Sunday, January 10, 2010

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Happy New Years Everybody!  Okay, since it's the new year, and I'm pretty late with this post.  I'll make it a New Years resolution to try and post something every week!  I'll also try to commit to something exciting to write about besides my build, even though my build is what this blog is about.  Anyway, here's an update of what's been going on with the car:

Throughout December, I acquired some things and made some plans for things that I want done to Shirley.

Item 1: Escort 8500 x50 Radar/Laser Detector
I bought this item for a couple of reasons.  One of those reasons is because I'm addicted to speed.  When you have a 300whp car, once you hit the throttle, you just want to go faster.  There are times where I even want to pick a couple races from other enthusiasts on the road!  Yeah, it's that bad.  So I got myself a radar detector so I know when I'm being watched.  I know it may not pick up every cop on the road, but some is better than none.  I've been saved a couple times already.

What I want to get to complete this radar detector is a rear view mirror mount and the hardwire kit.  I also want to send the radar detector in for an escort 9500 which has gps capabilities that alerts the driver when a speed meter or red light camera light is coming up.  But, getting a new radar detector might be out of reach, so I might do the next best thing, which is to send my current radar detector in for a "tune up".

Item 2:  Black Muteki Open Ended Lug Nuts
I needed these lug nuts for a while, ever since I got my wheels.  The reason being is because of the "acorn" fitment.  When I swapped out my stock lug nuts out with these, I immediately noticed how more fitted the Muteki nuts set into the stud.  I also ended up stripping the threads off of one of the new lug nuts because the threads on the studs were stripped REALLY bad.  I wish I had a picture to show everyone, but I was too caught up in the moment of getting the stud replaced.

Luckily, I got the stud replaced the same day by Paul at Subietech.  Mikey and Paul happily took me in even though they were doing a transmission swap at the time.  As for the nut that I messed up, I'm currently looking around for a tap/chase kit that has the right pitch so I can fix the nut.

Item 3: Exedy Stage 1 Racing Clutch
I've been in need of a new clutch for a good while now.  As stated before, my clutch is significantly stiffer, so I decided to get a new clutch.  I felt that the Exedy Stage 1 will fully suit the needs of how much torque my car is putting out.  Thanks to Alex from Akuma Motorsports for providing the clutch with fast and easy service!  I've already talked to Paul from Subietech and he said that I can get a flywheel to match the clutch for $189, which isn't too bad of a price.

 Item 4 & 5:  JDM Red Hazard Button and 2 Gauge Cluster Bezel
Since I plan on getting two more gauges, the gauge cluster bezel will suit me perfectly because 1, it's stealthier than a 3-gauge clock pod, and 2, I'm only going to be getting 2 more gauges. I only


Now, for the JDM Red Hazard Button.  I just think it gives a different feel inside the car.  Also, I admit I kind of had the JDM fondness when I saw it.

There's still quite a few items in my shopping list.  If everything goes as planned, I'm thinking my car might be done by the end of this year.  I'll just need to save for a rebuild or new engine afterward...haha!