The Unicorn: Abandon all Hope

[The_Bishop]

Well, if you ever need to empty a swimming pool you'll be set.

[LTb1ow]

Yanked off the driver side header to check for flatness and or, look for stripped threads in head. Def had a leak at the cylidner I thouhgt I had stripped
https://i.imgur.com/bGTPWITl.jpg

Then started the new MSD wires, got lent this fancy tool
https://i.imgur.com/poZ8neXl.jpg

Out with the old wires
https://i.imgur.com/aEYiF5Fl.jpg

New coil side in car
https://i.imgur.com/NM0oflkl.jpg

New wires on engine side
https://i.imgur.com/ZPuEoCMl.jpg

Header will go to a machine shop over the week and hopefully that fixes the leak at cold idle.

Slow progress towards dyno day.

[LTb1ow]

Finished up the passenger side, and finally sat down to test the reistance off the wires.

This was a bad one
https://i.imgur.com/jX4cUTpl.jpg

Ended up cutting two ends off to get readings
https://i.imgur.com/XOdNTIfl.jpg

So, it seems I had been running around with a V6
https://i.imgur.com/3AW3lVml.jpg

Not sure I trust these numbers, but, if so, thats a lot of power/fuel being wasted.

[Blackbirdws6]

That's quite the leak. Def makes mine looks like nothing. On the readings, MSD 8.5 wires should have 50 ohms of resistance per foot.

Nice we both put our cars into non running status on the same weekend.

[LTb1ow]

That's quite the leak. Def makes mine looks like nothing. On the readings, MSD 8.5 wires should have 50 ohms of resistance per foot.

Nice we both put our cars into non running status on the same weekend.

This is the way.

And not too concerned with resistance readings, questionable meter etc. New wires are much better looking and have proper depth in coils.

Fuel pump gets swapped tmmr. Slowly crossing things off. 8-)

[IROCZman15]

dang! spark plug wire testing at the kitchen table !!!

yea, a new set is the right plan, good stuff.

wouldn't your AFR readings and datalogs shown you had a dead hole or two though?

[LTb1ow]

dang! spark plug wire testing at the kitchen table !!!

yea, a new set is the right plan, good stuff.

wouldn't your AFR readings and datalogs shown you had a dead hole or two though?

Yea I'd imagine two dead cylinders would immediately show up on datalog so just assuming these cylinders were on borrowed time. Happy I could finally got around to fixing the wires

[LTb1ow]

And, flange is flat. Local machine shop did it for $75, which I thought wasn't terrible for flycutting it vs the ole belt sander.

https://i.imgur.com/gngokqfl.jpg

[LTb1ow]

Successful day back in the garage.

Tremec app measured the driveline angles just wanted to be sure I am good to go
https://i.imgur.com/3NsPTzTl.png

Fuel Temp sensor stuck in regulator
https://i.imgur.com/yx8tC7wl.jpg

And took it around town, took forever to get oil and coolant up to temp. Darn winter.
https://i.imgur.com/TdySbkOl.jpg

[The_Bishop]

Looks snazzy.

[Blackbirdws6]

Such fancy

[LTb1ow]

Days like today make me seriously consider how to rig up a heater core in teh car.

I think I could use the oil cooler loop, a junkyard heater core, and a stack of PC fans to get some heat in the car...

[BonzoHansen]

https://www.amazon.com/Truck-Heater-12V-Under-Switch/dp/B0786Q3ZSC

[The_Bishop]

https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/70603K/10002/-1

[sweetbmxrider]

Agreed, electric heater is the way to go

[LTb1ow]

Because moar data is always good. Now I can have proof that my turbo is way to small for the motor :bertstare:

http://i.imgur.com/gFuvJYrl.jpg (https://imgur.com/gFuvJYr)

http://i.imgur.com/UJasAVyl.jpg (https://imgur.com/UJasAVy)

http://i.imgur.com/kLe3ycXl.jpg (https://imgur.com/kLe3ycX)

[Blackbirdws6]

Is the silly straw necessary? Honestly asking.

[LTb1ow]

Is the silly straw necessary? Honestly asking.

Allegedly the added volume before sensor will help dampen pressure waves from valves opening etc. So rather than run the line around the bay, its easier to just silly straw it. Also shields the sensor from the heat of exhaust gas.

[LS1ow]

wtf is that thing that looks like a solid bar coming off the bottom of the rad support that appears to be sawed in half?

[LTb1ow]

wtf is that thing that looks like a solid bar coming off the bottom of the rad support that appears to be sawed in half?

Was a turbo support, we tweaked the hotside for downpipe fit and the mount didn't fit anymore. Decided SCH10 is more than beefy enough to hold up a tiny turbo.

[LTb1ow]

Finally got around to finishing this side project up. ABS sensor repurposed to a speed sensor. After dyno is done, I can now play with traction control based off comparing front wheel speed to VSS signal and pulling timing based on slip.

https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/156158021_10223704214649390_6111249450190180447_o. jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=MP4QvoApyaAAX9Dcfji&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=d25ea5e8a2512ca24703d290f93101d3&oe=60673934

[Blackbirdws6]

Allegedly the added volume before sensor will help dampen pressure waves from valves opening etc. So rather than run the line around the bay, its easier to just silly straw it. Also shields the sensor from the heat of exhaust gas.

Actually makes some good sense.

Is there the ability to setup that if the tires slip that the car will scream "Nooo, Monicaaaaaa" from the speakers?

[wretched73]

Actually makes some good sense.

Is there the ability to setup that if the tires slip that the car will scream "Nooo, Monicaaaaaa" from the speakers?

He hasn't finished that one yet. So far, if he spins and gets out of it, it screams "Still a buster"

[LTb1ow]

Wired up my sloppy water injection setup and verified it works

No it is no permanent.

https://i.imgur.com/RK8LV1Ql.jpg

[LS1ow]

ok im starting to get nervous.

[townsend]

ok im starting to get nervous.

Why? he still wont take it to the track

[LTb1ow]

Dyno day!

Filled up for the first time, in ever
https://i.imgur.com/FyC3xGdl.jpg

Fancy hauler and tow pig
https://i.imgur.com/tTXIIecl.jpg

On the dyno
https://i.imgur.com/9GJt8QPl.jpg

and some cherry
http://i.imgur.com/VVM7HZnl.mp4 (https://imgur.com/VVM7HZn)

ukHl4LzQc9k

[sweetbmxrider]

The decel sounds as disappointed as you

[LTb1ow]

The decel sounds as disappointed as you

The engine and car held together, so I am happy with that.

Just got my head wrapped too much in a useless dyno number is all.

[IROCZman15]

very cool, how many pulls did you do and what kind of changes were made in between pulls? and big learn table numbers or fuel graph stuff?

[LTb1ow]

I think I did 5-6 pulls?

First pull was verifying wastegate boost and where cam keeled over. Then we worked up to 16psi pulls. Last couple pulls blew cold side pipes off. Scary the first time, but cool to see holley say no more.

Tuner pulled a bunch of fuel out one the first couple pulls, but after that everything was fairly close. My learn table is zero'd so it was all just manual updating based on closed loop numbers.

[The_Bishop]

Car sound good, and it held together. That's a win.

What were the numbers?

[LTb1ow]

Car sound good, and it held together. That's a win.

What were the numbers?

Under 600hp, at 440lbs/hr of fuel.

8-)

[The_Bishop]

Nice.

[wretched73]

Dyno is only a tuning tool. Was great success.

Now to run at the track and let your times do the talking

[IROCZman15]

awesome. glad to hear it. As mentioned, getting the fueling and tune correct is much more important thatn a dyno number. Glad it went well. When do you plan on hitting the track?

[Blackbirdws6]

n5q_GllfGfE

[sweetbmxrider]

awesome. glad to hear it. As mentioned, getting the fueling and tune correct is much more important thatn a dyno number. Glad it went well. When do you plan on hitting the track?

When the dyno numbers improve

[LTb1ow]

https://i.imgur.com/R7nazdJl.jpg

[sweetbmxrider]

Did you draw that **** in ms paint?

[LTb1ow]

Did you draw that **** in ms paint?

Photoshop actually.

[LTb1ow]

Owned my car since 2006 and finally got it a decent set of wheels, albeit rears only for now. :rofl: Tires should be here tmmr and maybe get em all on car next week. 8-)

https://i.imgur.com/IciaHeul.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/lGVEVBml.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

Siiiickkkkk

[sweetbmxrider]

Meh

[wretched73]

Bravo

[IROCZman15]

I have always liked that street-lite wheel . nice !

[LS1ow]

Can you get a closer pic of the black so i can see the ghost skulls?

[LTb1ow]

Wheel fit checked off, apparently when you buy the right part, they fit. :-P

https://i.imgur.com/CB4m79Tl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Gxmlqfhl.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

Always an odd feeling when aftermarket parts fit as they should.

[LTb1ow]

And the tires showed up today
https://i.imgur.com/vvKs7iIl.jpg

Along with these guys, which with any luck will be the end of blowing any cold side connections off.
https://i.imgur.com/p5FDtB8l.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

You're on that Rob Dahm flow now.

[LTb1ow]

You're on that Rob Dahm flow now.

My cold side will be cheap chyna 6061, none of that fancy ass 6ALv he has.

[LTb1ow]

Circa 2015 era tires
https://i.imgur.com/eVj0BGnl.jpg

New wheels and tires
https://i.imgur.com/ByALTRXl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/UYl65Fyl.jpg

#feelingfancy

[wretched73]

Oh that's nice

[Blackbirdws6]

https://media.giphy.com/media/135E47VKw6TM6A/giphy.gif

[IROCZman15]

meaty!

when will they break the beams at the starting line tho?

[LTb1ow]

meaty!

when will they break the beams at the starting line tho?

Probably never

[LTb1ow]

In the never ending ADHD fueled boredom of ruining this car, I present, this, BMW parts!

Pump is a CWA400, which allegedly will flow 58gpm with a 8psi head. Its a hell of a pump compared to the free flow rated 55gpm I have on the motor now.

https://i.imgur.com/Ui3qgq3l.jpg

After verifying pump worked on the bench, roughed it into the car for some trial live running

https://i.imgur.com/WIJqwwQl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/nttz4T1l.jpg

Currently have no thermostat in the motor and I blocked the bypass port in water pump housing. I will need to now mount the pump for a test drive and fine tuning of the PWM table. Goal is of course to slowly ramp in pump as heat calls for and have it set for a proactive ramp in based off of TPS.

Moral of story, never buy a holley that allows for this sort of behavior.

[Blackbirdws6]

Does this disable turn signals and preloads a crackle tune?

[wretched73]

This will make running a remote mount radiator super easy!

[LTb1ow]

Does this disable turn signals and preloads a crackle tune?

I keep meaning to ask my t00ner to make me a aggressive burble tune. :lol:

This will make running a remote mount radiator super easy!

Its a 4th gen, where would the radiator remote too?

[LTb1ow]

Was concerned with the height relationship between rad cap and EWP, but so far has proved to be not an issue.

Quick data pull from today's lunch break.

This is the fan settings, so 20% fan speed
https://i.imgur.com/8xtTnmgl.jpg

And the water pump settings, 52% of pump speed.
https://i.imgur.com/aNrXO6Rl.jpg

I did not pick the 168* ECT as a goal, was thinking I would shoot for 180* but, guess this pump moves some water. Previously at a idle warm up, it would run right to full fan settings at 185* area.

[LTb1ow]

So after proving concept to myself, mounted pump down low.

https://i.imgur.com/S1NdR2ol.jpg

Some custom advance auto coolant hose action
https://i.imgur.com/JU79S4Kl.jpg

Hope to drive it tomorrow and verify my duty cycle tables.

[Blackbirdws6]

Good progress and fingers crossed it actually does a thing.

[sweetbmxrider]

Going to keep a spare in the trunk?

[LTb1ow]

Going to keep a spare in the trunk?

Leaving the meziere on there for now. If BMW pump goes bad, I will plug it back in.

[LTb1ow]

Wife had a day off and took over baby duties, so out to the driveway.

https://i.imgur.com/TZJPWH3l.jpg

Pulled the bumper cover off, and "fixed" the intercooler mount. I had caught something with the lower brackets and it bent the thing inwards towards radiator.
So bent stuff back to where it should be, replaced the 90* aluminum I had as a base with a straight steel piece. (you can see the aluminum on the ground).
The hope is that the opening from air dam is now larger and maybe it runs cooler on highway.
Used some of the radiator fan mounts to mount trans cooler to intercooler.

Also wired in a relay so the low oil sensor will work properly now via Holley dash.

Tmmr is oil change, curious how this stuff works.
https://i.imgur.com/U6KjtoNl.png

[wretched73]

Still repping JSFBOA even while living in PA.

We are proud.

[LTb1ow]

For future reference, a canton LT1 pan will hold roughly 3.5qt of oil before low oil light comes on.

[Blackbirdws6]

Someone is having fun. Just so I'm following, air dam is now larger? Are you running the stock plastic piece or something different?

[LTb1ow]

Someone is having fun. Just so I'm following, air dam is now larger? Are you running the stock plastic piece or something different?

Nah, if you imagine a rectangle that is formed above air dam that feed into the radiator, my intercooler had bent backwards and closed part of that cross section.

I just moved it back towards front and opened up that cross section.

Started pricing out a smartwire system, cause, ADHD :lol:

[Blackbirdws6]

This week would be a good one to test the new cooling system

[LTb1ow]

This week would be a good one to test the new cooling system

Indeed, if you ship me a cool shirt, I may even do just that.

[Blackbirdws6]

Indeed, if you ship me a cool shirt, I may even do just that.

Part of ruck training or something something

[LTb1ow]

Took out car today and messed around on some cornfield backroads, sadly, agrresive boost curve blew off cold side, again. :cry:

https://i.imgur.com/p0BGtb6l.jpg

But thats all fixed, and hopefully stays on for awhile now.

Side note, should PS fluid be under pressure in tank?? :bertstare:

[LS1ow]

the moonshine coil is my favorite part of the car by far.

[Blackbirdws6]

I assume there isn't enough room to put on a longer coupler with more than one clamp? Not ideal long term but figured it can get you by before you pull the bumper.

[LTb1ow]

a27OWJ3Xfo4&ab
Some tame 2 step action

Also wired in my boost dial, this way I can change the tune on the fly
https://i.imgur.com/EAetXZgl.jpg

[LTb1ow]

Finally ditched the dream of a draft style PCV can (pulls vacuum between air filter and turbo inlet) [Doesn't work too well once you have a very efficient air filtyer]

Used one of the ports from unnamedperfshop made
https://i.imgur.com/C73jgGml.jpg

Check valve so I don't pressurize the catch can.
https://i.imgur.com/wllKZLol.jpg

Pulls a lot of vaccum across the top end of motor, so thats a start.

[Blackbirdws6]

Checked valves are checked

[PolarBear]

Also wired in my boost dial, this way I can change the tune on the fly
https://i.imgur.com/EAetXZgl.jpg

:rofl: it goes to 11

[LTb1ow]

-3pO7IW82XA&ab

Some confirmation that 2step and boost commanded works. 8-)

[LTb1ow]

Well, had a dream I could fix my lack of working dipstick over this weekend. :lol: Lesson there, there's never hope when working on LTX cars. :-P

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51922074150_d090ea8edd.jpg

Tried my best to be safe working on gravel, snagged some scrap home depot wood for 7 bucks and made some bases.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51921788009_5788bd4d77.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51921549683_69057e8b56.jpg

You can see here how the lokar cable was sitting on this flat piece and the "tongue" part of the dipstick was stuck udner that lip.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51921549508_5cc3323e64.jpg

In the end, I managed to properly measure how much oil is needed before it hits windage tray. Which for anyone who is concerned, is 6.25 qts, and with a full oil filter, system total is 7qt.

Downside, I could not manage to make the lokar dipstick work, would not clear past the main cap. So amazon claims to be delivering a OEM one today and maybe it will work.

[LTb1ow]

As a Sunday update, amazon pulled thru and the OEM dipstick tube fits (after trimming) and the OE style dipstick now touches oil and comes out. 8-)8-)8-)8-)

[wretched73]

Knowing how much oil you have seems like a good thing

[sweetbmxrider]

It’s either full, empty, or somewhere in between.

[IROCZman15]

oh wow, I now see what the dipstick interference in the pan was. Glad you got that sorted out, must be a big relief. Good stuff

[LTb1ow]

Been without a dipstick since 2012, hurray for stock upgrades! 8-)

https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/537808732470640652/950445374374576158/PXL_20220307_172330301.jpg?width=847&height=635

[Blackbirdws6]

Now enjoy the regret of wondering why it needs more oil than a rotary.

[sweetbmxrider]

:rofl: ouch….

[LTb1ow]

For those keeping count, now its a BMW coolant pump, and a Volvo PS pump.

:bertstare:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52152032243_dcf53d7958.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52152031413_842079cb4f.jpg

4rRGoOJtawc

[Blackbirdws6]

Very slick but don't make fun of my early days wiring ever again.

[sweetbmxrider]

Agreed

[LTb1ow]

Very slick but don't make fun of my early days wiring ever again.

Agreed

Fair.

[LTb1ow]

First stuff tackled on the car for the winter.

Took off the alternator and found that the mount was broken. Oops
https://i.imgur.com/rRFW88f.jpg

Quick and dirty turn buckle to hold alternator in place. Will need to revisit this.
https://i.imgur.com/H1IsV2c.jpg

Mounted coolant overflow off the head.
https://i.imgur.com/q6RLmhs.jpg

[wretched73]

Pics seem a bit small :lol:

I hope a power washer is in your future too.

[sweetbmxrider]

Aren’t you concerned with the overflow dripping coolant on the opti?

[LTb1ow]

Getting the easy stuff done and now we start the actual hard stuff.

After many years of putting it off, its time to cut out some of the factory harness that is not used anymore. Also let myself get sloppy with the holley wiring over the past summer so thats all gotta get redone.
https://i.imgur.com/XtXsDuS.jpg

And the winter to do list for the car.
https://i.imgur.com/SuDo27g.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

You must have admired the catch can on the blue bird.....

[LTb1ow]

Worked a little at lunch and got off early so had a productive tear down day.

Removed a lot of OE wiring
https://i.imgur.com/Y1i49WI.jpg

Removed most of the Holley stuff
https://i.imgur.com/4r6jyFZ.jpg

Disconnected all the I/O wiring and started to tidy things
https://i.imgur.com/0RB984P.jpg

Lots of work ahead cleaning up that mess.

[IROCZman15]

the wiring is always going to be a work in progress so its good to do a nice cleanup of it when you are able to.

I've never played around with a coolant temp sensor, are you having psi issue you think or is it just another input that the holley can handle and you are making use of it for more data?

[LTb1ow]

the wiring is always going to be a work in progress so its good to do a nice cleanup of it when you are able to.

I've never played around with a coolant temp sensor, are you having psi issue you think or is it just another input that the holley can handle and you are making use of it for more data?

More data, and I can program it to use as a safety to shut down boost if coolant pressure climbs too fast etc.

[IROCZman15]

that makes sense!

[LTb1ow]

My body is not pleased with late nights and crawling around a 4th gen interior. But, about done with this project!

https://i.imgur.com/AcfgTPe.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/SZbi2HU.jpg

Had one oops moment
https://i.imgur.com/ndtOLMC.jpg

Otherwise, just need to get oil temp hooked to the board, then figure out how I wired the low oil light to the holley dash. Flex fuel and coolant pressure sensor should be here this week and that will finish up the sensors.

[sweetbmxrider]

Very nice, sir. Should draw a decent color coded schematic for reference….

[Blackbirdws6]

Appreciate the organization of it all. How easy is this to access once dash is back in?

[LTb1ow]

Very nice, sir. Should draw a decent color coded schematic for reference….

Yea, its on my to do list.

Appreciate the organization of it all. How easy is this to access once dash is back in?

Pull radio bezel and its all there.

[LTb1ow]

Last major piece of the puzzle arrived, when spring gets closer I'll order new injectors 😎

[LTb1ow]

Tonight just wanted to plumb in coolant pressure sensor and replace the TPS

Got off to a rocky start.
https://i.imgur.com/8yW0GQ6.jpg

Thankfully was able to use passenger side and got it plumbed/mounted
https://i.imgur.com/lmMD3LY.jpg

TPS reset was sucessful and with any luck Friday I should have the flex fuel sensor plumbed in.

[LTb1ow]

I got the interior thrown back in the car tonight
https://i.imgur.com/qaIfylR.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/SdQHZpf.jpg

And random pic of a installed flex fuel sensor(that works too lol)
https://i.imgur.com/iGMTP6v.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

Have we still abandoned all hope. What is this NA monster putting down these days? Why isn't it wrapped pink?

[LTb1ow]

I abandoned hope when this site refused to resize my pictures.

[sweetbmxrider]

The pics need to be this big to capture all the shoulder shrugs and disappointment nods.

[Blackbirdws6]

I bought a new TV just to view the pics. Keep em coming.

[LTb1ow]

Why hello there :bertstare:

https://i.imgur.com/Dmp4Chxl.jpg

[LTb1ow]

https://i.imgur.com/n94xq8nl.jpg

[LTb1ow]

https://i.imgur.com/DkmrxW2l.jpg

[LTb1ow]

https://i.imgur.com/1AUulWql.jpg

[LTb1ow]

https://i.imgur.com/BdvYDZLl.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

Specs?

[LTb1ow]

Old turbo
Intake wheel, 102mm x 76mm
Exhaust wheel, 88mm x 75mm

New turbo
Intake wheel, 117mm x 80mm
Exhaust wheel, 96mm x 88mm

The exhaust wheel is where I am hoping to pick up the most gains, housing goes from a .96ar to a 1.25ar as well.

[Blackbirdws6]

That should do nicely

[sweetbmxrider]

I didn’t know these cars could be run without radiators, that’s so cool!

[LTb1ow]

I didn’t know these cars could be run without radiators, that’s so cool!

Yup once you start running straight methanol the coolant system is not needed for the most part

[sweetbmxrider]

Yup once you start running straight methanol the coolant system is not needed for the most part

Can you still use the heater with methanol?

[LTb1ow]

Turbo flange to downpipe welded up

https://i.imgur.com/MxMKyVRl.jpg

Das billet wheel :drool:
https://i.imgur.com/Udf9rqdl.jpg

[LTb1ow]

Mounted up to crossover and ready for install

https://i.imgur.com/TkXEpR1l.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/yCUP6Iel.jpg

Downpipe wrapped and ready to go

https://i.imgur.com/M9GvpISl.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

Nice. Did you pre-soak the wrap in oil to enjoy that rotella every drive?

[LTb1ow]

Its a liilllll bit too close for liking to the dampener, but c'est la vie.

https://i.imgur.com/0N38Uubl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/fSBKTMQl.jpg

The trolllolol NA filter will live on :bertstare:

[LTb1ow]

1ePazQsp5Ek

[LTb1ow]

Took it for a drive today. 8-)

https://i.imgur.com/UrPzegkl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/J070JSvl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/BiHwzMyl.jpg

Forgot a clamp tho :bertstare:

https://i.imgur.com/jmzMmiQl.jpg

[LTb1ow]

https://i.imgur.com/ewAiHnOl.jpg

:bertstare::bertstare::bertstare:

[LTb1ow]

Blew coolant everywhere
https://i.imgur.com/f3bVlqzl.jpg

Decided it blew a HG and took it apart
https://i.imgur.com/SZoRSjbl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/4uoZmNnl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/ojx5VmLl.jpg

[LTb1ow]

Turns out, it still holds coolant pressure and compression check passed, so just boiled over and blew coolant.

Decided to add a second wastegate
https://i.imgur.com/HVNEUEdl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/OPWY0aVl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/uM7xQJcl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Gw2J1zRl.jpg

[LTb1ow]

Took advantage of the nice weather yesterday and got the new tank prepped

New "sump" for a plastic fuel tank
https://i.imgur.com/xds8GN7l.jpg

Sliced up the OE fuel bucket and removed fuel pump along with wiring that isn't fuel level related.
https://i.imgur.com/VRZYkKOl.jpg

Sumped and ready for install.
https://i.imgur.com/DPNyyTbl.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

Looks good! Why the new tank?

[LTb1ow]

Current steel tank, younger me used bulkhead fittings to "sump" it, and the return on is seeping. No drops on floor, but enough to bother me.

This is lighter, has a easier to install fill neck, and hopefully won't have any leaks.

[Blackbirdws6]

Makes sense. These cars aren't getting any younger.

[sweetbmxrider]

Wow

[LTb1ow]

More things to practice aluminum tig welding

https://i.imgur.com/kLgpc57l.jpg

New 100mic pre filter
https://i.imgur.com/GirayYAl.jpg

Big order of txl wire, and DT connectors
https://i.imgur.com/uy4swYPl.jpg

New dial a boost since the last one broke, and the first DT connector to be pinned
https://i.imgur.com/xPirVtNl.jpg

[sweetbmxrider]

You are filtering your cooling system?

[LTb1ow]

You are filtering your cooling system?

Its not a PSD, so, no.

Fuel pump pre filter.

[LTb1ow]

Want an excellent example of what not to do?

https://i.imgur.com/ACABWvNl.jpg

No going back now
https://i.imgur.com/4UdDTFFl.jpg

Oh lawd
https://i.imgur.com/MZSWGWJl.jpg

Spaghetti monster
https://i.imgur.com/CKBgJH6l.jpg

But, hey at least the DT connectors look cool as ****
https://i.imgur.com/sueqM8Ql.jpg

[The_Bishop]

That's a fine mass of multicolored spaghetti, sir.

[LTb1ow]

Yes, yes it is.

I have power windows tamed, and working on the locks. Hoping side mirror adjustment is a simple one to decipher.

[IROCZman15]

whew, lots of time and dedication. I always hate kneeling around on the floorboards and working sideways and it looks like you have a lot of time doing just that. not fun, but important and necessary.

[Blackbirdws6]

You love a puzzle.

[wretched73]

What non existent problem does this resolve?

[sweetbmxrider]

:rofl:

[LTb1ow]

What non existent problem does this resolve?

What was remaining of the factory interior harness was a nightmare to troubleshoot. I lost brake switch signal and had to bypass a fix in cause the factory circuit was haywire. The hazard circuit also did not function, and previously my younger/dumber self removed the lock module so that function was not working either.

Removing all the hacked stuff and replacing with new wire, and simplified circuits should clean that up. Hopefully allow for easier diagnosing in the future.

[townsend]

What was remaining of the factory interior harness was a nightmare to troubleshoot. I lost brake switch signal and had to bypass a fix in cause the factory circuit was haywire. The hazard circuit also did not function, and previously my younger/dumber self removed the lock module so that function was not working either.

Removing all the hacked stuff and replacing with new wire, and simplified circuits should clean that up. Hopefully allow for easier diagnosing in the future.

Just let me know when the maiden voyage is so i can have the trailer ready.....again... :bertstare:

[BonzoHansen]

Just let me know when the maiden voyage is so i can have the trailer ready.....again... :bertstare:

ouch.

[LTb1ow]

Just let me know when the maiden voyage is so i can have the trailer ready.....again... :bertstare:

This side of wiring is completely isolated from engine/trans control.

[Blackbirdws6]

Just let me know when the maiden voyage is so i can have the trailer ready.....again... :bertstare:

This side of wiring is completely isolated from engine/trans control.

Let's focus on productive things like me getting back my engine support ;)

[townsend]

Let's focus on productive things like me getting back my engine support ;)

lack of showing mercy has it sir, returned to him a while back. thank you again lol

[Blackbirdws6]

lack of showing mercy has it sir, returned to him a while back. thank you again lol

Convenient that I saw him this weekend with no support in sight lol. You're very welcome btw

[townsend]

Convenient that I saw him this weekend with no support in sight lol. You're very welcome btw

its buried in that garage of his somewhere lmao

[Blackbirdws6]

its buried in that garage of his somewhere lmao

There are many things buried in that garage. Especially hopes and dreams.

[LTb1ow]

New fuse panel
https://i.imgur.com/i6AlTLgl.jpg

Some front bumper work
http://i.imgur.com/0rhcPXIl.jpg (https://imgur.com/0rhcPXI)

https://i.imgur.com/tmXRVlhl.jpg

Rear area
https://i.imgur.com/2CIksZrl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/yFOM85jl.jpg

Under dash
https://i.imgur.com/GS5H9Vfl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/z7F6csfl.jpg

Getting there
https://i.imgur.com/o4xYTU8l.jpg

As of now, power windows, power locks, power side mirrors, turn signals, brake signal, hazards all work. Still need to wire in the headlight switch for headlights and interior lights. Lots of clean up still needed but slowly chipping away.

[Blackbirdws6]

Coming along well. I like the connectors.

[LTb1ow]

Hour a day, or something.

Since the "racecar" push button start panel is no longer needed, replaced it with this creation. USB ports are for holley and radio. 8-)

https://i.imgur.com/weugzJwl.jpg

DT connector, EVERYTHING. :lol:
https://i.imgur.com/xYHhxVll.jpg

Yes, I know I drilled one extra hole.

[Blackbirdws6]

OCD triggered...... why different USB ports, why second from the left seems higher than others

[LTb1ow]

OCD triggered...... why different USB ports, why second from the left seems higher than others

Radio out is a female USB, Holley out is a male USB so the backs of the ports are different. I will align them better massa

[Blackbirdws6]

Radio out is a female USB, Holley out is a male USB so the backs of the ports are different. I will align them better massa

It's 2024, please use the correct pronouns.

[sweetbmxrider]

Buy a male to female cable to plug between?

[wretched73]

Draw something up nicer in CAD and I'll 3d print it.

[The_Bishop]

Will probably have to print it in ASA or ABS for the heat stability. ASA would be better as it's UV resistant.

[wretched73]

Will probably have to print it in ASA or ABS for the heat stability. ASA would be better as it's UV resistant.

Heat stability? UV resistance?

My brother in christ, this car lives in a garage and is never driven. A piece of newspaper will hold up in this environment :rofl:

[LTb1ow]

https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fi.imgflip.com%2F3l3qrg.jpg&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=42d06c6fa814b11a7704094ec11273fbaa60433228e30d c8292eb89515dcb25c&ipo=images

[townsend]

Heat stability? UV resistance?

My brother in christ, this car lives in a garage and is never driven. A piece of newspaper will hold up in this environment :rofl:


I can vouch for it being driven, since i had to pick it up that one time lmao

[LTb1ow]

Close to 45 miles driven today :nick:

[LTb1ow]

Redid the scavenge drain line from up and over the intake to just down straight into pan

https://i.imgur.com/m1Bw470l.jpg

Finished up sound deadening over the rear axle area
https://i.imgur.com/sdyLGNMl.jpg

Random engine bay shot (although I did repalce the coolant pressure sensor)
https://i.imgur.com/vVjK4iRl.jpg


And of course, is it even an LT1 without these?
https://i.imgur.com/dPHYSMbl.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

Why do you need an oil drain with a NA setup? Notice a difference with the sound deadening?

[wretched73]

I have a roll of MLV if you want to up your weight and sound deadening

[LS1ow]

the hell is the air compressor for

[wretched73]

the hell is the air compressor for

Air actuated shifter, duh

[sweetbmxrider]

Is the air filter on backwards? And do you keep the wood tool tray in the trunk??

[LTb1ow]

BLS's word of hate have kept me awake many a night at the mess of this wiring. He insiunated that this was worse than his N20 era wiring. :shock:
https://i.imgur.com/gUfVeTkl.jpg

So we got to updating
https://i.imgur.com/zrGUMNNl.jpg

Still have some work to do to tidy, but its simpler and cleaner meow.
https://i.imgur.com/1QLhPFml.jpg

Does this do anything to make the car faster? Nope.

But, now, I can sleep at peace knowing BLS wiring is as good as my polishing skills. :bertstare::bertstare::bertstare::bertstare:

[Blackbirdws6]

https://media.tenor.com/thNFeYsbsVUAAAAe/kandi-burruss-the-lies.png

With that out of the way. I'll respect your work when you start wrapping all your visible wiring in red split loom. Until then, you show off your spaghetti electrical fire elsewhere and keep my name out yo mouth.

[townsend]

https://media.tenor.com/thNFeYsbsVUAAAAe/kandi-burruss-the-lies.png

With that out of the way. I'll respect your work when you start wrapping all your visible wiring in red split loom. Until then, you show off your spaghetti electrical fire elsewhere and keep my name out yo mouth.

:kneeslap::kneeslap::kneeslap:

[LTb1ow]

In prep for eventual teardown, built a halfway decent workbench
https://i.imgur.com/xTC7Bgzl.jpg

Yanked driver side manifold
https://i.imgur.com/KT26IX7l.jpg

Not bad of a seal, maybe a tiny leak between 3 & 5
https://i.imgur.com/pEgjYW4l.jpg

And the reason for the season, wet, oily plugs
https://i.imgur.com/3Y92N3Cl.jpg

Waiting for leak down tester to arrive today

[LTb1ow]

Pile of stuff on a bench can only mean one thing
https://i.imgur.com/Lz6JSYel.jpg


https://i.imgur.com/4GkBi5bl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/F7W5yAEl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/C0Amd14l.jpg

[wretched73]

Top your workbench with a sacrificial layer - https://www.homedepot.com/p/Hardboard-Tempered-Panel-Common-1-8-in-4-ft-x-8-ft-Actual-0-115-in-x-47-7-in-x-95-7-in-832777/202189720

[LTb1ow]

Ply wood is cheap pal.

[sweetbmxrider]

I thought he meant the 2x4 under the hood :bertstare:

[LTb1ow]

After a rough start realizing my argon was empty, snagged a new fill at lunch today
https://i.imgur.com/EMKXi3il.jpg

Then I managed to snap the bolt on my Vband, but metal hot glue gun and a old bolt made short work of that
https://i.imgur.com/69MKRLMl.jpg

Much more room now, and can actually get a wrench on crank to do rockers etc. Previously compressor housing was about ten mils off balancer.
https://i.imgur.com/OxbvQa5l.jpg

Downside, is radiator is shoved hard up against the car and turbo is tight
https://i.imgur.com/ZWqUXkCl.jpg

Should I just chop front off and get the RSM front end? Probably.

[LTb1ow]

After a lot of going back and forth with myself.. decided to cut. Will need to figure out top mounts, but bottom is mounted to lower rad support. Gotta finish up the hose roughing in then take everything out to clean up edges and weld hotside.

https://i.imgur.com/3iHw5QPl.jpg

Now have clearance on both sides of compressor housing
http://i.imgur.com/0tRfuXMl.jpg (https://imgur.com/0tRfuXM)

[LTb1ow]

Acquired a fancy elbow

https://i.imgur.com/GCKjqORl.jpg

[Blackbirdws6]

Top mounts seem simple enough to make. Could even consider something like what I did on the blue bird. How much more better should the fancy elbow flow?

[LTb1ow]

Yea I made a quick proof of concept over the weekend.

https://i.imgur.com/xgzKzurl.jpg

[LS1ow]

that rads been 10.01.

[wretched73]

that rads been 10.01.

Yea but has it seen 571 WHP?

[townsend]

Top mounts seem simple enough to make. Could even consider something like what I did on the blue bird. How much more better should the fancy elbow flow?

hopefully it flows better than that edelcrap junk. 417Motorsports custom, but was too tall for my car (im not cutting hood)

[LS1ow]

Yea but has it seen 571 WHP?

nope, 527 is all it took to get that and cool pics for IG

[LTb1ow]

Big photo dump from the past week or so

Had to modify the radiator to get room for the air filter on turbo. Also added vac line port to elbow.
https://i.imgur.com/wHqgKPQl.jpg

No more coil of copper, proper backpressure damper cylinder
https://i.imgur.com/XnjmXC9l.jpg

Painful purchase but MLS gaskets are the best
https://i.imgur.com/ZZEuBPql.jpg

While I was waiting for heads, have been experimenting with manifold heat management
https://i.imgur.com/0wexbJ7l.jpg

[LTb1ow]

And the heads, machine shop found some lovely gems from the previous owner of these heads
https://i.imgur.com/P82MzZtl.jpg

But both heads resurfaced, 0.007 off both to clean up
https://i.imgur.com/wc3ZGNMl.jpg

Its hard to see but the bolt/head stud holes were reamed out, and then sleeved so the port breakthru didn't suck oil down from top of head
https://i.imgur.com/PZX823Nl.jpg

Pretty sure every LT1 owner goes thru this picture at least once
https://i.imgur.com/RFp7geIl.jpg

Heads on, rockers & guides setup, intake bolted down
https://i.imgur.com/cqUPUVul.jpg

[sweetbmxrider]

How many angles was the valve job?

[LTb1ow]

Obtuse ones

[Blackbirdws6]

When running?

[LTb1ow]

When running?

When its warm outside