Teaser page for the new team site is now available at: www.phoenixesprit.com
Barry finally found my bank transfer - he'd been looking in the wrong account - he's had the money since 27th November £%&&^$&^$"£ - hopefully he'll now get things moving asap with an aim to have the trans with Phoenix before Xmas.
Mike Sekinger has decided to keep the gearbox so change of plan #5972.. however he has asked John Hazzard to send me up the linkage to borrow if I pay p&p. Will have to see how this shakes out.
No updates on carbon
New seats ordered and new s/wheel arrived. Rimstock can also supply wheels for £450 delivered, which is a massive saving over the Compos. Will order in the New Year.
Need to find a supplier of roll cage foam.
Got an ad from Gottfried - he's selling a full on sequential Hollinger trans and a 750bhp all-alu motor but both well out of budget.. spec is awesome tho.
I need to remind Barry to get those Morroso mufflers and clutch cylinder.
Sent Willie at Meercat Exhausts (www.meercat-exhausts.com) pics of the engine and engine bay with an aim to sorting out the pipe work once engine is in place.
Little done ~ lots to do
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Monday, December 04, 2006
OMG - LOTRDC dates already out..!
If I'm lucky I'll make Donny - no way I'll be ready for Spa - a long-term dream for now..
24/3 & 25/3 - Brands Hatch Indy
7/4 – Silverstone
12/5 & 13/5 Snetterton
2/6 - Oulton Park
14/7 - Castle Coombe
1/9 & 2/9 - Donington Park
12/10,13/10 & 14/10 - Spa
10/11 & 11/11 - Brands Hatch Indy
24/3 & 25/3 - Brands Hatch Indy
7/4 – Silverstone
12/5 & 13/5 Snetterton
2/6 - Oulton Park
14/7 - Castle Coombe
1/9 & 2/9 - Donington Park
12/10,13/10 & 14/10 - Spa
10/11 & 11/11 - Brands Hatch Indy
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Bobby Hart racing - G50: shifter, linkage, pump and cooler..
Spoke to Bobby Hart in California re the G50 trans and side shifter kit he supplies -iirc I used to watch Bobby race in Champ/IRl years ago..
"Jon, 600 hp is a lot for G50 You should be looking at a 50/50 or 50/52 they have better Gear ratios and stronger Ring and pinion I assume you have about 550 lbs of torque, yes we can do a oil system, pump,cooler, oil filter, A 50/52 rebuilt With side shifter 80% or 40% LSD is $11000.00 us Hope this helps Bobby Hart"
This is the thing with Barry's engine - most V8s create huge low ened torque which is a massive problem for traction, hard to drive out of turns and threatens trans longevity - this is also usually coupled with a lazy hammer of a delivery: Barry's engine doesn't have so much torque - maybe about 470.lbft at the full 650bhp (4-bore); and 410.lbft currently with 575bhp (2-bore). But it's a seasoned wincaton/sportsman spec Dart block and heads (348 crank with slight bore to 358) and the torque curve has deliberately been moved up the rev band for traction; but revs outs nicely and spools up quickly with minimal inertia.
It also have a wide power band and redline at 9000rpm engine; but we're limiting to 7400-8300rpm for road circuit use. Only runs off a custom 700CFM Da Vinci 2-bore and doesn't have much porting over the standard Dart.. but all internals are very strong and light. We could run more torque but on road circuits the advantages may be outweighed by the disadvantages; not to mention the extra stresses etc. Aim is to gradually port the engine to give +50bhp each time and see how the set-up feels. Roller cams also pegged for next rebuild.
Some good news - Mike Sekinger is going to sell me the shifter and linkage from John Hazzard's G50 and Hazzard is also going to sell me a pump and cooler kit he had made up for one of his UN1s.
Cheers
Jon
"Jon, 600 hp is a lot for G50 You should be looking at a 50/50 or 50/52 they have better Gear ratios and stronger Ring and pinion I assume you have about 550 lbs of torque, yes we can do a oil system, pump,cooler, oil filter, A 50/52 rebuilt With side shifter 80% or 40% LSD is $11000.00 us Hope this helps Bobby Hart"
This is the thing with Barry's engine - most V8s create huge low ened torque which is a massive problem for traction, hard to drive out of turns and threatens trans longevity - this is also usually coupled with a lazy hammer of a delivery: Barry's engine doesn't have so much torque - maybe about 470.lbft at the full 650bhp (4-bore); and 410.lbft currently with 575bhp (2-bore). But it's a seasoned wincaton/sportsman spec Dart block and heads (348 crank with slight bore to 358) and the torque curve has deliberately been moved up the rev band for traction; but revs outs nicely and spools up quickly with minimal inertia.
It also have a wide power band and redline at 9000rpm engine; but we're limiting to 7400-8300rpm for road circuit use. Only runs off a custom 700CFM Da Vinci 2-bore and doesn't have much porting over the standard Dart.. but all internals are very strong and light. We could run more torque but on road circuits the advantages may be outweighed by the disadvantages; not to mention the extra stresses etc. Aim is to gradually port the engine to give +50bhp each time and see how the set-up feels. Roller cams also pegged for next rebuild.
Some good news - Mike Sekinger is going to sell me the shifter and linkage from John Hazzard's G50 and Hazzard is also going to sell me a pump and cooler kit he had made up for one of his UN1s.
Cheers
Jon
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Update - 23rd Nov 06
I'll start with the good news first - jst passed my ards test - woo hoo. I'm now 'legal'. Blimming easy tho took it all in and appreciate this is jst the start of my learning curve & not the end. Completed my track work in a Ibiza Cupra - it was wet but still fifty times easier than the Esprit in the dry..! What's better is that I can block-book time with one of the instructors to adapt to 'Eleanor's' new set-up and refine my craft.
re trans - Barry's blimming credit card wont accept money from my credit card.. how mad is that - it means I can't order the trns etc until the end of the month when my bonus come sin. Aaaaarggghhhh!
Small world - looks like I may be able to get the shifter arrangment from Mike Sekinger who bought the engine and box out of Eleanor's sister car. That would def work a treat.
team shirt arrived with new logo but I only managed to go and speel Phoenix wrong.. doh! Duly corrected before I order shirts etc for the rest of the guys.
Trying to source a wheel boss so I can order a new one. Hope to get a new carbon bucket from Martyn, new dash, new harness, new shifter, paint inside and new cage covers and hopefully make th ecar look a lot less tired looking and match Gary's eventual exterior transformation.
Parcelforce almost sent the nascar gauge back to the US - still checking whether they caught it in time.
Hoping Phoenix will service the brakes, hubs, bearings soon & I can order up new parts inc. spacers and those lovely Compomotive MOs..
Meanwhile Martyn down at MVS is cracking on with the aero package - rear diffuser is done - he's now starting on front end, wing, roof scoop and engine cover..
Lots to do.. long way to go.
Cheers
Jon
re trans - Barry's blimming credit card wont accept money from my credit card.. how mad is that - it means I can't order the trns etc until the end of the month when my bonus come sin. Aaaaarggghhhh!
Small world - looks like I may be able to get the shifter arrangment from Mike Sekinger who bought the engine and box out of Eleanor's sister car. That would def work a treat.
team shirt arrived with new logo but I only managed to go and speel Phoenix wrong.. doh! Duly corrected before I order shirts etc for the rest of the guys.
Trying to source a wheel boss so I can order a new one. Hope to get a new carbon bucket from Martyn, new dash, new harness, new shifter, paint inside and new cage covers and hopefully make th ecar look a lot less tired looking and match Gary's eventual exterior transformation.
Parcelforce almost sent the nascar gauge back to the US - still checking whether they caught it in time.
Hoping Phoenix will service the brakes, hubs, bearings soon & I can order up new parts inc. spacers and those lovely Compomotive MOs..
Meanwhile Martyn down at MVS is cracking on with the aero package - rear diffuser is done - he's now starting on front end, wing, roof scoop and engine cover..
Lots to do.. long way to go.
Cheers
Jon
Sunday, November 12, 2006
In-progress shots
Got to say Barry's 358ci looks awesome.. what surprised John and the Phoenix guys was just how light the engine was and how compact. Only possible problem may be the Stahl headers: if of course the tranny + adaptor etc isn't too long.
Lots of work to do - re-loom to start shortly and $7K trans should take 2 wks to come across. Still trying to track down the Chip Gnassi dash.
Friday, November 10, 2006
The challenge is on - the size of task daunts!
Finally ordered the $6000 G50 trans, adapter plate, fly, clutch etc last night - should take a cpl of weeks all in to send from CA to Texas then to Glasgow through Panalpina.
John L had mentioned the carb looked suspect and not a 'Da Vinci'? I spoke to Barry re the carb - it's a handbuilt carb using a holley casing and Da Vinci parts - i.e. a on-eoff: much of which are modified from a 4 barrel - so bigger jets etc but Barry can supply different parts to help set the car up. I believe the parts/time etc run into the $$$$.
Going down to the workshop tomorrow morning for a pow wow. Main thing is to discuss the install - this will of course become clearer once the trans arrives. As mentioned it may be necessary to move the firewall but critical measurements look ok; albeit with no major room left over. Width wise the Esprit is pretty wide to accomodate the block. However the rear roll cage tubes may need to be cut and modified. To run the headers it may be neccessary to re-house the fuel tank in the front and I can get a fuel cell from the US if needs be.
Have asked John if he can arrange to have one of the valve-covers removed then we can have a look at what all the fuss is about. I was suprised to hear the engine had chromed covers - my preference would be the whole thing to be in matt black but will take what we get, and I guess a small bit of chrome will look quite 'bling'. There is approx £35K of internals in that engine I'm told. MSD has a 7200rpm chip in currently but there's chips there up to 8300rpm! The valves are not hydraulic and need to be set-up jst before the engine is fired (and before every event). Race springs are tight and so weaken if let to stand, even titanium ones. They also get replaced every year or 2 because of this.
Before the trans gets here I suggested removing the back-end bodywork for easier access and engine crane the block over the car to see how the block may sit and work out what needs chopping. I reckon the length of the trans, adapter plate etc wont cause any problems. The tubes can be cut as the chassis is backboned and the tubes are part of the cage. However once put together we need to make it look as close to blue book as poss but we can perhaps bolt the rear sections.
Once the tranny arrives I see the project has 5 main stages:
- The initial install: making the hardware, mounts and any chassis mods to accomodate. Clearly a massive amount of work to be done but then this is no normal project. I'm hoping Phoenix enjoy the challenge?
- Re-loom and wiring: hooking up new wiring/fuses to fit the new engine, dash etc. Should hopefully be a lot less than what's in there currently. At this stage we'd probably best put in one very large red top battery or 2 batteries given the lack of an alternator. This will make a massive difference to the car's reliability.
- Engine set-up: Clearly this is the most risky stage for the engine and Barry made a point that the fine tolerances in the engine could be easily damaged from poor set-up. Although I know he's left notes and is a phonecall away - I appreciate this is the first Phoenix will have set up an engine like this; so may look to fly Barry over after Xmas to help set yup the car for the first time and show Alan around the valves etc which all need to be set being race springs. This will then be completed on the rollers for final tuning. Unless Phoenix a pref I thought of calling Gerry @ Dastek for use of their dyno and let Barry tune it up.
- Chassis: Hopefully a fun stage as it means getting the car on track and working out damper settings etc. It's probably worth talking to John at Leda and maybe send down the current springs to measure poundage unless they're marked or you have spring testers? From that John (if we give him the increase in weight etc) will be able to have an idea of what springs to try. I suspect as I'll be running ground effects that the springs will be 1000lb+ (certainly on the rear). At that stage we can work out if the dampers need removed, serviced and revalved accordingly. Brakes should hopefully involve new lines, pads, salve cylinders and that pedal box assembly. I'll likely be going for 17 or 18" (x10J) wheels with new rubber so we can get the power down and sort the corner weights.
- Bodywork/livery: again a fund stage & all down to Mr Codling Jr. We decide on a livery scheme and decide how Phoenix want to use the car for promo work etc. I've promised Rob Barnes a showstopper!
Housekeeping: I'm getting some heat from buyers - I'll pick up the lights and motors tomorrow (Brian is coming over in the avo). I'll also stick the delivery address on the box with the block and chargecooler for Magnus, and have UPS pick that up in the week. Also the main engine needs to be drained and tied to the block - Garry K will then send courier to pick up. The speedo needs to be removed for Darren and I'll pick that up in the week if okay.
All this by mid-March before the first timeattack event, which the team is already registered and really hope Phoenix still want to be involved with. I'm sure they must have some concerns re' the install but I have no doubt they can work round these and make work what is already £20K+ project. What I need reassurance on, now that I've vested this money, is that they're still enthusiastic and confident to get the job done. Will chat it all over with John L tomorrow.
Hopefully I'll feel more confident in my next update..
John L had mentioned the carb looked suspect and not a 'Da Vinci'? I spoke to Barry re the carb - it's a handbuilt carb using a holley casing and Da Vinci parts - i.e. a on-eoff: much of which are modified from a 4 barrel - so bigger jets etc but Barry can supply different parts to help set the car up. I believe the parts/time etc run into the $$$$.
Going down to the workshop tomorrow morning for a pow wow. Main thing is to discuss the install - this will of course become clearer once the trans arrives. As mentioned it may be necessary to move the firewall but critical measurements look ok; albeit with no major room left over. Width wise the Esprit is pretty wide to accomodate the block. However the rear roll cage tubes may need to be cut and modified. To run the headers it may be neccessary to re-house the fuel tank in the front and I can get a fuel cell from the US if needs be.
Have asked John if he can arrange to have one of the valve-covers removed then we can have a look at what all the fuss is about. I was suprised to hear the engine had chromed covers - my preference would be the whole thing to be in matt black but will take what we get, and I guess a small bit of chrome will look quite 'bling'. There is approx £35K of internals in that engine I'm told. MSD has a 7200rpm chip in currently but there's chips there up to 8300rpm! The valves are not hydraulic and need to be set-up jst before the engine is fired (and before every event). Race springs are tight and so weaken if let to stand, even titanium ones. They also get replaced every year or 2 because of this.
Before the trans gets here I suggested removing the back-end bodywork for easier access and engine crane the block over the car to see how the block may sit and work out what needs chopping. I reckon the length of the trans, adapter plate etc wont cause any problems. The tubes can be cut as the chassis is backboned and the tubes are part of the cage. However once put together we need to make it look as close to blue book as poss but we can perhaps bolt the rear sections.
Once the tranny arrives I see the project has 5 main stages:
- The initial install: making the hardware, mounts and any chassis mods to accomodate. Clearly a massive amount of work to be done but then this is no normal project. I'm hoping Phoenix enjoy the challenge?
- Re-loom and wiring: hooking up new wiring/fuses to fit the new engine, dash etc. Should hopefully be a lot less than what's in there currently. At this stage we'd probably best put in one very large red top battery or 2 batteries given the lack of an alternator. This will make a massive difference to the car's reliability.
- Engine set-up: Clearly this is the most risky stage for the engine and Barry made a point that the fine tolerances in the engine could be easily damaged from poor set-up. Although I know he's left notes and is a phonecall away - I appreciate this is the first Phoenix will have set up an engine like this; so may look to fly Barry over after Xmas to help set yup the car for the first time and show Alan around the valves etc which all need to be set being race springs. This will then be completed on the rollers for final tuning. Unless Phoenix a pref I thought of calling Gerry @ Dastek for use of their dyno and let Barry tune it up.
- Chassis: Hopefully a fun stage as it means getting the car on track and working out damper settings etc. It's probably worth talking to John at Leda and maybe send down the current springs to measure poundage unless they're marked or you have spring testers? From that John (if we give him the increase in weight etc) will be able to have an idea of what springs to try. I suspect as I'll be running ground effects that the springs will be 1000lb+ (certainly on the rear). At that stage we can work out if the dampers need removed, serviced and revalved accordingly. Brakes should hopefully involve new lines, pads, salve cylinders and that pedal box assembly. I'll likely be going for 17 or 18" (x10J) wheels with new rubber so we can get the power down and sort the corner weights.
- Bodywork/livery: again a fund stage & all down to Mr Codling Jr. We decide on a livery scheme and decide how Phoenix want to use the car for promo work etc. I've promised Rob Barnes a showstopper!
Housekeeping: I'm getting some heat from buyers - I'll pick up the lights and motors tomorrow (Brian is coming over in the avo). I'll also stick the delivery address on the box with the block and chargecooler for Magnus, and have UPS pick that up in the week. Also the main engine needs to be drained and tied to the block - Garry K will then send courier to pick up. The speedo needs to be removed for Darren and I'll pick that up in the week if okay.
All this by mid-March before the first timeattack event, which the team is already registered and really hope Phoenix still want to be involved with. I'm sure they must have some concerns re' the install but I have no doubt they can work round these and make work what is already £20K+ project. What I need reassurance on, now that I've vested this money, is that they're still enthusiastic and confident to get the job done. Will chat it all over with John L tomorrow.
Hopefully I'll feel more confident in my next update..
Thursday, October 26, 2006
MIA engine - phew! stress?
Phew! Been a bit of 'mare getting the engine through customs etc - jst waiting on courier's bank showing the BACS transfer I sent yesterday - pending that: crate is good to go for collection.. unfortunately I am now being charged £24 per day holding fee on top of the £416 charged (better than initial £2000 quoted tho)!!!
Hopefuly Phoenix can move quickly to get across to Prestwick and pick up the 370kg crate.
New site, merchandise shop well under way - new logos incorporated. Passed basic mock-up to Tom to work on a 'teaser' site.
I've now registered the car/team with Rob Barnes for the 'tuner class' for the UK time-attack series for next year. It's about 6 spaced-out rounds dotted around UK's tracks - will need to sit down and chat with JL what resource Phoenix have to support this next year but it's a great opportunity for John and group to promote the workshop as a 'tuner' on the aftermarket. Fingers crossed - given nature of the engine, I'll need regular mechanical support either way. Also need a flatbed to transport car/parts to events. I should have draft regs and dates, from Rob, over next month or so.
www.timeattack.co.uk
Hopefuly Phoenix can move quickly to get across to Prestwick and pick up the 370kg crate.
New site, merchandise shop well under way - new logos incorporated. Passed basic mock-up to Tom to work on a 'teaser' site.
I've now registered the car/team with Rob Barnes for the 'tuner class' for the UK time-attack series for next year. It's about 6 spaced-out rounds dotted around UK's tracks - will need to sit down and chat with JL what resource Phoenix have to support this next year but it's a great opportunity for John and group to promote the workshop as a 'tuner' on the aftermarket. Fingers crossed - given nature of the engine, I'll need regular mechanical support either way. Also need a flatbed to transport car/parts to events. I should have draft regs and dates, from Rob, over next month or so.
www.timeattack.co.uk
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Update - 24th Oct
Bit of a rollercoaster of a day..
Initially Barry's engine was supposed to have touched down on Saturday but no word was heard until today (Tuesday). Chased back through Barry who chased his courier who then contacted Phoenix who then contacted me, phew!
It turns out the engine was stuck in customs and being held in dock. Spoke to the shipper in Glasgow - customs'excise charge was going to work to almost £2K.. argh!
This was because they had used the invoice which showed the insurance value rather than what I had paid. Straight back onto phone with Barry who will duly send the correct invoice for the subsidised value paid. That's being faxed straight over to the lovely Elaine who has been great so far,
Hopefully tomorrow I can pay the cpl of hundred owed and once cleared then Phoenix guys can trip over to Prestwick to collect the engine as planned.. I'll be glad when the engine is safe n sound in the workshop.
On a brighter note - spoke to Martyn @ MVS - carbon bits coming along nicely - he has a cracking Group-C type wing that'll do the job and he hopes to tackle the front end over the winter. Rear diffuser is more or less good-to-go will be deivered over next few weeks. We also discussed a second skin roof panel come scoop that would ram air straight into the Da Vinci 2-bore. This wouldn't be very high but would work a treat...max air flow - minimal drag. The panel could be a complete section inc. engine cover.. Ultima eat your heart out. No massive rush as no plans to get the car into Gary's until end of Jan-Feb anyway.
Medical for race license all green - ards booked for November. One more check-box ticked!
Spoke to Rob Barnes - possibility we may have to replace the marguard front screen to comply with timeattack regs - should be confirmed by New Year.
Off to design a mock-up for Tom for the new website www.phoenixesprit.com
Drop in and buy lots - shop already updated: www.cafe-press.com/phoenixesprit
Initially Barry's engine was supposed to have touched down on Saturday but no word was heard until today (Tuesday). Chased back through Barry who chased his courier who then contacted Phoenix who then contacted me, phew!
It turns out the engine was stuck in customs and being held in dock. Spoke to the shipper in Glasgow - customs'excise charge was going to work to almost £2K.. argh!
This was because they had used the invoice which showed the insurance value rather than what I had paid. Straight back onto phone with Barry who will duly send the correct invoice for the subsidised value paid. That's being faxed straight over to the lovely Elaine who has been great so far,
Hopefully tomorrow I can pay the cpl of hundred owed and once cleared then Phoenix guys can trip over to Prestwick to collect the engine as planned.. I'll be glad when the engine is safe n sound in the workshop.
On a brighter note - spoke to Martyn @ MVS - carbon bits coming along nicely - he has a cracking Group-C type wing that'll do the job and he hopes to tackle the front end over the winter. Rear diffuser is more or less good-to-go will be deivered over next few weeks. We also discussed a second skin roof panel come scoop that would ram air straight into the Da Vinci 2-bore. This wouldn't be very high but would work a treat...max air flow - minimal drag. The panel could be a complete section inc. engine cover.. Ultima eat your heart out. No massive rush as no plans to get the car into Gary's until end of Jan-Feb anyway.
Medical for race license all green - ards booked for November. One more check-box ticked!
Spoke to Rob Barnes - possibility we may have to replace the marguard front screen to comply with timeattack regs - should be confirmed by New Year.
Off to design a mock-up for Tom for the new website www.phoenixesprit.com
Drop in and buy lots - shop already updated: www.cafe-press.com/phoenixesprit
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Update - 8th Oct 06
Started morning - 5am to watch Japan GP - Schuey's engine blew - pretty much handed c'ship to Alonso - not a great start to my day. I'm not tifosi but I'd like to see the old man go out with a 8th title - hopefully he can finish his last ever Gp with a win in Brazil.
LBM cafe-press goodies arrived - after a £9 customs and royal mail charge. However stuff looks good - BB cap, hoodie for wife and team shirt for moi. Guess what folks getting for Xmas this year (LBM goodie bag..lol) + gonna get the guys at the workshop some team shirts.
The great lotus sell-off continues - if all goes well I may find buyers for top end inc. TBs, injectors, BOV, chip etc. Also had some interest on the trannies and looks as if headlights and 2 spare rear wheels will find a home. Waiting on Garry Kemp to confirm back on the main engine. Turbo, c'cooler, spare block and ecu are sold. All money made towards the cause.
Still waiting on shipping costs from Barry - engine dimensions look ok so jst need to confirm G50 housing dimensions and adaptor plate.
Garage re-jigged ready for Esprit's return. Nothing better than a tidy workspace even if all work done down at Phoenix..lol : John & guys are doing a great job and I've no doubts they'll get the job done. News that they will reloom the whole car gave me a warm feeling inside. Jenny got some in-progress pics - will post asap.
Trailer sold to Rog - as soon as I add 1cm to the track on the car then it'd be useless anyway - hoping Pheonix will oblige for testing and most events.
Still exploring wheel-tire options - Stevei at Unique styling is looking into it - 17s look most likely but they need to be light and Garry will need to mod arches to fit but means they don't have to be mega wide as you can't get semi-slicks in silly ass wide rubber and slicks not eligible for timeattack..
LBM cafe-press goodies arrived - after a £9 customs and royal mail charge. However stuff looks good - BB cap, hoodie for wife and team shirt for moi. Guess what folks getting for Xmas this year (LBM goodie bag..lol) + gonna get the guys at the workshop some team shirts.
The great lotus sell-off continues - if all goes well I may find buyers for top end inc. TBs, injectors, BOV, chip etc. Also had some interest on the trannies and looks as if headlights and 2 spare rear wheels will find a home. Waiting on Garry Kemp to confirm back on the main engine. Turbo, c'cooler, spare block and ecu are sold. All money made towards the cause.
Still waiting on shipping costs from Barry - engine dimensions look ok so jst need to confirm G50 housing dimensions and adaptor plate.
Garage re-jigged ready for Esprit's return. Nothing better than a tidy workspace even if all work done down at Phoenix..lol : John & guys are doing a great job and I've no doubts they'll get the job done. News that they will reloom the whole car gave me a warm feeling inside. Jenny got some in-progress pics - will post asap.
Trailer sold to Rog - as soon as I add 1cm to the track on the car then it'd be useless anyway - hoping Pheonix will oblige for testing and most events.
Still exploring wheel-tire options - Stevei at Unique styling is looking into it - 17s look most likely but they need to be light and Garry will need to mod arches to fit but means they don't have to be mega wide as you can't get semi-slicks in silly ass wide rubber and slicks not eligible for timeattack..
Thursday, September 28, 2006
New LBM Racing Logo.. LBM film..? bumper off to MVS..>
To reflect the new collaboration with John Leitch's workshop at Pheonix Honda Grangemouth - I've put together a new team logo - this is already reflected in the shop and will appear in the website and blog template soon.
LBM - the movie?
This google video gives me an idea to do a video diary of the conversion at Pheonix - will speak to John about that. Also need to speak to F&M wghether they'd want to chronicle or feature the conversion. very cool car BTW - twin GT35R turbo Ford GT...
http://video.google.co.uk/videoplay?docid=-3573124479659719523&q=ford+gt
Front bumper section sent off to MVS today - 2 rolls of gaffer tape and yards of bubble wrap. Looking to put a fuel cell in the front which means Martyn (MVS) could close the front intake for lower drag.. will speak to him next week re that - in fact it may be better to use the bumper to make a mould and produce lighter skins redesigned for the smoother front end but depends on cost..
Shakin n Bakin: Project Pheonix-Esprit has started
Well after a chat with John Leitch (www.pheonixcar.co.uk) it's official - all systems go go go..
Eleanor safely down to Pheonix Honda (Grangemouth) Tuesday night thoughat first she was too wide to fit their trailer.. car needs spacers for the rear callipers but we managed by swapping to a small front wheel and a bit of muscle.
- work commencing in earnest Monday.. once done car will also be used for promo work for the workshop/group so will also get tarted up inside and a new Auotecnique livery outside (www.autotecnique.com) but that's all down the line. Initially its about getting the set-up to work but lots to do.. However I'm hoping we'll have some sort of small get together for the unveiling (or at least turning the engine over).. down in Grangemouth.
Very nice premises (prev VAG) and a nice big workshop. Great guys down there who are happy to take jst about anything on and see this project as an opportunity to show what they can do. Going to sort out electrics as well as the conversion - just what Eleanor needs as she's a bloody shambles!!
Engine hopefully over in next 10 days or so. Spoke to Barry last night to finalise and will get figures and bank details tonight as well as give Barry Pheonix's address for delivery..
Shakin n Bakin'
Eleanor safely down to Pheonix Honda (Grangemouth) Tuesday night thoughat first she was too wide to fit their trailer.. car needs spacers for the rear callipers but we managed by swapping to a small front wheel and a bit of muscle.
- work commencing in earnest Monday.. once done car will also be used for promo work for the workshop/group so will also get tarted up inside and a new Auotecnique livery outside (www.autotecnique.com) but that's all down the line. Initially its about getting the set-up to work but lots to do.. However I'm hoping we'll have some sort of small get together for the unveiling (or at least turning the engine over).. down in Grangemouth.
Very nice premises (prev VAG) and a nice big workshop. Great guys down there who are happy to take jst about anything on and see this project as an opportunity to show what they can do. Going to sort out electrics as well as the conversion - just what Eleanor needs as she's a bloody shambles!!
Engine hopefully over in next 10 days or so. Spoke to Barry last night to finalise and will get figures and bank details tonight as well as give Barry Pheonix's address for delivery..
Shakin n Bakin'
Saturday, September 23, 2006
LBM Shop now live.. at last
Click here for to buy LBM racing shirts, caps and goodies - reasonable prices all handled by Cafe Press. Support Team LBM and come and shop securely online.
http://www.cafepress.com/lbmracing
I finally updated everything with the new logos - look good imho - hope you agree!
http://www.cafepress.com/lbmracing
I finally updated everything with the new logos - look good imho - hope you agree!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Update: Thursday
Making some progress -
Spoke to both workshop and Barry over at B&A in San Antonio, Texas.
Final costs/specs for engine coming in on budget - hopefully enough to also source a lsd G50 tranny, which will work well, are strong and rated to 700bhp. Barry also mentioned one idea would be to have the fuel cell mounted in the front compartment.
Great news is that Demon Tweeks stock Sunoco 114 NASCAR grade fuel, which is what Barry has that engine set-up for. It cost £68 + delivery for 25 litres [gulp].. but worth it..
Workshop coming to pick-up Esprit on Monday so they ca start to strip engine in lieu of engine/tranny arriving.
Spoke to MVS - sending front bumper down so they can modify and add front splitter/diffuser arrangement - rear diffuser almost complete.
Full engine spec to follow.
Spoke to both workshop and Barry over at B&A in San Antonio, Texas.
Final costs/specs for engine coming in on budget - hopefully enough to also source a lsd G50 tranny, which will work well, are strong and rated to 700bhp. Barry also mentioned one idea would be to have the fuel cell mounted in the front compartment.
Great news is that Demon Tweeks stock Sunoco 114 NASCAR grade fuel, which is what Barry has that engine set-up for. It cost £68 + delivery for 25 litres [gulp].. but worth it..
Workshop coming to pick-up Esprit on Monday so they ca start to strip engine in lieu of engine/tranny arriving.
Spoke to MVS - sending front bumper down so they can modify and add front splitter/diffuser arrangement - rear diffuser almost complete.
Full engine spec to follow.
Friday, September 15, 2006
LBM goes NASCAR..?
A fortunate conversation with Gary @ Auotecnique meant talking to his pop over in San Antonio. Texas. Barry is ex-NASCAR and owns a couple of speical 358ci v8s. These are no run o' the mill neither - big power and can rev.. 105 octane, steel bottom ends, special blocks, titanium runngin gear. awesome spec - mouth watering even.. all about crunching figures.. £35,000 in parts for approx £9K.. can't be bad.,
On top of that got to get it across - then cost of conversion of course..
Which led to the second fruitful discussion with a a certain service manager, whom Gary put me onto, at a certain local franchise - they are prepared to take on the project and subsidise the build for the profile - the prospect of a NASCAR engine'd Esprit is apparently..an attractive one - even thanking me for the opportunity. fair enough.
They intend to support the project and work out the particular issues involved with this sort of project - having that sort of suppot is great. 4 main issues being: space, cooling, tranny and weight effect on chassis. All addressable but not without time and money - the garage deal can hopefully make this happen.
Hopefully I can get the Esprit down to the workshop over the next fortnight so work can begin - have engine shipped over in next 2-3 weeks and let the fun begin.. if it gets going then I'll cover progress here wwith pics.. culminating with the first engine tests and finally starting the engine over in car.. wooooooooo!
I also sent MVS an email to keep the aero side moving along. Finally Gary will hopefully bring it all together, make the body mods, fit Martyn's aero bits and finish the car in the sponsored colours come NASCAR racer look.. should be very IMSA looking circa 1990s.. should be awesome
650bhp p/tonne.. !
8000-9000rpm
On top of that got to get it across - then cost of conversion of course..
Which led to the second fruitful discussion with a a certain service manager, whom Gary put me onto, at a certain local franchise - they are prepared to take on the project and subsidise the build for the profile - the prospect of a NASCAR engine'd Esprit is apparently..an attractive one - even thanking me for the opportunity. fair enough.
They intend to support the project and work out the particular issues involved with this sort of project - having that sort of suppot is great. 4 main issues being: space, cooling, tranny and weight effect on chassis. All addressable but not without time and money - the garage deal can hopefully make this happen.
Hopefully I can get the Esprit down to the workshop over the next fortnight so work can begin - have engine shipped over in next 2-3 weeks and let the fun begin.. if it gets going then I'll cover progress here wwith pics.. culminating with the first engine tests and finally starting the engine over in car.. wooooooooo!
I also sent MVS an email to keep the aero side moving along. Finally Gary will hopefully bring it all together, make the body mods, fit Martyn's aero bits and finish the car in the sponsored colours come NASCAR racer look.. should be very IMSA looking circa 1990s.. should be awesome
650bhp p/tonne.. !
8000-9000rpm
Thursday, August 31, 2006
LBM Shop almost ready.. delays to engine/turbo
Will set-up a link to the new LBM shop for various goodies and apparel. Using Cafe-Press in the US - should work a treat. May help attract sponsors - can't harm and will make eays Xmas gifts.. even includes a baby line,,lol
No word back from V8 folks, now prices back from John Welch and Dunc can't commit to a slot in the workshop as he's floored... light at the end of the tunnel...?
still looking, still in the dark.
No word back from V8 folks, now prices back from John Welch and Dunc can't commit to a slot in the workshop as he's floored... light at the end of the tunnel...?
still looking, still in the dark.
Aeromods - some progress @ MVS
Pics of rear diffuser and undertray - MVS' access to an Esprit is really helping. How cool is that!!!
MVS' rear diffuser plan
The advantage of the aero mods should really pay dividend on the faster tracks. Hopefully progress on the front diffuser and rear wing will also move along. I've also canvassed Martyn @ MVS to make a lightweight carbon roof panel and rear hatch.
MVS' rear diffuser plan
The advantage of the aero mods should really pay dividend on the faster tracks. Hopefully progress on the front diffuser and rear wing will also move along. I've also canvassed Martyn @ MVS to make a lightweight carbon roof panel and rear hatch.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Just imagine - letstorque!
Imagine - if I could hit both power and weight targets - hypothetically speaking of course..
http://www.letstorquebhp.com/calculator.asp
Power at Flywheel (BHP) : 525 @ 1.2bar on T04E Stage 4
Weight without Driver (KG) : 980
Power to Weight Ratio (BHP Per Ton) : 544.31
0 - 60 (Secs) : 3.20
0 - 100 (Secs) : 6.75
60 - 100 (Secs) : 3.55
Quarter Mile (Secs) : 11.27
Terminal Speed (MPH) : 129.25
Drag Strip Quarter Mile (Secs) : 11.17
Drag Strip Terminal Speed (MPH) : 130.73
or at max boost: (est.)
Power at Flywheel (BHP) : 600 @ 1.5bar on T04E Stage 4
Weight without Driver (KG) : 980
Power to Weight Ratio (BHP Per Ton) : 622.07
0 - 60 (Secs) : 2.98
0 - 100 (Secs) : 6.07
60 - 100 (Secs) : 3.09
Quarter Mile (Secs) : 10.98
Terminal Speed (MPH) : 134.47
Drag Strip Quarter Mile (Secs) : 10.88
Drag Strip Terminal Speed (MPH) : 136.01
WOW!!!! If I coudl get the traction and not blow the gearbox..lol :o)
http://www.letstorquebhp.com/calculator.asp
Welcome to letstorquebhp.com, the site about theory acceleration figures for standard, modified and yet-to-be-tested performance cars. Using very limited data we predict 0-60mph, 0-100mph and ¼ mile (with ET) figures for road legal cars within a few tenths of its correct real times. The main aim of the site is for a fun comparison between all types of performance cars, from standard to the highly modified. How quick is yours?……Use our guide lists (above) for your car’s weight, and then check out our performance calculator.
Power at Flywheel (BHP) : 525 @ 1.2bar on T04E Stage 4
Weight without Driver (KG) : 980
Power to Weight Ratio (BHP Per Ton) : 544.31
0 - 60 (Secs) : 3.20
0 - 100 (Secs) : 6.75
60 - 100 (Secs) : 3.55
Quarter Mile (Secs) : 11.27
Terminal Speed (MPH) : 129.25
Drag Strip Quarter Mile (Secs) : 11.17
Drag Strip Terminal Speed (MPH) : 130.73
or at max boost: (est.)
Power at Flywheel (BHP) : 600 @ 1.5bar on T04E Stage 4
Weight without Driver (KG) : 980
Power to Weight Ratio (BHP Per Ton) : 622.07
0 - 60 (Secs) : 2.98
0 - 100 (Secs) : 6.07
60 - 100 (Secs) : 3.09
Quarter Mile (Secs) : 10.98
Terminal Speed (MPH) : 134.47
Drag Strip Quarter Mile (Secs) : 10.88
Drag Strip Terminal Speed (MPH) : 136.01
WOW!!!! If I coudl get the traction and not blow the gearbox..lol :o)
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Merde: Uprating the Renault UN-1.. no way round it!
Spoke with Kev at GTO Engineering who use the Derek Bell UN1 5-speed conversion - looks like I'll def need to upgrade plus drop in a Quaife atb l.s.d.
more money.. £2K prb once VAT and installed,, merde!
more money.. £2K prb once VAT and installed,, merde!
aero evolution.. ground effects undertray
spoke with MVS - firm who is making the rear diffuser/undertray - they're instead going to make me a full undertray, diffuser etc to fit the Esprit - 4' 6" long x 4' wide to fit under engine bay then another section under front of car to tie up main underbody whcih is pretty flat already.. they have access to an Esprit to get shape etc right.. They also know where to cut the correct holes in the tray to improve suction.
Larger front splitter will bring the car down an inch at the front plus more aggressive top wing in due course. With some adjustments to the suspension and slicks she should go well... eventually.
Larger front splitter will bring the car down an inch at the front plus more aggressive top wing in due course. With some adjustments to the suspension and slicks she should go well... eventually.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
John Welch T04E Stage4 upgrade (notes)
This will give Garry K a basis to build a 910 for me:
Engine spec:
1-2 mm over size intale valves
104 intake cam moved 4 degrees
370ccpm mains 440ccpm secondarys
43 psi rail pressure
Open exhaust
Electronic stand alone boost controller (no fuzzy logic BS)
Good compression numbers..
Turbo: Garret T04E
T-3 turbine housing with a special internal wastegate setup that has a 3" v-band discharge. Compressor side has a 3" inlet and the normal 2.35 outlet to go to the charge cooler. Still uses a ceramic BB centersection. There is a bit of lag over some smaller turbos, but still less than the stock Sport 300. Highest we have tuned to so far is 441hp at the wheels.
I've also got a 3" down pipe for it, you can use as the start of an exhaust system, or if you have left hand exit, we have a one piece pipe with an additional o2 bung for a wide-band sensor.
I have several of the turbos from the original X180r's and what bothers me is how small they are. People claim that they were making 400-500hp on these engines, but the turbos are smaller that what I sell people for use on their street cars.
We can supply mem-cals or EPROM's with code if your's already have a socket.
John Welch
Engine spec:
1-2 mm over size intale valves
104 intake cam moved 4 degrees
370ccpm mains 440ccpm secondarys
43 psi rail pressure
Open exhaust
Electronic stand alone boost controller (no fuzzy logic BS)
Good compression numbers..
Turbo: Garret T04E
T-3 turbine housing with a special internal wastegate setup that has a 3" v-band discharge. Compressor side has a 3" inlet and the normal 2.35 outlet to go to the charge cooler. Still uses a ceramic BB centersection. There is a bit of lag over some smaller turbos, but still less than the stock Sport 300. Highest we have tuned to so far is 441hp at the wheels.
I've also got a 3" down pipe for it, you can use as the start of an exhaust system, or if you have left hand exit, we have a one piece pipe with an additional o2 bung for a wide-band sensor.
I have several of the turbos from the original X180r's and what bothers me is how small they are. People claim that they were making 400-500hp on these engines, but the turbos are smaller that what I sell people for use on their street cars.
We can supply mem-cals or EPROM's with code if your's already have a socket.
John Welch
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