"Just buy a VR4" build thread.

[Uniuno]

As some of you know I have done a TT conversion to my white car. That was followed by an AWD conversion, and then later a 3.5L swap. One of the most asked questions I see on the forum (and especially FB pages) is "how hard is it to TT/AWD convert these cars?" Usually the answers range from "Pain in the ass, if you have to ask, you probably shouldn't attempt it", "you can do if you really believe you want to", or "Just buy a VR4".

So this is my thread about my build that is already beginning as a TT car. I originally picked it up with bent valves and intentions of just fixing and flipping it. I've since decided I'd like to do a mild build with it. Something that I can DD if I want but still makes enough power to dispatch a modern Camry. Nothing crazy like powder coating, just going to use spray paint, mostly. Exterior will be painted correctly of course.

This particular car presents its own set of challenges. It has sat for about 15 years. The previous owner put it up on blocks, and wrapped it up under a tarp under his carport behind his garage. It has a fair amount of surface rust underneath, and by "fair amount" I mean it is completely surface rust. I'm actually somewhat looking for a cleaner shell to use, but this is what I have, so I'm going to try to make the best of it. I'm also trying to keep the budget (without paint) around ~6k.

It's a green (for now) 92 RT/TT with 109k, charcoal interior, no sunroof.

Build plans:
Engine:
15g turbos
FIC 650s
Jackhammer gears
fuel loop
Maft (blow through)
Wally 450 (e85)
e85
xtd stage 2 clutch
SS downpipe
Gutted rear precat
??Exhaust?? – undecided
Ninja T-Case brace

Exterior:
B5 Blue
Engine bay painted black
Black Kazera wheels
Retrospec lip and side splitters
2g stealth rear bumper
??wing?? - undecided

Suspension.
Lowering springs with stock ECS struts
AWS delete
Rear sway bar
Adjustable upper ctrl arms
Two piece steel/AL driveshaft
ABS delete

The day I brought it home:

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/10704053_10152689538554144_101512649498794785_n_zp svbh58mto.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/10704053_10152689538554144_101512649498794785_n_zp svbh58mto.jpg.html)

The stock wheels and tires didn't hold air, and since I was still planning on selling it I picked up some super light WEDS Sport wheels.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/DSC_0288_zpslq05uoqb.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/DSC_0288_zpslq05uoqb.jpg.html)

Started by pulling the heads to assess damage.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0271_zpsgezqocyo.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0271_zpsgezqocyo.jpg.html)

Lots of cleaning and painting parts.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0281_zpso9foa0ya.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0281_zpso9foa0ya.jpg.html)

Got the 15gs from TimP (Boostmore) and adjusted the wastegates.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0332_zpsh6atwhzu.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0332_zpsh6atwhzu.jpg.html)

New hoses, plugs, wires, timing belt, tensioner, etc, etc, etc

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0350_zpsopbqb03h.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0350_zpsopbqb03h.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0346_zpsp5fqmqnv.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0346_zpsp5fqmqnv.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0353_zpszvbtu7fg.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0353_zpszvbtu7fg.jpg.html)

[Uniuno]

This brings us up to current day. Over the weekend I (with help of a friend) dropped both front and rear subframes out of the car. I plan on de-rusting everything, and then painting all the separate pieces and undercoating the shell.
Here are the “before” pictures.
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0503_zps7xgzeay8.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0503_zps7xgzeay8.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0504_zps7nxbvthj.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0504_zps7nxbvthj.jpg.html)
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0505_zpsrxw1jtkd.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0505_zpsrxw1jtkd.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0506_zpsm56fc60m.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0506_zpsm56fc60m.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0507_zpsnwayrfwo.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0507_zpsnwayrfwo.jpg.html)
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0508_zpsinhh4pzd.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0508_zpsinhh4pzd.jpg.html)

Most everything has come apart pretty well with use of Aerokroil.
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0511_zpsiwxrmoi1.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0511_zpsiwxrmoi1.jpg.html)
Active exhaust was locked up tight as expected. The brake hardware was surprisingly clean and slid nicely.
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0510_zpsuq5r0sug.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0510_zpsuq5r0sug.jpg.html)

[Uniuno]

Subframes out.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0515_zpstiidfetu.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0515_zpstiidfetu.jpg.html)
The only real worrisome part rust-wise is in this picture. For the most part it’s all just on the surface, no holes or anything, pinch welds are still solid. But the part that the rear seat belt mounts to is fairly rotten. I’ll make a decision as what to do to it when I get it cleaned up. Worst case is I’ll have to cut that out of my parts car and weld it into this one. It is what it is.
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0516_zps9ki4scu6.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0516_zps9ki4scu6.jpg.html)
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0517_zpset84yebt.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0517_zpset84yebt.jpg.html)
Flakey flakey
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0514_zpsvltylsqp.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0514_zpsvltylsqp.jpg.html)
I don’t think there was a single mounting bracket that didn’t twist off when I tried to remove the lines for the rear steering system. The metal underneath seems solid though.
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0513_zpsgjnpq7iq.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0513_zpsgjnpq7iq.jpg.html)

The rubber mounts actually seem to be in decent shape. I’m going to window weld them all and hope for the best.
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0518_zpsgusi8pm0.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0518_zpsgusi8pm0.jpg.html)
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0519_zpssulyonfh.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0519_zpssulyonfh.jpg.html)
That’s all I have for now. I’m going to try to get it all cleaned up and shot with some paint and maybe even start getting it put back together over Christmas break.

[Unlogic]

Nice thread!

[sergechronos]

The rubber mounts actually seem to be in decent shape. I’m going to window weld them all and hope for the best.
That’s all I have for now. I’m going to try to get it all cleaned up and shot with some paint and maybe even start getting it put back together over Christmas break.

Started down that process myself, but without the benefit of a lift. Used Masterseries coating, which is nice and thick but can easily make a mess of bolt holes (although can be said for most undercoating products as well.) One thing I will say is that the rear subframe bushings, are reasonably affordable if you're gonna go that route, but honestly they don't see much load and don't really go bad. I'd be more concerned with the bushings and ball joints in the rear arms than the rear subframe to body bushings.

[Uniuno]

I bought a whole case of permatex rubberized undercoating when I did the white car and have a lot left over. I'll use that on the shell and Rust Tough spray paint on all the rest of it. I wanted an aluminum color for the aluminum parts so I used Aluminum Rust tough on the thermostat housing and oil feed and return lines. Unfortunately it's more like a chrome paint and it smelled awful. The silver on the valve covers and turbo heat shields was brake caliper paint. I like it a lot more, so I'll probably use that in more places.

I agree, I actually have 3/4 of a spare set of new subframe bushings in a box on the shelf. I installed one on my white car, they weren't really in bad shape but I got a good deal on them so "while I was in there.." The one I changed was such a pain I didn't want to do the other three. Especially because as you say, they don't see much load. I'm more concerned with the rubber washer cap things that go between the body and the subframe itself.

[murphys_law]

Cool start. sub'd

[familyMAN]

Engine looks awesome. Great work. Most don't pull off color change on parts while keeping a stock'ish look.

[sergechronos]

Especially because as you say, they don't see much load. I'm more concerned with the rubber washer cap things that go between the body and the subframe itself.

Are yours cracking and worn?


Engine looks awesome. Great work. Most don't pull off color change on parts without keeping a stock'ish look.

I love how clean and OE-ish it looks, very classy (even if it is green ;) )

[Uniuno]

Are yours cracking and worn?



I love how clean and OE-ish it looks, very classy (even if it is green ;) )

They have pretty much fallen apart, I'll grab some pictures tonight.

It won't be green much longer!

[Uniuno]

Last night I did some cleaning on the subframe. Just started on the top side. I ground down what was left of the mounting tabs for the AWS system and threw some paint on it. I have more work to do underneath so I'll flip it over and do that side tonight. I'll have to wait 48 hours for the paint to off-gas before doing another coat so I'll repaint the whole thing in it's entirety in a couple days.

Grinder, wire wheel, flap wheel, scotch brite, then paint. Man I wish I had a bead blaster!

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0520_zpsv35vkpgl.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0520_zpsv35vkpgl.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0521_zpsjmqh4znl.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0521_zpsjmqh4znl.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0522_zps6txwla95.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0522_zps6txwla95.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0523_zpsoiwzsqko.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0523_zpsoiwzsqko.jpg.html)

Remember, the point of this build is not to have a perfect show piece, it's to protect it so I can drive it. Snow included!

[Street_Chally73]

Very nice progress so far!

If you want a cheap way to bead blast, pick up one of those $15 cast aluminum blasting guns on eBay, regulate it to about 90 PSI, throw a tarp down & build a small "walk-in" blasting room out of some clear plastic sheeting and some 2x4s. The tarp on the floor can be used to reclaim the beads & you could be blasting for less than $50-$60, provided you already have at least a 60-gal. air compressor. ;)

[Uniuno]

Thanks!

I'll definitely look into that. I have a 60 gallon compressor but I need to upgrade my hose system to get 90 psi at the gun. I have a 50ft flexzilla hose reel fed by a 20-30ft rubber hose. Not ideal to say the least but it has been getting me by.

[Uniuno]

Are yours cracking and worn?

They're pretty sad looking. One also appears to be missing... gotta be around somewhere.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0529_zpsbfrecvqd.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0529_zpsbfrecvqd.jpg.html)

[Uniuno]

Cleaned and painted, two coats. I didn't do the upper arms because they are being replaced with adjustable arms.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0530_zpsbjxufxv0.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0530_zpsbjxufxv0.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0532_zpsgbwpxikn.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0532_zpsgbwpxikn.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0533_zps5ej31gzw.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0533_zps5ej31gzw.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0534_zps4mgmsvbw.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0534_zps4mgmsvbw.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0535_zpsswwliggq.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0535_zpsswwliggq.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0536_zpssoxvr76e.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0536_zpssoxvr76e.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0538_zpsao9adcoe.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0538_zpsao9adcoe.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0539_zpsfs9z93gq.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0539_zpsfs9z93gq.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0540_zpsvfpcvjjg.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0540_zpsvfpcvjjg.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0541_zpsim88ubly.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0541_zpsim88ubly.jpg.html)

Now to flip it over and do the other side.

[green-lantern]

Sell it and buy a green vr4 :suspect:

[Uniuno]

I didn't get as much done over Christmas break as I would have liked, but progress is still being made.

I ordered Tein S-Tech lowering springs from Maximal last week and they showed up today. One of the M14 bolts for the upper control arms broke so I ordered some new ones from McMasterCarr. Also ordered some new sway bar end links for all four corners from RockAuto. I still need to order front sway bar bushings and throttle body seals from Ninja. I'm also working on a fuel system order from Summit, I keep forgetting to check my current inventory of AN fittings though.

Anyway, here's a few pictures..

Got the underside of the subframe painted, AWS delete arms installed, and the sway bar mounted.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0593_zpszpf79u5c.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0593_zpszpf79u5c.jpg.html)

Throwing some primer and silver paint on some parts.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0592_zps7wx7oe02.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0592_zps7wx7oe02.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0590_zpsx6imfcsk.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0590_zpsx6imfcsk.jpg.html)

Removed the fuel tank and began cleaning under the rear of the car. Still need to drop the brake and fuel lines.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0550_zps6wuug7y9.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0550_zps6wuug7y9.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0551_zpsqms2dqiu.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0551_zpsqms2dqiu.jpg.html)

I pulled the front bumper to remove the ABS pump and found the passenger side intercooler was bent out of shape from whatever fender bender this car was involved in. The passenger side headlight bucket has been replaced and there are some scratches on the fender. Damage doesn't look like it was very bad, but I'll need to replace the intercooler.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0586_zpsmlm9uvrd.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0586_zpsmlm9uvrd.jpg.html)

Lots of cleaning left to do.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0583_zpsyh5ej4bf.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0583_zpsyh5ej4bf.jpg.html)

[AdamVR4]

I appreciate what you're doing here. I've got a couple stock smic's that came off a 1993 Texas car (not mine). They're in above average condition and I don't mind splitting them up, but I'd prefer to ship both to get thme outta my garage. You cover shipping and I'll be happy. Pm me if interested.

[Uniuno]

PM sent, I'll do you a favor and take both lol. Thank you sir!

[Uniuno]

I spent the last couple evenings cleaning my rear end.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0600_zpsmqoepfsz.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0600_zpsmqoepfsz.jpg.html)

May not look like it is very clean, but it is good enough for paint to stick to. Had to remind myself, it's not a show-piece, not even going to be able to see it. I also ordered seals for it, I'll probably wait to install them once it's in the car. Depends how long it takes for them to get here I guess.

Once the silver dries I'll tape it off and paint the rest of the punkin black. I was even thinking about painting the whole thing silver to make spotting leaks easier, but I think I'll stick to black.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0602_zpskl8c4gmd.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0602_zpskl8c4gmd.jpg.html)

I got my sway bar end links in and installed in the rear. Also got my fuel line and fittings. I'm pretty excited about them. Going to run -6 from pump to rail. The factory feed line nuts are seized up tighter than a bull's ass at fly-time. So the whole thing is getting replaced. Need to find somewhere local to TIG the bulkhead fitting to the fuel hat.

[Uniuno]

Got a decent amount done over the weekend. When I removed the rear bumper all but one of the bolts in the upper rail broke off. Got all but one of them out, score. Filled all the engine and rear diff mounts with window weld, cleaned up the front subframe and got some paint on it. It doesn't look all that great, it's really porous from the rust damage, but it will do.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0616_zps01tlismx.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0616_zps01tlismx.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0619_zps6wt4kfqf.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0619_zps6wt4kfqf.jpg.html)

I got excited and almost threw the axles in, but then I remembered I'm still waiting on new seals.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0621_zps3evpet6e.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0621_zps3evpet6e.jpg.html)

3 of the studs on the bottom broke off. Made some new ones. Going to cut them off later to the correct length.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0633_zps5fwrckpy.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0633_zps5fwrckpy.jpg.html)

I think these were bolts for the front driveshaft from my Dakota. Same M8 1.25 threads to match the original studs. I'll cut them to the correct length later.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0635_zpsbznpxhwr.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0635_zpsbznpxhwr.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0637_zpstzpwwx1p.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0637_zpstzpwwx1p.jpg.html)

I've definitely made prettier welds, but they'll hold.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0638_zpst9uhzbni.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0638_zpst9uhzbni.jpg.html)

[familyMAN]

Subframe looks great!

[Uniuno]

I appreciate what you're doing here. I've got a couple stock smic's that came off a 1993 Texas car (not mine). They're in above average condition and I don't mind splitting them up, but I'd prefer to ship both to get thme outta my garage. You cover shipping and I'll be happy. Pm me if interested.

Just received them yesterday. They are super clean, thank you so much!

If that's what cars look like in Texas I'm going to stop buying them from up here in Michigan.

[Uniuno]

Subframe looks great!

Thanks!

I'm working on cleaning up all the surface rust underneath the car so I can put the subframe back in. I need to go get new brake lines to run back there too.

[Chris@Rvengeperformance]

I know its a lot of work to do all of that and I really respect this kind of work. Anyone can bolt bigger injectors on to an old car, it is another thing to make a car "nice".

[CoreyB]

Looking great. Nice job saving it!

[AdamVR4]

Just received them yesterday. They are super clean, thank you so much!

If that's what cars look like in Texas I'm going to stop buying them from up here in Michigan.

Really glad to hear it! Looking forward to seeing pics of them cleaned up and installed.

Central Texas is pretty far from snow or seawater so yeah, the cars here show little to no rust. The wife really wants a home on the coast, so I perodically need to remind her why we'll just have to have 2 :p

[Uniuno]

Small update. I got the underbody undercoated finally.

This is apparently the last picture from this angle I took before painting, It was much cleaner than this..

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0650_zpscotxau56.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0650_zpscotxau56.jpg.html)

There was a little brown on the pinch welds, but the rest of it was surprisingly clean.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0654_zpsziqa1ehb.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0654_zpsziqa1ehb.jpg.html)

I must have gone through about four cans of rubberized undercoating. I didn't do the parts on each side because the factory undercoat was still in good shape. I hit the frame rails, the areas where the lines go, and the tunnel.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0655_zpsjo2ctwn8.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0655_zpsjo2ctwn8.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0657_zpsjdmnzo0b.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0657_zpsjdmnzo0b.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0658_zps0yge6box.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0658_zps0yge6box.jpg.html)

Overall I'm happy with how it turned out. It looks good, and it sounds slightly dampened when you knock on it. So hopefully it will help keep some road noise out.

Despite wearing eye protection I ended up getting a piece of metal in my eye. I usually can get that kind of thing out with a strong magnet. Unfortunately I blinked a few times and couldn't feel it anymore. Later that day it started bothering me a bit but I went to sleep anyway. Long story short I ended up going to an eye specialist and they had to drill the piece out of my eyeball. Fun times!

Family is coming in town tonight for my GF's law school graduation so I won't get to work on the car again until Monday.

[Uniuno]

Got the rear wheel wells undercoated and the very front subframe cross-member cleaned and painted.

Started pulling off some other parts on the front end last night so I can get it cleaned up and painted. Whoever did the headlight bucket replacement did a pretty crappy job. The bolts for the bumper didn't line up so they just put screws in it. They also didn't paint the welds on the underside which of course allowed it to rust.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0664_zpsjxfdz915.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0664_zpsjxfdz915.jpg.html)
http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0665_zpsoldg6dkq.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0665_zpsoldg6dkq.jpg.html)

I'll probably just clean it up and repaint it. I don't think it's worth the hassle of putting in a whole new bucket. If it comes to that I might get rid of the pop ups all together. But I kinda like the pop ups so they're staying for now.

[AdamVR4]

I think my jaw hit my desk reading about the eye-metal removal.

On those bucket welds, the inside will look similar, so exterior paint won't make it perfectly protected but it will help and certainly improve the aesthetics.

[Uniuno]

I think my jaw hit my desk reading about the eye-metal removal.

On those bucket welds, the inside will look similar, so exterior paint won't make it perfectly protected but it will help and certainly improve the aesthetics.

Yeah, it is amazing how quick eyeballs heal. I was pretty much down for the one day. The next day I could still tell something had happened, but it was barely noticeable. A couple days later it's like nothing ever happened.

That's very true, not sure there's much I can do about the inside.

[familyMAN]

Spray some rust inhibitor on inside through holes. Drill a couple more if you need to to reach a spot.

[Uniuno]

There's a hole right above those spots. I'll be able to treat it from there, I just won't be able to clean it very well. I"ll do my best.

[Uniuno]

This weekend's progress. Got the brake lines, new -6 fuel line, and amplifier power cable installed into the undertray.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0677_zps6caufsjq.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0677_zps6caufsjq.jpg.html)

Got it and the rear end installed. Also changed all the seals in the rear end and installed the axles.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0682_zpsatnulykz.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0682_zpsatnulykz.jpg.html)

Installed the exhaust heat shield too, one of the mounting tabs rusted off so I'll have to fix that bit.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0684_zps1vneaz8t.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0684_zps1vneaz8t.jpg.html)

Cleaned up the struts and got the Tein lowering springs installed.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0683_zpsslelz6m9.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0683_zpsslelz6m9.jpg.html)

Had to make this little piece of hard brake line to finish off the brake line on this side. The other side was in good shape, oddly enough. The whole driver's side had to be replaced. It was made from a 25ft length of coil so there wouldn't be any joints.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0685_zps6y0cxwhh.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0685_zps6y0cxwhh.jpg.html)

[Unlogic]

This car is going through a real transformation, nice work dude!

[Greg E]

Subscribed! Loving the progress!

[Uniuno]

Got the other sides of the pinch welds taken care of. Cleaned them up and straightened out a few bends.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0691_zpsiv4f6azs.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0691_zpsiv4f6azs.jpg.html)

I apparently suck at before and after pictures, this is the other side of the car. lol

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0690_zpsusuo7wgd.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0690_zpsusuo7wgd.jpg.html)

Here's how I spent my weekend. Scotch briting the whole engine bay. Some of the rougher areas required the wire wheel and a grinder. Cleaned it all up with mineral spirits and then blew it dry.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0740_zpsagcy9pmm.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0740_zpsagcy9pmm.jpg.html)

I painted the bottom half with a flat black and the upper with a gloss black.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0741_zpsjhyxxmd4.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0741_zpsjhyxxmd4.jpg.html)

All done. Need to touch up a few spots, but otherwise it came out decent.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0742_zpsu0ce5t6m.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0742_zpsu0ce5t6m.jpg.html)

[familyMAN]

Badass! Taking it to shootout this year? ;)

[Uniuno]

I hope! I'd rather take the 3k, but if it isn't up to snuff I'll be taking this one.

[Greg E]

Brake booster is the easiest thing in the engine bay to remove. Just 4x 12mm nuts and the pin that attaches it to the pedal are all you need to remove. Give you access to that space for painting.

I frequently remove the brake booster when doing rear turbo swaps. Makes the job go 20x faster.

[Uniuno]

I was going to remove it, but with the car being on the lift I can't get the door open far enough to get in, let alone contort my 6'5" self under the dash to get to the nuts. It's going to need a respray too, the paint didn't take to the top part for some reason. I keep having to remind myself, this isn't a show car, I'm just painting it to protect it. I live on a dirt road, if I make it too nice I won't want to drive it.

In other news:

I'm tossing around the idea of having the car wrapped. Depends how much my painter wants to paint it. I don't have the facility at the moment to paint it myself unfortunately.

[futurevr4man]

Wrapping is expensive. I'm curious what you get quoted... but getting a decent paint job was cheaper than what I was quoted.

[Uniuno]

There are a couple places around here that do it. One place said ~1300 for the average car. I'd imagine the stealth would be a little more due to all of its complexities. I don't think I could get it painted much cheaper than that.

[Greg E]

I was going to remove it, but with the car being on the lift I can't get the door open far enough to get in, let alone contort my 6'5" self under the dash to get to the nuts. It's going to need a respray too, the paint didn't take to the top part for some reason. I keep having to remind myself, this isn't a show car, I'm just painting it to protect it. I live on a dirt road, if I make it too nice I won't want to drive it.

Makes sense.

[Uniuno]

Lots of progress made, not much that is picture worthy. I finished undercoating and painting the front wheel wells. I cleaned the front knuckles, brake shields and lower control arms and got some paint on them. Painted some miscellaneous brackets as well as the cruise control/throttle cables.

I mounted the lowering springs on the front shocks. Turns out the shocks are bad, didn't bother wasting time cleaning and painting them, they're going to have to be replaced.

Got the front subframe mounted, FWD power steering rack installed, and installed the sway bar and LCAs.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0757_zpshgtc6eil.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0757_zpshgtc6eil.jpg.html)

I also grabbed the fwd PS reservoir out of my parts car out back. It was like 0 degrees outside, so that sucked. Put the cowl back together and installed pretty much everything else that I could in the engine bay.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0756_zpsomdudzo2.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0756_zpsomdudzo2.jpg.html)

I misplaced my fuel filter hanger, so I'll have to spend more time hunting that down.

[futurevr4man]

Will the PS reservoir from a FWD work for an AWD rack with AWS deleted?

[Chris@Rvengeperformance]

Will the PS reservoir from a FWD work for an AWD rack with AWS deleted?

yes...

[Uniuno]

Yep, you need the hose from the FWD that goes from the bottom of the reservoir to the lower oil cooler line. The AWD one is too long and bent goofy. Or just a new hose altogether. I haven't connected the top line yet, I'm pretty sure it will work though. Also, the AWD reservoir has the sensor in the cap, I don't think it will fit the FWD reservoir. At quick glance it doesn't look like it.

[Uniuno]

This pleases me.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0765_zpsxr1qygot.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0765_zpsxr1qygot.jpg.html)

[Chris@Rvengeperformance]

Yep, you need the hose from the FWD that goes from the bottom of the reservoir to the lower oil cooler line. The AWD one is too long and bent goofy. Or just a new hose altogether. I haven't connected the top line yet, I'm pretty sure it will work though. Also, the AWD reservoir has the sensor in the cap, I don't think it will fit the FWD reservoir. At quick glance it doesn't look like it.

I think I just cut that hose and made it work, no the cap won't fit. It should unplug nearby. I think unplugged makes the dash light go out IIRC.

[Greg E]

I think I just cut that hose and made it work, no the cap won't fit. It should unplug nearby. I think unplugged makes the dash light go out IIRC.
Correct. On non-AWS cars that harness connector is still there. Just nothing plugged into it. The dash bulb is also missing from the cluster.

[futurevr4man]

I think I just cut that hose and made it work, no the cap won't fit. It should unplug nearby. I think unplugged makes the dash light go out IIRC.

So you mean to say, the light will not come on if you're low on PS fluid? Seems like a nice clean up mod.

[Chris@Rvengeperformance]

So you mean to say, the light will not come on if you're low on PS fluid? Seems like a nice clean up mod.

yes, from what I recall.

[Uniuno]

My clutch wasn't supposed to be here until the 23rd so it was a great surprise to see it sitting on my doorstep when I got home from work yesterday. It's an XTD stage 2. Full face friction surface and a heavier than stock pressure plate. Should be good for a DD car with 15gs. The price can't be beat. I have the stage 3 XTD in my other car, so far so good.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0768_zpspn5m5gqo.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0768_zpspn5m5gqo.jpg.html)

I got the transmission in. I didn't spend too much time cleaning it up. The shift lever mechanism doesn't move very freely. I'm going to try putting motor oil in it during warm up and then switch out to synchromesh. If that doesn't work, I have two spare 5 speeds in the shed, I'll try a different one. Once I figure out which transmissions have what issues I can take them apart and swap parts until I get a good one.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0769_zps496cxgk7.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0769_zps496cxgk7.jpg.html)

[Uniuno]

I was slacking on some of the pictures from this weekend's work. I'll share what I have..

I took my fuel hat to the welder to have the bulkhead fitting welded on. One day I'll get my own tig, I just don't have enough of a need for one. I can do most of what I need with my little mig.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0772_zpsb2aicemx.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0772_zpsb2aicemx.jpg.html)

Got my oil cooler mounted and lines made and routed. I also put the radiator shrouding and front crash bar on, but I didn't get a pic of that. Not missing much, honestly.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0774_zpsmhodtjzu.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0774_zpsmhodtjzu.jpg.html)

There's some funny business going on with moog. Same part number:

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0775_zps07zbh7x3.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0775_zps07zbh7x3.jpg.html)

Both hubs are back in and mounted up to the knuckles. I got them from Oreilly's and they didn't have studs like the OEM ones do, so I had to order bolts and washers from McMaster.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0776_zpsovfybbup.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0776_zpsovfybbup.jpg.html)

I also mounted the caliper on one side and started shaving down the face of it to clear my wheels. It's getting uncomfortable with the amount I've shaved down. I really don't want to spend the money on 2G calipers, but if I have to I will I guess.

Started on the exhaust. Ran into some issues. I figured I would, I did buy it off Egay after all. I ordered an entire turbo back exhaust system, I already had a downpipe, but it would need a flex section and an 02 bung welded in. The whole kit was cheap enough to out-weigh not using the other one. I'll just sell it later. I also bought two quad tip mufflers, but only one showed up. I have an inquiry in with the seller.

Going to cut the fart can off and use this muffler. I'll cut it back as close to the bend as I can to get it to not stick out. Trust me on this one.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0770_zpsiopr8rh9.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0770_zpsiopr8rh9.jpg.html)

The new down pipe doesn't fit for shit. The flanges are a good quarter inch off and at a bit of an angle. I have an inquiry in with this seller as well. Don't know what they'll say, but I might just get a small flex section to put in to make up the difference.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0780_zpszhpjovqo.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0780_zpszhpjovqo.jpg.html)


Engine wiring, starter, transfer case, driveshaft, and engine bay fuel lines are all done too.

[Alex3000gt]

What's going on with the boost gauge in that wastegate/turbo photo? Is it plugged into something, an air line? Whatcha doing there?

That rear diff/steering assembly! :scared:

[Uniuno]

Hey Alex!

The gauge is T'd in there so that I can see what pressure the wastegates open. I was getting them to open at the same time.

Lol yeah, it was really rough.

[Alex3000gt]

Ohhhhh, okay.

I thought the stock spring opened at 7PSIG, is that what you got? How far off were they from each other?

[Alex3000gt]

P.S. I want 15Gs. Already have a Walbro, the Chrome ECU. Need: Fuel injectors, turbos and a tune.

I drove a friend's 400whp G8 last weekend and got peanut butter and jealous.

[Turbo Beast]

Looks awesome man!!

I feel like such a slacker looking at all this

[Uniuno]

Ohhhhh, okay.

I thought the stock spring opened at 7PSIG, is that what you got? How far off were they from each other?

The wastegates came off for the rebuild, so they had to be set up from scratch. IIRC they were pretty close to 7.


P.S. I want 15Gs. Already have a Walbro, the Chrome ECU. Need: Fuel injectors, turbos and a tune.

I drove a friend's 400whp G8 last weekend and got peanut butter and jealous.

I'm still collecting parts for this, I just bought the Chrome ECU. I have injectors but I'm going to send them out to get cleaned. I'm going to do first start completely stock (minus turbos) and then start adding in the MAFT, Chrome, Injectors, etc.


Looks awesome man!!

I feel like such a slacker looking at all this

Thanks!

[Unlogic]

Starting stock and then replacing part by part is a good strategy. Makes it much simpler to diagnose bad parts and isolate problems. The only downside is that you have to change the tune multiple times but with chrome thats quite easy to handle.

I started with the ECU and then worked my way through the system replacing fuel pump, fpr, injectors, maf, turbos, coilpack hotwire and so on.

[Uniuno]

I haven't been very motivated to get this thing done lately, not sure why either. It is getting so close!

I had to deal with the down pipe not fitting correctly. The studs that held it on were either too rusty or they broke off when I removed them. Either way they don't exist anymore. I was going to use some spare camshaft bolts to hold the down pipe on, but holy cow is it a pain to install a downpipe with gaskets without studs. So I made some new ones. I ordered bolts from McMaster and cut the heads off. I welded rings around them so I could bottom them out on the engine side.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0930_zpsdvtyqmbf.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0930_zpsdvtyqmbf.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0931_zpswun9kwnj.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0931_zpswun9kwnj.jpg.html)

This is how far it is off without gaskets.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0933_zpsgymrtt5o.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0933_zpsgymrtt5o.jpg.html)

I was going to put in a flex section, but I apparently ordered the wrong size. In my impatience, I went to Oreilly's and just picket up a coupler and tacked it in place.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0936_zpsj3jlixgf.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0936_zpsj3jlixgf.jpg.html)

Originally I was going to take it to have it TIG welded, but then I figured 1. they aren't going to back purge it, 2. it's not like it's stainless to stainless, 3. it's not like this is an expensive down pipe to begin with. So I welded it up with my trusty flux core welder, functional, but not pretty.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0941_zpsnf3a5laf.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0941_zpsnf3a5laf.jpg.html)

I threw some high temp exhaust paint on it to keep it from rusting. I did the tacking without the gaskets so it would be a tight fit. The joint isn't stressed at all, it is very happy to be there.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0943_zpshuedlwky.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0943_zpshuedlwky.jpg.html)

[Uniuno]

Got the intercoolers cleaned up and painted. This is one (thanks Adam!) of the new ones next to the tweaked one.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0922_zps88vkbrot.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0922_zps88vkbrot.jpg.html)

Straightened out the fins and threw it on.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0920_zpsiug4thfz.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0920_zpsiug4thfz.jpg.html)

I put the shroud on with some HVAC tape to keep the air flowing through rather than around.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0921_zpsecqass8o.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0921_zpsecqass8o.jpg.html)

I don't like the look of the blank calipers, so I picked up some brembo decals. I had to shave the calipers down and run a 3mm wheel spacer to clear the wheels. The wheels clear fine on 2nd gen brakes that sit a little further out, but I'm doing the best to use what I have.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0923_zpstt11knf9.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0923_zpstt11knf9.jpg.html)

Cleaned the fuel tank up and hit it with some paint. It's in the car now. I also ran the wire for the fuel pump hot wire, just need to install the filler neck and the the fuel system will be all wrapped up.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_0929_zpssptnqf6x.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_0929_zpssptnqf6x.jpg.html)

I ordered new KYB gr2s to replace my blown out shocks. No ECS though. oh well. They should be in today. I have a four day weekend, so I'm hoping to start it for the first time in 15 years.

[CoreyB]

Nice work, keep the updates coming!!

[murphys_law]

Nice, I like the tape around the cooler shroud.


Sent from my iPhone 6s+ using Tapatalk

[fastbikes76]

IC Ducting is key... Makes a huge difference im opinion. With my FMIC I used a stock rad duct that I trimmed and sealed with foam weather strip. I also welded on a duct to the actual IC so every ounce of air entering the front bumper had no where to go but through the core first and then the cooling rad.


Nice work 8-)



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Uniuno]

The four day weekend for Easter went a long way to making progress, though now that I think about it, I worked more on other cars than I did the stealth. I received the shocks that I ordered Thursday and started putting them on when I got home from work. Everything went smooth. Installed the front brake lines, intercooler pipes, radiator, new hoses, and other minor engine bay type things. Battery was a freebie from my parts car, it was only a year old, so I threw it in and put a charger on it.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0946_zpsfkppursy.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0946_zpsfkppursy.jpg.html)

I took advantage of the nice weather to open the garage door to get some light to take some "after" pictures. I'll have to line them up with the "before" pictures, but here they are. Still have a few things to do, like cut off the undertray studs that I welded on. Unfortunately, I never received the other black muffler, so for now I'm going to rock the fart cans. The silver rear shocks are now black, but other than that, this is what it is.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0947_zpsdv0ksxl2.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0947_zpsdv0ksxl2.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0948_zpssyvuhh4k.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0948_zpssyvuhh4k.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0949_zpsvotqxfjc.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0949_zpsvotqxfjc.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0950_zps5iav1bje.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0950_zps5iav1bje.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0951_zpsau57hlbs.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0951_zpsau57hlbs.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0952_zpsvswjbpjw.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0952_zpsvswjbpjw.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0953_zpsrvncqogm.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0953_zpsrvncqogm.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0954_zpsgn1g1adb.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0954_zpsgn1g1adb.jpg.html)

First start is always a little nerve wracking, especially after so many parts of the car have been touched, and the car hasn't been started in so long. Started pouring in coolant and it started dripping out the bottom, apparently I forgot to tighten up the rear turbo coolant lines, oops. I left the CAS and the power wire to the fuel pump unplugged to build oil pressure before actually starting it. Cranked it over for a minute until the gauge started to show some oil pressure, plugged in the CAS and fuel pump, tried to start it, Nothing. Scratched my head for a minute, grabbed the ol' lady to crank it so I could check for voltage at the fuel pump. It was the only thing at this point that wasn't stock, so I figured that had to be the problem. Sure enough, the relay wasn't getting power to trip. Turns out I had unplugged the harness from inside the rear quarter panel area. Plugged it in and it fired right up.

Had my buddy come over to help bleed the brakes and work on other things. Three of the four corners bled out no problem, the driver's side rear wouldn't get any fluid at all. We disconnected it from the new OEM prop valve and nothing was coming out. So now I'm thinking my prop valve is bad. Maybe it will free up after a drive, brake pedal is firm, so I have brakes.

Took it for a spin up the road, and of course being immature and lacking of any self control, I leaned into 1st gear real quick to build boost and see what it will do. It spun the tires on the dirt real quick and I let out of it.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0959_zpsb8ymygit.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0959_zpsb8ymygit.jpg.html)

I have some wiring and vacuum hoses to clean up as well as install the PCV valve that I'm waiting on, but it least it runs and I can move it around.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0960_zpswcvgorrr.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Underbody/DSC_0960_zpswcvgorrr.jpg.html)

[familyMAN]

Nice work on the downpipe mod. Came out very nice. Engine bay and undercarriage is looking great also. Green 1g FTW!

[Unlogic]

Nice work, the pace of this project is impressive! :thumbup1:

In the time you have restored this car all I have managed to do on mine is mount a new rear spoiler and fill some holes :rolleyes:

[Uniuno]

Thanks guys!

I actually started the engine work last summer, it took a month or two. I kinda glossed over it because it had been a few months since I had even touched it. It got the full treatment though, oil pump up, refreshed heads, painted everything, etc. The shell I actually started on mid December and made good progress until mid February when I got busy with other things. I'm excited to get it painted now. If it were in better shape I'd consider leaving it as is, but it NEEDS paint. Can't wait to drive it!

[Beef6]

Gorgeous! Please say you are keeping it the factory green when repainted?!

[Uniuno]

Thanks!

Sorry, not a fan of the green. FamilyMAN's green must be different than this one, it actually looks good. This one doesn't seem to have any metallic in it. I have my heart set on the B5 blue the new Challengers/Chargers come in.

My biggest hold up is the wing. I don't like the banana, this one was leaking anyway, and not many other wings look good on the stealth. I have the spare wing from my 95 base, but it's too low and straight, putting it right above the straight tail light panel just doesn't look good to me. Too much straight on an otherwise curvy car. The exception is the combat wing. Gonzo has one on his stealth and I like it a lot. I just with they weren't 1000 bucks for one. For now I think I'll just go wingless.

[Greg E]

YES!!! One less green car!

[Turbo Beast]

Isn't there a cheaper knock-off wing?

[Uniuno]

The retrospec one is 850 plus shipping plus paint. The only reason I have one on my white car is because I got it for less than 400 bucks with the CF center section. If I come across another deal like that I'll jump all over it.

[familyMAN]

Losing Green and Banana! What's wrong with you??!

[Uniuno]

Long time no update. Most of the body parts have been off at the painters for 2 months. I knew he was busy when I dropped them off, but I was still hopeful that he'd get to them in that amount of time. He wasn't able to so I'm going a different route now. I ended up picking them up last Friday in exactly the same shape as dropped off.

In the meantime, the mobile window tint guy was coming to my workplace to tint some coworker's cars so I had him redo mine. They were all purple and ugly. Hard to tell from the outside though.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1038_zps3tn5iuqw.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1038_zps3tn5iuqw.jpg.html)

I'd really like to drive the car this year, so with parts in hand, I went and picked up some vinyl wrap from a local place.

The car had a few dings here and there and some rough paint. I figured the best thing to do was to sand it all down. I deleted the antenna hole while I was at it.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1044_zpsgpgkfqzn.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1044_zpsgpgkfqzn.jpg.html)

This side has had some work done before... hello bondo!

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1047_zpsnwn6qdyb.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1047_zpsnwn6qdyb.jpg.html)

I figured Now would be a good time to make the door jams match the engine bay. I taped off the stickers before painting.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1048_zpsfqo7xegv.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1048_zpsfqo7xegv.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1049_zpsv2jfb0zc.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1049_zpsv2jfb0zc.jpg.html)

I'm really dreading doing the hatch jams, but that's on the docket tonight.

[Uniuno]

I got the hatch off and scuffed. Scuffed the hatch jam and sanded the filler I used to fill a couple dings as well as the old radio antenna hole.

I'm running out of room in here.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1055_zpswvupvgtp.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1055_zpswvupvgtp.jpg.html)

Masked and scuffed, ready for paint

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1056_zps3o6uqu0t.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1056_zps3o6uqu0t.jpg.html)

No more antenna!

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1057_zpsxxane343.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1057_zpsxxane343.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1058_zpsa2pds9ow.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1058_zpsa2pds9ow.jpg.html)

Just need to tape and spray the hatch and doors. Going to start throwing vinyl on the car soon though. I'm pretty stoked about it. I wish I had made this decision a couple months ago. It would be done by now!

[Uniuno]

Finally got to start wrapping. It's my first time so I started with the easiest panel. Doing the roof in carbon fiber, I'll have enough left over for the headlight covers, so I might do those too. I have a few sets, so I can have the originals repainted black and switch them out as I please.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Wrap/DSC_1060_zpsqngxcobn.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Wrap/DSC_1060_zpsqngxcobn.jpg.html)

It actually went on surprisingly easy.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Wrap/Snapchat-7149788682291160367_zpscmsod02c.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Wrap/Snapchat-7149788682291160367_zpscmsod02c.jpg.html)

Trimmed up

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/Wrap/DSC_1063_zpsggscqkh8.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/Wrap/DSC_1063_zpsggscqkh8.jpg.html)

[Beef6]

Looks great, how big of a sheet did you sue for the roof? I am considering doing the same to my 1g since the black roof is chipped up.

[B-Man]

That roof looks really nice.

[Uniuno]

Thanks! The roof sheet was 3x5'. It was perfect size and only 45 bucks. I also bought a 5x50' sheet in blue for the body.

[Uniuno]

Got the first body panel done. It shows more of the poor body work behind it than I thought it would. Going to have to spend some more time prepping the rest of the car before wrapping.

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1064_zpszg2vyahp.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1064_zpszg2vyahp.jpg.html)

http://i491.photobucket.com/albums/rr275/uniuno/Stealth/DSC_1065_zpsapoahqq8.jpg (http://s491.photobucket.com/user/uniuno/media/Stealth/DSC_1065_zpsapoahqq8.jpg.html)

[Thonnawan]

I was planning on plasti dipping my car until I get it painted, but that wrap looks really impressive.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Beef6]

Cant wait to see how this turns out, although I still wish the green was staying...

[futurevr4man]

You think it's easier to plasti-dip or wrap? What all do you need? A heat gun and some razors?

[Uniuno]

I plasti-dipped my fridge and a few other small things like the emblem on the front of my Ram. I'm really not impressed with how it goes on, how it looks, or how it holds up.

The wrap on the other hand, takes a bit of frittering to get perfect. They make all kinds of tapes and tools to help with installation. To do that panel and the roof all I used was a knife and a suede squeegee. I really did my best not to overstretch the material. you really don't want it under tension, otherwise it will constantly be wanting to peel off. The heat gun was only used to seal the edges or to "self heal" the wrap in a spot or two.

There are a couple of really helpful youtube videos that I watched and mimicked the techniques.

If you are considering wrapping, I suggest watching videos by this guy:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aU8f8pi06Hs

[B-Man]

Josh, where did you get that wrap? Someplace local? How much was it? I'm considering doing a few trim pieces on my bike.

[B-Man]

Needs more pics.

[Uniuno]

I got the wrap locally at Metro Wraps on 18 mile in Sterling Heights. It was 450 for enough blue to do the car and 50 bucks for the carbon fiber to do the roof. I had enough left over from the roof to do Garrett's snake eyes and still have enough that I could do a set of pop up headlight covers. I'm abandoning the wrap idea and am going back to painting it so I'm not sure what I'm going to do with the leftover wrap. Lawn mower maybe?

I started the car up over the weekend and let it get up to temp. Sounds good except for a lifter tick that will probably go away once driven. I got the garage cleaned up over the weekend so I can start prepping the body. Still looking for some 2g 3000 side skirts for it.