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Posted by: fasthonda Jul 26 2009, 10:52 AM

I would share my project with the world since I enjoy seeing what others have posted. The 914world has been big help in sourcing info, parts, and the car itself.

I thought about building this car for years, and finally decided to act on it.

Recomendations and comments are welcome. Thanks, Michael

Project Scope

Body: 1973 narrow bodied w/ fiberglass bumpers
Engine: Honda S2000 F20C (250 ps @ 8200 rpm)
Transmission: Stock
Front Suspension: 87 911 front end w/ Bilstein Sports, 22 sway bar
Rear Suspension 250 lb springs on bilstein sports, poly bushings
Wheels: 15x7 with R compound
Brakes: 87 911 Carrera F&R

This is how it looked when I first got it. Brought this home from Southern Caifornia. The transport company rolled it up in the yard since it had no brakes.

Repaired hell hole

Reinforced rear suspension console

Removed sound deadening from the floor and prepping for POR15

Rear fiberglass bumper fitted


I hope to be installing the drivetrain in September, that is if Murphy's law quits getting me. The flywheel from KEP is several thousands too small to fit on the crankshaft so I need to get that resolved first.

Posted by: d914 Jul 26 2009, 11:28 AM

great engine.....will it fit????

Posted by: Phoenix 914-6GT Jul 26 2009, 12:02 PM

Nice. Can't wait to see this through.

Posted by: Chris Hamilton Jul 26 2009, 12:05 PM

Woah, awesome so far. Can't wait to see the progress!

Posted by: Zundfolge Jul 27 2009, 10:51 PM

Sounds like a real cool project, but what class will putting the Honda motor in the 914 put you in?

I'd hate to go to all that work only to end up stuck having to compete against V8 cars running 2-3 times the HP.

Posted by: fasthonda Jul 28 2009, 05:06 PM

I don't really plan to race this, just show off at HPDE events. However if it proves to be a very capable car, I may race it NASA's GTS class. I don't plan to install a cage until the car has been sorted and proven, due to budget contraints.

Posted by: ghuff Jul 28 2009, 08:20 PM

Any reasonw hy you went F20 over a K series?


People are getting insane power all motor out of the K.

K24/K20 combo would be nasty.

Posted by: Chris Hamilton Jul 29 2009, 12:13 AM

I think the stock F20C should be enough to make a 914 haul ass pretty nicely compared to just about anything you could do with a type-IV.

Fasthonda, is that an F20 or F22? I hear the F22 in the AP2 is a lot more fun to drive than the F20 in the AP1.

My dream 914 streetcar would probably have a honda J30/5/7 engine. A 3.0 to 3.7 v6 with more power than the porsche six cylinders and half the weight!

Posted by: 396 Aug 12 2009, 12:42 AM

Great concept ...good luck.

Posted by: fasthonda Sep 3 2009, 07:15 PM

Project update. Things are progressing slow since I haven't much time. I'm ready now to fit the powertrain in the car and fabricate the engine mount. Here's a few pictures of the progress. I'm also still looking for a nice clean (no rust) stock gas tank if anyone has one for sale.
Painted the interior floor with POR15
[attachmentid=189183]
Cleaned up and painted the engine bay
[attachmentid=189184]
901 trans mounted to the S2K engine
[attachmentid=189185]
[attachmentid=189186]

Posted by: grantsfo Sep 3 2009, 09:06 PM

loving it!

Posted by: Chris Hamilton Sep 3 2009, 09:40 PM

This is looking cool! What clutch/flywheel are you going to use?

Posted by: fasthonda Sep 4 2009, 09:35 PM

Chris,

The flywheel is from Kennedy Engineering. I will be using the stock 914 clutch and pressure plate. Since the S2K motor is low on torque and the car will be very light the stock setup should be fine.

I set the engine under the car today. The S2K motor is very tall. The valve cover will protrude above the engine lid and trunk so these will need to be modified. The Engine still needs to be raised about 8 inches from the position in the picture below. I need to cut the truck section before I can raise it to its final position.

[attachmentid=189255]

I put the cookie cutters on the front today for the first time. I think these wheels look great on the car.

[attachmentid=189256]

Posted by: Chris Hamilton Sep 5 2009, 02:34 PM

Does the S2k engine rotate the right way, or do you need to flip the diff?

Posted by: Andyrew Sep 5 2009, 05:08 PM

The stock clutch will be fine till you start trying to drop the clutch...

Cool project!

Posted by: Chris Hamilton Sep 5 2009, 08:45 PM

From the AP2 S2000 I drove, I didn't feel that they have any more torque than my 2.0L rabbit rods TIV, they just have a bit more power at the top end. If this engine is from an AP1, I'd imagine it has even less twist.

So I think the clutch ( especially if you get one of those nice sachs high performance models ) should probably be in good shape to take the Honda engine.

Posted by: fasthonda Sep 11 2009, 07:47 PM

I now have the powertrain in its final position and will begin fabricating the engine mounting bar. The shift linkage clears the oil pan so no modifications needed there, however the the throttle body is up against the fire wall so I will have to put a recess in the fire wall to make clearance for a 180 deg. bend.
[attachmentid=189867]
[attachmentid=189868]

Posted by: Chris Hamilton Sep 12 2009, 10:44 PM

Wow, that's looking good!

I suppose it would be worth going to individual throttle bodies in that configuration to clear the firewall.

Posted by: Chris Hamilton Oct 3 2009, 10:55 PM

How's the project going?

Posted by: dakotaewing Oct 4 2009, 10:17 AM

I would suggest that you paint over the POR while your at it...
The POR does not like UV light in any form, and will change color on you quickly -
It's easier to do it now while your cabin is still empty -

Your project looks great - keep at it!

Posted by: fasthonda Oct 6 2009, 05:28 AM

Progress has been slow. I would of had the engine mount finished by now, but I have changed my design during the fabrication process. I have decided to mount the engine using a six style firewall bulkhead mount instead of using the Type IV chassis mounting points. This will make for a much cleaner looking setup. I'm still waiting on my bulkhead mount from Maddog.

I did order one of those high torque mini starters which saves a little more weight and the shift linkage clears the oil pan with no problem.

Pictures to follow when get the engine mount finish.

Michael

Posted by: wallys914 Jan 9 2010, 01:09 PM

Updates please!

Posted by: fasthonda Jan 9 2010, 05:11 PM

To wallys914,

I went thru your build thread. Awesome. After seeing your thread I came close to buying that tube bender and doing my own cage. Wish that bender came with a 6 inch die radius though.

Things are going slow and it's hard to see the finish line. I'm tempted to go in on the group buy for the steel GT flares, but I have more than enough to do as it is.

I completed fabing the engine mount, but I plan to stiffen the chassis before installing the engine. That's what I am currently working on. Instead of building a full cage, I plan to traingulate from the fire wall to the longitudnal and rear shock tower. No bends will be required and it will also minimize the weight added. I will post pictures when done.

Here is my engine mount setup.

[attachmentid=202982]

[attachmentid=202981]

I got the rear suspension and brakes assembled too. Also added early light weight doors. Now it is offically a roller again.

[attachmentid=202983]

Posted by: spaceshuttle Jan 10 2010, 08:49 AM

Like your project. I have 3 conversion cars and am in Travelers Rest. I have all kinds of parts and have used several suppliers that are listed here. We talked once about a 915 tranny you had and sold. let me know if I can help.
LC

Posted by: fasthonda Jan 28 2010, 08:24 PM

Here is my design for stiffening the chassis in bending. I didn't want to invest in a full cage since the car will not be raced in competition. The goal was to stiffen the car with minimum added weight and keeping it safe. I didn't want any bars near my head. The bars also increase side impact protection, which is nice since I'm using early light weight doors. I'm still debating whether or not to add a harness bar tying the 2 sides together. The harness bar would be pass straight through the bulged part of the fire wall.
front
[attachmentid=204713]
rear
[attachmentid=204714]
a plate is welded on the interior side of the fire wall where the seat belt attaches.
[attachmentid=204715]
The bars line up at the fire wall for strength and no bending was required.

w/o the engine in the car I measured .010 inch flex at the door when jacked up. Before the bars I measured .060 . I will recheck after the engines in.

Posted by: bam914 Jan 28 2010, 09:17 PM

There is a lot of flex in the front of the car. Not all of it is in the back.

Posted by: e30driver Feb 18 2010, 08:49 AM

This is a really cool build, looking forward to seeing more updates! Do you plan on bars in the front?

Posted by: SirAndy Feb 18 2010, 06:07 PM

Here's what we did for my cage. Obviously, it's a full cage, but i really like the sidebars.

The curve allows for easy getting in and out.
The front ties into the upper wheel well and front shock towers.

Ignore the thin bracing that we used during the welding ...
Andy

Posted by: fasthonda Feb 18 2010, 08:17 PM

Yes I need to add some bars going to the front shock towers. Wasn't in the original plan, but it is now.

Andy,

Your cage is very nice. Thanks for posting. Do you have bars going to the rear?

Due to the cold weather and the fact I have too many projects going at once progress has been very slow. I'm enjoying the process and not that anxious to finish quickly. I'm well ahead of my 3 year time line. I need it to warm up to finish painting the interior and engine bay before putting the powertrain back in.

I ended up gutting the doors and made my own aluminum door panels. I plan to place the battery up front and fabed up a battery tray.

For a radiator I plan on using a Honda dual core half size radiator. There is room enough to mount it vertical. I will shroud it out the bottom like an oil cooler. Cutting the wheel wells open doesn't appeal to me. Here's a few pictures.

[attachmentid=207247]

[attachmentid=207248]

[attachmentid=207250]

Posted by: SirAndy Feb 18 2010, 08:44 PM

Not yet. At the time, i wasn't sure which clubs i would end up running with and most stockish classes don't allow you to tie the cage to the rear shock towers.

Now that i'm running in GT2/GTL, it doesn't matter anymore, i'm already waaaaay outclassed ...
Andy

Posted by: Andyrew Mar 12 2010, 06:24 PM

This will work but keep in mind you need twice the size of your inlet in your outlet. Also you should shroud it 100%. Next under the car should be a low pressure area, Using louvers or a single lip to create a suction/ negative pressure at the outlet will help.

Let me know if you have any questions on it.

Posted by: Rand Mar 12 2010, 06:55 PM

Love the bulkhead engine mount.

Man I would love to see the radiator in the engine bay! It looks like there's plenty of room to put it in there and build ducting to pull a lot of air through it with the right fans.

Posted by: fasthonda Mar 13 2010, 04:10 PM

Thank you for the great advice. I didn't know about to 1:2 inlet/outlet ratio. Yes I plan to shroud it 100%. A large enough from air dam should also help with negative pressure.

I thought about putting the radiator in the fire wall, but getting air to it is a major challenge.

Posted by: TargaToy Dec 19 2010, 09:59 PM

Any updates on this? Is the motor in and running now?

Posted by: fasthonda Dec 20 2010, 08:31 AM

The car is about 90% complete and should make its debut this spring. I need to finish some details on the coolant system and wiring to fire it up. Wasn't planning on updating the thread until its debut but I will post more detailed pics this weekend for those that have interest.



Thanks for the encouragement.

Michael

Posted by: jsayre914 Dec 20 2010, 11:50 AM

Looking good. Cant wait ....

Posted by: Andyrew Dec 20 2010, 06:21 PM

Looking forward to the pics!!!

Posted by: TargaToy Dec 20 2010, 09:58 PM

Very interested. Keep the thread going. I'm a big Honda guy and before I was unbelievably able to own the very same 914 my Dad owned in the 70's, I had wanted to find a project 914 and fit it with a B18 or 'lude motor--that was before the S2000 came out! Now you've got me wondering again if a 3.5 "6" would fit.

PS, did you pull your fenders for the cookie cutters to fit? I tried a one on the rear of mine and it was nowhere close to working.

Posted by: Brett W Dec 21 2010, 09:44 AM

Yes the 3.2-3.7 will fit with an adapter. There are a couple out there already. 914club had a thread about them Good motors.

I love me some Hondas, have 5 at the house right now. Working on putting a GSR into a CRX with a hydro trans, Type R front brakes, all the good stuff from my turbo civic, that is now a race car in the works.

Posted by: Andyrew Dec 21 2010, 10:31 AM

Brett, What are the advantages of a hydro trans? Ability to use a stronger pressureplate?

My DD is a CRX Si and im planning on doing a Minime swap over the winter. I just got finished porting and polishing the exhaust side (First P&P job, Did it more for learning than the negligable gain) of the head. Its a Z6 head.



I think a B18 would make a great daily driver 914 if it was built a little!

Posted by: Brett W Dec 21 2010, 03:22 PM

There really ain't a benefit to the hydro trans. I just happened to buy the swap with a hydro tranny. They cable trans can handle similar pressure plates. No need to run massive pressure plates.

My 90 Hatch was a full z6 swapped with the turbo kit I built. made 240 at the wheels. I was going to do a custom ZC/Si gearbox swap but decided to go ahead and step up to the CG transmission from the first gen integra. That is what I am going to use in the race car. Gonna stick with the Built Z6. Adding a bigger turbo and header, some all out custom suspension stuff blah,blah, blah. Even have a new roof panel to weld on to get rid of the sun roof.

As for your car make sure you convert it to OBD 1. There really isn't a good way to control your engine with all the bolt on garbage. However if you want an Apexi AFC let me know the CRX has one that will be sold as soon as I yank it out. You need more compression and more cam to really make that engine work right. Use the ZC or PM7 pistons to get the compression up, then drop in a bigger cam. The ZEX cam is reasonably priced. Add the ZC/Si gear box and you will have a car that is a riot to drive. Of course it will probably get stolen in 20 minutes out in CA.

I have parts if you need anything, let me know.

Posted by: fasthonda Dec 21 2010, 08:11 PM

If you roll the inner lip, then 15x7 cookie cutters w 205/50-15 fit with no problem. I ended up pulling my fenders with baseball bat only to fit 15x8's with a 225/45-15. They fit but didn't look quite right. I plan to add rear GT flares later to use the 15x8's. The current slightly flared fenders actually look decent. I'll have to take a picture.

Posted by: fasthonda Dec 22 2010, 05:25 PM

As promised here are a few detailed pics of the cars current state.

The radiator will be completely shrouded once finished.

[attachmentid=243322]

[attachmentid=243323]

[attachmentid=243324]

[attachmentid=243325]

Posted by: fasthonda Dec 22 2010, 05:28 PM

One of my home made GT lid. Engine is tall but still fits under the lid - barely.




Regards,

Michael

Posted by: TargaToy Dec 22 2010, 08:43 PM

Your setup is looking really good. Did you run your water lines through or under?

Can't wait to see pix with 8's on the rear.

Are those Ground Control threaded sleeves on the rear shocks?

Posted by: fasthonda Dec 27 2010, 06:52 PM

One under, and one through. I would have ran both through but the inlet and outlet are on the same side of the engine.

Gonna be a while till I get a set of steel GT Flares. WTB

Yes. Run these on my Honda. Good quality.

Posted by: fasthonda Dec 27 2010, 07:01 PM

Added GT style harness bars. Made from U bolts.

[attachmentid=243799]

I can confirm that an autometer 5" monster tach (pedestal mount version) fits nicely in the stock cluster. Had to build up the diameter just a little for a snug fit.

[attachmentid=243800]

Posted by: TargaToy Dec 27 2010, 09:52 PM

I thought I recognized the Ground Controls. Had to go out in the garage and dig for mine after I saw what you're using (found 'em!). I had them on the rear of my 87 CRX Si with 200 lb Eibachs. Had been casually wondering if they would adapt to the 914 for easy height adjustment. I guess you've answered my question.

In your travels, have you seen any other successful Honda powered 914's? If so, can you shoot links?

Also, now that your motor's in, would you have had room for 1 (or more) small radiators in the engine bay--maybe to the driver's side?

Keep up the progress.

Posted by: stewteral Dec 27 2010, 10:58 PM

Hey Fasthonda,

I love your converion and compliments on the good work! It's a great conversion idea and with such a stout engine, I'm wondering about supercharging!
That you really make it fly!

My car is a V8 conversion and I also had to raise the engine cover....it isn't even noticeable!

When I noticed your radiator install, I believe I saw that your plan to vent out the bottom of the car. I wanted to pass on that I tried this for a couple years with my car and even with an airdam 2" from the ground and 2 big fans, the car still ran HOT on-track. Most of V8 conversions exhaust out the fenderwells and while it seems to work, the BEST way is our the top of the hood. Check out what bynbad914 has done in the attached photo. My solution is similar ala racing sports cars. Since the Honda won't be producing the heat of my 383 Chevy, a modest opening should to the job.

Best of luck, keep the photos coming!!

Terry

Posted by: fasthonda Dec 28 2010, 04:50 PM

Thanks for the advice Terry. From reading the forums I was aware of this, but not until after I finished my original setup. I gonna give this a try and monitor the water temp closely. It won't take too much to angle the radiator forward and vent out the hood if neccesary. Plently of good deals on Ebay for Louvers.

Michael

Posted by: TargaToy Jan 6 2011, 09:31 PM

Progress report?

Posted by: stewteral Jan 7 2011, 01:26 AM

Hey Michael,

I certainly understand the issue of making a conversion work: there are so many details for "engineer" one's way through and when done, I find myself thinking: "If I were to do it again, I'd do a lot of things differently!"

A suggestion for bottom exhausting: be sure to install a serious chin spoiler to create a low-pressure area under the car and aid radiator exhausting. For the lower 3" of mine, I used kitchen floor coving: cheap, black flexible plastic and stiff enough to do the job.

In the case of my Chevy, I found another negative in using the low chin spoiler, however: It reduced the airflow under the car that comes UP in the engine bay and cools the engine block. I was surprised to learn that even though the Chev is "Water Cooled", 30 % of cooling still comes from air across the engine. How important to your Honda this is will be your challenge to determine.

A hard lesson I learned in my project that it is all about the complete package working as a whole.

If you forget the bottom-exhausting and want to maintain the Sleeper Image, there is still the choice of venting out the fenderwells.

Regardless of how you exhaust, I had an engineer bud beating me in the head to DUCT the AIRFLOW. He pointed out that ducting improves the efficiency of flowing the airflow and reduces issues of vortices blocking flow.

BTW: If you decide to vent our the top of the hood, I understand Bynbad914 found his louvers on Summitracing.com.

Best of luck,
Terry

Posted by: wallys914 Jan 27 2011, 09:59 PM

Any updates?

Posted by: fasthonda Feb 5 2011, 09:34 AM

Not much progress in the past month. Been focusing on getting my Civic ready road Road Atlanta March 5,6 with the BMWCCA and getting my spare 914 chassis ready for sale (wifes request).

Things I have completed:

1) Inlet ducting for the radiator
2) Support bracket for the exhaust system
3) Complete Wiring (painless 8 circuit kit)
4) Custom throttle cable

Things in Progress:

1) Vehicle Speed sensor (VSS) - Working on buidling a black box circuit to simulate the VSS signal for the ECU. (needed for VTEC to engage)

2) Just ordered a Corbeau Clubman seat that will need to be installed. Next weekends project.

3) Redo the soft fuel line install. Switching over to 30R9. Still trying to figure out the best orientation for the tank nipples to keep the excess line from kinking.

I should be able to make the first attemp at firing it up in about 2 weeks.

I still need to find a good used set of 225/45-15 toyo's for my 15x7,8 Fuchs. Anxiuous to get those on the car.

Everyone who has seen the car comments on how nice red valve cover looks below the black GT engine lid.



Michael

Posted by: 396 Feb 12 2011, 08:40 AM

Congrats on a great looking transplant. I'm sure it will haul A_ _!

Posted by: J P Stein Feb 12 2011, 09:32 AM

Best of luck, keep the photos coming!!

Terry



[/quote]


I now have some personal experience with the louvers shown in the pic.
At 150 bucks per section, I would really expect more quality in the fit & finish.
In a word, they are crap. Sure, they're going on a racecar but good God!

The louver cut-outs are all over the map. The gell coat is gnarly. I would figure
10-12 hours (each section) to get them looking up to snuff......hi build pimer & a selection of sanding tools for a die grinder would be useful.
As pictured, they look pretty good....just don't get too close.

Posted by: fasthonda Feb 12 2011, 04:48 PM

Finished the seat install today. Ended up using with an old Momo T frame instead of the Corbeau Clubman. I couldn't get the Corbeau to fit to my liking. Even though the Momo is a bottom mount, I got it to sit pretty low by using a thinner style slider with custom mounts.

I believe a side mounted seat with Brackets bolted directy to the floor is the best way to achieve the perfect positioning, but the momo is close enough for now.

Eventually I'll install a Kirkey Road race seat. Have one in my Civic and love it.

Whipped out a muffler bracket. Simple and should be good enough as the exhaust is quite rigid without it.

Also reduced the rear spring rate to 200# from 250#. Found a good deal on ebay and I think the lower rate is a better starting point from my research. Only takes about 30 minutes to change out rear springs which can easily be done at the track.

[attachmentid=248990]

[attachmentid=248991]

Posted by: Hontec Feb 13 2011, 08:34 AM

Just wanted to say that I love to see the F20 in there!!!! Good job!!

I have 19 years experience in building Honda race/rally cars and when I bought my 914 I was in heavy doubt about which way to go engine wise.

I still am in fact... my first choice was to go K20/K24 supercharged and after seeing your intake elbow routed through the cabin, that would be my choice since it has the throttle body opposite the S2k one. Also I was curious about the height issue with these engines...you demonstrated it fit's nicely!!


The other one issue is how the 914 tranny will hold up, and how the gearing ends up with the 9k rpm engineband...but I guess you will be able to tell in a while


My choice now is a Subaru EJ20 turbo with a custom Elite Transmissions sequential 6-speed.....very low cg

But after seeing your car...the K-itch is back..........

Keep us updated and please include lot's of pictures!!!

Thanks,

Randall

Posted by: Brett W Feb 14 2011, 04:30 PM

The 901 will not do the Honda engine justice. The gearing sucks in the 901. That is what makes the Suby swap so much better, you get the tranny designed for the engine.

Posted by: fasthonda Feb 14 2011, 08:15 PM

Randall,

Thanks for the compliment. Coming from a guy of your talent is encouraging. I love following your build thread BTW. Amazing work. Were those Hondas getting caged in your shop?

I'm a Honda guy, so the Subie was never an option for me.

As for the 901 tranny. I haven't done any calculations to compare with the Stock S2K gearing, but I need to do that. I'll test it out first and go from there. I think I'm stuck with the 901 final drive ratio, but changing the gears sets is not a problem for me. As for durability, I have collected 6 spare trannies over the past couple of years for backups. All part of the fun.

Getting it running and then keeping it cool are my next hurdles.

I'll keep you guys posted. Thanks

Regards,

Michael

Posted by: bam914 Feb 14 2011, 09:05 PM

I have a 914 trans with a 4.8 final drive if the stock one is too tall.

Posted by: fasthonda Feb 24 2011, 07:33 PM

Blake,

I'm Interested. How much?

With a power band from 6500 to 8500 rpm I will definitely need to shorten the gear ratios. I calculated I need E,K,Q gear sets for 2,3,and 4. These are probably be hard to find.

Also needing a set of 15x7 fuchs wheels.

Michael

Posted by: degreeoff Feb 24 2011, 10:33 PM

If you can find me a set of 15x8's straight and true I'll trade ya foe my 7's....I assume you mean 5 bolts yes?

Posted by: bam914 Feb 25 2011, 11:11 AM

This will not change the RPM drop between gears. It will raise the RPM need to attain the same MPH. I will PM you a price on the trans.

Blake

Posted by: Randal Feb 25 2011, 01:31 PM

The U bolts are a nice touch.

Did you just bend them yourself out of steel stock, or did you find some commercially that worked?

Posted by: J P Stein Feb 25 2011, 05:36 PM

With your car being considerable lighter than an S2000, you can pull taller gears (lower numerically) than the S2000 set up. Closing up the 3-4-5 gears would be a good plan for a track car but gearing is not a poke & hope opperation. There are plenty of gear charts floating around on the 901 to aid selection. For instance, a stock trans with an F second gear is good to about 69mph @ 8500 rpms with a 22.5 inch diameter tire. I'll send you a chart if you desire.

Posted by: fasthonda Feb 25 2011, 08:57 PM

The U bolts are a nice touch.

Did you just bend them yourself out of steel stock, or did you find some commercially that worked?
[/quote]

Heres more details from what I posted in another thread


HD Galvanized U-Bolts
Thread = 3/8 - 16
Dimensions 3 1/16" w X 2 1/2" L

This size worked perfectly. For the flanges I started with flange nuts. Drilled out the thread and ground down the top of the nut and welded in place. They would be much prettier if TIG welded.

The spacing on the fire wall is important. I spaced them the same width as the harness holes in the back of the race seat, which if I remember right is 20 to 25 cm. Just measure the race seats, this width is pretty standard.

I noticed on early GT cars there spacing looks wider than what is ideal for modern race seats.

Posted by: fasthonda Feb 25 2011, 09:08 PM

When I get back home Monday I will post the details with ratios and tops speeds for the S2k vs the 914 stock gearing and with the gear sets I choose. Good point though about the car being lighter.

The link below is nice calculator I found online. Easier than setting up a spread sheet in Excel for now. Any help is appreciated. Once I get the car running I will have time to build a second trans. Just in the planning stages now.

http://www.turnzero.com/technical_resources.php?resource=gear_calculator

Thanks JP

Posted by: fasthonda Mar 1 2011, 06:23 PM

Top speeds (mph) in each gear @ 8500rpm S2K vs 914 (205/50-15)

Gear / S2K / 914 (stock) / gears I would like to replace
1 / 40.9 / (A 3.09) 41.3
2 / 62.6 / (F 1.89) 67.6
3 / 86.5 / (N 1.26) 101.3 /(J 1.476) 86.5
4 / 110.3 / (V 0.93) 137.3 / (Q 1.125) 113.5
5 / 130.9 /(ZD 0.71) 179.8 /(V 0.93) 137.3

Finding these 901 gear sets at a reasonable price is probably near impossible.

Posted by: J P Stein Mar 1 2011, 06:47 PM

I had a flipped ZD 3rd gear in the shit box. Upshifting from 2nd landed it right in the gut of the power.....it also had the advantage of being free....as it would be for you and would be good to 95-7 mph for ya. The ratio is 1.409.

The other 2 are tougher. Otto's in Venice has as good a selection of oddball 901 gears as anyone on the West Coast. He doesn't sell them cheap, but nobody does.
Figure $4-500 a pop. You may also want to see what D. Evil can do for you. There is also a 901 trans guy in PA (IIRC)who's name escapes me at the moment....getttin' old is a bitch.

Posted by: J P Stein Mar 3 2011, 10:02 AM

Here's a V, JUMP!

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-used-parts-sale-wanted/594826-fs-901-m-4th-v-5th-gear-sets.html

Posted by: Downunderman Mar 3 2011, 01:12 PM

You could also try Albins: http://www.albinsgear.com.au/index.php . They make just about every ratio there is for a 901.

Posted by: TargaToy Apr 3 2011, 07:34 PM

Update?

Posted by: fasthonda Apr 10 2011, 03:54 PM

We have Ignition! Started it for the first time today and let it run for about 15 minutes. Exhaust tone sounds good and it ran smooth. I need to bleed the brakes and finish some details before I can make the first test drive. Very exciting to hear it run for the first time.

Made a lower lip for the radiator air outlet out of aluminum for experimentation and added hold down pins for the engine lid. If the lower lip works I will make it out of a hard rubber or nylon that can withstand an impact.

Also waiting on a new pedal board to finish up the interior.

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Posted by: bohalrantipol May 10 2011, 01:40 PM

Very Nice build! Any data on temps?

Posted by: fasthonda May 10 2011, 06:59 PM

Thanks for the compliment.

Nothing yet on temps. It will be a while before I can get to the track to really test it out. I'm still preparing it for the first spin around the block (early on a sunday morning since its not legal or insured). I just finished aligning the car, and now in the process of installing a front through body sway bar since the underbody type won't fit due to the radiator line. The plan is to take it around the block the weekend after next. I'll take some better pictures of the car when I get it out on the street. Body work and paint won't happen until the car is hauling ass on track.

32 mm hollow sway bar from Tangarine racing looks like the best bar on the market. Its a little pricey for my budget, but I think I'm gonna go for it instead of using the 22 weltmeister bar I picked up used.

Also put a tranny on the stand to build up with shorter ratios for 3rd, 4th, and 5th. I'll start tearing into that soon as well.

I'm getting to old for this shit, but I can't stop now. I hope to track this car for years to come.

Michael

Posted by: TargaToy May 24 2011, 09:08 PM

How about some video so we can hear this bad boy run--and see it scoot!

Posted by: usa4cheer Jun 12 2011, 12:03 AM

this has been a really good post, it has inspired me to start on an srt4 engine swap that I have had the adapter for a while. I really would have liked to seen more on the motor mount. impressive keep up the good work.

Posted by: fasthonda Jun 15 2011, 03:56 PM

Appreciate the comment. Feels good to know I inspired someone. This has been a big project, but if you just keep doing instead of thinking, you'll get it done. I haven't had much time lately to work on the car. It about 95% complete with the exception of paint and bodywork. I completed the front swaybar install and got my Fuchs mounted. Still haven't taken it for that first drive, buts its ready and will hopefully get a chance this weekend. When I do I will post some pics of the cars current state.

I finally decided on a paint scheme. I will be copying the BMW M1 art car by Andy Warhol. Brushing on the art pattern and covering it with a clear. The only panel which will remain a solid color will be the targa roof which will be smooth and gloss back.

I'll be glad to send you more pics of the engine mount. Justshoot me an email.

Hope to be posting some new pics after the weekend.

Regards,

Michael

Posted by: fasthonda Jun 20 2011, 06:49 PM

I finally took it on the long awaited first test drive Sunday. Drove it about 2 miles on a back road. The smoothness and sound from the engine was incredible. Only took it to 6k rpm as I didn't have the speed sensor hooked up required for Vtec to engage. Even so the car felt strong. A 4 wheeled motorcycle is the best way to describe it. 9k rpm with Vtec is gonna be unbelievable.

I'm still worried about the cooling system. Its gonna take a much longer drive to evaluate that.

Bodywork and paint are next. Trying to decide between 2 paint schemes
1) Andy Warhol BMW M1 Art Car copy
2) BMW Imola red w/ Silver bumpers and Fuchs.

The car in its current state.

Posted by: usa4cheer Jun 20 2011, 07:58 PM

Can't wait to see it in the rpm stratosphere, see if you can get video so we can hear it scream. Paint schemes will drive you nuts, I find myself looking at forums for ideas way too often for a car I am working on for rally-cross. Your two choices would both look good on your project, I guess I would like the Warhol just to get the looks and attnetion it deserves. Keep up the great work.

Posted by: silver74insocal Jun 20 2011, 10:26 PM

great work dude keep going and for pete's sake shoot some video of that thing Dave

Posted by: spaceshuttle Jun 21 2011, 04:57 AM

Michael,
I have a large aluminum radiator that came out my blue car that would probably help if you are having cooling issues. It is 31" x 17" x 2" thick and I even have a mount bracket for the top. I just ordered/installed a larger one, (from Griffin Radiator in Piedmont) as my temps at the track were a little hotter than I liked. It should work great in a hot 4 banger.
Larry Caulder

Posted by: VOX Jul 18 2011, 03:44 PM

is your car up and running? lets see it in action!!

Posted by: stownsen914 Jul 21 2011, 03:19 AM

Gear / S2K / 914 (stock) / gears I would like to replace
1 / 40.9 / (A 3.09) 41.3
2 / 62.6 / (F 1.89) 67.6
3 / 86.5 / (N 1.26) 101.3 /(J 1.476) 86.5
4 / 110.3 / (V 0.93) 137.3 / (Q 1.125) 113.5
5 / 130.9 /(ZD 0.71) 179.8 /(V 0.93) 137.3

Finding these 901 gear sets at a reasonable price is probably near impossible.
[/quote]


It may not be as bad as you think ... try what JP suggested and use a flipped ZD for 3rd. It makes a KA, not too far from a J. Then you just need the Q, which though somewhat unusual is not as rare as the racing-only ratios. Q was used in some 4 speed 901 trannies and sportomatics, if I remember correctly. If you keep your eyes open, you can find one for a couple hundred $$.

Scott

Posted by: ChrisNPDrider Jul 22 2011, 11:36 AM

Sweet
I like the red and black!
Red and silver is second choice. That would match your engine

Posted by: fasthonda Jul 23 2011, 05:48 AM

Now that my 3 yearold son is back from his 1 year stay with the grandparents, I have no time to work on the car and things have come to a hault. I started preping the body for paint and get about 15 min a day to work on it. My goal is to paint it by the end of September. That's why I haven't posted updates.

Still deciding on a paint scheme. I keep changing my mind. I'm now thinking either all silver with red wheels or completely White (like the traditional Honda Type R) since that is the theme of the car.

Michael

Posted by: dlo914 Jul 23 2011, 04:01 PM

+1 for Championship White

Posted by: Ductech Aug 31 2011, 06:26 PM

How the hell do you pawn a kid off to your parents for so long?

Posted by: fasthonda Sep 1 2011, 06:48 PM

How the hell do you pawn a kid off to your parents for so long?
[/quote]

Kid spent a year in China. Came home potty trained.

On target to get the car painted by the end of September. Base color will be white. Not sure yet about the bumpers, wheels, sails, etc.

Painting is a lot of freaking work. Good thing it's gonna be track car because I don't have the patience to make it perfect.

Posted by: Andyrew Sep 2 2011, 10:15 AM

Painting IS a lot of work! Looks like your making some progress! Are you going to block sand it prior to painting?

Posted by: trojanhorsepower Sep 19 2011, 05:23 PM

How did I miss this?

Very cool!

Posted by: fasthonda Nov 9 2011, 07:52 PM

update.

I finally finished the paint job and it's now re-assembled. The paint job turned out ok, but could have been better. Too much orange peel. I learned alot, and the next paint job will be much better. It's respectable for a track car. I still need to add the targa trim and the all black fuchs. and geta front valance. Also thinking about a porsche side strip in red.

My winter project will be to build a short ratio transmission and to put some tags on it so I can start sorting it on the street in preparation for its track debut next year.

Posted by: Randal Nov 10 2011, 03:40 PM

You can color sand orange peel out, but find someone that has done it before to teach you the tricks.

I think your car looks great. You'll be proud rolling her out on to the track.

Posted by: Andyrew Nov 11 2011, 04:15 PM

Looks great!

Orange peal can be color sanded out, but for a track car, IMHO I would rather just have it be uncut. Its stronger that way.

Posted by: NS914 Dec 13 2011, 12:26 PM

I have been away from the site and my car too but, I just started geting back into mine, (working on electrical etc) and remembered your car so went hunting on the site. The only word that comes to mind is "WOW!!!!" Congratulations for sure. I am constantly amazed at the work guys like your self and others here on the World are capable of. Once again, really fantastic. Have a blast with it!
Grant

Posted by: VOX Feb 16 2012, 06:59 PM

any updates? videos? looks great.

Posted by: fasthonda Feb 20 2012, 06:28 PM

Nothing exciting to report. The car is pretty much done with the exception of 5 point harness and front valance. I need to get some tags on it so I can start sorting it out on the street. I don't want to risk driving it without insurance and tags and I have been busy and putting that off. The ride height needs to be set and front sway bar hooked up.

I'm currently building a short ratio gearbox. I have 4 trannys disassembled to build one good one and parts are everywhere.

I will post some updated pics now that the all black fuchs are on it.

Also ordered one of Zachs 917 style shift knobs.

I have been watching your build thread as well. Still glad you left me the red one.

Regards,

Michael

Posted by: Cracker Feb 21 2012, 06:15 AM

Great job! I had an AP2 S2K and really liked the car/motor. To maximize it's potential you had to "learn" how to extract the power...once you figured it out it was a joy to run through the gears.

I'm personally inviting you to our clubs (Peachstate PCA) HPDE event at Road Atlanta on June 2-3, obviously, the BIMMER club won't let you on the tract sans a 6 point cage in your car. I'll be there along with at least two other 914's. I'd love to see it run.

Great job!

Posted by: westtexass2k Sep 21 2012, 03:53 PM

I am glad I stumbled across this thread. I have been gathering parts for the last year for this very build. I have the engine and the car and Im saving up for the adapters from KEP. I think the f20c is a great choice for a teener. It should run circles around most cars. The S2000 is 2800lbs and your car is probably near 2000 lbs. It will walk all over a stock S2000.

I have done many F20c conversions and Im very familiar with the wirirng. Your correct on the VSS needed. It needs to go back to the Ecu connector A pin 9 if my memory is correct. i have it in a wiring diagram at the house. Your vtec will work but it will go into limp mode once you get up to 110mph or so. You can disconnect power to the ecu clear the code and it will run great again until limp mode hits again. I can tell you how to bypass the antitheft if you want to get rid of that.

my number is on my website if you need help sorting the wiring out. I can send you a wirirng diagram too. www.worldclassmotorsports.com

Great build and look forwad to the finish results and impressions.

Posted by: Phil Plummer Nov 4 2012, 07:50 PM

Hi : do you know where I can find a well priced oil cooler for my 916 style bumper???
The conversion is comming along & that 911 needs to stay cool !!_Phil

Posted by: hsus2k May 19 2014, 12:39 PM

Any news on this thread (car?)
What are the current Specs?
Anyone else attemped with Honda motor?

I'm currently finishing up a Suabru swap in the 914, just curious how does the High Rev motor work in the 914 with 901 tanny?

Posted by: fasthonda May 28 2014, 07:28 PM

Car is pretty much finished and driven often. Car is exhilarating to drive.

I built a short ratio tranny for the car, but I think it would do fine with stock gears.

Had thoughts of putting it up for sale to start building another one.

Michael

Posted by: Sleepin Sep 23 2014, 03:47 PM

So somebody has done it!

Great read! Congrats (late) on doing this!

Posted by: WolfR32 Dec 12 2014, 03:13 AM

We need some video!

Posted by: fasthonda Dec 12 2014, 07:56 PM

Once it warms up again. Car is pretty much parked for the winter. Fitting some new seats and redoing the throttle cable at the moment. Also adding a few kill switches so I can leave it parked without worry since there's no door glass and the tops always off.

Posted by: Mueller Dec 12 2014, 09:52 PM

Cool build, just finished reading all of it on my phone...

Posted by: SLCE30318is May 28 2015, 10:45 AM

Any updates on the project? Would love to see a video or more photos.

I have an F22C with transmission from an 04 that's sitting in my garage. Would be awesome to put it into a 914.

Posted by: fasthonda Jun 15 2015, 04:22 PM

This build no longer belongs in the forum as the project scope has changed from track car to street car so I can enjoy it more often. Having said that I'm in the process of redoing the paint scheme to make the car more of a sleeper. The type r badge has been relocated to the dash and the rear now displays the standard 914 badge. Paint work will be completed this week.
Also regearing the transmission. 3rd and 4th will remain short but 5th will go back to stock for highway cruising. Also replacing the back glass with lexan and losing the front trunk springs in favor of a hood stay as further weight reduction measures. Will post new pictures soon. Will try to capture some video as well.

Car will need to see at least one track day to sort out the rear spring rates.

After this I still need to be paint the trunks and relocate the switches to the left side of the dash. Never ending project, but I enjoy it.

Although there isn't much I would change If I were to build another, I am offering the car for sale as I could use the money and would start another.

stoiberracing.blogspot.com

Michael