Mivek4doddle

ARTIGA - Looks Like I'm Not Late Afterall

2012-01-08T12:22:00.000+08:00

When i blogged the other day about the Youngman Artiga, i thought i was the last one to talk about it even i knew it when it was released at Paultan's blog. Now, it seems something is cooking in the pot. The only thing i wanna know if this is gonna be under Youngman or Proton decided to take this prototype for mass production? Well it would be good if they can do both for domestic and international market. Young hearted people would love a 2-door sports car. In this video, I'm definitely loving the colour scheme of the car. Nothing much to complain about.

When u have local spare parts availability and Cusco on your back for aftermarket parts, i think it is matter of time when they decides to put the 2L engine. I cannot imagine but i can only hope.

Enjoy the vid.

Mivek4doddle

Valve Cover Change

2012-01-01T03:48:00.001+08:00

Powder coating the valve cover is a trend now. Painting the engine bay with other colour than the same car color is also another trend picking up slowly. Well i went backwards with this one instead i requested my valve cover to be sandblasted. They look simple and a bit dull to some.

So far thats all for 2011. We will just have to wait and see what i have plans for 2012.

Mivek4doddle

Servicing - Same Old Story

2012-01-01T03:22:00.003+08:00

Before this i was using the HKS i35 plugs. It was good and i had no issues. After using for quite sometime i had an urge of using back the NGK Iriway 7 which i used after my engine hybrid long time ago. If you are wondering the plugs were still fine with no misfiring issues but i just wanted my "ignition system" to be fresh and healthy. I prefer not to wait till it dies or jerking on my way home from McDonald. So far so good and the price is still the same range like many years ago.

Why didnt i go for the NGK Racing version? The NGK Racing is double the price and yes i have sick intention to try them only when i change my plug cables and maybe some upgraded aftermarket coils. Till then i just keep them on the wish list.

Motul is still on my top list of engine oils. Only problem is that the price seems to go up every damn year!. I have tried a few motor oil and i feel that Motul seems to be fine with my engine. I think there are other good engine oils but it depends where u send your car for servicing as they tend to stick to just a less than a handful to their likings.

There are plenty of spark plug choices and engine oils, but just be careful when it comes to CHEAP engine oil. Be fucking careful.

Mivek4doddle

CAI - The Velocity Stack Story

2012-01-01T03:02:00.001+08:00

Firstly, this is my 8th posts regarding my CAI project. This project is excluding all the years where i started with the open air filter box, to ITBs, then back to original close box, then to Top Fuel intake system and last this CAI project. Dont ask me why but i seemed to enjoyed upgrading and evaluating myself with the power i have now. I dont like to make assumptions but i rather test it on my own car (if budget permits) and enjoy it when it is successful.

Secondly, on the CAI project, i have sold the J's Racing bumper duct to Redza which i think looks good on his car and functioned to what it has been designed.

Thirdly, i am pissed that my velocity stack post where some of the pix has disappeared. So i had to take some of the photos just to show you guys.The old post is still around.

I will be honest and straight forward, the butt feeling with the stack is totally different. I feel that there are no restriction yet functional toy that sucks air around it than infront of it. I have yet to dyno my car and hopefully i can have a basic run with the stack for this new year as a benchmark for future mods.

Hydrolock? If you are scared with rain and water flying into your engine, this mod may not be good for you health. It is a risk if you plan to go through downfall and especially if you have a tube that routes to the stack.

The only protection i have is just the wire mesh which stops any little creatures and other small things to be sucked into the engine bay. Compared to my HKS, that is good for daily driven with no fear at the back of your head. This setup may not make any power at all but the response is something to brag about.

Sorry, i am having ITBs withdrawal syndrome. The single stack at least made me sleep soundly at night *smiles*.

Mivek4doddle

Redza's 2 Years Of Research, Development, Headache and A Smile

2012-01-01T02:26:00.007+08:00

Between 2010 and 2011, this car has been going through a lot of testing phases where Redza decided to mix and match the right stuffs according to his dreams. Since Redza leans more to American products, he also tried Japanese products if they produce what he wanted and hopefully shines out bling-ly as what he has spent to this day. As usual, Japanese parts do not come cheap on top of the exchange rates. Which ever currency gives good rates, Redza will be delighted to order more parts.

Through the 2 years period, he too has gone through tough times when parts do not perform to his expectation and also he spent a lot of time doing engine testing. In the exterior, "Goldie" seems to be the odd one in the group, which that was the initial plan with minor carbon parts. Interior wise Goldie maintained the non-swiss cheese racing look with stock interior removed and replaced with light weight seats. Engine wise, as you can see, it has been trimmed and tucked nicely.

Redza has brought this car to the track and the comparison between his old 4-door sedan and this 2-door has improved his timing for a start. As he dragged the car many times on the track, other than traction, ignition and other engine matters, he still continue to learn and improve the car's mechanical matters with good tuning.

As being mentioned and updated by Redza, he plans to do up a blog on his car when he has the time to share what he has done so far. Hope he does so i dont have to blog for him *laughs*. It is easier to blog when the car is in front of you everyday.

I think and believe Redza has reached to a point where he needs to spend more time cosmetically to make it look more stunning than what you see now. Power wise maybe he should supercharge it and be a highway stalker which i dont want to bump into *grins*.

One thing i respect Redza is his patience towards his mods and also the open minded towards new products in the market which some of them are uncommonly used and even known by other car modders. Even with with Internet, if you stick to the same site all the time, you wont grow as much compared to those wanting to learn and try new products. Good planning and attitude should show good results too.

Hope we see more new stuffs from Goldie. Till then, all the best in 2012.

Mivek4doddle

Jeff's Intercooler Installation

2012-01-01T01:56:00.002+08:00

I have re-added Jeff on the write-ups list though he has been out from the scene for quiet sometime i thought by updating his last mod could motivate him to do more things at his own pace. Jeff has been away due to long haul working hours and also a father to his newborn baby. Basically all the toys has been put in place like the new turbo, used evo intercooler and new engine stainless steel piping system.

With the new intercooler, he had to scrap the old painted bumper with another spare Mitsubishi bumper with a PU lip attached to it. My last meeting with Jeff was quite fascinating as i was given a chance to drive the car with an entirely new setup.

The brand new turbo spooled fast, the power response was good and i can feel the car kept going from 1st gear to the 4th gear. I couldnt pull to 5th as traffic interrupted my way. I went for 3 good laps and the car felt lighter on the butt and traction was another issue. Overall the car was quick and responsive for a normal street setup.

I believe Jeff could do better if he decides to run on his chosen EMS, better performance street tyres and maybe a branded LSD to put down that "not so powerful" power to the ground which could be lethal if it catches a good grip. For current power-hungry fans, Jeff setup could be probably be on the intermediate level compared to current modding scene.

For 2012 i have no idea what Jeff has plan for his car but i hope a few things more could satisfy his requirements and weekend fun. I also heard he mentioned about buying a VTEC. All the best Jeff.

*Photos were taken using Nokia mobile*

Mivek4doddle

Artiga

2011-12-23T17:36:00.002+08:00

http://paultan.org/2011/04/21/youngman-artiga/

"Not bad". Those were the words that came out from my mouth. As much as this story has been re-blogged many times with every ones personal opinion, ideas and criticism, now it is my turn.

A 2-door 4 seater car, fully kitted with carbon fiber parts, wide arches, supercharged engine and hell of a nice color. If you buy a Honda, even a Type-R, the original Mugen aerokit price is gonna killed you straight away. Honda enthusiasts are dying hard to order fender extension/arches for them to use wider rims and that alone is another hefty parcel from Japan. This car has awesome wide fenders both front and back. I believe you could easily fit a 17x9 without rolling your fenders even. The front looks amazing to me. Supercharging would be the best combo for a small engine and you get to utilize some un-lag power through out the range. Rear diffuser, this is the cherry to the complete aerokit.

I think i am not gonna change anything on this car except for better and wider wheels. The rest id rather appreciate what has been designed. As we all know we always want to have something that has been done in our mind which we usually couldn't adapt and accept new changes. In other words, this is a "Proton Satria Neo" on steroids :)

Click Paul Tan's blog for more photos.

Mivek4doddle

Mivek4doddle Project Battery Relocation, Again.

2011-12-21T15:33:00.011+08:00

I have relocated my battery to the back since a very long time ago.
Had the aluminium box customed perfectly for my NS60 sized battery.

My original plan to run a smaller battery did not turn out well when
my airfilter system blocked the battery and i did not hav enough space.
Other spaces in the engine bay was really right unless i run on ITBs.

So i relocated the relocated battery location again.

I made an FAQ for those who plan to use this type of battery in the future.

1. What made you want to change to the smaller battery?
Because of the size. I was seeking something compact and lighter
than my original battery (NS60).

2. Why Odyssey and not Optima?
I have not seen any smaller version Optima batteries in the market
and those using Optima are usually audio fanatics.

3. Is it heavy?
Lighter than my NS60 and it is around 6kg.

4. How do you compare Odyssey versus normal battery?
Higher CCA. High cranking. High resistance to vibration.
Maintenance free.

5. Can you use it if you have normal sound system.
Yes. Normal sounds system setup.

6. Compare to those small race batteries like Spoon, any differences?
Track cars do not have power windows and sound system. It was meant
to crank and light up your headlight. Spoon is smaller and lighter
but not long lasting for daily driven.

7. Anybody else in Malaysia using it?
As far as i know only 2 people :) 3 including me. Maybe more, God knows.

8. Can it be used daily?
It was meant to be used daily.

9. What are the costs?
Rm8xx battery only. RM3XX custom box. RMXXX installation charges.

10. Is it bad to put the battery inside the cabin?
Only if its not dry cell. Dry cell has no acid to spill and no gases to vent.
Keep it far away from heat is the best way to make it last.

11. Is it legal to relocate the battery?
"Malaysia Boleh"

12. Experiences?
This is my 1st time using it and i will update again in the next 12-24 months
if this battery survive. Also choose the right battery for your application.
http://www.odysseybatteries.com/applications.htm

13. Do we have a local distributor in Malaysia?
No. Nearest is Singapore.

14. Can i get other style of after market battery holders?
Try Google.

15. I heard Odyssey is not good but you still buy it?
I also heard that aliens are coming down and gonna probe your ass. I heard.

Mivek4doddle

Mivek4doddle Project Interior Restoration

2011-12-21T15:11:00.000+08:00

I have taken the interior panels and have been riding without the rear interiors. Somehow or rather it makes me happier riding without them.

Authorities? If you happen to go through their daily blocks or checks, just be honest *smiles*.

Project Interior Restoration Completed.

Mivek4doddle

Modifications

2011-12-21T14:54:00.001+08:00

Mivek4doddle Modifications Link
I have removed it since most of them are old mods since 2006. The posts are still alive if you wanna go through them by year.

Build-up Links
I have renamed them for easier search. Usually those links with "Part 2" are usually the end of it unless something new comes up, which i doubt so.

Mivek4doddle

Mivek4doddle Project Aero Mirrors

2011-12-21T14:40:00.002+08:00

You really dont have much choices when you drive a Proton. So far i have seen in real life a friend installed a Ganador S15 side mirrors on his Proton Wira Aeroback. It looks good and Ganador dont come cheap both non-CF and CF.

Dont ask me how he fitted the damn mirrors koz it looks perfectly fit. Thought of pushing the limit a bit but the Craft Square prices were sick expensive.

There were not much of choices actually from the aftermarket catalog. They had CF versions like the APR style but that was more of form over function. Am not interested in the Spoon style mirrors also. The APRs are smaller than my palm and i prolly can see a tiny portion of the road. For a daily driven, the side mirror has to work especially during raining season. Blind spot is one story, not able to see your side mirrors clearly is another story.

When i got to know about the Vision Technica Sport TC (Touring Competition) which was for sale and brand new, i knew i had to buy it. No doubt the "motorcycle" or "bicycle" style look wasnt an in-thing. These mirrors do have in CF version but i doubt i can get on my hands on any of them unless i bid them hard.

I ordered them. Arrived less than a week. As usual, someone has to be crazy to do some DIY to make it fit. The face plate mounts were not for my car obviously but i still pursued them. When it arrived i had to ask an aluminium specialist to custom a plate for me. As you can see the difference in the photos.

Once the plates were ready, it had to be sprayed as i wanted it to be black for this
prototype project.

After bolting it on, it looks good. Compared to my stock mirrors it looks slightly smaller but it functions like any other stock mirror. The size is bigger than the APRs incase if you are wondering.

Last but not least, they are non electrical powered mirrors.

Project Aero Mirrors Completed.

Mivek4doddle

Counterfeit Hondata S300

2011-12-21T14:19:00.001+08:00

Whether it works or not, i dont wanna know. Its like Robocop with a monkey brain waiting for something to go bananas. Yeah, it may be the same "cheap" components by another "damn good electrician" with mass demands for cheap EMS, this is something you dont want to fool around especially on a modded engine bay with your monthly paychecks.

More infos :
http://www.hondata.com/s300_counterfeit.html

Mivek4doddle

Mivek4doddle Project Mugen Lugs

2011-12-21T14:07:00.005+08:00

I have added some photos on an old thread.

http://mivek4doddle.blogspot.com/2010/11/project-build-up-iii-part-2.html

Mivek4doddle

MIvek4doddle Project Extractor Swap

2011-12-21T12:36:00.004+08:00

My 1st aftermarket extractor was RPW's 4-1 full steel extractor which i purchased a used unit from a close friend. It was full steel and it was heavy. One thing i noticed clearly was the collector joint which is the biggest i have seen so far at that time. It made the Mugen 4-1 for ITR looked small. The collector size is no doubt 2.5", but the extension that goes to the joint is as big as my clenched
fist. Maybe bigger.

Unfortunately, the ground clearance for the RPW extractor was not hump friendly. As you can see i did a comparison with an oldschool Nokia cellphone and hell it was low. JFA Motorsports (Sunway) did a custom plate and it lasted to the last day.

Based on my less than 180whp spec, it performed well. Mid range and top end was good. The low end was a bit of sluggish but it was not that obvious for my daily driven beater. It was smooth and good on the highway.

After using it for 5 years, i decided i wanted to try something different. Since Cusco do not make anymore of their 4-2-1 extractors for the old 4G92 Mivec, i had to source a local custom copy which was brand new and cheap. The RPWs was sold to another
RPW fanatic.

As usual before the installation that tiny dilemma bullshit of "4-2-1 vs 4-1" ran into my mind. Since i never had the opprtunity to try a aftermarket 4-2-1 before this, this is my golden opportunity. It was stainless steel and light compared to the RPWs.

The collector size was 2.5" and the bend was not low this time. After the installation i had a few runs and the low end and mid range power was good. I felt a bit of choke at the top end but at that point i know my power was dropping which i dont need it
to rev more.

Incase if anyone wants to know about the fuel consumptions, i am still hitting mid 5XXkm for a full tank of ron97. There are no magical theories about it unless i run my collector like the drag cars on the side of the bumper. Ha ha.

To some this is an upgrade, to others its a downgrade. Up to you how you wanna call it.

http://www.rpw.com.au/ (by the way, they have them in stainless steel already)

Mivek4doddle

Panda's Long Hiatus

2011-12-20T19:18:00.003+08:00

It is almost new year and the last time i blogged was almost a year a go. I am here. Did not go to Alaska and live with the bears (which i dream to do it one crazy day). So yeah, here i am back in action.

Blogspot
After my last entry i had gotten to know that some of my photos were missing. When i checked the links to the photos it seems it was kept in another Blogspot server. I then randomly clicked some of my pages and disappointedly found out many photos were missing. Yes, i felt miserable especially when it comes to the DIY photos which were not that great but it could have help somebody else in achieving the same project. I tried to restore from my backup files but it was fucking tiring. I managed to restore 90% of it and the rest nothing much i can do. Will do it when i have the time.

Work
It was above my head. 2011 was a fantastic, pathetic, shitty, damn productive year i had so far. To balance things off, i am re-starting my blog and this time gonna dedicate more on my little projects.

Clean-Up
If you have noticed i have thrown away the online magazines section. You can refer them on your Facebook since they have their pages there. On the write-ups, i left only 2 good guys (my brother and Redza) which are still pursing their mods and projects even i have forgotten to upload their photos *sorry*. The rest which has sold their cars and stopped modding, i have removed them for good. I have also lost contact with some of them. You can always do a search on them which i did not remove their write-ups for your references. I have checked most of the links and i think Kinsler's website is down at the moment. I have added AT Power for those that like shaft-less ITBs and Clock Wise Motion for roller barrel ITBs. I have added my good friend Hizam's new blog on his Honda Integra DC-5.

Blog Layout
The new templates from Blogspot looks nice, dynamic and bit confusing. So i decided to stay on the same simple style for easier access to my pages.

I have done a few little projects this year which might interest some of you guys. I will update this blog in the coming days and hopefully i can cover all mods for this year before New Year. Just a tip, i did not do anything extraordinary which i believe some people have done it and even proved it legally on the track. As long i manage to keep them documented, i am a bloody happy man.

Hope you guys are well. Those of you whom are still reading my blog, i apologize sincerely for the long hiatus. Keep up with the continuous improvement and dont forget to have fun koz fun do not make you sell your cars *laughs*.

Mivek4doddle

Satria Neo Concept

2011-02-02T16:44:00.001+08:00

In the recent KLIMS event, i went to see this car. To be honest, i loved it a lot. The black and yellow color contrast is awesome. One thing for sure they managed to fit the new wheels nicely. The engine bay is nice, clean and turbocharged. I got some info on that particular day that this car is gonna be prepped for 2011 time-attack events. With such a small displacement and good torque figures, i have yet to see it perform this year at the track.

Probably this concept model would cost more than the green goblin Neo. But then again, this is the best i have see coming from Proton for sports car enthusiasts. The japanese are already concentrating on hybrid models and also smaller displacement like the 1.5 engines, so i reckoned this is better for petrol heads unless you dont mind driving a family Volvo.

I am giving this car a 10/10. As long R3 is still around, i have good confidence they can do some magic for other future models.

Jeff's New Toys Part III

2010-12-28T10:24:00.002+08:00

Jeff just puchased a brand new AR50 turbo and a used EVO 7 intercooler for his new setup. Stay tuned.

5Zigen Civic Fastest FWD in Tsukuba 58.22

2010-12-17T18:00:00.004+08:00

Turbocharged K-series. Lovely.

JPM CIMB Preferred Time Challenge 2010

2010-12-17T17:45:00.000+08:00

Photos courtesy of AutoGridz

Tawau Drag Battle 2010 (Sabah)

2010-12-17T17:35:00.001+08:00

Looks like K-series is the way to go these days.

Kuching Drag Battle 2010 (Sarawak)

2010-12-17T17:18:00.006+08:00

There are plenty of photos online But i found a nice video on it.

http://www.facebookvideodown.com/sarawak-drag-battle-2010-round-3-hq--37341.html

SDB Round 5 2010 - Part 1

2010-11-23T10:28:00.000+08:00

SDB Round 5 2010 - Part 2

2010-11-23T10:26:00.000+08:00

SDB Round 5 2010 - Part 3

2010-11-23T10:25:00.000+08:00

Project Build-Up III (Part 2)

2010-11-15T05:58:00.009+08:00

Nothing fancy about the lug nuts. Old school stuffs are just my taste. These days you have plenty of brands to choose from and best part you have plenty of radical colors to mix and match your wheels. Swapped my old Ultra aluminium lugs to Mugen steel lugs. It looks nice on my Vision rims.

The Mugen ones comes in black or silver. Available for 4 or 5 lugged wheels. These are the oldschool version. Not the slim heptagon version.

Note : They are not light weight. Size 12x1.50mm.

Just be sure to tighten it with proper torque settings. And beware of fake lugs. You dont wanna see your wheel pops out and roll in front of you while you are driving :p

Project Build-Up III Completed

Project Build-Up IV (Part 2)

2010-11-15T05:35:00.004+08:00

One good tip that i learn is that, you need to polish your lights every few months. Like i said, the front ones are the hardest to take care as they are the walls once you start to move and god knows what gonna fly and hit it as it goes on the road.

Meguiar's PlastX is good although it wont restore your light to brand new quality but you'll get to use it for another few more years.

Project Build-Up IV Completed.

Proton Inspira - A New Start, I Believe.

2010-11-15T00:53:00.017+08:00

After a few months of rumors and finally Proton made it happened, to be honest with you all i heard from people was 70% crude comments. More like chronic frustration comments coming from the dark hole of people's arse. 20% gave their reasonable comments with good constructive feedback. The 10% were the elites. Elites that love automotive industry and knows that Henry Ford wasnt born in 1985 and Proton was not established in 1903.

My personal question for this car, "What is wrong with this car?". Yeah, again i asked, "What is wrong with this car?". Well you know and i know theres nothing effing wrong with this car actually. All the angers and frustrations that are oozing like molten smelly lavas are just pure insults that doesnt lead to any light at the end of the tunnel. All you wanted are the best combos based on your own preferences. Let me see, nice cosy BMW leatherish interior, high quality sound system like the Audi, 4WD terrain that runs on mud like the Land Rover, spacious cabin room like the Mercedes, maybe a VTEC hybrid engine that runs on batteries and definitely cheap-is-good like the China made cars.

The yays :

I tell you, Proton-lution guys are gonna soup-up this car and make it look and maybe run like the EVO X. As much as 4B11T engine is still new, this is the time the excitement starts to tickle the hybriders. Funny it may sound, people like to convert than buying the real yet expensive EVO X.
Mitsubishi is not complaining. Why should you?. As far as technology is concern, this should be the 1st car that they produced that runs the SAME technology on the road. the KEYWORD here is SAME. Unlike the old 4G9X engines, those are scrapped off engines waiting to be shipped and sold before they recycled it.
It is less than 100k for a 2L engined car. Better still, with Lotus behind, you'll get a bit of goodies.

The nays :

I am sad to say that i know we have good R&D people in Proton but it seems that the good prototypes doesnt seem to unveil as we grow older. Technically good, politically no.
If they wanted to copy/clone/mould the Lancer, they should have at least change the exterior portion of the car slightly. Well the overhead cost would skyrocket by doing that, but at least it doesnt affect those with the Mitsubishi Lancer. Affect them emotionally i mean. Sad case.
With the cost of living these days, it kills the mood with that sort of price tag for the commoners.

Generally, we have a long way to go. Id say give us another 50 more years then we can come out with our own IDENTITY and HOPEFULLY by then we have the support from our own nation regardless of the outcome. You can either be like Lamborghini that hand built their cars with their passion. Or you can be like Toyota and invade the world with Camrys every year.

Accept the fact that in any local motorshows, there is nothing to look out for if you are waiting for Proton to unveil a prototype like a car being covered with a silk cloth getting ready to be shown to the public beside nice sexy models. If that is what you wanted, it starts from you. To achieve quality, you need to start somewhere. For starters, drive a Proton. Your grandchildren might be proud by then to drive a better version of the past that has been supported mentally and physically for many years by you personally.

Look at Chevy. Below is the 1967 vs 2010 Camaro. 43 years of research and development. They are passionate about their cars since the 1st model. They, i said.

Project Build-Up VI (Part 2)

2010-11-14T23:58:00.002+08:00

The lights are good. No cracks and they looked like the day i restored it. Well, unlike the front headlights, they dont seem to be hitting the air, dirt and etc. Well, you have the rain and sun if you park against it.

The Phillip bulbs still last to this day. If wear and tear factor comes in, im gonna buy the same brand. Cheap and good.

Project Build-Up VI Completed.

Project Build-Up VII (Part 2)

2010-11-14T23:48:00.006+08:00

No issues on shifting. Initially after the installation, i felt a bit stiff but after so long, it feels normal. I might wanna open the gear console cover and check the plastic bushes.

ps. Jack, if you are reading this, any chances of getting a used B&M shifter? :)

Project Build-Up VII Completed.

Project Build-Up VIII (Part 2)

2010-11-14T23:34:00.003+08:00

I think when it comes to exterior body parts and cosmetics, they seem to last the longest than the ones under the hood. So far i am happy with the original front clip and till today i never had any plans to change to other Mitsubishi front bumpers.

Project Build-Up VIII Completed.

Project Build-Up I (Part 2)

2010-11-06T04:00:00.009+08:00

After 2.5 years of my headlights restoration, i noticed recently it has turned to slight yellowish in colour. The plastic headlights seems to have this effect after quite sometime. Being used daily driven, through the rain and almost 3 years i think i am quite happy it lasted this long.

Wish i had some glass version headlights but then again the Bosch type you find in Proton cars are sick expensive!

Either i do another restoration on my current ones, or buy another used clearer set and start from there.

Project Build-Up I Completed.

I want this CR-X

2010-11-06T03:31:00.003+08:00

SDB Round 4 2010 - Part 1

2010-11-06T03:21:00.009+08:00

SDB Round 4 2010 - Part 2

2010-11-06T03:18:00.003+08:00

SDB Round 4 2010 - Part 3

2010-11-06T03:14:00.003+08:00

Kick In the Lug-Nuts

2010-10-15T04:15:00.005+08:00

If you are paying for the fake version the same price of a brand new lugs, then you better be upset now.

http://www.autofashionusa.com/content/

Honda Discontinued Production Honda Civic FD2-R 2010

2010-09-08T03:36:00.005+08:00

EK9-R is a 2-door car.

EP3-R is a 2-door car.

FN2-R is a 2-door car.

Doesnt take a rocket scientist to figure this out.

Imagine a 4-door NSX-R or 4-door CR-Z. No? Precisely.

J's Racing Rear Cross Bar (Honda Fit)

2010-09-08T03:22:00.002+08:00

First time im seeing a 2-piece version compared to the 1-piece NEXT miracle bars. Hmm.

LEGO : Type One

2010-09-08T03:15:00.006+08:00

This is a photo of a K-series with ITBs. Yay! The sad part, LEGO dont make this particular Type One (Spoon) toys. Sigh :(

For more info :

http://www.flickr.com/photos/erockonvolks/sets/72157622077022859/

Another Proton-VTEC Hybrid

2010-08-31T07:00:00.003+08:00

I have seen this pic before last time. And i found it again.

1.8 GSR B-Series into a Proton.

Nisei 2010

2010-08-21T18:47:00.005+08:00

Plenty of 'em online. Just google.

From Speedhunters

From The Chronicles

http://stickydiljoe.com

From Honda-Tech

http://www.honda-tech.com/showthread.php?t=2821472

All you have to do is pump up the volume..

2010-08-08T16:58:00.001+08:00

SDB Round 3 2010 - Part 1

2010-07-30T00:14:00.003+08:00

SDB Round 3 2010 - Part 2

2010-07-30T00:10:00.004+08:00

SDB Round 3 2010 - Part 3

2010-07-30T00:05:00.005+08:00

Jeff's Fuel Line Project

2010-07-29T21:58:00.004+08:00

Jeff recently upgraded his fuel line system inside his engine bay. Steel braided hoses, AN fittings, custom fuel rail and a new fuel pressure regulator. There are many ways to do this as long you know the length and measurements, then it would be easier for you to find the combo settings.

Mitsu's Poorman Stroker Kits

2010-07-10T14:25:00.005+08:00

If Honda got their B20B CRVs and K24 Accords, well Mitsubishi have their 64s and 94s. Well if you are having a 4G63T then the 4G64 2.4 block would instantaneously increase your displacement cheaply. On top of that with the after market production of big stroker kits, you can bore and stroke that 2.4 to 2.6L either in the old EVOs and even the new EVOs.

If you have read my previous blog entries, i wrote about the "Big Piston" story where you can fit 83mm pistons in your 4G93P or 4G93 Mivec hybrid to make it a 1.9XX with a risk in mind. The 4G94 internals has been used as another option with a safer combo.

But then again, all these blocks and big internals were not meant to be revved high as they make good power at the midrange. Unless you are using forged and light internals then u prolly can push another 1-2k rpm.

Big blocks comes from either sedans and most of the time, SUVs and MPVs. If you like huge torque, then having a big displacement should fit your requirement. Some people like high revving small CC screaming engines.

Which ever combo you plan to do, do think about the rev limit. On the other side of the world, people are bolting Nissan Neo VVL head on the SR20 blocks. Hmm.

Jeff's 4G93T Top Overhaul

2010-07-10T14:01:00.008+08:00

After Jeff noticed my recent top overhaul, he decided to do his before things get worsen. As you can see from the photos, a burnt head gasket and a chipped crankshaft pulley is justifying enough for the car to be serviced and fixed.

Since he had to remove the head, Jeff decided to install the ARP studs especially when he is addicted to boost. He also recently did a steel braided fuel line system but he has not sent me the photos yet.

Mivek4doddle : Top Overhaul

2010-06-26T12:36:00.005+08:00

I recently had a top overhaul for my engine. After so long of using this hybrid engine, i thought i wanna check everything especially the head area. Also, i took the opportunity to snap some photos since i do not have any internal engine photos before.

From gaskets to seals, everything was dismantled, cleaned and checked. So far no leaks, broken gaskets and etc. Knowing the fact wear and tear is always the unpredictable culprit which i hate it sometimes.

As you can see, im still using the stock 4G93P pistons. Not keen of the 4G92 Mivec pistons for being too high compression inside the 1.8 engine. Not keen of the 83mm pistons although its a bang for the buck project. The cam pulleys are local custom made. Since i have the plastic cover so i thought i dont need something flashy for the pulleys.

The Works Engineering fuel rail is still there. Wish it was black. Ha ha. Everything else are still there and functioning well.

If you are wondering, the last photo is the close-up photo of the Jun Type-II camshafts for the 4G92 engine. I heard the price these days are around RM4,XXX. Even used ones are around RM3,800 to RM4,000. Still expensive for these camshafts.

So nothing extra-ordinary like Super-90 throttlebody or Skunk2 intake manifold or Arospeed cam pulleys or even aftermarket pistons. I know what i wanted to do and i kept within my plans.

The top overhaul was done half a day. Well done.

Mivek4doddle : Get Low

2010-06-26T11:56:00.006+08:00

After a few years of using the RPW mild steel 4-1 extractor, this is how it looks like now. Being a daily driven car, i could not escape from road humps/bumps/whatever you call it. My car is as low since the day i got my coilovers. If you refer to my old postings, the height clearance between the extractor to the ground is just as tall as a Nokia 3310.

Luckily, when i fitted the extractor last time, i had the protector plates welded on to it. That is one important point if you decide to daily driven the car. Even my flexi-pipe is balding away.

Staying in a country that has plenty of road humps with less warning signs, sometimes my heartbeat stops for a second just before impact. %$#@$!@#!%&^. Yes, mentally it hurts.

Jeff's New Toys Part II

2010-06-26T11:06:00.004+08:00

(Photos has been taken using his NOKIA phone)

Sandakan Drag Battle 2010

2010-06-02T21:34:00.000+08:00

Finally someone broke into the 9s.

Sarawak Drag Battle 2010 (Kuching)

2010-06-02T21:15:00.010+08:00

Im happy to know that Sarawak is getting serious with their drag

scene. As you noticed their starting lights are just the same what

SDB is using currently.

Here are some of the pix and video i found online.

JPM Superdrive Challenge 2010

2010-05-22T15:31:00.008+08:00

All photos courtesy of AutoGridz

B-Series VS K-Series

2010-05-22T11:49:00.003+08:00

Get someone to translate for you

FR Honda Civic EG

2010-05-22T11:41:00.005+08:00

Love Them Colors

2010-05-01T22:55:00.003+08:00

Proton Satria Neo VTEC Hybrid

2010-05-01T21:13:00.006+08:00

Yesterday afternoon i got some enlightening news that someone managed to hybrid a K20 Type-R into the Proton Satria Neo. Feeling sleepy at that time, i was awaken by the news. Didnt i know that my crazy dream was being done somewhere else in the country. Apparently, the news was out humbly, just that some photographic proof has yet to be taken soon. Hopefully soon, i cant wait.

So i did some online search hoping to find the Neo K20, instead i found this picture somewhere online. When i checked the date it was posted, it was towards the end of last year. When i saw this photo, it made my day. B-series inside a Neo, wow!

Prolly i am living in the country where hybrids are prohibited by the RTD and custom billet parts products are not available to suit my taste.

This particular post was meant for those that love extreme custom engineering works. You may pause for awhile about buying an original Type-R or pushing the limit of the CPS engine.

Good engine in a good body, why not?

Proton Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing Edition

2010-04-12T08:24:00.018+08:00

Speak of the devil. Was just blogging about the "Proton Sembilu" the other day and was dreaming that some new "aggressive car" might come out in the future. Looks like R3 has pushed a step forward in building limited editions cars. I wished they made more Satria GTi R3 the last time so more of us can own it instead of converting a normal Satria GTi to the R3 version.

There are plenty of photos of this car online. Also plenty of supports and avid haters about this model. The usual thing from price comparison to comparison with VTECs *Laughed*.

When people start to compare brands like VTEC, Mugen made a FD2R RR Spec which is available in town at the moment re-conditioned, few limited edition in the world and cost RM3XX,XXX. Funny, i didnt see the long queue outside NAZA or the local jap importers. I thought these fanatics were do-or-die-must-buy-limited-edition-VTEC? Even the FD2Rs are so expensive yet you do not see the REAL ones plenty roaming around. Why is that? Typically an Asian person would buy a house than a car since real estate makes more money in the long run. But i thought limited edition VTEC was the T-Rex of VTEC? I still do not see people queuing for the brand new FD2Rs outside Honda showroom. If normal wage earners cant even pay for RM200k car, what then a brand new Mugen RR which is super special edition minus the whip cream?

If you are seeking for the ultimate ride, its either a "BULL" or a "HORSE", get what i mean? About time people these days have an open mind towards upgrades and enhancement. No doubt RM115k is expensive and yes i was shocked to see the price at first. But then again, u wouldnt want everyone to buy when its cheap and keep bumping into them all the time. That wouldnt be limited, it would be COMMON.

Prolly these sort of cars were meant for collectors and true enthusiats, sometimes the word LIMITED is being abused and also misunderstood. Collectors/Limited editions were meant to be kept stock if possible and the value would maintain or increase in time. Overseas drivers that owns a Satria GTi would love to have a piece of the R3 creation. All they can do is add and convert. If you have a Mugen RR and bolt a Hondata, and add/change other things, it will sound Mu-Hon which defeats the purpose of buying a limited edition car.

If R3 were to ask me if i had any cool ideas to make this car even better, i would say a 2 litre CPS engine and prolly more carbon stuffs like the side mirrors and etc. Embossing the car's manufacturing number would also be good on each carbon parts since car/parts theft issues are alarming in Malaysia.

Remember my blog about the Japanese student's Monster Satria GTi? He brought back to Japan and upgraded it to stage 3. He must be proud to have a Satria GTi, Malaysian made.

North Latitude36 (Japan)

2010-04-11T10:34:00.022+08:00

When i saw the coverages of this car online in the recent

TAS2010, fuck i think i want one too. After quite sometime

of looking too-many of too-clean and too-perfect refurbished

to factory spec CR-Xs from around the world, i started to get

a lil' bit boring and i dont care if you made a fortune selling to

the next person.

All i have to say North Latitude36 has a nice distinctive style.

There wasnt any thing wrong with the car, just a bit of

extremity and creativeness makes this car on my top favourite

car list. The extended front diffuser which was painted black,

that is nice. The VTEC turbo engine and the race style interior

is nice. Last but not least, the green Volk rims puts the cherry

on top of the cake. If it was 15" it would look tiny on a bright

white painted and kitted car. I think he's running on 17" which

helps a bit when u have too much power in the engine bay.

There are prolly bunch of haters for this sort of mods since they

already injected themselves with full dosage of jdm-clean-drug.

Automatically they block anything that does not resemble

their tastes and likings which doesnt come close to a stock factory

design. They may not be using Hasport mounts or having a perfect

Mugen EF-8 Pro2 kits, but they made it to TAS2010 which was a

privilage for oldschool cars to be there. I guess it doesnt take much

Engrish to tell the world what ure modding.

This sort of thing would prolly be the ONLY reason for me to buy

another CR-X. Other than that, i'll stick to an old family wagon

with problematic door speakers and bad wheel alignments.

North Latitude36 reminds me of Cybermotorsports Australia

but a subtle version.

Respect Nobu & North Latitude36.

North Latitude36, Japan

http://www.ne.jp/asahi/beans/web2/N36/36index.html

Cybermotorsports, Australia

http://www.cybermotorsports.com.au/

Jeff's New Toys

2010-04-07T11:29:00.002+08:00

TIAL blowoff valve and HKS valve oil cap

Jeff's After The Repaint

2010-04-07T11:20:00.007+08:00

I cant remember which Subaru model paint code i sms-ed to Jeff and here is the latest repainting and touch-up results. With all the stone chips, door dings and minor dents, Jeff decided to give another round of paint. The fiber hood has been fixed. The intercooler piping has been repainted black. All the car needs is a good round of polish and wax, hopefully.

(Photos has been taken using his NOKIA phone)

AutoGridz

2010-03-23T12:25:00.012+08:00

AutoGridz - The new car website and e-mag for car enthusiats from Malaysia by car enthusiats themselves. Since internet is the main source of information, it gives you more comfort to surf from anywhere you are in your own comfort. AutoGridz wants to be near you and accessible at anytime of the day. AutoGridz embarked in a unique way where besides automotive news and updates, they have videos, e-shoppe and also membership card privilages for you to enjoy discounts at their chosen stores.

I personally like their e-mag. They cover all around stories locally with high quality graphics. With just around RM5.42 per month or RM65 (approx USD20) per year, u save a lot of money from going to the local newsstand or bookstore and the hassle of keeping hardcopy magazines which eventually be thrown away.

Well, i like the e-mag due to the fact i dont have to go through advertisements in between them.

Some screenshots for you guys.

When you subscribe for 1 year, you get the whole lot.

Subscription by PAYPAL, Click PAYPAL

Subscription by IPAY88, Click IPAY88

Enjoy!

Proton Sembilu - An Old Dream Still Lingers

2010-03-23T09:39:00.012+08:00

Many-many moons ago, i can still recall this nice Proton/Mitsubishi car which was on display at the KLMotorshow which was called Proton Sembilu and as a teenager that knows nothing about engines, i was excited koz it looks aggressive for a production car. I think it was a EVOII or EVOIII with Proton decals on it (based on my rusty recollection). Sadly to say, they didnt produce the car to this day. Too "powderful" for the normal roads maybe and too much for our "racer" drivers in Malaysia.

After owing a Proton for the last 6 years, the only think i look forward are all the necessarycomponents to be included in future models. If i cant get them while i am still alive, at least my kids can have the luxury after 50 years of car manufacturing. I hope i am not asking too much but these are my wish list :

Rear disc brakes compulsory for all cars. Safety comes first.
A minimum of a 2L variable valve engines. Our country is so big, people like to travel by roads than flying as they get to move around more in the other cities. With massive lanes highways and "balik kampung" trips, the torque reliefs the pressure of the foot peddling to the floor.
Better air-conditioning system to suit the weather. The weather is not like 25 years ago and i think with the greenhouse effect issues, lets make bigger compressor, blower,condenser, cooling coil and rear air con ducts for future cars.
Stronger chassis and body especially the a-pillars and b-pillars. Crash test dummy results for everyone to see. Feeling safer is a nicer feeling.
With the bigger and taller new generations, they should design according to the Malaysian size and not Japanese size. Bigger seats and better cabin room space.
With bigger roads and unpredictable rain, better lighting systems is a must.
With our local natural resources, we should be having good quality interiors.
Cheaper genuine spare parts, for goodness sake.
Last but not least, add the rear fog lamp, i know we dont have snow but its 300% better than hazard light in the rain.

All these wishes are requests and comments from a Proton user. I am not comparing and asking to be compared like any other brands to have a faster and stronger car but in the next 25 years who knows whats gonna happen, maybe other brands are already powered by hybrid engines and what we should worry now is to improve what needs to be improved and move on to the next stage.

No doubt it takes a lot of money, research, development and also time. But if we do not spot the issues now, we have not covered the BASIC requirements and all the important requirements for future enhancements.

Only by then, we can start to talk about the re-birth Proton Sembilu. Why is that? Now you can concentrate on the new turbocharged engine and also new 4WD system. When you have covered all the basics now you got another 25 years to learn about the new engine and 4WDsystem. God knows what is gonna happen in the next 50 years. Well lets think about it now.

Honestly, i have to thank ASTRO for showing channel 734. I have been watching Ed restoring street cars, Chip's drawing becoming reality, bikers using coppers for their tanks and fenders,Riddler's Top 8 awards for custom cars, flow jet machines, pin striping, 1000hp street cars and everything about custom building, restoration work and plenty more. I would prolly use the knowledge and apply what has been shown as most of the advance machines are not available here. The thing is, at least i can embrace it and accept the technological change that helps us improve the scene here. There is no culture shock to this automotive industry except if you plan to keep doing the same old thing over and over again without excelling to the next level.

Why people are "angry" about the local car design thingy?

Well when you live in a country with the highest, tallest, longest, widest, smartest and est est est, people automatically have higher expectation towards any kind of local products. People that are not in the automotive industry wouldnt know and expect things will be as good as other brands or anything being printed on a car magazine. It is a fact.

After 25 years and still too much "constructive criticism"?

Like i said, maybe 25 years is still bit too young for a car automotive company to build something spectacular. It'll take another 50 years maybe for the big change. If Proton had EVERYTHING and selling cheaper than other brands, prolly other brands would pull out and stop selling. So to make things "even", no sunroof, no rear disc brakes, no mp3 player, solid paint and etc. I believe they can do it but prolly due to certain restriction and whatnot that does not make them standout from the rest.

The only way to make things work i think is by asking the public and getting feedbacks on the current models. By maintaining the original curve, history and outlook and still keeping it up to the trend, it makes enthusiasts jumping on their feet waiting for the next model. It is not about changing entirely but to enhance it accordingly based on the car trend at the moment.

I know we have a good design team in our local automotive industry and i hope their designs can be shown in reality rather than a coffee-talk after work. Worst, they work for the competitors locally and overseas when ideas are bottledup. A brain drain i would call it.

I dont mind if someone can comeout with a concept/prototype car Proton Sembilu. Something out of the ordinary, made in Malaysia. Just like the name "Sembilu", means "Bamboo Knife" should be built strong and lethal, just like the EVOs.

Still not ready, huh?

SKUNK2 Black Anodized K-series 74MM Throttlebody

2010-03-23T08:01:00.004+08:00

This is nice. Nothing flashy. But only for K-series.

Checkout their website : http://www.skunk2.com/throttle_bodies.php

OS Giken Clutch For 4G92/93

2010-02-26T13:08:00.007+08:00

I only got to know that OS Giken has released the Super Single clutch for 4G92/93 engines few days ago. After doing some checking and it seems ST Wangan has brought them in since ST Powered Singapore are the OS Giken distributor.

Before this you have Exedy and also ACT clutches. The price tag is not cheap. It is around RM3XXX and ACT is selling at 2XXX.

Well, its good to know since i know there are a few lurking 4G92/93 monsters which are hitting between 180-200whp. This sort of power should be coupled with good clutches to deliver power to the ground.

Ever since ST Wangan brought in Tomei camshaft kits for 4G92/93 and now the OS Giken clutches, im crossing my fingers and hopefully they bring some aggressive Tomei camshafts for 4G92 Mivec and also OS Giken gear ratios and final drives for the 4G92/93 gearboxes. If they plan to hit the Malaysian market and also give good pricing, i think in no time we'll see plenty of resurrection from the 4G92/93 owners.

Keep it up ST Wangan!

Few salivating photos i found online.

Sepang Drag Battle Round 1 2010 - Redza's Goldie

2010-02-26T12:37:00.003+08:00

Here are some photos from last week's SDB Round 1 2010. This is the 1st time Redza's running with the 2-door Honda Civic EG.

With the lighter body and different engine setup, i noticed the car runs better now compared to the family sedan.

All the best for this year, Goldie.

How does a 9.5s, single cam, 2.2L drag Honda sounds like?

2010-02-15T01:13:00.005+08:00

Put Your Volume UP

Bisimoto Header For H22A

2010-02-15T00:52:00.006+08:00

Well not only turbocharged cars has nice aftermarket exhaust manifolds, these days you can see the natural aspirated cars are using the same concept for better air flow. Well a few JDM tuners did make prototype versions for track use which were slightly conservatively designed than Bisi's but those werent for mass production.

Some massive extractors do need extra clearance like removing your air-conditioning system and also relocation of your radiator. Some use thinner aluminium radiators.

I think you need good power to be able to "breathe" through these big fat extractors.

Check out Bisimoto's website in one of my links.

ps. exhaust manifold/extractors/headers....depends on which country you're from. ha ha.

4 Doddle Years Old

2010-02-14T05:03:00.009+08:00

Happy 4th birthday to my blog this month

Whatever Makes You Happy

2010-02-14T03:10:00.020+08:00

Fake?

Replica? Copy?

Counterfeit?

Style? Look? Lookalike?

You know and i know these not-original parts are hitting the market faster than the donut franchise businesses. They are CHEAP, popular and they have high volume demand. Volume is a good word to tag along with profiteering.

Due to the fact that original parts are not giving any cheaper discounts or competing near with the not-original parts, a 10 bucks difference will make any consumer think before they buy. Everybody is being thrifty these days and definitely try their very best to get the "best" parts for their cars.

Japanese JDM parts has never been cheap. From a used old vtec controller to the latest racing camshafts, they are proud to stand tall in the market to make the world know their parts are super-duper high quality that comes from thorough quality checks and also years of research and development.

The thing is, if you are the ONLY brand in the world that sells a particular product, regardless of machine-made or hand-made, yeah throw your price. Cool. Respect. Ichiban. Wow.

I am not into marketing nor sales, but i think the new brands that came out couple of years ago prolly hit the market faster than the old hardcore brands. They want to SHARE the developments and contribute their expertise to the society by giving better products with a cheaper logical price. The process of trials and errors from the public responses made them grow faster. I dont have to tell you which brand, if you know the scene well and you'll know.

Let me go through each words with a lay-man terminology and understanding :

Fake : Similar design with the original brand with bad machined cut angles. Sadly, they use the original brand and prolly you wont get the packaging box.

Replica : A clone. Same design. No name. Cheaper price. Better used term, "local custom made".

Counterfeit : A mix of fake and replica, with nice packaging being put together with the original and being sold as the original.

Style/Look : A replica, using the same brand name but admitting its not an original but still sells at a very competitive price.

With the global mass industrialisation, everybody wants MASS output, FAST delivery and CHEAP prices. Everybody is looking at China and Taiwan for their mass production parts. Cheap labour and cheaper quality checks. Even these days all these new and un-known brands are willing to give warranties. When you have too many parts, swap is not an issue. It makes everybody happy. Even original parts are now made in China and Taiwan. Dont blame the brand companies, blame on the production costs, overhead costs and etc.

This "un-real" parts are going strong because :

Not everyone is rich. With the economical crisis and bad exchange rates, dun blame this group of consumers. They are PART of the scene. Without them, everybody will driving a family wagon. You need a SCENE to have a reason to produce new parts. Demand and supply theory.
They may not have expensive research facilities but they do maintain the copied design factor and keep the quality at almost at par to the original part. Almost there.
Their parts can be used on the street and also track. If it breaks, buy again. Furthermore they are cheaper than the originals. Well, if you use "For Racing Use Onry" original parts on the street which makes you drive less and pay so much money, i think people would want to pay less and get the almost-same power with lesser tolerance products. They know the risk.

Those people that are really into serious racing would definitely seek high quality parts and they KNOW they have to spend for all these to gain that extra milliseconds during each race. There is no shortcut to winning. Engines that withstand longer on the track would definitely have more chances to win or at least complete the race.

It is your call. You can seek 2nd opinion if you plan to buy non-original parts. Yes, plenty of people have used them and even gave good reviews. Why? As most of them are pure street users and being used daily driven. Fake parts are not meant to be used for supersonic speed or used for space exploration. The risk is always there and lady luck better be on your side. If you plan to compete professionally, you might want to consider every dollar and cent in the bank.

Hopefully :

The prices would go down on a fair amount for enthusiasts to try and feel the difference if they never had the opportunity to buy them before.
Fake parts would stick to their own unknown names than using the original brands. I hate reading pure buyers getting conned big time hoping they bought the real ones.
People respecting other people for what they want to buy. It is their choice and their money. If they dont know, educate them nicely. If they refuse or made their mind then its their own choices. There are no trophies on the streets.

There are people that buy all the good parts but do not appreciate the functionality of the parts as they rushed all in. And we all know, "for sale" sign is coming soon.

There are people that buy anything and everything as it makes them feel good inside them. Sounds like handbags for ladies. Ha ha.

Whatever it is, as long you know the risk, you know the tolerance level, you know the functionality and condition that it can go through, then its your call.

Whatever that makes you happy, buy.

Is that a lolex? Sorry, i mean Rolex?

Sepang Drag Battle 2010

2010-02-04T03:12:00.004+08:00

http://www.malaysiangp.com.my/story/drag-battle-schedule

20th February is the 1st round. I hope they dont change or postpone

the date. Also, hopefully the weather is fine.

Here are some new rules for this year :

http://malaysiangp.com.my/files/u1/pdf/Drag10-Sporting-Regulations.pdf

See you there.

Car Loans. Old Story, Same Attitude

2010-01-29T00:57:00.005+08:00

I have to admit that i am super pissed when i see someone that is interested to buy a used car and asking the owner of the car about car loans and sometimes arranging car loans for the new buyer.

What the F is wrong with these buyers? Are they blind, dumb and deaf?

If you want to buy the car, YOU go to your top 3 choices of banks and ask them if they can provide loans. Banks will usually do valuation of the car and also your credit records. As simple as that.

If you fail getting a car loan, you can try personal loans. Higher interest rates.

If you still fail getting loans from banks, ask your daddy or mommy to loan you with 0% interest rate. Worst case scenario you have to obey them within 3-12 years or longer. Daddy and mommy can even burn your car if they dont like your attitude. Family rules, not banks.

Stop asking stupid questions and do your part as a buyer.

TAS 2010

2010-01-29T00:47:00.002+08:00

There are plenty of photos online. Just google them.

This panda caught my attention.

Mitsubishi Cyborg-R Restoration?

2010-01-29T00:27:00.006+08:00

I saw this online. If i'd tell you the price, u would say "It's shit crazy". But then again , i believe Cyborg-R owners would love to have them for restoration purposes and keep the car for the next 10 years or more to come.

Rare? This is super-duper rare like a siberian mammoth.

TE-37

2010-01-28T23:58:00.002+08:00

You Have Forgotten About It

2010-01-28T21:48:00.016+08:00

"Today, man, I’m sad to say…it’s just not the same anymore. People don’t build cars for themselves anymore, they don’t build it for fun. It’s become so competitive that people don’t even spend time to sit back and enjoy their cars anymore." - The Chronices

When i read that, i felt sad with the scene around here too. FUN is the last thing on their mind at the moment. MODS is the 1st ritual. It is already a trend that to make FUN, you have to MOD. Funny thing, i didnt know when you buy a car it does not come with an engine and also no wheels? No?

People these days are so religiously into mods that the only FUN time is when they think they have reached the limit of nearly-blowing the car or almost-about-to-sell the car. I have seen a family sedan car with just a CAI and the owner had FUN. I have seen a 450whp turbocharged car that is prowling the streets everyday, few oil leaks once in a while, but the owner had FUN.

These days, even before you buy a car, you already started to think about the re-sale value and the depreciation of it. I suggest you buy few houses and take the public transport.

There is no such thing by making your mods and build-up "complete" then only you can have FUN. I think its more of a personal temptation and sometimes it evenly turn out to be greed.

Go out and have FUN.

ECU or EMS?

2010-01-13T11:48:00.003+08:00

"I am using a rechipped ECU". Haha.

Wear & Tear : The Real Hidden Cost?

2010-01-13T10:32:00.011+08:00

You do know about it. OR

You do not want to know about it. OR

You know it but purposely delay the fix. OR

You know it but prefer to let it break for self satisfaction.

"If it aint broken, dont fix". A common phrase you use to hear and sometimes hold to yourself when it comes to your own car(s).

The last few months, i heard a story about a chap complaining about his stock family car wear and tear issues. I also heard story about another friend complaining after installing performance parts but did not perform to what he expected. I also heard about another story where this car owner did not service the car for a year, but just topping up the engine oil.

As an owner of a car which is more than 10 years old, i spent a lot of money on wear and tear parts. On top of the regular service datelines, there are definitely some little things which needs to be fixed. Being a daily driven car, the responsibility does not allow you to skip this process. Sometimes i wished i had a spare car or use the public transport to commute to work. To those that has a spare car, company car's, mommy's car or even a bike, u can reduce the wear and tear issues if you drive less.

Regardless what car you have and the age of the car, regular service is mandatory. It does not take so much of your time, this is the time you will know what to prepare if something is about to break when your mechanic checks your car.

Wear and tear issues are higher in Malaysia. Why is that? :

You travel long distance to go back to your hometown or outstation for work. Anything more than 100km one way is far. Due to the smooth highways, u forgot about the number of hours your engine runs under the sun. (Increase mileage on engine)
You feel so comfortable on the uneven and bumpy city roads that you forgotten that your shock absobers and springs are screaming in agony. (Dying bushes, shocks leaks, worn tyres)
The significant of traffic jams in the town areas due to the number of cars puts pressure to your left leg and right leg. (Worn out clutch system, dying brake pads)
Expansion and contraction from heat and rain thanks to green house climate issues. (Harden seals and gaskets, dying gearboxes, cracked extractors)
Driving attitude. (If you dont step on it, ure not driving?)

To do the math, typically if you have a car which is still under bank repayments, is a must routine transaction every month for the next many years (unless its fully paid). On top of that, living in a big city with big highways, there is no way you can escape driving long distances and pushing your engine's health that results to wear and tear issues. Modification budget is another story.

Wear and tear hinders your car's performance. Before bolting new parts or even aftermarket products, think about the entire system and see if anything else is dying or breaking soon. If you service your car regularly and maintain to use genuine quality parts, i believe it will survive in the next 10 more years.

Modding your engine increases wear and tear?. When engine gets stronger and louder, you have more vibration, more heat and definitely more work for your engine. When you force things to go more than its standard operation level, the tolerance level starts to get thinner. The thinner it gets, the higher your engine wears out. Simple theory, the more you drive, the faster your tyres wear off. The more you brake, the more rubber it needs to bite the tarmac.

Dont get upset for nothing, take note of the things you have not changed or serviced lately. It can be anything from car battery to air-condition system or even your old audio system. Last but not least, your driving style is also a factor to the wear and tear issues.

It has never been a hidden cost to your personal budget. It is always hidden in your mind.

Going Back Oldschool : Sandblasted Valve Covers

2010-01-12T17:03:00.005+08:00

I recently sent both of my valve covers for sandblasting process. These are the results for VTEC and MIVEC valve covers. As you can see the greyish colour looks fatigue and worn out. The surface area is smooth if you are wondering.

It does not shine nor look fancy under the hood. The complete process will take some time. Having a spare valve cover would be ideal to complete the job.

I am very happy with the results. This process is good when you dont rush them.

When i flipped my Hyper-Rev reference books, it looks like the old days of TopFuel valve covers.

I should be getting a trunk call anytime soon, ha ha.

TOMEI 4G93 Parts

2009-12-14T02:55:00.006+08:00

So finally these toys are available in town. After a few months of rumours spreading, i think this X'mas would make some big smiles on some faces with the new toys from TOMEI especially for the 4G93 engines.

Photos i have taken from the internet. Just do a search and you can find plenty of infos. The list mentioned are as per below :

4G93 NA

308deg lift 11.1

316deg lift 11.1 4

4G93T CD5A Turbo

270deg lift 11.1

280deg lift 11.1

290deg lift 11.1

So i guessed, with the slight better pricing compared to JUN and also the combo package which i think comes with cam pulleys, it should be a damn good deal.

If you you have doubts about them, here is a link from TOMEI's website to reassure you :

http://www.tomei-p.co.jp/inf/pdf_en.php

As long there are new parts for the 4G93, it keeps the modding scene going. At least for now.

Wonder if they make for Mivec, just wondering. Woop woop woooooooooop woooooooooop.

Matte Black Satria Neo

2009-12-14T02:38:00.003+08:00

Photo sent by Meor. Car belongs to a VIP.

Jeff's New Radiator

2009-12-14T02:32:00.001+08:00

http://jasmajapan.blogspot.com/