TheSamba.com :: View topic - Couldn't hold off any longer - My Build

Mon Aug 16, 2010 8:03 pm

Some teasers of the new project...

Mon Aug 16, 2010 8:33 pm

That looks insane! I like it a lot!!!!

Mon Aug 16, 2010 8:34 pm

Nice starting concept! This could work well... what are the plans for the suspension?

I could see Mazda Miata or 2nd/3rd generation RX7 suspension parts being put to good use here.

bnc

Mon Aug 16, 2010 8:50 pm

My new hero!!!! WOW!!!!

Mon Aug 16, 2010 9:18 pm

Nuff respect!! that is WICKED!!!

Mon Aug 16, 2010 9:21 pm

YES YES YES - well done !!!

Mon Aug 16, 2010 10:20 pm

A Fiero front suspension would make an easy disk upgrade since you're doing some crazy stuff in the back...not sure if you ever gandered under the skirt of a Fiero but it sure looks like an easy candidate for a front suspension swap...any time at the JY I always take the time to absorb new info that could be promising for future projects.

YOU HAVE MY ATTENTION \:D/

Mon Aug 16, 2010 10:26 pm

That's exactly what I wanted to do! Unfortunately when I started I didn't have the ability to get it done plus getting it registered here would have been a major pain. Can't wait to see how it turns out! Which engine is it the 1.8 out of the Corolla or something with a little more juice?

Mon Aug 16, 2010 11:53 pm

Nice! Concur with the Miata front crossmember/suspension.

Tue Aug 17, 2010 5:59 am

Some details...
I ordered a rear deck lid from Mrs. Meyers - Hide that engine.
The rear suspension is from a 300z/240sx with tubular arms and aluminum uprights - Its gonna be tight! But tons of room aft of the engine now.
The front...I have an all new VW narrowed, lowered, disc set up but I really want to try and do a Miata, but I cant find one in any yard around here. Thats why the front is still blank.
The engine is from a 2007 Toyota yaris. 1.5L, 110hp. If its not enough I will be building it with the option of a turbo later.
And...its an automatic :shock:

Tue Aug 17, 2010 6:17 am

For the front suspension I'd really like to go with the miata...
If anyone could help in locating one that would be great!! :D

Tue Aug 17, 2010 6:21 am

My wife has a Toyota Matrix XRS with the 1800 version of that motor and a 6 speed trans. It makes 180hp at 8000 RPM. The cam timing changes at 6000 and it feels like a 75 shot of nitrous when it does.

You should have fun with that thing for sure!

Tue Aug 17, 2010 7:44 am

quantummechanic wrote: Some details...
I ordered a rear deck lid from Mrs. Meyers - Hide that engine.
The rear suspension is from a 300z/240sx with tubular arms and aluminum uprights - Its gonna be tight! But tons of room aft of the engine now.
The front...I have an all new VW narrowed, lowered, disc set up but I really want to try and do a Miata, but I cant find one in any yard around here. Thats why the front is still blank.
The engine is from a 2007 Toyota yaris. 1.5L, 110hp. If its not enough I will be building it with the option of a turbo later.
And...its an automatic :shock:

110hp will be plenty unless you really want a handful...you'll still be able to rocket launch that thing with no problem...might even check some of the local automatic trans shops to see if maybe they can modify the valve body for some tighter shifts...even though it's an auto shift car the stock Yaris weighs around 2k so you have removed well over 1200lbs so it should be pretty preppy...a note on the Miata front suspension, if you visit the flying Miata web site you will find any parts you need used or new and race stuff...they even have a full tubular front suspension kit...this stuff is spendy but their parts are top quality and have a nice finish...the auto trans will definitely make for an easy install...I will follow with much interest!

Tue Aug 17, 2010 8:27 am

Check out http://www.flyinmiata.com/index.php?deptid=5675&am...F1990-1997 -

Flyin' Miata makes a Chevy V8 swap kit for the Miata, but the interesting part is that they make a replacement tubularfront suspension crossmember that is about 10lbs lighter than the factory Miata piece... should give you some ideas for front suspension.

I'd still investigate the Miata rear upper/lower control arms for 'compactness' - http://www.quadesl.com/miata_alignment.html

Good luck!

bnc

Tue Aug 17, 2010 11:52 am

Great news...the last yard to check here in town was closed yesterday. I called today and they have a complete Miata...front suspension? How's a hundred bucks sound? - Sold!
Removed and ready for pickup (hopefully) by friday.

Tue Aug 17, 2010 12:04 pm

I am not in the know about how a Yaris uses a shifter, but I am going to guess that the different shifter positions are all in a line, which will allow you to use a cable actuated shifter, which would dramatically simplify changing gearshift positions. Very cool build idea.

Tue Aug 17, 2010 12:37 pm

My build jealousy just exceeded OSHA's safe limits.
The EPA is out to get me now.

I soooooo want details as you go.
I want to do this too...

Tue Aug 17, 2010 1:10 pm

wythac wrote: I am not in the know about how a Yaris uses a shifter, but I am going to guess that the different shifter positions are all in a line, which will allow you to use a cable actuated shifter, which would dramatically simplify changing gearshift positions. Very cool build idea.

You are quite right :D ...and an added bonus: more foot room and (of course) no clutch pedal.

Tue Aug 17, 2010 1:30 pm

Man every time I log in I'm checking for updates on this build be sure to post up detailed pics of the subframe and undercarriage. Good choice on the auto trans to I was thinking trying to fab up a shift linkage for a manual trans would have been interesting...what are you going to do for a VSS for the auto trans? Digital speedo with output maybe? I swapped an 89 Corolla engine into my build now I kinda wish I woulda mid-mounted it like you did but at the time I didn't have the ability plus I wouldn't have been able to get it insured (stupid ICBC) ... Toyota's wiring is pretty simple to especially compared to Subi's. Stoked to see how this goes :!:

Tue Aug 17, 2010 3:32 pm

I'm posting to ensure I get updates. :wink: Ditto all the interest and desire to see under the body. Next generation for sure.