Jazz

[speedypenguin]

Hey MR,

Seeing many quality builds and personal Miata journeys on this forum has inspired me to share my...friendship with my Miata. I've only had a "detailed" build post on my local forum, but the more I browse MR, the more I find how great this forum is. :8): Let's begin shall we?

Rewind back to high school. I was going through a frustrating time in school, and wanted to satiate my love for cars. In high school, my family acquired a Ford SVT Focus. I'm a huge fan of hatchbacks, and this was my family's 2nd focus. The SVT was my first exposure into "modding", but in reality, all I had on the car was a custom intake (since my parents bought the car, I didn't want to break the car by accident...I'm too cautious. :|)
But I had the opportunity to attend my first autocross w/the SVT, and that was when I knew I wanted to modify a car. But when would that opportunity arise?
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/6575_235535215523_3616022_n_zps9d2a9b3e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/6575_235535215523_3616022_n_zps9d2a9b3e.jpg.html)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/5240_108237128290_2885597_n_zpsb877eea6.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/5240_108237128290_2885597_n_zpsb877eea6.jpg.html)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10429_268678895295_2675509_n_zps57af1dd6.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10429_268678895295_2675509_n_zps57af1dd6.jpg.html)

Long story short, I ended up selling the SVT before I went to college. I go to school less than an hour away from home, so it was hard to justify keeping the SVT because it would just sit at home. Plus...the SVT wasn't very fuel efficient and drank premium...and I confess, not that fast. But to this day, it was one of the best handling FF cars I've driven. But the main reason I sold the SVT was so my mom could get a mid-life crisis car: a R53 Mini Cooper S. Can't complain, and to this day we still have the Mini and it definitely has a unique charm. Everyone smiles when they see it. :)
The Mini is a great car to have fun with too, and I've autocrossed it a couple of times.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10861_208709091943_8280780_n_zps0c6f8498.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10861_208709091943_8280780_n_zps0c6f8498.jpg.html)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/28332_10150199156020296_7144835_n_zps0624165e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/28332_10150199156020296_7144835_n_zps0624165e.jpg. html)

Then, in August 2011, I decided to take some time off from school to work full-time. I had to commute to Silicon Valley each day from school...but I didn't want to bring our family's Mini to college...reasons being I didn't want to park the Mini outside, basically felt the car was too nice for a college kid, y'know? So, I decided I was going to pick up a 2nd hand car, something fun, daily-driver worthy, and cool. What car then? A Honda? Nah, stock=boring, modified=theft. An older BMW, perhaps e30? Nope, relatively expensive to maintain. I almost decided to search for a Mazda Protege 5, but my friend had just gotten a Miata, and something about it...just resonated with me. He had added basic modifications, but I was amazed how little changes could make significant changes with that car. So that was it. I wanted to find a Miata.

I proceeded to post a WTB ad on CL, and I was literally flooded with people trying to sell me their...well-used Miatas for insane prices. Luckily I was patient, because I eventually received an email from a guy selling a '94 Black NA.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/photo1-1_zps7583dd08.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/photo1-1_zps7583dd08.jpg.html)

The car came with a HDHCSD roll bar, hardtop, and some fancy 5zigen wheels. Overall, pretty clean, but there were interior pieces missing (side plastics, gauge hood, interior brace) and there was an exhaust leak after the cat. But brought the car to get inspected, and looked pretty straight, so I acquired the car afterwards. First thing I did was wash the car. I like having a clean car. :) It was at that point, that my journey with Jazz began.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/289058_10150764704765296_3471951_o_zpsbec50895.jpg

[Agent☣Orange]

Jesus. When I was in school, I had to walk there in the dark, uphill, both ways, in the snow. After I graduated, I had to save up two years just to put a down payment on a horse. It ran away on my first day of college.

[speedypenguin]

Jazz came with R-comps mounted on the 5zigens...those had to go since I was going to be daily-commuting. So the R-comps came off, and were replaced with a fresh set of Dunlop DZ101s.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/324479_10150766071365296_780535295_20277913_764199 9_o.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/324479_10150766071365296_780535295_20277913_764199 9_o.jpg.html)

Then, the first "mod" I purchased for Jazz was a set of front and rear R-pkg lips. When I was browsing Miatas, I liked the subtle look of the R-package lips, and knew I had to get them for Jazz.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/322546_10150803258405296_780535295_20650921_162823 8898_o.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/322546_10150803258405296_780535295_20650921_162823 8898_o.jpg.html)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/289411_10150813598005296_780535295_20723536_169688 4630_o.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/289411_10150813598005296_780535295_20723536_169688 4630_o.jpg.html)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/287359_10150813715425296_780535295_20723898_673996 998_o.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/287359_10150813715425296_780535295_20723898_673996 998_o.jpg.html)

Excuse the lousy pictures. Those were taken before I got into photography, and begin taking "better" pictures. :)

[Pfunk]

Jesus. When I was in school, I had to walk there in the dark, uphill, both ways, in the snow. After I graduated, I had to save up two years just to put a down payment on a horse. It ran away on my first day of college.

:slayer: No school like the old school!

[speedypenguin]

I drove the car around stock for about two months. Then I managed to pick up a coldside charger. POWER!!....but wait. Although I was able to test drive the previous owner's car with the supercharger, I decided I shouldn't boost my car so soon. No pictures of the supercharger that I picked up, but I quickly sold the supercharger and spent the money to upgrade my suspension. I picked up a set of FM VMaxx coilovers and I'm glad I did. The new suspension felt much better and it was much more fun being able to chuck the car into corners.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/312038_10150886594470296_780535295_21201055_926237 298_n.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/305713_10150886594990296_780535295_21201059_210110 6213_n.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/307272_10150886595325296_780535295_21201060_183101 2755_n.jpg

Jazz was sitting at 11.25" hub-to-fender all around. This would come back to bite me in the ass a few months down the road...

[speedypenguin]

Next modification was upgrading the exhaust. I managed to pick up a used Jackson Racing exhaust, and it is one of my favorite Miata exhausts. Not only was I able to upgrade the exhaust, but I was able to rid the exhaust leak problem. "Two birds with one stone"...?

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/Miata073.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/Miata019.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/Miata050.jpg

I drove Jazz with the JR exhaust and FM coilovers for awhile, until the next upgrade...

[speedypenguin]

As mentioned earlier, Jazz came with a set of shiny 5zigen wheels. The 5zigens were nice and unique on a Miata (haven't seen many 5zigens on Miatas, a couple on CR), but I wanted to change the wheels. I happened to find a set of 949Racing 6ULs for sale locally, so off came the 5zigens and on went the 6ULs.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/379031_10151032970685296_780535295_21849706_308783 97_n.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/376539_10151032973740296_780535295_21849720_447840 751_n.jpg

The 6ULs were both wider and lighter than the 5zigens (6ULs: 12.8lbs, 8" wide vs 5zigens: 15lbs(!!), 7" wide). I kind of wish I kept the 5zigens as my daily wheels, but I'm in college, so I can't keep everything...yet. :)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/UnitDos511.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/UnitDos507.jpg

It was at this point I picked up a camera, and started messing around with photos. This was a good point because I began to browse other forums for sources of inspiration of how to take pictures of a Miata. Through that, I began to take notice of the endless possibilities of modifications available for Miatas. I think it's reasonable to say I got bit by the "mod bug" then...

[speedypenguin]

Jazz' stock steering wheels was really...crusty. Not pleasant at all. Luckily, I happened to see that many fellow Miata owners swap out for aftermarket wheels, and I was amazed how many choices there are available for our little cars.

I decided to acquire a Nardi wheel: 360mm Classico(?) from Rod @Tetsuyagarage. Rod was great to communicate with and soon enough my steering wheel arrived from Japan:

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/UnitDos495.jpg

Right around that time, someone local was selling some BLOX shift knobs. Went with a BLOX 490g counterweighted shift knob, and it helped take some of the notchiness out of the shift.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/Miata098.jpg

I got lucky and was able to pick up a Nardi hub from a fellow local Miata owner, and soon afterwards installed the Nardi wheel. To this day, this is one of my favorite additions to my car. :)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/584.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/587.jpg

But...I didn't consider that the new steering wheel would sit a bit further away...so I picked up a hub extender from Ken @Garagestar.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/605.jpg

Jazz was coming along nicely, and at that time I was introduced to a local Miata forum, and was soon going on group drives with other fellow Miata enthusiasts.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/599.jpg

[Grip Driver]

Lookin good for a college car!

[speedypenguin]

Lookin good for a college car!

Thanks a lot! It's been a fun experience so far. Hopefully I can find a job soon, and get more serious with mods. :8):

Around late March, Jazz passed the 150K miles mark, so I decided to get him a present. It also happened to be around my birthday...so I guess both of were happy. :lol:

Good bye stock intake.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_3694.jpg

Wait for it...

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_3714.jpg

Racing Beat intake! Sounds great, and I'd like to think it helps Jazz make more power (according to the ever-so-accurate butt dyno :lol:) I still haven't taken the time to take a decent picture of the intake...maybe in the near future...ha.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_3735.jpg

[Agent☣Orange]

Wow, this is getting nicer and nicer.

[Dandy]

Very classy build.7364

[I<3flippyheadlights]

Thank you for proving that a college kid can have a nice car! Seems like everyone makes an excuse in college to not have nice things.

Good looking car man. Really enjoying the updates.

[Left0verCurry]

lookin good

[speedypenguin]

Wow, this is getting nicer and nicer.

Very classy build.7364

lookin good

Thanks all!


Thank you for proving that a college kid can have a nice car! Seems like everyone makes an excuse in college to not have nice things.
Good looking car man. Really enjoying the updates.

Thanks! It's manageable, just have to spend money wisely and once in awhile treat myself and Jazz. :)

So...remember how I mentioned that Jazz' 11.25" ride height would come back to mess with me...? Well it did. I was driving around in San Francisco, and there was a lot of road works on the way out from SF. I was driving and came upon some massive metal plates (covering dug up holes I'm guessing) that were about 1.5-2 inches thick...I slowed down to 15MPH because I thought that would be slow enough...nope. There was a massive thud and Jazz shook insanely. Made it over the construction works...but then noticed a very noticeable "thunking" noise from the right rear of the car. At that time, I wasn't as knowledgeable with the Miata drivetrain, so I thought maybe one of the exhaust flange bolts sheared and fell out because there was also a noticeable exhaust leak afterwards. So I drove home to go to an exhaust shop back at home and while on the lift...saw this:

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/photo1.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/photo2.jpg

See that? Yup, not only did one of the axle shaft boots tear open...but one of the diff arms sheared completely. :(
At this point, I felt horrible. Jazz didn't deserve this...maybe I should have driven even slower? But then I realized...Jazz had gotten me back home from San Francisco...a distance of 50+ miles, essentially moving along with a mangled leg, on 65MPH freeways and got me to the exhaust shop...without breaking down. Not meaning to sound corny...but at that point my friendship with Jazz grew that much stronger. I decided. I would fix him.

So I proceeded to drive from the exhaust shop to a friend's shop to leave Jazz there to get completely diagnosed while I returned to school. But about 2.5 miles away from the shop, Jazz's diff finally gave in. The axle ball joint (?) came out completely, thus Jazz couldn't move and we coasted to the side of the road. My heart was literally aching while I was waiting for a tow truck, but luckily, we were within a driving range to my friend's shop that my tow was free!

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/539952_10151597403785296_264254473_n_zpsa8095a86.j pg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/539952_10151597403785296_264254473_n_zpsa8095a86.j pg.html)

I couldn't believe it. Jazz had gotten me so far, literally dragging a "lame leg" along, and finally tired out, just within reach. So off Jazz went to my friend's shop, to wait patiently till I could come back to fix him.

[maharaj]

Car looks great, you can never and must NEVER sell Jazz. :)

[riefdaddy]

Sorry to read about the damage and I hope you got it fixed without incident. I don't think the bump was the cause. It might have been the final straw, but look at the crack and you will notice the top is stained and the rest is not - indicating it was failing for a long time. Also, it has a divot in the arm at the top and bottom, what is up with that? Mine snapped at the exact same spot on Friday. I think it was a casting flaw that resulted in metal fatigue as every time I have seen this it is at the same spot. On the plus side, you have two part axles and that makes it easier to fix.

[speedypenguin]

Car looks great, you can never and must NEVER sell Jazz. :)

Thanks! I hope to never part with Jazz. I'd like to think he has a unique personality/patina amongst other Miatas. :)


Sorry to read about the damage and I hope you got it fixed without incident. I don't think the bump was the cause. It might have been the final straw, but look at the crack and you will notice the top is stained and the rest is not - indicating it was failing for a long time. Also, it has a divot in the arm at the top and bottom, what is up with that? Mine snapped at the exact same spot on Friday. I think it was a casting flaw that resulted in metal fatigue as every time I have seen this it is at the same spot. On the plus side, you have two part axles and that makes it easier to fix.

Hmm...good observation. Given that our cars are getting decently old, I'm curious how common it is for other Miatas' diffs to shear like that...makes me wonder how all those "slammed" guys drive anywhere without breaking down constantly.

Thankfully, my parents let me drive the Mini, while Jazz waited patiently at my friend's shop for about three weeks while I was busy at school...luckily my friend's shop was very accommodating and whenever possible, Jazz was kept inside their garage. (Shoutout to EDGE motorworks).

After diagnosis, it was determined Jazz needed just a new diff and one axle shaft. It could've been much worse...*phew*. I was able to pick up a used diff from a friend for cheap and picked up an axle shaft locally. Soon enough, Jazz was back on the road!

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/403401_10151724662690296_780535295_24068580_125181 7687_n.jpg

As nice as it was driving the Mini around, I had a huge smile on my face when I drove Jazz again after he was fixed. Miatas definitely have a special charm don't they? :)

[speedypenguin]

Fast forward to Summer 2012. I decided to go hardtop only with Jazz. When I got Jazz, he didn't come with a soft top, so I picked up and installed a used soft top in Jazz. Well...the soft top stayed in the car for only a week. I'm not really a "drop-top" enthusiast (I do take off the hard top once in awhile if it's really nice), but the hard top really makes Jazz more...classy. Definitely makes a Miata look more "upscale". :lol: So till this day, Jazz is hard top only, bolted in with Garagestar hardtop brackets.

I finished school for the year, and I was going to work in Shanghai for the summer. Poor Jazz...he would have to sit patiently at home for the entire summer till I returned...so I decided to wash, clean, and then take pictures of Jazz before I left.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_5264.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_5272.jpg

949Racing 6ULs: Classy and functional.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_5279.jpg

I love my Nardi steering wheel.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_5302.jpg

Pop-up headlights are so cool.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_5338.jpg

[lowandrusty]

Great car! That damage was pretty shocking! Now I'm nervous because I definitely sit lower than you and our New England roads are pretty terrible! Lol

[speedypenguin]

Great car! That damage was pretty shocking! Now I'm nervous because I definitely sit lower than you and our New England roads are pretty terrible! Lol

Thanks! Yes, the damage was shocking to say the least. You should be okay, my diff hit one of those large metal road plates...admittedly I wasn't crawling over them, but it was still surprising.

So carrying from my last post, I mentioned I was overseas the entire summer. Jazz remained covered at home, sitting patiently till I came back. I was in China, and even though they have strict internet restrictions...I browsed Club Roadster...a lot. (no judging please. :P) But through that, I discovered Adam's (revlimiter) blog, and I was inspired to say the least. Reading Adam's journey with Sharka and his DIY modifications influenced me to decide to modify Jazz more. Long story short, what I took from Sharka's build was any Miata owner can make their Miata their own, by adding large and small changes. (Doesn't sound as inspirational as Adam would say it...I'm pretty sure. haha)

Fast forward to the end of the summer: It was about a week before I would head back to the U.S., so I decided to add a few things:

Red RyokuRob front tow hook
Garagestar front license plate bracket
Swap out DZ101s for some Dunlop Z1 Star Specs

I returned to the States, and to fight jetlag...I decided to spend some much needed catch up time with Jazz...by upgrading and adding parts! (I was worried that my battery would've drained itself when I got back...but Jazz started right up! Can't believe he did, especially after 3 months!)

I was so excited to receive my new parts...that I forgot to take pictures of the RyokuRob tow hook and Garagestar license plate bracket. But here's Jazz up on an alignment rack at my friend's shop.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8219.jpg

Oh what do we have here? :)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8222.jpg

New, fresh Star Specs on the left. Old DZ101s on the right.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8224.jpg

Oh yes.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8228.jpg

I'm glad I pulled the trigger to get better tires for Jazz. He had been a great daily driver while I was working, but with stickier tires, Jazz could be driven like a Miata was meant to be driven. Both Jazz and I were happy for this upgrade. I also raised my ride height accordingly, both because the Star Specs wouldn't fit at my old height and because I wanted to avoid any possible further damage (see older post).

Ride height before: 11.25"F/11.25" R
Ride height after: 12"F/12.5"R

So Jazz at his new height become much more functional and how convenient...I was going to take Jazz to his first autocross under my ownership soon afterwards. :D

[Agent☣Orange]

After diagnosis, it was determined Jazz needed a new diff and one axle shaft.

Haha, ya think?

[speedypenguin]

Beginning of September 2012, I took Jazz to his first autocross with me. The upgraded tires gripped well and I had a great time being able to drive Jazz to the limits in a safe, controlled environment. This autocross also happened to be on the "one-year" anniversary of the day I bought Jazz...what a way to celebrate huh? :)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/241145_10151201407676944_768082297_o.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/326202_10151201409626944_231755327_o.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/415141_10151201414191944_971742680_o.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/415005_10151201413981944_353564846_o.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/279546_10151201410466944_1416710142_o.jpg

[atank]

NICE build!!

[speedypenguin]

NICE build!!

Thanks!

So after the autocross, I felt that Jazz was at a good place, both in terms of drivability and modifications. I was going into my last year of college, so I was not going to be able to take Jazz to the track and autocrosses. But then about three months later, I drove Jazz and took a few photos of him...

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9178.jpg

It was during this picture that I thought...there's something missing. Up till that point, I only wanted to modify Jazz with a "simple and clean" mentality. Staring at Jazz, I wondered...what could I change so that Jazz would begin to be my Miata. The r-package lip was a nice, subtle addition, but I had recently wanted Jazz' face to be more...aggressive. So what did I do...?

[speedypenguin]

Well, it soon happened that Static Nine Garage announced they would begin selling TSIs. I had always wanted TSIs, but could never justify spending $150+ for them...well S9G offered (and still does) their TSIs for much less, so I decided to make a impulse decision and pulled the trigger. There also happened to be a "black Friday" sale at a local shop selling GV-style lips for really cheap...so I decided to get a GV-style lip for Jazz.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9304.jpg

I was amazed how just these two changes completely changed my view on...Jazz' face? (front bumper, front end, I don't know what to properly say.=P) Changing out the stock turn signal lens and replacing them with TSIs made Jazz' face look much sleeker, aggressive, and dare I say...cool. Plus, the GV-style lip added a nice aggressive "chin" for Jazz. :)

[Willywongka]

It was nice to read the history of your car Brian =). I always think I am the only one that goes through hardships with my car, but I see you have had your fair share as well. Can't wait for your next mods.

[tsingson]

Great story so far man! Keep up the good work. SF roads suck. I always hated going there and driving just because of the roads.

[speedypenguin]

Great story so far man! Keep up the good work. SF roads suck. I always hated going there and driving just because of the roads.

Thanks! Yeah...ever since that incident I haven't driven Jazz to the city...but I'm sure he'll fare well because his ride height is higher than that time and I'd be much more careful...


It was nice to read the history of your car Brian =). I always think I am the only one that goes through hardships with my car, but I see you have had your fair share as well. Can't wait for your next mods.

Thanks man! I hope to get Jazz to the same level as your car! Been awesome to see your car in person several times. :)

After adding the GV lip and TSIs, I didn't think I would modify Jazz for awhile...well. A guy who started a small business called "Carbon Miata" posted a group buy for his newly released vented headlight lids. During the summer, I had read Revlimiter's blog about Sharka many, many times and always thought that his DIY-headlight lid looked great. So I decided I would get a vented headlight lid for Jazz. It's not DIY...but it's definitely unique. Plus, I have a racing-beat intake, so theoretically...the headlight lid "should" feed more air...but either way, it looks great.

Sidenote: I found out that Marc (CarbonMiata) is based in Shanghai, and I actually traveled to Shanghai during Winter 2012, so I got to meet him in person! Cool guy, and wants to provide unique offerings for the Miata. And he owns one of about 5 Miatas/MX-5s in Shanghai! In addition to picking up my headlight lid in person, I was able to see more carbon parts he has made for the Miata. High quality stuff.

Anyways! I purchased a FRP-headlight lid, so that meant I'd have an opportunity to do a DIY paint job! Not a huge job, but it's a start with my DIY touches for Jazz. :)

Here is the FRP vented headlight lid before prepping.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0490_zpsd303cc36.jpg

Sanding it.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0494_zps0b721640.jpg

Primer.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0499_zpsb777cf89.jpg

First coat of paint.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0503_zps8eee0e3e.jpg

Since I was painting my headlight lid, decided to paint my TSIs. Sanding them down.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0502_zpsb560aa3a.jpg

First coat of paint for the TSIs.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0509_zpsb04417fb.jpg

Finished! Not the best job, but for my first time, I'd say pretty good. :) Eventually, when there are enough rock chips...I'll sand them down again and do a better job. Just wanted to get the new parts on my car. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0540_zps8620322b.jpg

Quick shots of Jazz hanging out with a fellow friend.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0521_zpsc88ed647.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1555_zpsfeb24919.jpg

With the addition of the vented headlight lid, I think Jazz looks very cool. I'm sure Jazz thinks he looks cool too. :)

[tsingson]

Nice job on the TSIs and the headlight cover. It looks good from here. Now I may have missed it but did the name Jazz come from the Transformer?

[speedypenguin]

Nice job on the TSIs and the headlight cover. It looks good from here. Now I may have missed it but did the name Jazz come from the Transformer?

Thanks. Yes, that's where the name inspiration came from. I was reading Revlimiter's blog a lot, and took a liking to his many transformers figurines, which in turn inspired me to name my Miata, Jazz. Jazz' name became final after the headlight lid installation imo. :)

[speedypenguin]

Finally finished school! I can now say I have graduated from college! :) Been busy for the last couple of weeks, but let's continue the story of Jazz shall we?

After installing the headlight lid and TSIs, the right headlight went out. I thought..."uh oh, did I mess something up?" Nope, the bulb just went out. =P I also happened to had talked with a few friends who suggested eventually upgrading to H4 headlight housings in the future. Hmm...how timely right? :)

Picked up a set of Hella H4 housings and headlight bulbs.

Hella H4 headlights and bulbs.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0596_zpsa0edf41f.jpg

Stock on left, H4 on right w/H4 bulb.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0613_zps0117e3b8.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0616_zpsd8ded362.jpg

Even just the headlights look better.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0625_zpsdc43223e.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0621_zpsc92fd812.jpg

Comparing light output:
Stock
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0601_zps9f6c453e.jpg

H4 headlights (taken before I aimed the headlights)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0626_zps5fc5a55d.jpg

[maharaj]

Nice to see that you keep your car waxed which is evident by the beads of water on the bumper cover! Keep it up!

[speedypenguin]

Nice to see that you keep your car waxed which is evident by the beads of water on the bumper cover! Keep it up!

Thanks maharaj! Nothing fancy, just "Wash'n'wax" car wash soap...I have clay barred Jazz a couple of times, but never a full wash-clay bar-polish-wax process. Now that I'm done with school for the near future, hopefully Jazz and I can have some quality catch-up time. :)

So soon after Jazz got his vented headlight lid and TSIs painted, my friend said he was selling his Sparco seat. Specifically, a Sparco Sprint V. Being 6'0", I had always wanted an aftermarket bucket seat, but they are decently expensive (at least for a college student). I had wanted a Sparco Sprint V because it is FIA-spec approved (not sure of the technical term), but I would have to buy the seat, mount, and slider, and I couldn't afford that. :|

Well, long story short, there was someone who was selling a Sparco Sprint V in our local forum, but my friend managed to snatch it before I could get to it. Probably a good thing, because I couldn't justify spending that much money at that time. Then...a few months later, my friend let me know that he and his family were expecting another child...so he asked if I would be interested in purchasing the seat...of course I said yes! He offered it to me at a price I could not refuse. :mrgreen:

Sparco Sprint V, mounted on Sparco sliders and Good-Win racing seat mount.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0641_zpsa381a3b1.jpg

Because racecar.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0891_zps33d2c676.jpg

I love this seat. It fits me perfectly (woot for being slim and skinny haha), and I sit a little bit lower than stock. I find the seat perfect for daily driving, both for commuting and occasional spirited canyon runs. Plus the seat looks great too. :)

[Agent☣Orange]

Very cool.

[tsingson]

Congrats on graduating! I am sure you feel light a weight has been lifted off of your shoulders. Jazz is coming along great man!

[speedypenguin]

Congrats on graduating! I am sure you feel light a weight has been lifted off of your shoulders. Jazz is coming along great man!

Thank you sir. It's been great thus far, people have told me I look much happier after finishing college. :)

So...continuing with my sporadic updates...

Jazz didn't come up with sill plates, so I picked up some basic sill plates. Little touch, but looks nice.

Before
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0919_zps34104f15.jpg

After
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0925_zps3e70a11b.jpg

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0927_zpsf4a47a69.jpg

Then, I added a pair of Flyin Miata frame rail reinforcements. I was browsing CL and saw an auto shop post up a crashed NA, and saw these on the bottom of that car. Picked these up for a steal. :mrgreen:
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0901_zps8ebb879b.jpg

And finishing this post with one more pic of Jazz after a quick wash. This was taken back in February...haven't taken pictures of him in a long time. I've since added a few little touches here and there, which I will post in more updates. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0932_zpse0c948d3.jpg

[riefdaddy]

I like the sill plates, they work well with your car. Congratulations on graduating! Now comes the fun of 40+ hour work weeks. :)

[speedypenguin]

I like the sill plates, they work well with your car. Congratulations on graduating! Now comes the fun of 40+ hour work weeks. :)

Thanks! Yeah...looking for jobs now, but also enjoying the "freedom" of no school/work for a bit...:)

Been awhile since my last update...main reason I was busy, busy, busy...but! I've finished school and graduated! Since then, I've been enjoying life and also been kinda slow with uploading photos...hehe. Anyways! Last week, my fraternity and I biked down from the SF area to LA. Yes biked. Trip took a week, and I ended up taking my car down as a support car when I wasn't riding. It was an opportunity I couldn't pass up: getting the opportunity to go on a mini road trip with my car along Highway 1, which is an amazing stretch of road, especially along the coast (Big Sur area and onwards). It was driving heaven, and Jazz was the perfect companion! :) Pretty sure he had as much fun, if not more fun zipping up and down along those magnificent twisties.

Since my last post, I decided to get a set of blue Ryoku Rob tow hooks, and boy I'm glad I did. I had a red tow hook, which was nice...but the blue set looks so much nicer...and I've got a sort of "black and blue" theme with the car. Y'know...blue tow hooks, blue shift knob, the blue on the Nardi horn button, and recently Project-G shift/e-brake boots with blue stitching [I'll take pics of the boots for a future post). I've also picked up a set of mudflaps, and love how they look and how functional they are (saves having to clean dirt of the bumper). But here are some pics of my fun drive down the coast with Jazz. :)

Heading down a great driving road.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1565_zpsea40383e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1565_zpsea40383e.jpg.html)

Love the mudflaps.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1573_zps60f7110e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1573_zps60f7110e.jpg.html)

Oh hi there.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1578_zpsf0e5d4f8.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1578_zpsf0e5d4f8.jpg.html)

Dat bluee.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1584_zps115c3601.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1584_zps115c3601.jpg.html)

"The hills are alivee...with the sound of 4-cylinder-ricer-exhaust-noise" :P
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1688_zps4879588b.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1688_zps4879588b.jpg.html)

My favorite angle of the car. (Also, for the astute observer, I finally fixed my gas cap! Only took me a year to fix it...No more silly looking, unlocked fuel lid!)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1695_zpseb8a881c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1695_zpseb8a881c.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1702_zps6fab5959.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1702_zps6fab5959.jpg.html)

Say cheese.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1710_zps72513faa.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1710_zps72513faa.jpg.html)

One of my most favorite shots that I've ever shot, both of Jazz and in general. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1721_zps4e23e111.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1721_zps4e23e111.jpg.html)


All dirty. hehe and double sunshade application ftw (need to, because it gets so hot...)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_2008_zpsaad13cc5.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_2008_zpsaad13cc5.jpg.html)

I'll take pics of the new Project-G shift and e-brake boot that Jazz has now. Since I ended up in SoCal, I also took the opportunity to stop by Project-G. Great guys! And awesome cars...*drool* Also, I decided to fully detail the car by myself this past week: wash, clay bar, polish (rotary buffer), and wax/seal. Paint is all glossy now...will take pics soon. :) Till next time...

[Dandy]

So jealous . . . that is such a beautiful drive. And a road trip with the fraternity brothers? That will be one you will tell your grand kids about (the edited version, of course :cool:). Black with subtle touches of blue . . . that is very cool. I bet you wear your sunglasses inside just to feel cool . . . and get nothing but respect. This is definitely one of my favorite threads. Keep it coming.

[Ihatecars]

I really love the ethos of this build thread. Your mods are mostly simple and humble, but each give a major bit of character to your car. I absolutely love everything about Jazz.
P.s. I'm glad I'm not the only person that's given his Miata a silly name. :3:

Oh and P.s.s. I also do the double sun visor thing. It's stupid hot in Houston Tx.

[etikoner]

Wow, I really like this car.. Those five zigen wheels didn't look half bad but this car really pulls off the 6ul's on star specs..

I'll be checking up on this from time to time :)

[Jammers]

Oh you fanccyyyy

[speedypenguin]

So jealous . . . that is such a beautiful drive. And a road trip with the fraternity brothers? That will be one you will tell your grand kids about (the edited version, of course :cool:). Black with subtle touches of blue . . . that is very cool. I bet you wear your sunglasses inside just to feel cool . . . and get nothing but respect. This is definitely one of my favorite threads. Keep it coming.

Thanks Dandy. Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Thank you for the compliment. :)


I really love the ethos of this build thread. Your mods are mostly simple and humble, but each give a major bit of character to your car. I absolutely love everything about Jazz.
P.s. I'm glad I'm not the only person that's given his Miata a silly name. :3:

Oh and P.s.s. I also do the double sun visor thing. It's stupid hot in Houston Tx.

Thank you sir. I think Jazz reflects my personality...seems like he is doing so correctly. :) Both Jazz and I are humbled by your compliment.


Wow, I really like this car.. Those five zigen wheels didn't look half bad but this car really pulls off the 6ul's on star specs..

I'll be checking up on this from time to time :)

Thanks man! Yeah...I know 6UL's are so "common" on Miatas, and I would like to have another set of wheels to change it up...but you're right. Something about 6ULs is just so...right. :)


Oh you fanccyyyy

Ooh y'knowwwww. :P

So it's been awhile since my last update...so here it is! As I mentioned, I acquired a shift boot and e-brake boot from Project-G. Props to Project-G for offering tasteful additions for our cars, and the quality of the material is top notch. Glad I made the decision to install them in Jazz. Little touches, but makes the interior feel classier.

Project-G leather e-brake boot with blue stitching.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8109_zps92ef4142.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8109_zps92ef4142.jpg.html)

Project-G leather shift boot with blue stitching.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8112_zps7dea0b1c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8112_zps7dea0b1c.jpg.html)

Subtle, but classy touches. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8139_zpsd2532714.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8139_zpsd2532714.jpg.html)

I also am fortunate to acquire one of Retromodern's products. Thanks Ken. So...goodbye cigarette lighter.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8117_zpsd46fd1c7.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8117_zpsd46fd1c7.jpg.html)

Retromodern aluminum cigarette lighter plug.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8116_zps42b68fbd.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8116_zps42b68fbd.jpg.html)

I also was able to find some stainless steel door sill plates. I've always wanted these, so even though the black sill plates looked great...I just had to jump on the opportunity for these new sill plates. And for a really good price! :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8142_zps1452ad4e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8142_zps1452ad4e.jpg.html)

Since those additions...I also acquired some center wheel caps for my Gen-I 6ULs and Garagestar oil cap from a fellow Bay Area miata owner (he had a MASSIVE garage sale recently, so many rare parts...*drool*). I'll take pics of those soon.

Oh, and also a couple weeks ago, a group of Bay Area miata owners/friends gathered at Treasure Island near San Francisco to have a photoshoot. I'll post pics from that photoshoot soon as well. :)

[speedypenguin]

So as I mentioned, a group of us Miata owners in the SF Bay Area gathered at Treasure Island for a photoshoot. Here are some pics I took:

NAs.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_7979_zps0e72dba5.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_7979_zps0e72dba5.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_7982_zps7a592b4c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_7982_zps7a592b4c.jpg.html)

Willywongka, me, and Jammers.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8053_zpsfae8b66e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8053_zpsfae8b66e.jpg.html)

Yin and Yang.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8048_zps5293b590.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8048_zps5293b590.jpg.html)

Hi Jazz.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8029_zpse7e32416.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8029_zpse7e32416.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

Been awhile since my last update. I wasn't planning on adding anything to Jazz for awhile...but I ended up entering Jazz into the "Vintage Auto Salon" historic japanese car show in San Leandro, CA a couple of weekends ago. (Thanks Kenjo [Garagestar] for letting me enter my car in his spot).

I ended up being featured on "Japanese Nostalgic Car's" webpage with some other miatas (including Willywongka, Ricky, and another friend named Carson)

http://japanesenostalgiccar.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/250-BH7461_Mazda-MX5-Miata-NA-640x426.jpg

"Brian Szeto‘s black bullet is a an example of how versatile the Miata platform truly is. With lightweight 949 6UL and a few Racing Beat goodies under the hood, a stock Miata can easily be transformed into a dual-use application suitable for both track and street." :)

The Vintage Auto Salon was also a great experience to see many tastefully-modded vintage Japanese cars (i.e. 240z's, old corollas, 510's, and other '70s cars). I picked up some stickers while I was there, and now Jazz has a couple more stickers. :P

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8391_zpsa851a63c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8391_zpsa851a63c.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8400_zps47bfef2e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8400_zps47bfef2e.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

As of late, I've been more interested in "retro" modifications. Going to the Vintage Auto Salon gave me some ideas of additional add-ons I wanted to give Jazz. I've always liked the retro Mazda badge, but at least for now...I can't see myself obtaining one of the KG Works vintage badges for awhile...but I really do like the vintage blue color of the badge. How could I color something on Jazz for that "retro" feel?

I decided, I'll repaint the valve cover. Jazz already came with a wrinkle-black painted valve cover (I'm assuming from the previous owner), and though it was nice, I kind of wanted some more "pop" in color under the hood. So, I had always wanted to paint a valve cover by myself, so I decided to do so a couple of weeks ago.

Valve cover before painting. Covered in oil and hand/finger prints...not very cool to look at.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8365_zps3f3b290b.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8365_zps3f3b290b.jpg.html)

Used spray paint stripper. It was cool seeing how effective the paint stripper worked.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8367_zpsfc343a48.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8367_zpsfc343a48.jpg.html)

Appetizing huh? :P
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8368_zps34991627.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8368_zps34991627.jpg.html)

So that's what a stock valve cover looks like...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8370_zps0d6046bf.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8370_zps0d6046bf.jpg.html)

I realized how important it is to prep correctly. I think it's along the lines of..."All the work is done during the prep"
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8373_zpscb9ecd53.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8373_zpscb9ecd53.jpg.html)

Newly-painted valve cover. I went with a "Ford Blue", and I think it turned out pretty well. Not too "baby blue", but reminiscent of the "french blue" that is popular nowadays. Also polished the raised letters on the valve cover. Was a little difficult to do without scuffing the valve cover, but well worth it.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8375_zpsd479d5c6.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8375_zpsd479d5c6.jpg.html)

How it looks in the car? I like it. In this picture, it looks a little lighter than what it looks like in real life...the polished letters on the valve cover match well with the polished Garagestar oil cap as well. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8380_zps88975107.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8380_zps88975107.jpg.html)

I'm planning on getting an anodized blue radiator cooling plate from Garagestar in the near future as well. Now I need to take care of the air filter on my intake. Blue intake filter? Haha...we'll see.

[speedypenguin]

Around the same time I was painting the valve cover, a set of 14 inch BBS wheels from a '93 Miata LE came up for sale. I decided to pick these up for a set of daily wheels...well maybe not anymore. (I'm picking up another set of wheels soon, should be shipped soon) The BBS are okay...there is a fair bit of oxidation and wear on the machined lips. At least the set came with all of the wheel caps and the BBS wrench tool, so cool to have a "complete set". But for the price, at the very least this can be a "wheel restoration" project for myself. Gotta love DIY projects. :)

Weird to see Jazz sitting on 14 inch wheels. :P
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8421_zpsb4384842.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8421_zpsb4384842.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8422_zps4e412f74.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8422_zps4e412f74.jpg.html)

That fender gap...haha. Not used to driving on 14's.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8426_zps3b0b0863.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8426_zps3b0b0863.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

The most recent addition for Jazz is something I have wanted to get ever since I first got Jazz. It's been almost two years since Jazz came into my possession...and Jazz is almost at 160k miles...so decided to treat myself...err I mean Jazz, to some goodies. :)

What did I get? A set of Eunos badges. :) I'm so glad I was able to acquire these. The minute I opened my package, I was amazed at how nice these badges look in real life. The luster and colors of the nose badge...the "roadster" badge...and the sleek "Eunos" rear badge. So cool.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8404_zps89e5e74c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8404_zps89e5e74c.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8412_zpsc47d64de.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8412_zpsc47d64de.jpg.html)

Why yes Jazz, these badges are for you. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8418_zps5044ba27.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8418_zps5044ba27.jpg.html)

Placing the badges proved to be a long task...at least for me. I wanted to make sure that I placed the badges correctly, so there was a lot of measuring...then more measuring...and even more measuring.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8436_zps4ad71b6f.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8436_zps4ad71b6f.jpg.html)

Jazz, you've got some things on your nose...haha. :P
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8438_zpsf3eecafe.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8438_zpsf3eecafe.jpg.html)

Used 3M "Super Strength Molding Tape".
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8440_zpseda1557d.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8440_zpseda1557d.jpg.html)

Did I go overboard? Nah, just being as thorough as I could. :P
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8441_zps05db8968.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8441_zps05db8968.jpg.html)

And......front is done. I like Jazz' new nose a lot. Having driven Jazz around with a nose badge ever since I got him, it was a weird change at first, but the more I looked at it, the more I liked it.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8445_zps466f80dd.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8445_zps466f80dd.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8453_zpsf80ba6d3.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8453_zpsf80ba6d3.jpg.html)

Onto the "Eunos" rear badge. Cleaning the old "gunk" off...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8460_zpsfeb32758.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8460_zpsfeb32758.jpg.html)

More "measuring"...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8470_zps1bbd9e37.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8470_zps1bbd9e37.jpg.html)

Before.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8469_zps67307444.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8469_zps67307444.jpg.html)

After.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8472_zps00b55121.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8472_zps00b55121.jpg.html)

I love the "Eunos" badge. But I'm still on the fence about the "roadster" badge. As of now, the letters are painted red...not to my liking. I'm thinking about painting the letters black. Thoughts? Here's a pic of the "roadster" badge mocked up on the back. What do you think? Looks better with just the "Eunos" badge, or does it need the "roadster" badge too?
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8473_zps01c05c25.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8473_zps01c05c25.jpg.html)

Nevertheless, I love the new badges. I can now say that I own a "Eunos Roadster". How cool is that? :)

Jazz says hello. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8485_zpsd76fe799.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8485_zpsd76fe799.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

Finally, here's the most recent acquisition I've made: Jackson Racing headers. I've been searching for one ever since I first got Jazz...I now have one. Woot.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8428_zpsc1a6bf1c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8428_zpsc1a6bf1c.jpg.html)

CARB legal. That is good.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8431_zps31f1dc75.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8431_zps31f1dc75.jpg.html)

[Martin]

Nice update!

Maybe paint the red Roadster badge blue like the valve cover or try to match the color of the nose badge??

[Hyper]

My most sincere opinion is that the badges are cool but the car looks better with no badges at all. Also, if you can spend some money on painting the car it will look even greater. The car looks pretty cool as it is now, even with the BBS wheels looks great

[tsingson]

Nice man! Car is looking great. The valve cover looks real nice.

[Stealth97]

I'm digging this ride!

[speedypenguin]

Nice update!

Maybe paint the red Roadster badge blue like the valve cover or try to match the color of the nose badge??

Thanks. I'm thinking either painting it blue...or if I decide on something more subtle, probably black.


My most sincere opinion is that the badges are cool but the car looks better with no badges at all. Also, if you can spend some money on painting the car it will look even greater. The car looks pretty cool as it is now, even with the BBS wheels looks great

Yeah, it was weird to look at first, but after some time I like the badge. But I will admit, going badgeless does look cleaner...hopefully in the future I can repaint the entire car. :)


Nice man! Car is looking great. The valve cover looks real nice.

Thanks! I like the valve cover too. :)


I'm digging this ride!

Thanks!

So...this happened today. Came home and noticed some packages sitting by the front door.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8490_zpsc41bcbfc.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8490_zpsc41bcbfc.jpg.html)

What could these be.....?
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8494_zps4d038e45.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8494_zps4d038e45.jpg.html)

I told Jazz to peek out of the garage. He was curious.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8498_zps24d9b11e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8498_zps24d9b11e.jpg.html)

A curious Roadster coming closer to inspect...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8503_zps9bb2182d.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8503_zps9bb2182d.jpg.html)

New wheels!
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8509_zpsb879c4c4.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8509_zpsb879c4c4.jpg.html)

"?!?!?! I can hazz??" :P
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8511_zps2e618587.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8511_zps2e618587.jpg.html)

Unpacking the wheels.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8514_zpsf5ef3945.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8514_zpsf5ef3945.jpg.html)

I have to take this opportunity to personally thank Bill from Miataroadster. Thanks for shipping these from SoCal up to NorCal! I'm a very happy customer. Cheers! :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8519_zpsa15287a3.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8519_zpsa15287a3.jpg.html)

Ooohhh...Drag DR54s...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8520_zps97de8fe7.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8520_zps97de8fe7.jpg.html)

...with classy R2-limited vintage Mazda center cap stickers...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8526_zps9853aba7.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8526_zps9853aba7.jpg.html)

...and cool blue valve stems. Woot.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8533_zpse9603318.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8533_zpse9603318.jpg.html)

My now "track" 6ULs/Star Specs on the left vs the "street" DR54s/Hankooks on the right. (I need to get new track tires...track day in October!)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8540_zps49ab89b2.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8540_zps49ab89b2.jpg.html)

Jazz was rushing me to finish taking this picture...guess he really wanted to try on his new...shoes?
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8538_zpsf3a46b30.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8538_zpsf3a46b30.jpg.html)

Side shot.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8541_zps2c8464d8.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8541_zps2c8464d8.jpg.html)

I really like the center caps...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8544_zps36e14dc7.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8544_zps36e14dc7.jpg.html)

Mmm...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8546_zps56939ddb.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8546_zps56939ddb.jpg.html)

Need to play around with the suspension height/setup for street use...well maybe. Not used to having such low offset wheels/"stretched" tires, but in time, it'll look better. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8548_zps2298caaf.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8548_zps2298caaf.jpg.html)

A very happy Eunos roadster with his new kicks. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_8554_zps29e60121.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_8554_zps29e60121.jpg.html)

[Dandy]

It appears that your education is paying off. Jazz is getting spoiled!

[Vegard]

That looks great, what are the specs? :)

[tsingson]

I knew those wheels looked familiar. They look great on Jazz. I'm glad those wheels went on a great car.

[speedypenguin]

It appears that your education is paying off. Jazz is getting spoiled!

Hmm...am I really treating Jazz...or myself? :)


That looks great, what are the specs? :)

"takk" (Is that "thanks" in Norwegian??). Drag DR54, 15 x 8.25, 0 offset. After a couple days driving...I think I need to compensate for the 0 offset...not used to running such low offset, which means...

A. Adjust camber...and lower?

or...

B. Upgrade suspension to something a bit stiffer?? (Helps "compensate" for street wheel driving and improve on-track performance w/track wheels?? Time will tell...)


I knew those wheels looked familiar. They look great on Jazz. I'm glad those wheels went on a great car.

Thank you sir. I can tell you Jazz is quite happy. :)

[Vegard]

Takk is indeed thanks :)

[speedypenguin]

Woah, it's been awhile since an update. In the almost two months since the last update, a lot has happened. Good things. :)

First off, a few weeks back, I went to my first track day! A local Miata club organized a Miata-only track event at Thunderhill Raceway Park. What a blast. I had a great time being able to drive Jazz at track speeds, and I know Jazz had fun as well. Probably even more fun than I did. :)

From my last update, I had acquired a JR header, and was able to install it before the track day. Might be me, but I'm sure it was the last piece of the "puzzle" for a full exhaust upgrade. Jazz definitely pulls harder than before, thanks to the RB intake-->JR header-->hi-flow cat-->JR exhaust configuration. He even sounds more "raw". (Manlier? :P) I'll take a sound clip of the new exhaust setup in the future.

Here's a picture of Jazz's engine bay. I had also picked up a radiator cooling panel from Kenjo (Garagestar) as well.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5526/10412771415_c583501d80_b.jpg

Couple pictures taken at the track paddock. I had also mounted new RE11a tires onto my now-track wheels. Great tires, very progressive, and gave me lots of confidence.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5535/10412511786_260f4cd4df_b.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/10412502264_31525e9eb2_b.jpg

So...were you wondering if I had a video clip from my first track day? Yup, I do. :)

http://youtu.be/REZ6FA8LFUg

After the track day, I know where I want to take Jazz in terms of performance mods. I will upgrade his suspension to better coilovers with improved shock and slightly stiffer springs, and install at least a front sway bar.

[speedypenguin]

Now onto the cool updates. :)

Awhile back, I was browsing CL for fun (it's a bad habit, since I do it way too often), and while scrolling down, the word "Nakamae" jumped out at me. I clicked the link, and someone local was selling a set of Nakamae transmission and door-sill quilted covers. I had to get them.

I was so excited about picking these up, that I forgot to take pictures of them uninstalled...but the quality is immaculate. Stitching is perfect, the quilted-covers feel exquisite...I could go on and on. My pictures do not do the Nakamae covers justice, but it feels amazing sitting in Jazz's interior. :)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7431/10413149743_de69d64bd6_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5524/10412994276_1c96102d33_b.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Next update is a set of Retromodern climate control knobs. I've known Ken (owner of Retromodern) for awhile now, and I was hanging out at his place recently, as he was going to help me with some electrical wiring. While I was there, I asked Ken to make me a set of his climate control knobs. All I can say is...wow. Ken spent a long time finishing and polishing the knobs, and the difference they make to the interior is astounding. It's hard to believe that just a little touch makes a huge difference in the interior.

The quality of the knobs reflects on Ken's push for perfection. My picture does not do the Retromodern knobs justice, but trust me, these are must-have for an interior upgrade. :)

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3752/10413134146_0d2455ba23_b.jpg

This is an IG image I took of the knobs...honestly I like this pic better. :P
http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/d4159acc38dc11e3876f22000ab50092_6.jpg

[Dandy]

Nice score on the Nakamae covers. Thanks for the good look at the Garage Star radiator cooling panel. I need those same cut-outs. Cool video. You Cali boys have all the fun.

[speedypenguin]

Now onto exterior upgrades. I've lusted after the M2-1028 mirrors awhile now, and was THIS close to buying a genuine set from Yahoo! Japan...but then the bidding on that set went nuts, so opted out of spending $500+ on a set of mirrors. I was a bit bummed out, but then noticed a set of M2-1028 style replicas being sold on the forum, and decided to get them. These mirrors were painted BRG, so I had them repainted in Brilliant Black along with my other exterior upgrade (refer to the next post. :) )

What do I think? I love them. The shape of the mirrors is very pleasant and overall profile fits Jazz much better than the OEM mirrors. I must confess, the visibility of these mirrors is quite poor. Rather than seeing an entire car next to you, as of now all I can see is a wheel and part of a bumper at best...but my friend recently gave me his Broadway wide-angle rear view mirror, so I can see cars behind me with that. But I may plan to get the "blue mirror lenses" from Zoom sometime soon (per a recommendation from a friend).

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5495/10413382255_f2cfd0c27e_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5550/10413266764_f5c2c175bd_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7355/10413330535_2b4aaae269_b.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Finally, I saved the best update for last. Ironically, this will be my 100th post on MR. :)

I'm sure it's not just me, but there have been a lot of part-outs of well-executed and built cars recently. One of these recent parts was Kenjo's partout of his Garagestar Red NA. Now we all know that Kenjo had some very desirable parts on his red NA, but one particular part stood out to me...can you guess what?

Whaaaaat?
10277

I had to get the GV tails for Jazz. I mean, how often does a chance come up like this, where there's a set of GV tails available locally with brand new lights and practically brand new tails? It was a very spontaneous choice, but I'm glad I did (I'm only young once right? :) ). Jazz was even more excited than I was to get a new butt...err I mean rear end...wait, new tails? :P

As you can see, the GV tails were painted red to match Kenjo's car, but had to be repainted for Jazz. I owe Kenjo for the hook-up to Car N Bike Moto in Vallejo, CA. Al (one of the owners) is super legit guy and his paintwork is immaculate (as you will see below). Thank you Al for painting my new GV tails and the M2-1028 mirrors. And thank you Kenjo for the GV tails. :)

I have to say thank you to Adam (revlimiter) for his detailed write-up for the GV tail installation. Without that, I'd have spent a much longer time with the installation. Thank you Adam (and Sharka!). :)

Okay, onto the install pics? Shall we?

Time for a butt transplant. Uhh...rear end enhancement? Who knows...:P
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7406/10414380495_5f035fe856_b.jpg

20 years worth of dirt and dust hidden behind the panel.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3729/10414302126_e69ee3fe30_b.jpg

Better. It was actually quite easy to remove the finish panel...but that's because there were a few nuts and bolts missing...-_-"
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5525/10414292175_f837815a7d_b.jpg

Going from stock rear finish panel and taillights...
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3809/10414244915_f2d41d10be_b.jpg

...to Garage Vary Nostalgic Tails and lights. :)
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2863/10414380106_eaf2be688f_b.jpg

Mazda porter-cab lights.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5527/10414257746_23ce136ede_b.jpg

Daihatsu (?) reverse light.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7296/10413788395_cc9611caa4_b.jpg

Covers.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5497/10414144015_97ed36cc03_b.jpg

Thanks to Adam's write-up, was able to put the covers on in one-go.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7336/10414256713_e6660f81a8_b.jpg

Test fit...
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5540/10414065596_6631b8dffe_b.jpg

Finished.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3691/10413905354_92eb437a43_b.jpg

Wow, what a difference. I've seen GV tail conversions in white, laguna blue, red, but never saw a conversion done in black in person before. Honestly, I love the GV tails. Plug-and-play with the Mazda porter cab lights and some additional wiring with the reverse light. Probably the best modification I've done for Jazz. :)

I have to give a shout-out once again to Ken from Retromodern. Thank you for teaching me how to wire in the reverse light, and for helping me get the GV tails to sit flush with the body.

[ueru]

Love the GV taillights. Looking good!

[Ihatecars]

Crazy awesome updates! I absolutely love what you're doing with your Roadster.

[atank]

The GV's are a Very Nice addition to your Roadster!!!!!!!!

[WASABI]

That looks great!!!! I'm sure the fit of the GV finish panel was spot on too, having been fitted properly on Kenjo's car. Super addition!!!

[Martin]

Very nice :)

[speedypenguin]

Nice score on the Nakamae covers. Thanks for the good look at the Garage Star radiator cooling panel. I need those same cut-outs. Cool video. You Cali boys have all the fun.

Thanks. If you order one, just mention to Kenjo that you have ABS.


Love the GV taillights. Looking good!

Crazy awesome updates! I absolutely love what you're doing with your Roadster.

The GV's are a Very Nice addition to your Roadster!!!!!!!!

That looks great!!!! I'm sure the fit of the GV finish panel was spot on too, having been fitted properly on Kenjo's car. Super addition!!!

Very nice :)

Thank you all! It's one of the best add-ons that I think NA owners can add. It's also makes me chuckle when I see people asking what kind of car Jazz is. :) And yes Wasabi, fitment is spot-on, thanks to Car N Bike Moto. They are a top-notch shop.

So yesterday, Willywongka, Garagestar, and I met up to hang out for a bit in the bay. Fun times were had. :) Photo credits goes to Kenjo.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7434/10500572045_832ab14b9c_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5535/10500581084_2a7a57f4dc_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3818/10500571995_c18770c36c_b.jpg

[I<3flippyheadlights]

GV tails on GV tails on GV tails.


Very nice.

[tsingson]

Damn, love the way your car is heading.

[speedypenguin]

GV tails on GV tails on GV tails.


Very nice.

:)


Damn, love the way your car is heading.

Thanks man! It's been fun piecing together parts.

Looking back at the past year, Jazz has transformed (haha get it?) a lot. I remember when I first got Jazz, all I planned to do was R-lip, suspension, wheels/tires, and bucket seat. I would not have imagined Jazz would be where he is now. I think this is because of the inspirational builds and posts I have seen on various forums and meeting other Miata/Roadster enthusiasts within our community who are equally, if not more passionate than I am about modifying our cars.

So where do Jazz and I stand now? Well, I think I owe it to myself, and more so to Jazz, to enjoy driving him as a car. Sure it's always fun to change things up and add/remove parts, but I feel I've been looking at Jazz as a template/canvas, rather than a driver-enthusiast car. I actually acquired a Recaro SPG that fits me better than my current Sparco setup, so I'll be installing that soon. I also plan to acquire a Joyfast shift knob at some point, mainly because I don't like seeing the gap between my Blox shift knob and my Project-G shift boot...but I digress. After those, no more modifications for awhile.

What does that mean? I'm going to put a pause on acquiring parts for now. Whether that'll be for a month, half-year, or who knows, I owe it to Jazz to take him on more drives, track days, autocrosses, etc...the point of having a car is to get to you places, and when you bond with your car, you'd want to go on journeys with your car, experiences that sometimes cannot be obtained just by adding/changing parts. I have also changed the timing belt and water pump recently, due a coolant leak that developed after the track day, so Jazz is in good driving condition for a long time.

So let's go on more adventures, Jazz. :)
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3671/10414003226_8be0a6cc0c_b.jpg

[snake520]

I don't like the gap between my blox knob and shift boot either... Need to find a way to fix that lol

[Grip Driver]

lovin the retro look you have going on

[Martin]

Re: gap between knob & boot. You can cut the threads down farther and lop off the top of the shifter.

http://a248.e.akamai.net/origin-cdn.volusion.com/gcme7.tr5v2/v/vspfiles/photos/NAB-U2717-2.jpg

Or, you can add something (short piece of rubber hose?) to top of the shifter to force the boot to stay up higher.

[speedypenguin]

Thanks for the suggestion Martin. I might try cutting the top of the shifter, but I'll see what it looks like with a Joyfast shift knob.

Blox actually supplied a threaded and collared nut, which can help the shift boot stay higher, but it really stretches the shift boot. I did that with the stock shift boot, and it eventually developed tears and holes from the shifting movements (especially from shifting into 5th).

[speedypenguin]

Quick update. I've been enjoying driving Jazz for the past month or so. Jazz is reminding me why driving a Miata is so special. Got to love that right? :)

I acquired a couple of parts, but you'll all have to wait awhile till I take pics of these parts. :) I'm having lots of fun driving Jazz now.

But here a couple of pictures my friend shot of Jazz recently at a local Miata tech day event:

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5537/11022536316_70bff9f738_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3755/11022660803_ba57f2f23e_b.jpg

[Ihatecars]

Jazz looks great!
I hope one day i can get Shin, my roadster, on the same level as Jazz.

[atank]

Yeah Man, I also enjoy every minute that I drive my Roadster!!!!!!

[theothersawyer]

Absolutely beautiful car!!!

[speedypenguin]

Jazz looks great!
I hope one day i can get Shin, my roadster, on the same level as Jazz.

Thanks man. I have to admit I was inspired by many other inspiring builds. I'm sure you and Shin will share great moments with our community. :)


Yeah Man, I also enjoy every minute that I drive my Roadster!!!!!!

Cheers! :cheers:


Absolutely beautiful car!!!

Thank you.

It's been some time since my last update. As mentioned in one of my past posts, I wanted to take a "break" from modifying Jazz. So for November, Jazz remained the same, and I enjoyed every moment driving Jazz around. Whether is going to local tech days, meets, and even just running errands, Jazz managed to put a smile on my face every time we went driving. :)

But the fun in having a car such as the Miata/Roadster is the endless possibilities of personalizing your car right? Well, thanks to "Black Friday"/"Cyber Monday"/Christmas deals, who can pass up on opportunities to acquire more mods?? Certainly not me. :P

So here's some updates/additions since last time:

I acquired a KG Works cluster for Jazz at the beginning of December. I had seen countless pictures online, and even had the opportunity to see the cluster in my friends' cars, but receiving one for Jazz was a special moment.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3691/11618669253_906a90a6e1_b.jpg

The details...the retro lenses/enclosures...the individual pieces of glass...the gauge rings...the KG Works cluster is one of the most beautiful interior pieces ever made.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7417/11618668363_a63cc55d84_b.jpg

[speedypenguin]

I also gave Jazz some interior bits. As mentioned in an earlier post, I decided to get a Joyfast shift knob. Specifically, Jazz received a "Long" shift knob, mainly because I really like the machined collar and that I still wanted some weight in the shift knob. Compared with the previous Blox shift knob, the Joyfast knob weighs 50g less (440g vs 490g). It still feels hefty, the slimmer shape is so much nicer to use. I can't wait to see how it feels while driving on track. :)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7390/11699724963_a6440f0425_b.jpg

Another addition were some RSpeed Vent Rings. I really like the concave design, and the diamond-tooled finish is a nice touch. Thank you to "IHateCars" (and Shin!) for the find. Jazz is very happy.

Also, switched out the stock hazard switches with a black anodized Revlimiter Retro Hazard switch. A subtle touch, but classes up the interior very nicely. Thank you Adam for sharing these parts with our community.

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3750/11700238666_2c647c1d5e_b.jpg

[Ihatecars]

KG Works cluster cluster looks really great.

Those vent rings are super nice also. I'm glad Shin and I were able to help contribute a little something to this build! :3:

[speedypenguin]

The last update of 2013 was one of the best, if not the best mod for Jazz: a set of Revlimiter gauges. I have long been a fan of Adam and his blog. Adam makes many cool and tasteful gauge designs, and in all honestly, it was very difficult to pick a design for Jazz!

Now I don't want to come across as "snobbish", but I decided if I were to get Jazz some gauges, I wanted to get him a unique/modified set. I know not many people have Revlimiter gauges (more people should though!), but Jazz is a unique roadster. He has his own distinct personality. So I narrowed it down to one design and collaborated with Adam to design Jazz' gauges. It was a pleasure and fun experience bouncing ideas back and forth with Adam, and this post will showcase pics of the day the gauges arrived. :)

A package arrived.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2830/11619202006_c61eab5dfd_b.jpg

Look who it is from.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7356/11618437285_70e554d4bc_b.jpg

Thanks Adam! (From Brian and Jazz) :)
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5476/11618436395_b7b4f9c95f_b.jpg

Package contents.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/11618665243_32f0e368a3_b.jpg

Enjoy.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7457/11618435065_2826678c2f_b.jpg

Needle stopper practice. (I practiced on all the dots. Necessary? No, but practice makes perfect.)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7439/11619198446_fbc834c84c_b.jpg

Tachometer.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5479/11618432745_7856c86cb3_b.jpg

Speedometer.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7454/11618661253_a45390f8e3_b.jpg

Gauges.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3834/11619195076_e2726b0206_b.jpg

Modified "Version Stirling" Revlimiter gauges. Thank you very much, Adam.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3827/11618662803_e3209997d9_b.jpg

In the next post, I'll share pictures I snapped during the installation process. :)

[speedypenguin]

Here is Jazz' stock cluster. 164K miles young and hopefully many more to go. The stock cluster is nice, and being a '94 car, Jazz' cluster came with the "metal" (are the rings metal?) cluster trim rings. Looks nice, but something much, much classier was to come.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3803/11618659693_54178bd9c5_b.jpg

Addendum: I followed Adam's DIY install (http://revlimiter.net/mods/gauge_install.php), but it indicated there are three connectors to disconnect. I'm pretty sure it's not just my car...but I found a fourth connection. I found out that this was the rear defroster light/indictator. Now for some reason, I couldn't figure out for the life of me how to disconnect it. In slight frustration, I kind of tore away the foam wrapping the connector and discovered...there's a tab in the middle of the connector. Maybe I was having a fail moment...but I'm glad I figured it out. Whew.)

I don't like you.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2872/11619184276_6c15b3b1cf_b.jpg

I decided to remove the connector, mainly because the KG Works cluster doesn't have a lens/window to see the light, if it ever would turn on...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7447/11619192406_9179dde6dc_b.jpg

Anyways, let's get back on track.

These little guys arrived in the package. I don't know how Adam keeps them under control, but I didn't think I'd have to "care and feed" these guys. :P
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7446/11618789784_d7d43df10f_b.jpg

I didn't take pictures of every step, since Adam wrote such a thorough write-up on his blog. But, here is a pic I took of removing the plastic from within the cluster.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3790/11618427485_f3818f53fe_b.jpg

Placing the needle stoppers. Make sure to practice at least a few times, folks. :)
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3797/11618786804_8504627323_b.jpg

New gauges are in. Still more to add...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7305/11618654873_79eaa334ac_b.jpg

Sidenote: So I went down to SoCal during Thanksgiving to attend the LA Auto Show, and while I was down there, I picked up a set of JDM S-Special door cards. The guy selling the cards was very nice, and threw in these needle caps with the door cards. Now, I'm not 100% sure which needle caps these are, but I think that these are AWD needle caps. I only say this because...one of the caps fell off and made a "metal" resonating noise. Whether they're actually AWD caps, they look nice regardless.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5532/11618653993_c719200c11_b.jpg

Installing the needle caps.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3721/11619187716_faa91c3054_b.jpg

Ooohhh...shiny...
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3822/11618783194_026619f6cf_b.jpg

Finished gauges w/KG Works cluster!
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3732/11618782104_083edc748a_b.jpg

These are lovely.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/11490084823_7ee33688be_b.jpg

Crappy installed shot. I will take better pictures sometime soon.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7346/11699845494_143c3a7c19_b.jpg

I love the new 6-o-clock "zero" position. It's a very slight change, but completely changes the feel of the gauges. I'm sure you can tell I'm a huge fan of Revlimiter gauges, but I highly recommend that everyone should get a set of Adam's gauges.

[speedypenguin]

2013 was a good year for me and Jazz. I never thought Jazz would've transformed (haha, get it?) to where he is now. My passion for modifying cars grew more than I could ever fathom, and I met and made many friends who share the same passion. Thank you all for making our Roadster community special. Jazz and I hope to meet each and every one of you in the future. :) Cheers everyone.

So Jazz and I look forward to 2014 with eager anticipation. What is in store for Jazz? Definitely at least a couple of track days and autocrosses. After all, the Miata/Roadster is a driver's car. :) In terms of modifications, we don't know exactly where we'll go, but we will always make sure to enjoy the Roadster life.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7306/11699727003_544d4ce129_b.jpg

[Ihatecars]

Jazz looks excellent! Nothing too over the top, but enough to allow him to stand out from the pack. Just perfect in my opinion.

I'm really excited for what the future has in store for you and Jazz.

[WASABI]

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/11490084823_7ee33688be_b.jpg


This looks fantastic! Super work, and a beautiful car to show for it.

[atank]

Very nice work, Jazz looks great!

[Lodin]

Jazz looks GREAT!

I was wondering what size those Z1's were. They fit superbly!

[speedypenguin]

Thanks all! Lodin, the Z1's were 205/50R15.

So...brief update. I ended up selling the Drag DR54s...they look great, but the +0 offset was ruining Jazz' fenders. Also, Jazz is not going to be a daily driver anymore because...

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5479/12145735464_ee1d8ca843_b.jpg

Jazz got a sister today (parents say it's a "she"). It's a '92 Miata, one-owner since brand new, maintenance records since day one, 100% CLEAR plastic window...basically a car that has been well-cared for it's entire life. It was a really good deal...couldn't pass it up. Hopefully I can provide it a good home. :)

The '92 was named "Dirca" by the previous owners. (They are into botany). It's a B package car, so limited slip, power windows, cruise control...all things that Jazz doesn't have. :P

[WASABI]

^^ Love the sheep skin seat covers!:slayer:

[speedypenguin]

^^ Love the sheep skin seat covers!:slayer:

I actually ended up taking the covers off...even the previous owners suggested I should. Reason being is, they put the covers on the first day they brought the car home...in 1992. So th covers were definitely worn out.

Result of that is the stock seats are IMMACULATE. I will take pictures of the red NA soon.

[speedypenguin]

Here's a picture I took with the previous owners. As I mentioned before, they bought the car brand-new, back in 1992. They asked to take a picture with me and the car before I drove the car to her new home. Hope Jazz and I can provide her a good home. :)

(Curses, now you all know what I look like. haha...)

Hope in time, I will come up with a name for the red NA. In the mean time, any suggestions?

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5504/12184863133_316852b0a8_b.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Quick update. So I started a new job a couple of weeks ago, so I've been very busy. But, now Jazz has become my "special" car, the car I take to work at the end of the work week. Jazz deserves it, especially for being my daily driver for the past couple of years. :)

On the other hand, the red car is almost ready to use as the new daily driver! Well, maybe not everyday. I get to drive the family's Mini Cooper S R53 (my parents want me to drive something with more airbags once in awhile. Can't blame them...). But I'll drive the red NA to work at least a couple of times a week. I told myself I wanted to enjoy the red NA as stock as possible and not put parts on it...the urge to add/mod is too great to resist. :P

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/1794598_10153801579265296_1031701858_n_zpsc3029e0e .jpg

Picked up some Eunos center caps for the daisies. Love how classy they look. Also, added some JDM S-Special door cards and one of Revlimiter's Retro window switches (these parts were originally for Jazz, but since Jazz doesn't have PW, it'd have involved a time-consuming PW conversion.) Jazz has warmed up to his new sister, and is okay with the red NA wearing some of his parts. :)

I'll take some hi-res pics of both cars soon. We're actually getting rain in CA now. (Good thing apparently, since CA has been experiencing a drought).

[Dandy]

I like those center caps. I've seen a few pop up in the Japan auctions lately. If I had daisies I'd rock them. Very nice subtle addition when you want to stay stock.

[speedypenguin]

The red NA got an R-package front lip today. Subtle, but makes the front end complete. IMO, should've came on every NA from the factory, but to each their own. :)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7416/12557572575_512daf570e_b.jpg

I will post hi-res pics soon of both cars...literally the second after I took this picture, it started raining again. Jazz is currently down for the moment, planning to change his heater hoses and CAS o-ring (coolant leak).

[Dandy]

I once read that the original NA's were intended to come with the R-package lip installed but a decision was made to leave them off in favor of more clearance when transporting the cars overseas. It seems plausible to me as the lower rocker panels are painted black and are closer to the ground than the front and rear bumpers. With the lip(s) added, the lines are tied in aesthetically. I have always thought that the R-lip, especially the front, looks "right" on the NA.

[JamieH]

^That, so that. The front end looks naked and incomplete without some kind of lip on the stock bumper.

[revlimiter]

Dang, I've not had a chance to look in here for a while. Gorgeous red NA!!! The name Cliffjumper immediately comes to mind. What with Jazz and Transformers and stuff. :)

And thanks for the great gauge pix.

[speedypenguin]

I once read that the original NA's were intended to come with the R-package lip installed but a decision was made to leave them off in favor of more clearance when transporting the cars overseas. It seems plausible to me as the lower rocker panels are painted black and are closer to the ground than the front and rear bumpers. With the lip(s) added, the lines are tied in aesthetically. I have always thought that the R-lip, especially the front, looks "right" on the NA.


^That, so that. The front end looks naked and incomplete without some kind of lip on the stock bumper.

I heard that before too. The front end is complete with the R-lip. Perfect and subtle for the red NA.


Dang, I've not had a chance to look in here for a while. Gorgeous red NA!!! The name Cliffjumper immediately comes to mind. What with Jazz and Transformers and stuff. :)

And thanks for the great gauge pix.

Of course, Adam. It's hard not too take great pictures of Revlimiter goodies. :)

...would you believe it if I told you the red NA has 192k miles? Yes, 192k.

Anyways...like I promised, here are some "hi-res" pics of the red NA, and Jazz.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2881/12605146204_2292e18a7f_b.jpg

Eunos center caps.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2859/12604810213_88af031181_b.jpg

All-original. :)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7308/12604715465_afdbd9f1e2_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7393/12604805293_4756de1e26_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7321/12604802433_bc8da3b6e3_b.jpg

Added Project-G shift boots.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7326/12604799763_598990e01c_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7443/12604705055_2b470e4af5_b.jpg

Added JDM S-special door cards.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7377/12604702275_985063b1e5_b.jpg

Revlimiter black retro window switches. I will take better pictures of this soon.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3775/12605123844_2aef3f6144_b.jpg

The two roadsters. :)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7298/12604788653_1ec719535c_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7399/12604693455_a6faf88ea2_b.jpg

Modified and OEM.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3803/12604690085_711c6e2b0f_b.jpg

Revlimiter keychains. PERFECT for these two roadsters. The Eunos keychain is for the red NA, while the black Eunos roadster keychain is for Jazz. :)
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5514/12604779473_1483fdd0bc_b.jpg

[Ihatecars]

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3803/12604690085_711c6e2b0f_b.jpg]

I absolutely love this picture.

Both of your Roadsters are gorgeous. I'm crazy jelly of those door cards.

[speedypenguin]

Woah, it's been quite awhile. Well, a quick update is in order.

So...I've been busy as of late. Been working a lot of OT at work (perks of working at a start-up). Jazz has actually been a PITA the past couple of months (idle issues), but little by little, I was able to spend time with him and get him back into shape. Just in time for the Garagestar NorCal meet, which was this past weekend. I brought my camera, but...left my SD card at home. Doh.

But my friends took a couple of pics of Jazz.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7254/13884184312_8be78631bd_b.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7209/13884189276_1a581d5e1a_b.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7083/13907359003_5d8e6d19c1_b.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7421/13884187646_5bec8e638d_b.jpg

Another, well I guess significant update. I picked up a more practical daily: a BG Subaru Legacy GT Wagon. I've always a soft spot for these wagons...and another family member joined our family a month ago (see below for cuteness and d'awww lol). As much as I love having both a bone-stock and a modded roadster, I decided to get a four-door, practical car. It doesn't get more utility-friendly than a wagon. :)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/1962630_10153979524440296_477549978_n_zpsb07e3528. jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/1962630_10153979524440296_477549978_n_zpsb07e3528. jpg.html)

I haven't been able to take hi-res pics of the wagon, but it's not a looker. But it's a stick shift, and I love the mechanical feeling of the Subaru. Kinda high mileage, but hey, Subarus are durable cars. And who knows, maybe in the future there'll be a turbo-swap...? :)

Oh, like I mentioned, here is our new family member:

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7401/12868851634_92131cb1fc_b.jpg

Meet Charlie. :) He's a 4-month old Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and he is an awesome little buddy. Hope to give him rides with Jazz in the future, but for now, Charlie is enjoying the Scoobaru (haha get it?)

[Ihatecars]

A corgi?! A freaking Corgi!?! I have a year old Pembroke Welsh Corgi! His name is Kintaro.

Here's a picture!
http://i.imgur.com/NvT3tpp.jpg

I remember when Kintaro was tiny and adorable. Now he's big and adorable.

If your pup turn out anything like my Corgi, you'll have an amazing friend for life.

[WASABI]

D'awww some! Speedy, that might be the cutest pooch around!!!! Sad to see you put the red roadster on the selling block (such a clean/stock car), but you can't argue with a dependable wagon.

[speedypenguin]

It's been awhile since Jazz and Stella have checked in! Though this post is brief for now...the two NAs have been running well and I've been enjoying the Miata enthusiast life! We'll check in sometime soon to share some more updates the two Roadsters have experienced the past few months, but for now, a couple of potato pics of Jazz and Stella.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3905/15036980531_fd23411eff_h.jpg

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3885/15017027066_e3eeb80258_h.jpg

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3874/15040029775_f4e81074bf_h.jpg

Oh, remember Charlie the corgi? He's 8 months old now! Ahh, how time flies! It's been so fun having a buddy who is so chill, cool, and dare I say, adorable. :mrgreen:
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5591/14853439890_0b60915d34_b.jpg

[atank]

Jazz and Stella are looking good!!!!!!!!!!!

[speedypenguin]

I have to share this. I had been looking for a set of RSAs (specifically Type-2s) for awhile, and almooost pulled the trigger on a set, until...I saw a set of these pop up for sale:

What's in the box?
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2941/15098478068_f4a840c713_b.jpg

Packaging...
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3865/15262014326_9d209a8fe9_b.jpg

I see shrouds...
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3857/15098475587_eb9f3d35cb_b.jpg

What's wrapped up?
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3897/15262013076_64fe58c332_b.jpg

Headlight?
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2941/15098329710_59af3e4218_b.jpg

!!! :frantic:
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5587/15098328930_fdd448f665_b.jpg

Bellof Miata headlights!
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2941/15284632262_40ac3a3f46_b.jpg

So pretty...
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2941/15098327210_58e794957a_b.jpg

I'm sure people can deduce...but I acquired these from Steve. Steve had saved these headlights, and they were sitting around, until he decided to put them up for sale recently. One can call it luck, or good timing, but the moment I saw the FS ad, I jumped on the opportunity immediately. Ever since I saw these headlights on Rooster, I long lusted after a set. I'm thankful that this opportunity came up, and that I have THE headlights I dreamed of having.

I'm not kidding, but I'm typing this with jitters! I was so excited to receive the package today, and hope to have these installed for Jazz in the near future. When that happens, there'll be a loooong overdue update for Jazz.

[speedypenguin]

Kind of a sad update...but Stella (the red NA) is going to a new home...but she's going a good home.

How'd it happen? Well...a friend of a friend wanted to see how the Koni coilovers rode (since I was planning on selling the coilovers). Long story short...after driving my car, he told me how much he liked the red NA, and asked if he could buy the car. A deal was made, and though I'm sad not to be able to have Stella, I know she'll be going to a good owner, and local too. :)

So I took one last drive with Stella...and I forgot my SD card. Doh. But a cell phone pic will suffice.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2946/15455595145_648515160e_b.jpg

But there's always a good side right? Well, now I'll be able to focus all my effort on Jazz. Jazz will be undergoing a...slight makeover over the next few months. :) I'll post bits and pieces in here from time to time.

[speedypenguin]

Quick update on the Bellof headlights. I was able to install the headlights...almost completely. Passenger side retractor rod caps literally shattered during removal from the OEM assemblies...then on the driver side, the light hits the body of the car (front bumper support area?)...but these are relatively minor things. Already ordered new retractor rods from Rosenthal, and will "massage" the metal to allow the driver side Bellof clear during opening/closing.

But a couple of pics to show what they look like on Jazz. :)

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5600/15358501858_b0d4252b47_b.jpg

Arrr matey.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3930/15358500488_ddd1bc96d3_b.jpg

I'm also thinking about switching back to an R-lip for Jazz. But we'll see. Still contemplating which front lip will go better with the future...style/makeover change in store for Jazz. :)

[speedypenguin]

Update time! I had some free time today, and realized I've been neglecting Jazz' build thread...so here are the additions Jazz has received from the past few months:

Exterior wise, not much has changed. In fact, just one minor change, but a very nice detail. I gave Jazz a "Model 60" Revlimiter nose badge. Something different (but I may want to change it up in the future...)
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5615/15394145709_87b37b6d50_b.jpg

Engine wise, a few additions: First, Jazz received a 37mm Koyo aluminum radiator. Switching to an aluminum radiator has helped keep the engine compartment temperatures down (though a coolant reroute may be in the future...depends if I end up driving Jazz on the track more often...) Second, since the radiator was being upgraded, I decided to give Jazz some Samco blue radiator hoses. More blue! :P Finally, added an anodized blue Project-G spark plug cover. This is a nice piece, and cleans up the appearance.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3942/15557077446_6bfe786098_b.jpg

Interior wise, couple additions. Swapped the 360mm Black Nardi classic wheel for a 330mm Brushed Nardi classic wheel. I love the driving feel with a smaller wheel, most noticeably during spirited drives and track sessions. Many people mention it, but the smaller wheel makes the car feel even more like a go-kart! I also added a Joyfast e-brake button. The black plastic e-brake button looked awkward amongst the metal bits, so the Joyfast button completes the e-brake assembly.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5602/15557080966_470cccabc7_b.jpg

Picked up a set of M2/Eunos roadster pedals from a fellow forum member. Thank you vote4pedro, these pedals feel nice and make driving even more of a pleasure.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3942/15581613092_c3505b317b_b.jpg

A better shot of the KG Works cluster, paired with Revlimiter gauge faces and AWD needle caps. :)
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5597/15581617092_b96cc85785_b.jpg

[speedypenguin]

My favorite update as of late...the Bellof headlights. So...as mentioned before, the headlight retractor caps Jazz had before...the plastic caps literally shattered upon removal. Quite literally, exploded. ...anyways! Ordered new ones from Rosenthal, and a new pair of retractor rods arrived this past weekend, so the weekend objective was to complete the Bellof headlight install.

I should've taken more pictures during the install...but the removal and installation was straight-forward. I did have to..."modify" the shrouds a tiny bit, as well as the headlight lids to make everything sit as flush as possible (not perfect still...that is for a future weekend). But! The Bellofs. My...they are lovely..
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3935/14960037944_00661ac972_b.jpg

Here they are at night. The yellow-ish glow...very lovely. I do wonder how they compare with RS Actives...I'll eventually "compare" the Bellofs side-to-side with a friend's set of RSAs on his car.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3945/15394752937_eb4b86e42b_b.jpg

Here is the pair of Bellofs on Jazz. I love the profile of the Bellofs...the shape of the headlight housings is...just right. not too tall...but also not too short...just the right amount of sleepy...:)
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3948/14960610773_8b8c280e62_b.jpg

I think the Bellofs are my favorite exterior modification on Jazz now. The GV tails are nice...but I had lusted after a set of Bellofs for so long, and never thought I'd ever own a set to call my own. Many, many thanks to Steve for taking care of the Bellofs when he had Rooster. I will do my best to care for the Bellofs as much as he and Rooster did.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5608/15395155610_ba068c247f_b.jpg

Jazz hasn't changed much in recent months, but I think it has been for the better. The additions he has received have been more minor in my opinion...maybe not the Bellofs, but adding the little touches has been fun. That being said...I'm going ahead with some changes for Jazz...I'm planning to refocus on the "retro" theme. Stay tuned...
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3955/14960035864_ecc488fb15_b.jpg

[bogaut]

Nice bellofs. I've got a set on mine as well.

[etikoner]

Very nice updates. I was wondering if (and who) Steve had sold those lights to.

I vote for an R-lip, but I'm sure you can find a different suitable lip and really make Jazz stand out.

[speedypenguin]

I recently acquired a couple of exterior parts as part of Jazz' exterior makeover. Couple of quick pictures of the parts (not the best...)

Carbonmiata Ducktail trunk lid. I have had wanted to get one of these for Jazz for a long time. It just happened that a local shop had one in stock...a quick drive over there and back, and Jazz has a new trunk lid.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3950/15674678666_edf7d61127_b.jpg

It'll eventually get painted...I'm waiting till some other parts arrive before I make the final acquisitions for a couple of other parts that will be painted as well...
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8647/15079056353_871f2590cc_b.jpg

Jazz also received a new lip this past weekend. The "GV" lip...was nice and aggressive for awhile, but I feel that it'll be too "in your face" for the exterior makeover...I had toyed with the idea of getting another R-lip (Jazz had an R-lip in the past), but the R-lip is a little too subtle. Well, I found a Ratsback front lip for sale, and decided to switch it up.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15699998132_c865fb50f6_b.jpg

I like how it's more aggressive than the R-lip, yet also more subtle than the GV lip. Although...it is a fiberglass lip, so have to be extra careful driving up steep inclines/declines...also not too keen on having the "Ratsback" logo (and mascot?) being imprinted on the lip...may or may not change that up.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5600/15079058313_ba94e1fcd3_b.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Hello all, been awhile! It's been a bit of a roller-coaster the past few months. As some of you may have noticed, I acquired yet another Miata...but this time, a NB. Specifically, a 10AE NB. I told myself if I were to ever to get an NB, it had to be a 10AE. I sold Stella (the red NA), who by the way has already received nice, tasteful upgrades with her new owner, back in early October. I told myself I wouldn't buy another Miata...but I have a bad, bad habit of browsing Craigslist incessantly. Then...in November, I browsed upon a listing for a 10AE NB, with a matching hardtop. The price was set reasonably...and it was 5 minutes from my work.

I told myself, might as well go check it out after work...the car was in decent condition. Full records from the now previous owner, and she had owned the car for the past 10 years. After driving it, I decided to throw out not a lowball offer...but a significantly lower offer, thinking to myself that she wouldn't take it. Well, she did. So...I again have two Miatas, but this time an NA and a NB.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/photo_zpsacc96d47.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/photo_zpsacc96d47.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0562_zpsadfa1fde.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0562_zpsadfa1fde.jpg.html)

I'm deciding how far to take the NB in terms of a "build". The NB is definitely more "civilized", but less of a Miata, if you know what I mean...

[speedypenguin]

Fast-forward to mid-December...I got into an accident. A minor accident...but it was with Jazz. We were sitting in stop-and-go traffic. I was stopped...then "bam". I got hit from the rear...

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8658/16322619622_72307bc82f_b.jpg

I don't want to sound too dramatiic...but in a normal situation, parties would just exchange insurance info right? Well...this lady. Was a basket case. She came out of her car yelling at me, accusing me of "highway robbery". Long story short, I only managed to get her name, contact info, and license plate. But she refused to provide insurance...it took me a week to find her again (found out she's a lawyer...way to go for her to pull that stunt on me). Finally got through her insurance...

I had mentioned in an earlier post that Jazz was going through a makeover for 2015. I had planned to bring him to the body shop at some point, so this accident...guess it was a "blessing in disguise"? I definitely do not want to go through such an ordeal again...

[speedypenguin]

Anyways, onto what I am really excited to share: Jazz' make over. Jazz is now at a body shop getting the following done:

Rear bumper and GV panel repaired and repainted
CarbonMiata Duckbill trunk painted
CarbonMiata Flares painted and installed

Yup, Jazz is getting flares. Why? It's because of these...

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8659/16323482415_274c0f6fea_b.jpg

Acquired my dream wheels...I wasn't expecting them to arrive till March, but Rod at TetsuyaGarage sent me a pleasant email earlier this month. Much joy was experienced...hehehe
The specs of the Watanabes are:

RS Watanabe R-Type
14in x 8in, -6 offset
Magnesium color

Stay tuned...:)

[revlimiter]

And now I need emergency pants.

[Phatmiata]

Wow lots of crazy stuff in this thread update!!!

First, congrats on the new to you 10AE I love this color combo too blue/blue, but most of them here are trashed by ricers.
Looks like you found yourself a clean example!!

Second, whats up with the crazy lady? You should have called 911 and told them the lady was leaving the scene of an accident!!!

Lastly, nice work on those wheels!! They are so nice!! Once you get photos of them on your car ask Rod to forward the pictures with your Name, City/State to Watanabe to get on their owners page!!

Watanabe Owners Page
http://www.rs-watanabe.co.jp/userspage_new/mazda.htm

[geffrocks86]

:shock:

Wats!!! Even cooler that you went with 14's.

What tires do you plan on running?

[Willywongka]

14's look best on NA's!

[bogaut]

hope i dont end up regretting my 15 inch wat purchase :whistle:

[kung fu jesus]

Sell them to me

[bogaut]

im gonna at least put them on my car fist

[speedypenguin]

Slight detour for this post...I've begun to "mod" the NB. I've had the car for almost three months, and recently began adding parts to it...oh boy.

Added a CF Monsterflow Intake (dodgy setup for now...it works, but I'll improve it), Garagestar CF plug cover, Retromodern oil cap, and took out the NB1 strut brace and added an NB2 strut brace I had lying around. The NB came with a RB tubular sway bar installed. Oh, I also added clear side markers all around.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0691_zpsd66bc480.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0691_zpsd66bc480.jpg.html)

Interior-wise, installed a 360mm Momo Retro steering wheel, NRG QR, Daikei hub, a set of Revlimiter Vent Rings, and most recently, a NB KG Works cluster with AWD needle caps.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0693_zpsc8374794.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0693_zpsc8374794.jpg.html)

The KGW cluster with AWD caps was being sold by a local...couldn't pass up a good deal...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0680_zps50a616dc.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0680_zps50a616dc.jpg.html)

The NB...has definitely been growing on me. It's a nice, solid car ("it" for now...still coming up with a name...heh). Maybe it's because I have been driving the NB more often since my NA has been in the shop...but I'm going to try to enjoy having this car as long as I can. As of now, I want to keep it...but who knows what life will throw at you, right? I'm going to enjoy my time with the NB, and actually plan to take it AutoX'ing in the near future. If I see that there's more potential with the NB...I may consider adding a roll bar and more performance-oriented modifications.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0708_zps5b516d0e.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0708_zps5b516d0e.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

Anyways, back on topic! I had a chance to mount the tires on the Watanabes.

205/55R14 Nitto NT01's on the 14x8 Wats
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0702_zps9d8a3bce.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0702_zps9d8a3bce.jpg.html)

I'm being a little pedantic...but the tires didn't come out as I had envisioned...I'm used to street tires having "lip protectors", so the tire sidewall bulges a little past the wheel. The NT01 sidewalls balloon, but curve in so that the lips on the Wats are exposed. Going to have to be extra, extra careful when driving...well everywhere.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0705_zpsdfdc0c61.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0705_zpsdfdc0c61.jpg.html)

[tsingson]

I am still trying to get my front clear corners. Looking good though!

[Vegard]

Just drive hard, buy new wheels or repair if fucked up.

I'm so looking forward to all this fitted and on!

[etikoner]

Wow.

Just wow.

[revlimiter]

That first pic of the stacked Wats. DAMN.

[JamieH]

Should've checked this thread sooner. Dem Wats.

[geffrocks86]

Very nice, Brian!

[geffrocks86]

The 10AE is coming along nicely too.

[speedypenguin]

Thanks all! I've gotten some updates from the body shop about Jazz. They've fitted the flares, installed the rivnuts (thanks Kenjo, a.k.a. Garagestar), and just yesterday, they've cut the fenders. Getting closer...

Anyways, my new suspension arrived! Jazz will be getting new Tein Street Flex coilovers when he returns (which may mean the Wats will be mounted a day or two later...). The plan is to give Jazz the Teins, and then transfer the FM VMaxxs to the NB. Oh, and Jazz is currently using the wheels/tires I picked up for the NB as "rollers"...I sold the 15x8 Nickel Gen-1 6ULs awhile ago...but picked up another set of 6ULs from a friend for a good price...I'll share those when Jazz gets back. :)

My garage assistant giving me a hand (or paw? Hehe...) [Side note: Charlie turned 1 last month! How time flies...he rode in the NB the other day and LOVED it! :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0715_zpsc4a67e7c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0715_zpsc4a67e7c.jpg.html)

Tein Street Flex coilovers. Took awhile to get here...but they finally arrived, so I'm happy. Can't wait to install these...it'll be a marathon weekend of swapping suspensions for Jazz and the 10AE.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0720_zpse61d55df.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0720_zpse61d55df.jpg.html)

[KAL]

I love the sight of fresh Teins in the morning!

[Tkblazer]

Slammed dog ftw! I love corgi's

[speedypenguin]

Slammed dog ftw! I love corgi's

Not slammed enough! Lol, it's really funny running around with him around the house. He drifts!! :)

Update from my friend's body shop! All the parts have been painted! Jazz has been at the shop for the past 2.5 weeks...the bumper and GV panel damage went deeper than expected, so both had to be sanded back and leveled to fix. A lot of work has gone into the parts, so kudos to Al at Car'N'Bike Moto for making it happen. The CM trunk and flares were pretty good, so that didn't need as much prep. The flares will be installed using a fender bolt rivnut set I got from Kenjo at Garagestar. Pretty ingenious idea, so that it'd be easier to uninstall/install the flares if I were to take the bumpers or fenders off in the near future.

Jazz should be ready for pick-up later this week! Can't wait! :) When he gets back, it'll be the "suspension-swap" marathon this weekend...I'm looking forward to having quality wrenching time. It's been awhile...

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10360840_766974763389112_3356791374918804874_n_zps 0c2e0ef0.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10360840_766974763389112_3356791374918804874_n_zps 0c2e0ef0.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10959902_766974950055760_7403293028332128997_n_zps 09544f86.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10959902_766974950055760_7403293028332128997_n_zps 09544f86.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/1660818_766974970055758_441106202453507166_n_zps33 9748d7.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/1660818_766974970055758_441106202453507166_n_zps33 9748d7.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10474460_766974903389098_7841813963771856327_n_zps d7f4bf3d.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10474460_766974903389098_7841813963771856327_n_zps d7f4bf3d.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/1495437_766974740055781_6492059008022262397_n_zps1 0dcce27.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/1495437_766974740055781_6492059008022262397_n_zps1 0dcce27.jpg.html)

[Dave737]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoLs0V8T5AA

[speedypenguin]

Wanted to share a couple "in-progress" pictures my friend sent me during Jazz' stint at his body shop.

Initial test fit of the CM flares.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10947328_762275733859015_7644139739566587677_n_zps 861aec82.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10947328_762275733859015_7644139739566587677_n_zps 861aec82.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10409373_762275713859017_2549260295891721746_n_zps 9c558d29.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10409373_762275713859017_2549260295891721746_n_zps 9c558d29.jpg.html)

Cutting the fenders. No going back!
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10953376_763843463702242_3106640612346352943_n_zps 51958562.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10953376_763843463702242_3106640612346352943_n_zps 51958562.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10888528_763843443702244_3123045795284605275_n_zps 334eecd4.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10888528_763843443702244_3123045795284605275_n_zps 334eecd4.jpg.html)

Applying rustoleum undercoating.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/1517708_765668213519767_2950421470078456576_n_zps7 b1a3c5c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/1517708_765668213519767_2950421470078456576_n_zps7 b1a3c5c.jpg.html)

Installing the rivnuts and final test fit.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10502080_765579813528607_9139011379728811198_n_zps 180f8d13.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10502080_765579813528607_9139011379728811198_n_zps 180f8d13.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10847789_765579826861939_1750938218446916720_n_zps cf981c6b.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10847789_765579826861939_1750938218446916720_n_zps cf981c6b.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

Pictures my friend took right before I went to pick up Jazz.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10378129_768364716583450_4319516416831690734_n_zps 012281e0.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10378129_768364716583450_4319516416831690734_n_zps 012281e0.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10400006_768364739916781_3527678514829774844_n_zps edde6894.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10400006_768364739916781_3527678514829774844_n_zps edde6894.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/10409688_768364696583452_7719440178249076659_n_zps 55adedf0.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/10409688_768364696583452_7719440178249076659_n_zps 55adedf0.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/11081_768364679916787_5539024962629334585_n_zps7f0 26eb4.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/11081_768364679916787_5539024962629334585_n_zps7f0 26eb4.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

Made it home! Unfortunately, a huge storm is passing by the SF Bay Area, so it was pouring on the way home. Sketchy driving home while hydroplaning on Rivals...I'm just glad Jazz and I made it home safely.

Upon returning home, I installed a Zoom headlight lid I got for Jazz while he was at the shop. I also installed a Moroso coolant tank (the OEM coolant tank was yellow and...well, just unsightly. :)

Tomorrow, we'll begin the suspension swap, and hopefully soon, mount the Watanabes.

Welcome home, Jazz. :)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0722_zps41ba1418.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0722_zps41ba1418.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

Had fun so far today wrenching on Jazz. Uninstalled the FM VMaxxs and installed the new Tein Street Flex coilovers.

Old vs New
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0728_zps45628234.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0728_zps45628234.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0731_zpsaecf2883.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0731_zpsaecf2883.jpg.html)

The moment I waited for so long...mounted the Watanabes on Jazz. Here's a teaser of what's to come...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0734_zps4d0b4b72.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0734_zps4d0b4b72.jpg.html)

[tsingson]

Car looks great with the flares and Wats!

[Tkblazer]

Yummy..now I have an idea of how my car would look with wats.

[speedypenguin]

Did a bunch of wrenching this weekend. A lot of manual labor, but I needed a recharge, so this weekend filled that need.

Nothing like late-night-garage pictures...when the weather gets better around here, and when it's daylight...both Jazz and the NB will get better pictures.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0741_zps815a51d9.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0741_zps815a51d9.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0740_zps369eaf26.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0740_zps369eaf26.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

Swapped the FM VMaxxs into the NB. Also added 15x9 Bronze 6ULs with Rivals.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0754_zpsea6e12d8.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0754_zpsea6e12d8.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0748_zps12a08044.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0748_zps12a08044.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0763_zpsa50ec44f.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0763_zpsa50ec44f.jpg.html)

What the NB has as of now:

Exterior:
FM VMaxx Classic coilovers
949 Racing 6ULs, 15x9
225/45R15 Rivals
Racingbeat Front Tubular Sway Bar
Monsterflow Carbon Fiber Intake
NB2 Front Strut Brace
Garagestar Carbon Fiber Plug Cover
RetroModern Oil Cap

Interior:
360mm Momo Retro Steering Wheel
NRG Quick Release
Daikei Steering Wheel Hub
KG Works Stainless Cluster (considering selling this...doesn't go with the theme of the car)
AWD Needle Caps
Revlimiter Vent Rings

[speedypenguin]

Swapped the Tein Street Flex coilovers into Jazz. Added the Watanabes on NT01s.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0752_zps721dcfd3.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0752_zps721dcfd3.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0743_zps6525912c.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0743_zps6525912c.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0761_zpsf82650c2.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0761_zpsf82650c2.jpg.html)

What Jazz has as of now:

Exterior:
Tein Street Flex coilovers
RS-Watanabe R-Type, 14x8 et-6
205/55R14 NT01s
Racingbeat Front Tubular Sway Bar
Racingbeat Intake
Zoom Engineering headlight lid
Turn Signal Intakes
Revlimiter Badges
CarbonMiata Flares
CarbonMiata Duckbill Trunk
Garage Vary Tail Lights
Project-G Anodized Blue Front and Rear Tow Hooks
Ratsback Front Lip
R-pkg Replica Rear Lip
Koyo 37mm Aluminum Radiator
Moroso Coolant Tank
Project-G Anodized Blue Plug Cover
Project-G Anodized Blue Oil Cap
Retromodern Prototype Oil Dipstick
Jackson Racing header
Track Dog Heat Blanket
Jackson Racing Catback Exhaust

Interior:
Recaro SPG Bucket Seat
Garagestar Seat Rails
330mm Nardi Steering Wheel
75mm Techno Toy Tuning Hub Extender
NRG Quick Release
NRG Short Hub
KG Works Cluster
AWD Needle Caps
Revlimiter Custom Gauges
Joyfast Shift Knob
Project-G Shift and E-Brake Boots
RSpeed Vent Rings
Retromodern Climate Control Knobs
Revlimiter Retro HVAC Panel w/Anodized Ring
Revlimiter Door Straps
Harddog Hardcore Rollbar
Garagestar Hardtop Brackets

[KAL]

All that Jazz!

[freedomgli]

Looks great mate. I look forward to seeing more nice pictures outdoors in the sunlight.

[speedypenguin]

Hello all, I finally had time to take some pics of Jazz outdoors. (Thank you Daylight Savings Time) Since the last update, I've been really enjoying driving Jazz around. I did have to cut/shave behind the bumper to prevent the front tires from scraping when I turned...but all is good now. I also treated Jazz to an NA Monsterflow Intake (picked it up from a friend), because the Racing Beat intake just didn't look good in my eyes anymore...perhaps just me being pedantic, but that's the fun part of modding, right?

Without further ado. Here is Jazz as of March 2015:
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7653/16759608192_d361828bf8_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7607/16553414617_1d6fb31482_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7591/16734790566_4deebeb858_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7613/16573100468_912446a819_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8592/16140726243_0ae579be2e_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7649/16734784886_d4fc4c0a7a_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8750/16734783276_07079c82da_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8581/16734779056_0e3d5a825f_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8683/16553398467_58761c75b1_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8720/16138351414_e0e2de66b1_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7650/16759483441_feadcd6195_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8653/16140710563_359113aee7_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7612/16760646745_cf488e8995_h.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8638/16760658795_70cd8bd435_h.jpg

[revlimiter]

WOW. Those Wats.

Good work sir. VERY good work.

[Paul B]

Delicious.

[Vegard]

Very very badass.

[Phatmiata]

wow looks so good with those Wats man!! Nice job!!

[mx54life]

Is that the Revlimiter's HVAC plate cover?

[Willywongka]

Your car has changed quite a bit within one year! Looking good man. Hope we don't get rained out at cars and coffee this weekend.

[speedypenguin]

Thanks all for the nice comments!


Is that the Revlimiter's HVAC plate cover?

Yes, that is the Revlimiter HVAC plate cover. I really like the trim ring that Adam used for his design.

This past weekend, I went to the local Cars & Coffee with Willywongka and another roadster friend. It's always fun hanging out with fellow roadster enthusiasts, and I like how each of our cars are different. Really showcases how every owner can personalize their roadster to be truly their own.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7725/16864671559_877d01caa8_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8787/17050903125_c62b486b2f_b.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7650/16863121928_2afa1560c5_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8810/17049444262_8b221ed2c0_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8718/16843485427_c28fed6589_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8709/17049439692_5f2f16f949_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8795/16430744993_2a0fca10d5_b.jpg

[mx54life]

Awesome ^^^ where was this?

[speedypenguin]

Blackhawk Auto Museum.

[mx54life]

Blackhawk Auto Museum.

In Danville correct? How often do you guys meet?

[speedypenguin]

In Danville correct? How often do you guys meet?

Yes sir. The Cars & Coffee event is every first Sunday of the month!

[speedypenguin]

Update for Jazz. Since the last update, the NB was converted back to stock, and sold to another enthusiast. I also sold my Subaru wagon, because I ended up picking the following as my new "daily":

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_2733_zpsffz5rs95.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_2733_zpsffz5rs95.jpg.html)

Audi B5 S4 Avant. I am a wagon guy, and wanted to pick something up with boost. This will be my first venture into working on a Euro car...already bracing myself for the expenses if I am to modify it...but as it is, it's a comfortable, and brisk cruiser. Plus, my corgi really likes it, since he sits closer to me now than he did in the Subaru. :)

Anyways! An interior update for Jazz. I acquired an AWD cluster with RS Define Rings. I'm grateful to have one of AWD-san's pieces, as it is a truly a piece of art. I also added a set of Checkered JDM floormats (I had originally bought these for my old red NA), changed to a black 330mm Nardi wheel with Club-NA horn button, and swapped my old Recaro and OEM passenger seat for a pair of Lotus seats (which were briefly in my old 10AE).

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_3124_zpsj0x7troz.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_3124_zpsj0x7troz.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_3131_zpsnsyqjo8q.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_3131_zpsnsyqjo8q.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_3134_zpsyndzewqg.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_3134_zpsyndzewqg.jpg.html)

[JamieH]

Really starting to lean towards a set of Sterlings with Jazz's 6 o'clock rotation.

That cluster is looking great.

[speedypenguin]

So...on a sidenote, the Audi didn't work out. Too many problems came up with the car...and I want to focus more on Jazz in the coming months, so the Audi was sold (to an S4 owner, so it went to a good home).

But it's okay, because all my focus with be on Jazz now. :) Several things have happened since the last update. First, I acquired a Megasquire PnP V2 from a friend, so eventually...Jazz will get the MS installed. I remember driving my friend's '94NA with the MS, and was amazed how much "beefier" his car pulled compared with Jazz. Looking forward to diving into learning how to tune a car. Second, the passenger side Bellof headlight bracket...sheared. I remember hearing a loud snap, then the passenger headlight fell down...It's a known problem with the Bellof brackets (the driver side was broken when I received the Bellofs awhile back). Luckily, the bracket didn't shear in the splined hole that sits over the headlight motor gear(?), so I was able to bring it back to the same shop that welded the driver side bracket awhile ago. The driver side bracket has held since it was repaired, so hopefully the passenger side will hold up as well. Third, I installed a set of Zoom Wide Angle Viatloni mirrors for my M2-1028 style mirros. Holy crap, having wide angle glass makes a huge difference, because I can actually see entire cars, rather than just a portion of a car. Finally, I acquired a set of Jetstream TSIs (thanks Bo). I'm very excited to have finally acquired my own pair of Jetstream TSIs. :)

Megasquire PnP V2
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/441/19678927795_616cd1f3e8_b.jpg

Jetstream TSIs, with Nissan sidemarkers. These are the black gel coat version, and conveniently, it matches Jazz' paint pretty well.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/386/19490890960_6cd2cd2a7c_b.jpg

Close-up (not the best pic...)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/355/19490851448_4c3739b69b_b.jpg

Jetstream TSIs compared with Jazz' old TSIs. (my DIY paint job had definitely seen better days...they will be going on a friend's black NA)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/277/19490882360_e9148752b1_b.jpg

Old TSI setup
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/356/19671777652_729ce14221_b.jpg

Old TSI on the left, new Jetstream TSI on the right
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/447/19683362061_e183882ecd_b.jpg

Both Jetstream TSIs in.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/465/19652658266_4b72833754_b.jpg

With the Bellofs up.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/387/19490828518_ccbc330de1_b.jpg

With the Bellofs on and the TSIs on (I'll take a better pic when I take Jazz outside some time soon)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/535/19056271274_617508b21d_b.jpg

[MightyM]

Those TSI's look sweet! Nice work.

[bogaut]

looks real good. lemme know when you want that passenger side zoom headlight lid ;)

[mx54life]

What is your street settings on the Tein Street Flex? I've been playing the entire day today and I can't seem to find a good compromise numbers.

[speedypenguin]

Holy cow, didn't realize it's been almost a year since my last update. ...not a comprehensive update. But! Jazz got featured in RadRoadsters recently: http://radroadsters.net/brian-na/

Here are some pics that Garagestar took. Thanks Kenjo for the photos, and Stuart for the write-up!

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/IMG_0302_25x25-1024x683.jpg

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/DSC00879_25x25.jpg

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/DSC00762_25x25-1024x683.jpg

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/IMG_0226_25x25-1024x683.jpg

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/DSC00773_25x25-1024x683.jpg

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/IMG_0215_25x25.jpg

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/DSC00777_25x25.jpg

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/1.jpg

http://radroadsters.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/DSC00826_25x25.jpg

[BRGNA8]

So cool!

[NCGreasemonkey]

One of my inspiration Miatas! Sorry, but you haven't posted and Ben is the wallpaper now. :bow:

[Greasemonkey2000]

Congrats on the Rad Roadsters feature, Brian! :drinkto:

Definitely a beautiful roadster that you have created with plenty of quality parts yet still subtle enough to be 'under the radar' to the average road goer. :)

[speedypenguin]

Quick update! Miatas at MRLS was this past weekend, and Jazz took part of the Hot Laps sessions on Saturday. It was our first track day event in almost two years, and it was a fun time. There were a surprisingly amount of boosted cars within my group, but it was fun chasing the boosted cars down in the corners. Going to start planning some mechanical upgrades to make Jazz go faster for next year's event. :)

Jazz did get some new parts in preparation for MRLS this year. I installed a 4.3 Torsen II diff, Toyo R888s (which are awesome tires, and give the Watanabes the square, meaty look I wanted), TDR heat blanket, and new spark plugs and wires.

Here are some pictures of my time at MRLS on Saturday:

Jazz and my friend's NA arrived early in the morning.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9069_zpsly5opacx.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9069_zpsly5opacx.jpg.html)

Saw the new RF! Great looking car.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9071_zpsg0pk8wkw.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9071_zpsg0pk8wkw.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9075_zps3pvquul9.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9075_zps3pvquul9.jpg.html)

Millionth Miata signing.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9081_zpslezwsm6f.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9081_zpslezwsm6f.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9090_zpsb1ohqyya.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9090_zpsb1ohqyya.jpg.html)

Signing the Millionth Miata!
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9097_zpshzwp0vlb.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9097_zpshzwp0vlb.jpg.html)

My friend got a BOLT in his tire...bad luck. :(
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9078_zpsf1oqid50.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9078_zpsf1oqid50.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9079_zpst3w39vh7.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9079_zpst3w39vh7.jpg.html)

One of my favorite cars that I saw. Satisaii's car.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9091_zpssdmpbr8j.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9091_zpssdmpbr8j.jpg.html)

Jazz looking very happy after a successful track day. The R888s provided a lot of grip, it was really fun cornering hard and trying our best to maintain momentum through and out of the corners at MRLS.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9093_zpstcvgxigt.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9093_zpstcvgxigt.jpg.html)

[etikoner]

R888's get slack for not being the best tire, but damn do they look badass on your car in conjunction with those watts.

[speedypenguin]

I liked how the R888's performed at Laguna Seca. I don't have enough track time to say whether the R888 or NT01 is better, but at least for street driving, the R888 is more livable. The NT01s howled...

But yes Erick, I too like how the R888s look. The NT01 sidewalls were a bit "balloony", the R888s are square, filling out the flares a bit more. I like how Jazz handles now, but I might try lowering the suspension a tad more to reduce the gap between the rear fender flares and the wheels/tires.

[speedypenguin]

Couple photos from the Miatas at MRLS track day!

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/GBMA2483_zpsh0pjjhw5.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/GBMA2483_zpsh0pjjhw5.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/GBMA6051_zpsnw8tpooe.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/GBMA6051_zpsnw8tpooe.jpg.html)

[NCGreasemonkey]

(sighs) That is one sexy shot of a Black NA on track!

Do have a question though. For track days do you wish the rear window wasn't tinted. Reason for the question is I have juggled the thought of Noir's getting tinted. But thought that might interfere with track runs with vision and quick point-bys.

Still one of my inspiration build threads!

[speedypenguin]

(sighs) That is one sexy shot of a Black NA on track!

Do have a question though. For track days do you wish the rear window wasn't tinted. Reason for the question is I have juggled the thought of Noir's getting tinted. But thought that might interfere with track runs with vision and quick point-bys.

Still one of my inspiration build threads!

Thanks Rick. I haven't found the dark tint to be an issue at the track. I use a broadway wide angle mirror, so I can look back with a good visibility range. I originally got the dark tint because it gets really hot during the summer, and the dark tint makes a significant difference. But I have been contemplating going with a lighter tint for a little more visibility and to show a roll bar more clearly (I'd like to get a new roll bar in the future)

[NCGreasemonkey]

Go psycho like me.

http://i.imgur.com/XnLykYr.jpg

Love your Jazz!

[Greasemonkey2000]

Those are some great shots from Laguna Seca! :slayer: I think the r888s are really rad looking as well! :)

[speedypenguin]

Until recently, Jazz was using a set of Bellof low-profile headlights. The Bellofs are my favorite low-pros for the NA Roadsters, but since I have owned them, each side's pivot arm has broken three times. Each! The last straw was right before heading to MRLS, the driver side Bellow pivot arm broke while I was driving home from work. (Luckily, one of the OEM arms I had "worked", so I was able to drive down to MRLS with functioning headlights). But I wanted to change the headlights...what to change to?

I had been considering going to Jetstream fixed headlights for a long time. I wanted the front end of the Roadster to be sleeker and more aggressive, but the thing holding me back for the longest time was cutting into the RS Aizawa bumper. The combination of me wanting to change the look of the front of the car, and the Bellofs being "problematic", I committed myself to the front end refresh.

Received my Jetstream headlights. Thanks Rod (Tetsuya Garage) for getting them to me.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9465_zpsl8adjfs1.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9465_zpsl8adjfs1.jpg.html)

Took the bumper off, and came up with the template to cut the bumper, and the three pieces of the bumper support.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9485_zpszom3ikkw.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9485_zpszom3ikkw.jpg.html)

RS Aizawa bumper is cut! No going back. (I did save the pieces I cut...in the case I'd want to re-fiberglass the bumper together...you never know)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9486_zpssfkfjzoy.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9486_zpssfkfjzoy.jpg.html)

I'm liking what I see...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9487_zps0mpccbyy.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9487_zps0mpccbyy.jpg.html)

Headlights installed (in this pic, I had used the supplied screws. I have since replaced the screws with bolts and nuts.)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9489_zpsgpurmtiu.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9489_zpsgpurmtiu.jpg.html)

The new look. I like it...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9491_zpsbffutpkz.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9491_zpsbffutpkz.jpg.html)

Headlights on. This picture makes the light seem yellow, but I went with bulbs that have a whiter output, which is a huge upgrade over the Bellofs, and even over the OEM headlights. Comparable with an H4 retrofit.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9566_zpsw2tkjvod.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9566_zpsw2tkjvod.jpg.html)

I haven't had a chance to drive Jazz since the headlight conversion, but I really like the new look. The Jetstream headlights are very nice quality. Fitment overall is pretty good, just that my car isn't perfect. I do have to relocate the coolant overflow tank and replace my Moroso tank with something lower profile (and most likely smaller). I hope to find a new solution soon.

[mx54life]

Compliments the front facia well Brian.

But no more pop-ups? :-(

[benpopham]

I love it!

[oldgrayleather]

Brave move cutting the RSA but totally worth it IMO. What a stunning result!

[Hammerhead]

Looks great! I flirted with buying the JetStreams last year, but like you I was reluctant to cut into my J-Wing bumper. Your car makes me want to rethink it.

[revlimiter]

Those lights have such a Lamborghini Miura look to them. I love them. Well done sir!

I truly wish the light output on the Moss lights wasn't as bright. I would have likely upgraded to these when they came out. I lust after every pic I see.

[etikoner]

I'd love if you went with the plexiglass cover that stretches across the lights. Definitely echoing other's comments re Bellloffs vs Jet Streams, I do like how they look on your Jazz!

[Hyper]

The car looks amazing well done!!!

[NCGreasemonkey]

That is one sexy set of eyes she has! :bow:

Let us know about the night driving when you can.

[druz]

The Jetstreams look great on black. I've been trying to figure out a nice coolant reservoir solution also. I'll be interested to see what you come up with.

[speedypenguin]

It's been about a month since Jazz has had the Jetstream headlights. Within that time, I've driven Jazz maybe 100 miles? Probably closer to 120 miles, but anyways! Because of the Jetstream headlight conversion, I had to remove the Moroso coolant overflow tank because the Moroso tank wouldn't allow the headlight to be plugged in. And driving without a tank? It isn't responsible to let the water/coolant drip on the ground...so Jazz has sat in the garage most of the time.

I was looking at different "universal" coolant tanks, but none of the tanks I saw had the dimensions needed to fit within the space. Luckily, Garagestar announced within the last couple weeks the Circuit Sports coolant tank for NA Miatas. I looked at several of the pictures, and it appeared that the CS tank would fit...so I placed an order.

Verdict: Yes! The Circuit Sports tank does fit with Jetstream headlights. The overall construction of the CS tank is good: welds are nice and I like both the knurled cap and the sight-line(?) of the tank level (which the Moroso tank did not have). I do find it odd that the hose barb is at the bottom of the tank, but that's a minor aspect.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9678_zpsus8jsrpr.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9678_zpsus8jsrpr.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9679_zps0krlskx7.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9679_zps0krlskx7.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9680_zpsvxdzrme6.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9680_zpsvxdzrme6.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

I have driven during nighttime within the last month, and the JS headlight output is much better than my old Bellofs were. But compared with OEM headlights, the Jetstreams are better than the sealed beams, but in my opinion, an H4 conversion is better. I went with a pair of Phillips "9003 CrystalVisionUltra Upgrade Headlight Bulbs". (The Phillips bulb create a blue tint within the housing)

The Jetstream's housings are pretty recessed within the headlight body, so some of the light output that normally angles towards the ground doesn't make it to the ground. Also, the housings are for RHD, with the cutoffs angling upwards to the left. But nonetheless, I'm happy with the light output upgrade.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9594_zpshp45eknl.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9594_zpshp45eknl.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_9651_zps7gt0qujg.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_9651_zps7gt0qujg.jpg.html)

[NCGreasemonkey]

I do find it odd that the hose barb is at the bottom of the tank, but that's a minor aspect.

If you look inside the I.L., with the sight glass, you will see that the feed tube runs to the bottom. You want the feed to the radiator submerged so it sucks coolant back into the system with pressure changes. So you are good with the bottom nipple.

Thanks for the info on night driving with the new eyes for Jazz. She is one sexy ride!

Peace my fellow nut! :bow:

[speedypenguin]

Thanks Rick! Yeah, the bottom connection seemed odd initially, but you're right about the other tanks having feed tubes. I believe the OEM tank has a tube, as well as the Moroso coolant tank. Moving the connection to the bottom does simplify the manufacturing process of the tank assembly. It also looks cleaner within the engine bay with just the tank body.

[Martin]

I need one like this one that FM made for that V8 Italia they built

https://www.flyinmiata.com/V8/Italia/index.php?UID=10
https://www.flyinmiata.com/V8/Italia/images/img_4728.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Recently, I changed the fender flare trim and painted the fender flare bolt heads with black paint.

The previous fender flare trim was a generic "edge trim". While it worked, I have always felt that the shape was too rounded, which in my opinion made the trim draw attention too much. I acquired some Trim-Lok fender flare trim, and I'm more pleased with the shape of the new fender flare trim. However, the matte finish sticks out, too. I'll see with time whether the look will grow on me.

I also decided to paint the fender flare bolts, to make the bolts less noticeable than before. I'm liking the more subtle look of the black fender flare bolts.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0467_zpso72pi6je.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0467_zpso72pi6je.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0474_zpsnqjaufxr.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0474_zpsnqjaufxr.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0457_zps2i8gq6ty.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0457_zps2i8gq6ty.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_0472_zpsnsjyf3kc.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_0472_zpsnsjyf3kc.jpg.html)

[NCGreasemonkey]

You have a bad-ass car my friend! Love the look of the front fender flairs.

M2C. And you and I are both working folk that have to do the build as we can. Widebody the rear. Ode to the M2-1006 Cobraster. You have the front nailed with the flairs and the new lighting. The widebody rear will kill it. And I hate to say you will beat me to it.

Love your thoughts and ideas fellow nut. None of us loose when we push one another.

[BRGNA8]

Looks awesome mate!

Not running the watanabe centre caps anymore? I like the look with them on personally. But either way looks tough!

[speedypenguin]

You have a bad-ass car my friend! Love the look of the front fender flairs.

M2C. And you and I are both working folk that have to do the build as we can. Widebody the rear. Ode to the M2-1006 Cobraster. You have the front nailed with the flairs and the new lighting. The widebody rear will kill it. And I hate to say you will beat me to it.

Love your thoughts and ideas fellow nut. None of us loose when we push one another.

Cheers, Rick. Exterior wise, only a couple more things, but the flares on Jazz are staying. And yes, you, me, and the Roadster community will continue to encourage one another to try new ideas.


Looks awesome mate!

Not running the watanabe centre caps anymore? I like the look with them on personally. But either way looks tough!

Thanks. No caps for now, because one of them fell off. That one cap is no longer a tight fit. I'd like to order another set of center caps at some point. Other updates are due to come soon.

[speedypenguin]

Earlier this month, I traveled to Tokyo. Being my first time, my friend and I wanted to travel to as many areas as possible. But one of my musts for my trip was a visit at least one of the Japanese Roadster shops. I was staying in the Koto area, so the closest that I looked up was Car Make Corn's in Edogawa. Off to Car Make Corn's I went!

We had eaten a delicious Tonkotsu meal in Edogawa. Hopped onto a local bus, drove for about 20min, and hopped off for a final 5min walk to this...immediately my eyes were drawn to the two NBs with the GV front bumpers. JDM yo.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1708_zpsgux59o6v.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1708_zpsgux59o6v.jpg.html)

I met Shinya-san, a mechanic at Car Make Corn's. He seemed confused that a foreigner would arrive at their shop, but with my okay-Japanese, I mentioned I am a Roadster owner, too. We chatted about the Roadsters, and he showed me around their shop.
A customer's white NB, getting some new wheels and tires (CE28Ns)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1713_zpsxlf1srlv.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1713_zpsxlf1srlv.jpg.html)

Said wheels and tires.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1714_zpsgxksou4t.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1714_zpsgxksou4t.jpg.html)

Such a nice interior.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1731_zpst6pbahsi.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1731_zpst6pbahsi.jpg.html)

15x8 TE37s waiting in boxes.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1715_zpsviujuhfy.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1715_zpsviujuhfy.jpg.html)

Really clean V-Special (BRG) for sale.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1717_zpsdz8w9ud5.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1717_zpsdz8w9ud5.jpg.html)

Beautiful interior.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1719_zpsjsjgwwyg.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1719_zpsjsjgwwyg.jpg.html)

Another white NB parked outside.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1724_zpsyjuwbjee.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1724_zpsyjuwbjee.jpg.html)

Shinya-san's awesome R-Limited.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1721_zpslekb2qjc.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1721_zpslekb2qjc.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1723_zpsbf5wqhlx.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1723_zpsbf5wqhlx.jpg.html)

Thank you Shinya-san for letting me sit in your car!
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1726_zpsb66szezc.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1726_zpsb66szezc.jpg.html)

The R-Limited interior is beautiful.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1727_zps2plbkosn.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1727_zps2plbkosn.jpg.html)

Awesome Corn's seats.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1728_zpsu0xmjawq.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1728_zpsu0xmjawq.jpg.html)

4-slot/ITB engine. Shinya-san was surprised when I mentioned that CA doesn't allow ITBs for SMOG reasons...
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1729_zpsryci1ukz.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1729_zpsryci1ukz.jpg.html)

Carbon sign made by Ben (bcpopham). Tomio-san mentioned it's one of his favorite decorations at his shop.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1730_zpsi42iisxl.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1730_zpsi42iisxl.jpg.html)

So many nice parts.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1732_zpssl908bzx.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1732_zpssl908bzx.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1733_zpshkmjwx2p.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1733_zpshkmjwx2p.jpg.html)

Miata parts heaven.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1737_zpsn4hn4oct.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1737_zpsn4hn4oct.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1738_zpsrc1po6ud.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1738_zpsrc1po6ud.jpg.html)

I was geeking out like crazy. Smiling from ear-to-ear.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1734_zpszp7rcqsq.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1734_zpszp7rcqsq.jpg.html)

Thank you so much Tomio-san and Shiny-san for welcoming me to your shop and showing me around. Truly a bucket item achieved, lifetime memories made, and am very fortunate to have met the Car Make Corn's crew and shop. I will definitely be coming back next time I'm back in Tokyo.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1742_zpsf25xammx.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1742_zpsf25xammx.jpg.html)

[Paul B]

Awesome man!! Good stuff right there


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[RustRat]

Pics don't work for me :(


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[speedypenguin]

While at Car Make Corn's, got some goodies for friends, some garage decor, and of course some small parts for Jazz. Picked up a Nakamae cupholder, Zoom Engineering cupholder, and a Car Make Corn's shift knob.

Jazz' interior with the new parts.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1920_zps86lkgsuo.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1920_zps86lkgsuo.jpg.html)

Left-to-right: Car Make Corn's shift knob, Zoom Engineering cup holder, and Nakamae cupholder.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1922_zpsjv3gh1bp.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1922_zpsjv3gh1bp.jpg.html)

Nakamae cup holder.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1923_zpsmk1cklss.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1923_zpsmk1cklss.jpg.html)

Zoom Engineering cup holder. It's blue! Matches the blue theme in Jazz' interior.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1924_zpsua3ymnsz.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1924_zpsua3ymnsz.jpg.html)

Car Make Corn's shift knob. I decided to give this a shot, as I have had my Joyfast super tall for the past few years. The CMC shift knob is lighter, but I do like the positive engagement feeling when moving from gear-to-gear. The Joyfast is heavy, so it's been dampening the notchiness of the gearbox. I am going to try to polish the shift knob, as the finish is a tad duller than the other parts. I'm hoping the polish will bring out more of a shine.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1929_zpsr1mf7dvz.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1929_zpsr1mf7dvz.jpg.html)

I've only driven with the new shift knob for a couple miles, but I like how the CMC shift knob finish matches the other metal interior parts' finish better than the Joyfast did. I'll see how I like the CMC shift knob with more seat time.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1926_zpsq6ch2o7d.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1926_zpsq6ch2o7d.jpg.html)

I still have some more parts for Jazz that I am trying my best to make time for. In due time Jazz, in due time. Thanks for being patient with me.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1914_zpsnsz5muo6.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1914_zpsnsz5muo6.jpg.html)

[benpopham]

Wow, great updates.

I was looking forward to seeing your pictures of Car Make Corn's, it truly is the best place. 'Geeking out like crazy' is exactly how I felt there too. So friendly and way too much stuff to look at.

Thank you for the picture of the sign I made, we are very proud of it.

Jazz is looking really good, and the new additions are very nice touches.

[BRGNA8]

Agreed with Ben! awesome photos and Jazz is looking very very nice indeed!!

[oldgrayleather]

Great update! Takes me back a couple years when I had my first trip to CMC. Definite bucket list material. Sadly I know no Japanese so it was mostly hand gestures, smiles and showing pictures on my phone. Got the same Nakamae cupholder which works awesome. Need. To. Go. Back! (And learn some Japanese)

[NCGreasemonkey]

Great update! Takes me back a couple years when I had my first trip to CMC. Definite bucket list material. Sadly I know no Japanese so it was mostly hand gestures, smiles and showing pictures on my phone. Got the same Nakamae cupholder which works awesome. Need. To. Go. Back! (And learn some Japanese)

You and I have three years to learn enough to haggle! :toomuch:

And we can meet at GM2K's for a beverage while we pratice. LOL

[Paul B]

Awesome stuff man!! Been contemplating buying their shift knob.

Let us know how it is once you get some time with it. Would like to know how much height it adds.


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[etikoner]

Love the little additions! Awesome little write up on Car Make Corns! I would have picked up a set of their light weight alloy wheels for sure! they are so pretty.

[speedypenguin]

Some friends came over today, and we had a mini tech-day. We managed to install a Carbing vertical tow hook on Willywongka's car, but it was mainly hanging out with our cars. We went for a quick drive afterwards, and had refreshments post-drive and hung out having fun talking about cars.

Heading out for our drive.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1976_zpsg3gnsevv.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1976_zpsg3gnsevv.jpg.html)

Pulled over to the side of the road after the drive. Time for pictures!
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1980_zpsh7a7pmos.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1980_zpsh7a7pmos.jpg.html)

Friend's Fairlady Z. He also has a Miata, but the Z is his project car. He's done a lot of quality work on this car (it was a pile when he got it)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1981_zpstbp0lwwc.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1981_zpstbp0lwwc.jpg.html)

Jazz.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1982_zpsdkdtpxz3.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1982_zpsdkdtpxz3.jpg.html)

AaronT808's '94R (he had a really nice Merlot until it was wrecked recently...glad to see him back in another NA)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1983_zps94tajxbd.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1983_zps94tajxbd.jpg.html)

Willywongka.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1985_zpsnbu6veqy.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1985_zpsnbu6veqy.jpg.html)

The cars.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1987_zpsybj2obxk.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1987_zpsybj2obxk.jpg.html)

Willywongka's new Mazdaspeed hardtop! Epic!
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1989_zpsywharge5.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1989_zpsywharge5.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1990_zpsjegghnwm.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1990_zpsjegghnwm.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1991_zpsy0vakclr.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1991_zpsy0vakclr.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1993_zpshk9bkj4v.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1993_zpshk9bkj4v.jpg.html)

Heading to get Boba.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_1996_zpsc5c1xzyl.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_1996_zpsc5c1xzyl.jpg.html)

Roadster bros. Willis' and Aaron's cars sort of make me wish I still had pop-ups...:)
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_2027_zps12crzs9l.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_2027_zps12crzs9l.jpg.html)

Lights on.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_2029_zps0i5hbcfu.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_2029_zps0i5hbcfu.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_2031_zpss8lyc47m.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_2031_zpss8lyc47m.jpg.html)

Awesome way to end the weekend.
http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/E560222C-B56A-4E90-9F29-AE36366CD6F9_zps8myeik6n.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/E560222C-B56A-4E90-9F29-AE36366CD6F9_zps8myeik6n.jpg.html)

[CollinMB]

From right to left, the 3 stages of modifying

[HarryB]

Awesome cars all of them

[Paul B]

Wish I lived near you all. Nothing like this where I live.


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[JamieH]

Am I seeing this correctly, two cars with RS Active headlights? Because yum.

[speedypenguin]

Am I seeing this correctly, two cars with RS Active headlights? Because yum.

Yup, both Willis' NA and Aaron's NA have RS Active headlights. Both are Type-2 as well.

[speedypenguin]

Swapped the black steering wheel screws with blue screws. Continuing the blue theme. And epic JDM ricer points, yo. :lol:

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_2046_zpszv1ktkjj.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_2046_zpszv1ktkjj.jpg.html)

[Paul B]

I like when a build has a solid, classy theme that works together.


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[speedypenguin]

Recently got Jazz smogged. Swapped the stock header and intake back in (because California, hooray), and bought a new catalytic converter from GWR. The GWR cat is a direct fit, so I'm glad I finally have a "smog cat" to use moving forward. Besides that...Jazz is sitting in the garage as I prepare for the next mods. Stay tuned...

Oh, I picked up another NA. This time, it's a BRG. I've owned three other NAs over the past few years (Jazz, a red NA (named Stella), a Mariner Blue, and now a BRG). Both the red NA and Mariner Blue NA stuck around for between 6-9 months each before they each got sold, so I'm not sure how long this BRG will stay around...but I have had an urge to put my own spin on a BRG. For now, I'm taking some parts off the car to bring it back more to stock (car came with some aftermarket parts), so that I have more of a blank template to try things out.

So far, I've added a Lotus-Style Zoom Engineering Eunos Nose badge (bought it while I was at CMC my last trip), and swapped out the Leather Nardi with a Wood Nardi steering wheel.

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_2188_zpsvgmhakwc.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_2188_zpsvgmhakwc.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/IMG_2127_zpsg6fm5nws.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/IMG_2127_zpsg6fm5nws.jpg.html)

http://i625.photobucket.com/albums/tt333/importtunerz486/B2D4822A-3F84-4AD8-963F-C3E887A30C8E_zpsmjvztohq.jpg (http://s625.photobucket.com/user/importtunerz486/media/B2D4822A-3F84-4AD8-963F-C3E887A30C8E_zpsmjvztohq.jpg.html)

[BRGNA8]

YES! I approve of this! Looks clean mate great pickup!

[Martin]

Oh, man, I want that BRG!

[chanathon]

Eyyy do i spy a corgi?

[speedypenguin]

Eyyy do i spy a corgi?

Yup, that's my buddy. He likes hanging out in the garage when I'm there (although his expression doesn't show it)

[Paul B]

Nice grab on the BRG


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[speedypenguin]

I've been dedicating some time to the BRG recently. In addition to adding the Wood Nardi steering wheel awhile back, I've also added tan S-Special door cards, tan Nakamae door pulls, KG Works rear view mirror, and brown V-Special floor mats. Also swapped out the old soft top with faded plastic window for a new-to-me black canvas soft top with glass window, and installed a pair of Runabout S800 mirrors.

Didn't take pictures of this, but I recently bought back the Bellof headlights I used with Jazz awhile back. But...didn't like how they looked and fit with the BRG, so the Bellofs only stayed on the BRG for a couple of days before removal. The Bellofs will be heading to another home this weekend.

http://i.imgur.com/5i6PP71.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/eaDbH0f.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/FBFKt29.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Zk1RNOf.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Jazz has gotten some work done as well. Had the old motor mounts taken out, and replaced with a pair of new Mazda Competition motor mounts. Turned out be good timing, as the old motor mounts were tearing, and possibly would've completely sheared soon. Also removed the old Hard Dog roll bar. The HD bar came installed in Jazz when I bought the car way back when, and with the hardtop off, decided to take the opportunity to upgrade a newer bar. The new bar should be coming in a couple of weeks.

Speaking of hardtop, sold the OEM hardtop as well. Because of...well, stay tuned.

http://i.imgur.com/1LCP9au.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/BRF7Yss.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/TwXkCSF.jpg

[oldgrayleather]

B! All these updates! Not surprised you're outpacing my "non-build" BRG ;) though agree with you that Bellofs/ RSA's somehow don't work. I'm enjoying driving around with the barn doors just for the chane of scenery. Love the Kanspo!!!

[HarryB]

You may wanna give Raybrigs a shot. IMO they look amazing and their light output is so much better than stock ones.

[speedypenguin]

Time another update. The BRG went back to the home I acquired it from. Long story short, I have accepted a new job, and will have less time to dedicate to my cars. I decided it was best for the BRG to go, and luckily my friend wanted to buy it back. Hopefully the BRG will stay for longer with him this time...but I've enjoyed modding a BRG. I have always wanted to try adding my own touch to a retro NA with a tan interior. I had my fun, and maybe one day I'll be able to relive the "britishness" of a BRG.

It was nice driving top down with the BRG.
https://i.imgur.com/zh3Eebm.jpg

My last drive with the BRG. Driving with leather gloves and a wooden steering wheel is just classy.
https://i.imgur.com/PQ56Say.jpg

Last day with the BRG
https://imgur.com/Z0MrUHC.jpg

Going back to her previous owner. Funny because my friend has now officially owned this BRG three times...I hope that he keeps it for a long time.
https://imgur.com/Ap5EvZN.jpg

[speedypenguin]

On a happier note, I went to Miatas at MRLS earlier this month. What an awesome event. It was great to meet Revlimiter, oldgrayleather, bromungandr, Druz, Rev9...,and reconnecting with old friends and meeting many new Roadster enthusiasts. The collection and variety of cars this year was outstanding. Jazz had a great time as well! He got to meet Sharka, Bucky, Benny, BlueJay, and many other iconic Roadsters.

Note to self: Next year, stop GEEKING out so much, and take more damn pictures! I didn't take a single pic of Bucky...one of my favorite NBs...:lol:

Benny! The new setup looks rad. Fantastic work, Pete.
https://i.imgur.com/uGDLZ1Z.jpg

I got to meet Sharka!
https://i.imgur.com/rKxHrim.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/dtW64Mj.jpg

Epic to see Sharka in the metal. All the attention to detail...stupendous.
https://i.imgur.com/5WuHWX7.jpg

I got to sit in Sharka. :)
https://i.imgur.com/TrQmPus.jpg

Benny and Jazz. Glad that the both of them got to meet each other.
https://i.imgur.com/DzQqRD6.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/USAEe73.jpg

Only pic I took of BlueJay...sorry Jeo! It was great meeting you, but I forgot to make more pics of BlueJay...awesome roadster with the new ITBs.
https://i.imgur.com/vLfRybZ.jpg

Cool diecast model that Pete had signed by Tom Matano. I gotta look into getting one for myself...the wats look so cool on the smurf model!
https://i.imgur.com/OBlH3oV.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Not sure if I mentioned in a previous post, but Jazz got a power upgrade. Added a Jackson Racing M45 Supercharger that I got from mx54life (...got the kit a year and a half ago...but finally installed in time for MRLS 2017). It was my first time tackling a supercharger install, and it was a learning process. But now that I've done it, it's straight forward and a nice upgrade over the stock output. It's great to have the extra oomph of the supercharger, and the supercharger whine is addictive.

First time out of the garage with the supercharger.
https://i.imgur.com/BF3Pj01.jpg

Tidied up the engine bay before MRLS. Also swapped in a new valve cover that I painted Wrinkle Blue (to match the wrinkle texture of the blower)
https://i.imgur.com/NV3zNxo.jpg

I also upgraded Jazz' rollbar to a Blackbird Fabworx GT3 Rollbar. Moti's work is art. Ordered it in a Royal Blue, and in my opinion gives the nice blue pop to the black-and-blue interior theme. The chassis is also more rigid, since the new BBFW rollbar tube OD of 1.75" vs the old HD sport rollbar OD of 1.5". Very happy with this upgrade, something that I had wanted to do for a long time.
https://i.imgur.com/3g9YZF6.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/35tbkai.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/JxyD6M9.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ZmVR6aa.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Fast forward to the track day. Some friends and I signed up for Sunday Hot Laps. We all drove down bright and early and set up camp within the lot.

https://i.imgur.com/ag3zFRw.jpg

The track day was a fun success. All the cars made it through the entire track day. Jazz performed well with the new supercharger setup. No problems, power remained stable, and no overheating. The extra power of the supercharger setup was definitely noticeable, and it was a blast zipping around Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Jazz and Snake520
https://i.imgur.com/DfCfvZe.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/jYKAKby.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/gQU3Q3t.jpg

Happy Jazz.
https://i.imgur.com/XbVKCDF.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/MyehFBu.jpg

On the drive home, Jazz ticked over 180K miles. (One of the RS Refine Rings fell out during the track day...)
https://i.imgur.com/dnFIu7x.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Some nice captures from one of my friends. He came down to check-out our track day and was our "support vehicle". He helped carry some our larger items in his cool STi.

https://i.imgur.com/gH5tJBr.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Q9fIAIZ.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/rYNNM8l.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Here is some footage of one of my laps. It was my first track day since MRLS in 2016. Wicked fun, really reinvigorated my enthusiasm to take Jazz out to a track. I'm going to try to go to more track events next year.


https://youtu.be/0xTRoo7uMYQ

[benpopham]

Some very good updates!

I am very jealous of MRLS, such an incredible meeting and would have loved to have gone. I should be more aware of what is going on over there and try and get out to a meeting.

The supercharger addition is cool, and love the sound :)

[revlimiter]

It was SO awesome to meet you and Jazz!!! I'll have some Jazz pix up on my blog... someday. Hopefully next week or earlier.

Such a gorgeous car in person. I really need to get Sharka a set of Wats.

[druz]

The new blue touches look great. Even more beautiful in person.

[oldgrayleather]

Cool diecast model that Pete had signed by Tom Matano. I gotta look into getting one for myself...the wats look so cool on the smurf model!
https://i.imgur.com/OBlH3oV.jpg

MRLS is my favorite event of the year. So amazing to finally meet you and Jazz in person. I've just used jetlag and a ridiculous two day trip to London as an excuse to finally start putting together my event recap for a post. I also didn't take nearly enough picture. Too much time with my jaw on my lap and just soaking it all up.

On the Tom Mariam signature, in fact I was doing laps while he was doing his signings and it was Corifto and his huge heart that went and waited in line to get that signed for me!!

Damn I love this crazy little Miata tribe of ours!!

[oldgrayleather]

Some very good updates!

I am very jealous of MRLS, such an incredible meeting and would have loved to have gone. I should be more aware of what is going on over there and try and get out to a meeting.

The supercharger addition is cool, and love the sound :)

MRLS 2018 is scheduled for September 15-16 next year. Fly to LAX and join us on the KINOD caravan to Roadster Mecca!!

[MX5Wisher]

Bump.

New product at Rev9.

http://rev9autosport.com/cusco-radiator-cowl-panel.html

Blue Cusco Cooling Panel... keeping with the blue theme?

[Blackbird]

https://i.imgur.com/3g9YZF6.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/35tbkai.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/JxyD6M9.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ZmVR6aa.jpg
Man I love how this car turned out with that Royal Blue!

[revlimiter]

It was SO awesome to meet you and Jazz!!! I'll have some Jazz pix up on my blog... someday. Hopefully next week or earlier.



It took me MONTHS. Sorry about that. Sales have killed me since last November.

Spotlight Jazz (http://revlimiter.net/blog/2018/05/spotlight-jazz/)


http://revlimiter.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/DSC_4519.jpg


http://revlimiter.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/DSC_4531.jpg

[MX5Wisher]

Maybe Brian will come back with some new updates to his build thread...

[rikaro]

wow your car has made quite a change. Last time I checked your build you still had the drags on haha.

Oh how times has changed

[speedypenguin]

I'm back! But we all care about Jazz more, right?? I apologize as this will not still not be a proper update, but below is where Jazz is at now:

https://i.imgur.com/2ZtU1Dd.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/oFIrimt.jpg

Changed things up by going with a Kanspo hardtop. I was skeptical at first, but the "notched" look of the hardtop has grown on me. (I do miss the rigidity of an OEM hardtop, have been debating whether to revert back to an OEM hardtop...)

2018 has flew by, and before I knew it, Miatas at Laguna Seca was coming up. I upgraded to Xida coilovers, tidied bits in the engine bay, and...the supercharger blower went bad. I'm suspecting the bearings (not sure which) went out, so that sidelined Jazz. Fortunately (?), there was a backup car to take to Laguna Seca...

[speedypenguin]

Tada! Yet another sibling for Jazz. This time, a 2004 TiGrey MSM joined the fleet. This MSM already had a Hard Dog roll bar and Fortune Auto Coilovers installed, and I have using the MSM as another cruiser/fun car during the weekends.

I swapped out the stock 17s (god, the stock 17s ride badly and are HEAVY) for a set of 15in Rays Gram Lights 57DRs in Gun Blue with 205/50R15 Falken Azenis RT615K+ (phew!), had Jazz' old OEM HT repainted for the MSM, and installed a Works Bell hub with a 350mm Personal Neo Grinta (with red ricer steering wheel screws!)

(Photo cred to Hey_JT!, thanks bro!)

https://i.imgur.com/zzMnMhD.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ovSt6ib.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/YYOpE6C.jpg

[speedypenguin]

Since Jazz was deemed inactive for Laguna, I hastily prepped the MSM for track duty. Changed out the brake pads and rotors (which turned into needing a new rear caliper because of rust...[note to self: even if it's a California car, check for rust...]) and swapped in a Koyo radiator.

Impressions on tracking a stock-tune MSM? Average. I was dealing with minor blow-by and random boost cuts up near the redline, so I ended up shifting at 5.5k RPM to get the car around track. Power is good, comparable with Jazz' supercharger setup, if not a bit more powerful (Turbo w/7.5psi vs SC w/6psi). The gearing, I'm a bit confused as to why stock the MSM has a 6-spd with a 4.3 diff ratio? I ended up shifting to 6th gear on the front straight and out of turn 4 (going about 90+MPH).

All being said, it ended being good that the MSM was eligible for track duty at Laguna. What made the most Laguna event great was hanging out with friends and seeing familiar Roadster friends from other areas. So what's the future for this MSM? Not sure...I have some thinking to do...

https://i.imgur.com/8vBw2Bf.jpg

[MX5Wisher]

So what's the future for this MSM? Not sure...I have some thinking to do...

ELABORATE :domo: