I have not posted the progress of my 73 six conversion, so I thought before I got it to paint I should post some pics. The car was purchased from a guy in Ohio as a "Virtually Rust Free Car". He provided photos and did point out some of the rust spots. He neglected to point out that the car had once been wrecked in the rear and there was no rust from the wreck because they used 40 lbs of bondo to cover it. The entire trunk had to be cut out to fix it, as well as part of the passenger floor panel.
Anyway it is about to go to the painter to get GT Flares, GT Rocker Panels, GT Rear Valence and some new color. All in all this car is in great shape, all things considered. Any way here you go.
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Here are a few more, just got back my chrome from the Bumper Shop. They did a great job. Looks wavy in the photo but not in person.
And I got new wheels. Pretty?????
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Nice start! I like the wheels!
Here is another update. I have been slow to post but here is what has been accomplished:
1.)Switched out the front suspension to 5 lug and 911 front end. New steering rack, sway bar, struts, brakes,ect
2.) Put in rear sway bar, powder coated the rear suspension, new bearing, new coil overs new 5 lug rotors, thanks eric.
3.) New M&K muffler and prefitting of the rear valence (pic coming)
Since I do not have the GT flares on yet, I shot a couple of photos with it jacked up slightly to see how the new wheels look.
Should be ready to go to paint next week.
Some have asked about the offset for the wheels. Here are my measurements and a crude drawing of the measurements:
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Rear_Back_Space_Measurements.pdf ( 251.36k )
Number of downloads: 220
Looks hot, but I can't read the tire. What size rubber?
I have gotten WAY behind posting progress on this project. Since I posted last I decided to junk the 3.0 engine and purchase a newly rebuilt 3.2. I will post the new photos from the last year so it seems I am making lightning progress. Here are a few for today.
New M&K 2 in 2 out exhaust.
Pictures! I want more pictures!
A Few More
New Fuel Injection for the 3.2
Trial Fit of the new wheels
Ok Two More
New Chrome Bumpers
Floor pan tar and rust removed/sealed
Looking real good James. Love the way the bumpers turned out.
Looking great man!
Here are a few more of the items I have collected for the project:
New 3.2 engine, the pulley was damaged in shipping but it is not a problem since it will have a different pulley for the ECU. I originally had a 3.0 engine that came with the car. It had Solex Carbs. I spent the better part of a year trying to get them to run correctly in the car. I eventually decided it was a lost cause and sold the engine and carbs at a huge loss and bought a rebuilt 3.2. This was a huge setback in time and money. Good lesson learned.
TEC-GT Unit from Clewett Engineering
A couple more:
I cleaned and repainted the transmission. Considering how dirty it was, came out pretty good.
New Clutch Package from Patrick Motorsports
Sent the headers out to get ceramic Jet Coated. If anyone else does this, you need to make sure you clean them up pretty good before you send them, the ceramic does not cover like powder coat would. The color came out a little uneven, but it will even out once heated.
Looking good. It's going to turn out great.
.....Smokin
Nice project, exactly what I will be trying to accomplish in my next life/project.
Great stuff
Good Luck....keep the pictures coming.
Vysoc
Ok let's pretend it has been about 3 months since I posted progress. Here are a few more thing I have collected for the project, next week I will post the progress on the paint, it is pretty cool:
New VDO gauges, head temp, voltage, and pressure plus a pair of Supertones
New Dynamat for the floors and doors
New Carpet kit from Auto's International. I decided not to go with the OEM carpet, I just thought it had a more industrial look/feel. My goal with this project was to take a 914 and bring it forward about 20 years and build it as though price point was not as much a concern, with more modern components. Therefore I wanted a more plush carpet, this is from about '89.
One More before I get to the paint next week.
I sent out the sun visors to Interior Auto Sunvisors based on a recommendation from someone here. http://www.autosunvisors.com/index.html
They did a fantastic job on the sun visors, the only issue is that they will not be able to reinstall the make-up mirror, so don't let Boy George in your car.
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Ok let's pretend it has been several months since my last post. I have been busy doing some upholstrey (later post), but also getting on the flares and getting some paint on this bitch.
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A couple more
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Last Prep before Paint
The entire lip of the rear trunk was toast, so we had to rebuilt it, we have the technology
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OK Who Is Ready For Paint????
I did something with the paint I have never seen before in a 914. I really struggled on what to do with the paint. I wanted a "Modern 914" but keep the original heritage. My options were to paint it the original Phoenix Red or do something different. I will show it without the clear to see if anyone can guess.
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I don't know what color it is but leave it like that...no clear just matte, or flatten the clear. It looks really good!
Looks like you might have some pearl in the paint?
Looking good!!!!!!
Who did you get to rechrome your bumpers?
She is out of paint, starting to put it back together. My camera simply freaks out every time I try to photo this color. Not sure if that is good or bad. Anyway here it is.
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That's dead sexy!
With James' permission, I'm pleased to announce that Series 9 will be completing the build of this project. We've scheduled delivery to my shop for mid-March.
Standby....
Nice!
Here are a few photos in its' almost finished state. Joe is going to get the 3.2 engine back in, set up the Tec-GT system, and install some oil coolers and get her tuned. I can't wait. Almost there. I am about finished with the interior. I hope to post some photos of it next week.
Out in the Sunlight- Very Sparkley
Finished Front Trunk with Sump System.
Engine Porn
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One More
Custom wheels from Intro.
Look a threesome
I trailered it down yesterday to Joe at Series 9 and it is ready to get its' heart, a 3.2. I am really happy Joe took on this project. I am so close to finally finishing, I can't stand it. Joe is a great guy and I can't wait for the finished project.
Joe gave me a spin in his 3.6 RS. Not sure my testicles have dropped back yet. That thing should be illegal. Here is a clip:
http://s23.photobucket.com/albums/b370/seriesnine/?action=view¤t=PICT0032.mp4
Beautiful car!
Looks like Joe needs a bigger shop!
I am very happy that your car is getting finished. I am not so happy to see the donuts in the residential court with a small kid standing there watching. I am sure the neighbors just love that crap.
This is awesome to see in the Series9 garage. I was trying to figure out what the color your car was, James. (I'm severely color-deficient and the webcam made it look orange to me ... guess I was close). The other pics you have of her look awesome. Nice wheels too!
And yeah, the RS is ... well, the RS. 'nuff said.
- Nelson
Looks awesome!
Nice car, nice thread. Inspiration to get to work on my -6...
I have an unexpected day off tomorrow.
I'll be conducting a thorough inventory of the parts. After a cursory review, many little things appear to be missing. I'll know better soon.
I'll have some pictures tomorrow.
Thanks James.
James, you will be thrilled with Joe's work. Best money I ever spent. Congrats!
Yeah what Wills said. And just wait until mine's done! (I've had a hard time thinking of a year out, but it will be worth it)
Pictures from yesterday. It's like Christmas, but some assembly required:
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Today, the engine is on the stand and the camshaft reference sensor is installed:
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I've never heard of a camshaft reference sensor. What is it and will I need it for my 3.2 conversion?
I think he is using the 3.2 manifold with a tech-gt injection system instead of the DME. If you are using the stock injection you shouldn't need it, the sensors for the stock system are near the flywheel.
Thanks
That paint!!!!
Many parts ordered.
Nelson's car needs a few days of attention.
Stand-by.
The first parts have arrived. Not much, but all-important.
The -12AN scavenge adapter.
The 14-pin male electrical plug, so I can build an engine harness.
Intake and exhaust gaskets for the 3.2.
More are on the way.
I'm working on the engine tomorrow. Pictures to follow.
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Today:
I have to build an engine harness from scratch.
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Next:
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Next:
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This supply line freaks me out. -16 supply, but probably only -10 in flow:
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Stock 14-pin connector:
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Tank out to remove the old oil lines:
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Solve the puzzle:
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Remember that picture of the blockage in the oil supply line?
I cut the end of that hose off and opened it up to have a look. I'm not sure the source of this hose, but this makes me wonder if it's compatible with the fitting that was installed on it (Earl's -16 straight).
The lining was detached. Very scary for the engine if this stuff came off. Now I'm going to have to pull the other end off the oil tank to see if it looks the same.
For a car that was previously running a /6, I'm having to almost start from scratch on the conversion stuff because it was either under-done or done incorrectly.
Whatever. It'll be right when it leaves here.
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When I went through the parts to see what I had, I said "intake boot, check".
However, this is either off another car or it's extremely stretched out.
All stop. Order a new one for a 3.2.
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motor mounts from a 4 cylinder
PM sent. I'm getting a sticker, I'm getting a sticker That Joe is the best.
Oh, and paging Mr. Balljoint? I've instructed that if this is some cruel April Fools joke and I'm not getting a sticker . . . to send the box of monkey poo to you
That reminds me I am sold out of Series9 Stickers...and monkey poo.
(just here checking to see if I can ban Dave for anything)
Eeep!
-runs back to sandbox
Dave, stop messing with Joe's thread. Some of us are trying to learn from a master. And seeing as how Scotty, Mark, Dana, Eric, etc., etc., etc., et al, etc., aren't posting anything everybody has no choice but to hang out here
Joe - What are you doing for oil cooling? GT style cooler in the front trunk?
joe, you are amazing... you make it look so easy!
James, now that I've been through this thread, I gotta say I love the paint and wheel combo! But with all due respect, damn you! Now I can't do that without copying you.
Actually I'm still deciding, but the look I've been after is a bit more period-correct I think - I'm thinking a CanAm 914 that never was but should've been ... So I'm probably gonna go Fuchs on mine (don't tell Wills).
Lookin' good!
- Nelson
PMS engine mount arrived today.
I was supposed to be finishing Luckie's 986 today, but UPS dropped the ball on the flywheel bolts.
It's raining outside, so I'm kinda stuck for the day.
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These were on back-order, but the Setrab 119 fanpacks have arrived:
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Grind and clean for welding in the new engine mount.
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I'm going to use these PMS mounts from now on.
Very nice:
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I have to agree. I really liked my PMS motor mount on my 6. Very nice.
Painted:
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It's nice to have an 'extra' 3.2 in the shop.
Remember that bellcrank bushing I was trying to source?
I pulled the console off Nelson's engine today and look.....the bushing is cast into this one. I don't remember that from 3.2s in the past.
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If your powder coater doesn't plug the threaded holes, get out your tap:
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Let this be a lesson.
Test fit before you paint and powdercoat:
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Otherwise, you have to pay your mechanic to paint.
It turned out fine:
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Here it is on the engine with a grommet installed:
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Here is the state of the engine today. Once I get a few more pieces, the manifolds will go on.
I'm pushing to get the engine built up, so I can put it in the car. The oil system can't really move forward until that happens.
My flying schedule is full for the next ten days. Stand by.
Here's where I finished today:
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Bad weather is bad for flying, but good for projects in the shop.
I got the seals I was waiting for and had some unplanned hours in the shop.
Because the fuel hoses had their ends powder coated, I'm worried about pressurizing this engine.
I'm not too sure about baking powder coat with rubber hoses attached. We'll find out soon. I'm not putting the engine in the car before I put 80psi through the lines.
It's starting to look like a 3.2:
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Do you think the pressure regulator and damper should be baked in a powder coating oven? I don't know, but the engine looks nice at the moment:
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Yeah... I dunno. I'd bake the shroud and a stripped intake but not everything. It does look beautiful though!
Looks super Joe, BTW none of the fuel lines or regulators were powder coated. I found the paint to match the powder coating. I would still check the lines. I just hope for more bad weather.
The new fuel lines came today.
I had to remove the center console, storage tray, subwoofer, knee trim and carpet to get the access I wanted.
The front tunnel access was dynamatted in and the rear was "enlarged":
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Interior out.
Old fuel lines out:
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After a test fit of the SS lines, I discovered that the return line would need a little reshaping on the engine end due to the PMS engine mount. I pulled out the tubing bender and massaged it a little. Now it fits. It's no ding on the manufacturer, I recommend these nice pieces by Rotary'14.
I stupidly forgot to order new firewall grommets and don't have any that fit, so on to other matters.
The engine harness is almost complete. Here are some detail pictures including the new 14-pin male connector that will hook directly to the 14-pin female on the car. The relay board has been deleted:
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Made some serious progress today.
Two of the oil return tubes were damaged in shipping. Here are the new ones in place:
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Headers on. This should be pretty quick, but missing studs and other difficult hardware made it take a while:
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MAP sensor for the TECgt.
Bracket fab and installed:
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Both the fans supplied had to be rejected. Here's a new one:
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Since we're putting the coolers in the back, James was kind enough to see the logic in putting the tank in the stock location.
DWD tank install will proceed this week.
Here's the old system out. James gets his front trunk back and I'm really glad we did this to get the hot oil lines out of the cockpit.
Unbelievably, the supply line fitting had a -10 (or smaller) orifice.
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On the other side of things, the scavenge side also had -16 line.
Pointless. -12 is fine, but look at this neck-down at the oil filter.
It's a good thing we decided to look at everything:
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The last one from today.
I guess I forgot to take a picture of the very nice PMS/KEP flywheel and clutch arrangement, but this is looking pretty well.
Super nice muffler:
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For those of you who remember the obstructed supply-line picture. I cut the hose at the other end today. Same thing:
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Joe... any theories on what caused it?
Love those 119 cooler fan packs.
More progress.
Fuel lines installed:
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Oil tank test fit after cutting.
The scavenge hole is big because there was already a hole there for a breather line from the old engine.
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Put the filter console remnant on the wall and throw the rest away:
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Mask and paint. Don't worry about the black paint. It'll be a little oily around here:
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It looks like I only took one picture today.
The fuel plumbing on the engine passed with no leaks.
The other work consisted of running a couple of wires from the engine bay into the main harness in the tunnel, getting the fuel pump wire to its appropriate location up front, finished the last grinding of the passenger-side /4 engine mount and got that area painted, rewrapping the wiring harness in the engine bay, etc.
I'm trying to make sure I get everything that is easier to do with the engine out done so the engine can go in.
Nelson's 914 needs a couple days of work, so I'll get back on this next week.
The engine will be in the car shortly.
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Looking good, makes me wish I had the money and lived closer...I'd just have you do my conversion
Oil tank installed:
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We'll call this a test-fit for now. I may not have to take it back out, we'll see.
The muffler is a little crooked. It was a lot crooked until I removed the muffler hanger. I'll have a make another one that will hold it straight.
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Beautiful, Joe.
I may have missed this in an earlier post - what muffler is that?
Hey Joe,
I don't like how close the scavenge line adapter is going to be to the exhaust. I found a better alternative to the Setrab fittings for my application at a local hydraulics shop for $8. This screws right into the case and replaces the factory M22 to M30 adapter. The orifice diameter is no different than the factory adapter.
Part number 9068-12-22 3/4" Male JIC x M22x1.5 Male Metric (Steel) which comes with a sealing washer.
Also found here: http://www.discounthydraulichose.com/9068_JIC_x_Metric_p/9068.htm
YES, I know my engine case is dirty. It matches the transmission!
Keep it up Joe, good to see your making head way with your ‘hobby’ business
Turns out that this is the same size as the adapters for the Setrab oil coolers. M22x1.5:-12AN Male.
Is this better?
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Suscribed. Lot of good info for a novice like me. Thanks.
Bee Jay
Thermostat location and the first line finished.
Now I have to leave for dinner at my mother-in-law's birthday.
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Thanks for your patience. I'm back from a much-needed vacation.
The fuel pump is in:
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I didn't really want to take the engine back out, but it was only bolted in, not hooked up.
The fifteen minutes it took to pull it back out is already saving time elsewhere.
You can see the new supply line on the cooler. The cooler only recently arrived after being modified for a 914, so having the engine out made it much easier to install. The rest of the tin is on and the wiring is all terminated on the transaxle and starter.
Then I moved on to the scavenge line from the thermostat to the tank. Also much easier with the engine out.
I tested the starter today. It worked fine.
Oil coolers go in next.
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Excellent, Joe. I'll be watching the install of the Setrabs with interest.
Looks great Joe. Hope you had a great vacation.
I'm ready to go Zoom-A-Zoom Zoom and Poom Poom
Fabrication of the brackets for the oil coolers:
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The two brackets for the top of the coolers are now drying after paint. The bottom brackets will have to wait until everything is done and the muffler hanger is on straight because they get secured to the same bolt as the muffler/header/hanger junction.
I will have to weld a strut between that point and the bottom hangers, but it's all got to be finished and squared up before I can make that weld.
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The engine is back in. That should be the last installation for the engine.
James chose rear coolers because he didn't want to cut the front of the car. These four holes are the extent of the body modifications for the rear cooler arrangement.
I'll bolt the coolers in tomorrow.
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Yesterday was slow, but all the prep work produced some serious results today.
Here goes the oil cooler install and plumbing.
Don't worry, Adel clamps are on the way. Everything will be well secured. I'm just trying to get oil in the thing so I can finish the wiring and try to start it. Once it's running, it'll be down hill from there.
Here we go....
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More:
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Very nifty, I like it.
nice nice work.
Joe,
May I ask where you buy your oil lines and fittings?
More importantly, may you answer?
Y'all forgot the big cup-washers on the transmission mounts ...
Very Clean Joe. It is only a guess but with that dual Setrab, I would think that you would get more cooling than if you had only one that was twice the size. I am curious to see what the running temp will be in the middle of summer. That is a much better set up than what I had, thanks for the suggestion. I am beginning to think you know what you are doing
Are those wheels 3piece or 2.
The plan for the day was to put power on the car and see if I can talk to the TECgt.
Everything went great until I tried to start the engine. It spins like it has no compression. I put a gauge on three of the cylinders and they make 140 psi.
I was able to talk to the ECU and load a base program. The spark plugs are sparking.
I dumped some fuel in the intake manifold and it doesn't even sputter.
I pulled the intake valve covers to make sure the valves aren't too tight. They're not.
Anyway, the TECgt seems to be working fine. When my laptop is hooked up, you can read all the sensor values. If you put vacuum on the MAP sensor, it shows on the laptop instantly. The same with the TPS, etc. It's cool.
However, I'm having some doubts about the internal condition of this engine. Let me sleep on it.
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A couple more:
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Hey Joe,
The engine was purchased from DC Auto. According to Robert (the owner) the engine was rebuilt in March of 2009 by Bruce Abbott aka East Coast Bruce. I do not know him but I did check around and he seemed competent. According to Robert the engine has about 100 miles on it. After I bought the engine from them I had some sketchy dealing with DC on subsequent purchases. Parts were sent that were not up to par (ie fuel pump and impeller x2) I will be really pissed if there is a problem with that engine.
The compression test seems about right at 140 on a cold engine though. The installation looks great.
Ouch, hope that it doesn't need to be opened up..
Stand by.....I'm doing a leak-down on 1 and 4 in the next hour.
Hey Joe,
Any advantage in the way you are splitting up the coolers on this one versus the set up you did on mine? Seems like they might get air flowing a little more freely this way. I like it.
OK. It's pretty difficult to argue with these numbers.
1 and 4 were both the same and returned very healthy numbers. 94 and 95 over 100.
I'm going to install the gas tank and get some fresh gas.
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FWIW my injectors caused 2 days of headache when trying to get my 3.2 going for the first time after it's rebuild and having sat for a year.
It made noise!!!!
No idle yet........
It runs!!!!
Interestingly, the ignition key doesn't shut the engine off. I had to unplug the harness to the computer.
That's probably a back-feed from the fuel pump relay. I'll find it.
F'in A.
Now that we've passed the biggest hurdle in this build, I stopped to make a list of things that have to be done to deliver the car:
Fix the ECU relay wiring (so it shuts off with the key)
Drive shafts
Tranny linkages
Adel clamps on the oil lines
Tie up all the FI and other wiring
Fab a DFU bracket
Wire the oil cooler fans
Fab a muffler hanger
Finish the bottom bracket for the coolers
MAP to intake manifold adapter
Front decklid
Interior
Air cleaner and piping
Install the MAT sensor
TPS bracket
Breather tubing
Breather filter
Main power wire to the ECU
Oxygen sensor module and wiring
Tachometer
Crap. Back to work.
Rawk! Now I wanna hear it.
I like the advice you gave me a long time ago: Hit it with a hammer. (I know, the 3.2 isn't a low-P pump for a carburetor set up, but hey at this point ...)
Working through the list.
I pulled the fuel pump and cleaned it out. I think a little debris stopped it from running. It's working now
The TPS is finished.
I found the wiring problem that was not allowing the engine to be turned off with the key. I was getting 4 volts across the alternator light (field) that was just enough to keep the ECU power relay closed. I moved the gauge power to another switched terminal and that fixed it.
I fabbed the DFU brackets today:
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Looking good Joe
So I'm hooking up the drive shafts and I find this (anyone see something wrong?):
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There's no way to get that axle out without:
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/4 muffler hanger modified for this job.
I also finished the MAP sensor manifold adapter, but it's not exciting enough to warrant a picture.
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Probably common I'm afraid. 930 (6-bolt) 108mm CV's are the only 108's available right now...
Either pin that one with larger (12mm?) pins or drill the bosses on the flange and stub axled to accept the 10x1.5 fastener (my choice). Be careful though, both pieces are hardened and it will cost you or your machinist a "bit" or two. If you pin it you'll still have to widen the holes in the stub and flange.
You're using 914 CVs in there?
Many little things are being accomplished randomly, but today I made the intake with the MAT sensor installation and I made HUGE progress in the tuning of the engine.
If I had the last pieces it would be very drivable. I should be able to run it around the block next week!
My eyes are friggin' burning from the exhaust fumes.
We are very close to completion.
Here are pictures of the intake fab, finished intake and tuning workstation:
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sweet, if you are going to be around tomorrow, I may sneak down to drop off the 951 seats, anything else you need me to drop else off??
Joe, I know you had some reservations about the Tec GT system. What are your thoughts, good and bad?? When can we see some #'s
I didn't and don't have reservations about the product. I had reservations about the amount of money and time it would cost to set up and tune on a stock engine, when we could use a stock Motronic DME that would make it run perfectly right out of the box.
The ignition portion of the system is excellent. At this point, distributors should be obsolete. Now you get to enjoy a virtually maintenance-free ignition.
As for the fuel side, it should be drivable now. I'll have to put some miles on it and tweak it some more. The file that was sent to me for this engine was basically unusable. It would neither reliably start nor accelerate the engine off idle. On the up side, this has caused me to have to dig deeply into programming and work it out on my own.
Also, if you decide to modify the engine in the future, I will be able to adapt the engine management to accept the changes. In that way, it could pay you back some of what you've spent.
The cool-factor is high. You're going to like it.
I'm gonna next week. I'll take some video for you.
I'm not really working on James' car today, but I like to start it at different times of the day to see how I'm doing on the programming for different situations, hot, cold and otherwise.
This morning, it stumbled, but didn't start.
Then I noticed the TPS voltage (on the screen on the laptop) was 0.00.
That's wrong.
Hmmmm. What's this?
Teething pains:
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Can't make it tomorrow, the Pod didn't show up, so the guys drying out my house couldn't load it so the Plumber could strt working on my slab leak..
So I need to make it Wed or after, correct, and if I need to bring anything for that car, let me know..
Lots of stuff got crossed off the list today.
No pictures, but the interior is back in, the shifter is installed and working, the INTERIOR LIGHT is wired and functional, the oxygen sensor wiring and module were permanently installed, the new CV is in and I proceeded with some more tuning with the lap top.
Unfortunately, I'm still waiting on one more piece before I can run it around the block.
It's getting very close.
Today was the last day of fabrication. I'll be getting the last part on Friday. I'll drive it that afternoon.
Here are the bottom cooler brackets and fan/O2 sensor wiring:
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Alright!! Let's drive it
Good seeing you today Joe and thanks for Lunch....
I drove it!!
It's fast.
Video is coming once I figure out how to make it smaller.
I'm working on the video. It's 195 MB for three minutes.
Stand by.......
I was waiting on the throttle linkage from Rich.
It came today. When I started to install it, I noticed that something was wrong.
It looks like this tranny has an intermediate plate from a REAL 6.
I screwed the bellcrank shaft into the transmission and modified the RJ bracket to do the rest:
I was waiting on the throttle linkage from Rich.
It came today. When I started to install it, I noticed that something was wrong.
It looks like this tranny has an intermediate plate from a REAL 6.
I had to remake the cross-over oil line between the coolers because the 45 on the passenger side was in the way of the throttle linkage.
I screwed the bellcrank shaft into the transmission and modified the RJ bracket to do the rest:
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http://s23.photobucket.com/albums/b370/seriesnine/?action=view¤t=ellisorvideo1.mp4
http://s23.photobucket.com/albums/b370/seriesnine/?action=view¤t=ellisorvideo1.mp4
Click on the picture.....
wow:)
That is awesome Joe. I have already made out my check to the Tax Collectors Office, I will fill in the blank when I actually get the ticket. I will have them set me up a tab.
James,
It runs great, but it's too rich. Basically, the programming will continue on a line that supports an incremental reduction in fuel delivery.
I doubt you want 12 MPG.
Just wait. It'll be perfect.....
Today, I put down the video camera and took the car for a real drive.
I don't know if it's just the muffler's sound making me think this thing is faster than a normal 3.2, or if it really is.
Either way, it's very quick.
On a slightly negative note, we have a substantial oil leak from somewhere around the breather outlet on top of the engine. It could be one of the O rings in the oil thermostat or a bad seal in the idiot light switch. I'm going to have to clean the area up and figure out where it's coming from. At least it's not one of the cam towers....
I also have yet to see a working tachometer. I've tried two different units that should work with the signal this computer outputs, but no dice.
I'll be back on it on Wednesday.
I think I found the leak.
When the engine arrived at S9, I noticed the crankcase vent was put on backwards.
I removed the four nuts, turned it around and bolted it back up. What I didn't notice was that the gasket isn't symmetrical, so it should have been turned around too.
Long story short, it's a bitch to get to with the engine in the car and the FI installed, but I fixed it.
James, that one's on me.
Now I need to clean up all the oil and hope we don't see much more. Trying to get a six to be completely drip-free can be a tall order, but I don't think we should need a beach towel to clean up the oil under the car after each drive.
James, head up to Whitey's tonight, I'm getting ready to head down, after the long day I have had, I can use it..
Yea, about Sexy....
James, head up to Whitey's tonight, I'm getting ready to head down, after the long day I have had, I can use it..
Yea, about Sexy....
I had some major break-throughs on the programming today. Over the past few days, I've done a huge amount of reading. Today, I started data logging with each programming change I made.
The engine runs out to redline in under full load and I'm getting good O2 sensor readings almost across the board. There are a few tweaks to be made, but I think I'm very close.
I think I've got this one by the nuts.
I'm trying to become a recommended tuner for Clewitt Engineering, so when I think it's finished, I have to submit the data file for approval. Hopefully that will go well.
I'm planning delivery by August 1st.
More tuning and detail work today. August 1st is still the target delivery date.
James, I'd like to have you down next week for a pre-delivery meeting and drive.
Good news!
The FI programming is finished and has been approved by Mr. Clewett himself.
James, I hope you're coming down on Saturday. Your car is ready for you to drive it. If you don't show, I may have to offer test drives to drum up some more business.
As of last night, Nelson committed to converting his engine to this system as well.
James, I'm going to offer you "royalties" on the programming I have for your engine. We'll work out some service credits or something like that for each time I pass on the data.
Beautiful job Joe. It's nice to see someone who really cares about what they do.
Mike
I am backtracking a little on some updates that I some how forgot to do. In this issue:
Custom Subwoofer box, Dynamat results and Modified Center Console and Real Inlaid Burl Dash Plate-No Plastic for me.
I made a custom subwoofer box to get a 10" Sub in the floor and still have room for feet.
I also made a real Burl faceplate and trim for the center console. Not a platic kit.
I had to build a new modified center console to accept the new sub box. I decided to add a cup holer after I took this picture-I know Blasphemy.
Finished the mock up and ready to be covered.
Here are a few more finished items:
Dynamat is in, boy is that stuff heavy.
Here is the completed face plate.
Here is the installed Tec Gt Unit and O2 module. Very Nice Joe!
These are a couple photos as it sat at Joe's yesterday. Just a few things to finish up, but really close. It needs a little cleaning up but that is the easy part. I will post the final photos when everything is back together.
This is a shot of one of the two oil coolers. I was really impressed how well Joe got these to fit in the space available. The supports Joe made hold them in place, rock solid. Very Smooth.
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I got to drive it yesterday and it pulls like a freight train. I pulled the shifter knob off changing gears it was so fun. Joe still has a few minor adjustments to make but I am very happy with the project. Joe has been super. As many issues as I have had with this project, it was about time for things to come together.
It was great having the Florida gang at Joe's yesterday. It is great having that kind of knowledge around, I feel smarter already.
Hey Joe!
Could you let me know where you found the following 2 parts:
1. 14 x 1.5mm to hose adapter on the motor (fuel return side)
2. the banjo fitting to hose adapter on the fuel pump (what size is that thing)
I'll be running 9.5mm fuel hose on delivery and 8mm on return and am having a hard time finding these pieces (or perhaps my search effort sucks).
Since Mikey has not gotten around to making the Targa Chrome J's yet (slacker). I tried something different with the chrome trim. I had it powder coated. I did the windshield and all the targa trim. It was done in a product called Ultimate Chrome from powderbythepound.com. I actually looked more like chrome before the clear coat was added. The clear coat was necessary for UV protection. Had this been under the car, and would not have needed the clearcoat, it would have looked exactly like chrome. It has a lot of reflectivity, and until you are up close you really can not tell.
Inside view (one is OEM and the rest are powdercoated)
Sunlight View
Delivery is set for Saturday.
Today, I sorted out all the gauge lighting, turn signal indicators, etc.
I then moved on to the license plate lights. Sounds simple, but some of the wiring wasn't there and one of the lights has an internal short.
Whatever. After four and a half months, we're there.
Delivered.
It was a long build, but I'm very satisfied with the result.
Well, she is finally done. After a week or so of putting her back together and wrapping up a few loose ends it is time for some pictures and some final thought on this project. Here are some observations and challenges I encountered during this project for those who might want to do this for the first time themselves:
1.) Find a car that is in really good shape. This one was in relatively good shape, with the exception of the 30 pounds of bondo that covered a rear end collision. See the early photo
2.) Create a budget, and a timeframe, you will go way over it, but do it just for the hell of it, that is what you are supposed to do, right. I projected to have this project done in 18 months. I only missed it by 18 months.
3.) Tell your wife you are divorcing her, then tell her you are restoring a 914, the first statement will then come as a relief.
4.) Don't take shortcuts. I tried using some used parts that were supposed to be good. By the time I made them good, I could have just bought new ones.
5.) If you are going to paint. Have the car blasted down to bare metal, no matter how it looks from the outside. I ended up spending more money on body work I didn't expect than I did on the entire first quote.
6.) Get the engine you want, and make sure it is in good shape, don't take anybody's word for it. Get a leak down test, or don't buy it.
7.) If there is work you do not feel comfortable doing, find the right guy to do no just someone who can do it. I have several people help me with this project, a few of them did the job to get a pay check and it showed. I ended up paying twice and even three times by Joe to get it right.
8.) This board has been envaluable in not only asking questions, but inspiration to keep the project going and not get discouraged. Many people on here have been there and done that before. I only wished I had asked more questions. There are not dumb questions, only dumb people who do not ask them.
9.) I made some good decisions on this project and I made some poor ones. One of the best decisions I made on the recommendation of T.C., was to get Joe O'brien at 914 RS to complete the engine install and finish up all the loose ends. I may not be acomplished enough to complte this job, but I know good work when I see it. Joe can not only do the work, he has a passion for it and that made all the difference. (See #7). The more I have gone over Joe's work after having it back, the more impressed I am. We again did not stay on budget, but Joe's suggestions improved the project and made the end result better. Thanks again Joe.
One final note: Instead of using carbs, or the factory EFI, I did my research and chose the TEC-GT system from Distributorless.com. This unit is fantastic, it eliminates so many problems with the other options. It is somewhat more difficult to tune, but once you are there, you are done. You can have different set ups for street and track. Different track set ups, whatever you want. It is not a cheap system, but I really like it.
Here are the final shots:
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Here are a few more.
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Outstanding!!!
Great write up! Your thread has been invaluable to my conversion. Thx!
Very nice!
What a beautiful car with top notch work. Enjoy that car.
Saweeet looking car! Enjoy it!
James,
It's was great meeting you at S9 for the BBQ a while back. Seeing your project complete is very cool. Glad you got what you've always wanted with this
-6 conversion. Truly a beautiful custom ride that you will enjoy for many years to come. Well done Joe!!
Outstanding
And great thread.
James' car is back at Series 9 for some metal work in the usual area.
Exploratory surgery yesterday shows the extent of the necessary repairs.
The engine is coming out and I'll get started:
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Did something happen to set this in motion?
who did the hell hole cover up without regard to structure or rust passivation?
That car looks mean and fast! great job.
James' car is the fastest 914 (and quickest car) I've yet driven ... and it was teasing me the whole time, "that's all YOU got?! *I* got more'n that, c'mon floor it and see!"
I'm glad to see you guys are working on this repair, but sad that the car needed it so bad.
I started the dissection today.
I'm warning you now, IF YOU HAVE A WEAK STOMACH, DO NOT LOOK AT THIS!
After doing this much.....
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....it became apparent that I was going to have to have access to the other side to do the repair correctly.
Well, there's no sense in putting it off any longer.
COVER YOUR EYES:
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After removal of the expanding foam and Bondo:
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Doing it right is the only way to do it. Good thing Joe's on the job.
Big Pucker..... Better now than later.
Joe,
I realize everyone just got Cass's book, but you didn't have to prove anything.
Just threw up in my mouth. Send completed photos only next time.
The bad metal is out. It looks a lot nicer to me now.
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Soooooo you're still going to get the painter to take care of that 1/4' scratch on the rear fender we talked about, right??
I've gone through a lot of underwear during this build!!
That's an awful lot of alignment shims there.
I'd check the trailing arm to see if it's bend.
Metal has been ordered from Restoration Design.
I'm going to have to create some of it. More next week.
After more than three weeks of moving the shop, it's time to get back to Porsche work.
Here are James' pieces from Restoration Design:
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I stabilized the car and removed a little more metal.
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I then started to make the rough cuts on the replacement piece. This takes time to make the patterns to get it right. It's now roughed in. Tomorrow, I'll start making the little trims that will get it in place.
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Major surgery to remove cancerous rust ... looks like it's going well, prognosis is optimistic at this stage.
Wow that is a drag to have to open that all up.
Better to do it this way than find out at Daytona on the banking...
Joe will have it better than new.
John
Look, metal where there was previously none. Because the top is open, I will be able to run beads inside the long as well.
This makes me happy:
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Welding the back of the seams wasn't too easy, but I got it done.
This picture shows the extent of the remaining work. I have to fabricate the top of the longitudinal. However, the piece that's finished is the foundation for everything else and I think it will end up being the hardest.
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I put the car down and rolled it around to let it settle.
Here are a couple of interesting observations.
The door will have to be adjusted, but the gap is much better.
Look at the back. It's now higher on the right. I think there was so much compliance in the body previously that someone installed all those alignment shims on the right just to level the car. There are no shims on the left. I'll pull the shims out and send the car for alignment.
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Rough-in on the upper wheel house metal:
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The upper wheel house trimming is finished and it's tacked in. Friends came over and made me have a beer, so that's all for today.
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Very nice work!
The wheel house is a single piece again.
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So pretty!
Here is the first of about four pieces that have to be made from scratch to repair the top on the longitudinal.
This single piece took four hours.
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Very nice Joe. A lot more work than you thought. Huh?
Here's where we are tonight.
The top piece is cut and welded and the bottom piece is mocked up:
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First time on the lift after installation of the new wheel house.
The door gap used to become ugly when this chassis was in the air.
No longer:
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Nice!
Clean repair!
The longitudinal is whole again:
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Nice work Joe you have incredible talent.
You make that look easy... having attempted something much less complicated I've learned IT'S NOT!
Test fitting the engine shelf.
Since the top of the long was hand made, this is taking some massaging to get it fit up.
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good work !!
Joe there is a thread somewhere and we alerted Restoration Design that they should make the piece, your pics I will add to the thread.
The shelf is welded and seam sealed:
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This one's for James.
I'll have it fully welded by the end of the day:
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Nice work Joe. It takes a lot of hours to make it right.
I'll grind it tomorrow. I'm tired.
Only the battery tray and one bottom piece to go. I'm giving it to the painter in 24 hours.
My plan is to deliver it at the Cinco de Mayo party.
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Looks fantastic Joe, to bad most of your hard work will never be seen again.
I'm in the home stretch now.
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Don't forget to take off the stupid -4 mount on the suspension console.
Unless you are using it ?
I meant the one on the inside of engine compartment on the inner ear.
triangle shaped.
Done.
It's already been moved to the paint shop.
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Sooo that repair will stop that crunching noise when I use that jackpoint???
Here she is back from the painter:
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I know this is an old thread, just wondering how that oil cooler setup is working in the real world?
Joe, how much would a setup like that cost?
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