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What is your current/pending car project

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Posted on May 21, 2005 at 22:27:41
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 Just curious about what kind of car projects other audio oriented folks are working on. I have 2 - one current and one pending

1) 1953 XK 120 DHC. Currently rebuilding the supesion and steering, then will move on to the fuel system and complete wiring harness change. Engine rebuild to follow and lastly body and interior.

2) My baby, a 1974 Dodge Charger I bought with my first job out of highschool in 1978. She's been with me a long time. Currently has a race shop built 340 and is awaiting some body work and a new vinyl top. The winters up north in Spokane, WA where I am originally from caused unhappy body cancer from the road salts.

When I can't play in the garage I can always go inside and find myself some audio toys to enjoy. Good thing I have an understanding wife.

 

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I'd like to build.., posted on May 26, 2005 at 12:53:45
Craiger56@aol.com
Audiophile

Posts: 5571
Location: San Jose CA
Joined: April 3, 2002
Contributor
  Since: December 29, 2003
 An all wheel drive turbine/electric car.

Constant speed gas turbine powered alternator powering four in-wheel direct drive electric motors. All four used for acceleration and turning, just two, or maybe even one for steady speed.

Steering angle sensing, electronic differential, when turning, power distributed evenly regardless of wheel speed.

Electric (induction) braking as used on diesel locomotives.

Best wishes with your projects, a restored older car carries more panache for me than anything I could buy new.

 

Restoring a 1985 Pontiac Fiero and making parts for my MINI Cooper S, posted on June 1, 2005 at 22:31:42
beken
Audiophile

Posts: 260
Location: BC
Joined: May 14, 2001
 I've owned the Fiero since new. In fact, it was ordered even before they were on the market (V6 engine). The goal is to keep it long enough to put collectors plates on it and then maybe my daughter can drive it to her high-school graduation when she gets there (she's in Grade 3 now). If only it got Overhauled : )

As for the MINI COoper S, I'm going around looking for inexpensive things I can do to the car without spending much money. The first thing would be to probably make a screen for the hood scoop to keep rocks and small birds from getting into it.

 

Re: Restoring a 1985 Pontiac Fiero and making parts for my MINI Cooper S, posted on June 2, 2005 at 05:29:17
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 A buddy of mine had a Fiero. He looks back now and regrets having sold it. Kudos to you for holding on to it. How do you like your Mini? Have thought about getting one to commute with down here in SoCal. As for being Overhauled - I keep hinting to the wife, who knows??

 

Re: Restoring a 1985 Pontiac Fiero and making parts for my MINI Cooper S, posted on June 2, 2005 at 14:42:52
beken
Audiophile

Posts: 260
Location: BC
Joined: May 14, 2001
 I'm keeping my Fiero because it's the first new car I bought after graduating from college. I like the mid-engine feel, sounds, and torque of V6 engine. In fact, the 1985 was the most powerful and lightest of the Fieros before the new smog regulations kicked in. The problem with the Fiero (besides finding parts), is the suspension, though adequate and pretty good for its day, isn't very well balanced. So hitting bumps on the road make the car react a bit unpredictably.

Having said that, the MINI Cooper S has 20 years of newer technology so the body is stiffer and it is a faster car as well as way more fuel efficient. The suspension is very well sorted and the steering much faster than the Fiero's. The only downside is the Mini being Front Wheel Drive. The balance is evened out a bit by the traction control and stability control but you can't control acceleration on turn in by throttle as well as a rear-wheel drive car. Still, like the Fiero, it's a car that has me WANTING to drive just for the fun of it. It makes a great commuter car.

 

American Muscle, posted on June 15, 2005 at 08:12:15
Mike B.
Audiophile

Posts: 26352
Location: OR
Joined: September 27, 1999
Contributor
  Since: September 1, 1999
 I have a finished 1955 Chevy 210 with many updates and performance improvements. I am now working on a 01 Z-28 Camaro. So far I have replaced the shocks and springs with Tokiko HD shocks and Eibach proline lowering springs. Added shock tower cross brace, subframe connectors, adjustable panhard bar, and lower rear gears. The motor has only gotten bolt-ons. Graniteli MAF, SLP y- pipe, Borla catback, ported throttle body, FPLK cold air intake, and computer reprogram. My goal is about 425 rear wheel horsepower, which I should have after installing stage 2 heads and camshaft.

 

1955 Chevy, posted on June 20, 2005 at 05:47:30
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 I have fond memories of my dad's '55 Chevy. He had to sell when I was 10 as five kids bit into his auto budget. If you ever have any digital photos you would like to share it would be nice to see them. Sounds like you got quite a project with the Camaro going on. Have fun.

James

 

Re: I'd like to build.., posted on June 21, 2005 at 13:52:36
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 I had an idea that was similar but not quite as ambitious. A constant speed diesel running an altenator to power and electric motor through a standard transmission. I was thinking about doing this with a VW Rabbit or similar vehicle. If fuel gets to expensive it may be a way to go.

 

Re: I'd like to build.., posted on June 23, 2005 at 10:34:47
Craiger56@aol.com
Audiophile

Posts: 5571
Location: San Jose CA
Joined: April 3, 2002
Contributor
  Since: December 29, 2003
 I think your car is much more likely to hit the road than mine.

Best wishes, Craig

 

Re: What is your current/pending car project, posted on July 15, 2005 at 19:45:07
Bullitt
Audiophile

Posts: 26
Location: Texas
Joined: November 16, 2003
 I have a new/old project car. It is a 2001 Bullitt Package Mustang making 553hp and 498 torque at the rear wheels and running 10.90 @ 125mph in the quarter. Just did some suspension mods and a blower upgrade that should get her into the 625-650RWHP range and low 10s. Has full interior, A/C, Stereo, gets 23mpg hwy and looks totally stock from the outside. It's still tame enough for my wife and kids to drive on the street. Driveability is as good as stock. The "modern" muscle cars are a marvel of technology. Yes, you have to tune them with a laptop, but you get results you could never dream of with the classic muscle cars. There were only 5600 Bullitt Mustangs produced. Mine is #5094. The Bullitts are a retro looking GT, fashioned after the Mustang Steve McQueen drove in the movie "Bullitt". The upgrades included, no rear spoiler, speciality intake manifold, exhaust upgrade, retro interior/exterior trim, upgraded and lowered suspension, and several other minor tweeks. Currently, I'm fortunate to have the fastest Bullitt and she has been published in two national magazines. It's been a great hobby/project and I've performed the vast majority of the work myself. The best part of the car building and drag racing has certainly been the people I've met along the way. Take your stuff to a track near you on test and tune night and make a few passes. Doesn't matter if it's a rail or a minivan. You'll see everything running out there and everyone has fun!

 

What is your current/pending car project, posted on July 19, 2005 at 17:59:07
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 Yeah, the track/strip can be fun. Used to run dirt track racing back in HS (to many years ago). One of my buds dad's had a Dodge dealership and sponsored our car. We did all our own work and were also our own pit crew. Used to run big block Dodge's. You're right, there are a lot of good people around racing and we always had a good time. Keep having fun, that's what it is all about.

 

Re: What is your current/pending car project, posted on August 2, 2005 at 20:08:58
tvr2500m
Audiophile

Posts: 1687
Location: Boston
Joined: February 2, 2003
 Two very different cars those. An utterly classic Jag and a some 'Merican muscle.

Right now - almost literally - I'm fixing up a TVR 280i. After this I'll take care of some work on my TVR 2500M. Then I'm off to finish my Lotus Elan.

Meanwhile my brother is building a Lotus Europa race car. Should be quite quick on the track.

- SJ

 

Like your cars, posted on August 4, 2005 at 21:43:10
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 I would assume that since you are speaking of TVR's and Lotus's that you are possibly "across the pond". TVR is not a name you hear about in the US. I do not ever remember even speaking to anyone about TVR's except a Brit who was touring the US and happened to attend the open house at a Jag specialty shop in San Luis Obispo, California. Had to take a look online at you particular models. The 280i has really crisp lines, a nice looking car. As for racing if you read my post below you will see that I did run the track a little in the old days. Always enjoyed.
As for the great difference in my cars, I bought the Charger out of high school, summer of 1978 (thats my baby). The Jag I inherited from my uncle when he passed. He was the second owner, having bought the car from the original owner in 1955. As you can see my clan has a tendency to hold on to our cars for awhile.
I must admit that I really prefer the curves of the XK120 over about any other Jag. I guess that means your 2500M I must like more.
It sounds like you and your brother have a lot of "fun" planned in the future. Have a lot of fun and the best of luck to you on your projects.

James
Laguna Niguel, California

 

Re: What is your current/pending car project, posted on August 14, 2005 at 19:39:32
tesla
Audiophile

Posts: 3180
Location: San Diego County, California
Joined: October 25, 2000
 1984 Volkswagen Vanagan/Westfalia. Lets just say that I've done a partial engine rebuild, including the heads, and now that i'm almost done there, I'll be starting on the Dometic fridge. Keeps me busy, I guess!
Tubes forever

 

Re: What is your current/pending car project, posted on August 24, 2005 at 18:53:45
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 Read your post below and it looks like you took the plunge. Older cars like vintage stereo sometimes cost more to run and maintain but I still think its worth it. You must feel like your Westfalia is worth it to you. Good luck on your project.

 

Re: What is your current/pending car project, posted on August 31, 2005 at 05:39:03
tesla
Audiophile

Posts: 3180
Location: San Diego County, California
Joined: October 25, 2000
 I just remembered to read this forum!

Yes, The Westfalia is worth it, for a couple of reasons:

One, my daughters! They LOVE the westfalia, and that was a major factor.

Two, since I am the only one who has worked on the van since purchased more than 10 years ago, I KNOW it inside and out. Buyin a new vehicle is out of the question because of finances, and buying a used vehicle that is likely to need help was considered and rejected.

Oh, did I mention camping? My kids are just starting to really understand and wan to go camping, and what better way?

Gene
Tubes forever

 

Re: What is your current/pending car project, posted on September 10, 2005 at 14:53:25
Craiger56@aol.com
Audiophile

Posts: 5571
Location: San Jose CA
Joined: April 3, 2002
Contributor
  Since: December 29, 2003
 Just finished an engine and trans rebuild on a 72' VW Bus for a friend that bought it new, and still looks nearly new with 222,000 miles on it.

1.7L engine, now 2.0L with hydraulic lifters, breakerless ignition, platinum plugs, and synthetic oil should go 10,000 miles between services.

 

Re: Which one??, posted on September 25, 2005 at 19:46:55
Cory M.
Audiophile

Posts: 1172
Location: Midwest
Joined: April 10, 2005
 Sometimes I wonder why I picked two of the most expensive "hobbies...."

-1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass S
Cherry red with a black vinyl top
My first car, still have it and have been building up a 455 Rocket to stuff under the hood. Full roller cam & rockers, ported & polished heads, 850 cfm Demon carb. Edelbrock Torker manifold, MSD ignition, headers/ dual exhaust etc.... This is going to be one rocket ride, just hope gas prices don't go much over $3 again!!

-1964 Oldsmobile Ninety Eight hardtop
White ext, wide-whitewall tires & chrome moon hubcaps
This one's a summer cruizer- all original, lots of gleaming chrome. 394 Rocket 4 bbl. Slim-Jim automatic transmission, Power windows, seats, ..everything. Not really working on it, just keep it all shined up. Have been to a couple of car shows with it.

Then there's the ones just sitting around... and my daily driver work truck and the Cadillac ETC for road trips and diddling around town. A vehicle for every purpose- kinda like different systems for different purposes, aka: high current/ planar/ electrostatic, SET/ horn, 5.1 channel HT, computer audio etc, all of which I would like to explore.

And then of course, you have to put audio systems in the cars...

 

Re: What is your current/pending car project, posted on September 28, 2005 at 19:29:19
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 The Cutlass S sounds like it will be a fun ride when completed. And a 98 that you can take to shows is good too. I agree this is another expensive hobby. Besides the Jaguar which is undergoing a major but slow, as I am also repainting the house inside and out, renovation my Charger will need some major body help from the salty winter roads back home in Spokane, WA. And I have a 2001 Ram Quad Cab Long bed for travel, camping and such. My daily driver is a new Dodge Magnum R/T.

Must be better ways to spend our money and time (can't think of one though).

Best of luck with the autos and audio.

James

 

And doing more, posted on September 28, 2005 at 19:38:11
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 Just purchased a 2005 Dodge Magnum R/T with the 5.7L Hemi loaded with just about everything.

Spent the last couple of weekends taking the dealer wax off, claying the surface and then applying a good carnuba based wax (which sure makes the Inferno Red color stand out). Then added an EG Classic stainless steel wire mesh grill, Magnaflow exhaust system and a Mopar Performance (K&N) intake, mud guards and a locking (most important with the price of gas) gas cap. Will be looking to upgrade the exhaust and ignition on my 2001 Dodge Ram Quad Cab LB with the 5.9L.

Where will it end???

 

Also, posted on September 28, 2005 at 19:43:05
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 Also added Weathertech side window guards. Nice to have on a rainy day. Also on the Ram and the wifes 2002 Honda CRV.

 

2nd restoration of MGB 1966 nt, posted on November 23, 2005 at 16:20:30
rrikola@hotmail.com
Audiophile

Posts: 646
Location: Southern California
Joined: June 30, 2003
 nt

 

Older MGB's are nice small cars. Good luck -nt-, posted on November 30, 2005 at 11:27:34
draftingmonkey
Audiophile

Posts: 124
Location: Union of Socialist States of America
Joined: February 6, 2005
 -nt-

 

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