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dodint
July 28th, 2016, 08:13 AM
On my hockey forum we took a diversion and started discussing the lineage of our car ownership. Reading through some other peoples lists jogged a lot of fun memories of cars that I've driven but didn't necessarily own. I thought I'd document my ownership history and then use the thread as my 'garage' thread even though I don't have anything very remarkable at the moment.

My complete evolution:

'93 Dodge Intrepid -Black/gray, loved it. As with all my Intrepids it was a great highway cruiser. Totaled it in a single vehicle accident.
'90 Dodge Daytona ES -Had the Mitsubishi V6. The car was surprisingly well kept and was owned by a Dodge mechanics wife. Unfortunately it was an automatic. Totaled it in a single vehicle accident the summer before my senior year of high school, even made the newspaper.
'85 Nissan 200SX -Notchback. Bought it from the classifieds somewhere in Pittsburgh for $400. I went to a salvage yard and found the same car and had them tow it to the house for $100 and I cobbled both cars together to make something half decent. I drove it all summer and then it died in a parking lot in Greensburg and never ran again. Scrapped it.
'85 Toyota Corolla -It was a urine brown color, terrible. First car I owned with a manual. Car was super clean but developed a 'no start in the rain' issue. Traded.
'98 Dodge Intrepid -The red one. First year of the second generation. I did a ton of work upgrading the interior with 300M parts including in-dash navigation. Totaled it in a single vehicle accident, closest I've ever come to dying on the road. lol at this being the only picture of it that I have handy.
1852

'00 Dodge Intrepid -The silver one. The peak of my Intrepid ownership. I took all of the upgrades off of the red car and put it in the silver one. Loved it. The undercarriage rusted out and I sold it to Carmax after buying the M6.
E24 BMW M6 -Bought it sight unseen on eBay. It ran for about two years and I did some modest repairs and upgrades. Then it developed a no-start issue and I never caught up with the project. Traded it to a better mechanic for the K75S.
1848

'80 Toyota Hilux -Paid about $250 for it and intended to use it as a beach cruiser in NC. I bought a fancy carburetor for it and never could install it right. Drove it from the farm I bought it at to the house and then never again. Scrapped.
1847

'01 Land Rover Discovery II -Loved this thing, but the 16mpg was atrocious. If I knew I was moving to WI I would've kept it in a heartbeat, though. I blew the motor, had it replaced, and then sold it to a co-worker a few months later who ultimately traded it in on a Nissan Xterra. Boooooo.
1853

E36 BMW 325is -I bought it to prep for BMWCCA SpecE36 and stripped it out shortly after buying it. Then Ashley was diagnosed with cancer and everything got put on hold. It's now my daily driver here in Wisconsin and has truly been an exceptional winter driver with a set of Blizzaks on it. I can't say enough about how well it handles in the snow. I still intend to race it one day but now that we're both pursuing doctorates at the moment it will likely take a few more years. I blew the motor a few months ago and put a used one in and now it pulls strong while getting 400mi to a tank. Great car, no car payment, love it.
1846

'13 MINI Cooper -Still have this car, though Ash took it and it is her current daily driver. (SOLD, replaced by Saab)
'08 BMW 650i (TRADED on '02 BMW 330Ci)
'98 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra (SOLD)
'82 Delorean DMC-12 (SOLD)
'03 Ford E-350 Super Duty XLT -6.8L V10, 12 passenger interior. (SOLD, replaced by Trailblazer)
'08 BMW Z4 3.0si (TRADED on M6)
'05 Dodge SRT-4 (SOLD)
'03 Chevrolet Trailblazer LT - (SOLD, replaced by X5)
'08 BMW X5 (TRADED on Chevy Volt)
'96 Saturn SL2 - Parts car for SC2, ran when parked.

'02 BMW 330Ci Dinan 3 -SpecE46 build.
'08 BMW M6
'10 Saab 9-3 SportCombi
'96 Saturn SC2 - Streetable endurance racer and TT racecar.
'17 Chevrolet Volt - PHEV, first EV of any kind for us.



2-wheels Good:

'75 Honda XR75
-First motorcycle, I had it when I was in 6th grade or so. Really fun when it ran. I distinctly remember my Dad trying it out and ending up flat on his back with the bike doing a cartwheel.
'04 Honda CBR600F4i
1854
-Great first bike, had a blast with it for a riding season. Sold it to a Navy Corpsman before going to Iraq, didn't realize I wouldn't have another bike again for 4 years.
'01 Honda RC-51
1849
-Outstanding machine, racing V-twin. I really wish I had the space and funds to keep it forever but I sold it on eBay to a gentleman that had it shipped to England. Really glad to have had some time with it but it's in better hands now.
'92 BMW K75S
1850
-Took this on trade from the E24 M6 project. A really remarkable bike that never showed it's age, helped Ashley fall in love with two-up riding.

'04 BMW R1200CLC
1851
-700lbs of cruising absurdity. BMW only made a cruiser style bike for 7 years. This was the top of the line, has integral ABS and had a full sound system with six disc changer but I removed it in lieu of my Bluetooth helmet system. First bike I've owned without a manual choke. Super comfortable and quiet bike. It's too far down the 'comfort' side of the spectrum for me, I have a K1300S in my future still. It does have about 120L of cargo capacity and that's not considering the luggage rack.

Ashley's complete evolution as well, I taught her to drive when she was 18 so she's owned these during the time we've dated and married:

Dodge Aires
Oldsmobile Alero
'05 Dodge Neon
-Bought brand new, ended up being a really great car actually. Though it's the only car I've ever seen that had power windows up front and crank in the rear.
E46 BMW 330xi
1855
-Photo taken on the Tennessee side of the Tail of the Dragon.
E60 BMW 535xi
1856
-Nice enough car, she loved it. Turbos have a nasty habit of shutting off when being worked hard like driving in 100F heat or driving over mountains. I think it's a fat slushbox pig but she makes the payments. It was t-boned in December but was not totaled and drives well.

Other cars I've had an affiliation with but didn't own:

Mercury Bobcat -I don't even remember it first hand, my Dad totaled it and broke his back. I'm a chip off the old block.
Honda Civic-Late 70s or early 80s. Significant in that the first word I ever spelled was "H-O-N-D-A." I vaguely remember riding in it from NC to MN and back to NC when I was 4, we got caught in a snowstorm in MN and it was the first time I ever saw snow.
Ford EXP -Crap. One popped up on BaT recently, though.
Chevy Citation X-11 -Crap, also. Was miserable on cold PA mornings.
Ford Escort -First car I ever drove, at about 12 years old. Had that funky fault indicator that I thought was cool because I was young and dumb.
Isuzu Trooper -Rode from Boston to Denver in the back of one when I was about 8 years old. Awesome. My Dad kept it until one of the rear wheels fell off while going down the road. Traded it in on a...
Ford Ranger -First vehicle I ever drove stick with. Not sure I had a license. My Dad pulled over near Mt. View Inn and I drove the rest of the way to Whitney, no warning or anything. Fun day.
VW Beetle -My Dad's project, rarely ran.
Ford Bronco II -Gas guzzling fun, rebuilt the motor with my Dad when I was 9 or so, first real experience wrenching. He traded it on a Nissan pickup for the gas savings.
'65 Ford Mustang -My Dad's current project, except now he can afford it so it's actually progressing.

I'll update this thread as I find more pictures of the older cars. I know I have them in deep storage on my NAS drive but not 'in the cloud' anywhere.
I don't expect much ownership change. I love not having a car payment. My DMC hunt will start in April 2017 after I'm done with my first year of law school. Too much happening right now, and winter is looming, so I'm not looking to do all the legwork to buy something like that and then put it directly into storage.
Ashley has said she wants to switch to leasing next, so I'm sure she'll start a 2-year cycle of likely German mid-line luxury leases in the next few years. Not necessarily BMWs, not sure what the company is doing, they're lost.

Feel free to discuss your experience with anything on here. They weren't all pretty but they all had a part in my automotive upbringing.

Kchrpm
July 28th, 2016, 08:47 AM
I slept in two of them :up:

novicius
July 28th, 2016, 10:21 AM
I love them M6's. :up: :up:

Time to try out Audi? Or even VW?


I love not having a car payment.
I concur. :rawk:

dodint
July 28th, 2016, 10:43 AM
She likes Audi so we'll probably go test a few when the time comes.

Personally I'm trying to push her toward a hybrid. I don't think she'll go full-Prius, but we rented a Prius for a few weeks when the E36 motor went and she liked the idea of it. I figure if she's already driving appliances anyway it might as well be one that has a super low operating cost.

The BMW ActiveHybrid 5 is the only thing that ticks every box, I think. But I imagine the lease on that will be in the $600-800 range. So she'll have to wait until we're done with school to even consider it. I'd like to drop her into an i3 but it has the same problem as the Prius, it has horrendous styling. And the i3 doesn't work anyway because her car is traditionally our long range car.

I'm so out of touch with new car stuff that I'm sure there is a real solution right in front of me. I'm just surprised at the lack of 1/2/3/4 series hybrids on offer from BMW. Given the model bloat a hybrid 3 series might be the next logical step from the E60 5-series.

Kchrpm
July 28th, 2016, 10:47 AM
She needs a Cadillac hybrid.

dodint
July 28th, 2016, 10:51 AM
She grew up in Cadillacs and her Mom still drives one. That's a legit suggestion.

Do they make an ATS Hybrid?

Kchrpm
July 28th, 2016, 10:53 AM
Nope. The only Cadillac hybrid right now is the overpriced Volt coupe. I thought she had said a big no to any and all Cadillacs.

Correction: that car isn't sold anymore, the CT6 hybrid is on the way, though.

novicius
July 28th, 2016, 10:54 AM
2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid: 43 City, 42 HWY. ;)

dodint
July 28th, 2016, 10:59 AM
I thought she had said a big no to any and all Cadillacs.


I don't know in what context this was said but I'm willing to bet it was before she bought and drove the E60. Now she's a pro at parallel parking a 5-series in city traffic so as long as the Caddy isn't bigger I'd be shocked if she didn't go for it.

She swears off of the 7 series too but I bet if I bought one for myself she'd love it. She just won't park it.

Tangential, but the seventh generation Impala SS is still on my short list of things to buy if the DMC thing goes tits up.

Phil_SS
July 28th, 2016, 11:07 AM
Tangential, but the seventh generation Impala SS is still on my short list of things to buy if the DMC thing goes tits up.

Thumbs up to either. A good friend of my cousin owned an Impala SS back when they were new and man was that a fun car.

If you wanted something in that vein that is a little newer with a bit more technology and more refinement a 2009 Pontiac G8 with Bluetooth would be a smart buy as well. :)

dodint
July 28th, 2016, 11:36 AM
My aunt had one of those Impala SS's back in the day. We used to ride in it going to the NASCAR race at Pocono. It would be doing 100mph and just kind of gliding down the road. With Ash having the 5-series there is no room for it in my life right now, but if she scaled down to an executive sized car I'd consider it.

21Kid
July 28th, 2016, 11:51 AM
Where do you have to parallel park in your neck of the woods?

dodint
July 28th, 2016, 11:56 AM
She works and goes to school in LaCrosse, WI which is, like, totally a 'city.'

I work on a desolate old Army base and could drive an RV to work and it wouldn't make a bit of difference.

21Kid
July 28th, 2016, 02:06 PM
Ah, that makes more sense. Although LaCrosse is still a really small city. ;) :p

thesameguy
July 29th, 2016, 12:02 AM
You should drive an old RV to work. There are some very favorable deals on them, and that way if Krunch needs a place to sleep again you'll be set! :up:

dodint
October 1st, 2016, 06:11 PM
I am in the process of taking a job downtown in a major metro area. I'll still be attending law school which means I'll have to drive the 11 hours to school a few times a year and I'll have to, on occasion, drive around downtown and maybe live there. Looking for an appliance, FWD/AWD for snow, automatic so I can sleep in traffic and so the wife can drive it. The DMC-12 is going to fulfill my fun motoring needs so I'm sold on going all out for mediocrity here.

For these reasons I'm thinking of jettisoning or mothballing the E36 and buying a smaller city car. Not looking to spend more than $12,000 and it still has to be 'interesting' enough for me not to be annoyed at the payment. My *first* reaction was to get the 3000GT VR-4 I always wanted, but I backed myself off that cliff for a myriad of reasons. I briefly looked into the lower trim offerings of the Fiat 500 and thought it was "ok." Then I noticed that 2nd Gen MINI Cooper's are going for that same price, and that got my blood pumping a bit. First gens seem to have cooling issues but I haven't seen that with the second gens. I watched a video of a guy who is 6'7" and fat fitting in it nicely, so I'm sold there.

So, 2012 MINI Cooper for $12,000. Sell me/scare me.

Yw-slayer
October 1st, 2016, 07:12 PM
No. Just stop it.

I never saw the appeal of a a FWD BMW with a cynical Mini badge on it. Always remember that they are the horrific organisation that came up with the hideous Mini Countryman (bigger than a mid-90s RAV4) and at least in HK tried to sell it as having "ELECTRIC" performance of 0-100km/h in 10 seconds.

The cars are subjected to cynical, disningenuous and disgraceful marketing which prioritises nostalgia over substance. I can't bring myself to even think about getting a car from a brand like that, no matter how good they are supposed to be.

dodint
October 1st, 2016, 07:16 PM
Well, I owned a BMW Discovery 2 and enjoyed it.

Yw-slayer
October 1st, 2016, 08:24 PM
Still better than a Mini.

I can only conclude that Mini owners think that owning a Mini makes them look "cool". Some of my good friends are Mini owners/drivers. One even has a Countryman with a Union Jack roof and wing mirrors. The other one thinks that his R53 Cooper with JCW upgrade will eventually be recognised as a future classic simply because of the JCW upgrade and because it's allegedly the only one in HK in BR Green and with a white roof (which meant he took 18 months to find) and doesn't rev the engine beyond 2500rpm. On the plus side, he says he hates the recent ones as they look like dead fish. Which is true.

No. JUST SAY NO TO MINI OWNERSHIP.

Random
October 1st, 2016, 08:28 PM
They have to be maintained like a German car, FWIW. You've done the BMW thing, so you're at least mentally prepared for that. ;)

Two anecdotal points:
Friend of ours has owned an 04 S from new and loves it. It's the longest she's owned any car, by far.

I raced against a nicely set up 2011 non-S. He got 40+mpg for the whole trip to Nationals, in addition to kicking my ass on the autocross courses. :up: You'll have to decide for yourself if having a car with less horsepower than your bike is ok, though. ;)

edit for YW: keep in mind that the US doesn't ever* get the cool hot hatches from anywhere, so the MINI, in addition to being a stylistic statement, is also a pretty good choice for people who like a little zip in their commute.

https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13332985_10154233699006613_6360315215079116002_n.j pg?oh=6138311a55fba512b26804cfc9cec555&oe=5876F987

*the FiST is an outlier. :p

dodint
October 1st, 2016, 10:22 PM
To Russ's last point, there are zero new Sciroccos on Autotrader here because we DIDN'T GET IT.

Godson
October 1st, 2016, 11:34 PM
Who the fuck wants a VW?

Yw-slayer
October 2nd, 2016, 06:49 AM
edit for YW: keep in mind that the US doesn't ever* get the cool hot hatches from anywhere, so the MINI, in addition to being a stylistic statement, is also a pretty good choice for people who like a little zip in their commute.

But the MINI is NOT a "cool hot hatch". Hate hate hate hate hate hate.

Seriously. Almost anything other than that. Surely 500 Abarth, Mazda3 are the answer. Or 2007 Legacy GT or hawknose WRX/STI. Or just buy the 3000GT VR-4. PLEASE I'M BEGGING YOU

dodint
October 2nd, 2016, 06:57 AM
It's funny that all the things YW loathes about the car are things that aren't even on my radar.

$12k gets you a Fiat 500 Pop, maybe a Lounge. Certainly not an Abarth.

Maybe I just enjoy the familiarity. When I look at the interior there are pieces from the E36 and E60 parts bins plainly visible.

novicius
October 2nd, 2016, 07:22 AM
I loved my R53 Cooper S -- but it did suffer from electrical gremlins.

TheBenior
October 2nd, 2016, 07:41 AM
$12k gets you a Fiat 500 Pop, maybe a Lounge. Certainly not an Abarth.
Maybe not new, but if you're already thinking about buying used European hatchbacks of questionable reliability, $12-13k will buy you used 2013 500 Abarths all day long within 150 miles of Chicago (and even higher mileage 2014s).

dodint
October 2nd, 2016, 08:25 AM
I'll take a look, but they weren't there in the Pit-DC cooridor a few days ago. Though I wasn't searching specifically for them either, just browsing Truecar and Carmax with Keith.

dodint
October 2nd, 2016, 09:59 AM
This would be decent: http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?=65926297&showcaseListingId=427285076&listingId=438874094

I found about 4 of them in my search radius, which includes NOVA. Problem with the car above is that it's a manual, which I'm not doing for utility purposes. Doesn't seem to be a lot of Abarth automatics, but there are, unsurprisingly, a plethora of MINI's with slushboxes.

Random
October 2nd, 2016, 11:08 AM
But the MINI is NOT a "cool hot hatch". Hate hate hate hate hate hate.

Seriously. Almost anything other than that. Surely 500 Abarth, Mazda3 are the answer. Or 2007 Legacy GT or hawknose WRX/STI. Or just buy the 3000GT VR-4. PLEASE I'M BEGGING YOU

You can't hate on the MINI and then recommend the FIAT "Only 15 years late" 500. :p

thesameguy
October 2nd, 2016, 11:44 AM
The Saab/Volvo dismantlers here in town took on Mini a few years ago, so I get a fair amount of info on Mini reliability... it's the stuff they charge a lot for and never have in stock. It seems kinda bleak, tbh, but I still really really really want a Clubman S JCW. The Mini itself kind of does not impress me - I like the size, but in terms of performance the 7th gen Celica GT-S is a slam dunk - more power, less weight, better chassis, better reliability. The Clubman adds just enough solid practicality that it touches my special car place. Regardless of how the Liberty goes, I will continue shopping for Clubmans and 2nd gen V50s next year. Regardless, I bear no ill will towards the regular Minis. If you can get past the (potential?) cost of ownership it's a fun ride.

Are we talking automatic or manual? Because if the latter, why not FiST? It seems too obvious, so I can only assume it does need to be an auto?

Godson
October 2nd, 2016, 11:52 AM
Volvo ftmfw

dodint
October 2nd, 2016, 12:26 PM
Looking for an appliance ... automatic so I can sleep in traffic and so the wife can drive it.


Problem with the car above is that it's a manual, which I'm not doing for utility purposes. Doesn't seem to be a lot of Abarth automatics...there are a plethora of MINI's with slushboxes.


Are we talking automatic or manual? It seems too obvious, so I can only assume it does need to be an auto?

I don't know, man, life's a mystery.

Yw-slayer
October 2nd, 2016, 03:38 PM
You can't hate on the MINI and then recommend the FIAT "Only 15 years late" 500. :p

Yes I can, and I do. Hate hate hate

thesameguy
October 2nd, 2016, 04:15 PM
I don't know, man, life's a mystery.

Ah, didn't see that.

Have you considered a Juke? Should be about there in price and gets you some ground clearance and AWD. I would also think about a 2nd gen Forester XT. They are not big, quite quick. You would be going back in time a bit, but probably not much money. ;)

dodint
October 2nd, 2016, 05:29 PM
My Dad and step-mom both converted into Subaru people a few years ago. They love them.

Looks like the Abarth got automatics in 2015.

TheBenior
October 2nd, 2016, 05:37 PM
Well, second gen Forester XT with more than 150k miles on them can be had for $7k or less around here. They should have had the head gaskets replaced on them by then, right? ;)

KillerB
October 2nd, 2016, 06:37 PM
Considering that, in one breath, you're talking about needing to make an 11 hour drive, and the next, talking about MINI-fucking-Coopers, you can't blame people for being confused.

Random
October 2nd, 2016, 06:41 PM
:? Caravaned with a MINI Fucking Cooper from Davis to Lincoln, NE, and back. Rob's biggest issue with the drive was that his longest book-on-CD was only 11 hours. :p

dodint
October 2nd, 2016, 06:56 PM
Considering that, in one breath, you're talking about needing to make an 11 hour drive, and the next, talking about MINI-fucking-Coopers, you can't blame people for being confused.

Other than, "omg BMWs are unreliable", which is complete garbage spouted by non-BMW owners I haven't seen anything actually discouraging. Novi had electrical issues, bummer. I have no idea if that was observed on an appreciable number of cars or not. 1Gen had coolant leak issues so I've kind of moved past them.

I get it has a viceral reaction for some people, though I didn't realize it would be this bad. I don't actually have any opinion on it yet, it was just the car that kept popping up over in my browsing so I thought I'd put out feelers.

KillerB
October 2nd, 2016, 07:19 PM
I guess I just wonder if you've ridden in one over any distance. Unlike Russ, I find their suspension tuning to be unpleasant over long distances, especially when combined with interstates lousy with expansion joints in winter-weather country. Stiff springs + short wheelbase isn't my cup of tea for that sort of driving.

Keep in mind, this is coming from someone who *likes* MINIs, but based on your other criteria, I just don't think they make sense in this case.

Random
October 2nd, 2016, 07:23 PM
https://www.koni.com/CorporateSite/media/itt/SiteContentImages/Logo/KONILogo2C.png

:D

dodint
October 2nd, 2016, 07:24 PM
Relative to what, though? The E60? Sure. But right now I have an E36 with no interior. :P

How would it compare to the 500?

Or, better yet, I did a 10ish hour trip in a Chevy Aveo once and wanted to murder things when I got there. Has to be better than that, right?

I'm not trying to be adversarial, like I said I'm not advocating for anything yet and don't have to make the purchase until April. It's just a market segment I've completely ignored and I'm lost on where to start.

I wanted to go test drive a MINI or 500 locally. But, yeah, Wisconsin. There are none. I'm not moving back east until November so I'll start driving some stuff then. :)

TheBenior
October 2nd, 2016, 07:45 PM
The first gen MINI was statistically one of the least reliable makes in owner surveys, though I couldn't say if it was annoying gremlins or major drivetrain failures. BMW has been among the top brands in recent years in oil consumption and UK 3rd party warranty engine replacements. When brands have well known issues, the reputation takes a while to shake. I still see rusting Mazdas get brought up online all the time even though it hasn't been an issue since the 2006 model year (my 2008 is doing fine with multiple Chicago winters).

As for the MINI, I considered buying an R56 Cooper S, but the Mazdaspeed3 being $5k less when comparably equipped in addition to being bigger and faster won me over (I still had my Miata at the time). I don't really get the hate for the brand revival cars, as I'm not concerned with the image of having a girly car, nor do I have fond memories of the original since they only sold 10,000 or them in the US between 1960 and 1967. The only original Mini Cooper I've seen on the street was a 25 year import exception RHD car.

I'd still consider one if the price was right; after all, I haven't heard of any crippling issues like, say, 1st gen VAG 2.0T engines eating their camshafts by ~80k miles if the cam followers with no specified replacement interval don't get replaced every 30-40k. AFAIK, most of BMW's engine issues in the recent past involved their twin turbocharged sixes and eights.

thesameguy
October 2nd, 2016, 08:42 PM
The Mini definitely has some real potential issues - unreliable transmissions (both, but the auto is worse), a number of electronic modules that fail, power steering pumps that fail, they are one of the few DI engines that actually suffer from carbon deposits, and depending on which conspiracy theory you subscribe to either too-liberal service intervals or poor timing chain design.... maybe the oil change interval is too great, or maybe the chain/tensioner/guides inadequate. Working on them is a pain (Google timing belt or power steering replacement) and being BMW you need a good factory scan tool to perform a lot of services... even if you don't DIY, it will still limit where you can take it.

I have never been uncomfortable in my friend Leanne's, and hers has been pretty good in terms of reliability but it's tough to know whether she is the exception or the rule. Based on statistical information like TheBenior mentioned it seems the former. I still want one. :p

The Mini in all its incarnations offers a better ride than the Abarth. Fundamentally a different class of car. Regular 500s have a totally decent ride, but the Abarth is all boy racer. Also, I think the half gen 500 autobox is a raging pile of shit. It's a real obstacle in an otherwise totally acceptable car. Just remember the 500 is a cheap pass Italian car. You kinda get what you pay for. For clarity, I would also totally own an Abarth. ;)

novicius
October 3rd, 2016, 02:19 AM
As for the MINI, I considered buying an R56 Cooper S
Heh, all this time I thought you were complaining about the "softness" of the 1st gen Cooper S. :lol:

Yeah the R56 was considerably softer/more lenient than the R53. Explains a lot. :up:

Jason
October 3rd, 2016, 02:48 AM
I *really* wanted a first gen (R55) Mini Clubman S, but it was out of my price range... then the FiST came out here, and that was life. I don't understand the hate for Mini, they are well equipped zippy little cars.

TheBenior
October 3rd, 2016, 05:47 AM
, they are one of the few DI engines that actually suffer from carbon deposits
Ah, so that's where all that blog BS I read about DI comes from. I'd been thinking, "Is this really an issue with Japanese DI engines that don't get fed a steady diet of cheap gas and extended oil change intervals with the cheapest bulk motor oil?"

thesameguy
October 3rd, 2016, 07:32 AM
It's always a possibility with DI engines, but only a couple tend to suffer. The Mini is one, early Audis ones are another, and there is a third I can't think of - it might be the BMW straight six. Most of the carbon deposit issue can actually be solved in software (which sounds nuts, I know) so you really have to try on most cars. The Audi gets a pass because it was early to the game, but the DI Mini motor was late and it still has the problem, which kind of sucks.

Like all things, you can probably, realistically blame the issue on maintenance - bad fuel, poor driving habits, insufficient attention - and that can explain away most every foible the Mini has. But, if you're buying used you may very well be inheriting a whole world of problems. Just gotta be prepared for it, be sure the juice is worth the squeeze.

thesameguy
October 3rd, 2016, 07:34 AM
I *really* wanted a first gen (R55) Mini Clubman S, but it was out of my price range... then the FiST came out here, and that was life.

FiST is a damn good reason not to buy a Clubman. I'd (of course) be buying used, so the Clubman is actually cheaper from my perspective... but not by much. If I keep dragging my feet it'll be a non-issue! ;)

dodint
October 3rd, 2016, 09:10 AM
Good information, folks. Very much appreciate the discourse. I hate going into marque specific forums for opinions stuff like this, would rather hear it from you.

thesameguy
October 3rd, 2016, 10:47 AM
NAM actually has a solid, comprehensive section on congenital Mini issues. Worth a read.

Also reminds me the DI Minis suffer from the same high pressure fuel pump issue early BMWs did. Anything -'12 or '13 (IIRC) is suspect.

I really wish the Fiesta had been available with a slushbox - it's such a solid car but the DSG is rough. I haven't driven one in a year or two, so I guess it's possible they got the software sorted.

I do think from a practical standpoint the Juke is a very good answer here. You might even consider a Sonic. If it's efficient, not unfun, low cost of ownership the Sonic sets a pretty high bar IMHO.

Yw-slayer
October 3rd, 2016, 11:27 AM
Fundamentally I am sure they are decent cars to drive. As an ownership proposition, however, I just can't get over the "image" and "other owners" problem. Unless, maybe, it's something extremely hardcore, ultra-rare and eminently collectable, like a GP.

dodint
October 3rd, 2016, 11:31 AM
Every time I see one in BRG w/white stripes and off-color roof I think of you, YW.

thesameguy
October 3rd, 2016, 11:52 AM
Fundamentally I am sure they are decent cars to drive. As an ownership proposition, however, I just can't get over the "image" and "other owners" problem. Unless, maybe, it's something extremely hardcore, ultra-rare and eminently collectable, like a GP.

There are lots of largely unreliable cars that are totally worth owning! Just because it isn't strictly an investment doesn't mean the pain isn't worth the reward. I would say that most cars that are actually worth owning are at least a little painful. Otherwise, let's just all agree to buy a Camry!

I wouldn't argue that maybe a Mini skews more towards pain and less towards worth it, but the right car at the right price can salvage that for sure. Honestly, I think the biggest mistake would be a nearly new Mini- that three year old, fresh off lease Mini that is just about to have all its problems and you're barely saving any cash vs. just leasing yourself. But if you get that five or six year old one that has suffered (enjoyed?) some real depreciation and probably had most of the major issues it's gonna, you can definitely win. Sure, finding that car is a little rough and a bit of a gamble, but it's totally doable.

Yw-slayer
October 3rd, 2016, 12:16 PM
Every time I see one in BRG w/white stripes and off-color roof I think of you, YW.

What about a Clubman with Union Jack mirrors and roof?

dodint
October 4th, 2016, 05:11 AM
Those are gaudy regardless of the context.

I was looking at the Fiat/Mini debate and it turns out it's been raging for a while, lots of good comparison videos and articles out there.

I kind of like the Hyundai Veloster. The exterior styling is fetching, and I assume it's reliable; they have a lifetime powertrain warranty. Once you open the (3, lulz) doors though the interior is a cross between boy racer and cheap rental car. I think the biggest issue for me would be the roofline is so low slung I won't have any head room, that's what is so appealing about the 500/MINI. I'd like to go sit in any of these cars but I live in an automotive wasteland and there are none locally, the nearest Veloster is 122mi away.

thesameguy
October 4th, 2016, 09:03 AM
I still really like the Veloster. Unfortunately, it's not great to drive. Suspension is all wrong. You can definitely commute in it and be happy, but a 500 is a step up in terms of dynamics and the Mini another, bigger one. IMHO, the Veloster's interior is nicer than you think it is - it's not far off from most cars in its class, quite similar appearance-wise to a Fiesta, actually. It's definitely not expensive, but cheap is probably overstating it. I'm 6' even and it's very comfortable inside. Like most modern Hyundais, the Veloster has pretty freaky good resale value, which sucks. I was hoping to Veloster would plummet in resale like the 500 and I'd pick one up used but it hasn't happened. Around here, an Abarth or even 500 Turbo is a far better used car value... assuming interior volume isn't your need. ;)

http://www.lttf.com/content/new_vehicles/nvi_pics_int_hyundai_veloster_1.jpg

http://static.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/images/Auto/izmo/335679/2012_ford_fiesta_dashboard.jpg

dodint
October 4th, 2016, 09:15 AM
Yeah, I was surprised what people were asking for them. I think I only found one that was below my price ceiling. The interior isn't horrible, I like it more than the Ford's, it's just definitely aimed at that youth market that I'm no longer a part of. ;)

I'm actually kind of surprised that the 500 value holds so much. I'm finding nice 500s and nice MINIs in the $11k range, when I would expect, all things being equal, for the comparable 500 to be in the $9k area. That's what's making it a challenge.

The CarMax in Minneapolis has both the MINI and 500 so I'm going to make a trek up there soon and actually get some seat time. No Velosters, though.

thesameguy
October 4th, 2016, 09:31 AM
500s weren't cheap - within a few pennies of the Veloster, a solid $20k car. The 500 has probably some of the worst resale in cars there is. $11k for a three or four year old $20k car is really sad for whoever drove it off the lot!

dodint
October 4th, 2016, 10:36 AM
Yeah, sucker.

*looks at Keith*

Kchrpm
October 4th, 2016, 06:46 PM
Hey, Mazdaspeed 3s were upper 20s new! I think...

TheBenior
October 4th, 2016, 09:04 PM
Mine had an MSRP of $26.5k loaded, IIRC, so a loaded second gen was probably closer to $30k.

dodint
October 5th, 2016, 04:30 AM
Hey, Mazdaspeed 3s were upper 20s new! I think...

Was referring to the depreciation you'll experience driving off the lot next time, which will be equal to or greater to the value of the cars I'm thinking of purchasing here. ;)

Kchrpm
October 5th, 2016, 04:40 AM
You mean when I drive it out of the museum? ;)

dodint
October 5th, 2016, 05:10 AM
Yes! :lol:

21Kid
October 5th, 2016, 05:42 AM
:lol:

dodint
October 23rd, 2016, 10:39 AM
Veloster v. 500 v. Cooper

So, I took a trip up to St. Paul yesterday and the Maplewood Carmax had one of each. A Veloster, an Abarth, and a Cooper S. I wasn't poised to buy because I want a 500 Lounge or a regular Cooper. Not interested in the performance versions of these cars. I did get to sit in all three though which was hugely important, I also drove the Abarth.

Veloster - Immediate rejection. Tough to get in and out of, and my head sticks into the roof cutout. Ash has legit concerns that if I were in an accident I would suffer a forehead laceration in the roof opening, and she's probably right.

500 Abarth - Was a fun ride, 5-speed. I bet you could get lost on some back roads tossing it around. Loved the overall shape and size. I still want to find a Lounge to test drive in automatic because that's ultimately what I will buy if I choose the 500. However; the hugely sad thing was that it doesn't fit. :( Everything looks right but I'm just too tall for it. Laterally there is plenty of room, but even with the seat all the way down I feel like I'm sitting on a phone book. We actually looked to see if the seat adjustment was malfunctioning, but even at the lowest possible setting my eye level is just too high. And there is a weird footwell bolster that makes it so you can't see your feet, which is useless trivia but weirded me out. This model was the retractable soft top and I'd like to sit in a sunroof model to be sure, but I think it's going to be a no go because my eye level was about where the windshield meets the roof line and it made the car feel very cave-like. I'm hugely disappointed in this because of the three I really wanted the 500 to be the one.

MINI - The fucking thing fit like a glove, ergonomics and seating position were perfect in every way. You can see out of it in every direction. I really wanted to hate it so I could toss it aside, but it really is the best solution for me from this group. It's the car I knew I would like the most I really hoped the 500 could've beat it out and it just didn't.

Nice to have the questions answered, but they didn't go the way I hoped. So now I'll be looking for a Lounge to test drive, but really I'm going to start watching Coopers in the Pittsburgh/DC corridor.

I've also written a plan to resto-mod the E36 for less than $5K, so in the end I may just keep that car. We'll see if it passes PA inspection or not, that'll probably be the difference.

dodint
October 25th, 2016, 04:59 AM
Is there a name for the phenomenon that states when searching for a car online you will inevitably find it on the perimeter of your search radius? Edmunds Law, perhaps.

Came across the first MINI that really does it for me, and it's 6 hours away in Nebraska: http://questautosales.com/2013-MINI-Cooper/Used-Hatchback/Omaha-NE/8079537/Details.aspx

21Kid
October 25th, 2016, 06:38 AM
:lol: road trip!

Glad you found something that suits/fits you though. Sorry it wasn't what you wanted it to be.

I always prefer keeping the current car though. You know what it's capable of, and it's history. You know how well it's been taken care of (since you've had it). Any new car is a gamble in my book. Even if it has good service records, you don't know how well it will run on a daily basis.

dodint
October 25th, 2016, 07:18 AM
We might go Saturday morning. Just get up and leave at like 6am, get there by noon. Then turn around and come home. The shit thing is it's in Nebraska so I get to see, wooo, all of Iowa. I'm going to have to look pretty hard to find somewhere fun for us to stop on the way through, probably in Des Moines.

I really like my E36, but it's rough. Remember, it has no interior behind the front seats. You're right, I know what it's capable of which is why I'm looking for something else right now. ;) If I could afford to stash it somewhere for 5 years I would, but it would be more cost effective to just trade it away and rebuy a new track car for what I would pay to store it over that time.

thesameguy
October 25th, 2016, 10:21 AM
Six hours isn't even either end of this state.

dodint
October 25th, 2016, 10:27 AM
I live on the IA/WI border and Omaha is on the NE/IA border, so I have to drive to Nebraska but will essentially experience none of Nebraska, but I get to experience all of IA because I'll be traveling it's length from NE to SW. It feels like punishment, really.

Though the car salesman said "Nebraska is a whole lot like Iowa, just longer" so I doubt I'm missing much.

thesameguy
October 25th, 2016, 10:40 AM
I prefer Iowa to Nebraska, but neither are Wyoming, so you have that.

dodint
October 25th, 2016, 10:46 AM
I did Iowa on motorcycle last summer. I actually liked it a lot, fwiw.

But you only need to do it once.

I might put Children of the Corn on my tablet and watch that while we're driving through. ;)

21Kid
October 25th, 2016, 12:06 PM
We might go Saturday morning. Just get up and leave at like 6am, get there by noon. Then turn around and come home. The shit thing is it's in Nebraska so I get to see, wooo, all of Iowa. I'm going to have to look pretty hard to find somewhere fun for us to stop on the way through, probably in Des Moines.

I really like my E36, but it's rough. Remember, it has no interior behind the front seats. You're right, I know what it's capable of which is why I'm looking for something else right now. ;) If I could afford to stash it somewhere for 5 years I would, but it would be more cost effective to just trade it away and rebuy a new track car for what I would pay to store it over that time.

You've never been to Des Moines... have you? :lol:

Doh. I read that it's your daily and must have glossed over the part where you tore the interior out. Yeah, that would make a bit of a difference.

thesameguy
October 25th, 2016, 12:23 PM
I like Des Moines. That and especially Coeur D'Alene are two places we are talking about moving to long term. A small house on a little land being as crazy as we wanna be through the twilight years? YUP. We might try to buy a place in a few years - either rent it out in the interim or just have a weird vacation home waiting to receive us permanently.

dodint
October 25th, 2016, 01:47 PM
I checked the Trip Advisor page for the top attractions in Des Moines.

Good game, Des Moines. Good Effort.

JoshInKC
October 25th, 2016, 03:41 PM
~12 or so years ago, when Kansas City was voting on a tax increase for renovations to the baseball and football stadiums, there was a televised local debate and someone said, "Look, if we lose the sports teams, we might as well be Omaha, or Des Moines."

Godson
October 25th, 2016, 06:08 PM
Fuck. I thought I was the only one who remembered that quote.

Des Moines isnt bad. But it gets frigid fast there.


And it is Iowa. (Idiots Out Wandering Around)

dodint
October 27th, 2016, 05:58 AM
Not sure why this bothers me, but it's one of those BMW/MINI things. The car I'm looking at Saturday has fog lights, front and rear, but no switches for them. The bulbs, housings, and wiring is there but you have to buy the switch yourself and convince a technician to program the car to use them. I guess the front fogs are used in certain situations (pathway lighting, probably) but the rears have no use in the US. Either way neither set of lights are manually switchable. This really annoys me. Also, the US didn't get the heated windshield (the Land Rover had one and it was great, and it had front/rear switchable fogs, blah) so there is a dead button on the console which also bothers me.

I'm easily bothered.

Yw-slayer
October 27th, 2016, 09:57 PM
You might as well give up 400% and get this: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/mini/countryman/88447/new-2017-mini-countryman-revealed-specs-prices-and-pics

novicius
October 28th, 2016, 04:59 AM
Hacking the rear fogs as been a tradition in the U.S. since day 1. :cool:

dodint
October 28th, 2016, 09:03 AM
Hacking the rear fogs as been a tradition in the U.S. since day 1. :cool:

My understanding is the post facelift R56s are difficult to recode even if you buy the switch and install it.

I'll worry about it later, have to like the car first. We're going to drive out to Clear Lake (Where the Music Died!) Iowa tonight and then drive the rest of the way in the morning. Car seems like it will be a great fit, just need to make sure it doesn't have some issue I can't detect from the pictures and research.

speedpimp
October 28th, 2016, 02:21 PM
If you get bored and want to experience a truck stop then check out Iowa 80 truck stop. It's just over the IA/IL line.

21Kid
October 31st, 2016, 06:08 AM
PICS!!!

dodint
October 31st, 2016, 12:58 PM
I'll have to take a pic of how easily it hides in the corner of my garage. :lol:

I think it's scared of the E60.

novicius
October 31st, 2016, 01:54 PM
:lol: :up:

dodint
October 31st, 2016, 06:25 PM
Had some good light walking to the car after work so I snapped this:

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z4CwwT4h0WWwDa70pR-5MI-tzLrgCK5j5aeH-SknUjAejd0fXdC4HBQpx5JfCUNLyRGrI2q1d9YFyIOMKdXOU1W zQLsbUTj9xt-7byeBJ1E-kXczwPsgyAI2KvG9SpulJdnjXpL0Jc_aYZDPLxc0ElJOAbul3y ryKq73B4uFRIEoS-wOclW-4o0hMnmaB3ibKa2KzMXqosQbCmXA59zShXoC416lP8SPOTE238 zoCqx7LY3-NXpwQkVWtgtMipzG7TEeEmOQvBzzKrKRAR_P70jSiMNS5hE4Bf Y9MQVik5JS8KWV_3AspdZPTLRxFIkc2-6Go-WmOgNukKxLZLzBb-RqvL5UllxsRhErpLwdcL7LtzAR6uwM6ZxezItd4RZUhbcZoaJY KpfkwiZE5Sbpw8QwNJ5-LjfiPdEcb4EBw8qSl16-VdEEmj70TP_BdUqYYCKz_Z6YUhRG0Dz7DqHO0OU2gDf1acGdLL oxoqDNy-oS-HXKERoACYKL0umi5ATlBN-zNP-QM-Qn8yLdNyHrMjbJoRiPX_Y7_ZGm_wAsvtCHTmEEEmVLzJo-vhNSCxME8IWQTjPSFic2YZMfe9RJG02RG538CHPflp1rthHy_j qtQIuu=w1634-h920-no

And here it is, in timeout:

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cAaFaQ2QztC4XPJtTuQjC5g6npMlC5qmSMVGxYowbgJ6yfDdow odxDoAxD2aawPkQ-1jUCEdnLtH1Twjx3kfbSrM3sfnPWwuPS4Pv89Ih-pwd1HRWwcDGq7HXKnFAjIkypS37BfpoAbM7dNOrLQk-KgnWJHSCC4feb4z6DQU9gBlugA9OBTrwf9nwjxYxZAvL3qGWT2 hVJFt8zub_qErv5AVWCZNSft62VQDpfvUk2mhOpp1l9l_dV5Fo ZP4KoiOi_gvy1E9xYsmraIQireyKct5S-EDiW42UtocaHlWa-0s_QPrIacjD_dYrpwVzyRb2ZPIwCTS88xtO68iQnWJxDiBA3IJ YWJcbZFJ0IB3FiONbD3hANStcNXyApKlFs1Kme8sV04SfLhjh-59ioeaw6CIEtHOunlv9KxjDlumkWSdBMMyjmPag0pNPbCin0Pm hjidA55j4MOZGoyPprunkWy1Vg23s-edrfOWZJQo17Z-A0aSj4M_zOZRxWv9MFEjg3Yl8vRZNwSI0jeI2oNkw9BSsmjKBM 7UUPdbRcCTd5HNVi8IGqu00wiW3hUZfgqpqZQfgvHaHJRJmVO_ PIOineVE1ZXXkxMGpbt2TEh_1T72nBJ4=w1634-h920-no

:lol::lol:

Had a nice afternoon with it. I was really worried about the bluetooth situation, since I don't have the Nav I didn't get the bluetooth audio, but it turns out my phone WILL connect to a phone source (the car) and an audio source (AUX module) at the same time so my Bluetoothing works seamlessly, very happy about that.

Was fun driving home today with the pano-roof open. 60F in Wisconsin on Halloween, very nice.

novicius
October 31st, 2016, 06:43 PM
Any plans for it? Or just driving it as-is?

dodint
October 31st, 2016, 06:53 PM
Well, it's just a Cooper and I bought it for its commuter properties. I know I'm going to tint the windows and, though I like the wheels as is, I may put something a little sportier on there. I have a set of O.Z. 17x8.5" in the garage doing nothing but I think that might be a hassle.

As for motorsports? It's an automatic, not a lot to work with there. I would entertain the idea of 'maybe' getting into auto-x on a casual basis now that tracking is out for a while. Is there any joy in auto-x'ing an automatic FWD car? Seems like it would be a lot of managing understeer.

Random
October 31st, 2016, 07:07 PM
MINIs are pretty lively, actually. I did couple runs in a Clubman w/ AT and it didn't suck.

dodint
October 31st, 2016, 07:24 PM
The "sport" mode for the auto transmission is actually kind of bonkers. I used it for about 300 yards today and then turned it back off. :lol:

Auto-x intimidates me because I don't understand how folks don't get lost on course.

thesameguy
October 31st, 2016, 07:24 PM
When looking at them the dealer didn't have any 09/10 Clubman Ss in so we drove a regular with an auto just to compare size/feel/visibility and thought it was fine too. Maybe not ideal but plenty to keep anyone happy in town.

Yw-slayer
October 31st, 2016, 10:13 PM
Congrats. I guess I'll borrow my friend's Mk1 JCW sometime to see what the fuss is all about.

novicius
November 1st, 2016, 02:31 AM
Apparently the R56 Aisin autos already have an oil cooler? Should be good to go. :up:

Before you run an autox course, the folks there will show you a map and let everyone walk the course on foot. Also there are usually some tipped cones indicating what side of a cone to take (when applicable).

dodint
December 14th, 2016, 05:59 PM
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z4CwwT4h0WWwDa70pR-5MI-tzLrgCK5j5aeH-SknUjAejd0fXdC4HBQpx5JfCUNLyRGrI2q1d9YFyIOMKdXOU1W zQLsbUTj9xt-7byeBJ1E-kXczwPsgyAI2KvG9SpulJdnjXpL0Jc_aYZDPLxc0ElJOAbul3y ryKq73B4uFRIEoS-wOclW-4o0hMnmaB3ibKa2KzMXqosQbCmXA59zShXoC416lP8SPOTE238 zoCqx7LY3-NXpwQkVWtgtMipzG7TEeEmOQvBzzKrKRAR_P70jSiMNS5hE4Bf Y9MQVik5JS8KWV_3AspdZPTLRxFIkc2-6Go-WmOgNukKxLZLzBb-RqvL5UllxsRhErpLwdcL7LtzAR6uwM6ZxezItd4RZUhbcZoaJY KpfkwiZE5Sbpw8QwNJ5-LjfiPdEcb4EBw8qSl16-VdEEmj70TP_BdUqYYCKz_Z6YUhRG0Dz7DqHO0OU2gDf1acGdLL oxoqDNy-oS-HXKERoACYKL0umi5ATlBN-zNP-QM-Qn8yLdNyHrMjbJoRiPX_Y7_ZGm_wAsvtCHTmEEEmVLzJo-vhNSCxME8IWQTjPSFic2YZMfe9RJG02RG538CHPflp1rthHy_j qtQIuu=w1634-h920-no



New shoes:

http://gtxforums.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=2104&d=1481770641

thesameguy
December 14th, 2016, 06:21 PM
The stock phone dials are some of the few stock wheels (in general) I like, but that's a solid improvement! Excellent look. :up:

CudaMan
December 14th, 2016, 07:38 PM
Looks ready to tackle some cones. ;)

novicius
December 15th, 2016, 03:49 AM
Sharp! :up: :up:

dodint
December 15th, 2016, 06:19 AM
Thanks. I'll take some glamour shots when I get the tintwork done. That was just me coming out of the Chinese restaurant picking up takeout after sitting at the garage. I like the design of the stock wheels too, but the 15" wheels just look like roller skate wheels. And the wider tires are nice, they dull some of the road bumps and make the steering a touch heavier which is more to my preference. I might flirt with the idea of getting 205s next time (jumped from 175 to 195 this time) but for now I'm happy.

Car is still not PA legal as it doesn't have a new set of wiper blades. Why? Because the prior owner cut the wiper arms down to convert it from a j-hook mount to a bayonet mount and then installed aftermarket universal wiper blades. :?

I'm going to buy proper arms instead of just putting on universal blades again, it'll always bug me if I leave it as is. What a jagoff, I'm now wondering wtf else has been done to this car that I need to find out about.

It'll need new rotors this spring. This is supposed to be my commuter but maybe I'll look into a bigger brake kit. Not sure, we'll see how I feel after the thaw. I only drive it on weekends (there is a commuter bus that runs practically from my house right to my work) so I'm not sure how much I'll want to put into the car, especially since the DMC hunt starts in March or so.

Godson
December 15th, 2016, 06:48 AM
My experience with BBK is just do a brake upgrade via hoses, fluid, and slightly more aggressive pad material.

Cheaper, and less bullshit to mess with.

novicius
December 15th, 2016, 07:45 AM
Agreed. :up:

Random
December 15th, 2016, 08:19 AM
Yeah, I would just get regular replacement rotors (maybe splurge on the Brembo blanks?) and nice pads.

dodint
December 15th, 2016, 11:04 AM
I was talking with the guy last night for a while we waited. Came to basically that same conclusion, SS lines, upgraded rotor and some decent pads. With the more open wheels it would be fun to dress up the calipers but it would be silly to either take them off of this car and powdercoat them, or buy 4 new calipers just for hat purpose.

I miss not having a lift. I was ashamed to tell the gentleman I hadn't had it up in the air yet.

thesameguy
December 15th, 2016, 12:32 PM
You don't need to powdercoat - there are lots of spray & brush on caliper paints. The Duplicolor kit I used on the XR4Ti lasted forever on ancient used (from the junkyard) Taurus calipers. The Eastwood brush on stuff I used on the SPG only lasted about four years, but in retrospect it's possible I didn't apply it right. I just redid it a bit ago - possibly right this time - so we'll see how long it lasts. The VHT spray I used on the Fiero has not held up that well, but I keep thinking it's me because other people have reported much better results ... I tend to either under- or over-apply paint... I never get it right. That's why the girl does all the painting around the house. ;)

We put the gas slotted rotors Tirerack sells on my friend Leanne's Cooper S along with Akebono ceramic pads and it's been great. We agonized about more aggressive pads, but no regrets thus far.

dodint
December 16th, 2016, 05:34 AM
I just like powdercoating because it's cheap (for outsourced work), easy, and the coating is usually very uniform. The pain in the ass part is that to do calipers right you have to strip them out and rebuild them. Which is fine for an older car that needs it anyway, but seems silly to do on a three year old car.

I'm not a fan of slotted and cross drilled rotors, especially for my application. I know you can tell me I'm wrong, but you won't convince me that on the street reducing the size of the friction surface improves braking performance. I'm trying to avoid hitting deer and pedestrians, not fight brake fade on my 17th trip into T1. ;)

The cool thing to do in the DMC universe is zinc coating:

http://www.noroads.com/delorean/projects/engine/images/DSC_5706.jpg

A bunch of stuff was zinc coated from the factory so folks like to go back and redo it.

novicius
December 16th, 2016, 05:46 AM
Cheap? Rattlecan painting the calipers are significantly cheaper than powdercoating. I mean personal preference rules the day but cost-wise it's no contest.

My R53 had simple painted calipers that lasted for my 6+ years of ownership.

thesameguy
December 16th, 2016, 05:51 AM
I wouldn't and didn't recommend drilled rotors for the street, but slotted rotors provide some of the same benefits without much of a reduction of the friction surface or potential weakening of the casting. They also help clean the pad (at the expense of potential faster wear) which is a benefit unto itself. It's certainly not a necessity, but I can say Leanne's car is not lacking in the brake department in any way, even in her 17th trip into TB.

I have had in the past calipers powdercoated, but the cost and difficulty of doing it does not justify the result in my opinion. The Duplicolor kit I mentioned was $20 and was complete - and about 15% the cost of a powdercoat and doesn't require $20-$40 in new seals. Unless you physically removed the calipers and looked for the places I couldn't reach, there was no way to tell it wasn't a powdercoating job. If you believe the marketing, it is in some ways superior since powder chips easily whereas the scifi caliper paint does not. I can't think of a scenario where I'd go back to powdercoating - the price vs. result isn't there.

thesameguy
December 16th, 2016, 06:04 AM
If you care, these are the parts we used:

http://www.tirerack.com/brakes/brakes.jsp?make=StopTech&model=Sport+Slotted+Rotor&group=Sport+Slotted+Rotor&partNum=126.34067PSL&autoMake=MINI&autoModel=Cooper+S&autoYear=2006&autoModClar=Built+Up+To+6%2F06

http://www.tirerack.com/brakes/brakes.jsp?make=Akebono&model=Euro+Ceramic+Pads&group=Euro+Ceramic+Pads&partNum=EUR939&autoMake=MINI&autoModel=Cooper+S&autoYear=2006&autoModClar=Built+Up+To+6%2F06

dodint
December 16th, 2016, 06:13 AM
Cheap? Rattlecan painting the calipers are significantly cheaper than powdercoating. I mean personal preference rules the day but cost-wise it's no contest.

My R53 had simple painted calipers that lasted for my 6+ years of ownership.

U mad, bro?

You'll note I said 'outsourced' solutions, I was comparing powdercoating to paint booth work. Maybe I didn't make it apparent enough with the parenthical, sorry.

I painted the calipers on my 2nd Intrepid, used some Krylon paint from Advance and you're right, it worked fine through my entire ownership as well.


I wouldn't and didn't recommend drilled rotors for the street. . .

I have had in the past calipers powdercoated, but the cost and difficulty of doing it does not justify the result in my opinion. The Duplicolor kit I mentioned was $20 and was complete - and about 15% the cost of a powdercoat and doesn't require $20-$40 in new seals. Unless you physically removed the calipers and looked for the places I couldn't reach, there was no way to tell it wasn't a powdercoating job. If you believe the marketing, it is in some ways superior since powder chips easily whereas the scifi caliper paint does not. I can't think of a scenario where I'd go back to powdercoating - the price vs. result isn't there.

Fair point on the rotors, my sentiment is the same for cross drilled and slotted, though.

When I lived in WI I had a good relationship with a local powdercoater so I may have a bias. I just like that particular style of coating if it's an option. The color is even, uniform, and cleans up very easily. I'm not saying it's the only option, by far, it really depends on the project. You can't get brand new DMC brake calipers anymore unless you want to pay a ridiculous price. It's easier to rebuild old ones. In that case I would absolutely take the caliper, coat it (powder, zinc, whatever) and put new pistons in. But for a three year old DD? Nah, probably not. Either rattle can or not bother at all.

novicius
December 16th, 2016, 06:19 AM
U mad, bro?
Eh? Not at all -- just noting like TSG that the cost advantage lay on the side of painting (typically a do-it-yourself enterprise for something like brake calipers) vs powdercoating.

Again, your personal preference rules the day. :up:

dodint
December 16th, 2016, 07:35 AM
I worry for you, you've been chippy lately. ;)

dodint
December 16th, 2016, 07:36 AM
Tint scheduled to go on Monday. All I need now is those wiper arms and I'm set at least until spring. Woot.

novicius
December 16th, 2016, 07:43 AM
I worry for you, you've been chippy lately. ;)
I blame distemper. :D

21Kid
December 16th, 2016, 10:00 AM
I thought you were going to say old age.


3rd'd for spray cans lasting a while. Plus they're covered in brake dust 1/2 the time anyway. :finger: Not worth the extra $$$ IMO.

novicius
December 16th, 2016, 10:18 AM
Oh that too! :D #getoffmylawn

dodint
December 20th, 2016, 05:03 AM
Tintwork will be finished today, which means this car will be pretty much complete moving forward. The only other thing on my wishlist is to swap to the auto-dimming mirror w/built in garage door openers which runs about $600 new, buh.
Also need to reattach the front lip spoiler that got caught on the car carrier when we moved.

One of the cool things about moving back home is that my Dad is restoring a '65 Mustang, so I'll still be able to get some wrenching in before buying the DMC. Though I'm hoping not to buy a DMC project and don't plan to do a ton of work on that when I get it. Not intentionally, anyway.

novicius
December 20th, 2016, 05:24 AM
You know all of that will get a :up: :up: from me. :cool:

dodint
December 20th, 2016, 06:04 AM
:up:

Doing some reading right now and the local auto-x scene is 70 miles away. Might as well have stayed in Wisconsin. :lol:

The only 'performance' modification I made to this car is going from a 15" to 16" wheel and a 175/65R15 to 195/55R16 tire. All of those sizes were available on the 2013 MINI Cooper, I just went from the standard base wheel to the Cooper S base wheel. I'm betting if I ordered a car in 2013 from the factory I could've gotten a Cooper with the S wheels. Will I still be able to compete in Street class?

SCCA Rulebook excerpts:

13. STREET CATEGORY

Except for modifications authorized below, Street Category cars must be run
as specified by the manufacturer with only standard equipment as defined
by these Rules. This requirement refers not just to individual parts, but to
combinations thereof which would have been ordered together on a specific
car. Any other modifications or equipment will place the car in Street Touring
®, Street Prepared, Street Modified, Prepared, or Modified Categories as
appropriate. Option package conversions may be performed between specific vehicles of
a particular make and model, but only between configurations from within
a particular model year. Such conversions must be totally complete and the
resultant car must meet all requirements of this Section.
Alternate parts listed in a factory parts manual are not authorized unless
their use is specifically referenced in the factory service manual or in a service
bulletin for the specific model.

13.4 WHEELS
Any type wheel may be used provided it complies with the following:
A. It is the same width as standard and as installed it does not have an offset
more than ±7.00 mm (±0.275”) from a standard wheel for the car. The
resultant change in track dimensions is allowed.
B. Wheel (rim) diameter may be increased or decreased 1” from the standard
part.


They define the following:
standard part - An item of standard or optional equipment that could have
been ordered with the car, installed on the factory production line, and
delivered through a dealer in the United States.

I went up 1", but I just moved to another stock size available for that model year. I have a 42mm offset but I assume that's within 7mm, I can't find what the factory offset is at the moment but the change wasn't drastic.
I suppose my issue is whether they consider the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S completely different models, and if so, do I have to prove the Cooper was able to be ordered with my wheel/tire configuration.

Random
December 20th, 2016, 06:24 AM
Cooper and Cooper S are separate cars as far as the SCCA is concerned. Cooper S plays in DS with fast cars. Cooper plays in HS with my FiST. :D

15->16 isn't an issue. You'll want to check the width options, though. I can ping my local guy with your current wheel size (16x??)--he'll almost certainly know if that is a legal option in Street for a Cooper.

dodint
December 20th, 2016, 07:01 AM
The Enkei's are 16x7" w/a 42mm offset and the rubber is the same as comes on the Cooper S w/16" wheels. I would be interested to hear what he has to say if you don't mind.

Wouldn't I just have to demonstrate that you could order the Cooper base in 195/65R16 and that would be the end of it (assuming my offset is within 7mm of stock)?

I'm going for simplicity here. I don't want to class up over something so trivial (I've seen this with BMWCCA too) and I don't want to change my wheels on weekends that I want to compete.

Random
December 20th, 2016, 07:05 AM
It's the wheel size that matters, not the tires. I'll ping Rob. :)

dodint
December 20th, 2016, 07:14 AM
As mentioned in chat, I discovered the 16" wheels available from MINI only came in 6.5" width. I have a 16x7" wheel. MINI did offer a 17x7" and 18x7" wheels, but now I'm cobbling specs together. Not sure I can qualify with that as an "option package conversion" since I'm picking and choosing individual parameters of different options at this point.

I don't think there is a competitive advantage here since the rulebook does not speak to wheel weight at all. I just don't want to have to change wheels on competition day, or maintain another set of tires.

None of this is very important right now. I'm more enjoying picking apart the regulation than anything.

novicius
December 20th, 2016, 07:37 AM
Cooper S plays in DS with fast cars. Cooper plays in HS with my FiST. :D
Why do MINI drivers even bother showing up?? :lol:

dodint
December 20th, 2016, 07:44 AM
Russ totally torpedoed my statutory analysis by pointing out that the 1" up or down rule for diameter does indeed mean down as well, so I should be able to run the 16x7" based on the original availability of 17x7". This is independent of whatever Rob says.

Also, I have no idea what this DS/HS nonsense is.

novicius
December 20th, 2016, 07:50 AM
Means that you're woefully undermatched compared to the other cars running in your field.

So just go for the experience and to have fun and don't worry that you'll have the 22nd fastest time in your class. :up:

Random
December 20th, 2016, 07:56 AM
2016 HS Champion:
https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/14237545_1581283708843470_6712222163961083216_n.jp g?oh=7af58941c00ef50d79985e2d6ac98b4f&oe=58EB301E

(2015 Champion was also a MINI)
(Ditto 2014, but the FiST wasn't in HS then.)

novicius
December 20th, 2016, 07:58 AM
Nice! :D

I'm genuinely shocked that there isn't a Mazda or Civic SI at the top in this class! #meaculpa

Random
December 20th, 2016, 09:44 AM
The 07 Si with the Torsen is in the mix, too. Not a lot of them being run at the top levels of the sport.

Yw-slayer
December 20th, 2016, 10:37 PM
I still don't like Minis, but nice and congrats, man! :up:

dodint
December 21st, 2016, 06:25 AM
I still don't like Minis, but nice and congrats, man! :up:

Thanks dude, it's fun for what it is. :)

Transformation complete, there really shouldn't be more cosmetic changes moving forward at this point. Just odd and end performance tweaks and creature comforts. Someday when it's not snowing and dark by 4pm I'll polish it up and take some really good pictures, but for now this is it:

http://gtxforums.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=2122&d=1482333684

http://gtxforums.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=2123&d=1482333688

I work in the building in the background that has the really narrow vertical windows. Kind of like a prison.

dodint
December 21st, 2016, 06:26 AM
Oh, I've been whining about the windshield banner being too big. It seems to look fine in pictures but from inside the car it feels huge. Probably because I'm tall and the car is small, but the bottom of it is basically right in my line of sight.

CudaMan
December 21st, 2016, 07:57 AM
Doing some reading right now and the local auto-x scene is 70 miles away.
That's pretty good! :)

dodint
December 21st, 2016, 08:17 AM
Russ said the same thing. I guess I took it for granted that in NC they had auto-x on the flightline about 200 yards from where I worked (and I never went).

I just think it's disingenuous to call it the "Steel Cities SCCA" and it's not even in Allegheny county. It doesn't even border Allegheny county. :P

Most of that 70 miles is all turnpike so I should be able to get there in under an hour. And when I move to the North Hills it'll cut that distance in half.

dodint
December 21st, 2016, 08:30 AM
Ah, my bad.

I used Google to find my local chapter. When I checked the SCCA region finder it found that my home region is actually Allegheny Highlands which is only 22mi away. They setup their courses at the WyoTech in Blairsville. :o

I'll probably run there till I move and then switch to Steel Cities. I imagine the field at AHR is very small, should be nice place to get my bearings.

CudaMan
December 21st, 2016, 12:08 PM
These days I travel 2.5 - 4 hours one way to events. Half the time we do Saturday+Sunday events because of that, and grab a hotel nearby. Good excuse to have dinner etc with friends Saturday evening too. :)

There is a site 15 minutes from me but I rarely go, it's so small. I should more often, but between the racing and the faraway weekend events (and having a weekend to do non racing stuff) it doesn't usually happen much.

dodint
December 21st, 2016, 12:17 PM
I'm a fat guy in a stock MINI. I feel like your level of intensity and dedication may be a little higher. ;)

I had no trouble going to VIR, five hours away, to attend BMWCCA events. A matter of perspective I guess.

CudaMan
December 21st, 2016, 07:21 PM
Yeah, although I treat it more like vacation time now that I have SRS BZNSS outlet for my driving. Autox is roots and friends and stuff. I started traveling 3 hours to events years before I did any National-level autocross or any road racing. But I'll admit I'm a little crazy about driving.

novicius
December 28th, 2016, 11:36 AM
What's the specs on your Pops' Mustang? Coupe or fastback? C-4 auto or four-on-the-floor Toploader? C-code, A-code or K-code ( :sing: ) 289?

(Decode the VIN to find this info out. Will also include the factory paint color.)

dodint
February 4th, 2017, 06:31 PM
Thank you to everyone that helped me research and sort through the purchase of my first performance V8. :D
Seriously though, the help was exceedingly thorough and much appreciated.

I go fast now and I'm giddy when I do so:

http://nathangess.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Cobra.jpg

Drove down to DC today and bought this 1998 Mustang SVT Cobra. It's a pretty perfect car for me, fairly amazing find really. My Dad (pictured) actually found it for me yesterday when another I was looking at fell through.

I bought it from the second owner. The guy set it up but wasn't sure what he wanted to do, so he beefed up the drivetrain and the suspension but left the motor completely stock. When it came time to bolt on a supercharger and start search for horsepower, he decided to sell it and focus on other projects. He really likes this car and took care of it, the sale even came with the original SVT dealership brochure and a fitted car cover.

It got 305hp/300ft/lb torque when new. Going to dyno it soon to see what is left of that.

Deets:

black w/black leather interior
6-speed manual transmission
cruise control
power seats

Suspension:
FRPP Springs
Tokico shocks/struts
2004 Cobra front control arms
adjustable rear upper/lower control arms.

Drivetrain:
D&D Motorsport T56 Magnum 6-speed manual transmission (700 lb-ft rating).
McLeod RST Street Twin Clutch (ATM MCL-6911-07C)
short throw shifter
Steeda adjustable clutch cable (STD 172-0201)
aluminum driveshaft
replaced pilot bearing
31-spline FRPP axles
Auburn Pro differential
4.10 FRPP gears
2000 Cobra R wheels
Flowmaster mufflers

Brakes:
2000 Cobra R Brembo front brakes
rear calipers recent replaced (same spec as 2000 Cobra R or 1998 Cobra)

The guy did 80% of the modifications I wanted to do, and used quality parts to do it. The interior looks almost new, as well. Very nice, straight car. Exceedingly happy with my acquisition.
The 6-speed is an upgrade from stock and it feels great, the car even already had the shift knob I wanted. The transmission really smooths out the upgraded rear gearing and has really solid feel, even with the short shift kit.
The only things I want to do before I get on track is weld in some subframe connectors, and install some suspension linkages to fix the bumpsteer that is a bit frightening, honestly. :lol:

I've always been a BMW guy when it came to performance driving, so this is a completely new venture for me. Super stoked.

dodint
February 4th, 2017, 07:06 PM
What's the specs on your Pops' Mustang? Coupe or fastback? C-4 auto or four-on-the-floor Toploader? C-code, A-code or K-code ( :sing: ) 289?

(Decode the VIN to find this info out. Will also include the factory paint color.)

Just saw this. He's got a 302 out of an '87 Mustang. Car originally had a six cylinder in it. He also has a 289 in the garage that came with the transmission he bought. The guy threw it in for $100 because it was seized, but when my Dad got it home and removed the clutch the motor spun freely. Score.

GB
February 5th, 2017, 05:19 AM
The people here give the best advice ever. You get quality stuff from different perspectives in an honest manner... not fanboy or hater comments.


Congrats on the purchase! Looking forward to following the HPDE exploits. :up: :rawk: :toast:

Yw-slayer
February 5th, 2017, 06:10 AM
The people here give the best advice ever. You get quality stuff from different perspectives in an honest manner... not fanboy or hater comments.

i HATE FANBOYS!! 11!11!1 1!11!


?

dodint
February 5th, 2017, 06:57 AM
Well, if it were up to YW I wouldn't have a MINI.

Godson
February 5th, 2017, 07:22 AM
Lol. I'm a fanboy. But I know when to stop pushing.

Also, I live vicariously through my friends automotive exploits.

Cam
February 5th, 2017, 07:28 AM
:hawt:

speedpimp
February 5th, 2017, 11:58 AM
Very nice.

Jason
February 6th, 2017, 06:47 AM
:up:

We need a sweet YouTube review.

Phil_SS
February 6th, 2017, 07:12 AM
I just think it's disingenuous to call it the "Steel Cities SCCA" and it's not even in Allegheny county. It doesn't even border Allegheny county. :P

Most of that 70 miles is all turnpike so I should be able to get there in under an hour. And when I move to the North Hills it'll cut that distance in half.

Steel Cities used to run at the Allegheny County Airport. But when BeaveRun (Pittsburgh International Race Complex) opened up it gave them the opportunity to have a nice flat lot with no light poles and ample parking for contestants. :) And Steel Cities represents the entire Western PA area. And Lawrence County is in Western PA. :P

BTW, North Hills has it's own Auto-X club that has been running as long or longer than Steel Cities. It is called North Hills Sports Car Club or NHSCC. (http://www.nhscc.com/index.html) They run the off weeks of Steel Cities. And basically everybody that runs in Steel Cities runs in NHSCC. They use the lot at the North Park pool. They even show up on Google Maps. :) (https://www.google.com/maps/place/NHSCC+Autocross/@40.5874838,-79.9951468,16.81z/data=!4m19!1m13!4m12!1m4!2m2!1d-79.8695424!2d40.497152!4e1!1m6!1m2!1s0x8834766a46b 08da5:0x7879f053602bb041!2sPittsburgh+Internationa l+Race+Complex,+201+Penndale+Rd,+Wampum,+PA+16157! 2m2!1d-80.343192!2d40.849989!3m4!1s0x0:0x300b6c3ce02388bc !8m2!3d40.5878833!4d-79.9941561)

dodint
February 6th, 2017, 07:42 AM
http://nathangess.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/download_20170206_112931-e1486398727677.jpeg

Didn't realize my Dad snapped this pic of us doing the title work, he sent it to me this morning.
I dug my old high school era Adidas jacket out of my closet to dress down, and he showed up in a proper peacoat. Go figure.

dodint
February 6th, 2017, 08:10 AM
Steel Cities used to run at the Allegheny County Airport. But when BeaveRun (Pittsburgh International Race Complex) opened up it gave them the opportunity to have a nice flat lot with no light poles and ample parking for contestants. :) And Steel Cities represents the entire Western PA area. And Lawrence County is in Western PA. :P

BTW, North Hills has it's own Auto-X club that has been running as long or longer than Steel Cities. It is called North Hills Sports Car Club or NHSCC. (http://www.nhscc.com/index.html) They run the off weeks of Steel Cities. And basically everybody that runs in Steel Cities runs in NHSCC. They use the lot at the North Park pool. They even show up on Google Maps. :) (https://www.google.com/maps/place/NHSCC+Autocross/@40.5874838,-79.9951468,16.81z/data=!4m19!1m13!4m12!1m4!2m2!1d-79.8695424!2d40.497152!4e1!1m6!1m2!1s0x8834766a46b 08da5:0x7879f053602bb041!2sPittsburgh+Internationa l+Race+Complex,+201+Penndale+Rd,+Wampum,+PA+16157! 2m2!1d-80.343192!2d40.849989!3m4!1s0x0:0x300b6c3ce02388bc !8m2!3d40.5878833!4d-79.9941561)

Nice, thanks!

I still think I'm going to start out at AHR in Blairsville because I think the crowd will be more docile and I want to get my Dad a guest membership for the day and let him take some runs. If I like it I'll migrate to one of these bigger chapters. I'm really apprehensive about the cone courses, I don't see how people don't get lost, and want to get my feet wet in a smaller environment.
I have no aspirations to solo the Mustang. The rear LSD and gears creak, groan, and moan when turning slowly and I don't think it would be much fun.

Do you know the status of Nelson Ledges? Their website is kind of empty but I think they're still operating.

thesameguy
February 6th, 2017, 08:57 AM
Just saw this. He's got a 302 out of an '87 Mustang. Car originally had a six cylinder in it. He also has a 289 in the garage that came with the transmission he bought. The guy threw it in for $100 because it was seized, but when my Dad got it home and removed the clutch the motor spun freely. Score.

Ah, the too-long pressure plate bolts problem - that trips up so many Ford enthusiasts it seems. I never hear about it on other forums.

Random
February 6th, 2017, 09:52 AM
Do you know the status of Nelson Ledges? Their website is kind of empty but I think they're still operating.

The track sold early last year(?). Based on reports at rrax and c-c, there were numerous track issues there that the new owner is going to have to address.

CudaMan
February 6th, 2017, 10:48 AM
I dug my old high school era Adidas jacket out of my closet to dress down, and he showed up in a proper peacoat. Go figure.
I'm clearly not from around there. I had to Google what a peacoat was. :lol: Nobody here wears them.

novicius
February 6th, 2017, 10:50 AM
Even with FRPP Springs that Cobra has some, ah, healthy ground clearance. :D :up:

dodint
February 6th, 2017, 10:58 AM
The track sold early last year(?). Based on reports at rrax and c-c, there were numerous track issues there that the new owner is going to have to address.

This answer came from the wrong coast, :lol: . Thanks, I'll keep an eye out.


I'm clearly not from around there. I had to Google what a peacoat was. :lol: Nobody here wears them.

This response did come from the expected coast. :finger:

I wear one everyday in sub-50F weather. Goes well with my fedora, but I only wear that in the rain.


Even with FRPP Springs that Cobra has some, ah, healthy ground clearance. :D :up:

Yes.

Does that make my 'it's floaty at 80mph on the highway' make more sense? I'm going to see what kind of driveway I buy and what the neighborhood roads are like before I drop it down more.

novicius
February 6th, 2017, 11:36 AM
I'm gonna let TSG finish but you should get some Koni Yellows. :cool:

thesameguy
February 6th, 2017, 12:35 PM
:lol:

I will literally never forget my first drive of an SN95... my buddy Mark was screwing his Air Force superior and then strong-armed her into letting him take her new GT over a weekend. We beat the crap out of it, but the whole time I thought I was going to die. So floppy. It road about the same as another friend's TurboCoupe, which you will note was sold as a "personal luxury vehicle." Ford will still selling the "image Mustang" they'd always sold, it's not like the S197 where they actually started trying to compete with modern sports cars. They were still heavily balanced for comfort and, maybe, safety. Definitely not track performance.

The FRPP springs AFAIK are just street springs. They're like half the spring rate of legitimate track springs and on the low end of all aftermarket options. I think the base Eibach's are the same as the FRPP springs, and those are a little sporty- at best. 450/250 is not enough for that car IMHO.

If I were going to track a Mustang, I would move at least to H&Rs with a good shock. Koni Specials might do the trick. Cost no object, I wouldn't stop short of four wheel height-adjustable coilovers to open up more spring rates and give full height options. If the shocks are adjustable too, so much the better.

As always, Koni 20% off sale in a month or two, Chris at Red Shift Motorsports is good to talk to... assuming $1k+ coilovers aren't happening. :)

Random
February 6th, 2017, 12:58 PM
FYI, Koni is (probably) going to be stopping the yearly sales.



We have been trying to wean the market off a 20-25% sale for about 5 years now. I think that happens in 2017 for a number of reasons, however the actual retail market price will stay very near that Sale point (within a few single digit percentage points up or down in general for cars and definitely light trucks and SUVs will all go down quite a bit) for most if not all of the year.

I spend a lot of time and effort strategically trying to keep our market price (final price paid by consumers during or outside of a Sale period) as low as possible, our retailer's pricing in balance to allow all to be competitive against each other, and our pricing as sharp as possible against competitive brands. I think 2017 is the year the reference to the big Sale goes away. We have kept pricing down in general most of the year around by extending it longer and longer so the "wait for it" and the complications that causes no longer applies. There could be some form of promotion from KONI or retailers (a retailer drive promotional window option just ended in December) but that has neither been finalized nor announced so it won't be soon if at all.

The big 20-25% off Sale was a useful tool in 2008-2009 to spur retail sales when the market and consumer spending took a mega dump. It was the first time that we had ever done an across the board sale ever at KONI. However like most such marketing tools, it wore out its usefulness and even get taken for granted and caused its own new issues so it has been time to switch things up. Keeping it reasonably as low as possible year round pricing against the competition and to level the selling playing field for retailers is the goal. This has been the Pricing 101 class lesson for today...

21Kid
February 6th, 2017, 01:03 PM
Mach-460 AM/FM cassette - :lol: Quality!

Enjoy! :up:

dodint
February 6th, 2017, 01:05 PM
AND CD!

thesameguy
February 6th, 2017, 02:01 PM
FYI, Koni is (probably) going to be stopping the yearly sales.

Oof. Thank Dog I don't need anymore of them. :)

CudaMan
February 6th, 2017, 05:39 PM
This response did come from the expected coast. :finger:

I wear one everyday in sub-50F weather. Goes well with my fedora, but I only wear that in the rain.
They look nice. I have no idea why they never caught on here (or went completely out of style before I was born).

21Kid
February 7th, 2017, 06:25 AM
AND CD!

Daaaaaad... what's a CD?

dodint
February 7th, 2017, 06:25 AM
So, as I said, drove the car to work on Monday so I could register it on my way home. Stopped over at Maaco to see what they could do about paint. As I was leaving:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcvop5nQycw

Then:

http://gtxforums.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=2230&d=1486480760

:lol:

Had AAA tow me to a garage near my house. From what we could tell the fuel pump isn't working. When I bought the car it had a completely full tank. I got it down to a quarter of a tank and was driving some pretty steep hills. My uneducated guess is the tank had sediment in it and gunked up either the fuel filter or pump, or both. Since we couldn't hear the pump running we think it's seized up. Should find out this afternoon, as Russ noted you have to drop the tank to get at it. Boo, hiss.

For my application is there any reason to spend 3x as much to get a BBK 300lph fuel pump? Future proofing? Or just be content with the Ford replacement?

novicius
February 7th, 2017, 06:53 AM
1998 Ford Mustang Walbro 255LPH Fuel Pump Module (https://lmr.com/item/LRS-9350H/Walbro-255LPH-Fuel-Pump-Module-Mustang-1998?mkwid=swAUNuAKr_dc&pcrid=38394158804&pkw=&pmt=&gclid=Cj0KEQiA_eXEBRDP8fnIlJDXxsIBEiQAAGfyob8g4SMN et_gW60vSQAB7gFENuK20l11PCM_2jJFt8waAik28P8HAQ) - $199.99

Eh, even with this repair it's still a great deal for that car. :up:

dodint
February 7th, 2017, 08:31 AM
Yeah, I'm not complaining. Just wish I could've registered the damn thing before it died so I can put other stuff in motion.

Anyway, the guy my Dad works with, him and his son paint cars as a side business. They've done about 30 and my Dad said the work he's seen has been very good. They quoted between $1300-1500 for trim removal, sand and prep, sealer/primer, base coat, and clear coat. Maaco wanted $1100, but masking (not removal), and no clearcoat. Just a urethane enamel in gloss black.

Leaning towards having my Dad's buddies do it. Going to see what the bill is for this fuel issue and then decide whether to paint or not, probably with my part of this years tax return.

thesameguy
February 7th, 2017, 08:50 AM
I don't have a clear recollection of my ex's fuel pump, but I'm pretty sure you don't need that whole pump assembly... you just need a $30-$70 -34x pump insert. It's *slightly* more work, but we're talking 10-15 minutes, not a lot.

Also, don't jump to conclusions it's the fuel pump. Because you might find yourself spending a Saturday dropping & replacing a fuel tank only to have a car that still doesn't start because the crank sensor failed. Not that I know anything about that, it's just a feeling. Point being, check the pump with a direct 12v connection and a fuel pressure tester before going to the trouble.

dodint
February 7th, 2017, 09:32 AM
It's already at the mechanic. I'm in transit and renting a house from my sister that doesn't have a garage. I'm hitting the easy button on this one, I could have had it towed to my Dad's but I just want it done now. If they call this afternoon and say it is the fuel pump, I will ask about the Walbro. Maybe I'll get lucky and it was something dumb and I can just pick it up on the way home. It has had an intermittent CEL since Saturday so anything is possible.

It really happened at the best time. I had just passed through the Squirrel Hill tunnel like 10 minutes earlier, could have easily been a lot worse. Just funny that it's down already. Tow driver said this was only the third Mustang he has ever towed so that's probably a good sign.

thesameguy
February 7th, 2017, 10:14 AM
Dropping fuel tanks is no fun, especially in winter. Can't fault a guy for outsourcing that.

You know, if you're not interested in a restoration project, and the shop it's at is friendly, you might consider having them hole saw out the trunk floor. Will you ever need to change the fuel pump again? Probably not. But if it's a track rat I'd always advocate ease of maintenance and a hole in the trunk floor could solve a lot of future heartache.

Also, maybe obvious, get thee Torque etc. for your phone so you can pull codes on the fly. :up:

dodint
February 7th, 2017, 10:44 AM
Mechanic called, said the fuel pump was completely seized. They pulled a code saying that circuit was down, power wasn't even cycling through it. Really glad it died when it did and not downtown, I would've been mortified.

I'll look into the smartphone thing. I have a regular OBDII scan tool on my Amazon list since it was only $24, but if I can do it with a phone that's probably better.

My sisters house is on a crazy hill making any repair effort pretty difficult, even if I wanted to. They're only charging $460 out the door and that is with the Walbro 255LPH pump, and it should be ready tomorrow.

thesameguy
February 7th, 2017, 11:05 AM
IMHO, if you're going to buy a scan tool get a decent one that will pull manufacturer-specific codes rather than a generic/universal one that will only pull engine P-codes. P-codes are helpful, but far less useful than the array of manufacturer codes. $25 vs. $75, roughly. However, I think there is value in convenience, and Torque plus a ~$15 Bluetooth dongle means you can easily check codes anywhere, all the time, plus logging and whatnot. I believe you can also use that style of dongle with track telemetry apps to learn about your driving, so it's a double-win. Of course, such a thing isn't *quite* as accurate a real telemetry datalogger, but still it's useful information. My friend uses Track Addict, but there are a few others.

dodint
February 7th, 2017, 11:08 AM
Yeah, Russ and I were discussing the data acquisition tools for overlaying telemetry on video. The dongle he recommended would work with Torque and those apps. Added to the list of future things to make my wallet lighter.

CudaMan
February 7th, 2017, 12:06 PM
Is the clear coat oxidized or is the paint just dull? If the latter, and it's a factory or good quality paint job, a pro detailer could probably get you looking spiffy for less than a repaint.

dodint
February 7th, 2017, 12:17 PM
It's pretty bad, sun baked. Maaco guy found some repairable surface rust on the roof. The sides don't look terrible but anything facing up is scorched. Fairly surprised the interior held up, to be honest. It did come with sunshades, though.

novicius
February 7th, 2017, 03:19 PM
2% window tint, kthxbai. ;) #snark

thesameguy
February 7th, 2017, 03:26 PM
Oooooooooooooooorrrrrrr

http://www.zetecinside.com/xr2/pictures/hires/small_pfshoot02.jpg

dodint
February 7th, 2017, 05:15 PM
I'm blind now.

Godson
February 7th, 2017, 05:52 PM
I'm blind now.

You aren't supposed to like at the spitting monster when jerking it dood.

GB
February 8th, 2017, 05:43 AM
My priority order in making a car acquisition "mine"
1: Safety
2: Reliability
3: Performance
4: Looks

Is paint really what you want at this juncture? I would get it ready for track days first, get it actually ON track to see how you like it, THEN make it pretty.

Just projecting. :D

dodint
February 8th, 2017, 06:25 AM
Barring consumables like pads and rotors, it's track ready now.

Paint right now is appealing because it's winter and that's a time consuming project. Why take it off the road in the summer or wait a whole year when the car is sitting in the back alley now? Also, tax season. Looks like our return will be split between the E60 and the Mustang (at a 2/1 ratio, sadly).

There are things I would *like* for the track, but they're not required for the experience I'm looking to have. First track day is April and between now and then the only track related stuff I will likely achieve is getting the subframe connector welded in, and look at linkages or whatever I need to tighten up that bumpsteer.

I need to sit down and map out a plan, that's just how I work. Roughly right now it looks like:

Fuel Pump (duh)
Odometer gear fix (ordered)
Refresh all fluids
Paint
subframe connector
Swap in a Bluetooth media deck, remove that double DIN+ factory stereo.
Leg room mod (free)
Back Seat Delete

*first track day around here*

bumpsteer fix
Brake line upgrade (if needed)
New pads and proper rotors
New tires if needed
Start looking at an adjustable coilover solution to drop height more
Remove foglights and replace with brake ducting
Other stuff Carlo hasn't sold me on yet...

If the timing of some of the stuff seems illogical it's probably because I won't be closing on my house (hopefully) until around the time of the first track day. Once I get my garage I can actually get the thing in the air and poke around more. I hope to have everything sorted in the first two track seasons and then just do maintenance from then on. I'm not looking for this car to be a ongoing project as the DMC will come along around that time.

novicius
February 8th, 2017, 06:30 AM
:lol: :up:

21Kid
February 8th, 2017, 07:24 AM
Get to work Carlo!!! :lol:

thesameguy
February 8th, 2017, 09:53 AM
My priority order in making a car acquisition "mine"
1: Safety
2: Reliability
3: Performance
4: Looks

Is paint really what you want at this juncture? I would get it ready for track days first, get it actually ON track to see how you like it, THEN make it pretty.

Just projecting. :D

Like.

Doing anything cosmetic before a car is 100% bulletproof makes me really uneasy!

I guess that's why I have a lot of ugly cars. :(

Kchrpm
February 8th, 2017, 10:11 AM
Doing anything cosmetic before a car is 100% bulletproof makes me really uneasy!

I guess that's why I have a lot of ugly cars. :(

So much is being said right there.

thesameguy
February 8th, 2017, 10:35 AM
I know, I know.

dodint
February 8th, 2017, 11:09 AM
Am I missing something obvious here?

The car is safe. It's a beastly torquemonster, but it's safe. It's literally being safety inspected right now, today, by the commonwealth of PA. And it has to pass HPDE tech in April which it won't if there are any issues.

Really surprised at the unified front against me getting the car painted while it's snowing outside and doing track upgrades later. Everything is going to get done, it's just a matter of order. From a project management perspective I'm killin' it.

Seriously, is there a Tullock Spike I'm missing here?

thesameguy
February 8th, 2017, 11:51 AM
No horse in the race, but my assumption is that money is not unlimited so "stuff" happens over time as money becomes available. Suspension now means tires later, etc. As a friend of mine semi-rhetorically asks - "Would you rather look fast or go fast?" On a track car, I would rather go fast. $1500 spent on paint is $1500 not spent on suspension, tires, telemetry, safety gear, and brakes nor stuff that - in my experience - invariably comes up on a used car, like filters, crank sensors, stupid ass cracked exhaust manifolds, etc. Personally I would put some serious road miles on the car over the winter to be sure nothing is about to break, and get a sense of the things that will be a drawback when it warms up for track days... a noisy diff or worn out sway bar end links, etc. And, you know, in my limited experience unexpected shit happens at a track day and a shiny paint job may not stay shiny that long for a variety of reasons. I would almost rather track an ugly car where I don't have to worry about those things. Hell, I would rather drive an ugly car... HPDE'ing the Lemons car was one of the greatest freedoms I ever experienced!

Those are my values and my experiences, and they may very well not be yours. It's your car and your racing and you're the one that has to be happy with it. That's all that matters. Like GB said, I'm just projecting - I know I can't swing a $1500 paint job on the XR4Ti when I'm going to have do some track day prep & remediation this year. You definitely may not have those same chronological or financial constraints. ;)

PS: If your car did come with a spike, you'll need to remove that before your first track day.

dodint
February 8th, 2017, 02:55 PM
Recommending I drive this car through the mountains of western PA through the winter, for the sake of waiting for things to break, perfectly illustrates the gap in our perspectives. Not a criticism, just highlighting the reality of it. I guess I can't compartmentalize car ownership like that, let the roof rust away to buy more bushings. I see ownership as a complete responsibility and, to me, part of that is triage. What can I do right now? Paint and interior.

The car can either sit for the next two months or have paintwork done. Very reasonably priced paintwork, no less. Legit shocked at the resistance (not just tsg), but that's what I like about this place. :up:

thesameguy
February 8th, 2017, 03:29 PM
Totally fair. Good luck, and godspeed!

dodint
February 8th, 2017, 04:16 PM
I assume now the clutch will come flying through the hood on the way home from the paint shop. Mark it. ;)

GB
February 8th, 2017, 08:06 PM
Really surprised at the unified front against me getting the car painted while it's snowing outside and doing track upgrades later.
No, no, no...there's no unified front against you. Just maybe some advice from some to make sure your priorities are what you really want. If you've thought it all through and have the resources to make it happen, fire when ready!

dodint
February 9th, 2017, 05:26 AM
Yeah, sorry, poor wording. I don't take any of this personally. I genuinely appreciate the adversarial views, beats the hell out of groupthink.

It dumped 8" on us last night so the car is now stranded at the mechanics for the time being. Whelp. :lol:

Yw-slayer
February 9th, 2017, 06:52 AM
Yeah, sorry, poor wording. I don't take any of this personally. I genuinely appreciate the adversarial views, beats the hell out of groupthink.

Goddamnit guys, you're/we're not trying hard enough. Let's PULL OUR SOCKS UP

dodint
February 9th, 2017, 07:32 AM
FISTICUFFS

GB
February 9th, 2017, 10:49 PM
"Groupthink" and "Yes Men" resulted in the Aztek.

dodint
February 14th, 2017, 05:29 PM
The tsg/Russ joint recommendation of the bluetooth obd2 reader has worked out nicely. Came today and I have my codes read. Mustang needs some small emissions bits which I can grab this weekend.

Basically, this issue: https://www.svtperformance.com/forums/threads/p1443-how-to-fix.591039/

dodint
February 20th, 2017, 12:20 PM
Nice maintenance day for the Mustang.

Started off by doing the Mustang Seat Mod. (http://www.mustangworld.com/ourpics/fcar/samajmseats.htm) Basically you take the seat off of the factory mount and bolt it back on 2" farther back. It doesn't sound like much but it has allowed me to sit father back, rotate my hips some, and sit straighter up. Now my ankles are not bent almost backwards to work the clutch. And since my torso is still in the same basic position I can work the shifter and steering wheel just fine. And my head is in the sweet spot of the roof where wearing a helmet won't be an issue. I did the passenger side as well so my tall friend won't appear to have his knees on the dash anymore. I found $4.03 in change under seat, so this 'mod' actually generated cash.

I had a CEL complaining about the emissions equipment, so I replaced a purge valve, purge solenoid, and a the vacuum lines that connect them. They were all rotted off. Car seems to idle smoother and feels a little more responsive, could be in my head but the motor just feels tightened up somehow.

Did an oil change. Mobil1 5w20 with a Mobil1 filter. Also a few ounces of Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer.

Fixed the odometer gears, sorta. Someone had gone in and tried to fix the gears by putting in new ones. Unfortunately they installed the worm gear on the electric motor slightly incorrectly and the gears were not touching. Slipped the gear down about a millimeter and now the odometer and tripometer are functional. Important so I can get my emissions exemption next year (gotta demonstrate being under 5,000 miles/year).

Checked on the general health of some of the basic things. Pads look brand new, doubt I'll replace them before the first track day. The air filter (a reusable K&N) was filthy. We had to take the fender well off and a giant pile of leaves and dirt fell out, fun. Need to pick up some plastic clips for that fender well cover as almost all were missing or broken. Threads on the oil pan plug are slightly off so I need to pick a new one up for next time.

novicius
February 20th, 2017, 07:48 PM
Noice. :up: :up:

dodint
March 6th, 2017, 07:10 AM
Torque reports WOT as 93.3 open. Good enough for a zip tie.

Throwing a new emissions code now: P1445 Purge Valve Sensor Value High. I presume this is either the new Valve I put on is functioning and the sensor which is next in line is overloaded and faulting, or there is some more rotten tubing I need to swap out. Sensor is like $20 so I'll get in there and swap it out the next chance I get. Lots of busy weekends coming up though.

I need small tube of loctite for the shifter, it quite annoyingly will rotate when gripped.

21Kid
March 6th, 2017, 07:57 AM
I had a shifter that did that. It was an aftermarket that was on the RS when I bought it. Not fun when driving aggressively.

CudaMan
March 6th, 2017, 08:24 AM
Teflon tape on the threads also works well.

thesameguy
March 6th, 2017, 08:33 AM
Teflon tape on the threads also works well.

This is what I'd do - or put a jam nut below the knob.

dodint
March 6th, 2017, 08:34 AM
Teflon tape on the threads also works well.

Maybe I'll try that first. I'm worried with loctite I won't be able to get it back off if I need to.

novicius
March 8th, 2017, 05:30 AM
Just in reviewing your parts list, your Cobra has over $7,000 in aftermarket hardware not including your purchase price. You won't ever see that money in your hand but that's what you're driving around with. :up: #lotterywinner


Suspension:
FRPP Springs
Tokico shocks/struts
2004 Cobra front control arms
adjustable rear upper/lower control arms.
Really surprising the PO didn't put in the subframe connectors.

The bumpsteer kit installation labor will be a PITA. Gotta take almost everything in the front-end apart. Plan on balljoints and fresh urethane bushings for those Cobra control arms too.

The rear suspension issues are taken care of by the rear LCA's. :up: Check to make sure you don't still have the quad-shocks on the rear -- once you've upgraded the LCA's, you can unbolt them and take them off.

dodint
March 8th, 2017, 08:11 AM
Yeah, I'm not complaining. ;)

dodint
March 17th, 2017, 09:18 AM
$775 repair bill for the MINI. Two parts. One is the bumper cover and ambient temp sensor that I snagged on the Penske trailer while moving last year. My bad, finally got around to fixing that. That was about $300 of the bill.

The other was an immediate concern. Was passing a truck on the turnpike at like 6k RPM (near red line) and the car started throwing codes, ended up down two cylinders:

FOUND MISFIRE FAULTS IN CYLINDERS 3 AND 4, PERFORMED MISFIRE TEST PLAN. FOUND CYLINDER 3 AND 4 COILS TO BE DEFECTIVE. ALSO FOUND ALL 4 SPARK PLUGS WORN. DUE TO ALL COILS SUBJECT TO THE SAME CONDITIONS REMOVED AND REPLACED ALL 4 SPARK PLUGS AND COILS AS PER MINI INSTRUCTIONS.

Let me tell you, taking a 2-cyl MINI through the Squirrel Hill tunnel is not inspiring at all. :lol:

Hoping this is an anomaly, the car only has 55k miles. I have a 2+ week trip to St. Paul next week or I could have saved about $300 in labor and probably $300 in parts here, but I had to get it done. It's a nice dealer. They washed the car inside and out and gave me a (ugly) '17 loaner MINI.

dodint
March 19th, 2017, 07:21 PM
Dropped the Mustang off at the paint shop. I'm out of town the next 3 weeks and won't be able to pick it up until April 15th.

Novi asked for a video of a Sunday drive for sound and general temperament. Because I accidentally set my phone to record 60FPS it turned off after 10 minutes. Unfortunately, that was literally about 45 seconds before I turned onto the proper back roads. Sad! Would've liked to have that footage because I underestimated how wet the roads were at one point and ended up off the road. Did a brake test, burnout, all kinds of stuff that is now only for me to know. Alas.


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

GB
March 20th, 2017, 06:48 AM
Nice sound inside the cabin.

novicius
March 20th, 2017, 07:05 AM
Yep-yep slow 'n' loud is a proud Mustang tradition! :D :up:

dodint
March 20th, 2017, 07:12 AM
Nice sound inside the cabin.

Thanks. I really like that at around 2500rpm is tips over and really gets snarly, but if if I want to cruise on the highway it's just a steady *thrum* that is very comfortable to live with. I plan to take it out to Cincy for 24LM watch party so that will probably be the first time it goes longer than an 2 hours in a sitting.

Godson
March 20th, 2017, 08:39 AM
Lol. This will be great, SVT Cobra and an Ecoboost F150 to go watch the 24 at NCM. One of those people will be cheering for the Vette.

dodint
March 20th, 2017, 08:53 AM
Ash is a Ferrari girl so that only leaves you as the traitor.

Godson
March 20th, 2017, 10:45 AM
Lol. I am not a traitor. I dabble with all vehicles.

dodint
March 20th, 2017, 11:40 AM
Compulsive dabblers are not to be encouraged.

thesameguy
March 20th, 2017, 12:01 PM
Says the guy who splits time between an SN95 Mustang and a Mini!

dodint
March 20th, 2017, 12:19 PM
Shhhh, don't let my BMW hear you...

21Kid
March 20th, 2017, 01:07 PM
So many stickers on the window...

dodint
March 20th, 2017, 03:50 PM
My razor with a handle is in storage with most of the rest of my tools.

novicius
March 22nd, 2017, 04:17 AM
Just putting this here for when it's time to go FULL COBRA. (http://forums.corral.net/forums/road-racing-auto-x/1881426-irs-install-retrofit-instructions.html) :hard:

(:lol:)

dodint
March 22nd, 2017, 05:06 AM
You know damn well that's a project for AFTER you buy it. :P

dodint
March 22nd, 2017, 05:12 AM
Oh, hell, :lol: it's a Fox Body. Niiiiice.

novicius
March 22nd, 2017, 05:13 AM
Yeah I thought that was funny -- I want to see someone bolt-in an '03-'04 IRS into their Grandma's minty fresh '79 Fairmont. :lol:


EDIT: Of course the IRS is worth about x3 what a typical northern Fairmont would fetch. #snarf

dodint
April 10th, 2017, 08:14 AM
http://nathangess.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/download_20170206_112931-e1486398727677.jpeg


http://nathangess.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/stangpaint2.jpg

http://nathangess.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/stangpaint3.jpg

http://nathangess.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/stangpaint1.jpg


Not bad for $1,500 I think. I'll pick it up on Friday morning and it'll go straight into the garage at the new house we're closing on. Looking forward to getting the badging back on the rear w/the gray Cobra call-out letters, already ordered an en route from LMR.

Going to let the paint cure for a bit and then start a Zaino regimen. Should be dripping wet by August.

First HPDE is two weekends from now. I picked up a Hero 4 Black from that really decent liquidation deal they were running so hopefully I'll be able to record some stuff.

novicius
April 10th, 2017, 08:22 AM
Is the clear coat oxidized or is the paint just dull? If the latter, and it's a factory or good quality paint job, a pro detailer could probably get you looking spiffy for less than a repaint.

Is paint really what you want at this juncture? I would get it ready for track days first, get it actually ON track to see how you like it, THEN make it pretty.

Doing anything cosmetic before a car is 100% bulletproof makes me really uneasy!

I'll accept this as your acknowledgement that you were wrong. Cheers.
Looks damn good, Nate! :lol: :up:

thesameguy
April 10th, 2017, 08:41 AM
I guess when people say "keep the shiny side up" there won't be any confusion now.

dodint
April 10th, 2017, 08:51 AM
Ah, who needs restraint when Carlo is around?

Part of me wants to kick a door in so I won't tip-toe around trying to keep it pretty. Black is beautiful but it's a cruel mistress.

novicius
April 10th, 2017, 08:59 AM
I have said nothing but that it looks great. :D

dodint
April 10th, 2017, 09:18 AM
Looks aside I'm happy to have addressed the rust on the roof in the proper way. It was the beginnings of a problem that would've quickly gotten worse, I think.

Jason
April 10th, 2017, 11:15 AM
Rust just means weight savings!

dodint
April 21st, 2017, 07:28 AM
The E60 535XI decided to die on us two weeks before Ash moves back to PA. Since she's starting her doctoral program..soon...we decided to just make the repair and try to get three more years out of it. It was a slipping transfer case that was throwing codes and shifting into neutral when the car hits 40mph. The plus side is that the bad turbos I was all set to replace this summer was actually a malfunctioning crankshaft sensor which is also getting swapped out. Looking at $4500 for the new transfer case and $600 for the crankshaft sensor (parts/labor). Should be done on Tuesday in time for Ash to have her visit with Ross & Co.
She is now actively pushing to take the MINI from me and have me trade the E60 on something better for me, leading candidates being a Challenger or Z4M Coupe. I'm not ready for any of that right now, just trying to get through final exams and finish our home move. She has no interest in taking over the MINI payments so she can go pound sand, honestly.

Mustang is having its first track day on Sunday morning. Should be a fun shakedown.

MINI is just obeying, being the perfect little bitch that it is.

DMC hunt should start this fall if I'm prudent this summer. Unlikely since she made me get ride of most of all furniture and now it needs to be repurchased.

thesameguy
April 21st, 2017, 08:48 AM
Summer is upon us... just dd the SVT!

Cam
April 21st, 2017, 08:57 AM
Good luck!

dodint
April 21st, 2017, 08:59 AM
Part of my commute involves a commuter lot in a not great part of town (Troy Hill). It's a small lot with about 20 spots, not super comfortable leaving the Mustang there. I'd rather leave any other vehicle there, including the bike. The MINI is worth 3x the Mustang but I guarantee the latter will attract much more attention.

Work will pay for a bus pass, but not a parking spot. So I save $300+ a month by taking the last three miles by bus. It's weird FedGov bullshit.

http://www.portauthority.org/paac/DesktopModules/ParkandRideLots/images/springgarden.jpg

That's the lot. I'm just...no.

Everyone parked in that lot that day is parked wrong. I'm...no. No.

thesameguy
April 21st, 2017, 09:09 AM
What you need is a '90s-tastic Viper alarm. Then the Mustang would be safe!

dodint
April 21st, 2017, 09:11 AM
Every time I see that white car I twitch a little.

thesameguy
April 21st, 2017, 09:50 AM
https://i.makeagif.com/media/9-23-2015/unbMAm.gif

TheBenior
April 21st, 2017, 08:37 PM
Well, Mustangs were all immobilizer key equipped after 1996, IIRC, so it won't be as easy to steal as a pre-2008 Dodge Caravan.

Unless they use a tow truck...

speedpimp
April 22nd, 2017, 04:52 PM
Viper and a Club and you're golden, pony boy, you're golden.

Is the white car a Musty Thang or a Grand Am?

dodint
April 23rd, 2017, 06:14 PM
I can't overstate how much fun I had at my first HPDE. I got a fantastic instructor and perfect weather. It was everything I expected and more.

The Mustang took everything I threw at it and didn't complain at all. Made the tires squeal for what felt like the entire lap a few times. All I hear is speed being jettisoned when the tires scream but in some places it seems like there isn't much I can do about it. I didn't detect an over abundance of body roll and it felt quite balanced, to be honest. I could feather the power just enough to get slip angle on the car as I swept through some of the longer turns. It was a 'greasy' feel where I knew the car was beyond the limits of traction at all four wheels but I could modulate the throttle to put the car where it needed to go to setup for the runs down the straights. The back half of the third 25 minute session the brakes started to fade but they were never without stopping power; the pedal just felt like a two-stage lever, it would have slack for a few inches and then all the brakes were there.

The course was the 1.2 mile PittRace South Course. The North Course is being paved and still needs the top layer put one which will happen when they get a few more warm days. All of my non-traffic affected laps were between 1:08 and 1:11, with the bulk of them being in the 1:09-10 window.

The instructor was really happy with my ability and used the third session to work through some different lines. At the end when he did my evaluation he commented that I was very smooth and consistent which is really the best praise I could've hoped to receive. Given I am not really great at sim racing being able to confirm that the stuff my brain knows about racing technique actually works when I have the feedback that comes from having the car under me was a really satisfying experience. I will be promoted to run Group 2 the next time I go which felt good.
One thing I was specifically told to work on was adjusting braking zones when carrying more speed. I tended to try to get more out of the brakes when going faster instead of braking sooner. Probably more of an issue on a higher speed track. Amusing because he was impressed with my threshold braking ability, I'm just not doing it in the right places each time. :lol:
Instructor recommended I install a harness bar and invest in a set of six-point harnesses. He was sliding around a good bit.

I know it's not fair to compare to the other peeps in the run group, but it was satisfying tracking down cars with significantly more horsepower and/or better setups. Second session I had a long tussle with a modified Evo that kept walking me on the straights but I'd catch him in the turns and he eventually had to point me by. Over all three sessions the only car to catch me and force a wave by was a modified 2010 Camaro SS who was there for his first day too.

GoPro died on first use, of course. I charged it last night and mounted it in the car. Battery was dead in the morning. I guess shutting it off with the GoPro App doesn't actually shut it off as I was only away about six hours. Was able to capture my third run with my Galaxy S7. Sorry for the cramped angle but the perspective that worked well with the GoPro wide angle didn't work with the phone at all, the recording of my second run was garbage so I moved the mount to the back window.


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

Random
April 23rd, 2017, 07:59 PM
Pedal slack may have been knock-back: http://stoptech.com/technical-support/technical-white-papers/pad-knockback

novicius
April 24th, 2017, 03:51 AM
Great work slicing it up out there! :D :up:


EDIT: Also, what datalogging software are you using?

dodint
April 24th, 2017, 06:16 AM
Pedal slack may have been knock-back: http://stoptech.com/technical-support/technical-white-papers/pad-knockback

Great article, thanks. Not saying you're wrong, I've read up on how much these systems flex under track conditions and it is pretty amazing. It's just that my instant case is a different fact pattern than his trip to Watkins.

I'm hesistant to declare that because the brakes were solid in the first session (all sessions 25 minutes), with the tiniest bit of fade. Second session was the same. Third session about 10 minutes in the pedal started developing slack. Hard to explain but it would press down with slight resistance to a point, then it was like standing on a tennis ball. The stopping power was still there and I never felt in danger or anything, but the travel was much further. I just adjusted for it as I went.

I went with the brakes on the car as I bought it. I'm curious if when I bleed the system and put in a higher quality fluid that will go away. Also want to do upgraded brake lines this year, maybe I'll bump that to the top of the list and see if that helps.

dodint
April 24th, 2017, 06:29 AM
Great work slicing it up out there! :D :up:


EDIT: Also, what datalogging software are you using?

This was the process for that:

Bluetooth OBD-II reader: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006NZTZLQ (Lots of different kinds, this one is reliably popular) talking to the Torque App on Android, my tablet was in the trunk in the spare tire well, it's set to auto-log when the app is open and the OBD-II reader is talking to the tablet. The data logs are saved as .csv files which I sent to my computer.

Video was captured with my Samsung Galaxy S7, but any video source works. Literally makes no difference at all.

Download DashWare, it's free now. Install. Open it with the same account you used to install it. http://www.dashware.net/
Import your video file and your .csv data file.
Go to the Synchronization tab. Cue up your video to a spot that you recognize in the data. It's helpful to have the 'map' on in that menu so you can see when you're on the false grid, that's what I did. Check the box when they're sync'd, then create the video.
I then ran that video through Windows Movie Maker and added the title card and still photos, and clipped some dead time.

This is a good video showing the sync process for DashWare: http://www.dashware.net/videos/synchronization-tutorial-sample-file-download/?portfolioID=16343
DashWare has gauges for all kinds of stuff, not just automotive. Very cool tool.

Let me know if you need help getting it up and running. For as little as $25 you could be overlaying mph/rpm on your own vids. Plus the data loggers are equipped to log all kinds of stuff, basically anything the OBD-II is thinking about, you just have to tell it which PIDs you want to monitor.

novicius
April 24th, 2017, 06:39 AM
Excellent write-up -- I doubt I'll get it set up for my first autox this Sunday but I will definitely for my second, thanks! :up: :up:

dodint
April 24th, 2017, 06:42 AM
Cool thing about the OBD/Torque App combo is when you shut your car off the app stops logging, so if you're at an autocross doing multiple runs you'll get a separate log for each, and they're timestamped in the file name. Very handy.

dodint
April 25th, 2017, 06:03 PM
I was in the garage getting a tool to work on some house stuff and noticed my driver rear tire was flat on the Mustang. :(

Inspected the tire and found cracks between the tread, similar to this Miata:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/bentoy/Tire%20Wheel/Canon12jan08007SilveradoTireWheel.jpg

The Mustang currently has 275/40ZR-17 on a 17x9" wheel.

I have a spare set of wheels/tires from the E36 in my garage. I probably only put about 5,000 commuting miles on a set of 245/40ZR-17 BFGoodrich g-Force Sport COMP-2s before I traded the E36 on the MINI. I would *love* to swap these on to the Mustang wheels and get full use out of these tires since I never got to track them originally. Any reason not to? Internet says a 9" wide wheel can support a 235 to 265 width tire.

https://images.craigslist.org/00U0U_bEU105lomFM_1200x900.jpg

I'm trying to go back to the track on May 8th but I bought a bunch of overpriced fancy pants brake stuff for the MINI today and really don't want to drop a bunch more money on tires on top of the HPDE registration.

Any reason not to do this? The tires have been kept in tire carriers through the winters, I ran Blizzaks on the E36 during the winters in Wisconsin.

Carlo sez 'dooo iitttt' but I'm curious if I'm missing anything.

Random
April 25th, 2017, 06:09 PM
Totally fine.

dodint
April 25th, 2017, 06:15 PM
Thanks. :up:

Wish I had thought of using them sooner. I only thought to use the wheels, which have a slightly wrong bolt pattern, but never looked at the tires.

I'm curious to feel the difference. I never felt like I was in real danger of losing the back end when playing with the edge of traction. I bet that line will be finer going from a 275 to a 245 with everything else being equal.

dodint
April 25th, 2017, 06:35 PM
I don't suspect that anyone is sitting around watching this videos with a bucket of popcorn or anything, but I'll share this:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9s5pa0Wttk

It's the video of my second run. The camera FOV is way too tight and it's tough to really see the perspective of the track. And the audio is atrocious because the camera was literally half hanging out of the window.

I share it because the battle with the white EVO at the beginning was loads of fun. Supposedly it is modified to 400hp and kept walking me in the straights, and I kept catching him in the corners. Eventually he had to wave me by which was awesome. Starts around the 4 minute mark but unfortunately you can only really see him in the right hand turns.