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View Full Version : The Story of Smac's Eunos Roadster so far.....



smac
06-07-2012, 03:27 PM
Well, I figure its about time I started one of these things on here.

A few years ago after finishing college, I decided I wanted some sort of project car to tinker with in my spare time.
At the time I really wanted some sort of Alfa, maybe a GTV6 or something along those lines, but as I was already running one Alfa as a daily (a 156) my wallet really didnt like the idea of trying to run another one :P

So the search started to focus on more affordable optons, mainly Jap stuff as they became plentiful over here during the boom times and prices had fallen greatly now that we were in the middle of a recession.
As my search continued I ended up setting my heart on an MX5, mainly for three reasons

1) cheap to buy and maintain
2) relatively nice interior, something I'm very particular about
3) lots of scope for modifications

So after a quick search I purchased this 93 Eunos Roadster

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/img4c055e5550c0c.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/img4c055f2d9317d.jpg

At this time I really didnt have a clue what direction I was going with the car, all I knew was I wanted some wide wheels, cue XXR's :fp:
I think I was happy with these for about a month before realising there were much better options out there.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1019.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1021.jpg

This would be followed up with some wide arches, I added some rubber trim around where the arch meets the car body to give them a more 'factory' look
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1033.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1034.jpg

Next up came a roll bar, well kind of.... importing a new bar into the country was silly money, and second hand bars very rarely came up for sale, so when I spotted this Carbing aluminium bar with door bars I thought "grand". (not completly sold on the merits of an alu bar)
Heres a quick trial fit before I garaged the car up for the winter, I planned to fit it some stage before the following spring, thankfully that didnt happen.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1045.jpg

smac
06-07-2012, 03:45 PM
It was during the course of the winter that I would start work on the interior, which although 'nice', after discovering Rev9's website I figured it could definetly be improved upon.
It was also around this time that I finally decided on a theme for the car, after learning more about the mx5's classic sports car roots.
So I decided to go vintage, and a bit mental with the old diy.

First up was my own KGW style instrument panel, started off with this
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1053.jpg

evolved into this
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1060.jpg

then this
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1070.jpg

and finally all done
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1084.jpg


Door cards were next up after falling in love with Revlimiters car
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1110.jpg


Also decided to make my own Zoom style center console and radio panel from bits of plastic I had left over from making the instrument panel.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1121.jpg

So come spring the car was looking something like this (yay for blurry pics)

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/P1080126.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF1212.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF1199.jpg

shane
06-07-2012, 03:49 PM
wow interior is gorgeous!

smac
06-07-2012, 04:04 PM
At this stage I still hadn't gotten around to fitting the roll bar, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise as a Hard Dog Deuce, my favourite roll bar, came up for sale second hand, also managed to get rid of my Carbing and broke even on the whole deal.

A pic of fitting
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1199.jpg

and all done
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1202.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF1207.jpg



At this stage the wheels really were beginning to bother me, I felt they let the rest of the car down.
I'd been lusting after either a set of Wats or Heyashi Street for a while at this stage, moreso the Heyashi's, however getting a set wide enough to fill the arches was going to be both difficult and expensive.
So when Rota released the BM8 I figured what the hell, and ordered a set.

At first I had some issues with tire size
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF1226.jpg

Before eventually settleing on a 215/45, not a big fan of stretch but as this is fairly minimal I dont mind
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1220.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1218.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1215-1.jpg

I'm missing out some bits and pieces of the build here and there but the pics tell most of the story anyway

WASABI
06-07-2012, 04:07 PM
Well done! Like the flares (with the edging...beautiful), and the gauges. In fact, I would like to know more information about your DIY gauge set up. Thanks for starting this.

-Jim

smac
06-07-2012, 04:11 PM
Next up was some more love for the interior in the form of RS Refine gauge rings
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1270.jpg

Which were complemented with Revlimiters Version Rosso Gauges
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF9008.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1281.jpg


At this stage I was pretty happy witht the car, except for it needing a front lip

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF9010.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/jpg.jpg


Though there was a certain front bumper I really liked......

smac
06-07-2012, 04:15 PM
Well done! Like the flares (with the edging...beautiful), and the gauges. In fact, I would like to know more information about your DIY gauge set up. Thanks for starting this.

-Jim

Thanks Jim, more info on the build up of the gauge set up here http://www.mx5nutz.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=65365&hl=%2Bkg+%2Bworks

Will update with more progress tomorrow

smac
06-08-2012, 10:51 AM
It was now winter time again, which ment the car was once again garaged up for a few months, this gave me time to get the exterior more in line with the interior.

First step was this little collection of parts
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1285.jpg

This was to be my insperation
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/DesktopBackground.jpg


Attacked the front bumper with a dremel
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1302.jpg

Old lemonade botttles turned out to be the perfect diameter for light housings.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1307.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1317.jpg

Fiberglass
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1322.jpg


and filler
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1335.jpg

expanding foam
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1338.jpg


more filler and a ruler
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1358.jpg


getting there
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1361.jpg


test fit
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1378.jpg


Still some symmetry issues
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1379.jpg

smac
06-08-2012, 11:02 AM
At this stage I was getting really few up with filling/sanding so took some timeout to focus on some other jobs that needed doing.

First up were frame rails that a member on MX5Ireland had made up in 2mm stainless
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1408.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1409.jpg

only pic I have before camera died on me
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1411.jpg

Fitted the Aerodramatics door handles around this time too, and decided to cover my tranmission tunnel with the material I had left over from the door cards.
Door cups are painted with 'chrome' paint for the time being, looks ok from a distance but cheap n nasty up close
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1416.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1435.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1436.jpg


No excuses left at this stage so had to get back to work on the bumper :mrgreen:
This is it with all the filling finished and front lip fitted, ready for paint.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1432.jpg

smac
06-08-2012, 11:09 AM
So off it went to the paint shop shortly after this, where it would stay for almost 5 weeks, not complaining though as I'd rather it was done right than quick, took lots of primer.

Finally got it back earlier this week, which brings us right up to date, got my Runabouts fitted aswell
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2032.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2033.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2038.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2041.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2046.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2044.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2037-1.jpg

Agent☣Orange
06-08-2012, 11:21 AM
Wow! That is some fantastic talent and sense of asthetics!

I<3flippyheadlights
06-08-2012, 12:08 PM
This car... omg

smac
06-08-2012, 12:29 PM
Thanks lads :)

I<3flippyheadlights
06-08-2012, 02:37 PM
You wanna make me one of everything on your car? I'll be your best friend :D

smac
06-19-2012, 06:00 PM
No update, just a few random shots from this evening, must remember to bring the camera with me next time I take the car out so I can get some pics with a nicer backdrop

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2069.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2067.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2071.jpg

smac
07-20-2012, 12:36 AM
Decided it was time to get rid of my old Nardi, it was fairly battered......
This arrived ysterday, Motolita MK4 in 13" guise with polished hub

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSCF2089.jpg


Not had much driving time with it yet but so far love the feel of it.
Installed pics

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1447.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1464.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1469.jpg


and a few of the old battered Nardi

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1470.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1471.jpg

Willywongka
07-20-2012, 03:00 AM
Wow Smac, I love what you did with the front bumper! You know until today I thought you bought that front bumper, little did I know you actually fabricated it!

Great work!

AHHthatsJDMyo
07-20-2012, 09:56 AM
everything about this car is great! REALLY makes me want to go work on mine right now!

smac
07-25-2012, 03:59 PM
Not really an update, other than a change of registration (car is now on Irish plates, was previously on UK) just a few pics from a spin this evening

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1473.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1476.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1475.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1472.jpg

smac
10-14-2012, 01:55 PM
Been neglecting this thread lately, though not much to update anyway, been mostly driving the thing!

I did fit some new suspension a while back though, MeisterR Zeta-S to be exact,

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/DSCF2126.jpg


Very happy with these, the car was on Racelands before this which were actually surprisingly decent!

The Meisters are much better (obviously) especially with the extra bit of travel at the rear, being able to adjust the damping is also nice.

Pic of them installed in my nice dirty engine bay

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1511.jpg



Then a few days ago this happened

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1512.jpg


Bit of an unexpected purchase, came up for sale locally but without any lights, so need to source some

treeafodo
10-14-2012, 02:36 PM
GV tails will suit this car perfectly I think

imperfekt
10-16-2012, 09:01 PM
I bought my GV lights off of JDMPalace. He found me a set of brand new porter tail lights easily but couldn't source me a daihatsu reverse lamp so easily so graciously sold me his in the interim...

He's a very nice and helpful guy :)

Gene Rodriguez
10-17-2012, 11:20 PM
how much how much how much
did you get it for a steal??

smac
10-18-2012, 05:14 PM
I bought my GV lights off of JDMPalace. He found me a set of brand new porter tail lights easily but couldn't source me a daihatsu reverse lamp so easily so graciously sold me his in the interim...

He's a very nice and helpful guy :)

I'll keep that in mind, need to get my ass in gear and source a a reverse lamp.
Pulled the trigger yesterday on some Corvette backup lights that I'm going to hack up to house stop, tail and amber indicator bulbs, so I can have legal lights over here.


how much how much how much
did you get it for a steal??

Maybe not a steal but definitely saved on shipping and import taxes at least.

imperfekt
10-18-2012, 05:45 PM
Nice I've seen garage vary with 70's corvette c type tail lights... The porter lights are direct plug in with running and stop lights and amber signals. The reverse light really seems like a simple, "trailer-type" reverse light, but it's not because I couldn't find generic universal reverse lights anywhere! Lol

Gene; My whole setup ran about 700.

George
10-18-2012, 05:54 PM
how much for the old battered Nardi? :)

smac
10-20-2012, 02:58 PM
Think I'm going to hold onto the Nardi.

Just reading through this I realised most of my photos are kinda crap!
Found an old tripod in the attic a few weeks ago so decided to have a play with it this evening.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1524.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1534.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1550.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1536.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1543.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1539.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1547.jpg

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1549.jpg

WASABI
10-20-2012, 04:16 PM
Perfection! Great attention to detail. I love your car!!!

imperfekt
10-20-2012, 06:55 PM
such a boss car... and so much stuff you've made yourself! :) this is customization at its finest - not merely collecting parts but making it an extension of you.

Alonzo Mosley
10-20-2012, 07:26 PM
Hey Smac,

It's your bhoy in Sligo.Really liking the new pictures, the car looks awesome.

Watching your GV rear install closely, I picked one up.I think I will just take the hit and get original lights, they are getting thin on the ground.

smac
10-21-2012, 06:29 AM
Perfection! Great attention to detail. I love your car!!!


such a boss car... and so much stuff you've made yourself! :) this is customization at its finest - not merely collecting parts but making it an extension of you.

Thanks, have one or two items to add to the exterior, then going to re-do a few of the interior bits. There's a few things I didn't get to do to the standard I would have liked the first time because of just wanting to get the car back on the road.


Hey Smac,

It's your bhoy in Sligo.Really liking the new pictures, the car looks awesome.

Watching your GV rear install closely, I picked one up.I think I will just take the hit and get original lights, they are getting thin on the ground.

Hey Alonzo, the panel should look great on your car.
Yeah its hard to beat the original lights to be fair.
Where do you plan on getting your reverse light?

revlimiter
10-21-2012, 06:25 PM
New pix are fantastic!

smac
10-22-2012, 02:58 PM
Cheers Adam,

Alonzo Mosley
10-22-2012, 05:14 PM
Just going to take my time and decide on the best look.I seen a roadster picture which deleted the rear reverse light, but I think we need one for the NCT?

The panel looked smooth so might try incorporating a reverse in with a different light set up.

Its a costly conversion but it was always my favourite mod on a roadster.

smac
10-22-2012, 05:26 PM
Yeah it could look good smoothed over, I was actually thinking about getting rid of the boot lock.

Might be worth checking out the requirement for a reverse light, I think there might be some loophole, especially with imports.

imperfekt
10-22-2012, 07:25 PM
Just going to take my time and decide on the best look.I seen a roadster picture which deleted the rear reverse light, but I think we need one for the NCT?

The panel looked smooth so might try incorporating a reverse in with a different light set up.

Its a costly conversion but it was always my favourite mod on a roadster.

I see some people who either delete the reverse light on the GV panel, or get a different brand of panel (like TRAP or pitcrew) which simply doesn't have a reverse light!

usually they remedy that by putting a white fog lamp in the bumper cover's muffler notch or somewhere under the rear bumper cover....

Gene Rodriguez
10-24-2012, 08:10 PM
:slayer:

smac
11-21-2012, 12:13 PM
Progress has been slow on this, but got the lights mounted to the panel, just need to find some suitable hardware to hold them in place as there wasn't any screws or bolts supplied.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1567.jpg


Next step is to find a way of mounting the bulbs in the lights. I had hoped to use LED's but apparently Mazda used some kind of non standard wireing technique for the stop/tail lamps which means LED's wont function properly, need to do some more research on this.

Also removed the rear spoiler and high level brakelight while I was at it, need to decide now whether to just get the holes filled and resprayed, or maybe spring for a Murakami M2 bootlid.....

oldcafe
11-21-2012, 02:53 PM
with a dark color, these lights are beautiful

smac
11-21-2012, 03:35 PM
Yeah I cant wait to see how they look once the panel is painted, they should stand out a lot more then

smac
05-03-2013, 01:04 PM
Ben neglecting this thread a bit,
Below is a bit of a how to for what I've done so far, basically everything up as far as wiring.


First cut a big hole in the back of your new Corvette light unit.
Then take the plastic lid from a 450ml can of aerosol or something, doesn't matter as long as the internal diameter is more than 64mm, these are exactly 64mm. I used a white lid as it would be better at reflecting light around the unit.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1662_zps7dcee96c.jpg


Place the lid inside the light unit up against the edge of the hole you just cut and mark it, this gives you the height you need to cut it.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1663_zps0e05b190.jpg


Then fit it in place, we only want to put it in place temporarily for the time being, so I just used a few tiny drops of super glue to hold it in place.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1664_zpsbb7d0de4.jpg


Next cut a circular piece of plastic the same diameter as the back of the light unit (I used the same 4mm plastic I used for the Zoom style console and instrument panel earlier in the thread) and roughly mark out the shape and position where the lid you just cut up is going to be.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1666_zps61b7e5e1.jpg


At this point I noticed that that the high level brake light used a capless 21w bulb, these would be ideal for brake, indicator and reverse light bulbs in the Corvette tails as the capless bulbs were quite small and neat. The same holders could also be used for the 5w bulbs needed for the tail light bulbs.
I had a few old connectors laying around from the time I made the TSI's a few years ago.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1667_zpsc930a0c1.jpg


Then I drilled a couple of holes in the new panel for the bulbs, there is plenty of space for both indicator and reverse bulbs in the central part of the unit. I also drilled a hole for the tail and brake bulbs in the outer ring after this photo was taken.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1669_zps6cf1ab1c.jpg


Now all that was left to do was test the new light output against that of the originals.
To do this I just attached spade terminals to the old fittings I had and connected them to the main harness, I was able to figure out what connector was what from looking at the harness attached to the original light.

Tail light comparison: 5w capless bulbs, same as the original.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1703_zpsc22142cd.jpg

Light output is the same, and although the Corvette lenses to a good job of diffusing the light the lower part is slight dark. So I'm going to have to install another bulb in the lower half of the ring to get it to light up evenly all round.
The other obvious problem is the light soakage into the central part of the unit, we'll get back to that in a minute.


Brake Light Comparison: 21w capless, same as original.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1704_zps858e4363.jpg

Same story as the tails really, will need am extra bulb to illuminate evenly and more light soakage.

Reverse Light Comparison: 21w capless same as original.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1705_zpsb9f637f3.jpg

Works well, no issues apart from the light soakage again.

I didn't bother testing indicator as I need to get amber bulbs but pretty sure they will be ok.


Now that I know the original strength bulbs are bright enough the only real problem was the light soakage, this is caused mainly by the white lid I used being to thin to stop light passing through it, some quick testing revealed that a black lid fared much better.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1702_zpsff89ea75.jpg


So I decided to cut the black lid to the same size as the white one I was already using, I then cut it so as to allow it to wrap around the white lid and glued it all in place.
Final step was to spray it white so now I had a stronger more light resistant divider that still reflected light well as it was white.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1707_zpsbc72e903.jpg


The final thing I have done so far is to attach the divider to the unit properly, I used white silicone (bathroom sealant) as this should hold the divider in place quite well while also closing up any gaps that light might pass through.
You have to put the divider in first as you need to keep the sealant on the outer edge, this is because the divider sits right against the clear central part of the unit and any silicone inside this may be visible from the outside.
It's quite tricky to do as there is only a small flat area that the sealant must be kept on otherwise it will drop down into the outer part of the light.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1708_zpsedd193a3.jpg



Thats it for the time being, next step is to decide what type of capless bulb holder will suit best and order them, after that its just the wiring an its done.

Speaking of the wiring, I'm probably going to end up using two 5w bulbs where there was only one before, but more importantly there will also be two 21w bulbs where there was only one before, is this likely to cause any issues?
I'm also going to have 6 earth wires going into the main harness whereas the original only had 3, again is this likely to be a problem or would I be better off using a separate earthing point?

smac
05-03-2013, 01:06 PM
Here is finished the light housings and mounted the bulb holders. I bored the holes for the holders into an oval shape so that the holders just twist into place, this worked surprisingly well.
The backing plate is fixed using exterior silicone sealant so its completely water tight, not pretty, but effective.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1724_zps7ddfec4b.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/GV%20Tails/PICT1724_zps7ddfec4b.jpg.html)



Next up was filling in the hole for the reverse light, this was fairly easy, I just glued on a backing plate I cut from some old plastic I had laying around

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1719_zps1205fe4d.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/GV%20Tails/PICT1719_zps1205fe4d.jpg.html)


Then filled the area in with fiber glass.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1727_zps31b08a34.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/GV%20Tails/PICT1727_zps31b08a34.jpg.html)


It was at this point that I ran into trouble, as I was pretty much ready for paint now I decided to offer everything up to the car just to make sure everything was right.
Everything seemed fine at first but the more I looked at it the more I got the impression that the right hand side light sat at a slightly different angle than the left hand side, like it was pointing downwards slightly. It wasn't very noticeable but once it was seen, it couldn't be unseen.

So off came the panel and out came the measuring tape, this is what I found.
Mounting face to edge of panel on drivers side measures approximately 55mm

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1716_zpsd33cb701.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/GV%20Tails/PICT1716_zpsd33cb701.jpg.html)


Whereas the passenger side only measures 50mm, great.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1717_zps4ba8de69.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/GV%20Tails/PICT1717_zps4ba8de69.jpg.html)


Now from looking at photos this doesn't seem to be a problem when using the portacab lights, but there are a few other people that have fitted these lights fitted and from looking at the pics they posted, they seem to be having the same issue, though it is hard to tell from just looking at photos as like I said the angle difference is very slight.

Anyway, after a bit of head scratching I ended up cutting a piece of thin flexible plastic which I fixed it into place around the circumference of mounting face with some silicone, so that it sat flush with the mounting face at the top and around 5mm proud at the bottom.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1720_zps4ee050ed.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/GV%20Tails/PICT1720_zps4ee050ed.jpg.html)

I then got the panel sitting as level as possible and poured some fiber glass into the area to level everything out, the pic below shows how much had to be added so the the light could sit in place properly.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/GV%20Tails/PICT1725_zpsf6b873f3.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/GV%20Tails/PICT1725_zpsf6b873f3.jpg.html)



So now, finally, I'm ready for paint :D

OnePaintedMan
05-03-2013, 01:27 PM
^"Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work" - Aristotle

Demon I Am
05-04-2013, 08:58 AM
amazing. can't wait for more!

Grip Driver
05-04-2013, 10:45 AM
Its all in the details, awesome job so far!

smac
05-04-2013, 12:51 PM
Thanks lads, I'll be taking it to the paint guy on Tuesday, he does great work but doesn't exactly rush things, so depending on his schedule I hope to have it on the car in the next two or three weeks.

smac
05-20-2013, 02:37 PM
Still didn't get the panel painted, Zoom headlight lids arrived today though

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1729_zpsb8ad6b06.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/mx5/PICT1729_zpsb8ad6b06.jpg.html)

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1730_zps85242d1d.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/mx5/PICT1730_zps85242d1d.jpg.html)

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1731_zps31da212f.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/mx5/PICT1731_zps31da212f.jpg.html)

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1732_zps6586c51a.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/mx5/PICT1732_zps6586c51a.jpg.html)


Not 100% sold on it if I'm honest, though a grey rainy evening is never a good time to judge a cars appearance!

Stoly
05-20-2013, 04:09 PM
One of my favourites! I'm with you though... not sure the new headlamp vent flows with the rest of the car. I kinda liked the smooth bullet look of the front end but that said, I'm also a bit biased. :D

smac
05-20-2013, 04:37 PM
Yeah, I'm going to leave it on there for a while and see, its kinda growing on me the more I look at it. Theres other things I'm not happy with at the moment (wheel fitament) which isn't really helping my judgement.

Grip Driver
05-20-2013, 08:40 PM
http://www.burgerbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/lovinit.jpg

Willywongka
05-21-2013, 03:19 AM
Smac! Keep the headlight lid, I really dig it. Actually I just bought one myself and its currently at the shop getting painted and I am waiting patiently to get it back. In my opinion the headlight lid works really well with your car because the bumper is really smooth, I'm a little worried it will look funny on my oem bumper.

atank
05-21-2013, 06:02 AM
The progress is FAN-Tastic!!!

smac
05-21-2013, 07:34 AM
Thanks guys, yeah I'm definitely going to leave it on for a few months anyway, I'm starting to warm to it more so it will probably stay on.

Dropped the rear panel off with the paint guy this morning, he said to call back in a week, which knowing him really means two weeks :D
Have some interior parts arriving soon too, so going to make some small changes in there and just finish it off a bit better.


@willywongka you have pm

riefdaddy
05-21-2013, 08:26 AM
I like the scoop. The one thing I noticed is if you have that scoop on both sides your car will look extremely happy when the lights are down, but shocked when you pop them up. Do you think they will channel more air than the NACA style ducted covers?

smac
05-21-2013, 09:29 AM
No idea if they do or not to be honest, I remember reading a discussion somewhere debating this but cant remember what the outcome was. I'm not too bothered really as I only really got them because I like the look, if it lowers engine bay temp by a few degrees too then great.

and yeah it just looks slightly bemused now as opposed to surprised :)

smac
06-08-2013, 03:05 PM
Lights and panel all fitted a few days ago, gave it a polish this evening

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/DSC_0025_zps12f4d686.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/DSC_0025_zps12f4d686.jpg.html)

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/DSC_0026_zps353651fc.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/DSC_0026_zps353651fc.jpg.html)


One of the bulb holders for the tail light on the drivers side is loose and keeps falling out of place, but apart from that all's good!

Interior has been rejigged a bit as well, just need to take some decent photos.

smac
12-13-2013, 04:10 PM
Just a few wee updates on this, not done a lot with it recently except drive it as I'm saving up for paint.

First up is a cv boot from a Lada Samara that I'm using as a gear boot, had originally planned to do something like this when I first made the center console but only got around to it now.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7364/11357139453_61f481b0db_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357139453/)
DSCF2258 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357139453/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


Next up were some trim rings from Revlimiter for around the window switches and hazard light switches, nice little items and add a nice factory finish look to the switches.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5541/11357033246_106fd71eb5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357033246/)
DSCF2260 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357033246/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


It would have been a shame to post the little trim rings all the way across the Atlantic on their own, so after Adam informed me there was a discount available for repeat gauge customers I went and ordered a custom set of Warbirds aswell

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3819/11357095004_e35b9ca1fe_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357095004/)
DSCF2256 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357095004/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

Not a great photo but very happy with them, very tempted to get the RS Refine rings anodized black now to give that Singer 911 look!


Few more random photos

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3817/11357073346_067fc2829f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357073346/)
DSCF2250 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357073346/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3669/11357153783_767bdab77b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357153783/)
DSCF2252 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357153783/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5484/11357042576_f99d8f6be8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357042576/)
DSCF2259 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11357042576/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

Ihatecars
12-13-2013, 08:51 PM
Looks stupid awesome.
I'm loving that keychain as well.

smac
12-14-2013, 12:40 PM
Thanks :)

smac
01-06-2014, 03:12 PM
Picked up these Jenvey's today, just need a 1.8 engine now :)

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/DSC_0092_zps6f7282dd.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/mx5/DSC_0092_zps6f7282dd.jpg.html)

smac
01-16-2014, 02:37 PM
Took advantage of the sale Watanabe were running during the summer.
Wheels turned up earlier in the week, got a chance to wash the car today so thought I'd take some proper pics of them.

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3811/11984331605_4cf5f81ac7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11984331605/)
PICT1837 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11984331605/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3685/11984731344_cbe655ecd1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11984731344/)
PICT1834 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11984731344/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7322/11984742194_b2f7334588_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11984742194/)
DSCF2272 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11984742194/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

Yes I know the center cap isn't on right in the last photo

speedypenguin
01-16-2014, 04:46 PM
Looks great, Smac! Did you get your Watanabes through Rod @Tetsuyagarage? I've been contemplating getting Wats for my car too. What are the wheel specs of your set?

smac
01-16-2014, 05:34 PM
Yep got them through Rod, he was running a pretty good deal on them at the time, think there might still be a sale on?
There 15x8et0 all round.

Dandy
01-16-2014, 05:55 PM
They really look great on your car.

smac
02-09-2014, 05:31 AM
A few months ago I got a set of Revlimiter's Warbird gauges with an orange tach, but the somehow the mixture of orange tach, silver RS Refine rings and black panel didn't really work together.
As I was kinda going for that Singer 911 look with the gauges anyway I decided to go ahead and paint the RS Refine rings black.
To say I'm happy with the results is an understatement :)

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3712/12394775723_02bfc6e901_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12394775723/)
PICT1840 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12394775723/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


While I was at it I decided to paint the spoke of the old Nardi I had as well as restoring the leather following the method Revlimiter used http://revlimiter.ne...po-restoration/

The leather was in very bad condition, covered in scrapes and gouges

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/mx5/PICT1471.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/mx5/PICT1471.jpg.html)


I pretty much skipped the de-glazing step and just attacked it with sandpaper, basically ending up with a chamois leather steering wheel. I then used finer and finer grades of sandpaper until it was as smooth as possible, though it still didn't feel like leather and I figured the wheel was probably beyond rescue.
Decided I'd dye it anyway just to see how it would look, and while the first coat came up all patchy , by the third I had a nice evenly coloured leather wheel that looked almost like new!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7425/12394626465_e3db0252b2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12394626465/)
PICT1842 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12394626465/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


Up close some of the deeper marks are still visible but overall I think it came out pretty good.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7368/12394634225_b00161e27d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12394634225/)
PICT1839 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12394634225/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr



In other news I picked up a 1.8 engine from a 99 car during the week, so the aim now is to get this in before the summer, looks like paint is going to have to wait for another year!

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2867/12395095594_ceaf01a292_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12395095594/)
PICT1845 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12395095594/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

oldcafe
02-09-2014, 08:05 AM
Wow Smac, Wats and singer gauges looks killer

smac
02-09-2014, 01:48 PM
Thanks Oldcafe, did you ever get the itb's sorted on your car?

oldcafe
02-10-2014, 01:32 AM
Thanks Oldcafe, did you ever get the itb's sorted on your car?

Mhhhhh, no :(
I'm a little busy with work, and I never have time
I hope this spring...

JamieH
02-10-2014, 03:45 AM
That is one mighty fine black NA.

Grip Driver
02-10-2014, 07:47 AM
just keeps on getting better and better!

smac
02-10-2014, 08:13 AM
Mhhhhh, no :(
I'm a little busy with work, and I never have time
I hope this spring...

Ah ok, I thought maybe I'd missed it. Looking forward to seeing them fitted on your car!



That is one mighty fine black NA.


just keeps on getting better and better!

Thanks chaps

smac
02-19-2014, 03:31 PM
Bit of progress on the engine swap.

Fitted MX5 Parts stainless manifold, which is apparently a copy of the Racing Beat manifold.

Painted the cam cover in wrinkle black, though unfortunately a couple of smooth spots appeared along the front edge so need to sort those. Also painted the block in black vht paint, and the inlet manifold in satin black.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7323/12641137143_71ec46b030_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12641137143/)
PICT1853 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12641137143/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


Engine bay now looks like this, gonna paint the bay and tuck away some of the wiring while I have the engine out.
Most of the wiring etc has been disconnected at this stage so just need to actually pull the engine out now. Hopefully borrowing a friends engine crane over the weekend.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3765/12641131863_95c5c98c1d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12641131863/)
PICT1854 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12641131863/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


Some stuff wont be making it back onto the car, like power steering and air con.

https://s3.yimg.com/so/7382/12641016955_c0c39a386d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12641016955/)
PICT1855 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12641016955/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


The 1.8 swap kit from Flyin Miata should be here next week sometime along with a lightened flywheel. In the mean time I need to get my head around what I'm going to do with the thermostat, will probably end up doing a coolant reroute.

smac
02-25-2014, 03:55 PM
The Flyin Miata 1.8 swap kit arrived today along with their lightened flywheel

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3760/12777859295_dc2d3c324e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12777859295/)
PICT1858 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12777859295/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


That spurred me on to finish removing the engine, everything went smoothly enough apart from one bracket mounted between the engine and gearbox that holds a clutch line and some of the harness to the engine. It finally came off after cursing at it for about 40 mins :)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5480/12777981753_c2781a3283_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12777981753/)
PICT1856 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12777981753/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

It would seem I had a pretty bad oil leak from the back of the old engine.


and the empty bay, should I just repaint it black or go for something more exciting? Suggestions?

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3763/12777844995_56834f7b01_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12777844995/)
PICT1857 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/12777844995/) by S-mac86 (http://www.flickr.com/people/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

smac
04-08-2014, 02:47 PM
Well went ahead and did the sensible thing and painted the bay black, just needs a few coats of clear now and its done. Am I better off going with petrol resistant laqure or will the normal stuff be fine?

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1859_zps4305f2fd.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/PICT1859_zps4305f2fd.jpg.html)


Got the wishbones and subframe and stuff sandblasted at the weekend too

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/DSC_0147_zps164912e4.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/DSC_0147_zps164912e4.jpg.html)


Etch primed them this evening

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/PICT1860_zpsfeaf07fd.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/PICT1860_zpsfeaf07fd.jpg.html)


MX5 Parts bush kit should be here in the next few days so will fit those once I get everything painted, along with new ball joint boots and drop links.

Have new gearbox seals coming too so that will allow me to get the clutch and flywheel mounted up.
Going to attempt to do the t belt while the engines out too if I can figure out a way to stop the engine turning when taking the crank bolt off.

Cxmoney
04-08-2014, 02:59 PM
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3811/11984331605_4cf5f81ac7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/11984331605/)

I love this picture. wish I was badass enough to make a bumper like that. I am really considering getting some new wheels sometime soon too. however I would get the rota rk-r instead because of price reasons. just can not decide between raw, silver, or hyper black.

love your car though. great inspiration here!

smac
04-08-2014, 03:11 PM
Thanks, yeah the rkr's actually look pretty great. I think Rota lacquer over their polished rims though, which inevitably gets damaged and moisture gets underneath. If I was getting a Rota wheel again it would have to be painted. Though maybe this isn't such a big problem for those of you in warmer climes.

smac
05-12-2014, 04:45 PM
Been plugging away at this whenever I've had time. Cleaned up the bell housing, though it was probably a waste of time as the seal that was leaking is on backorder from mx5 parts and I can't really wait any longer at this stage so its gone back in without it. At least they had the release bearing in stock so replaced that.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7374/13985689838_1f8b672471_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/niSjkq)PICT1861 (https://flic.kr/p/niSjkq) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people/77769365@N05/), on Flickr


Got the wishbones and subframe all painted up and installed along with all new bushes and alignment bolts, forgot to take any pics of this though.

Depowered the steering rack too using the Flyin Miata method, and welded the pinion while I was at it. Cleaned up the rack too and painted it and the track rod's etc. Again no pics.


Finally got around to installing the engine at the weekend so just need to connect everything up now, (which reminds me I need to buy a RPM switch)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7365/14172314615_ac0833ca63_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nAmPnZ)PICT1862 (https://flic.kr/p/nAmPnZ) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people/77769365@N05/), on Flickr


Looking forward to getting it back on the road now, should feel like a pretty different car with all the changes!

revlimiter
05-12-2014, 06:04 PM
I never saw the pix of the gauges and black rings. STUNNING! Seriously.

smac
05-13-2014, 07:15 AM
Thanks, really happy with how they turned out. I had some trepidation about painting the rings but glad I did now as the black just works so much better with the gauges!
Need to get some better pics of them once I get the car out in daylight again, couldn't really get the orange tach properly with the tripod in the way.

WASABI
05-14-2014, 05:25 AM
I never saw the pix of the gauges and black rings. STUNNING! Seriously.

I agree with Adam, your gauges look great with the black rings.

atank
05-14-2014, 05:37 AM
I think your whole Roadster is Fabulous, really looks great smac!!!!!!!!!!!

smac
05-14-2014, 08:50 AM
Cheers gents!

smac
05-20-2014, 03:48 PM
Well got it started this evening :D
It won't idle without me holding some throttle on it, so need to investigate that. I think there's a few vac leaks and I've no idea what way my CAS is positioned so gonna check those things first.


Also if anyone can tell me where this goes it would be greatly appreciated!
It was originally under the intake manifold somewhere.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg156/manails/20140520_131716_zps01a7f75c.jpg (http://s247.photobucket.com/user/manails/media/20140520_131716_zps01a7f75c.jpg.html)

Tylerq219
05-21-2014, 11:26 AM
amazing build!

smac
06-10-2014, 04:34 PM
Connected the above lead between the starter and alt, car now idles though not properly.
Basically if I set idle when the cars warm I can only get it to idle properly with the adjustment screw fully closed.
However if I then try to start the car from cold I have to open the screw 3 or 4 turns before it will idle, then the idle gradually increases as the car warms up.

So far I have;
Checked for leaks but cant find any.
Fitted new plugs and leads
New inlet manifold gasket
Cleaned the isc valve, both by spraying carb cleaner in it while the car idled and then taking it off.
Made sure throttle cable was free.

I've also ordered a new temp sensor, the one that sends the signal to the ecu incase the ecu thinks that the car is cold all the time.
By the way bridging GND and TEN does nothing (I would expect the idle to change slightly?)



Anyway took it out of the shed today to give it a wash by way of motivation!

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2916/14207158170_843a0927dd_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nDrp9W)20140610_202436 (https://flic.kr/p/nDrp9W) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people/77769365@N05/), on Flickr

smac
07-07-2014, 05:18 PM
Got the idle sorted, turns out the idle valve was on the way out.

Trial fitted the 27mm hubcentric spacers I got from FreakyParts this evening.
Just stuck one on as not sure if I like the way it looks, think it might be slightly too aggressive, maybe 17mm would have been better?

Took a few quick pics, drivers side has the spacer fitted, passengers is without.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3917/14412783170_2c2f01607b_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nXBhiy)20140707_213523 (https://flic.kr/p/nXBhiy) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3886/14599409745_0b28109423_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/of6MT8)20140707_213537 (https://flic.kr/p/of6MT8) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

oldcafe
07-09-2014, 03:33 PM
Looks great mate !!!

smac
07-09-2014, 05:53 PM
Thanks, suspension has settled over the last few days and looks better with the spacer now so will keep them I think.

Grip Driver
07-09-2014, 07:28 PM
Just keeps getting better and better

smac
09-06-2014, 04:44 PM
After a busy couple of months, only got around to getting this back on the road earlier this week. Passed NCT test on Tuesday and been driving it since, with the only issue being some noise from the exhaust manifold hitting the gearbox (I think)
Impressed with the new found power, especially low down. Still need to fit the rpm switch so that should release a few extra torques higher up the rev range.

Few pics now that its cleaned up properly and everything's back together

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3845/14972672808_2abf7fdeb8_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oP5RZb)20140906_200708 (https://flic.kr/p/oP5RZb) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people/77769365@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3918/15159280435_ec47276642_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p6zgW4)20140906_200719 (https://flic.kr/p/p6zgW4) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people/77769365@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5585/15136280886_90cc9f1cf2_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p4xoY7)20140906_172015 (https://flic.kr/p/p4xoY7) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people/77769365@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3887/14972485959_452b383868_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oP4UrD)20140906_172116 (https://flic.kr/p/oP4UrD) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/people/77769365@N05/), on Flickr

smac
07-16-2015, 10:08 AM
Not much been happening with this recently, was saving for a full respray but then decided fuck it there's more exciting ways of spending that money :D
I did get the boot lid painted though as there was holes in it from when I removed the spoiler a few years ago! got the 3rd brakelight welded up while I was at it, makes it look like the boot has a subtle ducktail when the light isn't there.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/495/19733712981_190ecbe472_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/w4NrmH)DSC01166.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/w4NrmH) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


Had to get the bumper resprayed too as there was some bubbling in the areas where the light used to be. The paint guy reckoned this was possibly moisture ingress from back side of the lights through the expanding foam I'd used. He sealed up the light openings with some rubber so hopefully that will be the end of that.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/422/19542499179_b8293a83eb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vLUqa2)DSC01168.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vLUqa2) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


Been half thinking about selling the car tbh as I don't really get much use out of it these days. Still have the itb's waiting to get fitted and picked up an Omex ecu over the winter so we'll see, might fit those after the summer of maybe just sell the whole shebang who knows :D

Dandy
07-16-2015, 10:25 AM
You have one of the best put together roadsters I have seen. It would be sad to see you part ways with it.

smac
07-16-2015, 10:35 AM
Thanks, I'm not going to do anything hasty yet, will probably wait until next spring to make my decision. I have plans to do a few European road trips over the next few years and not sure an MX5 is the most suitable car for that kind of stuff. I don't really use it much any more either, probably only put a few hundred miles on it every year maybe not even that. With my work I don't really use my daily any much either so thinking of selling both and getting 'one car to do it all', some of you might get that reference :)

Grip Driver
07-16-2015, 12:07 PM
'one car to do it all'

I can definitely appreciate that, I would do the same if I could

Phatmiata
07-16-2015, 02:07 PM
damn this car is ON POINT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :slayer:

Dandy
07-16-2015, 02:33 PM
. . . 'one car to do it all', some of you might get that reference :)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5PHck72b8M

smac
07-16-2015, 04:49 PM
I can definitely appreciate that, I would do the same if I could

I'm not sure I can either but gonna try and figure out a way over the next six months or so :)



damn this car is ON POINT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :slayer:

Thanks Phat :cheers:




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5PHck72b8M

:slayer:

smac
07-16-2015, 04:54 PM
Also some random interior pics just because

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5602/15449242657_c150859cdd_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pxcpAH)DSC00185 (https://flic.kr/p/pxcpAH) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5600/15636213632_bb55720a75_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pPHFyd)DSC00188 (https://flic.kr/p/pPHFyd) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

Greasemonkey2000
07-16-2015, 07:05 PM
Please keep it! It is such a clean and well executed roadster! :bow: I still want to borrow your front bumper idea but really need an extra one to do so since mine is my daily.

HarryB
08-05-2015, 06:30 PM
What an awesome build! Was wondering how black anodized rings would look like, now I have my answer; EPIC!

smac
08-14-2015, 03:56 PM
Took it for a quick spin this evening to discover the passenger side front brake calliper is sticking, oh well.....
A pic from a few days ago after a polish

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5639/20388962618_dd023ce2b6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/x4GLff)DSC01238.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/x4GLff) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

R26B
08-14-2015, 06:03 PM
I'm selling my S-Ltd, sad to see it go. However, I would love your car. Can you PM if/when you want to sell. (I'm in Galway)
Cheers.

smac
08-15-2015, 12:25 PM
I'll keep you in mind, will probably be the new year before I make up my mind though.

smac
08-14-2016, 03:16 PM
.......aaaand thread revival!
Still haven't got around to putting this up for sale, I do have the Jenvey itb's up for sale if anyone's interested[emoji6]

I did at least drive it a bit recently though, however the front brake calipers had seized up as it was sitting up for do long so gave them a bit of a refurb. Fitted new pads too while I was at it.
The lips on the wats were starting to look a bit dull and had some staining too so hit them with some iron remover before giving the lips a good going over with some metal polish.
Sealed them up with Poorboys Blitz spray sealant before giving the rest of the car a quick clean

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160814/dd37cc73a1e1dc0384351dca9dd28b0d.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160814/c4eb35a8a85b5fac433b21bf48c7db4d.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160814/af5534192ff2b0b793c25a72d67d3f50.jpg

HarryB
08-14-2016, 04:13 PM
What a great looking machine, way to go!

OnePaintedMan
08-14-2016, 05:27 PM
Hehehe Difficult to part with aren't they fella. Glad your still around!

NCGreasemonkey
08-14-2016, 05:42 PM
Just what are you $$$ on the IRTBs? Just curious and what horns / filter do you have? Has this been subtle enough to keep this off the radar? LOL

Ihatecars
08-14-2016, 10:15 PM
Car looks absolutely amazing

smac
08-15-2016, 04:33 PM
Car looks absolutely amazing


What a great looking machine, way to go!
Thank you both!

Hehehe Difficult to part with aren't they fella. Glad your still around!
Indeed they are!

Just what are you $$$ on the IRTBs? Just curious and what horns / filter do you have? Has this been subtle enough to keep this off the radar? LOL
I never actually fitted the itb's, it's a Pipercross filter on a custom backing plate my friend originally made for his mk2 Escort Zetec conversion. The backplate was offset toward the front of the car to improve clearance, the rhd mx5 has the same problem so I had hoped it would fit but never tried it. I think they're 45mm trumpets can't actually remember now it's so long since I bought them!

smac
07-01-2018, 11:10 AM
So just to wrap this up I finally sold this today, after it basically sitting in my garage for the last two years bar the odd spin every now and again....

Overall sad to see it go but at least someone else might take some enjoyment out of it now instead of it just sitting in my shed the whole time.

Took some photos a few weeks ago of all the little details on the car as well as a final exterior photo, figured I may as well post them up....


https://farm1.staticflickr.com/828/41048167674_16de72cd7a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25xhA9S)DSC03733.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25xhA9S) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/40913439994_7870ee308b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25ko5iQ)DSC03698.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25ko5iQ) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/831/41623888121_e389c97fd6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26qaiMt)DSC03661.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26qaiMt) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/918/40732070695_8eb3989a02_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254mvwX)DSC03707.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254mvwX) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/905/40732067085_7435b3e853_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254musH)DSC03706.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254musH) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/833/41583831762_807c7b5c3d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26mC1qA)DSC03704.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26mC1qA) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/884/26755716487_085d84de13_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GLj3mF)DSC03703.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GLj3mF) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/856/26755688037_1e098237af_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GLiTUa)DSC03668.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GLiTUa) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/810/26755698307_95696357ba_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GLiWXe)DSC03676.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GLiWXe) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/839/40732047235_ee1390bc79_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254moyt)DSC03653.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254moyt) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/787/41583808322_dd0aa23928_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26mBTss)DSC03651.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26mBTss) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/856/26755670657_0a45e62087_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GLiNJv)DSC03641.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GLiNJv) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/942/41583797462_0f3d06d00c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26mBQed)DSC03637.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26mBQed) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/832/39816214400_7aaf3a129b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23Eqvnb)DSC03711.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23Eqvnb) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/41583776302_11f584da7f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26mBHWo)DSC03710.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26mBHWo) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr


This last one is from a while ago, I actually removed the rear panel and exhaust for the sale

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/825/40731961855_28e9f776cb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254kXbp)PICT1763_zpscebf0863.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/254kXbp) by S-mac86 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mcnelis1/), on Flickr

riefdaddy
07-01-2018, 03:07 PM
:cry2:

Sorry to see you sell your roadster. I was just thinking about your car as I'm head to Ireland for a weeks vacation on July 7th. It has always been a favorite of mine.

MLambert19
07-01-2018, 05:18 PM
Indeed, major bummer. This car is so well executed. Hopefully the new owner chimes in and keeps us posted...

-Matt

oldgrayleather
07-02-2018, 10:26 AM
Your build has always been a major inspiration so thanks for all you've shared! Hope this has gone to a worthy home.

And about that exhaust...:whistle:

Phatmiata
07-02-2018, 11:55 AM
sad to see this one go ........:cry2: