing a radio delete myself but I plan on keeping my trunk amp and door speakers so I can hook up my phone or iPod for tunes. I used to have a nice soundstream preamp for tone control and bumping up the output voltage but I may follow your path using a miniature DAC and preamp. I also want to add a tablet discretely for MS gauge display. I want to keep my interior looking as clean and stealth as possible.

mrpham
05-26-2014, 04:38 PM
Good stuff! Your last two write ups on the valve adjustment and the tablet for MS were great. Thank you. I'm doing a radio delete myself but I plan on keeping my trunk amp and door speakers so I can hook up my phone or iPod for tunes. I used to have a nice soundstream preamp for tone control and bumping up the output voltage but I may follow your path using a miniature DAC and preamp. I also want to add a tablet discretely for MS gauge display. I want to keep my interior looking as clean and stealth as possible.

Thanks mate!

I still have my door speakers too, planning on upgrading to either some Audison or Morel speakers. My current DIY amplifier is getting replaced soon with that Pyle marine amp, hopefully that arrives soon. Very happy with the DIY pre-amp, tone control is nice but it doesn't provide much gain, volume control range is good with a range of 75dB.

mrpham
06-01-2014, 06:57 AM
Boot Light - http://omgpham.com/boot-light

Just a quick update, I've installed a boot light and it's amazing! Please excuse the image quality, they were all taken using my phone.

Install doesn't take very long and everything is plug-and-play. Kit comes with a LED mounted on a stainless steel bracket, boot switch and wiring harness.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140601_103359-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140601_103633-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/boot-light)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140601_103757-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140601_104911-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/boot-light)

Photo taken without flash at 9PM.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140601_204629-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140601_204659-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/boot-light)

I also removed my tombstone to give it a quick coat of Plasti-Dip, the surface was a bit too rubbery/grippy for my liking so I gave it a quick wipe with some interior detailing products. Worked out very well :)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140530_151102-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140530_151452-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/boot-light)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140531_145224-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/boot-light)

mrpham
06-04-2014, 04:02 AM
New amp arrived!

Doubt it makes anywhere near the power it claims, but as long as it's around 2x 20watts RMS I'll be happy.

More details tomorrow.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t1.0-9/1466031_675908475814209_5034863145654939002_n.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=675908475814209&set=a.175925255812536.44133.141917812546614&type=1&relevant_count=1)

mrpham
06-05-2014, 10:44 PM
New Amplifier - http://omgpham.com/new-amplifier

It's a Pyle PLMRMP1B, a tiny little marine amplifier. Claims to make 2x 100watts RMS, but it's more like 2x 20watts! Still sufficient for my speakers and the MX-5 though. And I'm happy with it's sound quality, not the best amp I've heard but for the size and money it's good.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140604_204007-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140604_203952-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/new-amplifier)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140604_182819-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/new-amplifier)

The amplifier uses a STA540SAN made by STMicroelectronics. Specs confirm the power to be around 2x 20watts RMS.

I installed connectors on the little amplifier, and it also comes with a remote volume control knob. Will have to find a place to install/hide it.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5649-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5653-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/new-amplifier)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5652-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/new-amplifier)

Everything mounted up.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5655-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/new-amplifier)

mrpham
06-14-2014, 09:45 PM
Engine Rebuild Part 1 - http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-1

Hey guyyyyyyyyyyssssss!

My goal has always been to build my bottom end, forged high compression pistons, forged rods and maybe a decent over-bore. As everything with my car, I would prefer to learn and do it myself. So this rebuild is more of a refresh using stock pistons and rods, a learning exercise/practice before I attempt the forged build.

So over the last week I've been slowly pulling apart my spare block, getting it ready for the machine shop. I'm also wire brushing and prepping the block for a fresh coat of paint.

Pulled the head and sump off, and quickly checked the side-to-side clearances, crank thrust and bearing clearances.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140607_134221-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-1)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140609_183330-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140609_222355-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-1)

Everything out and ready for the machine shop.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5687-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-1)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5685-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5686-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-1)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5682-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-1)

mrpham
06-29-2014, 02:30 AM
Engine Rebuild Part 2 - http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-2

I got my block back from Chilton Engineering (http://www.chiltonengineering.com.au/) this week. They are always my first choice when it comes with engine machining work, can't recommend them enough.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140626_103719-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-2)

David and his team carried out the following work:


Measure and hone cylinder bores
Deck the block
Remove and replace oil gallery plugs
Clean oil ways
Supply and fit welch plugs
Measure and cleaning of pistons
Remove balls in crankshaft and replace with screw in plugs
Crack detect crankshaft
Check and linish crankshaft
Block hot washed
Supply of new rings and bearings

Like last time (http://omgpham.com/painting-engine-block), the block was wire brushed to get any loose bits off. Fortunately, the block was acid/hot washed by the machine shop so didn't have to clean as much :)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5689-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5691-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-2)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5690-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-2)

I found that one can of VHT Engine Primer was enough to paint my whole block, I went with gloss black.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5693-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5694-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-2)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/IMG_5692-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-2)

I also disassembled my oil pump to give it a once over and make sure everything was within tolerances.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140620_121147-272x204.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/20140620_121847-272x204.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-2)

itskv
06-30-2014, 08:56 PM
Love it!

mrpham
08-10-2014, 01:03 AM
Engine Rebuild Part 3 - http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-3

Update time!

After I gave the paint some time to dry, it was time to give the internals a wash down. For this I was advised to use dish washing liquid with water, once that was done everything was given a wipe with engine oil to prevent any surface oxidisation.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5695-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5696-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-3)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5697-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5698-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-3)

The crank journals were given a good clean and main bearings installed.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5705-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5706-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-3)

Before the crank can be installed, the clearances need to be checked using Plastigauge.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5708-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5709-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-3)

Once you have the clearances checked and within recommended specifications, it's time to pull it apart, clean and than re-fit using assembly lube.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5710-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5711-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-3)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/IMG_5712-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-3)

In the next episode, I hope to have updates on the ring gaps and final assembly =).

mrpham
09-27-2014, 10:22 AM
Engine Rebuild Part 4 - http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-4

Over the last couple of days I've been able to install the pistons back into the block =)

Because this rebuild is a learning process for me, I choose to re-use the old pistons. Everything is pretty much standard.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_5722-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-4)

Stock pistons being re-used as they all measured spot on.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_5724-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_5725-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-4)

The oil expansion and both rail rings installed. Very easy to do , just make sure to use a lot of oil to lubricate everything.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_5727-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-4)

Upper and lower rings installed, again very easy to install. Just make sure you use a ring spreading tool. The rings need to be clocked into their correct orientation too. I'll try upload some images from the service manual a bit later on.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_5728-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-4)
http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_5730-272x181.jpghttp://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_5731-272x181.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-4)

Once rings are on, oil everything up again. Than it's time for the ring compressor to do it's thing. This part was a little nerve racking as a first time engine builder, but I'm confident it went well.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/IMG_5733-545x363.jpg (http://omgpham.com/engine-rebuild-part-4)

AND DONE!!! For now...

mrpham
11-14-2014, 03:30 AM
A little down time while I wait for gaskets etc to arrive to complete the engine rebuild.

Circuit Breakers - http://omgpham.com/circuit-breakers

I recently ordered some blade style circuit breakers from Narva, actually got the idea from a site I visit frequently:

https://www.rbracing-rsr.com/wiring_ecu.html

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141106_215328-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/circuit-breakers)

Just installed them tonight, and I'll report back with how reliable they are. They're basically just like a regular fuses except you don't need to replace them. If a fuse blows, you just simply reset it after diagnosing the problem.

Old fuses that will be replaced.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141106_215531-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/circuit-breakers)

New circuit breakers in, just waiting for the 5A one because it wasn't in stock.

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141106_215755-545x408.jpg (http://omgpham.com/circuit-breakers)

atank
11-14-2014, 08:27 AM
Very nice and clean setup^^

mrpham
11-23-2014, 08:35 PM
Receives some genuine Mazda parts to finish off my bottom end build :)

http://omgpham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/20141124_110109.jpg