My "No it's not a Supra" Build

[N1vek]

Allo! My name is Kevin and this my Build Thread.

This is going to be my 1st official Project car. Yay me!

It's a 1986 Mitsubishi Starion ESi-R.

WTF is that you say?

"The Mitsubishi Starion is a two-door, turbocharged four-cylinder rear-wheel drive four-seat sports car that was in production from 1982 to 1990. It was also marketed in North America as the Conquest under the Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth names " Gotta love Wikipedia.

Just like the KA24E, the Starion's G54B is also a truck engine. The Starion came with a 2.6L SOHC 4 banger. The same engine found on the Mighty Max, Dodge Ram 50 and early Caravan models minus the turbo. From factory, it came with an LSD, ABS, independent suspension on all four and a bunch of other mumbo jumbo like "Turbo" written all over it.

Now initially, when I went to Seattle for the summer, I was looking for a Datsun 240z or a 1st Gen Celica, but most of them were rusted beyond my repair skills to restore, or out of my price range. Same goes for the 510 wagons/2 doors. I also searched for notch back Foxbody Mustangs, but just like Calgary, the notch backs prices are inflated like crazy. Also, all the MK3 Supra's I wanted were non-turbo, automatic and those gaudy red interior. I searched for E30's, S13 coupes, FCs, and Corolla's but they all had the stupid drift tax on their price.

Now, the 1st time I ever saw a Starion was on Cannon Ball Run 2. It was driven by Richard Kiel along with Jackie Chan as a Mitsubishi Engineer. The car in the movie was pretty much Japan's version of James Bond's Aston Martin. Seeing how I never saw the car in person before, I decided to search it up on Craigslist to see if there's any for sale. 1 result came up. Upon viewing the add, I fell in love right away. Unlike the Cannon Ball Run 2 Starion, this was the newer, WIDEBODY model. The wide fenders, factory wheels, interior and the pop up headlights, I MUST HAVE IT.

I emailed the guy and to my dismay, someone was already coming to pick up. Now that hurt. Went to sleep early that day and was awoken the next day by a phone call... The guys who were going to pick it up couldn't make it, so I grab my stuff and drove to Olympia, WA with my Dad and Cousin.

The owner told me that he bought it from some lady and that it had a blown gasket. His plan was to transfer all the parts to his other Starion, but was swamped with his other projects so he decided to sell it. (He had Volvo 240 wagon turbo, an old Dodge A100 Truck, and some old VW car in the garage.) I ended up buying the car for a steal. Oh, and the car WAS purple, but the clear coat kinda faded so It's like a matte finish dark purple now.

Being parked for almost 2 years, we decided to rent a car dolly to tow it back to my Cousin's place. Went to the nearest U-Haul and tried to rent a Tow Dolly, but apparently, the Ford Explorer: the SUV we brought, was notorious for rolling over in the past, so U-Haul pretty much told us to scram. They did though, tell us another rental place down the street so we decided to go there. Pulled up the place and the 1st I saw was an Orange Datsun 240z parked on the other side of the street with a FOR SALE sign.

http://images.wikia.com/fallout/images/d/d9/FUUUU.jpg

It was For Sale for $2000 and some guy from the rental place told me that it's been there for a while now. Oh, the guy I talked to drives a 1st gen Celica liftback. WOW. Freakin' Olympia... Anyways, towed the car back to my Cousin's place and parked it. Bought a battery for the car and on the 1st click, it started. Had major compressor surge and A LOT OF WHITE SMOKE coming from the exhaust, so we decided to park it while we worked on my cousin's KA24DE swap on his S13.

Long story short, this is the start of my 1st ever, official project car!

Holy wall of text Batman!

Now finally, I would like to introduce ya'll to my car.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6165/6131866591_d574267d18_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6204/6132417032_b32643f4b9_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6161/6131868301_a522753713_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6063/6131862043_3d16cc435a_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6131864105_77d0097f4e_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6061/6131867747_1cc577948a_z.jpg

[Kloubek]

VERY cool. It looks like it needs a fair amount of TLC, but a nice find nevertheless. The engine should respond well to a build.

This car never got the exposure it probably should have - considering how competitive it was in its class back in the day. They look a little odd, but totally original, and nothing like the Supra imo.

[N1vek]

Originally posted by Kloubek
VERY cool. It looks like it needs a fair amount of TLC, but a nice find nevertheless. The engine should respond well to a build.

This car never got the exposure it probably should have - considering how competitive it was in its class back in the day. They look a little odd, but totally original, and nothing like the Supra imo.

Haha thanks! Definitely needs a new paint and a few electrical bugs worked out, but nothing major. Gotta love the fact that the body has no rust whatsover. It's kinda sad that the Starion sales never really "bloomed" that much. We could have had a 4WD version :poosie:

[Neil4Speed]

Very cool man! Love those seats

[zipdoa]

More shots of the interior pls. Are the knee supports extendable? Those seats look nice.

Being a german car enthusiast, I can totally see how you'd mix it up with MK3 Supra. Looks almost like an FC rear end too. All in all it's a good looking machine, I really like the fenders.

[N1vek]

Well, after we finished my cousin's KA swap and found out that he has a defective engine harness, we decided to work on my car. Pulled out the tiny 12a turbo and exhaust manifold, only to find cylinder 4' exhaust port covered in oil. Didn't get a picture, but heres an engine bay shot.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6131865219_b2cfec6bb8_z.jpg

As you can see, the engine bay needs some love. Paint and organizing the wires is in order. The weird thing about these car is their Throttle body injection system and the fact that it only has 2 injectors. I believe the stock ones are rated a 850cc?

Anyway, after taking off the exhaust manifold, turbo and valve cover, My dad found out what was causing the smoke problem. The valve guide on cylinder 4, intake side, was broken some how. For shit and giggles, my Dad and I tried to glue it back on with JB weld. It worked! For 15 minutes, but during those heavenly 15 minutes, I was able to drive it and rip through the back roads of Kent Wa. Boy was it fun! Just before I reached my cousin's street, the JB weld came off and the smoke once again began.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6151/6132413930_d6c48c3de6_z.jpg
Look at how clean the head is! The previous owner said that the owner before him had the engine rebuilt.

The plan after that was to put the car on a trailer and tow it back to Calgary, but due to the insane fee U-Haul tried to charge us and the fact that our Exploder is banned from pulling U-Haul trailers, I decided to leave the car in Kent, WA while I return back to Calgary. I also registered the car under my name in Washington, there would be less hassle at the border. In the mean while, I worked and I got a full Engine Gasket Kit, a Timing chain/balance shaft kit and valve guides for the intake side.

Now the story leads to present day.

Tomorrow, on Sept. 11, my Dad and I are flying back to Washington to fix the car and hopefully drive it back home. The plan is to pull out the engine, replace the broken valve guide and change all the gaskets and the timing chain. Also, I plan to clean and prep the engine bay and paint it, sort out the the tiny electrical bugs, and organize the engine bay wires. Until then, PEACE!

Oh, heres a clip of the Starion on Cannonball run 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8qAkUA8ZF0

[kvg]

Cool car. I have only seen one of there once:thumbsup:

[N1vek]

Originally posted by zipdoa
More shots of the interior pls. Are the knee supports extendable? Those seats look nice.

Being a german car enthusiast, I can totally see how you'd mix it up with MK3 Supra. Looks almost like an FC rear end too. All in all it's a good looking machine, I really like the fenders.

I don't have any more interior shots right now, but will try to get some tomorrow and I believe they can extend and you can change the angle too.

Every time I showed the car to people, the 1st thing they think of is a Supra. Kinda got tired trying to explain that it's a Starion and they always end up with a puzzled look. So I just tell them that it's not a Supra.

[schocker]

I like your supra
http://i51.tinypic.com/f9gv8y.png
I have always thought the starions were neat. Keep us updated.

[b_t]

very sexy car, one of the most underappreciated 80s cars out there.. so good looking and they can be real quick too. I've only ever seen one in person

[black13]

Interesting. Never knew about this car.

But yea does look alot like the supra. Mix of the MKII and the III. I'd say get some newer mitsubishi badges for the front and back and I'm sure people will stop bugging you.

[know1edge]

1st two pictures look like an FC

[ekguy]

Starion? It's what it looks like. Could be wrong. Knew someone with one a while back.

[Twin_Cam_Turbo]

Those things are pretty rare, I've seen like two in my lifetime rolling around.

[Maxt]

The starion is a pretty nice looking car actually, I always liked the exterior... The bad part is that 2.6 litre... My Father had a Dodge Raider with that motor, it ate itself on a regular basis, broken cylinder walls, heads, head gaskets etc etc..
Perfect car for a 1uzfe swap..

[A3GTiVR6SC]

Sweet/rare car! Perfect car for 4G63T swap!;)
That engine bay was made for it.. :poosie:
http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/8798/starion4g63.jpg

[N1vek]

Thanks for the support fellas!

The plan for the car is to get it running reliably, freshen up the suspension and update the exterior/paint. Basically the "Restoration" stage. Then maybe go for 250-300whp once everything is settled. As for the 4G63T Starion, outside of NA, Starions came with it, but the older SOHC version.
See below:
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a339/ricethief/Image0661.jpg

Maybe when the "Mighty" G54B kicks the can i'll swap a modern 4G63T, but for now let's just hope the car makes the drive back to Calgary next week.

[StreetRacerX]

Good luck! Thats a rare find, hope to see you out and about and at some meets

[N1vek]

Originally posted by StreetRacerX
Good luck! Thats a rare find, hope to see you out and about and at some meets

I'll try to make it to the weekly Honda/Beyond meets as much as I can once it's driveable in Calgary. I was planning on bringing it out on the Sept. 11 Cruise, but it took forever for the Car Title in Washington to arrive so everything got postponed.

[N1vek]

Sept. 11, 2001

So, after being stuck and questioned by the US Customs for a good hour about my big box of car parts, my Dad and I finally made it to Washington. 1st thing we did after we got picked up by my cousin was hit up Autozone and grabbed me some paint, sand paper and a gallon of degreaser.

It was nice seeing my car again. As requested, I took some interior pictures.
Note: The car's interior hasn't been cleaned for years, but it doesn't look that bad actually.

That tear on the right needs some lovin'
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6154/6139446622_1521b68b20_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6077/6139679154_34036ed3cb_z.jpg

I plan on replacing the steering wheel and painting the silver bezel black once everything is running.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6086/6139680594_de189fa086_z.jpg


This is currently how the car looks under sunlight. Faded clear/paint, damaged air dam, and a tiny dent on the fender. The wheels needs some restoration attention too.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6139682274_ed75a5ec1a_z.jpg


So while my Dad and cousin worked on the S13, I started taking off the exhaust and intake . After sometime, this is how it looked.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6167/6139132693_0d20d94202_z.jpg

When I took the head off, I got a pretty neat surprise! The car has some aftermarket forged pistons. It also seems like the car is running pretty rich or consuming oil. I'm just going to replace the valve seals and hope for the best.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6141241382_532ac05d1d_z.jpg
It's got a HEMI!

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6180/6140692411_ce1836ab0c_z.jpg

I also found out that my head is an M28 casting, meaning no Jet valves. The stock head came with jet valves and were knows to crack because of them.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6180/6141246354_893717ebd0_z.jpg



1G DSM BOV I bought from the junkyard a while back. I figured it will be better than the ebay BOV that came with the car, plus the piping is the same size as the soft pipes on it right now.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6071/6141250678_64dd8aa49f_z.jpg

[n1zm0]

Originally posted by Maxt
The bad part is that 2.6 litre... My Father had a Dodge Raider with that motor, it ate itself on a regular basis, broken cylinder walls, heads, head gaskets etc etc..


:werd: my pops had a second gen Dodge Challenger a.k.a Mitsubishi Galant lambda coupe/ Plymouth Sapporo and all i can remember when i was younger was it having to goto the shop for nonstop engine work on that Mitsu 4G5 Astron.

but project looks very interesting OP - subscribed, most of its life was spent in Washington then?

[cort@urbanX]

Super cool car, congrats on finding one. I've never been a huge Mitsu fan but I've been a big Starion fan ever since I saw the tan one that always made an appearance on Seinfeld.

http://www.imcdb.org/i310715.jpg

[N1vek]

Haha yeah, the 2.6 isn't really known for it's reliability, but i'm hoping to squeeze out 250whp-ish RELIABLY.

Anyways, manage to get the timing chain assembly out and replaced the broken valve guide. Also cleaned the engine bay up a little and removed the AC stuff. Just need to paint the engine bay then put her back together.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6159/6142610507_f3bbd46785_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6155/6143163416_a9ffe27ba0_z.jpg

Here's a closer picture of the the TBI setup
Note the 2 injectors.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6078/6142610321_2d342120da_z.jpg

[N1vek]

She's finally in Calgary!
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6165/6154324675_625e4e8504_z.jpg

I'll post some pictures and the full update tomorrow.

[Sakujo]

badass car mate!
gotta love starions, came with some of the best stock wheel width/offset too

[dirtsniffer]

dude, minty supra!

[JZS_147]

sick supra bro, you gonna do a 2J swap?

[xnvy]

Originally posted by N1vek
I'll post some pictures and the full update tomorrow. MOAR!!!, but in all seriousness really nice looking car man. Good luck with it.

[N1vek]

PICTURELESS UPDATE YAY!

Sorry for the LOOOONG gap between the updates fellas.

As promise, here's the run down on what happened during the trip.

Seattle to Blaine
Holy crap. First of all, Vacuum issues. Without any diagrams or reference, we just plug/re routed the lines and hoped for the best. Also, the DSM BOV I installed was leaking like crazy. The only time it would hold boost was during WOT. The vacuum of the 2.6 is waay to strong for the BOV. The slightest lift from the throttle would cause it to leak like crazy, but we soldiered on.

We had some *tiny* problems at the border. We totally missed the US customs and went straight through to the Canadian Customs. The cute/intimidating custom lady wouldn't believe the price I paid for the car and kept asking if any part was new. I told them, aside from the valve guide and timing chain kit, everything else came with the car when I purchased it. They also told us that if I don't report back to the US customs, My car and I would be in some sort of no fly list, but for cars. They inspected the car and after paying $14 for tax, we headed back to the USA.

Ah yes, the US custom. Inside the office, we explained how we missed the US customs and that I'm trying to import a car from the states. The officer told us that there's a $2000 fine for what we done and told us to sit down and wait. LONGEST 10 MINUTES OF MY LIFE.My Dad was just about to lose it, but managed to stay quiet long enough for the officer to give us our papers, tell us that he was joking and that we're all set to go. HOLY CRAP. This guy.

Blaine to Calgary
After the border scare, we went to fill up my freshly imported baby. The $1.50/L price for premium gas almost made me cry, but I held it in. Like a man. The car was still having vacuum issues that caused it to run rough, at some long down hill in BC (Yes I know, very vague) the car died. We tried starting it while coasting, but she just wouldn't start. (I think the cylinders got flooded due to the fact that when the BOV vents, the car runs crazy rich. Should have left the factory turbo plumbing untouched.) We coasted to a stop by a truck shop to work on the car. At this point, I was starting to doubt my car. I felt SO SAD. I felt like the "okay" guy. After a loose strut nut, tire rubbing, exhaust scrapping, and missing axle shaft cir clip, I seriously thought it was game over. Out of desperation, I started praying to the Automotive gods that Jessie from The Fast and the Furious was praying too...and I think it worked! We finally got the vacuum lines figured out and she was finally running smoothly.

Once we reached the BC-AB border, we finally tapped into her potential. Even with all the tools and misc. parts at the back, she was still pulling hard up hill. When we entered Calgary, I was just amazed. For a 25 year old car that got stored for a couple years, dissected and put back together outdoors and then driven a couple of blocks before a 1000+ KM journey, she fared pretty well.

Summer
I drove the car over the summer as much as I could. Fixing little things such as the axle, air dam, boost leak to an extent (crushing the BOV) and some wiring issues. Made the car as reliable as I could and in doing so, I was able to drive it for long distances without any problems. She still has some tiny problems such as the cold start issue, tiny transmission leak, worn clutch, boost and fuel gauge not working, and a bit of burning oil during start up, but since summer has ended, I stored her for the winter.

Winter
During the winter months, I plan on stockpiling parts and eventually work on it when the weather permits. Mostly suspension upgrades/replacements, interior, and more boost from (from 10psi to 15). When spring hits, maybe some exterior work, but to be honest, I'm kinda digging the faded plum purple and rattyness of the car. Plus I haven't decided what color to color it. I plan on driving the car till the engine blows and then from there, I'll start thinking about an engine swap.

Sorry for the wall of text. Do people even read this?

[GT4rally]

I have always thought these were bad-ass looking cars ever since I saw a new one in a Mitsubishi showroom in Spokane back in 1988!

Too bad they were never imported to Canada, cuz I wanted one badly!

[N1vek]

SACREBLEU!

http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/041/343/index.php20110724-22047-58b7hk.png

Your eyes aren't deceiving you, Tis' an update!

Over the winter, I've been slowly buying parts for the "Supra".

First thing on my list, bought an E-brake cable thinking only the passenger side was seized. Turns out, the driver side were seized too. What a troll car.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7095/7231330786_c817460c8c_c.jpg

Next on the list was another pair of 8" wide rear rims to put up front from a fella in Minnesota.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7104/7231327738_0e4390e638_c.jpg

Here's the 7" previously on the front. The Denny's card was the only thing in my wallet with no personal info, plus everyone love Denny's.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7226/7231315708_2c9aa31506_c.jpg

Here's the 8" going up front.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5327/7231308402_d3a28aeb7b_c.jpg

8" mounted on a 205/55/r16 tires. Previously mounted on the 7". Small stretch, but nothing too gaudy.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7087/7231323074_125fcfbce1_c.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7231300088_a50e171f85_c.jpg
Looking down the front fender.

Third on the list, one of my favourite purchase.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8020/7231294728_a4ffcf80c6_c.jpg
D2 Racing RS Coilovers
Rears are pretty much a straight bolt on, front requires cutting of the original strut and welding.

Rear struts removed.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8023/7231289316_43848b5e6c_c.jpg

Rear D2's installed
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7218/7231282458_11a2e034f9_c.jpg

Front struts being cut.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7075/7306106510_584d7d5a0f_c.jpg

Spindles and D2 tubes prepped for pressing and welding.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7222/7306102220_a23770dc4e_c.jpg

Pressed on.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8166/7306098776_a9405a71d7_c.jpg

Welded and ready for paint!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8014/7306096746_6fe0f32387_c.jpg

More updates coming soon...

[Darell_n]

I like the welding next to the 'Do no heat' decal. jk, looks good.

[N1vek]

Fronts before the coils,
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5442/7231305520_9cebb6ec63_c.jpg

After.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8021/7464808422_88efeac42f_c.jpg

Rears before the coils,
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7214/7231297184_e2694b1d95_c.jpg

After
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8018/7306094966_a869854627_c.jpg


How she sits now.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8002/7464816878_f881299529_c.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7269/7464811184_c93995f86b_c.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8020/7464815252_dcde1a8ec6_c.jpg

Front camber plates
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8166/7452319226_a0b35aedd0_c.jpg

Camber plates for the rear. Didn't install it yet cause the rear camber doesn't look too excessive.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7118/7452307922_bbe7e562bb_c.jpg

I still need to get the fenders rolled and do an alignment, but I'll wait till Techno Toy Tuning finishes the 1st ever batch of RCA for the Starion/Conquest.

[N1vek]

My car's been slowly leaking oil ever since I drove her home from Washington.
The culprits: The rear main seal, and the input and output shaft seals on the tranny.

I wish Rock Auto gave better shipping deal...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7274/7452305686_34b9c5bee6_c.jpg


Then, I wanted to get more out of the small stock 12a Turbo so I decided to grab some "Vroom Vroom"
parts.

Started off with a proven NXS MBC
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8142/7452317732_7e1bec5d1d_c.jpg


Picked up a MAF-T w/ a 3" GM MAF for a 1G DSM. Works quite well with the Starion.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8015/7452303938_9135c95547_c.jpg

Add together a GM MAF, an AHP, a cone filter I had lying around and some couplers, and you get this:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7264/7452323848_4d9f48478d_c.jpg

Picked up an AEM wideband from a Beyond member...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7226/7306087578_af35220a92_c.jpg

and a matching boost gauge and some silicone vacuum hose to go along with it.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8028/7452330896_bef592843c_c.jpg

My cheap man's radio bezel with the gauges installed. Can you believe that some guy wanted over $60 + shipping for an aluminum version? Twenty Dollars, a trip to Home Depot and some cutting and cursing gives you:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8006/7464821322_6bcdd38073_c.jpg
It still needs paint and some trim, but...
http://www.reactionface.info/sites/default/files/images/YvEN9.png

[N1vek]

I've been meaning to clean up the wiring job in the engine bay for some time now and after seeing an amazingly done wire tuck on some Honda during Driven, (and with some urge from my Dad) finally decided to bite the bullet.

WIRES: They're everywhere!
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8153/7452340564_3baed15c24_c.jpg

Saw some guy's wire tuck on a Starion forum and thought, why not.
Pulled the fenders and bumpers
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7252/7452334940_e6fabf6f1a_c.jpg

LABELS and LABELINGS
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8010/7452301464_df1dcbf853_c.jpg

After some grunting and begging, I was able to pull the harness from the engine bay to the fender.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8147/7452333332_a0f031fbf9_c.jpg

And since I was there already, decided to delete the ABS and some random AC and emission junk.
END RESULTS:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7274/7452297092_da2ddb5e07_c.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7255/7452322200_ea0192ba0f_c.jpg

My face after driving it for the first time and raising the boost from 10 psi to 16 psi:





http://weknowmemes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/me-gusta-original1.png





It still needs a bit of fine tuning with the MAF-T, and my blinkers don't blink for some reason, but overall I think it was a success.

http://www.memetshirts.org/product_images/uploaded_images/freddie-mercury-rage-pose.png

*Sorry for using too much memes, but they really do express how I feel.

[v2kai]

wire tuck is a huge improvement:thumbsup: lookin good

[toastgremlin]

I saw a Conquest driving around Calgary a few years ago but really haven't seen any Starions yet. I'm glad you brought one up - I've always thought they were much more handsome than the Supras, so I'm surprised at the comparison.

[gyromonkey]

Saw the Car tonight it looked killer with the coils on it, Had a quick chat with the owners Pretty cool to see this in person

Sweet build man

[xtreme prelude]

how the car coming, i used to have an 87 atlantic blue one a few years ago until it was tboned and written off. i am still looking for another one though.

[ekguy]

love the updates haha. Keep it up. This is a sweet build. love it!!

:thumbsup: :bigpimp:

[n1zm0]

Originally posted by ekguy
love the updates haha. Keep it up. This is a sweet build. love it!!

:thumbsup: :bigpimp:

:werd: It's been a year and a bit, how about an update OP? :D

[sr20s14zenki]

must put 2jz.....

[N1vek]

Haha sorry guys. Nothing much has been done to the car. It's been parked since summer and maybe even this summer too. It needs new valve seals and the clutch slips ever since the boost has been cranked up and it had a bunch of other issues. My plan for it right now is to trash the old motor and believe it or not, swap in a 2j or a 1j. I don't want to dump more money into the stock motor. I've been looking for an r154 Tranny for a while now and so far, they're either overpriced or from the states. If any of you guys know someone selling an r154 tranny for a reasonable price in Alberta, let me know. It's the only that's been holding me from doing the swap.

[zieg]

Heh no way I would confuse that for a supra, but I would definitely confuse it for a chrysler daytona!

[amear]

Originally posted by N1vek
Haha sorry guys. Nothing much has been done to the car. It's been parked since summer and maybe even this summer too. It needs new valve seals and the clutch slips ever since the boost has been cranked up and it had a bunch of other issues. My plan for it right now is to trash the old motor and believe it or not, swap in a 2j or a 1j. I don't want to dump more money into the stock motor. I've been looking for an r154 Tranny for a while now and so far, they're either overpriced or from the states. If any of you guys know someone selling an r154 tranny for a reasonable price in Alberta, let me know. It's the only that's been holding me from doing the swap.

2j:drool:

[sr20s14zenki]

I believe i know of a guy that is selling a 1jz, with r154, clutch, haltech ps2000, and s300sx turbo, for around 5k.......thats a screaming deal IMO.

here ya go

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-auto-parts-tires-other-parts-accessories-FS-Complete-1JZ-Swap-With-R154-BW-S300-Haltech-Tial-WG-and-more-W0QQAdIdZ563721196

[amear]

Originally posted by sr20s14zenki
I believe i know of a guy that is selling a 1jz, with r154, clutch, haltech ps2000, and s300sx turbo, for around 5k.......thats a screaming deal IMO.

here ya go

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-auto-parts-tires-other-parts-accessories-FS-Complete-1JZ-Swap-With-R154-BW-S300-Haltech-Tial-WG-and-more-W0QQAdIdZ563721196
I heard there was something wrong with that engine?

[sr20s14zenki]

Well that would explain a lot. As far as ive heard it was fine.

well, if you pick it up make sure you check it out.

[amear]

Yeah if I remember correctly, I think it dropped a valve or something(?)

[sr20s14zenki]

That's easy to diagnose

[se7en]

there's a few 1j'z on driftwest....probably a r154 on there somewhere too.

[N1vek]

After two years...


AN UPDATE!


So, the last time I drove the car, the clutch started slipping under boost and the valve seals were leaking. Instead of fixing the G54B, I decided....

http://i.imgur.com/pkezjr0.jpg
Since everyone thinks it's a Supra, I decided to put an engine that once powered the Supras.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7363/14179336372_fb2dd5575b_c.jpg
Technically, its from a Soarer, but I needed a 1JZ with a front sump for my swap.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2930/13995313200_c8b9b9f68f_c.jpg
Big thanks to JDM Source for hooking me up!
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2940/14181975825_086b304b08_c.jpg
I don't have a truck, so I borrowed my Mom's Caravan. :D

Some of you are probably like..
http://static.planetminecraft.com/files/resource_media/screenshot/1222/y-u-no_2403075.jpg
"WHY U NO DO 2J?!"

The answer is simple.

NAGGERS, I AINT MADE OF MONEY!
Plus, I don't plan on making more than 400whp. Planning on keeping the stock twins till they blow, then upgrading to a single GT35R set up.

Also, picked this guy up a few days after the engine purchase. Man, these guys are getting harder and harder to find.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2919/14178678491_4acfcb8fd6_c.jpg

Now, with the engine and transmission bit finally all sorted out, I started ordering parts.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7415/14202206603_3384c0f679_c.jpg
Starion 1JZ/2JZ engine mounts

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2927/13995217990_fd858507fb_c.jpg
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2931/14178577441_921a43705b_c.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7443/14181864084_f37404c1dd_c.jpg
CXRacing MK3 Supra Radiator, Intercooler w/ piping kit and a pair of 10" Ebay fans.
Big thanks to jltabot for driving down to Sweetgrass with me.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2932/14178571241_2aaa9445ea_c.jpg
Tie rod ends, Supra transmission mounts and a 2JZ water pump and timing belt kit. 1JZ timing belt is coming in from Driftmotion along with a few other goodies. Hopefully sometime this week.

The car as of right now.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7367/14181740685_8b45e8c30b_c.jpg
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2906/13995080598_c60a91f116_c.jpg

[spike98]

Originally posted by ZiG-87
Heh no way I would confuse that for a supra, but I would definitely confuse it for a chrysler daytona!

The starion and the daytona share the same platform IIRC

[N1vek]

Originally posted by spike98


The starion and the daytona share the same platform IIRC

Nope. Daytonas are fwd and Starions are rear. Two completely different platforms.

[Sentry]

Power, reliability, and inline 6 sound. You're not gonna regret this. :D

[sr20s14zenki]

NICE!
:love:

[DeleriousZ]

Sweet dude, y u no 2j? :bigpimp:

[soloracer]

:)

[N1vek]

Originally posted by DeleriousZ
Sweet dude, y u no 2j? :bigpimp:


Originally posted by soloracer
:)

GUIZE, STAAHP!

[N1vek]

Tiny update!

Pulled out the wiring harness and various lines out of the engine bay. Just have to unbolt the prop shaft and transmission mount and she'll be ready to go out.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7349/14209389953_7d07dcbb86_c.jpg

Found out whats delaying my parts. The flywheel is backordered, so I'll have to wait till they go back in stock so they can ship eveything all together. The sad part is that they don't know when they'll get the next shipment of OEM 1JZ/2JZ flywheel I wanted. The lightweight flywheel I'm trying to get instead of the OEM is also backordered, but hopefully they'll know when those will come in stock.

How I feel...
http://digboston.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/okay.jpeg

In the meantime, enjoy some crappy random cell phone pictures I took!

Crap that I took out of the engine bay. Anyone want to buy an SR20 aluminum rad? :D
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7459/14189259235_1f667eeae0_c.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7416/14189200614_4dbae0f9cf_c.jpg

[sr20s14zenki]

If you need a shifter extension, talk to me before mail ordering one. I can help you out (if it doesnt work for you out of the box)

Check out if rcts still has the RPS SYN-R-G flywheels. They were blowing em out for 400$ last time i bought one.

[N1vek]

Originally posted by sr20s14zenki
If you need a shifter extension, talk to me before mail ordering one. I can help you out (if it doesnt work for you out of the box)

Check out if rcts still has the RPS SYN-R-G flywheels. They were blowing em out for 400$ last time i bought one.

Thanks! Luckily for me, the stock supra shifter is pretty much where the old Starion shifter sits, but I'm sure I'll be needing your service on a few things down the road.

I'll keep that in mind, I'm still waiting for Driftmotion to reply back about the flywheel situation.

[sr20s14zenki]

Originally posted by N1vek


Thanks! Luckily for me, the stock supra shifter is pretty much where the old Starion shifter sits, but I'm sure I'll be needing your service on a few things down the road.

I'll keep that in mind, I'm still waiting for Driftmotion to reply back about the flywheel situation.

You lucky bastard lol. The most obscure swap, and it works better lol

[N1vek]

Parts from Driftmotion came in! Just waiting on the backordered Flywheel.

Various OEM Toyota gaskets and seals
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5518/14245485322_2852f0cecf_c.jpg

1JZ/2JZ to R154 Bellhousing
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5504/14247365404_69f9ed918c_c.jpg

ARP Flywheel bolt, 1JZ to Starion PS line, some fancy-ass thermal intake gasket and various fasteners
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5527/14061025458_2197683dcc_c.jpg

Action Clutch Stage something. Rated for ~500whp
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5497/14245483252_9eddf3d470_c.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5552/14244378441_1ce2bbbb39_c.jpg

Pulled the G54B out with the help of Jltabot. Thanks bud!
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2938/14074672797_2192300c6e_c.jpg

OH HAAI!
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5480/14074593098_1e1b1ea8e4_c.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5237/14084102598_83ed87decd_c.jpg

The plan is to clean the engine bay up, shave a few brackets, paint the booster and steering box, delete a few more lines, re-route a few more wires and finally paint the whole bay. Excuse the crappy cellphone photos and terrible lighting.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3773/14084150310_59ec71cc05_c.jpg

Finally started tearing the 1JZ apart. Not pretty. Not sure if not maintained properly, caused from sitting for a long time, a faulty PCV valve or a bit of all.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2917/14259111832_9bede2454c_c.jpg
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3809/14238130156_7672cdfc41_c.jpg

[xtreme prelude]

Any news on the progress?

[N1vek]

So, after 4 years of silence, I finally have something worthy of an update!








BEHOLD!







Before:
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7842/46663465262_592469b34b_k.jpg
After:
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7823/45800857155_ca9c3349a7_k.jpg

Before:
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7836/45800858935_c3c5be511f_k.jpg
After:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4860/46663464162_e8c911c0f3_k.jpg






That's right fellas! Ya boi removed some brackets!











See ya'll in another 4 years!

[ExtraSlow]

Y3ahhhhhh boyeeeee!

[Chantastic]

This is awesome! I must have missed this thread years ago

[N1vek]

Ya'll may be asking what REALLY happened to the project. Hold on to your seat fellas cause what i'm about to tell you will shock you! The reason why I put the project on hold was because...




I got a girlfriend.




That's right. Ya dude got a girl. Then life happened and the project was put on hold. Eventually, I got sick and tired of people asking when I was going to work on my car, so here you go you naggers.



ARE YOU HAPPY NOW?!?





In all seriousness though, I missed driving the car and I was slowly drifting away from my Dad so I thought it would be a good way to spend some time with him and finish the car. And really, working on the car without him just didn't feel right. Love you Pops!




So, without further ado, Some real updates!

Decided that only real way to see the condition of the engine/clean it was to take it apart. Re-lapped the valves just incase and installed new valve stem seals.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4810/31774637937_d9498aac3d_k.jpg

The block looked alright, some pitting on the surface near one of the coolant passageways, but hopefully it's nothing.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7847/32841149958_0132bea704_k.jpg
Then I looked at this thing and said Fuck that noise. (Plus I completely forgot where I put all the turbo piping.)
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4807/46677248442_3bd4f78389_k.jpg
A few minutes on Kijiji, a quick drive to Olds and $160 later and I got this guy. Came off a 2003? Cummins. I believe it's a HY-35?
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7903/32841151278_6b650bcf44_k.jpg
Honestly, I don't know how well it'll work with everything, but the internet said it's alright so yeah. I mean, everything on the internet is always right. Right?
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4810/31774638827_da4b3723e2_k.jpg
So then I bought this:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4840/46663455732_e7744453f7_k.jpg
Which came with this:
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7821/46663466202_00440a97f3_k.jpg
Along with a 3" DP, turbo oil kit and various other hooplah. Honestly, not a bad kit from Driftmotion.

Now, the hardest part of going with a Holset: The v-band. Holset uses some weird ass 4.4" v-band and no one locally knew what I was talking.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7802/45800860325_7909d2230c_k.jpg

A few days later of searching the interweb and I found a Diesel shop down in the States that made this: (regular 3" on the right, weird ass 4.4" on the left. )
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4840/46663458712_782bfbb7d8_k.jpg

4.4" to 3". Laterr, I had a dude I met on Kijiji TIG weld those together and as well as weld the wastegate flap shut on the Holset.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4822/45800848245_1a77edd758_k.jpg
After more parts came, the engine was finally put back together. Replaced the usual timing belt, water pump, tensioner, pulleys as well as all the seals. Installed an OEM 2JZGTE head gasket and ARP head studs. I don't really plan on making that much power, but I figured might as well. Now for some beauty shots!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7869/45800854535_bbce46b63e_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7908/46663461942_be173bf055_k.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4868/45800855805_b83cb76739_k.jpg

AND IT ONLY TOOK 4 YEARS!!

[N1vek]

I also got the clutch and transmission finally installed. (no photos sadly) For a while, I was debating on whether or not I should sell the R154 and go with CD009 just to future proof it now that R154 prices are going up and are getting rarer and rarer every day. Eventually, I decided against it after I saw my bank account. Maybe in the future?

Now, probably the most physically demanding task of the build: Hammering out the Transmission tunnel. At first, we used a bottle jack to try and expand the tunnel for the girthy part of the R154 but eventually, we just resorted back the the goold old mini sledge. Yo, I beat that tunnel harder than I beat my meat when I first discovered internet porn. Wait what?

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7887/45800852805_e2803ced72_k.jpg



SHE'S IN!



Also finally finished painting the engine bay with the help of my little brother. Had the garage door slightly open for ventilation and a big wind blew dust all over some areas. It turned out okay.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4870/46663459522_7074b7bc8c_z.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7863/46663460922_b2fe2179dd_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7877/45800851455_1b6b0ba9b7_k.jpg

How we initially made the transmission mount.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7875/45800850085_05d91dc378_z.jpg
Not only was it buttass ugly, It was also only 2.5" from the ground. So back to the drawing board. Eventually, we just reused the old MK3 transmission mount and attached it to the vehicle using some steel plates wheel had laying around. Still needs some final touches, but that's for future me to deal with later. (forgot to take pictures of the reworked mount)
Got the radiator and intercooler mounted
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7913/39765648753_731b627918_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7871/32855555118_eeabb91716_k.jpg
Still trying to find a place the mount the oil cooler. Contemplating on whether or not I should mount externally ; Bozo style if I can't find a place to mount it within the bumper.

Because of where the radiator is mounted, I wasn't able to retain the factory hood release. As much as I hate hood pins, It was the only way to keep my hood from smacking my windshield while driving.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7845/46663456272_1045e09991_k.jpg
These were the only hood pin/latch system I found tolerable. I cried a little while cutting into my hood.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4841/45800846355_e89e3e844c_k.jpg

I also made hood struts! Probably the highlight of this build so far. Some dude wanted $100USD +shipping for a kit made specifically for this car and I'm WAAAY to cheap for that. Sooooooo....off to the junkyard I go!

While walking around Buck's Auto, I saw the saddest thing....
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4833/31774640947_752b1cbc52_k.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4862/32841152428_bd9617b8b4_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7821/32841151958_077e200bac_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7861/31774639907_b392289441_k.jpg
It was an 87" Conquest. (3rd Starion/Conquest I've ever seen in my life) If I had the garage space, I would have bought the whole thing and kept it as a parts car. I was able to salvage some interior pieces from it, as well as a cluster, hatch struts and miscellaneous bits. I also used it to mock my own hood strut kit which only cost me $14! Seeing the hood of my car opening by itself changed me.

[N1vek]

ANYWAYS




Turbo all mounted. Had to use a T4 to T3 flange to mount the turbo. Wrapped the MK3 Supra downpipe. It's amazing how well the Supra parts fits in this car. Still deciding where to put the catch can.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4910/32855555578_293ae9d486_k.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4821/39765648883_d6787e7542_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7903/32855555438_0c12ecb0b0_k.jpg
I'm a bit worried about the turbo return. From the turbo, it's a 90* AN10 fitting. Not sure if I should switch it with a 45* to lessen the restriction.

Decided to put the wiring harness on a diet.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7803/46663457192_c244198f98_k.jpg
Stripped the factory sheathing and removed all unneeded wires. Planning on adding some extra wires so I can retain the factory clusters' functionality as well as integrating some wiring a fuel pressure gauge.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7911/45800843955_42cf14cd73_k.jpg

This is how the car sits as of now:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4836/32855555858_3407ed9ccc_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7903/39765648273_c78af6c168_k.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7844/32855554658_a2ea03f253_k.jpg

TO DO LIST:
-Engine wiring
-Fuel pump wiring
-Radiator fan wiring
-Cooling System plumbing
-P/S plumbing
-Bunch of other stuff i'm forgetting
-Find motivation
-Clean the garage (AGAIN)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7811/39765648173_a926b66f99_k.jpg

I'll probably start working on it again in the spring and hopefully finish it by the end of the summer....or in 4 years again. I don't know. We'll see. Thanks for watching!

[toastgremlin]

Good work. :clap:

[N1vek]

I DID A THING!




Finally finished the wiring harness! Replaced all connectors and repaired a bunch of old and brittle wires with wires salvaged from a Ram 1500 engine harness and a 3500 headliner harness. Even got it all wrapped up looking somewhat decent. Let's just hope it doesn't catch on fire.

Coil pack wiring harness. The connectors didn't come with terminals but luckily, the wiring repair kits that Chrysler uses is the same type of terminals. My years of hoarding parts at work has finally paid off!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49466542668_14f9495da4_c.jpg

The main artery of the harness
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49467259467_08d1db9335_c.jpg
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49467259382_e9c0a158f0_c.jpg

Engine harness all done up.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49467036546_d65fe7502b_c.jpg

I ended up adding a fuse block and a few relays to the harness to keep the 1JZ ECU as close to it's factory set up. I also re-used some of the Starion's old connectors so everything is powered by the factory main relay and all the OEM gauges work. Excuse the spaghetti of wires. I still need to find a place to mount everything to.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49467313027_e4bb210309_c.jpg

Since my 1JZ came from a Soarer, the ECU controlled the fuel pump via fuel pump module, unlike the 1JZ from a Supra where it just sends 12V to the fuel pump. I could have easily ran a switch on the dash that controlled the fuel pump but thats too much hassle flipping it on and off. I'm lazy, so I bought one of these to control it instead.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49466596343_14ba436c61_c.jpg
It provides a 3 second prime when the ignition is on and only remains on if it detects an RPM signal from the engine. In the event of a collision, your boy will at least have a lower chance of burning to death.

Got the igniter mounted and the radiator fan controller and wiring harness tucked behind the fender.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49467090111_b019af2e98_c.jpg

Brownie points if you can guess which cars the jumpstart post and P/S reservoir came from.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49466596498_35c12490ca_c.jpg

Wiring harness in place. Found a place to mount the catch can and the coolant overflow bottle. Still need to figure out where to mount washer fluid reservoir. This photo shows how badly the engine bay paint turned out.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49467313102_9259d2361a_c.jpg

With all that said and done, I was finally able to do this.

https://youtu.be/pfZuXA5dnmk

There's still a bagillion little things I have to do like hook up the wide band and AFC NEO to tune it, put the front all back together, re-check everything for leaks and make sure everything is tight and finish up wiring the cluster to make the tach work. Baby steps I guess hahaha.

Saw these for sale on Facebook while I was pooping and ended getting them. For motivational purposes of course.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49466542583_dcca5151a8_c.jpg

Oh, if any of ya'll have a NON-TRC 1JZ throttle body laying around, let me know!



*Hopefully* she'll back on the road this summer. *not guaranteed



Thanks for tuning in! That's all folks!

[Sentry]

BMW PS reservoir, they are cheap and awesome. Compact and easy to mount in most engine bays. Used them on bunches of customer cars.

[Team_Mclaren]

Holy fuck good on you for not giving up. mad props.

[ExtraSlow]

Wow, this is still awesome. Building my own wiring harness is pretty much what satan will have me doing in hell. It's got layers of things that frustrate, confuse, and annoy me.

[toastgremlin]

Whoa, it's running! Nice.

[N1vek]

BMW PS reservoir, they are cheap and awesome. Compact and easy to mount in most engine bays. Used them on bunches of customer cars.
YAASSS! I forgot where I put the factory reservoir but luckily I had this laying around from my Brother's mini. Definitely see why you use these. Shits awesome!


Holy fuck good on you for not giving up. mad props.
Thanks man! Definitely has been a struggle.


Wow, this is still awesome. Building my own wiring harness is pretty much what satan will have me doing in hell. It's got layers of things that frustrate, confuse, and annoy me.
You know what's weird? I enjoyed building the harness. I'm sure I've shorten my life by a few days after inhaling all that smoke from the heat shrink tubing, but it was somewhat therapeutic.


Whoa, it's running! Nice.
I know right?! I can't believe it myself!