Project Blown SS Refresh

[IJ.]

IJ reckon that one was quieter than yours when I heard it in the flesh...I mean that in a good way. ;)

I think the 2300 Stealth Force has more of the Cement Mixer action going on Mick ;)

[FrangaFry]

Question for all the Tyre gurus, I am going to throw some Michelin Super Sports on the o'l girl (I work for Michelin and get a free set per year......), and want to know if anyone has put a 255 under the rear of a Wagon and if you had any clearance issues.

Given the front's will have issues, I am going to try:

Front: 245/40/18

Rear: 255/40/18

Standardy VYSS 18" rims. Standard Fe2 springs all round.

Just about to place an order, so thought I would ask the question in case anyone has experience with this size on the rear.

Thoughts?


Cheers folks,

[Micks]

Std offset on an 18" SS rim with a 255 will work no probs without any other body mods.
Front is a different story unless you use HSV type struts or coilovers.

[FrangaFry]

Std offset on an 18" SS rim with a 255 will work no probs without any other body mods.
Front is a different story unless you use HSV type struts or coilovers.


Thanks Mick, IJ said pretty much the same thing as well............ bonus, pulling the trigger tomorrow.

Cheers guys,

[FrangaFry]

Finally got some more 30w mineral oil (and also picked up 10ltrs of some penrite 15/60) and have changed the filter and topped her up (lots of good stuff came out of the filter - lovely lube......). So as of tomorrow will start driving the wags to work and back to get some miles under the belt. Will also touch base with Louis and see when I can get her booked in for the tune.

Hoping to also have the tyres sorted by the end of the week and have it run in and new oil/filter for early next week (or possibly the weekend). Fingers crossed I can get it tuned sooner rather than later.

Looking forward to the drive tomorrow (as I really enjoyed driving it tonight, albeit just for a few km's ............ have realized how much I missed it!).

[Red CV8 R]

Would be interested to see the 255/40/18 rears on the stock rims, I was told not to go bigger than 245/40/18 rears on my stock Monaro 18" rims.

[IJ.]

Would be interested to see the 255/40/18 rears on the stock rims, I was told not to go bigger than 245/40/18 rears on my stock Monaro 18" rims.

Will all depend on the tyre brand, I have 255's on VE SSV rims on my Tonner, I believe they're 8" as well, mine are Falkens on the front and Federals on the rear , neither are too bulgy.

[FrangaFry]

Will all depend on the tyre brand, I have 255's on VE SSV rims on my Tonner, I believe they're 8" as well, mine are Falkens on the front and Federals on the rear , neither are too bulgy.

Yeah, spoke to my tyre guy today as well and he thinks the rims will be ok, it was the clearance that was an issue (nothing ventured, nothing gained hey?).

Really loving my car again Ian!

THANK YOU!

[IJ.]

Yeah, spoke to my tyre guy today as well and he thinks the rims will be ok, it was the clearance that was an issue (nothing ventured, nothing gained hey?).

Really loving my car again Ian!

THANK YOU!
Very welcome Carlton, it was a pleasure doing it for you! :D

[FrangaFry]

Small update, drove the old girl to work and back today - faultless!!!

Spoke with Louis and Frank @ APS and wags is booked in for next Wed .......... tyres are also on the way.

Quick question, should I get the new tyres on before of after the tune? Spoke with another fella today who rekn's new tyres and rollers = not good and he counseled me to tune first them fit the tyres.

Any thoughts on this guys?

P.S. Walked in the door this afternoon and had to tell the wife: "I've fallen in love with my car all over again ..........." 8 months was worth the wait I rek'n.

So looking forward to the tune now.

[IJ.]

Great to hear, might want to clarify the 8 months thing though, actual work time for me was a bit over a week ;)

If you can get the new rubber on and get them scuffed in it should be fine as the new diameter is going to affect the shift points..

[Micks]

Not going to make a terrible lot of difference to be honest. Ensure the rears are inflated properly that's about it.

[XUV]

Not going to make a terrible lot of difference to be honest. Ensure the rears are inflated properly that's about it.
does being strapped down to the rollers put any stress on tyres?

coz after seeing that corvette blow a couple , i'd run the old ones that are going to be ditched anyway, rather than the new tyres.

[Micks]

Will vary from different operators! My preference would be to run the existing too.

[redss]

Hi. from what I have been told the harder the tyres are the better ??

[FrangaFry]

Great to hear, might want to clarify the 8 months thing though, actual work time for me was a bit over a week ;)

Very true IJ, the 7 months and 3 weeks were all me mate; My head is still spinning a little b/c once the trigger was pulled, it happened VERY quickly.......... :woot:


If you can get the new rubber on and get them scuffed in it should be fine as the new diameter is going to affect the shift points..

Hmmm, didn't think about that ........ :doh: im gunna have to get the speed'o re calibrated too....

[edelbrock1]

Very true IJ, the 7 months and 3 weeks were all me mate; My head is still spinning a little b/c once the trigger was pulled, it happened VERY quickly.......... :woot:


Know exactly what you mean there. My whole AWD conversion was done n dusted within a couple of weeks. Bit like watching an exciting train wreck, There is no stopping it, you just gotta kick back and enjoy the ride!! :yahoo:

[FrangaFry]

Know exactly what you mean there. My whole AWD conversion was done n dusted within a couple of weeks. Bit like watching an exciting train wreck, There is no stopping it, you just gotta kick back and enjoy the ride!! :yahoo:

Funny you say that, I was telling IJ what a bizzare (almost out of body) experience it was watching the whole tear down process from the comfort of my PC ........... it was like watching it all happen to some one else's pride and joy. It really wasn't until I got to see it back in my car port, that the reality really started to sink in......... What a great experience it has been! (Lotto!) *wink*

[IJ.]

Pet HATE of mine has always been people that take on a job then only work on it in their spare time.... If I do take on a Project you get my full attention to completion barring wait time on machine work or parts :)

I don't do many but what I do is done on time and on budget, guess that's the difference this not being "work" but a hobby for me.

[Toddler78]

Pet HATE of mine has always been people that take on a job then only work on it in their spare time.... If I do take on a Project you get my full attention to completion barring wait time on machine work or parts :)

I don't do many but what I do is done on time and on budget, guess that's the difference this not being "work" but a hobby for me.

Pet hate of mine as well, this is why I prefer not to get mates to do things for me because it either never gets done or gets bodged and they turn around and say oh yeah but we are mates and I'm doing it for a good price. I'd rather just pay someone I don't know to get it done on time, and done properly.

[Micks]

Pet hate of mine as well, this is why I prefer not to get mates to do things for me because it either never gets done or gets bodged and they turn around and say oh yeah but we are mates and I'm doing it for a good price. I'd rather just pay someone I don't know to get it done on time, and done properly.
Yes Todd either that or just do it yourself if possible. :thumbsup:

[Toddler78]

Yes Todd either that or just do it yourself if possible. :thumbsup:

That's exactly how I liked to be. There are some things that I won't attempt myself but slot I will. You get better satisfaction that way and if it does go wrong well you only hsve yourself to blame.

[Woodchukka]

Pet HATE of mine has always been people that take on a job then only work on it in their spare time.... If I do take on a Project you get my full attention to completion barring wait time on machine work or parts :)

I don't do many but what I do is done on time and on budget, guess that's the difference this not being "work" but a hobby for me.
Have done a few small projects for mates and I put more effort that I would with my own. Can't stand shit work. Have done jobs over many a time as the first time I learn how to do it properly and have to redo it as I can do it better.

[Blue]

Loved this thread thanks Carlton/IJ

[IJ.]

Have done a few small projects for mates and I put more effort that I would with my own. Can't stand shit work. Have done jobs over many a time as the first time I learn how to do it properly and have to redo it as I can do it better.


I pick and choose who I help out these days, if I don't like someone's attitude there's no way I'll take on their project...

[IJ.]

Loved this thread thanks Carlton/IJ


Really glad to hear that Blue thanks :)

[Woodchukka]

I pick and choose who I help out these days, if I don't like someone's attitude there's no way I'll take on their project...
Can't blame you there.

[FrangaFry]

Loved this thread thanks Carlton/IJ

Cheers Blue, I've had a pretty good time of it too, I must admit.

Update:
Have been driving my wagon to and from work for the last week (even though I have to take it easy, it's been soooooo gooood!) - Peeeeeeerfect!.

Got some new shoes for her the other day (Michelin Super Sport 245/40/18 for the front, 255/40/18 for the rear - no dramas at all!!) and they seem VERY good (not had the chance to push anything yet though, as tune is still to come).

Went for a leisurely drive this arov to crack some more km's up (Belgrave to Morwell and back) and the wags just feels sooo goooood! Cruising is sweet and just breathing on the go pedal (2000rpm to 2500rpm) takes you from 80 to 120 in a very pleasant fashion...

Currently on 750km's since run in started and hope to crack 1000km's tomorrow so I can change the filter and oil prior to dropping her off in Frankston for a tune.

Loving my wags soooooo much, I can't wait until Louis has done his magic ..........

[whitels1ss]

Good stuff Carlton, will be good to see how it comes up after the big tune.

[Red CV8 R]

Update:

Got some new shoes for her the other day (Michelin Super Sport 245/40/18 for the front, 255/40/18 for the rear - no dramas at all!!) and they seem VERY good (not had the chance to push anything yet though, as tune is still to come).



Nice to see it worked, do you have any pics? I assume the rear guards of the wagon is quite different to the Monaro so perhaps thats why I was told no 255s? Or the height of the car (Im running a lowered Bilstein/ Eibach combo).

[XUV]

Nice to see it worked, do you have any pics? I assume the rear guards of the wagon is quite different to the Monaro so perhaps thats why I was told no 255s? Or the height of the car (Im running a lowered Bilstein/ Eibach combo).
but you're running a 45 profile

[FrangaFry]

Good stuff Carlton, will be good to see how it comes up after the big tune.

Just hit 1009km's tonight, so dropped the oil (nasty looking stuff it was too, you could see all the pre lube floating around in it ..... eeeeeeewwww), changed the oil filter and also the air filter (whacked an OEM in it for the tune, as I forgot to clean and recharge the K&N ............Doh - thanks for the reminder IJ...... ;) ).

Dropping the wags off to APS tomorrow!

Will post the results up once I get her back; Almost there now ..............

[Woodchukka]

Looking forward to seeing how it goes.

[IJ.]

Ditto :) ..

[Woodchukka]

Ditto :) ..
Yeah but you have a vested interest. I'm just insanely curious.

[XUV]

are we going to guess how many RWKW'S?

I guess 411 RWKW's

[whitels1ss]

are we going to guess how many RWKW'S?

I guess 411 RWKW's

Well I guess 345rwkw

[BLACK 346]

369rwkw...........

[IJ.]

Keep in mind there were 0 performance enhancements done this build, it's all longevity stuff ;)

Drop in compression might allow some more "safe" timing advance and that could give a small bump but any improvements should be quality of Tune alone!

[whitels1ss]

Keep in mind there were 0 performance enhancements done this build, it's all longevity stuff ;)

Drop in compression might allow some more "safe" timing advance and that could give a small bump but any improvements should be quality of Tune alone!

Yeah, that is why I am guessing the lower number.

Come on Ian.....


Your guess please?;)

[IJ.]

Yeah, that is why I am guessing the lower number.

Come on Ian.....


Your guess please?;)
LMAO ummm 351 ;)

[amckiwi]

360 from this cheap seat

[FrangaFry]

I'm with Ian folks and not expecting any numbers increase.

'If' she can hit the the magical 500rwhp mark, I would be most happy, but either way (up or down), i'll be happy with the knowledge that the major bits ain't gunna break any time soon!

We will soon know as Luis is currently weaving his magic ...........

[Toddler78]

It should see some increase if the trans and engine were that bad, should be able to lean on the tune some more without fear of catastrophe

[Toddler78]

I'd like to to see the gains in the mid range I would think it would pick up some more power there too.

[Micks]

My thoughts if you get it tuned now it can only get better with more K's :yup:

[Red CV8 R]

but you're running a 45 profile

At the moment im running 235/40 from memory. Looking at the 255/40/18 for the rear.

[BLACK 346]

At the moment im running 235/40 from memory. Looking at the 255/40/18 for the rear.

Not sure if same wheel arches, but I was running 255/40 20 on my old VT2 SS, that was with Kings Superlows (half the tyre in the guard). Did have rolled guards though.

PS...Where is this dyno result :)

[white lie]

Not sure if same wheel arches, but I was running 255/40 20 on my old VT2 SS, that was with Kings Superlows (half the tyre in the guard). Did have rolled guards though.

PS...Where is this dyno result :)
255/40R20 is a huge tyre on VT-VZ!
I couldn't even fit 245/35's on the back :(
But even at that size, they're too tall

[XUV]

At the moment im running 235/40 from memory. Looking at the 255/40/18 for the rear.
got you mixed up with the AWD Monaro guy.

[IJ.]

I'd like to change my guess ;)

[edelbrock1]

I think Franga has blown us off to go lay some mad skids!! :driving:

[whitels1ss]

I'd like to change my guess ;)

Come on IJ......

He must have phoned you & told you the numbers.:yup:

Do tell! :goodjob:

[FrangaFry]

Come on IJ......

He must have phoned you & told you the numbers.:yup:

Do tell! :goodjob:


Howdy folks, only just got home after doing the car shuttle thing.............. Port Melbourne to Frankston (swap cars), Frankston to Belgrave (drove the newly tuned wags home, left the cx8 there), Belgrave to Frankston (grab the wife's truck - baby seat is in it) and Frankston to Belgrave (throw in a grumpy wife, hungry kid and baby that hasn't slept enough today ............... you get the picture) .... LOL

So apologise for the delay............

I'm gunna admit, I had just a bit of an "awwwwwwwwww" moment this arvo .............. 324rwkw, BUT, 1183nm ............... haven't really had a chance to 'enjoy it' yet as I've only driven it home from APS and I was a little 'careful'...

I did give it a bit of a go on the Frankston/Dandy back stretch just out of Carrum downs coming out of the round about and had a nice 'Faaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrk me!!!' moment kicking down from 3rd to 2nd (popped it back to 3rd before nailing it) and ............. :drool: ............... she just WENT ............... was VERY pleasant (hindsight, could have been a bye bye license moment ............ Shhhhhhhh).

First impression ........ after warming her up 'properly', started to 'squeeeeeeeeze' the go pedal ever so (I thought) gently and for a bit, kept thinking, "whats wrong with the bloody accelerator pedal" (don't laugh, it's been a while ok ........) "it's getting really hard to press it down ..................." Yeah Yeah, I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed, but I do get there... yes, traction control was telling me that 1183nm is 'allot' :fewl:

Frank assured me on the phone that she drives like factory (very nice manners) but gets up and goes when asked ............. from what I noticed tonight - he's VERY much on the money there.

It's gunna take me a day or so to get my head around it all I rek'n, as she's a totally different beast now ........... power delivery seems very different and very linear and I now know what a tranny with a shift kit actually does (Oh, and guess what, pressing the 'power' button actually bloody does something now ...............); Seriously, Chalk and Cheese!!

So to sum up, now, 324rwkw/1183nm DOES feel better than the 350rwkw/715nm that she was ........ i'm VERY bloody happy with it and looking forward to the drive into work tomorrow to get a better feel ...........

Frank and IJ did also point out that she is quite 'restricted' with the current headers/cats/intake and a change would see me somewhere around 380rwkw - but at this point in time, that is a tale for another day (and would require another change ....... but I love the wife I currently have).

Is Franga happy?

k'nOath!

Thanks Ian, and thanks Frank.......

[IJ.]

For my part you're very welcome Carlton, it was a pleasure! Looking at the dyno graph linear is a perfect description, as I said on the phone today it would all come down to the bum dyno after you had driven it, the way it was I highly doubt it ever made the quoted figure.... Am still amazed it didn't Chernobyl...

[Wonky]

So to sum up, now, 324rwkw/1183nm DOES feel better than the 350rwkw/715nm that she was ........

Please let me preface the following by saying anybody who has read my posts over all the years knows that I always try to be helpful, honest and impartial. There is no element of shop bashing/favourtism in what I'm trying to point out below and in fact the last thing I want to do here is start a shitfight.

My comments are also absolutely no reflection on Ian, who I've met and having read many of his posts believe his build would have been to exemplary standards, nor Luis who I consider a friend and great tuner.

It is my understanding however that the torque figure being quoted is being misinterpreted, as in fact should be evident by such a huge jump when power is actually lower! My understanding is that power and torque are interrelated, so such a big increase in one when the other decreases should I suspect have had people thinking. :confused: Unless of course I am way off the mark......... :nutkick:

Luis and I had a conversation on FB probably 18 months ago when someone I know was all c0ck a hoop at having a torque figure on APS' dyno with his cammed LS1 of around 900nm!! That absolutely blew my mind when it only had under 600nm on another dyno, admittedly IIRC pre cam. However, nobody would expect a middle sized cam to add 50% more torque!! :shock:

If my memory serves me correctly (I CBF going back through my Messenger history to find it unless someone "needs proof") the torque figure APS quote is what I think Luis called a "derived torque" figure and the actual normally quoted figure is around 2/3 of that, or maybe it was 30% lower???? :confused:

Bottom line, if I'm not mistaken (could be of course) is that I suspect we are comparing apples with oranges. Hopefully Luis or someone who knows more about this stuff than me can put things straight, or I may have to go digging back through my Messenger history................. :(

[Micks]

Think the numbers are a bit skewed, though the original ones were too, but don't let us get caught up in numbers!
At least now you have the confidence what was done to your ride has been evidenced & as you said the performance now is Chalk and Cheese!!
Great job to all involved. :thumbsup:

[IJ.]

Apples and Oranges for sure, unless its the same dyno and operator under similar conditions you can't directly compare numbers... It will be interesting to see what Carlton thinks of the power once he's driven it at full noise, Luis did comment on how restrictive the exhaust sounded on the dyno, I suspect the Cats are dead/dying from being ran lean in the past...

[amckiwi]

Not an expert at reading dyno chart but my ute made 800Nm I think this supports the wonky view in post # 306
2/3rds of this sounds no where near as good lol.
The "bum" dyno finds me on average a gear higher than before the tune which still brings a massive smile to my face when I drive it which is really the most important thing.

[Woodchukka]

Good to hear all IJ's work came to a good result Frangafry. As for the numbers it has been covered here many times a dyno is a tuning tool and there are so many factors affect the end result. The big gain here is Frangafry can flog the wagon without fear of it falling apart (the engine and box anyhow) which I believe reliability was a big part of the reason for the refresh otherwise they'd have been no need for all the strength IJ added (correct me if I am wrong boys).

It would be good to see the dyno printouts of both old and new runs to see how the power and torque is being delivered but again there will be differences. Also I recall IJ said there was a small reduction in compression plus the potential exhaust issues so all in all there is room for increases in the future where before it was closer to the edge of reliability. If Frangafry had the old setup down the 1/4 then another run once the new setup settles in would offer a truer representation of what is going on.

In the mean time Frangafry screw the numbers just don't strain ya jaw with the grin on your face. :D:goodjob:

[XUV]

Howdy folks,
I'm gunna admit, I had just a bit of an "awwwwwwwwww" moment this arvo .............. 324rwkw, BUT, 1183nm ............... haven't really had a chance to 'enjoy it' yet as I've only driven it home from APS and I was a little 'careful'...

I did give it a bit of a go on the Frankston/Dandy back stretch just out of Carrum downs coming out of the round about and had a nice 'Faaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrk me!!!' moment kicking down from 3rd to 2nd (popped it back to 3rd before nailing it) and ............. :drool: ............... she just WENT ............... was VERY pleasant (hindsight, could have been a bye bye license moment ............ Shhhhhhhh).
.....
what diff ratio you running ?

[whitels1ss]

Has the boost dropped with the new lower compression pistons?
I assume it would have dropped because I don't remember reading anything about a pulley upgrade for more boost
& nothing else changed.

What was it running before & now?

Sounds like a very strong, reliable setup?:goodjob:

[IJ.]

Good to hear all IJ's work came to a good result Frangafry. As for the numbers it has been covered here many times a dyno is a tuning tool and there are so many factors affect the end result. The big gain here is Frangafry can flog the wagon without fear of it falling apart (the engine and box anyhow) which I believe reliability was a big part of the reason for the refresh otherwise they'd have been no need for all the strength IJ added (correct me if I am wrong boys).

It would be good to see the dyno printouts of both old and new runs to see how the power and torque is being delivered but again there will be differences. Also I recall IJ said there was a small reduction in compression plus the potential exhaust issues so all in all there is room for increases in the future where before it was closer to the edge of reliability. If Frangafry had the old setup down the 1/4 then another run once the new setup settles in would offer a truer representation of what is going on.

In the mean time Frangafry screw the numbers just don't strain ya jaw with the grin on your face. :D:goodjob:
The "Brief" I gave Luis was it had to have nice street manners above all else, we kept it to 6500 rpm max it will easily turn 7500 not sure if it'll make more power p there due to the breathing restriction, I asked Luis how it drives, his reply "Mint I want it" :D

I take that as a huge + given he's a Ford guy and gets to drive untold numbers of "good" cars!


what diff ratio you running ?
3.46:1


Has the boost dropped with the new lower compression pistons?
I assume it would have dropped because I don't remember reading anything about a pulley upgrade for more boost
& nothing else changed.

What was it running before & now?

Sounds like a very strong, reliable setup?:goodjob:

As far as I know 12psi, Dynamic Comp will be down due to the drop in Comp to 9.3:1, Didn't see a boost trace from this round of Dyno tuning sorry.

<edit> It was making 10 psi this time.

[IJ.]

Ok my mistake it only ever made 10 psi...
(Alzheimer's kicked in yo) ;)

[whitels1ss]

Sounds perfect for a great daily drive.

[Wonky]

Good to hear all IJ's work came to a good result Frangafry. As for the numbers it has been covered here many times a dyno is a tuning tool and there are so many factors affect the end result.:

Agree totally that the dyno is only a tuning tool and that with a fully rebuilt engine designed to take a hammering Carlton can go for it with confidence with his blower now, rather than on an engine with quite a few kms on it.

All I was trying to point out is for those who do look at the figures and think FARK! about the torque figure as Carlton himself was, that I believe it's a misleading figure and that the actual difference in torque is not significant.

[IJ.]

Agree totally that the dyno is only a tuning tool and that with a fully rebuilt engine designed to take a hammering Carlton can go for it with confidence with his blower now, rather than on an engine with quite a few kms on it.

All I was trying to point out is for those who do look at the figures and think FARK! about the torque figure as Carlton himself was, that I believe it's a misleading figure and that the actual difference in torque is not significant.
It's more about how it's making it's power now Gary, it's turning the rears even at partial throttle and banging Traction Control where the only time it did that in the past was at full noise and this is on bigger stickier rubber :D

[BLACK 346]

It's more about how it's making it's power now Gary, it's turning the rears even at partial throttle and banging Traction Control where the only time it did that in the past was at full noise and this is on bigger stickier rubber :D

My VT2 with just 304rwkw was a bloody handful to drive (like you say break traction at part throttle at will), I can imagine what his would be like. At least he has TC the VT2 Manuals did not come with it.

Enjoy Frangafry, many years of happy motoring, and a couple of cheapish (exhaust) upgrades down the track to keep you interested.

[IJ.]

My VT2 with just 304rwkw was a bloody handful to drive (like you say break traction at part throttle at will), I can imagine what his would be like. At least he has TC the VT2 Manuals did not come with it.

Enjoy Frangafry, many years of happy motoring, and a couple of cheapish (exhaust) upgrades down the track to keep you interested.
Thanks Black, I made this point to Carlton on the phone yesterday, once you're over 400rwhp 2wd on real street tyres you're traction limited so either have to pedal it or use TC to keep it under control... not an ideal situation for a daily driver ;)

Just the fact he was caught unawares by the throttle kicker in a car he's owned it's entire life speaks volumes for how much more mid range it's picked up.

[RED R8]

Great work IJ, I'd be over the moon with a motor and tranny I had some confidence in. If my car broke loose when ever I hammered the throttle thats about all I would ever ask for...If you want a better dyno reading just up the boost, it impresses more people but realistically just makes it even more a handful on the road..

[IJ.]

Great work IJ, I'd be over the moon with a motor and tranny I had some confidence in. If my car broke loose when ever I hammered the throttle thats about all I would ever ask for...If you want a better dyno reading just up the boost, it impresses more people but realistically just makes it even more a handful on the road..

Thanks Red :D

[FrangaFry]

Hi folks, really sorry to be MIA at the moment, but getting flogged at work and at home (only had about 5 minutes over the last couple of days to take a peek at what is going on in here); So, thought I would quickly say the following:

I think we all know I am a numptee by now, and although I made the comment about only having 324rwks - I am by no means complaining (I am loving the wags at the moment but not really getting the time to put her through her paces). So, in all honesty, I take the point in regards to the decalred nm figure - but I can tell you it feels a damn sight better power delivery that it was!!!!! A deman sight better!

I am also not getting hung up on any figures, as end of the day its all about longevity and drivability - which I now believe I have gobs of both!!!


So, to sum up Franga is very bloody happy with where he is at.

I do hope to get some time to sit down tonight and give some more of my thoughts.

Once again, IJ, you are a bloody legend and a wizard! I have total confidence in the engine/gearbox and both are performing flawlessly - abosultely nothing but praise mate!

Chat soon everyone,

Cheers,

[XUV]

Thanks Black, I made this point to Carlton on the phone yesterday, once you're over 400rwhp 2wd on real street tyres you're traction limited so either have to pedal it or use TC to keep it under control... not an ideal situation for a daily driver ;)

Just the fact he was caught unawares by the throttle kicker in a car he's owned it's entire life speaks volumes for how much more mid range it's picked up.
change diff ratio

[IJ.]

change diff ratio

To achieve what?

[XUV]

To achieve what?
Traction, tyre wear, economy ?? what's the lowest they have 2.6;1 .... or is it going to light up regardless?

[IJ.]

Really Tall Diff gears are going to hurt economy everywhere except the Freeway at 110...

There's a bit of a trade off to keep the engine in it's "happy place" lug the RPM below that and economy takes a huge hit, I ran 2.5:1 in my old VB/SBC car and found out first hand..

I think the 3.46:1 in it now are a good compromise, Traction loss would just come at a higher road speed per gear, If I sidestepped the clutch in the VB at anything over a 60 Kmh roll it would blaze up the 295's all day long with a lot less power than the SS has ;)

[Micks]

Yeah Carlton you chose the right man for the job that's for sure! Haven't known IJ long but he's very pedantic in how things should be done & shows true in his results! :teach:

I think the 3.46:1 in it now are a good compromise
In a wagon, ute or light commercial they are spot on, different story in a sedan perhaps!

[FrangaFry]

Sounds perfect for a great daily drive.

:yahoo:

Yep, I rek'n that is a pretty damn good description (except, it has BIG hidden balls!).

I'm a few days in now since the tune and this thing is pretty bloody close to peeeeeerfect.

I've got a little more confident with her now and all I can say is my wags is a dream to drive (and more than powerful enough at this point), besides the bonus of the motor, the gearbox is sen-bloody-sational!!!!

Power mode is crisp and snappy with no noticeable flare and econo mode is just cruise'y and perfect (both modes pull like a frik'n train - best of both worlds!) - The entire car now just 'flows' and the 'power/torque - including evil grin' when the angry foot is depressed is just fantastic.

My traction is pretty much under control now; The new tyres have got a few more km's on them and i've got a better grasp of the power/pedal thing ............ so not as much 'stiff pedal' hahahaah (mind you I still haven't really gone WOT yet ........).

Seriously enjoyed the drive home tonight (peak hour traffic too), as the car just cruised with no issue what so ever - it just feels so strong and capable now (it just feels like she wants to go all the time, just breath on the pedal and you're away!)

Today End

*sigh* - having a beer now and reflecting on the past couple of weeks/months; God damn I got lucky!

[Woodchukka]

Agree totally that the dyno is only a tuning tool and that with a fully rebuilt engine designed to take a hammering Carlton can go for it with confidence with his blower now, rather than on an engine with quite a few kms on it.

All I was trying to point out is for those who do look at the figures and think FARK! about the torque figure as Carlton himself was, that I believe it's a misleading figure and that the actual difference in torque is not significant.
Wasn't having a go at you Wonky. Just reread my post and maybe I could have worded it a little better as you may have taken it that way so sorry if you felt I was having a shot.

Good to hear you are have falling in love with the wags all over again Frangafry.

[seldo]

:yahoo:

Yep, I rek'n that is a pretty damn good description (except, it has BIG hidden balls!).

I'm a few days in now since the tune and this thing is pretty bloody close to peeeeeerfect.

I've got a little more confident with her now and all I can say is my wags is a dream to drive (and more than powerful enough at this point), besides the bonus of the motor, the gearbox is sen-bloody-sational!!!!

Power mode is crisp and snappy with no noticeable flare and econo mode is just cruise'y and perfect (both modes pull like a frik'n train - best of both worlds!) - The entire car now just 'flows' and the 'power/torque - including evil grin' when the angry foot is depressed is just fantastic.

My traction is pretty much under control now; The new tyres have got a few more km's on them and i've got a better grasp of the power/pedal thing ............ so not as much 'stiff pedal' hahahaah (mind you I still haven't really gone WOT yet ........).

Seriously enjoyed the drive home tonight (peak hour traffic too), as the car just cruised with no issue what so ever - it just feels so strong and capable now (it just feels like she wants to go all the time, just breath on the pedal and you're away!)

Today End

*sigh* - having a beer now and reflecting on the past couple of weeks/months; God damn I got lucky!
Gee it's great to read of someone who is actually delighted with the workmanship and outcome of an expensive job.
Congratulations to IJ for a job well done

[IJ.]

Gee it's great to read of someone who is actually delighted with the workmanship and outcome of an expensive job.
Congratulations to IJ for a job well done


Thanks Seldo it means a lot 😊

[Wonky]

Wasn't having a go at you Wonky. Just reread my post and maybe I could have worded it a little better as you may have taken it that way so sorry if you felt I was having a shot.

Nah, all good thanks Woodchukka! :thumbsup: I actually meant to include the "dyno is only a tuning tool" disclaimer in what I wrote and also include reference to differences between dynos. All I was trying to do was point out that I didn't think the before and after torque figures were an apples with apples comparison, so it was unfair of anyone to read anything into them. I'd also anticipate a fully rebuilt motor with the components which went into it and IJ's excellent workmanship to perform significantly better than a relatively high km basically stock LS1.

[IJ.]

Today!
Slow news day, any updates on this? ;)

[FrangaFry]

Today!
Slow news day, any updates on this? ;)

Same here bud, been busy relocating daughters around the house and painting/decorating as needed for the last few weeks.

Wags is peeeeeeeerfect Ian!

Since getting her back from the tune, it's been daily work/home duties only unfortunately...... although having said that the drive in and out has been a pleasure. Really loving the old girl again mate.

Drives like OEM and goes like a scolded cat when asked .............

Still plotting and planning about the cats and diff, but I rek'n I can cool my jets for a bit (plenty to do at home at the moment - so busy getting brownie points *wink*).

[IJ.]

Same here bud, been busy relocating daughters around the house and painting/decorating as needed for the last few weeks.

Wags is peeeeeeeerfect Ian!

Since getting her back from the tune, it's been daily work/home duties only unfortunately...... although having said that the drive in and out has been a pleasure. Really loving the old girl again mate.

Drives like OEM and goes like a scolded cat when asked .............

Still plotting and planning about the cats and diff, but I rek'n I can cool my jets for a bit (plenty to do at home at the moment - so busy getting brownie points *wink*).

Great to hear Carlton, just enjoy it for awhile the Diff and Cats can wait! :)

[FrangaFry]

Great to hear Carlton, just enjoy it for awhile the Diff and Cats can wait! :)

Ok, so it's been a month or so since IJ handed my keys back; In that time I have whacked some decent rubber on it and had her tuned - really only driven the o'l girl back and forth to work though (have been FLOGGED for the last month) ..................................

2 Words!

LOoooooooooooooooooooVE IT!! :goodjob:

After over 10 years of owning this car, I can honestly say I LOVE DRIVING THE FOKER all over again!

I can't believe how much better it 'drives' now ................ seriously!

My wags drives like a new car again (yeah a few squeaks from a 2004 chassis - but got damn the drive line is just SoooooooooWeeeeeeeeeet!) - a new car that goes REALLY well when asked but also has impeccable manners (haven't had to, or felt like, grinding the pedal into the floor at all, well not all the way anyway *wink* .......... don't need to!)

Ian, I know I sound like a broken record mate, but you have seriously transformed my wags buddy - gear changes are 'fun', firm and 'predicable' again (i'm not 'cringing' anymore when I put the boot into it as the gear changes actually do what I always thought they SHOULD!!).

The power delivery is exactly what you want it to be depending on how it is driven; No stagger or pause or 'flare' before she goes - she just goes! The throttle is super smooth, as you just have to feather it to cruise and any deliberate attempt to give it a good poke and your off like the bloody space shuttle (mileage is pretty decent too I think - sitting on 18ltrs per hundy and all of it has been city stop/start driving with the odd boot full every now and then to 'pick the gap' - so a pretty low average speed).

This car is such a pleasure to drive again! I feel sorry for all those Joe's driving their blahhhh mass produced and sanitized imports.

Can't thank you enough Ian for the absolutely stella result mate! The entire process (leading up to, during the build and taking her home) was just such a pleasant and none stressful exercise.

I've had over month now to reflect, consider and experience the results - Am I happy?

You Bet'cha arse I am!

Would I do any of it different - nope; The result was more than I could have hoped.

..................

So, I am pretty confident in saying that the o'l girl has 'proven' herself to be reliable and trustworthy and I rek;n I could drive her around Aus a few times without any issues (have a huge amount of confidence in her!!)

Here's looking forward to another 10 years of driving this perfect example of a daily 'sleeper' *grin*

You ARE the man IJ ............

Thanks mate!

[IJ.]

:D ear to ear!

[Woodchukka]

Driving is what it is all about Frangafry. Good to hear the love affair is alive and well. :goodjob: IJ.

[seldo]

Ok, so it's been a month or so since IJ handed my keys back; In that time I have whacked some decent rubber on it and had her tuned - really only driven the o'l girl back and forth to work though (have been FLOGGED for the last month) ..................................

2 Words!

LOoooooooooooooooooooVE IT!! :goodjob:

After over 10 years of owning this car, I can honestly say I LOVE DRIVING THE FOKER all over again!

I can't believe how much better it 'drives' now ................ seriously!

My wags drives like a new car again (yeah a few squeaks from a 2004 chassis - but got damn the drive line is just SoooooooooWeeeeeeeeeet!) - a new car that goes REALLY well when asked but also has impeccable manners (haven't had to, or felt like, grinding the pedal into the floor at all, well not all the way anyway *wink* .......... don't need to!)

Ian, I know I sound like a broken record mate, but you have seriously transformed my wags buddy - gear changes are 'fun', firm and 'predicable' again (i'm not 'cringing' anymore when I put the boot into it as the gear changes actually do what I always thought they SHOULD!!).

The power delivery is exactly what you want it to be depending on how it is driven; No stagger or pause or 'flare' before she goes - she just goes! The throttle is super smooth, as you just have to feather it to cruise and any deliberate attempt to give it a good poke and your off like the bloody space shuttle (mileage is pretty decent too I think - sitting on 18ltrs per hundy and all of it has been city stop/start driving with the odd boot full every now and then to 'pick the gap' - so a pretty low average speed).

This car is such a pleasure to drive again! I feel sorry for all those Joe's driving their blahhhh mass produced and sanitized imports.

Can't thank you enough Ian for the absolutely stella result mate! The entire process (leading up to, during the build and taking her home) was just such a pleasant and none stressful exercise.

I've had over month now to reflect, consider and experience the results - Am I happy?

You Bet'cha arse I am!

Would I do any of it different - nope; The result was more than I could have hoped.

..................

So, I am pretty confident in saying that the o'l girl has 'proven' herself to be reliable and trustworthy and I rek;n I could drive her around Aus a few times without any issues (have a huge amount of confidence in her!!)

Here's looking forward to another 10 years of driving this perfect example of a daily 'sleeper' *grin*

You ARE the man IJ ............

Thanks mate!
I think that's what you'd call a "wrap"...
Nice to see! 😀

[BLACK 346]

I think that's what you'd call a "wrap"...
Nice to see! ��

I think you mean "rap";)

[seldo]

I think you mean "rap";) Same thing Black - if you check the Macquarie dictionary you'll find that it can be spelled "wrap", "rap", "wrapped" , "rapt", or "wrapt", all meaning the same thing. Sorry - but you've chosen the wrong bloke to be pedantic about the English language ;).
Cheers
Seldo

[jaykay]

Same thing Black - if you check the Macquarie dictionary you'll find that it can be spelled "wrap", "rap", "wrapped" , "rapt", or "wrapt", all meaning the same thing. Sorry - but you've chosen the wrong bloke to be pedantic about the English language ;).
Cheers
Seldo

:lmao:

OK now back to the thread :lol:

[BLACK 346]

Same thing Black - if you check the Macquarie dictionary you'll find that it can be spelled "wrap", "rap", "wrapped" , "rapt", or "wrapt", all meaning the same thing. Sorry - but you've chosen the wrong bloke to be pedantic about the English language ;).
Cheers
Seldo

Fair enough, was only said tongue in cheek, sorry if I upset you :)

btw, I still think you are wrong.

http://www.patrickkphillips.com/grammar/is-it-a-bad-rap-or-bad-rep/

[IJ.]

Personally I'd have said "Wrap" as in wrapped up/finished/completed but the English language has never made sense to anyone ;)

Main thing is Carlton is happy and content again and hopefully so is his Mrs!

[BLACK 346]

Personally I'd have said "Wrap" as in wrapped up/finished/completed but the English language has never made sense to anyone ;)

Main thing is Carlton is happy and content again and hopefully so is his Mrs!

Yes, Wrapped up is correct, but giving you a good rap is different. Anyway, wish I had kept my gob shut, and 100 percent agree on your second statement :)

[FrangaFry]

Well ............... Carlton is 'Wrapped' with the result .............. :hide:

[BLACK 346]

Well ............... Carlton is 'Wrapped' with the result .............. :hide:

Point taken, let us rap this up lol

[FrangaFry]

Point taken, let us rap this up lol

Yep, agree, this only adding to your rep ............ *wink*

[Wonky]

Personally I'd have said "Wrap" as in wrapped up/finished/completed but the English language has never made sense to anyone ;)

Main thing is Carlton is happy and content again and hopefully so is his Mrs!
I'd also have said "that's a wrap" and Carlton is rapt with his car again. :)

[whitels1ss]

Yep, agree, this only adding to your rep ............ *wink*

Awwwe

sharing the man lurve :love2:

I think you guys need to get a room!:stick::lmao:

[FrangaFry]

Awwwe

sharing the man lurve :love2:

I think you guys need to get a room!:stick::lmao:

I carry no shame ............ I'm all for a good group hug

[IJ.]

I carry no shame ............ I'm all for a good group hug

And remember it's only Gay if your Balls touch ;)

[lmoengnr]

C'mon, we're really getting off topic now..........!

[whitels1ss]

And remember it's only Gay if your Balls touch ;)

:spew::spew::spew:

[jaykay]

What is this thread about :confused:

[Toddler78]

What is this thread about :confused:

Getting blown and touching balls by the sounds of it :limpy:

[Woodchukka]

Getting blown and touching balls by the sounds of it :limpy:
Very succinctly put Toddler. :lol:

[BLACK 346]

Geez I would luv too rap mi arms around all of yooz

[whitels1ss]

Any updates Carlton?

How's the car going mate?:cheers:

[FrangaFry]

Any updates Carlton?

How's the car going mate?:cheers:

I love my car....... *Grin*

G'day, sorry for the late reply, been a big weekend (daughter's 1st birthday). Spent the day giving my wags a bit of TLC today too ............. she's going great guns; Clocked up nearly 8k since the rebuild and no issues at all (had an IAC issue that a clean sorted out a few weeks back but other than that.......... peeeeeerfect!). Daily duties in peak hour Melb traffic is very cruisey as she has such goooooood manners (pop the lever to 3rd and stomp on the angry bit and she still surprises me ............ LOVE IT).

Was just saying to wife tonight how much I still dig the o'l girl ....... (the car that is .............. Hahahahaha - oh, and the wife too....).

Have been thinking it is time to do another oil and filter change again (might do the tranny fluid too - i'll ask Santa for some new tranny oil) and maybe get the tune looked at now that she has run in good and proper (only reason, I think I'd like the gear changes fiddled with a bit, as she's not very snappy once your in 4th, labors a bit and takes a good stomp to kick it down and that's always a bit of a worry with the whole 4th down to 2nd thing - but I manage it by manual downshifting to 3rd first - not bad really, as you have to make a conscious decision to give it some).

All in all, best thing I've done in bloody years; Love driving my wags each and every day I get into her.

Have been lurking a bit recently and not saying much, but I still can't thank Ian enough for what he achieved with my pride and joy. I think of him probably more often than is healthy *wink*.

:hide:

[IJ.]

LOL here Carlton, so glad you're happy with the results after all of the previous attempts :D

[whitels1ss]

I love my car....... *Grin*

G'day, sorry for the late reply, been a big weekend (daughter's 1st birthday). Spent the day giving my wags a bit of TLC today too ............. she's going great guns; Clocked up nearly 8k since the rebuild and no issues at all (had an IAC issue that a clean sorted out a few weeks back but other than that.......... peeeeeerfect!). Daily duties in peak hour Melb traffic is very cruisey as she has such goooooood manners (pop the lever to 3rd and stomp on the angry bit and she still surprises me ............ LOVE IT).

Was just saying to wife tonight how much I still dig the o'l girl ....... (the car that is .............. Hahahahaha - oh, and the wife too....).

Have been thinking it is time to do another oil and filter change again (might do the tranny fluid too - i'll ask Santa for some new tranny oil) and maybe get the tune looked at now that she has run in good and proper (only reason, I think I'd like the gear changes fiddled with a bit, as she's not very snappy once your in 4th, labors a bit and takes a good stomp to kick it down and that's always a bit of a worry with the whole 4th down to 2nd thing - but I manage it by manual downshifting to 3rd first - not bad really, as you have to make a conscious decision to give it some).

All in all, best thing I've done in bloody years; Love driving my wags each and every day I get into her.

Have been lurking a bit recently and not saying much, but I still can't thank Ian enough for what he achieved with my pride and joy. I think of him probably more often than is healthy *wink*.

:hide:

Great stuff mate! :goodjob:

[FrangaFry]

Howdy folks, been a while since I have had a chance to post.

Wags is still running like a dream after 8,000km's and 7 months of city driving; As some may know though I have a Harrop Tru Trac sitting in a box and it has been killing me (I had to hide it so I could stop dreaming....). Funds have been a real issue since Ian completed the build (thank you again mate - you are a bloody legend, as a few on here are finding out!) and I have had to bide my time (this was NOT helped by frik'n termites destroying my hard wood lounge floor, my balcony stairs and also my pool decking - discovered this just before christmas, so not a great time over the last couple of months but I now have new found skills and a much greater respect for chippies ..... all sorted now though).

Soooooo, it's time again for me to start plotting my way forward.

On top of the Tru Trac I would like to explore the best way forward for just a few more killerwasps ..... so looking for some advice on what to consider.

As some may remember, after the build and tune, the wags made 324rwkw - I'd love to push this a little closer to 500rwhp, although having said that I am still very happy with what I have (just greedy I supposes *grin*).

I have had some thoughts/discussion with APS about 'how' to do this (replace Tri-Y's with 4into1, bigger APS air intake, possibly 100c cats and re tune - 380/390 rwkw is what I have been told I could expect - I'd be happy with 360rwkw if I could get there without too much hassle/cost - above 'suggestions' sound 'costly' and maybe a little overkill?). So I was wondering what folks thoughts were - could I get there with a boost increase (currently 9 or 10psi - but maybe push 12psi?) - Honestly though I have no idea what is needed to do this as I am already on a smaller pulley and overdrive (Gilmer? Re Wrap kit? pffffft no idea really). Motor will surely handle it given the forged low compression goodies installed but what about the blower (HTV1900 - will 12 push it too hard and start to kill any gains?)

Would love to hear the learned crowds thoughts on this, as I would really like to start 'dreaming' again .............. it's been too longs since I have been allowed to have that rush and I have had to spend too long away from the blue screen (for many reasons ...........).

For interest sake, this is what I have already (all the internal good bits are thanks to the great work of the legend of the bush):

Model: 2004 VYII SS Wagon
Colour: Quick Silver
Bodykit: SS

Engine Type: 5.7ltr
- Complete rebuild (Machined/Balanced/Blueprinted)
- 9.3:1 static comp
- Fuel: BP 98
- Power: 324rwkw

Engine Mods:
- Harrop HTV1900 10lb inter cooled Blower kit
- Pro Pac LS Beehive Valve Springs
- Clive 'Custom' Cam + Push Rods
- Morel Tie bar Lifters
- CP Bullet Pistons (Dished)
- Scat I Beam Rods
- Clevit Bearings
- Moroso HP Oil pump
- ARP main/head stud kit
- LS2 timing chain/kit
- 10% Overdrive pulley
- Pin Balancer
- Elite Catch can
- Walbro Performance In tank Fuel Pump
- 60lb injectors

Exhaust:
- Pacemaker Stainless Tri-Y headers
- Pacemaker Stainless Hi flow Cats
- Pacemaker Stainless 2.5" Dual system

Tuned @ APS

Gearbox: Built 4l60e
- 2200 Stall (lock up)
- 3/4 Drum Capsule, Mod Valve Body & Separator Plate, Beast Drive Shell
- Mod 3/4 Accumulator & Boost Valve, Converter
- Raybestos ZPak 3/4 clutch pack
- Shift kit
- New 5 Pinion planetary gear sets
- B&M Deep Pan
- A4 Tranny cooler

Diff: Rebuilt OEM LSD with 3.46 gears

Brakes: AP Racing (6/4 pot)
- 362 Slotted Front
- 343 Slotted Rear
- Braided lines

Suspension:
- Koni adjustable 'Yellow' shocks (front and rear)
- FE2 springs (+ Tow pack)
- 30mm Whiteline Front Swaybar
- 18mm Whiteline Rear Swaybar
- Peders Castor Bar and Radius Bush
- OEM Diff Cradle Bush replace
- Nolathane Diff Cradle Insulator
- OEM Drive Shaft replace

Wheels/Tyres/Steering:
- Michelin Pilot Super Sport (255/45/18)
- VYII SS 18"x5
- VZ HSV (High Ratio) Linear Steering rack

Interior:
- Standard (Black) SS Leather
- HSV Pod with dual Aeroforce Gauges (including analogue AFR and Boost)
- Viper Alarm system (+ remote start/GPS tracking)
- BlackVue DVR
- Double Din Head Unit + Reversing camera
- Alpine 4 channel amp + speaker upgrade (+ Dynomat)
- Holandia 700 Sunroof


Thanks as always.

[whitels1ss]

Thanks for the update Carlton.:goodjob:

Yeah, you can never have too many killer-wasps :driving:

[Micks]

Power bugs got you Carlton :thumbsup::driving:

[Toddler78]

Tune it for e85? that will nett you some pretty decent numbers on your build

[FrangaFry]

Tune it for e85? that will nett you some pretty decent numbers on your build

G'day Toddler, hmm, have thought about that in the past but I do some country/fishing/camping trips in the old girl so wondering if 'supply' would be an issue and I thought that there would need to be changes made to fuel delivery system as well (honestly though not really sure of my facts - benefits/disadvantages on e85 so will need to search a bit I think ...) food for thought.

Cheers,

[Micks]

Carlton APS have done heaps of LS's on E85 your in good hands there!

[FrangaFry]

Power bugs got you Carlton :thumbsup::driving:

Hahaha never really left me I don't think Mick, ............. while it was off the road, I was gagging for some ooooomf (cx8 was a little lacking on that .......) So, when I got her back, the power was (and still is) sensational!

Having had her back now for a spell, I still love it don't get me wrong, but, I am finding that I am dropping her back to 3rd and pushing the angry pedal down a tad harder when I want to grin like an evil step twin ............ have even taken traction off (*gasp*) a few times (*Evil Twin Grin*) .....

I know I don't need it, but it's never about need is it .............. *wink*

Anyway, I'd have to get it past the minister first (stealthily I am sure) so maybe I'm just dreaming again (....... maybe not though ....)

[Micks]

Guess it's advisable to keep the Boss on side :lmao:

[FrangaFry]

Guess it's advisable to keep the Boss on side :lmao:

Yeah try to do my best with that Mick, (and I do have some brownie points backed up thanks to those pesky termites - silver lining????) maybe (depending on cost - seems after 'searching' that a tune and flex sensor is all that might be needed) I could 'sneak' a re tune in with the diff (as THAT is going to happen one way or the other .......)

Need to understand how hard it may be to get in certain places first .............

Cheers,

[edelbrock1]

Gee with all those extra neddies you are gunna need a AWD conversion for sure.

Here is a plan. buy a good written off Addy at the auctions. Rob all the bits you need for the conversion. Then flog the rest of to pay for the extra HP on the SS.

Choose a nice LX8 and you will have enough left over to take the missus out for a nice meal. :yahoo:

[FrangaFry]

Gee with all those extra neddies you are gunna need a AWD conversion for sure.

*Sigh* in a perfect world, this would already be done - ain't no way the wife will let me head down that path again ........ plus I realized I don't have the space to keep and strip a donor car (this was the plan originally with IJ's CX8 - it's gone to a better home now ....)

[zorro]

I picked up a few ponies with some ls2 heads, the '243' cast. Nothing flash port matched to headers and tidy up, small skim. They are relatively cheap too.

Maybe re-cam and exhaust, can't really better APS advice as really they are guns

[Micks]

*Sigh* in a perfect world, this would already be done - ain't no way the wife will let me head down that path again ........ plus I realized I don't have the space to keep and strip a donor car (this was the plan originally with IJ's CX8 - it's gone to a better home now ....)
Who needs awd anyhow! :lol:

[IJ.]

Tune it for e85? that will nett you some pretty decent numbers on your build

Speak to Justin, pretty sure he's nailed Flex Fuel on LS!'s ;)

[XUV]

Speak to Justin, pretty sure he's nailed Flex Fuel on LS!'s ;)
yay, but alas still no E85 or flex in da bush ......

[IJ.]

yay, but alas still no E85 or flex in da bush ......

The whole concept of "Flex" is it'll run fine on petrol then when e85 is available you can fill up and the tune will adjust itself to take advantage of what's in the tank even if it's a mix..

[FrangaFry]

Hmmmmm, The more I read about e85, the less inclined I am to consider it.

There just seems to be too much variation in quality and supply and the whole economy of it just does not sound like it is a practical option in my case.

Think I'll stick to more traditional methods in my chase for a few more ponies ( not convinced at all .....) ... Can't see the benefit in having a mix of fuels in my case and the thought that it 'could' damage something scares me off ... Time to restart the secret stash ....

[FrangaFry]

Howdy folks, 12 months on Wags is still a dream to drive ............ and oddly enough I still think of IJ a wee bit too much ........... *wink*

Have had some financial dramas over the last few months that have put a stop to any more wishful thinking, but ................ I have the green light to at least finally get my Harrop TruTrac installed (has been sitting in a box since Dec 2014 - Doh!).

Also got me a little drama with the right rear passenger Window (will wind down no dramas but winding back up doesn't always work............ have to press the up button 'a lot' before it finally works - I'm sure it will give up soon).

So, I have a couple of questions for the knowledgeable:

1. Window 'actuator' stuffed? or could this be electrical? Pretty sure there is a thread somewhere on how to address the actuator issue (can't find it though).., but how would I diagnose this as a physical issue and not an electrical (see an auto elec?). Do I just change the mechanical bits first or go see an elec first (just in case), as these guys can be a little $$$ yeah?

2. DIff rebuild: I'm looking at a complete rebuild including changing the gears from 3.4's to 3.7's with the installation of my Harrop TruTrac and possibly adding the Harrop sports Diff cover-
- Can anyone recommend a reliable builder who knows their stuff and will provide good after sales support.
- Comments on Harrop Diff cover (worth the $$$).
- I note that the Diff covers come with Nolathane bushes, but my experience with these has not been great in the past (Harsh), should I dump these for OEM if I go down the Diff cover path?

As i'm still a nuff nuff, should I consider getting a shop (such as APS) to do the lot for me, so I have a single point of contact - or should I shop around with different professionals and farm it out?

I'm also still after a few more RW ponies, but this may have to wait a tad (plus I can't really decide HOW to get there at the moment....)

Would love some thoughts on the above.

Cheers,

[Micks]

Carlton with the window quite possibly just the switch assy. contacts cook in them over time.
Re diff speak to ol mate he has a good diff guy in Melb.

[whitels1ss]

Carlton, as Mick said the switches play up but they are really simple to open up
clean up the contacts with fine emery paper & get working again.

As for power..... The sky's the limit, how much do you want to spend?:yup:

[FrangaFry]

Carlton, as Mick said the switches play up but they are really simple to open up
clean up the contacts with fine emery paper & get working again.

As for power..... The sky's the limit, how much do you want to spend?:yup:

Hahaha, as usual the reality is "Wife's the limit" ..... LOL

I really want the diff sorted ASAP, as that has been bugging me for ages but re: Power, not looking for a fire breathing monster, but would like to push her a little closer to 500 RWHP without compromising too much of what has already been done.

Was thinking maybe head work, more boost or better breathing. Not sure if more boost is possible given where I am currently at (as Ian has indicated timing may already be at top end for what I have); Possible rocker change to get a little more out of the cam I have ............ but I think Diff is my focus at the moment ...... I need to ponder the power issue.

Re: Switch, the issue is the same when using either the main console switch of the rear window switch, so thinking the issue is mechanical rather than switch.

Cheers mate,

[edelbrock1]

With the change in diff gears it will feel like it has picked up a few horses. That should keep you happy for another couple of months. Enough time to work on the wife anyway. ;)

[FrangaFry]

With the change in diff gears it will feel like it has picked up a few horses. That should keep you happy for another couple of months. Enough time to work on the wife anyway. ;)

G'day Durwin how they hang'n bloke?

Yep, have made the decision and pulled the trigger.

Just picked up a Harrop Sports Diff cover and locked in a date for the build with a local mob in Bayswater to install my Harrop TruTrac and Diff cover, new OEM 3.73's, bearings/seals and oil as per Harrop spec, drop, build and refit diff (had to act quick before the wife changed her mind ... hahahahaha) - thought it was a decent price too (and being relatively local is a big bonus).

Finally get to tick this one off my list and it leaves me with a bit of coin left over to sort some other minor issues and then start plotting and 'secret stashing' for some more mumbo (wife has put the kibosh to a new LS3 in 2017, so gunna make sure I continue on my way with my beloved wags now ...... I 'was' in with a shot for a new Redline wags but the wife wanted me to sell my SS - that sh1t ain't gunna happen............... ) So, decision made!

[FrangaFry]

Howdy folks, another quick question if I may,

I want to do an auto (4l60e) filter/oil change, as my tranny has a deep pan will a standard filter/gasket do the job; There are plenty on Evil bay but not sure which kit is suited?

Cheers,

[Wonky]

Judging by the deep pan and filter I have on the 6L80 I suspect the standard filter would not be suitable and may potentially even cause damage by not sitting far enough down into the pan. The deep pan filter on mine is longer than standard. Gasket should be fine, again judging by mine.

[IJ.]

Stock filter Carlton..

[FrangaFry]

Judging by the deep pan and filter I have on the 6L80 I suspect the standard filter would not be suitable and may potentially even cause damage by not sitting far enough down into the pan. The deep pan filter on mine is longer than standard. Gasket should be fine, again judging by mine.

Thanks Wonks, just pulled out the install instructions for the B&M deep pan I purchased some time back and the deep pan came with an extension tube that slips onto the filer (to drop it lower into the pan); When I googled the 'recommended' filter by B&M for this deep pan, the part number (p/n: 24200796) is the standard OEM filter.

So I think I have answered my question - glad you replied though mate, at it made me turn the grey matter over ..... and start searching.

Cheers mate.

[FrangaFry]

Stock filter Carlton..

Thanks Ian!

Last question, is there a Difference in manufacturers for the service kit (one better over another - ACDelco/GM OEM etc)

Thanks guys,

[IJ.]

Much of a muchness, I prefer the kits that have the composite gasket.

[FrangaFry]

G'day Durwin how they hang'n bloke?

Yep, have made the decision and pulled the trigger.

..............(had to act quick before the wife changed her mind ... hahahahaha) So, decision made!

*sigh* ............ just as well too, went out into the garden this morning and SH1111111111111111111111T! pool has rusted through one of the main supports and is about to collapse (near pooped myself... was JUUUUUUUST hanging in there) ........ timing is everything ........... managed to drain it at least before it took out the shed, the fence and some cars on the road below us (30,000 liters of water rushing down the hill would have cause a BIG problem me thinks ).............. man it's been a bugger of a year so far ........... that's gota be my 3 by now....

Oh, well, at least I get me DIff done .......... now time for a new pool - good bye secret stash .......... :doh: (did well out of it though - at least 30 yrs old I rek'n, can't be too p1ssed off)

[zorro]

This is Melbourne keep the coin and ditch the pool!!!

[BLACK 346]

This is Melbourne keep the coin and ditch the pool!!!

Exacly what I was thinking, why would you want a pool in Melbourne unless it was indoors and heated (well heated).

[FrangaFry]

Exacly what I was thinking, why would you want a pool in Melbourne unless it was indoors and heated (well heated).

Hahaha, I get it, but 2 young girls who are water FREAKS don't .................... it's a peeeeeerfect spot for more fruit tress too ........ but, don't think I'll get a say in this one....

Only just finished building a new decking for it too (after the bloody termites destroyed it) ........... timing ............

[FrangaFry]

Update:

Finally, I have my Harrop Trutrac installed, diff completely rebuilt with new bearings, seals, Dana 3.73 gears and Harrop Sports Diff cover ............ have serviced the A4 (new filter, fresh DexVI) and cleaned the IAC and throttle body (drives like a new one again).

As is always the case though (well, for this nuffy anyway...), I overlooked the fact that the new Sports Diff cover is just a tad larger than OEM ......... sooooooo, now an exhaust modification is needed as exhaust is sitting snuggly on the new cover .......... (Doh!)

Booked in for Monday to get it sorted (wife is 'thrilled' once again ......... Double Doh!)

[Micks]

Carlton the joys of modifying your ride :lol:

[KrisR]

I show my wife this one each time I need to do something to my HQ. In the beginning it got laughs.... now, not so much...

http://www.reberger.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/MartinLuthurVehicleFinished.jpg

[FrangaFry]

I show my wife this one each time I need to do something to my HQ. In the beginning it got laughs.... now, not so much...

http://www.reberger.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/MartinLuthurVehicleFinished.jpg

Well, ain't that so True!!! :rofl: (tell your wife to look away now ....)

Ok, so the wags if off to see Luis next week for a look at the tune and a few other issues. As i've been given the green light from the Minister of Finance (2016 truly was a crap year - snapped my Achilles on top of the pool blowing and a major termite hassle at home .... so, I think my lovely is feeling sorry for me ..... ;) ), sooo thought I'd get peoples thoughts on an air in/gas out question and get your thoughts on changing the headers.

When the wags was originally tuned, the Airbox and exhaust were flagged as restricting 'flow' (Pacemaker Tri-y's - 200 cel cats and 2.5" SS catback - 2 hole mod with a K&N box filer) so I was wondering what peoples thoughts were on adding a better air intake (like the APS box - not keen on OTR) and replacing the Tri-Y's with some 1 7/8 4 into 1's, But, keep the 2.5" catback? Only reason I would re use the cat back is $$$$.

As said above, I've already spoken to Luis and first thing he will do is check the current tune and see where we are at and then decide where to go/what to do (for all I know the springs could have gone soft given they've done a few km's and the car sat for nearly 3 months with very little driving ......) - so, i'm just dreaming at the moment. But I would love the hear folks thoughts just out of curiosity (did come across something QLDKev posted on line that indicated it may be worth the effort - headers are 1k give or take with heat treating?).

Cheers,

Franga

[whitels1ss]

Talk to Luis before making any decisions, he really knows what he is doing.


I honestly think he will say that changing the air intake might net worthwhile gains
but I expect he might say that changing the exhaust would not be so much worth doing.

(Hey, that's only my opinion of what he might say,
he recently told a mate of mine similar about another top mount supercharged car he was tuning)

[FrangaFry]

Talk to Luis before making any decisions, he really knows what he is doing.

I honestly think he will say that changing the air intake might net worthwhile gains
but I expect he might say that changing the exhaust would not be so much worth doing.

Cheers man, yeah, Luis pretty much said that, but just curious on other folks thoughts.

Also spoke about some 100 cell high flow cats but not sure I'm keen on the comments I hear/read about the smell (don't want to make my kids crook...)

Very much looking forward to having Luis give my wags some TLC .....

[feistl]

F*%N Hell, literally spent 47 minutes writing out a very detailed reply on what will help then the PC crashed :flamin:

In summary...

Air filter. Your engine needs around 800-850cfm of airflow. Standard panel filter will flow about half that... Upgrade to pod filter with cold air ducting.

Secondly, the standard harrop I/C pump is shit. Read this read (http://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/411058-intercooler-pump-you-didn-t-know-about-5.html), buy something better.

Exhaust upgrade wont make a massive difference, but if you get something cheap enough it might be worth upgrading (I got a full Difilippo 4 into 1 twin 3" system second hand for $850, i sold my system (similar to yours) for $400, so for $450 its worth upgrading).

Once i calm down i might try and repost more info...

[Micks]

Hi Errol, feel for you mate, last year I spent an hour responding to one of my clients requests when low & behold the computer went nuts & died, lost my current work! I only keep my work PC's for a max of 2 years & are cleaned out & checked every six months too.

[jc_sv8]

Yea, if I need to type anything of size on the web, I put it into word as it auto-saves and then you can simply cut/paste onto the intertube pages. It's saved me more than once!

[Wonky]

Secondly, the standard harrop I/C pump is shit. Read this read (http://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/411058-intercooler-pump-you-didn-t-know-about-5.html), buy something better.

:yup: See also http://www.lingenfelter.com/forum_lingenfelter/forum/lingenfelter-forum/camaro-gen-5-2010-2013/1191-intercooler-pump-flow-testing-results

FWIW when I was looking into improving the performance of mine I got a brand new Stewart EMP pump for $A570 landed, which given they're typically $US450 - $500+ plus conversion and shipping was a bargain!

After having bought it I decided I could go chasing my tail forever on improvements and in reality given my disabilities the car already has plenty enough power for me, so if anyone here wants to buy it from me for what I paid (it's still in unopened box) let me know. (I have proof of what I paid, so just wanting to recoup my money and give someone else a bargain, not trying to profit. :) )

[Wonky]

Yea, if I need to type anything of size on the web, I put it into word as it auto-saves and then you can simply cut/paste onto the intertube pages. It's saved me more than once!

:yup: :yup: :yup: Me too after having lost a couple of big chunks of stuff. Have my Word set to autosave every 1 min. :)

[FrangaFry]

Air filter. Your engine needs around 800-850cfm of airflow. Standard panel filter will flow about half that... Upgrade to pod filter with cold air ducting.

Secondly, the standard harrop I/C pump is shit. Read this read (http://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/411058-intercooler-pump-you-didn-t-know-about-5.html), buy something better.


Thanks Errol, I appreciate the effort (and pain) mate ;)

Luis also mentioned intake temps being a problem for timing, so I'd be interested to hear more about how to address it. Would a larger reservoir be needed as well as improved plumbing to handle the extra flow?

[feistl]

Thanks Errol, I appreciate the effort (and pain) mate ;)

Luis also mentioned intake temps being a problem for timing, so I'd be interested to hear more about how to address it. Would a larger reservoir be needed as well as improved plumbing to handle the extra flow?

All good, yeah i was trying to provide lots of information which takes ages to type. Usually i do write it up in word, although this time i just used notepad. PC bluescreened and i hadn't saved...

I am fitting a pair of intake spacers which lift the supercharger off the heads to stop heat soak, apparently it works really well but unfortunately the only ones ive seen are for square port heads (not LS1/LS2 style).

A bigger reservoir will help keep temps down over a short burst (good for street use) but any extended driving will just heat up the larger volume of water meaning temps will take longer to come down.

Normally plumbing isnt the issue, but rather the tight intercooler cores provide high resistance when you try and pump a lot of water through. The more you try and push the greater the resistance. Hence any normal style of electric water pump will struggle with higher psi. Thats where special pumps (like listed in that thread) should work well as they are a fair balance between volume and pressure.

The other (expensive) option is to run a interchiller, which basically uses the aircon compressor to chill the intercooler coolant down to 0 degrees. This means you can get intake temps pretty close to freezing even under boost. Only downside is the cost (circa $2500 from memory) and it works well on the street for short bursts but not so good for extended runs.

The cheapish options are a bigger heat exchanger at the front and a better I/C pump. I am using a pierburg CWA100.2 which is from a Mercedes SLS AMG... The part number you are after is 0005000486. The cheapest ive seen (which im pretty sure is the right part) is here http://www.ebay.ie/itm/371574558222. I actually paid a fair bit more from the USA, not sure if that seller has some spares/clearance stock? (Showing 2 left). If that is the genuine/right pump, id recommend getting one before stock runs out.

Anyway if that is the CWA100.2 version its a very awesome pump at a very good price. You'd need to confirm the part number as there is also a CWA50 pump used by Mercedes that wasn't as good (although still a good option).

[Wonky]

Normally plumbing isnt the issue, but rather the tight intercooler cores provide high resistance when you try and pump a lot of water through. The more you try and push the greater the resistance. Hence any normal style of electric water pump will struggle with higher psi. Thats where special pumps (like listed in that thread) should work well as they are a fair balance between volume and pressure.

Yep, that's why I opted for the Stewart EMP. Works extremely well even when pressure rises. As well as http://www.lingenfelter.com/forum_lingenfelter/forum/lingenfelter-forum/camaro-gen-5-2010-2013/1191-intercooler-pump-flow-testing-results also see http://www.lingenfelter.com/forum_lingenfelter/forum/lingenfelter-forum/lingenfelter-general-discussion/1313-electric-coolant-pump-test-data

[FrangaFry]

Thanks guys, lots to think about and some interesting reading indeed.

I'm off to see Luis on Wed, so I can have a chat about options with him.

Really didn't like the hot weather today; Just got back from driving my wife and big daughter to the airport in the wags (i'm on ruggy duty for the next week as the wife's gone to Tassie and left me with the 2 yr old ......... that's gunna test my leg ... hahahaha) but kept having to turn the AC off to get my temps down (coolant, engine oil and tranny all higher than I would have liked or have seen before). Kid took it well though - thank god for Nursery Rhymes, frozen ice drinks and Mr Buzzie Bee ...

I'll let you folks know how I go in the next few days.

Thanks as always for the comments/suggestions.

Cheers,

Franga

[duke5700]

A decent sized engine oil cooler probably wouldn't hurt either. It will help remove some heat from the engine.

Does the gearbox cooler still go through the radiator? Might be worth splitting them as well.

[FrangaFry]

Howdy folks, update:

Spent the day in Frankston yesterday with my 2 year old while the wags got the treatment from Luis and Frank @ APS.

As you know I was pretty concerned about some overheating and loss of power. Pretty early on Frank diagnosed a failed/faulty thermostat and an 'issue' with the inter cooler on my 1900 (2amp fuse had blown - Doh! and pump for I/C was NOT working ... :doh:).

So, that pretty much explained 'a lot' of what I was seeing .......

With a new APS air intake added, new pump fuse and new thermostat (plus a fiddle with the thermo fan settings) it was onto the Dyno for a couple of runs ........ temps are much better now (as you would expect), but HUUUUUGE belt slip ...... *sigh* - rear and front belts need replacing as boost is all over the place and drops to bellow 6psi at higher revs (anything over 3.5k rpm and sliiiiiiiiiiip). IAT (as all noted) is also going to be a problem so some options were discussed for consideration.....

So, wags will be back @ APS in the next few weeks to have the belts sorted (depending on price, will probably go with a Gilmer drive for the rear and 8pk on the front - luckily I already run the 10% over drive balancer so can go the 8pk without too much stress).

Also discussed replacing the existing tranny cooler (as I want to keep my A4 in the 80deg zone rather than the 90+deg zone) and if budget can take it (and if one can be found and sourced), an intake space for the blower while the blower is off.... possibly even a better heat exchange ....

I'll have a better idea on cost in the next week or so, so will make the call on where to go then (belts have to be replaced and I really want to help cool the tranny, so they will be the priorities I think).

Drove the o'l girl home last night and only saw engine oil hit 100deg at an extended traffic stoppage on Greens road, everything else seemed fiiiiiiiiiine (well, better anyway) ...

Hopefully next time I see Luis and have the belts sorted, I will be able to post a power figure output above the original 324rwk when it was first tuned (at a minimum with better air intake and no belt slip, should see some improvement).

Thanks all and thanks to Luis and Frank - car is feeling MUCH better.

[BLACK 346]

(depending on price, will probably go with a Gilmer drive for the rear and 8pk on the front - luckily I already run the 10% over drive balancer so can go the 8pk without too much stress).

Speak to Brad at Enhanced Automotive regarding his Gilmer drives. Mine is going in tomorrow for LSA blower install including one of his Gilmer kits.

http://www.enhancedautomotive.com.au/gilmer-kits

[SASLS1]

Glimer drive belts don't slip... but are Noisier... being the only negative...

[BLACK 346]

Glimer drive belts don't slip... but are Noisier... being the only negative...

Yes, that was my main concern, but after hearing one on a VE GTS (with side mount blower) a few weeks back whilst at Brads shop, it was no where near as bad as I had thought. Will let you know my thoughts after I have lived with it for a few weeks lol.

[FrangaFry]

Ok, decision made and trigger pulled; Called Julian @ Harrop and ordered a Gilmer rear drive kit, 8pk front pulley upgrade and re wrap - Wags is booked in @ APS for the 13th to have these fitted and my tranny cooler upgraded/replaced.

Funds ran out at this point, but Minister has graciously allowed me to have a 'next pay cycle' crack at bringing my IAT's down, so looking at a better heat exchange and possibly a new I/C pump (those interchillers look bloody good eh - but pricey (and overkill for me I think) - and bummer about the intake spacers not being available for LS1's).

Jeez, I hope I have made the right decision on the Gilmer ... :eyes: - Too late now though, cash has been put down and we are awaaaaaayyyyyy.

Cheers,

[BLACK 346]

Ok, decision made and trigger pulled; Called Julian @ Harrop and ordered a Gilmer rear drive kit, 8pk front pulley upgrade and re wrap - Wags is booked in @ APS for the 13th to have these fitted and my tranny cooler upgraded/replaced.

Funds ran out at this point, but Minister has graciously allowed me to have a 'next pay cycle' crack at bringing my IAT's down, so looking at a better heat exchange and possibly a new I/C pump.

Jeez, I hope I have made the right decision on the Gilmer ... :eyes: - Too late now though, cash has been out down and we are awaaaaaayyyyyy.

Cheers,

What are your concerns with the Gilmer? Excess noise?

Edit: What brand is the Gilmer you are purchasing and how much was it?

[FrangaFry]

What are your concerns with the Gilmer? Excess noise?

Yeah, i'm a little worried that it will Sh1t me to tears being a daily (noise wise) - not that stressed about Mr Plod as I drive it pretty casually (most of the time ....). At least I will have some extra life out of the rear belt (and being 2x rear belts instead of 1, it gives me a little redundancy in the event of a belt breakage).

Main reason I decided to go the Gilmer was b/c of the risk of more slippage in the future (as I am spinning it pretty hard I think with the 75mm front pulley and 10% od balancer on it)

[BLACK 346]

Yeah, i'm a little worried that it will Sh1t me to tears being a daily (noise wise) - not that stressed about Mr Plod as I drive it pretty casually (most of the time ....). At least I will have some extra life out of the rear belt (and being 2x rear belts instead of 1, it gives me a little redundancy in the event of a belt breakage).

Main reason I decided to go the Gilmer was b/c of the risk of more slippage in the future (as I am spinning it pretty hard I think with the 75mm front pulley and 10% od balancer on it)

Yes, as I mentioned earlier that was my main concern. Hope it works out ok for you mate :)

[FrangaFry]

What are your concerns with the Gilmer? Excess noise?

Edit: What brand is the Gilmer you are purchasing and how much was it?

G'day mate,

Harrop rear Gilmer: https://www.harrop.com.au/shop/gilmer-rear-drive-kit

Harrop 8pk (minus balancer, as I already have the 8pk 10% OD balancer): https://www.harrop.com.au/shop/8-rib-pulley-upgrade-kit

Harrop Re Wrap: https://www.harrop.com.au/shop/htv-re-wrap-idler-pulley

Managed to get what I thought was a decent prince too (little under $1,500.00 for the lot).

Cheers,

Franga

[BLACK 346]

G'day mate,

Harrop rear Gilmer: https://www.harrop.com.au/shop/gilmer-rear-drive-kit

Harrop 8pk (minus balancer, as I already have the 8pk 10% OD balancer): https://www.harrop.com.au/shop/8-rib-pulley-upgrade-kit

Harrop Re Wrap: https://www.harrop.com.au/shop/htv-re-wrap-idler-pulley

Managed to get what I thought was a decent prince too (little under $1,500.00 for the lot).

Cheers,

Franga

That is pretty good price wise I reckon. Looking forward to seeing the results and hearing your thoughts on the gilmer setup :)

For comparison, my in house billet kit for LSA is costing $2250

[FrangaFry]

That is pretty good price wise I reckon. Looking forward to seeing the results and hearing your thoughts on the gilmer setup :)

For comparison, my in house billet kit for LSA is costing $2250

Yeah the kits are expensive eh? I think the saving for me is a result of not needing the balancer and Harrop being able to split the kit for me. Have dealt with the guys there a few times and always found them really helpful and 'interested' in what I have done with my Wags. Good blokes and good products.

[FrangaFry]

Have any of you fellas replaced your under bonnet insulation?

Mine's a bit shagged so I was looking around for options/prices to replace it and came across this: http://trufitcarpets.com.au/index/underbonnet-insulation/

Might be an option for me if the new Gilmer gives me the noise willies ..... I thought the price was not too bad either given the price of OEM replacement (and it includes new clips).

Would be interested in folks thoughts (wondering if this would wear slower too).

Cheers,

Franga

[feistl]

I've used tuff carpets for vinyl flooring in my FJ40s and I have a set of their floor mats in my VZ Berina (there are pics in my build thread).

i am extremely impressed with their products and pricing... assuming the bonnet insulation is of the same quality it's a good buy.

As I mentioned in a PM (but I thought I'll mention here for others) you can buy a Gilmer belt to suit the Harrop kit from a place in Dandenong that's made by Optibelt. It's about $60 from memory and comes as a single or double belt. Enhanced Automotive use these belts on their front drive gilmer kit as they are apparently much quieter than the gates belt (which is what harrop supply).

I have bought one of these belts but haven't got the car running yet so can't tell. May be a good option if you find the gilmer too noisy.

Cheers

[FrangaFry]

Have any of you fellas replaced your under bonnet insulation?
Mine's a bit shagged so I was looking around for options/prices to replace it and came across this: http://trufitcarpets.com.au/index/underbonnet-insulation/
Franga

Bugger, called Trufit this morning and was told there are no insulators for a VYSS ... I assume that the ones they have are V6 only (is there a difference with the OEM insulator between V6 and V8?).

Cheers,

[FrangaFry]

Bugger, called Trufit this morning and was told there are no insulators for a VYSS ... I assume that the ones they have are V6 only (is there a difference with the OEM insulator between V6 and V8?).

Cheers,

Ok, clarification: Called them back again (as I was scratching my head about why no SS version available) and one of the techs there confirmed no difference and yep, fits the SS ..... :hmmm: When I explained that I spoke to the 'boss' this morning and was told "doesn't fit SS" ... was given the response "Ummm, yeah, don't ask the boss" .... :lmao:

[GTS_215i]

Be interesting to hear Harrop's thoughts on the Intercooler setup, as they have advertised a breakthrough on the intercooler design / setup for the newer FDFI Supercharger systems. Maybe if they are newer designed cores - they are interchangeable with the older style superchargers ?

[FrangaFry]

Be interesting to hear Harrop's thoughts on the Intercooler setup, as they have advertised a breakthrough on the intercooler design / setup for the newer FDFI Supercharger systems. Maybe if they are newer designed cores - they are interchangeable with the older style superchargers ?

Had a good chat to Justin @ Harrop on this issue last week and we discussed a few different 'after market' options but he made no mention of any new Harrop options for the HTV style blowers (I am a nuffy though mate, and just may not have asked the right questions).

[FrangaFry]

Howdy folks, got another question for you folks on the air conditioner setup in a VYSSII.

My wags is still with APS at the moment getting a few niggles sorted out and trying to get on top of belt slip and some overheating issues. So far, I've replaced the radiator/thermostat as the coolant temps were not great and upgraded the Intercooler pump to try to get some better intake temps (first step pump, next step H/E if no real difference ..... good advice that Errol.. ). But, in the process of taking the front off to sort the radiator/pump etc, it was discovered that my A/C condenser gets screaming hot after a short time of use. This clearly is not helping my attempt at cooling sh1t down.

Talking to Frank about it, he mentioned there could be a blockage somewhere in the AC system causing the problem (in the condenser - TX valve? - I'm yet to google that ..... :hide:....).

What I have noticed now that Frank points me to AC as a heat problem is the following:

- Temps (oil and coolant) would drop by as much as 10deg once I turned the AC off on hot days.
- AC doesn't seem as cold any more
- AMB temp gauge no longer works (or maybe it does...) as it's always showing 70deg
- AC is either cold or hot (can't seem to get 'just right' anymore).
- Front of the car smells 'hot' (like radiator/water hot - but, this could well 'have' been the old radiator as it needed replacing).

So, any thoughts on the above, possible causes, effects and diagnosis/fixes.

Frank suggested I take it to an auto elec, someone who specializes in AC/cooling systems (which I probably will) - anyone know of someone good in the SE suburbs?

Thanks as usual kind folks.

Franga

[Micks]

Carlton being an HVAC man the temps coming off your AC condenser would be around 20-25 hotter than the day then add the heat coming off the rad itself that I cannot estimate. Bear in mind when your moving doing 50Km/hr plus is going to be far less than sitting idling in bumper to bumper traffic, these are the only adverse effects I can see.
As far as A/C system function if fully charged & no other restrictions, yes maybe a TX valve problem or Compressor starved of lubrication forcing up high side pressures if considerable valve damage resulting the compressor may need replacement too.

[white lie]

Be interesting to see what you come up with. Mine is a similar story but I've never really looked in to it. Just assumed there isn't adequate airflow with all the extra coolers.
Have never regassed the AC in the 9 or so years I've owned it so it may be a little low. Its cool but not extremely cold.
On a hot day my temp will keep climbing with the AC on but drops back down when you turn it off. Its a lot more stable with higher road speed, hence my thinking on the airflow.

My amb temp sensor always reads high as well but not as high as 70....usually 10-15 above what it should be, which I would assume is just the engine bay heat getting to it.

[Micks]

Given a motor vehicle all coolers are on top of each other which cause a restriction within itself & not always possible to give each decent spacing to breathe well.

[FrangaFry]

Thanks guys .... I'll let you know how I get on.

Cheers,

[whitels1ss]

When do you get it back from APS Carlton?

[FrangaFry]

When do you get it back from APS Carlton?

Sorry for the late reply; Just got back from a fishing weekend (picked the wags up the night before I left, so only had a couple of opportunities to drive her before I left).

As most know, when I last visited APS, it was to sort some temp issues and add a new APS Air intake for a re-tune (was hoping to get a few more rear wheel killerwasps as well...... *sheepish grin*), but due to temp issues (IAT's were 80/90 at WOT) and blower belt slip, the tune was not a huge success. As a result a plan was hatched (thanks again Errol) and some parts were sourced.

Mandate for this APS loving was to address some overheating issues (coolant temps not good and engine/tranny oil higher than I would like), sort my blower belt slip and add a new IC pump to attempt to bring down my IAT's (and get a bit more timing into her.)

Front 8pk kit added as well as the rear gilmer (after some chasing parts that didn't get delivered ....) - Tick.

Check the condition of my tranny cooler and upgrade/replace as needed - cooler was in good nick and is a big enough 2 pass to not worry too much. - Tick.

Radiator was not in good nick and needed replacing (discovered A/C condenser is also a bit of a heat problem and needed to be installed so as not to stuff my new radiator). - Tick

Install new Pierberg CWA-100 I/C pump - BIG Tick.

Get her on the Dyno and finish the tune ........ BaaaaBaaahHHHHHHHHH

10% OD balancer and small 75mm pulley plus gilmer belt =18psi .............. So, needed a new 8pk balancer ................ Tick.

Best laid plans and all that guff ..... wife has been surprisingly GOOD about it all.... too.

First impressions,

- IAT's - are down by at least 30deg (WOT IAT's now getting into the 60's instead of 90's) - BIG TICK.
- Coolant temps - MUCH better (no more 'hot water' smell from the front of the car) - BIG TICK.
- Power - previous 320rwkw, now 343rwks - TICK.
- Noise - Hmmmmm, jury is still out - it's not a HUGE difference in 'whine', but, the constant 'whistle' might tip me over ...... (I do secretly like it, but it makes me a little nervous ..... :eyes: )

Note to Errol - yep, a kettle constantly boiling ...... You nailed it man (hahahaha).

Power wise, I'm happy with it but Frank not so much.... it seems that even though I have dramatically reduced my IAT's, he still can't get the timing into her to get some higher figures before she starts pinging. Could be standard flowing heads need a tickle, CAM choice or carbon build up in cylinders. I'm not overly stressed about it as 450+ rwhp is just about right I rek'n for a daily wagon with very nice manners.

End of the day, I'm pretty happy with the IAT result and the extra oomf the non slip belt is giving; The cooling issue is much better and I again have piece of mind that I'm not doing damage, but, i'll get back to you on the Gilmer 'whistle' though, as I am back into a 2 hour peak hour traffic commute tomorrow.

Cheers,

Franga

[whitels1ss]

Sounds like massive leaps forward Carlton. :goodjob:

[white lie]

What sort of coolant and trans temps are you seeing now?

I still think the IAT's can come down more, the brakes would be on the tune because of it...if you're up around or above the 9-10psi mark, it is a little down on power IMO. Probably share the same concerns as Frank, it is capable of a lot more, just have to iron the bugs out

[FrangaFry]

What sort of coolant and trans temps are you seeing now?

I still think the IAT's can come down more, the brakes would be on the tune because of it...if you're up around or above the 9-10psi mark, it is a little down on power IMO. Probably share the same concerns as Frank, it is capable of a lot more, just have to iron the bugs out

Yeah, truth be told, Luis was not happy about it either, as he also thought is should be making around the 370-380rwkw.

Biggest issue he thinks, could be the low compression I am running - with the forged/dished pistons in it, I think static comp was around the 9:4/9:3, this plus the standard heads, crappy little 2200 stall and god knows what else, seem to be holding her back. So, the IAT's are good, but not sure if I even really want to start to chase my tail on this one (already dropped a 'bunch' o'money over the last couple of years and I am sure the wife will soon 'draw the line').

Not even sure where I would need to start to be honest either .....

Cheers,

[FrangaFry]

What sort of coolant and trans temps are you seeing now?

I still think the IAT's can come down more, the brakes would be on the tune because of it...if you're up around or above the 9-10psi mark, it is a little down on power IMO. Probably share the same concerns as Frank, it is capable of a lot more, just have to iron the bugs out

Engine and Tranny temps are still higher than I would like (Engine Oil - 90-104 deg, Tranny Oil 80-95, prior I was seeing 108+ and 104+ respectively) - I only monitor the standard temp gauge for coolant and it is now back where it should be - rock solid, no movement.

The IAT's are pretty good now (yes, can do more with a new H/E perhaps - not sure what else can be done other than meth injection or water spray/squirty bits around the front), but the reduction should have been enough to get more timing into it. Luis indicated as much as well; He said that as soon as he started adding any decent timing (which the reduction in IAT's should have allowed for) he was getting pinging ...... he really was not very happy about it either (as he was hoping to get a heap more out of her).

Again, not sure where to go from here to even start the trouble shooting - engine is as safe as houses as it is, BUT, I really would like to yield just a wee bit more given all the effort and expense to date .......... but, that's modding I suppose and also an issue when you start with one idea many years earlier and end up with something waaaaay different than you originally planned for. Hindsight is a wonderful thing ..........

Re, the 'Whine/Whistle' ......... had a good chance to drive it today and I think my daughter summed it up: "whats' that constant whistle dad?" .............. it does sound great opened up and 'cruising' on mid/light throttle, but man on idle/rolling down the road under no/little throttle and I'm glad I've got a stereo .......... I'll run with it for a couple of weeks and make my mind up.

Cheers,

[IJ.]

Now are you starting to see why a lot of the cooling gear ended up in the boot of the Lexcen... it's just simple math you have xx cooling flow through the front of the car, each heat exchanger you stack in there reduces the effectiveness of those behind it...

I ran into most of this in the Tonner, it was pretty bad in traffic on hot days and I was seeing 114c ECT.. :(

[FrangaFry]

Now are you starting to see why a lot of the cooling gear ended up in the boot of the Lexcen... it's just simple math you have xx cooling flow through the front of the car, each heat exchanger you stack in there reduces the effectiveness of those behind it...

I ran into most of this in the Tonner, it was pretty bad in traffic on hot days and I was seeing 114c ECT.. :(

G'day Ian!!!

Yep, I get it now mate ........ not sure it would be as effective in the wags though ... Hahaha

[IJ.]

<nodding> yeah not so easy in a Wagon, but again the inescapable fact is if you make power you make heat and need some way to manage it, not sure what the Trans tune is like in your car but one thing I do is make it so the Converter stays Locked as much as possible, take yesterday as an example I had to tow the Lexcen it was in the 30's here and the highest Trans temp I saw was 88c coming up Mt Macedon, if you can reduce temp anywhere in the front of the car everything else will have an easier job..

[Wonky]

......... the standard harrop I/C pump is shit. Read this read (http://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/411058-intercooler-pump-you-didn-t-know-about-5.html), buy something better.


The Harrop pump is worst than most, though almost all struggle under real world loads. See http://www.lingenfelter.com/forum_lingenfelter/forum/lingenfelter-forum/camaro-gen-5-2010-2013/1191-intercooler-pump-flow-testing-results

Basically, the flow rates quoted are measured using a straight in/out tank without all the bends and restrictions of a real world set up. Based on the data on that page and many other reviews I bought from America the best rated pump there to try to address some of the cooling issues of my HTV but then decided that the car has more than enough power for me given my disabilities so have not installed it. Now for sale around $200 cheaper than can typically be landed here. PM for more info. :)

[IJ.]

I'm using a Davies Craig EWP 140 in the Lexcen, good flow rates even with the InterCooler Exchanger in the Boot.

[BLACK 346]

=
- Noise - Hmmmmm, jury is still out - it's not a HUGE difference in 'whine', but, the constant 'whistle' might tip me over ...... (I do secretly like it, but it makes me a little nervous ..... :eyes: )

Note to Errol - yep, a kettle constantly boiling ...... You nailed it man (hahahaha).



So, are you getting accustomed to the Gilmer lol. Love the kettle comparison. Mine made me a little edgy at first I must admit, especially when I was driving past
Adelaide oval at 40kmh during Fringe and people are stopping and staring. I do love the sound though, sounds pretty cool, even my wife loves it.

[FrangaFry]

So, are you getting accustomed to the Gilmer lol. Love the kettle comparison. Mine made me a little edgy at first I must admit, especially when I was driving past
Adelaide oval at 40kmh during Fringe and people are stopping and staring. I do love the sound though, sounds pretty cool, even my wife loves it.

Hmmmm, am I getting used to it ........... honestly, it still freaks me out (especially with the radio down) ,BUT, yeah, like you and the missus, I do actually dig it.

End of the day, it doesn't stress me enough to want to change it yet; The way boost kicks in now is much nicer too - so that's a bonus.

I'm still in the honey moon phase though I think .......... I'll see what the next few weeks brings.

Will have to get my bloody A/C seen to next though, as it shit itself on Wed on the drive home ............. *sigh* - nothing but hot air out of it now. I hope we don't have any more high 30deg days for the next month though, as the wife has made it quite clear that I need to suck it up .............. *Mehhhhh* ... you get that (gota be some pain for the gain I suppose) and you never know, the AC issue may be one of heat culprits.

[FrangaFry]

Update:

Howdy folks, a few weeks have passed and I have got used to the Gilmer (Like yourself Black 346, I really like it now .........) - have driven past a few Mr plods and nary a look in my direction (but I do make sure the right foot is not getting much pressure).

Have made some headway (I think) with the cooling - after a couple of visits to an AC joint and also an Auto Elec, have found that both motors on the radiator fans are screwed and neither are able to engage low speed; Have ordered some new OEM motors which are getting retro fitted tomorrow - so I am hoping to see some difference with the AC efficiency and also Engine/Tranny temps (fingers crossed, but time will tell).

As is always the way with these things, the day I found out about the fans (and ordered replacements), my left front strut sh1t itself (oil was pooled at the top of the strut and was spitting out of the shocker with every bump - *sigh*) - so begged and borrowed to get Pedders to install some new Sports Riders for me the next day (as I had some dramas at work and needed to use the wags to get in and back). Was also getting a nasty bang at the arse end and after taking a look underneath, noticed my rear swaybar had lost a bolt and was just hanging there *double sigh*. Managed to get a high tensile bolt from Repco the same day to tie it all back together, but the bushes are torn and also need replacing.

So, off to Auto elec again tomorrow to get fans sorted and then pedders on Tues to get the rear swaybar bushes replaced (and get a check of the rest just to be sure nothing else is screwed).

Needless to say, wife is NOT happy ............. again :doh:

I hate 'those' discussions: (Especially when you 'know' what is coming.... Damn Damn Damn :nutkick:)

Her: "Your bloody kidding me, it's gunna cost more friggin money"
Me: (Head down) "Yep"
Her: "Every bloody time we start to get ahead, this bloody car costs more money"
Me: "Man, what can I say, I didn't plan (... this bit ....) it's dangerous the way it is and needs to get sorted"
Her: "Well, sell the bloody thing, it's costing too much friggin money"
Me: "You'd get bugger all back from it, and we'd still need a new car ............... I suppose I could always buy a new SSV Redline Wagon...."
Her: ................ Silence .................

Ok, time to apologize profusely for being a big fat money spending arse and walk away before she changes her mind and decides I need to drive a fark'n Hyundi .......... :nono:

Man, I'm only gunna get away with this for so long ..........

Anyway, I'm hoping I do get a good run at some clean cost/repair free driving for a while once this little hurdle is done with....

On a bonus note, my front Koni's must have been screwed for a while and I just got used to it, as the Pedders Sports Riders have bloody transformed it again ........ silver lining?

Have a good one folks.

Cheers,

Franga

[BLACKVE]

Update:

Howdy folks, a few weeks have passed and I have got used to the Gilmer (Like yourself Black 346, I really like it now .........) - have driven past a few Mr plods and nary a look in my direction (but I do make sure the right foot is not getting much pressure).



Hears a VF GTS with one of these gilmer kits in Adelaide last weekend, so loud and couldn't live with that every day(nice for a weekender though)

[BLACK 346]

Hears a VF GTS with one of these gilmer kits in Adelaide last weekend, so loud and couldn't live with that every day(nice for a weekender though)

That is weird, the only way I can hear mine properly is with the window down, otherwise it is barely audible at cruising revs.

[dgp]

Carlton, glad your getting it sorted mate. I seem to recall saying to you a few years ago something along the lines of, when you start modifying your car, it's very hard to stop. Kinda like a drug I guess. There is always something else to do.
He, he, he, I think I sold you your first mod didn't I?

[Micks]

when you start modifying your car, it's very hard to stop.
Never a truer statement has been said! Is why Mick reads, holds off then reads before jumping on the mod now route! ;)

[FrangaFry]

He, he, he, I think I sold you your first mod didn't I?

G'day David, I rek'n you'd be right there mate ..... LOL - It's all YOUR fault :hmmm:

So my wags is still with Pedders as they discovered a crack in the K-Frame that needs a bit of TLC, a few stitches plus a few new bushes ..... wife didn't say a word when I told here ........... the silence is worse me thinks :whip:

Thermo's will have to wait for a couple of weeks as a result.

On-wards and up-wards ............

[whitels1ss]

Any updates?

How's the wagon going Carlton? :driving:

[FrangaFry]

Any updates?

How's the wagon going Carlton? :driving:

G'day mate, not had the chance to update for a while as I've been a tad flat out .... my Achilles is finally starting to come good (10 months into my recovery about 80% now I rek'n .....) so between work, kids and some 'ramped up' training, I've been shagged by the time I get to sit down (PC hasn't had a proper look in for ages ....).

Soooooo, the wags ...... it was a pretty messy couple of months as I had a few dramas .... I'm on top of it now I think though.

Let's see, since the last update I had the front shockers crap out (front right sh1t itself big time), the rear swaybar mounting bolt snapped and caused some damage to the K frame (needed some welding) ..... the exhaust needed some work as it was (I thought knocking on the diff housing), but, turned out the rear right shock had crapped out too; So those got replaced as well. The Rear gilmer drive I just loooooooooove now ............. It makes the loveliest noise (especially @ WOT) ...... i'm over the paranoia now *wink*

So all up, since I started to trouble shoot some cooling issues at the start of the year, I've had to do the following (I think that's all hahaha):

- Replace rear blower drive belt (Gilmer)
- 8pk upgrade on front
- New IC pump
- New radiator
- Re tune
- New OEM motors in both thermo's
- Replace Front shocks
- Replace Rear shocks
- Various bushes replaced
- New shoes all round (Michelin PS4's)

All temps seem much better (although it is winter so a couple of more months will tell the true result); She handles a heap better, sounds grouse and still pulls like a freight train when she's angry and puuuuuuurs like a domestic kitten when she's being babied (which is most of the time).

I've got a few things that will need to be sorted in the next 12 months I think - front disks have had their last machining so will need to be replaced (that's gunna hurt being the 'f..... Off' big variety) and I will need to revisit the tranny again at some point as the poxy little converter slips like a greased up twotty (Luis did point this out to me when I had the re tune - it's only a 2200 but flashes to over 3000), but it's not too bad and it does lock up, so I am sure will be ok for a while yet. There's a few niggles and knocks due to some rattly plasticy bits on the interior and the exhaust is still not sitting quite right I don't think - so I get a few knocks and rattles on nasty bits of road.

All in all though for a 14 year old car with 220k on the clock, she's a mint daily and I still love getting in her as often as I can.

I had an old bloke pull up next to me the other day in city traffic and tell me she was a beautiful looking wagon - he really gushed about her.... and THAT just makes your bloody day!!!

Cheers,

[whitels1ss]

Thanks for the update, good stuff Carlton,
it's all part of owning an older modified car
but it sounds like it's giving you heaps of enjoyment.:goodjob:

[Blown-VU]

Hey FrangaFry,
I have loved your thread.
Did you use a Harrop LS112 blower on yours? if so I have thought about the Gilmer drive for mine too.
How much of a bitch was it too do? and will I have to yank the blower to do it as its a pretty tight squeeze at the back!
I haven't had any trouble with the 6pk at the front and the 16pk at the rear slipping yet but would be cool for the blower to make a bit more noise........altho it sounds great in the car!! hehe

Steve.

[FrangaFry]

Hey FrangaFry,
I have loved your thread.
Did you use a Harrop LS112 blower on yours? if so I have thought about the Gilmer drive for mine too.
How much of a bitch was it too do? and will I have to yank the blower to do it as its a pretty tight squeeze at the back!
I haven't had any trouble with the 6pk at the front and the 16pk at the rear slipping yet but would be cool for the blower to make a bit more noise........altho it sounds great in the car!! hehe

Steve.

G'day Steve, mines a HTV1900 and sorry to say I didn't fit the Gilmer as it was all done at APS, but, yes my understanding is that the blower needed to be removed to fit it all up.

For the first few weeks after fitting, I was a tad 'concerned' about the noise ,but, ..... now that I realize that a crusty old man with a pretty decent driving record (who's not a complete hoon ......) doesn't attract too much attention. I did pull up to the lights recently next to a highway patrol car and the passenger Mr plod took a BIG interest in my big 'F.... Off' brakes ......... but he took one look at me and lost interest (the crusty o'l man thing works in your favor some times *wink*)...... I also rek'n it helps that my wags looks pretty much stock (still @ FE2 height) besides the brakes anyway ..... *grin*

I really liked the sound of the blower pre Gilmer, but I LOOOOOOOVE the sound now ......... the 'wale' (is that a word....) that it makes at WOT is just wickedly and strangely satisfying (you can't help but get 'that' face when your foots into it) ........


Cheers,

[Blown-VU]

G'day Steve, mines a HTV1900 and sorry to say I didn't fit the Gilmer as it was all done at APS, but, yes my understanding is that the blower needed to be removed to fit it all up.

For the first few weeks after fitting, I was a tad 'concerned' about the noise ,but, ..... now that I realize that a crusty old man with a pretty decent driving record (who's not a complete hoon ......) doesn't attract too much attention. I did pull up to the lights recently next to a highway patrol car and the passenger Mr plod took a BIG interest in my big 'F.... Off' brakes ......... but he took one look at me and lost interest (the crusty o'l man thing works in your favor some times *wink*)...... I also rek'n it helps that my wags looks pretty much stock (still @ FE2 height) besides the brakes anyway ..... *grin*

I really liked the sound of the blower pre Gilmer, but I LOOOOOOOVE the sound now ......... the 'wale' (is that a word....) that it makes at WOT is just wickedly and strangely satisfying (you can't help but get 'that' face when your foots into it) ........


Cheers,

OK thanks for the info, will have to ring Harrop and see if they do one for mine :)
Hehehe, yep know all about the crusty old man thing and I do have a good rep with the coppers around my area ( even pulled me over in my old racing 4x4 that at the time was registered as a grey 6cyl wagon, and it was a lime green xtra cab ute with a tube tray and a LS1 in it and all they wanted was a look at it hehe)
I did get a couple of looks from the copper in the suburb over that was blocking the street for busting a meth lab. altho he didn't seem to concerned.
Mines a tad lower, it has super lows in the front and 2X super lows in the back with 20 inch FR1's
Well it don't sound that hard to do, pulling the blower is easy enough and all the pulleys are held on with allen keys so might give it a crack :) Might even overdribe the old girl and see if I can get her to punch out 500hp at the treads ( 480 at the moment )
Thanks Again,

Steve.

[whitels1ss]

Hey Carlton :wave:

Any updates?


How's the wagon going? :cheers:

[Micks]

Hey Carlton :wave:

Any updates?


How's the wagon going? :cheers:

The Oil I got was Carlton was at IJ's getting the A4 tightened up about a month or so back. :yup:

[FrangaFry]

The Oil I got was Carlton was at IJ's getting the A4 tightened up about a month or so back. :yup:
Howdy guys, ..... good oil that Micks *wink* ........

Been a while since I've had a poke around on here so sorry I missed the last couple of posts (life's got in the way recently ...... 3 year old daughter, work stress, addiction with kick boxing and a grumpy/unwell wife will do that .......... I never said that and will deny it if challenged.)

Sooooo, here's a quick summary (pfffft.... you know it's gunna be a war and peace thing right .....)

Since putting the Gilmer and 8pk on.... all's been well .......... up until she threw an ancillary belt (and I had to get her flat tray'ed home ... :bawl: that hurt ..... 14 years and she NEVER had to do THAT ...) and then, she threw ANOTHER belt; So the trouble shooting started. Turns out the harrop pulleys crapped out (front and rear) - purchased some new ones (ouch) and all was good again (copped a bit from the minister on that :nutkick: ... but we move on).

Had previously (before the pulley issue) seen an 'add' :up2sum: for a pretty damn decent 2700 Circle-D converter (the 2800 I had in the box was not up to the job and never did what it was meant to do - was never meant for a blown application ..... it slipped like a greasy finger up a well oiled bum and was one of the main reasons the last APS tune only netted 324rwkw ........ lived with it for waaaay tooooo long and couldn't resist the temptation of the 'add' ...... :yup:).

So, I convinced the minister that I needed it and then spoke with a VERY talented, pleasant and entirely decent bloke who was selling said converter and organized the removal of the non blower converter and the installation of the correct one. At the same time the A4 got a bit of TLC from this very talented and pleasant man :bow: (new 3/4 clutch packs and replaced a shagged accumulator piston which was found when the box was open - and was only adding to the greasy finger up the oily bum scenario ........ sliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiip).

All done and you beauty - A4 was TRANSFORMED - felt like I had an extra 50rwkw :driving: (gear changes/pressure etc needed tweaking to compensate but I expected that) ........ got car home, drove her for a day and the water pump shagged out .......... Faaaaaark it :eeeeek: - minister will NOT be happy (already a weeeeee bit p1ssed about the pulleys etc 'on top' of the new converter) but, shit happens eh? Surely I'm still in brownie points credit ............ I've been a good boy for a long time :serenade:

Had to wait a couple of weeks to get the water pump sorted (minister decreed that funds were already faaaarked and some cost cutting was in order - read as "I needed to be punished...." :slap:) ............ so I had to drive the brother in laws 'truck' AGAIN for the duration of said cost cutting and fund raising period ...... *bugger* ............. I soooo wanted to get my wags to see Frank and Luis @ APS for the re tune of the A4 (it was killing me .........) at least I could book it in for when the 'punishment' period was over (which I duly did ...... :evil:).

So, fast forward a couple of weeks - punishment period over, water pump purchased and installed and a few more days to wait for the re tune .... yeah baby *rubbing hands together manically*.......... sooooooo looking forward to it.

Drove the wags for another few days (in to work @ Port Melbourne/back and to kick boxing a few times.... it soooo needed to be re tuned as changes were all over the joint BUT it went like hell :burnout: and I knew it was soon to be sorted ........).

Popped into a mates place the day before the magical re tune date and faaaaaaark me ............. no reverse gear - WTF!!!!!!! :kill: Noooooooooooooooo ............. damn near melted down and lost my mind (I just KNEW what the minister was going to say ...... I just KNEW IT ..... Nooooooooooooooooooooooo).

Soooooo, after a short period of 'mental breakdown' (seriously can a car really do that to a bloke - yup! or maybe it was just the thought of the discussion to come ..........) I gathered the courage to head home and break the news to the minister/judge/jailer/executioner ......... I did have 'some' hope though that it was just a 'simple' issue and nothing terminal - having quickly spoken with my A4/LS1 angel ...............

Got home (wags went forward no problems - just would NOT go backwards ......) and the discussion was actually easier and more 'compassionate' than I thought it would be (maybe it was the nervous tick I had developed and the pathetic sobbing that I was displaying that persuaded the minister to 'take it easy' on me ..............) - so a plan was hatched over the next few days :idea: to 'see what could be done' ...... surely it's a simple thing ...... re tune with APS was cancelled and put on hold until issue sorted (Frank was very understanding ............ again, maybe the sobbing helped).

So off to my angel again and yet another (hopefully short) period of punishment in my Bro in-laws 'truck' ..... Hopes were high for a quick fix and return of the wags ..............

Bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz WRONG ............. received a call that started with "tell me again what you did to your box" then a mail complete with a picture of 'lots' of metal found sitting on top of the A4 oil filter .............. :shock: - all the blood drained from my head ............ wife's gunna leave me, she's gunna Bob'it me when I'm asleep ............. she's gunna make me burn my beloved wags ......

Now let me be clear here, the damage done this time (and OH BOY was there some damage - I'm actually pretty impressed and proud of it truth be told - it was FARKED .... totally DESTROYED the tranny case - seriously it's impressive) had absolutely nothing to do with the previous work done by my A4 angel (of that I have NO doubt) - it was clearly a heavy foot moment 'at the wrong time' and I can only assume that the addition of the new lock up converter added pressure to an already weak area of the box - enough said we move on.

Anyway my A4 angel worked some bloody miracles 'AGAIN' (luckily the internals of the box were still in good nick - just the case was seriously FAAAARKED UP) and my beloved wags was returned to me a week or so later .............. better AND stronger than before (with the addition of a few more improved parts). Quote: I can't make it any stronger than this

Soooo, fast forward a few more weeks (as I entered into another punishment period, heavy work load and then Easter - Oh and the box did need to be run in ..... *grin*) and I have just picked my beloved wags up from Frank and Luis @ APS this arvo.
OMG what a complete transformation - Luis was given the following wish list:
- Change times down (tick)
- Line pressures up (tick)
- Econo mode to use minimal high stall action and early into lockup (tick)
- Power mode to do just that (tick)
- Tickle to tune for a little more oomph (tick)

She finally drives like I always imagined she would and to boot 361 rear wheel killer wasps with a nice torque improvement to boot .......... Yeah baby!

Before handing the keys over, Luis made a point of taking me out for a spin for a bit of show and tell and to discuss all the little tickles and tweaks he has made to ensure that this setup works as well as it clearly does now - Oh GOD it's such a pleasure to drive her again (finally my wags drives like I always thought she should!). Everything now seems just right - just the way I want!

I know you've heard me say this before ,but, seriously I can't thank a certain person enough (for the sake of anonymity let's call him Ian) for the HUGE amount of time, effort, care and pain he has gone to in helping this poor useless bastard (let's call him Carlton) achieve the result I always dreamed of.

Dude - you are a FARKING legend and I feel seriously blessed to have met you.

Thanks buddy!!

[whitels1ss]

Great news Carlton! :goodjob:

Now when are you taking it out to Calder? :idea::stick: :yup:

[Micks]

Your a funny man Carlton, glad it's all going nicely for you. Your right IJ is a good man. ;)

[FrangaFry]

Quick update ......... (for those that might be interested)

Have had a chance to have some prolonged driving in my wags for the last couple of days - both in some open roads and also in bumper to bumper crappy city driving and all I can say is Luis has NAILED it!

Totally in love with my wags once again ....... gear changes are sooooo much better, crisper, snappier and the overall drive ability is soooooo much better ......... pulls like a rampant freight train on crystal meth and sounds juuuuuuuuust sweet.

Having put up with the box in a really sloppy state for so long (box was great but the old converter was just wrong for my combo) it's now exactly the way it SHOULD be .......... so happy with the outcome - it's really made all the previous effort from Ian with the engine rebuild come to life. Temps are heaps better (as the converter isn't slipping it's tits off any more) and she's so much more responsive .............

Thanks again Ian and thanks Luis for the great job in bringing it all together - it's just bloody perfect now.


:cheers:

[IJ.]

Very welcome Carlton! :D

[Micks]

Quick update ......... (for those that might be interested)

Have had a chance to have some prolonged driving in my wags for the last couple of days - both in some open roads and also in bumper to bumper crappy city driving and all I can say is Luis has NAILED it!

Totally in love with my wags once again ....... gear changes are sooooo much better, crisper, snappier and the overall drive ability is soooooo much better ......... pulls like a rampant freight train on crystal meth and sounds juuuuuuuuust sweet.

Having put up with the box in a really sloppy state for so long (box was great but the old converter was just wrong for my combo) it's now exactly the way it SHOULD be .......... so happy with the outcome - it's really made all the previous effort from Ian with the engine rebuild come to life. Temps are heaps better (as the converter isn't slipping it's tits off any more) and she's so much more responsive .............

Thanks again Ian and thanks Luis for the great job in bringing it all together - it's just bloody perfect now.


:cheers:

That's great Carlton two good Men put a smile on your face! :thumbsup:

[Micks]

Very welcome Carlton! :D

Good to see you frequent Ol Boy :cool:

[FrangaFry]

So, been a while since I have posted but I need to share (as I am getting SFA sympathy at home ...... *sad face*)

Had a great morning on Sat morning (Pilates for an hour filled with all sorts of yummy eye candy, followed by 2 hours of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) .............. feeling GREAT!!!. Driving home and up a nasty steep slipper hill (was a tad wet) - just round the corner from home (like 100 meters)..... on the gas a little to get some speed for this steep nasty hill (Terry's Ave in Belgrave if anyone know it).... arse comes out, tank slap and BANG side on into the farking gutter ......

No panel damage, but, the right rear wheel/axle is Rooooooooted (as the tow truck driver said "geez not sure it should have that much camber mate"...... DOH!)

Currently sitting in Sheen Panels waiting for insurance assesment ............. not looking good.

Totally GUTTED!!!!


(If I could work out what is going on with Photo Bucket, I'd post some pics).

[URL="http://s923.photobucket.com/user/frangafry/media/close%20up.jpg.html"]


It's now Monday and I'm more bummed than when I did it ............... fingers crossed they don't call stumps on my o'l girl ............ I'm not ready to let her go yet. Too much time, money and stress (not to mention begging) has gone into her ........ *Really SAD face*

[whitels1ss]

Not good Carlton, best of luck that it looks worse than it is & you get it all fixed up quickly. :cheers:

[Micks]

Sounds like you had a pretty shitty day mate, but it could of been worse! Just don't let those Bastards write off your ride!

[FrangaFry]

Sounds like you had a pretty shitty day mate, but it could of been worse! Just don't let those Bastards write off your ride!

Yeah, could have been a lot worse Mick .......... honestly not really sure how to go about this though (a new learning curve for me).

I've been chatting to Shannons (insurer) and they have given me some info on how the process 'should' go but until the assessor get's a look at it, then I'm not sure how to play it out (I get the impression my options are pretty limited).

It's insured for just a tad over 20k (was originally 28k but each year ..... you know how it goes) and there is the option to buy it back if it is written off ..... but time will tell I suppose.

Genuinely gutted ..... had her since 2014 (they year she rolled out the factory) and only ever scored a couple of stone chips .... so the thought of my wags being given a toe tad just p1sses me right off .....

Watch this space I 'spose............... *sigh*

[SASLS1]

(If I could work out what is going on with Photo Bucket, I'd post some pics).

[URL="http://s923.photobucket.com/user/frangafry/media/close%20up.jpg.html"]




Linked image for you...

https://i923.photobucket.com/albums/ad72/frangafry/close%20up.jpg

[Wonky]

Yep, know Terry's Hill well - bloody steep!! IMHO (very humble given I can't really see under) no way that should get written off! At worst one RHS rear suspension and possibly even diff, but nothing close to write off damage. Suspension should have absorbed worst of it so no floor or rail damage etc.


had her since 2014 (they year she rolled out the factory)

2014???? :confused: :confused: :confused:

[Micks]

Yep, know Terry's Hill well - bloody steep!! IMHO (very humble given I can't really see under) no way that should get written off! At worst one RHS rear suspension and possibly even diff, but nothing close to write off damage. Suspension should have absorbed worst of it so no floor or rail damage etc.



2014???? :confused: :confused: :confused:

Agree, if any rear floor distortion or hydraulic line damage then write off. Thats
an 04 :lol:

[FrangaFry]

Agree, if any rear floor distortion or hydraulic line damage then write off. Thats
an 04 :lol:

Ooops, yes 2004 (sorry Gaz/Mick, been an 'emotional' time ..... *wink*)

I should hear back from the insurer today or tomorrow latest. I agree, they should't write it off, but ........

Either way I'm not prepared to let the o'l girl go just yet...... had a quick exchange with my 'fairy god mother' last night and I feel a whole heap better about this situation today (options are GOOOD!)

Watch this space ....

[Micks]

I'm sure everything will be sweet Carlton, most of those suspension parts are a plenty from the wreckers.

[amckiwi]

Fingers crossed here

[BLACK 346]

Carlton, once your pride and joy in all fixed up it might be worth having a chat with Shannons about increasing the agreed value. They upped my VE substantially without even sighting it.

[whitels1ss]

Carlton, once your pride and joy in all fixed up it might be worth having a chat with Shannons about increasing the agreed value. They upped my VE substantially without even sighting it.

Yes, they are very flexible, I have one of my cars with them & are more than happy to increase the value over the phone when you ask.

[whitels1ss]

Any news yet Carlton?

Hope all is good. :cheers:

[FrangaFry]

Any news yet Carlton?

Hope all is good. :cheers:

G'day team, sorry for the lack of update .....

Shannon's have been brilliant so far and the repairers (Carrera Motors in Nunawading) have been AWESOME!!

Shannon's have approved the repairs, so she's not being written off ...... Thank F@#$%!!

The journey started a little bumpy with the original repairer (who I am not sure I should mention ....) promising the world but delivered nadda ..... As soon as my wags was sent to Carrera, WOW what a difference!

These guys have gone the extra mile, provided me with loan car and have worked with me to make sure I got my beloved wags back (can't thank these guys enough so far). Car is still a week away from being returned (waiting on new rear disks to be sourced) but I have a huge level of confidence. The work shop lead (Will) - awesome bloke who really 'gets it'....

So far, so good!

Will update you folks when I get my girl back ............ soooooooooon (fingers crossed).

Great to have a loan car, but OMFG ..... NEVER will I buy 4 cyl buz box .... no way, no how ............. *wink*

Cheers all.

Franga!

[Micks]

That's great news Carlton, let us know how it all goes. ;)

[whitels1ss]

Fantastic news. :goodjob: