Miata journal. Now with new valve cover ooooo!

[fitftw]

Just picked up 1-5-2010

1996 NA8 Mazda Miata. Paid $4,000. 70,009mi with Racing Beat intake, catback dual exhaust, turn signal intake kit, sunvisor deletes.

I absolutely love this car more than all my past 5 Honda's combined. I've never been so happy to just drive for no reason. Old people smile at this car, cops don't suspect it, it's just amazing.


http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs211.snc3/21880_1187722338879_1402947049_30484888_26679_n.jp g
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs231.snc3/21880_1187722378880_1402947049_30484889_6371475_n. jpg
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs291.ash1/21880_1187722458882_1402947049_30484891_821862_n.j pg
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs291.ash1/21880_1187722538884_1402947049_30484893_3205759_n. jpg

next update will be for stubby antenna, then hardtop!

[SLDWYSJDM]

Looking good, welcome to the miata world.

[JDMTyler3326]

Wow looks reallly clean! I love it , what's your plans for it?

[jnr5005]

Wow nice pick up. Very clean looking & probably a blast to drive!

[i like rice]

Looks like you've got the glass rear window, too. Good find.

[BLKSheep5]

welcome to tst try not to get banned from this forum. i kid, i kid. (cr.net)

but if you make the 1hr plus drive to the woodbury meet maybe i'll see you there.

[CleanNeon98]

They really are sweet cars :-). Also what's the woodberry meet and when?

fitftw, I have some parts you may like.

Bilstein shocks
Mazdaspeed Springs
FlyinMiata Springs
Mazdaspeed sway bars

HOLLA

[i like rice]

The MSM spring/shock combo will raise the ride height on NA models. It already has enough wheel gap stock.

[tcturbo91]

pick some racelands up :)


nice car though, GL with it

[CleanNeon98]

The MSM spring/shock combo will raise the ride height on NA models. It already has enough wheel gap stock.
High is the new low!

[Cardriverx]

Nice find! It is OBD2 which sorta sucks, but it can be worked with.

Nice having something RWD, isent it?

[Got Insulin?]

Nice pickup, man. I like the turn signal intake idea, the polished radiator diffuser looks sweet.

[1.6mee-ott]

very nice buy. i wanna get a 90 but I just cant find the right buy :P

[MX5]

Nice, looks clean. Welcome to the madness.

[DPancoast]

very nice. welcome

[Forever Rel]

i herd you got a miata. Thats pretty clean mann. good luckk with her

[wheresmycar]

Clean. What wheels will you put on it?

[Rally Sport]

Maybe i'm missing something, i'm not very in the know with miatas. How are you going to signal your turns with those ducts? haha

Very nice, clean car btw. I'd definately get one.

[CleanNeon98]

Maybe i'm missing something, i'm not very in the know with miatas. How are you going to signal your turns with those ducts? haha

Very nice, clean car btw. I'd definately get one.
Some sacrafices must be made for the sake of rice...wonder if those intakes are actually functional.

[Rally Sport]

Some sacrafices must be made for the sake of rice...wonder if those intakes are actually functional.

ahh, i gotcha lol

[Silverfc88]

Maybe i'm missing something, i'm not very in the know with miatas. How are you going to signal your turns with those ducts? haha

Very nice, clean car btw. I'd definately get one.

The turn signals are still functional. They are at the very edge of the intakes.

[Rally Sport]

I see, thanks for clearing that up

[Spocknasty]

Some sacrafices must be made for the sake of rice...wonder if those intakes are actually functional.

You're a moron.

[CleanNeon98]

You're a moron.
OMGsosorry that I have an NB...with the headlight down it looks like all they would do is just provide extra cooling to the headlights.

[Spocknasty]

That is the area where most cold air intakes are routed to be.

[R22B]

I really can’t wait until I pick up my Miata. The car looks great and the price was sweet too!

[Rally Sport]

That is the area where most cold air intakes are routed to be.

Sorry guys, didn't mean to start any trouble, i was just curious.

[disturbedfan121]

actually the intake turn signals don't suck in cold air. its a high pressure zone behind it, it just lets out hot air

[Rally Sport]

actually the intake turn signals don't suck in cold air. its a high pressure zone behind it, it just lets out hot air

So it helps cool the compartment down when the car's not moving?

[CleanNeon98]

actually the intake turn signals don't suck in cold air. its a high pressure zone behind it, it just lets out hot air
Mine is in a low pressure zone (so FM says) and sits by the firewall.
That is the area where most cold air intakes are routed to be.
Could have said that without being a douche as usual.

[crazysaywhat]

heres a lil teaser pic of a miata rollin out in about a yr or so...

[fitftw]

So I totally forgot about this forum for a while (too busy on clubroadster and miata.net lol) but here are some teaser updates of what's been up lately:

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs464.snc3/25474_1252592440591_1402947049_30625451_442847_n.j pg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs291.ash1/21880_1192087488005_1402947049_30496514_7903158_n. jpg
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs433.snc3/24934_1245648787004_1402947049_30611461_5624492_n. jpg
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs166.snc3/19380_1211675777700_1402947049_30538170_775704_n.j pg

I'll be nice and post mounted pics of them tomorrow (minus the hardtop that I'm still waiting for OEM side seals for)

Thanks everyone for the kind words :)

[motorvated]

niiice!

[OutToWinPAHC]

Nice real parts...... unlike some

[DC2-Chris]

win!!! cant wait to see it all installed

[Got Insulin?]

Do like.

[Hold_Fast]

Very nice! I wish I could have found a clean miata like that with that price tag...

[xEJ20x]

Nice real parts...... unlike some

http://www.dahmus.org/blogimg/fry-see-what-you-did-there.jpg

[fitftw]

I've been down the road of buying cheap parts with my Honda's. I think it has to do with age more than anything. Age having to do with financial situations. Me being 26, I don't need to settle for Raceland's $220 coilovers or Drag/Rota wheels anymore lol

Thanks for the compliments. I can't wait to get out of school tomorrow...

[fitftw]

my next mod is going to be a Nikon D5000. I can't stand this 3 year old Nikon Coolpix point-and-shoot anymore.

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs464.snc3/25474_1253499303262_1402947049_30627844_5818616_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs464.snc3/25474_1253499343263_1402947049_30627845_8264826_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs464.ash1/25474_1253499383264_1402947049_30627846_6052494_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs464.ash1/25474_1253499503267_1402947049_30627849_1564192_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs464.ash1/25474_1253499543268_1402947049_30627850_3159184_n. jpg

[abrok99]

you should've went up one more size on the rims. other than that not bad.

[fitftw]

no way man, 14s for life :D the RPF1's weigh 8.4lbs a piece! Saving weight is crucial for a Miata since without FI or a V8 it's pretty slow.

[disturbedfan121]

15's are perfect for NA's
16's are perfect for 99-00 NB's
17's on MSM's
18's (maybe) on NC's

cars coming along nicely, man. after i sell mine i'm gonna have to start a new one lol
Everyone and their mom is getting/has a miata now. Cardriverx and I were the only ones like 2-3yrs ago

[R22B]

Its crazy! I looked at RPF1's and Tein coilovers as well for when I pick up my Miata. I just would have went with a little bigger wheel. It's coming out good man!

[Teku18]

Your car looks awesome man. Can't wait to see it with the hard top on. But I have to say with the herad lights up the car looks so funny. Bugged eyed as hell. HAHAHA good **** man keep it up.

[OWENthatsmyname]

specs on those rpf1s? looks good. and smart move picking up a hardtop haha

[motorvated]

14s are great dude, just gotta be low enough to pull em off!

[fitftw]

thanks everyone! Owen, the RPF-1's are +28 offset. I threw the Tein Flex on and don't really want to go any lower than I am now. Tein set the coils to their recommended "best" setting for comfort/handling so I trust them. Maybe eventually I'll slam and scrape on everything, but not yet. I set all 4 corners to 2 clicks from full soft. Eventually I'll get an EDFC

I got my alignment done today at Sears. Nice guy, he let me sit in the car while he did it. Tried his best to get the specs where I wanted. I originally wanted -2.5 camber front -2.0 rear but the max they would go is -1.5 to -1.7 lol. Toe is as close to 0 as he could get it, all 4 are between 0 and .09 and caster is around 4.5

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs444.snc3/25474_1253927633970_1402947049_30628858_7007515_n. jpg
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs464.snc3/25474_1253927673971_1402947049_30628859_1036096_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs464.snc3/25474_1253927713972_1402947049_30628860_7099117_n. jpg
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs444.snc3/25474_1253927753973_1402947049_30628861_6033222_n. jpg

I'm going to install the Momo wheel, NRG 2.5 hub/quickrelease + keylock probably on Monday. Then once the hardtop arrives, I'll be totally unstealable except from a flatbed but even that will cause them trouble because of my tilt-sensor :D

[Cardriverx]

15's are perfect for NA's
16's are perfect for 99-00 NB's
17's on MSM's
18's (maybe) on NC's

cars coming along nicely, man. after i sell mine i'm gonna have to start a new one lol
Everyone and their mom is getting/has a miata now. Cardriverx and I were the only ones like 2-3yrs ago


word. Hmm that miata seems to be missing something... hmmm... oh yeah a turbocharger :mrgreen:

[disturbedfan121]

word. Hmm that miata seems to be missing something... hmmm... oh yeah a turbocharger :mrgreen:

+1 lol

[fitftw]

**** that, it's missing a v8. Which it will get sometime in the next 5 years.

[disturbedfan121]

I could build 3 turbo miata's that reliably run 12's for the cost of a LSx in a miata.....don't say you're gonna put a 302 in there lol

LSx goes good with everything. http://flyinmiata.com/V8/

do it, you won't

[TROLL]

nice work so far... the rpf-1s look really good. visually i think it'd look better a bit lower, but i respect that you've got other priorities.
when talking about wheel weight, also consider tire weight... not only to tires usually weigh more than wheels, but they're further from the center of the wheel, so they have a greater affect on rotational mass. more wheels / less tire (15" wheel with a 45 series tire) should end up about the same place weight and performance-wise as less wheel / more tire (14" wheel with 50 series tire).

[fitftw]

my tires weigh 19lbs a piece. The wheels are 8.4lbs. So 27.4lbs each corner. I will go an inch lower when I order a front tubular swaybar in a month or two.

And I'd like to put an LS9 supercharged (Corvette ZR1) under the hood, but 1st and 2nd gear would be useless lol.

If I had $26,000 I'd definitely rather do this: http://flyinmiata.com/V8/configurator_files/help.php?UID=15 than buy a new car.

Then I'd make all my money back racing fools. I'm dead serious. I could clean house in the tri-state.

[R22B]

One thing you might want to look into is http://www.braillebattery.com/index.php/batteries/b106/

Batteries are heavy mofo's, so swap it out with a Braille. The one I linked to weights 6.6lbs :D

[sean3]

Two thumbs down on the Tein coilovers but RPF1s with *Specs makes up for that. Sweet car.

[fitftw]

what's wrong with Tein coilovers? They're pretty serious. But thanks :)

And thanks for the Braille battery link! I think I'll go with that. I think the Duralast battery in the car weighs over 20lbs. This would be great.

I chucked out the spare tire and the trunk carpet and cleaned up the dirt underneath it. I'm planning to toss the A/C and de-power the steering rack after this summer's over. I also tossed the antenna hardware and bought a grommet to cover the hole.

Any other stuff I can do to shave weight? Preferably free or cheap lol

[sean3]

http://farnorthracing.com/autocross_secrets6.html
http://farnorthracing.com/autocross_secrets18.html

[fitftw]

That list is not right. Tein Flex > Koni for a Miata. The only other 2 on that list who make coils for Miata are Bilstein and Ohlins, which are great, sure, but also cost $2,000+ and I'm not that hardcore. Flex is perfect, if even a bit OVERKILL, for my intended purpose. Someday down the road maybe I'll sell them and get Stance AL+ since it has an aluminum shock body which will save some more unsprung weight.

Well, I'm off to the gym, and then back home to remove the trunk-release cable from the center console. Just a little theft prevention and a few oz. of weight savings is all.

[fitftw]

Today I accomplished a few things:
1) I discovered I need the inner shifter boots
2) removed everything in the trunk
3) removed the carpet behind the seats that covers the ECU
4) removed the floormats
5) removed trunk release from the trunk, but didn't fully remove the latch and wire yet from center console

So the spare tire, spare jack and hardware, and all the carpet/floormats I took out, is probably about 50lbs right? Not shabby.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs454.ash1/25004_1255563714871_1402947049_30633876_4297115_n. jpg
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs414.snc3/25004_1255563754872_1402947049_30633877_3567265_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs454.ash1/25004_1255563834874_1402947049_30633878_1599363_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs454.ash1/25004_1255563994878_1402947049_30633880_4440429_n. jpg
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs414.snc3/25004_1255565714921_1402947049_30633882_4337347_n. jpg

[cmr076]

if your serious about weight loss, start taking out the interior plastic and take a cut off wheel to the metal behind it (then put the plastic back on, or dont)

[motorvated]

What he said^^ When I had mine, I bought red doors and gutted them...but left JUST enough metal to hold the arm rest and interior panel on. A few people used to laugh when i closed my doors..sounded super hollow haha. Also, exhaust can free up weight. I woudlnt bother with CF, since most of the miata is aluminum and CF is actually heavier than what you have. Other than that, you can remove the softtop, buy lighter seats, loose the stock steering wheel. Theres tons of ways to lighten these up, FAST. Depends how crazy you want to go.

[cmr076]

my corolla lost a TON of weight from cutting out useless metal... if you can weld, cut out the spare tire will and tin it with a fuel cell (if your REALLY serious)

[TROLL]

Don't waste your money on a Braille battery... they're made by Deka which you can get at a fraction of the price, and you have many size/weight/output options.
I got mine here: http://www.tristatebattery.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=etx&osCsid=957afa28f2b486d964d38e5457d98d88&x=0&y=0

[Spocknasty]

What he said^^ When I had mine, I bought red doors and gutted them...but left JUST enough metal to hold the arm rest and interior panel on.

Is that why they rattle like crazy?

[motorvated]

Nah spock, those doors on there now are OEM through and through. The gutted ones are long gone. Its a 20 year old convertible..its gonna rattle!

[fitftw]

mine's 14 years old and doesn't rattle lol. Maybe because up until this past January, it was garaged and driven less than 5,000 miles per year...

remove stuff, find rattles, fix rattles, toss the stuff you removed, win. Carpet is pointless to me. I can do without it except the footwells unless I get diamondplates but aren't those heavy as ****?

[sleeperSL2]

Car looks good. everything is done purposefully. keep it up!:thumbup:

[fitftw]

thanks SL2! Here's a pic for progress! Soft top and all that other crap gone. Interior is fully gutted of carpet and useless plastic panels. Oh and I got a hardtop finally. Next mods are AC/PS delete (manual rack install!) and Hard Dog X-brace hardtop rollbar :D

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs097.snc4/36197_1315242686808_1402947049_30770663_7551510_n. jpg

[MX5]

thanks SL2! Here's a pic for progress! Soft top and all that other crap gone. Interior is fully gutted of carpet and useless plastic panels. Oh and I got a hardtop finally. Next mods are AC/PS delete (manual rack install!) and Hard Dog X-brace hardtop rollbar :D

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs097.snc4/36197_1315242686808_1402947049_30770663_7551510_n. jpg

What are you doing with that soft top now? I hate having to zip/ unzip my glass window.

[fitftw]

I'll be putting it up for sale. Why, you want it? PM me if so.

[disturbedfan121]

its nice having no soft top for weight savings, and it looks so much better, but it sucsk when you go for a cruise topless and dark clouds start rolling in lol

[fitftw]

^ haha yeah! I might go topless today, but I have to:

a) check weather.com
b) not leave my car unattended for more than a few minutes

I always admire those people who leave their tops down and go into a mall or something for hours. I couldn't do that.

drove down to Baltimore yesterday to swap tops for one that was perfect and not cracked in 5 places. Carbon kevlar. Might end up just painting it black or green because I'm starting to think CF tops look retarded.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs120.snc4/36357_1316852247046_1402947049_30775873_1694624_n. jpg

[djb5118]

people with jeeps deal with that issue all of the time. just dont leave anything of value sitting in your car and you should be fine. Plus, i helps keep your car clean ;)

[motorvated]

Ide paint the CF hardtop to match, but leave a little stripe somewhere unpainted ;)

[fitftw]

lol I dunno about the stripe, but I really do like this color. I'm not 100% but I think I'd like black or green better... Just snapped two more pics:
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs100.snc4/36357_1317457942188_1402947049_30777891_2984736_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs100.snc4/36357_1317453262071_1402947049_30777868_2598561_n. jpg

[Ej6Mike]

Nice driveway

[OWENthatsmyname]

unpainted carbon kevlar ftw

[fitftw]

thanks yall. Yeah the driveway is cool. Except when I had to shovel during the major snowfall we had:
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs141.snc3/16880_1213874672671_1402947049_30543112_1288827_n. jpg

That was a bitch lol.

[Ej6Mike]

No snowblower?? lol put a plow on the mia, lol jk.

Kevlar top looks good adam

[dudewheresmycar]

nice little build

[fitftw]

thanks Mike and Dude :D

quick shot of the interior. No soft top, no carpet, no trim panels, nothing. Straight up minimal. When I get the rollbar, the biiiiig center metal panel with like 20 bolts will be going byebye too. That one's like 3 or 4lbs lol. Also the center console will be chucked next month when I get a short shifter and new knob since the stock one won't come off unless I remove the entire lever. Knob spins freely and won't get off because the inner white plastic piece is literally melted to the lever. Oh and since this pic was taken, I installed Spec Miata side brackets for added theft protection for the hardtop lol.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs057.ash2/36197_1315234126594_1402947049_30770635_2267062_n. jpg

[fitftw]

lowered more today and finally installed the new rotors and hawk pads I had in the garage for a month lol yay no more squealing!

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs037.snc4/34223_1320768624953_1402947049_30785516_85601_n.jp g
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs017.snc4/34223_1320768584952_1402947049_30785515_3072974_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs017.snc4/34223_1320768664954_1402947049_30785517_1070073_n. jpg

[dudewheresmycar]

i like the lowered look.not sure about the hardtop.i like it,but i don't

[RSX Type-Slow]

must grip pretty good with that those fat rubbers and coils.

[CleanNeon98]

Nice to see it's not sitting like a truck anymore. Props.

[jgartland]

i have a feeling that when i have money again im going to get a miata, gut it as much as possible like yours, and boost it.

i dont like this :wink:

[fitftw]

^ haha! Sorry to be a bad influence ;)

I'll be going more low today, because I am now addicted to seeing how low I can go without rubbing lol.

[MX5]

See, I told you we might as well do it while we had the car up. Came out awesome.

[fitftw]

Hell yeah it did Dave. I went lower yesterday lol and bled the brakes. We need to get you some coils :D

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs067.snc3/13465_1322008735955_1402947049_30788395_1362591_n. jpg

[disturbedfan121]

you should buy my turbo kit minus the manifold lol.....gt2560.....ss lines..cool airbox with distribution block....begi dp...fm cat.... 2.5" catback.....i'll throw in the IC and piping too, tho its setup for no PS & AC...i make you super good deal....you buy. you buy now! lol

car is looking good btw.

[fitftw]

^ sorry I'm either going with a JR supercharger or a different turbo setup from Flyin Miata. It depends how much money I want to spend.

latest pics:
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs065.snc4/34593_1326443406819_1402947049_30800200_7774388_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs025.ash2/34593_1326443486821_1402947049_30800202_4212206_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs047.snc3/13462_1328257212163_1402947049_30804223_4515096_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs067.snc3/13462_1328257372167_1402947049_30804227_2823049_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs067.snc3/13462_1328257332166_1402947049_30804226_4418337_n. jpg

Think it's about time to invest in a Nikon D5000 and throw out this Nikon Coolpix S550 P&S that's like 4 years old.

[Ej6Mike]

Why not a canon adam?

[fitftw]

I have a predisposition to Nikon's for some reason lol. a Rebel T1i would be nice though. I have to do more research. A D5000 though I can get with a bunch of goodies on ebay for like $550-600.

[motorvated]

looking good...get a garage vary lip!

[fitftw]

^ thought about it, but too many Miatas have it. I'll be going with the Racing Beat bodykit and Track Dog front splitter

http://trackdogracing.com./website/product_photos/rb_splitter.jpg

[disturbedfan121]

that bumper is made money. new from racingbeat its like 500 unpainted + shipping, which to the east coast is another 200. and you gotta factor in at least 200 for a decent paint job on the bumper so you're looking at $900 for a new one. and they rarely, i mean RARELY ever come up used.

i got mine used for cheap and then put the tdr splitter on it, and i love the bumper

[Evojm27]

Good looking miata love the rpf1s

[Honduh]

Chrome door handles look funny.

[fitftw]

yeah I'm gonna get new door handles and powdercoat them.

Disturbedfan, I priced out the front bumper on good-win-racing.com and with shipping:
TOTAL: $481.04

Getting paid tomorrow, going to buy a manual rack with Flyin Miata bushings and R-package tie rod ends. Also the Moss Motors short-shifter with Voodoo textured knob. Then delete AC/PS/center console.

[CleanNeon98]

I love Miataz

[Cardriverx]

yeah I'm gonna get new door handles and powdercoat them.

Disturbedfan, I priced out the front bumper on good-win-racing.com and with shipping:
TOTAL: $481.04

Getting paid tomorrow, going to buy a manual rack with Flyin Miata bushings and R-package tie rod ends. Also the Moss Motors short-shifter with Voodoo textured knob. Then delete AC/PS/center console.

Just de power the P/S rack, it has a quicker ratio for better feel, which you'll only feel when parking, and as long as your not a puss wuss your fine.

Took me like 2 hrs to totally strip my rack, take out the piston, and put it back together (Thats the best way to do it, they have instructions on flyin miata).

I like the wheels/tires.

[fitftw]

I want a true manual rack. I'm a minimalistic person. The less ****, the better.

[TalonTsi97]

I'd seriously love to own this car with a JR supercharger kit with some additional mods on top.

[Spocknasty]

I want a true manual rack. I'm a minimalistic person. The less ****, the better.

Less ****? It's a steering rack not an art piece and the one you have is perfectly fine when depowered, try it first.

Why spend the money on a short shifter when the Miata shifter is already gravy and the pieces to rebuild one are around $30.

[fitftw]

I'm just going to say "Because I can and want to" and you can take that however you want.

Haters gonna hate.

[MX5]

Less ****? It's a steering rack not an art piece and the one you have is perfectly fine when depowered, try it first.

Why spend the money on a short shifter when the Miata shifter is already gravy and the pieces to rebuild one are around $30.

I got one of those ebay/ Fidanza short-throws from disturbedfan, and I love it. It just makes everything tighter, feels great. You can find one for the same price it takes to rebuild the stock one.

[disturbedfan121]

as much as you might think i don't know what i'm talking about i do lol

unlees you still want a slow miata, you'll wanna turbo it lol

anyway i like how clean your car is, some choices you're doing i wouldn't do (i've done them already and gone back) but to each their own. i'll be watching the thread cause i like miatae lol

[fitftw]

I'm gonna get the FMII turbo kit if I don't end up getting a Ninja ZX6-R next year...tough decision really.

[fitftw]

Don't mind me, I'm just posting this here for my own reasons as a goal/calendar

TURBO COUNTDOWN

August 2010

Cooling

Race radiator w/ 16psi cap http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4532&parentid=0&stocknumber=09-17000
$472

September 2010

Stage 2 fan shroud http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=&parentid=&stocknumber=09-56210%20%201990-93
$330

October 2010

Drivetrain

Stage 1 clutch kit w/ 13.45lb flywheel http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4531&parentid=0&stocknumber=08-36005%20%2010.30
$600

November 2010

Oil thermostat kit http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4533&parentid=0&stocknumber=04-37310%20%201990-93
$105
Oil cooler kit http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4533&parentid=0&stocknumber=04-37240%20%201990-93
$343

December 2010

Oil filter relocation kit http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4533&parentid=0&stocknumber=04-36150
$245
Competition motor mounts http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4531&parentid=0&stocknumber=04-70155
$100
M-Tuned fuel rail http://www.etdracing.com/m-tuned/product_info.php?cPath=11&products_id=52
$180

January and February 2011

Exhaust

3" turbo-back exhaust http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4541&parentid=0&stocknumber=06-39200%20%201994-97
$1020

March 2011

Gauges

AEM Wideband kit http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=1597&parentid=0&stocknumber=06-99110
$210

Somewhere between July and September 2011
FM2 Hydra turbo kit http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4521&parentid=0&stocknumber=22-12150%20%20BLK%20GAUGE
$5,300

If during that time, the FM2 kit is more than $2,000 away from my grasp, I'll just go with the cheaper Voodoo 2 kit http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=4521&parentid=0&stocknumber=22-12250%20%20BLK%20GAUGE

I forgot to add water/meth injection in this timeline...sonofabitch. We'll see how well I can stick to this plan. I made it so that I'd only spend about $500 a month on mods, which will leave rent and a
few hundred for me to eat and spend on gas.

This is also assuming nothing terrible happens between now and next summer either with my health or the car's

[wheresmycar]

I love it.

Where's the roll bar in this timeline?

[renn]

some of those prices are ridiculous. buy used.

[asdfasdf128]

sweet ride. Is it your daily? isnt it unbearably loud as fack since you have no interior?

[fitftw]

the rollbar will wait until the turbo revolution is complete. I'm not tracking until then anyway. Yeah the prices are ridiculous, but that's Flyin' Miata for you. They go hard with their R&D and quality of parts. And yes, it's my daily and it's loud as **** and has no A/C and a hardtop on all the time but that's part of the charm and it weighs around 2,200lbs maybe a little less.

[renn]

were you on 35 today?

get a straight pipe, do it.

[fitftw]

yeah I was on 35 lol no straight pipe! I want that 3" exhaust that's in the plans.

[asdfasdf128]

the rollbar will wait until the turbo revolution is complete. I'm not tracking until then anyway. Yeah the prices are ridiculous, but that's Flyin' Miata for you. They go hard with their R&D and quality of parts. And yes, it's my daily and it's loud as **** and has no A/C and a hardtop on all the time but that's part of the charm and it weighs around 2,200lbs maybe a little less.

I commend your ability to tolerate all that. :supz:

[disturbedfan121]

Why FM? why not BEGI? you know begi made all of FM's manifolds and DP back in the day right? lol

buy my turbo with DP, and 2.5" catback w/FM hi flow cat for $1300 and buy a new FM or begi manifold and save some dough (aka over $1000) dude :)

[fitftw]

okay I'll think about it. Pics/details of the turbo/dp? I would just keep my RB dual catback on until I can afford the exhaust I want. Maybe we'll work somethin out

[disturbedfan121]

i'll get pics soon.
Garrett GT2560 ported wastegate, Ceramic coated exhaust housing, no shaft play and spins perfectly, Begi DP with three O2 bungs all plugged currently. FM highflow cat, Enthuza 2.5" catback exhaust. no leaks.

all you need is either an FM or Begi manifold (both put the turbo in the exact same placement)

[fitftw]

how much for the Begi DP and FM cat? I just bought a turbo, and didn't see your post until after the fact lol ;/

picked up a Garrett GT2560 for $525 with less than 1k mi, no shaft play. I am interested in your DP though! Otherwise, I'll be going the FM DIY manifold/dp/outlet for $750 though I'd probably want it ceramic coated so that's another like $200-300. I basically want this turbo setup to be ****ing bulletproof. Hard oil/water lines and all.

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee158/toastermonkeypat/Miata%20Project/100_2081.jpg

[Cardriverx]

how much for the Begi DP and FM cat? I just bought a turbo, and didn't see your post until after the fact lol ;/

picked up a Garrett GT2560 for $525 with less than 1k mi, no shaft play. I am interested in your DP though! Otherwise, I'll be going the FM DIY manifold/dp/outlet for $750 though I'd probably want it ceramic coated so that's another like $200-300. I basically want this turbo setup to be ****ing bulletproof. Hard oil/water lines and all.



Just some advice from experience, if you want the setup to be bulletproof, there are a couple of things I would invest in if I was you.

- GOOD turbo mounting hardware (10mm studs), including a way to prevent the nuts from coming loose (safety wire, nord-lock, really high temp threadlock, something)

- Manifold bracing if it is not a cast mani.

- Shrouding for the intercooler/rad from the front mouth. At high speeds/boost, you will start to overheat even with a better rad if you don't have shrouding.

- T-bolt clamps are a must, everywhere. Wiggins clamps or something similar if your rich.

- And take your time when working on it.

Also, this is a great place to check every once in awhile:

http://www.bellengineering.net/index.php?cPath=2&osCsid=51be1869a521f74e8ef6a3a7e49d62ce

[fitftw]

Thanks for the advice. I put those tips in a file for things to get. Nice website. I'll keep an eye on it.

[fitftw]

some recent pics of stuff. Saving for a FFS S/C 200whp coldside non-intercooled kit with 5th injector. Screw the turbo route.

engine bay minus A/C, washer bottle, charcoal canister. Soon PS pump/pulley and a wire tuck
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs668.snc4/60862_1397991715482_1402947049_30969444_1704347_n. jpg

test fitting the new Michelin Pilot Exalto 185/60/14s with freshly painted OEM's for winter
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs612.snc4/59267_1387015881093_1402947049_30947494_422433_n.j pg

need a black hardtop asap and matching fat green Viper racing stripes or fender hash marks...

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs314.ash2/59423_1385177715140_1402947049_30943398_373863_n.j pg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs215.ash2/47859_1385177875144_1402947049_30943399_6498412_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs209.ash2/47260_1375008060905_1402947049_30922116_5380449_n. jpg

pretty much entirely gutted minus doors.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs699.snc4/61899_1394185100319_1402947049_30962198_5793071_n. jpg

I am sure it sits around 2150lbs with a full tank. By next summer I should be around 2100lbs with 200whp. Good for 12's in the 1/4 if I was into that.

[Cardriverx]

The only way I would respect that decision is if you intercooled it, and ran proper engine management other than the powercard bull****.

[TalonTsi97]

Secretly i've been wanting to own a basic s/c miata for a while now. Saw one for sale almost 2 years ago, didn't pull the trigger and have been contemplating it on/off ever since.
I'd def make sure it's intercooled, & properly tuned though.

[Got Insulin?]

Intercooled and with a 5th injector? Why not just up the CC flow rating?

[Spocknasty]

Non intercooled 200whp? Have fun with those IATs.

[fitftw]

the E-cool system is what FFS uses and they have had no problems. PLUS, it's the only kit that's on the coldside of the engine which is great for me because I'm all about keeping temps down and weight off, and the belt has an auto-tensioner so it won't snap. Also, any other S/C requires the Jackson Racing header. I prefer the Racing Beat quality. No issues with wandering idle or idle droop, and it comes with a new intake manifold, fuel rail, FPR adapter, 75mm TB and adapter, 5th and 6th injectors, tested spark plugs, MP62. Read more about it here

http://fastforwardsuperchargers.com/miata-superchargers.html

Only weighs 18lbs too. Does not need a big heavy intercooler. Check the forums and read what people say about the setup. It's a set it and forget it system. All I'd get besides the $4,000 kit is a wideband and boost gauge. I'm not into laptop tuning and all that crazy ****. Not necessary with this kit anyway. Just give me around 220whp including i/h/e and I'm good for 0-60 in low 5s and the 1/4 in low 13s or high 12s. I'm not going to be drag racing anyway, I just want to be able to pull on fast cars and not get dusted by minivans.

[jesse096]

Looks sweet man! In for progress!

-Jesse

[wheresmycar]

I'm not going to be drag racing anyway, I just want to be able to pull on fast cars and not get dusted by minivans.

Same here. Why do you need another hardtop in black? Just paint yours. My black hardtop didn't make it from accident involving the top only. That top matched every Miata color.

[fitftw]

I can't paint this one because it's riveted and there is a lip of fiberglass under the lexan window that would be such a pain in the ass to paint. I just want an OEM black top. Or, I could save for the fastback for $2,200 lol.

http://autokonexion.com/product_info.php?cPath=13_9&products_id=39

I need to take out a loan or a 2nd job lol

[Picc.Dc4]

That fastback versian is sexy!

[fitftw]

winter mode
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs598.ash2/155091_1483528453847_1402947049_31130471_7382595_n .jpg

11 months ago:
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs291.ash1/21880_1187722538884_1402947049_30484893_3205759_n. jpg

now:
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs494.ash2/76717_1453857712097_1402947049_31076118_403885_n.j pg

not bad for the first year. 2011 I'd like to get started on wire tucking and hopefully afford the supercharger by April if I don't spend money on dumb **** that I also want like an Asus G53 to replace my 5 year old laptop, or a Nikon D90 to replace my Nikon P&S...

[fitftw]

Nixed any hope of a supercharger this season. Bought a front lip and splitter that I'm getting ready to paint, and this which needs to be installed when I get some time.
http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs266.snc6/179416_1550290802864_1402947049_31261519_148759_n. jpg

[cmr076]

will that top fit my MSM?

[fitftw]

what top? All tops from 90-05 are swappable.

[cmr076]

didnt you say you wanted to sell the carbon top?

[fitftw]

I sold it a month ago

[92accordex]

Subscriped! Some inspiration for my poopbox. Like you said in post 1, I owned 3 honda's a talon and my miata by far is my favorite car to drive

[R22B]

I'm pretty sure that radio weighs a ton... you can rip that out and shave a few pounds since you've already raped your interior :P

[fitftw]

the radio weighs like 5lbs lol I can't go without music. There's not much else I can do to remove weight except cut off excess bolt threads, swap the dash for a 90-93 dash, and do a major wire tuck/delete

[cmr076]

out of curiosity what was the point in ripping all that **** out? you are aware that every hundred pounds is like 1/10th of a sec in the 1/4 mile... as far as auto-x it seems kinda pointless as well... you took all the plastic out that didnt really weigh much but refuse to take a wheel to the metal where the real weight is. I understand how cool a stripped car looks and all but cmon... from what I gather its your DD... Gutted loud slow DD, never shaving, and generally not caring how you look and you wonder why you never get laid!

(not really trying to be a dick I just dont get the direction your going with the car, especially since you said you your not doing the SC now after you already posted you purchased a turbo kit) what was the purpose of tearing out the creature comforts? how much weight did the car lose? 50 pounds? was it really worth it for a car that sucks to be in?

/ end rant... wasnt trying to attack you but c'mon.

[fitftw]

my car doesn't suck to be in. If it did, I would replace what I ripped out. I gutted it because it gives me more room, makes things easy to get to, and gives me the satisfaction of being minimalistic and clean. To me, the less stuff, the better. If you don't like it, that's fine. You don't have to drive it every day. Eventually it will be my second car, and when that happens I'll be taking things even further. The direction I'm trying to go is basically exactly like this:
http://71.5.55.188/mx5/071709/interior.jpg
http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/media/img/readerrides/LS2_Miata_engine_bay.jpg

[cmr076]

my car doesn't suck to be in. If it did, I would replace what I ripped out. I gutted it because it gives me more room, makes things easy to get to, and gives me the satisfaction of being minimalistic and clean. To me, the less stuff, the better. If you don't like it, that's fine. You don't have to drive it every day. Eventually it will be my second car, and when that happens I'll be taking things even further. The direction I'm trying to go is basically exactly like this:
http://71.5.55.188/mx5/071709/interior.jpg
http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/media/img/readerrides/LS2_Miata_engine_bay.jpg

Bull ****... My car sucks to be in and its a loaded mazdaspeed. and you gutted it because it makes things easier to get to, yet theres nothing in the car TO get to.. I guess to each their own but how is having a cluster ziptied to a support beam clean? From the looks of it that white car has no windows either... I dont like it and I am well aware I dont have to I am trying to talk some sense into you..

You are so worried about the weight of your car but are BOLTING in a cage... Lastly have you ever driven a LS powered car? in corvettes they dont get traction, in a miata it will be pointless.. why not do a small turbo, LSD and aimsport dash and call it a day. Youll have a drivable car that is actually fun to be in and save yourself 15-20k...

I have been building and designing cars somewhat like this for years and I can tell you being unique usually leaves you with an end result that doesnt work, costs too much money and in the end it turns out your going to have wished you went the simple proven route.

Either way good luck I guess, call injection connection, ask for corey and see what it took to V8 his customers miata the RIGHT way.

[Spocknasty]

That's not clean that's haggard

[fitftw]

There are a few schools of thought in car modifying. Gutted to death is one of them. Some like ricey bodykits, some like JDM clean, some like hellaflush stupid camber bul****. You're saying you're just trying to talk sense into me, but you haven't stopped to think that not everyone is like you. I want the gutted look, I will get the gutted look. I don't need confirmation or approval from anybody except myself. All I need to do in this world is keep myself happy. I've come to the conclusion that a full interior and a 4 cylinder is not what I want. Therefore I will continue to gut my car, and eventually when I settle into a job after graduation, call Flyin' Miata for a $30,000 LS3 swap and get a basically brand new car. If other people can have Evos and the like that cost $40,000+ I can sure as hell have a $30,000 Miata. I won't be poor forever.

Sucks that you hate your Mazdaspeed. Maybe because it torque steers like a bitch. Don't compare a Miata to a 3, ever.

And what's wrong with bolting in a rollbar? Safety is more important than weight reduction. It's only 40lbs. I've removed over 100lbs. Big deal. I'd rather live.
http://www.bethania-garage.com/images/crash/crash_m2sport9.gif

[cmr076]

There are a few schools of thought in car modifying. Gutted to death is one of them. Some like ricey bodykits, some like JDM clean, some like hellaflush stupid camber bul****. You're saying you're just trying to talk sense into me, but you haven't stopped to think that not everyone is like you. I want the gutted look, I will get the gutted look. I don't need confirmation or approval from anybody except myself. All I need to do in this world is keep myself happy. I've come to the conclusion that a full interior and a 4 cylinder is not what I want. Therefore I will continue to gut my car, and eventually when I settle into a job after graduation, call Flyin' Miata for a $30,000 LS3 swap and get a basically brand new car. If other people can have Evos and the like that cost $40,000+ I can sure as hell have a $30,000 Miata. I won't be poor forever.

Sucks that you hate your Mazdaspeed. Maybe because it torque steers like a bitch. Don't compare a Miata to a 3, ever.

And what's wrong with bolting in a rollbar? Safety is more important than weight reduction. It's only 40lbs. I've removed over 100lbs. Big deal. I'd rather live.
http://www.bethania-garage.com/images/crash/crash_m2sport9.gif

My mazdaspeed miata torque steers? Hm, news to me. Anyways good luck with gutting and bolting cages in your car (and yes i have built gutted cars, check out my ae86, gutted with a real cage and built from the ground up) im gonna go lay with my extremely hot girlfriend now, i have work and school tomorrow. Keep on..... keepin on?

[djb5118]

lol @ that white miata. all that work and the passenger seatbelt is still there...

seems like a bad plan to me but to each his own

[XxIriponzeesxX]

My mazdaspeed miata torque steers? Hm, news to me. Anyways good luck with gutting and bolting cages in your car (and yes i have built gutted cars, check out my ae86, gutted with a real cage and built from the ground up) im gonna go lay with my extremely hot girlfriend now, i have work and school tomorrow. Keep on..... keepin on?

Picture of extremely hot girlfriend or ban lol

[Spocknasty]

First it's a GT2560 then its a supercharger now its an FM build, is it going to be a spaceship next year.

*Pics to save thread

[WolfsFang]

That white car is ugly, just save weight other places like wheels and such

[93EGY8]

Not liking the direction your going but to each his own!

[abrok99]

i also dont understand the weight loss thing. i realize you dont care what anyone thinks but still i dont understand the point to go without all that when its just a DD

[Carmine908]

you wonder why you never get laid!


Bahahahahah, adams going to kill me in my sleep one day.

[fitftw]

I don't give a flying **** about getting laid. In fact I ****ing hate being a human being. We're all disgusting ****ing pieces of scummy ****.

You don't need to understand the weight loss thing. Actually, let's see. My Miata with i/h/e probably pushes 150-155bhp. Your Mazdaspeed Miata has what, 170 turbo'd? And you're carrying like 300 more pounds.

If you have a Miata, you would know the Hard Dog X-brace Hardtop rollbar is legit. Who DD's a full rollcage? Idiots. In a rollover, the bar will keep me alive. That's the entire point of a cage.

I already have lightweight wheels, RPF-1s.

And you probably don't even have a girlfriend, let alone a hot one. I live with a girl, we're roommates, sometimes we **** around. **** relationships.

Oh and pics...
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1183.snc4/150497_1459496613066_1402947049_31083629_4013672_n .jpg
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs519.ash1/30586_1287597235689_1402947049_30700851_5114390_n. jpg
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs557.snc3/30475_1323762939809_1402947049_30793271_700173_n.j pg
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/76535_1456132208958_1402947049_31078669_1584048_n. jpg
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs576.ash2/149869_1456132448964_1402947049_31078670_5495021_n .jpg

[cmr076]

And you probably don't even have a girlfriend, let alone a hot one.

lol..

[fitftw]

that's a sig-worthy quote, huh

[Got Insulin?]

Fit, take a chill pill. You're responses make it seem like you are taking things way too seriously.

[cmr076]

that's a sig-worthy quote, huh

what?

[cmr076]

Picture of extremely hot girlfriend or ban lol

im not going to post pictures of her, other members have met her and will probably chime in.

[R22B]

You don't need to understand the weight loss thing. Actually, let's see. My Miata with i/h/e probably pushes 150-155bhp. Your Mazdaspeed Miata has what, 170 turbo'd? And you're carrying like 300 more pounds.
:bs: I have a hard time believing an engine putting out 133hp at the crank new is now putting out 150/155bhp with just an i/h/e.

If you have a Miata, you would know the Hard Dog X-brace Hardtop rollbar is legit. Who DD's a full rollcage? Idiots. In a rollover, the bar will keep me alive. That's the entire point of a cage.
Truth.

I already have lightweight wheels, RPF-1s.
Best wheels for a Miata IMO.

[fitftw]

^ thanks man, and I don't doubt I'm pushing 150bhp. That's only a 17hp gain over stock. I've seen dyno sheets of the parts but am too lazy to look them up. The 4-1 header is 5-7whp but it's all above 4k rpm. The test pipe has to be 1 or 2hp. The intake around 5, and the catback exhaust another 5-7. I'm pulling these numbers out of my butt but it really seems to me that I'm underestimating or spot-on with the actual hp gain. 150 is a safe number. My car has under 80k miles and is in great shape. It can't be that much down on power.

[SvicksTc]

^^^ Lulz on your numbers

[fitftw]

ok who has a dyno in central jersey so I can make people look retarded for thinking my setup isn't worth 15hp.

[SvicksTc]

www.TeamJDM.com in Freehold NJ

Danny's Pro performance in Keyport has one.

Crazy House

post it up

[Khellen]

Therefore I will continue to gut my car, and eventually when I settle into a job after graduation, call Flyin' Miata for a $30,000 LS3 swap and get a basically brand new car. If other people can have Evos and the like that cost $40,000+ I can sure as hell have a $30,000 Miata. I won't be poor forever.

Most people take out loans to afford their $40k cars. I'd love to hear the conversation that ensues between you and your bank while trying to apply for the loan....

Bank: "So what exactly will this loan be used for?"
Fit: "Well, I'm swapping a $5,000 motor into my $5,000 car."
Bank: *head explodes*


Not saying I wouldent want a V8 swapped miata too...but 30k for a v8 swap? That's insane.

[fitftw]

see, taking out loans for cars is something I don't understand. Maybe that's why my build is extremely slow and non-productive. I refuse to apply for loans. I only buy stuff when I have the disposable cash. I have no debts or anything. Guess that's rare these days.

I'll check out the place in Keyport this weekend and try to get a spot on the dyno if it's not too expensive. Kinda strapped right now.

[cmr076]

go to JDM engineering, they built a motor for me before.. great guys, ask for Jim. They usually do XXXX hp cars but im sure they would throw your car on their rollers.

[Erik@R/TTuning]

Bring it out to the dyno day in March at R/T and we'll see what she can do. We already have a half dozen or so Miata guys coming out for the day.

[fitftw]

sounds good, hopefully I'll have a MSPNP ecu and WBO2 by then so I can get this **** tuned, what day in March?

[R22B]

You’re taking the crank HP when the car was new (133hp) and throwing numbers out your ass. Crank HP is not BHP; BHP is WHP. Let’s say you have a 10% drive train loss so 133 crank HP is 120WHP and this is on the light side of drive train loss. An intake/header/exhaust is not going to give you a magical 35whp. If K&N tells you they saw 6-8whp in on a dyno with just their intake, it’s under the most ideal situations (low altitude, cooler weather, no humidity). You might see that number one time a year. More than likely it’s going to be around a few, like 1-3whp. A header won’t open those cars up too much, maybe around 3-4whp at the most. An exhaust is the same thing; you might gain 2-5whp. On average, you’ll really only see around 8whp. With tuning, you’ll be able to squeeze more but realistically, you’d be better off saving for a turbo.

I’ve never owned a Miata… but I love them and have researched them to death.

[fitftw]

it's not a K&N though, it's a Racing Beat headerback exhaust. Except for the test pipe which is from Roadstersport. Even if it's only 10whp, that's still a 10% increase in power for this car, which is pretty good and very noticeable. With tuning it should be another 10whp give or take. After that, I'm done with modding for power and will focus on stiffening/seats/clutch&fly. I'm already satisfied with the power, it's not fast but it gets out of its own way at WOT and sounds beautiful doing it. I'm used to slow cars like the heavy slug del Sol B16, and the 1.5L Honda Fit. This is the fastest car I've owned yet.

On http://www.060calculator.com/

I entered 110whp, 2100lbs and got a 0-60 of 7.6 seconds. Not bad, but definitely slow lol for S&G's I googled 7.6 0-60 and I'm as fast as a 6spd TSX. Cool.

[cmr076]

it's not a K&N though, it's a Racing Beat headerback exhaust. Except for the test pipe which is from Roadstersport. Even if it's only 10whp, that's still a 10% increase in power for this car, which is pretty good and very noticeable. With tuning it should be another 10whp give or take. After that, I'm done with modding for power and will focus on stiffening/seats/clutch&fly. I'm already satisfied with the power, it's not fast but it gets out of its own way at WOT and sounds beautiful doing it. I'm used to slow cars like the heavy slug del Sol B16, and the 1.5L Honda Fit. This is the fastest car I've owned yet.

On http://www.060calculator.com/

I entered 110whp, 2100lbs and got a 0-60 of 7.6 seconds. Not bad, but definitely slow lol for S&G's I googled 7.6 0-60 and I'm as fast as a 6spd TSX. Cool.

hm, that website said mine is at 0-60 mph 5.742 seconds
hp: 180 (from wiki)
Curb Weight: 2350 lbs
Drive Type: RWD
Transmission: manual

interesting.. I bet an intake and TB exhaust would really wake her up.

[MX5]

I'm already satisfied with the power, it's not fast but it gets out of its own way at WOT and sounds beautiful doing it.

That's why I'm not anxious to turbo mine, I'd get into too much trouble with it. I like turning fast more anyway.

Remember when we went to the factories to shoot, and we went under that bridge. We were both pinging it off the limiters, sounded awesome.

[fitftw]

yeah man that was a good day. One of the last nice days of last summer.

[wheresmycar]

Bring it out to the dyno day in March at R/T and we'll see what she can do. We already have a half dozen or so Miata guys coming out for the day.

Yeah you should bring the miata to that Dyno.

I haven't done anything to my miata but it would be fun to see what the local guys put down. What day in march?

[schaffer]

Always thought the miatas were kinda girly/gay.


Buttt I do like the gutted idea....or with an lsX.

[R22B]

Always thought the miatas were kinda girly/gay.


Buttt I do like the gutted idea....or with an lsX.

NOt really shocking considering what you drive haha

[fitftw]

I guess I'm just a domestic lover at heart. And I enjoy making myself more and more uncomfortable behind the wheel of this car.

[Erik@R/TTuning]

sounds good, hopefully I'll have a MSPNP ecu and WBO2 by then so I can get this **** tuned, what day in March?

March 26th. :cool:

[schaffer]

NOt really shocking considering what you drive haha


The trucks a daily/weekend fun until im out of school with a real job and I can buy car that is fun.then the truck will be a trail rig.


I really do like the spartan interior tho,if your comfortable driving in it then who cares what the interior looks like.

[Khellen]

On http://www.060calculator.com/

I entered 110whp, 2100lbs and got a 0-60 of 7.6 seconds. Not bad, but definitely slow lol for S&G's I googled 7.6 0-60 and I'm as fast as a 6spd TSX. Cool.

Horsepower
(at the flywheel)

Sounds like you entered your numbers wrong.

You entered:
110 flywheel horsepower + 2100 lbs = 7.635s

You should have entered:
110 WHP + 10% = 121 flywheel HP
121 flywheel horsepower + 2100 lbs = 7.108s

On another note....my car came up at a 0-60 of 3.6s....LOL

[fitftw]

twas a long day yesterday putting in the rollbar with a friend
http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/182752_1574117078506_1402947049_31304838_3951979_n .jpg
http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/180558_1574117558518_1402947049_31304839_5681706_n .jpg
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/183095_1574117798524_1402947049_31304840_6768627_n .jpg

I'm so happy it's finally in. Now I just need seats bolted to the floor so my head doesn't smack the bar.

[wheresmycar]

It can be dangerous out there.
Here. Take this:
http://icanhasimage.com/images/l0uvagu04q3a9lf5nohf.jpg

I guess cutting out foam in the seat won't lower you enough to clear the bar.

[fitftw]

lol @ the pool noodle and frat shirt and bmw hat. Trifecta. Oddly enough, I'm 6'0 and when I sit in my driving position (not what I'll be in at the track) I am a good 2" or so under the bar. In everyday driving I'll be fine, but by summer I'll need a nice new seat and harnesses. Just sucks that I won't be able to remove the seatbelts unless I remove the bar and I'm definitely never doing that considering how much of a bitch it was to get in there.

[wheresmycar]

Which rollbar did you pick?

[fitftw]

hard dog hardcore hardtop

[wheresmycar]

What is left on your plans besides more HP?

[fitftw]

racing beat tubular front sway, FM butterfly brace, harness bar, seats&harness, MSPNP ecu, koyo 37mm rad, and big brake kit. Basically I have another 2 to 4 years left til this project is complete

[Got Insulin?]

What exactly are you building this car for....?

[fitftw]

for my own satisfaction and summer autox. Mostly I just want to make my car badass, like everybody else does.

[CrazylilPunk]

for my own satisfaction.. Mostly I just want to make my car badass, like everybody else does.


Win.:cool:

[fitftw]

black silicon hoses arrived from Hose Techniques! Pics tomorrow after I get it done. Then the only thing left to do is paint the cam cover and my bay will finally be pleasing to the eye.

[TalonTsi97]

Just curious if you ever seen this guys car/setup? He's been building some pretty nice dsm for years and got a miata a while back. This is his newest video, makes me want to own one even more.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_1g2bMPN3A

[fitftw]

never seen him, where does he live? That's the cleanest Sunburst I've ever seen...

old hoses
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/181541_1579355729469_1402947049_31314110_7560749_n .jpg

new look
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/182476_1579356369485_1402947049_31314112_206085_n. jpg

still got a ways to go to make the bay look presentable. Need a wire tuck. Will pay if someone wants to do it. It's come a long way from this mess:
http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/21880_1187722538884_1402947049_30484893_3205759_n. jpg

[TalonTsi97]

I meant did you see it as in on forums/big event/youtube before. He's on the east coast IIRC but not in PA. He's been building nice budget projects for years.

[MX5]

Adam, what color are you thinking about for the cam cover?

[fitftw]

Talon, haven't seen his car on miata.net but I'm sure he's on there lol

Dave, probably black with a CF spark plug cover. I might sand off the lettering, get some cam gears, and cut the cover.

[fitftw]

Ever since I was looking for a Miata, I wanted this finish panel/taillights, so I'm going to make damn sure I purchase this next paycheck. I don't know why I find this so damn beautiful, but I do.
http://roadstergarage.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Rear.jpg

[TalonTsi97]

Have any more pics of that car? Curious how it look from other angles with that overfender/wheel combo. I like the light setup tho, good buy.

[fitftw]

I'm glad you asked for more pics. This is my favorite Miata, and my inspiration.

http://roadstergarage.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Chris-Lee-Miata-Front.jpg
http://roadstergarage.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Chris-Lee-Miata-Side.jpg
http://roadstergarage.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Interior.jpg
http://roadstergarage.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Garage-Vary-Tail-Light.jpg
http://roadstergarage.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/front.jpg
http://roadstergarage.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Wheel.jpg
http://roadstergarage.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/front-angle.jpg

not sure what the tow hook sticking out of the hood is for though.

[MX5]

That GV finish panel is the tits.

[Khellen]

Definitely one of my favorite miatas of all time too. I think it was featured in modified mag?

Can you still get those fender flares? I thought they were discontinued.

Also...what's the point in removing the door cards? They weigh nothing.

[R22B]

Definitely one of my favorite miatas of all time too. I think it was featured in modified mag?

Can you still get those fender flares? I thought they were discontinued.

Also...what's the point in removing the door cards? They weigh nothing.

Ever 1/4 ounce counts bro! :P

[Khellen]

Ever 1/4 ounce counts bro! :P

Sorry it took so long to reply. I spent the last 6 hours removing the door cards and cup holder out of my car to save 1lb. I can already notice the difference. I can pull an extra G around my test track, get better gas mileage while doing it, and my brake pads wear out slower!

(My test track is the deny's parking lot)

[fitftw]

I'm sure I could get those fender flares if I look hard enough for them. The Miata is one of the lightest cars on the road, if not THE lightest car under $50,000 (Lotus territory) so trying to break under the 2,000lb barrier is great fun.

[92accordex]

Ebay has miata fender flares for like 150 shipped

[Slevin]

that miata is boss

[Khellen]

Ebay has miata fender flares for like 150 shipped

Are they the same flares as on that car? The miata N2 class fender flares? I'm to lazy to look. I'm just wondering if they are still possible to get without paying 1,000 for custom fabbed ones.

[fitftw]

^ these come damn close http://www.rev9autosport.com/na/exterior/trap-fender-flares.html

[fitftw]

installed harness bar
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/180529_1583073582413_1402947049_31320660_8031067_n .jpg
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/185774_1583073182403_1402947049_31320659_2085931_n .jpg
http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/181990_1583072862395_1402947049_31320658_6894016_n .jpg
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/180192_1583072262380_1402947049_31320657_2755899_n .jpg

Looking for a good DD racing seat, probably going with Kirkey or Ultrashield's.

[OutToWinPAHC]

^ these come damn close http://www.rev9autosport.com/na/exterior/trap-fender-flares.html

Yay to the flares, but that car is not pulling them off. Skinny wheels, just lower offset. If you do something like these use a calculator and use that backspace to allow you to pull off a proper wheel fitment.

Roll bar looks good

[mcperson2k]

Saw this one for sale on the Miata forum, looks sweet...

http://www.steveandlee.com/galleries/miata/goodcam/4garages.jpg
http://www.steveandlee.com/galleries/miata/goodcam/rear2.jpg

[fitftw]

that is nice. I want the seats.

[jjm4life]

I'm sure I could get those fender flares if I look hard enough for them. The Miata is one of the lightest cars on the road, if not THE lightest car under $50,000 (Lotus territory) so trying to break under the 2,000lb barrier is great fun.

nothing more fun than a sub 2k lbs car. :mrgreen:

yours needs to look like that black one posted above. that thing is ridiculous.

o and a kirkey seat fs http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f95/kirkey-aluminum-race-seat-sale-97537/

[fitftw]

^ pm'd him thanks! I'm a member of lotustalk because originally I wanted Exige seats but they are rare and extremely expensive. Wanna sell me your seats? lol

[jjm4life]

^ pm'd him thanks! I'm a member of lotustalk because originally I wanted Exige seats but they are rare and extremely expensive. Wanna sell me your seats? lol

honestly... i was thinking about buying a carbon fiber tillet b5. one is for sale right now, but apparently you cant fit two of them, so im not sure if i want mismatching seats.


youre right though exige seats are tough to find, but for the price you can do better. because its so tough getting in and out, the side bolsters arent as aggressive as they should/need to be. very very comfortable considering its a fixed chair.

[fitftw]

I'd sell a nut for these
http://smitty.corsalogistics.net/For_Sale/Exige_Seats/Seats_1.jpg

[jjm4life]

those are out of an 06. mine are full suede. ballin

these bad boys are from the s260
http://www.cartype.com/pics/7014/full/lotus_exige_s260_in2_09.jpg


huh.. and while looking for pics of the tilletts for you, i realized you can fit two of them . i guess my source was wrong
http://avventuroso.net/gallery/d/355-2/DSCN1494.JPG

[Khellen]

^ these come damn close http://www.rev9autosport.com/na/exterior/trap-fender-flares.html

Win! Now I just need a miata. haha

[fitftw]

Those Tillett's look amazing. Is this the one you're looking at lol http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Tillett-B5-Carbon-Fiber-Driver-Seat-Lotus-Exige-Elise-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem4cf5524846QQitemZ33053 3324870QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccesso ries

So expensive...just for one seat? Christ. I'd buy your Exige seats if you get the Tillett's though depending on the price for both.

[jjm4life]

damn thats cheap... they usually go used for more than that. theres one on LT for like 1200. if i go that route ill shoot you a PM. right now im just pissed that i put my jeep into storage 20m away from my place and im stuck with the lotus after it snowed again last night

[fitftw]

that sucks man. There's a guy in my apartment complex who brings his red Elise home on some weekends, or maybe he doesn't live here and just visits somebody lol.

[wheresmycar]

Tell the elise owner he should upgrade his seats and then ask how much he would want for his old seats?

[92dxman]

Miata with hardtop=win...

[jjm4life]

Tell the elise owner he should upgrade his seats and then ask how much he would want for his old seats?

elise seats are slightly different from exige seats.. depending year/package

[fitftw]

I need seats that have slots for harnesses, Elise seats don't have them. They do look comfortable though. Here's a Miata with Elise seats:
http://revlimiter.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/DSC_1297.jpg

[fitftw]

okay I decided not to get the taillight kit, and want to focus on more power. I need input. Should I go for Megasquirt PNP (stand-alone ecu and wideband o2 with gauge) for an extra ~10hp or go with a Koyo 37mm radiator with slim Spal fans and new hoses for coolant/heater? I'm slightly leaning towards the ecu because I can go get it tuned for a premium fuel spark table since that's what I've been running through it for months. I might be able to squeeze a bit more power out from that.

[MX5]

Megasquirt, so that if you want to go FI down the road you'll already be part of the way there.

[Khellen]

okay I decided not to get the taillight kit, and want to focus on more power. I need input. Should I go for Megasquirt PNP (stand-alone ecu and wideband o2 with gauge) for an extra ~10hp or go with a Koyo 37mm radiator with slim Spal fans and new hoses for coolant/heater? I'm slightly leaning towards the ecu because I can go get it tuned for a premium fuel spark table since that's what I've been running through it for months. I might be able to squeeze a bit more power out from that.

Why would you bother replacing the radiator / fan over a power upgrade if you don't have any cooling issues?

[Nick Merrone]

Why would you bother replacing the radiator / fan over a power upgrade if you don't have any cooling issues?

precaution i assume? Its always good to have an upgraded cooling system esepcially if he plans on tracking it.

[fitftw]

Miata radiators are set to blow when the endtanks start to brown, and mine are brown as ****. Eventually it'll need replacing sometime during summer. I'll go with the MSPNP then. Really getting tired of how slow this car is, and optimization is key. I have to move to Florida before the end of January because with the ecu, test pipe, and no charcoal canister, I will break the emissions testing equipment here lol

jjm4life, that Tillet seat on ebay sold for $885 lol

plus having gauges in the middle air vents for a/f and boost eventually will be sweet:
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/552/4741/1379870105_large.jpg

[Khellen]

precaution i assume? Its always good to have an upgraded cooling system esepcially if he plans on tracking it.

Obviously but he asked which he should do now. Unless something is falling apart, which he confirmed in the post below, why bother unless you're tracking your car anytime soon?

Miata radiators are set to blow when the endtanks start to brown, and mine are brown as ****. Eventually it'll need replacing sometime during summer.

Well there you go. You just answered your own question about which you should do first....haha

[Spocknasty]

I'll try and help you instead of being a dick. Consider a Mishimoto X-Line for cheaper (especially through local vendors). What radiator you get doesn't matter as you will still be limited by the cooling ability of the inefficient factory design. Get the MSPNP but keep in mind it's not a happy thing out of the box and tuning will definitely be required. Also the MSPNP is based off of MS 1.0, you could get more features out of a new 3 (http://www.diyautotune.com/catalog/megasquirt-iii-c-76.html?osCsid=529c64d469a67aef7a0478c256839187) built for you.

[fitftw]

hmm that does sound good. Thanks for not being a dick, I appreciate it. Know of any good places in central Jersey to get a tune, preferably one that knows about MS and Miatas? I'll want to get it tuned the day I install it, and I don't have a timing light, so maybe I should just have a shop install and tune it on the spot. That would be preferred, so I'm not driving around on a ****ty tune.

[Got Insulin?]

I've legally passed emissions with no emissions equipment and a 20G turbo plus aftermarket ECU, 1000CC injectors, and a 2.5" basically straight-piped exhaust. I didn't cheat or even know the guy, he just neglected to do the ol' eyeball test.

Also, why do you need harnesses? Those Elise seats would allow you to keep your DOT spec restraints.

[fitftw]

I'd prefer at least a 4pt harness so I can remove the seatbelts and not deal with feeding them every time I get out of the car. And my car is a 96, it's OBD2, there's no way in hell I'll pass.

[jjm4life]

I've legally passed emissions with no emissions equipment and a 20G turbo plus aftermarket ECU, 1000CC injectors, and a 2.5" basically straight-piped exhaust. I didn't cheat or even know the guy, he just neglected to do the ol' eyeball test.

Also, why do you need harnesses? Those Elise seats would allow you to keep your DOT spec restraints.

exige seats allow for 3pt belts. i have both 3 and 5pt harnesses.

I'd prefer at least a 4pt harness so I can remove the seatbelts and not deal with feeding them every time I get out of the car. And my car is a 96, it's OBD2, there's no way in hell I'll pass.

got insulin is right. you wont have trouble passing PA emissions for obd2. i passed with 3inch exhaust, cams, bigger turbo, 1000cc injectors ect ect on my 2005 evo. if youre really worried, just go to a friendly shop.

[Khellen]

I'll try and help you instead of being a dick.

Did I come off as a dick? It was a legit question. I just didn't understand the reasoning behind the choice without some background information.

Sorry for the confusion.

[fitftw]

I think spock was referring to himself, not you lol. Maybe he was a dick in this thread before, I don't remember.

I live in New Jersey, not PA.

[Khellen]

I think spock was referring to himself, not you lol. Maybe he was a dick in this thread before, I don't remember.

I live in New Jersey, not PA.

Ahhh! Just making sure. Don't want you to think I'm trolling your thread. I actually want to pick up a miata myself in the future. :mrgreen:

[jjm4life]

I think spock was referring to himself, not you lol. Maybe he was a dick in this thread before, I don't remember.

I live in New Jersey, not PA.

cant be any harder than MA.. which has the same testing and standards as CA. my evo passed up here too

[Spocknasty]

Why block your vents when you can just use a replacement A-pillar, $40 from Lotek (http://www.gaugepods.com/mazda.html). Don't get the factory finish option they just spray paint it matte black.
http://www.good-win-racing.com/miata/images/items/miata_gauge_pod.jpg

I don't know anyone that tunes MS, currently looking.

[fitftw]

I don't want it to look obvious that I have gauges. I don't have to block the vents, I can get one of those DIN panels that have 3 gauge holes where my pocket below the stereo is.

[fitftw]

this seat just went up on miata.net it's one of the rarest production seats ever. Mazdaspeed Type F made by Bride. He's asking $745 shipped. I want to so badly, but I shouldn't.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_-Jy5fvKA1uE/SRYnWOTm5qI/AAAAAAAAAXY/g_YcH72N_iI/s512/IMG_9505%20%28Custom%29.JPG

[MX5]

Man I love those MS seats.

[wheresmycar]

Ask yourself what else you could do with your miata for $745.
Wait, how much does it weigh? It looks pretty heavy compared to a stock 35lb seat or some cheaper racing seats.

[fitftw]

true I didn't even think about weight. I'm not gonna get them, it would just be really nice lol

[fitftw]

cheap but cool mod completed. Garage Star license plate relocation. Sucks that there was a patch of peeling paint behind the plate, going to have to paint that one of these days. I'd really just like to take the bumper off and get the whole thing repainted and remove the badge and fill the holes...
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/190327_1586897358005_1402947049_31328113_6167217_n .jpg